We're putting the miles on in old San Juan. Which isn't hard to do let me tell you. The weather has been fabulous even with the tropical shower early in the morning.
Today's venture took us across the water to the Bicardi Rum factory. Interesting to note, this is the same tour offered up in some of the tourism guides, but here's the difference. You save big $$$ by doing it yourself. The tour itself is free once you get to the Bicardi compound. 50 cents to take the ferry across from old town, and a $3.00 per head taxi rate to Bicardi. It's about a 10 minute ride. When you're there, a look into the history of the company, the process of making rum, how to make a perfect Cuba Libra and Mojito and of course a chance to buy some goodies. Oh, did I mention the free drinks as well? You pick the flavor of rum.
This was amazing, for a one litre bottle of rum (some flavors we've never seen in Canada) came to about $13.00 US. Come on! That same bottle in Canada runs $40-$50. We thought that was a pretty good deal.
Today, we also made a second trip to the Old Harbor Brew Pub for dinner. This is the same place we went yesterday to sample some of the hand crafted beers. Again, great service and food.
We rounded out the day, sitting in the town square, close to the water, where the locals gather to share song, dance, home baking and traditional island folk standards. I didn't recognize anything, but you could tell they were well loved songs of Puerto Rico. A very intersting culture unlike from our neighborhood where we just don't see this type of impromtu get together. That was actually quite inspirational.
Tomorrow, it's off to the cruise ship, as we'll be leaving our new friends and neighborhood for a week to explore the Caribbean Islands. More fun to come.
San Juan is a beautiful city, and I think I am really starting to like it here. Oh, some quick interesting facts we picked up from the locals.
(Currency in US dollars)
Price of gas: 70cents per litre (premium) Regular gas is 50cents per litre. Yes, they calculate volume by the litre here.
Minimum wage: $7.00 per hour
Police Officers make about $22.00 (Don't ask how we found that out)
Cheers from Old San Juan.
WSG (Fototrips) Reporting and posting news of interest from around the world relating to travel and photography.
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Saturday, February 27, 2010
San Juan Puerto Rico Day 2
What a fabulous day in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Staying in old San Juan was a great idea. We are so glad we made the choice as everything is pretty much walking distance from the hotel. The city, the old fort (Castillo San Cristobo), and the waves. There are even iguana walking all over the place. Very cool. We also made our way over to the Capital Building. The architecture is very detailed. I believe the Captial building is made entirely of marble.
Lunch, recommended by the locals was at Caficultura. We had $3.50 Heineken's. Very cheap even after the exchange rate. Lunch sandwhich was great as well and the service was pretty good. In fact, we are finding most of the service in and around the area very decent.
Later in the aftenoon we found the islands only hand crafted brew pub, Old Harbor Brewery. The Pilsner called "Santo Seigo". Also known as blind saint. I am assuming it was so named because of how cloudy the beer was. Very tasty.
Just down the road, across from the piers, we found a Jazz club called Carli's. Owned and operated by Carli Munoz. One time member of the Beach Boys 1970-1981 and also played with Wilson Pickett in the 1960's. It's fine dining, however, if you can afford the Keg, it's not that much of a leap. Again, the food and service was fabulous, even despite the waitress being new to her job.
We are looking for a SD Card reader, as I mentioned yesterday there is no way to do that on the computers available to us. We shot 450 on day 1. There is just so much to see.
WSG (Fototrips) Reporting and posting news of interest from around the world relating to travel and photography.
Lunch, recommended by the locals was at Caficultura. We had $3.50 Heineken's. Very cheap even after the exchange rate. Lunch sandwhich was great as well and the service was pretty good. In fact, we are finding most of the service in and around the area very decent.
Later in the aftenoon we found the islands only hand crafted brew pub, Old Harbor Brewery. The Pilsner called "Santo Seigo". Also known as blind saint. I am assuming it was so named because of how cloudy the beer was. Very tasty.
Just down the road, across from the piers, we found a Jazz club called Carli's. Owned and operated by Carli Munoz. One time member of the Beach Boys 1970-1981 and also played with Wilson Pickett in the 1960's. It's fine dining, however, if you can afford the Keg, it's not that much of a leap. Again, the food and service was fabulous, even despite the waitress being new to her job.
We are looking for a SD Card reader, as I mentioned yesterday there is no way to do that on the computers available to us. We shot 450 on day 1. There is just so much to see.
WSG (Fototrips) Reporting and posting news of interest from around the world relating to travel and photography.
Friday, February 26, 2010
San Juan Day Puerto Rico Day 1
Fototrips finally made it to San Juan following a one and a half hour delay out of Dallas Fort Worth. Still trying to adjust to the four hour time shift from west coast time, but I think I'll survive. Our cruise leaves just blocks from our hotel in Old San Juan on Sunday afternoon.
We we're impressed with the Tourism Commission at the airport controlling all the traffic arriving. Good practice for the Pan American Games coming up this summer I guess. There was no second guessing how much the cab fair was going to be to this part of town. Which wasn't bad actually, just 19 bucks plus a dollar per bag. We're travelling light, so that wasn't an issue.
So far, people have been pleasant and helpful. Because of the late start today, we haven't been able to get out and do much. It also appears uploading images may be difficult with these computer systems we have access to. We'll keep looking.
Our first hit was Cafe Puerto Rico in Old Town where we stopped for a late night beverage last night. Puerto Ricans love their Mohito's and San Gria's.
That's it for this post, hopefully we'll have an opportunity to post later this afternoon after a tour through town. 34 Celcius/92 F today. Loving the heat.
Cheers from Puerto Rico.
WSG (Fototrips) Reporting and posting news of interest from around the world relating to travel and photography.
We we're impressed with the Tourism Commission at the airport controlling all the traffic arriving. Good practice for the Pan American Games coming up this summer I guess. There was no second guessing how much the cab fair was going to be to this part of town. Which wasn't bad actually, just 19 bucks plus a dollar per bag. We're travelling light, so that wasn't an issue.
So far, people have been pleasant and helpful. Because of the late start today, we haven't been able to get out and do much. It also appears uploading images may be difficult with these computer systems we have access to. We'll keep looking.
Our first hit was Cafe Puerto Rico in Old Town where we stopped for a late night beverage last night. Puerto Ricans love their Mohito's and San Gria's.
That's it for this post, hopefully we'll have an opportunity to post later this afternoon after a tour through town. 34 Celcius/92 F today. Loving the heat.
Cheers from Puerto Rico.
WSG (Fototrips) Reporting and posting news of interest from around the world relating to travel and photography.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Fototrips in Dallas Fort Worth
Just made it to Dallas en route to San Jaun. Flight into Dallas was
great. At least we felt safe flying with the US Military and the
Clergy. TGI Fridays for lunch as we wait.
great. At least we felt safe flying with the US Military and the
Clergy. TGI Fridays for lunch as we wait.
Sent from my iPhone
Fototrips off to San Juan
Plane leaves at 6 we are on our way! So far smooth check in and light
traffic and Seattle flights on time.
traffic and Seattle flights on time.
Sent from my iPhone
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
More Vancouver Restaurant Issues!
VANCOUVER — More than one-third of 424 food operations serving the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Games in Richmond, Vancouver, at Cypress Bowl in West Vancouver, and Whistler did not fully meet health regulations, Vancouver Coastal Health Authority inspection reports show.
Of the 147 food operations not compliant in one or more aspects of their operations, 56, or 38 per cent, were specifically cited for "potentially hazardous food" concerns, including failure to thaw food properly and failure to maintain food at sufficiently low or high temperatures, a review by the Vancouver Sun
has found. The food operations include temporary facilities serving the public, athletes, media, dignitaries, volunteers and other workers, and can range from restaurant-style operations to smaller concessions and even beer vendors and hotdog stands.
Sent from my iPhone
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Playing the slots in Hawaii? Really?
HONOLULU — Hawaii has always been known for its sun, sand and surf. It may soon add another attraction: slots.
Hawaii is one of the last two states with no legalized gambling, but lawmakers facing billion-dollar budget deficits and hunting for ways increase revenue are thinking about allowing casinos in tourist-filled Waikiki or on Native Hawaiian lands. Proponents say casinos would draw much-needed new money and jobs into the long-troubled, tourism-dependent economy.
Tourists from the mainland would skip Las Vegas to sun on pristine beaches and take a turn at the roulette tables. Coveted high-rollers from Asia could avoid the long trans-Pacific flight, shortening their trip to the slots while also checking out the hula dancing.
WSG (Fototrips) Reporting and posting news of interest from around the world relating to travel and photography.
Hawaii is one of the last two states with no legalized gambling, but lawmakers facing billion-dollar budget deficits and hunting for ways increase revenue are thinking about allowing casinos in tourist-filled Waikiki or on Native Hawaiian lands. Proponents say casinos would draw much-needed new money and jobs into the long-troubled, tourism-dependent economy.
Tourists from the mainland would skip Las Vegas to sun on pristine beaches and take a turn at the roulette tables. Coveted high-rollers from Asia could avoid the long trans-Pacific flight, shortening their trip to the slots while also checking out the hula dancing.
WSG (Fototrips) Reporting and posting news of interest from around the world relating to travel and photography.
Online travel sites cry foul over airline fees
By Charisse Jones, USA TODAY
Airline fees are coming so fast that even some travel agents have a hard time keeping up.
Now, some who help plan and book travel are demanding that the travel industry come up with standards that would let them more easily provide and display up-to-date information on a flight's final cost, from the fare to baggage fees.
"There's a real problem getting that information at the same time and in the same manner as the airlines themselves disclose it," says Art Sackler, executive director of the Interactive Travel Services Association, which represents online travel sites. "When someone goes to book their travel, they expect the information to be there. The less it's there, the more they're surprised and the more upset they get."
U.S. airlines first began charging to check bags in 2008 as fuel prices soared. Since then charges for services that were once considered part of the airfare have increased and multiplied, with the airlines relying on the extra revenue to keep them afloat during the economic downturn. Carriers globally brought in $2.5 billion in bag fees alone during the 12 months ended in September, says analyst Vaughn Cordle of AirlineForecasts.
"A la carte pricing is certainly benefiting the airlines," says Jay Sorensen, president of IdeaWorks, an airline consulting firm. But, he says, it's hurting "travel agents and online travel agencies."
Some travel agents and online sites also want their customers to have the option of paying the extra fees at the time they book their tickets.
"There's a huge customer service benefit in selling these services before customers get to the airport," says Greg Schulze, Expedia's vice president of transport and tour. "Customers are showing up at the airport and being assessed hundreds of dollars' worth of baggage fees."
Paul Ruden of the American Society of Travel Agents says agents should be compensated if they begin to sell extra flight services, or amenities, to passengers, though he thinks it's unlikely they will. "They're doing an enormous amount of work, not just for the customer but also for the airline," he says. As the charges grow, different players in the industry are working on how best to deal with them.
Victoria Day, a spokeswoman for the Air Transport Association, which represents the major U.S. carriers, says that the airlines "clearly reveal" their ancillary fees, particularly on their websites. "They continue to review their websites and other information channels to make sure that information is clearly presented to their customers," she says.
Later this year, the Airlines Reporting Corp., or ARC, which settles transactions on behalf of 190 airlines, expects to provide travel agents with the ability to collect fees.
Although online sites currently provide links and other tools to help passengers calculate a trip's cost including extra fees, those who provide the data systems used by the travel industry are working to make the information easier to access.
The goal "is to enable true side-by-side comparisons of options, including costs, across multiple airlines," says Debbie Iannaci, spokeswoman for Amadeus North America, a technology company for the travel industry. For those arranging business travel, the explosion of fees presents additional challenges, says Kevin Mitchell of the Business Travel Coalition, from difficulty determining on a card statement what extra charges specifically paid for to how to efficiently get refunds when a trip is canceled.
Mitchell says his organization has joined with other groups and companies in the industry that plan to release recommendations this spring for how the travel sector can better navigate the new, fee-filled landscape.
WSG (Fototrips) Reporting and posting news of interest from around the world relating to travel and photography.
Airline fees are coming so fast that even some travel agents have a hard time keeping up.
Now, some who help plan and book travel are demanding that the travel industry come up with standards that would let them more easily provide and display up-to-date information on a flight's final cost, from the fare to baggage fees.
"There's a real problem getting that information at the same time and in the same manner as the airlines themselves disclose it," says Art Sackler, executive director of the Interactive Travel Services Association, which represents online travel sites. "When someone goes to book their travel, they expect the information to be there. The less it's there, the more they're surprised and the more upset they get."
U.S. airlines first began charging to check bags in 2008 as fuel prices soared. Since then charges for services that were once considered part of the airfare have increased and multiplied, with the airlines relying on the extra revenue to keep them afloat during the economic downturn. Carriers globally brought in $2.5 billion in bag fees alone during the 12 months ended in September, says analyst Vaughn Cordle of AirlineForecasts.
"A la carte pricing is certainly benefiting the airlines," says Jay Sorensen, president of IdeaWorks, an airline consulting firm. But, he says, it's hurting "travel agents and online travel agencies."
Some travel agents and online sites also want their customers to have the option of paying the extra fees at the time they book their tickets.
"There's a huge customer service benefit in selling these services before customers get to the airport," says Greg Schulze, Expedia's vice president of transport and tour. "Customers are showing up at the airport and being assessed hundreds of dollars' worth of baggage fees."
Paul Ruden of the American Society of Travel Agents says agents should be compensated if they begin to sell extra flight services, or amenities, to passengers, though he thinks it's unlikely they will. "They're doing an enormous amount of work, not just for the customer but also for the airline," he says. As the charges grow, different players in the industry are working on how best to deal with them.
