VANCOUVER, March 31 /CNW/ - As the first long weekend of the year approaches, ICBC is encouraging all drivers to plan ahead and drive safely this Easter.
Over the past five years (2005-2009), there have been an average of 2,100 crashes, 630 injuries and four fatalities throughout B.C. over the four-day Easter long weekend.
"Our roads will be extra busy with many drivers setting off on their first road trip of the year," said Nicolas Jimenez, ICBC's director of Road Safety. "It's important for drivers to do their part to keep our roads safe by being extra cautious and making smart driving decisions. At this time of the year, we can often still see challenging weather conditions across many parts of the province."
Here are ICBC's top five smart driving tips for this Easter long weekend:
No. 1 - Be realistic: Plan ahead and be realistic about travel times. Allow extra time for possible delays that may occur due to increased traffic volume over the long weekend. Check www.drivebc.ca for road
and weather conditions before setting out.
No. 2 - Your vehicle: Long road trips can be tiring for drivers and passengers but also on your vehicle, so make sure it's up to the drive. Remember to check your engine oil, washer fluid, lights and inspect your vehicle tires, including the spare, to make sure they are in good condition and properly inflated. For more tips on preparing your vehicle, go to www.drivesmartsavegreen.com.
No. 3 - Be safe: At this time of year in B.C., weather conditions can change quickly, especially when travelling over long distances. Even in spring, drivers may encounter winter-like conditions in some parts
of the province. In other parts of the province, warmer weather will encourage more motorcyclists and bicyclists to hit the road. Drivers should slow down, use extra caution and keep a look out for other
roads users.
No. 4 - Drive smart: Whether travelling a long distance or a short trip, always maintain a safe travelling distance between vehicles. Allow at least two seconds of following distance in good weather and road conditions, and at least three seconds on high-speed roads or if you're behind a motorcycle since it has a much shorter stopping distance.
No. 5 - Model it: Set an example for your children and other drivers by making smart driving decisions on the road. Start by always wearing your seatbelt and make sure that everyone else in the vehicle does too.
For more smart driving tips, please visit www.icbc.com/drivesmart.
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Wednesday, March 31, 2010
More oversight of big airlines promised
OTTAWA — Top officials at Transport Canada vowed yesterday to step up oversight at major airlines after admitting government inspectors did fewer spot safety checks in the last few years.
“We haven’t done as much surveillance activities as we wanted to do, but that will change in the next three years,” Marc Grégoire, assistant deputy minister of safety and security, told MPs at the launch of parliamentary hearings into aviation safety in Canada.
Grégoire and deputy minister Yaprak Baltacioglu kicked off the hearings by acknowledging problems with the way the government has been implementing its new oversight regime, called safety management systems. But they both defended the approach, already fully phased in at such large carriers as Air Canada and WestJet.
Transport Canada has delayed implementation at small carriers for at least a year after being inundated with concerns from inspectors about problems during the initial phase-in at these smaller operations.
The system puts more onus on carriers by requiring them to develop and oversee an in-house system of safety checks tailored to their operations.
Transport Canada inspectors still ensure all safety regulations are followed, but the emphasis is placed on reviewing a company’s safety management system to determine whether the internal plan to reduce aviation hazards and risks is effective.
This regulatory system is a shift away from traditional oversight where government inspectors had a much more hands-on role in auditing the safety operations.
WSG (Fototrips) Posting news of interest from around the world relating to travel and photography.
“We haven’t done as much surveillance activities as we wanted to do, but that will change in the next three years,” Marc Grégoire, assistant deputy minister of safety and security, told MPs at the launch of parliamentary hearings into aviation safety in Canada.
Grégoire and deputy minister Yaprak Baltacioglu kicked off the hearings by acknowledging problems with the way the government has been implementing its new oversight regime, called safety management systems. But they both defended the approach, already fully phased in at such large carriers as Air Canada and WestJet.
Transport Canada has delayed implementation at small carriers for at least a year after being inundated with concerns from inspectors about problems during the initial phase-in at these smaller operations.
The system puts more onus on carriers by requiring them to develop and oversee an in-house system of safety checks tailored to their operations.
Transport Canada inspectors still ensure all safety regulations are followed, but the emphasis is placed on reviewing a company’s safety management system to determine whether the internal plan to reduce aviation hazards and risks is effective.
This regulatory system is a shift away from traditional oversight where government inspectors had a much more hands-on role in auditing the safety operations.
WSG (Fototrips) Posting news of interest from around the world relating to travel and photography.
Cheapflights UK Outs Top Gay-Friendly Destinations
LONDON--(Marketwire - March 31, 2010) - Since the Netherlands legalised civil partnership in 2001, cities and countries around the world have followed suit, helped by endorsements from same sex celeb couples. Cheapflights UK marks the occasion by unveiling the top five gay friendly destinations.
"We celebrate multiculturalism in all of its forms whether the word 'culture' relates to sexual preference or otherwise, we have just the destination to fit any personal taste," says Nadine Hallak, Travel Expert for Cheapflights UK.
Not surprisingly, our top five is dominated by US destinations. Perhaps because it's home to Hollywood's jet set, many of whom have helped set the scene for celebrating the gay scene.
Top 5 Gay-friendly Destinations
Los Angeles
Whether you're gay or straight, life in LA is a celebration of diversity, freedom of expression, and glitzy adventure all year round. Santa Monica Boulevard offers an eclectic bar and club scene while Sunset serves up live music, and Beverly Hills hosts cosier surroundings in the form of cafes and yet more bars.
Head over and scope out the stars, lights and glamorous sights from just £349 return.
San Francisco
San Fran is practically waving the flag for diversity, welcoming it with open arms rather than limiting to certain districts as many other destinations do. Bars, clubs, restaurants and even businesses are dotted throughout the entire city hosting any and every age, race, socio-economic status, and interest. The mix makes for a vibrant, open, and freeing experience.
And for those heading there to have a gander at The City by the Bay as a wedding venue, it might be of interest to note that Rosie O'Donnell and girlfriend Kelli Carpenter tied the knot here in 2004 followed by a thank you to the entire city for its supportive stance toward same sex couples partnership.
To leave your heart in San Francisco, compare flights from £349 return.
New Orleans
Natural disasters may have had it pegged as 'The City that Care Forgot,' but its night scene tells a different tale. Hot and happening is a more appropriate label here with most bars open 24 hours a day, a 'to go' policy on alcohol, and a broad range of vibrant venues from which to choose.
Neighbourhoods like the French Quarter are among the most highly recommended. Not only is it often frequented by celebrities, its venue offerings are in such close proximity that hopping from one to the next is both easy and convenient.
To get started on your own 24 hour party, compare flights from £302 return.
Amsterdam
The anniversary for the legalisation of same sex marriage can't possibly be marked without recognising the location that made it all possible, the Netherlands. On 1st April 2001, Esther Lammers and Wendy Kanters were the first same sex couple to walk down the aisle and tie the knot under the new law. While neither is a celebrity in the traditional sense, public attention of their ceremony was certainly worthy of celeb status.
Grab your own 15 minutes of fame in Amsterdam or simply take advantage of its liberal approach to life and let your hair down with flights from just £62 return.
Provincetown (Massachusetts)
Summertime here makes this place a haven for diversity. Nestled on Cape Cod, this is the gay extension to what serves as the summer escape for many a US jet setter, including the presidential kind. Provincetown offers up bars, clubs, sun and sea among an accepting, welcoming community. Its sublime setting makes for a more relaxed experience than the traditional same sex destination scene.
To set sail into serenity, compare flights to Boston from just £289 return and take the 'fast ferry' to Provincetown.
Of course the news isn't always good when it comes to diversity. Believe it or not, there are still several places in this modern world where being gay is actually illegal and can result in abuse and even arrest in some cases. So as well as telling travellers where they should go, we also highlight where they shouldn't with the following Top 5:
1.Jamaica
2.Fiji
3.Poland
4.Nicaragua
5.Mauritius
To compare destinations, travel advice, and flight deals, visit Cheapflights UK.
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"We celebrate multiculturalism in all of its forms whether the word 'culture' relates to sexual preference or otherwise, we have just the destination to fit any personal taste," says Nadine Hallak, Travel Expert for Cheapflights UK.
Not surprisingly, our top five is dominated by US destinations. Perhaps because it's home to Hollywood's jet set, many of whom have helped set the scene for celebrating the gay scene.
Top 5 Gay-friendly Destinations
Los Angeles
Whether you're gay or straight, life in LA is a celebration of diversity, freedom of expression, and glitzy adventure all year round. Santa Monica Boulevard offers an eclectic bar and club scene while Sunset serves up live music, and Beverly Hills hosts cosier surroundings in the form of cafes and yet more bars.
Head over and scope out the stars, lights and glamorous sights from just £349 return.
San Francisco
San Fran is practically waving the flag for diversity, welcoming it with open arms rather than limiting to certain districts as many other destinations do. Bars, clubs, restaurants and even businesses are dotted throughout the entire city hosting any and every age, race, socio-economic status, and interest. The mix makes for a vibrant, open, and freeing experience.
And for those heading there to have a gander at The City by the Bay as a wedding venue, it might be of interest to note that Rosie O'Donnell and girlfriend Kelli Carpenter tied the knot here in 2004 followed by a thank you to the entire city for its supportive stance toward same sex couples partnership.
To leave your heart in San Francisco, compare flights from £349 return.
New Orleans
Natural disasters may have had it pegged as 'The City that Care Forgot,' but its night scene tells a different tale. Hot and happening is a more appropriate label here with most bars open 24 hours a day, a 'to go' policy on alcohol, and a broad range of vibrant venues from which to choose.
Neighbourhoods like the French Quarter are among the most highly recommended. Not only is it often frequented by celebrities, its venue offerings are in such close proximity that hopping from one to the next is both easy and convenient.
To get started on your own 24 hour party, compare flights from £302 return.
Amsterdam
The anniversary for the legalisation of same sex marriage can't possibly be marked without recognising the location that made it all possible, the Netherlands. On 1st April 2001, Esther Lammers and Wendy Kanters were the first same sex couple to walk down the aisle and tie the knot under the new law. While neither is a celebrity in the traditional sense, public attention of their ceremony was certainly worthy of celeb status.
Grab your own 15 minutes of fame in Amsterdam or simply take advantage of its liberal approach to life and let your hair down with flights from just £62 return.
Provincetown (Massachusetts)
Summertime here makes this place a haven for diversity. Nestled on Cape Cod, this is the gay extension to what serves as the summer escape for many a US jet setter, including the presidential kind. Provincetown offers up bars, clubs, sun and sea among an accepting, welcoming community. Its sublime setting makes for a more relaxed experience than the traditional same sex destination scene.
