CLEARWATER, FL--(Marketwire - January 29, 2010) - Le Boat, Europe's #1 self-drive boating company, opens a new base in Ghent, Belgium, introduces the new Minuetto in Italy and upgrades their popular 5-star Royal Magnifique cruiser, all of which are available for 2010 vacations. Best of all, no experience required.
New Base in Ghent, Cultural Capital of Belgium
Situated at the crossroads of the Rivers Lys and Escaut, Ghent is an exceptional starting point for a canal cruising itinerary of a week or more, or a 3-day "short break". Guests can explore the beautiful waterways, medieval architecture, museums, lively market squares, quiet cobbled streets and relaxed bohemian atmosphere of this uniquely historic and contemporary area. The Ghent fleet includes a range of boats with excellent accommodations for up to 10 passengers.
The Minuetto, a Top-class, Affordable Cruiser for Venetian Waterways
The Italian-built Minuetto has been purpose-built for cruising in the Venetian Lagoon and will be available for March 2010 charters. With plenty of top-deck space to enjoy the sights, the Minuetto becomes a private floating hotel with everything aboard for a perfect boating vacation. She comfortably sleeps six passengers and the saloon's convertible settee creates room for two more. Additionally, the Minuetto can accommodate wheelchairs through an internal lifting platform and specially adapted wheelchair.
The 5-Star Royal Magnifique
Undoubtedly the best cruiser for large parties, the new interior and exterior upgrades deliver unbeatable onboard comfort and style with accommodation for up to 10 passengers. Guests will enjoy comfortable cruising from the steering station and alfresco entertainment on the top sundeck, plus a rear bathing platform. Two spacious rear cabins feature en-suite facilities with electric toilets, and two forward cabins share a bathroom with electric toilet. The ultra-modern kitchen is complete with a large fridge and gas oven/range. Other amenities include a well-designed saloon, flat screen satellite TV/DVD player, multi-format music system, inside steering position and convertible settee to sleep two.
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
Friday, January 29, 2010
Fototrips image of the day, January 29, 2010
Campbell River, BC
Photo by: Brad Edwards
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
Carnival Cruise mishap
USA Today-The 2,124-passenger Carnival Miracle struck a pier in St. Kitts Thursday during docking maneuvers, causing a 15-foot-long gash along its hull.
Photos posted online by a St. Kitts radio station, WINN-FM, show a notable gouge not far from the ship's waterline.
Carnival says no one was injured during the incident, but the ship's departure from the port has been delayed while it undergoes repairs.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Fototrip Image of the Day - Chitzen Itza Monster
Chitzen Itza, Mexico
Photo by: Brad Edwards
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
STR,report,hotels,US - {Travel Daily News}
STR,report,hotels,US - {Travel Daily News}: "The U.S. hotel industry posted a double-digit drop in revenue per available room during 2009. The metric fell 16.7 percent to US$53.71, the largest year-end decrease of any of the three key measurements, according to data from STR. The industry’s occupancy fell 8.7 percent to 55.1 percent for the year and average daily rate dropped 8.8 percent to US$97.51."
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
Airlines Suffered Worst in Tourism Industry | International Hotel News
Airlines Suffered Worst in Tourism Industry International Hotel News : "International airlines last year suffered their biggest decline in traffic since 1945, figures from the International Air Transport Association have revealed."
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
The Fairmont Hamilton Princess Celebrates 125th Anniversary
The Fairmont Hamilton Princess Celebrates 125th Anniversary: "HAMILTON, BERMUDA--(Marketwire - Jan. 28, 2010) - This year The Fairmont Hamilton Princess, Bermuda's Pink Palace (www.fairmont.com/hamilton), will celebrate its 125th anniversary. Since 1885, the hotel has been a landmark on the island and with its rich history, from the Victorian era and the birth of tourism on the island through World War II and into today, is part of Bermuda's cultural heritage. From community events and historic tours to weekend packages and restaurant offers to a year-long search for hotel memorabilia, the hotel will celebrate this milestone in grand style."
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
The Fairmont Hamilton Princess Celebrates 125th Anniversary
The Fairmont Hamilton Princess Celebrates 125th Anniversary: "HAMILTON, BERMUDA--(Marketwire - Jan. 28, 2010) - This year The Fairmont Hamilton Princess, Bermuda's Pink Palace (www.fairmont.com/hamilton), will celebrate its 125th anniversary. Since 1885, the hotel has been a landmark on the island and with its rich history, from the Victorian era and the birth of tourism on the island through World War II and into today, is part of Bermuda's cultural heritage. From community events and historic tours to weekend packages and restaurant offers to a year-long search for hotel memorabilia, the hotel will celebrate this milestone in grand style."
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Olympic Visitors warned of property rental scams
VICTORIA - As British Columbia prepares to welcome the world to the 2010 Winter Games, the B.C. Government, Better Business Bureau and Consumer Protection BC are reminding both International visitors and Canadian residents to be careful and do their homework before booking vacation rentals.
Online classified advertisements have made it easier for people to find things like home rentals. However, the listings are not regulated or vetted, and prone to scams. People seeking accommodations should be
wary if:
* The supplier requires a substantial deposit before handing over the keys or even showing the home. Don't pay any money before inspecting the home, inside and out. If you cannot travel early enough to inspect the property, ask for a contract outlining all terms, details and conditions.
* The supplier asks the renter to wire money through wire transfer services such as Western Union or MoneyGram. Money sent via wire transfer service is extremely difficult to retrieve. Once the scammers have picked it up; there is little recourse - if any - for getting the money back.
* The supplier is located elsewhere and prefers to communicate via email. For example, a scammer might say they have just been relocated out of the country. Don't believe them.
* The deal sounds too good to be true. Scammers will often list a rental for a very low price to lure victims. Find out how comparable listings are priced. If the rental comes in suspiciously low, walk away.
Another tip for consumers is to pay with a credit card if possible, as credit card purchases often offer the protection of a 'chargeback'. Consumers may be able to cancel or reverse a credit card transaction and its associated interest charges in cases where there is evidence that the goods and services purchased were not provided to the consumer.
For consumers looking to book accommodations:
There is an official website with a variety of resources at http://www.2010destinationplanner.com/. The website lists hotels, bed and breakfasts, private home rentals, and rooms on cruise ships.
When booking accommodation through a third-party provider, potential renters should check to see if the B.C. travel agent or wholesaler is licensed with Consumer Protection BC at http://www.consumerprotectionbc.ca/.
If a consumer has suffered a loss and did book through a licensed B.C. travel agent or wholesaler, they can contact Consumer Protection BC at 1-888-564-9963 or info@consumerprotectionbc.ca.
For travel and accommodation disputes:
* If consumers purchased travel services through a licensed B.C. travel agent or wholesaler and did not receive the travel services they paid for, they can contact their insurance or credit card provider. If they are unsuccessful, they may be eligible for reimbursement from B.C.'s
Travel Assurance Fund for consumers. See http://www.consumerprotectionbc.ca/ for information about the fund.
* Tourism BC has an information and reservation service that also deals with any disputes involving Tourism BC-Approved Accommodation. See www.hellobc.com, tel: 1-888-222-8402, and fax: 1-800-563-5306. Customer complaints may be over the phone, fax or mail. However, Tourism BC does not pursue complaints regarding refund issues.
* For any other potential complaints against a company, consumers can file a dispute with the Better Business Bureau at www.mbc.bbb.org.
* If you believe that you are a victim of fraud, please contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Call Centre ('PhoneBusters') at phonebusters.com or 1-800-495-8501.
On April 1, 2009, to better protect consumers, government clarified the wording in regulations to confirm who must be licensed in the short-term vacation rental industry. Vacation rental companies who rent
accommodations on behalf of a third party (like a home or condo owner) need to be licensed. As well, the Travel Assurance Fund that licensed companies pay into is used to reimburse consumers if they do not get
the contracted travel services they pay for when they book accommodations through licensed B.C. vacation rental companies.
Travel Images http://www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/
Online classified advertisements have made it easier for people to find things like home rentals. However, the listings are not regulated or vetted, and prone to scams. People seeking accommodations should be
wary if:
* The supplier requires a substantial deposit before handing over the keys or even showing the home. Don't pay any money before inspecting the home, inside and out. If you cannot travel early enough to inspect the property, ask for a contract outlining all terms, details and conditions.
* The supplier asks the renter to wire money through wire transfer services such as Western Union or MoneyGram. Money sent via wire transfer service is extremely difficult to retrieve. Once the scammers have picked it up; there is little recourse - if any - for getting the money back.
* The supplier is located elsewhere and prefers to communicate via email. For example, a scammer might say they have just been relocated out of the country. Don't believe them.
* The deal sounds too good to be true. Scammers will often list a rental for a very low price to lure victims. Find out how comparable listings are priced. If the rental comes in suspiciously low, walk away.
Another tip for consumers is to pay with a credit card if possible, as credit card purchases often offer the protection of a 'chargeback'. Consumers may be able to cancel or reverse a credit card transaction and its associated interest charges in cases where there is evidence that the goods and services purchased were not provided to the consumer.
For consumers looking to book accommodations:
There is an official website with a variety of resources at http://www.2010destinationplanner.com/. The website lists hotels, bed and breakfasts, private home rentals, and rooms on cruise ships.
When booking accommodation through a third-party provider, potential renters should check to see if the B.C. travel agent or wholesaler is licensed with Consumer Protection BC at http://www.consumerprotectionbc.ca/.
If a consumer has suffered a loss and did book through a licensed B.C. travel agent or wholesaler, they can contact Consumer Protection BC at 1-888-564-9963 or info@consumerprotectionbc.ca.
For travel and accommodation disputes:
* If consumers purchased travel services through a licensed B.C. travel agent or wholesaler and did not receive the travel services they paid for, they can contact their insurance or credit card provider. If they are unsuccessful, they may be eligible for reimbursement from B.C.'s
Travel Assurance Fund for consumers. See http://www.consumerprotectionbc.ca/ for information about the fund.
* Tourism BC has an information and reservation service that also deals with any disputes involving Tourism BC-Approved Accommodation. See www.hellobc.com, tel: 1-888-222-8402, and fax: 1-800-563-5306. Customer complaints may be over the phone, fax or mail. However, Tourism BC does not pursue complaints regarding refund issues.
* For any other potential complaints against a company, consumers can file a dispute with the Better Business Bureau at www.mbc.bbb.org.
* If you believe that you are a victim of fraud, please contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Call Centre ('PhoneBusters') at phonebusters.com or 1-800-495-8501.
On April 1, 2009, to better protect consumers, government clarified the wording in regulations to confirm who must be licensed in the short-term vacation rental industry. Vacation rental companies who rent
accommodations on behalf of a third party (like a home or condo owner) need to be licensed. As well, the Travel Assurance Fund that licensed companies pay into is used to reimburse consumers if they do not get
the contracted travel services they pay for when they book accommodations through licensed B.C. vacation rental companies.
Travel Images http://www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/
Princeton Wins Gold, Named Gamestown 2010
KAMLOOPS - The town of Princeton rallied together to proudly display its healthy living and Olympic spirit and capture the coveted title of GamesTown 10, Premier Gordon Campbell announced today. Dawson Creek and Kamloops were named the silver and bronze GamesTown 2010 finalists.
An Interior community of less than 3,000 people, Princeton emerged ahead of 123 other communities that submitted online entries into GamesTown, the ActNow BC initiative launched almost a year ago. Princeton's impressive showing earned the community a $100,000 cash award to be put toward upgrading a local healthy living or sport facility.
"Residents from Princeton should be proud of the enthusiasm and spirit they showed in capturing the title of GamesTown 2010. They shared more than 600 stories, photos and videos that were both creative and enthusiastic and also captured the best in healthy living and Olympic spirit in the community," said Premier Campbell. "Congratulations also to Dawson Creek and Kamloops, who won silver and bronze, respectively, by showcasing their natural surroundings as a great opportunity for sport and healthy living and by proudly promoting their recreation facilities."
Dawson Creek and Kamloops received cash awards of $50,000 and $25,000, respectively, as the silver and bronze winners. Their prize money will also be put toward the upgrade of a sport or healthy living facility in each of those communities. Princeton, Dawson Creek and Kamloops will also each receive a number of tickets to the 2010 Winter Games as GamesTown medal winners.
GamesTown 2010 was initiated by ActNow BC in February 2009. The contest gave British Columbians across the province the opportunity to submit stories, photos and videos to the GamesTown 2010 website that promoted healthy living, Olympic spirit, involvement in sport and recreation and environmental sustainability. The site will remain active through the 2010 Games so that communities can continue to share their stories of the torch relay and excitement for the 2010 Games.
"GamesTown 2010 rallied communities across the province together to promote their commitment to healthy living, but the nearly 7,500 entries submitted online also showed that British Columbians are very proud of their communities," said Mary McNeil, Minister of State for the Olympics and
ActNow BC.
Between early November 2009 and Jan. 4, 2010, almost 200,000 votes were cast by British Columbians to determine the top 10 communities.
"While we have always been very determined to strive for gold, we knew very early on that, win or lose, GamesTown 2010 was an absolutely positive process for Princeton that would reveal a number of insights into our character - that we love our community, our children, our environment and active lifestyle and that we are very proud of all these things," said Princeton Mayor Randy McLean.
Entries for GamesTown 2010 were judged by a GamesTown 2010 celebrity panel based on criteria that included promotion and support of healthy living and environmental sustainability, Olympic spirit, level of community engagement at recreation facilities and in amateur sports, and participation in the
World Healthy Living Challenge.
The GamesTown 2010 judging panel included Olympians Steve Podborski, Simon Whitfield and Nancy Greene Raine, along with Dr. Rhonda Low from CTV and Dr. Art Hister from Global. These judges selected the gold, silver and bronze medal winners.
There were 95 GamesTown 2010 communities that won prizes as part of monthly draws. Prizes included tickets to the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, athlete visits by ActNow BC athlete ambassadors, as well as healthy living and Winter Games prize packs.
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
An Interior community of less than 3,000 people, Princeton emerged ahead of 123 other communities that submitted online entries into GamesTown, the ActNow BC initiative launched almost a year ago. Princeton's impressive showing earned the community a $100,000 cash award to be put toward upgrading a local healthy living or sport facility.
"Residents from Princeton should be proud of the enthusiasm and spirit they showed in capturing the title of GamesTown 2010. They shared more than 600 stories, photos and videos that were both creative and enthusiastic and also captured the best in healthy living and Olympic spirit in the community," said Premier Campbell. "Congratulations also to Dawson Creek and Kamloops, who won silver and bronze, respectively, by showcasing their natural surroundings as a great opportunity for sport and healthy living and by proudly promoting their recreation facilities."