Victoria Day, a spokeswoman for the Air Transport Association, which represents the major U.S. carriers, says that the airlines "clearly reveal" their ancillary fees, particularly on their websites. "They continue to review their websites and other information channels to make sure that information is clearly presented to their customers," she says.
Later this year, the Airlines Reporting Corp., or ARC, which settles transactions on behalf of 190 airlines, expects to provide travel agents with the ability to collect fees.
Although online sites currently provide links and other tools to help passengers calculate a trip's cost including extra fees, those who provide the data systems used by the travel industry are working to make the information easier to access.
The goal "is to enable true side-by-side comparisons of options, including costs, across multiple airlines," says Debbie Iannaci, spokeswoman for Amadeus North America, a technology company for the travel industry. For those arranging business travel, the explosion of fees presents additional challenges, says Kevin Mitchell of the Business Travel Coalition, from difficulty determining on a card statement what extra charges specifically paid for to how to efficiently get refunds when a trip is canceled.
Mitchell says his organization has joined with other groups and companies in the industry that plan to release recommendations this spring for how the travel sector can better navigate the new, fee-filled landscape.
WSG (Fototrips) Reporting and posting news of interest from around the world relating to travel and photography.
Voyageprive.com Announces U.S. Launch
Membership-Only Deals Provide Dream Travel at an Affordable Price
MOUNTAIN VIEW, CA--(Marketwire - February 23, 2010) - Voyageprive, the world's leading by-invitation only travel site, today announced the U.S. launch of its popular site. Now United States residents can use the site to peruse elite travel package deals and receive weekly, limited-time offers that are available only on a first-come, first-served basis.
The site focuses on elite travel packages, cruise and hotel deals at the lowest prices. Customers are guaranteed that their travel price will be the lowest available price online at the time of purchase. Voyageprive's secret is the dedicated team of travel experts who source and track travel deals for the site's members on a continual basis.
Voyageprive members also benefit from the site's unique preview interface which provides a beautiful presentation of each travel package available that week.
"The choice to travel is a very conscious one and the preparation process involves not only research but also an aspect of dreaming," said Denis Philipon, CEO of Voyageprive. "Our team is dedicated to helping our customers visualize -- and then realize -- that dream through extensive research and negotiation to provide them the best in exclusive travel deals and membership invitation discounts."
Members also benefit from inviting others into the community by getting a $25 credit when a member they invited purchases their first travel package.
MOUNTAIN VIEW, CA--(Marketwire - February 23, 2010) - Voyageprive, the world's leading by-invitation only travel site, today announced the U.S. launch of its popular site. Now United States residents can use the site to peruse elite travel package deals and receive weekly, limited-time offers that are available only on a first-come, first-served basis.
The site focuses on elite travel packages, cruise and hotel deals at the lowest prices. Customers are guaranteed that their travel price will be the lowest available price online at the time of purchase. Voyageprive's secret is the dedicated team of travel experts who source and track travel deals for the site's members on a continual basis.
Voyageprive members also benefit from the site's unique preview interface which provides a beautiful presentation of each travel package available that week.
"The choice to travel is a very conscious one and the preparation process involves not only research but also an aspect of dreaming," said Denis Philipon, CEO of Voyageprive. "Our team is dedicated to helping our customers visualize -- and then realize -- that dream through extensive research and negotiation to provide them the best in exclusive travel deals and membership invitation discounts."
Members also benefit from inviting others into the community by getting a $25 credit when a member they invited purchases their first travel package.
BC SPCA Wildlife in Focus 2009 Winners
The BC SPCA Wild Arc has posted the pictures in the 2009 Wildlife in Focus photo contest. As we reported a few months back, WSG (Fototrips) won in two major catagories. You can see them here. Remember, support the BC SPCA, and visit our full gallery for more images from the road at http://www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/
First Place: http://bit.ly/b21pKp
Second Place: http://bit.ly/aRmwD8
Travel Images http://www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/
First Place: http://bit.ly/b21pKp
Second Place: http://bit.ly/aRmwD8
Travel Images http://www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/
Monday, February 22, 2010
BC Transit finding tourist loot.
VANCOUVER — Olympic visitors are leaving a massive amount of lost goods on Vancouver’s public transit system, including cash, passports, bicycles, mobile phones and even artificial limbs.
“We’ve seen about a 50 per cent increase in the number of items turned in since the Olympics started,” TransLink spokesman Drew Snider said. And Olympic officials say they’re also dealing with a rising mountain of lost treasures as well. Transit and Olympic officials say lost and found items range from the mundane — wallets, tuques and mittens — to the absurd — child car seats and a dental retainer with a tooth still in it. Even a package of cigarettes recovered on a bus has been labelled, boxed and couriered to TransLink’s Stadium Sky-train lost property centre for processing.
All items are recorded, warehoused and catalogued with the time, description and location of where the item was recovered. For Vanoc, this includes the venue section and seat number if available, while TransLink records the route, location and run number. TransLink’s lost property storage centre has a whole area devoted to the dozens of crutches, canes, walkers and artificial limbs left by those who apparently boarded transit needing mobility aids and then somehow waltzed off without them.
Meanwhile, at the Vanoc claims centre, Hendrik Hoekema is one of 10 employees charged with the monumental task of collecting, sorting and reuniting a flood of lost belongings with their rightful owners.
Staffed by the charitable Network of Inner City Community Services Society, the claims centre has about 2,000 items and expects to have more than 12,000 by the end of the Olympics.
“Reading glasses — OK,” says Hoekema, answering the centre’s claims-report phone and jotting down the details of another lost item. “At B.C. Place, uh huh, during the opening ceremonies, thank you.” Such impossible, Hail Mary claims are all too commonplace but are logged and rigorously followed up on nonetheless.
TransLink will donate any unclaimed cash to the United Way and give clothing and all other items to various local charities. A Vanoc spokesman said it will offer some of its found property — much of it Vancouver 2010 merchandise — to the Network of Inner City Community Services Society and auction the rest to help meet Vanoc’s operating budget.
“We’ve seen about a 50 per cent increase in the number of items turned in since the Olympics started,” TransLink spokesman Drew Snider said. And Olympic officials say they’re also dealing with a rising mountain of lost treasures as well. Transit and Olympic officials say lost and found items range from the mundane — wallets, tuques and mittens — to the absurd — child car seats and a dental retainer with a tooth still in it. Even a package of cigarettes recovered on a bus has been labelled, boxed and couriered to TransLink’s Stadium Sky-train lost property centre for processing.
All items are recorded, warehoused and catalogued with the time, description and location of where the item was recovered. For Vanoc, this includes the venue section and seat number if available, while TransLink records the route, location and run number. TransLink’s lost property storage centre has a whole area devoted to the dozens of crutches, canes, walkers and artificial limbs left by those who apparently boarded transit needing mobility aids and then somehow waltzed off without them.
Meanwhile, at the Vanoc claims centre, Hendrik Hoekema is one of 10 employees charged with the monumental task of collecting, sorting and reuniting a flood of lost belongings with their rightful owners.
Staffed by the charitable Network of Inner City Community Services Society, the claims centre has about 2,000 items and expects to have more than 12,000 by the end of the Olympics.
“Reading glasses — OK,” says Hoekema, answering the centre’s claims-report phone and jotting down the details of another lost item. “At B.C. Place, uh huh, during the opening ceremonies, thank you.” Such impossible, Hail Mary claims are all too commonplace but are logged and rigorously followed up on nonetheless.
TransLink will donate any unclaimed cash to the United Way and give clothing and all other items to various local charities. A Vanoc spokesman said it will offer some of its found property — much of it Vancouver 2010 merchandise — to the Network of Inner City Community Services Society and auction the rest to help meet Vanoc’s operating budget.
Sunday, February 21, 2010
BC ferries - people reporting busy walk on traffic.
Word is, that during the Olympics, more people are opting for public transportation and leaving the car at home which is making for an unusually busy time for BC Ferries we're told. Beacuse of this, if you are walking on, get there early. At least an hour, if not more, in advance to ensure you make your sailing time.
Cheers,
Travel Images http://www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/
Cheers,
Travel Images http://www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/
First Nations get Olympic boost in B.C
null
By LORI KNOWLES, QMI Agency
By LORI KNOWLES, QMI Agency Huge carved cedar spindle whorls just inside the entrance make a strong statement about both cultures. (Robin Robinson/QMI Agency)
At any given moment it's rain, sun and snow here in Whistler, B.C., during the 2010 Olympic Winter Games, but no one inside the local Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre (SLCC) seems to notice. Men, women and children from all parts of the world sit transfixed as Aboriginal peoples dance, sing and tell their stories -- vivid, rousing performances that capture the hearts, minds and respect of cheering audiences. It's all in a day's work at this Centre, a new and strikingly beautiful cedar-and-glass structure set amid Whistler's tall trees, snow and mountains. It has been built as an Olympic legacy to showcase the heritage and culture of Canada's First Nations.
The SLCC is an opportunity for Olympic watchers and future ski resort visitors to realize the connection the Lil'wat and Squamish First Nations have to Whistler. Squamish territory is to the south and Lil'wat territory is to the north; the two meet at Whistler, and have peacefully shared the land long before they shared it with skiers.
The museum is a hugely open space filled with the art, clothing, transportation and tools these two nations have used for centuries. There's a massive hand-carved cedar canoe dug out from a single tree, ceremonial masks, weavings and house poles -- tall, carved structures that resemble totems. There's a traditional Squamish longhouse and a Lil'wat pit house. Gigantic, hand-carved cedar spindles whirl overhead. When they're not dancing and singing, guides wander about in traditional regalia, banging their drums, greeting visitors and answering questions.
"We lead a red cedar life," explains Gerald Paul, a cultural interpreter and member of the Squamish nation, as he shows off a 12-metre canoe dug from a single cedar tree. "The red cedar tree cradles our babies and our elders, we use it for clothing, transportation and shelter. Nothing from it is wasted."
DEERHIDE DRUM
Paul takes his own deerhide drum down from a nearby wall and proudly explains it was made for him by his grandfather. Paul -- an artist -- has decorated the drum himself, creating a design that incorporates the human eye. "It is meant to remind us to keep ourselves humble," he says. "Someone is always watching."
Whistler is not the only B.C. community to benefit from Olympic exposure to First Nations communities. "A number of other cultural centres have also opened in the last few years," says Paula Amos, spokesperson for B.C.'s Aboriginal Tourism Association. Those centres include the Haida Heritage Centre at Haida Gwaii along B.C.'s northwest coast, as well as a museum attached to the St. Eugene Resort near Cranbrook, BC.
Amos says dozens of galleries featuring First Nations art have popped up across Vancouver, as well a several tourism projects throughout B.C. that offer everything from canoe trips to seminars in First Nations art and culture. During the 2010 Winter Olympic Games, Vancouver's Pan Pacific Hotel has created an Aboriginal village called Kla-how-ya, meaning "welcome from the heart" in Chinook, a traditional trading language among First Nations. The exposition features aboriginal fashions, traditional dancing, cedar bark weaving, birch bark chewing, moose hide tufting, jewelry making, carving and, of course, storytelling.
Vancouver 2010 marks the first time Aboriginal peoples have fully participated in an Olympic Games right from the bidding process. "The experience has rejuvenated our culture," says Amos. "It's not just about revitalizing our economy, it's about having the opportunity to share and celebrate our traditions." Adds Amos: "British Columbia now leads North America in Aboriginal cultural tourism."
For more information on Whistler's Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre (SLCC), visit slcc.com. For more information on British Columbia's Aboriginal tourism, visit aboriginalbc.com.
LORI KNOWLES IS COVERING THE OLYMPICS LIVE FROM VANCOUVER AND WHISTLER FOR THE TORONTO SUN'S TRAVEL SECTION, AND BLOGGING DAILY AT LORIEXPLORING.WORDPRESS.COM.
This story was posted on Sun, February 21, 2010
British tourism on the road to recovery
The weak pound has been a key influencer on travel in 2009 and resulted in a dramatic 25% improvement in the tourism balance of payments deficit, equivalent to £5 billion, as 15% fewer Britons have made trips abroad.
New provisional figures from the International Passenger- the key monitor of international tourism to the UK- out today show that in the 12 months of 2009, overseas residents made 29.6 million visits to the UK and spent just under £16.5 billion. The number of visitors has fallen 2.4 million from last year, while the spending has risen by 1%.
While the number of visitors has fallen the favourable exchange rate resulted in a sharp jump in average spending per trip in sterling terms.
The decline in visitor numbers meant that during 2009 Britain welcomed 29.6 million overseas visitors, the lowest number since 2004, proving that there are still challenges for the industry.
Key European markets set the pace for much of 2009 with our near neighbours taking advantage of the value for money on offer in Britain, but one of the most positive signs emerging during the final months of 2009 was a return to growth in the number of visits from North America, with visits up 8% in the final three months of the year.
By contrast the global economic downturn resulted in the number of international business visits to Britain dropping by around 20%, or 1.6 million during 2009. This is perhaps unsurprising considering the decline in global trade and upheaval in the banking and financial services sector during the past eighteen months.
After a sustained period of exceptionally fast growth the number of visits to Britain from the twelve EU Accession nations fell sharply in 2009 by some 21%, equivalent to 700,000 fewer trips.
Travel Daily News - Vicky Karantzavelou
New provisional figures from the International Passenger- the key monitor of international tourism to the UK- out today show that in the 12 months of 2009, overseas residents made 29.6 million visits to the UK and spent just under £16.5 billion. The number of visitors has fallen 2.4 million from last year, while the spending has risen by 1%.
While the number of visitors has fallen the favourable exchange rate resulted in a sharp jump in average spending per trip in sterling terms.