To set sail into serenity, compare flights to Boston from just £289 return and take the 'fast ferry' to Provincetown.
Of course the news isn't always good when it comes to diversity. Believe it or not, there are still several places in this modern world where being gay is actually illegal and can result in abuse and even arrest in some cases. So as well as telling travellers where they should go, we also highlight where they shouldn't with the following Top 5:
1.Jamaica
2.Fiji
3.Poland
4.Nicaragua
5.Mauritius
To compare destinations, travel advice, and flight deals, visit Cheapflights UK.
WSG (Fototrips) Posting news of interest from around the world relating to travel and photography.
Palm Coast Travel Offers Holland America Sale at SmartCruiser.com
BOCA RATON, FL--(Marketwire - March 31, 2010) - Palm Coast Travel, the parent of SmartCruiser.com, is offering up to $150 onboard credit on selected sailings in conjunction with Holland America's 3-day cruise sale that ends April 2, 2010. "With cruise prices from $449 and a generous onboard credit of up to $150 you can't beat these five star cruise deals from Holland America Line," said Lee Smolinski, CEO of SmartCruiser.com.
Take advantage of this incredible Holland America cruise sale by booking your cruise today online www.smartcruiser.com. The five-star ships of Holland America include the Amsterdam, Maasdam, Eurodam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Noordam, Oosterdam, Prisendam, Rotterdam, Ryndam, Statendam, Veendam, Volendam, Westerdam, Zaandam and Zuiderdam.
Some of the cruise deals on these ships include:
Alaska Cruises from $449 with up to $150 Onboard Credit
Australia/New Zealand/Hawaii/South Pacific Cruises from $1299 with up to $150 Onboard Credit
Bermuda & Caribbean Cruises from $499 with up to $150 Onboard Credit
Canada & New England Cruises from $799 with up to $150 Onboard Credit
Europe & Transatlantic Cruises from $849 with up to $150 Onboard Credit
Full details of this offer, including the terms & conditions, can be found at SmartCruiser.com or by calling toll-free (800) 444-1560. Government taxes and fees are additional. A booking fee of $29.99 per stateroom is additional. Holland America Line Ships Registry: The Netherlands.
About Palm Coast Travel
Palm Coast Travel is based in Boca Raton, Florida and has been in business since 1987. Through its website SmartCruiser.com (www.smartcruiser.com), Palm Coast Travel booked over 50,000 cruisers in 2009 and is one of America's largest cruise sellers. Palm Coast Travel is a member in good standing with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and has their highest A+ rating.
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Take advantage of this incredible Holland America cruise sale by booking your cruise today online www.smartcruiser.com. The five-star ships of Holland America include the Amsterdam, Maasdam, Eurodam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Noordam, Oosterdam, Prisendam, Rotterdam, Ryndam, Statendam, Veendam, Volendam, Westerdam, Zaandam and Zuiderdam.
Some of the cruise deals on these ships include:
Alaska Cruises from $449 with up to $150 Onboard Credit
Australia/New Zealand/Hawaii/South Pacific Cruises from $1299 with up to $150 Onboard Credit
Bermuda & Caribbean Cruises from $499 with up to $150 Onboard Credit
Canada & New England Cruises from $799 with up to $150 Onboard Credit
Europe & Transatlantic Cruises from $849 with up to $150 Onboard Credit
Full details of this offer, including the terms & conditions, can be found at SmartCruiser.com or by calling toll-free (800) 444-1560. Government taxes and fees are additional. A booking fee of $29.99 per stateroom is additional. Holland America Line Ships Registry: The Netherlands.
About Palm Coast Travel
Palm Coast Travel is based in Boca Raton, Florida and has been in business since 1987. Through its website SmartCruiser.com (www.smartcruiser.com), Palm Coast Travel booked over 50,000 cruisers in 2009 and is one of America's largest cruise sellers. Palm Coast Travel is a member in good standing with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and has their highest A+ rating.
WSG (Fototrips) Posting news of interest from around the world relating to travel and photography.
Commission updates the list of airlines banned from the European airspace
The European Commission has adopted the thirteenth update of the Community’s list of airlines banned in the European Union to include all air carriers of two additional countries: Sudan and the Philippines, on the basis of safety assessments by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). With this update, restrictions placed on Air Koryo from the Democratic People's Republic of Korea and TAAG from Angola are partially lifted under certain conditions, while the operations of Iran Air will be restricted.
Today, the Community’s list has three carriers whose operations are fully banned in the European Union – Ariana Afghan Airlines from Afghanistan, Siem reap Airways International from Cambodia and Silverback Cargo Freighters from Rwanda.
All carriers from 17 countries – 278 companies in total – are banned: Angola, Benin, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, (with the exception of three carriers which operate under restrictions and conditions), Indonesia, Kazakhstan (with the exception of one carrier which operates under restrictions and conditions), the Kyrgyz Republic, Liberia, Philippines, Republic of Congo, Sierra Leone, Sao Tome and Principe, Sudan, Swaziland and Zambia. 10 air carriers are allowed to operate under restrictions and conditions - Air Koryo from the Democratic People Republic of Korea, TAAG Angola Airlines, Air Astana from Kazakhstan, Iran Air from Iran Gabon Airlines, Afrijet and SN2AG from Gabon, Air Bangladesh, Air Service Comores and Ukrainian Mediterranean Airlines from Ukraine.
- Travel Daily News (March 31, 2010)
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Today, the Community’s list has three carriers whose operations are fully banned in the European Union – Ariana Afghan Airlines from Afghanistan, Siem reap Airways International from Cambodia and Silverback Cargo Freighters from Rwanda.
All carriers from 17 countries – 278 companies in total – are banned: Angola, Benin, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, (with the exception of three carriers which operate under restrictions and conditions), Indonesia, Kazakhstan (with the exception of one carrier which operates under restrictions and conditions), the Kyrgyz Republic, Liberia, Philippines, Republic of Congo, Sierra Leone, Sao Tome and Principe, Sudan, Swaziland and Zambia. 10 air carriers are allowed to operate under restrictions and conditions - Air Koryo from the Democratic People Republic of Korea, TAAG Angola Airlines, Air Astana from Kazakhstan, Iran Air from Iran Gabon Airlines, Afrijet and SN2AG from Gabon, Air Bangladesh, Air Service Comores and Ukrainian Mediterranean Airlines from Ukraine.
- Travel Daily News (March 31, 2010)
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Skyservice charter airline suspends flights
CBC - The Skyservice charter airline cancelled several of its scheduled flights out of Toronto's Pearson International Airport on Wednesday.
A Boeing 757 jetliner for Skyservice Airlines lands in Calgary last year. The Skyservice chartered airline has cancelled almost all of its scheduled flights out of Toronto's Pearson International Airport. (Larry MacDougal/Canadian Press)
A local Toronto television news channel says the privately owned company may have gone out of business.
Flights from Toronto to the vacation destinations of Montego Bay, Cozumel, Puerto Plata and Cancun have been cancelled, according to the Greater Toronto Airport Authority's traveller information website. As of mid-morning, flights to Nassau, Punta Cana, and Liberia, Costa Rica, were still showing up as being "on time" departures.
The CBC and other media outlets have been unable to reach a Skyservice representative for comment and a spokeswoman for the Greater Toronto Airport Authority has referred all questions to the company.
Messages have been left for the CEO of Skyservice.
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A Boeing 757 jetliner for Skyservice Airlines lands in Calgary last year. The Skyservice chartered airline has cancelled almost all of its scheduled flights out of Toronto's Pearson International Airport. (Larry MacDougal/Canadian Press)
A local Toronto television news channel says the privately owned company may have gone out of business.
Flights from Toronto to the vacation destinations of Montego Bay, Cozumel, Puerto Plata and Cancun have been cancelled, according to the Greater Toronto Airport Authority's traveller information website. As of mid-morning, flights to Nassau, Punta Cana, and Liberia, Costa Rica, were still showing up as being "on time" departures.
The CBC and other media outlets have been unable to reach a Skyservice representative for comment and a spokeswoman for the Greater Toronto Airport Authority has referred all questions to the company.
Messages have been left for the CEO of Skyservice.
WSG (Fototrips) Posting news of interest from around the world relating to travel and photography.
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
B.C. ELIMINATES PST (just released 2:57 PM PST)
VICTORIA - The introduction of the Consumption Tax Rebate and Transition Act proposes to eliminate the Provincial Sales Tax (PST) and the Hotel Room Tax, streamlining the regulatory burden on business and supporting the transition to the HST, announced Finance Minister Colin Hansen today. "Our current provincial sales tax is a substantial and complex statute that costs B.C. businesses millions of dollars a year in administration and compliance," said Hansen. "By reforming our tax system and introducing the HST, businesses will be more competitive and our province will see an increase in investment, productivity and economic growth."
Fulfilling the Province's commitment under the Comprehensive Integrated Tax Coordination Agreement with the federal government to wind down PST by July 1, 2010, the new Consumption Tax Rebate and Transition Act eliminates the seven-per cent PST and introduces HST-related measures designed to mitigate the impacts of the HST on British Columbians.
Mitigation measures include:
* A B.C. HST credit to help low- and modest-income families.
* A point-of-sale rebate for the seven-per cent provincial portion of the HST on motor fuels, books, children's-sized clothing and footwear, children's car seats and booster seats, children's diapers and feminine
hygiene products.
* A provincially administered rebate and credit for the provincial portion of HST payable on energy purchased for residential use.Consistent with the tax treatment of the private sale of vehicles, boats and aircraft in other HST provinces, the act includes the continuance of the tax, but at a rate of 12 per cent. The act also includes amendments to repeal the Innovative Clean Energy (ICE) Fund Levy on residential and commercial energy, the $5 battery levy, the passenger vehicle rental tax, the surtax on motor vehicles and multijurisdictional vehicle tax.
The act also eliminates the provincial portion of the hotel room tax, but continues the two per cent additional hotel room tax levied on behalf of local governments, regional districts and destination marketing organizations to raise revenue for local tourism marketing.
To illustrate the importance of the high and growing cost of health care for British Columbians, the act includes a requirement to annually table a health-care funding plan and report to show health-care expenditures and revenues from the HST, tobacco taxes, Medical Service Plan (MSP) premiums, federal health-care transfers and lottery revenues from the Health Special Account.
WSG (Fototrips) Posting news of interest from around the world relating to travel and photography.
Fulfilling the Province's commitment under the Comprehensive Integrated Tax Coordination Agreement with the federal government to wind down PST by July 1, 2010, the new Consumption Tax Rebate and Transition Act eliminates the seven-per cent PST and introduces HST-related measures designed to mitigate the impacts of the HST on British Columbians.