Dawson Creek and Kamloops received cash awards of $50,000 and $25,000, respectively, as the silver and bronze winners. Their prize money will also be put toward the upgrade of a sport or healthy living facility in each of those communities. Princeton, Dawson Creek and Kamloops will also each receive a number of tickets to the 2010 Winter Games as GamesTown medal winners.
GamesTown 2010 was initiated by ActNow BC in February 2009. The contest gave British Columbians across the province the opportunity to submit stories, photos and videos to the GamesTown 2010 website that promoted healthy living, Olympic spirit, involvement in sport and recreation and environmental sustainability. The site will remain active through the 2010 Games so that communities can continue to share their stories of the torch relay and excitement for the 2010 Games.
"GamesTown 2010 rallied communities across the province together to promote their commitment to healthy living, but the nearly 7,500 entries submitted online also showed that British Columbians are very proud of their communities," said Mary McNeil, Minister of State for the Olympics and
ActNow BC.
Between early November 2009 and Jan. 4, 2010, almost 200,000 votes were cast by British Columbians to determine the top 10 communities.
"While we have always been very determined to strive for gold, we knew very early on that, win or lose, GamesTown 2010 was an absolutely positive process for Princeton that would reveal a number of insights into our character - that we love our community, our children, our environment and active lifestyle and that we are very proud of all these things," said Princeton Mayor Randy McLean.
Entries for GamesTown 2010 were judged by a GamesTown 2010 celebrity panel based on criteria that included promotion and support of healthy living and environmental sustainability, Olympic spirit, level of community engagement at recreation facilities and in amateur sports, and participation in the
World Healthy Living Challenge.
The GamesTown 2010 judging panel included Olympians Steve Podborski, Simon Whitfield and Nancy Greene Raine, along with Dr. Rhonda Low from CTV and Dr. Art Hister from Global. These judges selected the gold, silver and bronze medal winners.
There were 95 GamesTown 2010 communities that won prizes as part of monthly draws. Prizes included tickets to the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, athlete visits by ActNow BC athlete ambassadors, as well as healthy living and Winter Games prize packs.
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
Fototrips image of the day, January 27, 2010
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
Economic Rebound for Victoria?
VICTORIA, BC — The Conference Board of Canada released its Winter 2010 forecast today, outlining their expectations for Greater Victoria and 26 other Canadian municipalities. The report forecasts that our regional economy performed much better than most of Western Canada in 2009, and is predicting growth of 2.8% in 2010.
“Led by stronger wholesale and retail trade and a rebound in the “FIRE” (Financial, Insurance and Real Estate) sector the conference board is anticipating an average growth rate of 2.6% over the next three years,” said Sasha Angus, Economic Development Officer. “This bodes well for our economy going forward. The region’s economic challenges over the past year highlight the ongoing need to invest in diversifying our economy and marketing our advantages to the rest of the world to maintain household-sustaining jobs for our citizens.”
The Greater Victoria Development Agency is an industry led organization representing the major industries and academic stakeholders of the region. The GVDA seeks to ensure that Greater Victoria remains a vibrant place to live, work and invest. An important mandate of the Greater Victoria Development Agency is to further strengthen economic conditions throughout our region by encouraging new investment and business from across North America and the world.
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
“Led by stronger wholesale and retail trade and a rebound in the “FIRE” (Financial, Insurance and Real Estate) sector the conference board is anticipating an average growth rate of 2.6% over the next three years,” said Sasha Angus, Economic Development Officer. “This bodes well for our economy going forward. The region’s economic challenges over the past year highlight the ongoing need to invest in diversifying our economy and marketing our advantages to the rest of the world to maintain household-sustaining jobs for our citizens.”
The Greater Victoria Development Agency is an industry led organization representing the major industries and academic stakeholders of the region. The GVDA seeks to ensure that Greater Victoria remains a vibrant place to live, work and invest. An important mandate of the Greater Victoria Development Agency is to further strengthen economic conditions throughout our region by encouraging new investment and business from across North America and the world.
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Vancouver Rooms on Sale Starting at USD$275 per Night
SOURCE: Newwest Special Projects
Jan 21, 2010 15:02 ETVancouver Rooms on Sale Starting at USD$275 per Night
Newwest Special Projects Offers Special Rates for One Week on the NCL Star
EDMONTON, AB--(Marketwire - January 21, 2010) - Travelers going to Vancouver in February for the 2010 Games who are still looking for accommodations can save big by booking their stay on the Norwegian Star. Special sale rates that start as low as $275 per night are available through www.vancouver2010cruiseship.com. Guests can also book rooms by calling 877.245.2010.
-- Run of Ship rooms (inside/outside staterooms) start at just USD$275 per room.
-- Balcony Mountain View Staterooms are on sale for USD$400 per room.
-- Balcony City View Staterooms are priced at USD$525 per room.
Sale rates are based on availability and are only valid for new bookings. These rates are good until January 29, 2010.
"Our sale rates make staying in Vancouver very affordable, especially since all of the rooms include three meals a day," said Diana Davis, Project Manager for Newwest Special Projects. "We hope people take advantage of these deals since they are only being offered for one week."
The luxurious Norwegian Star will be berthed in North Vancouver. The ship's location is just minutes away from Lonsdale Quay, where guests can transfer to downtown Vancouver and from the transfer point to the mountain venues in Whistler. Unlike other accommodations being offered during the Games, the rates include three meals per day, making it an incomparable value. The rate also includes access to many other on-board amenities, including transportation to Lonsdale Quay, spa and fitness facilities, nightly entertainment, gift shops and much, much more.
To book a room during the sale, visit us online at www.vancouver2010cruiseship.com or call 877.254.2010.
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
Jan 21, 2010 15:02 ETVancouver Rooms on Sale Starting at USD$275 per Night
Newwest Special Projects Offers Special Rates for One Week on the NCL Star
EDMONTON, AB--(Marketwire - January 21, 2010) - Travelers going to Vancouver in February for the 2010 Games who are still looking for accommodations can save big by booking their stay on the Norwegian Star. Special sale rates that start as low as $275 per night are available through www.vancouver2010cruiseship.com. Guests can also book rooms by calling 877.245.2010.
-- Run of Ship rooms (inside/outside staterooms) start at just USD$275 per room.
-- Balcony Mountain View Staterooms are on sale for USD$400 per room.
-- Balcony City View Staterooms are priced at USD$525 per room.
Sale rates are based on availability and are only valid for new bookings. These rates are good until January 29, 2010.
"Our sale rates make staying in Vancouver very affordable, especially since all of the rooms include three meals a day," said Diana Davis, Project Manager for Newwest Special Projects. "We hope people take advantage of these deals since they are only being offered for one week."
The luxurious Norwegian Star will be berthed in North Vancouver. The ship's location is just minutes away from Lonsdale Quay, where guests can transfer to downtown Vancouver and from the transfer point to the mountain venues in Whistler. Unlike other accommodations being offered during the Games, the rates include three meals per day, making it an incomparable value. The rate also includes access to many other on-board amenities, including transportation to Lonsdale Quay, spa and fitness facilities, nightly entertainment, gift shops and much, much more.
To book a room during the sale, visit us online at www.vancouver2010cruiseship.com or call 877.254.2010.
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
Victoria hotel becomes BC’s only carbon-neutral property
Inn at Laurel Point leads BC hoteliers in action on climate change
Victoria, BC, Canada—Inn at Laurel Point announced a partnership today that makes it the only BC hotel to offer carbon neutral facilities to its guests.
Offsetters, Canada’s leading carbon management provider, and Inn at Laurel Point have entered an agreement that offsets the hotel’s greenhouse gas emissions.
“We are proud to be the only carbon neutral hotel in British Columbia, and one of a handful in Canada,” says the Inn’s general manager Ian Powell. “In addition to our Four Green Key Eco-Rating, we are demonstrating our commitment and core beliefs.”
After months of research, Inn at Laurel Point selected Offsetters, which has a proven track record of developing carbon offset projects using the highest quality standards and focusing on permanent reductions from energy efficiency and renewable energy projects. Offsetters is also the Official Supplier of Carbon Offsets for the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games.
“The Inn at Laurel Point has been committed to environmental sustainability for many years,” says Dr. James Tansey, CEO and Co-Founder, Offsetters. “This next step demonstrates their leadership in serving travelers who choose to take responsibility for their carbon footprint.”
With this initiative, Inn at Laurel Point and Offsetters have addressed the resort's carbon footprint. Offsetters will validate these numbers in March and move forward with the next phase of the hotel's greenhouse gas emissions strategy.
“Victoria, BC is becoming increasingly known as a destination for the eco-conscious traveler,” says Powell. “Buying offsets for transportation is becoming common, and BC’s hotels are sure to follow suit. We are happy to provide leadership to other hotels.”
Carbon offsetting is the latest plank in the hotel’s environmental, economic and social responsibility platform. Other features include:
• All levels of staff participate in an annual harbour front cleanup
• Paperless check-in and eco-friendly room keys (recycled paper stock and vegetable dye inks)
• Ocean Wise, organic menu in AURA Restaurant + Waterfront Patio
• Organic herb and vegetable gardens for use in AURA
• Waste reduction, including composting, compacting garbage and baling cardboard
• Sustainable marketing materials on recycled, FSC stock
• Secure bike racks for staff and guests
• Supporting patients undergoing treatment at the BC Cancer Treatment Centre.
The Inn at Laurel Point is an independent, Pacific Rim-inspired waterfront hotel located downtown on Victoria's Inner Harbour. www.laurelpoint.com
Travel Images http://www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/
Victoria, BC, Canada—Inn at Laurel Point announced a partnership today that makes it the only BC hotel to offer carbon neutral facilities to its guests.
Offsetters, Canada’s leading carbon management provider, and Inn at Laurel Point have entered an agreement that offsets the hotel’s greenhouse gas emissions.
“We are proud to be the only carbon neutral hotel in British Columbia, and one of a handful in Canada,” says the Inn’s general manager Ian Powell. “In addition to our Four Green Key Eco-Rating, we are demonstrating our commitment and core beliefs.”
After months of research, Inn at Laurel Point selected Offsetters, which has a proven track record of developing carbon offset projects using the highest quality standards and focusing on permanent reductions from energy efficiency and renewable energy projects. Offsetters is also the Official Supplier of Carbon Offsets for the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games.
“The Inn at Laurel Point has been committed to environmental sustainability for many years,” says Dr. James Tansey, CEO and Co-Founder, Offsetters. “This next step demonstrates their leadership in serving travelers who choose to take responsibility for their carbon footprint.”
With this initiative, Inn at Laurel Point and Offsetters have addressed the resort's carbon footprint. Offsetters will validate these numbers in March and move forward with the next phase of the hotel's greenhouse gas emissions strategy.
“Victoria, BC is becoming increasingly known as a destination for the eco-conscious traveler,” says Powell. “Buying offsets for transportation is becoming common, and BC’s hotels are sure to follow suit. We are happy to provide leadership to other hotels.”
Carbon offsetting is the latest plank in the hotel’s environmental, economic and social responsibility platform. Other features include:
• All levels of staff participate in an annual harbour front cleanup
• Paperless check-in and eco-friendly room keys (recycled paper stock and vegetable dye inks)
• Ocean Wise, organic menu in AURA Restaurant + Waterfront Patio
• Organic herb and vegetable gardens for use in AURA
• Waste reduction, including composting, compacting garbage and baling cardboard
• Sustainable marketing materials on recycled, FSC stock
• Secure bike racks for staff and guests
• Supporting patients undergoing treatment at the BC Cancer Treatment Centre.
The Inn at Laurel Point is an independent, Pacific Rim-inspired waterfront hotel located downtown on Victoria's Inner Harbour. www.laurelpoint.com
Travel Images http://www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/
Fototrips image of the day, January 21, 2010
Pacific Rim National Park
Photo by: Brad Edwards
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
Coming to the Olympics? You have to be able to speak Canadian.
We thought this was kind of funny and worthy of re-posting. Then I realized when I read through it, they missed a few critical ones. I have included those at the bottom of this article. And no...we're not making this stuff up. We Canadians are an interesting bunch and have a word for everything. Trust me-Fototrips
By LEANNE ITALIE, Associated Press Writer
Have a sit-down on the chesterfield with your double-double and learn ya some Canadian.
In preparation of the 2010 Olympic Winter Games in Vancouver, B.C., the Associated Press has developed a list of terms all visitors to Canada should know.
With the caveat that not all Canadians may agree on the language, definitions and spellings below, and not all may use all expressions listed here all the time in all contexts in an all-joking or an all-earnest manner, let's begin:
LOONIE: One-dollar coin bearing the image on one side of a diving bird known in North America as the Common Loon.
TOONIE or TWOONIE: Two-dollar coin bearing the image on one side of a polar bear. Named as a play on Loonie and for its double-dollar denomination.
DOUBLE-DOUBLE: A coffee with two creams and two sugars.
TRIPLE-TRIPLE: You guessed it, same as above plus one each.
CHESTERFIELD: Generic term for couch. Refers elsewhere to a specific leather style.
TIMMIES: Shorthand for Tim Hortons, Canada's answer to Starbucks and making its first foray into the United States.
TIMBITS: Doughnut holes at Tim Hortons.
TWO-FOUR OR TWOFER: A case of beer that contains 24 bottles.
TOQUE or TUQUE: Pronounced TOOK, a knit cap called a ski cap in the United States.
THAT'LL LEARN YA: Meaning, "That will teach you," said in response to a stupid or non-fatal avoidable bad outcome.
HYDRO: In some areas, refers generically to electrical power and power bills.
HOMO MILK: Non-homogenized milk.
Fototrips-Okay, as promised, here are a couple more left off the list that should be included, becasue I can guarantee you, that you will encounter each of these at least once on your visit.
WOBBLY POP: What can we say. BEER!
LUNG DART: What the guy on the street is asking you, is if you can spare a cigarette.
JAR STORE: Liquor Store. yes, Canadians drink alot.
If you are driving to Vancouver and happen to be listening to the radio traffic reports, you will hear these oddities used quite a bit. Take note:
The TUBE: Massey Tunnel Highway 99 North and South from Seattle and BC Ferries.
The Cut: Highway 1 North and South from Burnaby/East Vancouver to North Vancouver en route to Whistler.
S-CURVE: Also known as the connector. This is Highway 91, which runs east and west between Richmond and New Westminster. So referred to because of the "S" share curve in the road. Look at a map, you can't see it, so maybe named after a few wobbly pops?
UPPER LEVELS: Also Highway 1. Runs through North Vancouver after you make your way up "The Cut" from the Second Narrows Bridge.
That's it for now. Happy travels eh!
Travel Images http://www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/
By LEANNE ITALIE, Associated Press Writer
Have a sit-down on the chesterfield with your double-double and learn ya some Canadian.
In preparation of the 2010 Olympic Winter Games in Vancouver, B.C., the Associated Press has developed a list of terms all visitors to Canada should know.