The decline in visitor numbers meant that during 2009 Britain welcomed 29.6 million overseas visitors, the lowest number since 2004, proving that there are still challenges for the industry.
Key European markets set the pace for much of 2009 with our near neighbours taking advantage of the value for money on offer in Britain, but one of the most positive signs emerging during the final months of 2009 was a return to growth in the number of visits from North America, with visits up 8% in the final three months of the year.
By contrast the global economic downturn resulted in the number of international business visits to Britain dropping by around 20%, or 1.6 million during 2009. This is perhaps unsurprising considering the decline in global trade and upheaval in the banking and financial services sector during the past eighteen months.
After a sustained period of exceptionally fast growth the number of visits to Britain from the twelve EU Accession nations fell sharply in 2009 by some 21%, equivalent to 700,000 fewer trips.
Travel Daily News - Vicky Karantzavelou
Best Americas airports crowned at the Routes Airport Marketing Awards
Routes on Monday celebrated the first regional heat of this year’s Airport Marketing Awards and announced the winners for the Americas region. The trophies were presented at the prestigious gala dinner of the 3rd Routes Americas - the only network planning event for all the Americas - where up to 300 delegates enjoyed the celebrations at the beautiful Museo Pedro De Osma in Lima.
Winners were chosen from three categories: North America, Central America/Caribbean and South America. While Edmonton International Airport picked up an award for best airport in North America, Aruba - Queen Beatrix International Airport scooped in the Central America/Caribbean category. Quito International Airport was crowned best of its kind in South America.
The overall winner for the entire Americas region is Edmonton International Airport.
Carol Hutchins, the airport’s Director of Air Service Development, on the achievement: “We are so pleased. We have implemented a lot of really unique innovative ideas that not only recognised our partners, but also our destinations and our community. I think the combination of those and some good cost-saving ideas for our airline partners has helped in winning the award.”
The airport will now automatically be shortlisted for the World Awards, to be held at World Routes, which takes place in Vancouver from 19th to 21st September this year. There they will compete against winners from the other regional Routes events: Routes Asia (Adelaide, 18-20 April), Routes Europe (Toulouse, 9-11 May), Routes Africa (Swaziland, 30 May - 1 June) and Routes CIS (Kharkiv, 7-9 June).
Voting for the Routes Americas Airport Marketing Awards started in mid January and was open for two weeks. During this period airlines nominated their preferred airports on Routesonline using criteria such as the airport’s market research activities and marketing communications activities. The shortlisted airports then had to submit a case study to support their nominations to the judging panel.
Roll call of winners:
North America
Winner: Edmonton International Airport,
Highly Commended: Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, Southwest International Airport
Central America/Caribbean
Winner: Aruba – Queen Beatrix International Airport
Highly Commended: Curacao-Hato International Airport
South America
Winner: Quito International Airport
Highly Commended: Lima Airport Partners
Overall Winner
Edmonton International Airport.
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
Winners were chosen from three categories: North America, Central America/Caribbean and South America. While Edmonton International Airport picked up an award for best airport in North America, Aruba - Queen Beatrix International Airport scooped in the Central America/Caribbean category. Quito International Airport was crowned best of its kind in South America.
The overall winner for the entire Americas region is Edmonton International Airport.
Carol Hutchins, the airport’s Director of Air Service Development, on the achievement: “We are so pleased. We have implemented a lot of really unique innovative ideas that not only recognised our partners, but also our destinations and our community. I think the combination of those and some good cost-saving ideas for our airline partners has helped in winning the award.”
The airport will now automatically be shortlisted for the World Awards, to be held at World Routes, which takes place in Vancouver from 19th to 21st September this year. There they will compete against winners from the other regional Routes events: Routes Asia (Adelaide, 18-20 April), Routes Europe (Toulouse, 9-11 May), Routes Africa (Swaziland, 30 May - 1 June) and Routes CIS (Kharkiv, 7-9 June).
Voting for the Routes Americas Airport Marketing Awards started in mid January and was open for two weeks. During this period airlines nominated their preferred airports on Routesonline using criteria such as the airport’s market research activities and marketing communications activities. The shortlisted airports then had to submit a case study to support their nominations to the judging panel.
Roll call of winners:
North America
Winner: Edmonton International Airport,
Highly Commended: Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, Southwest International Airport
Central America/Caribbean
Winner: Aruba – Queen Beatrix International Airport
Highly Commended: Curacao-Hato International Airport
South America
Winner: Quito International Airport
Highly Commended: Lima Airport Partners
Overall Winner
Edmonton International Airport.
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
Fototrips Image of the Day February 21, 2010
Looking like this guy just fell into a paint bucket, a native west coast harbour seal enjoys a Sunday afternoon reflecting in the waters of Victoria's inner harbour.
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
Photo by Brad Edwards
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Auto gratuity, the Olympics and the great Hospitality RIP OFF!!
I have to say I am really pissed and embarassed. Let me explain. We have the Olympics in our fine city, and I am really annoyed that local proprieters are hiking their rates and gouging our tourists. I have actively been involved in the tourism business for many years in various capacities, and I write about my favorite bars and bistro's, hotels and attractions because they are ligit, good value and fun. Then I find, just because we're hosting the world, they turn around and jack their prices and rip off our international guests. What gives?
You see, any other time during the year, including the peak Cruise Ship season, you'ld never see this. So I was glad to see on the news last night, and read on the internet this morning, that there is a campaign on to boycott and expose these businesses, and I have no problem jumping on the band wagon. I don't ask for anything in return for the articles I write, but what really gets me is some of these places are essentially discreditiing the stories that have been writte, by not only me, but other publications and blogs as well. I feel bad that I have pointed people to some of these establishments in the past.
Listed here, is a short list of some of those businesses which come from spiffle.com. Make a note of them, stand your ground and spend your money someplace else. I offer this advice. Auto Gratuity is wrong. Do not pay what you don't think you owe. Steer clear and find an alternative.
I don't often get on my soap box on my blog, but today I have had it!
NEW - The Keg, Yaletown - yet another chain business with an 18% auto gratuity during the Olympics. Say no to auto gratuities - boycott The Keg! (source: @TamaraHarvey)
NEW - Cactus Club - Burrard - 18% auto gratuity on all bills, have to assume all other downtown Cactus Clubs have same policy (source: @TiaSparkles
NEW - Hapa Izakawa Yaletown location Another place with an 18% automatic gratuity added to all bills (source: @YVRMark)
NEW - Cambie Bar and Grill, $10 cover (something new - has not have covercharge before). (source: @OnlineStrategy)
AMENDED (again) - Earls Restaurants, Yaletown, Robson, Hornby. Earls has gone on record as stating they were eliminating their 20% auto gratuity; however visitors to Earls Yaletown reported still seeing the charge on their bills the day after Earls stated they were removing it. So Earls - 20% auto gratuity, and up to 20% price increases. Very bad. (source: various, incl Twitter, Global News Hour, Vancouver Sun)
Red Card Sports Bar, Seymour & Smithe - 18% auto gratuity added to all drink bills (source: @yvrmark)
Elephant and Castle, Burrard - 18% auto gratuity added to all bills "for your convenience". (source: @iford)
Glowbal Grill Restaurant - Yaletown - 20% automatic gratuity added to all food bills. (source: Global News Hour)
Steamworks Bar / Restaurant - Gastown. 18% automatic gratuity; local customers have noted "significant" price increases to menus; I called Steamworks asked about pricing / autogratuity, and was put on hold indefinitely. (source: @JonJennings)
Megabite Pizza - 100% increase in slice prices downtown. (source: Global News Hour confrimed, Twitter various)
Amended: Dix Brewery BBQ - 17% auto gratuity added to every bill. (source: @GingerLiz)
Academic Public House - 1600 block of W. Broadway - 20% autograt added to every bill. (source: @MattsMedia)
Library Square Public House is charging $5 cover, $18.48 for a domestic pitcher and 20% autogratuity. (source: Vancouver Sun)
Hamilton Street Grill - Yaletown, 18% automatic gratuity on all bills (this one sucks, because the owner is a seriously great guy with a lot of respect in this town). (source: Vancouver Sun)
German Fan Fest (next to Steamworks, Seabus Station) is a major rip off - $9 watery recycled beers. (source - personal visit)
Doolins / Irish House also another major rip off, and not officially Irish "house" during Olympics. (source - various twitter posts)
Travel Images http://www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/
You see, any other time during the year, including the peak Cruise Ship season, you'ld never see this. So I was glad to see on the news last night, and read on the internet this morning, that there is a campaign on to boycott and expose these businesses, and I have no problem jumping on the band wagon. I don't ask for anything in return for the articles I write, but what really gets me is some of these places are essentially discreditiing the stories that have been writte, by not only me, but other publications and blogs as well. I feel bad that I have pointed people to some of these establishments in the past.
Listed here, is a short list of some of those businesses which come from spiffle.com. Make a note of them, stand your ground and spend your money someplace else. I offer this advice. Auto Gratuity is wrong. Do not pay what you don't think you owe. Steer clear and find an alternative.
I don't often get on my soap box on my blog, but today I have had it!
NEW - The Keg, Yaletown - yet another chain business with an 18% auto gratuity during the Olympics. Say no to auto gratuities - boycott The Keg! (source: @TamaraHarvey)
NEW - Cactus Club - Burrard - 18% auto gratuity on all bills, have to assume all other downtown Cactus Clubs have same policy (source: @TiaSparkles
NEW - Hapa Izakawa Yaletown location Another place with an 18% automatic gratuity added to all bills (source: @YVRMark)
NEW - Cambie Bar and Grill, $10 cover (something new - has not have covercharge before). (source: @OnlineStrategy)
AMENDED (again) - Earls Restaurants, Yaletown, Robson, Hornby. Earls has gone on record as stating they were eliminating their 20% auto gratuity; however visitors to Earls Yaletown reported still seeing the charge on their bills the day after Earls stated they were removing it. So Earls - 20% auto gratuity, and up to 20% price increases. Very bad. (source: various, incl Twitter, Global News Hour, Vancouver Sun)
Red Card Sports Bar, Seymour & Smithe - 18% auto gratuity added to all drink bills (source: @yvrmark)
Elephant and Castle, Burrard - 18% auto gratuity added to all bills "for your convenience". (source: @iford)
Glowbal Grill Restaurant - Yaletown - 20% automatic gratuity added to all food bills. (source: Global News Hour)
Steamworks Bar / Restaurant - Gastown. 18% automatic gratuity; local customers have noted "significant" price increases to menus; I called Steamworks asked about pricing / autogratuity, and was put on hold indefinitely. (source: @JonJennings)
Megabite Pizza - 100% increase in slice prices downtown. (source: Global News Hour confrimed, Twitter various)
Amended: Dix Brewery BBQ - 17% auto gratuity added to every bill. (source: @GingerLiz)
Academic Public House - 1600 block of W. Broadway - 20% autograt added to every bill. (source: @MattsMedia)
Library Square Public House is charging $5 cover, $18.48 for a domestic pitcher and 20% autogratuity. (source: Vancouver Sun)
Hamilton Street Grill - Yaletown, 18% automatic gratuity on all bills (this one sucks, because the owner is a seriously great guy with a lot of respect in this town). (source: Vancouver Sun)
German Fan Fest (next to Steamworks, Seabus Station) is a major rip off - $9 watery recycled beers. (source - personal visit)
Doolins / Irish House also another major rip off, and not officially Irish "house" during Olympics. (source - various twitter posts)
Travel Images http://www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/
San Jaun Puerto Rico - The countdown is on!
Fototrips and Westshore Galleries are off to San Juan Puerto Rico for a photo shoot and yes, a vacation too. Any tips on what we should see and places to NOT go? Let us know. This is our first trip south and I am thinking there is more to Old San Juan than great Rum!
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
Fototrips Image of the Day: Bring on the Queen
I caught this image over the weekend. A different perspective of a building that has been photographed for over a hundred years. The Victoria Legislative. Tweaked a bit, this could have been taken a hundred years ago. I thought it was cool anyways.
More travel Images http://www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/
More travel Images http://www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/
Fototrips Image of the day: Spring is Here!!
I capture this image almost every year and never tire of it. The first signs of spring. The beloved Cherry Blossoms exploding along side the harbour. It warms your heart!
More travel Images available at: http://www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/
More travel Images available at: http://www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/
Escape the Winter Cold With a Dubai Luxury Vacation
MONTREAL, QUEBEC--(Marketwire - Feb. 18, 2010) - iHaveNotBeenThere.com is an independent Canadian Boutique Travel Agency offering sophisticated travelers luxury vacations in hand-picked destinations, all at the best possible value for money.
Destinations such as Dubai, South Africa, Thailand, Bali, The Maldives, Mauritius and The Seychelles are amongst the top holiday locations, selected for their exotic appeal as well as range of local attractions, while hotels have been chosen for their high level of comfort and service.
iHaveNotBeenThere.com does not offer "ordinary" vacation packages. Instead, customers can tailor-make their holiday, combining components of the various packages as they wish. Customers can choose to spend their romantic honeymoon on an idyllic island in the Indian Ocean or they can discover untamed South Africa on an elephant safari. They might want to explore the majesty of Dubai while taking in a few rounds of golf or lie on the sun-drenched beaches of an exotic island off Thailand. Whatever the preference, wherever the destination, iHaveNotBeenThere.com will create an incomparable holiday experience at the fairest price available.
