WIN September 2007

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EDITOR Janice Strong EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Hilary Genders September 2007 Volume 22 Issue 9 EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/PUBLISHER Rex Armstead ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Stephen Fountaine Tel: (250) 861-9006 EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT Uguette Chiasson Tel: (416) 907-7524 ext. 201

DESIGN AND EDITORIAL PRODUCTION Fusion FX Design & Marketing Inc. www.fusionfxdesign.com

VICE PRESIDENT,SALES &MARKETING Brad Liski 80 CCOUNT ANAGER ANCOUVER 22 A M –V Steve Klein Tel: (604) 699-9990 ext. 327 ACCOUNT MANAGER –VANCOUVER Myles Armstead Tel: (604) 699-9990 ext. 329 Features Keeper ACCOUNT MANAGER –TORONTO Peter Ortenburg Supplement Tel: (416) 925-7524 ext. 202 16 The Romantic Road REGIONAL REPRESENTATIVE Discovering Medieval History Along SOUTH PACIFIC &HAWAII 25 Arizona James McCann Germany’s Oldest Touring Route Tel: (604) 938-8650 REGIONAL REPRESENTATIVE MEXICO 22 A Perfect Blend Letticia Garcia Modern Excitement Meets Contests Tel: (55) 5683-5569 Traditional Serenity In Hong Kong SALES/PRODUCTION COORDINATOR Win a Trip for 2 to Arizona Bryan Nikkel MARKETING &SALES ASSISTANT COORDINATOR 73 Birds Of A Feather See Arizona page 39 Caroline Jacobs Birders Are Flocking To Delaware Tel: (416) 907-7524 ext. 200 ACCOUNTANT 77 Following Trenz Travelines Elsie Edillor New Zealand’s Annual Tourism All e-mail addresses: [email protected] Showcase Focuses On 6 All Over The Map Sustainable Travel CIRCULATION $elling With $teve SUBSCRIPTION COORDINATOR Diana Cippiciani 8 Subscriptions: [email protected] 80 Captivating Kenya 10 World Report PUBLISHED BY Mix Diverse Wildlife, Cultures & Internet Traveller Landscapes For Magical Memories 24 78 Web Index 86 The Caribbean Comes To Canada 94 SeeAmerica Toronto Hosts First-Ever Caribbean Addison • Canadian Traveller • TRAVELHotNews Week September 26-30 Express Voyage • Bonjour Voyage

2 N A WESTERN CANADA: EASTERN CANADA: WI ONA September 2007 ON THE COVER: IP FORZZONde RIPR FORsiide T nns 1104 Hornby Street, 25 Isabella Street, AAT ARI ee I O ARISSee I TTO Kenya boasts a wealth of Suite 203 Toronto, ON 88 Land of Legends landscapes to explore, Vancouver, BC Canada, M4Y 1M7 North Dakota Delivers A Holiday wildlife to view and Canada, V6Z 1V8 Tel: (416) 907-7524 Kenya Tel: (604) 699-9990 Fax: (416) 907-7525 To Remember Wildlife, Beaches cultures to explore. The Fax: (604) 699-9993 & Culture Samburu people are just Germany SUBSCRIPTION RATES: Canada: $36 Per Year The Romantic Road one of the country’s USA: $54 Per Year • International: $72 Per Year North Dakota tribes that welcome Viva Vallarta! Land of Legends Printed in Canada 92 er: Remind visitors. Turn to page 80 Canadian Publications Mail Product Sales Agreement No. 40623544. er For Regist Puerto Vallarta Appeals To Addison The Keeper Sales Tool to learn more. Postage paid at Vancouver, BC. Return undeliverable Canadian addresses Show Today! age3 See P Arizona to Circulation Dept., #203 - 1104 Hornby St., Vancouver, BC V6Z 1V8. Everyone – From Beach Bums To Arizona PHOTO BY ÉRICO HILLER Contents © copyright 2007 by ACT Communications Inc. All Rights Golf Fanatics To Gourmands Publications Mail Agreement 40623544 • www.canadiantraveller.net • The Official Sponsor Publication of the Association of Canadian Travel Agencies Reserved. Editorial submissions must be accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope. The publisher assumes no responsibility for lost material. ISSN 1207-1463

The Official Sponsor Publication of the Association of Canadian Travel Agencies www.TRAVELHotNews.com Canadian Traveller • September 2007 5 All Over The Map

Hilton Happenings New Properties, Décor & Programs Throughout The Americas

By Anita Draycott Associate Editor, Eastern Canada

here is plenty of exciting news coming from the Hilton Hotels HILTON HOTELS CORPORATION Tempire lately, with improvements and innovations taking place at properties from Toronto to Ushuaia. At a recent lunch in the Hilton Toronto, I met a number of executives from various properties in North and South America on the 32nd floor in the very impressive Hudson Bay Company Suite. Using natural wood, stone, beaver fur and deer hide and colours drawn from earth, sun, lake and sky, the designers pay homage to Canada’s oldest retailer. In the spacious living/working area a sextet of maple blocks innovatively converts to tables or stools while a massive solid oak desk provides plenty of workspace. The Hilton Toronto’s Hudson Bay Suite offers guests a uniquely Canadian taste Decorative elements, such as striped Hudson of luxury. The suite is just one example of the impressive improvements to be Bay blankets and vintage photographs of fur found at Hilton Hotels throughout the Americas. traders and explorers, continue the Canadiana theme, as does an intriguing and dress-up frocks are all part of the and snowmobile in winter and enjoy moun- maple leaf mosaic in one of the bathrooms. package. For boys, the Hot Wheels room is tain biking, hiking, fishing and wildlife Floor-to-ceiling windows running the length outfitted with all the equipment of a true watching in summer. of the two-bedroom suite offer expansive racing champion including fast cars, movies If leaving Fido at home is stressful, Hilton’s city views. and games. The room has two twin beds: one No More Doggy Drama getaway in Sao Paulo For your fashionista clients, the neigh- designed as an auto repair shop, the other as Morumbi has just the answer. The package bouring Margery Steele Suite honours the a racing car with a siren lamp and neon lights. includes deluxe room, daily breakfast for two, late Ms. Steele who, for decades, dressed Barbie and Hot Wheels rooms are available daily doggy care from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., three Toronto’s society ladies in her capacity as in the Hilton Toronto, Hilton Buenos Aires, dog walks per day and two spa treatments per director of the St. Regis Room at The Bay and Hilton Margarita Island, Venezuela. person per day. Dogs don’t have to be quaran- (formerly Simpsons). The Art Deco suite Hilton’s got lots of exciting things tined before arriving in Brazil, as long as the features a fully mirrored dressing room, deep happening in South America. At Hilton country’s documentation requirements are soaker tub and a luxurious gold duvet. Buenos Aires, the Totally Tango experience met. Visit www.brasilemb.org/consulado/ Also on the 32nd floor are the executive offers couples a deluxe room, daily buffet consular2.shtml. lounge, offering continental breakfast in the breakfast, a tango lesson at the Academy of A little closer to home, families can morning and host bar and hors d’oeuvres Dance & Arts, tickets for a dinner show at embark on their very own Pirate Escape in the evening, plus the Ontario and Esquina Carlos Gardel (including transporta- adventure at Nassau’s British Colonial Panorama suites. tion), tickets to the World Tango Museum and Hilton, built on the site of what was the infa- Looking to wow those special kids in your access to Health Club. mous Blackbeard’sresidence. Guests enjoy a life? Down on the 14th floor, the folks at For your clients who travel to the ends of mug of grog in Blackbeard’s Cove Bar, daily Hilton have created two themed rooms for the the earth, you’ll be happy to know that Hilton breakfast, tickets to Pirates of Nassau younger set. Barbie fans will be escorted in a plans to open a five-star hotel in Ushuaia, the Interactive Museum, a snorkelling trip to Barbie car to the elevator to reach their room southernmost city in the world in 2009. It’s Blackbeard’s Cay and nightly Pirate’s Delight where pink definitely reigns supreme. Barbie just ten minutes from the entrance to the bedtime sweets. Unfortunately, Johnny Depp

linens, vanity, dolls, movies, games, toiletries Tierra del Fuego traverse glaciers on dog sleds doesn’t come with the package. ✈

6 September 2007 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net

$elling With $teve

Stop Cooking With Cheese – Part Deux Self-Management Tips & Tricks

By Steve Crowhurst

s a travel counsellor in the largest preferred suppliers and get back there often so “I’m Too Busy To Prospect!” industry in the world – and getting your knowledge is cutting edge and timely. I hope that’s true. Busy doing what? Don’t be Alarger every day – it’s time to take Save other destinations for vacation time. shy here, either. Have a serious chat with stock of your skills, talents and self-manage- yourself about being busy. The “I’m busy…” ment capabilities that will stand you in good Prospecting: You’ll move on from being call today usually elicits the response, “Who stead for the balance of 2007 and beyond. hand-fed to generating your own leads. isn’t?” In fact only ‘cheese-fed counsellors’ The fact is – cheese is no longer in your diet! You’ll plan your prospecting well and seem to lay claim to being busy. Self- The cheese has gone. Well, almost. Some manage your time so you can make at least managed counsellors always seem to be “busy counsellors are spoon-fed by their managers, two or three phone calls per day, send e-mails and getting it done.” There are busy counsel- which is a dangerous thing. Every counsellor and consistently ask for referrals. lors generating $100K+ to themselves a year should be self-managed. Sooner or later the and then there are busy counsellors who can’t time will come for all travel counsellors to • E-Mail: You can prospect on every e-mail get past $30K. Whassup with that? wake up and smell the gouda and complete a you send. Just add a selling statement to the self-management review. Here’s the scoop. top of your e-mail, above where you “I Don’t Know Where My normally type your greeting. It can mention Time Goes!” Front Line Power a cruise, tour, insurance…anything that is Here’s a quick way to find out. Open you Being on the front line, you have the power related – or unrelated – to the body of the scheduler right now and write down what you of being first to know. You know how the e-mail message. No matter the content of the are doing and how long it took right after you world of travel has changed from the message, you can still mention a cruise offer. finish. Record chit-chat with colleagues, meet- customer’s point of view. You know the • Direct Mail: Don’t be shy about sending ings you attend etc. After 30 days of blow-by- difference in their requests, demands, desti- direct mail – your clients love to talk about blow records you’ll get a good handle on who nations, concerns and price points. Suddenly travel and they love to read about it. Rather or what takes your time. If you don’t have time everyone wants to save the planet. You’ll than let those brochures gather dust on the to take time to record your time – you are in need to add ‘green travel’to your knowledge rack, send them out with a nice hand- serious need of time-management training. base ASAP.The recent terrorist plots in the written note and push some product. Don’t U.K. have spiked the security scale once forget to tell them what to do, either. Do Reading Time: more. You’ll need to be on top of this, too. In want them to read this information? Call This book will help you gain perspective on other words, if your manager is cooking with you? E-mail you? chasing the cheese as and when someone cheese, you’re a kept counsellor! If they quit • Referrals: This is a standard business- moves it: Who Moved My Cheese? It’sa quick fryin’ – you could be dyin’. building concept, but few counsellors do it read. It’s fun. It makes sense. or do it well. Start today by adding a simple Self-Management & You “We grow through your referrals”/“Thank There’s your task for the balance of 2007. Being self-managed means to work your you for your referrals. We appreciate it very Get off the cheese wagon and become self- magic within the confines of the overall much” line to your e-mail signature. Learn managed. Quit eating the cheese and start company/agency business plan. It means how to ask in real time; practice in a role- processing it. Ask your manager for help and

you know why you’re getting up in the play situation with a fellow counsellor or it can happen. In fact it’s easy. It’s a Briez! ✈ morning and heading to the agency. It means your manager. Now you can ask every you always arrive 15 minutes prior to start client for a referral. Let’s see: 500 clients, Steve Crowhurst, CTC, of SMP Training Co., is a time so you and your computer are plugged average booking $1,500 – if 20 per cent management trainer/consultant to retail travel in, ready to service the first caller. give you a referral that means 500 x 20 per agents, wholesalers, airlines, departments of cent = 100 referrals x $1,500 x two people tourism and hospitality- and leisure-based Requesting FAMs: You’ll only request FAMs travelling = $300,000 in sales x 10 per cent companies. Steve loves to hear from readers. that support the agency marketing plan: you’ll commission = $30,000 in new revenue. Not Contact him at [email protected] or see his visit and explore the core destinations of bad for repeating a couple of words, eh? website at www.smptraining.com.