Mitigation measures include:
* A B.C. HST credit to help low- and modest-income families.
* A point-of-sale rebate for the seven-per cent provincial portion of the HST on motor fuels, books, children's-sized clothing and footwear, children's car seats and booster seats, children's diapers and feminine
hygiene products.
* A provincially administered rebate and credit for the provincial portion of HST payable on energy purchased for residential use.Consistent with the tax treatment of the private sale of vehicles, boats and aircraft in other HST provinces, the act includes the continuance of the tax, but at a rate of 12 per cent. The act also includes amendments to repeal the Innovative Clean Energy (ICE) Fund Levy on residential and commercial energy, the $5 battery levy, the passenger vehicle rental tax, the surtax on motor vehicles and multijurisdictional vehicle tax.
The act also eliminates the provincial portion of the hotel room tax, but continues the two per cent additional hotel room tax levied on behalf of local governments, regional districts and destination marketing organizations to raise revenue for local tourism marketing.
To illustrate the importance of the high and growing cost of health care for British Columbians, the act includes a requirement to annually table a health-care funding plan and report to show health-care expenditures and revenues from the HST, tobacco taxes, Medical Service Plan (MSP) premiums, federal health-care transfers and lottery revenues from the Health Special Account.
WSG (Fototrips) Posting news of interest from around the world relating to travel and photography.
Victoria, British Columbia Food and Beverage. Where to go and where to avoid
It's been a while since I posted a "where to go when in Victoria", so with the Easter Long weekend rapidly approaching, I thought it's time to get back at it. As I mentioned a couple of days ago, the cruise ships are going to be rolling once again on the west coast enroute to Alaska, and they have 230+ scheduled stops right here in the capital city.
Occasionally I write about where to go and enjoy food and beverage while visiting the city because I find tour groups mis-lead you. If you are a new to my blog, you should know that I spent many years in tourism transportation on the West Coast. There aren't too many places that I don't know about or haven't been. If you are planning on visiting our fine city, or have a customer who's booked on a cruise ship this may be an interesting post for them.
It's true, that when I travel, I enjoy going to where the locals hang out. I like to experiment with my food and beverage as I think this plays such a major part in the enjoyment of travel. So, having said that, be cautious of where your tour guide is sending you. They may suggest places to go because they:
a) Don't know any better
b) Get a kick back from the proprietor
c) Is they only place they know because someone told them ten years ago it was good.
This is true. I travel a fair amount, particularily on cruise lines, and this is what I am finding. So I self direct my dining excursions by asking, research and recommendations. Victoria is a lovely city steeped in tradition. (mostly British) but hey, we'll take it. It is said that there are more pubs per capita in this region than anywhere else in the country. Not bad considering the population is only 400,000. You can find almost everything and anything within the confines of our very small, quaint inner harbour district. The best part, is most of the downtown area is within walking distance and transportation is optional on the most part. Depending on your physical ability and how adventurous you may be.
When you get to Victoria, I hear the same thing. Tour Directors sending people to the same damn places like they are the only ones in the city. Not only does this sometimes send people away with a mis-represented impression of our city, but maybe feeling a little deflated on expectations. So print this post out before you travel and have it in your pocket for your arrival. Where to go, and where not to go in Victoria. A friendly, albeit short, guide from someone who LIVES here and knows better.
The Top 10 places where not to go for food and beverages:
1. The Old Spaghetti Factory. Affordable? Yes! But only tourists eat there and the food is crap.
2. James Bay Inn. Ughh! A few locals, dark and right out of the 70's. A typical beer parlor with the red terry cloth tables. Not my speed.
3. Bent Mast (James Bay) If you stumble across the sign, turn and run the other direction. The worst service I have ever experienced. Not cheap from my recollection either.
4. Cactus Club (Douglas Street) Very young and hip. Food is okay. Service, well, we're not sure. It depends on what day of the week it is. Patio very noisy as it's right at the intersection of Douglas and Fort.
5. Earles on Government. Same as above, just not quite as noisy. Located at the same location as the old Elephant and Castle. Service staff are VERY young and not that attentive.
6. The Shark Club. Sports bar on the north end of Douglas at Hillside. Put bunny ears on the service staff and you'ld swear you were hanging out at Hugh Hefners mansion. Food is average and the service is hit and miss. For me, more misses than hits of late. I guess I'm just too old for that place, I'm not sure. Can be very loud too. If you don't care about anything and just want to watch a game, than this might be the place for you. But unlikely.
7. Blue Crab (James Bay). Used to be my favorite place for seafood, great view of the harbour but something happened. Still trying to figure it out. For the price, I'd go somewhere else. See fine dining selections below.
8. Darcy's Pub (Wharf Street) Not much nice to say about this place, so I won't say anything at all. It's a meat market at the best of times. Period.
9. Milestones (Wharf Street) Great view of the harbour. The service staff are hit and miss here too like most places in town. The food is average. Medium Priced. Not my pick, nor would I recommend it. It's always busy, because of it's location and built in traffic not for what's on the menu. Trust me.
10. Nautical Nellies (Wharf Street) Like Milestones above, by shear virtue of its location and built in traffic, it is always busy. Situated right across from the harbour.
The Top 10 places to go for food and beverages: (not in any particular order)
1. Swiftsure. Okay, it's a pub with pub fare. Food decent and the service is average but great patio on the harbor. Alot of tourists, but you will also find alot of the locals there too. Resonably priced.
2. The Bengal Lounge (Empress Hotel). Expensive but worth it. What can we say? It's the Empress and they excel in customer service.
3. Barts (Executive Inn) Small, in the basement but in the middle of the action downtown. Lots of locals. very few people from out of town even know it's there. Resonably priced. Service is always good. The place for a good beer and a burger.
4. Noodle Box (Douglas Street) The only fast food joint on my list. My favorite by far. It is also licensed. can be loud, takes a while to get your food but it's fun and the food consistantly good.
5. Bard and Banker (Government Street). Reletively new. Housed in old heritage building. Great beer, service is slightly above average. Can be pricey. But fun for the adults. A real taste of Britain and Ireland.
6. Canoe Club (Further down Government Street) Hey, my kind of place, they brew their own beer. Right on the water, fabulous patio. Can be pricey but worth it. Service is hit and miss but everything else makes up for it.
7. Swans (not far from Canoe Club) Gold medal winners for their beer. Situated in a very quaint botique hotel. Great live jazz and blues music at night. Try the IPA, the best.
8. Christies carriage House (Fort Street). Not walking distance. Take a cab to my old neighborhood. Personally, one of the best neighborhood pubs in the city. Reasonably priced, service is consistantly good and the beer selection is massive.
9. Cafe Brio. (Fort Street) Fine dining. Incredible food and service and a fabulous wine selection.
10. Il Terazzo. Italian dining adjacent to Market Square. My favorite for fine dining in town. I have been going here for years and have yet to be dissapointed. Call for reservations or you won't get in. It's that good.
NOTE: I have to add #11 to this catagory because I was really hard on anything that operates on Wharf Street. Be careful, anything down that strip is way over priced with average to below average service. With the exception of Sauce. Located on Wharf by the Blue Bridge. Great patio, fun atmosphere, reasonably priced and the service has been exceptionally good for the many times I have been there. Bording on fine dining but not quite. They make a mean martini!
There you go. There is more, but I had to narrow it down to my least favorites and favorites. If there is something else you would like to know about, let me know and I will give you the straight goods on it. There are some fabulous places to go in Victoria, I hope this helps in making your experience a nice one in which you may want to write home about.
Note: I am not affiliated with any restaurant or hospitality organization and these are my own views
Next time around we'll talk about tipping. This is big topic of late on the blogs and travel magazines, so I will give you my perspective on that later.
Happy touring.
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Occasionally I write about where to go and enjoy food and beverage while visiting the city because I find tour groups mis-lead you. If you are a new to my blog, you should know that I spent many years in tourism transportation on the West Coast. There aren't too many places that I don't know about or haven't been. If you are planning on visiting our fine city, or have a customer who's booked on a cruise ship this may be an interesting post for them.
It's true, that when I travel, I enjoy going to where the locals hang out. I like to experiment with my food and beverage as I think this plays such a major part in the enjoyment of travel. So, having said that, be cautious of where your tour guide is sending you. They may suggest places to go because they:
a) Don't know any better
b) Get a kick back from the proprietor
c) Is they only place they know because someone told them ten years ago it was good.
This is true. I travel a fair amount, particularily on cruise lines, and this is what I am finding. So I self direct my dining excursions by asking, research and recommendations. Victoria is a lovely city steeped in tradition. (mostly British) but hey, we'll take it. It is said that there are more pubs per capita in this region than anywhere else in the country. Not bad considering the population is only 400,000. You can find almost everything and anything within the confines of our very small, quaint inner harbour district. The best part, is most of the downtown area is within walking distance and transportation is optional on the most part. Depending on your physical ability and how adventurous you may be.
When you get to Victoria, I hear the same thing. Tour Directors sending people to the same damn places like they are the only ones in the city. Not only does this sometimes send people away with a mis-represented impression of our city, but maybe feeling a little deflated on expectations. So print this post out before you travel and have it in your pocket for your arrival. Where to go, and where not to go in Victoria. A friendly, albeit short, guide from someone who LIVES here and knows better.
The Top 10 places where not to go for food and beverages:
1. The Old Spaghetti Factory. Affordable? Yes! But only tourists eat there and the food is crap.
2. James Bay Inn. Ughh! A few locals, dark and right out of the 70's. A typical beer parlor with the red terry cloth tables. Not my speed.
3. Bent Mast (James Bay) If you stumble across the sign, turn and run the other direction. The worst service I have ever experienced. Not cheap from my recollection either.
4. Cactus Club (Douglas Street) Very young and hip. Food is okay. Service, well, we're not sure. It depends on what day of the week it is. Patio very noisy as it's right at the intersection of Douglas and Fort.
5. Earles on Government. Same as above, just not quite as noisy. Located at the same location as the old Elephant and Castle. Service staff are VERY young and not that attentive.
6. The Shark Club. Sports bar on the north end of Douglas at Hillside. Put bunny ears on the service staff and you'ld swear you were hanging out at Hugh Hefners mansion. Food is average and the service is hit and miss. For me, more misses than hits of late. I guess I'm just too old for that place, I'm not sure. Can be very loud too. If you don't care about anything and just want to watch a game, than this might be the place for you. But unlikely.
7. Blue Crab (James Bay). Used to be my favorite place for seafood, great view of the harbour but something happened. Still trying to figure it out. For the price, I'd go somewhere else. See fine dining selections below.
