CANADIAN TRAVELLER – Delivering Destination Information Riviera Nayarit Australia Utah
January 2013
only in cuba Page 102
Win A Trip For Two: To Florida & Utah A CAnA diAn’s Guide To FloridA It’s A canadian's Beachin’ Florida’s guide to Best Sand DoIng DAlI & DAyTonA MIckey, florida MAnATeeS & MerMAIDS
Page 33 PluS: Highlights From Around The State Publications Mail Agreement 40623544
A SpeciAl Supplement to t he JAnu ARY 2013 iSSue of Why choose WestJet Vacations?
Book your clients with confidence.
As Canada’s most preferred airline, WestJet knows what providing great value is all about. Your clients can count on the same exceptional value and legendary guest experience when they book an air and hotel package with WestJet Vacations. Here are just some of the few great reasons to choose WestJet Vacations for your clients’ next vacation:
• Our extensive and reliable schedule. Backed by WestJet’s flight schedule, we offer thousands of packages to some of the most beautiful spots in the U.S., Mexico and the Caribbean. • Flexibility. Flexible vacation durations mean their vacation can be as long or as short as they want it to be. 5, 7, 10 days… it’s their choice. • A caring, stress-free vacation experience. Your clients will soon experience why WestJet Vacations has the best-rated customer service and the highest guest satisfaction rating in Canada.† • Great deals such as free nights, room upgrades, free breakfasts plus free accommodation and meals for kids.* • Exclusive extras like guaranteed room access by a select time, welcome gifts, late checkout, priority dining reservations and discounts on tours and spa treatments.*
Let WestJet Vacations help you build your clients their next picture perfect getaway, they’ll thank you.
†Based on a 2012 survey of Canadian vacationers by Leger Marketing, which found that WestJet Vacations was rated highest among the six most- used Canadian packaged vacation companies. *Certain restrictions apply. See westjetvacations.com for more details.Quebec licensee. Ontario travel agents are covered by TICO. Mailing address: 6085 Midfield Road, Toronto ON, L5P 1A2. TICO registration number 50018683. CANADIAN TRAVELLER – Delivering Destination Information
Editor-in-Chief/Publisher Rex Armstead January 2013
Editor Volume 28 Janice Strong Issue 1 Staff Writer-Toronto Merle Rosenstein
Design and Editorial Production Fusion FX Design & Marketing Inc. 83 The Real Hawaii www.fusionfxdesign.com Finding Hawaiian Culture Resort-Style Associate Publisher Brad Liski 86 A Passion For Food Associate Publisher In New Orleans, To Eat Is To Let The Jennifer Prendergast Good Times Roll Tel: (416) 907-7524
Western Region Sales Manager 92 A Place Like No Other Myles Armstead A Sampling Of Scottsdale’s Tel: (866) 699-9933 11 Sonoran Adventures Account Manager Sales Development Joanne Tichborne Caribbean Tel: (416) 907-7524 4 $elling With $teve 102 Into The Blue Take a Second Look At Selling Air Travel Regional Representative Mexico Azure Seas, Sapphire Skies, No Wonder Leticia Garcia Varadero Is Hot, Hot, Hot Tel: (55) 5683-5569 32 Going With The Flo’ Get Social & Get Selling Florida Integration Manager Kahlil Yeates 97 Money-Maker$ Subscriptions Intrepid’s Worldwide Catalogue Of [email protected] Kid-Friendly Packages All e-mail addresses: firstname+initialoflastname@ 98 Money-Maker$ canadiantraveller.net Coach Tours Bring Luxury Overland Published by 100 Money-Maker$ Uniworld Adds 13-Day Trip Through Italy 108 Money-Maker$ 102 Locomotives Open A World Chief Executive Officer Of Possibilities Rex Armstead World Report President 6 Dubai, Vancouver, England, Florida, Brad Liski Mexico 10 Loving Nature Iceland, Japan, Texas, Kenya Western Canada: Eastern Canada: 201-2080 Hartley Avenue WaterPark Place Nurturing Nature Drives Riviera Coquitlam, BC 11th Floor, 20 Bay Street Canada V3K 6W5 Toronto, ON Nayarit’s Development Canada M5J 2N8 Contests Tel: (866) 699-9933 Fax: (604) 699-9993 Tel: (416) 907-7524 29 Win A Trip For 2 To Utah Fax: (866) 250-6839 South Pacific Subscription Rates: Canada: $36 Per Year 75 Win A Trip For 2 To Florida USA: $54 Per Year • International: $72 Per Year 18 Aussie Primer Part 1 A Look At The Very Real Business Printed in Canada Opportunities Austral Has To Offer Canadian Publications Mail Product Sales Agreement No. 40623544. Postage paid at Vancouver, BC. Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to Circulation Dept., United States
201-2080 Hartley Avenue,Coquitlam, BC V3K 6W5. CANADIAN TRAVELLER – Delivering Destination Information 21 Discover America ON THE COVER: Riviera Nayarit Contents © copyright 2012 by ACT Communications Australia Inc. All Rights Reserved. Editorial submissions must be Cuba has long been a Utah Museums, Ski Hills & Cowboys Across January 2013 accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope. The favourite destination of publisher assumes no responsibility for lost material. The U.S. Celebrate Milestones Canadians look for a little oNLy IN CubA mid-winter sun. Turn to Page 102 ISSN 1207-1463 page 102 and find out what’s 22 Ancient Landscapes, Modern Living new in Varadero, one of the hottest destinations. From Salt Lake City To Soaring Peaks Win A Trip For Two: To Florida & Utah FloridAA CAnAdiAn’s Guide To
It’s A CANADIAN's Beachin’ Florida’s guIDE To Best Sand DoIng DAlI & Photo Credit: DAyTonA MIckey, fLoRIDA MAnATeeS & MerMAIDS
Page 33 PluS: Highlights From Around The State Publications Mail Agreement 40623544 This Is The New Utah Kamira/Shutterstock.com A SpeciAl Supplement to the JAnuARY 2013 iSSue of www.canadiantraveller.net Canadian Traveller • January 2013 3 $elling with $teve
How did that happen? Another year done Some agencies stayed with air and Everything’s and dusted. It just makes it all the more continued to promote and sell airline seats apparent that time is not on our side. It is the and charged a fee. one thing that you cannot store up, bank or Here’s why you need to be back selling save. You lose it if you don’t use it – which air in 2013. That airline seat has always Up In The brings me to the next 12 months of 2013. been the first component of the sale. It Whatchagonnado? What’s the sales plan? is an integral component of almost every A number of trends seem to be booking you make. You cannot get them Air For 2013 happening and are worth looking at. We to their there from here without flying know from the push by all consortia and - unless your client is driving off, taking Take A Second Look hosts that air travel is something to get the A train, cruising from a home port or behind and to start selling once again. hoofin’ it. So you see air is in. Never left At Selling Air Travel They even have special programs that the menu. encourage members to sell more air. Here’s another thing you can do, too, If you gave up on and that is to go Air selling air tickets when Niche. That’s right. commissions dropped, You can carve out an you can get back into it What air travel niche. You can and feel good about it. become the guru of air Some commissions are was“ once travel. You are the one back. Back end override to contact for anything revenues are available fun is now a air travel related. Dates, through head office and rates, destinations, By Steve airline deals (they never frustrating equipment, meals, Crowhurst, CTM left the room by the way) experience. best seats, worst seats, and all it takes is to push luggage size, routes, the fact that you still sell They need memberships…that’s a air tickets. To do that whole mess of study, but means you simply have you. if you are so inclined, to look back in time you can and will set and resurrect those old ” yourself apart from the slogans. You know, the ones that go like rest. The revenue comes from your fees. this: “Airline Tickets at Airline Prices!” If you want to book the air trip too, then Using the quotes and the exclamation go ahead, make commissions. Chances mark to give the statement some urgency are there is a tour at the end of the air and oomph. booking. Insurance, too. This particular slogan was always Shall we go one up? How about selling part of the marketing plan in the ‘70s the Around the World flights? Like that? Steve Crowhurst, CTM, author, keynote and ‘80s and used on agency windows Want a niche like that? Well click over to speaker and trainer specializes in NBG – New and sandwich board signage outside the National Geographic website quickly Business Generation for the travel and tourism the agency. Now you can ramp up the as the first departure is waitlisted … industry. Visit Steve at www.sellingtravel.net technology and embed this slogan into whoops so is flight number 2 … hang on, and www.facebook.com/sellingtravel your website, right there on the landing son of a … so is flight number 3. Ah ha! or drop him a line at [email protected] page. You can talk about it socially The fourth one is still open and you have through all your social media channels a year to sell it. Phew. Well there you go. and you can tip off your customers about It takes off on December 27, 2013. The some of the super savings on air travel, per person rate is $68,950. No joke. You too. Why would you do this? Because want to sell some serious air, well there it 90 per cent of your clients are surfing is. Look for NG’s Around the World by for deals and what was once fun is now a Private Jet program. frustrating experience. They need you. Right, that’s you settled. Your 2013 Remember when the trade slammed sales and marketing plan includes air travel air bookings. Kicked it back to the once again. You have options to specialize airlines. Refused to book any more air in high end air travel, to regular sched, to and went for more cruise and tour sales. helping first time flyers get underway, to What happened of course was this – that groups, to fully customized FIT. You are business went to online agencies and to in the pilot’s seat and that’s what counts. the airlines themselves as a direct booking. Happy landings in 2013.
4 January 2013 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net All guests experience Elite Service at no extra cost: Elite Plus Service 20 Kg FREE checked baggage • Bon Voyage glass of champagne For only $40 each way, upgrade your flight experience Choice of hot meals with wine • Selected snacks • Soft drinks • All features of Elite service PLUS: Extra legroom seats Hot towel service • Leather seating • First run movies • Headsets • Advance seat selection • 10kg extra checked baggage Kids backpacks with games & toys • Priority check-in and boarding NEW! Advance seat selection & Elite Plus upgrade now bookable online!
ADULTS ONLY 18 + ROYALTON CAYO SANTA MARIA HHHHH CAYO SANTA MARIA, CUBA
EXTRA FEATURES - ADDED VALUES • Special welcome and welcome cocktail upon arrival • Cold towel service upon arrival • Room Service 24 hrs (included) with special menus for THE ROYALTON CAYO SANTA MARIA FEATURES LUXURY AND QUALITY, ALONG WITH THE LAID-BACK, RELAXED, breakfast, lunch & dinner AND ROMANTIC ATMOSPHERE FOR WHICH THE CARIBBEAN IS RENOWNED. • Bottle of rum in room upon arrival • Beach towels in room upon arrival LOCATION ALL INCLUSIVE • VIP amenities in bathroom (on arrival) Beachfront • 90 Minutes from Santa Clara International Airport 3 Meals daily plus snacks • All drinks (domestic beer and cocktails, • 5 Minutes to Pueblo La Estrella select international brands, house wine with meals) 24hr Room • Bathrobe and slippers service • Non-motorized water sports • Entertainment on the • Personalized mini-bar (re-stocked daily) FACILITIES beach • Butler service by the pools and on the beach 122 Rooms • 2 Pools • Free use of safety deposit box BONUS • Iron and ironing board in the room DINING / ENTERTAINMENT Honeymoon bonus available • Birthday bonus available • Pillow menu 3 À la carte restaurants (2 with optional Buffet available) • 4 Bars • Disco ($) (located in Pueblo Estrella) STAY AT 1, PLAY AT 3 • All facilities at Memories Paraiso Beach • Nightly turndown service Resort and Memories Azul Beach Resort are included (transfers not included) • Personalized assistance 24 hrs - Buttler Service - ACCOMMODATION including packing and unpacking of luggage, tour Air conditioned Junior Suites with 1 king bed or 2 twins beds • arrangements, and co-ordination of transfers. Butler service • Ceiling fan • Living room • Satellite TV • Mini- bar • Coffee/tea maker • Iron/ironing board • Bathrobes and TORONTO DEPARTURES • Breakfast, lunch and dinner à la carte (buffet breakfast slippers • Hairdryer • 24 hour Room service • In-room safe • 220v ONE WEEK . ALL INCLUSIVE also available) adapter/transformer required • Turndown service • Balcony or • 10 % discount at the Spa (located in El Pueblo) terrace • Garden or Ocean view (Max. occupants 2 persons, 2 • Free hydrotherapy treatment at the Pueblo Spa adults) JUNIOR SUITE KING TERRACE GARDENVIEW • Preferred reservations at the Spa (located in El Pueblo) FEB 03 & 06 Royalton Suite King Bed Garden View offers same amenities • Day pass (free) at Memories Paraiso Beach Resort as Junior Suites with 1 King size bed • Whirlpool tub • Separate & Memories Azul Beach Resort in Cayo Santa Maria living area with sofa • Table • TV • Guest bathroom • Breakfast (transfers not included) area • Jacuzzi on terrace • 2 Balconies • Pillow menu available • $ Late check out until 4pm (Max. occupants 2 persons, 2 adults) • Dine around (free) Memories Paraiso Beach Resort & Memories Azul Beach Resort in Cayo Santa Maria 1195$ + 290 Taxes (transfers not included) Toronto departures. Prices is gross per person based on double occupancy for 7 nights (unless otherwise specified) and was available at the time of printing. Seats at the above price are limited and subject to change without prior notice. Applicable to new bookings only. Not combinable with any other offers. Transportation taxes & related fees shown must be pre-paid. Applicable local taxes payable in destination are extra (Cuba 25CUC). In-flight services vary by flight time and destination. Flights are with Sunwing Airlines or Travel Service. For full terms and conditions, please refer to the Sunwing Vacations 2012/13 brochure. 27 Fasken Drive, Toronto, Ontario. M9W 1K6. Ont. Reg# 2476582 | 01-2013 Ont. Reg. # 2476582 World[ report ]
The new Fairmont The Palm, in Palm Jumeirah. esorts R otels and otels H airmont
F The television hit features all sorts of real-world C locations and architecture.
DUBAI BB New Fairmont UK Downton’s Happy DHTours, and thus to Candians. It’s a good thing too, Hotel Opens as every day offered for 2013 is now booked, and It pays to be prepared – following the wild success any openings are gobbled up almost instantly. The of Downton Abbey among Canadians, Ontario-based “London and UK Specialists” at DHTour are making In Dubai UK travel agency DHTour has laid claim to some truly a strong case for their claims. Other planned feature On the world’s largest man-made island, Palm valuable bookings. Four of the just 75 days of public visits include Buckingham Palace, Hampton Court. Jumeirah, and near to many other man-made operation for the English Stately Home Highclere go to For more information visit www.dhgrouptours.com record holders in scale and luxury, Fairmont Hotels and Resorts is expanding its portfolio of locations. om
c Florida Fairmont The Palm is a spacious development with 381 guestrooms and suites, including two lorida.
F Fort Lauderdeals presidential suites and thousands of square me- isit tres of meeting space. Outside, the new Fairmont V A new package called ‘Let’s B Cultured!’ is being offered has four swimming pools, a private beach club, by Florida’s Riverwalk Arts and Entertainment District and Children’s Activity Centre, and outdoor dining the B Ocean Fort Lauderdale Hotel. Included in the package with carefully chosen views. The hotel itself was is admission for 2 to the Bonnet House Museum and the designed to combine Western and Arabic influ- Museum of Art I Fort Lauderdale, along with 2 free Water ences, giving it a modern but fitting appeal amid Taxi rides, a 30 dollar wine card at B’stro, and a package the world’s most opulent and luxurious vacation of B Inspired art suppies. In all, the package offers an array of features worth more than US $70 when purchased a la property. The Riverwalk A&E District has one of Florida’s most captivating views. carte. It is available Feb. 1 to June 30, 2013.
VANCOUVER The new Stay and Play initiative from Rocky The value can be taken in the form of Rocky Mountaineer Mountaineer is aimed at showing Canadians extra hotel nights, activities and meal plans, the beauty and adventure that exists within or applied toward an Alaskan cruise when Offering Canadians Up our own borders. The offer, which will run booking one of several Rocky Mountaineer until March 28th 2013, will add up to CDN Rail and Cruise packages. To $800 In Free Value $800 in value on any bookings of seven days or longer. ountaineer M ky c o R
Rocky Mountaineer's Canadian packages show the wonders here at home
6 January 2013 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net Our select destinations Your Barbados getaway
CARIBBEAN FLARE BARBADOS Impeccable style, sparkling beaches, brilliant blues, breathtaking landscapes, elegant dining, sprawling plantations, great surfing, Calypso music and unbelievably smooth vibes are part of the everyday reality in Barbados. Isn’t it time your clients made it part of theirs?
transatholidays.com
VTH-12-1498 Annonce FP Canadian Traveller - Barbados.indd 1 12/7/12 3:24:16 PM World[ report ] REYKJAVIK Go Mad For Winter Madness
Few places combine awesome geography and charming uthority A
architecture like Iceland. ikimedia Commons. W ransit
T The Great Canadian Travel Company’s Winter Madness tour package was named with tongue firmly in cheek, okyo T but there’s a kernel of truth to its irony: Sending travel- lers to Iceland’s capital city of Reykjavik in the middle The world’s most extensive light rail coverage is of the winter might seem just a bit insane. However, now united under a single payment standard. TOKYO Reykjavik is a largely misunderstood destination, a truly metropolitan world city, and in January just as warm as New Transit Passes Accepted New York City. Reykjavik is actually the closest European city to New By All 52 Japanese Railways York, and has a world famous nightlife that easily rivals While the Japanese are famous for their integration of public transportation into daily life, particularly in even the great mega-tropolis in terms of sheer energy. major cities like Tokyo, the system has always been troublesome to ride due to its fractured nature. There Even the tourist board brags that part animals will find are over 50 railway companies operating in Japan, and until recently many used their own unique method Reykjavik a city that “jumps into the wee small hours – of payment. with clubs and bars open about 18 hours per day.” Starting March 23, 2013, however, new fare cards like the Suica Card and PASMO will be honoured by Reykjavik also features of the most eclectic world every Japanese railway company - and at all 4,275 stations throughout the country. Finally, tourists can food cultures in the world, along with (of course) fresh enjoy Japan the way so many Japanese do every day – by train. In addition, the passes will work on all and peerless Scandinavian seafood. World-class shop- 21,000 buses from 96 bus companies, so truly no corner of the country is off-limits to anyone. ping and a thriving arts scene complete the picture of a This move erases the hassle of converting payment types at transit stations and ultimately saves city worth visiting – all your round. travellers money while expanding their reach within bustling Japanese cities. Maybe those Icelanders aren’t so crazy, after all. For 12 H475 Canadian Traveller CT Trade_Jan13_Layout 1 12/20/12 8:59 AM Page 1 more information visit www.greatcanadiantravel.com.
Discover the secrets of Iceland
Iceland has always been a place of dramatic landscapes. But today’s Air traveller wants to go deeper. Explorations (Collette’s small group Inclusive touring brand) brings Iceland’s proud culture to life while still delivering Rate the iconic wows. It’s an unbeatable combination. * $3299 Inspiring Iceland 10 Days – 11 Meals Departing date: 8/18/13 Air inclusive rate $3299* from Toronto other gates & gateways available call for pricing. Airline Taxes, fees & fuel surcharge an additional $317 Ask us for our unbeatable business class upgrades starting at only $1300 Highlights: Reykjavik, Golden Circle, Thingvellir National Park, Snaefellsnes Peninsula, Puffin Cruise, Blue Lagoon
Sedan Service Included! On all air-inclusive tours, receive roundtrip home to airport sedan service!†
For more information call 800.468.5955 or visit www.collettevacations.ca
*Rates per person based on double occupancy and include land and round trip airfare only from the gateway specified. Space is limited. Offer is valid for new bookings with deposit made now through February 28, 2013 on the de- parture date listed for the following tour: Inspiring Iceland. Pricing is available for other dates & gateways; please call for details. Space limited and rates are subject to change based on availability. Your price is subject to increase prior to the time you make full payment. Your price is not subject to increase after you make full payment, except for changes resulting from increases in government imposed taxes & fees. Some airlines may impose additional charges if you choose to check any baggage. Please contact your airline or refer to its website for detailed informa tion regarding your airline's checked baggage policies. Offer is not applicable for groups or combinable with any other offer and may be withdrawn at any time. Not available for booking online; please call for additional details. † Not valid on group travel. Service is offered on all air-inclusive departures when within 100 km radius from most major Canadian gateways. One transfer per room booking. Additional stops are not permitted on route. Other restrictions may apply; call for details. Travel Industry Council of Ontario Reg.# 3206405 BC Reg.# 23337
8 January 2013 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net World[ report ] ark Center P ikimedia Commons. orth N W
Caption for NorthPark: NorthPark Center has all the DALLAS retail outlets Canadians love. NorthPark Center Makes February This giveaway will give two “Canada Appreciation Month” lucky people a priceless Canadians take note: NorthPark Center in Dallas, one of the city’s KENYA Kenyan safari experience. premier shopping destinations, is hosting “Canada Appreciation Month” in February 2013. “We wanted to show our appreciation for [Canadians’] support and make them feel special,” said Tourism Magical Kenya Promotion Offers director Anthony Wilkinson. $10,000 Safari Giveaway For Two! The invitation for Canadians to “shop until we drop” is bolstered The Kenya Tourist Board has just launched Travellers need not pen the next piece by a battery of budget-stretching options, most packaged with its newest online campaign based around great essay prose to access their travel accommodations. These “shop and stay” packages are exclusively the online portal www.MagicalKenya.com, deals, however; a 24-week promotion began for Canadians, who can book directly by showing their Canadian and they’re kicking off the effort with a in November of 2012 and will see a different passport at check-in. highly valued prize giveaway. To be entered, promotion from world-leading tour operators Remember, this is a state that will already refund sales tax for interna- travellers need only write a short description each week. Companies such as Exotik Tours, tional shoppers - just shop at one of the 4,500 participating stores, then of their reasons for wishing to visit Kenya. Globus, GM Tours, Transat Discoveries and bring receipts, passport and flight information to a refund center. The prize: a six-day safari adventure for two Tourcan will ensure that travellers always get Participating hotels include the Adolphus, the Warwick Melrose valued at over US $10,000. Best of all, the the best in comfort and competence. Hotel and the Four Seasons. Some hotels use promotional codes to prize covers airfare from Vancouver, Calgary, For more information visit further discount their prices – view these NorthPark exclusives at Toronto or Montreal. www.magicalkenya.com. www.northparkcenter.com/.
Meet Nancy Boyle. Nancy loves to be surrounded by people, activities and nightlife. That’s why she chose Magdalena Grand Beach Resort. “We had a terrific time at Boyle Magdalena. The location is sang like a superb and the warm friendly staff makes this resort a real tropical paradise. I began my stay with a visit to the spa and Bird I enjoyed every minute of it. Our dining experience was wonderful. We Here definitely recommend this resort to be a fantastic and carefree getaway.” Come experience the “True Caribbean”.
Ring in 2013 with 13% Commission on all bookings made between now and April 13, 2013! magdalenagrand.com
Reservations: 1-866-353-6222 • Email: [email protected] • www.MagdalenaGrand.com
The “Boyle” used in this advertisement is not intended to identify or refer to any person other than Nancy Boyle who is shown in the photograph at the top of this advertisement. www.canadiantraveller.netMAG-12-227 CanadianTraveller-Boyle travel trade.indd 1 Canadian Traveller • January1/2/13 20134:22 PM 9 Mexico[ Riviera Nayarit ]
Volunteers patrol Nayarit’s beach during turtle egg-laying season, to collect, nurture and finally release babies into the surf. VB ayarit C ayarit N iviera R Loving Nature Nurturing Nature Drives Riviera Nayarit’s Development
By Judy Waytiuk
Its sunset on the Riviera Nayarit’s 300-kilometre-long perfect powder beach, and on a quiet spot marked off by yellow rope laid out on the sand, about four dozen tiny baby sea turtles are wobbling clumsily to the surf. The group of eager tourists who helped release them, one baby per pair of gently cupped, wet, sand-cov- las B ered hands, cheers them on. Thirty an S years ago, these little guys would’ve Cruise the waters of La Tovara, a freshwater sprint that is home to crocodiles and a large number of bird species. grown up to become bottles of tur- tle oil on sale in souvenir shops. But Mexico’s tourism savvy has evolved dramatically, especially in Riviera Nayarit, where they’re learning from what other tourist regions developed earlier have done well – or badly.
www.canadiantraveller.net Canadian Traveller • January 2013 11 [ Riviera Nayarit ] Mexico retchS t Out & Seriously. The extra leg room aloneCh iisl morel than worth the ELITE Plus upgrade for $100 or less each way on Sunwing vacation flights. About a dozen seats are usually earmarked for it, and travellers who want to actually enjoy flying again (remember when?) should jump on them: priority check-in lines, advance seat selection (normally a surcharge fee of up to Bucerias Bustles $80 applies with most airlines), first boarding with locals and privileges, champagne to start your flight, tourists, and its busy town square is wine with your meal, a nice hot towel, free fringed by peddlers headsets, first-run flicks, and an extra ten a
W selling everything kilos worth of weight allowed in your checked from fruit to nuts.
Judy Judy ytiuk luggage (That’d run a couple hundred bucks on some airlines). And vacationers will need that bigger weight allowance, with all the souvenirs Turtles & Whales & announced he could see being lugged home along with their tans and flamingos in the lagoon. big grins. Add up the value, and it’s a seri Crocs, Oh My ously roomy, comfy bargain. Today, local volunteers patrol Nayarit’s Minions dared not tell him the - beach nightly during turtle egg-laying birds were roseate spoonbills – season, gathering fresh-laid eggs and so the name has stuck. moving them to a seaside nursery, to be Even Nuevo Vallarta’s ushered into the sea the day they hatch. The opulent, massive Paradise Village resort is on the eco-bandwagon, number of Olive Ridley sea turtle nests on tubs in every room (the keeping six Bengal tigers with a fulltime this beach has soared from about 500 in the $5,000-a-night real rock star penthouse vet and fulltime zookeeper. They’ve early 1990s to well over 12,000 today. suite boasts an eight-person shower). produced 76 cubs, sent to various zoos Whale-watching’s a huge traditional Original rock star memorabilia peppers around Latin America. draw in the Bay of Banderas, and all hallways and lobby (skinny garments prove over Riviera Nayarit’s coast, where giant rock stars are very thin), Do Not Disturb humpbacks come in mid-December Nuevo Vallarta door hangers read “Not Now, My Ego to breed and calve until March. But & Beyond Needs a Rest”, and the interior design’s enforcement of rules has ramped up in the Pacific Mexico’s newest resort area north of impeccably Cool Contemporary. There’s last few years to further mitigate impacts of Puerto Vallarta starts at the southern end free room wi-fi, free long distance to the whale-watching. Only boats with permits of the 300-kilometre Nayarit beach, with U.S. and Canada, and free 24-hour room can approach, must stay 30 meters away, a quiet marina, the Nuevo Vallarta resorts, service. Four restaurants are sticklers for and can only hang around for half an hour. and a series of small beachside towns, north Recycling containers are blossoming to the Spanish colonial fort town of throughout the region. Street trash and San Blas. litter has virtually disappeared, except for Growth here has not been a few small, remote villages (and they’re rapid, but is proceeding at a working on it). sedate pace. A few Nuevo Vallarta And locals have discovered nurturing resorts are older hotels that have nature can make them a living. been completely renovated and South of San Blas, near the village of re-opened, like the 270-room Matanchén, locals ferry passengers along Occidental Grand Nuevo Vallarta, mangrove canals upriver to La Tovara, a once the Allegro Nuevo Vallarta. freshwater spring that supplies water to San Then there’s Mexico’s first Blas and houses crocodiles in a local co- all-inclusive Hard Rock Hotel, operative conservation centre called Laguna which opened a few months Keikari Wild. En route, wild crocodiles back on the powdery white sand and turtles stud the edges of the mangrove beach here. channel, and the place is a birdwatcher’s A year-long $20 million reno paradise. Mexico invested over 8 billion of the venerable but outdated pesos to rehab this long-time local Mexican prime-location Vallarta Palace favourite, re-opening it in August 2012. didn’t just refresh and upgrade At the small Cocodrilario el Cora near this property of less than the Flamingos Golf Course outside Bucerias, 450 rooms. It’s been Jose Santos tends two mated pairs of big totally re-branded, crocs, and raises babies for release. There right down to tiny rows are no flamingos here, or anywhere else of white embossed in Nayarit. The name came about when guitars on bed coverlets the president visited here in 1970, and and double jetted San Blas 12 January 2013 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net otels H k c o R ard H
Above: Mexico’s first all- inclusive Hard Rock Hotel opened a few months back on the powdery white sand beach of Nuevo Vallarta.