8 September 2007 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net

World Report School’s Out at Disney… Out! Premiered last month at Disney’s original smash We’re All in This Together from Disneyland Resort brings the global High California Adventure. the movie that started it all. School Musical phenomenon to life with a The show replaces the High School High School Musical 2: School’s Out! is high-energy interactive street party in Musical Pep Rally, and draws its inspiration presented three times a day in Disney’s Disney’s California Adventure park. The from the new movie, which follows the High California Adventure, travelling along the spread of “Wildcat fever” had guests liter- School Musical characters as they head out for park’s parade route. The new show joins a ally dancing in the streets when the summer jobs and vacation. The show features full line-up of immersive experiences to be new High School Musical 2: School’s six songs from the new movie, as well as the found at Disney’s California Adventure and News From the Addison Shows

The Fall 2007 season of the Addison Travel Trade Shows kicked off at Western Canada – Victoria, Comox, Abbotsford, Calgary, Edmonton, the Vancouver Convention & Exhibition Centre August 21. Almost 120 Regina, Saskatoon and Winnipeg – to a host of destinations in Cuba, the exhibitors showcased their latest products for more than 500 pre-quali- Dominican Republic and Mexico. The company has also introduced an fied travel agents. Among the top news: exclusive Hurricane Threat Guarantee free of charge on every Sunwing holiday booked for travel up to November 30 this year. Visit • The WestJet Vacations booth was busy all evening, as agents picked www.sunwing.ca for details. up copies of the hot-off-the-presses Experience USA and Caribbean • Another Canadian operator with a recently opened a Vancouver office, 2007-08 brochure, which features a wide variety of destinations, and a first-time exhibitor at the Vancouver show: Total Vacations, accommodations and activities to meet every possible taste and which promises “the ultimate in flexible vacations”. Nadia Iadisernia, budget. As Vice-President John Hamilton told Canadian Traveller, Total Vacations’ Business Development Manager British Columbia, the key to WestJet Vacations’approach is to go beyond simply the hotel was on hand to introduce herself to local agents and to distribute the to the “full vacation experience” – be it Beach, Family, Romance, company’s brochure, which features a wide assortment of vacation Shop, Golf, Spa or a combination thereof – to ensure every traveller options for couples, families and groups in destinations across Canada, has the best possible experience. Visit www.westjetvacations.com for the United States, Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean. Check more information. out www.totalvacations.ca for details. •Transat Vacations made a return to the Western Canadian Addison • Shop America Tours, a division of the Shop America Alliance, made shows. The company has made a two-season commitment to the its Addison debut at the Vancouver Addison show, and promoted its Vancouver show, and Scott Roberts, sales director for Western Canada, wide assortment of shopping packages – Shop & Play, Shop & Dine, told Canadian Traveller the time is right to “re-establish a long-term Shop & Spa, Shop & Beauty, Shop & Shuttle, Shop & Show and more, relationship” with the shows. Transat Vacations’new Sun destinations at premier shopping centres, retailers and outlets across the U.S. – all and Cruises brochures are now available, and offer plenty of exciting with a minimum 10 per cent commission for agents. To learn more, additions to the product line up, including new 10- and 11-day packages visit www.shopamericatours.com. at select hotels in Cancun, Riviera Maya, Punta Cana and Varadero. • The Canadian Travel Council Promoting Italy (CTCPI), an associ- For details visit www.transatholidays.com. ation Canada’s top tour operators promoting Italy, was also taking part • At the Fun Sun Vacations/Intair booth, copies of the brand-new in its first Addison show in Vancouver. And it likely won’t be the last; 2008 Florida brochure were flying off the table, and by the time you CTCPI’s Vittorio Lo Tauro told Canadian Traveller he was “very read this, the 2008 Hawaii brochure will have made it to your desk as impressed with the quality of the agents Addison has managed to bring well. Tracy Poole had plenty of great news to share with agents. New out to the show.” For information on CTCPI, visit www.ctcpi.ca. this year for Hawaii: pre-sell tours at 10 per cent commission, as well • The USS Midway Museum in San Diego is offering agents big as new Island Hoppers, which lets clients staying on one island take commissions on tickets this fall: up to 33 per cent. This family-friendly a day trip to another for just $99 per person double, including air and attraction offers clients the opportunity to experience Navy life at sea one-day’s car rental. For more information visit www.funsun aboard the longest-serving carrier in the history of the U.S. Navy, now vacations.com. a museum, tribute and education centre. The ship is the most-visited of • The group from Sunwing Vacations’newVancouver office were kept more than 100 historic ship museums in the continental U.S. To on their toes by agents eager to pick up their new brochure for Western purchase tickets and collect commission online, go to www.midway.org Canada. This winter Sunwing will offer departures from nine cities in and enter promotion code ussm0127.

10 September 2007 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net Where everyday is sun day. Introducing service to Jamaica and the Dominican Republic.*

Are your clients looking for fun in the sun? They can fly non-stop to three new Caribbean destinations from Toronto with great connections from other cities:

• Montego Bay, Jamaica Three non-stop fl ights per week.

• Punta Cana, Dominican Republic Two non-stop fl ights per week.

• Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic Two non-stop fl ights per week.

Book now at westjet.com/agentweblink or on the GDS and you’ll enjoy a 9% commission. Or simply call 1 800 538 5698. For group and convention travel, call 1 888 493 7853.

TM BECAUSE OWNERS CARE

*Seasonal service starts in December 2007. Clients will earn AIR MILES® reward miles when you book online. ®Trademark of AIR MILES International Trading B.V. Used under license Loyalty Management Group Canada Inc. and WestJet. World Report

CTC, who has trained more time on personal time. Other modules home-based agents and include Facts, Stats and Trends of the Home run his own home-based Based Industry; Green Tourism - A Community business for 18 years. Opportunity for HBAs; Creating a Success “I think the home- Strategy for your Home Based Agency; Money based CTM program is Management; Technology for the Home-Based very timely,” Crowhurst Business; and Marketing Travel from Home. says. “The content of the To register or discuss your eligibility for the three days will give any CTM Home Based Agent program, contact business-minded HBA a Coralie Belman at CITC by telephone: (800) solid platform on which to 589-5776 or e-mail: [email protected]. develop their business. CITC has also introduced six new With much of the knowl- distance-learning programs produced by

DISNEYLAND RESORT edge being imparted The Travel Institute. These detailed home- High School Musical 2: School’s Out! is the latest show not published in books study programs allow agents to approach at Disney’s California Adventure. This interactive street or found at a suppliers clients with more confidence about selling a party features songs from the new movie High School training session, the fact particular destination. This confidence will Musical 2. that CITC has created an lead to higher sales and increased earnings. Disneyland during the Year of a Million HBA version opens up a The course titles are European Culture Dreams celebration. fantastic opportunity for the existing home- and Heritage, East Asia, North America, based industry.” Southern Europe, St. Lucia and Skiing. …School’s in at CITC The program offers customized material for Travel counsellors have the option of two CITC has launched a new version of its CTM home-based agents. For example, the Human levels of study: content-only, or content plus program designed specifically for the Resources module focuses on managing a test that can lead to a specialist designation. home-based agent (HBA). The three-day oneself and development of personal skills and For more information please consult the workshop is facilitated by Steve Crowhurst, resources and the Operations Module spends distance learning section of the CITC website (www.citc.ca), or contact CITC’s publications specialist, Ruby Shepherd at (800) 589-5776/(416) 484-4450, or [email protected]. We’re no More Warmth From WestJet Canadians will have new options for flying one-night stand. away to some of their favourite warm- weather destinations this winter. WestJet has announced its enhanced winter schedule, and There’s so much to do, your clients it includes the launch of seasonal non-stop will need at least the whole weekend. service to two new destinations in Mexico – Mazatlan from Calgary and Edmonton and Excitement abounds in one of North America’s most spectacular San Jose del Cabo/Cabo San Lucas from settings - the Okanagan Valley. ExperienceKelowna’snewestluxuryresort, Vancouver, Calgary and Edmonton – as well in the heart of wine country. Take in the Fall Wine Festival, or simply relax sipping as a new seasonal non-stop service from aglassofwineonaprivatebalconyoverlookingthelake...thechoiceistheirs. Vancouver to Kona, Hawaii. Indulge in spa treatments or Bikram’s Yoga. Prepare fabulous meals in a gourmet Twice-weekly service between Calgary kitchen,ordineoutatBonfireRestaurant.AvacationatTheCovewillkeepyour and San Jose del Cabo/Cabo San Lucas clients coming back year after year. Everything they’ve dreamed about. begins December 20, with flights on They’ll thank you. Thursdays and Sundays. The Calgary- Starting from $180.00 per suite based on double occupancy. Mazatlan route, with departures on Saturdays, Book your vacation now at 1-877-762-COVE or covelakeside.com launches December 22. Weekly Friday flights between Edmonton and San Jose del Cabo/Cabo San Lucas start December 21; the Edmonton-Mazatlan route will fly on Saturdays beginning December 22. From Vancouver, WestJet will launch LAKESIDE RESORT weekly Saturday flights to San Jose del www.bhrbc.com Cabo/Cabo San Lucas beginning December 22. And the new Vancouver-Kona route takes

12 September 2007 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net Check out our new arrivals!

Nolitours and Transat Holidays are proud to present their four new brochures: the Transat Holidays Sun and Cruises brochures and the Nolitours Sun and Florida brochures. Among exciting new additions to their line-ups, one of the most notable developments is without doubt the addition of vacation packages for periods of 10 or 11 days at selected hotels in Cancun, the Riviera Maya, Varadero and Punta Cana. This is certainly cause for celebration for travelers who want more flexibility in their travel time. Together, they present vacationers with even more travel options!

Sun 2007-2008 transatholidays.com

Cuba Mexico Jamaica St. Lucia Dominican Republic St. Maarten/St. Martin

Departures from Toronto • Hamilton • Kitchener • London • Thunder Bay

Nolitours Nolitours Transat Holidays Transat Holidays Sun 2007-2008 Florida 2007-2008 Sun 2007-2008 Cruises 2007-2009 Cancun I Costa Rica I Cuba I Walt Disney World Resort I Cuba I Mexico I Jamaica I Azamara Cruises I Carnival Dominican Republic I West Coast I East Coast I St. Lucia I Dominican Republic I Cruise Lines I Celebrity Cruises I El Salvador I Ixtapa I Mayan Orlando St. Martin/St. Maarten Costa Cruises I Golden Star Riviera I Mexico I Panama I Cruises I Louis Cruise Lines I Puerto Plata I Puerto Vallarta I MSC Cruises I Monarch Classic Punta Cana I San Andres I Cruises I Norwegian Cruise Line Varadero I Venezuela & NCL America I Royal Caribbean International I Star Clippers World Report

off on January 13, 2008, with two flights weekly on Thursdays and Sundays. For more information, visit www.westjet.com.

THE SINGAPORE EXPERIENCE FROM JUST CAD42* THE GRAFTON ON SUNSET Guests can lounge like movie stars or enjoy a swim in the saltwater pool at The Grafton on Sunset. The West Hollywood boutique hotel recently completed a major renovation. Stay Like a Star Your clients will be right in the heart of the action when they stay at The Grafton on Sunset, a unique boutique hotel ideally located in the middle of West Hollywood on the dynamic Sunset Strip. A major reno- vation project, completed in June, has given the Grafton a very fun, hip and chic modern makeover. The hotel – along with the fabulous destination of West Hollywood itself – was recently showcased at the Addison Travel Trade show in Vancouver, where sales manager Satchya Farias showed off the Grafton to agents. Each of the hotel’s108 guest rooms feature elegant, Feng Shui- The Singapore Stopover Holiday package reverential décor, guest bathrobes and organic personal products in the bathroom, music and video libraries, turn down service, daily news- includes: paper and more. • one night’s accommodation For those who really want to stay in style: the Grafton’s fourth floor • airport transfers boasts four one-of-a-kind theme suites: The Babylon, “a true bachelor • unlimited rides on the SIA Hop-on bus pad” with round bed; Jane’s Suite, which “captures the glamour and style of the Hollywood starlets”; the Rat Pack Suite, which features a • free entry to Singapore Zoo, Sentosa Island, living room complete with wet bar, CD player, television and VCR “so National Orchid Garden, Jurong Birdpark and all of your buddies can stay with you to take in the Sunset scene”; and a River Boat Cruise. the Urban Suite, a two-bedroom suite decorated by a local graffiti artist. • discounts on food, beverages and more. Other amenities include the award-winning, five-star BOA Steakhouse and BOA Lounge, an oversized saltwater swimming pool, Singapore Stopover Holiday packages are a complete fitness centre, a complimentary drop-off shuttle service to commissionable at 10%. area restaurants and businesses and on-site valet parking. And the best news for agents? “We offer competitive rates, many For more information contact Singapore Airlines consortia rates and commissions are paid promptly,” says Farias. “We or visit www.singaporeair.com/ssh. adore our agents!” For more information, visit www.graftononsunset.com. New Caymans Contact Oops! We goofed. The contact information for the Cayman Islands Department of Tourism printed in August’s “Caribbean Favourites” feature is out of date. We apologize for the error. Here is the correct information. Laura Wilfred - Manager, Sales & Marketing, Canada Cayman Islands Department of Tourism *Airport transfer is on a seat-in-coach basis. CAD42 is for the first night in a Category A hotel, per person, two people sharing a room. Rates for subsequent nights and other hotel (416) 485-1550 or 1-800-263-5805 categories differ. Passengers must travel from Canada to a destination beyond Singapore

using Singapore Airlines or SilkAir. Holiday package commissions apply to agents only. www.caymanislands.ky ✈

14 September 2007 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net you plan their trip leave the rest to usSM

After a day of chasing birdies, there’s one thing for sure, your clients are going to need to relax and there’s no better place than Ramada. At Ramada they’ll find comfy beds, welcoming service, and a host of amenities to refresh and get ready for a crisp new swing at the day.

ramada.ca 1-800-2Ramada

nearly 900 locations chain code: RA

© 2007 Ramada Worldwide Inc. All Rights Reserved. All hotels are independently owned and operated. Germany

RomanticRomanticTheThe RoadRoad

Discovering Medieval History Along Germany’s Oldest Touring Route By Janice Strong astles, vineyards, kings and soldiers, you’ll find it all on because of its proximity to the river, able to be doused with water to keep the Romantic Road in southern Germany. From it damp and protected against incendiary bombs. Würzburg to Füssen, Germany’s oldest touring route Frankfurt’s Dom, or cathedral, was the place where German kings opens up a treasure trove of history, art and culture, from were chosen from the 12th century and the place of coronation from romantic wineries to fairytale castles, forbidding 1562. Just outside, there is an excavation site where you can see the Cfortresses to cobble-stoned streets. remains of a Roman spa. Although technically not on the route, we flew into Frankfurt to start The Frankfurt Tourist+Congress Board produces Frankfurt our tour of the Road and immediately picked up the historic atmos- Welcome, a city map that outlines walking routes and visitor attrac- phere on a city walking tour. tions, and has transit information, too. The Frankfurt Card comes in Frankfurt was first noted in historic records on February 22, 794, one- and two-day options and includes unlimited travel on the city’s when it was mentioned as the site of a German Empire synod held by public transport system and reduced prices on city tours, 22 museums, Charlemagne. We wandered past through the historic Römerberg in the the Palmengarten and Zoological gardens, river cruises, restaurants, heart of the old town centre. The coronation banquets for German kings cafés and bars and participating stores. For more information visit and emperors have been held in the three half-timbered merchant www.frankfurt-tourismus.de. houses since 1356. In 1405 the city purchased the buildings and Würzburg is the official start of the Romantic Road, and it has been converted them to a town hall, where city council meetings are still held the religious centre of the region since the founding of the Würzburg today. Have a look at the building on the end of the square closest to the bishopric in 742. The splendid Prince Bishop’s Residence, a UNESCO river. It is the oldest half-timbered house in Frankfurt, having survived World Heritage monument, is a baroque masterpiece and a monument the bombings in the Second World War, by the ingenious efforts of the to the art-loving prince bishops of the Schönborn family. Built between locals. All the buildings in the Römerberg are connected by cellars that 1719 and 1744, it houses a vast ceiling fresco above the staircase that residents used as bomb shelters. The house on the end was the exit, and is considered the largest painting in the world.