With the caveat that not all Canadians may agree on the language, definitions and spellings below, and not all may use all expressions listed here all the time in all contexts in an all-joking or an all-earnest manner, let's begin:
LOONIE: One-dollar coin bearing the image on one side of a diving bird known in North America as the Common Loon.
TOONIE or TWOONIE: Two-dollar coin bearing the image on one side of a polar bear. Named as a play on Loonie and for its double-dollar denomination.
DOUBLE-DOUBLE: A coffee with two creams and two sugars.
TRIPLE-TRIPLE: You guessed it, same as above plus one each.
CHESTERFIELD: Generic term for couch. Refers elsewhere to a specific leather style.
TIMMIES: Shorthand for Tim Hortons, Canada's answer to Starbucks and making its first foray into the United States.
TIMBITS: Doughnut holes at Tim Hortons.
TWO-FOUR OR TWOFER: A case of beer that contains 24 bottles.
TOQUE or TUQUE: Pronounced TOOK, a knit cap called a ski cap in the United States.
THAT'LL LEARN YA: Meaning, "That will teach you," said in response to a stupid or non-fatal avoidable bad outcome.
HYDRO: In some areas, refers generically to electrical power and power bills.
HOMO MILK: Non-homogenized milk.
Fototrips-Okay, as promised, here are a couple more left off the list that should be included, becasue I can guarantee you, that you will encounter each of these at least once on your visit.
WOBBLY POP: What can we say. BEER!
LUNG DART: What the guy on the street is asking you, is if you can spare a cigarette.
JAR STORE: Liquor Store. yes, Canadians drink alot.
If you are driving to Vancouver and happen to be listening to the radio traffic reports, you will hear these oddities used quite a bit. Take note:
The TUBE: Massey Tunnel Highway 99 North and South from Seattle and BC Ferries.
The Cut: Highway 1 North and South from Burnaby/East Vancouver to North Vancouver en route to Whistler.
S-CURVE: Also known as the connector. This is Highway 91, which runs east and west between Richmond and New Westminster. So referred to because of the "S" share curve in the road. Look at a map, you can't see it, so maybe named after a few wobbly pops?
UPPER LEVELS: Also Highway 1. Runs through North Vancouver after you make your way up "The Cut" from the Second Narrows Bridge.
That's it for now. Happy travels eh!
Travel Images http://www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
WSG Galleries travelling to San Jaun.
WSG Galleries is off to San Jaun Puerto Rico next month on a photo safari. We are looking for any tips and ideas when we are there. What to do and where to go and the list of "must see" places and events.
Thanks and yes, everything will be posted here as it happens.
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
Thanks and yes, everything will be posted here as it happens.
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
TripIt Launches Free BlackBerry App
SAN FRANCISCO, CA--(Marketwire - January 20, 2010) - TripIt, the trip management company, today announced that TripIt is available to travelers using BlackBerry™ mobile devices. This free mobile app gives travelers access to all their travel plans right on their BlackBerry, no matter where their travel was booked.
TripIt travelers simply forward their travel confirmation emails to plans@tripit.com and TripIt automatically creates their master travel itineraries. With the TripIt for BlackBerry app, a traveler then just clicks to check flight status on any airline, view a confirmation number from any rental car supplier, or get directions to their hotel, restaurant, meeting or anything that's part of their free TripIt itinerary. TripIt for BlackBerry also supports features of the TripIt Pro premium service, including mobile flight alerts and alternate flight options.
"We've been beta testing our BlackBerry app with a group of international travelers for months and are now ready to give everyone the opportunity to use it," commented Will Aldrich, TripIt VP of Product. "We're also excited to include support to sync TripIt travel plans to the built-in BlackBerry calendar, which in turn syncs those plans to a traveler's Outlook calendar."
The TripIt for BlackBerry Beta app is available for download now at www.tripit.com/uhp/blackberry and will be live in the BlackBerry App World soon. It supports BlackBerry operating system 4.3 or later, which includes nearly all BlackBerry devices released in the past several years.
Learn more about TripIt's free mobile apps for BlackBerry, Android and iPhone at www.tripit.com/uhp/mobile
Note from WSG Travel: While this is a great app, we have used it for recent travels over the Christmas break, I find some of the other apps to track flights, such as "FlightTrack" work just as good if you don't want to use the convenient 'email forwarding' option.
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
TripIt travelers simply forward their travel confirmation emails to plans@tripit.com and TripIt automatically creates their master travel itineraries. With the TripIt for BlackBerry app, a traveler then just clicks to check flight status on any airline, view a confirmation number from any rental car supplier, or get directions to their hotel, restaurant, meeting or anything that's part of their free TripIt itinerary. TripIt for BlackBerry also supports features of the TripIt Pro premium service, including mobile flight alerts and alternate flight options.
"We've been beta testing our BlackBerry app with a group of international travelers for months and are now ready to give everyone the opportunity to use it," commented Will Aldrich, TripIt VP of Product. "We're also excited to include support to sync TripIt travel plans to the built-in BlackBerry calendar, which in turn syncs those plans to a traveler's Outlook calendar."
The TripIt for BlackBerry Beta app is available for download now at www.tripit.com/uhp/blackberry and will be live in the BlackBerry App World soon. It supports BlackBerry operating system 4.3 or later, which includes nearly all BlackBerry devices released in the past several years.
Learn more about TripIt's free mobile apps for BlackBerry, Android and iPhone at www.tripit.com/uhp/mobile
Note from WSG Travel: While this is a great app, we have used it for recent travels over the Christmas break, I find some of the other apps to track flights, such as "FlightTrack" work just as good if you don't want to use the convenient 'email forwarding' option.
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
Fototrips image of the day, January 20, 2010
The 9th Ward, New Orleans, LA
Photo by Brad Edwards
Travel Images http://www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/
Travel Images http://www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/
Transport Canada: One Carry-On Item Allowed for Flights to the USA
Changes to carry-on luggage restrictions were announced today by Canada's Transport Minister John Baird. Effective on January 20, passengers travelling to the United States are permitted to bring one carry-on bag, with some small exceptions. All items brought on the aircraft such as reading material, personal electronics, medications must be stored in the passenger's single carry-on bag. This new measure replaces the temporary restrictions on carry-on bags introduced as a result of the December 25th 2009 security incident. Passengers can check with the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority or their airline for further information.
Travel Images http://www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/
Travel Images http://www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Lebanon says 2009 was best on record for tourism with 1.9 million visitors
By Bassem Mroue, THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
BEIRUT - Nearly 2 million tourists visited Lebanon in 2009, a record that exceeds even the glamorous years before the civil war when Beirut was known as the Paris of the Middle East.
In figures released to The Associated Press on Tuesday, the Ministry of Tourism said 1,851,081 tourists visited Lebanon in 2009, a 39 per cent increase from the year before. The previous record was 1.4 million tourists in 1974 - just before the disastrous 1975-90 civil war broke out.
Tourism Minister Fadi Abboud estimated the country's annual income from tourism at up to $7 billion, or about 20 per cent of gross domestic product.
The booming tourism sector is the latest sign of progress in Lebanon, a country that had become notorious for its years of kidnappings, car bombs and political assassinations. But Lebanon has seen greater stability recently, drawing once-leery foreigners to its snowcapped mountains and stunning Mediterranean seaside.
Nabil Majdalani, who has been working in Lebanon's restaurant industry since the 1970s, said his business grew about 15 per cent in 2009.
"This was the year when we saw the biggest number of foreigners at our restaurant since before the civil war," Majdalani said.
During the civil war, tourists simply stopped coming to Lebanon, scared off by the reports of Westerners being snatched off the streets of Beirut. A thriving tourism industry that lured Hollywood stars to the Middle East all but dried up.
The industry was just starting to recover some of its lustre when Lebanon's billionaire former Prime Minister Rafik Hariri, the power behind the multibillion-dollar postwar reconstruction, was assassinated in 2005 in a massive truck bomb in Beirut.
Then, in July 2006, Israel and Lebanon's Shiite militant group Hezbollah fought a 34-day war in which some 1,200 Lebanese were killed and billions of dollars worth of infrastructure destroyed. Thousands of tourists and vacationing Lebanese expatriates were evacuated from the country because of the fighting.
And in 2008, Hezbollah militants swept through Sunni neighbourhoods of Beirut to briefly seize control after the government moved to curb the group's military communications network. More than 80 people were killed in the violence that followed.
But Lebanon has seen greater stability recently and formed a unity government last year. A key recommendation by The New York Times, which named Beirut as the top place to visit in 2009, helped boost the country's image.
Pierre Ashkar, head of the Hotel Owners' Association, said occupancy at international-standard hotels in Beirut averaged 76 per cent in 2009.
"This was one of the best years ever," Ashkar said.
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
BEIRUT - Nearly 2 million tourists visited Lebanon in 2009, a record that exceeds even the glamorous years before the civil war when Beirut was known as the Paris of the Middle East.
In figures released to The Associated Press on Tuesday, the Ministry of Tourism said 1,851,081 tourists visited Lebanon in 2009, a 39 per cent increase from the year before. The previous record was 1.4 million tourists in 1974 - just before the disastrous 1975-90 civil war broke out.
Tourism Minister Fadi Abboud estimated the country's annual income from tourism at up to $7 billion, or about 20 per cent of gross domestic product.
The booming tourism sector is the latest sign of progress in Lebanon, a country that had become notorious for its years of kidnappings, car bombs and political assassinations. But Lebanon has seen greater stability recently, drawing once-leery foreigners to its snowcapped mountains and stunning Mediterranean seaside.
Nabil Majdalani, who has been working in Lebanon's restaurant industry since the 1970s, said his business grew about 15 per cent in 2009.
"This was the year when we saw the biggest number of foreigners at our restaurant since before the civil war," Majdalani said.
During the civil war, tourists simply stopped coming to Lebanon, scared off by the reports of Westerners being snatched off the streets of Beirut. A thriving tourism industry that lured Hollywood stars to the Middle East all but dried up.
The industry was just starting to recover some of its lustre when Lebanon's billionaire former Prime Minister Rafik Hariri, the power behind the multibillion-dollar postwar reconstruction, was assassinated in 2005 in a massive truck bomb in Beirut.
Then, in July 2006, Israel and Lebanon's Shiite militant group Hezbollah fought a 34-day war in which some 1,200 Lebanese were killed and billions of dollars worth of infrastructure destroyed. Thousands of tourists and vacationing Lebanese expatriates were evacuated from the country because of the fighting.
And in 2008, Hezbollah militants swept through Sunni neighbourhoods of Beirut to briefly seize control after the government moved to curb the group's military communications network. More than 80 people were killed in the violence that followed.
But Lebanon has seen greater stability recently and formed a unity government last year. A key recommendation by The New York Times, which named Beirut as the top place to visit in 2009, helped boost the country's image.
Pierre Ashkar, head of the Hotel Owners' Association, said occupancy at international-standard hotels in Beirut averaged 76 per cent in 2009.
"This was one of the best years ever," Ashkar said.
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
DOT unveils improved aviation consumer and enforcement website
Air travelers will find it easier to file complaints with the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) about airline service, compare the historical on-time and baggage mishandling records of airlines, and find helpful tips about air travel thanks to a redesigned, more user-friendly aviation consumer web site unveiled by the Department. The web site can be found at http://airconsumer.dot.gov.
“This updated web site is part of our ongoing effort to improve resources for consumers and ensure that airline passengers are treated fairly when they fly,” U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said. “We want to make it as easy as possible for consumers to find the information they need to make their air travel experience as smooth and hassle-free as possible.”
The improved site contains useful information about the Department’s complaint handling system for consumers who experience air travel service problems, including a web form that consumers can use to file a complaint with DOT about airline service.
The site also offers guidance regarding aviation rules and statutes, advice concerning airlines that have stopped operating or filed for bankruptcy protection, and travel tips and publications related to air travel, such as the Air Travel Consumer Report, Fly-Rights and the annual report on disability-related air travel complaints.
It also features easy-to-navigate links to all of the Department’s information for air travelers, as well as links to other agency web sites with useful material for air travelers. The public will also find it easier to obtain enforcement orders, rules and guidance pertaining to a wide array of subjects such as baggage, fare advertising, refunds, overbooking, disability and flight delays.
The website is also available in Spanish. An individual can access the Spanish website from the English site by simply clicking the word “Spanish” on the homepage.
“It is important that the growing number of Spanish speakers in our nation and flying on U.S. airlines have access to information about their rights as air travelers,” said Secretary LaHood.
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
“This updated web site is part of our ongoing effort to improve resources for consumers and ensure that airline passengers are treated fairly when they fly,” U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said. “We want to make it as easy as possible for consumers to find the information they need to make their air travel experience as smooth and hassle-free as possible.”
The improved site contains useful information about the Department’s complaint handling system for consumers who experience air travel service problems, including a web form that consumers can use to file a complaint with DOT about airline service.
The site also offers guidance regarding aviation rules and statutes, advice concerning airlines that have stopped operating or filed for bankruptcy protection, and travel tips and publications related to air travel, such as the Air Travel Consumer Report, Fly-Rights and the annual report on disability-related air travel complaints.
It also features easy-to-navigate links to all of the Department’s information for air travelers, as well as links to other agency web sites with useful material for air travelers. The public will also find it easier to obtain enforcement orders, rules and guidance pertaining to a wide array of subjects such as baggage, fare advertising, refunds, overbooking, disability and flight delays.
The website is also available in Spanish. An individual can access the Spanish website from the English site by simply clicking the word “Spanish” on the homepage.
“It is important that the growing number of Spanish speakers in our nation and flying on U.S. airlines have access to information about their rights as air travelers,” said Secretary LaHood.
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
Monday, January 18, 2010
New York City to Host Fifth Race of the 2010 Red Bull Air Race World Championship Season
NEW YORK, NY--(Marketwire - January 13, 2010) - The fifth race of the 2010 Red Bull Air Race World Championship season will be held, in partnership with NYC & Company, Jersey City, NJ and Liberty State Park, over the Hudson River June 19 and 20. In the Red Bull Air Race, fifteen of the world's best pilots race individually against the clock for the fastest time through an aerial race track made up of inflatable air gates. This year marks the sixth year of the Red Bull Air Race World Championship which will also land in nine cities including Abu Dhabi, UAE; Perth, Australia; and Lisbon, Portugal.
"New York City is known for its ability to draw some of the world's greatest, large-scale events each year, and we're always happy to welcome new and exciting sporting events that amplify its reputation as one of the most electrifying cities in the world," said NYC & Company CEO George Fertitta. "The Red Bull Air Race World Championship will -- without a doubt -- bring a new element of adventure to this city, and add to the incredible roster of events taking place here in 2010."
In 2009, the Red Bull Air Race was broadcast in over 180 countries reaching over 300 million viewers. The two-day spectator experience, coupled with the global television broadcast, will showcase New York as a premier sporting destination. The race in New York and Jersey City also represents an exciting opportunity to stimulate the local economy.