Left: Go back in time in San Humpback whales breed Blas, to ruins of an old fort and calve in the Bay of that tells the story of the Banderas between mid- Spanish occupation. December and March. VB ayarit C ayarit N iviera R www.canadiantraveller.net Canadian Traveller • January 2013 13 Mexico[ Riviera Nayarit ]
perfection, both in food and Mita Resort (and two or three service, and the waiters dress more in planning) and the small better than the guests (rock town favoured by Mexican stars do prefer sartorial ragged, vacationers. At Litibu, more after all). So, with apologies to resorts are planned, starting with A Spiritual revered rock band Chicago: does the already-open La Tranquila, Path anybody really know what time a knock-your-sox-off, uber- it is? Does anybody really care? luxurious hideaway. Anthropologist Susana Eger The beach edged by the In Sayulita, Huicholes- Valadez, founder and direc- resorts is pretty much perfect, mysticism collides with North tor of the Huichol Center, trav- but if you want a super-busy American hippie/surfer culture, elled to Mexico about 30 years spot or a much quieter one creating a funky, entertaining ago while working on her MA along that 300 kilometres, head New Age-y blend. Here you Degree in Latin American up the coast. can buy a cup of coffee dubbed Studies at UCLA. In the process “Seriously Gourmet Shit.” The of studying the Huichol culture, Small Town Strolls polo club at San Pancho (aka her life was changed forever. Almost two dozen small towns San Francisco) holds monthly In 1981, she and her Huichol and tiny villages pepper Nayarit’s matches, the beach is as good as husband Mariano Valadez, wide, natural beach, each with any along the coast, and a visit Riviera Nayarit CVB renowned Huichol yarn painter, something unique worth stopping to the Entre Amigos non-profit co-founded the Huichol Center for (and shopping for) on road Community Centre will yield for Cultural Survival and Traditional Arts. trips north to historic San Blas. unique souvenirs made from The rugged terrain of their homeland – located in La Vista Adventures, just recycled materials as well as a the Sierra Madre Mountains in the states of Jalisco and revving up as a full-service tour glimpse into local life; bring an Nayarit – has provided a pocket of isolation where the company, expects to offer guided extra suitcase full of gently-used estimated 8,000 descendants of the Aztecs have adapted trips up the coast by the end of clothing to help supply their to the demands of their harsh environment. the 2012-13 winter season. thrift shop for locals. In doing so, the Wixarika (the name the Huichols use Bucerias bustles with locals Rincon de Guayabitos, in their language to refer to themselves, meaning proph- and tourists, and its busy town another traditional Mexican ets or healers) have nurtured a value system and way of square is fringed by peddlers vacation spot brimming life that hold many lessons for the modern world. selling everything from fruit with local flavour, sports a The Huichol people are a tribe of corn farmers, art- to nuts. Next, in the village multi-coloured Decameron ists and shamans who consider spirituality to be cen- of Mezcales, local ironwood hotel popular with Mexican tral to their existence. Religion is not a part of life - it is carver Poinciano Quezada and vacationers and priced for the life. The gods are everywhere, including the trees, hills his family love visitors to their budget-minded, and beach and lakes. Even the lowly stone has a soul. carving shed and shop. At Cruz peddlers’ carts are overwhelmed Their culture shines as a living entity that embodies de Huanacaxtle, a spanking new by masses of inflated beach toys. native spirituality. The Huichols’ art, symbolism, music, marina signals future hotel and Go back in time in San Blas, folklore, plant knowledge and profound religious insight condo development. There are where a recently-upgraded are a source of inspiration and wisdom for people around two developments at Punta Mita museum and ruins of an old fort the world. now: the resort development tells the story of the Spanish with Four Seasons Punta Mita occupation and Mexican battle Resorts and St. Regis Punta for independence in 1810. Along with the fact that development is happening slowly and carefully here and that most of life here has managed to retain traditional Mexican charm and colour, being able to buy locally-made crafts from the people who actually made them is one of the unique identifiers for Nayarit. Let’s hope it stays that way.
The polo club’s monthly matches are just one of San Pancho’s attractions; others include a great
VB beach and a community centres selling local crafts. ayarit C ayarit N iviera R
14 January 2013 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net ho[ Rwiviera Nayaritto ] sell Get In On the ideyT h Sa It ngLS el i The Riviera Nayarit Tips For Selling Riviera Nayarit: Balancing The best selling feature is that even if the client is staying at one of the all-inclusive hotels, they have the opportunity to go and Selling Renewal & discover more of Mexico and mingle with the locals. This can Rejuvenation On be done in Bucerias, where there are cobblestone streets with Act heartwarming charm or go to Sayulita: this “hip chic” town is The Riviera Nayarit the place to try out your surfing skills or enjoy a delicious fish taco while watching others surf. Another option is to head to San By Steve Crowhurst, CTM Pancho (also called San Francisco); it is one of the best sunset spots or in the winter season a perfect place to whale watch. Read the trade sales manual here www.rivieranayarit.com/ Favourite Experience agent_sales_materials, where you can get an on-line train- In Riviera Nayarit: It is not easy to pick one favourite experience in ing program and become a certified destination specialist. this area. I think the key is to immerse yourself Notice there are words used to promote Riviera Nayarit in the culture. I enjoy walking through Bucerias that will lead you to one or more niche markets. I’m talk- to find treasures in the small shops and then enjoy a margarita and tacos at one of the many ing about words such as tranquility, calm, magical, liberat- restaurants along the beach for lunch. I have ing, natural, to linger longer and to find one’s peace and also had the privilege to see the humpback whales during the winter season, which is an the niche that’s jumping up to say “sell me!” is the holistic incredible experience. self renewal niche. In the world that most Canadians are
ations Tami Brown
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a now living and working in, there is an absolute need to V Product Buyer, Mexico separate the work from the life as we try to balance both. WestJet Vacations estJet You can help your fellow Canadians do this and make W yourself some serious Pesos, too. Work/Life & No Balance our language that means one client will send – so now you have 2,000 stressed out people. If you are a practitioner of work-life balance your information to their friends. They have Either way – you make an appointment you may have read the reports based on forwarded your e-mail, shared something with the Human Resources Manager and how many vacation days Canadians are with their Facebook friends and re-Tweeted discuss a self-renewal vacation program for allowed versus the rest of the world – the your Twitter message. The social media word their staff. Be prepared to deliver a stand-up minimum and typical is 10 days. Compare for this is viral. You promotion has gone presentation or webinar. viral and that is your number one marketing that to 15 in the United States and 30 2. Use your agency window, website and goal from here on. The number two goal is in France. These reports also tell us that social sites: Push the concept of self renewal Canadians are not taking their full vacation to convert any and all inquiries into a client and the holistic way to travel. You do this quota and in essence are vacation deprived. heading for the Riviera Nayarit. with imagery – large images. Got to go large. Here’s your chance to shine. Send the video: For so many destinations, No use posting a 8½ x 11 sized photocopy. the video has become a major component Go full colour, go as large as you can. Keep it Creating Your Self-Renewal in their marketing plan – so we learn from glossy. You want that ocean to be beckoning Program this and always click on the social links, whoever is staring at it. It would pay dividends if you were to Google in this case we click on Riviera Nayarit’s Are Canadians Vacation Deprived and read YouTube link and guess what? The first video 3. Ask all your social connections to tell the reports that are displayed. With that playing shows someone doing yoga. Sweet. their friends: Offer a custom planning information well in hand you will understand Here’s the link: www.youtube.com/user/ service and suggest that you and your client that for many Canadians there is a major rivieranayaritcvb build ‘your own customized self-renewal vacation program’, together. challenge in balancing work-life issues and 1. Selling to the Corporate Client: This is a from that knowledge plus the destination no brainer. If you service corporate accounts information you read here in CT and on the You get the picture too, I am sure. Imagery you’ll know 99 per cent are stressed. That’s sells. Video sells. Being stressed out, in need Riviera Nayarit website you will arrive at the the way it is. Let’s go with 20 accounts and keyword: opportunity. of some personal time, stress reduction… each with 10 employees – right there you all of these are excellent marketing terms have 200, plus their significant others and you can use. If you can also show images of The Viral Promotion friends, people in need of some tranquility. As you well know, today it’s all about you lazing on those Riviera Nayarit beaches, socializing and sharing. It’s that sharing step You may have more than 20 accounts and walking in the secluded areas and obviously I’m always interested in talking about. In serve companies with hundreds of employees chillin’ then you’ll have more credibility.
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A ex ex Aussie R
Tourism Australia Managing Director Andrew McEvoy is determined to double tourism Primer revenues by 2020. A Look At The Very Real Business Opportunities Part I Australia Has To Offer
By Rex Armstead
If Tourism Australia (TA) boss Andrew McEvoy is right – and it seems he usually is – then TA’s plan to double tourism revenues in the decade Kevin Smith was recently appointed Distribution Manager leading up to 2020 offers great opportunities for Canadian travel agents. for Canada, based in Toronto.
When asked if the much vaunted plan was a target or a viable business objective, McEvoy stated that “It’s definitely our target, but I also think it is achievable. It amounts to approximately six per cent growth per annum and we exceeded that in 2010, dropped behind in 2011 due to UK economic woes and the Japanese tsunami, but we are back on track for 2012”. Final numbers for 2012 were not available at press An Aussie time but are looking good. Primer Currently 113,000 Canadians visit Australia each year and constitute the 13th largest inbound market for Australia – and the really good news is that they spend – In this two-part series averaging nearly $6,000 per capita. If visitations double in the 10 years leading up to of articles we offer 2010 – that’s a huge opportunity for Canadian travel agents because being a long haul, a brief overview of extended and complicated vacation – most of those travellers will want the assurance of using a qualified travel agent. And if that’s not enough to convince you, consider that the six states and 51 per cent of Canadians go “Down Under” a second time. Sell them once and you get two territories with a the repeat business. couple of examples Currently Canada, with 10 per cent of North America’s population, accounts for 20 per cent of North American visitors to Australia. When asked, Bryan Albano who of the products on is the Regional Partnership Manager for North America, stated that while his overall offer in each. In this objective was to double the numbers from North America, he fully expected to double issue we take a look the number from Canada and to help secure that growth TA have recently reopened an office in Toronto and appointed Kevin Smith as Distribution Manager for Canada. at New South Wales, Smith is “thrilled to have the opportunity to market a destination so popular with Queensland and the Canadians and unrivalled in its diversity, culture and experiences”. While this all adds up to great new business potential for Canadian travel agents, if Australian Capital you really want take advantage of TA’s aggressive marketing strategy you really need Territory, followed to understand what Australia is all about. As Albano put it “Australia’s challenge is in February by the time, distance and money…but once there your client will get the trip of a lifetime that cannot be matched anywhere else in the world. There really is nothing like Australia”. remaining four states This writer was gobsmacked at this year’s Australian Tourism Exchange by the and one territory. diversity and uniqueness of the product available – and if you don’t grasp it and understand it you won’t be able to successfully present the value proposition for an Aussie vacation – and that means you won’t be able to close the deal. There is really only one way to achieve your sales goal and that’s to become an Aussie Specialist and take advantage of all the great benefits offered by the constantly upgraded program. >> Balmy Queensland, aptly named the Sunshine State is defined for many by just three words – Great Barrier Reef. ustralia A ourism
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Just over 800 kilometres north of Sydney ustralia/ A on the Pacific Highway you cross the
border into balmy Queensland, aptly ourism ourism T tourism named the Sunshine State and defined products and experiences to for many by just three words – Great New South Wales suit every taste, interest and budget, Barrier Reef. While this 2,500-kilometre Accessible Australia representing most of what makes Australia natural wonder is on the bucket-list for unique are accessible from the Highway – most visitors to Oz, don’t let your clients Sydney, one of the world’s “must see plus you really do get the opportunity to overlook the many other attractions, cities”, is the primary gateway for all of meet the locals and experience legendary including four other World Heritage Sites, Australia, but most of what Canadian Aussie hospitality. A three-night trip is in this most blessed of states. travellers should try to experience on an recommended and you can even stay in a Crossing the border you enter The Aussie vacation is within easy reach right lighthouse. Great Sunshine Way, a newly defined in NSW. There are five classic drives, touring region that encompasses the Gold and hundreds of tours and activities that • The Blue Mountains: A World Coast south of Brisbane, Queensland’s allow you to experience pristine coastal Heritage listed wilderness, the Blue capital and the third largest city in scenery, rainforests, some of the world’s Mountain region lies an easy two-hour Australia, and the Sunshine and Fraser oldest canyons and, of course, drive west of Sydney. Formerly a retreat Coast Regions to the north. Pristine the traditional red outback. beaches, rainforests, luxury resorts, Seventy-seven of the top Formerly a retreat for wealthy Sydneysiders, the Blue Mountains now offer everyone activities and five theme parks and a couple of World 100 beaches in Australia are Heritage Sites offer a diversity of vacation in NSW; there are 14 wine spectacular scenery. product to suit any client. regions boasting at least six Further north you encounter the balmy international class wineries; (close to 26° C year-round) tropical region and accommodations to suit with some of the most varied rain forest every budget are as diverse on the planet and the best access to the
as the wildlife. reland I Great Barrier Reef – 80 per cent of leisure
avid diving takes place between Cairns and Port
D • The Legendary Pacific Douglas in the north east of the state. Coast: Explore the Inland to the west, you won’t find the
ustralia/ 900-kilometre Pacific A traditional “red outback”, but more sheep Highway from Sydney stations and the pioneering spirit that to Brisbane. While the ourism T built Australia. Highway is at the heart of the experience, it’s the surprise around • Quicksilver Cruises & Tours: Founded every turn, left or right, that makes the for wealthy Sydneysiders, the region now in 1979, Quicksilver has pioneered many drive memorable. More than 2,000 offers everyone the opportunity to of the best “reef” experiences available and participate in a wide range of activities is now the largest marine operator on the and enjoy the spectacular scenery: Great Barrier Reef. Dozens of vessels Along the Pacific Highway, there stunning sandstone escarpments twice and locations are more than 2,000 tourism as old as the Grand Canyon, slot and over 500 products and experiences; you ustralia canyons and rainforest walks, 350 A can even stay in a lighthouse. staff are headed million-year-old caves and indigenous up by ebullient
ourism ourism rock art. Multiple ecosystems support T president Michael Michael Healey, a huge diversity of wildlife and make Healey, who takes Quicksilver it one of the top birdwatching areas the protection of the Cruises & Tours. in the world. Picturesque villages resource as seriously as throughout the region offer great the quality of his customers’ accommodations. experiences. Award-winning
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www.canadiantraveller.net Canadian Traveller • January 2013 19 Less well known about the Canberra region is south[ australia ] pacific the growing number of top class wineries that are garnering international acclaim.
undersea platforms (no need to even get wet) to day-boats and live-aboards – and of course any level of snorkeling and diving. Trips are available from both Cairns and Port Douglas and many of their locations are on the “outside” where a cleansing current keeps things pristine ustralia
for both visitors and resident wildlife. A ourism T
Become An Aussie isher F Australia Specialist
Capital Territory Tourism Australia’s Aussie Specialist (Canberra Region) Program (ASP), a global online training
Down Under Tours offers “non- ustralia/James ustralia/James contrived” indigenous experience that A Cultural Heart program, educates you in how to effectively teach about the forest and how people sell and promote Australian travel.
ourism ourism Located in the southeast corner of Australia
have lived within the forest. T The free program makes sure agents are and surrounded by New South Wales, the - ACT (A, Cee, Tee) is the location of the armed with the skills and knowledge neces nation’s capital, Canberra, which celebrates sary to show travellers the wonders of the outback, and has won awards in both the • Down Under Tours: While Down its centennial in 2013. The Canberra region Under have been offering a variety of is the national and cultural centre of the UK and the US. Retail agents who become quality tourist experiences for more than country, home of Parliament and host to qualified Aussie Specialists are promoted in 20 years, including helicopter tours of the most of the national galleries and museums, Tourism Australia’s marketing so interested Great Barrier Reef, their specialty is the from Deep Space and Science through travellers can be directed to their nearest Daintree Rainforest which is a part of the Democracy and Sport, as well as the Zoo and registered specialist. The program also lets Wet Tropics of Queensland UNESCO Aquarium. Admission is mostly free or very Australian service providers keep you up to World Heritage Site. In addition to its low cost and in two or three days you can date on their latest initiatives. The Aussie stunning beauty, Daintree is the oldest see most places of interest as the Canberra Specialist Travel Club also lets you take a continually surviving rainforest and the region is a compact city of 367,000 and very variety of offers and familiarization trips at most important living record on the easy to navigate – being one of the few cities half off the retail price. planet of the evolutionary history of anywhere that was planned from scratch You’ll also get access to additional training thousands of species of plants, animals . Make sure your itinerary includes the modules, so you can further sharpen your and insects, many found only here. National Art Gallery and Museum, which Australia-selling skills. The basic program Operating out of Cairns, Port Douglas houses the largest collection of indigenous requires a quick test – four core modules, - and Palm Cove, Down Under will pick art and culture, the Botanical Gardens and, one final test, and you’re done! It costs noth your clients up at their hotel and take for a few moments of quiet reflection, the ing but your time, and any score over 85 them on full-day tours that include a National War Memorial. per cent will earn the accreditation. There scenic railway and, in some cases, a forest Less well known about the Canberra are currently more than 20,000 registered canopy gondola ride. Your clients will region is the growing number of top class Aussie Specialists in 110 countries. have a well informed guide who will wineries within a 30-minute drive of the For more information visit encourage their participation in a “non- capital. With more than 140 vineyards and www.aussiespecialist.com contrived” indigenous experience that 34 wineries the Canberra region “cool teaches them not just about the forest climate” wines are garnering international itself, but how people have lived within acclaim and, along with some really good the forest for tens of thousands of years. restaurants, are well worth checking out. AUSTRALIA FLY FREE TO THE OUTBACK Round trip air from Vancouver, 3 nights Sydney, 3 nights 9 Days Cairns, FREE flights* to Ayers Rock, Alice Springs or Darwin. $2595 Per person, twin. Valid 01May-06Jun & 24Jul-8 Sep'13. Taxes included. *Must stay 3 nights in Northern Territory, hotel not included. 1543989
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20 January 2013 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net daho On February 18, the Museum of Idaho in Idaho Falls is I blowing out the candles on its 10th anniversary with a special offer for first time visitors: free admission. useum of M Party Time T ourism A ustralia By Josephine Matyas Museums, Ski Hills & Cowboys Across The U.S. Celebrate Milestones What’s special about selling anniversary Team and Gondola Dedication on opening day celebration events? Well, some travellers just to Snow Daze and Spring Back to Vail, visitors Guests are love a party. Others gravitate toward the buzz and locals are invited to join in on a celebration and action of special events. For some it will of Vail’s extensive history over the past 50 encouraged to take be the focus of their vacation time, while for years. www.vail.com/events/50th.aspx “ others it’s a pleasant bonus to their other plans. From June 29 to July 4, the 110th Annual to the dance floor in There are special anniversaries happening all Cowboys’ Roundup Days in Steamboat across the states, from snowy hills to sunshine Springs, Colorado will pull out all the stops to coastlines. celebrate Independence Day in true western vintage 1930’s garb, Strap on your skis in New England! Several fashion. Parades, rodeos and a river float are New Hampshire ski resorts are celebrating topped off by an evening sky splashed with the ski suits or evening their 75th anniversaries. Cranmore Mountain beautiful colours of one of the biggest firework Resort in New Hampshire is marking 75 years shows in Colorado. www.colorado.com/ wear. of skiing with a January 12 gala that is sure to events/110th-annual-cowboys-roundup-days- be the social event of the winter. The evening and-4th-july-celebration includes cocktails, dinner and dancing to a Toast the grape harvest and raise your swing band. Guests are encouraged to take glass to Colorado’s finest vintages at the to the dance floor in vintage 1930’s garb, ski 22nd Annual Colorado Mountain Winefest suits or evening wear. www.Cranmore.com (September 19 to 22), the state’s oldest, In Maine, on January 19, Shawnee Peak’s largest and best wine festival, and the only 75th Gala Celebration will include a cocktail festival held in the heart of the state’s party, dinner, fireworks and skiing under the wine country. Thousands of wine lovers lights until midnight. www.shawneepeak.com make the annual pilgrimage to Palisade to On February 18, the Museum of Idaho in sample a growing array of Colorado wines Idaho Falls is blowing out the candles on its and participate in a variety of events such 10th anniversary with a special offer for first as winery tours, winemaker competitions, time visitors: free admission. In mid-February, duelling chefs, shopping, jazz concerts, grape To find out more about the Discover Carousels: Art and History in Motion, an exhibit stomps, wine and food pairing, and hands- America - Canada Committee, attend a with more than 100 carousels, including a full- on workshops. www.colorado.com/events/ scale carousel where visitors can hop on board, colorado-mountain-winefest meeting or receive the will open. www.museumofidaho.org Late summer in Oregon is the site for the bi-monthly newsletter, contact them Rhode Island is hosting New England’s 10th anniversary of Bend Brewfest (August 15 largest winter extravaganza, a quarter-century to 17). It’s a chance to taste more than 50 craft- by fax at (416) 352-5567, by e-mail at old. From February 15 to 24, the Newport brewers during three full days of hop, yeast and [email protected] or visit Winter Festival serves up 10 days of non-stop malted barley bliss. www.bendbrewfest.com www.discoveramericacanada.org food, festivities, music and fun with more than The 2012-13 ski season marks the 75th 150 events for families, children and adults. anniversary for Oregon’s Hoodoo Ski Area, Highlights include a chili cook-off, a chicken one of the most affordable and family friendly wing cook off, magic show, ice sculpting winter recreation destinations in the Northwest. demonstrations, sandcastle competition and Since opening in 1938, Hoodoo has evolved live music. The Newport Winter Festival into a full-service ski resort with more than 320 CANADA has been voted “Best Off-Season Event” by skiable hectares, 32 alpine trails, 15.8 kilometres CANADA CANADA Newport Life Magazine and a “Must Do” by of Nordic trails and five lifts. Hoodoo is also one AAA. www.NewPortWinterFestival.com of the few ski areas on the west coast to allow In 2013, Vail, Colorado, is toasting the snowbikes, Trikkes and snowscoots on the entire big 5-0. They’re marking the milestone with mountain. The Autobahn – one of the largest a celebration during the 2012-2013 ski and groomed tubing parks in the Northwest – has snowboard season and into the summer of multiple 245-metre runs, more than 250 tubes 2013. From First Tracks with the U.S. Ski and an automated tow. www.hoodoo.com
www.canadiantraveller.net Canadian Traveller • January 2013 21 un[ utahited ] states arker B dam A ake/ L alt alt S isit V
Modern living adapts easily to the ancient landscape in Utah. Ancient Landscape, Modern From Salt Lake City To Soaring Peaks This Is Living The New Utah By Laurie Carter Canadians whose last experience of Utah was the 2002 Winter Olympics, will be astounded at the changes in Salt Lake City. While the four magnificent ski resorts and in-city venues remain, visitors can now skate on Olympic ice or experience the thrill of the luge for themselves.
www.canadiantraveller.net Canadian Traveller • January 2013 23 [ utah ] e united states c ffi O ourist The iconic spires of the Salt Lake Temple, T of the Utah Symphony and Opera. Also spiritual centre of the Church of Latter situated in the downtown core and new Day Saints (Mormons), still pierce the sky in 2012, the visionary Leonardo museum in Temple Square and music lovers of any takes an interactive approach to science, faith can still take in a Thursday evening art and technology. rehearsal of the legendary Mormon More interactive fun is geared toward eorge Conventions and eorge Conventions G
Tabernacle Choir in their acoustically t youngsters at the Discovery Gateway S remarkable home space. But directly children’s museum in the Gateway Mall, across South Temple Street lies the another premier shopping venue in birthplace of a Salt Lake City renaissance, downtown Salt Lake City. Home of the the centrepiece of a vital new urban Olympic Legacy Plaza, Gateway also hosts experience. the Clark Planetarium with its 3D IMAX and Hansen Dome Theatres. Adventure seeking hikers from around the Sustainable Cityscape world come to Zion National Park to trek The While exploring the universe is Seamlessly blending the old with Narrows, Subway and Angels Landing trails. fascinating for some, other visionaries the new, City Creek Center is one are more intent on exploring their own of America’s largest mixed-use system shields shoppers from winter DNA in the “genealogy capital of the downtown redevelopment projects. storms while letting in the dazzling world.” At the Family Search Center over With great attention to the principles of summer sun. 100 individual computer stations provide sustainability, this unique community At the core of urban renewal is the goal access to family history resources and the encompasses some 90 retail outlets of enticing people to make their home Family History Library maintains over 2.4 including Macy’s, Nordstroms and a downtown and when this is successful million rolls of microfilmed genealogical Tiffany & Co. shop that sources its local you can count on finding interesting records to help leaf out the family tree. gold from Utah. restaurants and bars in the city centre. Running through the heart of the A host of high-design, high-concept Cultural Diversity casually walkable environment is a eateries have recently opened their doors For residents of Salt Lake City, that family 365-metre-long recreation of historic in the heart of Salt Lake offering a range tree spreads broadly. Although still closely City Creek that once flowed through of American and international cuisine associated with the followers of Brigham downtown and provided early settlers and making this city the hottest dining Young who settled here in 1847, Utah’s with water. Complementing the creek destination in the West. capital has evolved in a way that might are two 5.5-metre waterfalls cascading Cultural attractions are the surprise many. As the “crossroads of the over Utah sandstone boulders. And in third pillar of a thriving urban West,” the area has attracted immigrants a nod to the state’s varied climate, environment and Salt Lake from all over the United States, Mexico outdoor walkways are heated City offers some impressive and Latin America, Europe, Asia and, to deal with snow and options including the interestingly, Pacific Islands such as the a retractable stunning angularity of Solomons and Samoa. roof Abravanel Hall, located Annual multi-cultural events and next to City Creek festivals underscore the diversity that Centre and thrives here. While Pioneer Days home celebrates the Mormon heritage with one of the biggest parades in America,
Annual multi-cultural events and festivals underscore the cultural diversity of Salt Lake City. ake L alt alt S isit V
24 January 2013 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net un[ utahited ] states
the city also lays on a massive three-day ancestral camel, horse, deer and mountain A recreation of historic City Creek runs Pride Festival along with a Greek Festival, sheep that once roamed the area. The through City Creek Centre, one of the largest Cinco de Mayo and various Pacific Island state also encompasses two of the largest mixed-use development projects in the U.S. celebrations. dinosaur graveyards in North America: Dinosaur National Monument in the Natural History north and the Cleveland-Lloyd Quarry in There is much to celebrate in a land east-central Utah. of unique natural characteristics and This rich heritage is now showcased physical beauty. Salt Lake City spreads in another Salt Lake City landmark, the across a valley bordered by the Wasatch stunning Natural History Museum of Mountains (the western range of the Utah. Opened in 2012, the Rio Tinto Rockies) to the east and north, with Center at the University of Utah is clad in the Oquirrh (pronounced “oaker”) 3,900 square metres of copper, echoing Mountains to the west. The valley was the colour of the landscape into which it once covered by massive prehistoric Lake blends so easily with rooflines that follow Bonneville, a remnant of the last ice age, the silhouette of the foothills. which at its crest stretched to a length of Located at the junction of the urban 556 kilometres covering portions of Utah, and natural worlds, the museum serves as Nevada and Idaho to a depth sometimes the trailhead to Utah with the Bonneville exceeding 300 metres. Shoreline Trail passing right by the front The most obvious reminders of Lake door. Inside, its imaginative galleries Bonneville are the arid plains of the interpret climate and astronomy; First Bonneville Salt Flats west of Salt Lake Peoples traditions of the Shoshone, City and, to the northwest, Great Salt Goshute, Paiute, Ute, and Navajo; Lake. Although very shallow, reaching geology, geography and mineralogy of an average depth of just four metres, this the Middle Rocky Mountains, Basin and is the largest lake west of the Mississippi, Range; 500 million years of changing covering 5,439 square kilometres. With landscapes and life forms; and the as much as 27 per cent salinity, only the remarkable biodiversity of the state. Dead Sea has a higher salt content. Most of Utah lies on a high mid- Nature Today continent plateau more than 1200 metres The museum is an outstanding starting above sea level. In contrast to the blue point for personal exploration of the of the lake and the eye-piercing white natural world in Utah’s 43 state parks of the salt flats, much of its geography and five national parks. Some 65 per is characterized by the warm tones of cent of the state is owned by the federal mountains surging as high as 3,900 government with Utah boasting more metres, flat-topped buttes and layered national parks than any other state.