16 September 2007 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net Built for Bavarian King Ludwig II, Neuschwanstein was conceived as a monument to the culture and concept of monarch in the Middle Ages.

Right: Frankfurt’s historic Römerberg in the heart of the old town centre and the site of the oldest half- timbered house in the city.

Bottom: All of the beautifully preserved houses, like this tanner’s house, in Nördlingen are original. The city was spared the bombings of the Second World War. ©TOURISMUS+CONGRESS GMBH FRANKFURT AM MAIN ©TOURISMUS+CONGRESS GMBH FRANKFURT Guarding the city, overlooking lush vineyards and For centuries the Fortress the River Main, is Marienberg has guarded the the brooding For- lush vineyards and the banks of tress Marienberg, the River Main overlooking whose origins date Würzburg. back to a fortified Celtic refuge. Note the three statues

over the gate. They JANICE STRONG represent three Franciscan monks who arrived in 689 to convert the

FTM/TANNER-WERBUNG.COM locals to Christianity and were martyred by the queen. The fortress served as the home of the prince bishops until construction of the resi- dence was complete, and in this century served as local headquarters for the American army after the Second World War. English tours of the fortress can be arranged at the Würzburg Tourist Office (www.wuerzburg.de). The Alte Mainbrücke over the river was built between 1473 and 1543 and leads to the city’s Old Town. Wander across and visit St. Kilian’s Cathedral; it is said to contain the relics of those martyred monks. The tourist office produces a handy visitor’guide map that outlines walking tours to all the local sites. (www.rothenburg.de) map and guide. There are also English-language Next stop is Rothenburg ob der Tauber, a complete medieval town- guided tours offered April through October. One of the most romantic scape that is an architectural gem, situated at the crossroads of the ways to see the city is on a Night Watchman tour. Romantic Road and the Castle Road. Local legend has the Swedish Nördlingen im Ries sits about half-way along the Romantic Road in the invading the city in 1631 during the Thirty Years War and only refraining Ries district. The city is the only town in Germany with medieval walls and from plundering the place if a local cellarer could drink a three-litre glass battlements that can be walked all the way round on a 2.6-kilometre route. of wine in one draught. The fellow obliged, then slept for three days. But its beginnings go back much farther than medieval times. The entire During the Second World War, 40 per cent of the city was destroyed, but area is the crater of a meteorite that hit Earth about 15 million years ago. was saved total destruction by the efforts of a U.S. general. Post-war fund- Visit the Ries Crater Museum and learn about the catastrophic event and raising has allowed for a complete restoration. Picturesque, winding how the landscape evolved into what you see today. cobble-stone streets and medieval architecture are the attraction to this The city itself is a beautifully preserved collection of half-timbered former Imperial Free City. Walk the city walls, visit the museums, shop, houses and stone churches, all original – Nördlingen was never bombed. while the afternoon away at a local café. The Marktplatz (Market Square) Highlights of a walking tour include colourful homes and public buildings is the starting point for a walking tour outlined in the Tourist Office and St. George’s Church, intersection of all city streets within the walls. You

www.TRAVELHotNews.com Canadian Traveller • September 2007 17 Germany can climb the 90-metre bell tower year round. Baden-Württemberg’ Castles & Palaces Knights, castle maidens, nobility, counts, princes, Kaisers and kings once lived The City Museum exhibits skulls of Stone Age and ruled in the numerous castles and palaces of Baden-Württemberg. Homo Sapiens discovered in nearby caves, eye- Meersburg, Germany’s oldest castle, is still used as a residence and stands in witness accounts of local witch-hunts and splendour overlooking Lake Constance, looking as it did in around 1500. pictures of the Battle of Nördlingen, the turning Heidelberg is known for its world-famous castle that celebrates the Castle point of the Thirty Years War. Festival with the legendary Student Prince every year. For more information, visit Nestled at the foot of the Bavarian Alps, www.cvb-heidelberg.de. Füssen is the last town on the Romantic Road. The influential Hohenzollern dynasty built three important monuments in Start your tour of the pedestrian precinct on the Baden-Württemberg: Hohenzollern castle in Hechingen, Sigmaringen castle and Reichenstrasse, a shopping area that follows Lichtenstein castle. Hohenzollern castle stands in solitary splendour on a foothill exactly the Roman road Via Claudia Augusta, of the Swabian Mountains near Hechingen where it can be seen from miles away. built almost 2,000 years ago. St. Mang The building was renovated in the Late Romanesque style in the 19th century. St. Monastery and Basilica dates back to the 9th Michael’s Chapel, a popular wedding venue, is the only original building remain- century, but was given a baroque style by local ing from the 15th century. architects Johann Jokob Herdomer. Today you Sigmaringen castle towers over the town of the same name and the River can find the Füssen Heritage Museum there, and Danube. Originally a citadel, it was later turned into a Renaissance palace. Its a full schedule of summer concerts that are held collection of weapons is one of the largest in Europe and is proof of the blood- in the Prince’s Hall. The former monastery thirsty history of these noble lords. church is the city’s largest baroque church, and Fans of castles and palaces should take a trip down the Castle Road. This sce- the crypt, thought to go back to the times of St. nic route is 1,140 kilometres long with more than 60 castles and winds its way Magnus, houses Bavaria’s oldest fresco. Visit the from Mannheim via Heidelberg, Heilbronn, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Nürnberg Franciscan Monastery and St. Stephen’s Church for a lovely view of the town, or climb the path and Bayreuth to the Golden City of Prague on the Moldau. to the High Palace, former residence of the Many European princes were so impressed by the work of the Versailles archi- Augsburg prince bishops and see unique illu- tect that there was a real battle on in the 18th century to see who could build the sionist paintings on the facades. best “copy” – Ludwigsburg Palace was the clear winner. The largest and most beau- Outside the Old Town Füssen is the tiful baroque building in Germany has a wealth of impressive architectural features. starting point for alpine outdoor adventure. In Ludwigsburg it is still possible to see many elements of landscape gardening. Cycle along a Roman road, enjoy watersports Clustered around the “Residenz” palace there you can visit a baroque rose garden, on seven local lakes, hike the Ammer rhododendron garden, Japanese garden, even a fairytale garden for children. Mountains or cycle a perfectly signposted The island of “Mainau” is a “sub-tropical paradise”. The flora that flourishes network of trails and circular paths. here at 400 meters above sea level is usually only found south of the Alps. With We also used Füssen as our base for a visit to six-metre-high banana plants in the tropical garden, ornamental flowerbeds, Schwangau, the village of the “King’s Castles”, 1,200 different types of roses and the flower animals at Mainau’s children’s park, and the world-famous castles of King Ludwig II this is a dream for plant lovers. Visit: www.mainau.de. – Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau. For more information please contact State Tourist Board Baden-Wuerttemberg, Neuschwanstein is King Ludwig II’s monu- Ulrike Gaertner, Tel. +49 711 2385810, [email protected], or visit ment to medieval culture, built and furnished in www.tourismus-bw.de, where you can also find an online version of the Sales medieval styles, but, he was a king after all, Guide 2007/2008. equipped with what was the latest technology of the time. Begun in 1869, the castle was never Hohenschwangau, finished and no outsiders were ever allowed in King Ludwig’s during the king’s lifetime. The interior is based childhood home on German chivalric legends and the operas of sits across the Richard Wagner. The Singers’Hall is decorated valley from his with scenes from the legends of Parzival and fairytale the Holy Grail. The blue and gold Throne masterpiece Room was inspired by Byzantine basilicas and Neuschwanstein. was never used. The castle was Walt Disney’s

Contact Information Frankfurt Tourist+Congress Board, www.frankfurt-tourismus.de Würzburg Tourist Office, www.wuerzburg.de Rothenburg ob der Tauber Tourist Office, www.rothenburg.de Nördlingen Tourist Information Office, www.noerdlingen.de Füssen Tourist Information, www.fuessen.de FTM/BAGLINI

18 September 2007 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net Discover Düsseldorf and beyond with Lufthansa.

Beginning May 2008, Lufthansa will fly from Toronto to Düsseldorf five times a week. Experience Lufthansa's service excellence as we reintroduce our three-class service to Toronto with First, Business and Economy Class. Benefit from easy 35-minute connections through Düsseldorf to more than 50 popular European destinations. This new service is in addition to our ever-popular daily Toronto-Frankfurt and Vancouver-Frankfurt flights. Visit www.lufthansa.com for special offers and more information.

SM Germany inspiration for Cinderella’s castle at Disneyland. New Christmas Brochure Across the valley sits Hohenschwangau, Christmas is a special time in Germany. Town squares twinkle with lights and King Ludwig’s childhood home. A possession of the Knights of Schwangau until 1535, the good cheer, while Christmas stories are told and re-enacted and choirs sing in castle ruins were purchased by Crown Prince churches and on city hall steps. The air is rich with the smell of gingerbread and Maximilian, Ludwig’s father, in 1832, who Stollen, roasting chestnuts and mulled wine, candied apples and grilled sausages. reconstructed the castle to its original plans. The story of the life of King Ludwig II is a The German National Tourist Office has published a new Christmas tragic romance in itself. He ascended the throne brochure, called “Welcome to Christmas Wonderland”, with 38 colourful and in 1864, and two years later was forced to informative pages full of special travel offers and lists of events taking place accept the defeat of Bavaria by the Prussians. Unable to cope with the role of a constitutional in and around the Christmas markets across the country. The brochure high- monarch, he created his own alternative world lights the nature and themes of various markets, opening and closing times, in which, as the King of Bavaria, he could live dates and websites. like a king of the Middle Ages, with absolute authority. While building progressed on his There are approximately 2,500 Christmas markets located in town and city ever-growing collection of castles, he fell centres, where clients can shop for handmade, one-of-kind wooden toys, deeper and deeper in debt. When the banks hand-dipped candles, brightly painted nutcrackers, multi-tiered, candle-drive finally threatened to seize his property, the Christmas carousels, tiny hand-carved angels, incense-burning figurines from government had him certified insane on June 10, 1886, and interned in Berg Palace. On June Germany’s Ore Mountains, and of course, Christmas decorations in all shapes 13 he drowned in Lake Starnberg, along with and sizes. The major cities often have five or six different markets – Berlin the psychiatrist who had certified his condition. alone has 45, while Nuremberg, Dresden, Rothenberg ob der Tauber have The government opened Neuschwanstein to the

public on August 1, of that year. ✈ some of the most well-known Christmas markets in Germany.

When are your clients coming to visit me?

Heidelberg Castle Black Forest Farmhouse Island of Mainau, Lake Constance

Whether your clients are seeking culture, entertainment, sightseeing or pure relaxation, Germany’s southwestern state of Baden-Wuerttemberg is a delightful getaway. For a copy of our 2008/2009 Sales Guide contact the State Tourist Board Baden-Wuerttemberg, phone: +49(0)7112385803, [email protected] or visit our website www.tourismus-bw.de for an online version.

STATE TOURIST BOARD BADEN-WUERTTEMBERG Esslinger Straße 8 · 70182 Stuttgart/Germany

www.tourismus-bw.de

20 September 2007 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net Art & Culture in Germany GERMANY FACES The German National Tourist Office (GNTO) puts the spotlight on various cultural attractions in its “Art and Culture in Germany” marketing theme, promoting everything from paint- Christmas ings by German Expressionist master Emil Nolde and fiction by Thomas Mann to Bauhaus architecture and special exhibitions at more than 500 galleries and over 6,000 museums through- Magic out the country. Here are some highlights of the coming year: • Hamburg opened the Ballinstadt Emigration Museum on www.ComeToGermany.com July 4, exactly 100 years after Albert Ballin completed the ‘emigrant halls’ for European travellers on the Elbe River’s historic Veddel. A special feature is the integration of the research project “Link To Your Roots”, a database that dis- plays all passenger lists between 1850 and 1934. www.ballinstadt.de. • The newest ‘KIT (Kunst im Tunnel) on the block’ is the Düsseldorf art tunnel, literally under the Kunsthalle Düsseldorf, where up and coming artists display their works. Within the first 14 days of its opening in February, more than 7,000 visitors came to see the artistic works in the KIT. www.kunsthalle-duesseldorf.de and www.kunstim-tunnel.de. • The Festival of Lights will illuminate Berlin with spectacular light installations at the city’s most famous landmarks. An array of events with focus on the fascination of light are also part of the festival, October, 16 to 28. www.smb.spkberlin.de. • Art of a different kind is on display in the new Mercedes Benz Museum in Stuttgart. The exhibition of the largest automotive museum in the world covers 100 years of motoring history, including the first car, old Silver Arrows and a limousine that belonged to a Japanese emperor. www.museum-mercedes-benz.com. • In Hannover, the Sprengel Museum is one of Germany’s major centres of 20th century art. Expressionist works, including those by Picasso, Klee and Beckmann, and extensive collections of prints by Chagall, Feininger and Toulouse-Lautrec adorn the museum’s walls. The exhibi- tion Nouveau Réalisme, in collaboration with the Centre Immerse yourself in a sea of magic candlelight. Pompidou Paris, presents famous works by this French Savor the aroma of spicy, mulled wine. Wander artists’ group, including Yves Klein, Jean Tinguely, Niki de among festively-decorated booths laden with Saint-Phalle, Arman and Raymond Hains, in a comprehen- handicrafts. Sample dozens of delicious Christmas sive overview of one of the late Avant-garde movements of delicacies. Enjoy that special, enchanted, pre-holiday the 20th century through January 27. www.sprengel- atmosphere that characterizes Germany’s more museum.de. than 2,500 Christmas markets. After all, the holidays • Dresden, in Germany’s eastern region, puts the spotlight on are just around the corner! an International Jazz Festival, November 10 to 17, 2007. • From November 2007 to April 2008, Völklingen Ironworks, a UNESCO World Heritage site in the Saarland www.ComeToGermany.com region, will display a collection of deceptively lifelike human sculptures by pop artist Duane Hanson. • Mark your calendar, in 2010 the Ruhr Valley city of Essen will be the European Capital of Culture, presenting all Germany kinds of festivals and events throughout the year. For more information visit www.ComeToGermany.com.