The company's founders boast over 20 years of expertise in various areas of the travel and tourism industry. This experience, combined with a good grasp of destination knowledge and impeccable customer service ensures that all necessary arrangements are taken care of to provide clients with a smooth, hassle-free, enjoyable vacation.
iHaveNotBeenThere.com is proud to introduce its Winter star package which features the ultimate extravagance of Dubai. Undoubtedly one of the world's most exciting cities, Dubai is a cosmopolitan melding of East and West. Spectacular beaches, distinctively stunning architecture, traditional Arab souks, excellent shopping, sophisticated dining, luxurious hotels, vibrant night life and enchanting desert resorts can all be enjoyed in one of the world's most secure environments.
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
Destinations such as Dubai, South Africa, Thailand, Bali, The Maldives, Mauritius and The Seychelles are amongst the top holiday locations, selected for their exotic appeal as well as range of local attractions, while hotels have been chosen for their high level of comfort and service.
iHaveNotBeenThere.com does not offer "ordinary" vacation packages. Instead, customers can tailor-make their holiday, combining components of the various packages as they wish. Customers can choose to spend their romantic honeymoon on an idyllic island in the Indian Ocean or they can discover untamed South Africa on an elephant safari. They might want to explore the majesty of Dubai while taking in a few rounds of golf or lie on the sun-drenched beaches of an exotic island off Thailand. Whatever the preference, wherever the destination, iHaveNotBeenThere.com will create an incomparable holiday experience at the fairest price available.
The company's founders boast over 20 years of expertise in various areas of the travel and tourism industry. This experience, combined with a good grasp of destination knowledge and impeccable customer service ensures that all necessary arrangements are taken care of to provide clients with a smooth, hassle-free, enjoyable vacation.
iHaveNotBeenThere.com is proud to introduce its Winter star package which features the ultimate extravagance of Dubai. Undoubtedly one of the world's most exciting cities, Dubai is a cosmopolitan melding of East and West. Spectacular beaches, distinctively stunning architecture, traditional Arab souks, excellent shopping, sophisticated dining, luxurious hotels, vibrant night life and enchanting desert resorts can all be enjoyed in one of the world's most secure environments.
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
US airline system traffic up 1.6 percent from November 2008
The number of scheduled domestic and international passengers on U.S. airlines in November 2009 increased by 1.6 percent from November 2008, increasing by 0.8 million to 54.9 million, the Department of Transportation’s Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS) reported. November was the second month in the last three to show an increase from 2008 but last year’s numbers were already reduced from 2007. The November 2009 passenger total was 11.3 percent below November 2007.
BTS, a part of DOT’s Research and Innovative Technology Administration, in a release of preliminary data, reported a record-high November passenger load factor of 78.9 percent. Airlines reduced capacity in November from a year earlier by 3.5 percent, measured by available seat-miles, contributing to the November load factor record.
U.S. airlines carried 2.1 percent more domestic passengers than in November 2008. International passengers on U.S. carriers decreased 2.3 percent. The domestic load factor of 79.2 percent in November 2009 was the highest ever for the month of November.
For the first 11 months of 2009, the number of scheduled domestic and international passengers on U.S. airlines declined by 5.7 percent from the same period in 2008, dropping to 647.0 million, 38.9 million fewer than a year earlier, and the lowest January-to-November total since 2004. For historic numbers, see Traffic.
U.S. airlines carried 5.5 percent fewer domestic passengers and 6.8 percent fewer international passengers in the first 11 months of 2009 than during the same period in 2008.
Vicky Karantzavelou - Thursday, February 18, 2010
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
BTS, a part of DOT’s Research and Innovative Technology Administration, in a release of preliminary data, reported a record-high November passenger load factor of 78.9 percent. Airlines reduced capacity in November from a year earlier by 3.5 percent, measured by available seat-miles, contributing to the November load factor record.
U.S. airlines carried 2.1 percent more domestic passengers than in November 2008. International passengers on U.S. carriers decreased 2.3 percent. The domestic load factor of 79.2 percent in November 2009 was the highest ever for the month of November.
For the first 11 months of 2009, the number of scheduled domestic and international passengers on U.S. airlines declined by 5.7 percent from the same period in 2008, dropping to 647.0 million, 38.9 million fewer than a year earlier, and the lowest January-to-November total since 2004. For historic numbers, see Traffic.
U.S. airlines carried 5.5 percent fewer domestic passengers and 6.8 percent fewer international passengers in the first 11 months of 2009 than during the same period in 2008.
Vicky Karantzavelou - Thursday, February 18, 2010
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
More big ships on the way for Carnival
Carnival agrees to buy 2 ships for its Princess Cruises brand to for 2013, 2014
By THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
MIAMI - Cruise operator Carnival Corp. said Wednesday it agreed to acquire two ships for its Princess Cruises Brand.
Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri will build two 3,600-passenger cruise ships, scheduled to enter service in the spring of 2013 and the spring of 2014. The new ships will have an all-in cost of about C$222,000 per lower berth.
At 139,000 tonnes each, the ships will be the largest in the Princess Cruises fleet. The ships have not yet been named.
Wells Fargo Securities analyst Tim Conder said in a note to investors the news isn't a surprise since management has said it wanted to order new Princess ships for 2013 and 2014.
"The timing of the announcement also appears favourable given recent weakness in the euro," he said. "Price per berth appears favourable versus recently ordered Carnival ship (C$209,000 per berth) set to be delivered in 2012."
He reiterated his "Outperform" rating on Carnival stock.
By THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
MIAMI - Cruise operator Carnival Corp. said Wednesday it agreed to acquire two ships for its Princess Cruises Brand.
Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri will build two 3,600-passenger cruise ships, scheduled to enter service in the spring of 2013 and the spring of 2014. The new ships will have an all-in cost of about C$222,000 per lower berth.
At 139,000 tonnes each, the ships will be the largest in the Princess Cruises fleet. The ships have not yet been named.
Wells Fargo Securities analyst Tim Conder said in a note to investors the news isn't a surprise since management has said it wanted to order new Princess ships for 2013 and 2014.
"The timing of the announcement also appears favourable given recent weakness in the euro," he said. "Price per berth appears favourable versus recently ordered Carnival ship (C$209,000 per berth) set to be delivered in 2012."
He reiterated his "Outperform" rating on Carnival stock.
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Where US Travelers Are Headed in 2010
HotelsCombined.com Reports Top Ten International and Domestic Cities for US Travelers
WILMINGTON, DE--(Marketwire - February 11, 2010) - With US leisure and business travelers factoring in value and price for their travel plans at the start of 2010, London and European favorites -- Rome and Paris lead hotel price comparison site HotelsCombined.com's 2010 top ten international destinations for US travelers.
Bangkok, Sydney, Dubai and Cancun add diversity to the international top ten list for 2010; while domestically; US travelers are headed to New York City, followed by Las Vegas, Miami Beach, Orlando, New Orleans and the city of Miami.
HotelsCombined.com General Manager Michael Doubinski observed that both vacationers and business travelers are taking advantage of competitive deals in the current tourism environment before the industry rebounds: "In the first months of 2010 consumers are looking for good deals on hotels and flights that will make their dollar go further. The economy is still weak and so are hotel rates, but we are tracking consistent increases in pricing. If the economy continues this recovery, bargains will become harder to find, so for travelers on the lookout for cheap rates, the best time to book may in fact be now."
Travelers are the beneficiaries of the 8.8 percent slump in room rates recorded by data firm Smith Travel Research, with the rates drop still presenting great deals for consumers before the northern summer months.
London is top choice for international trips out of the US
"London is the clear favorite for American travelers in 2010," said Doubinski. The city currently offers good value with average room rates of US$166, heading off second-ranked Rome at an average rate of US$148 and third-placed Paris at US$197.
Long-haul destinations Hong Kong and Sydney take 4th and 5th spots at a competitive US$100 and higher US$171 respectively, with 6th ranked Bangkok attracting international travelers with low US$77 nightly rates. Barcelona is ranked 7th, offering average rates of US$154, with Playa del Carmen 8th and most expensive in the top ten at US$240, 9th ranked Cancun offering average rates of US$192; and 10th placed Dubai at US$227 costing US visitors second highest nightly prices.
New York City visitors not deterred by second highest US room rates
Domestically, HotelsCombined.com data demonstrates the continued appeal of New York City, the No. 1 US visitor choice, despite its US$180 average rates, currently the country's 2nd highest.
By comparison, second favorite city Las Vegas is valued at US$110 per night. Similarly rated one of Travelzoo's 'Wow Deal Destinations' for 2010, the entertainment hub offers attractive hotel deals as it counters a slump in tourism and conference visitors since 2009.
At US$203, 3rd ranked Miami Beach will cost visitors the highest average US room bill, while in contrast, in 4th place, Orlando currently offers the most attractive hotel rates in the top ten, at a US$90 average.
In 5th rank, New Orleans at an average US$137 and 6th ranked the city of Miami at US$138 is competing on price, as are San Francisco in 7th with US$109 and Chicago, also at US$109. Honolulu's warm weather will cost visitors an average US$136 nightly; followed by the 10th most popular city of Los Angeles, offering visitors a low average rate of just US$104.
HotelsCombined.com's top cities overlap strongly with travel search site Skyscanner's 'Most Searched for Destinations for 2010, from US Airports,' showing travelers again seeking out London, New York City, Las Vegas, Paris, Los Angeles, Orlando, Rome and Miami among its rankings.
The forecast for 2010 according to a recent survey complied by Travelzoo Inc. (NASDAQ: TZOO), found that 74 percent of respondents will take a vacation this year "only if they find a good deal." Despite seeking out competitive deals, TripAdvisor's annual survey reports that Americans expect to travel more in 2010 than in 2009, with 41 percent saying they plan to spend more on leisure travel in 2010 than in 2009.
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
WILMINGTON, DE--(Marketwire - February 11, 2010) - With US leisure and business travelers factoring in value and price for their travel plans at the start of 2010, London and European favorites -- Rome and Paris lead hotel price comparison site HotelsCombined.com's 2010 top ten international destinations for US travelers.
Bangkok, Sydney, Dubai and Cancun add diversity to the international top ten list for 2010; while domestically; US travelers are headed to New York City, followed by Las Vegas, Miami Beach, Orlando, New Orleans and the city of Miami.
HotelsCombined.com General Manager Michael Doubinski observed that both vacationers and business travelers are taking advantage of competitive deals in the current tourism environment before the industry rebounds: "In the first months of 2010 consumers are looking for good deals on hotels and flights that will make their dollar go further. The economy is still weak and so are hotel rates, but we are tracking consistent increases in pricing. If the economy continues this recovery, bargains will become harder to find, so for travelers on the lookout for cheap rates, the best time to book may in fact be now."
Travelers are the beneficiaries of the 8.8 percent slump in room rates recorded by data firm Smith Travel Research, with the rates drop still presenting great deals for consumers before the northern summer months.
London is top choice for international trips out of the US
"London is the clear favorite for American travelers in 2010," said Doubinski. The city currently offers good value with average room rates of US$166, heading off second-ranked Rome at an average rate of US$148 and third-placed Paris at US$197.
Long-haul destinations Hong Kong and Sydney take 4th and 5th spots at a competitive US$100 and higher US$171 respectively, with 6th ranked Bangkok attracting international travelers with low US$77 nightly rates. Barcelona is ranked 7th, offering average rates of US$154, with Playa del Carmen 8th and most expensive in the top ten at US$240, 9th ranked Cancun offering average rates of US$192; and 10th placed Dubai at US$227 costing US visitors second highest nightly prices.
New York City visitors not deterred by second highest US room rates
Domestically, HotelsCombined.com data demonstrates the continued appeal of New York City, the No. 1 US visitor choice, despite its US$180 average rates, currently the country's 2nd highest.
By comparison, second favorite city Las Vegas is valued at US$110 per night. Similarly rated one of Travelzoo's 'Wow Deal Destinations' for 2010, the entertainment hub offers attractive hotel deals as it counters a slump in tourism and conference visitors since 2009.
At US$203, 3rd ranked Miami Beach will cost visitors the highest average US room bill, while in contrast, in 4th place, Orlando currently offers the most attractive hotel rates in the top ten, at a US$90 average.
In 5th rank, New Orleans at an average US$137 and 6th ranked the city of Miami at US$138 is competing on price, as are San Francisco in 7th with US$109 and Chicago, also at US$109. Honolulu's warm weather will cost visitors an average US$136 nightly; followed by the 10th most popular city of Los Angeles, offering visitors a low average rate of just US$104.
HotelsCombined.com's top cities overlap strongly with travel search site Skyscanner's 'Most Searched for Destinations for 2010, from US Airports,' showing travelers again seeking out London, New York City, Las Vegas, Paris, Los Angeles, Orlando, Rome and Miami among its rankings.
The forecast for 2010 according to a recent survey complied by Travelzoo Inc. (NASDAQ: TZOO), found that 74 percent of respondents will take a vacation this year "only if they find a good deal." Despite seeking out competitive deals, TripAdvisor's annual survey reports that Americans expect to travel more in 2010 than in 2009, with 41 percent saying they plan to spend more on leisure travel in 2010 than in 2009.
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
Fototrips Image of the Day: Galiano Island
I know we are all guilty of the "sunset" shot. Everyone has a folder on their computer with nothing but 'sunsets' right? Of course. These three pictures were shot within the same time frame from the west side of Galiano Island. Absolutely beautiful and still one of the best places to see the sun rise and set on the west coast.
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
Carnival Cruise Lines targeting middle America
Carnival Cruise Lines is the only cruise line in the world with a clearly defined product, according to Gerry Cahill, president and CEO. “All the other lines are trying to go up-market,” he said, “and tend to blend. We are truly defined: we offer a memorable vacation experience and a great value, targeting middle-America. Our target guy is 40 some odd years old and may have a family, but he is not making $1 million a year – he just want to have a great vacation experience.”