City Creek Center canyons revealing myriad shades of red and The largest island in Great Salt Lake the fossilized remains of an abundant past. is a terrific example of Utah’s state park Along the Wasatch Front on system. Just 66 kilometres from Salt Lake the former shoreline of Lake City, Antelope Island is easily accessible by Bonneville, researchers have causeway from the mainland. A favourite found the remains for swimmers who enjoy floating effortlessly of mammoth, in the salty water, it offers hiking, biking musk ox, and horseback riding trails, a marina for powerboats, sailboats and kayaks, a restaurant, concessions and multiple camping facilities including RV hook-ups. Clustered in the southern half of the ake L state are the national parks: Arches, alt alt S Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capital isit V Reef and Zion. In addition, Monument The visionary Valley Navajo Tribal Park straddles the Leonardo museum Utah/Arizona border, the best access to takes an interactive the North Rim of the Grand Canyon is approach to science, through southern Utah, and Mesa Verde art and technology. National Park lies just over the border in Colorado. The parks are so close together that it is possible to take them all in on a one-week grand circle driving tour, although at least two weeks would be a
26 January 2013 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net
un[ utahited ] states
nATIOnAL PARK
The Natural History Museum of Utah houses interactive exhibits organized into themes like Sky, Life, Nature Voices, Past Worlds, First UTAH Peoples and the Great Salt Lake. VISIT
better timeframe for really appreciating St. George’s Dinosaur Discovery the grandeur of this country. Museum is acclaimed as one of the top As the name suggests, Arches National 10 dino track sites in the world. But Park offers the largest concentration of many winter-weary visitors are more natural arches while Bryce Canyon is most interested in the area’s destination spas or notable for its brilliant red sandstone the Red Rock Golf Trail. The city boasts Two hours north and a million miles hoodoos. Red rock pinnacles, cliffs and six excellent courses within a 40-minute away from Las Vegas, this National spires mark Canyonlands and Capital Reef radius including Sunbrook, Coral Canyon, Park favorite will amaze and inspire is best known for the Waterpocket Fold, a Sky Mountain, Sand Hollow, Falcon you! Take advantage of hiking and 160-kilometre long bulge in the planet’s Ridge and Sun River. biking trails, horseback riding, jeep crust. Zion is Utah’s oldest national park. The historic downtown presents a tours, rappelling, atv excursions and Created in 1919, it attracts adventure- variety of interesting shopping and more. Don’t forget your camera! seeking hikers from around the world to dining opportunities and in recent years, trek The Narrows, Subway and Angels St. George has expanded its focus on Landing trails. the arts. The Tuacahn Amphitheatre and Center for the Arts, an outdoor EveryThing from A To Zion St. George venue surrounded by 450-metre red Only 145 kilometres from Las Vegas, the rock cliffs, attracts thousands annually southern-Utah town of St. George is the to its Broadway-style musicals, concerts gateway to Zion Nation Park. Beloved of and Christmas Festival of Lights with Canadians for its mild, dry winters with live nativity. St. George also hosts the average temperatures in the mid-teens Southwest Symphony and the DocUtah Celcius, St. George enjoys a high desert international documentary film festival. environment at 853 metres above sea Modern living adapts easily to the level. Along with Zion National Park, the ancient landscape in Utah. city of 75,000 people is close to Snow Canyon, Quail Creek, Gunlock and Sandy For more information on Utah, Hollow state parks. visit www.visitutah.com
edia St. George boasts six golf course M within a 40-minute radius. air F ways
A winter golf destination with lots of options for every golfer’s skill level, schedule and pocketbook! Lower rates than other desert locations. Book your custom package at RedRockGolf.com.
Fly direct! Delta via Salt Lake City or United via Los Angeles
28 January 2013 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net united states
ToWin Bry cae TripCanyon, for Ut a2h
Life truly is elevated in Utah. Spectacular scenery, fascinating history and a great urban scene in Salt Lake City. Here’s your chance to experience it for yourself. The Prize: • 7 nights at Ruby’s Inn, Bryce Canyon City Questions 1. Complementing the creek are two 5.5-metre ______Utah sandstone boulders. 2. Annual multi-cultural events and festivals underscore ______that thrives here. 3. This rich heritage is now showcased in another Salt Lake City landmark, the stunning ______. 4. As the name suggests, Arches National Park offers the largest concentration of natural arches while Bryce Canyon is most notable for its ______5. Beloved of Canadians for its ______with average temperatures in the mid-teens Celcius, St. George enjoys a high desert environment at 853 metres above sea level.
Complete all information and fax to 866-562-4405 or visit www.canadiantraveller.net/contests
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Terms & Conditions 1. To enter the contest, the entrant must be a resident of Canada who has reached the age of majority in 5. One prize will be awarded consisting of 7 nights at Ruby’s Inn the province in which he/she resides, who is not an employee of, a member of the immediate family of, or 6. The prized redemption dates will be provided to the winner. Prize must be accepted as awarded, is not domiciled with an employee of ACT Communications In., its agents or distributors, or any of the prize donors. redeemable for cash and is not transferable. Contest is not valid in any jurisdiction where prohibited by law. Odds of winning are contingent upon the number of entries received. 7. The winner will be advised by telephone during the week of May 15, 2013 and announced in the August 2013 2. Entrants must complete all questions, and include their name, telephone number and signature. issue of Canadian Traveller. 3. Mail or fax entries to “UTAH Contest” Canadian Traveller, 201-2080 Hartley Avenue, Coquitlam, BC V3K 6W5. 8. All entries become property of Canadian Traveller, which assumes no responsibility Fax: 1-866-562-4405. Entries must be received by April 30, 2013. for printing error or lost or misdirected entries. No communication will be entered into 4. The draw will be made May 15, 2013 from all correct entries received. All questions must be answered. The except with the winning entrant. solutions can be found in “Ancient Landscape, Modern Living” in the January 2013 issue of Canadian Traveller. 9. One entry per person. Duplicate entries will be disqualified. un[ utahited ] states Greatest Bryce Canyon ® Lodging & Activities Snow on Earth Selling A Winter Sports Destination? It has to be Utah. Utah averages more than 1,270 centimetres average annually, and its location almost 1,000 kilometres from the sea guarantees the 1-800-468-8660 lightest driest and best quality snow. Here are some passes that www.rubysinn.com make Utah even more attractive: • Park City Three Resort International • V isit Salt Lake Connect Pass: Ski Pass: This is a booklet of one-day All-in-one ticket to 15 of Salt Lake’s lift ticket vouchers for the three Park best attractions. City area resorts – Deer Valley, Park www.visitsaltlake.com/things-to-do/ City Mountain Resort and Canyons. connect-pass/ www.visitparkcity.com/visitors/ • America The Beautiful Pass: Covers international-english/e-resort-intl-pass entrance fees at national parks and • Ski Salt Lake Super Pass: 20% off national wildlife refuges for a driver 1-866-866-6634 lift tickets for Alta, Snowbird, Solitude and all passengers in a personal vehicle. www.brycecanyongrand.com and Brighton; 20% off ski rentals; free Current rate $80. transportation from Salt Lake City by www.nps.gov/findapark/passes.htm Closest Accommodations to UTA bus and TRAX light rail. Bryce Canyon National Park www.visitsaltlake.com/ski/superpass/
30 January 2013 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net HOW TO [ utahSELL ] Pushing The Right Button Elevate Your Commissions Selling All Utah Has To Offer By Steve Crowhurst, CTM Utah’s tourism slogan is Life Elevated, which says to me let’s get on that life elevator and go to the top floor. Why would we do this? You know, it’s because that’s where the view is. The view is always at the top and from the edge. Precisely how you need to think when mar- keting Utah to attract your clients to return to, or visit Utah for the first time. Okay, here we go. We’re in the elevator and now let’s push the button that will take us to the Marketing Floor and see what’s available to help you sell more U. The View From The Top Floor scenery and photography and you can apply From this level I can see nothing but the steps to whatever your U-USP might be. opportunity. Too many perhaps, so we need to focus on one or two to set things Creating The Awe In Utah in motion. You’ll need a 2013 Utah Sales Whatever your U-USP is you’ve got to Plan, a USP that also translates as a Unique make it an awesome thing to do, to see, Selling Proposition. How great is that? to experience. This has to be a Uta(h) Utah IS the USP. wesome experience. Something wondrous. From way up here, the view is telling us Now with scenery as the backdrop to a how you can make money selling Utah. You photography tour what else would you can offer advice and charge for it but the true need? You would need to know the best satisfaction is in creating your own group view points for the various times of the day, tour product. You package it yourself with the season and the weather. You would want the help of UOT and their partners or you that coach driving towards that awesome work with one of your preferred suppliers. scenery at a time and pace that builds When you create your own packaged excitement among the passengers. So much product you are in total control of what so that they can’t wait to get off the coach your clients will see and how long they get to start setting up their cameras. to stand there in total awe of the scenery, or Let’s switch lanes for a moment and how long they can play that golf course, or put shopping on the map. The same level view that bird in flight, or shop. of awesome can be created here. You would know the best shopping centres for what Choosing Your UTAH USP your clients are looking for, you know the What is your travel passion? What does Utah opening hours, you’ve arranged lunch with offer you as a travel agent and traveller? the store manager, you’ve got a special Whatever it is, let it be your USP, your price arranged for some items and a group Unique Selling Proposition…in other photograph to be taken inside or outside words your niche market for selling Utah. the store with the store manager. That The easiest to go with is the scenery, which photograph, by the way, becomes your social offers you the chance to create a package to media marketing tool. Your clients will share include what every traveller now does – take with their online pals and you will share it photographs and share them. If you are a with your client list and via your agency’s skier then that could be your U-USP, if you social networks. Imagery has a way of are into shopping or ancestry research then boosting group sales. It’s based on the “me that could be your U-USP. I’ll focus on the too” gene being activated. www.canadiantraveller.net Canadian Traveller • January 2013 31 how[ florida ] to sell Going with the Flo'Get Social & Get Selling Florida
By Steve Crowhurst, CTM > > Great Sales Tool!Great Guide Pull-Out Travel I’m on the Visit Florida Facebook page and well, dear me, only 553,307 LIKES and just a couple of people talking about the page … whoops, missed the other 29,865! Oh the power of soaking up the social sunshine eh? Who wouldn’t like that many LIKES and that many people thinking and talking about visiting Florida and booking through your agency to get there? Now personally, I’d LIKE that a lot! With that many people LIKING Florida on Facebook, imagine how many like it when they get there!
So let’s get busy and see what we can come VFSmartTravel. Do the same thing for all now you are advising the people who follow up with for innovative ideas to send more other Visit Florida social connections that VF and live in your area that they can book of your clients to Florida and when they get a prospective visitor might be subscribing with you. there, to actually travel the state versus going to and then you too will be fully informed, The idea is not to let all that social activity from airport to hotel room to deck chair. just like your clients. that VF is engaged in, go to waste. They Not that there’s anything wrong with that, spend a great deal of time posting good qual- but there’s more Flo’ to Go. Get Your Clients to “Go with ity information and you can support their the Flo’ ” efforts and help make a sale for VF and your First Things First – Follow, If you follow through on the follow, fan, agency, too. Sure there are 500,000 people Fan, Like, Pin & Watch like, pin and watch action item then you reading and wanting information, however Keep in mind step one of the sales process. are probably socializing more then you’ve it takes a social nudge to start the conversion What was it? Ah yes, Product Knowledge. ever done in the past, but hey, it’s all for from Like to a Booking. That’s where you Now, do you remember when it was your job a good cause. Your cause. You are now in come in. You need to take it viral. to hunt it down and read it and file it away? the know and that know-ledge will help My, how times have changed. All you have to you get your clients to Go with the Flo’. Building Your “Go With The do now is follow, fan, like, pin and watch and Here’s how: Flo’” Sales Strategy it all comes to you as fast as you can say Visit Selling a state that has so much to offer such 1. You can comment on posts made on Florida. At the same time you can also click the VF Facebook page (and other social as Florida can be confusing. One way to to this link to check out the e-guides that are pages too). handle the “what do I sell?” challenge is to Pull-Out Travel Guide Great Sales Tool! packed with destination information: analyze what you could sell other than the www.visitflorida.com/guides/ 2. When you read a comment/post that usual type of vacation. To many Canadians > The Visit Florida team has done a you like, comment on that comment. The travelling south (and to many travel agents,
VB marvellous job on the social side of your new post reads: “Great deals on…” and you too), the “usual” would be sun, sand and product knowledge life and to be quite comment back, “That’s fantastic!” and that’s sea – in other words a beach vacation. Thing honest all you need do is tap into their all you really need do. Your name and link is, there’s more than one beach. So even a social connections and all the updates and will be posted with your comment which multi-beach vacation offer can become a new merald Coast C E information will, as I say, come to you. means prospective clients might connect niche in a well-known segment. For golfers One reason to go-social with Visit Florida directly with you on your agency’s Facebook there’s more than one golf course – they is to make sure you also receive the infor- page for more information. can play on a southern course and then on mation that your clients are accessing via 3. To nudge those prospective Florida a course in the north. This is called a two- their social networks. bound clients to call you, you could add a centre vacation and it falls very nicely into the Do what your clients do and follow few more words to your comment such as: FIT category where you design a custom- Visit Florida on Twitter by clicking here: @ “That’s fantastic! Call me if you live in…” – made Florida vacation.
To many Canadians travelling south means a beach vacation. Thing is, there’s more than one beach. So even a multi-beach vacation offer can become a new niche in a well-known segment. A Canadian’s Guide To Florida
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FLORIDA – A SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO THE JANUARY 2013 ISSUE OF CANADIAN TRAVELLER A Canadian's Guide To 26 40 Florida January 2013 It’s Always Sunny 6 Centre Of It All 26 Florida’s Warmth Covers Much Central Florida Is THE Place More Than The Weather For Hot & Cool Adventures Doing Dali 8 Northern Shores 40 From Sublime To Intriguing, From The Emerald Coast To The Discover Florida’s Cultural Treasures Historic Coast, Northern Florida Is A World All Its Own Sand-Sational Win, Win, Win 43 Playground 10 Enter To Win A Trip For 2 Endless Sunshine & Silky Sand To Florida Are Just The Start Of A
Florida Vacation The Great Outdoors 12 Head Beyond the Beach & Discover Florida’s Natural Attractions Y ou’ll Be Amazed 14 Dinosaurs & Dolphins, Lions & Mice – Florida Theme Parks Have It All S outhern ARTS 18 From Swamp Buggies To Art Villages, Discover Southern Florida’s Many, Many Attractions 6 FLORIDA – A SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO THE JANUARY 2013 ISSUE OF CANADIAN TRAVELLER
Published 12 times a year by Cover Photo: Tom Shelby/Bradenton Area CVB
201-2080 Hartley Avenue Coquitlam, BC Canada V3K 6W5 THE DESTINATION SALES RESOURCE FOR TRAVEL PROFESSIONALS Contents © 2013 by ACT Communications Inc. Tel: (604) 699-9990 Printed in Canada All Rights Reserved. ISBN 1207-1463 Fax: (604) 699-9993 It’s Always
Florida’s Warmth Covers Much More Than The Weather
By Lindor Reynolds
Postcards from Florida inevitably feature Long, Smooth Beaches, groves of perfect orange trees, a grinning cartoon sun, or stretches of pastel-hued hotels. The clichés are true, of course, because Florida is filled with natural attractions and manmade wonders to lure visitors. Emerald Coast CVB
Postcard-perfect Florida beach.
6 VISITFLORIDA.COM JANUARY 2013 Canadian Traveller 38 Visit Florida Lee Country VCB Walt Disney World Resort World Disney Walt
Museum of Florida History. W alt Disney World. Paddling and wildlife viewing.
But Florida is much more than ever-expanding famous but still fantastic parks. Astronaut for a half theme parks and souvenir stands. It has a 500-year day, any one? How about the chance to play with history that began when explorer Juan Ponce de Leon lots and lots of Lego at Legoland? arrived on the state’s east coast. In 2013, the state will Florida has its big cities, with their attractions feature all sorts of attractions and celebrations to mark and excitements, but there are countless smaller the anniversary. They’re calling it Viva 500 and it’s the places to visit. Visitors should try to combine two perfect time to explore the state. or three destinations. If you’re in Miami, make the Florida’s documented history didn’t begin when drive to funky Key West, stopping for fresh key lime Walt Disney decided to build a theme park in pie at Mangrove Mama’s on Sugarloaf Key along Orlando, or when the Weeki Wachee mermaids first the way. A trip to Tampa could include a visit to the flipped their tails in giant tanks. More than 12,000 top-ranked beaches in small town Dunedin. If you years ago, the American Indians were the region’s find yourself in Pensacola or Tallahassee, travel the pioneers. Spain claimed Florida in 1513 and their Emerald Coast and visit Seaside, the picture perfect explorers helped develop the area. Add the French town featured in Jim Carrey’s movie The Truman and the English to the mix and Florida became (and Show. Orlando and its thrills should be accompanied remains) a multi-cultural mix. by the down home feel of New Smyrna Beach. You This guide will lead you through Florida’s past and can fish, surf or just lay back and enjoy the sun. A its bright future. There’s something for everyone in trip to northern Florida can incorporate a visit to St. the Sunshine State. Want history? Go straight to Augustine with its centuries-old buildings that include the splendour of state capital Tallahassee, a lovely the mammoth Castillo de San Marcos, a 17th- southern city on the Forgotten Coast, boasting both century Spanish fortress. If you want it, Florida has it. a Spanish Mission and the legacy of prohibitionist Many Canadians come to Florida for the great Luella Knott. The Museum of Florida History is a outdoors. This is the place for fantastic wildlife 21-hectare complex blending nature, wildlife and viewing, paddling, fishing and boating. You’ve got culture. The 150,000 annual visitors now span all age the option of either freshwater or saltwater fishing groups interested in what Florida looked like before in Florida. The state bills itself as “the fishing capital they paved the swamps and caused the indigenous of the world” and everyone from trophy hunters to people to disappear. casual anglers will agree. If you prefer to view your Combine your visit to the capital with a drive to wildlife from a car window or on foot, consider the Panama City Beach for a field trip to the Florida 3,200-kilometre Great Florida Birding and Wildlife mythology of eternal sunshine and good old boys. Trail. There are nearly 500 sites throughout the state, It’s a casual and fun spot filled with gorgeous a self-guided highway tour promoting conservation stretches of beach, fresh crab in the restaurants education and viewing activities. The Florida Fish and and a laid-back feeling. A civic official says the town Wildlife Conservation Commission works to sustain motto is “real, real fun beach.” And it is, as are so millions of acres of rugged land to keep native wildlife many spots along the 2,880 kilometres of coastline. in their natural habitat. You’ll learn all about those beaches in this guide, Prepare for your trip by perusing this guide. Add from spots where families love to gather, to the in a few books written by Florida authors (Dave amusing Daytona Beach, once the Spring Break Barry, Carl Hiassen and Mark Lane are good places capital of America and still a site where cars drive to begin), and pack your sunblock. There truly is right along the flattened sand. If you want to collect something for everyone in the shells, head to Sanibel Island. You’ll soon be doing Sunshine State. the “Sanibel stoop” and bending over to gather the sea’s treasures. If you want the see-and-be-seen beach, Miami Beach is the place to be. Destin, Clearwater, and Fort Lauderdale are just a handful of the family-friendly spots. Canadians love Florida not just for the terrific weather and superlative beaches, but also because of its theme parks. You can start with the majors – Walt Disney World, Universal Studio’s Orlando Resort and SeaWorld – and move on to slightly less Key lime pie. Visit Florida
CANADIAN TRAVELLER 39 JANUARY 2013 VISITFLORIDA.COM 7 CULE TUR Doing Visit Florida
DaliFrom Sublime To Intriguing, Discover Florida’s Cultural Treasures
By Donna Carter With the Sunshine State’s worldwide reputation for theme parks and beaches, first time isitorsv are often surprised to discover a vibrant arts and culture scene that includes a wealth of top-notch museums, opera, theatre, performing arts, world class symphony and a number of fascinating cultural attractions. Salvador Dali Museum, Inc. St. Petersburg, Florida Petersburg, St. Inc. Salvador Dali Museum,
The Salvador Dali Museum, St. Petersburg.
8 VISITFLORIDA.COM JANUARY 2013 Canadian Traveller 40 R emember the Florida Keys, the Sunshine State’s perform- “The Big Top” ing arts scene rivals the best in the nation. One of several attractions Unique & Charming on the John and Mabel Ernest St. Augustine is the only Florida community Ringling Estate at Sarasota is Hemingway with a real living history museum that incorpo- the family-friendly Circus Museum Home & rates an entire portion of the city. Its Old Town that traces the illustrious history Museum in section features cobblestone streets lined with Key West. of the famous Ringling family circus. Visit Florida centuries-old buildings where costumed inter- Museum displays include rare posters preters depict life as it was in the mid-1700s. and handbills, dazzling costumes, ornate The John and Mabel Ringling Estate, Sarasota. A cornerstone of this historic enclave is the circus wagons, plus an extension of the mammoth Castillo de San Marcos, a 17th- museum houses the world’s largest min- century Spanish fortress deemed to be the iature circus diorama. Also on the property, oldest of its kind in the United States. Featured the John and Mabel Ringling Museum of Art exhibits here include ancient weaponry and features an impressive sculpture garden and military reenactments in period costume. 21 connecting galleries containing priceless works by masters such as Rubens, El Greco A Multitude Of Museums and Gainsborough. Another highlight of the With at least 300 museums of every size from estate is John Ringling’s former Venetian-style small to grand, Florida is a museum-lovers mansion, Ca d’Zan (meaning house of John) nirvana. There’s everything from kids’ muse- where narrated tours illustrate the life of the ums to outdoor museums, military and history greatest circus impresario who ever lived. museums, and even one on Amelia Island housed in a former jail. Indeed, the choices are N ew & Notable endless. Some have unique attractions such The 2011 opening of the Salvador Dali Sarasota CVB as the Daytona Beach Museum of Arts and Museum in St. Petersburg was a huge addi- Sciences (MOAS) which houses the largest tion to this popular waterfront city and Florida Daytona Beach Museum of Arts and Sciences. collection of Cuban art outside of Cuba. Much in general. The museum, of course, is named of the collection was donated to the museum after the Spanish artist considered the world’s by former Cuban President Batista prior to his greatest surrealist painter. Dali died in 1989 fall from power in 1957. In addition, for people and today the largest collection of his works unaware that mammoth mastodons once outside of Spain is housed in the stunning $36 roamed the Florida landscape, MOAS provides million, 6,317-square metre facility containing an awakening with its awesome four-metre tall 96 oil paintings, at least 100 watercolours and skeleton of a giant ground sloth. Other muse- drawings, and more than 1,000 sculptures, Visit Florida ums across the state are dedicated to the his- photos and other objets d’art. tory and memorabilia associated, for instance, Movie Mania with water skiing, fishing, police weaponry, the The annual Florida Film Festival, headquartered Holocaust, seashells and certainly last but not least the famous Kennedy Space Center on at Orlando’s Enzian Theatre, is scheduled every spring. The 10-day event has premiered Merritt Island, 30 minutes east of Orlando. some of the best current, foreign and inde- A Cultural Experience pendent cinema for more than 20 years. The On the Big Cypress Seminole Indian Res- Festival includes more than 160 films, 100 ervation, its Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum is a visiting moviemakers, film stars and numerous living history venue where visitors learn about fun and food events. For movie lovers, this is a Seminole traditions and culture dating back must-attend affair. Throughout the year the En- to the mid-1800s. Located west of Fort Lau- zian also hosts a number of other film events derdale in Florida’s heartland, the museum is including the Jewish Film Festival, a kids film home to 30,000 artifacts and archival items fest and a South Asian Film Festival. including 40 life-size figures depicting activi- On Stage ties such as hunting, dancing and canoeing. The state’s music and performing arts scene Surrounded by Everglades flora and fauna, is both well developed and plentiful. It’s safe to the outdoor part of Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki features a say there isn’t a single Florida metropolis that long boardwalk leading to a living history vil- The Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum. lage where Seminole artisans and tribal elders
doesn’t have live theatre and musical perfor- Visit Florida mances. Daytona Beach’s Peabody Auditori- can be observed creating beadwork, basketry, woodcarving, clothing and other traditional art um regularly hosts renowned groups including Enzian Theatre, Orlando. the London Symphony Orchestra, and in Fort forms. There are also regular reenactments of Lauderdale, the Grand Opera Season at the Seminole rituals and ceremonies. beautiful Broward Center for the Performing A much different cultural experience is Arts presents all-time favourite classics like The provided at the Ernest Hemingway Home Magic Flute, La boheme and La Traviata. In & Museum in Key West, the largest city in Miami, the Gusman Center for the Performing the state’s famous South Florida Keys. Here, people can view the Spanish Colonial-style Arts features everything from film to ballet and various musical performances. From Pan- residence where the celebrated author spent ama City Beach in the north – where its historic a decade writing some of his greatest novels. Martin Theatre offers everything from stand up Hemingway was an avid collector of 17th- and 18th-century Spanish furniture and the house comedy to live theatre and music – south to Visit Florida still contains many of his original furnishings. w
CANADIAN TRAVELLER 41 JANUARY 2013 VISITFLORIDA.COM 9 BEACHES Sand-Sational Playground E ndless Sunshine & Silky Sand Are Just The Start Of A Florida Vacation
By Donna Carter Whoever coined the phrase, “life’s a beach,” had to have been thinking of the Sunshine State. With 2,880 kilometres of coastline dotted with hundreds of awesome beaches, Florida is truly a beach lover’s paradise. Moreover, no two are exactly the same meaning there’s plenty of diversity and choice. There are options for everybody including high-activity beaches, family favourites, secluded sandy coves, popular shelling beaches, and even a beach on which people can drive cars. The Lee County CVB
Sanibel Island. Visit Florida
10 VISITFLORIDA.COM JANUARY 2013 Canadian Traveller 42 Destin. Caladesi Island. Fort Lauderdale. Blowing Rocks Preserve. Visit Florida Visit St Petersburg/ Clearwater www.sunny.org Visit Florida
Hip, Hot & Glitzy the wide, hard-packed sand stretching south turtles, inspecting small fossils, meandering Miami’s famous South Beach has a reputa- from upper Ormond Beach to Daytona and through tunnels of sea grape, snorkelling and tion that extends to the far reaches of the Ponce Inlet was Florida’s first racetrack. In fact scuba diving. Other rocky shorelines are found planet. This is Florida’s epicentre of glitz and all kinds of land speed records were set here at the Washington Oaks Gardens State part glamour where its spectacular beachfront is in the early days of beach racing. Even NAS- north of the Palm Beaches, as well as Big Tal- flanked by world-class restaurants, swanky CAR races were once held on the beach until bot Island State Park east of Jacksonville. Daytona’s now famous Daytona International shops and one of the hottest nightclub Nature scenes in the nation. It’s a gathering place Speedway was established. Today, the speed On the Atlantic Coast south of Melbourne, for the rich and famous and it’s also a place limit for leisurely beach driving is 10 mph and along a 32-kilometre stretch of beach defined vacationers come to join in the excitement of is restricted to dedicated driving lanes. There by coastal dunes is the 115-hectare Archie one of the most fashionable “in” spots in the are 13 auto access ramps between Ormond Carr National Wildlife Refuge where its pro- U.S., where a spectacular beachfront is the Beach and Ponce Inlet. tected environment is the most important icing on the cake. L ovely To Look At nesting site for loggerhead sea turtles in Playing The Shell Game In addition to a delightful web of inland canals, the Western Hemisphere. It’s also a minor Several Florida beaches offer good shelling, Fort Lauderdale has one of the prettiest beach- nesting spot for leatherback turtles, the largest however, the Gulf Coast’s Sanibel Island is fronts in the state. Its more than 37 kilometres and rarest of all turtles on the planet. Weigh- renowned for its shell abundance. It’s so popu- of pale, sugary sand are pure eye candy and ing upwards of 544 kilograms each, they are lar with shell hunters the name “Sanibel stoop” the city has gone out of its way to take advan- among the more than 15,000 sea turtles that is used to describe the bent-over posture tage of this great natural asset. The building of annually arrive at the Archie Carr Refuge to of people regularly combing the beachfront. an attractive, 3.2-kilometre-long wave-wall nest and hatch their young. Nesting months Moreover, Sanibel and its sister island of Cap- and a signature beachfront promenade occur from April through September and tiva are deemed to be among the world’s top were part of a multi-million-dollar beautification Refuge volunteers provide guided walks for shelling locations. Other statewide locations project that resulted in the creation of one of visitors wanting to observe and learn about this include aptly named Shell Island off northwest the finest and most impressive waterfronts in phenomenal ritual. all Florida. Flanking the promenade is a host Florida’s Panama City Beach, plus Venice Small Town Charm Beach south of Sarasota, and Jupiter Island on of shops, restaurants, sidewalk cafes and Visitors who prefer small town beaches over the mid-Atlantic Coast. entertainment venues. Of course, the beach remains the star of the show where vacation- Florida’s big city waterfronts can vacation in Family Favourites ers indulge in snorkelling, surf fishing, scuba, communities like New Smyrna Beach. This Snorkelling, kayaking, beach volleyball, and beach volleyball, windsurfing and jet-skiing. laid-back town on the central East Coast that even horseback riding in ocean surf are among began in the mid-1700s as a seaside planta- the beach activities that make memorable fam- Unique & Unusual tion has 21 kilometres of pristine, white sand ily vacations. The upper Gulf Coast town of Not all Sunshine State beaches are ribbons of shoreline and a com- Destin is among the multitude of places with silky sand. Some of Florida’s rocky shores rep- munity vibe that is a kid-friendly waterfront. This quiet, family-ori- resent an entirely different kind of beachfront. pure “down home.” Miami’s These are places where swimming may be The small, friendly spectacular ented community’s wide, white sand beach is beachfront. ideal for everything from sandcastle building to limited but water-carved sea caves are fun to town of Dunedin swimming in the emerald green waters that lap explore and tidal pools beg for splashing. One north of Tampa like- its shoreline. Indeed, excellent family days can of the best-known craggy shorelines is found wise has a small be had at scores of Sunshine State beaches at the Blowing Rocks Preserve off the mid- town atmosphere including those at Amelia Island, Siesta Key, Atlantic Coast on Jupiter Island. Here, at high and a waterfront St. Petersburg and Clearwater. Other good tide, wave after wave pounds away at sea that’s the doorway places to lay down family beach towels are caves shooting 15-metre-tall gey- to two of Florida’s the Atlantic Coast’s Delray Beach, Gulf Coast sers into the air. While these top-ranked beaches: Naples, Tampa and Fort Lauderdale – to name impressive water shows Caladesi Island just a few. are certainly engaging, and Honeymoon
the limestone shoreline Island.w Visit Florida R are & Unusual of Blowing Rocks is The Daytona Beach area is one of the entertaining in other few places anywhere that people can ways: spotting log- drive vehicles on beaches – a tradi- gerhead and tion here that dates back to leatherback the early 1900s when sea
Sea turtles arrive to nest.