www.TRAVELHotNews.com Canadian Traveller • September 2007 21 Hong Kong a perfect blend Modern Excitement Meets Traditional Serenity In Hong Kong

By Judi Lees

Sampling tea prepared and served in the time-honoured manner is a tranquil experience not to be missed while visiting Hong Kong. HONG KONG TOURISM BOARD

am not usually a city fan. Give me moun- Also a surprise to some is that the city Get in the spirit and toss the numbered joss tains to climb and green space to roam, sprawls along the mainland – this is Kowloon – sticks that may hold news of your future. I please. However, when I need an urban fix, and also encompasses Hong Kong Island. By Don’t miss the museum scene, but it will be give me Hong Kong. There are few cities in the far the most intriguing way to travel between the a matter of picking and choosing from some world where you can experience the variety and two is on the Star Ferry. Anyone remember the two dozen; a few are in the New Territories but excitement that Hong Kong offers. Everywhere movie, The World of Susie Wong? The chugging, easily reached. Recommend the Hong Kong you visit, everything you do, invites superlatives. pedestrian ferries portray everyday life in Hong Tourism Board’s weekly museum pass to your In many places, sightseeing amid more than Kong as some locals carry produce and bird clients; it makes the choices easier. A favourite seven million locals is a challenge. In Hong cages, others in business suits talk frantically on stop of mine is the Flagstaff House Museum Kong, where tourism is celebrating its 50th year, cellular phones, school children giggle and of Tea Ware; housed in the city’s oldest colo- exploring is easy. Many attractions are reached tourists gawk. nial home, it exudes elegance. Aeronautical by foot, the transportation systems are excellent Hong Kong is best seen by foot. Advise your buffs should not miss the Hong Kong Space and the tourism offices provide a wealth of infor- clients to pick up the Hong Kong Walks brochure Museum and, opened in 2005, the Hong mation on the web, in publications and person- that details six themed routes. Prepare for hours Kong Maritime Museum relates seafaring ally, should you visit one of their four major of pleasure strolling the Central and Western tales of ancient and modern times with some Visitor Information & Services Centres at both District of Kowloon, which in many ways is an super hands-on experiences. airports, on Hong Kong Island and in Kowloon. accurate overview of this eclectic city. From This metropolis that caters to visitors offers An excellent introduction to this city that among the towering skyscrapers into nearby excellent tours. New in September, 2007 visi- was a British colony until July1997 and is now narrow streets packed with the unusual – from tors can take a boat to tucked-away islands. part of China, is to take the funicular railway up ginseng to exotic dried seafood – and also The day excursion, Northeast New Territories Victoria peak. From 373 metres you gasp in glimpse how the British upper crust lived as you Island Hopping Tour, includes time in a Hakka wonder at the city and harbour scene below. ogle antiques on Hollywood Road. Snack on walled village. The best views are from the unusually-shaped noodles or enjoy a traditional tea service and A favourite day trip for visitors and locals and recently renovated Peak Tower. If wax shop, shop, shop on Stanley and LiYuen streets is to take a ferry to Lantau Island, then get on sculptures turn you on, Madame Tussauds and the Western Market. a bus to Po Lin Monastery where the star Museum is in this building. Up The Peak you This route also takes in Man Mo Temple; attraction is the 34 metre-high bronze Buddha, can shop, of course, and dine at a variety of built about 100 years ago, it is a peaceful retreat the largest in Asia. Even though this is a well- restaurants. However, it is also the doorstep to on busy Fu Shin Street. Admire the intricate visited attraction – there are a variety of lush parkland and a variety of hiking trails. Yep, roofline before entering into incense-filled air temples, Buddhas, a museum, gardens and my kind of city – Hong Kong is abuzz with where locals come to seek solace from two restaurant – it exudes serenity. I recommend attractions but close to green space. This is a gods, Man and Mo. It seems an odd mix as one following the downhill path to view rural life surprise to many visitors. is the god of literature, the other the god of war. before reaching the ferry terminal.

22 September 2007 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net

Internet Traveller Hong Kong For Business or Pleasure? Online Bookings Up, Tantrum Tolerance Down

By Judy Waytiuk

recent survey by international corporate travel management and consulting firm BCD Travel is noting substantial Aincreases in business travel online booking. The company’s HONG KONG TOURISM BOARD 2007 Annual Client Benchmark Survey found almost half of business The newly renovated Peak Tower offers spectacular views travellers now book online, up from less than 25 per cent a couple of of the Hong Kong skyline, as well as a Madame Tussauds years ago. The survey, culled from 219 BCD Travel customers from Museum and a variety of shopping and dining options. major markets around the world, examines air, hotel, rail, meetings and With all the wonders that Hong Kong offers, some arrive with two other aspects of corporate travel. things on their minds, shopping and eating. And they are in the right place The study found half of business travellers go online to book meet- for both. ings, which, for many companies, account for the bulk of travel Serious shoppers hang out at glitzy malls, such as the Tsim Sha Tsui in spending. Meetings of fewer than 50 attendees grew as a percentage of Ocean Terminal. Or they head for the swanky boutiques in and around the total meetings, while meetings of 50-250 attendees decreased. high-end hotels while bargain hunters take a scenic bus ride to Stanley The majority of respondents indicated the percentage of hotel book- Market. There are wholesale designer outlets at Granville Road and no ings made through their company's online booking tool has actually one misses Nathan Road, the ‘Golden Mile’, a Mecca of neon-embla- decreased since 2006, indicating that corporate travellers, like leisure zoned shops and a good place to buy almost anything. travellers, often now book directly with suppliers. Bloom-lovers revel in the Flower Market. How many cities have a For agencies looking to secure business clientele, this hint from the Goldfish Market? And there is the Jade Market – but only purchase if you survey: the top three departments with primary responsibility for travel can spot the faux jade. The Temple Street Market is an endless maze of management are procurement, finance and corporate services. hawkers’stands burgeoning with everything from watches and ‘designer’ Meanwhile, all those business travellers are sharing flight space bags to hardware and high-tech gadgets. You can buy extra luggage that with increasing numbers of family travellers, and there’s a growing you’ll require to take home Hong Kong purchasers. movement for segregated family sections on airplanes – more than To revive yourself after a whirlwind of shopping or sightseeing, you seventy per cent of respondents in a poll by Maritz Research said they’d dine. Hong Kong is a foodie’s delight. While you can choose everything love the idea. from French to North African, most of us imbibe in the best of Cantonese, Early this summer, a three-year-old girl threw a temper tantrum, Szechuan, Hunan and other Asian menus. First time visitors will head for refused to be belted into her seat, and was removed, along with her a floating restaurant and, like everywhere, you’ll dine with delight. I parents, from an AirTran flight. When the parents went public, AirTran wouldn’t think of visiting this city without my dim sum fix – tasty morsels received more than 8,000 e-mails – almost all supporting the airline. like shrimp dumplings served in those cute little bamboo steamers. Some passengers are starting to get noisy themselves about loud, And for day’s end, typical of this world-class city, there is an extrava- uncontrolled or distressed children on flights. On one flight from ganza to behold. Symphony of Lights is a spectacular light and sound Florida to New York, passengers shouted at a woman to stop her child’s show that flashes laser beams synchronized to music. The venue? The crying. The Internet Traveller shamefacedly concedes she’s one who skyline of Hong Kong. Held nightly, it is a fitting ending to yet another privately believes kids shouldn’t be on planes if they can’t be controlled thrill-filled day in Hong Kong. ✈ – an admittedly rigid opinion resulting from six hours of intermittent, loud baby-wailing from the seat behind her on a transatlantic flight. Still, if a baby happens to be one of the passengers on a full plane • For information: www.DiscoverHongKong.com, that sits at a terminal for hours on end due to a mechanical problem, www.partnerNet.hktb.com the airline’s reluctance to cancel the flight for whatever reason, or Facts • Visitor Hotline: +852 2508 1234 even possible contagious illness on board (as happened years ago with vacationers returning from the Caribbean with gastroenteritis), • Getting there: As well as Cathay Pacific and well, can you blame a kid for crying? Even grownups could be Air Canada, check out the economical flights reduced to tears. ✈ on Oasis HongKong Airlines that depart daily

(Internet Traveller Judy Waytiuk uses passive resistance, gritting (except Wed) from Vancouver-Hong Kong and her teeth and turning up the volume on her headset when a loud kid is return. Agents can register to sell Oasis on line: on her flight. But it sure wrecks a mood…she can be reached at www.agents.oasishongkong.com. [email protected], and her child-free website is www.wordsink.ca.) Fast Hong Kong

24 September 2007 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net BirdsDelaware OF AFeather

By Hilary Genders Birders Are Flocking To Delaware

ore and more travellers are going to the birds each year. Recent studies Mhave revealed the rising popularity of birding, and that translates to a growing niche market within the travel industry, as enthusiastic bird watchers seek to combine travel with their favourite hobby. Birders would be hard-pressed to find a better destination than America’sFirst State. Delaware boasts an assortment of natural wildlife areas, state parks and birding hot spots disproportionate to its tiny size. The state borders the vast and rich Delaware Bay with marshes, rural farmlands and open space dotting the scenic landscape. Tranquil ponds, protected wildlife areas and more than 145 kilometres of coastline make Delaware a perfect stop-off on a major migratory flyway. The state’s attractiveness to migrant birds makes it a hotspot for bird watchers; approximately 170,000 birders visit Delaware annually. Bird watching enthusiasts flock to Delaware DELAWARE TOURISM OFFICE DELAWARE in particularly large numbers during the great One of the premier bird watching destinations in eastern North America, the migrations each spring and fall. The fall migra- Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge is a must-see attraction for the more tion starts early, well before what visitors than 170,000 bird watchers who flock to Delaware each year. normally think of as autumn. The first south- bound arrivals appear in the last few days of migratory birds stopping for a rest to refuel pie-billed grebe, Eastern Phoebes, egrets, June; by mid-summer, many shorebirds can be before continuing on the Atlantic flyway. northern pintails, northern harriers, osprey, spotted as they make their way back from their The refuge covers about 6,500 hectares, of green herons, Forster’s terns and yellow- Arctic nesting grounds. Warblers move through which approximately 5,000 are tidal salt marsh, rumped warblers. from August to October and raptors continue considered to be Delaware's most valuable In addition to the birds, 34 species of until November. The spring migration starts in wildlife habitat. The remaining 1,500 hectares mammal, including shrews, bats, moles, earnest in March and April, as the warblers are about evenly divided between impounded beaver, red and grey fox, river otter and white- return to their northern homes, while masses of fresh water pools, brushy and timbered tailed deer; 14 species of amphibians, 21 shorebirds arrive in May. swamps; agricultural fields; and timbered and species of reptiles and 21 species of fish are grassy upland. This diverse habitat supports an found on the refuge. National Treasures equally diverse assortment of wildlife: approx- Visitors to Bombay Hook can drive a 20- Just 10 minutes from Dover, Delaware’s capital imately 300 species of birds have been spotted kilometre (round-trip) self-guided auto tour city, is Bombay Hook National Wildlife here, of which at least 55 have been confirmed through the refuge, stopping as desired to Refuge, one of the state’s premier birding desti- to nest on site. To name just a few: American explore and walk any of the refuge’s five nations. Many species of birds can be spotted at avocets, American bitterns, black-necked stilts, nature trails. Three of the trails end at fresh- the refuge year-round; during the spring and fall, short-billed dowitchers, laughing gulls, snow water impoundments, where nine-metre-high the numbers are augmented by thousands of geese, ring-necked pheasants, snow buntings, observation towers provide spectacular views.