"Jersey City is fast becoming a premier destination to host major events, such as the All Points West concerts and the 2009 Barclays golf tournament," said Mayor Jerramiah T. Healy. "The Red Bull Air Race is a high-caliber event that provides international exposure and will bring millions of tourism dollars into our city. We are aggressively marketing Jersey City as a global brand and we are thrilled to have the world's most talented pilots compete above our Hudson River waterfront."
The Red Bull Air Race is different from all other motorsports in that it takes its race track with it wherever it goes around the world bringing the action to the spectator. To do this, it takes a logistics operation unparalleled in the sports business to transport 380 tons of infrastructure and race equipment including 15 light-weight, 24-foot wingspan race planes and the sport's own traveling air traffic control tower.
"Staging a Red Bull Air Race in New York City and Jersey City marks an important milestone in the history of the global motorsports championship and we feel privileged to be given this opportunity," said Bernd Loidl, CEO of the Red Bull Air Race. "We look forward to our partnership with both cities and providing spectators with an incredible experience as well as enabling millions of television viewers around the globe to watch the best race pilots compete against the spectacular skyline of some of the world's great cities."
Over the past five years, the Red Bull Air Race has held races in major metropolitans such as London, Rio de Janeiro, Barcelona, and in the U.S. in San Diego, Detroit, San Francisco, and Monument Valley, Utah. Of the fifteen race pilots from around the world, two are Americans, Kirby Chambliss from Arizona and Michael Goulian from Massachusetts. Each pilot operates a year-round race team including a technician and team coordinator. The end goal for each race team is to accumulate as many points throughout the season in a quest to achieve the prestigious honor of 2010 Red Bull Air Race World Champion.
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
Fototrips image of the day. January 18, 2010
Wine Truck- Okanagan, British Columbia
Photo by: Brad Edwards
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
Victoria during the Winter Games? Come over for a visit.
www.youtube.com/tourismvictoriabc
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
Thailand and Australia top choices for freezing Brits
Theodore Koumelis - Travel Daily News
Monday, January 18, 2010
Long-haul, tailor-made tour operator and retailer, Travelmood has named Thailand and Australia as the most popular destinations for customers booking their 2010 escapes during the first two weeks of its January holiday sale. The long-haul specialist, which has released thousands of holiday deals for 2010, with guaranteed savings of at least £50 and up to £2000 per holiday1 if booked by 31 January, believes that the recent cold snap has encouraged bookings to sunnier climes including the Far East, Middle East and Australia.
“January is always a busy booking period but we’re sure that the current spell of cold weather has lead our customers to yearn for a sunshine escape even more than they usually would at this time of year and this has helped put hot countries such as Thailand and Australia at the forefront of their minds,” says Rad Sofronijevic, managing director of Travelmood.
“In addition, with a lot of Britons not being able to make it into work, we imagine that many have had more time on their hands to spend thinking about getting away for a break, whether it’s to escape the cold and go somewhere hot now, or to book a holiday in the summer to look forward to.”
The bookings and enquiries Travelmood has been receiving are for holidays departing throughout the year. Thailand has been the most popular destination, closely followed by Australia. The third most popular destination has been Singapore, followed by Dubai, which is demonstrating remarkable resilience, and Malaysia.
Travelmood, which provides holidays to the Far East, Indian Ocean, Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean, Australia, New Zealand, the USA and Canada launched its 2010 holiday sale on 27 December 2009. The holiday deals hold significant discounts and “extrAValue” offers such as free room upgrades, board upgrades, nights, meals, excursions, spa treatments and other complimentary treats for customers who book by 31 January 2010. Deals are even available to holiday-makers before they set foot on the plane, for example customers who book a trip to the USA, flying with Continental Airlines will receive free car parking at Bristol Airport.2
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
Monday, January 18, 2010
Long-haul, tailor-made tour operator and retailer, Travelmood has named Thailand and Australia as the most popular destinations for customers booking their 2010 escapes during the first two weeks of its January holiday sale. The long-haul specialist, which has released thousands of holiday deals for 2010, with guaranteed savings of at least £50 and up to £2000 per holiday1 if booked by 31 January, believes that the recent cold snap has encouraged bookings to sunnier climes including the Far East, Middle East and Australia.
“January is always a busy booking period but we’re sure that the current spell of cold weather has lead our customers to yearn for a sunshine escape even more than they usually would at this time of year and this has helped put hot countries such as Thailand and Australia at the forefront of their minds,” says Rad Sofronijevic, managing director of Travelmood.
“In addition, with a lot of Britons not being able to make it into work, we imagine that many have had more time on their hands to spend thinking about getting away for a break, whether it’s to escape the cold and go somewhere hot now, or to book a holiday in the summer to look forward to.”
The bookings and enquiries Travelmood has been receiving are for holidays departing throughout the year. Thailand has been the most popular destination, closely followed by Australia. The third most popular destination has been Singapore, followed by Dubai, which is demonstrating remarkable resilience, and Malaysia.
Travelmood, which provides holidays to the Far East, Indian Ocean, Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean, Australia, New Zealand, the USA and Canada launched its 2010 holiday sale on 27 December 2009. The holiday deals hold significant discounts and “extrAValue” offers such as free room upgrades, board upgrades, nights, meals, excursions, spa treatments and other complimentary treats for customers who book by 31 January 2010. Deals are even available to holiday-makers before they set foot on the plane, for example customers who book a trip to the USA, flying with Continental Airlines will receive free car parking at Bristol Airport.2
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
Saturday, January 16, 2010
NOLA
Congrats New Orleans Saints on winning The NFC Division playoff.
See ya next week!
Sent from my iPhone
Friday, January 15, 2010
Update from Haiti: United Nations Foundation
WASHINGTON, DC--(Marketwire - January 15, 2010) - The United Nations Foundation's senior global health expert, Dr. Daniel Carucci, traveled to Haiti in the early morning to deliver medical supplies. Dr. Carucci has already met with United Nations staff and will continue to assess the situation on the ground to determine the best way to help the UN's emergency response. Dr. Carucci shared the following message with our staff while traveling.
"It was dark as we made our approach into Port-au-Prince. The Haitian aircraft controls had closed the airport to all aircrafts but made an exception for us to land. There was the normal scattering of individual lights from the houses on the hills leading into the capital and an occasional car's headlights on the roads. Mostly things seemed normal for a developing country at that time early in the morning. As we got closer, however, the extent of the damage became clear. There were concrete structures that were completely flattened and houses that were piles of rubble.
"We landed and I found a UN security officer who was transporting a small number of relief workers to the UN logistics office. He said many of his colleagues were missing and may have been killed. He seemed in a mild state of shock. There is no cell phone communication but he said they have satellite and internet. He seemed so happy to meet someone from the UN family that had come to help."
UN Foundation President Timothy E. Wirth said, "It is clear from these reports there is an urgent need for people everywhere to support the UN's efforts in Haiti. Donations today will have an impact on the lives of thousands of Haitians in the days and weeks to come."
To read more and to donate to the UN's Central Emergency Response Fund, visit: www.unfoundation.org/haiti.
Travel Images http://www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/
"It was dark as we made our approach into Port-au-Prince. The Haitian aircraft controls had closed the airport to all aircrafts but made an exception for us to land. There was the normal scattering of individual lights from the houses on the hills leading into the capital and an occasional car's headlights on the roads. Mostly things seemed normal for a developing country at that time early in the morning. As we got closer, however, the extent of the damage became clear. There were concrete structures that were completely flattened and houses that were piles of rubble.
"We landed and I found a UN security officer who was transporting a small number of relief workers to the UN logistics office. He said many of his colleagues were missing and may have been killed. He seemed in a mild state of shock. There is no cell phone communication but he said they have satellite and internet. He seemed so happy to meet someone from the UN family that had come to help."
UN Foundation President Timothy E. Wirth said, "It is clear from these reports there is an urgent need for people everywhere to support the UN's efforts in Haiti. Donations today will have an impact on the lives of thousands of Haitians in the days and weeks to come."
To read more and to donate to the UN's Central Emergency Response Fund, visit: www.unfoundation.org/haiti.
Travel Images http://www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/
Fototrip Image of the day - Reflecting back on 2009
Bald Eagle - Telegraph Cove, British Columbia
Photo by: Brad Edwards
Travel Images http://www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/
Photo by: Brad Edwards
Travel Advisory issued to US citizens travelling to Canada
BC Local News-The U.S. government is cautioning Americans coming here for the 2010 Winter Olympics that the Games could be magnet for terrorists.
The State Department travel advisory for the Vancouver Olympics outlines routine cross-border issues for Americans coming north – like not bringing guns due to Canada's tighter firearm laws – but also includes an Olympic security assessment.
While there have been "no specific, credible terrorist threats to the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Games," it says, international terrorist groups remain a threat at major public events.
"Al-Qaida's demonstrated capability to carry out sophisticated attacks against sizable structures – such as ships, large office buildings, embassies and hotels – makes it one of the greatest potential threats to the Olympics."
Extremists not directly controlled by al-Qaida could also strike, it notes, as happened in the 2004 Madrid train bombings and London transit system bombings in 2005.
U.S. visitors are also advised not to get caught up in local protests that could seek to disrupt the Olympics.
"Even peaceful events can turn violent," the U.S. advisory notes.
Olympic security is estimated to cost $900 million.
An estimated 7,000 police officers, 5,000 private security guards as well as Canadian Forces personnel will be deployed.
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
The State Department travel advisory for the Vancouver Olympics outlines routine cross-border issues for Americans coming north – like not bringing guns due to Canada's tighter firearm laws – but also includes an Olympic security assessment.
While there have been "no specific, credible terrorist threats to the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Games," it says, international terrorist groups remain a threat at major public events.
"Al-Qaida's demonstrated capability to carry out sophisticated attacks against sizable structures – such as ships, large office buildings, embassies and hotels – makes it one of the greatest potential threats to the Olympics."
Extremists not directly controlled by al-Qaida could also strike, it notes, as happened in the 2004 Madrid train bombings and London transit system bombings in 2005.
U.S. visitors are also advised not to get caught up in local protests that could seek to disrupt the Olympics.
"Even peaceful events can turn violent," the U.S. advisory notes.
Olympic security is estimated to cost $900 million.
An estimated 7,000 police officers, 5,000 private security guards as well as Canadian Forces personnel will be deployed.
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
66% favour airport body scanners says Skyscanner
Tatiana Rokou - Friday, January 15, 2010: Two thirds of travellers are in favour of plans to install body scanners in airports, according to the latest poll on travel search site Skyscanner. 66% voted that airport scanners were a good idea as they would speed up security checks and improve security, whilst 30% said that they disapproved, largely on health and privacy grounds. (4% gave other answers).Over 400 people voted in the poll, and the results clearly showed that most travellers were in favour of the scanners. Barry Smith, Skyscanner co-founder and business director commented: “As long as the machines are safe and any potential privacy issues can be solved, travellers are in favour of anything which will make flying safer and security checks faster. If it saves me from having to take my shoes off, empty my pockets and remove my belt, I’m all for them.”
The Skyscanner poll did reveal that some travellers had concerns over the safety of the scanning machines, specifically the health issues of being x-rayed. However, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) say the technology is harmless, and that the amount of radiation produced is minimal, equating to what a person would naturally receive in just two minutes of flying on an airplane.
Other respondents believed that the scanners would not increase passenger safety; Skyscanner user Vasco Sotomaior left a message on Skyscanner’s Facebook page explaining his reasons for being against the scanners: “There’s no use for them. The threat exists, but it is so little that it doesn’t justify them. The current measures are more than enough”.
Trials with the body scanners are already taking place in some airports and train stations across Europe and the US, including Manchester Airport in the UK. The technology blurs facial details ensuring that passengers cannot be recognised and images are viewed by staff in walled-off rooms where they cannot see travellers who are being checked.
Passengers who prefer not to be scanned will be able to opt for the traditional pat down check instead.
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Foto Trips and WSG Travel encourage you to help the people of Haiti.
Every dollar makes a difference and now if you give a donation to the Haiti Earthquake victims through World Vision, by February 12th, it will double in impact due to a generous contribution from the Canadian Government.
With an international response team flying in from around the globe to assist, our relief efforts are underway. World Vision Haiti is now distributing emergency supplies to families and children struggling to deal with this catastrophic disaster.
World Vision has been working in Haiti for over 30 years, helping an estimate 300,000 Haitians each year to overcome poverty through providing access to education, improved access to food and clean water and improved nutrition as well as helping families with improved medical care. Now, more than ever, your help is needed to help families in Haiti and let them know they are not alone in this emergency.
Click on this link to go directly to the page where you can make your contribution.
Travel Images http://www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/
Mild weather for the Olympics. Accuweather was, well, pretty Accurate.
We've been hearing alot recently about the lack of snow in the Vancouver area and the impact this could have on the Olympics. Word out this week is that local skill hills like Cypress Mountain have shut down earlier than expected for just that reason. Temperatures have been hovering in the city at 9-11 degrees celcius on a daily basis mixed with heavey rain and at times flood warnings across much of the east coast of Vancouver Island.
I thought this was interesting, as I was going back through our notes, the concern has been lingering for quite some time according to Accuweather. They said as early as September, the Olympics in Vancouver from Feb. 12 to 28 could face a lack of snow and cold weather this winter, with a possibility that a dry and mild pattern will develop very near to or during the time of the Olympics. Well, less than 30 days away... and this is quickly becoming a reality.
I thought this was interesting, as I was going back through our notes, the concern has been lingering for quite some time according to Accuweather. They said as early as September, the Olympics in Vancouver from Feb. 12 to 28 could face a lack of snow and cold weather this winter, with a possibility that a dry and mild pattern will develop very near to or during the time of the Olympics. Well, less than 30 days away... and this is quickly becoming a reality.
The prognosis is gloomy on the east coast, as they were predicting the stormiest and coldest U.S. winter in recent years, especially in parts of the giant Northeast heating oil market. That much has held true.
"The areas that will be hit hardest this winter by cold, snowy weather will be from southern New England through the Appalachians and mid-Atlantic, including the Carolinas," Bastardi said in his report.
Bastardi expects the current El Nino will fade over the winter, which will drive down temperatures and increase storm activity in parts of the United States.
New York, Boston and Philadelphia could get up to 75 per cent of their total snowfall in two or three big storms, according to Bastardi’s forecast.
Areas from Washington D.C. to Charlotte — which have had little snowfall the past two winters — could receive above-normal levels this season.El Nino, or "Christ child" in Spanish due to the phenomenon being noticed around Christmas off the coast of South America, is an abnormal warming of waters in the equatorial Pacific Ocean that can wreak havoc on weather patterns.