8. Darcy's Pub (Wharf Street) Not much nice to say about this place, so I won't say anything at all. It's a meat market at the best of times. Period.
9. Milestones (Wharf Street) Great view of the harbour. The service staff are hit and miss here too like most places in town. The food is average. Medium Priced. Not my pick, nor would I recommend it. It's always busy, because of it's location and built in traffic not for what's on the menu. Trust me.
10. Nautical Nellies (Wharf Street) Like Milestones above, by shear virtue of its location and built in traffic, it is always busy. Situated right across from the harbour.
The Top 10 places to go for food and beverages: (not in any particular order)
1. Swiftsure. Okay, it's a pub with pub fare. Food decent and the service is average but great patio on the harbor. Alot of tourists, but you will also find alot of the locals there too. Resonably priced.
2. The Bengal Lounge (Empress Hotel). Expensive but worth it. What can we say? It's the Empress and they excel in customer service.
3. Barts (Executive Inn) Small, in the basement but in the middle of the action downtown. Lots of locals. very few people from out of town even know it's there. Resonably priced. Service is always good. The place for a good beer and a burger.
4. Noodle Box (Douglas Street) The only fast food joint on my list. My favorite by far. It is also licensed. can be loud, takes a while to get your food but it's fun and the food consistantly good.
5. Bard and Banker (Government Street). Reletively new. Housed in old heritage building. Great beer, service is slightly above average. Can be pricey. But fun for the adults. A real taste of Britain and Ireland.
6. Canoe Club (Further down Government Street) Hey, my kind of place, they brew their own beer. Right on the water, fabulous patio. Can be pricey but worth it. Service is hit and miss but everything else makes up for it.
7. Swans (not far from Canoe Club) Gold medal winners for their beer. Situated in a very quaint botique hotel. Great live jazz and blues music at night. Try the IPA, the best.
8. Christies carriage House (Fort Street). Not walking distance. Take a cab to my old neighborhood. Personally, one of the best neighborhood pubs in the city. Reasonably priced, service is consistantly good and the beer selection is massive.
9. Cafe Brio. (Fort Street) Fine dining. Incredible food and service and a fabulous wine selection.
10. Il Terazzo. Italian dining adjacent to Market Square. My favorite for fine dining in town. I have been going here for years and have yet to be dissapointed. Call for reservations or you won't get in. It's that good.
NOTE: I have to add #11 to this catagory because I was really hard on anything that operates on Wharf Street. Be careful, anything down that strip is way over priced with average to below average service. With the exception of Sauce. Located on Wharf by the Blue Bridge. Great patio, fun atmosphere, reasonably priced and the service has been exceptionally good for the many times I have been there. Bording on fine dining but not quite. They make a mean martini!
There you go. There is more, but I had to narrow it down to my least favorites and favorites. If there is something else you would like to know about, let me know and I will give you the straight goods on it. There are some fabulous places to go in Victoria, I hope this helps in making your experience a nice one in which you may want to write home about.
Note: I am not affiliated with any restaurant or hospitality organization and these are my own views
Next time around we'll talk about tipping. This is big topic of late on the blogs and travel magazines, so I will give you my perspective on that later.
Happy touring.
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Photo by: Brad Edwards www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
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Harbour Air to purchase competitor
Times Colonist-Harbour Air Seaplanes is set to gobble up one of its main competitors.
The company confirmed yesterday it is in final negotiations to acquire West Coast Air and expects to close the deal April 30.
Randy Wright, Harbour Air senior vice-president in charge of sales and marketing, said West Coast Air will continue to operate under its own brand and that terminals in Victoria and Vancouver harbours would remain for now.
No financial terms were revealed by either company.
They both operate scheduled service between downtown Victoria and Vancouver as well as charters, tours and freight to the Gulf Islands, Sunshine Coast and communities on Vancouver Island and the Lower Mainland.
Harbour Air is owned by Greg McDougall of Vancouver, who is majority shareholder, and restaurateur Brent Davies, a minority partner. West Coast Air — formerly known as Baxter Air — is operated by the Baxter family, which has run scheduled and chartered service on the West Coast for 35 years.
West Coast Air has six 18-passenger Twin Otter aircraft and nine Beaver planes, each holding six passengers. All are amphibious craft.
Harbour Air, which calls itself the largest seaplane company in the world, has 34 aircraft, mostly singleengine Beavers, and also operates a helicopter service to the Fraser Valley.
Wright said the recession, poor tourism numbers and cutbacks on government travel played a role in bringing the two airlines together.
“The economy being down, they were seeing reduced passenger loads,” Wright said. “In this business there are plenty of synergies, so there it made a lot of sense to get together and do things like accounting, marketing. … It’s a high-cost business with fuel, wages and maintenance costing a lot of money, and I think both sides see a lot of savings.”
Rick Baxter, president and CEO of West Coast Air and the airline’s secondgeneration owner, wasn’t immediately available for comment. The company also operates out of Nanaimo, Comox and Sechelt, adding the last after buying Pacific Wings two years ago.
Wright said West Coast Air “lost some market share during the downturn” and Harbour Air was “holding our own.”
He said government travel — with business clients the lion’s share of passengers in the offseason — is down 15 to 20 per cent this year after the provincial government cut back on travel budgets. The tourism season has also been declining the past several years, although Wright believes the 2010 Olympic Winter Games will play a role in increasing passenger loads slightly this summer, and more in 2011.
He said Harbour Air had a “nice recovery” when the sun was shining over the last half of the Games last month as international tourists took side trips to Victoria and other locations. “Our phones blew off the wall,” said Wright, who is also chairman of Tourism Victoria, the region’s destination marketing organization.
“There’s no question the Olympics will be good for us, just not right away,” said Wright.
West Coast Air operates six terminals — two on the Lower Mainland, one at Coal Harbour near Canada Place and the other on the Fraser River at Sea Air on Inglis Drive; as well as terminals in Victoria’s Inner Harbour, Nanaimo, Comox and Sechelt.
Harbour Air operates full-service terminals in Vancouver, Victoria, Nanaimo, Richmond and Langley. The airline also flies out of Maple Bay near Duncan, and Ganges and Bedwell harbours.
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The company confirmed yesterday it is in final negotiations to acquire West Coast Air and expects to close the deal April 30.
Randy Wright, Harbour Air senior vice-president in charge of sales and marketing, said West Coast Air will continue to operate under its own brand and that terminals in Victoria and Vancouver harbours would remain for now.
No financial terms were revealed by either company.
They both operate scheduled service between downtown Victoria and Vancouver as well as charters, tours and freight to the Gulf Islands, Sunshine Coast and communities on Vancouver Island and the Lower Mainland.
Harbour Air is owned by Greg McDougall of Vancouver, who is majority shareholder, and restaurateur Brent Davies, a minority partner. West Coast Air — formerly known as Baxter Air — is operated by the Baxter family, which has run scheduled and chartered service on the West Coast for 35 years.
West Coast Air has six 18-passenger Twin Otter aircraft and nine Beaver planes, each holding six passengers. All are amphibious craft.
Harbour Air, which calls itself the largest seaplane company in the world, has 34 aircraft, mostly singleengine Beavers, and also operates a helicopter service to the Fraser Valley.
Wright said the recession, poor tourism numbers and cutbacks on government travel played a role in bringing the two airlines together.
“The economy being down, they were seeing reduced passenger loads,” Wright said. “In this business there are plenty of synergies, so there it made a lot of sense to get together and do things like accounting, marketing. … It’s a high-cost business with fuel, wages and maintenance costing a lot of money, and I think both sides see a lot of savings.”
Rick Baxter, president and CEO of West Coast Air and the airline’s secondgeneration owner, wasn’t immediately available for comment. The company also operates out of Nanaimo, Comox and Sechelt, adding the last after buying Pacific Wings two years ago.
Wright said West Coast Air “lost some market share during the downturn” and Harbour Air was “holding our own.”
He said government travel — with business clients the lion’s share of passengers in the offseason — is down 15 to 20 per cent this year after the provincial government cut back on travel budgets. The tourism season has also been declining the past several years, although Wright believes the 2010 Olympic Winter Games will play a role in increasing passenger loads slightly this summer, and more in 2011.
He said Harbour Air had a “nice recovery” when the sun was shining over the last half of the Games last month as international tourists took side trips to Victoria and other locations. “Our phones blew off the wall,” said Wright, who is also chairman of Tourism Victoria, the region’s destination marketing organization.
“There’s no question the Olympics will be good for us, just not right away,” said Wright.
West Coast Air operates six terminals — two on the Lower Mainland, one at Coal Harbour near Canada Place and the other on the Fraser River at Sea Air on Inglis Drive; as well as terminals in Victoria’s Inner Harbour, Nanaimo, Comox and Sechelt.
Harbour Air operates full-service terminals in Vancouver, Victoria, Nanaimo, Richmond and Langley. The airline also flies out of Maple Bay near Duncan, and Ganges and Bedwell harbours.
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American Airlines Introduces PayPal Payment Option for AA.com Customers in Canada
FORT WORTH, Texas, March 29 /CNW/ -- American Airlines announced today it is now providing customers in Canada the option to use PayPal when booking tickets on the airline's Web site, AA.com. American, which began accepting PayPal for AA.com bookings in the United States in 2008, is the first and only airline in the United States to accept PayPal as a form of payment internationally.
PayPal enables customers to pay for transactions using a credit card, bank account or PayPal account balance. A major benefit of PayPal acceptance for Canadian residents is that it enables them to pay using a wider choice of payment options than is currently possible through AA.com. Since Canadians use PayPal to make an online purchase every 1.2 seconds, the move is expected to be widely welcomed by American's Canadian customers.
When purchasing travel at AA.com, customers simply select the PayPal option. They will be directed to PayPal's secure Web site to log into their account and confirm the transaction, or to enroll for free if they don't already have a PayPal account. Customers will then be returned to AA.com to complete their purchase.
"We are pleased to be able to offer our customers in Canada even more choices when purchasing travel on AA.com," said Derek DeCross, American's Managing Director - Interactive Marketing. "PayPal offers the convenience and flexibility that we know our customers value."
For further information about using PayPal to purchase flights online with American, visit www.aa.com/paypal. American Airlines is a founding member of the oneworld® Alliance.
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PayPal enables customers to pay for transactions using a credit card, bank account or PayPal account balance. A major benefit of PayPal acceptance for Canadian residents is that it enables them to pay using a wider choice of payment options than is currently possible through AA.com. Since Canadians use PayPal to make an online purchase every 1.2 seconds, the move is expected to be widely welcomed by American's Canadian customers.