www.TRAVELHotNews.com Canadian Traveller • September 2007 73 Delaware

canoe/kayak trail along Prime Hook Creek and grasses, while waders such as herons, affords visitors excellent opportunities to spot egret, and yellowlegs hunt in the calm waters long-legged wading birds such as egrets, herons along the tidal flats. Cooper's hawks and and bitterns as well as several types of ducks and Peregrine falcons glide high above. And many geese. Land lubbers can follow one of several species, such as geese and northern harriers, walking and hiking paths, including a pair of come with the arrival of fall and use the lands one-kilometre, wheelchair-accessible trails. and waters of the Great Marsh as a stop on their long seasonal journeys. Delaware Bayshores • Pemberton Forest Preserve: The preserve The 8,900-square-kilometre Delaware encompasses 552 hectares of Atlantic white Bayshores—spanning from Delaware across cedar swamp forest near the confluence of the and including the bay to the southernmost Brittingham and Pemberton branches of the CHRIS WALSH counties of New Jersey—harbours some of Broadkill River. Numerous neo-tropical Delaware is a year-round birding the most important habitats on America's East migratory birds can be seen and heard in the destination; no matter the season, Coast. The lands and waters here support size- spring and fall. Some species, such as the bird watchers are sure to be delighted able concentrations of rare species and impor- Black-and-white Warbler, will travel all the by the state’s bird watching sites. tant natural communities. For many way from South America to nest in the eastern Winter visitors are treated to sights of migratory birds, the Delaware Bayshores are U.S. and southern Canada. several species, like this Blue Heron. their only major stop on an annual odyssey • Port Mahon Preserve: The 341 acres of this Delaware’s other national wildlife refuge, between Canada and South America. Among preserve protect tidal saltmarshes and mudflats Prime Hook, is found in the Sussex County the favourite locations for viewing: along the coast of the central Delaware Bay and town of Milton, 45 minutes south of Bombay • The Great Marsh: Just north of Lewes is this host a rich diversity of bird life. During the Hook. The 4,000-hectare refuge boasts one of 243-hectare preserve, home to a wide variety spring, a shorebird observation platform is the largest freshwater impoundments on the U.S. of species, including black ducks, teal, sea gulls located just off County Road 89 on Division east coast and hosts tens of thousands of migra- and many songbirds. Red wing blackbirds, of Fish and Wildlife property. In fall and winter, tory birds annually. An 11-kilometre self-guided willets and marsh hens nest among the trees many ducks and other waterfowl can be Beyond Birding Hard-core birders will have no trouble filling can enjoy restaurants, shops, museums, • Kalmar Nyckel: “The Tall Ship of Dela- up a Delaware holiday with their favourite sports and entertainment as you stroll along ware” is a recreation of the Swedish ship activity. But just in case they find a few spare the Riverfront. Learn about the history of the that brought the first European settlers to hours – or if they are travelling with compan- Christina River on a water taxi tour. present-day Wilmington in 1638. ions a bit less devoted to our fine feathered • First State Heritage Park: This urban “park • Casinos: Three gaming facilities – one in friends – there’s no cause for worry. Delaware without boundaries” links historic and cul- each region of the state – deliver high- offers a host of historic sites, cultural attrac- tural sites in Dover, home to one of the most energy stage shows, action-packed spec- tions and fun activities to suit every taste. And beautifully preserved capitol complexes in tator sports and high-quality dining. In the state’s compact size means they are all the nation. The park includes museums, the Wilmington area, clients can try their within easy reach of the best birding spots. walking tours and special activities. luck at Delaware Park. Entering Central Below are just a few of Delaware’s • Winterthur Museum: The home of collec- Delaware, the pace never slows at Dover many non-birding attractions for your tor and horticulturist Henry Francis du Downs. Midway Slots and Simulcast are clients’ checklists. For many more ideas, Pont (1880-1969), Winterthur is one of the near the beaches. visit the Delaware Tourism Office website greatest surviving country estates of its • Tax-Free Outlet Shopping: Three neigh- at www.visitdelaware.com. kind in the nation. Magnificent mansion bouring Tanger Outlet locations, open tours, holiday tours, garden tram tours, year-round in Rehoboth Beach, offer 130 • Old New Castle: Delaware’s restored colo- new exhibitions, annual events, dining brandname outlet stores – all just a Frisbee- nial capital on the Delaware River, with and tax-free shopping. toss from boardwalk vendors and remod- original cobble-stoned streets and guided • Hagley Museum & Library: This Wilmington eled retail shopping areas. Another historical tours. The entire town has been museum is dedicated to American industry favourite: The Shipyard Shops on the preserved in an authentic history site with and enterprise. Located along the banks of Wilmington Riverfront. original courthouse, mansions, gardens, the Brandywine River on the site of the gun- • Rehoboth Beach: Recognized as one of bed and breakfasts, restaurants and shop- powder works founded by E. I. du Pont in America’s premier beaches, Rehoboth is ping opportunities. 1802, the site includes restored mills, a offers a boardwalk and quaint streets lined • Riverfront Wilmington: A unique cultural workers’ community, and the ancestral with unique local restaurants, boutiques and entertainment destination where you home and gardens of the du Pont family. and novelty shops.

74 September 2007 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net The Perfect Getaway, Meeting and Reunion Location!

You’ll find Greater Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley full of the best surprises! We’ve been preparing for you since 1638.

World-renowned museums, mansions and gardens · Fabulous art and antique collections · Fantastic festivals · Professional theatre and music · Glorious countryside · Thoroughbred racing, a slots casino, championship golf courses, tennis and canoeing · Superb hotels, inns, conference facilities and restaurants · Tax-free shopping, dining and entertainment!

Winterthur Read House & Gardens

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T Wilmington, DE H O N Baltimore P E THE DEFINITION OF A GREAT WEEKEND P M VisitWilmingtonDE.com for details! IN IN G A , D RT Washington, DC INING, ENTE Delaware

on the U.S. east coast. Trained naturalists lead remote camera to get an up-close-and-personal Web Watching walks to the viewing platform, where visitors view of the birds. can see several hundred of the 2,400 nesting For some indoor bird study, a visit to the Looking for more information about pairs of herons, ibis and egrets, all of which are Delaware Museum of Natural History in Delaware birding? Here’s a quick list of colonial wading birds. Wilmington is a must. The museum boasts an useful websites to visit. enormous collection representing approxi- Delaware Tourism Office More Top Spots mately 4,000 bird species from all over the www.visitdelaware.com The Woodland Beach Wildlife Area and Little world, including some 67,000 study skins, 9,000 Delaware Audubon Society Creek Wildlife Area – just north and just south skeletons, 6,000 alcohol-preserved birds, and

www.delawareaudubon.org of Bombay Hook, respectively, are great spots to 36,000 clutches of eggs. ✈ DelMarVa Ornithological Society take in nature. Milford Neck Wildlife Area is www.dosbirds.org easily accessible and contains large tracts of salt- Delaware State Parks marsh as well as uplands of both forest and field. The White Clay Creek Watershed is home www.destateparks.org to several listed species, including the Cerulean, Delaware Valley Birding Kentucky, Prairie and Hooded warblers and the www.delawarevalleybirding.com Grasshopper Sparrow. It is also significant as an Friends of Bombay Hook important stopover for migrating birds. www.friendsofbombayhook.org Opened in May, the new DuPont Nature

Center at the Mispillion Harbor Reserve is TOURISM OFFICE DELAWARE observed from the road. There is no public quickly becoming an important birding destina- Travellers get two attractions in one at access into the marsh. tion. It overlooks Mispillion Harbor, one of the Fort Delaware on Pea Patch Island. The • Fort Delaware on Pea Patch Island might be most important shorebird stopover sites along Civil War prison offers a glimpse into best known as a fort that was used as a prison the Atlantic Coast during spring migration. the past, but is also the largest during the Civil War, but it has another claim to Shorebirds are also attracted to its beaches in the heronry of mixed species on the U.S. fame, as the largest heronry of mixed species fall. Visitors can use spotting scopes and a east coast. Nine species nest here.

76 September 2007 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net New Zealand FollowingTRENZTRENZ Sustainable Tourism The Focus Of New Zealand’s Annual Tourism Showcase

By Janice Strong

n estimated $2 billion of business was generated during TRENZ, Tourism ARendezvous New Zealand, held May 21 to 24 in Rotorua, when more than 400 New Zealand businesses met with over 350 interna- tional buyers from 28 countries to package accommodation, transportation, attractions and activities. Managed by the Tourism Industry Assoc- More than 400 New Zealand businesses and over 350 international buyers from iation of New Zealand, in partnership with 28 countries gathered in Rotorua May 21 to 24 for TRENZ, Tourism Rendezvous Tourism New Zealand and sponsored by Air New Zealand. New Zealand, Qantas and Destination Rotorua Tourism Marketing, the trade show boasted 48 the announcement that TRENZ was a carbon What’s New New Zealand new exhibitors and 67 exhibitors with new neutral event. “As far as we are aware, this is the • Lift Off: Air New Zealand’s new non-stop product that ranged from adventure-lodges, world’s first tourism trade show that has chosen service between Vancouver and Auckland is nature and eco-tours, and new experiential to become carbon neutral,” she said. geared for take-off November 2. Initially excursions to activities emphasizing health TRENZ was held in the North Island city of launched as a six-month route, the national and well-being. Rotorua, the first time it has taken place outside carrier has extended the thrice-weekly flights The overall theme of the show was set in a Aukland or Christchurch. Rotorua is where for the full year, connecting these vibrant speech by Damien O’Connor, minister of tourism in New Zealand began in the late 1800s Pacific coastal cities every Wednesday, tourism, in a speech introducing the country’s when tourists came to visit the Pink and White Friday and Sunday. Inaugural fares start at draft Tourism Strategy. “We are proud of what Terraces, (since destroyed by volcanic erup- $1,318 per person. New Zealand tourism has achieved and of our tion), other geothermal activities and health • Contemporary Storytelling – True to the reputation worldwide. But we know we can spas and to experience the hospitality of the Past: Modern marvels meet oral storytelling improve – and at the strategy’s heart is sustain- unique Maori culture. traditions following the multi-million dollar ability, and what that means to and for the tourism sector,” he said. “Addressing sustainability will be a Stats & Facts defining issue, not only for us as an industry, The market for travel to New Zealand but for the nation as a whole,” he continued. is “healthy and robust out of Canada” “New Zealand recognizes it must become a said Bruce Hodge, president, Goway world leader in this area. It is starting from a Travel, during a panel discussion with strong base. Our 100% Pure brand is well buyers from around the world. Some established in major markets and provides recent statistics on Canadian arrivals: New Zealand with an opportunity other countries can only wish for. The brand’s influ- • 6,496 visitors in January of 2007 vs 6,292 in January 2006 ence goes well beyond tourism, defining how • 7,245 visitors in February 2007 vs 6,908 in February 2006 our country and our exports are viewed • 5,520 visitors in March 2007 vs 5,336 in March 2006 across the globe.” • 1,634 visitors in June 2007 vs. 1,656 visitors in June 2006 Fiona Luhrs, chief executive, Tourism • 2,496 visitors in July 2007 vs. 2,544 visitors in July 2006 Industry Association NZ, backed that up with www.TRAVELHotNews.com Canadian Traveller • September 2007 77 New Zealand

refurbishment of Te Puia in Rotorua. Using cutting-edge holographic technology to convey and preserve the integrity of ancient lore, these compelling stories can now be brought to life with the simple touch of a fingertip. Maps, legends and graphic shows are bodied forth for a vividly imagined aural- visual experience. • New LeSpa in Aotearoa: The Sofitel Queenstown has premiered its new LeSpa, a million-dollar addition to this five-star hotel. Featuring traditional Maori treat- ments and ingredients, indulgences at LeSpa include Manuka honey (from a native tea tree), beeswax and Rotorua volcanic mud as well as warm and cold greenstone (local jade) and paua (abalone) shells treatments. C’est magnifique! • And The Winner Is: Huka Lodge tops Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards for the Top 25 Hotels in Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific (and is ranked 58th in the magazine’s “World’s Top 100 Hotels”). Located in Central North Island amid some of the best fly-fishing rivers in the country, Huka set the standard for luxury lodge hospi- tality that New Zealand is known for today. Other Kiwi hotels making the Top 25 List include Millbrook Resort & Country in Queenstown, home of one of the best golf courses in the country, including a newly opened 9-hole course; the Hilton in Auckland, with its distinctive bow-shaped suites in homage to the maritime traditions of “the city of sails”; and Small Luxury Hotels member The George in Christchurch, overlooking Hagley Park. • Eco-Friendly Retreat: Hotel So, opening this September, will pump a pinch of cyber- punk into Christchurch’s proper English roots. Designed for budget-minded, environ- mentally-responsible travellers, this concept hotel gets basics right: practical-design ensuite rooms with double insulated (sound- proofed!) walls, MP3-compatible speakers, wireless broadband (free) and flat-screen TVs. Extra points for such amenities as: gym, sauna, laundry, café, bar, kitchen, express check-in kiosks. And for forward- thinking points of difference: low energy, high-efficiency lighting, energy-efficient showers, auto turn-off for lighting and ACs when not in use, thermal (to augment sound) insulation, 100-per cent biodegradable soaps and shampoos, water-based cleaning supplies and bicycles for recycling yourself

around town. ✈

78 September 2007 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net

Africa

Visiting a local tribe is a cultural experience not to be missed. Many of Kenya’s tribes, including the Samburu of the Rift Valley Province, welcome travellers.

Captivating Mix Diverse Wildlife, Cultures & Landscapes Kenya For Magical Memories By Hilary Genders

enya. The name alone conjures up to one of the world’s great wildlife reserves. The found in the wide Musiara Swamp. And the several iconic images. A pride of lions area has deservedly been a long-time favourite Mara and Talek rivers are filled with hippos Kon the plains. Maasai warriors in tradi- with travellers seeking the best of what Kenya and crocodiles. tional garb. A blazing orange sun setting behind has to offer. But most exciting of all: the Great a lone acacia tree. There are countless more. The Maasai are a strongly independent Wildebeest Migration from the Serengeti. Few countries in Africa – or indeed, anywhere people who value tradition and ritual as an From July to October, the promise of rain and on the globe – can boast the amazing diversity integral part of their everyday lives. fresh life giving grass in the north brings of Magical Kenya. From vast expanses of Traditionally, the Maasai rarely hunt. Living more than 1.3 million wildebeest together wilderness to bustling towns and cities, Indian alongside wildlife in harmony is an important into a single massive herd moving together Ocean beaches to tiny villages in the Rift Valley, part of their beliefs; lions and wildebeest play across the border of Tanzania and into the the country boasts a wonderfully rich tapestry of as important a role in their cultural beliefs as Mara River. unique places, peoples and experiences. their own herds of cattle. With the wildebeest – or rather, just behind Wherever they go in Kenya, travellers can enjoy At the heart of the Maasai lands is the them – come the predators. The Mara has been a little of everything: each region offers its own Maasai Mara Game Reserve, widely called the “Kingdom of Lions” for these unique mix of landscapes, cultures and wildlife considered Africa’s greatest wildlife reserve. hunters who dominate the grasslands. Cheetah to explore. And a well-developed tourism infra- The Mara comprises 518 square kilometres are also commonly spotted here along with structure means your clients can do it all in style of open plains, woodlands and forest. hyena and jackals. and comfort. Read on for a small sample of Adjacent to the plains of the Serengeti in The Mara is a cultural as well as natural what this captivating country has to offer. Tanzania, the Mara is home to a breathtaking wonder, and travellers are encouraged to variety of landscapes and wildlife. Herds of learn more about the Maasai people. Many Maasai Heartland zebra, giraffe, gazelle and topi dot the expan- Maasai villages (called manyattas) welcome Southwestern Kenya is the heartland of the sive plains. Acacia forests are home to birds visits from travellers. It is worth arranging Maasai, Kenya’s best-known culture, and home and monkeys. Elephants and Buffalo are this through a reputable guide. Another great