(pictured: Does this look like a picture taken from the land of the 2010 Winter Olympics? This could become a reality. This photo was taken during the last El Nino year on the West Coast. With current conditions persisting, we could be seeing this in mere weeks.)
AccuWeather.com’s call for a weakening El Nino came after Australia’s Bureau of Meteorology said earlier on Wednesday that central and eastern Pacific Ocean temperatures are exceeding El Nino levels.
The report said the temperatures will remain at levels typical of an El Nino weather event until early 2010.
In addition to colder weather along the northern eastern seaboard, AccuWeather forecast cold weather for major cities in the South, including Atlanta and Charlotte.
The Interstate 20 corridor from Dallas to Atlanta will be a strike zone for ice and snow, given the storm track and proximity to cold air, Bastardi’s forecast said. The Midwest and central plains could get below-normal snowfall.
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
Fototrip Image of the day - Reflecting back on 2009
Wine Country - The Naramata Bench, Okanagan British Columbia, Wine Fest 2009
Photo by: Brad Edwards
Travel Images http://www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/
Las Vegas, Mexico and Dominican Republic top travelers interest in 2010
Travel Daily News - January 14, 2010 With the new year upon us, TripAtlas.com, the world's largest online travel resource, is predicting Las Vegas, Mexico and Dominican Republic to be the most popular travel destinations for consumers in 2010, according to its Trend Tracker feature which polls customer interest from thousands of potential travelers that use the site regularly.
"Las Vegas will remain a top destination in 2010 due to the large number of hotel openings and cheap deals, including the recently built City Centre complex offering visitors a variety of new hotels, restaurants, night clubs and shopping options," explains Steven Kaufman, president and co-developer of TripAtlas.com. "Vegas is a perfect city for a long weekend getaway or a quick escape for those on the West Coast."
"Mexico and the Dominican Republic continue to remain popular due to the high number of all-inclusive resorts that provide tremendous value and appeal to families and couples seeking all their amenities in one location," said Kaufman.
"As the economic climate got tough in 2009, people tend to rely more on their families, and we notice that same effect in the travel industry. For instance, all-inclusives are ideal for taking a second honeymoon, celebrating a birthday or planning a family reunion."
TripAtlas.com also foresees a rise in vacations to Vancouver and Western Canada due to the Winter Olympics, and to South Africa for the FIFA World Cup this summer.
"Our Trend Tracker is one of the most unique features TripAtlas.com offers to travel agents and industry professionals. By understanding what destinations and products interest consumers, agents are able to promote vacation packages that appeal to travelers and generate business," said Travis Snelling, general manager and co-developer of TripAtlas.com.
TripAtlas PRO is a comprehensive online platform that lets travel professionals keep up with travel trends. At TripAtlas.com agents are able to track trends to gain valuable market insight and evaluate what consumers are currently buying at the moment.
TripAtlas.com enables travelers to contact TripAtlas PRO travel professionals through Trip Builder, an innovative travel planning tool allowing the consumer to request the exact trip they're interested in booking.
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
"Las Vegas will remain a top destination in 2010 due to the large number of hotel openings and cheap deals, including the recently built City Centre complex offering visitors a variety of new hotels, restaurants, night clubs and shopping options," explains Steven Kaufman, president and co-developer of TripAtlas.com. "Vegas is a perfect city for a long weekend getaway or a quick escape for those on the West Coast."
"Mexico and the Dominican Republic continue to remain popular due to the high number of all-inclusive resorts that provide tremendous value and appeal to families and couples seeking all their amenities in one location," said Kaufman.
"As the economic climate got tough in 2009, people tend to rely more on their families, and we notice that same effect in the travel industry. For instance, all-inclusives are ideal for taking a second honeymoon, celebrating a birthday or planning a family reunion."
TripAtlas.com also foresees a rise in vacations to Vancouver and Western Canada due to the Winter Olympics, and to South Africa for the FIFA World Cup this summer.
"Our Trend Tracker is one of the most unique features TripAtlas.com offers to travel agents and industry professionals. By understanding what destinations and products interest consumers, agents are able to promote vacation packages that appeal to travelers and generate business," said Travis Snelling, general manager and co-developer of TripAtlas.com.
TripAtlas PRO is a comprehensive online platform that lets travel professionals keep up with travel trends. At TripAtlas.com agents are able to track trends to gain valuable market insight and evaluate what consumers are currently buying at the moment.
TripAtlas.com enables travelers to contact TripAtlas PRO travel professionals through Trip Builder, an innovative travel planning tool allowing the consumer to request the exact trip they're interested in booking.
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
Consumers conduct research by searching for hotel websites, reviews and videos
Travel Daily News-Thursday, January 14, 2010-The study “The Traveler’s Road to Decision,” released by Google and OTX in 2009, provides valuable insight into online travel research and purchasing trends. Every area of travel was included in the study, including hotels, flights, business, leisure and more, with over 5,000 consumers, who traveled at least once during a six-month period, surveyed.
The research indicates that consumers plan on traveling just as much in 2010, as in 2008 and 2009. However, they’re still frugal with their travel plans, a trend that is carrying over. In 2010, consumers are more careful than ever with their money and likely to wait longer for better deals, which is why booking time has become increasingly closer to real travel dates. This is why it’s so important to closely monitor your competitions’ rates, and use e-mail marketing to promote VIP rate codes on great deals as early booking incentives.
Researching Earlier and Booking Later
Because the booking window has expanded out to just days before consumers’ actual travel, campaigns are delayed in producing results, which can be discouraging for hotel marketers. For the last few years now, the research to booking window has expanded, but the booking to travel timeframe has significantly decreased. While travelers are often holding out until the last minute for the best deals, thanks largely in part to the poor economy, Google’s tools indicate that it doesn’t mean hotel Internet marketing efforts are failing. Another study by Google supports this finding by showing that average research to booking time runs as far out as 18 weeks out, especially with leisure travelers.
Also impacted by the struggling economy, business travelers are more likely to search for cost-effective packages and more interested in joining rewards programs (roughly 80 percent are members of at least one rewards program). Where search marketers are dropping the ball, is by not providing the details of their rewards programs. Rather than just offering great promotions here and there, hotels need to communicate specific benefits about how their rewards programs help business travelers.
Using Search Engines and Reviews
Travelers conduct their travel research via the Internet more than any other source. Logically, these consumers are checking reviews before making reservations. According to the Google and OTX study, 41% make leisure travel plans and 50% make business travel plans according to the reviews they read. Taking it one step further, more consumers are now submitting their own reviews to share with others.
The study also found that slightly more travelers use general search engines, instead of travel search sites or online travel agencies, when planning trips. 64% of consumers surveyed use search engines for personal travel and 56% for business travel. The travel sites also fared well, but don’t have quite the traffic, with 52% using them for personal travel and 55% for business travel. Talking hotel specifics, 81% of business travelers depend on the search engines, compared to 67% of leisure travelers. Does your Website speak to the needs of business travelers? Does it emphasize the amenities and local attractions that leisure travelers seek?
Increasing Impact of Videos
With the YouTube phenomenon bringing forward online videos, so come travel videos and their significant influence on consumers’ travel decisions. As visual creatures, videos enable us to see the property, its amenities, surroundings, etc. Overall, people tend to give videos made by fellow travelers (rather than those created by the hotels) more credibility, relying on them to be more objective. According to the study, YouTube is the most used site for travel videos, with 81% looking there for business travel and 79% for personal travel. Yahoo was second with business at 44% and personal at 32%. At every step of travel research, consumers are turning to online videos to help them make decisions. When considering a trip, 63% watch videos for personal travel and 66% for business travel. And as much as consumers are creating reviews, they’re also starting to upload their own travel videos – personal at 6% and business at 16%. A picture is worth a thousand words, and online hotel videos can help your property capture more guests.
Today, learning more about consumers’ travel planning behavior is vital. With the trends of search engines, reviews and videos, your guests have more influence over the future success of your property than ever - all the more reason to keep them happy. Past guests will get the word out, and search will enable shoppers to find these reviews and videos. One key point here is making sure your Website’s search marketing is top notch, so that guests can do as much research as possible on your site. Another key point, and one that we’ve all heard before but now rings more true than ever - never underestimate the power of a satisfied guest.
Travel Images http://www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/
The research indicates that consumers plan on traveling just as much in 2010, as in 2008 and 2009. However, they’re still frugal with their travel plans, a trend that is carrying over. In 2010, consumers are more careful than ever with their money and likely to wait longer for better deals, which is why booking time has become increasingly closer to real travel dates. This is why it’s so important to closely monitor your competitions’ rates, and use e-mail marketing to promote VIP rate codes on great deals as early booking incentives.
Researching Earlier and Booking Later
Because the booking window has expanded out to just days before consumers’ actual travel, campaigns are delayed in producing results, which can be discouraging for hotel marketers. For the last few years now, the research to booking window has expanded, but the booking to travel timeframe has significantly decreased. While travelers are often holding out until the last minute for the best deals, thanks largely in part to the poor economy, Google’s tools indicate that it doesn’t mean hotel Internet marketing efforts are failing. Another study by Google supports this finding by showing that average research to booking time runs as far out as 18 weeks out, especially with leisure travelers.
Also impacted by the struggling economy, business travelers are more likely to search for cost-effective packages and more interested in joining rewards programs (roughly 80 percent are members of at least one rewards program). Where search marketers are dropping the ball, is by not providing the details of their rewards programs. Rather than just offering great promotions here and there, hotels need to communicate specific benefits about how their rewards programs help business travelers.
Using Search Engines and Reviews
Travelers conduct their travel research via the Internet more than any other source. Logically, these consumers are checking reviews before making reservations. According to the Google and OTX study, 41% make leisure travel plans and 50% make business travel plans according to the reviews they read. Taking it one step further, more consumers are now submitting their own reviews to share with others.
The study also found that slightly more travelers use general search engines, instead of travel search sites or online travel agencies, when planning trips. 64% of consumers surveyed use search engines for personal travel and 56% for business travel. The travel sites also fared well, but don’t have quite the traffic, with 52% using them for personal travel and 55% for business travel. Talking hotel specifics, 81% of business travelers depend on the search engines, compared to 67% of leisure travelers. Does your Website speak to the needs of business travelers? Does it emphasize the amenities and local attractions that leisure travelers seek?
Increasing Impact of Videos
With the YouTube phenomenon bringing forward online videos, so come travel videos and their significant influence on consumers’ travel decisions. As visual creatures, videos enable us to see the property, its amenities, surroundings, etc. Overall, people tend to give videos made by fellow travelers (rather than those created by the hotels) more credibility, relying on them to be more objective. According to the study, YouTube is the most used site for travel videos, with 81% looking there for business travel and 79% for personal travel. Yahoo was second with business at 44% and personal at 32%. At every step of travel research, consumers are turning to online videos to help them make decisions. When considering a trip, 63% watch videos for personal travel and 66% for business travel. And as much as consumers are creating reviews, they’re also starting to upload their own travel videos – personal at 6% and business at 16%. A picture is worth a thousand words, and online hotel videos can help your property capture more guests.
Today, learning more about consumers’ travel planning behavior is vital. With the trends of search engines, reviews and videos, your guests have more influence over the future success of your property than ever - all the more reason to keep them happy. Past guests will get the word out, and search will enable shoppers to find these reviews and videos. One key point here is making sure your Website’s search marketing is top notch, so that guests can do as much research as possible on your site. Another key point, and one that we’ve all heard before but now rings more true than ever - never underestimate the power of a satisfied guest.
Travel Images http://www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Today's 2009 Foto-reflection of the year that was.
Mardi Gras - 2009, New Orleans, Louisiana
Photo by: Brad Edwards
Travel Images http://www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/
Photo by: Brad Edwards
Travel Images http://www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/
Call for nominations for the 2010 World Travel Awards
Self nomination has now opened for the World Travel Awards 2010, with leading organisations invited to enter themselves in the most prestigious awards in the travel and tourism industry.
The World Travel Awards is described by the Wall Street Journal as the ‘Oscars’ of the global travel industry. It is aimed at recognising best practice within the industry, and encouraging organisations worldwide to raise the customer travel experience to new levels of excellence.
Being a nominee is a powerful way for top players to demonstrate to both the industry and the consumer that they have created a top-of-the-range travel product.
Applicants are invited to describe what distinguishes their organisation from the opposition, including the innovations and best practices that they feel are breaking new ground in travel. They are also encouraged to submit supporting material such as images, videos and power-point presentations.
Applicants can choose from 998 categories to nominate themselves. These are divided into regions and cover a wide spectrum of categories. Examples include “Europe’s Leading Hotel Brand”, “Asia’s Leading Airline”, “Middle East’s Leading Luxury Hotel”, “North America’s Leading Boutique Hotel” and “South America’s Leading Green Hotel”.
Graham Cooke, President and Founder, World Travel Awards, said: “We experienced a surge in the number of travel companies applying for nomination in 2009 because winning a World Travel Award is an excellent way to stand up and be counted at time when marketing budgets are tight. We expect a similar increase in 2010, especially as an ever growing number of travellers use the awards to assist them in making their holiday choices.”
“The World Travel Awards is a symbol of travel excellence guaranteed, and a gold seal to both the travel trade and the consumer that your brand stands in a class of its very own. More multinational companies than ever, ranging from Etihad Airways and TAP Portugal to InterContinental Hotels and Disney, are spearheading their global marketing campaigns with their World Travel Awards victories.”
The World Travel Awards 2010 nominations will be announced on the 10th March.
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
The World Travel Awards is described by the Wall Street Journal as the ‘Oscars’ of the global travel industry. It is aimed at recognising best practice within the industry, and encouraging organisations worldwide to raise the customer travel experience to new levels of excellence.
Being a nominee is a powerful way for top players to demonstrate to both the industry and the consumer that they have created a top-of-the-range travel product.
Applicants are invited to describe what distinguishes their organisation from the opposition, including the innovations and best practices that they feel are breaking new ground in travel. They are also encouraged to submit supporting material such as images, videos and power-point presentations.
Applicants can choose from 998 categories to nominate themselves. These are divided into regions and cover a wide spectrum of categories. Examples include “Europe’s Leading Hotel Brand”, “Asia’s Leading Airline”, “Middle East’s Leading Luxury Hotel”, “North America’s Leading Boutique Hotel” and “South America’s Leading Green Hotel”.
Graham Cooke, President and Founder, World Travel Awards, said: “We experienced a surge in the number of travel companies applying for nomination in 2009 because winning a World Travel Award is an excellent way to stand up and be counted at time when marketing budgets are tight. We expect a similar increase in 2010, especially as an ever growing number of travellers use the awards to assist them in making their holiday choices.”
“The World Travel Awards is a symbol of travel excellence guaranteed, and a gold seal to both the travel trade and the consumer that your brand stands in a class of its very own. More multinational companies than ever, ranging from Etihad Airways and TAP Portugal to InterContinental Hotels and Disney, are spearheading their global marketing campaigns with their World Travel Awards victories.”