When purchasing travel at AA.com, customers simply select the PayPal option. They will be directed to PayPal's secure Web site to log into their account and confirm the transaction, or to enroll for free if they don't already have a PayPal account. Customers will then be returned to AA.com to complete their purchase.
"We are pleased to be able to offer our customers in Canada even more choices when purchasing travel on AA.com," said Derek DeCross, American's Managing Director - Interactive Marketing. "PayPal offers the convenience and flexibility that we know our customers value."
For further information about using PayPal to purchase flights online with American, visit www.aa.com/paypal. American Airlines is a founding member of the oneworld® Alliance.
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Federal Court to hear Air Canada request for access to Toronto City Centre Airport
MONTREAL, March 29 /CNW Telbec/ - The Federal Court today issued an order allowing Air Canada to challenge, by an application for judicial review, the Toronto Port Authority's announced decision to engage in a process that would unfairly discriminate against airlines wishing to serve the Toronto City Centre Airport and to seek an order requiring the TPA to properly allocate available slots at the airport.
The hearing of the airline's application has been scheduled for July 6 to 8, 2010 before the Federal Court. This will be the first time since Porter commenced operations that the substance of the matter of competitive access to the airport will be heard by a court.
Air Canada is asking the Court to direct the TPA, a public authority, to allocate all existing and additional take-off and landing slots at the airport, a public facility, in a manner consistent with its legal obligations. The Court order is being sought in response to an improper process through which the TPA has awarded and intends to award slots.
Ben Smith, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer of Air Canada remarked, "The TPA, a public authority, has provided a private business interest with virtually exclusive rights to use a public facility, conferring on Porter Airlines an anti-competitive advantage. As a result of the TPA's non-transparent arrangement with Porter for all the available slots at the airport, Porter has enjoyed an unfair monopoly on the Island business corridor. This puts Air Canada and other airlines at an enormous disadvantage in attracting passengers flying to or from downtown Toronto. It is not the role of the TPA to suppress competition - its duty is to run a public facility for the benefit of the traveling public, with fair access for interested carriers."
Air Canada has filed a request to resume service to the Island Airport initially with 15 round trips a day to both Ottawa and Montreal and seven a day to Newark, N.J.
Mr. Smith continued, "The TPA is now purporting to invoke an IATA slot allocation process without following the IATA rules. The TPA's announced intention would result in severely limited access to the Island Airport for any carrier other than Porter, thereby suppressing competition from this airport.
"Air Canada's issue is with the TPA, not Porter. We can well understand why an entrepreneurial enterprise would accept the benefit of a non-transparent and unprecedented arrangement with a public authority which provides it with a monopoly advantage. It is unknown what other arrangements, financial or otherwise, exist between the TPA, a public authority and Porter, a private commercial enterprise, to the detriment of consumers and airline competition. But the TPA, as the operator of a public facility, has the obligation to provide proper access to all airlines, which in turn will provide choice and convenience to the traveling public. Air Canada's customers want access to this airport and we're determined to be able to serve them," concluded Mr. Smith.
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The hearing of the airline's application has been scheduled for July 6 to 8, 2010 before the Federal Court. This will be the first time since Porter commenced operations that the substance of the matter of competitive access to the airport will be heard by a court.
Air Canada is asking the Court to direct the TPA, a public authority, to allocate all existing and additional take-off and landing slots at the airport, a public facility, in a manner consistent with its legal obligations. The Court order is being sought in response to an improper process through which the TPA has awarded and intends to award slots.
Ben Smith, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer of Air Canada remarked, "The TPA, a public authority, has provided a private business interest with virtually exclusive rights to use a public facility, conferring on Porter Airlines an anti-competitive advantage. As a result of the TPA's non-transparent arrangement with Porter for all the available slots at the airport, Porter has enjoyed an unfair monopoly on the Island business corridor. This puts Air Canada and other airlines at an enormous disadvantage in attracting passengers flying to or from downtown Toronto. It is not the role of the TPA to suppress competition - its duty is to run a public facility for the benefit of the traveling public, with fair access for interested carriers."
Air Canada has filed a request to resume service to the Island Airport initially with 15 round trips a day to both Ottawa and Montreal and seven a day to Newark, N.J.
Mr. Smith continued, "The TPA is now purporting to invoke an IATA slot allocation process without following the IATA rules. The TPA's announced intention would result in severely limited access to the Island Airport for any carrier other than Porter, thereby suppressing competition from this airport.
"Air Canada's issue is with the TPA, not Porter. We can well understand why an entrepreneurial enterprise would accept the benefit of a non-transparent and unprecedented arrangement with a public authority which provides it with a monopoly advantage. It is unknown what other arrangements, financial or otherwise, exist between the TPA, a public authority and Porter, a private commercial enterprise, to the detriment of consumers and airline competition. But the TPA, as the operator of a public facility, has the obligation to provide proper access to all airlines, which in turn will provide choice and convenience to the traveling public. Air Canada's customers want access to this airport and we're determined to be able to serve them," concluded Mr. Smith.
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Innovative "Baggage Fee Included" Promotion
HOLLYWOOD, FL--(Marketwire - March 29, 2010) - Though checked-baggage fees may be soaring, Breezes Resorts guests can have an overweight or second bag and check it in too -- without breaking the bank. The innovators of the Super-Inclusive concept just elevated their encompassing offerings with the announcement of the "Baggage Fee Included" promotion. With every seven-night minimum stay May 1 through October 31, travelers can trade-in their checked-baggage fee receipt for up to $100 spa credit per room. Available at eight Breezes Resorts, all inclusive vacation rates start at $120 per person, per night, based on double-occupancy.
Upon arrival at the all inclusive hotels, the burden of the airline surcharge to take an overweight or second bag is converted into bliss. The spa credit ensures a rejuvenating vacation where each Blue Mahoe Spa at Breezes Resorts, as well as the Miraflores Spa (only available at Breezes Panama), uses an exotic combination of island ingredients to relax and pamper.
Breezes Resorts' all-star lineup in Jamaica includes the all-suite Breezes Grand Negril, named one of Travel + Leisure's "Top 25 Hotels in the Caribbean, Bermuda and the Bahamas" in 2008 and Breezes Trelawny, a family favorite resort for all ages. Adventure buffs enjoy the thrill of Breezes Runaway Bay's plentiful land and water activities, while neighboring Breezes Rio Bueno boasts quaint Jamaican village-style architecture, festive street parties and a nine-hole executive golf course.
The "Baggage Fee Included" promotion is also available at Breezes Resorts beyond Jamaica. Discover Central America's southernmost country with accommodations at the brand new Breezes Panama. Breezes Curaçao beckons world-class divers and water sports enthusiasts alike. Breezes Bahamas' beachfront accommodations are a perennial close-to-home favorite on legendary Cable Beach in Nassau, while those seeking an extra exotic escapade in the southern hemisphere enjoy Breezes Costa Do Sauípe in Bahia.
The "Baggage Fee Included" offer is valid for travel to any Breezes Resort May 1 through October 31, 2010. At hotel check-in, guests must show their original checked-baggage fee receipt from the day of arrival to receive up to $50 per person spa credit to be used during their stay.
To learn more about Breezes Resorts or to book your next vacation to a Breezes all inclusive resort, visit http://www.breezes.com, call 1-877-BREEZES (273-3937), or contact a local travel agent.
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Upon arrival at the all inclusive hotels, the burden of the airline surcharge to take an overweight or second bag is converted into bliss. The spa credit ensures a rejuvenating vacation where each Blue Mahoe Spa at Breezes Resorts, as well as the Miraflores Spa (only available at Breezes Panama), uses an exotic combination of island ingredients to relax and pamper.
Breezes Resorts' all-star lineup in Jamaica includes the all-suite Breezes Grand Negril, named one of Travel + Leisure's "Top 25 Hotels in the Caribbean, Bermuda and the Bahamas" in 2008 and Breezes Trelawny, a family favorite resort for all ages. Adventure buffs enjoy the thrill of Breezes Runaway Bay's plentiful land and water activities, while neighboring Breezes Rio Bueno boasts quaint Jamaican village-style architecture, festive street parties and a nine-hole executive golf course.
The "Baggage Fee Included" promotion is also available at Breezes Resorts beyond Jamaica. Discover Central America's southernmost country with accommodations at the brand new Breezes Panama. Breezes Curaçao beckons world-class divers and water sports enthusiasts alike. Breezes Bahamas' beachfront accommodations are a perennial close-to-home favorite on legendary Cable Beach in Nassau, while those seeking an extra exotic escapade in the southern hemisphere enjoy Breezes Costa Do Sauípe in Bahia.
The "Baggage Fee Included" offer is valid for travel to any Breezes Resort May 1 through October 31, 2010. At hotel check-in, guests must show their original checked-baggage fee receipt from the day of arrival to receive up to $50 per person spa credit to be used during their stay.
To learn more about Breezes Resorts or to book your next vacation to a Breezes all inclusive resort, visit http://www.breezes.com, call 1-877-BREEZES (273-3937), or contact a local travel agent.
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Europe’s 10 least travelled capitals
The spread of British bars and chip shops has led to the Britification of Spain’s coastal towns and has eroded the sense of being somewhere new and exotic. Recent reports suggest that Spain has lost appeal because it is no longer considered foreign enough, so flight site Skyscanner has revealed Europe’s ten least travelled capitals by British tourists, for those wishing to experience genuine foreign culture.
At number one, the least likely place to run into fellow Brits was Chisinau in Moldova. Squished between Romania and Ukraine and built on the river Bic, this is one of Europe’s most obscure and cheapest capitals.
Minsk in Belarus came in second and is renowned for friendly locals, clean streets and leafy parks. Luxembourg, capital of the tiny landlocked country of the same name came in third, whilst it was Macedonia’s capital Skopje that took fourth place.
Sarajevo, capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina was in fifth place. Other cities of the former Yugoslavia also ranked highly in their secret status including Montenegro’s Podgorica (6th), Croatia’s Zagreb (8th) and Serbia’s Belgrade (9th).
Barry Smith, Skyscanner Co-Founder and Business Development Director commented: “Spain has been deemed too British for British people, so why not visit somewhere a little off the beaten path? Although some enjoy the familiarity of fish and chips and Carling lager on tap, many want to feel like they have left the UK behind when they go on holiday. Skyscanner’s list of Europe’s 10 most secret cities are still undiscovered enough to be new and exciting, and you’re unlikely to bump into many Brits there.”