80 September 2007 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net option is to take a foot safari or Lake Nakuru provides the visitor with tion has sheltered its people from outside organized trek with an experienced one of Kenya’s best-known images: a influence. The dominant tribe, the Turkana, Maasai guide. massive sea of pink as thousands of flamingo has ancestral ties to Uganda and Sudan and The Mara is arguably the best join into a massive flock along the shoreline lives a semi-nomadic existence around the serviced of all Kenyan parks and of this soda lake. lake. Kenya’s smallest tribe, the El Molo, live reserves. Several operators offer a Nakuru is renowned for these birds, who a hunter-gatherer existence on the shores, in wide assortment of luxury safaris. feed on the algae that forms on the lake bed; but villages of distinctive rounded reed huts as do The reserve is ideal for game drives, the lake offers more than flamingoes. This is a small populations of the Samburu tribe. and some lodges and luxury camps major National Park and an important sanctuary Greater numbers of the Samburu, who are offer specialized walking, horseback for black and white rhino, which are often related to the Maasai, are found slightly further riding and balloon safaris. spotted at the lakeshore. Other game includes south of the lake. large herds of waterbuck, zebra, buffalo and the Exploring on foot is a good way to meet Rift Valley Lakes endangered Rothschild giraffe, as well as large local people. Visiting a village requires a Kenya straddles the centre of the prides of lions. The park also offers visitors one good measure of respect for local traditions, Great Rift Valley, the vast prehistoric of the best chances of spotting leopard and a knowledgeable guide is recommended. fissure that stretches from Jordan to in Kenya. Mozambique. From the north to the Nakuru is also a rich source of prehistoric Island Idyll south of the country, the valley is fossils that prove humans have lived here for Just off Kenya’s far north coast, a bit off the lined with a series of freshwater and at least the past 200,000 years. The well- beaten track, is the tropical island of Lamu. It soda-based volcanic lakes that are maintained archaeological site at Hyrax Hill is a place of great natural beauty, with long another popular destination of inter- outside Nakuru is open to the public and well deserted beaches framed by rolling sand national travellers seeking a combi- worth a visit. dunes and the deep blue waters of the Indian nation of cultural and wildlife safaris. Lake Turkana, at Kenya’s far northern fron- Ocean and tiny villages nestled amongst Lake Naivasha is a beautiful tier, is one of the natural wonders of the world. It coconut and mango plantations. The locals ÉRICO HILLER freshwater lake, fringed by thick is a massive inland sea, the largest desert lake in are very welcoming, and the pace is decidedly papyrus. Its waters draw a great range the world. At more than 250 kilometres, it is relaxed, due in no small part to the absence of of game. Giraffes wander among the acacia, longer than the entire Kenyan coast. It is widely cars. Donkey and the traditional sailing dhow Buffalo wallow in the swamps and Colobus known as the Jade Sea, because of its remark- remain the main forms of transportation. monkeys call from the treetops while the able, almost incandescent, colour. Walking through the narrow streets, Lakes large hippo population sleep the day out A trip onto the lake is even more impres- markets and squares of Old Lamu Town is in the shallows. sive. The water is dotted with pelicans, and like stepping back in time. Recently declared Beside the lake is Hell’s Gate National the papyrus alive with kingfisher, heron, a World Heritage Site, the town began life as Park, named for its pair of enormous, red- jacanas and more, while high in the trees over a 14th-century Swahili settlement and tinged cliffs that frame a geothermically the lake is Africa’s largest concentration of became one of the great centres of Swahili active interior of steam vents and bubbling African fish eagles. culture. The town is home to many fine springs. The park is home to a profusion of Often referred to as a “living museum of examples of Swahili architecture. It also plains game and birdlife. Walking is human culture”, Lake Turkana’s remote loca- became an important landmark on the

permitted, making it ideal for hiking, biking, ÉRICO HILLER and rock climbing. Boat trips are widely available, and are a great way to spend an afternoon or morning. This is an important birding area – sightings of more than 400 bird species have been recorded here – and is a popular destination with specialist birding tours. Water birds – including the continent’s highest concentra- tion of African fish eagles, goliath heron, jacanas, pied and malachite kingfishers, red- knobbed coot, spoonbills, little grebe, rare Maccoa duck, African darters and saddle- billed stork – dominate, but the lakeshores and surrounding forests are also birding terri- tory, and the cliffs of Hell’s Gate are an impor- tant nesting area for several raptor species. Transportation on and around the Naivasha is the centre of Kenya’s island of Lamu is by donkey and the booming agricultural industry, and several traditional dhow. Dhow cruises flower and vegetable farms are open for agri- around the archipelago are a popular cultural tours, a relatively new trend in the choice for many visitors. region’s tourism industry.

www.TRAVELHotNews.com Canadian Traveller • September 2007 81 Africa

Northern sea trade route; over the centuries Portuguese and Chinese explorers, Turkish traders and the Omani Arabs visited and contributed to the island’s unique culture. As relaxed as it is on Lamu, there is also plenty to keep visitors busy if they so choose. Cultural safari options include a visit to nearby Manda Island, home to the ruins of Takwa, a civilization razed in the 17th century. Takwa was a holy city, where all doors faced Mecca. Even today some residents of the town of Shela, who believe them- selves to be descendants of Takwa, visit the ruins to pray. Takwa can be reached by dhow from either Lamu or Shela. Special dhow safaris through the Lamu archipelago offer tradition, culture and history and a genuine adventure visiting some of Kenya’s least-known areas. The Tusitiri Dhow provides a luxurious sailing experience; her spacious decks and gracious furnishings allow for up to 12 guests, with excellent local cuisine onboard. Guests spend a night under the stars on comfortable bedding. Longer dhow trips are also available through the excellent museum in Lamu town. These specialist safaris travel the waters of the antique spice trade, and combines visits to the centuries-old ruins and forts of the archipelago with time spent experiencing day-to-day island life and meeting the welcoming locals in small villages. Lamu also offers opportunities for wildlife viewing. The Kiunga Marine Reserve near Lamu is an important sanctuary for shorebirds and pelagics, including the Sooty Gull, white cheeked tern, bridled tern, brown

When to Go: The peak tourist season is January and February, when the weather is hot and dry; it is also the best time for bird- watchers visiting the Rift Valley lakes. June to September – the cool season – is also dry; this is the time when the great annu- al migration of wildlife between Serengeti National Park in Facts Tanzania and Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Park takes place. The rainy seasons are March to May (long rains) and October to December (short rains) – bargains can be found during these low periods. Getting there: Kenya Airways operates flights from several European centres, including London and Amsterdam, for con- venient connections with Canadian centres.

Kenya Fast Kenya Entry requirements: Canadian citizens require a valid passport as well as a tourist visa to enter Kenya. A single-entry visa, obtained from the Kenya High Commission in Ottawa, costs $72; for full details, visit www.kenyahighcommission.ca. Language: Swahili is the national language; however, English is widely spoken in hotels, restaurants and visitor establishments. Currency: The Kenyan Shilling (KES). At press time, $1 = 63 KES. Travellers cheques are widely accepted and many hotels, travel agencies, safari companies and restaurants accept credit cards. Tipping: Major hotels and restaurants generally include a service charge. Porters at airports, hotels or lodges may be tipped a $1.00 per piece of baggage. A gratuity of 10 per cent is custom- ary at restaurants and bars where a service charge is not includ- ed. On safaris, tips are considered almost part of the pay; a tip of $5.00 per person per day is appropriate. Water: Tap water is best avoided. Hotels and lodges usually fur- nish safe water in a thermos flask in guest rooms. Bottled miner- al water is widely available. Electricity: 220/240 volts AC, 50HZ. Plugs are three- point square.

82 September 2007 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net Magical. Different. Wild. Photo © Andy Richter

Become a Kenya Authorized Travel Specialist (KATS) agent in September, October or November 2007 to be eligible for monthly prize drawings. Register at: www.KenyaAgent.com. Restrictions may apply to the Fall 2007 KATS Sweepstakes. For full details and restrictions, go to www.kenyaagent.com/canadacontest. Africa KENYA TOURIST BOARD noddy and many crab plovers and roseate terns. On the arid mainland opposite Lamu, there is a surprising abundance of wildlife in the Dodori Reserve, including buffalo, lion and leopard. The mangrove channels here are also good for birding and spotting the occasional crocodile. The people of Lamu are great believers in tradition and custom, and this is a strong society built on a respect for the past. Yet they are also relaxed and very welcoming to visi- tors, who can visit local families and spend time in a traditional Swahili home. One of the best times to visit Lamu is June, during Maulidi, an annual week-long Islamic festival celebrating the birth of the prophet with music, dance, traditional sword fights and Swahili feasts. Digging Deeper We’ve barely scratched the surface of Kenya’s incredibly diverse cultural and natural attrac- tions. To learn more, visit the official destina- tion website of the Kenya Tourist Board, The Maasai Mara Game Reserve plays host to one of the most awe-inspiring www.magicalkenya.com, as well as its offi- events of the animal world: the Great Wildebeest Migration from the cial agent specialist site, www.Kenya

Serengeti in neighbouring Tanzania. Agent.com. ✈

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Call us now for brochures and further information C WILD AFRICA SAFARIS INC. 604-519-1610 TOLL-FREE 1-800-991-6111 E-MAIL: [email protected] www.wildafricasafari.com A 84 September 2007 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net How To Sell – Kenya Playing With The Big KATS Get Keen On Selling Kenya

By Steve Crowhurst ÉRICO HILLER

OW! What a journey Kenya has aroma emanating from a cup of Kenyan Playing With The Big KATS been on – getting here from coffee. Ahhhh. So, are YOU keen to sell Kenya? You are, excel- Wthere. “There” in Kenyan terms Getting the Message Out: Time to use lent! Then your next click is to sign up for the is around 4.1 million years ago. If the foot- your agency window, website and newsletter as KATS program and become a Kenya prints are correct, most of our ancestors your Kenyan Combo sales tool. The idea here is Authorized Travel Specialist. Click to passed by this way when we went ‘walka- to get your mind into “attraction” mode and www.kenyaagent.com specialist.cfm and register. bout’following an instinctive migration that think up how you can create a link between your If you study hard and pass out at 80 per cent or led us to where each of us now reside. Back existing clients, walk-by & drive-by traffic. higher, you will receive a “KATS Kit” containing then, the very first upright walking humans, Repeat the image featured in your window on the official KATS certificate, a Kenya flyer, fact Austrolopithicus anamensis inhabited the your website and in your newsletter. sheet and detailed brochures; a full-colour Kenya west of present-day Lake Turkana – can you Kenyan Slogans: As you know, before tourist map; PLUS an interactive Magical Kenya imagine the scenery back then? What a FAM anyone can read your fine print they have to be CD ROM. Hey, the KATS meow, eh? All four trip that would have been! “pulled” into your ad, promotion or window by lessons have been provided in an easy, download- My own ancestors according to the National an image or an attention-getting slogan. Now, if able PDF format. Six CITC credits are waiting Geographic Genographic Project are placed as you click here to this webpage you’ll see a for you when you achieve the first level of KATS. strolling through Kenya and area some 60,000 number of t-shirts with slogans:/www.cafe Keep purring…there’s more to come. If you years ago. Click to www.nationalgeographic press.com/buy/kenya/safari/-/sort_byDesign want to play with the Big KATS, take a prowl .com/genographic and study up, as this is great Score/go_0 - they range from “I Kenya” around the Master KATS program at hook to get your clients keen on Kenya. to “I love Dik-Diks” (That should attract www.kenyaagent.com/masterkats.cfm. The some attention!). Master KATS tag brings you more goodies in Can You Sell Kenya? Going Kenyan: Start by putting on your the way of officially sanctioned Kenya Tourist The answer is “YES!” But what can you sell? Kenyan t-shirt, serve up Kenyan coffee and Board study trips, plus your name will be listed My, it’s so full of things to do and see that you’ll create a Safari night. Or, if you’re into sports as a recommended Kenya Specialist. need to focus or go as wide as possible in your tourism, how about a Golfing Safari? Make a promotional activities. With limited space here golf-shirt featuring a go to Kenya slogan. KATS and Mouse I’ll push you to the website: www.magi- Whatever your “Go To Kenya” theme is, dress We’ve given you a number of ideas to think calkenya.com to read and gather the details you it up. Make it rich and attractive in colour, on. Next stop is the watering hole and the need. The main thing to consider: how the images and sound. fountain of knowledge. Be in touch with the average Canadian traveller thinks about Kenya Books and Movies: When a book or movie Kenyan Tourist Board and drink it all in. Ask and what emotions they apply to those thoughts. with a destination backdrop hits the scene and is questions. Find out how they can support your successful, tourism usually increases by 25 per sales and marketing efforts. Also search for Link the Think cent. So, whenever you see/read/hear about a tour operators that sell into Kenya and compa- Kenya is in your customer’s minds-eye when new book or movie featuring Kenya, build a tour nies that can help you build FITs for your golf they see those wonderful big game images, around it. Two movies to get you started: To Walk groups, business meetings, women-only trips, watch travel documentaries about safaris and With Lions and Out of Africa. gourmet eats and more. Get your KATS, grab read novels with an African backdrop. It’s your Posters: Click to www.allposters.com, a your mouse and click to new revenues. job to “link the think” and create some excite- Canadian website and keyword search Now you have to be keen on selling ment amongst your customer database and Kenya and for $14 and up you can purchase Kenya! It’s got everything. It’s even got within your local community. And you can beautiful posters of Kenya to display in your where your ancestors came from! Hey, YOU