The World Travel Awards 2010 nominations will be announced on the 10th March.
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
International visitation in the US up one percent in October 2009
The U.S. Department of Commerce announced that 4.0 million international visitors traveled to the United States in October 2009, an increase of one percent over October 2008. This is the first increase in arrivals since April 2009 and the first non-Easter increase since August 2008. However, for the first ten months of 2009, visitation was down seven percent compared to the same period in 2008. International visitors spent $10.3 billion in October 2009, 13 percent less than in October 2008. In the first ten months of 2009, visitors spent $100.9 billion, down nearly 16 percent from the same period in 2008.
Highlights
Top 20 Countries
In October 2009, of the top 20 countries, 13 posted increases in visitation to the United States. Visitation from six of the top 20 countries registered double-digit increases: Brazil; Australia; the People’s Republic of China and Hong Kong; South Korea; Venezuela; and Columbia.
International Arrivals to United States for October and Year-to-Date (YTD) 2009
- Visitation from Canada was down one percent in October and seven percent YTD.
- Arrivals from Mexico were up two percent for the month but down five percent YTD.
- Overseas arrivals (excluding Canada and Mexico) totaled 2.2 million for the month, up one percent over October 2008, and totaled 19.8 million YTD, down eight percent over 2008.
- Visitation from Western Europe decreased five percent in October and 11 percent YTD.
- Visitation from top Western European markets was mixed for the month of October 2009 as well as the first ten months of the year: United Kingdom, down eight percent for the month and down 15 percent YTD; Germany, up four percent for the month but down six percent YTD; France, down four percent for the month and down three percent YTD; Italy, up five percent for the month but down six percent YTD; the Netherlands, down eight percent for the month and down 11 percent YTD; Spain, up one percent for the month but down 11 percent YTD; Ireland, down 28 percent for the month and down 23 percent YTD; and Switzerland, up seven percent for the month and up three percent YTD. Eastern European arrivals decreased seven percent for the month and two percent YTD.
- Visitation from Asia increased two percent for the month but decreased 11 percent YTD. Arrivals from Japan decreased two percent for the month and 12 percent YTD; South Korea increased 11 percent for the month but decreased eight percent YTD; China increased 19 percent for the month and four percent YTD; and India grew 10 percent for the month but declined 10 percent YTD.
- Arrivals from South America increased 22 percent for the month and six percent YTD.
- Oceania visitation was up 24 percent in October and flat YTD.
Top Ports
For the first ten months of 2009, visitation through the top 15 ports of entry accounted for 84 percent of all overseas visits, almost two percentage points higher than last year. The top three ports (New York JFK, Miami, and Los Angeles) accounted for 39 percent of all overseas arrivals, up one percentage point from the first ten months of 2008. Miami, Orlando (MCO), Philadelphia and Fort Lauderdale are the only top ports that posted an increase in arrivals for the year.
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
Highlights
Top 20 Countries
In October 2009, of the top 20 countries, 13 posted increases in visitation to the United States. Visitation from six of the top 20 countries registered double-digit increases: Brazil; Australia; the People’s Republic of China and Hong Kong; South Korea; Venezuela; and Columbia.
International Arrivals to United States for October and Year-to-Date (YTD) 2009
- Visitation from Canada was down one percent in October and seven percent YTD.
- Arrivals from Mexico were up two percent for the month but down five percent YTD.
- Overseas arrivals (excluding Canada and Mexico) totaled 2.2 million for the month, up one percent over October 2008, and totaled 19.8 million YTD, down eight percent over 2008.
- Visitation from Western Europe decreased five percent in October and 11 percent YTD.
- Visitation from top Western European markets was mixed for the month of October 2009 as well as the first ten months of the year: United Kingdom, down eight percent for the month and down 15 percent YTD; Germany, up four percent for the month but down six percent YTD; France, down four percent for the month and down three percent YTD; Italy, up five percent for the month but down six percent YTD; the Netherlands, down eight percent for the month and down 11 percent YTD; Spain, up one percent for the month but down 11 percent YTD; Ireland, down 28 percent for the month and down 23 percent YTD; and Switzerland, up seven percent for the month and up three percent YTD. Eastern European arrivals decreased seven percent for the month and two percent YTD.
- Visitation from Asia increased two percent for the month but decreased 11 percent YTD. Arrivals from Japan decreased two percent for the month and 12 percent YTD; South Korea increased 11 percent for the month but decreased eight percent YTD; China increased 19 percent for the month and four percent YTD; and India grew 10 percent for the month but declined 10 percent YTD.
- Arrivals from South America increased 22 percent for the month and six percent YTD.
- Oceania visitation was up 24 percent in October and flat YTD.
Top Ports
For the first ten months of 2009, visitation through the top 15 ports of entry accounted for 84 percent of all overseas visits, almost two percentage points higher than last year. The top three ports (New York JFK, Miami, and Los Angeles) accounted for 39 percent of all overseas arrivals, up one percentage point from the first ten months of 2008. Miami, Orlando (MCO), Philadelphia and Fort Lauderdale are the only top ports that posted an increase in arrivals for the year.
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
SportHost Victoria and the The Scott Tournament of Hearts
Sport Host Victoria Executive Director Hugh MacDonald announced today that SportHost Victoria has produced an economic impact study on the Scotties Tournament of Hearts hosted in Victoria, February 21 – March 1, 2009.
Chris Atchison, Chair of the Scotties is pleased with the initiative shown by SportHost. “By measuring this national event, future organizers of any large scale sport event will have the leverage of measured numbers to assist their business case. We have said all along these major championships will impact the Victoria region and SportHost Victoria have solid numbers to back up our claims,” said Atchison.
“SportHost recognizes that very few studies have been done in relation to sport and the Scotties Curling Championships provided us with an excellent platform to showcase sport tourism,” said MacDonald. “We have gained a solid foundation on which we can compare events here in Victoria. Past studies have included the Victoria 2000 BC Summer Games, the Royal Victoria Marathon, the Pacific Cup Hockey Tournament, the Ford World Curling Championships, the U20 World Cup Soccer and the Times Colonist Open Golf Championship since the Greater Victoria Sport Tourism Partnership (SportHost) was launched in 2000 by Tourism Victoria and PacificSport.
The Scotties generated a total economic activity of $12,210,248 in Victoria. These totals resulted from $5,710,249 in combined operations, capital and visitors spending.
It is noted that this study focused entirely on direct spending. Direct spending triggered an additional $5 million in indirect activity generated by businesses supplying goods and services for the event and an additional $1.5 million induced effects generated in wages and salaries earned by persons directly and indirectly involved in the staging of the event.
“Sport Tourism is about economic development – creating jobs and benefit for the whole community,” says Hugh MacDonald, Executive Director of SportHost Victoria. “The results of this study drive home the true value of Events to the host community, both in total economic activity and in terms of GDP. The 2009 Scotties Tournament of Hearts Championship was a great event and has paved the way for more events in the future.
A copy of the full report is available form SportHost Victoria.
Contact Hugh MacDonald at: hmacdonald@sporthostvictoria.com (250) 744-5528
SportHost Victoria represents the community of Greater Victoria as a Sport Tourism destination with a mission to attracting sport related events, meetings, and conferences to Greater Victoria.
Travel Images http://www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/
Chris Atchison, Chair of the Scotties is pleased with the initiative shown by SportHost. “By measuring this national event, future organizers of any large scale sport event will have the leverage of measured numbers to assist their business case. We have said all along these major championships will impact the Victoria region and SportHost Victoria have solid numbers to back up our claims,” said Atchison.
“SportHost recognizes that very few studies have been done in relation to sport and the Scotties Curling Championships provided us with an excellent platform to showcase sport tourism,” said MacDonald. “We have gained a solid foundation on which we can compare events here in Victoria. Past studies have included the Victoria 2000 BC Summer Games, the Royal Victoria Marathon, the Pacific Cup Hockey Tournament, the Ford World Curling Championships, the U20 World Cup Soccer and the Times Colonist Open Golf Championship since the Greater Victoria Sport Tourism Partnership (SportHost) was launched in 2000 by Tourism Victoria and PacificSport.
The Scotties generated a total economic activity of $12,210,248 in Victoria. These totals resulted from $5,710,249 in combined operations, capital and visitors spending.
It is noted that this study focused entirely on direct spending. Direct spending triggered an additional $5 million in indirect activity generated by businesses supplying goods and services for the event and an additional $1.5 million induced effects generated in wages and salaries earned by persons directly and indirectly involved in the staging of the event.
“Sport Tourism is about economic development – creating jobs and benefit for the whole community,” says Hugh MacDonald, Executive Director of SportHost Victoria. “The results of this study drive home the true value of Events to the host community, both in total economic activity and in terms of GDP. The 2009 Scotties Tournament of Hearts Championship was a great event and has paved the way for more events in the future.
A copy of the full report is available form SportHost Victoria.
Contact Hugh MacDonald at: hmacdonald@sporthostvictoria.com (250) 744-5528
SportHost Victoria represents the community of Greater Victoria as a Sport Tourism destination with a mission to attracting sport related events, meetings, and conferences to Greater Victoria.
Travel Images http://www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Tourisme Montréal: the shift to 100% Web-based advertising yields positive results
Montréal, January 6, 2010 – Today Tourisme Montréal is releasing its year-end results on promotional strategies executed over the course of the year. The results are positive, in spite of the global economic crisis that affected the entire tourism industry in 2009.
Last April, Tourisme Montréal announced through a press release its intention to double its efforts to counter the economic morass and to attract to the city a market that destinations all over the world are competing for. At this year end, the Montréal promotional organization has cause to celebrate, as its efforts with respect to various markets have paid off.
1. Leisure market
In May of 2008, Tourisme Montréal unveiled its new Web platform, intended to provide a more tangible tourism experience and to enhance the positioning of Montréal as a destination based on various target markets.
Based on user-friendliness, interactivity and ability to enable onsite buying decisions, the new site is a reflection of how consumers' needs have turned more to the web as a tool for researching destinations, planning trips and getting the kind of authentic experiences they want out of their vacations.
In April 2009, Tourisme Montréal announced the start of a daring and innovative 100% web-based campaign , the goal of which was to satisfy the ever-increasingly pressing demands of the tourist market while facing the organization's budgetary restrictions caused by a bleak economy. There were two distinct components to this campaign. The first one, which showcased the popular Sweet Deal through the placement of advertising banners on several travel sites – to count on a captive market already in the process of choosing a destination – aimed at converting visits into sales. The optimization of this media strategy, in tandem with increasingly precise consumer targeting, resulted in a 51% rise in Sweet Deal conversions.
The second part of the campaign, “ Get the local buzz from Montréal Insiders ,” consisted of having Internet users discover the many faces of the city through five blogs, each one written by Montréal insiders who love their beat. The contents were made accessible through Tourisme Montréal's website, but were also disseminated through various social network sites such as Facebook, Twitter, Flickr, as well as You Tube and many other travel and lifestyle sites. Promotional offensives – particularly in Toronto and New York – were also launched in tandem. The “Get the local buzz from Montréal Insiders” campaign alone generated more than 360 articles posted on the Tourisme Montréal site, with 435 photos and 145 videos shown on the blogs. With 142 videos on You Tube and over external 700 links, comments and articles, journalists and bloggers generated as much as did our insiders. It's worth mentioning that one of the Montréal insiders, Tamy Emma Pépin , managed to bring to Montréal the much-celebrated creator of the successful Wine Library TV blog to promote his book Crush It. Tamy is one the most followed Quebecers on Twitter.
Figures recently compiled to measure the combined impact of these strategies indicate an 19.5% increase in unique visits to the Tourisme Montréal site.
2. Business market
The meeting and convention industry received a direct hit from the economic crisis, especially due to the major drop in travel. That's why Tourisme Montréal specifically targeted convention planners – with ads in trade magazines – to advertise an irresistible proposal: an exclusive financial offer to large multi-hotel associations. The challenge was great, as the market in this industry is less receptive to change than the tourism market. The creative approach must then be skilfully adjusted to pique their curiosity while meeting the specific needs of professionals. The strategy put forward by Tourisme Montréal was based on a traditional vehicle: a brochure, but also on a video aimed at generating conversational capital (the viral effect), a first for this kind of market.
The results show that out of 4,595 emails sent out, 1,584 recipients visited the site and viewed the financial-offer video representing an average of 34% of those targeted.
Comments gathered by Tourisme Montréal were extremely positive:
• “I just want you to know that the email and video was the most enjoyable, fun and creative communiqué from a CVB in years!” Mark H. Sklarow, Independent Educational Consultants Association.
• “That's very clever, thanks for sharing your promotion with me. I will send it to all of my 24 reps in my region.” Kristin House, ConferenceDirect ®
3. Awards
Since it went online in May 2008, the Tourisme Montréal website has earned several prestigious awards, but the print advertising created by Sid Lee, the organization's prominent agency, also won awards.
Last October, at the Meetings Industry Marketing Awards (MIMA ) ceremony organized by Meetings & Incentive Travel magazine, Tourisme Montréal won bronze in the Best Print Advertising Campaign category for its “ When We Say Host City We Mean It” print campaign. Tourisme Montréal was the only organization in North America to win such a prize, which recognizes excellence in service within the industry.
A few months earlier in May, the Tourisme Montréal website won the prestigious Webby Award , tourism category. For the past thirteen years the Webby Awards have been recognizing excellence in website content, which includes current consumption products, sports, science and education, and in more than 70 distinct categories.
On April 8, the Grand Prix Créa 2009 , promotional website category, was awarded to Tourisme Montréal for excellence in its artistic advertising.
Last, Tourisme Montréal is proud of its growing popularity as a destination of international stature, as witnessed recently by the Australian website, Lonely Planet. It recently revealed its list of The ten happiest places on Earth , with Montréal taking tenth place, right after the town of Happy , Texas . Montréal also earned, in June, the title “ One of the five greenest cities in the world ,” from TreeHugger.com, a website known for its reliability in disseminating “green” news.
Travel Images http://www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/
Last April, Tourisme Montréal announced through a press release its intention to double its efforts to counter the economic morass and to attract to the city a market that destinations all over the world are competing for. At this year end, the Montréal promotional organization has cause to celebrate, as its efforts with respect to various markets have paid off.
1. Leisure market
In May of 2008, Tourisme Montréal unveiled its new Web platform, intended to provide a more tangible tourism experience and to enhance the positioning of Montréal as a destination based on various target markets.
Based on user-friendliness, interactivity and ability to enable onsite buying decisions, the new site is a reflection of how consumers' needs have turned more to the web as a tool for researching destinations, planning trips and getting the kind of authentic experiences they want out of their vacations.