Daytona Beach.
CANADIAN TRAVELLER 43 JANUARY 2013 VISITFLORIDA.COM 11 Visit Florida OUD T OORS Scenic paddleways. In fishing heaven. Pensacola Bay Area CVB Pensacola Bay Emerald Coast CVB The Great Professional Sports Race car fans will want to take in the Daytona 500 held every February at the Daytona Beach International Speedway. The Coke Zero 400 is Outdoors held there in July. True fans can sign up for a track tour year-round. Head Beyond The Beach & Discover If you want to watch the pros play golf, you Florida’s Natural Attractions can begin with The Honda Classic in Palm Beach Gardens, usually the first stop on the Florida tour. From there, there’s the World Golf Championship in Miami, the Traditions Championship in north Florida, the Tavistock Cup in Windermere and the Arnold Palmer Invitational in Orlando. For more information of pro golf, visit www.pgatour.com/tournaments. Fishing If you’re an angler, You’re In Fsh Heaven In Florida. The state calls itself “the fishing capital
Spectator Sports No matter what you sport you love, you can likely watch it in Florida. The state is home to an NHL team, two major-league baseball teams, spring training camps, two NBA basketball teams and three NFL teams. Go team! Baseball: Both the Florida Marlins and the Tampa Bay Devils call the state home. The “Grapefruit League” starts up in February and marks the start of the pro team tune-ups. Spring training gives avid fans the chance to watch their teams close up. Basketball: The Miami Heat and the Orlando Magic call Florida home. Football: The Miami Dolphins play out of Dolphin Stadium in North Miami Beach. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers call the Raymond James Stadium in north Tampa home, and the Jacksonville Jaguars are housed in the 77,000-seat ALLTEL Stadium in downtown Jacksonville. Hockey: They call it “ice hockey” here but Canadians don’t need By Lindor Reynolds the extra word. The Florida Panthers are based in Sunrise, a short distance from Fort Lauderdale and the Tampa Bay Lightning on the Florida is a paradise for sports fans, wilderness opposite side of the Florida peninsula. enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Whether you Racing: Horse racing fans will want to attend a game played by your favourite want to visit professional team, paddle a kayak through a Gulfstream Park in secluded park or sit quietly to bird watch, Florida Hallandale Beach. It’s between Fort has what you need. If you’ve got the interest, the Lauderdale and
South Walton TDC South Walton state has infinite possibilities. Miami. Cedar Race Track in Miami also gives visitors the Gorgeous natural surroundings. chance to place a wager or two. Visit St Petersburg/Clearwater 12 VISITFLORIDA.COM JANUARY 2013 Canadian Traveller 44 A profusion of birds.
Florida’s Big 5
Lee County VCB When adventurers go on safari to Africa, they hope to see the Big 5 – lion, African elephant, Cape buffalo, leopard and rhinoceros. Florida has its own Big 5 list: Alligators: There are about one million alligators in Florida. They live in freshwater environments, like swamps, marshes and rivers. Visitors are most likely to see one in an alligator farm or park. Florida panthers: A sighting is rare because there are only about 100 panthers left in the Florida population. If you’re very lucky, you might catch a glimpse in of the world” because of its diversity of species, the Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge, Big Cypress National Preserve, or great weather and year-round fishing. You can Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park. fish in fresh or saltwater, and aim for anything Manatee: An aquatic relative of the elephant, manatees are found in the warm from trophy fish to a catch for your dinner. Florida waters of shallow rivers, bays and coastal waters. boasts more than 7,700 lakes, 17,000 kilometres They like to play, body surfing or barrel roll in the of rivers and over 3,600 kilometres of tidal water. People either find them exquisitely ugly or shoreline. Visit Florida claims you’re always within oddly appealing. reach of a place to “wet a line.” Turtles: 90 per cent of all U.S. loggerhead The state proudly boasts more International nesting takes place in Florida between April and Game Fish Association records are set in Florida September. It’s a thrill to (carefully and respectfully) than anywhere else in the United States. observe a nesting site. Dolphins: Bird Watching Visit Florida Discovery Cove Orlando offers the Birders love the 3,200-kilometre Great Florida chance for a one-on-one dolphin encounter where Birding and Wildlife Trail. Naples, in southwest you learn about dolphin behaviour, wade into Florida, draws Flocks Of Birders With the dolphin lagoon and actually “ride” a dolphin. Its Profusions Of Migratory Birds and a Miami’s Seaquarium also offers a swim-along number of very rare species. The state is a Dolphin Encounter. perfect combination of protected wetlands, subtropical climate and a deep commitment to wildlife preservation. South Florida’s massive Everglades National Park is a paradise for Visit Florida birders and wildlife observers of all descriptions. Also note that if you’re cruising out of Cape Canaveral, it’s worthwhile to take an extra couple of days and explore two of the area parks that are noted on the Great Florida Birding Trail. Hiking With its terrific climate, reliable sunshine and gorgeous natural surroundings, Florida Is A Visit Florida Mecca For Hikers. There is more botanical diversity here than in any other state of the American east coast and thousands of kilometres of hiking trails. Start in the tropical climate of the southern Keys and work your way up to the pine forests of the Panhandle. You can take short self-guided trips, plan overnight excursions or follow segments of the well-kept National Scenic Trail. K ayaking & Canoeing Florida has A Number Of State-Designated Paddle Ways and a favourite is the Wakulla River, a 16-kilometre spring-fed river 30 minutes south of Tallahassee. You might see osprey, turtles and even manatee. The famed Suwanee Visit Florida River starts in Georgia and meanders some 331 kilometres before reaching the Gulf of Mexico. It’s easy to access, lined with cypress, pines and palmettos and offers great places to camp. The Florida Sea Islands Trail offers four rivers and their salt marshes. It’s a great northeast location for coastal saltwater paddling. Local outfitters can give you advice and match the skill of your party with the waterway.
Visit Florida CANADIAN TRAVELLER 45 JANUARY 2013 VISITFLORIDA.COM 13 THEME PARKS
SeaWorld Orlando. SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment SeaWorld
You’ll Be Busch Gardens. Amazed D inosaurs & Dolphins, Lions & Mice – Florida Theme Parks Have It All By Lindor Reynolds
L et’s face it: The Mouse dominates the Florida amusement park scene. Walt Disney World is synonymous with Orlando to many visitors and for good reason. It’s the world’s most-visited entertainment resort, drawing millions of visitors annually. But Walt Disney World isn’t the state’s only amusement park. Travel a little further afield and you can commune with dolphins, dinosaurs and even visit a theme park version of the Holy Land. It’s Still Magic Let’s start with the main attraction: Walt Disney World is made up of four theme parks (Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Dis- ney’s Animal Kingdom), two water parks; and Downtown Disney, a dining, shopping and entertainment Mecca. Add in accommodations that range from a campground to luxury villas and you’ve got every budget, age group and interest covered. It’s possible to hit the Walt Disney World highlights in three days if you plan carefully and are prepared to skip some of the classic attractions.
SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment SeaWorld Still, it would be tough to miss Space Mountain and Splash Mountain, even if it gives you extra time for the thrills of the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror or the magnificent Expedition Everest. Older attractions are well-maintained and there’s always something new and
14 VISITFLORIDA.COM JANUARY 2013 Canadian Traveller 46 Weeki Wachee Springs State Park. Chip Litherland Photography
Kennedy Space Center Kennedy Space Center. Legoland. SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment SeaWorld Flickr/Daniel Oines Walt Disney World Resort/David Roark World Disney Walt © 2013 Universal Orlando Resort
W alt Disney World Resort. Universal Orlando Resort.
fabulous opening. The Magic Kingdom is Marineland Dolphin Adventure, located rhinos and other animals. The park is divided probably the park most people think of first, near St. Augustine, offers guests the chance into sections designed to resemble famous home to Adventureland, Frontierland, Liberty to swim with dolphins in its 4.9 million-litre wildlife preserves. You can drive through the Square, Tomorrowland, and the recently ex- tanks. If you’re not up for the swim, you can Florida equivalent of Ruaha National Park, the panded and revamped Fantasyland. There’s observe the dolphins through windows. You southwest African plateau of Kalahari Bush- pixie dust in the air. can also touch and feed the dolphins. veldt and Mozambique’s Gorongosa wildlife Stay for at least one parade, watch the marineland.net area. lioncountrysafari.com fireworks and gape at the castle. In-the-know visitors search for the hidden Mickeys subtly To Infinity & Beyond Out Of The Ordinary placed around the parks and hotels. Kennedy Space Centre is not really an Silver Springs theme park (and Wild Waters disneyworld.disney.go.com amusement park, but it is endlessly entertain- Water Park) is east of Ocala, a 90-minute ing to anyone with a fascination for space drive from Orlando. Visitors can take a Universal Appeal exploration. The centre, a short drive from glass bottom boat ride over dozens of spe- Once you’re in the Orlando area, a trip to Orlando, offers live theatre, interactive experi- cies of fish, alligators, clams, ands crawfish. Universal Studio’s Orlando Resort is a must. ences and multimedia presentations to teach The Lighthouse Ride offers a birds’ eye Dinosaurs & Dolphins, Lions & Mice – The park is made up of Universal’s Islands visitors about worlds beyond our own. Book view over Silver Springs and a playground of Adventure (where you’ll find the Wizard- well in advance for the half-day Astronaut recreates a 1800s riverboat. The “reptiles Florida Theme Parks Have It All ing World of Harry Potter), Wet ‘N Wild wa- Training Experience (ATX) or the very cool of the world” show introduces visitors to ter park, and Universal Studio for thrill rides Lunch With An Astronaut. crocodiles, alligators, turtles and other cold- like Men In Black Alien Attack and Trans- kennedyspacecenter.com blooded creatures. silversprings.com formers: The Ride – 3D opening this sum- Another slightly offbeat attraction is Weeki mer. The Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit roller Blocks Of Fun Wachee Springs State Park (45 minutes coaster takes riders straight up 17 storeys LEGOLAND, a 45-minute drive from the north of Tampa, two hours west of Orlando), and plunges them back down again. The Orlando theme parks, is a 60-hectare theme best known for its live mermaid shows. backstage movie peeks are fun, and the park designed for families with kids aged 4 Women dressed in fins perform underwater in rides are unparallel in their sophistication to 12. There are more than 50 rides, shows, an aquarium-like setting. The park includes a and technical wizardry. A bonus in hot sum- attractions and a LEGOLAND water park. Buccaneer Bay water park, animal shows and mer months is the movie theatres, featur- Visitors can build their own LEGO raft and boat rides. This is Florida mythology at its best, ing new films and lovely air-conditioning. If float on it down a lazy river. Little ones can an attraction that should be past its prime but you’re a movie buff, you’ll love wandering drive LEGO cars and boats. Guess what they still reeling them in. weekiwachee.com around the back lot sets. Plan for at least sell in the gift shop? legoland.com Dinosaur World (Plant City, about an hour two days of fun. universalorlando.com Out Of Africa from Orlando) offers 150 life-size dinosaurs in its outdoor theme park. The animatronics Under The Sea Busch Gardens is the preeminent Tampa area attraction. It’s an African animal-based theme dinosaurs are the main draw, but visitors can SeaWorld is another classic Orlando- park with a thrilling sky ride over the grounds also see fossils in the indoor museum, includ- area attraction. You’ll see sea lions up ing dinosaur eggs and raptor claws. The fossil close, watch dolphins at play and maybe and the popular Serengeti Railway taking visi- tors around the exotic animal-filled plain. There dig lets you search for your own relics. work up the nerve to caress a stingray. dinosaurworld.com Insiders book the behind the scenes tour, are traditional adrenaline-pumping rides, like the log flume Stanley Falls screamer, and the The Holy Land Experience near the major a 90-minute educational experience. Orlando theme parks, bills itself as “a living, SeaWorld also has thrill rides (Journey To up close (but behind thick glass) Edge of Africa animal viewing. buschgardens.com biblical museum that takes you 7,000 miles Atlantis is a favourite). Expect to get wet away and 2,000 years back in time.” It may be (often, very wet) at some point. Pack a rain Lion Club Safari (in West Palm Beach) calls itself a cageless zoo. Visitors drive through the the only theme park selling healing anointing oil poncho and a waterproof camera. in its gift shop. holylandexperience.com w seaworldparks.com theme park to see giraffe, antelopes, bison,
CANADIAN TRAVELLER 47 JANUARY 2013 VISITFLORIDA.COM 15
SU O TH FLORIDA
Southern From Swamp Buggies To Art Arts Villages, Discover Southern Florida’s Many, Many Attractions The Lee Country CVB
18 VISITFLORIDA.COM JANUARY 2013 Canadian Traveller 50 By Graham Templeton
Think South Florida and you think Miami, of course. Red-hot nightlife, world-class performing arts, superb shopping – the city is hot, hot, hot. But there is much more to discover. Like the Fort Myers Film Festival, or Bradenton’s Village of the Arts. How about Naples Swamp Buggy Parade or the Gay Key West Trolley Tour? Cruisers know all about the charms of Fort Lauderdale, anglers in the know talk about Port Charlotte and Fort Myers is home to an old time visitors know all about the special sunsets in the Keys. Check it out. impressive arts scene.
CANADIAN TRAVELLER 51 JANUARY 2013 VISITFLORIDA.COM 19 SU O TH FLORIDA
Fort Myers/Sanibel things. With a population greater than the Fort Myers’ slogan is “Do tomorrow what city of Tampa, it has created for itself a you can’t fit in today,” and they have cultural legacy and reputation as distinct as clearly taken the theme to heart. From anywhere else in Florida. Kids Stuff leisurely canoe rides down Sanibel’s many Most notably, the village of the arts The varied and accessible attractions gentle rivers to a visit to the Norman Love stands out as florida’s largest art colony in South Florida are perfect for Chocolate Salon, this is a place to slow and the centre of the arts community in bringing the kids along. Just saying down and unwind. Bradenton county. With more than 200 “animal park” doesn’t do justice of its specially zoned homes, which also In particular Fort Myers is renowned for to attractions like the Everglades double as designated studio space, the its impressive arts and culture scene, with Alligator Farm, which hosts alligator Village of the Arts is a stimulating stop for several large-scale arts exhibitions bringing wrestling shows and even a baby entrants and enthusiasts from all over arts-loving travellers. The artist in residence alligator petting area. Likewise, the the country. Its live music venues attract system has been taken to an extreme, term “kids water park” is likely to big-name stars but also middleweight with literally hundreds of artists and their conjure images of toddlers in arm- performers with unique and experimental families closely cohabitating in an open sensibilities. While some other areas of and artistically expressive way. Shows, balloons, while the reality of Palm Florida focus on squeezing every instant of shops and street performances are just Beach’s Rapids Water Park runs from excitement from the day, Fort Myers offers the beginning of what you’ll find lining the the kid-friendly lazy river to the a selection of more tranquil options. streets of Bradenton’s Village of the Arts. epic Big Thunder slide. The Miami The Fort Myers Film Festival is a growing Some of the houses in this area are over Seaquarium has its own performing attraction now in its third year of operation 100 years old, and many of the city’s best Killer Whale named Lolita. that is attracting progressively larger and examples of architecture can be found more sophisticated crowds each year and within its borders. themes focusing on areas of the city or types is quickly becoming one of the South’s Bradenton is bordered by the Manatee of art, these walks give locals and visitors most sought-after venues for filmmakers of River, which has influenced much of the alike a look at one of the most renowned all levels. Those attracted to Sanibel by the city’s development. With abundant riverfront and productive arts scenes in the state. festival find no shortage of other pastimes, property, the estuary has inspired such Bookending the clusters of independent arts however; in particular be sure to check out cultural features as the Manatee Players, experiences are the larger museums and Theatre Conspiracy, a renowned theatre a national award-winning theatrical group. galleries, of which Bradenton as many. troupe that stages plays both modern and With stagings of everything from Legally For more information visit classic. From top to bottom, Fort Myers- Blonde to A Funny Thing Happened On www.bradentongulfislands.com. Sanibel is a destination for anyone with a the Way to the Forum, the Players have yearning to inject some culture into their a reputation for delivering high-quality Naples travelling experience. productions that delight the whole family. Head to Naples at just about any time For more information visit And at just US $26 for a front-row ticket, of the year, and you’ll run into either www.FortMyers-Sanibel.com. it’s an easy choice for a fun and affordable the lead-up to or wind-down from the night out in Florida. famous Swamp Buggy Races. Held three Bradenton That’s just the beginning of Bradenton’s times annually, these classic battles take With only a bit of coastline and a relatively thriving arts scene, however. In fact, there a traditional Florida mode of transport large population, most people expect are so many small venues and easily and soup them up. In the period before Bradenton to be a business centre or a overlooked gems that the city has started airboats, swamp buggies were the only residential hub – and it is both of these a series of guided art walks. With various way to navigate the thousands of miles of untamed swampland, torqued-up beasts Florida’s largest art colony, Bradenton. with the power to push off against muddy swamp bottom and through thick bog water. Today the design has progressed to make the buggies into oddball technological marvels with oversized tires and over-powered engines. For about US $20 admission each January, March and November, you can attend this wonderful show of competition and progress. All the advanced engineering hasn’t diminished their cultural significance, however. There’s even a Swamp Buggy Parade, with a Swamp Buggy Queen and vintage models dating back to when the vehicles were called Dirt Dobbers and TumbleBugs. The Swamp Buggy Races at Florida Sports Park still attract enormous crowds. The grounds feature authentic Floridian cuisine like banana fritters, guava pie and, of course, a good spicy jambalaya. Bradenton Area CVB
Shopping ‘til you drop in world-class Miami. Vibran Image Studio
20 VISITFLORIDA.COM JANUARY 2013 Canadian Traveller 52 Escape. Naturally.
Just listen to the quiet voices of nature as you stroll along beautiful beaches, paddle miles of Blueway Trails and coastal waterways, cast a line into the bay, or sail into a sunset. Charlotte Harbor, Punta Gorda and the Gulf Islands – get here fast, then take it slow.
For your free visitor’s guide, visit www.CharlotteHarborTravel.com or call 1-800-652-6090.
Days Inn Port Charlotte Punta Gorda Waterfront Highest Rated Days Inn featuring 37” Hotel & Suites TVs. Centrally located in a park-like Charlotte County’s largest full service setting under century old oak trees. waterfront hotel and Tiki bar on the shores We exceed expectations! of Charlotte Harbor, centrally located in historical downtown Punta Gorda. 941-627-8900 • www.HotelsofPortCharlotte.com 941-627-8900 • www.PGWaterfront.com
Holiday Inn Express Fishermen’s Village Waterfront Shopping, Perfectly nestled near I-75, a short hop Dining, Resort & Marina to charming Punta Gorda. Free high speed internet. Free hot breakfast. Your Stay and Play destination on Charlotte Harbor! Spacious Vacation Heated Pool. Perfect for extended stays! Villas, Boutiques, Restaurants, Water Adventures, Full Service Marina, Salon & Spa, Military Museum. Open daily. 941-764-0056 • www.HISuitesPortCharlotte.com 800-639-0020 • www.Fishville.com
CHVCB-0180 Canadian Traveller.indd 1 12/14/12 12:53 PM SU O TH FLORIDA
and venues, like Lighthouse Fort Lauderdale’s downtown core. And for Court, becoming “all welcome” those who have a taste for boat watching, sunny.org establishments – meaning that there’s also the Pelican Landing, one of they are open to heterosexuals as Fort Lauderdale’s “best kept secrets” and well. While this is good news for a place from which to watch the yachts, straight travellers looking for new cruise ships and cargo vehicles move venues, Key West remains one of throughout day. America’s premiere destinations Fort Lauderdale also has a unique twist for LGBT culture. Gay travellers, on fine dining in the form of the Galleria Mall along with for anyone looking to dining area, which combines the selection immerse themselves in an active, of a food court with the quality of a dining effervescent city culture, should quarter. The Blue Martini, Piazza di Giorgio head to Key West Market, The Eatery and specialties like From the bluntly named Godiva Chocolates are just a few of the Gay Key West Trolley Tour to major attractions in this old-meets-new the even-more-bluntly named culinary attraction. Gay Spring Break, Key West is For more information visit overflowing with events geared www.sunny.org. at, or run by, the local LGBT Miami Canalside dining in Fort Lauderdale. community. Key West’s summer Miami’s multicultural landscape is the Pride parade is one of the largest backdrop for an equally varied shopping Combined with one of several local food and most elaborate in North America. Make experience. The Bayside Mall lures many festivals, like the Stone Crab Festival, sure to visit the Gay Key West Visitors a traveller south of the adventure parks, Naples is a great place to get a taste of Center, which will furnish travellers with offering a mall-like shopping experience authentic Floridian culture. maps and guidesCT to FLORIdAthe city focusing onSUPPLEMENT the without the interior design; the Bayside If just watching the buggies isn't needs of LGBT travellers. Mall is an open-air shopping destination enough, there are swamp buggy tours of With whole streetsFile dedicated name: to thegay bars Atlantic Resort with over 150 shops, restaurants and the bayous, a high-powered look around and other LGBT businesses, Key West lounges from The Disney Store to the Hard Florida’s famous flooded fields. has to make a special effort to present a Rock Café. welcoming face to straight or uninterested For more information visit Bayside isn’t the only mall that can travellers. Now, more and more city features www.paradisecoast.com. make use of Miami’s naturally gorgeous are encouraging “allies” to join in the fun The Florida Keys/Key West by making Key West their next destination. The famously gay-friendly municipality An initiative to make the city less exclusive of Key West has gone straight in recent has already resulted in a number of events years, at least partially, with an increasing and straight-only drink specials. Key West Golf number of previously exclusive clubs has restyled itself as the fun, flamboyant South Florida has a varied stock of destination for everybody. solutions for those itching to get out For more information visit on the links. Jacaranda golf club near www.GayKeyWestFl.com. Fort Lauderdale is one particularly Fort Lauderdale high-quality and affordable option, an Whether they know it as “Fork” Lauderdale open 36-hole property that is divided or Lauderlicious dining, most travelling into a West half for long drives and an foodies know that Southern Florida is East for working on the short game. a necessary food stop in the city of fort Together, these two courses were lauderdale. with over 500 eateries ranging named Club of the Year by the South from trendy independent cafés to luxurious local steakhouses, Fort Lauderdale is one Florida PGA. of the premiere culinary destinations in the The Key West Golf Club brings Eastern United States. the city’s typical charm to the greens, “America’s Best” hamburger, as voted featuring meticulously designed by GQ Magazine, resides exclusively in courses studded with all variety of Fort Lauderdale at the LeTub Saloon. The local plant life. Recently renovated and secret? Fresh everything. redesigned by designer Rees Jones, Maintaining the reputation for quality this beautiful course is also a premiere is the renowned steakhouse Council Oak golf destination in its own right, with and luxury restaurant Da Campo Osteria, challenging fairways and a variety of The Atlantic Hotel & Spa both of which have garnered praise for being both authentically Floridian and highly tough putting greens. The premier Luxury Boutique hotel on Fort Lauderdale approachable. Naples also has a long history Beach. 124 oversized guest rooms, all with balconies and with golf, apparently beginning its kitchenettes. Stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. 10,000 The Blue Moon Fish Company combines sq. ft. full service spa and salon. 5th floor heated outdoor this with an unbeatable view of the canals, notoriety among fans of the sport pool with ocean view café. 24 hour complimentary fitness most famously on its water-level candlelit when a single-engine airplane began center. East End Brasserie Restaurant & Lounge. 24 hour dining patio. If that’s not enough, try their using local fairways as landing room service. AAA Four Diamond Award. Only 6 miles to “dock and dine” experience from the deck strips. Such eagerness to get on the airport & 2 miles to cruise port. of a small water taxi or private craft. Enjoy course is understandable given what a romantic dinner as gondolas and ferries For more information:954-567-8020 / www.Atlantichotelfl.com Naples has to offer. slide past the dancing nighttime skyline of
22 VISITFLORIDA.COM JANUARY 2013 Canadian Traveller 52
PROOF URGENT! PLEASE CHECK CAREFULLY FOR TYPOGRAPHICAL & LAYOUT ERRORS. o OK as is. o OK with corrections. o Need corrections & second proof ensure ‘live’ area does not go beyond .25” of the trim. Notify client that cut off could occur. ensure ‘live’ area does not go beyond .25” Signed: ______
Ad SIzE: 1/6 vERT GRP PAGE PROOF #1
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CANADIAN TRAVELLER 55 JANUARY 2013 VISITFLORIDA.COM 23 SU O TH FLORIDA
500th Anniversary For the 500th anniversary of Florida’s first exploration by Europeans, as well as the introduction of its name by the crew of Ponce de Leon, South Florida will be celebrating along with the rest of the state. Tall ships will sail from Cuba to Miami, paying tribute to the Spanish explorers and providing a historical spectacle for onlookers at the shore. Several other historical events are planning, with heritage trips recreating some of the trials of early North American explorers. Another spectacular Key West sunset. South Florida will also give a long Bob Krist/Florida Keys News Bureau and wide-spread salute to the North scenery, however; The Falls takes the options at the Mall of the Americas are American tribes were displaced in the concept of an outdoor mall even further. noted for being unique, and attract visitors years following the initial arrival of The central outdoor area features an from close by and around the world. Europeans. Cultural and other events enormous artificial waterfall, along with One increasingly popular shopping will help to remember the society that several other distractions for spouses destination is miami’s design district. existed in the state all those centuries and children alike and allow some real This neighbourhood, which promotes ago. For travellers, there’s no better shopping to get done. itself as “dedicated to innovative time to head to Florida to soak up not Closer to the east coast lies the Mall of fashion, design, architecture and dining just its modern culture, but its history the Americas focusing less on Western experiences” has recently expanded its as well. luxury items than Cuban and Mexican retail operation to let shoppers buy some stores and restaurants. The food and retail of what the district creates. Capital Of The World. Walk the beaches Miami is of course of Charlotte County and keep your eyes world famous for what’s peeled for dark specks in the sand – they possible once the could be shark teeth! Their tourism guide shops close up; the says you are “guaranteed” to find a shark’s nightlife, particularly tooth, and almost certainly several. along Miami Beach, Once you’re done collecting teeth, is not to be missed. head over to the Fisherman’s Village near Celebrity locations like Charlotte Harbour to use some teeth of Mynt Lounge provide your own, and bite into local seafood. the area’s famous The village also features maritime shops star-power, but it’s the and more conventional retail, but the real raucous all-night clubs wonder is a regular live entertainment that attract the most performed from the tip of the pier. people. Favourites like Of course, commercial fishing is also a Cameo and Mansion major attraction in such an historic fish- are great events, but town, and several fishing events draw the beauty of Miami enthusiasts from around the region, every Beach nightlife is the year. A great place to catch grouper, quality of the more tarpon, redfish and snook, the Charlotte humble experiences. Habor is Florida’s second-largest open Even smaller clubs are water estuary. As a result, it’s known generally packed with as a gold mine for fishermen with both enthusiastic travellers abundant fish stocks and open enough who have come solely regulations to allow just about every angler to have a good time in ample time to cast a line. Miami Beach. Keeping with the theme of fish, the MLB For more information Tampa Bay Rays (despite their home city visit www.miamiandthe beaches.com being to the north) train and practice in the Port Charlotte area, at the newly renovated Port Charlotte Charlotte Sports Park. The Rays attract The Port Charlotte area baseball fans from around the world, as do has a few claims to fame, the major league feeder team the Charlotte but probably the most Stone Crabs. eccentric is its status For more information visit as the Shark Tooth www.charlotteharbourtravel.com
24 VISITFLORIDA.COM JANUARY 2013 Canadian Traveller 56 CT FLORIdA SUPPLEMENT File name: Bungalow Beach Resort Bungalow Beach Resort Directly on the beach, Bungalow Beach Resort is reminiscent of a bygone era. Bungalow Beach Resort off ers 15 beautifully restored 1930s islandstyle bungalows. Visitors can enjoy accommodations, nestled among the white-sand dunes, sea oats and coconut Soak in the Florida Lifestyle.... palms of Anna Maria Island. Enjoy a romantic ~ charming ~ relaxing heated pool, private beach area and much more. Recently awarded Tripadvisor Bungalow Beach Resort Traveler’s Choice Award for Directly on the beach, Bungalow “Top Romance in US” Beach Resort is reminiscent of a bygone era. Bungalow Beach Resort “I came in search of paradise and off ers 15 beautifully restored 1930s found it a haven,” a tourist from islandstyle bungalows. Visitors can enjoy England had written in the guestbook accommodations, nestled among the white- at Bungalow Beach Resort. sand dunes, sea oats and coconut palms Philadelphia Enquirer of Anna Maria Island. Enjoy a heated pool, private beach area and much more.