1. Chisinau (Moldova)
2. Minsk (Belarus)
3. Luxembourg (Luxembourg)
4. Skopje (Macedonia)
5. Sarajevo (Bosnia and Herzegovina)
6. Podgorica (Montenegro)
7. Kiev (Ukraine)
8. Zagreb (Croatia)
9. Belgrade (Serbia)
10. Tallinn (Estonia)
-Travel Daily News Tatiana Rokou
Ranking is based on least searched for destinations on Skyscanner by UK users over last 90 days.
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At number one, the least likely place to run into fellow Brits was Chisinau in Moldova. Squished between Romania and Ukraine and built on the river Bic, this is one of Europe’s most obscure and cheapest capitals.
Minsk in Belarus came in second and is renowned for friendly locals, clean streets and leafy parks. Luxembourg, capital of the tiny landlocked country of the same name came in third, whilst it was Macedonia’s capital Skopje that took fourth place.
Sarajevo, capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina was in fifth place. Other cities of the former Yugoslavia also ranked highly in their secret status including Montenegro’s Podgorica (6th), Croatia’s Zagreb (8th) and Serbia’s Belgrade (9th).
Barry Smith, Skyscanner Co-Founder and Business Development Director commented: “Spain has been deemed too British for British people, so why not visit somewhere a little off the beaten path? Although some enjoy the familiarity of fish and chips and Carling lager on tap, many want to feel like they have left the UK behind when they go on holiday. Skyscanner’s list of Europe’s 10 most secret cities are still undiscovered enough to be new and exciting, and you’re unlikely to bump into many Brits there.”
1. Chisinau (Moldova)
2. Minsk (Belarus)
3. Luxembourg (Luxembourg)
4. Skopje (Macedonia)
5. Sarajevo (Bosnia and Herzegovina)
6. Podgorica (Montenegro)
7. Kiev (Ukraine)
8. Zagreb (Croatia)
9. Belgrade (Serbia)
10. Tallinn (Estonia)
-Travel Daily News Tatiana Rokou
Ranking is based on least searched for destinations on Skyscanner by UK users over last 90 days.
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Greater Victoria Medals for Cost of Doing Business
March 30, 2010 – Victoria, BC – Victoria was on the podium in terms of offering a competitive business environment according to KPMG’s 2010 Competitive Alternatives report. In all of the Pacific Northwest Victoria was third only to Prince George and Vancouver, losing second place by only 0.8 of a point.
“Third party research like the KPMG report, which investors use to inform their business location decisions, is verifying precisely what we have been telling the world,” says Sasha Angus, Economic Development Officer. “Greater Victoria is a natural place to do business. We can hold our own in competitiveness against any other significant jurisdiction in the province and Pacific Northwest market place.”
The study compares business competitiveness for more than 100 cities in ten countries. The study measures the combined impact of 27 significant cost components that are most likely to vary by location, such as labour, facilities, land, construction, transportation, utilities, and income taxes.
The baseline number used for comparison is that of the US average with other countries and cities measured with costs either above or below that baseline. Victoria’s competitive scale came in at 95.7 while Vancouver was 94.9. Victoria beat other locations like Seattle, Spokane, Portland and San Francisco.
Angus notes, “The Greater Victoria Development Agency was pleased to be a sponsor of the study and provided general information on the major industry sectors in the region”. The number crunching in the study was done independently through KPMG.
The Greater Victoria Development Agency is an industry led organization representing the major industries and academic stakeholders of the region. The GVDA seeks to ensure that Greater Victoria remains a vibrant place to live, work and invest. An important mandate of the Greater Victoria Development Agency is to further strengthen economic conditions throughout our region by encouraging new investment and business from across North America and the world.
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“Third party research like the KPMG report, which investors use to inform their business location decisions, is verifying precisely what we have been telling the world,” says Sasha Angus, Economic Development Officer. “Greater Victoria is a natural place to do business. We can hold our own in competitiveness against any other significant jurisdiction in the province and Pacific Northwest market place.”
The study compares business competitiveness for more than 100 cities in ten countries. The study measures the combined impact of 27 significant cost components that are most likely to vary by location, such as labour, facilities, land, construction, transportation, utilities, and income taxes.
The baseline number used for comparison is that of the US average with other countries and cities measured with costs either above or below that baseline. Victoria’s competitive scale came in at 95.7 while Vancouver was 94.9. Victoria beat other locations like Seattle, Spokane, Portland and San Francisco.
Angus notes, “The Greater Victoria Development Agency was pleased to be a sponsor of the study and provided general information on the major industry sectors in the region”. The number crunching in the study was done independently through KPMG.
The Greater Victoria Development Agency is an industry led organization representing the major industries and academic stakeholders of the region. The GVDA seeks to ensure that Greater Victoria remains a vibrant place to live, work and invest. An important mandate of the Greater Victoria Development Agency is to further strengthen economic conditions throughout our region by encouraging new investment and business from across North America and the world.
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Monday, March 29, 2010
Easter Long weekend Road Trips - Drive Carefully.
BURNABY, BC, March 29 /CNW/ - As we head into the first long weekend of 2010, BCAA and the BCAA Traffic Safety Foundation are calling on drivers to protect themselves, their families and other road users by making road safety an even greater priority. According to the 2007 B.C. Collision Statistics (the latest year available) the Easter holiday period accounted for 269 traffic injuries and fatalities, the second deadliest holiday period behind the Canada Day long weekend, which recorded 276 injuries and fatalities.
BCAA and the BCAA Traffic Safety Foundation say there are specifically four areas where drivers can have the most influence on safety, especially during this busy holiday weekend:
1. Keep your hands on the wheel and mind on the road. According to the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the many forms of distracted driving are collectively responsible for as many as eight out of every ten crashes. Distraction can stem from anywhere in or outside the vehicle - anything that reduces the driver's awareness, decision-making, and/or performance on the road.
2. Stay alert and take regular breaks. Motorists in a hurry to get to their destination often push on and drive through dinner and much-needed rest stops. Eyes closing or losing focus, continuous yawning and drifting between lanes are all danger signs of drowsy driving. Stay alert by getting enough sleep before a trip and take a break every two hours or every 160 km.
3. If you're going to drink, don't drive. According to B.C. Traffic Collision Statistics, the greatest number of impaired driving collisions occur over long weekends. Festivals and vacation activities are often combined with a drink or two. But good times don't give anyone a license to drink and drive.
4. Buckle-up. Ensure you and your passengers fasten their seat belts and use age-appropriate restraints. By law, children up to 40 lb (18 kg) must be in a child seat, and children aged four-to-eight or weighing less than 80 lb (36 kg) must be in a booster seat.
For more traffic safety tips, check out the BCAA Traffic Safety Foundation's website at www.tsfbcaa.com.
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BCAA and the BCAA Traffic Safety Foundation say there are specifically four areas where drivers can have the most influence on safety, especially during this busy holiday weekend:
1. Keep your hands on the wheel and mind on the road. According to the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the many forms of distracted driving are collectively responsible for as many as eight out of every ten crashes. Distraction can stem from anywhere in or outside the vehicle - anything that reduces the driver's awareness, decision-making, and/or performance on the road.
2. Stay alert and take regular breaks. Motorists in a hurry to get to their destination often push on and drive through dinner and much-needed rest stops. Eyes closing or losing focus, continuous yawning and drifting between lanes are all danger signs of drowsy driving. Stay alert by getting enough sleep before a trip and take a break every two hours or every 160 km.
3. If you're going to drink, don't drive. According to B.C. Traffic Collision Statistics, the greatest number of impaired driving collisions occur over long weekends. Festivals and vacation activities are often combined with a drink or two. But good times don't give anyone a license to drink and drive.
4. Buckle-up. Ensure you and your passengers fasten their seat belts and use age-appropriate restraints. By law, children up to 40 lb (18 kg) must be in a child seat, and children aged four-to-eight or weighing less than 80 lb (36 kg) must be in a booster seat.
For more traffic safety tips, check out the BCAA Traffic Safety Foundation's website at www.tsfbcaa.com.
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Picasa Web Albums Down?
Not sure what the issue is, but Picasa, the Google component that stores photo's for this blog doesn't seem to be working thus no pics, header, etc. Anyone know anything more?
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Parks Canada Information Bulletin: Changes Made to West Coast Trail Reservation System
UCLUELET, BC, March 29, 2010 – A new online reservation system for Pacific Rim National Park Reserve’s iconic West Coast Trail is making it easier for the public to plan their backcountry adventure on the trail. Beginning Thursday April 1st at 9 am, interested hikers can reserve a spot on the trail either by using the existing phone reservation system or the new online option, which offers service 7 days a week, 24 hours a day.
The move comes in response to feedback through Parks Canada-led surveys and focus groups where hikers expressed an interest in being able to book and review available trail dates online.
A quota and reservation system was implemented as a safety measure ensuring the sensitive coastal rainforest is not stressed by excessive use. During the trail’s peak season, from June 15th to Sept 15th, Parks Canada allows up to 60 overnight hikers to start the trail each day. From May 1st to June 14th and from September 16th to September 30th, the trail is open but the reservation system does not operate because numbers of hikers do not reach trail capacity. During those times, hikers can arrive at either trailhead and register.
The West Coast Trail is a challenging 75 kilometre backpacking route along sandstone cliffs, waterfalls, caves, sea arches, sea stacks and beaches that characterize the coastline of south-western Vancouver Island. Once a First Nations route for travel and trade, then later a lifesaving trail for shipwrecked sailors, it is now a popular destination for outdoor adventure.
Today, approximately 5,500 people hike the West Coast Trail every year and it is a significant contributor to the local economies of Port Renfrew, Bamfield, Sooke and Port Alberni.
The online booking system is available by following links at parkscanada.gc.ca/pacificrim. Reservations can also be placed through the phone reservation system which operates between 9am to 5pm PST from Monday through Saturday at 1-800-435-5622. Those making a reservation should be prepared to give preferred start dates, the number of people within a hiking group, and the preferred trailhead.
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The move comes in response to feedback through Parks Canada-led surveys and focus groups where hikers expressed an interest in being able to book and review available trail dates online.
A quota and reservation system was implemented as a safety measure ensuring the sensitive coastal rainforest is not stressed by excessive use. During the trail’s peak season, from June 15th to Sept 15th, Parks Canada allows up to 60 overnight hikers to start the trail each day. From May 1st to June 14th and from September 16th to September 30th, the trail is open but the reservation system does not operate because numbers of hikers do not reach trail capacity. During those times, hikers can arrive at either trailhead and register.
The West Coast Trail is a challenging 75 kilometre backpacking route along sandstone cliffs, waterfalls, caves, sea arches, sea stacks and beaches that characterize the coastline of south-western Vancouver Island. Once a First Nations route for travel and trade, then later a lifesaving trail for shipwrecked sailors, it is now a popular destination for outdoor adventure.