Last year, Carnival broadened its passenger sourcing by adding Baltimore as a homeport and is starting year-round service from Charleston this year, “all effectively growing our market – while stripping out some cost (air),” said Cahill. “Now 50 percent of US population lives within a 5 hour drive of our ports – helps make the vacation product more affordable.”
This may be one of the reasons why the first newbuilding order placed by Carnival Corporation in more than two years was for a new ship for Carnival. The parent company announced in December that a third sister ship to the Carnival Dream will be built by Fincantieri for delivery in spring 2012. The 130,000-ton, 3,690-passenger (double occupancy) ship will cost an estimated $200,000 per berth or $735 million. Not yet named, the new ship will follow the second sister ship, the Carnival Magic, which will be delivered in 2011.
Cahill finds himself at the helm of the largest cruise brand in North America, having been named to that position about two-and-a-half years ago, succeeding Bob Dickinson, after many years as the CFO of Carnival Corporation.
Cahill does not say much about it, but he made a series of executive changes at Carnival, bringing in new executives in marketing, sales and guest services.
The goal, however, has not changed much if at all. "What we try to do," he said, "is to reinforce internally what Carnival Cruise Lines is all about – we do fun better than anybody else."
Cahill said that all senior execs sail on the ships at least four times a year. "I have been on the ships 15 to 20 times this year – meeting with entire crew, and we talk about what we are – how we create memorable experiences – from towel animals to singing and dancing in the dining room," he said.
"Our focus is on reinforcing who we are."
One challenge he faces is that the public perception is not always equal to the product quality – "the quality is far superior to the perception," Cahill said.
He listed two objectives:
First, "We want to people to come back more often. We measure if they come back and how often they come back, and we are seeing an increase. It is the way we do the product. We all know there is huge pressure on pricing, but we have not cut back on the product, the food and entertainment is better than ever, although we have made some trade-offs.
Second, "We want to attract new people – what our marketing department calls “cruise rookies” – we want them to come and try the product for their first cruise – so we need something to catch their eyes – such as waterslide or serenity area. Once onboard, we will win them over through quality.
"Once you understand who you are, it is not so difficult," Cahill said.
-Cruise Industry News-
Last year, Carnival broadened its passenger sourcing by adding Baltimore as a homeport and is starting year-round service from Charleston this year, “all effectively growing our market – while stripping out some cost (air),” said Cahill. “Now 50 percent of US population lives within a 5 hour drive of our ports – helps make the vacation product more affordable.”
This may be one of the reasons why the first newbuilding order placed by Carnival Corporation in more than two years was for a new ship for Carnival. The parent company announced in December that a third sister ship to the Carnival Dream will be built by Fincantieri for delivery in spring 2012. The 130,000-ton, 3,690-passenger (double occupancy) ship will cost an estimated $200,000 per berth or $735 million. Not yet named, the new ship will follow the second sister ship, the Carnival Magic, which will be delivered in 2011.
Cahill finds himself at the helm of the largest cruise brand in North America, having been named to that position about two-and-a-half years ago, succeeding Bob Dickinson, after many years as the CFO of Carnival Corporation.
Cahill does not say much about it, but he made a series of executive changes at Carnival, bringing in new executives in marketing, sales and guest services.
The goal, however, has not changed much if at all. "What we try to do," he said, "is to reinforce internally what Carnival Cruise Lines is all about – we do fun better than anybody else."
Cahill said that all senior execs sail on the ships at least four times a year. "I have been on the ships 15 to 20 times this year – meeting with entire crew, and we talk about what we are – how we create memorable experiences – from towel animals to singing and dancing in the dining room," he said.
"Our focus is on reinforcing who we are."
One challenge he faces is that the public perception is not always equal to the product quality – "the quality is far superior to the perception," Cahill said.
He listed two objectives:
First, "We want to people to come back more often. We measure if they come back and how often they come back, and we are seeing an increase. It is the way we do the product. We all know there is huge pressure on pricing, but we have not cut back on the product, the food and entertainment is better than ever, although we have made some trade-offs.
Second, "We want to attract new people – what our marketing department calls “cruise rookies” – we want them to come and try the product for their first cruise – so we need something to catch their eyes – such as waterslide or serenity area. Once onboard, we will win them over through quality.
"Once you understand who you are, it is not so difficult," Cahill said.
-Cruise Industry News-
Sleeping with a Stranger? Apparently not a big deal!
13% of people would be happy to share a Skycouch with a stranger they met in queue, according to the latest poll from flight comparison site Skyscanner. The Skycouch, which has been developed by Air New Zealand, works by converting a row of three airline seats into a bed. It is being heralded as the first ‘lie-down economy bed’, and the first major improvement in economy class travel comfort in 20 years. Three seats must be purchased together, with the third seat offered at a discounted rate. Each of the seats has a cushion that folds up from beneath, and arm rests all tuck away, creating a flat mattress that will allow two adults to stretch out.
73% of the people who voted in Skyscanner’s poll said that they would happily pay the extra for a Skycouch, of which 60.5% said they would share with their partner. 25% said that they wouldn’t pay the extra and would rather save their money.
Nearly 500 people voted in the poll, and the overall results show that Air New Zealand’s innovation is a winner with long haul flyers and a lucrative move for the airline.
Tatiana Rokou - Travel Daily News
73% of the people who voted in Skyscanner’s poll said that they would happily pay the extra for a Skycouch, of which 60.5% said they would share with their partner. 25% said that they wouldn’t pay the extra and would rather save their money.
Nearly 500 people voted in the poll, and the overall results show that Air New Zealand’s innovation is a winner with long haul flyers and a lucrative move for the airline.
Tatiana Rokou - Travel Daily News
Friday, February 12, 2010
Fototrip Photo of the Day.
Proud to be Canadian!
Photo by: Brad Edwards
Cruising New Orleans with Norwegian Cruise Lines
Norwegian Cruise Line will sail seven-day cruises all year long from New Orleans starting November 2010. The decision will effectively double the number of passengers NCL can move through the Crescent City.
The 2,018 passenger Norwegian Spirit, which normally sails from New Orleans in the winter cruise season from November to April and then is repositioned to another U.S. cruise port, will now maintain a weekly presence at the Port of New Orleans’ Erato Street Cruise Terminal throughout the year.
“What better way to congratulate the city that hosts the 2010 Super Bowl Champions than to bring Norwegian Spirit to New Orleans year-round,” said Kevin Sheehan, chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line. “We’ve seen a strong interest in Freestyle Cruising from the Gulf Coast and have therefore decided to double our capacity here.”
“This is a huge vote of confidence for the Port of New Orleans and our city from a company that has been our strategic partner since 2003. New Orleans is a great destination in its own right. When you add a Freestyle cruise on top of all New Orleans has to offer, you make it a truly unique travel experience,” said Gary LaGrange, President and CEO of the Port of New Orleans.
About 61% of passengers who cruise from New Orleans elect to spend time in the city before or after their cruise.
"The cruise industry is a key driver of Louisiana's economy, accounting for an average of $163 million in direct spending each year. This increase in cruise line passengers will enhance our ability to create jobs while attracting more visitors," said Mitch Landrieu, who oversees culture, recreation and tourism as Louisiana’s Lieutenant Governor and is Mayor-Elect of the City of New Orleans.
The Norwegian Spirit currently sails seven-day cruises that depart from New Orleans every Sunday. The ship’s itinerary includes Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico; Santo Tomas De Castillo,Guatemala; and Belize City, Belize. In 2011, Norwegian will replace Santo Tomas De Castillo, Guatemala with Roatán, Honduras.
The Port and Norwegian currently have an agreement that the cruise line will sail 22 times from New Orleans. By the time Norwegian Spirit’s 2009-2010 winter cruise season ends in April, it will have completed 23 sailings from New Orleans. It will have one more hiatus, before resuming in New Orleans year-round in November.
With a ship positioned year round, Norwegian will have the capacity to move an additional 58,500 passengers through New Orleans or roughly 117,000 passenger embarkations and disembarkations. In 2009, Norwegian logged 103,392 passenger embarkations and disembarkations through the Port of New Orleans.
Cruise industry spending generates more than 3,100 jobs and $121 million in income for Louisiana workers, according to stats from the Cruise Lines International Association.
Travel Images http://www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/
The 2,018 passenger Norwegian Spirit, which normally sails from New Orleans in the winter cruise season from November to April and then is repositioned to another U.S. cruise port, will now maintain a weekly presence at the Port of New Orleans’ Erato Street Cruise Terminal throughout the year. “What better way to congratulate the city that hosts the 2010 Super Bowl Champions than to bring Norwegian Spirit to New Orleans year-round,” said Kevin Sheehan, chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line. “We’ve seen a strong interest in Freestyle Cruising from the Gulf Coast and have therefore decided to double our capacity here.”
“This is a huge vote of confidence for the Port of New Orleans and our city from a company that has been our strategic partner since 2003. New Orleans is a great destination in its own right. When you add a Freestyle cruise on top of all New Orleans has to offer, you make it a truly unique travel experience,” said Gary LaGrange, President and CEO of the Port of New Orleans.
About 61% of passengers who cruise from New Orleans elect to spend time in the city before or after their cruise.
"The cruise industry is a key driver of Louisiana's economy, accounting for an average of $163 million in direct spending each year. This increase in cruise line passengers will enhance our ability to create jobs while attracting more visitors," said Mitch Landrieu, who oversees culture, recreation and tourism as Louisiana’s Lieutenant Governor and is Mayor-Elect of the City of New Orleans.
The Norwegian Spirit currently sails seven-day cruises that depart from New Orleans every Sunday. The ship’s itinerary includes Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico; Santo Tomas De Castillo,Guatemala; and Belize City, Belize. In 2011, Norwegian will replace Santo Tomas De Castillo, Guatemala with Roatán, Honduras.
The Port and Norwegian currently have an agreement that the cruise line will sail 22 times from New Orleans. By the time Norwegian Spirit’s 2009-2010 winter cruise season ends in April, it will have completed 23 sailings from New Orleans. It will have one more hiatus, before resuming in New Orleans year-round in November.
With a ship positioned year round, Norwegian will have the capacity to move an additional 58,500 passengers through New Orleans or roughly 117,000 passenger embarkations and disembarkations. In 2009, Norwegian logged 103,392 passenger embarkations and disembarkations through the Port of New Orleans.
Cruise industry spending generates more than 3,100 jobs and $121 million in income for Louisiana workers, according to stats from the Cruise Lines International Association.
Travel Images http://www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/
Thursday, February 11, 2010
NCCo travel ban lifted Thursday
Thursday, February 11th, 2010
While Delaware remains under a state of emergency, Governor Markell has decided to lift the ban on non-emergency travel in New Castle County. The ban on travel in Kent and Sussex Counties remains in effect.
The City of Wilmington has also lifted its travel ban within the city.
"We very much want to get the economy moving. We want to get life back to normal for businesses, for everybody," said Markell. "We've had to balance the safety issue and very much depended on the guidance of our emergency response personnel."
And Markell says the advice he's getting from in the state's two lower counties is to keep the ban in place. "The local law enforcement in Kent and Sussex have been quite clear that they're not ready," Markell said.
The decision to lift the ban on travel does not mean all roads are safe or even passable. Drivers are still encouraged to stay home.
"This is not about encouraging people to go out. It is recognition that were trying to give businesses some flexibility," said the Governor. "A lack of a ban does not mean the roads are fully clear. We're trying to allow critical commercial activity and travel on major roads as they become passable."
Many businesses around Wilmington and New Castle County did try to open in anticipation of the end of the travel ban. The Christiana Mall reopened at 2p after being closed Wednesday. The first shoppers arrived as you can see in the video link below.
By: Mark Eichmann
While Delaware remains under a state of emergency, Governor Markell has decided to lift the ban on non-emergency travel in New Castle County. The ban on travel in Kent and Sussex Counties remains in effect.
The City of Wilmington has also lifted its travel ban within the city.
"We very much want to get the economy moving. We want to get life back to normal for businesses, for everybody," said Markell. "We've had to balance the safety issue and very much depended on the guidance of our emergency response personnel."
And Markell says the advice he's getting from in the state's two lower counties is to keep the ban in place. "The local law enforcement in Kent and Sussex have been quite clear that they're not ready," Markell said.
The decision to lift the ban on travel does not mean all roads are safe or even passable. Drivers are still encouraged to stay home.
"This is not about encouraging people to go out. It is recognition that were trying to give businesses some flexibility," said the Governor. "A lack of a ban does not mean the roads are fully clear. We're trying to allow critical commercial activity and travel on major roads as they become passable."
Many businesses around Wilmington and New Castle County did try to open in anticipation of the end of the travel ban. The Christiana Mall reopened at 2p after being closed Wednesday. The first shoppers arrived as you can see in the video link below.
By: Mark Eichmann
Very interesting - Rocky Mountain Sheep with a "Heart" for Valentines Day
We still love this picture. Taken in the Canadian Rockies. Two mountain sheep sharing the salt on the road. Shortly afterwards, it was pointed out that this picture represents a "Heart". Take a closer look. See it? Others have also said, it is a "Broken Heart". Either way, we thought we'ld post it for you today with Valentines coming up this weekend.
Photo by: Brad Edwards
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
Canada’s Oldest Chinatown to Shine With Festive Lighting
Photo by: Brad Edwards
VICTORIA, BC — The downtown community has come together to light up Canada’s oldest Chinatownyear-round. New festive red and yellow lights will soon permanently shine on this historic part of downtown,
enhanced by seasonal ornamental fixtures.
“Victoria is home to Canada’s oldest Chinatown – that is something to be proud of and something we want tocelebrate. These wonderful new lights reflect the important role Chinatown plays in Victoria’s past, present
and future,” said Mayor Fortin. “We are honoured to work with the Chinese community and the Downtown
Victoria Business Association so that we can permanently shine a light on the beauty and vitality of
Chinatown.”