In April 2009, Tourisme Montréal announced the start of a daring and innovative 100% web-based campaign , the goal of which was to satisfy the ever-increasingly pressing demands of the tourist market while facing the organization's budgetary restrictions caused by a bleak economy. There were two distinct components to this campaign. The first one, which showcased the popular Sweet Deal through the placement of advertising banners on several travel sites – to count on a captive market already in the process of choosing a destination – aimed at converting visits into sales. The optimization of this media strategy, in tandem with increasingly precise consumer targeting, resulted in a 51% rise in Sweet Deal conversions.
The second part of the campaign, “ Get the local buzz from Montréal Insiders ,” consisted of having Internet users discover the many faces of the city through five blogs, each one written by Montréal insiders who love their beat. The contents were made accessible through Tourisme Montréal's website, but were also disseminated through various social network sites such as Facebook, Twitter, Flickr, as well as You Tube and many other travel and lifestyle sites. Promotional offensives – particularly in Toronto and New York – were also launched in tandem. The “Get the local buzz from Montréal Insiders” campaign alone generated more than 360 articles posted on the Tourisme Montréal site, with 435 photos and 145 videos shown on the blogs. With 142 videos on You Tube and over external 700 links, comments and articles, journalists and bloggers generated as much as did our insiders. It's worth mentioning that one of the Montréal insiders, Tamy Emma Pépin , managed to bring to Montréal the much-celebrated creator of the successful Wine Library TV blog to promote his book Crush It. Tamy is one the most followed Quebecers on Twitter.
Figures recently compiled to measure the combined impact of these strategies indicate an 19.5% increase in unique visits to the Tourisme Montréal site.
2. Business market
The meeting and convention industry received a direct hit from the economic crisis, especially due to the major drop in travel. That's why Tourisme Montréal specifically targeted convention planners – with ads in trade magazines – to advertise an irresistible proposal: an exclusive financial offer to large multi-hotel associations. The challenge was great, as the market in this industry is less receptive to change than the tourism market. The creative approach must then be skilfully adjusted to pique their curiosity while meeting the specific needs of professionals. The strategy put forward by Tourisme Montréal was based on a traditional vehicle: a brochure, but also on a video aimed at generating conversational capital (the viral effect), a first for this kind of market.
The results show that out of 4,595 emails sent out, 1,584 recipients visited the site and viewed the financial-offer video representing an average of 34% of those targeted.
Comments gathered by Tourisme Montréal were extremely positive:
• “I just want you to know that the email and video was the most enjoyable, fun and creative communiqué from a CVB in years!” Mark H. Sklarow, Independent Educational Consultants Association.
• “That's very clever, thanks for sharing your promotion with me. I will send it to all of my 24 reps in my region.” Kristin House, ConferenceDirect ®
3. Awards
Since it went online in May 2008, the Tourisme Montréal website has earned several prestigious awards, but the print advertising created by Sid Lee, the organization's prominent agency, also won awards.
Last October, at the Meetings Industry Marketing Awards (MIMA ) ceremony organized by Meetings & Incentive Travel magazine, Tourisme Montréal won bronze in the Best Print Advertising Campaign category for its “ When We Say Host City We Mean It” print campaign. Tourisme Montréal was the only organization in North America to win such a prize, which recognizes excellence in service within the industry.
A few months earlier in May, the Tourisme Montréal website won the prestigious Webby Award , tourism category. For the past thirteen years the Webby Awards have been recognizing excellence in website content, which includes current consumption products, sports, science and education, and in more than 70 distinct categories.
On April 8, the Grand Prix Créa 2009 , promotional website category, was awarded to Tourisme Montréal for excellence in its artistic advertising.
Last, Tourisme Montréal is proud of its growing popularity as a destination of international stature, as witnessed recently by the Australian website, Lonely Planet. It recently revealed its list of The ten happiest places on Earth , with Montréal taking tenth place, right after the town of Happy , Texas . Montréal also earned, in June, the title “ One of the five greenest cities in the world ,” from TreeHugger.com, a website known for its reliability in disseminating “green” news.
Travel Images http://www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/
New App for Iphone offers valuable information for back country hiking
VANCOUVER, Jan. 12 /CNW/ - Mountain Equipment Co-op(TM) (MEC), Canada's leading outdoor retailer, and the Canadian Avalanche Centre (CAC), Canada's national public avalanche safety organization, have deepened their longstanding partnership by developing a new software application - or app - that enables iPhone users to obtain detailed and regionally specific avalanche information.
Available free of charge, the avalanche app provides users with a similar experience and the same depth and breadth of information as is available through the CAC's website.
The application was conceived and financed by MEC, which contracted a local digital agency, Idea Rebel, to design and develop the app. The CAC provided technical assistance to the project.
"As an outdoor retailer, supporting the CAC and the app's development go hand-in-hand with MEC selling technically advanced avalanche gear," said George Weetman, MEC's web marketing manager. "Promoting avalanche awareness and safety is an example of MEC's ethic of corporate social responsibility."
"MEC has long been one of our most loyal and generous sponsors," said CAC Executive Director Ian Tomm. "This app is yet another example of MEC's creative and innovative approach to helping us do our work in public avalanche safety. We are deeply grateful for their support."
The app provides avalanche bulletins, weather forecasts, incident reports and realtime weather for seven avalanche-prone regions of British Columbia as well as links to similar information for national and provincial mountain parks in BC, Alberta and Quebec.
MEC is Canada's leading retailer of outdoor clothing and equipment, providing quality products and services for activities like hiking, cycling, and snowsports. Established in 1971, MEC operates 13 destination stores in central locations across Canada as well as mail and web-order services. More information about MEC is available at www.mec.ca.
The CAC is a non-government, not for profit organization dedicated to public avalanche safety. The CAC was established in 2004 with the support and collaboration of federal, provincial and private sector agencies involved in avalanche safety. More information about the CAC is available at www.avalanche.ca.
For further information: Tim Southam, Public Affairs Manager, (604) 707-4480 (direct), (604) 561-4528 (mobile), tsoutham@mec.ca; Canadian Avalanche Centre, (250) 837-2141, info@avalanche.ca
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
Available free of charge, the avalanche app provides users with a similar experience and the same depth and breadth of information as is available through the CAC's website.
The application was conceived and financed by MEC, which contracted a local digital agency, Idea Rebel, to design and develop the app. The CAC provided technical assistance to the project.
"As an outdoor retailer, supporting the CAC and the app's development go hand-in-hand with MEC selling technically advanced avalanche gear," said George Weetman, MEC's web marketing manager. "Promoting avalanche awareness and safety is an example of MEC's ethic of corporate social responsibility."
"MEC has long been one of our most loyal and generous sponsors," said CAC Executive Director Ian Tomm. "This app is yet another example of MEC's creative and innovative approach to helping us do our work in public avalanche safety. We are deeply grateful for their support."
The app provides avalanche bulletins, weather forecasts, incident reports and realtime weather for seven avalanche-prone regions of British Columbia as well as links to similar information for national and provincial mountain parks in BC, Alberta and Quebec.
MEC is Canada's leading retailer of outdoor clothing and equipment, providing quality products and services for activities like hiking, cycling, and snowsports. Established in 1971, MEC operates 13 destination stores in central locations across Canada as well as mail and web-order services. More information about MEC is available at www.mec.ca.
The CAC is a non-government, not for profit organization dedicated to public avalanche safety. The CAC was established in 2004 with the support and collaboration of federal, provincial and private sector agencies involved in avalanche safety. More information about the CAC is available at www.avalanche.ca.
For further information: Tim Southam, Public Affairs Manager, (604) 707-4480 (direct), (604) 561-4528 (mobile), tsoutham@mec.ca; Canadian Avalanche Centre, (250) 837-2141, info@avalanche.ca
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
PREMIER'S STATEMENT ON ONE-MONTH OLYMPIC COUNTDOWN
VANCOUVER - Premier Gordon Campbell issued the following statement to mark the one-month countdown to the 2010 Olympic Winter Games on January 12.
"We're just a month away from an unprecedented moment in the history of our province, as the Olympic Flame arrives at BC Place Stadium and our children and grandchildren get the chance see a Canadian athlete win Olympic gold at home for the first time ever. "Together we will welcome thousands of athletes, hundreds of thousands of visitors, and billions of television viewers to see our communities, experience our culture, and learn firsthand why this province is such an incredible place to visit, to live, and to raise a family. "These Games are occurring at the perfect time for our communities, our people and our economy. The entire world will see the opportunities for tourism, trade and investment that exist here in Canada's Pacific Gateway. We'll leverage the worldwide exposure B.C. will receive from the
Olympics to create new opportunities, new growth and new jobs as we lead Canada forward into 2010 and beyond. "It's only one month away from when British Columbians will have the experience of a lifetime. Together we'll proudly showcase our province to the world during the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games."
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
"We're just a month away from an unprecedented moment in the history of our province, as the Olympic Flame arrives at BC Place Stadium and our children and grandchildren get the chance see a Canadian athlete win Olympic gold at home for the first time ever. "Together we will welcome thousands of athletes, hundreds of thousands of visitors, and billions of television viewers to see our communities, experience our culture, and learn firsthand why this province is such an incredible place to visit, to live, and to raise a family. "These Games are occurring at the perfect time for our communities, our people and our economy. The entire world will see the opportunities for tourism, trade and investment that exist here in Canada's Pacific Gateway. We'll leverage the worldwide exposure B.C. will receive from the
Olympics to create new opportunities, new growth and new jobs as we lead Canada forward into 2010 and beyond. "It's only one month away from when British Columbians will have the experience of a lifetime. Together we'll proudly showcase our province to the world during the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games."
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
Monday, January 11, 2010
More than just the Olympics: The Road to Whistler and beyond, British Columbia
In our continuing series, "There's More To BC Than the Olympic Games", we take a look at what to do when you are in Whistler this Spring and Summer and what lies beyond Highway 99 North. As we mentioned previously in our first post on this topic, we get cluttered with information on the Olympics and loose track of what made Whistler what it is today. There is so much to see and do. This is your guide.
Whistler Air Float Plane Tours
Experience the glaciers and mountain tops from a completely different vantage point. From the air! For 30 minutes, you will be on top of the world. Whistler Air is located adjacent to the Nicklaus North Golf Course and just minutes away from your campground. Flights are daily during the late spring through late summer. The cost at time of printing was $135 for adults and $68 for children under 11years of age. This is a very popular tour, so booking ahead is recommended. Contact: (604) 932 6615. www.whistlerair.ca
Hummer Tours
Let’s face it, some things you just can’t see from Whistler Village or the RV Park. Take a 2 and a half hour tour to the top of the mountain in a hummer. These tours include hiking. $109 per adult and $79 per youth 9-14 years of age. You can reserve your mountain excursion by calling 1-250-932-0647.
Zip Trek Bear Tour
This is the original tour and the one that made these people famous with five incredible ziplines joined by a network of suspension bridges, boardwalks and trails. Stunning aerial vistas over Fitzsimons Creek complete your eco-adventure. This tour is perfect for families, groups, and those who have never ziplined before. Contact : 1-866-935-0001. Email webres@ziptrek.com.
Tree Trek Tour
Explore Whistler from a Bird’s eye view. Discover secrets of the ancient rainforest. Educational, adventurous, exciting. Tree Trek is a fully guided ecology tour. Contact: 1-866-935-0001 Email webres@ziptrek.com
Bear Viewing
Experience wildlife, glaciers and the vast coastal hemlock-cedar forests of Whistler Blackcomb as you learn about the importance of conservation and the measures we are taking to help sustain healthy populations. Sheltered amongst the deep old growth forest, you can visit active bear dens, daybed and feeding sites. Let our guides Michael Allen, a self taught black bear researcher with 19 years of experience and Arthur DeJong, the Whistler Blackcomb Mountain Planning and Environmental Resource Manager take you on a unforgettable unique adventure. Contact: 1-888-882-8858 or by email reservations@enjoywhistler.com
Mountain Biking
Variety and magnificent mountain vistas make Whistler a destination "must" for cyclists. Here you can cycle terrain to fit all levels of experience, ambitions and energy: glide along lakeside paths, sail through coastal forest or fly down mountain trails, dropping 1,219 m (4,000 ft) in minutes. Bikes can be rented from a number of shops including The Whistler Bike Company 101-4205 Village Square.
Today, the highway will take you further back into the Coast mountains to Pemberton, through the Mount Currie Reserve of the Lil’wat group of the Stl’atl’lmx Nation, one of the many small native reserves, and then you will climb into the sky, or so it will seem, on the Duffy Lake Road (Hwy 99). This will eventually get you to the other side of the mountains, out of the coastal vegetation into the arid climate characterized by deep canyons and the search for gold.
Mount Currie: the Whistler Valley was an isolated wilderness frequented only by the Lil’wat Nation from the Mount Currie area and the Squamish Nation who lived in an area stretching from present day North Vancouver to the Squamish river watershed and the northern area of Howe Sound (Gibson’s Landing).
Joffrey Lakes: It is well worth to stop at the signage and walk into Joffrey Lakes. It’s often a beautiful spot.
Duffy Lake: The lake is on the highest point of the traverse through the Coast Mountains. The lake is visible from along the highway. It is along this stretch where you get a bit of a break from the twisting and turning and then start the long decent into Lillooet.
Lillooet: The town of Lillooet has a population of only 2,800. The population includes three large bands of the St'at'imc or Lillooet Nation whose reserves abut the town on all sides, and another three large reserves within 32 km (20 miiles). Historical populations have included large numbers of Americans and Chinese, although there are few of either today (there are many long time local families, First Nations and non-First Nations, have some bloodlines from both). The town's non-native population has been historically multi-ethnic in extraction, with a relatively high-rate of intermarriage between all groups.
POINTS OF INTEREST IN THE LILLOOET AREA: (Information courtesy District Lillooet)
The Visitor Centre is situated in downtown Lillooet at St. Mary the Virgin, a former Anglican church. The original St. Mary's, which was torn down in 1960, stood on the same spot and arrived on the backs of miners and their mules, who carried the timber, piece by piece over the rugged Harrison-Lillooet trail in 1860. Hours of operation are 9:00 to 4:30 May until the end of June and until 6:00 throughout most of the summer. For more information contact: Phone 250.256.4308 Admission is Free.
The Mile '0' Cairn
The Mile '0' Cairn was erected in 1939, marking Mile '0' of the old Cariboo Road. From this point in the early stage coach days, all road houses and stopping places from here to Barkerville were known by there mileage from Lillooet - 70 Mile, 100 Mile, and so on.
The Chinese Rocks
On both sides of the Fraser River at Lillooet one can find "Chinese Rocks" - a reminder of the search for gold by Chinese people before the turn of the century. Washing the sand and gravel for the elusive yellow metal, the Chinese neatly piled the washed rocks, in some places more than 12 feet high, in long rows. Close to the Hangman's Tree one can find an example. Others are just downstream from the Old Suspension Bridge and on the east side of the Fraser.