Today, approximately 5,500 people hike the West Coast Trail every year and it is a significant contributor to the local economies of Port Renfrew, Bamfield, Sooke and Port Alberni.
The online booking system is available by following links at parkscanada.gc.ca/pacificrim. Reservations can also be placed through the phone reservation system which operates between 9am to 5pm PST from Monday through Saturday at 1-800-435-5622. Those making a reservation should be prepared to give preferred start dates, the number of people within a hiking group, and the preferred trailhead.
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Sunday, March 28, 2010
Cruise Ship season is approaching
The 1,440-passenger Zaandam will arrive in Victoria on April 26 to begin the 2010 cruise ship schedule. A total of 23 ships from 10 cruise lines will stop at Ogden Point during the season, which runs until Oct. 3. A record 228 ship visits are scheduled.
Sent from my iPhone
Sent from my iPhone
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Photo of the Day: March 25, 2010
Fishing: The Pelican Brief
Photo by: Brad Edwards www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
Holland America Line Offers Holiday Escapes With 22 Warm Water Cruises
SEATTLE, March 25 /CNW/ -- Whether you're seeking an entirely new holiday experience or simply escaping the frantic pace of the season, Holland America Line offers 22 holiday cruises in 2010 for warm weather celebrations.
"Holiday cruises are a very special experience," said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. "Our crew takes special pride in delivering all the seasonal favorites for guests to enjoy without the traditional rush. Holiday meals, decorations and family time can be savored while sailing through warm, picturesque waters."
Sail the Caribbean on 7 to 14-day Cruises
Departing between Dec. 17 and Dec. 31 aboard seven ships -- ms Westerdam, ms Maasdam, ms Eurodam, ms Nieuw Amsterdam, ms Ryndam, ms Prinsendam and ms Noordam -- options abound for Caribbean cruises with 13 holiday sailings from Ft. Lauderdale and Tampa over one or both holidays. Itineraries include exploring the southern Caribbean via a seven-day cruise with stops in such exotic ports as Aruba, Curacao and Half Moon Cay, Holland America Line's private Bahamian island. Or try seven days exploring the rich waters of the eastern Caribbean and legendary ports of call such as Nassau, St. Thomas and St. Maarten. Finally, holiday cruisers can settle into several western Caribbean options with stops that may include Belize, Montego Bay, Georgetown, Costa Maya and Key West.
The more adventurous travelers can opt for a 10- or 14-day cruise throughout the Caribbean and usher in the New Year in St. Thomas or St. George's while sampling the ports of Barbados and Grand Turk.
Most itineraries feature a visit to Half Moon Cay, the line's award-winning exclusive private island experience with white sand beaches, aqua waters and shore activities from horseback riding to a stingray adventure. Per person fares begin as low as $999, double occupancy. Taxes are additional.
Sunny Mexican Riviera & Panama Canal for a Festive Occasion
Departing from Fort Lauderdale, San Diego or Los Angeles in mid to late December, Holland America Line offers five cruises that visit the warm water ports of the Mexican Riviera -- Puerto Vallarta, Huatulco, Puerto Chiapas and Puerto Quetzal -- as well as the Central America coastline and Panama Canal. Per person fares begin at $1,099.
The Sunfarer Caribbean Holiday cruise is a 10-day trip departing roundtrip Fort Lauderdale on Dec. 23 aboard ms Zuiderdam and sailing through the southern Caribbean with Christmas Eve at Half Moon Cay, a partial transit of the Panama Canal to Gatun Lake and New Year's Eve at sea before returning on Jan. 2, 2011.
Two additional cruises visit the Panama Canal beginning with the 14-day Panama Canal which departs Los Angeles on Dec. 22 aboard ms Amsterdam in time for Christmas Day at sea and stops in Mexico, Guatemala and Costa Rica before traversing the Canal en route to Ft. Lauderdale. Or guests can opt for the 14-day Panama Canal Holiday Cruise aboard ms Statendam departing San Diego on Christmas Eve. Stops in Mexico include Puerto Vallarta and Puerto Chiapas before crossing the Canal to Fort Lauderdale.
Christmas and New Year's holidays along the Mexican Riviera can be particularly memorable with an eight-day cruise from San Diego aboard ms Oosterdam on Dec. 18 or a seven-day sailing on Dec. 26 that visit Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan and Cabo San Lucas. Or guests can opt for a 12-day cruise departing Dec. 22 aboard ms Rotterdam that features Christmas Eve in Cabo San Lucas, Christmas Day at sea and New Year's Eve in Mazatlan.
Longer Voyages Sail the Pacific
The warm waters of the far Pacific offer memorable holiday adventures as well. A 14-day Circle Hawaii sailing aboard ms Zaandam departs San Diego Dec. 19 with Christmas Eve in Hilo, Christmas Day in Honolulu and New Year's Day in Ensenada, Mexico. Departing Dec. 17, the 16-day Australia-New Zealand Holiday Cruise aboard ms Volendam explores the southern coast of Australia from Sydney before an extensive tour of exotic New Zealand ports like Milford Sound and Auckland and celebrating Christmas Eve in Wellington.
White Christmas in the Antarctic
Guests who want their holidays adorned with snow and ice will see a white Christmas aboard the adventurous 17-day South America and Antarctica Explorer journey. Departing Valparaiso (Santiago), Chile, Dec. 20, ms Veendam steers south amid the glaciers to spend Christmas Eve cruising Darwin Channel and the Chilean Fjords, Christmas Day sailing Amalia Glacier Canal and New Year's Eve in the Antarctic Sound. Per person fares on longer voyages range from $1,999 to $2,699 per person for starting fares.
Host of Special Activities for All Guests
Holland America Line's on-board festivities for the entire family include holiday decorations, sumptuous traditional meals, special movie showings, a visit for the kids from Santa -- sometimes arriving by parasail -- activities and crafts for the Club HAL kids program, strolling carolers, tree lighting ceremony, eggnog in the Atrium, Christmas brunch, Santa's milk and cookie late-night snack and a holiday show by the crew on Christmas Eve. For sailings over Hanukkah, ships display a ceremonial Menorah.
New Year's Eve cruisers will enjoy the New Year's Eve Gala and the broadcast of select college bowl games on board ships. Each holiday voyage features clergy to conduct Catholic, Protestant and Jewish services (for cruises over Hanukkah).
Another special feature for the holidays are culinary classes highlighting such traditional seasonal treats as latkes with rosemary and brown butter sauce; Alsatian potato and bacon tarts; sausage cakes with red wine prunes; and other tasty holiday fare.
For more information, contact a travel agent, call 1-877-SAIL-HAL (1-877-724-5425) or visit www.hollandamerica.com.
Find Holland America Line on Twitter, Facebook and the Holland America Blog. Access all social media outlets via the Online Communities quick link on the home page at www.hollandamerica.com.
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"Holiday cruises are a very special experience," said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guest programs. "Our crew takes special pride in delivering all the seasonal favorites for guests to enjoy without the traditional rush. Holiday meals, decorations and family time can be savored while sailing through warm, picturesque waters."
Sail the Caribbean on 7 to 14-day Cruises
Departing between Dec. 17 and Dec. 31 aboard seven ships -- ms Westerdam, ms Maasdam, ms Eurodam, ms Nieuw Amsterdam, ms Ryndam, ms Prinsendam and ms Noordam -- options abound for Caribbean cruises with 13 holiday sailings from Ft. Lauderdale and Tampa over one or both holidays. Itineraries include exploring the southern Caribbean via a seven-day cruise with stops in such exotic ports as Aruba, Curacao and Half Moon Cay, Holland America Line's private Bahamian island. Or try seven days exploring the rich waters of the eastern Caribbean and legendary ports of call such as Nassau, St. Thomas and St. Maarten. Finally, holiday cruisers can settle into several western Caribbean options with stops that may include Belize, Montego Bay, Georgetown, Costa Maya and Key West.
The more adventurous travelers can opt for a 10- or 14-day cruise throughout the Caribbean and usher in the New Year in St. Thomas or St. George's while sampling the ports of Barbados and Grand Turk.
Most itineraries feature a visit to Half Moon Cay, the line's award-winning exclusive private island experience with white sand beaches, aqua waters and shore activities from horseback riding to a stingray adventure. Per person fares begin as low as $999, double occupancy. Taxes are additional.
Sunny Mexican Riviera & Panama Canal for a Festive Occasion
Departing from Fort Lauderdale, San Diego or Los Angeles in mid to late December, Holland America Line offers five cruises that visit the warm water ports of the Mexican Riviera -- Puerto Vallarta, Huatulco, Puerto Chiapas and Puerto Quetzal -- as well as the Central America coastline and Panama Canal. Per person fares begin at $1,099.
The Sunfarer Caribbean Holiday cruise is a 10-day trip departing roundtrip Fort Lauderdale on Dec. 23 aboard ms Zuiderdam and sailing through the southern Caribbean with Christmas Eve at Half Moon Cay, a partial transit of the Panama Canal to Gatun Lake and New Year's Eve at sea before returning on Jan. 2, 2011.
Two additional cruises visit the Panama Canal beginning with the 14-day Panama Canal which departs Los Angeles on Dec. 22 aboard ms Amsterdam in time for Christmas Day at sea and stops in Mexico, Guatemala and Costa Rica before traversing the Canal en route to Ft. Lauderdale. Or guests can opt for the 14-day Panama Canal Holiday Cruise aboard ms Statendam departing San Diego on Christmas Eve. Stops in Mexico include Puerto Vallarta and Puerto Chiapas before crossing the Canal to Fort Lauderdale.
Christmas and New Year's holidays along the Mexican Riviera can be particularly memorable with an eight-day cruise from San Diego aboard ms Oosterdam on Dec. 18 or a seven-day sailing on Dec. 26 that visit Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan and Cabo San Lucas. Or guests can opt for a 12-day cruise departing Dec. 22 aboard ms Rotterdam that features Christmas Eve in Cabo San Lucas, Christmas Day at sea and New Year's Eve in Mazatlan.
Longer Voyages Sail the Pacific
The warm waters of the far Pacific offer memorable holiday adventures as well. A 14-day Circle Hawaii sailing aboard ms Zaandam departs San Diego Dec. 19 with Christmas Eve in Hilo, Christmas Day in Honolulu and New Year's Day in Ensenada, Mexico. Departing Dec. 17, the 16-day Australia-New Zealand Holiday Cruise aboard ms Volendam explores the southern coast of Australia from Sydney before an extensive tour of exotic New Zealand ports like Milford Sound and Auckland and celebrating Christmas Eve in Wellington.