The new lighting consists of a combination of 177 cold cathode, 8 watt bulbs, strung along cables that have
been installed across the middle of Government Street between Pandora Avenue and Herald Street, and
across and along Fisgard Street between Government and Store Streets. Each bulb has a life expectancy of
25,000 hours. Light-sensitive, the new lighting will automatically come on at dusk and turn off at dawn, daily.
The ornamental lighting will turn on for the first time tomorrow.
“The Downtown Victoria Business Association is pleased to partner with the City and the Chinese community on a lighting project that will enhance the appeal of this vibrant and historical district within our unique downtown," said Scott Hoadley, Chairperson of the DVBA.
Today, the City will begin hanging over 100 red lanterns to complement the new lights and celebrate the start
“The stringing of the lanterns in Chinatown not only signifies a project by the City of Victoria to beautify
downtown and coincide with the upcoming Chinese New Year, the project reflects that the City of Victoria is truly a multicultural melting pot where all ethnic groups are well supported by City officials,” said Kit Wong, President of the Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association.
“I'd like to take this opportunity to thank the Mayor of Victoria, the City council, the Victoria Downtown Business Association and all the support from the local businesses and the Chinese community who have made this a brilliant and successful project. From now on, Canada's oldest Chinatown will shine in the heart of the City of Victoria,” he added.
Sidewalks and roadways will remain open during installation of the lanterns, which will be completed by Friday. Lanterns were hung earlier this week on the Gate of Harmonious Interest, which was installed by the City in 1981 as a monument to the contributions of Victoria’s Chinese community.
After Chinese New Year, some lanterns will remain while others will be replaced with decorative panels more suited for winter weather. Additional lanterns will be added for the summer season and again each Chinese New Year.
The new ornamental lighting is a joint initiative of the City of Victoria, the Downtown Victoria Business
Association, and the Chinese community. The 17 contributing community groups include the Chinese
Other enhancements to Chinatown have included the installation of 28 new pagoda pedestrian lamps in
partnership with the DVBA, historic murals, decorative bike racks, the tiling of a water feature, and the
refurbishment of phone booths and garbage cans with the words “Canada’s Oldest Chinatown.” In addition, a self-guided Chinatown walking tour map was developed, and the City helps support the annual celebration of Chinese New Year.
Unique British Columbia Island Attracts Buyers Around the World
It's not just the 2010 Olympics that's bringing the world to Canada's West Coast
NEW WESTMINISTER, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwire - Feb. 11, 2010) - International buyers from the UK, Bermuda, China, Dubai, and the US have purchased properties on a unique island on Canada's West Coast. In 1859, owned by the Hudson's Bay Company, the name was changed from Sallas Island to Sidney Island in the hope of attracting settlers with a more British name. More than 150 years later, that dream is coming true.
Located near the city of Victoria, Sidney Island is often referred to as the jewel of the Gulf Islands. It is the last major undeveloped island in the strait between Vancouver Island and the mainland. Sidney Island is off the power grid and is a model of sustainability with solar power, rainwater collection and precious conservation zones. It boasts miles of sand beaches, pristine forests and spectacular ocean and mountain views. The spectacular 400-acre Sidney Spit National Park located at the north end of the island is the only other occupant of the island.
When the Sidney Island lots were put up for sale in 2002 they caught the eye of Bermuda based investment professional, Kirk Caza.
"I was looking for a unique place for a family retreat that was undeveloped and private, yet a mild climate and not too far from civilization," he explains. "I certainly found all of that and more on Sidney Island. We have a pristine oceanfront property that is only minutes from ferries and stores."
Kirk spread the word to friends resulting in the eventual sale of 22 of those lots to buyers from the UK and Bermuda. One of those buyers, UK venture capitalist Allan Cockell is building a home designed by renowned Canadian architect Bo Helliwell of Blue Sky Architecture. Cockell says the group of like-minded individuals who own property on the island are what attracted him to the island.
"Sidney Island is close to some big cities but it has the feeling of being quite remote," Cockell says. "People have bought property here because they are attracted to the place and are interested in forming a new community. Sidney Island is a jewel, and we hope it will remain that way."
It is not unusual for British Columbia's super natural beauty to attract real estate investors from around the world, according to Richard Osborne, President of LandQuest Realty Corporation, one of the largest recreational property agents on Canada's West Coast and realtor for the Sidney Island properties.
"Despite the global economic recession, we continue to see interest from buyers around the world," he explains. "There truly is something for everyone in British Columbia – we have oceanfront, lakefront, mountain, desert and forests. There are few places in the world that offer this beauty and diversity."
As the eyes of the world turn to BC for the 2010 Winter Olympic Games, Osborne expects even more interest in BC properties. "They won't be disappointed," he promises.
As for Allan Cockell and his fellow international property owners, they like Sidney Island just as it is – perfect, pristine and well-protected.
Sidney Island Facts
•Located just four km off the coast of Vancouver Island 2,200 acre Sidney Island includes 111 properties which share about 1,500 acres of common land. Amenities include a marina, airstrip and areas of special environmental significance preserved as conservation zones.
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
NEW WESTMINISTER, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwire - Feb. 11, 2010) - International buyers from the UK, Bermuda, China, Dubai, and the US have purchased properties on a unique island on Canada's West Coast. In 1859, owned by the Hudson's Bay Company, the name was changed from Sallas Island to Sidney Island in the hope of attracting settlers with a more British name. More than 150 years later, that dream is coming true.
Located near the city of Victoria, Sidney Island is often referred to as the jewel of the Gulf Islands. It is the last major undeveloped island in the strait between Vancouver Island and the mainland. Sidney Island is off the power grid and is a model of sustainability with solar power, rainwater collection and precious conservation zones. It boasts miles of sand beaches, pristine forests and spectacular ocean and mountain views. The spectacular 400-acre Sidney Spit National Park located at the north end of the island is the only other occupant of the island.
When the Sidney Island lots were put up for sale in 2002 they caught the eye of Bermuda based investment professional, Kirk Caza.
"I was looking for a unique place for a family retreat that was undeveloped and private, yet a mild climate and not too far from civilization," he explains. "I certainly found all of that and more on Sidney Island. We have a pristine oceanfront property that is only minutes from ferries and stores."
Kirk spread the word to friends resulting in the eventual sale of 22 of those lots to buyers from the UK and Bermuda. One of those buyers, UK venture capitalist Allan Cockell is building a home designed by renowned Canadian architect Bo Helliwell of Blue Sky Architecture. Cockell says the group of like-minded individuals who own property on the island are what attracted him to the island.
"Sidney Island is close to some big cities but it has the feeling of being quite remote," Cockell says. "People have bought property here because they are attracted to the place and are interested in forming a new community. Sidney Island is a jewel, and we hope it will remain that way."
It is not unusual for British Columbia's super natural beauty to attract real estate investors from around the world, according to Richard Osborne, President of LandQuest Realty Corporation, one of the largest recreational property agents on Canada's West Coast and realtor for the Sidney Island properties.
"Despite the global economic recession, we continue to see interest from buyers around the world," he explains. "There truly is something for everyone in British Columbia – we have oceanfront, lakefront, mountain, desert and forests. There are few places in the world that offer this beauty and diversity."
As the eyes of the world turn to BC for the 2010 Winter Olympic Games, Osborne expects even more interest in BC properties. "They won't be disappointed," he promises.
As for Allan Cockell and his fellow international property owners, they like Sidney Island just as it is – perfect, pristine and well-protected.
Sidney Island Facts
•Located just four km off the coast of Vancouver Island 2,200 acre Sidney Island includes 111 properties which share about 1,500 acres of common land. Amenities include a marina, airstrip and areas of special environmental significance preserved as conservation zones.
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
Vancouver 2010 Live Feeds. Robson Square as it's happening.
The 2010 Olympic Winter Games open on Friday, Feb. 12. Now you and your
audience can go online and view media conferences, athlete interviews and other events at the Media Theatre in the International Media Centre in Vancouver through a live-cam feed at http://www.yougottabehere.com/new_events_centre/robson_square_live_concerts_and_entertainment.
This site will also take you to a second live-cam feed where you can view events as they happen at Robson Square, the Province's Signature Celebration site.
No matter where you live there's a way for you and your audience to share in the experience of the 2010 Olympic Winter Games through the Province's You Gotta Be Here website at http://www.yougottabehere.com/.
Photos, videos and artist renderings on the You Gotta Be Here website are available for use in whole or in part without permission provided they are used unaltered. No credit line is required.
audience can go online and view media conferences, athlete interviews and other events at the Media Theatre in the International Media Centre in Vancouver through a live-cam feed at http://www.yougottabehere.com/new_events_centre/robson_square_live_concerts_and_entertainment.
This site will also take you to a second live-cam feed where you can view events as they happen at Robson Square, the Province's Signature Celebration site.
No matter where you live there's a way for you and your audience to share in the experience of the 2010 Olympic Winter Games through the Province's You Gotta Be Here website at http://www.yougottabehere.com/.
Photos, videos and artist renderings on the You Gotta Be Here website are available for use in whole or in part without permission provided they are used unaltered. No credit line is required.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Norwegian Cruise Lines off to Victoria, not Vancouver.
We are still hearing reports of Norwegian Cruise Lines being a part of the Olympics offering up accomodations. This is not true. It is official, this ship was cancelled as of Monday.
The 1,108-room luxury liner chartered by Edmonton-based Newwest Special Projects was supposed to leave Los Angeles Saturday and arrive Feb. 10 in Burrard Inlet. But a lack of bookings and rising costs forced Newwest to sink the plan. Refunds, according to a news release, would be issued “in a timely manner.”
The ship was supposed to stay at the Kinder Morgan industrial dock in North Vancouver until March 2.
Not is all lost as Vancouver's loss is Victoria's gain. The ship will now be visiting the capital city for a re-fit in the Esquimalt ship yards. Great news as this will create over 200 much needed jobs for the local economy. Apparently it just made sense financially to re-direct it to Victoria from Vancouver for the work seeing as it was in the area anyways.
Fototrips - February 10, 2010
AIDAblu Christened Successfully
Cruise News: Feb. 10, 2010 - The newest cruise ship of the AIDA fleet has been christened. At exactly nine minutes past eight on the evening of 9 February 2010, the traditional bottle of champagne was smashed across the bow of AIDAblu. The prominent ‘godmother’ was none other than the renowned designer, Jette Joop. She spoke the following words:
You beautiful ship, I christen you with the name AIDAblu.
I which you, your passengers and your crew
a safe and pleasant voyage at all times and
may there always be water beneath your keel.
Carry your smile into the world and into the hearts of the people!
AIDAblu had taken up a position in front of the Fish Market for the christening ceremony, with Captain Dr. Friedhold Hoppert keeping the vessel steady by using the bow thrusters. From a floating pontoon, the radiant ‘godmother’ then pressed the button, which then released the bottle of champagne on board via radio control. Jette Joop was dazzling in her dress designed especially for the christening ceremony and decorated with 6,000 Swarovski sequins.
Following the official christening, nearly the entire ship, 200 metres long and 25 metres high, became the projection area for a film about the natural elements. The show was accompanied by a brilliant firework display high above the Port of Hamburg, with red and blue lighting effects illuminating the night sky of the metropolis on the Elbe in the colours of the elements fire and ice.
More than twenty thousand onlookers were able to follow the magnificent spectacle from the banks of the River Elbe. A special Winter Village had been built at the Fish Market complete with powdery snow. The “Fire & Ice” christening theme gave spectators the opportunity to marvel at the firewalkers and ice carvers demonstrating their skills between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m. The visitors to the Winter Village were able to get really close to the action via the huge LED screen set up there - as if in the first row!
After the christening ceremony, AIDAblu bade farewell to Hamburg and set off on its maiden voyage to Palma de Mallorca. The next highlight of AIDAblu’s premiere season will be the tours of Northern Europe. Between 6 March and 30 April 2010, guests will be able to discover the pulsating cities of Paris, London, Antwerp and Amsterdam.
National and International travel images available: www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
You beautiful ship, I christen you with the name AIDAblu.
I which you, your passengers and your crew
a safe and pleasant voyage at all times and
may there always be water beneath your keel.
Carry your smile into the world and into the hearts of the people!
AIDAblu had taken up a position in front of the Fish Market for the christening ceremony, with Captain Dr. Friedhold Hoppert keeping the vessel steady by using the bow thrusters. From a floating pontoon, the radiant ‘godmother’ then pressed the button, which then released the bottle of champagne on board via radio control. Jette Joop was dazzling in her dress designed especially for the christening ceremony and decorated with 6,000 Swarovski sequins.
Following the official christening, nearly the entire ship, 200 metres long and 25 metres high, became the projection area for a film about the natural elements. The show was accompanied by a brilliant firework display high above the Port of Hamburg, with red and blue lighting effects illuminating the night sky of the metropolis on the Elbe in the colours of the elements fire and ice.
More than twenty thousand onlookers were able to follow the magnificent spectacle from the banks of the River Elbe. A special Winter Village had been built at the Fish Market complete with powdery snow. The “Fire & Ice” christening theme gave spectators the opportunity to marvel at the firewalkers and ice carvers demonstrating their skills between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m. The visitors to the Winter Village were able to get really close to the action via the huge LED screen set up there - as if in the first row!
After the christening ceremony, AIDAblu bade farewell to Hamburg and set off on its maiden voyage to Palma de Mallorca. The next highlight of AIDAblu’s premiere season will be the tours of Northern Europe. Between 6 March and 30 April 2010, guests will be able to discover the pulsating cities of Paris, London, Antwerp and Amsterdam.