For more information call: 800-779-3601 2000 Gulf Drive North Bradenton Beach, FL 34217 www.bungalowbeach.com
PROOF URGENT! PLEASE CHECK CAREFULLY FOR TYPOGRAPHICAL & LAYOUT ERRORS. o OK as is. o OK with corrections. o Need corrections & second proof ensure ‘live’ area does not go beyond .25” of the trim. Notify client that cut off could occur. ensure ‘live’ area does not go beyond .25” Signed: ______
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REPLY A.S.A.P. CT: Ph: (604) 699-9990 Fax: (604) 699-9993 WHERE DUVAL MEETS THEFUSION ATLANTIC FX: [email protected] Ph: 604 930 3700 Fax: 604 930 1279 1319 Duval Street | Key West, Florida 33040 305-296-6577 | 877-931-3007 | www.southernmostresorts.com Southernmost Hotel • Southernmost on the Beach • La Mer Hotel • Dewey House • Southernmost Beach Café
smh ad 7.125x4.875.indd 1 12/6/12 2:58 PM CANADIAN TRAVELLER 57 JANUARY 2013 VISITFLORIDA.COM 25 CENTRAL FLORIDA
ll ret A t f I n O Central Florida Is THE Place For Hot & Cool e Adventures By Graham Templeton Sure there are beaches in Central Florida. Lots of them, with miles C of white sand and perfect blue waters. But there are also theme parks galore with rides that will get your heart pumping and artistic endeavours that will touch your soul. There is fine dining, cosmic adventure and off-road drama. Read on.
Flight Of The Hippogriff, The Wizarding
© 2013 Universal Orlando Resort World Of Harry Potter.
26 VISITFLORIDA.COM JANUARY 2013 Canadian Traveller 58 ll ret A t f I n O e
C
CANADIAN TRAVELLER 59 JANUARY 2013 VISITFLORIDA.COM 27 CENTRAL FLORIDA
St Petersburg/Clearwater to stay the night in one of the three rustic cabins Known to residents as “St. Pete”, St. available for rent. Petersburg is such a powerful destination Not every outdoor activity in Tampa has to in Florida that it houses its county’s official do with wildlife, however, and one good way offices – despite the fact that the actual county to see the human world, as well as Florida’s seat is the neighbouring town of Clearwater. beautiful landscape, is with a hot air balloon ride. St. Pete has such clout in part because it’s North Tampa has several balloon tour operators, been so successful in attracting business and including American Balloon Rides. tourism, with more than its fair share of beach For more information, visit and luxury real estate. Much is also due to the www.visittampabay.com. vibrant art scene, though, which earned the city top spot in American Style’s list of the best Orlando mid-sized cities in America. Orlando has its nickname, “The City Painters, glass blowers, movie directors Beautiful”, on its official seal. That’s really and most other artists will find refuge in the saying something, but some large proportion two newly expanded arts hubs: the Morean of those who visit the city never end up Arts Center and the Museum of Fine Arts. seeing all that much of it. They spend their The Florida Craftsmen Gallery is also in St. entire vacations in the city’s world-leading Petersburg, where travellers can wonder at the theme parks like Walt Disney World and quality and precision possible using just bare Universal Studios. human hands. The first Friday of every month One little-known fact about Orlando is that is an official event that features free live jazz it is one of the more bustling shopping hubs throughout the downtown area. in Florida. Its shopping district (basically the When you’re done, head to neighbouring Clearwater for dinner at the Brown Boxer, a pub knownCT for its FLORIdA live music and dogs-welcome SUPPLEMENT policy. Its namesake, Hoot the Dog, still visits from time to time. File name: Knights Inn 500th Or, if you’re in the mood for something a little quieter, try The Moon Under Water, a renowned Anniversary pub that emphasizes atmosphere and top- The first European settlement in the quality cuisine. Featuring a large, gardened patio modern United States was in Florida. and impressive heritage architecture, The Moon Specifically, Spanish explorers first made Under Water is perfect for couples looking for a ground and named the place La Florida romantic site or anyone searching for one of the in 1513, more than 200 years before the best pub experiences in St. Petersburg. formation of the union. With 2013 just For more information, visit around the corner, Central Florida is www.visitstpeteclearwater.com. KNIGHTS planning to take the anniversary very Tampa seriously. INN Make reference to ‘Tampa’, and most people Expedition Florida 500 retraces the think of surfers and beach resorts. The sun- route of the pioneer Spaniard Juan MAINGATE drenched city has become a frontman for Ponce de León, whose first steps on (One Mile from Disney) Florida’s sunny reputation. However, while North America laid the foundation for Tampa may naturally lend itself to sunbathing, 7475 W Irlo Bronson Memorial the travels of some of America’s most there’s a whole industry dedicated to getting you Kissimmee, FL 34747-1723 influential explorers. As you move beyond the beach. along the trail you may witness the www.orlandovisitor.com Canoe Escape is a popular option for those firing of Spanish cannons in Ponce de e-mail: [email protected] looking to do some ‘eco-travel’, as it lets you set Leon’s Fountain of Youth Archaeological 407-396-4200 x 0 OR 1(800)944-0062 out into the vast area of preserved wilderness Park, or you might help to bury one surrounding the Hillsborough River. Monster $27.95 (01/10 - 2/20/2013) of the hundreds of time capsules gators, along with snakes, turtles, otters and distributed by the Florida government $32.95 (2/26 - 3/31/2013) birds of prey, are common sightings on most $27.95 (4/1 - 6/20/2013) to commemorate the event. In fact, river trips. The choice of a two, four- or six-hour Florida has set up a number of heritage Subject to Rate Availability trip lets you decide just how into the experience trails to tell the many stories of early ADD: $2 Weekends & Holidays you really want to be. east-coast settlement. There is a heritage The world-famous Florida Aquarium is trail focusing on the experiences of the also the launching point for daily Wild Dolphin Features & Amenities Native American, Spanish, French, Black, Ecotours, which cruise through Tampa Bay with Jewish and Cuban communities. These • Heated Outdoor Year Round Pool its host of resident bottlenose dolphins. The tour trails originate all over the state, but are • Free Shuttle to Disney, Universal is also the best way to find and view the Bay’s centralized along the coast near Tampa, and Sea World endangered manatee population. with a few running further inland, nearer • Complimentary Continental Breakfast Big Cat Rescue is another no-brainer for to Kissimmee and Polk County. • Free Wireless Internet-(laptop not provided) wildlife fans, home to more than 150 exotic cats from lynx to lions. Real feline fanatics will want
28 VISITFLORIDA.COM JANUARY 2013 Canadian Traveller 60
PROOF URGENT! PLEASE CHECK CAREFULLY FOR TYPOGRAPHICAL & LAYOUT ERRORS. o OK as is. o OK with corrections. o Need corrections & second proof ensure ‘live’ area does not go beyond .25” of the trim. Notify client that cut off could occur. ensure ‘live’ area does not go beyond .25” Signed: ______
Ad SIzE: 1/6 V GP PROOF #3
REPLY A.S.A.P. CT: Ph: (604) 699-9990 Fax: (604) 699-9993 FUSION FX: [email protected] Ph: 604 930 3700 Fax: 604 930 1279
CENTRAL FLORIDA
whole downtown area) features dozens of Best of all, Orlando has a number of coupon books at a number of commercial local stores alongside major outlets from deals specifically for Canadians. Proof of and outlet malls. Orlando Premium Outlets department stores like Neiman Marcus, Canadian citizenship is required, but your is one of the biggest and most diverse Saks Fifth Avenue and Bloomingdales. passport will earn you up to 15 per cent off outlet malls in Florida, and now there’s two The real shopping destination, however, at businesses from Boggy Creek Airboat of them in the Orlando area! Both offer is Winter Park. A small, centrally planned Rides to Arnold Palmer’s Bayhill Club & the same discounts for Canadians, and suburb of Orlando, Winter Park features Lodge. Even adventure tours such as Bob’s between them they cover just about every a single main street lined with everything Balloon Flights offer major discounts – and mainstream shopping need a Canadian from civic buildings to country clubs. And Bob’s includes a free video and glass of traveller might have. peppered between these buildings? Stores champagne! Not everyone is looking for major galore. This is the up-scale shopping district, Speaking of champagne, Canadian names, or even the most modern styles, reflecting the posh lifestyle of the magnates shoppers in Orlando will earn a and for those shoppers Orlando has an who founded Winter Park as a resort town complimentary champagne makeover assortment of smaller and more unique before slowly turning it into a cultural centre. at Neiman Marcus, and complimentary shops. The Etoile Boutique specializes
Airboat rides, a quintessentially Floridian activity. Kissimmee CVB
30 VISITFLORIDA.COM JANUARY 2013 Canadian Traveller 62 in hand-made fashion, home décor and accessories. You’ll never find anything quite like it again, a theme you’ll find common to many shops in Orlando’s up-and-coming Milk District. Peppered with shops, food carts, and independent cafés, the Milk district is sure to satisfy any shopper looking outside the malls and outlets. Meanwhile, the downtown area is home to numerous other shopping attractions, including the posh Zou Zou Boutique, while delivers high fashion in a luxury setting. Check out all the Canadian discounts at www.visitorlando.com/en-ca.
ResIDence Inn Daytona Beach
The Residence Inn Daytona Beach is the comfortableRes choiceID forence short Innor long term ResDaytonaIDence Beach Inn stays. This Daytonaall suite, pet friendly Beach hotel helps you feel connectedThe Residence while Inn away Daytona from Beachhome. is the Canadian Traveller 12-11-12.inddThecomfortable Residence 2 choice Inn Daytonafor short Beach or long is 12/18/2012theterm 10:41:57 AM • Free high-speedcomfortablestays. This Internet allchoice suite, access for pet short friendly or long hotel term helps • Full kitchensstays.you and feel This connectedseparate all suite, whilelivingpet friendly away area from hotel home. helps you feel connected while away from home. • Complimentary• Free high-speedfull breakfast Internet buffet access • Weekly social•• FreeFull experiences kitchenshigh-speed and Internet separate access living area • Fitness center,•• FullComplimentary kitchensoutdoor and sports full separate breakfast court, living buffet area pool and whirlpool•• ComplimentaryWeekly social experiences full breakfast buffet •• Weekly Fitness socialcenter, experiences outdoor sports court, • Business Center for guests • Fitnesspool and center, whirlpool outdoor sports court, • Meeting rooms• poolBusiness andfor whirlpoolCenterguest forevents guests • Near Embry-Riddle•• BusinessMeeting CenterroomsAeronautical forfor guestguests events University,•• MeetingHalifax Near Embry-Riddle roomsHospital for guestAeronauticaland events Daytona International• NearUniversity, Embry-Riddle Halifax Speedway HospitalAeronautical and University,Daytona International Halifax Hospital Speedway and Daytona International Speedway
Residence InnResidence by Marriott® Inn by Marriott® Daytona BeachResidenceDaytona Beach Inn by Marriott® 1725 Richard Petty Blvd. 1725 RichardDaytona Petty Beach Blvd. Daytona Beach FL, 32114 Daytona Beach1725 Richard FL, 32114 Petty Blvd. (386) 252-3949 (386) 252-3949Daytona Beach FL, 32114 www.daytonabeachresidenceinn.com (386) 252-3949 www.daytonabeachresidenceinn.com www.daytonabeachresidenceinn.com
Courtyard CourtyarddCourtyardaytona Bea Ch daytona BeaCh amdongay hotelstona in daytona Bea Beach,Ch the amCourtyardong hotels of da in ytonadaytona Beach Beach, hotel the goes Courtyardaboveamong and of beyondhotels daytona into meetBeachdaytona the hotel needs Beach, goes of the abovebusinessCourtyard and and beyond leisure of da to travelers. ytonameet the Beach needs hotel of goes business and leisure travelers. • Spaciousabove and newly beyond renovated to meetguest roomsthe needs of •• SpaciousFreebusiness high-speed newly and renovated leisure Internet travelers. access guest rooms •• FreeFresh high-speed and healthy Internet breakfast access at The Bistro •• FreshFreshly• Spacious and brewed healthy newly Starbucks breakfast renovated coffee at The guest Bistro rooms •• FreshlyExercise• Free brewedhigh-speed room, outdoorStarbucks Internet pool coffee and access whirlpool •• ExerciseBusiness room, Center outdoor for guests pool and whirlpool • Fresh and healthy breakfast at The Bistro •• BusinessMeeting roomsCenter for for guest guests events •• MeetingPool• Freshly deck rooms for brewed outdoor for guest Starbucks events events coffee •• Pool N• earExercise deck Embry-Riddle for room, outdoor Aeronauticaloutdoor events pool University, and whirlpool • NHalifax•ear Business Embry-Riddle Hospital Center and Aeronautical Daytona for guests International University, HalifaxSpeedway• Meeting Hospital rooms and Daytonafor guest International events Speedway • Pool deck for outdoor events • Near Embry-RiddleCourtyard by Marriott® Aeronautical University, CourtyardDaytona by Marriott® Beach Halifax1605 Hospital richard Petty and Blvd. Daytona International Daytona Beach Speedway1605daytona richard Beach, Petty FL Blvd.32114 daytona Beach,(386) 255-3388 FL 32114 www.daytonabeachcourtyard.com(386) 255-3388 www.daytonabeachcourtyard.com IT’S A NEW STAY. Courtyard by Marriott®IT’S A NEW STAY. Daytona Beach 1605 richard Petty Blvd. CANADIAN TRAVELLER 63 JANUARYdaytona 2013Beach, FL 32114 VISITFLORIDA.COM 31 (386) 255-3388 www.daytonabeachcourtyard.com IT’S A NEW STAY. CENTRAL FLORIDA
ORLANDO, FL
Kissimmee can be hiked on foot or a park employee Just a quick drive south of Orlando is can drive a tour in an off road buggy. Either Kissimmee, a mid-sized city that has styled way, the park offers an up-close look at itself as the ultimate launching point for any some of the North America’s rarest and Florida vacation. With a central location and most elusive species. a focus on transit and general accessibility, Not all hiking is about wildlife spotting, Kissimmee is an attractive option for just about however, and another solution for outdoorsy any kind of trip. The city shares Orlando’s travellers is the emerging pastime of Canada-specific deals, and is a great place geocaching. The Kissimmee area has hundreds from which to stage a park-hopping vacation of these treasures, these hidden rewards in or an outdoor adventure through mainland a globally distributed game of hide and seek. Florida’s underappreciated wilderness. After Online maps show the location of bundles left all, not every inch of Florida is coastal, and in hard-to-reach areas, the endpoints of hiking Kissimmee is a great place to explore some of trails, or truly off the beaten path. Different the state’s inland wonders. caches offer different levels of difficulty, and The Disney Wilderness Preserve is one Kissimmee has made sure there are ample popular hiking destination, and houses prizes for everyone. hundreds of threatened species, from birds For a less strenuous afternoon, try a Boggy to fish to large mammals. The nature trail Creek Airboat ride. This quintessentially Floridian DISCOVER PLAYTIME EXPLORE RELAXATION St Pete’s vibrant arts scene includes works from masters like Salvador Dali. Eggs on a Plate without the Plate, 1932.
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407-390-2300 WyndhamGrandOrlando.com
All Wyndham® hotels are either franchised by the company or managed by Wyndham Hotel Management, Inc., one of its affiliates or through a joint-venture partner. ©2012 Wyndham Hotels and Resorts, LLC. All rights reserved. Salvador Dali Museum
32 VISITFLORIDA.COM JANUARY 2013 Canadian Traveller 64 Tour the theme parks. Shop the outlets. Savor exquisite cuisine. And connect with loved ones. Orlando brings people together and strengthens relationships. So get pampered. Get thrilled. And get happy. Just make sure you get together.
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activity lets you cruise peacefully by flocks of Champagne and a full breakfast upon landing. side of Kissimmee, travellers find a similar watering birds, or crocodiles lazing in the sun. And, kids fly free. dinner experience in the Arabian Nights Kissimmee also has the largest balloon ride Don’t let the adventure stop once the sun Dinner Attraction, which features a full-scale operator in the United States, Orlando Balloon goes down, though; for dinner, you can head production of the Arabian Nights play. One Rides, with the largest fleet of balloons. One over to Medieval Times to watch a jousting amazing feature of this performance is the featured package sees passengers take flight for competition with a period-accurate dinner use of live animals – more than 60 horses of a three-to-four-hour sunrise adventure featuring of pheasant and roast potato. Just the other 14 different breeds use the world’s largest
Astronaut Training Experience, Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex.
34 VISITFLORIDA.COM JANUARY 2013 Canadian Traveller 66 permanent equestrian arena. They share the stage with acrobats, actors, daredevils and the storytellers who move your traditional meal along. If, however, you prefer a dinner experience that draws from more recent history, there’s always Capone’s Dinner and Show, which
Welcome to 10% off your stay.
Stay at Hyatt Place Orlando/Convention Center, just 3 blocks from Orange County Convention Center, or Hyatt Place Orlando/ Universal, across from Universal Studios, and be close to all the action. Both hotels are the perfect choice for business travelers and families alike. Book with offer code CANADA to receive 10% off the Hyatt Daily Rate. Never settle for staying any place less than Hyatt Place®. To book visit hyattplaceorlandoconventioncenter.com or hyattplaceorlandouniversal.com.
Hyatt Place Orlando/ Hyatt Place Orlando/ Convention Center Universal 8741 International Dr 5895 Caravan Court Orlando , FL 32819 Orlando , FL 32819
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Offer valid at Hyatt Place Orlando/Universal and Hyatt Place Orlando/Convention Center from 1/1/2013 through 12/31/2013. Reservations are subject to availability and must be made in advance with offer code CANADA. Offer includes 10% off the Hyatt Daily Rate. Rate is per room per night, excluding service charges, taxes and other incidental expenses. Rate is based on double occupancy and standard room accommodations. Additional guests may be subject to additional hotel charges. A limited number of rooms are allocated to this promotion. Promotional blackout periods may apply due to seasonal periods or special events, and normal arrival/departure restrictions apply. Hyatt reserves the right to alter or withdraw this program at any time without notice. Hyatt Hotels & Resorts® encompasses hotels managed, franchised or leased by subsidiaries and af liates of Hyatt Hotels Corporation. The trademarks Hyatt®, Hyatt Hotels & Resorts®, Hyatt Place® and related marks are trademarks of Hyatt Corporation. © 2013 Hyatt Corporation. All rights reserved. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Kennedy Space Center
CANADIAN TRAVELLER 67 JANUARY 2013 VISITFLORIDA.COM 35 ORCC30276.01_Ad.indd 1 1/2/13 2:22 PM CENTRAL FLORIDA
recreates an authentic prohibition era speakeasy cabaret. Live music and dance, as well as whole-room sing-alongs are just the beginning, and a fitting end to a day of adventure in Kissimmee. For more information, visit www.visitkissimmee.com. Polk County Polk County is a central Florida region that is close enough to the major attractions to serve as a launching point for most Florida vacations, but far enough away that it has cultivated tourism attractions all its own. There is a thriving collection of museums, particularly with regard to aviation. The Florida Air Museum hosts more than 50 vintage, sport and military aircraft, and is home to the Howard Hughes Aviation collection and the Florida Aviation History wall. For about US $10, aviation enthusiasts can see the museum’s whole array of planes including Second World War fighter planes. One major attraction has been the experimental Lockheed XFV-1 “Vertical Riser,” a vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft that has come to dominate the museum’s plaza. Near the Air Museum is the Fantasy of Flight, a far-reaching project to showcase both the reality and history of aviation. Multiple simulators put you in the cockpit an array of classic planes while real aircraft provide shows each and every day – the Fantasy of Flight is the only attraction in the world to offer daily flight displays. With one of the world’s largest collections of vintage aircraft, including gems like a P-51C Mustang used by the Tuskegee Airmen, and a B-26 Marauder. Not all of Polk County’s museums are focused on aviation, however. The Polk Museum of Art offers a wide variety of exhibitions, on everything from classical paintings to vintage celebrity portraits, to ancient pottery. Their February exhibition of Florida artists promises to bring together some of the region’s most culturally significant pieces, of both Spanish and Native American origin. For more information, visit www.visitcentralflorida.org. Space Coast Florida’s Space Coast is the destination for anyone interested in space, engineering, or the great achievements of mankind. With both the John F. Kennedy Space Center and the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station within its coastal borders, Space Coast has been the launching point for the majority of all human work off our planet’s surface. In 2011, the Kennedy Space Center ended its run as the first and only pad from which NASA launched its shuttle missions. In fact, it has been used for every manned space flight in NASA’s history. While NASA has not ruled out a return of the shuttle program, or some other similar manned program, for now the
36 VISITFLORIDA.COM JANUARY 2013 Canadian Traveller 68 www.fl condoalliance.com
FLORIDA LIFESTYLE VACATION RENTALS Luxury beach vacation rentals. Located between St. Pete Beach and Clearwater Beach in the Indian Shores area. The good life starts here! Liberte Management_CO-OP_AD 5/24/12Don’t 2:07 forget PM thePage camera. 1 Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa Steps away from the powder white sands of Clearwater Beach, a brand new resort is bringing world-class style and amenities to the west coast of Florida. All guest rooms are suites with fully equipped kitchens, walkout balconies and magnifi cent water-views. The resort has the distinction of holding AAA’s prestigious four diamond ranking and earned this level of recognition for its exemplary service, luxurious amenities and fi ne attention to detail. 800-487-8953 For more information call 727.373.1234 or visit www.OurCondo.com www.clearwaterbeach.hyatt.com
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legendary space centre functions mostly scale models of the Apollo landers, actual NASCAR fans who flood the city every as a managerial hub and an explosive space-suits taken into space, and even year for the Daytona 500. Daytona Beach destination for inquisitive travellers. Want moon rocks retrieved by NASA astronauts. has a thriving economy bringing the to get up close and personal with the Not all machines with wings fly all the thriving motorsports tourism industry struts that helped land the first humans on way into space, however, and aeronautics to an even wider audience, and making the moon? Or see the control room that enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the Valiant even the most intimidating machinery fun has guided satellites to all eight planets? Air Command’s Warbird Museum and and inviting for the whole family. Kennedy Space Center is your destination. Tico Airshow. This tribute to the aviation First and foremost, of course, there are Guided tours take travellers right industry’s last 50 years, with several the races. Daytona is host to dozens of into the control rooms where America’s preserved aircraft from the Vietnam War major regional, national and international greatest scientific achievements and and the Second World War, capitalizes on motorsports races, from the mighty defeats were written. More than that, the interest generated by NASA’s nearby Daytona 500 to the 24 Hours of Daytona many of the labs, workshops, and factory launch pad. Regular Fly-In Breakfasts endurance race, to the Bike Week event floors are open, where you can watch real give a chance for local aircraft enthusiasts for two-wheeled riders. Across the equipment being manufactured, and real to meet one another over a plate of board, these events offer family friendly activities, from caricatures and temporary history being made. steaming hotcakes. The Tico airshow tattoos to clothing stalls and driving Once you’re done looking through the is just the icing on the cake, but with equipment. Small rides and fairs also space centre, head over to the US Space everything from modern fighter formations dot the beachfront landscape, enticing Walk of Fame, an historic tribute to the to an appearance from the last flying B-29 passers-by with cotton candy and the scientists and astronauts who worked bomber, it is delicious icing, indeed. promise of huge stuffed mammals. on missions such as NASA’s Gemini and For more information, visit Professional racers aren’t the only Mercury projects. The Walk is also one of www.visitspacecoast.com. the most popular viewing areas for new ones who can have fun on the track, launches, featuring wide green patches, Daytona Beach however. Several speedways, including a riverwalk and a clear view all the way to Daytona Beach is a year-round family Speed Park Motorsports, allow Cape Canaveral. The Space Walk of Fame friendly resort town. It is built largely adventurous travellers to take owned and Museum has a world-leading collection around the tourism industry, and not even rented vehicles out on professional- of NASA memorabilia, featuring large just thanks to the more than 200,000 level tracks. Many of the speedways are used by real motorsports events, and for a true NASCAR fan nothing can compare to racing the same tracks as the greats. Alternatively, the Richard Petty Driving Experience lets travellers actually get on the tarmac at the great track, the Another Golden Day in Paradise Daytona International Speedway. For just US $135, you can ride shotgun in a real NASCAR vehicle while it whips around one of the world’s most famous tracks and professional speeds. For a greater fee, you can actually take the wheel yourself for eight, 16 or 24 laps. Students receive safety and basic driving training, as well as tips from professional drivers with years of experience on the track. At the end, there’s even a certificate and a breakdown of your performance on every lap. • 400 ft. White Sand Beach • On Beach Trolley Route Once you’re done living the NASCAR experience, though, there are still tours • Flipper’s Beach Bar • Dolphin Village of the Daytona International Speedway, • Boca Sands Grille Shopping Center one of the United States’ most important locations in racing. After viewing the • Lobby Lounge Bar • Microwave & Fridge in all Rooms track itself, head to the attached Daytona • Parasailing & Dolphin Watch 500 Museum to see the race’s long and Trips • No Resort Fees storied history. The museum features • Free Guest Parking gloves and helmets from famous drivers, • Conference & Meeting Space photo-essays about racing’s greatest • Weddings & Banquet Services • Free Wi-Fi moments, even whole-car cross sections that lay bare the vehicle’s innards. Nearby is the Living Legends Auto 4900 Gulf Boulevard Racing Museum, which is less focused St. Pete Beach, FL on the Daytona 500 than on racing 727.360.7011 history in general. With a wide variety www.dolphinbeach.com of vintage racing vehicles from all over the world, the Living Legends museum offers a distinctly different experience,
38 VISITFLORIDA.COM JANUARY 2013 Canadian Traveller 70 with boxcar racers and memorabilia artistically inclined traveller will find from the birth of automotive racing as something interesting here. we know it today. It’s just another facet And Canal Street has a wide appeal Golf Courses of motorsports covered in Daytona, for any artsy tourist. The street is Whether golf is a midday time-filler making it one of the world’s premiere known as New Smyrna’s up and or an all-consuming passion, Central auto-racing destinations. coming cultural drag, with a number Florida has the answer. On one extreme Visit www.daytonabeach.com/for of studios and small theatres. The are the casual courses like Eaglewood more information. Canal Street Historic District hosts a Golf Club and Boggy Creek golf, with monthly First Saturday Art Stroll and New Smyrna Gallery Walk, along with several annual walk-in schedules and quick, nine-hole Set amid bustling tourism hubs and festivals. And parking is free. courses. On the other side, there are resort towns, new Smyrna is often Flagler Avenue also has a cluster reservation-only courses like Marriott’s overlooked due to its size. However, of interesting cultural spots, however, Grande Pines Golf Club, which cater to this small coastal city of just 22,000 like Palms Up Pottery and Galleria Di the true golf fanatic. residents has been named one of Vetro – A Unique Experience in Glass. Central Florida has an array of golf America’s best small cities for the Arts, One local favourite on Flagler Beach is resorts, which go so far as to integrate and has a well-cultivated reputation as Jonah’s Cat’s Art Gallery. Billed as “a golf into the vacation experience. When a metropolitan cultural hub. place where smiles appear as soon as the greens are just a quick stroll from In that spirit, The Hub on Canal folks walk through the door”, this gallery the hotel’s front door, you find yourself Street is a newly opened cultural features the works of Samuel Ruder and spend significantly more time on the attraction that has already made waves John Hostetter, in particular their bright links. And if all that practice isn’t enough despite just nine months in operation. and colourful drawings of cats. to keep the score down, Florida boasts With 22 studio spaces leased to 36 The Atlantic Center for the Arts offers some of the world’s premiere golf tutors artists working in a variety of media classes in both creation and understanding and schools, including the famous Ben and styles, The Hub is a feast for of art, as well as several galleries and Sutton Golf School, which has been arts-lovers. It’s got creative writers temporary exhibits of its own. running since 1968. and dancers, potters and painters, Visit www.nsbfla.com for more indie filmmakers and musicians. Any information.