Begbie’s Hangman Tree
This old Ponderosa Pine tree is located on the bench above Main Street. Turn left at the United Church and head up the hill. "Hang" a right at the first road you come to, and there, on your left in the park above the road, is the tree. It was used as a gallows for the administration of justice more than 100 years ago, when the law in these parts was Sir Matthew Baillie Begbie.
Seton Lake
Located just west of Lillooet off Highway 99, offering up an incredible view and picnic area.
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
Whistler Air Float Plane Tours
Experience the glaciers and mountain tops from a completely different vantage point. From the air! For 30 minutes, you will be on top of the world. Whistler Air is located adjacent to the Nicklaus North Golf Course and just minutes away from your campground. Flights are daily during the late spring through late summer. The cost at time of printing was $135 for adults and $68 for children under 11years of age. This is a very popular tour, so booking ahead is recommended. Contact: (604) 932 6615. www.whistlerair.ca
Hummer Tours
Let’s face it, some things you just can’t see from Whistler Village or the RV Park. Take a 2 and a half hour tour to the top of the mountain in a hummer. These tours include hiking. $109 per adult and $79 per youth 9-14 years of age. You can reserve your mountain excursion by calling 1-250-932-0647.
Zip Trek Bear Tour
This is the original tour and the one that made these people famous with five incredible ziplines joined by a network of suspension bridges, boardwalks and trails. Stunning aerial vistas over Fitzsimons Creek complete your eco-adventure. This tour is perfect for families, groups, and those who have never ziplined before. Contact : 1-866-935-0001. Email webres@ziptrek.com.
Tree Trek Tour
Explore Whistler from a Bird’s eye view. Discover secrets of the ancient rainforest. Educational, adventurous, exciting. Tree Trek is a fully guided ecology tour. Contact: 1-866-935-0001 Email webres@ziptrek.com
Bear Viewing
Experience wildlife, glaciers and the vast coastal hemlock-cedar forests of Whistler Blackcomb as you learn about the importance of conservation and the measures we are taking to help sustain healthy populations. Sheltered amongst the deep old growth forest, you can visit active bear dens, daybed and feeding sites. Let our guides Michael Allen, a self taught black bear researcher with 19 years of experience and Arthur DeJong, the Whistler Blackcomb Mountain Planning and Environmental Resource Manager take you on a unforgettable unique adventure. Contact: 1-888-882-8858 or by email reservations@enjoywhistler.com
Mountain Biking
Variety and magnificent mountain vistas make Whistler a destination "must" for cyclists. Here you can cycle terrain to fit all levels of experience, ambitions and energy: glide along lakeside paths, sail through coastal forest or fly down mountain trails, dropping 1,219 m (4,000 ft) in minutes. Bikes can be rented from a number of shops including The Whistler Bike Company 101-4205 Village Square.
Today, the highway will take you further back into the Coast mountains to Pemberton, through the Mount Currie Reserve of the Lil’wat group of the Stl’atl’lmx Nation, one of the many small native reserves, and then you will climb into the sky, or so it will seem, on the Duffy Lake Road (Hwy 99). This will eventually get you to the other side of the mountains, out of the coastal vegetation into the arid climate characterized by deep canyons and the search for gold.
Mount Currie: the Whistler Valley was an isolated wilderness frequented only by the Lil’wat Nation from the Mount Currie area and the Squamish Nation who lived in an area stretching from present day North Vancouver to the Squamish river watershed and the northern area of Howe Sound (Gibson’s Landing).
Joffrey Lakes: It is well worth to stop at the signage and walk into Joffrey Lakes. It’s often a beautiful spot.
Duffy Lake: The lake is on the highest point of the traverse through the Coast Mountains. The lake is visible from along the highway. It is along this stretch where you get a bit of a break from the twisting and turning and then start the long decent into Lillooet.
Lillooet: The town of Lillooet has a population of only 2,800. The population includes three large bands of the St'at'imc or Lillooet Nation whose reserves abut the town on all sides, and another three large reserves within 32 km (20 miiles). Historical populations have included large numbers of Americans and Chinese, although there are few of either today (there are many long time local families, First Nations and non-First Nations, have some bloodlines from both). The town's non-native population has been historically multi-ethnic in extraction, with a relatively high-rate of intermarriage between all groups.
POINTS OF INTEREST IN THE LILLOOET AREA: (Information courtesy District Lillooet)
The Visitor Centre is situated in downtown Lillooet at St. Mary the Virgin, a former Anglican church. The original St. Mary's, which was torn down in 1960, stood on the same spot and arrived on the backs of miners and their mules, who carried the timber, piece by piece over the rugged Harrison-Lillooet trail in 1860. Hours of operation are 9:00 to 4:30 May until the end of June and until 6:00 throughout most of the summer. For more information contact: Phone 250.256.4308 Admission is Free.
The Mile '0' Cairn
The Mile '0' Cairn was erected in 1939, marking Mile '0' of the old Cariboo Road. From this point in the early stage coach days, all road houses and stopping places from here to Barkerville were known by there mileage from Lillooet - 70 Mile, 100 Mile, and so on.
The Chinese Rocks
On both sides of the Fraser River at Lillooet one can find "Chinese Rocks" - a reminder of the search for gold by Chinese people before the turn of the century. Washing the sand and gravel for the elusive yellow metal, the Chinese neatly piled the washed rocks, in some places more than 12 feet high, in long rows. Close to the Hangman's Tree one can find an example. Others are just downstream from the Old Suspension Bridge and on the east side of the Fraser.
Begbie’s Hangman Tree
This old Ponderosa Pine tree is located on the bench above Main Street. Turn left at the United Church and head up the hill. "Hang" a right at the first road you come to, and there, on your left in the park above the road, is the tree. It was used as a gallows for the administration of justice more than 100 years ago, when the law in these parts was Sir Matthew Baillie Begbie.
Seton Lake
Located just west of Lillooet off Highway 99, offering up an incredible view and picnic area.
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
AAA Hawaii: 2010 AAA Four Diamond Awards Announced
Orchids restaurant in the Halekulani, Oahu, and The Hyatt Regency Maui, Lahaina, Maui, each received its 15th consecutive AAA Four Diamond Award rating, AAA Hawaii also announced.
Pahui'a restaurant in the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai and JW Marriott Ihilani Resort & Spa, Kapolei Oahu each received their 10th AAA Four Diamond Award rating.
"The AAA Diamond rating system remains an objective and consistent method to measure upscale dining establishments and lodgings which AAA members rely upon," said AAA Hawaii Acting Branch Manager Chris Olvera. "We congratulate these hospitality professionals who offer high caliber service, hospitality and care to their guests in accommodations that are beautiful, clean and comfortable."
More than 51 million AAA members and the public depend on the hotel and restaurant Diamond ratings in the AAA TourBook® to help them with their travel decisions. The award signifies that a hotel or restaurant met AAA's objective rating criteria and levels of excellence during an unannounced inspection. Area lodgings and restaurants that received the 2010 AAA Four Diamond Award, a listing in the AAA TourBook® and the consecutive years they received the award are:
RESTAURANTS:
Big Island
Kaupulehu: Pahui'a (in Four Seasons Resort Hualalai ), 10
Kohala Coast: Hualalai Grille (in Four Season Hualalai), 5
RESTAURANTS:
Maui:
Hana: Ka'uiki Dining Room, 2
Kihei: Sarento's on the Beach, 7
Kapalua: The Banyan Tree (in the Ritz Carlton Kapalua), 8
Lanai: Dining Room in The Four Seasons, 2
Poipu: Dondero's, 2
Oahu:
Honolulu: Bali By The Sea (in Honolulu Hawaiian Village), 21
Hoku's (in The Kahala Resort), 8
Orchids (in Halekulani), 15
Tokyo Tokyo Restaurant, 4
Kapolei: Azul (in the JW Marriott Resort), 14
LODGINGS:
Big Island:
Kohala Coast/Kamuela: Mauna Lani Bay Hotel & Bungalows, 11
The Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii, 19
Kauai:
Poipu: Grand Hyatt Regency Kauai Resort, 19
Lanai: Four Seasons Resort Lanai at Manele Bay, 3
Four Seasons Resort Lanai, The Lodge at Koele, 2
Maui
Hana: Hotel Hana Maui and Honua Spa, 7
Kaanapali: The Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa, 15
Wailea: Grand Wailea, 11
The Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui, 8
Wailea Beach Marriott Resort & Spa, 2
Oahu
Honolulu: Halekulani, 9
Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort & Spa, 2
The Kahala Hotel & Resorts, 4
Kapolei: JW Marriott Ihilani Resort & Spa at Ko' Olina, 10
AAA's Diamond rating program is the only hotel and restaurant review system in the nation that uses specially trained full-time field representatives using objective and detailed rating procedures.
Lodging inspections include at least one unannounced inspection each year. Inspectors review and rate exterior, grounds and public areas, room décor, ambiance and amenities, guest room, bathrooms, housekeeping and maintenance, management and staff and guest services. Once the inspection process is complete, properties that meet all requirements receive a rating of one to five Diamonds.
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
Rosewood to manage legendary Vancouver Hotel
Rosewood Hotels & Resorts is pleased to announce that it has been chosen by Delta Group to manage the legendary Hotel Georgia in Vancouver, Canada. Now known as Rosewood Hotel Georgia, the property is currently undergoing a full restoration and is scheduled to reopen early 2011.
The opening of Rosewood Hotel Georgia will return Vancouver's most historic hotel to its place as one of the select hotels of the world.
The property will feature 154 guest rooms, including large suites, and a separate 48-storey residential tower to be completed in 2012. The hotel will also feature Sense, A Rosewood SpaTM, a fitness center, indoor swimming pool, a nightclub and Hawksworth Restaurant.
Owned and operated by renowned Chef David Hawksworth, the restaurant will feature a menu reflecting regional, seasonal ingredients with a uniquely Vancouver-Asian twist. The nightclub inside Rosewood Hotel Georgia will be built on the rich history of the hotel and will feature top musical entertainment in an intimate, sophisticated setting.
First opened in 1927, the Rosewood Hotel Georgia, came to be known as Vancouver's most historic and elegant hotel. The Georgian Revival structure welcomed the who's who of the entertainment world, including Elvis Presley, Nat "King" Cole, Katherine Hepburn and British Royalty. It was once and will be again, the premier destination for those seeking the ultimate in hotel accommodation.
Rosewood Hotel Georgia complements the Rosewood portfolio of great properties, which includes some of North America's most historic properties, including Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek, The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel, and San Ysidro Ranch, A Rosewood Resort. The Rosewood Hotel Georgia joins King Pacific Lodge, A Rosewood Resort in British Columbia as Rosewood's second Canadian property and is a Vancouver landmark; a treasured asset of the city that will once again be a revered destination when it reopens.
"Vancouver is a vibrant city and Rosewood is delighted to now have a hotel in the heart of this wonderful international gateway city," said John M. Scott III, Rosewood CEO. "As we commemorate the 30th anniversary of Rosewood Hotels & Resorts this year, I can think of no better way to celebrate than to expand into this beautiful city with this spectacularly restored historic hotel." Bruce Langereis, President of Delta Land Development is equally pleased with the arrangement. "Vancouver's historic Hotel Georgia is in the very good hands of Rosewood Hotels & Resorts which respects the history and significance this hotel holds in the hearts of Vancouverites. I know they will be excellent custodians of the hotel."
Interior design for Rosewood Hotel Georgia is led by Toronto-based Munge Leung, an award-winning design firm known for exceptional hospitality design. The primary inspiration for the design is to revive the hotel's glamour and elegance. "This hotel doesn't belong to us as designers," firm principal Alessandro Munge states, "it belongs to the people of Vancouver." Munge commends Delta Land Development and Rosewood for their shared vision of and commitment to the historically accurate and reverential restoration of the hotel. The lobby will once again be a rich vision of dark woods, rich gold and deep reds, while guest rooms will be softly enrobed in light blues, ivory and chocolate brown. The public spaces of the hotel, including the second floor ballroom will be Vancouver's finest, with cornices and moldings recreated with modern materials and fine details original to the space.
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
The opening of Rosewood Hotel Georgia will return Vancouver's most historic hotel to its place as one of the select hotels of the world.
The property will feature 154 guest rooms, including large suites, and a separate 48-storey residential tower to be completed in 2012. The hotel will also feature Sense, A Rosewood SpaTM, a fitness center, indoor swimming pool, a nightclub and Hawksworth Restaurant.
Owned and operated by renowned Chef David Hawksworth, the restaurant will feature a menu reflecting regional, seasonal ingredients with a uniquely Vancouver-Asian twist. The nightclub inside Rosewood Hotel Georgia will be built on the rich history of the hotel and will feature top musical entertainment in an intimate, sophisticated setting.
First opened in 1927, the Rosewood Hotel Georgia, came to be known as Vancouver's most historic and elegant hotel. The Georgian Revival structure welcomed the who's who of the entertainment world, including Elvis Presley, Nat "King" Cole, Katherine Hepburn and British Royalty. It was once and will be again, the premier destination for those seeking the ultimate in hotel accommodation.
Rosewood Hotel Georgia complements the Rosewood portfolio of great properties, which includes some of North America's most historic properties, including Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek, The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel, and San Ysidro Ranch, A Rosewood Resort. The Rosewood Hotel Georgia joins King Pacific Lodge, A Rosewood Resort in British Columbia as Rosewood's second Canadian property and is a Vancouver landmark; a treasured asset of the city that will once again be a revered destination when it reopens.
"Vancouver is a vibrant city and Rosewood is delighted to now have a hotel in the heart of this wonderful international gateway city," said John M. Scott III, Rosewood CEO. "As we commemorate the 30th anniversary of Rosewood Hotels & Resorts this year, I can think of no better way to celebrate than to expand into this beautiful city with this spectacularly restored historic hotel." Bruce Langereis, President of Delta Land Development is equally pleased with the arrangement. "Vancouver's historic Hotel Georgia is in the very good hands of Rosewood Hotels & Resorts which respects the history and significance this hotel holds in the hearts of Vancouverites. I know they will be excellent custodians of the hotel."
Interior design for Rosewood Hotel Georgia is led by Toronto-based Munge Leung, an award-winning design firm known for exceptional hospitality design. The primary inspiration for the design is to revive the hotel's glamour and elegance. "This hotel doesn't belong to us as designers," firm principal Alessandro Munge states, "it belongs to the people of Vancouver." Munge commends Delta Land Development and Rosewood for their shared vision of and commitment to the historically accurate and reverential restoration of the hotel. The lobby will once again be a rich vision of dark woods, rich gold and deep reds, while guest rooms will be softly enrobed in light blues, ivory and chocolate brown. The public spaces of the hotel, including the second floor ballroom will be Vancouver's finest, with cornices and moldings recreated with modern materials and fine details original to the space.
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