National and International travel images available: www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
Tourism events, Tradeshows and Industry schmoozing for 2010
Staying plugged-in to the Canadian Tourism Industry. Here's a list of some of the events coming up to make note of for 2010.
Mountain Travel Symposium (MTS)
April11-17, 2010
British ski operators also attend the annual MTS marketplace, usually held in April. The event, which alternates between locations in the US and Canada each year, is a prime opportunity for networking and developing winter business.
www.mtntrvl.com
Rendez-vous Canada
May 8-12, 2010
Premier annual international tourism industry marketplace that matches top tourism "product" buyers and sellers in one-on-one business-to-business (B2B) appointments.
http://www.rendezvouscanada.travel/
Go Media Marketplace
August 2010
Go Media Marketplace, where Canadian travel operators exchange stories and ideas with international media. This event is held annually in Canada with a different hosting destination each year.
http://www.media.gomediacanada.com/
Canada's West Market Place
Forum for Alberta and British Columbia tourism businesses to promote their products to tour operators and wholesaler representatives from Europe, Asia Pacific and the Americas.
http://www.canadaswestmarketplace.com/
Bienvenue Quebec
October 26, 27 and 28, 2010
Forum for tourism businesses in the Quebec region to promote their products to tour operators and wholesaler representatives from North America.
http://www.apaq.qc.ca/
Atlantic Canada Showcase
Forum for tourism businesses in the Atlantic Provinces to promote their products to tour operators and wholesaler representatives from North America.
National Tour Association Annual Convention
November 13-17, 2010, Montreal
The National Tour Association (NTA) Annual Convention provides a travel marketplace for group tour operators to meet with suppliers of travel products. More than 340 tour operators and other travel trade from the United States and Canada and approximately 25 from international countries attended the last convention.
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
Mountain Travel Symposium (MTS)
April11-17, 2010
British ski operators also attend the annual MTS marketplace, usually held in April. The event, which alternates between locations in the US and Canada each year, is a prime opportunity for networking and developing winter business.
www.mtntrvl.com
Rendez-vous Canada
May 8-12, 2010
Premier annual international tourism industry marketplace that matches top tourism "product" buyers and sellers in one-on-one business-to-business (B2B) appointments.
http://www.rendezvouscanada.travel/
Go Media Marketplace
August 2010
Go Media Marketplace, where Canadian travel operators exchange stories and ideas with international media. This event is held annually in Canada with a different hosting destination each year.
http://www.media.gomediacanada.com/
Canada's West Market Place
Forum for Alberta and British Columbia tourism businesses to promote their products to tour operators and wholesaler representatives from Europe, Asia Pacific and the Americas.
http://www.canadaswestmarketplace.com/
Bienvenue Quebec
October 26, 27 and 28, 2010
Forum for tourism businesses in the Quebec region to promote their products to tour operators and wholesaler representatives from North America.
http://www.apaq.qc.ca/
Atlantic Canada Showcase
Forum for tourism businesses in the Atlantic Provinces to promote their products to tour operators and wholesaler representatives from North America.
National Tour Association Annual Convention
November 13-17, 2010, Montreal
The National Tour Association (NTA) Annual Convention provides a travel marketplace for group tour operators to meet with suppliers of travel products. More than 340 tour operators and other travel trade from the United States and Canada and approximately 25 from international countries attended the last convention.
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
How about giving your loved one the cold shoulder for Valentines? Literally!
WATERBURY, VERMONT--(Marketwire - Feb. 10, 2010) - Proposing has an element of risk. Popping the question on an Arctic expedition will heighten the romance, increasing the odds of success. Whether your Valentine is passionate about kayaking, crushes on bears, or yearns for sparkle, there is an Arctic adventure cruise to match.
Quark Expeditions, a polar adventure specialist, suggests East Greenland Explorer for kayakers planning to paddle in tandem. The voyage begins in Reykjavik, Iceland, September 2, 2010. Romantics can propose against a backdrop of Valentine red rocks in a fjord dotted with icebergs. Per person prices for this 8-day Arctic getaway start at $3,290. The optional kayaking costs $495 per paddler.
Svalbard is the destination of choice for lovers who crush on bears. Europeans visit these Norwegian Arctic islands to see polar bears in the wild. Spitsbergen Explorer is an 11-day Arctic adventure cruise around the largest island of Svalbard. There are multiple departures between June and August. Romantics can pop the question in a Zodiac at the base of a glacier, while hiking wildflower and tundra covered valleys, or on the bow of the ship under the midnight sun. Per person prices start at $4,490.
The ultimate place in the Arctic for sparkle is the North Pole. Daylight is continuous at the pole, so the ice sparkles and glistens all the way to the horizon. Patrick Shaw, president Quark Expeditions, reported, "When we pop the cork on the champagne bottles at 90 North, very often our guests are popping the question. Once or twice, couples have married."
Travel to the North Pole is aboard a 75,000 hp nuclear-powered engine. "That's enough to rev the most reluctant Valentine's engine," suggested Shaw. The 15-day voyage begins in Helsinki, Finland. Per person prices start at $22,690 and include helicopter flight-seeing.
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
Quark Expeditions, a polar adventure specialist, suggests East Greenland Explorer for kayakers planning to paddle in tandem. The voyage begins in Reykjavik, Iceland, September 2, 2010. Romantics can propose against a backdrop of Valentine red rocks in a fjord dotted with icebergs. Per person prices for this 8-day Arctic getaway start at $3,290. The optional kayaking costs $495 per paddler.
Svalbard is the destination of choice for lovers who crush on bears. Europeans visit these Norwegian Arctic islands to see polar bears in the wild. Spitsbergen Explorer is an 11-day Arctic adventure cruise around the largest island of Svalbard. There are multiple departures between June and August. Romantics can pop the question in a Zodiac at the base of a glacier, while hiking wildflower and tundra covered valleys, or on the bow of the ship under the midnight sun. Per person prices start at $4,490.
The ultimate place in the Arctic for sparkle is the North Pole. Daylight is continuous at the pole, so the ice sparkles and glistens all the way to the horizon. Patrick Shaw, president Quark Expeditions, reported, "When we pop the cork on the champagne bottles at 90 North, very often our guests are popping the question. Once or twice, couples have married."
Travel to the North Pole is aboard a 75,000 hp nuclear-powered engine. "That's enough to rev the most reluctant Valentine's engine," suggested Shaw. The 15-day voyage begins in Helsinki, Finland. Per person prices start at $22,690 and include helicopter flight-seeing.
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
Fototrips Travel Photo of the Day - Carnival Cruise Lines
We couldn't help but post this today with our heads in the cloud longing for the sunshine, palm trees, blue water and umbrella drinks. Two weeks til Puerto Rico. Yeah! This was taken recently on our visit to Progresso, Mexico. That's the Fototrips ride on the right!
Travel Images http://www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/
Photo by: Brad Edwards
Travel Images http://www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/
Monday, February 8, 2010
New Orleans Saints Super Bowl Champs. Fototrips revisits the French Quarter.
We figured, that following the big win yesterday for the New Orleans Saints, and that we are still all a little fuzzy headed from the excitement, that we would post a link of our last visit to the Big Easy, One Year Ago. More than anything, we enjoy showing the world that our favorite vacation destinations is, and always has been open for business.
Enjoy....and oh, Congrats to Sean Payton and the crew.
http://westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/site/#/gallery/new-orleans-mardi-gras/
Travel Images http://www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/
Enjoy....and oh, Congrats to Sean Payton and the crew.
http://westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/site/#/gallery/new-orleans-mardi-gras/
Travel Images http://www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/
New Orleans, the day after the Super Bowl.
The game, the final score and the fairy-tale season from start to finish speaks for itself. Hear the sounds of the Big Easy.
The biggest event on the American Football calendar has been won by the New Orleans Saints.
Hurricane Katrina killed almost 2,000 people when it struck in August 2005
They beat the Indianapolis Colts, by a convincing 31-17 to win the 44th Super Bowl.
For many in New Orleans, the city on the south coast of the United States which was devastated by Hurricane Katrina in 2005, this was more than just a game of football.
It was a message to the nation to say: we're still here and back in business.
Travel Images http://www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/
The biggest event on the American Football calendar has been won by the New Orleans Saints.
Hurricane Katrina killed almost 2,000 people when it struck in August 2005
They beat the Indianapolis Colts, by a convincing 31-17 to win the 44th Super Bowl.
For many in New Orleans, the city on the south coast of the United States which was devastated by Hurricane Katrina in 2005, this was more than just a game of football.
It was a message to the nation to say: we're still here and back in business.
Travel Images http://www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/
ClearStay.com Shows Travelers Exactly How to Save When Booking a Vacation Home Rental
SEATTLE, WA--(Marketwire - February 8, 2010) - ClearStay (www.clearstay.com), the leading online web site letting travelers find, choose and book homes exclusively from professional vacation rental managers, published a study today on the web site's blog (http://blog.clearstay.com) helping travelers land big savings when booking their vacation home rental.
The study, based on an analysis of over 300,000 vacation home rental bookings, tells travelers the exact amount they can save by renting the right home at the right time. The ClearStay.com study shows that travelers can cut their travel cost dramatically by booking on the right day, starting their trip on the right day, renting the best sized home and staying for the right length of time.
According to the ClearStay.com study, taking advantage of last minute deals can save $1,001 over a seven day stay. Arriving on a weekday instead of a Friday or Saturday can save $453. The ClearStay.com study also shows the savings from booking on the right day, extending the length of your stay and picking the right time of the year to take your trip.
ClearStay.com also makes it easy for travelers to easily find the savings themselves with real-time rate quotes up to the second availability information on tens of thousands of homes. And with over 50,000 verified authentic reviews from past guests, ClearStay.com also helps travelers book with the confidence that their trip will meet or beat their expectations.
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
The study, based on an analysis of over 300,000 vacation home rental bookings, tells travelers the exact amount they can save by renting the right home at the right time. The ClearStay.com study shows that travelers can cut their travel cost dramatically by booking on the right day, starting their trip on the right day, renting the best sized home and staying for the right length of time.
According to the ClearStay.com study, taking advantage of last minute deals can save $1,001 over a seven day stay. Arriving on a weekday instead of a Friday or Saturday can save $453. The ClearStay.com study also shows the savings from booking on the right day, extending the length of your stay and picking the right time of the year to take your trip.
ClearStay.com also makes it easy for travelers to easily find the savings themselves with real-time rate quotes up to the second availability information on tens of thousands of homes. And with over 50,000 verified authentic reviews from past guests, ClearStay.com also helps travelers book with the confidence that their trip will meet or beat their expectations.
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
New Canada/New England Fall Foliage Cruises on MSC Poesia: Dazzling Landscapes, Historic Destinations
SOURCE: MSC Cruises (USA), Inc.
Feb 08, 2010 10:00 ETNew Canada/New England Fall Foliage Cruises on MSC Poesia: Dazzling Landscapes, Historic Destinations Rates Begin at $599 and Kids Cruise Free
FORT LAUDERDALE, FL--(Marketwire - February 8, 2010) - MSC Poesia sails her inaugural fall foliage Canada/New England cruises September 22 from New York City with 14 itineraries and nearly 25 ports of call for guests departing New York and Quebec. Rates begin at $599, and Kids Cruise Free.
Crimson and gold landscapes dazzle during the fall in New York City. Discover the colonial history, exquisite mansions and lighthouses of the New England coast, the St. Lawrence River for the French charm of Quebec, and quaint shops in Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia and Newfoundland. Cruises vary from 6- to 19-nights, and can be combined for an extended experience such as the repositioning cruise on October 23 with the Les Merle Big Band.
-- 6-night "Maple Leaves & Mansions" cruise departing Quebec City and calling in Sydney, Nova Scotia, Canada; Boston, Massachusetts; Newport, Rhode Island; and New York. October 23. Rates begin at $599 [plus $81.40 pp. government fees and taxes (GFT's)].
-- 7-night "Scenic Splendors of Fall" cruise departing New York City and calling in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada; Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada; Corner Brook, Newfoundland, Canada, and Quebec City, Quebec; Canada, October 2. Rates begin at $699 (plus $78.50 pp. GFT's).
-- 7-night "Brilliant Colors of Fall" cruise departing Quebec City and calling in Sydney, Nova Scotia, Canada; Bar Harbor, Maine; Boston, Massachusetts; Newport, Rhode Island; and New York. October 9. Rates begin at $739 (plus $67.80 pp. GFT's).
-- 9-night "Autumn Leaves to Palm Trees" cruise departing Quebec City and calling in Sydney, Nova Scotia, Canada; Boston, Massachusetts; Newport, Rhode Island; New York, and Fort Lauderdale. October 23. Rates begin at $849 (plus $102.40 pp. GFT's).
-- 10-night "Dazzling Fall Foliage" cruise departing New York City and calling in Sydney, Nova Scotia, Canada; Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada; Quebec City, Quebec, Canada; Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada; Newport, Rhode Island; and New York. September 22. Rates begin at $999 (plus $72.90 pp. GFT's).
Kids Cruise Free (17 and younger) when sharing a stateroom with two full-fare-paying adults. Government fees and taxes are applicable. Aeroplan Members earn Aeroplan Miles on select MSC cruises offered throughout the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Caribbean, Canada/New England, transatlantic and positioning cruises. Visit www.msccruisesusa.com/aeroplan.
For more information, visit www.MSCCruisesUSA.com, call 877-665-4655, or contact a local travel professional.