WE RUN ON SOLAR ENERGY.
Bask in the fun of America’s Best Beaches. Your source for the ultimate winter getaway. VisitStPeteClearwater.com
59572 • VSPC - Candian Traveller 1/15/13 - BRAND AD • 7.125” x 4.875”CANADIAN • 4C TRAV • lbELL •E R V1-12/10/12, 71 JANUARY To 2013 Bluefi VISITFLORIDA.COMn 12/11/12 39 NOR TH FLORIDA Northern Shores From The Emerald Coast To The Historic Coast, Northern Florida Is In A World All Its Own
By Graham Templeton Did you know St. Augustine is the oldest European settlement in North America? It was 500 years ago the Spanish landed and the state of Florida has celebrated ever since. What’s to celebrate up here? How about historic sites, both Spanish and aboriginal? What about miles and miles of stunning beaches, tranquil towns, military history and unbelievable fishing? Find out more. Panama City Beach CVB
40 VISITFLORIDA.COM JANUARY 2013 Canadian Traveller 72 Another fine North Florida beach.
CANADIAN TRAVELLER 73 JANUARY 2013 VISITFLORIDA.COM 41 NOR TH FLORIDA
St. Augustine (the Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum is from beachfront properties to forested Established in 1565 by Spanish explorer within the walls of historic Castle Warden). reserve parks, and something to fill just and admiral Pedro Menéndez de Avilés, St. Meanwhile, the Lightner Museum is housed about any traveller’s needs. Still, its culture Augustine is the oldest continually populated within one of America’s oldest hotels and and larger significance within Florida is European town in the United States. showcases St. Augustine’s true antiquity. based on more than mere geography; Unsurprisingly, the Oldest City in America Having charged itself with displaying the Jacksonville is also a centre of Floridian has more than enough historical travel “Wonders of the Gilded Age” through the culture, history, and education. options to keep visitors satisfied; stone forts story of St. Augustine, there is so much The Ritz Theatre and Museum is a that predate the nation itself are a particularly history on display. good example of Jacksonville’s eclectic popular stop. The local wax museum For more information visit cultural scene, a 400-seat theatre with a immortalizes several historical tableaux, www.floridashistoriccoast.com. small, attached museum. The Ritz focuses freezing in time the landing of the Spanish primarily on African American history and explorers and the history-shaping actions Jacksonville cultural communication, featuring folk art they took on their first several landings along By land area, Jacksonville is the largest and history exhibits from the community. the newly-dubbed Floridian coastline. city in the continental United States, and This sort of cultural diversity is a big part Even St. Augustine’s commercial certainly the biggest in Florida. As a result, of Jacksonville’s commitment to being the museums have a flair for the ancient, the sprawling metropolis has everything most inclusive destination in the southern
Preserving history in St. Augustine. FloridasHistoricCoast.com
42 VISITFLORIDA.COM JANUARY 2013 Canadian Traveller 74 YOUR CHANCE TO EXPERIENCE FLORIDA CVB ch ea y B it Win A C ama n a Trip For 2 P To Anna Maria Island, Florida Long sandy beaches, continuous sunshine and a multitude of attractions make Florida one of the best places for a winter vacation. Here’s your chance to experience it for yourself.
The Prize: • 6 nights at the Entry Information Complete all information and fax to Bungalow Beach Resort, 866-562-4405 or visit Anna Maria Island www.canadiantraveller.net/contests
Questions: 1. The clichés are true, of course, because Florida is filled with ______and manmade wonders to lure visitors. 2. One of several attractions on the John and Mabel Ringling Estate at Sarasota is the ______that traces the illustrious history of the famous Ringling family circus. 3. This laid-back town on the central East Coast that began in the mid-1700s ______has 21 kilometres of pristine, white sand shoreline and a community vibe that is pure “down home.” 4. The state is ______protected wetlands, subtropical climate and a deep commitment to wildlife preservation. 5. Another slightly offbeat attraction is Weeki Wachee Springs State Park (45 minutes north of Tampa, two hours west of Orlando), best known for its ______.
Terms & Conditions 1. To enter the contest, the entrant must be a resident of Canada who has reached the age 5. One prize will be awarded consisting of 6 nights at the Bungalow Beach Resort. of majority in the province in which he/she resides, who is not an employee of, a member 6. The prized redemption dates will be provided to the winner. Prize must be accepted as of the immediate family of, or domiciled with an employee of ACT Communications In., awarded, is not redeemable for cash and is not transferable. its agents or distributors, or any of the prize donors. Contest is not valid in any jurisdiction where prohibited by law. Odds of winning are contingent upon the number of entries 7. The winner will be advised by telephone during the week of May 15, 2013 and announced received. in the August 2013 issue of Canadian Traveller. 2. Entr ants must complete all questions, and include their name, telephone number and 8. All entries become property of Canadian Traveller, which assumes no responsibility for signature. printing error or lost or misdirected entries. No communication will be entered into except with the winning entrant. 3. Mail or fax entries to “FLORIDA Contest” Canadian Traveller, 201-2080 Hartley Avenue, Coquitlam, BC V3K 6W5. Fax: 1-866-562-4405. Entries must be received by April 30, 2013. 9. One entry per person. Duplicate entries will be disqualified. 4. The draw will be made May 15, 2013 from all correct entries received. All questions must be answered. The solutions can be found in A Canadian’s Guide To Florida. NOR TH FLORIDA
United States. Heritage centres exist for Jacksonville is another such effort to help everything from Chinese immigrants to launch budding Floridian talents, and once multi-generational Jacksonville fishermen. again travellers get to reap the rewards. The most elaborate of these is the Golf Jacksonville is a place steeped in history Trail of Florida’s Indian Heritage, a non- Flagler County has been described and culture, and which has no trouble profit, statewide network of ancient and as the “Pebble Beach of Florida”, sharing its social riches with visitors from all contemporary Indian sites in Florida. and with good reason. Several over the world. The trail regularly features free speaking courses in the Flagler area were For more information visit engagements from some of Florida’s top designed by golf’s biggest names, www.VisitJacksonville.com. educators and commentators on the topic. like Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Tallahassee Additionally, the trail itself is made up of well- Gary Player and Tom Watson. planned routes for rewarding walks through Florida’s capital city also happens to be its Of course, nothing can compare the past of Florida’s Indian heritage, and its quintessential college town, a relatively quiet to Ponte Vedra, a municipality near increasingly threatened present. municipality that (ironically) empties around St. Augustine that is home to The Art is a major focus in Jacksonville Florida’s Spring Break busy season. It is Players Championship and the tourism. The Cummer Museum of Art & consistently named one of America’s best PGA Tour. Many PGA champions Gardens is one of the largest collections cities in which to live and features a thriving have made their home in Ponte in the state and a tribute to the meticulous arts scene; it starts at the Tallahassee collecting of the late Ninah M.H. Cummer. Vedra, due mostly the abundance Regional Airport where you pass the Artport With nearly 5,000 pieces on display it will of professional courses and of great Gallery showcasing local and regional artists take travellers some time to chew through, Florida weather. on your way out. but assuming there’s still a bit of daylight Meanwhile, Jacksonville serves B Sharp’s Jazz Café is one great venue, left there are ample options for more artistic all needs, from high end private and Tallahassee’s only traditional jazz club stops. Broadway in Jacksonville runs a country clubs to open pitch-and- featuring both local and national talent. With regular event called the Artist Series, which putt family courses. gourmet appetizers, coffees and wines, the has showcased local and regional artistic café runs out of the 1921 Historic Woman’s talent for almost 50 years; today, a sizable Florida and Georgia do so via Jacksonville’s Working Bank Building. If even that doesn’t portion of the artists who break out of Artist Series. The Art Center Cooperative of satisfy your search for artsy travel activities, the Back Talk poetry Troupe is one of Florida’s better-known slam poetry groups. For a less verbose form of expression, try PANAMA CITY BEACH, FLORIDA • GETAWAY TO THE GULF the African Caribbean Dance Theatre. As you might expect of any state capital, Tallahassee’s capitol buildings and their many attendant museums and galleries are enough to fill even a lengthy vacation. The Goodwood Museum and Gardens is one example with beautiful heritage architecture. For more information visit www.visittallahassee.com. Panama City Beach Though it has fewer than 8,000 permanent Dreaming of the beach? year-round residents, Panama City Beach boasts over six million traveller visits each year. That’s possible because Panama Sometimes white on the City is built literally from the ground up to accommodate the tourism business, ground is a good thing. with its geographical blessing of long, white sand beaches. The city boasts that it’s renowned for its amazing beach Renting daily, weekly and monthly. experiences, and given the sheer number Call today and ask about winter and popularity of them, it’s hard to argue. getaway specials. SAvE UP TO The city certainly has enough awards under its belt. St. Andrews State Park has been named to several lists of America’s top $200 beaches, popular not just for its long and ON MONTHLY flawless sandy beaches but for the lunch RENTALS areas that abut them, and the piers that protrude from them into the water. The piers, for both fishing and lounging, are among the getawaytothegulf.com most scenic in the world, and combined with a wonderful town full of fun and affordable cuisine, and of course the Florida sun rising call 800-224-4853 Mention: “NoSnow” for special deals from clear over the water, it's clear why this is a major American beach destination.
44 VISITFLORIDA.COM JANUARY 2013 Canadian Traveller 76 Panama Beach also bills itself as the For more information visit perfect starting point for a scenic drive www.VisitPanamaCityBeach.com. to Mexico Beach, a nearby beach that’s close enough for a day-trip, but far Emerald Coast Kids Stuff Emerald Coast stretches along almost enough away to offer some distinctions North Florida has as many 38 kilometres of white-sand beach and from Panama City’s other luxurious options for the kids as for the runs through five different counties, beaches. The land is less developed than parents. While you browse which makes it one of North Florida’s the beach-front properties closer to the open-air clothing stores along most diverse localities. The sand is city core, and residents refer to the area the Jacksonville beach, let the made up of pure Appalachian quartz, as a slice of Mexico itself. And don’t worry kids enjoy a game of laser-tag at giving the water a distinctive emerald- if you’re yearning to take a dip in the sea, Adventure Island, or Florida’s only green colour. uphill water coaster at Adventure since the area was designed with just that Destin is known as the World’s Landing. Or take a short drive in mind; whether you’re in a shop or a Luckiest Fishing Village, and the name is over to the St. Augustine Alligator restaurant, you’re never more than a five- well earned; the waters are stocked with Farm, with its more than 2,700 minute walk from the water. all manner of fun and fighting aquatic gators making it the world’s most The beaches are only half the game. Fishermen who venture out into complete collection of crocodilians. attraction for sea-faring travellers to deeper water will be rewarded with Take a walk along the easy trails of Panama City. It also boasts one of the sailfish, marlin, wahoo and other deep- the coast of South Walton then let world’s greatest densities of bottlenose sea fish. However, inshore fishermen can the kids go beach combing on the dolphins. They come, like the fishermen, also expect ample weight on their lines, terrific white Florida sand. for the abundance of trout, mackerel and especially in the form of cobia, bluefish, www.alligatorfarm.com other fish. Sightings are common along tarpon and mackerel. the shore, and even more common from No aquatic survey of Florida is the deck of a boat. Combined with a complete without considering its greatest shows about their odd and varied ways. thriving scuba and snorkel tour industry, reptile. Gator Beach makes for a fun Gator Beach recreates the natural habitat these wondrous sea creatures are the family vacation into the world of large of these animals and strives to educate perfect highlight to one of America’s best and hungry alligators. Visitors can feed the public on their needs, and how to beachfront destinations. the beasts as well as view educational safely deal with them in the wild.
So much to do, any given time.
There are so many ways to enjoy Jacksonville. Find great vacation deals, packages and more at www.VisitJacksonville.com.
CANADIAN TRAVELLER 77 JANUARY 2013 VISITFLORIDA.COM 45 NOR TH FLORIDA
Just down the beach is the world’s Serenity by the Sea Spa focuses on both oldest continually operating live marine physical and spiritual health and wellness. show, Florida’s Gulfarium. It’s best known Soak in a salt-infused hot tub or enjoy for its regular live shows with trained cleansing facial scrubs before heading for 500th dolphins and sea lions, as well as displays a trip to the gym and a relaxing rub-down. Anniversary containing most other forms of aquatic On the other side of the spa spectrum is wildlife found in Florida’s gulf. When you’re Salon Centric, a family-oriented relaxation North Florida is home to America’s done touring, be sure to return to the centre with solutions for every member of oldest city. Cultural and educational dolphin enclosure for some quality time with the family. events will be hard to miss in the the sea-faring mammals, as the Gulfarium The pampering can only last so long, early weeks of 2013, exactly 500 years also offers poolside “meet and greets” with however, and after you’ve gotten loose and after Ponce de Leon's arrival. Major the aquarium’s biggest stars. limber, there’s still the matter of the rest of focus will be given to the Spanish For more information visit the day. Fortunately, spread liberally in and and Native American traditions, www.EmeraldCoastFl.com. among the spas, cafés and restaurants, and their roles in shaping early South Walton has any number of diverse Floridian history. Several local forts South Walton shopping solutions. Bridging the gap and historical sites are running South Walton is a collection of 15 beaches nicely between luxuriating and purchasing extra tour times, as the anniversary stretching along the coast in North Florida, is L’Occitane, where visitors have been brings interest in the state’s long and an absolute no-brainer of a destination buying virtually any sort of scent or skin- influential history to new heights. for anyone looking for the quintessential care product since the mid-seventies. Then Floridian beach experience. However, South there’s one of Florida’s more distinctive Walton also features a number of off-coastal shopping experiences, the Market Shops activities geared toward occupying those at Sandestin, which offer the feel of a few moments travellers might not want to well-manicured resort. This impeccably to Silver Sands Premium Outlets. Silver spend on the sand. landscaped outdoor shopping centre has Sands is a collection of over 100 designer First, there are the spas. Many of them more than 30 stores, each addressing outlet stores, and one of the ultimate line the beach areas, just a quick sandaled some under-served segment of the Floridian destinations for those couture stroll from the water, and many capitalize shopping world, from innovative kitchen summer fashions. on this sort of spontaneous walk-in gadgets to gourmet chocolates. For more information visit business with enticing deals and buy-now Emerald Coast Parkway is studded www.VisitSouthWalton.com. offers. Still, most of the spa treatment in with small boutiques and independent Pensacola South Walton is of the traditional sort, bookstores, and is known particularly as a Pensacola has been designated by the scheduled, and includes everything from hotspot for antique hunters. Try Summer Nature Conservancy as a hotspot for aromatherapy to deep, stress-relieving House Village Antiques and Decoratives biodiversity, and is particularly known for its massage. You don’t even have to leave for a classy and high quality answer to big- number and assortment of colourful birds. the beach area to get to Grayton Beach box retail. South Walton does have its fair Foremost on the list of endangered birds Massage, and the attractions just keep share of such department stores, however, native to the Pensacola area is the Snowy coming as travellers move inland. and Emerald Coast Parkway is also home Pover, a small and finch-like bird that’s considered one of the luckiest sightings on a Pensacola nature tour. Cummer Museum, part of the vibrant northern arts scene. The Edward Ball Nature Trail makes for great walking or biking, and runs near a series of small rivers that give Pensacola claim to the title of “Canoe Capital of Florida”. There’s no better venue from which to go bird watching, and more than that there’s no better way to see the varied geography of the Florida coastline. Guided tours are run on foot, by kayak and via small watercraft, and can be geared towards either ecological education or more leisurely wildlife spotting. Common sightings include sunning otters, jumping dolphins, and swimming sea turtles. You don’t have to wait for the underwater wonders to breach the surface for you, however, as ample scuba and snorkel opportunities exist to take you into the alternate world of the undersea. One favourite area is the Perdido Watershed, which houses an unknown number of rare and endangered species of fish, bird and insect. From starfish to octopus, Florida’s biodiversity is just as rich on the river and ocean floor as it is on land and in the sky. For more information visit Visit Florida www.visitpensacola.com.
46 VISITFLORIDA.COM JANUARY 2013 Canadian Traveller 78 There’s a secret right next to Orlando.
It’s about being a tourist and a local at the same time.
It’s about going from thrills to tranquility in a matter of minutes.
It’s about stretching your imagination, your legs and your dollar.
And it’s about feeling right at home in the middle of the most exciting place on earth.
Kissimmee. The gateway to fun.TM
Plan your vacation at experiencekissimmee.com/canada
Boggy Creek Airboat Rides Glide across the Central Florida Everglades and get up close with wild alligators, turtles and birds. We offer two locations, convenient hours and even night tours for a different view of the wetlands. For more information or to book your tour, visit bcairboats.com
Orlando Balloon Rides View Florida as you’ve never seen it before. Hour-long flights feature stunning sunrise views, a champagne toast and full breakfast buffet. For more information or to book your flight, visit orlandoballoonrides.com W r. at. Wav .
Here’s your invitation to warm up and chill out in the genuine side of Florida. Discover unspoiled island beaches and seaside villages enticing with a laid-back ambience. Enjoy the entertainment and culture of a historic downtown. Or touch nature on an eco adventure or guided tour of a Florida winery or real, working farm. It’s the perfect winter getaway, just south of Tampa Bay.
Download the free Bradenton Area mobile app at the iTunes store. BradentonGulfIslands.com
Canadian Traveller_Jan 2013.indd 1 12/14/12 5:06 PM how to[ floridasell ]
The Three Region, Two Maps. Type in a location, a beach, an Centre Vacation Offer amusement, a hotel…then use the Satellite They Said It This is a plus. Florida is divided into three tool to zoom into the location. You can regions, North, Central and South. I like also use Street View by clicking on the Why Sell Florida? that. Nice and easy. So we have three little yellow guy and dragging him to a Doug Patterson regions that are distinctly different, each location on the map. Okay – now you President with it’s own character offering similar can walk your client virtually to the hotel Trafalgar amenities such as quality accommodations, lobby, to the golf course, to the beach With its easy accessibility and desirable restaurants and entertainment. The area and scenic area. Take your poets and climate, Florida will forever be a popular decision now is to focus on what you want photographers to those scenic spots to destination for Canadians, From the mists of to sell. Sure you must continue to promote whet their appetite. You can also do this the Everglades, to the colourful vibes of Key and sell that stay-put beach vacation, remotely by sharing screens with your
West, to NASA’s famous Kennedy Space
however here’s your chance to add clients via Skype Premium. > Centre, the sunshine state offers an something different to your Florida offers. Visit Florida, as you will see when you explore their website, are highly social. abundance of fascinating sights and
Great Sales Tool!Great Guide Pull-Out Travel Take another look at your client list and exciting experiences. check their travel preferences and their They are living the follow, fan, like, pin and watch social marketing philosophy and you travel history and categorize your beach Madeleine Brydon lovers, golfers, hikers, museum types, can learn from how they promote using Product Buyer poets, writers and photographers, too. social and virtual tools. WestJet Vacations Don’t forget to note your families and seniors. With this information you can start Creating Your Two-Centre Florida is becoming more and more popular for to work your magic. Florida Vacation E-Brochure Canadian travellers including westerners who Let’s say you end up with three main You have decided on your three are seeking new adventures. Orlando is home activities, beach, golf and cuisine. Next activities and the two centres you wish to the biggest and best theme parks in the step, review each of the three regions, to promote. Now you need a low-to-no world as well as outstanding dining, shop- North, Central and South. Choose your cost marketing tool and that would be ping and golf. Miami, Fort Lauderdale special places for each of the main activities the e-brochures you’ll find on the Visit and Tampa are world-class cruise and you are on your way to building your Florida website. You can download and hubs with some of the most Two-Centre Florida Vacation Program. forward the e-brochure that matches beautiful beaches that must be Right there is your promotional slogan. your promotion. seen to be believed. Fort Myers is the gateway to several islands Promoting Your Two-Centre Go With The Multi-Media Flo’ and well known for fishing, golf and shop- Florida Vacation Program To support your two-centre vacation ping. All in all, Florida is a “one-stop shop”, Let’s go re-join that beach and sun loving e-brochure you’ll need to add multi-media so choose your adventure and make your client for a moment. It’s always worth a try which means videos that Visit Florida next vacation a WestJet Vacation. to ask this client if they have ever visited have showing on their YouTube site right this beach, or that beach. Chances are they here: www.youtube.com/user/visitflorida. Tammy Mosher-Cecco may not have gone further north, south You can download, link and embed one Vice President or visited the central coastline. Why not? of these videos to your e-brochure, your Total Vacations Well the answer fits right into the box e-mail and your website plus all your agency’s social sites, too. The facts and Florida really does have something for
labelled comfortable. Been coming here everyone and can cater to all age groups.
Great Sales Tool! Pull-Out Travel Guide Great Sales Tool! stats prove that a video helps to sell a travel > for 20 years already. That’s okay, too. Close product so be sure to complete your Go The product has really evolved over the > that sale right now – however, when you last 10 years and is no longer thought of see a flicker of light come across a client’s with the Flo’ sales strategy by building in a video segment. mainly for families and seniors. It’s great face that can be read as, “Other beaches, for the budget traveller to the most ya kidding me?” (some people are not discerning and all age groups. It’s aware of ‘other beaches’ and stick to the Time To Make It Happen You’ve got everything you need. You’ve also a great destination for pre- or familiar) – you can step up to the plate and got the Florida guide in this issue, you’ve post-cruising or to create an exciting strut your stuff. Tell them. Show them. got the sales and marketing ideas right multi-destination vacation without Take them online to view your suggestions here – all you need now is to analyze even leaving the state. with your client sitting beside you in your your clients, choose your two-centres agency. Here’s how: and regions and you are on your way to Frank Coluccino Open Google, follow the tool bar from creating a new revenue stream selling more Project Manager Marketing left to right until you see More. Click on Florida than you’ve sold before. Air Canada Vacations More. The drop down menu will appear and the first heading is Maps. Click on The Sunshine State has so much to offer, from theme parks in Orlando to the award-winning beaches of St. Pete’s and Clearwater. With thousands of golf courses to choose from, out- let shopping in Orlando and Fort Lauderdale, plus the culture and food selection to be found in Miami, the only issue is where to begin.
www.canadiantraveller.net Canadian Traveller • January 2013 81 United[ hawaii ] States THE Real Hawaii Finding Hawaiian Culture Resort-Style
By Janice Strong
I have to admit, I’m not much of a beach person. I sunburn too easily, the sand gets into everything…. You get it. So when I was planning my trip to Maui I was looking to get beyond the beach, lovely though it may be. I wanted to find out about the Hawaiian culture, to learn about the traditions, music, foods and customs – and I wanted to do it in style.