make this happen over an attention-getting agency window. are KENYAN! Sell like you mean it. ✈ www.TRAVELHotNews.com Canadian Traveller • September 2007 85 Caribbean TheThe CaribbeanCaribbeanComesComes ToTo Toronto Hosts First-Ever Caribbean Week SeptemberCanadaCanada 26-30 By Hilary Genders he sights, sounds, colours, flavours, Barbuda Tourism Office. “We see nation-wide): Not in or around Toronto? cultures and destinations more than Caribbean Week as a short period when the Not to worry. Agencies across Canada T30 Caribbean nations will be centre spotlight will be on the Caribbean region, can be involved in Caribbean Week as stage in Toronto this month, as Caribbean and Antigua and Barbuda wants to show its well. All Canadian agencies can are invit- Week 2007 takes place September 26-30. own vibrant colour and flair; to highlight the ed to participate in the Caribbean Organized by the Canadian branch of the romance element of the island and why it Window Display Contest and to take Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), has on numerous occasions been voted the advantage of the Caribbean Week travel and presented by the Destiny Group of Caribbean’s leading wedding destination.” specials for their clients. The winning Companies, the CTO and the Caribbean agency will be eligible to win a trip for Hotel Association (CHA) Caribbean Week “Antigua“Antigua andand BarbudaBarbuda two with Transat Holidays & TRYP 2007 will showcase the best of the seessees itsits involvementinvolvement inin Hotels in Cuba. Check out the details and Caribbean, including food, entertainment register at www.OpenJaw.com. and vacation experiences. Tourism officials, Toronto'sToronto's firstfirst CaribbeanCaribbean • Ryerson University International World media, artists, performers, celebrities, spon- Tourism Day (Thursday, September 27, sors and strategic partners will converge on WeekWeek asas aa greatgreat 6-9:30 p.m. at One King West): Press con- Toronto for a week of Caribbean events for ference focusing on the status of tourism travel trade, travel media and the general opportunityopportunity toto letlet and sustainable tourism development. This public. This marks the first time the CTO CanadiansCanadians learnlearn aa lotlot year’s theme: women in travel and cuisine. has held such an event in Canada. The Caribbean Week Celebrity Chefs will “The goal of the first ever Caribbean moremore aboutabout thethe manymany play an integral role in the planning of the Week in Canada is to give all who partici- event menus. pate in the week a taste of the region so they interestinginteresting facetsfacets aboutabout • Special travel trade preview of the are inspired to visit and plan their next vaca- our destination.” Toronto Travel Show (Friday, September tion to any of the 30+ Caribbean destina- our destination.” 28, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Toronto tions,” said Susan Webb, CTO representa- –– MadelineMadeline Blackman,Blackman, International Centre): The CTO Caribbean tive for Canada, in a press release announc- director,director, Canada,Canada, AntiguaAntigua andand Village will be one of the main features at ing the event. “With almost one million the show (formerly the Travel & Leisure Canadians of Caribbean descent, the culture BarbudaBarbuda TourismTourism OfficeOffice Show) this year, and will occupy the most of the region is imbedded into the multicul- Sunny Montgomery, director, Canada, prominent location on the show floor. This tural framework of Canada, therefore it’s Puerto Rico Tourism Company, is another presence will be enhanced by a variety of natural we want to dedicate one week to enthusiastic participant. “Caribbean Week Caribbean activities held on the show’s showcase this vibrant heritage.” Toronto, in support of the Caribbean main stage. Highlights include an event In addition to the CTO, CHA and the Tourism Organization’s initiative to heighten kitchen where the Caribbean Week Destiny Group of companies, Caribbean awareness of the region within Canada, will Celebrity Chefs will demonstrate the Week’s primary sponsors include the tourism offer local travel agents, tour operators and colourful, flavourful and aromatic dishes offices of The Bahamas, Cuba, St. Lucia, St. media the opportunity to discover and expe- of the Caribbean. Vincent and the Grenadines, Turks and rience the entire Caribbean region,” she said. The morning begins with three CITC- Caicos Islands and Antigua and Barbuda. “Puerto Rico’s participation in this event accredited training courses followed by “Antigua and Barbuda sees its involve- will definitely be a kick-off for its most the accreditation and private preview of ment in Toronto’s first Caribbean Week as a important selling season.” the show. great opportunity to let Canadians learn a lot Caribbean Week will feature several For detailed information about more about the many interesting facets events of special interest to the travel trade: Caribbean Week 2007, visit www.carib about our destination,” says Madeline • Caribbean Week Travel Agent Window beanweek.ca, e-mail cto@vox tm.ca or call

Blackman, director, Canada, Antigua and Display Contest (September 17-30; (416) 935-0767. ✈

86 September 2007 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net

TheThe FortFort SewardSeward WagonWagon TrainTrain isis anan authenticauthentic week-longweek-long wagonwagon North Dakota traintrain trektrek acrossacross thethe NorthNorth DakotaDakota prairiesprairies offersoffers visitorsvisitors aa once-in-a-lifetimeonce-in-a-lifetime experience.experience. TheThe annualannual adventureadventure departsdeparts Jamestown’sJamestown’s FortFort SewardSeward eacheach June.June.

Land of

North Dakota Delivers A Holiday To Remember Legends By Hilary Genders

t’s easy to see why North Dakota tourism Historic Site, Fort Mandan Historic Site Largest Buffalo” and the renowned National officials chose “North Dakota: Legendary” and Fort Clark State Historic Site. Buffalo Museum, which celebrates the cultural Ias their marketing slogan. It’s no idle boast. Located 11 kilometres south of Mandan, and natural history of bison and the Great Blessed with spectacular natural scenery, the Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park was once Plains, from prehistoric times to the present. legacy of a storied past, a host of opportuni- an important infantry and cavalry post. From Visitors can also view a live bison herd of ties for active adventures and family fun, and here Lt. Col. George Armstrong Custer and the approximately 30 animals that is maintained by some of the friendliest people you could ever Seventh Cavalry rode out on their ill-fated expe- the North Dakota Buffalo Foundation. Included PHOTOS: JASON LINDSEY/NORTH DAKOTA TOURISM DAKOTA PHOTOS: JASON LINDSEY/NORTH hope to meet, North Dakota has everything dition against Sitting Bull and the Sioux at the in the live buffalo herd is White Cloud, an you need to create a legendary holiday. Little Big Horn. Portions of the military post, extremely rare female albino bison. including the Custer House, have been recon- Also in Jamestown is Fort Seward, once the Historic Treasures structed. Also here is On-A-Slant Indian site of a U.S. Infantry Post. An annual family- Travellers can step back in time and experi- Village, reconstructions of earthlodges like the friendly Fort Seward Wagon Train departs ence North Dakota as Lewis & Clark, ones of the Mandan Indians who occupied the from Fort Seward each year, usually in early June. Sakakawea, Sitting Bull George Custer, Teddy site from the late sixteenth century to 1781 Set in the colourful North Dakota Badlands, Roosevelt and other American legends knew it Fargo’s Bonanzaville is an historic village Theodore Roosevelt National Park memori- by visiting the state’s many historic sites. Here 40 buildings depicting life in the Red River alizes the 26th president for his enduring contri- are just a few to get you started. Valley in the late 1800s and early 1900s, each butions to conservation. Roosevelt’s cabin is The North Dakota Lewis & Clark filled with period furnishings and artifacts. located at the entrance to the park’s South Unit, Interpretive Center in Washburn provides an The site also includes a main museum in Medora. overview of the Lewis & Clark Expedition, housing Native American artifacts and other The brand-new North Dakota Cowboy emphasizing the time spent at Fort Mandan exhibits an vintage automobile, tractor and Hall of Fame in Medora chronicles the history during the winter of 1804- 1805. Native airplane museums. of Native Americans, ranching, rodeo and the American artifacts, including a “cradle board” Also in Fargo, the Heritage Hjemkomst western lifestyle on the North Dakota plains. that guide Sakakawea (also known as Interpretive Center celebrates North Dakota’s Sacajawea) may have used to carry her baby Norwegian settlers. Exhibits include a replica Cultural Connections on the expedition, among the displays. The Viking Ship that sailed to Norway in 1982 and North Dakota boasts a wide assortment of centre is just one site found along the the center offers tours, lectures and festivals. galleries, museums and performances that Sakakawea Scenic Byway, a 37-kilometre Jamestown’s Frontier Village is an attract locals and visitors alike throughout the route between Washburn and Stanton over- authentic pioneer town that is free to explore. A year. Here are just a few of the highlights: looking the Missouri River; others include the small fee is charged for stagecoach and pony The North Dakota Museum of Art, Knife River Indian Villages National rides. Adjacent to the village is the “World’s located in Grand Forks on the campus of the

88 September 2007 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net 1-800-HELLO-ND (435-5663) www.ndtourism.com North Dakota

University of North Dakota, offers a collec- Rough-legged Hawks, Northern Goshawks, tion of contemporary, international art dating Stretch Your Dollar Bohemian Waxwings, White-winged Cross- from its founding in the early 1970s. bills, Snow Buntings and others. It is also one of According to AAA's annual vacation Located in a renovated turn-of-the-last- the best times to find some of our rarer resident century warehouse, Fargo’s Plains Art cost survey, North Dakota leads the birds including Gray Partridges, Greater Prairie Museum boasts a collection of approximately U.S. as the least expensive place for a Chickens, and Pileated Woodpeckers. 3,000 works including national and regional family of four to vacation, based on An event birdwatchers won’t want to miss contemporary art, traditional American Indian lodging and food prices. The state has is the Potholes and Prairies Birding Festival art, and traditional folk art. an average daily cost of US $187 for held each June (2008: June 4-8) in a different A firm family favourite, the Medora food and lodging – almost $100 less central North Dakota locations each year. At Musical is a Broadway-style musical show than the national average of US $270. this year’s event, 124 species were spotted. performed in the spectacular Burning Hills Outdoor Adventures Amphitheater, carved into a Badlands canyon Set along the Missouri River in Bismarck Active travellers will have no problem keeping on the edge of Medora. The two-hour profes- is Sertoma Park, where you’ll find the busy in North Dakota. The state boasts plen- sional show features a mix of music, dancing, Dakota Zoo and the Super Slide Amusement tiful opportunities for all kinds of recreation. variety acts and even horses. Park. North Dakota’s largest zoo is home to State parks offer campgrounds and hundreds For a comprehensive list of historic sites, more than 600 animals and has been voted the of kilometres of trails for both day trips and visit the State Historical Society of North capital city’s top attraction. A new building multi-day adventures. Hikers, mountain bikers Dakota’s website at www.nd.gov/hist. housing Siberian tigers and snow leopards is and horseback riders are welcome on the scheduled to open in summer 2008. The Super Family Fun magnificent Maah Daah Hey Trail, a 154- Slide Amusement Park features batting cages, North Dakota is a truly family-friendly destina- kilometre non-motorized trail that begins about mini-golf, a rock climbing wall, a Ferris wheel tion. Of course, kids of all ages will enjoy the eight kilometers south of Medora at Sully and lots more family-fun rides. state’s many historical sites and recreation Creek State Park and winds north through the Medora is home to a unique dining experi- opportunities. But several attractions are partic- South and North units of Theodore Roosevelt ence sure to please every member of the ularly suited to children and their families. National Park and the Little Missouri National family: the world-famous Pitchfork Fondue. Fargo’s Children's Museum at Yunker Grassland. Another top pick: the North Held nightly from early June to early Farm features more than 50 fun and educa- Country National Scenic Trail, which is open September, this unique western meal is held tional hands-on exhibits, as well as a minia- to hikers and horseback riders, as well as snow- on top of one of the highest bluffs in the North ture train, carousel, playground, pumpkin shoers and snowmobilers come winter. Dakota Badlands. Ribeye steaks are fondued patch, nature trails, miniature golf course, There’s plenty of action to be had out on “western style” on pitchforks and served to the wildflower meadow, children's alphabet the water, too. North Dakota’s diverse lakes strains of western melodies performed by garden, Butterfly garden, community gardens, and rivers are enjoyed by boaters, canoers and members of the Medora Musical. a dog park and plenty of wide-open space. The kayakers alike. museum has been named one of the country’s Birding top 25 children’s museums. North Dakota is quickly becoming a favourite Summertime visitors can enjoy the Dakota year-round destination of birders from around Dinosaur Museum in Dickinson. Open May the world. The state is the premier birding 1-Labour Day, the museum houses 11 full- location in the northern Great Plains; birders scale dinosaurs displayed in a Triassic- have been known to spot more than 400 Cretaceous time continuum, as well as three species here in a single year. full-scale dinosaurs outside. The exhibit There are more national wildlife refuges here includes a real Triceratops skeleton and one of than in any other state – a whopping 62 – as well the best Triceratops skulls ever found. as dozens of state wildlife management areas, Thunder Road Family Fun Park offers gokart racing, a Viking-themed adventure several state forests and two national grasslands. miniature golf course, “Water Wars” water Favourite birding spots include the Missouri balloon fights, a climbing wall, batting cages Coteau, the Turtle Mountains, the Missouri and even “human foosball” at four locations: River Valley, the Badlands, the Pembina Gorge, Sioux Falls, Aberdeen, Watertown and Fargo. and the Sheyenne Grasslands. Kids of all ages will love Raging Rivers The action-packed spring migration brings Waterpark and SpeedWorld Golf & Games astounding numbers of birds to the state, in Mandan. With five major attractions – a summer nesting season resounds with bird water park, sprint car & grand prix go-cart songs, and the chill of fall sends millions of The Knife River Indian Villages tracks, miniature golf, laser tag and video waterfowl south through North Dakota along National Historic Site in Stanton offers arcade – this popular park will keep the kids with an abundance of cranes, shorebirds, hawks, visitors a glimpse into the lives of busy all day. and songbirds. Winter brings Snowy Owls, American Plains Indians heritage.