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
Feb 08, 2010 10:00 ETNew Canada/New England Fall Foliage Cruises on MSC Poesia: Dazzling Landscapes, Historic Destinations Rates Begin at $599 and Kids Cruise Free
FORT LAUDERDALE, FL--(Marketwire - February 8, 2010) - MSC Poesia sails her inaugural fall foliage Canada/New England cruises September 22 from New York City with 14 itineraries and nearly 25 ports of call for guests departing New York and Quebec. Rates begin at $599, and Kids Cruise Free.
Crimson and gold landscapes dazzle during the fall in New York City. Discover the colonial history, exquisite mansions and lighthouses of the New England coast, the St. Lawrence River for the French charm of Quebec, and quaint shops in Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia and Newfoundland. Cruises vary from 6- to 19-nights, and can be combined for an extended experience such as the repositioning cruise on October 23 with the Les Merle Big Band.
-- 6-night "Maple Leaves & Mansions" cruise departing Quebec City and calling in Sydney, Nova Scotia, Canada; Boston, Massachusetts; Newport, Rhode Island; and New York. October 23. Rates begin at $599 [plus $81.40 pp. government fees and taxes (GFT's)].
-- 7-night "Scenic Splendors of Fall" cruise departing New York City and calling in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada; Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada; Corner Brook, Newfoundland, Canada, and Quebec City, Quebec; Canada, October 2. Rates begin at $699 (plus $78.50 pp. GFT's).
-- 7-night "Brilliant Colors of Fall" cruise departing Quebec City and calling in Sydney, Nova Scotia, Canada; Bar Harbor, Maine; Boston, Massachusetts; Newport, Rhode Island; and New York. October 9. Rates begin at $739 (plus $67.80 pp. GFT's).
-- 9-night "Autumn Leaves to Palm Trees" cruise departing Quebec City and calling in Sydney, Nova Scotia, Canada; Boston, Massachusetts; Newport, Rhode Island; New York, and Fort Lauderdale. October 23. Rates begin at $849 (plus $102.40 pp. GFT's).
-- 10-night "Dazzling Fall Foliage" cruise departing New York City and calling in Sydney, Nova Scotia, Canada; Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada; Quebec City, Quebec, Canada; Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada; Newport, Rhode Island; and New York. September 22. Rates begin at $999 (plus $72.90 pp. GFT's).
Kids Cruise Free (17 and younger) when sharing a stateroom with two full-fare-paying adults. Government fees and taxes are applicable. Aeroplan Members earn Aeroplan Miles on select MSC cruises offered throughout the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Caribbean, Canada/New England, transatlantic and positioning cruises. Visit www.msccruisesusa.com/aeroplan.
For more information, visit www.MSCCruisesUSA.com, call 877-665-4655, or contact a local travel professional.
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
Friday, February 5, 2010
Affordable Eating in and around Vancouver
The crew at WSG and Fototrips will be steering clear of the 2010 winter Olympics. It's not that we are protesting or anything, it's just that we had a choice. Vancouver or San Jaun Peurto Rico. Hmmm. That was a tough one. Having said that, I can only guess what visitors are going to experience with the array of choices for dining and eating out. I am truly hoping local operators won't be gouging our global tourists.
So we were thinking. If someone came up to me on the street and said, where can I go for a great atmosphere, second to none in terms of service and quality of food, where would that be?
Hey, we're not rich with deep pockets, so we like budget conscious decisions when it comes down to where to eat too. And of course, value for our buck.
In Richmond. Not far from the skating oval, you will find a quaint little Irish Pub called O'Hares. Situated on the corner of Railway and Steveston Highway. About 4 kilometere's west from Highway 99, but still in the middle of the action. Why do we like it there? It's where you find the locals. They don't advertise, cause they don't have to. It's always busy. Lots on tap, fresh pub style food, pleasant atmosphere and the best service you'll find anywhere. They're doing something right, the staff hasn't changed in 15+ years. And they never forget a face.
During your stop in the neighborhood, you could also swing by historic Steveston just a few blocks away and see one of the first commercial fishing settlements on the west coast. Steeped in history. shops, more eating and more to see.
On your way to Olympic events in Richmond or just taking in the sites, this is a great pick. Not endorsed by, related to or a part of, in anywhich way with the Olympics, makes it an even higher priority for us. Bottoms up!
Contact O'Hares
Info@ohares.ca
5031 Steveston Hwy, Richmond, BC, V7E 2K5, Canada
Store: 604-241-8513 Pub: 604-277-2305 Fax: 604-277-4313
Travel Images http://www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/
So we were thinking. If someone came up to me on the street and said, where can I go for a great atmosphere, second to none in terms of service and quality of food, where would that be?
Hey, we're not rich with deep pockets, so we like budget conscious decisions when it comes down to where to eat too. And of course, value for our buck.
In Richmond. Not far from the skating oval, you will find a quaint little Irish Pub called O'Hares. Situated on the corner of Railway and Steveston Highway. About 4 kilometere's west from Highway 99, but still in the middle of the action. Why do we like it there? It's where you find the locals. They don't advertise, cause they don't have to. It's always busy. Lots on tap, fresh pub style food, pleasant atmosphere and the best service you'll find anywhere. They're doing something right, the staff hasn't changed in 15+ years. And they never forget a face.
During your stop in the neighborhood, you could also swing by historic Steveston just a few blocks away and see one of the first commercial fishing settlements on the west coast. Steeped in history. shops, more eating and more to see.
On your way to Olympic events in Richmond or just taking in the sites, this is a great pick. Not endorsed by, related to or a part of, in anywhich way with the Olympics, makes it an even higher priority for us. Bottoms up!
Contact O'Hares
Info@ohares.ca
5031 Steveston Hwy, Richmond, BC, V7E 2K5, Canada
Store: 604-241-8513 Pub: 604-277-2305 Fax: 604-277-4313
Travel Images http://www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/
The Columbia Icefields. Breathtaking beauty on Highway 93.
Because of my extensive travels on the highway, particularily through the Canadian Rockies, I often get asked about what my favorite places are. Without hesitation, it is Highway 93. North and south from Jasper and Banff. And in between, you have the Columbia Icefields.
Here are some facts about the Columbia Icefields: The Columbia Icefields are located in Jasper National Park. The Icefield – the largest sub-polar body of ice in North America – is one of the reasons why the United Nations declared Canada’s four rocky mountain parks “World heritage Sites”. The Icefield covers 325 square kilometres with solid ice up to 365 metres (1200 feet) deep. Melted water from the icefield flows to three oceans: Pacific, Arctic and Atlantic via Hudson Bay.
Please make note of the speed limit within most Provincial Parks. They can change without warning, but is usually 90 kilometre’s an hour with the exception of construction zones where it can be as low as 20 or 30 kilometre’s an hour. The Columbia Icefields Parkway is no exception. In the summer, there is a lot of RV and Motor Coach traffic. Pass with care and always show courtesy of pulling off to the side to let faster moving traffic through.
Where ever you decide to stop along the way, a definite must is the Columbia Icefield visitor Centre where you can experience, first hand, the thrill of walking on a glacier. Each adventure is led by an experienced and knowledgeable guide, who taps a wealth of fascinating research about the icefield. Adventure, education, a sense of wonder – all rolled into one incredible 90 – minute journey. Before you head out on your short ride up the hill to experience one of mother nature’s most incredible creations, be sure to dress appropriately. Good closed toed shoes are a must. A hat and heavier sweater or jacket. You may not need it, but because of the micro climate the glacier creates, the weather can change in an instance. Be prepared and keep warm.
Book your excursion well in advance to ensure an optimal “ice-time” as the locals call it. Toll Free: 1-877-423-7433. Prices: (2009) Adults $46.67 and Children $22.86. Children five and under ride for free. Ice Explorers depart every 15 – 30 minutes. The Chalet and tours run at varying hours from Spring to late summer approximately 9:00 – 5:00pm.
A few tips on your visit to the Columbia Icefields
•Make sure to park in the RV lot, not the Motor Coach lot, it can be confusing. Coming from Jasper, the first lot on the left as you arrive is the RV parking.
Travel Images http://www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/
:
The Icefields Parkway extends 230 kilometres, close to 150 miles, connecting Lake Louise to Jasper, Alberta. The Parkway starts just west of Lake Louise, Alberta, and extends north up the Bow valley, past Hector Lake, Bow Lake and Peyto Lake. The Parkway reaches the highest point at the Bow Summit (41 Kilometre’s north of the Highway 1 junction) at 2315 metre’s or 7, 600 feet. From there, highway continues north along the Mistaya River to Saskatchewan Crossing, where it converges with the Saskatchewan River. The North Saskatchewan River flows east from Saskatchewan Crossing, out of Banff National Park, into what is known as David Thompson country, and onto Edmonton Alberta.
Here are some facts about the Columbia Icefields: The Columbia Icefields are located in Jasper National Park. The Icefield – the largest sub-polar body of ice in North America – is one of the reasons why the United Nations declared Canada’s four rocky mountain parks “World heritage Sites”. The Icefield covers 325 square kilometres with solid ice up to 365 metres (1200 feet) deep. Melted water from the icefield flows to three oceans: Pacific, Arctic and Atlantic via Hudson Bay.
Please make note of the speed limit within most Provincial Parks. They can change without warning, but is usually 90 kilometre’s an hour with the exception of construction zones where it can be as low as 20 or 30 kilometre’s an hour. The Columbia Icefields Parkway is no exception. In the summer, there is a lot of RV and Motor Coach traffic. Pass with care and always show courtesy of pulling off to the side to let faster moving traffic through.
Where ever you decide to stop along the way, a definite must is the Columbia Icefield visitor Centre where you can experience, first hand, the thrill of walking on a glacier. Each adventure is led by an experienced and knowledgeable guide, who taps a wealth of fascinating research about the icefield. Adventure, education, a sense of wonder – all rolled into one incredible 90 – minute journey. Before you head out on your short ride up the hill to experience one of mother nature’s most incredible creations, be sure to dress appropriately. Good closed toed shoes are a must. A hat and heavier sweater or jacket. You may not need it, but because of the micro climate the glacier creates, the weather can change in an instance. Be prepared and keep warm.
Book your excursion well in advance to ensure an optimal “ice-time” as the locals call it. Toll Free: 1-877-423-7433. Prices: (2009) Adults $46.67 and Children $22.86. Children five and under ride for free. Ice Explorers depart every 15 – 30 minutes. The Chalet and tours run at varying hours from Spring to late summer approximately 9:00 – 5:00pm.
A few tips on your visit to the Columbia Icefields
•Make sure to park in the RV lot, not the Motor Coach lot, it can be confusing. Coming from Jasper, the first lot on the left as you arrive is the RV parking.
• Pack a lunch. The line-ups can be long and the buffet can be a bit over priced for what you get.
• The weather changes quickly. Make sure to have good shoes and a hat or scarf handy for your ride up the hill.
• Have water with you at all times. Remember, you are at
• Extremely high elevations. Keep yourself hydrated. Do not over exert yourself. At these elevations, the air is a little thinner. You have the whole day, take your time and enjoy.
• Make sure the battery in your camera is fully charged and you have lots of storage. You will be taking a lot of pictures today!!!!!
Travel Images http://www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/
Vancouver scene as safe, and maybe a nice place to live
VANCOUVER — A new poll done with the Olympics only days away suggests a strong majority of Britons and Americans believe the Vancouver is a safe and clean city. In a survey of 2,004 British and 1,003 American adults conducted by Angus Reid, 80 per cent of Britons and 74 per cent of Americans think Vancouver is a good place to visit.
Most respondents in both countries have never visited the 2010 Winter Olympic host city. Only five per cent of those surveyed in Britain have been to Vancouver, while 15 per cent of U.S. respondents have visited the city. Angus Reid plans to do a similar poll after the Olympics to see if the Games had any effect on how international visitors view the city. “We are looking for a benchmark. People are just about to descend on the city for a big party and we wanted to see how people feel about it,” Angus Reid public affairs vicepresident Mario Canseco said. “The results were much higher than we thought.” Canseco said it will be interesting to see if the international media write about issues of poverty and the Downtown Eastside and whether those stories do anything to tarnish the city’s international image.
The respondents were also asked, “From what you have experienced, seen, read or heard, how safe do you think Vancouver is?” About two-thirds of Britons (69 per cent) and Americans (65 per cent) regard Vancouver as a safe city. The higher numbers in Britain are likely due to Canada’s Commonwealth ties, Canseco said. About 77 per cent of Britons believe the city is clean and a good place to live, while 62 per cent of Americans think it is a clean city, but only 55 per cent deem it a good place to live.
The margin of error in the poll is plus or minus 2.2 percentage points in Britain, and 3.1 points in the United States.
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
Most respondents in both countries have never visited the 2010 Winter Olympic host city. Only five per cent of those surveyed in Britain have been to Vancouver, while 15 per cent of U.S. respondents have visited the city. Angus Reid plans to do a similar poll after the Olympics to see if the Games had any effect on how international visitors view the city. “We are looking for a benchmark. People are just about to descend on the city for a big party and we wanted to see how people feel about it,” Angus Reid public affairs vicepresident Mario Canseco said. “The results were much higher than we thought.” Canseco said it will be interesting to see if the international media write about issues of poverty and the Downtown Eastside and whether those stories do anything to tarnish the city’s international image.
The respondents were also asked, “From what you have experienced, seen, read or heard, how safe do you think Vancouver is?” About two-thirds of Britons (69 per cent) and Americans (65 per cent) regard Vancouver as a safe city. The higher numbers in Britain are likely due to Canada’s Commonwealth ties, Canseco said. About 77 per cent of Britons believe the city is clean and a good place to live, while 62 per cent of Americans think it is a clean city, but only 55 per cent deem it a good place to live.
The margin of error in the poll is plus or minus 2.2 percentage points in Britain, and 3.1 points in the United States.
Travel Images www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
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