And what I discovered is that Maui’s Hawaiian Canoe Experience that teaches beachfront resorts are the perfect place to guests Hawaiian traditions along with the enjoy those famous Maui sunsets and dive basics of paddling, the history of the canoe into the cultural side of Island living. and its importance to Hawaiian heritage; Hawaiian Cultural Tour that includes Wailea information about the many uses of native My base of operations for the first half of and non-native plants by the Hawaiian The Hawaiian Canoe my stay was the Fairmont Kea Lani on the people, as well as Hawaii’s rich history; and Wailea coast. A perfect choice it turns out, ‘Ōlelo Hawai‘i Sessions where guests learn esorts Experience at The R Fairmont Kea Lani is one as the resort was recently voted as having about the history of the Hawaiian language of three complimentary the “Best Hawaiian Cultural Program” on and how to pronounce words they see otels & H cultural experiences; Maui by the readers of the Maui News. around the islands. there is also a cultural tour and a Hawaiian And with good reason. The resort offers But it’s the Kea Lani’s full-time airmont F language class. complimentary cultural activities like The Cultural Coach, Jonelle Kamai, who
82 January 2013 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net ’sLJone l e T Hawaiian op Cu Experiences ltural of signature products that feature leads the way. Along with developing ailey • B House Museum: a preserved mission the resort’s cultural programs, she also local ingredients. home built in 1833 on the compound of the last trains the hotel staff on Hawaiian history, ruling chief of Maui. language and culture. A culture that Ka’anapali • O l owalu Petroglyphs Hike: hike into see believes we need to be conscious and After a few days we left South Maui rock art thought to represent a royal family, grateful of all the things around us; our and headed over to West Maui commoners, animals, canoes and tools. health, our family and nature; a culture and settled into the Westin Maui • N oho’ana Farm: based on the fundamental principles Resort & Spa. Our first night learn all about this Hawaiianvisit a working food staple.taro farm and of love, support, hospitality and giving was an entertaining introduction • Maui Arts & C without the expectation of receiving. to several of the cultures mances and exhibitionsultural by C eHawaiiannter: hosts artists. perfor - Down the Wailea coastal path sits of Polynesia at the Wailele • H istorical Lahaina Town: the Grand Wailea, where you can find Polynesian Luau. Dinner and learn about Maui’s cultural and stroll whaling the streets history. and Hawaiian traditions in the Spa Grande, drinks are just the beginning of • P i’ilani Heiau in Hana: which has been voted one of the “Top an evening of music and dance als at the largest temple (heiau) discover in all ofancient Polynesia. ritu 10 Spas In the United States” by Conde from Hawaii, Tahiti, Samoa and - • U lalena: multi-media performance spectacle Nast Traveler and Travel + Leisure New Zealand, that ended with that explores relationships between people, magazines. Its Terme Hydrotherapy Maui’s most extreme fire knife nature and mythology. Circuit, a series of five aromatic baths, dance, performed by Chief • The Baldwin Su use salts created by a salt master, based Tavita, a third generation fire presents Maui’s sugargar Museum:heritage. preserves and on Kauai salts, and the product of on- knife dancer and his troupe of property beehives finds its way into spa five fire knife dancers. There treatments. Spa Grande also offers a line is also a market featuring www.canadiantraveller.net Canadian Traveller • January 2013 83 United[ hawaii ] States Fire knife dancers are the highlight of the Wailele Polynesian Luau at the Westin Most resorts offer guests the chance to explore Maui Resort & Spa. Hawaiian culture through hula demonstrations or lei-making classes. kr c li F
four restaurants and bars; Heavenly Spa. www.westinmaui.com • The Westin Ka’anapali Ocean Resort Villas: studio and one-bedroom villas; three pools; five restaurants and bars; Spa Helani. www.westinkaanapali.com • Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa: 806 rooms; two pools; nine restaurants kr c
li and bars; Spa Moana. F www.hyattregencymaui.com the wares of local crafters including tiki dance show in the evening. carving, henna tattoos and weaving. www.whalersvillge.com Right next door to the Westin, Whalers Down the road, The Westin Ka’anapali Village Fine Shops & Restaurants offers Ocean Resort Villas shares Hawaiian Aa Wh le 90 stores, three restaurants, a food court culture through a program of henna Of A Tale and a whole host of free shows and tattoos, coconut leaf weaving, ukulele activities that introduce Hawaiian ways to lessons, lei making, hula lessons, stellar Winter is whale-watching season in even the most reluctant cultural explorer. navigation and mapping. Some activities Hawaii, particularly off the shores of Daily activities include coconut husking, are free and some have a cost. I shopped Maui where they can often be seen hula lessons, lei-making classes, while the Aloha Friday Craft Fair, held on a from beach paths. The Hawaiian Mondays, Wednesdays, Saturdays and beachside lawn. Islands Humpback Whale National Sundays see a Polynesian and Tahitian A good walk down the beach path Marine Sanctuary is jointly man- from the Westin Maui Resort & Spa, aged by the National Oceanic and the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Atmospheric Administration and Spa offers a chance to go star-gazing the State of Hawaii and covers the through its Tour of the Stars rooftop shallow warm waters surrounding experience. Led by the resort’s Director the main Hawaiian Islands. of Astronomy, the evening features Head to the Whalers Museum a look at the stars, planets, galaxies in Whalers Village Fine Shops & and nebulae that guided voyaging Restaurants to learn about the hey- Polynesians to the Hawaiian Islands day of whaling in Lahaina (1825- more than a thousand years ago. 1860). Examine the largest collec- During the daytime there are hula tion of harpoons, sea chests, sailor demonstrations and lei-making classes. journals, and ship logs in Hawaii, plus photos and movies depicting Hotel Facts the sailors’ dangerous lives. Special • Fairmont Kea Lani: 413 one- exhibits include 19th-centure arti- bedroom suites, 37 private two- and facts and a scale model of a whaling three-bedroom villas; three pools; six ship – one of the largest in the world. restaurants and bars; Spa Kea Lani. Take in one of the Whale Talks held www.fairmont.com/kea-lani-maui/ Thursdays and Fridays. • Grand Wailea: 780 guestrooms, Self-guided audio tours are avail- including 52 suites, 100 rooms able. Open daily. in a private club area and aturalist Corps aturalist 3-bedroom private luxury villas; N water activity pool, adult pool; slands eight restaurants and bars; Spa I Grande. www.grandwailea.com • The Westin Maui Resort & Spa: garden view rooms, ocean aCorte, Channel aCorte, view rooms and suites; five pools; L arbara
84 January 2013 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net B united[ louisiana ] states a VB rleans C O ew N Passionfor
In New Orleans, To Eat Is To Adventurous eaters will often find mouthwatering flavours in small Let The Good Times Roll cafés serving Viet-Cajun food, or Food intimate Italian trattorias whose counters are laden with muffuletta sandwiches stuffed with cold cuts. By Toby Saltzman When most people think of New Orleans, they think of great jazz, great food and lettin’ the good times roll in the Big Easy, the city with soul that marches to its own beat. N’Awlins – as the locals say – lured the cultural cognoscenti long before its first Jazz Fest featured blues luminaries Duke Ellington and Mahalia Jackson. Back then, hearty dishes like jambalaya, alligator pie, crawfish étouffée and plump po-boys were all the rage. New Orleans culinary cachet has come a long way Cajuns, the African slaves, and those who drifted in after the 1800s since then. From Paul Prudhomme, who intro- including Italians, Germans, and Irish. duced spicy dishes at K-Paul’s Louisiana Kitchen Arguably one of the world’s authorities on Louisiana cuisine, the – to protégés like Frank Brigtsen, whose mercurial Brennan – an accountant-turned-chef – boasts an impressive Brigsten’s Restaurant is renowned for pre- coterie of local eateries, including the Red Fish Grill in the French senting traditional Creole-Acadian cuisine Quarter, Ralph’s on the Park in mid-city, Café B, and Café Noma in delectable style – to Emeril Legasse who within the New Orleans Museum of Art. flaunted Louisiana flavours on America’s Ralph Brennan, 61, sees New Orleans’ culinary renaissance TV screens, the city’s current dining spanning beyond the French Quarter to quaint neighbourhoods: the scene zings with cosmopolitan vitality. historic and architecturally significant Garden District; the Lakeview Credit the evolution of New Orleans area which is regenerating with young families after the devastation of Ralph Brennan, one of the world’s cuisine to chefs from around the world who Hurricane Katrina; and the once derelict Warehouse and Waterfront authorities on immigrated over the last few decades, says areas that are revitalizing into chic pockets of new businesses, shops Louisiana cuisine,
ark Ralph Brennan. Their “new” spices added and eateries. Everywhere, innovative chefs are fueling the city’s P credits the
he exotic touches to the seasoned recipes that had culinary creativity by playing around with fresh, local ingredients. T evolution of New n O Orleans Cuisine to evolved over a couple of centuries from the Although Brennan admits that even food aficionados will devour hot chefs from around original melting pot of immigrants: the French jambalaya shrimp or red beans and rice when they’re partying along alph’s
R the world. and Spanish, the Canadians who became Mardi Gras’ chilly parade route – albeit adding to their warmth with
86 January 2013 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net MASK OPTIONAL - FUN INEVITABLE!
In New Orleans, it’s Fat Tuesday every day of the week. Perhaps it’s because the city is the birthplace of jazz and the cocktail. There’s something to amuse and delight around every cobblestoned corner, especially the tax free shopping savings. Visit us at www.neworleansinfo.com.
canadian traveller dec. 12.indd 1 12/14/12 10:34 AM un[ louisianaited ] states VB rleans C O ew N
At Cochon Restaurant and butcher shop, Chef Donald Link has revived the penchant for traditional ranger
G Southern Cajun pork and seafood pulled fresh from the Gulf. /Chris VB Ralph's on
rleans C the Park. O ew N
Chef Susan Spicer draws raves for her globally influenced menu at MONDO, where her lively dishes come at
moderate prices. ark P he T n doses of Bourbon – after the festivities are O
long gone most look for lighter dishes with alph’s R bold, intense flavours. With some 1,300 restaurants, New Where To Eat blackened tuna with smoked corn sauce. The Orleans offers a cornucopia of choice places • At Mondo, Chef Susan Spicer’s lively famed seafood platter includes grilled drum to taste authentically modern flavours. Chef dishes come at moderate prices. Her variety- fish with pistachio-lime sauce. www.brigtsens. Phillip Lopez presents the cutting edge of filled menu offers smoked chicken breast com molecular cuisine, dazzling the clientele at with Creole mustard jus; shrimp and okra; • There’s a tantalizing mix of French and Root. Chef Susan Spicer draws raves for her and steak and frites. www.mondoneworleans. Asian flavours at Chef Diana Chauvin’sLa globally influenced menu at MONDO. At com Thai restaurant. Specialties include oysters Cochon Restaurant and butcher shop, Chef • Chef Phillip Lopez presents a modern and soft-shell crabs, Prince Edward Island Donald Link has revived the penchant for approach to American classics at Root. His mussels and panko-crusted sea bass with traditional Southern Cajun pork and seafood signature dishes include foie gras served three coconut curry and jasmine rice. www. pulled fresh from the Gulf. Adventurous ways; home-made charcuterie and sausages; lathaiuptown.com eaters will often find mouthwatering flavours Louisiana pickled shrimps; and whole roasted • Mingle with beautiful people over lunch in small cafés serving Viet-Cajun food, or market fish. rootnola.com or cocktails at Zoe Restaurant and Wine intimate Italian trattorias whose counters • Chef Donald Link’s traditional delights at Bar at the stunning new W New Orleans are laden with muffuletta sandwiches stuffed Cochon include smoked ham hocks with Hotel. Chef Roberto Bustillo’s delicious with cold cuts and rich cannolis oozing baked peanuts and charred radishes; rabbit bites include Kobe beef sliders, macaroni cream. For fine dining, Ralph’s on the Park is and dumplings; and pork and black-eyed-pea and cheese with Louisiana lump crab, and noted for oysters drizzled with olive oil and gumbo. www.cochonrestaurant.com crawfish quesadillas with caramelized onions. breadcrumbs, tuna tartare and entrées with • At the sumptuous Ralph’s on the Park, www.zoeneworleans.com twists of Asian flavour such as the popular Chef Chip Flanagan’s globally inspired • Legendary on the American culinary scene, roasted Redfish served with a miso glaze and entrées include Japanese Wagyu beef, lobster the Grill Room at the Windsor Court fuses fragrant ginger-lemongrass broth. Thermidor with glazed rib eye filet, and continental European cuisine with New Everyone has a passion for food in New Redfish that can be grilled or roasted. www. Orleans style. For the ultimate degustation Orleans, says Brennan. “At breakfast we ralphsonthepark.com experience, try Chef Kristin Butterworth’s think of lunch. At lunch we think of dinner. • Traditional Creole-Acadian cuisine is seasonal tasting menu. Each dish is paired At dinner, we think about breakfast. It’s part the hallmark of the elegant Brigtsen’s with wines from the hotel’s excellent of our lifestyle. To eat is to laissez les bon Restaurant. Choices include roast duck with cellar. For current offerings visit www. temps rouler…let the good times roll.” cornbread dressing and cherry sauce; and grillroomneworleans.com
88 January 2013 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net un[ louisianaited ] states Learn The Art Of Cajun Cooking Ralph Brennan’s New Orleans Seafood Cookbook offers traditional and modern recipes plus how-to tips for preparing fish and seafood. Here’s one of his signature recipes. www.ralphbrennancookbook.com Ingredients Once the grill is ready, place the fillets directly on it and Grilled Redfish and Crabmeat salad oil (not olive oil) for brushing on the grill rack and fish cook until they are done, about 2.5 to 4 minutes per side. The with Lemon-Butter Sauce fillets cooking time will vary according to the heat of the grill and ¼ cup good-quality dry white wine, divided, plus a few the thickness of the fillets. (Watch closely so the fish does not Makes 6 servings tablespoons of the wine if grilling the fillets in batches overcook.) Use a broad, large and sturdy spatula to turn over Fish laden with crabmeat and sauced with lemon and 6 skinless redfish fillets, 6 to 8 ounces each, neatly trimmed, the fillets at least once while cooking. butter – it’s a classic New Orleans dish that tastes every bit with the “belly” removed if it is still attached When you think the fish is approaching the level of as good as it sounds. The combination is especially elegant 2 tbsp Creole seasoning doneness you’re looking for, briefly insert the tip of a knife into and luxurious if the crab atop the fish is in jumbo lumps. 4 tbsp unsalted butter the thickest part of the fillet. Then lay the tip of the blade flat These may be hard to find, as well as expensive – they 1 lb jumbo lump crabmeat, picked through against the inside of your wrist. If the tip feels hot against your cost twice to three times more than other crabmeat – but 1 tsp kosher salt skin the fish should be done. their sumptuous flavour can be worth the time and money. 1/8 tsp freshly ground black pepper If cooking the fillets in batches, transfer them to a heat- The fish’s very flattering sauce is a beurre blanc zapped warm French bread, for the table proof platter placed in a warm spot, and drizzle the fillets with with lemon. Hickory chips are suggested here for their white wine to keep them moist while grilling the remaining fish. sweetness, although mesquite and other woods suitable Procedure While the fillets are grilling, sauté the crabmeat. for grilling can be substituted. Soaking the hickory will Clean the grill rack with a wire brush and preheat it until it is In a heavy 12-inch sauté pan, melt butter over medium- increase the fish’s smoky flavour. hot. Then add wet or dry hickory or other wood chips. Brush high heat until hot, about three minutes. Add 1/4 cup wine and Speckled trout and red snapper are especially good the rack with a thick wad of paper towels saturated in salad heat for 30 seconds. Add the crabmeat and season with 1 pinch-hitters for redfish. oil, holding the paper towels with long-handled tongs so you teaspoon kosher salt and 1/8 teaspoon pepper. don’t burn yourself. Cook until the crabmeat is just warmed through, about two While the grill is preheating, prepare the lemon butter minutes, lightly tossing so the lumps of crabmeat stay intact. sauce and keep it warm as directed in the sauce recipe. Serve immediately. Place the fillets on a work surface. Brush both sides with Serving Suggestion: Arrange a fish fillet on each heated salad oil, and season each fillet evenly on both sides with dinner plate. Top each with a portion of the crabmeat, and Creole seasoning, using 1/2 teaspoon of the seasoning on spoon 3 tablespoons of the sauce over it. each side of each fillet.
90 January 2013 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net ark P he T n Lemon Butter Sauce O Ingredients Notes alph’s • Recommended 1 1/2 cups good-quality dry white wine R alternate species: 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice speckled trout, red 1/2 tsp minced or very finely grated lemon zest snapper, grouper, 1 tsp apple-cider vinegar mahi-mahi, sea bass, 1 tsp minced shallots swordfish, tilapia 1 tsp minced garlic • You will have some 1 tsp packed, minced fresh thyme leaves of the sauce left over. 2 tbsp heavy cream It won’t keep for 7/8 pound (3½ sticks) cold unsalted butter, cut into about 20 pats another meal and is delicious as a dip for 1 tsp kosher salt, or to taste bread pieces. 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper, or to taste Advance steps Procedure Just before grilling the In a heavy, non-reactive, 3-quart saucepan, combine the wine, lemon juice and zest, fish, prepare the recipe vinegar, shallots, garlic and thyme. Cook over medium-high heat until the liquid in the for lemon butter sauce. mixture reduces to 1 to 2 tablespoons, about five minutes. Special equipment Add the cream and cook until the liquid in the pan reduces to 1 to 2 tablespoons, • An outdoor grill about 4 minutes. (The sauce may be prepared to this point up to 45 minutes ahead and • Hickor y (or your left at room temperature. Reheat the cream mixture briefly over medium heat, whisking favorite) wood chips constantly, before proceeding to Step 3.) • A broad, large and Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook as you add 2 pats of butter at a time, sturdy spatula whisking constantly, until all the butter is added and incorporated into the sauce; each ad- • A heat-proof platter, dition of butter should be almost completely melted in before adding more. This will take if grilling the fillets in batches roughly 10 to 15 minutes total. Remove from heat. Whisk in the kosher salt and pepper. ark
If serving the sauce immediately, strain through a fine-mesh strainer into a small P saucepan. If not serving promptly, strain the sauce into the top of a double boiler and he T n serve as soon as possible and definitely within one hour, keeping the sauce warm, uncov- O Grilled Redfish and Crabmeat ered, over hot (not simmering) water. with Lemon-Butter Sauce alph’s R
The French QuarTer’s MosT celebraTed hoTel
For 125 years, Hotel Monteleone has been the favoured address for travellers revelling in the life and charm of this timeless neighbourhood. Whether for a weekend getaway, wedding, anniversary, meeting, conference or that special incentive trip for deserving employees — our beautiful rooms and suites, postcard views, famed Carousel Bar & Lounge, and Criollo Restaurant make the Monteleone a celebration of New Orleans all its own. NEW ORLEANS
214 Royal Street, New Orleans, LA 70130 | 866.338.4675 | fax 504.528.1019 | [email protected] www.HotelMonteleone.com | www.facebook.com/TheHotelMonteleone | www.twitter.com/HotelMonteleone
www.canadiantraveller.netHM-0000_CanadianTravellerGuideAd2012.indd 1 Canadian Traveller • January12/14/12 2013 11:19 AM91 Arizon[ scottsdale ] a
A Place LikeNo Other A Sampling Of Scottsdale’s Sonoran Adventures
By Josephine Matyas
Just a stone’s throw from Phoenix, Scottsdale fits the bill for active-minded travellers who are energized by outdoor adventures in a pristine desert setting. The city’s backyard opens onto the lush Sonoran Desert, a rough-and-tumble oasis of mountains and parks, home to more than 2,000 native plant species as well as some of the nation’s most exotic wildlife.
The delicate balance of the desert • The Sonoran Desert surrounding champagne – a tradition dating back ecosystem assures one-of-a-kind Scottsdale is home to about 60 mammal, more than a century to early French experiences not found anywhere else on the 350 bird, more than 100 reptile and 30 balloonists. continent. Looking for the giant Saguaro native fish species. • Fly low above the desert landscape in cactus? It’s only found in the Sonoran • The stunning Salt River Canyon snakes an Arizona Powerchutes powered Desert. The region’s one-off vegetation is just 30 kilometres east of downtown parachute – a two-passenger cart with home turf to the quirky Gila monster and Scottsdale. It’s a popular spot for rafting, motor, prop and wheels suspended wild herds of pig-like javelinas. kayaking and tubing. below a large, colourful parachute. • Leave your umbrella at home. Scottsdale • Want to cover a lot of ground in a Get Your Bearings is famous for its clear blue skies (more short time? Book a chartered aircraft • Acr oss the northern and eastern edges than 300 days of sunshine a year). (Westwind Air Service), seaplane of Scottsdale, the Scottsdale McDowell (Desert Splash Seaplane Adventures) Sonoran Preserve clocks in at an Adventures In The Sky or helicopter (Maverick Helicopters, impressive 111.3 square kilometres of When you feel like you really have to Sky Blue Helicopters) for an aerial tour, protected desert landscape. get away from it all, how about gazing soaring above the rugged mountains and • Scottsdale is crisscrossed with almost upwards? What better way to take in eye- lush desert surrounding Scottsdale. 300 kilometres of hiking and mountain popping views of the desert landscape than • The vast, open skies above the desert are biking trails, rock climbing and from above? perfect for stargazers looking for a little horseback riding opportunities. • Kick back and see the magnificent celestial action. Sky Jewels is a stargazing • Camelback Mountain – with its desert vistas while gently drifting with program that holds guided astronomy sweeping 360-degree vistas – is the most the breeze in the basket of a hot air tours in collaboration with several popular hiking destination in the Valley balloon. Sunrise and sunset flights are Scottsdale area resorts (complimentary of the Sun. a popular way to leisurely float above to guests at the Four Seasons Resort • The towering McDowell, Granite and the quiet landscape. Flights with Hot Scottsdale at Troon North, The Boulders Cholla mountains attract hundreds of Air Expeditions and Rainbow Ryders Resort, Montelucia Resort and JW recreational rock climbers each year. finish with gourmet foods and flutes of Marriott Camelback Inn Resort & Spa).
92 January 2013 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net The Scottsdale McDowell Sonoran Preserve VB – an impressive 111.3 square kilometres of protected desert landscape. ottsdale C Sc hotos P
AZ Guide Canadian Traveler 0811.pdf 1 8/3/11 1:14 PM
Sunrise and sunset flights are a popular way to leisurely float above the quiet landscape. BEAUTIFUL 2-ROOM SUITES IN THE HEART OF SCOTTSDALE FOR THE PRICE OF JUST A ROOM! NOW THAT’S VALUE! Our “Suite Amenities” and value are second to none. Call us today! • Guests staying in the resort suites at • 311 (500 sq. ft.) 2-Room Suites • On-Site Restaurant & Sports Bar the Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale • Free Cooked-to-Order Breakfast Daily • Free USA Today Newspaper can request a turn-down amenity of • Evening Reception Nightly 5:30-7:30 • Two Heated Swimming Pools telescopes and a constellation chart or a • Individual Airport Shuttle 6AM-10PM & Whirlpools sunset Celestial Picnic basket, complete • In-Room Wired & Wireless Internet • Lighted Tennis Court with dinner, blanket, constellation chart and telescope. • Astronomers with both Stellar Adventures and Desert Storm Hummer Tours shepherd guests on 480.949.1414 • Fax 480.947.2675 • Reservations 1.800.528.1456 a Hummer excursion through the [email protected] nighttime desert to observation areas, pointing out star systems and celestial 5001 N. SCOTTSDALE ROAD • SCOTTSDALE, AZ 85250 wonders along the way. WWW.CHAPARRALS UITES. COM www.canadiantraveller.net Canadian Traveller • January 2013 93 A[ scottsdalez ]
Outdoor Adventure Getaways Scottsdale – and the arid land surrounding the city – is a desert playland for kids of all ages. This is the place to enjoy hitting the trails, galloping along on horseback, navigating the desert’s rugged terrain in an off road vehicle and – well, you name it, NAtuRe wAS iNSpiRed; So weRe we. they’ve got it. • The Desert Botanical Garden is home to one of the world’s finest collections of desert cacti and succulents You can see it. You can feel it. Architecture (50,000 plants including 169 rare that was designed to work effortlessly with and endangered species). The garden the grandeur of the surrounding canyons. includes five trails (some are wheelchair accessible) and nighttime flashlight tours. This is Enchantment Resort. With a recent • Exper ts with outfitters likeArizona $25 million renovation, we offer a hideaway Outback Adventures lead guided trail like no other. Come to bask in nature at her hikes and mountain biking excursions breathtaking best. Savor award-winning through the rugged McDowell Sonoran Preserve Gateway. Or check out the dining and relax with restoring treatments McDowell Sonoran Conservancy at one of the world’s premier destination for free, guided hikes and desert spas, Mii amo. And take time to breathe… interpretive programs. just breathe. • Several resorts offer guided hikes up local peaks. Try Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain or Montelucia Resort & Spa (Camelback Mountain) or Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale (Pinnacle Peak). • Exper ts at The Boulders Resort lead 525 Boynton Canyon Road, Sedona Arizona 800.826.4180 | 928.282.2900 private and group recreational rock enchantmentresort.com | miiamo.com climbing and rappelling clinics at the property’s namesake rock formations. • Ther e’s still a lot of desert action in exploring the arid environment with a 12-ENCH-1779 CanadianTraveller v2.indd 1 11/7/12 3:00 PM little help from a modified Hummer or dune buggies custom-designed for tackling the rough desert terrain. • Pedalling along desert trails becomes just a little easier with a whisper quiet, all- terrain electric bike (Journey Arizona). • The soaring peaks and deep arroyos of Scottsdale’s surrounding mountains have
DISTINCTIVELY DIFFERENT
SEE WHY TRIPADVISOR RANKED THIS STYLISH ALL-SUITES BOUTIQUE HOTEL AS ONE OF SCOTTSDALE’S BEST. Stylishly designed suites feature the plush new Gainey Suite Dreams Bed, HDTVs and free WiFi to stay connected. Enjoy a complimentary full hot breakfast buffet and evening reception with appetizers, beer, wine & soft drinks served daily. Splash in the lush, oasis-like pool, relax and unwind on the tranquil Terrace Patio, and stay in shape in the Fitness Center. Next door, explore a collection of unique shops and great restaurants. Pamper yourself at The Spa–Gainey Village, or tee it up at some of the best golf courses in the Valley of the Sun!
A serene paddle along the Salt or Verde river 7300 E. Gainey Suites Drive | Scottsdale, AZ 85258 is an excellent way to spot desert wildlife like 800.970.4666 | 480.922.6969 | gaineysuiteshotel.com coyotes, javelina, hawks and eagles.
94 January 2013 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net 12-GAIN-1780 CanadianTraveller.indd 1 11/7/12 10:13 AM Az
been attracting climbers and canyoneers for decades. Pinnacle Peak’s 60-metre HALL OF FAME granite face is considered one of the state’s most challenging climbs. EXHIBITS • Outfitting pros like 360 Adventures (at the Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort) John Lennon | Elvis Presley® lead half-, full- and multi-day excursions. • Mix in an educational component Taylor Swift | Carlos Santana to hikes. The eco-tour specialist, My Roy Orbison | And many more! Arizona Guide, covers biology, geology, archaeology, history and culture in See their instruments, stage wear, guided hiking tours. • When the weather is not cooperative, handwritten lyrics, concert props, climbers can take to the indoor and other items in MIM’s Artist Gallery. climbing terrain at AZ on the Rocks. The air-conditioned, textured climbing Ranked as one of five must-see gym features dozens of ropes and a large free climbing area. Phoenix attractions by CNN. Water Adventures In The Desert The Sonoran is considered the wettest of America’s four deserts and not far from downtown Scottsdale. There are lakes and MUSICAL INSTRUMENT MUSEUM rivers fed by the snowmelt from Arizona’s CT SEPTEMBER ARIzONA SUPPLEMENT mountainous north. There is lots of water MIM.org | 480.478.6000 | Open Daily play – even in the desert! 4725 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix, AZ 85050 File name: McCormick Ranch Golf Club • Close to Scottsdale, shoot the rapids on (Corner of Tatum & Mayo Blvds., just south of Loop 101) the Salt and Verde rivers. The Upper Salt River Canyon has been nicknamed the mini-grand canyon. Call rafting guide experts at Arizona Outback Adventures Located in the heart of Scottsdale, and AAM’s Mild to Wild Rafting. MRGC has incredible views, 36 holes • The Salt and Verde rivers are also popular for the quieter side of river exploration – of championship golf, and is open to kayaking and canoeing. A serene paddle the public every day of the year! or tubing along the waterways are Two unbelievable offers for our excellent ways to spot desert wildlife like coyotes, javelina, hawks and eagles. Canadian friends: • A lot less wild but still great for water Book your tee time by phone or babies are the many pools, slides and through our web reservation system at water park features at Scottsdale’s resort properties. Newly opened in fall www.mccormickranchgolf.com and you’ll get 33% off the 18 hole rates.
Buy your 2013 Southwest Section PGA players pass through us and receive a gift certificate for TWO complimentary green fees, valid through 10/31/13.
McCormick Ranch Golf Club 7505 E. McCormick Pkwy Scottsdale, AZ 85258 (888) 948-0260 (480) 948-0260 www.mccormickranchgolf.com
www.canadiantraveller.net Canadian Traveller • January 2013 95
PROOF URGENT! PLEASE CHECK CAREFULLY FOR TYPOGRAPHICAL & LAYOUT ERRORS. o OK as is. o OK with corrections. o Need corrections & second proof ensure ‘live’ area does not go beyond .25” of the trim. Notify client that cut off could occur. ensure ‘live’ area does not go beyond .25” Signed: ______
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REPLY A.S.A.P. CT: Ph: (604) 699-9990 Fax: (604) 699-9993 FUSION FX: [email protected] Ph: 604 930 3700 Fax: 604 930 1279 A[ scottsdalez ]
The arid land surrounding Scottsdale is a desert playland for kids of all ages – you name it, they’ve got it, from hiking and biking to canyoneering and powerchuting.
2012 is the Adventure Water Park at The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa. The highlight is the new Kierland FlowRider, a boardsport simulator suitable for all ages that combines the skills of surfing, skateboarding and snowboarding into a new sport called flowboarding. Need To Know More? Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport’s mobile-friendly website provides information on flight status, parking and airport services. • W estJet provides seasonal service to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport from Vancouver, Kelowna and Victoria, B.C.; Edmonton, AB; and be inspired. Winnipeg, MB and daily non-stop service from Calgary. • Air Canada connects Toronto and Phoenix with non-stop service. • US Airways provides non-stop service from Vancouver, Calgary and Toronto. • Allegiant Air offers service from Bellingham, WA; Great Falls and Missoula, MT; Fargo and Grand Forks, ND. Visit the new website www. AdventureinScottsdale.com, to plan an adventure-filled vacation. There are tips for the top desert hikes, kid-friendly activities and best places to catch an Arizona sunset. “#1 Resort in Southwest U.S.” Pick up the Scottsdale Adventure Guide Condé Nast Traveler “Readers’ Choice Awards” 2013 at Scottsdale’s two visitor centres. The guide highlights the region’s outdoor explore the many experiences of sanctuary. activities with information on providers and planning tips. For more information or to receive a complimentary Experience Scottsdale destination guide, visit
5700 East McDonald Drive • Scottsdale • 877.803.9487 • sanctuaryaz.com www.ExperienceScottsdale.com or call 800-782-1117.