90 September 2007 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net Great Golf Fishing & Hunting It might not be the first place you think of North Dakota is an angler’s para- when you think golf, but North Dakota is dise. The countless lakes and home to almost 100 courses – more per rivers that cover the state offer capita than any other state in the U.S. – and some of the best – and most an ideal destination for your clients who love varied – fishing in the country. the links, whatever their skill level. Don’t Devils Lake, North Dakota’s just take our word for it: several of the state’s largest natural body of water, is courses have attracted the attention of major particularly popular with locals golf magazines. Among the favourites: the and visiting anglers alike, and is Bully Pulpit Golf Course. Set against the home to several fishing guide North Dakota Badlands outside Medora, this companies and lodges. Ranked course was named “America's Best New one of the top five lakes in Affordable Public Course” by Golf Digest the world by Field & Stream, last year. Devils Lake produces excellent Other prominent courses include The catches of walleye, yellow Links of North Dakota near Ray and perch, northern pike and white The Medora Musical is a family-friendly musical Williston, Fargo’s Edgewood Golf Course, bass. Sport is available here year- extravaganza staged in an amphitheatre carved the Arnold Palmer signature course round; ice fishing is a popular into a Badlands canyon. King’s Walk in Grand Forks and Bismarck’s winter activity for true die-hards. Hawktree Golf Club. Hunters, too, are blessed necked pheasants, sharp-tailed grouse and A great way to combine golfing with with excellent opportunities in North Hungarian partridge. history is to follow the Lewis & Clark Golf Dakota; in fact, come fall hunters are faced Big-game hunts are also available. Record Trail, 200+ holes along the trail travelled by with several options. The state is known as numbers of deer licenses have been issued for the intrepid explorers, Sakakawea and others the “duck factory”, and boasts some of the five straight years. 200 years ago. best duck hunting in the country, both for For more information about North For more information about North Dakota birds raised within its borders and for those Dakota, visit the North Dakota Department golfing, visit www.ndgolf.org and www.lewis migrating south from Canadian nesting of Commerce Tourism Division at www.nd

andclarkgolftrail.com. grounds. Other game birds include ring- tourism.com or call 1-800-435-5663. ✈

www.TRAVELHotNews.com Canadian Traveller • September 2007 91 Mexico

Puerto Vallarta appeals to everyone — from beach bums to golf fanatics to gourmands By Anita Draycott efore John Huston’s 1964 film, Night with a hot tub, a kitchenette, Persian carpets, Puerto Vallarta’s Hotel San Angel of the Iguana, Puerto Vallarta (PV) was crystal chandeliers, a king-sized bed and fire- combines luxurious accommodations Ba sleepy fishing village. Then Liz place are part of the comforts of home here. with a friendly, home-away-from- Taylor arrived on the scene to keep an eye on her In each room interested guests will find a list home atmosphere. lover Richard Burton while he was filming with and description of notable furniture, tapestries get an ice cream cone and take a break on one of the voluptuous Ava Gardner. The publicity buzz and art, as well as information on pieces in the the welcoming wrought iron benches. put Vallarta on the tourist map. Now it’s one of public areas – from an old wagon from San Crossing the bridge over the Rio Cuale Mexico’s most popular sun destinations. Even Miguel de Allende that forms the centrepiece of brings you to vintage Vallarta, the old part of though airports, hotels and golf courses have the rustic kitchen to a pair of stone angels from town filled with outdoor cafes, bars, taco supplanted palm groves and jungle, PV still Zacatecas in the living room. joints, boutiques and galleries where they retains its colonial charms. Condé Nast Traveler The simpatico staff will cater to your every don’t charge gringo prices and where you can magazine recognized PV among its “ten best whim, from bringing mango margaritas to one mingle with Mexicans. By late afternoon, we and most secure foreign destinations” and also of the three pools to organizing in-room spa usually gravitate to the endless stretch of named PV as the “world’s friendliest city.” treatments or day-trips. beaches that line the Bay of Banderas. By My husband and I spend a couple of weeks Lunch and dinner menus, featuring gourmet now it’s happy hour at The Oasis on Playa del every winter in PV. We have come to think of Mexican cuisine by the resident chef, may be Sol. Emilio, the ever-smiling waiter, sets us it as our sunny “home away from home.” It enjoyed at the communal dining table or on your up in beach chairs with a bucket of Corona, helps get us through the February blahs. Our private terrace or balcony. Lime-spiked seafood some lime wedges, hot-off-the grill tortillas, favourite hotel is the Hacienda San Angel in ceviche, Oaxacan chicken mole and warm salsa and guacamole. We dig our toes into the the heart of town. chocolate cake are among my favourites. warm sand while being serenaded by a One step through the hand-carved doors and At cocktail hour Chatterton hires a local mariachi band. guests, greeted by century-old stone archangels mariachi band to serenade guests in the living from a cathedral in Michoacan, are transported room where complimentary drinks and canapés Foodie Heaven to the genteel hospitality of owner Janice are served around a large antique coffee table. We always book at least one dinner at Daiquiri Chatterton. A couple of years ago, the senora of Most evenings Chatterton is on hand to chat with Dick’s, a PV institution for more than 20 years. the Hacienda bought and renovated three tradi- guests about her favourite boutiques, galleries Rhythmic waves, a balmy breeze, a sky studded tional Vallarta villas, linking them with winding or restaurants. with stars, luscious lobster tacos and tangy key walkways, tropical gardens and hand-carved Some guests are so smitten with the lime pie…ah, the seduction begins. splashing fountains. home-sweet-home hospitality and comforts The food scene in Vallarta is fabulous. If Starting in the reception lounge, once of Hacienda San Angel that they rarely leave you crave meat and lots of it, Brazil offers an the home of Richard Burton, the place this five-star property, but Vallarta has many all-you-can-eat set menu that includes soup, looks like something out of the pages of more charms that must be explored to be salads, sauces and Argentian-style barbecued Architectural Digest. fully appreciated. beef, pork, chicken and turkey brought to The Angel’s Dome, one of the smaller suites, Sunday night is fiesta night in the centre of your table by waiters who carve your sizzling features a domed ceiling painted with frolicking town. A lively band plays in the Plaza de portion directly onto your plate. At 100% cherubs. The larger Crown View Suite includes Armas, PV’s main square or zocalo. Seniors Natural and juice joints all over town, they a private terrace with the town’s best views of dress up in their finest and waltz or rhumba concoct amazing healthy drinks made of the intricate “crown” spire of the Church of under the stars, teens flirt, parents buy balloons fresh fruit and veggies. At El Arrayan on Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe, especially and ice cream for their kids. We like to buy Allende, try spicy regional dishes such as romantic during a Technicolour Vallarta sunset. barbequed corn on the cob slathered with goat cheese with smoked peppers, cochinita For ultimate privacy, Casa Las Campanas, chili/lime butter and enjoy being part of the pibil (marinated pork) and shrimp pozole. named for the verdigris bells that peal from the pulse of vibrant Vallarta. The restaurant also sells a selection of fabu- landmark church, is a one-bedroom villa across Another of our rituals is to stroll along the lous sauces you can take home for a taste of the cobblestone street. Several terraces – one malecon, PV’s seaside promenade. Usually we authentic Mexico.

92 September 2007 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net Retail Therapy tee blocks) across the Pacific Ocean. In low tide, Vallarta’s shopping and art scene present two if you haven’t made an offering to Neptune, walk more reasons to part with your pesos. Fabulous over a rocky ocean-floor pathway to putt. At high jewelry from 650 designers around the world, tide, a staff member will shuttle you to the green European-made men’s and women’s espadrilles, in an amphibious golf cart. Less adventuresome sexy sandals, straw hats and ultra-chic reading swingers can opt to play the alternate landlocked sunglasses are part of the retail therapy at Viva on 3A. The Jack Nicklaus design takes full advan- Basilio Badillo in the heart of old PV. Non-shop- tage of vistas of the surrounding Sierra Madre pers are welcome to sip cappuccino on comfy Mountains, white coral sand beaches and a trop- couches. In fact, the entire street is lined with ical landscape of palms and bougainvillea. SMP Services: great boutiques and galleries. Across the road, Lucy’s Cucu Cabana is another of my favourite Day Trips TIM STREET PORTER • Customized front-line Beyond Vallarta there’s much to explore along haunts. Lucy and Gil Givens use artisans sales and service the rugged Pacific coast. From Los Muertos Pier throughout Mexico to replenish their ever- workshops to suit your in PV we often take a ponga (small boat) to changing menagerie of folk art – from mermaids business model. made from coconut shells to fanciful death dolls. Yelapa, an off-the-beaten-path hamlet full of aging hippies, artists and laid-back locals. After If you’re looking for hand-painted tiles or • Senior management soft a hike to a waterfall, we buy slices of coconut ceramic sinks for that kitchen or bath renovation skills – Leadership, Time cream pie from one of the lady vendors who ply back home, you’ll find colourful inspiration at Management, Effective the beach. Talavera Etc. on Ignacio Vallarta. Don’t worry Meetings, Marketing Ideas We also like to hop a local bus to the town of about taking a sink home on the plane; they ship and Bootcamps. anywhere in the world. At Peyote People on Bucerias about half an hour north of PV where we bargain for handicrafts at the bustling Calle Juarez, owners Beatriz and Kevin • Creative off-site revenue weekend market. Lunch is at Mark’s Bar & Grill Simpson carry a good selection of beaded boosting idea sessions. masks, bowls and animals meticulously made where they specialize in gourmet pizzas baked to perfection in a brick oven. Further north, by the Huichol Indians of the Sierra Madre. • Training needs analysis we’ve tried boogie boarding in the surfer town of and course development. Swinging Vallarta Sayulita and devoured what just might be the best fish tacos in the world for about $2 each at Yes the nightlife is alive and well for • Conference & tradeshow Sayulita Fish Taco. everyone from the fifty-plus crowd to gays to keynotes. swinging singles. But another reason we like Gosh, just writing about the place has me

counting the days. ✈ Vallarta so much is because we’re self- • Creative selling ideas for proclaimed golf fanatics and over the last your internal newsletters, Mexico Tourism Board: 1-800-44-MEXICO; few years PV has become a stellar golf desti- blogs, intranet. nation. At Vista Vallarta, just outside of town, www.visitmexico.com. we enjoy both the Tom Weiskopf and Jack • Sales workshops for Nicklaus courses. Further north in Nuevo supplier BDM’s. Vallarta we’ve tried to tame El Tigre, named for the larger-than-life rescued Bengal tiger that lives on the 17th hole. Fear not, his cage is not a hazard. Between Robert von Hagge’s For more information contact brutal bunkering, gorgeous sculpted fair- SMP TRAINING Co. ways, water hazards and wild cats, El Tigre is the kind of course you’d want to play again [email protected] and again. www.smptraining.com COURTESY OF FOUR SEASONS RESORT PUNTA MITA PUNTA OF FOUR SEASONS RESORT COURTESY Our favourite is Los Flamingos at the south 250-752-0106 end of Bucerias. Green fees in Mexico aren’t the bargain you might expect, given the great value in hotels, meals, drinks, etc., but by buying a package of five greens fees at Flamingos, we save about 50 per cent. Golfers can test their skills on the “When it comes to At the other end of the budget spectrum, the signature “Tail of the Whale” hole at education, the worst Four Seasons Punta Mita Golf Club (about an the Four Seasons Punta Mita Golf Club, hour’s drive north of Vallarta) boasts 19 holes which features an oceanside tee you can ever do and the world’s only natural island green. To play overlooking the beach, and a green is nothing!” this signature Tail of the Whale hole you must situated on an idyllic natural island carry your drive (175 to 195 yards, depending on 194 yards away.

www.TRAVELHotNews.com Canadian Traveller • September 2007 93 Par Excellence Top Warm-Weather Courses At Great Value By Sana Keller VIRGINIA BEACH CVB Vice-President, Communications SeeAmerica Committee – Canada

ete Dye once said, “Golfers just love Virginia Beach offers punishment,” but we believe you'd a variety of packages Plike to have some fun, too. Proof is and specials aimed at that you can head South to escape the winter Canadians throughout the and try one of these warm golf destinations year, including Canada offering championship courses and at times, Weeks, when Canadian great value. visitors who book six nights at a participating Tucson hotel receive an addi- Arizona is one of the world’s great golfing tional night free. For Virginia Beach offers eight championship courses, destinations. So it’s not surprising that tee more information, visit including the Signature At West Neck. This Arnold times are in high demand here, especially www.vbfun.com Palmer-designed course is the city’s best bargain: a peak in the fall. There is a high concentration of /canadaweeks. season round costs just US$79, including a cart. top-notch facilities throughout the state, and giant snakes sun themselves in full view of featuring both target-style layouts that Myrtle Beach passing motorists. The biggest bonus to require precise shot placement as well Myrtle Beach has long been regarded as one playing golf in Louisiana is the prices charged as traditional layouts that offer a ground of the golf Meccas of the United States. The at the six Audubon courses – most are in the game alternative. pure volume of courses is what attracts many US$60 range, which includes cart. If your clients are looking for scenic golfers year after year. Here are a just a couple For more information on Louisiana's golf courses, Tucson is a great choice. The city of gems: the Robert Trent Jones-designed trail, go to www.audubongolf.com or visit the boasts some of the highest rated golf courses in Dunes Golf and Beach Club, the only state's website at www.louisianatravel.com. the world. All of Tucson's award-winning golf Myrtle Beach course ranked as one of the Top courses boast gorgeous mountain views and 100 courses in America by both Golf Digest New Jersey lush landscape within the colourful Sonoran and Golf Magazine; and Arnold Palmer's Pine Valley Golf Club is regularly ranked the Desert. The El Conquistador, the largest and greatest Signature Course – King’s North, number-one course in Golf Digest’s list of most popular of Tucson’s golf resorts, offers one of three courses that make up Myrtle America’s 100 greatest courses. Everyone three courses: the Cañada, the Conquistador Beach National Club. learns to take failure in stride at Pine Valley – and the Pusch Ridge. A camera is a must when A great place to start planning: Myrtle also voted the #1 Golf course in the USA by visiting the 18-hole, 6,713-yard, par 72 Beach Golf Holiday – a unified association Golf Magazine. It may not be inexpensive, but Cañada Course, which boasts spectacular of 85 golf courses, 60 accommodations and you have to play this course once in your life- mountain views on all holes. For more infor- four golf schools. For more information visit time and splurge a little. The underlying prin- mation, visit www.hiltonelconquistador.com. www.golfholiday.com. ciple of founder George Crump's design for the course is the island. The tee is an island. The Virginia Beach Louisiana fairway, despite being 50-55 yards wide, is also Virginia is home to more than 280 champi- One of the biggest side benefits to any golf an island. And so, of course, is the green. Each onship courses to suit every novice and pro trail is that it usually takes players to remote of these isolated plots is tightly defended by to a tee. Eight of these are found in Virginia corners of a state. For instance, did you ever sand, scrub, rough, dense woods, sometimes Beach, where clients can enjoy miles of think of visiting a place called Thompson water, sometimes steep falloffs – a no-man's fantastic beaches and a ready supply of the Creek or Cypress Bend or Lake Charles in land of potentially unplayable lies. For more

finest seafood as well as great golf, all in the Louisiana? Probably not. But you will if you information visit www.state.nj.us. ✈ span of a day. Among the favourites: the follow Louisiana’s Audubon Trail, named after stunning Arnold Palmer-designed Bay the renowned naturalist and artist John James To find out more about the SeeAmerica Creek and Signature at West Neck; and the Audubon. And to get there, you will have to Committee-Canada, attend a meeting or receive Rees Jones-designed course at Hell’s Point travel amazing highways that sit on stilts - the bi-monthly newsletter, contact them by fax Golf Club, an off-the-beaten-path pick some stretching almost 35 miles – over the at (416) 352-5567, by e-mail at admin@see surrounded by protected tidewater. state's swamps and bayous, where alligators america.ca or visit www.seeamerica.ca.

94 September 2007 • Canadian Traveller www.canadiantraveller.net