96 January 2013 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net 12-SANC-1808 CanadianTraveler.indd 1 11/8/12 1:55 PM Money-Maker$[ adventure ]
The new Marvels of Morocco tour is of particular note with features like camping under the stars in the Bedouin style, in Selling tents on the sands of the Sahara desert. Children of all ages are sure to enjoy such adventures, and similarly engaging activities continue throughout the days that follow. Learn The to haggle in some of the world’s premiere souqs in Mar- Whole rakech, where local bazaars attract one of the world’s most eclectic (and affordable) collections of items. Afterward, go explore an old pirates’ hideout in Es- Family saouira or explore the Roman ruins of Volubilis. Gentle walks through the Atlas mountains or the spellbinding Kid-Friendly Adventures Todra Gorge are physically relaxing and accessible even to young children. From Intrepid One kid-favourite is a guided camel trek across the desert to a functioning, traditional Bedouin camp. Too often, world travel seems to plan trips and adventures that Much of the ancient culture and architecture of Mo- exclude those with children and young adults. All-day trips or rocco dates back to the medieval period, and remains subject matter can be either too sedate or too adult for children. astonishingly intact. Tours of preserved Moroccan cities This is doubly true for travel in certain parts of the world, par- like Fes are packed with fascinating historical tidbits and ticularly in Latin America and the Arabic world. Now, Intrepid feature interesting objects and stories sure to occupy Travel has introduced packages aimed specifically at parents so children and adults alike. the whole family can enjoy the thrill and fun of travelling to the Intrepid also runs family tours to Costa Rica, Thailand world’s most exotic locales. and elsewhere. For more information visit www.intrepidtravel.com. ravel T Now every family member can get a taste
of the Bedouin lifestyle. ntrepid I
Centrally located only minutes from downtown and just north of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, with the Intrepid Family Adventures… Convention Center, shopping and major sports venues nearby, the BEST WESTERN Phoenix I-17 Metrocenter Inn is positioned For those wanting to get a little more out of their family along the I-17 business park corridor, we holidays, Intrepid opens up a whole new world of real life proudly offer convenience, comfort and outstanding Award Winning service. experiences for children and parents. All Guestrooms include Complimentary: From discovering new cuisines and cultures with a local guide to enjoying • Full Hot Breakfast Daily • Local Calls the thrill of the great outdoors - Intrepid family trips are about exploring • Wi-Fi • Parking • 24 hr. Business Center some of the world’s most mind blowing destinations with like-minded • Outdoor Heated Saltwater Pool & Spa families who are as curious about the world as you are. • Guest Pay Laundry Facilities on-site • Guest Pay Valet Drycleaners services available upon request Look for our 2013 Family brochure, B eST Western Metro Center available in January! 8101 N. Black Canyon Hwy Phoenix, AZ. 85021 Phone 602.864.6233 Fax 602.995.7503 TOLL FREE: 1-888-STAY 206 intrepidtravel.com www.bestwesternmetrocenter.com [email protected]
www.canadiantraveller.net Canadian Traveller • January 2013 97 [ coach travel ] Money-Maker$ Comfort Tours Coasting By Coach Scenic mountain train rides are just one feature Coach Tours Bring Luxury Overland of this multi-faceted vacation package.
Coach travel can combine the luxury of a cruise liner with the views and remote locations of a long nature hike. Still, what really sets coach travel apart is its ability to move long distances, quickly, and without sacrificing the ability to truly enjoy the intervening land and culture. Try gazing at a passing waterfall from the seat of a plane – coach travel is the luxury over-land standard for those who want to be able to linger over the best aspects of travel.
New Italy-Switzerland Tour Beginning with a direct flight from the airport and transport them directly Aimed At Canadians Toronto to Rome (flight not included to the first of many 4- and 5-star hotels. Comfort Tours has a new package to in land package price), the new trip Once settled, the first day ends with an help Canadians see the world, and drops Canadian travellers directly into orientation tour of Europe’s “eternal they’ve picked quite a wide swath of it to the deep end of Europe’s cultural pool. city” with a focus on ancient Rome. The show. The new Italy-Switzerland 2013 There is arguably no city on Earth with next day sees a tour of the comparatively trip is an 11-day adventure that stretches more history than Rome, so that is where tiny Vatican City, a destination just as rich across much of continental Europe for Comfort Tours begins the adventure. despite its smaller size. Dinner is planned just US $2,500. Luxury vehicles pick up vacationers at at a local establishment in the quarter of Trastevere, with live music. On day three, the trip moves on to Florence, this time via the new High Speed Italo Train, and settles in for a three-day stay at another world-class luxury hotel. The afternoon features a 73-14th Ave Hanover On N4N 3W9 tour of the city’s attractions, including Join Us As We Experience The True Newfoundland Lifestyle the world’s fourth-largest cathedral, And Culture Piazza della Signoria. Florence is the Newfoundland Adventure - 8 Days launching point of the next day’s coach Jun 10, 24 ~ July 8, 22 ~ Aug 5, 19 ~ Sept 3 tour of Pisa and Lucca, two smaller Italian Twin $2729.00 per person cities that beautifully display the rural Rates subject to HST and Air Tax Italian lifestyle. To keep the trip from being overly structured, a day’s leisure in Come Join Us For A Fantastic Tour Of The Famous Venice is here scheduled, with numerous New England Area. suggestions for attractions to explore on New England / Cape Cod - 7 Days your own. June 2, 16 ~ July 7*, 21* ~ Aug 25* ~ Sept 8*, 15*, 22* ~ Oct 6* Next is Venice, after a scenic ride past Starting at Twin$1229.00 per person Bologna and Padova. A city tour features * Surcharges will apply / HST does not apply stops at St. Mark’s Square and Palazzo Tour The Yukon And Alaska By Motor Coach, Then Sail The Ducale, old residence of the Venetian Inside Passage For A Once In A Lifetime Experience. rulers. After another day’s leisure in Venice, Alaska Land And Sea - 16 Days the trip moves on to Milan, Italy’s second May 11 ~ June 8, 22 ~July 6 ~ Aug 3 largest city. Two further days as touring the Twin $5189.00 per person area around Milan cap the Italian portion Some HST and Air Tax must be added of the trip, and then it’s on to one of
Europe’s most spectacular train rides.
Contact Your Local Travel Agent To Make Your Reservation The Bernina Express is one of the most For a FREE Brochure or more information call visually striking ways to cross the Alps.
1158989 1-800-265-5530 The winding mountain railway connects email: hanoverholidays.com ~ www.hanoverholidays.com Northern and Southern Europe, crossing TICO # almost 200 scenic bridges and travelling
98 January 2013 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net olidays H The tour features Newfoundland culture as heavily as the landscape. anover H
The tour departs from St. John’s, after two full days exploring this unique coastal city, and head off to Conception Bay and the beautiful Cape Bonavista Lighthouse (all location fees included). Every day for the next eight days you visit another wonderful feature of Canada’s right-most province, and incidentally track the progress of America’s earliest explorers – the Vikings. Sail the coast and see the true Newfoundland lifestyle in the through more than 50 tunnels. Traversing travellers either to extreme physical rural fishing villages along the way. With steep inclines, this unique rail tour peaks at locations like canyons and mountaintops, stops for complimentary local meals and over 2,250 metres above sea level. After a or to exotic world locales with alien cultural shows, this is the premiere way to full day spent amongst the grandeur of the cultures and customs. Hanover Holidays see Newfoundland as it really is. Swiss mountain ranges, the train returns to has a different idea, though, and wants The tour has an educational focus Milan for the final night of the trip. Return to show Canadians just how much as well, with stops in the Salmon flights to Canada leave from Rome. adventure there is within their country’s Interpretation Centre in Corner Brook For more information visit own borders. for some education on the food stock that www.comforttour.ca. Particularly, Hanover has put a focus has helped keep Newfoundland afloat for on Newfoundland and Labrador – with hundreds of years. Best of all, the whole Newfoundland Tour To Keep great success. Canadians are eager to see affair is run by a Newfoundland Tour Tourism In House their own far-eastern province with all its Director and a Newfoundland motor Most holidays fall into one of two storied coastal scenery. The Viking Trail of coach driver, so you know every local categories: luxury and relaxation, or Newfoundland is a 12-day tour that heads detail is authentic. adventure and experience. Pursuing through the area’s largest cities and most For more information visit the latter category almost always takes jaw-dropping natural features. www.hanoverholidays.com. EXPERIENCE EUROPE WITH
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LAND PORTION ONLY FLIGHT LAND PORTION ONLY FLIGHT LAND PORTION ONLY FLIGHT * * * * * * $1,498 $674 $2,498 $719 $2,298 $629 TAXES INCLUDED $469.76 TAXES TAXES INCLUDED $479.09 TAXES TAXES INCLUDED $493.64 TAXES
European Packages Include First Class hotels, Meal Plan, Transportation, Transfers, Guided City Tours, Entrance Fees for Spain & Turkey, Canadian Tour Guide on board. *Prices are per person based on double-occupancy. NORTH AMERICAN PACKAGES AVAILABLE WEEKLY DEPARTURES STARTING FROM $398* NEW YORK, CHICAGO, WASHINGTON, BOSTON, MONTREAL, QUEBEC CITY
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www.canadiantraveller.net Canadian Traveller • January 2013 99 Mo[ rivern cruiseley-Maker$ ] Rome By
iver The River Countess has been completely RUniworld Adds 13-Day Trip remodelled for the Splendours of Italy cruise. Through Italy Adding to their long list of international river cruise destinations, Uniworld River Cruises is introducing a new and luxurious trip called the Splendours of Italy. This 13-day dream ride aims to show customers not only the gorgeous scenery of the Italian river-lands but the country’s art and architecture, its music, poetry and great historical importance.
Few cities in the world can rival Venice for the sheer volume further for three days in Rome. The tour ends after this three- of historically important events, and Italy’s floating paradise day stint spent snaking through the streets of one of Europe’s is where this Italian trip begins. For three days the river boat most historic cities. will tour the area with a featured walking tour of historic To serve this new Italian adventure Uniworld has refitted Venice and a visit to St. Marco Basilica. In all, this new cruise their long-running River Countess boutique cruise ship. package features a seven-night trip down the Po River and The ship was completely remodelled to fit its new Italian the Venice Lagoon. Cruisers will stop for excursions into destination, but still features all the luxury amenities cruise Padua for a trip to Scrovegni Chapel, Ravenna for Brisighella customers expect, from gorgeous luxury suites to saunas, artisanal food tasting, Bologna to explore Northern Italy’s libraries and life-sized chess boards. culinary capital, and Verona for a wide-ranging tour of This comprehensive new package shows a good deal of architecture and history. A guided tour of imperial Rome, the history, culture and geography that Italy has to offer, with complete with a tour of the great Colosseum, is sure to excite stops in three of its most famous and historically significant anyone interested in ancient history. More contemporary cities. Your time off-ship can be spent under Juliet’s famous tours, such as “Rome as the Romans Do,” show the balcony in Verona, or looking up at the ceilings in the city’s unique culture as it exists today. cathedrals of Rome, or just relaxing on the deck Following the cruise, travellers are of an all-out luxury river cruise liner. treated to a two-day excursion For more information visit to Florence and then taken www.uniworld.com iver Cruises R Venice is the starting point for Uniworld’s new, far-reaching Italian river cruise. niworld U
100 January 2013 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net 5,000 years of history in 5-Star luxury.
From Beijing’s ancient Forbidden City to the booming, modern oasis
of Shanghai, to the legendary Terra Cotta Warriors and Great Wall,
your clients will take an enchanting odyssey into history in stylish
luxury. Sailing along the mystical Yangtze, they will stay in Uniworld
Signature Suites aboard the luxurious NEW Century Legend or
Choose from four expertly planned Century Paragon. They’ll also be treated to a host of exclusive 2013 China River Cruises & Tours, starting from C$3,299 per person:* VIP benefi ts, fi ve-star hotels, special-themed meals, fully hosted
NEW FOR 2013 excursions, all transportation throughout their trip, and so much Impressions of China & the Yangtze Shanghai to Beijing | 10 Days more, making this truly a voyage of a lifetime.
Highlights of China & the Yangtze Beijing to Shanghai | 11 Days
China, Tibet & the Yangtze Beijing to Shanghai | 14 Days
Grand China & the Yangtze For more information, call your local Sales Manager Beijing to Hong Kong | 18 Days at 1-800-868-7905 or visit uniworldcruises.ca.
* Rate listed in Canadian dollars. Rate is for cruise/tour only, per person, double occupancy for travel in a Uniworld Signature Suite, Century Paragon, on the Impressions of China & the Yangtze, 4/17/13 departure date. Rates vary by program. Ship and hotels are subject to change. Rate does not include port charges, taxes, or government fees; airfare extra. Subject to availability. Capacity controlled. Other restrictions may apply. Uniworld reserves the right to withdraw or change offers at any time. For complete details on all promotions, general information, and terms and conditions applicable to all Uniworld trips, please visit uniworldcruises.ca.
12-ADS-004_CAT_China_5Kyears 1.indd 1 12/14/12 3:49 PM Caribbea[ cuba ] n Into The
BlueAzure Seas, Sapphire Skies, No Wonder Varadero Is Hot, Hot, Hot
Flickr By Sam Ion Mention Cuba, and most of your clients will think Varadero. No wonder – this long narrow peninsula has 20 kilometres of broad, clean, fine white sandy beaches, add the turquoise warm water of the sea and the blue of the sky and it makes a picture, that your clients will want to be in. More than a million tourists visit Varadero every year.
www.canadiantraveller.net Canadian Traveller • January 2013 103 Caribbean[ cuba ]
In the 1880s ten wealthy Cuban families recently, and many of the old buildings are open an aqua park and the first condos run from nearby Cardenas built mansions in now restaurants. by Melia geared to “snowbirds”. a place known up ‘til then as a dry-dock Aside from the new resorts, there are for ships. And that’s why this peninsula is Beachside Developments some favourites getting rave reviews. I named Varadero. (Spanish for dry dock). In the last few years, there are a number of love Melia Las Americas because of its Tourism grew in the early 1930s as new or renovated resorts open, bringing location. The resort is situated directly on Irenee du Pont an American millionaire ever more unique services. the golf course; the clubhouse is an easy built his Spanish-style estate Zanadu on The 391-room, 4.5-star Iberostar stroll from the resort. It is also on a great the peninsula. It cost $334,000 to build. Varadero is built on a beautiful section of stretch of beach. Many famous and infamous people stayed in the beach. It was #1 out of 57 resorts on The Spanish Melia Hotels International Varadero, and locals argue as to whether Al one review site, and #5 on another. I saw chain plans to renovate their more than 25 Capone had a house there, or just visited. it on a Hola Sun Agent’s fam trip several resorts in Cuba. They have also announced Irenee du Pont developed much of years ago, and management was so anxious that in 2013, they will be managing more the peninsula, introducing grand hotels to know how we liked the food in one properties. and casinos in the 1950s. After the of the a-la-carte restaurants, they literally In May the Royal Service at the Paradisus Revolution in 1959, many mansions were watched us eat. They didn’t need to worry, Princesa del Mar, will re-open with 108 expropriated, and became museums. we all loved it. suites. The Melia Marina Varadero Hotel Zanadu became a small hotel with a The Riu Varadero Hotel, a 5-star with with long stays will open next year. By restaurant and bar. It is used as a clubhouse 1,110 rooms and suites, has family suites 2015, the long awaited for Reserve at on the 18-hole par 72 golf course as well. available with two separate, but connected, Paradisus Varadero will open with 250 In 1980 the island was opened to rooms for families or parties travelling rooms. The Tryp Peninsula Varadero, has foreign tourists and tourists began arriving together with up to five adults, or up to become the Melia Peninsula Varadero. from western countries. Their numbers three children in the same unit. There is an have been increasing ever since. The 1990s adults-only section with an exclusive pool. Shoppers Delight brought the start of another round of Memories Varadero Beach Resort, a Your shop ‘til they drop clients will like the resort building this time in the 4-star and 4+-star, has 1035 rooms and suites. The Plaza America mall with stores like Mango 5-star range. There is now literally a resort baby club welcomes kids from 2 to 4. This and La Costa. The plaza is a hub for taxis, for every taste and budget. is not usual in most all-inclusives. and a key stop for the double decker bus As international tourism was opened up, The 467-room 5-star El Papriarca by and the coco-taxi, horse drawn carriage the local population expanded with the Ocean opened this year. It brags of a transport and taxis. The newer Bahicacos arrival of people, from other parts of Cuba. 500-year-old cactus tree, which the resort Mall is the place to go for cigars, rum and Varadero is now a town of 8,000 making it is named after, along with all the other small boutiques. an interesting place to wander around. The facilities you’d expect. The open market is a must. The 32nd historic area of the city built by wealthy In the near future the Marina Hotel FIT Cuba conference last April talked about families in the 20s has been restored Gaviotta will welcome guests as well as the new Cuban emphasize on crafts, and it
Clients can go fishing, rent a yacht, catamaran, jet-ski or ride on mini- submarines or glass bottom boat. And yes, they can rent a classic 50s car.
104 January 2013 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net Signature.ca The Days Yo u R e m emb e r
Varadero, Cuba Riu Varadero ★★★★★
Family Fun & Kids Deal Kids’ pool • Kids’ play area • Kids Club (4-12 yrs) • RiuLand/Riu Fit • Kids (under 12 yrs) Stay, Play and Eat FREE when sharing a room with 2 adults (hotel rooms only, limited availability) (Max. 2 kids) • Kids program (4-7 yrs, 8-12 yrs) • Evening activities (special dinners) • Mini Disco Wedding FREE weddings available • Wedding package. deals available • Vow Renewal deals available ($) LOCATION Beachfront • 30 Minutes from Varadero International Airport •10 Minutes to downtown Varadero
FACILITIES 1110 Rooms • 2 Pools • Kids’ club • Internet service ($) • 2 Tennis courts • Fitness facilities • Toronto Departures Jacuzzi • Spa ($) • Sauna • Shops ($) • Medical service ($) One Week • All Inclusive DINING & ENTERTAINMENT 2 Buffet and 5 Specialty restaurants (reservations required, dress code in effect, restrictions may apply) • 5 Bars (including 2 swim-up bars) • 2 Snack bars • Disco (drinks/entrance Hotel Room included) Mar 04, 18 & 25 ACCOMMODATION Air conditioned Hotel Room with 1 king bed or 2 double beds • Satellite TV • CD player • Mini-bar • Iron/ironing board • Hairdryer • In-room safe • Balcony or terrace (Max $ occupants 4 persons, 3 adults) • Superior Room offers same amenities as above • Closer to the beach • + $290 taxes 895 Additional room categories available (please inquire) • Deluxe Wing/Adults Only Section
Superior Room ALL INCLUSIVE 3 Meals daily plus 24hr snacks • All drinks 24hr (domestic beer and cocktails, house Mar 04, 18 & 25 wine with meals, select international brands) • Daily activities • Introductory Scuba Lessons in pool • Non-motorized water sports • Evening entertainment $ 995 + $290 taxes
Toronto departures. All prices are gross per person based on double occupancy for 7 nights all inclusive (unless otherwise specifi ed) and were available at time of printing. Transportation taxes & related fees shown must be pre-paid. Applicable local taxes payable at destination are extra (Cuba 25CUC) For full terms and conditions, please refer to our current brochure. All fl ights are with Sunwing Airlines or Travel Service. Sunwing Vacations Inc. D/B/A as Signature Vacations. 27 Fasken Drive, Toronto, ON, M9W 1K6. Ont (Tico) #2476582 | 01022013 Ont. Reg. # 2476582
SIG_CanadianTraveller_RiuVaradero_12122012.indd 1 12-12-12 2:48 PM Caribbean[ cuba ]
shows. There are lots of YOUR NEXT well-made crafts for sale here, and the vendors do not bother anyone SPEAKER so you can look and browse without being harassed. You’ll find anything and everything you want, from art, paintings, beautiful wooden carvings and jewelry to t-shirts, sundresses or souvenirs of any kind. Get Your Groove On Cuba is known to be oard the island of music B and Varadero offers ourist more than 100 bars, T
nightclubs, piano bars Cuba and discos. Sunwing has developed an interesting new tour This year’s happening club is the to Havana that includes a short sightseeing tour, an hour and a half for shopping, dinner in an Casa de la Musica (house of music), and historic restaurant and a visit to the famous your younger clients can meet some of Tropicana Night Club. Varadero’s university students.
Get Out & Explore explore caves, swim past 40 types of coral, There are lots of tours for your clients to and study various ship, planes and artillery, choose from, too. which have been sunk. There are 32 dive Sunwing has developed an interesting sites. Two of the most popular ones are the new tour to Havana called Havana History Blue Hole, an underwater cave 70 metres and Rhythm. It leaves mid-day, does a in diameter, and the Marine Park, which short sightseeing tour, and yes leaves contains the sunken ships. an hour and a half for shopping before Take a helicopter flight or take parachute taking your clients to dinner in an historic lessons. Clients can go fishing, rent a restaurant and then on to the famous yacht, catamaran, jet-ski or ride on mini- Tropicana Night Club for the show. It submarines or glass bottom boat. arrives back in Varadero at 2 am. And yes, they can rent a classic 50s car. The beach is a treasure, but under the For more information, visit water are great dive sites. Clients can www.gocuba.ca
Clients can explore caves, swim past 40 types of coral, and study various ship, planes and artillery, which have been sunk. Varadero boasts 32 dive sites.
www.smptraining.com [email protected] oard
T:250-752-0106 B ourist T Cuba
106 January 2013 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net of love A look. A caress. A new beginning. A colorful sunset frames the romantic moment when two paths become one. Love, it’s another of the senses of Cuba you can enjoy in any of the Melia hotels with special programs designed for an unforgettable wedding & honeymoon.
HAVANA Meliá Cohiba I Meliá Habana I Tryp Habana Libre SANTIAGO DE CUBA Meliá Santiago de Cuba VARADERO Paradisus Princesa del Mar I Paradisus Varadero I Meliá Las Américas I Meliá Las Antillas I Meliá Varadero I Meliá Península Varadero I Sol Palmeras KEYS Meliá Buenavista I Meliá Cayo Santa María I Meliá Las Dunas I Meliá Cayo Guillermo I Meliá Cayo Coco I Sol Cayo Largo I Sol Cayo Guillermo HOLGUÍN Paradisus Río de Oro I Sol Río de Luna y Mares
Money-Maker$[ rail travel ]
ailroad
R
laska laska A
Virtually nowhere on Earth can match the sheer variety in Alaska’s natural beauty. Revelry On The Locomotives ail
R Scenic domestic trains make up a large part of the
Open A World P
C international ACP Rail network. A Rails Of Possibilities Trains hold a very special appeal for some people. With their combination of size and speed, comfort and af- fordability, they offer a unique method of crossing over land. Rail travel is easy and relaxing, offering views of places no other method of transportation can begin to match. An increasing variety of rail travel options are available from more tour operators than ever, and at rates that make it even more enticing.
ACP Rail Expands meta-train ticket validity in a total of 24 for periods of 3, 4, 8, 15 and 22 days, but Partnership Network European countries. all expire after a one month. A First Class ACP Rail and its affiliates have grown over Some smaller passes can be just as Britrail ticket gives travellers more than just the past year and increased their offers versatile, however, and more economical a larger seat; there’s also free WiFi on some and services for both agents and travellers. for those with plans smaller in scope. The trains and complementary newspaper and One of the most economical ways to Britrail Pass and Britrail England pass biscuit. Remember that the Britpass works travel Europe is with a Eurail Select Pass open up the English, Scottish and Welsh for all trains on the British National Rail or Eurail Global Pass, which are available countryside thanks to the UK’s most scenic network – any public train in Britain. It gives through the ACP Rail website. Now these and affordable way to tour. They are offered travellers the freedom to jump on and off of passes have been expanded for periods of 3, 4, 8 and 15 travel days, all domestic trains as plans evolve – no need to to include Turkey as a of which must be used within 2 months. worry about specific seats for domestic destination, giving the The Consecutive Pass offers lower rates British trips.
The Napa Valley trains are a fun and classy experience. rain T ine W alley V apa apa N
108 January 2013 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net BOOK RAIL PASSES, TRAIN TICKETS & MORE ACP RAIL INTERNATIONAL OFFERS A SIMPLE AND PROFITABLE SOLUTION FOR TRAVEL AGENTS TO BENEFIT FROM:
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ACP-6165 Canadian Traveller Ad_v3.indd 1 14/12/11 4:38 PM [email protected]
Client: Napa Valley Wine Train Submitted 05 02 11 Pub: America Yours to Discover ad size: 1/6 Vertical - 2.25 x 4.875 specs - photos/graphics - 266 dpi, actual size, cmyk Submitted by: ArtWorks - 707.251.8000 Hunter - [email protected]
Mo[ rail traveln ]ey-Maker$
This year, ACP Rail launched the with the 10-day “Rails and Trails” tour, complete range of domestic routes for Alaska Railroad is hoping to do just that. Trenitalia, Italy’s national railroad. This Beginning in Anchorage and winding its means that ACP Rail can not just get way through several of the city’s most travellers to Italy, but can now make use scenic towns, the shows travellers a broad of Trenitalia’s extensive rail system within. slice of what Alaska has to offer. From its Trenitalia’s system can take you from the most bustling city core to its most remote shores of the Mediterranean to the beautiful mountain passes, this tour leaves few stones hills of the Italian countryside. Speed is unturned in the great Northern state. also a concern, however, and Trenitalia has The itinerary includes jaunts off of a high speed system of Frecciarossa trains the train, with focus given to hiking and running hourly between Rome and Milan - wild life viewing. In addition, a glacier just a three-hour journey. Frecciarossa trains cruise and rafting trip help get passengers also run to places like Florence, Napes and across a few spots – always with the train Turin. The older Frecciargento trains run to warmed and ready to accept them at places like Venice and Verona. the other side. A day spent in Chugach Make sure to take advantage of ACP State Park, the third largest state park in Rail’s e-ticket system for the greatest the United States, gives the ultimate in convenience. Just enter journey details, remote isolation. Its more than 200,000 select the e-ticket and receive an e-ticket hectares provide ample space to drink in reference number. The number is travel- Alaska’s unmatched natural beauty. After ready, and supports the full range of that, head to a backcountry lodge in fare types from business class fares to Denali and pan for gold in the shadow of discount seats. Mt. McKinley. Of course, and soon enough travellers Rails And Trails Tour Shows will be roaring along the waters of the Alaska From Top To Bottom Devil’s Canyon and Susitna River on a There aren’t many tours that can claim jetboat. All roads lead back to the train, to show the majority of a region, but however, which still has fly-throughs of Kenai Fjords National Park and Resurrection Bay in store. The Rails and The Alaska Railroad. Best Train in the World. Trails package includes on-board dining and reserved seating with panoramic views available from each and every seat in the Railroad’s glass-domed cars. For more information visit Alaska by Rail www.alaskarailroad.com. A Grape Escape “Napa’s most unique restaurant” is how the Napa Valley Wine Train bills itself, and with good reason: the Napa Valley Wine Train is an experience unlike anything you’ve seen before. Its three hour round-trip journey features fine dining and (of course) fine wine, and travellers will get to sip some of the world’s best vintages while passing the fields that produce them. This fun and educational day-trip Selling Alaska Cruises? is one of the only restaurants to offer a complimentary glass of wine as Choose the Alaska Railroad for pre- and post-cruise welcome. This is accompanied with a land tours, for authentic Alaska experiences and multiple course gourmet meal. Take once-in-a-lifetime vacations. the experience even further with the Sip and Supper deal in which guests spend the first 90 minutes of their trip in the Discover more on our travel trade portal. lounge car tasting wines. Wine experts help appreciation of five exceptional wines – until meal time, that is. Tours run AlaskaRailroad.com/traveltrade for both lunch and dinner, with meals designed by Chef Kelly Macdonald. Call 1-800-544-0552. For more info, visit www.winetrain.com
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Canadian Traveler Ad 2012 Client: NorthPark Center Job number: NP-34145 agency: Banowetz + Company agency contact: Sarah Terrell, 214-823-7300, ext. 107 ad size: full page (8.125” x 10.875” plus .25” bleed) deadline: 9-19-12 qatar_8 125x10 875.pdf 1 8/23/12 10:17 AM