White Christmas in the Antarctic
Guests who want their holidays adorned with snow and ice will see a white Christmas aboard the adventurous 17-day South America and Antarctica Explorer journey. Departing Valparaiso (Santiago), Chile, Dec. 20, ms Veendam steers south amid the glaciers to spend Christmas Eve cruising Darwin Channel and the Chilean Fjords, Christmas Day sailing Amalia Glacier Canal and New Year's Eve in the Antarctic Sound. Per person fares on longer voyages range from $1,999 to $2,699 per person for starting fares.
Host of Special Activities for All Guests
Holland America Line's on-board festivities for the entire family include holiday decorations, sumptuous traditional meals, special movie showings, a visit for the kids from Santa -- sometimes arriving by parasail -- activities and crafts for the Club HAL kids program, strolling carolers, tree lighting ceremony, eggnog in the Atrium, Christmas brunch, Santa's milk and cookie late-night snack and a holiday show by the crew on Christmas Eve. For sailings over Hanukkah, ships display a ceremonial Menorah.
New Year's Eve cruisers will enjoy the New Year's Eve Gala and the broadcast of select college bowl games on board ships. Each holiday voyage features clergy to conduct Catholic, Protestant and Jewish services (for cruises over Hanukkah).
Another special feature for the holidays are culinary classes highlighting such traditional seasonal treats as latkes with rosemary and brown butter sauce; Alsatian potato and bacon tarts; sausage cakes with red wine prunes; and other tasty holiday fare.
For more information, contact a travel agent, call 1-877-SAIL-HAL (1-877-724-5425) or visit www.hollandamerica.com.
Find Holland America Line on Twitter, Facebook and the Holland America Blog. Access all social media outlets via the Online Communities quick link on the home page at www.hollandamerica.com.
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West Jet back to LaGuardia?
TORONTO — WestJet Airlines Ltd. may soon return to LaGuardia Airport as an unexpected offshoot of a planned landing-spot swap between Delta Air Lines and US Airways.
The two U.S. carriers have been trying to gain regulatory approval to trade landing slots at New York’s LaGuardia Airport and Washington’s Reagan International. The number of flights in and out of either airport is currently capped, and such a trade is seen as a way to increase service to either.
But the U.S. Department of Transportation said the carriers would have to give up some of their slots to other airlines before a trade could be made.
Earlier this week, Delta said it had reached a revised agreement with US Airways that would allow for four other carriers, including WestJet, to gain access to the coveted U.S. airport.
For WestJet, the deal, if approved, would mark a return to an airport with which it has a troubled past. The Calgary-carrier tried to break into the New York market with flights from Toronto in 2005, but cancelled its service shortly thereafter, in part because it failed to secure slots during peak hours.
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The two U.S. carriers have been trying to gain regulatory approval to trade landing slots at New York’s LaGuardia Airport and Washington’s Reagan International. The number of flights in and out of either airport is currently capped, and such a trade is seen as a way to increase service to either.
But the U.S. Department of Transportation said the carriers would have to give up some of their slots to other airlines before a trade could be made.
Earlier this week, Delta said it had reached a revised agreement with US Airways that would allow for four other carriers, including WestJet, to gain access to the coveted U.S. airport.
For WestJet, the deal, if approved, would mark a return to an airport with which it has a troubled past. The Calgary-carrier tried to break into the New York market with flights from Toronto in 2005, but cancelled its service shortly thereafter, in part because it failed to secure slots during peak hours.
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Wednesday, March 24, 2010
New images posted: San Juan, Puerto Rico
Photo by: Brad Edwards http://www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/
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ASTA offers tips for using a travel agent
With money increasingly tight these days, it’s imperative that when looking to take a much-needed vacation, consumers avail themselves of the services of a professional travel agent who is a member of the American Society of Travel Agents.
“Being a travel agent is more than just selling travel. It takes training, attention to detail and expertise to keep clients happy and coming back,” ASTA President and Chair Chris Russo said. “Travel agents are there for their clients before, during and after the trip and when the unexpected happens. We provide value, expertise, convenience and personal service to our customers and understand that travel planning isn’t just about places, it’s about people.
“There is no doubt that today’s travelers have more options than ever before, from destinations, packages and pricing to booking methods and itineraries. But the most important decision a traveler can make is selecting the right travel agent, such as a professional travel agent who is a member of ASTA,” added Russo.
Here are just a few reasons to use a professional travel agent:
•Customer advocacy: If you have a problem with a particular part of your travel experience, the agent is there to act on your behalf to see that restitution is made. ASTA, for example, is the only travel industry association aggressively fighting to improve the travel experience, and air transportation in particular, for all consumers, not just those with access to the Internet.
•Expert guidance: Travel agents, unlike instructions on a Web page, are experts in understanding and deciphering the myriad travel information and codes out there. It's what they've been trained to do and they do it every day.
•Personalized service: Instead of an impersonal voice thousands of miles away, travel agents are your neighbors. They know what you want and what you value in your travel experience.
•Professional advice: Travel agents are there to make sure you get where you want to go, when you want to go and for the lowest price.
•Time: Instead of checking a long list of travel Web pages, which only provide rates and fares for the companies that have contracted with them, why not go straight to the source? A travel agent has all the information at their fingertips, saving you a few hours in front of a computer screen.
•Unbiased information: Agents work for their clients, not for a travel supplier. It makes sense that a happy customer will be a repeat customer.
Every travel agency is different and accordingly, some are better suited to a given consumer than others. Here are some tips provided by ASTA on choosing a travel agent who is right for you:
- Go with the Pros: Look for the ASTA label. Through its continuing education and training programs, ASTA prepares its members to operate high-caliber, competitive businesses.
- Ask Around: Tap friends, neighbors and relatives who use an agent they trust. You may want to visit or call several agencies to find the one that best suits your needs. Consider everything from the appearance of the office to the agent's willingness to listen and answer questions. The best agents want to establish a long-term relationship with a client, not just make one sale.
- Ask about Fees: Good agents will notify their clients of any additional fees, including service fees, up front. Doing otherwise is pointless, as the fee will appear as a separate charge on the client's credit card bill.
- Check Credentials: Many agents have been trained in business management, travel and tourism or geography. Others have supplemented their agency experience with extensive education and training courses. Some travel agents are Certified Travel Counselors (CTC) through the Travel Institute or Master Cruise Counselors (MCC) through the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA).
- Find out an Agency's Track Record: Visit ASTA.org to see whether a member agency has had a complaint against it in the prior six months. Check with the local Better Business Bureau, while keeping in mind they will only have records of agencies that have had reports filed against them.
-Travel Daily News
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“Being a travel agent is more than just selling travel. It takes training, attention to detail and expertise to keep clients happy and coming back,” ASTA President and Chair Chris Russo said. “Travel agents are there for their clients before, during and after the trip and when the unexpected happens. We provide value, expertise, convenience and personal service to our customers and understand that travel planning isn’t just about places, it’s about people.
“There is no doubt that today’s travelers have more options than ever before, from destinations, packages and pricing to booking methods and itineraries. But the most important decision a traveler can make is selecting the right travel agent, such as a professional travel agent who is a member of ASTA,” added Russo.
Here are just a few reasons to use a professional travel agent:
•Customer advocacy: If you have a problem with a particular part of your travel experience, the agent is there to act on your behalf to see that restitution is made. ASTA, for example, is the only travel industry association aggressively fighting to improve the travel experience, and air transportation in particular, for all consumers, not just those with access to the Internet.
•Expert guidance: Travel agents, unlike instructions on a Web page, are experts in understanding and deciphering the myriad travel information and codes out there. It's what they've been trained to do and they do it every day.
•Personalized service: Instead of an impersonal voice thousands of miles away, travel agents are your neighbors. They know what you want and what you value in your travel experience.
•Professional advice: Travel agents are there to make sure you get where you want to go, when you want to go and for the lowest price.
•Time: Instead of checking a long list of travel Web pages, which only provide rates and fares for the companies that have contracted with them, why not go straight to the source? A travel agent has all the information at their fingertips, saving you a few hours in front of a computer screen.
•Unbiased information: Agents work for their clients, not for a travel supplier. It makes sense that a happy customer will be a repeat customer.
Every travel agency is different and accordingly, some are better suited to a given consumer than others. Here are some tips provided by ASTA on choosing a travel agent who is right for you:
- Go with the Pros: Look for the ASTA label. Through its continuing education and training programs, ASTA prepares its members to operate high-caliber, competitive businesses.
- Ask Around: Tap friends, neighbors and relatives who use an agent they trust. You may want to visit or call several agencies to find the one that best suits your needs. Consider everything from the appearance of the office to the agent's willingness to listen and answer questions. The best agents want to establish a long-term relationship with a client, not just make one sale.
- Ask about Fees: Good agents will notify their clients of any additional fees, including service fees, up front. Doing otherwise is pointless, as the fee will appear as a separate charge on the client's credit card bill.
- Check Credentials: Many agents have been trained in business management, travel and tourism or geography. Others have supplemented their agency experience with extensive education and training courses. Some travel agents are Certified Travel Counselors (CTC) through the Travel Institute or Master Cruise Counselors (MCC) through the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA).
- Find out an Agency's Track Record: Visit ASTA.org to see whether a member agency has had a complaint against it in the prior six months. Check with the local Better Business Bureau, while keeping in mind they will only have records of agencies that have had reports filed against them.
-Travel Daily News
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Tips for renting a vacation house
Trust but verify: Vacation rental market booming
Here are a few tips from the Better Business Bureau, travel experts and seasoned renters to make sure you don't get burned when you rent a home for your vacation.
-Get a written agreement spelling out terms and conditions. Never wire money or write a personal cheque. Plastic is the way to go because your credit card company may offer some protection. If you can show that promised goods and services were not provided, you may be able to get a refund.
-Don't trust an owner who will only communicate via email, and don't hesitate to pick up the phone to ask the owner/property manager detailed questions or even request more photos than those displayed in the online ad.
-Find out how you'll get back your security deposit, if there is one, and what it covers.
-Ask friends for recommendations. If you decide on a house or condo belonging to a stranger, ask for references from others who have stayed there.
-If a deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is. In most cases, you get what you pay for.
-Plug the property owner and address into a web browser and see what comes up. You may discover complaints from previous renters. Make sure you're dealing with the real property owner. Scammers can steal information to create phoney listings.
-Seasoned renters suggest negotiating with owners/managers on price if vacancy rates in the area are high. You can also inquire about perks to sweeten the deal, like free tickets or discounts to local activities.
-Be skeptical of glowing online reviews, especially if the reviewers are anonymous.
-Ask the owner/property manager to define nebulous terms like "oceanfront property" and "five-minute walk to the beach." Make sure you're clear on such things as how far the house is from the centre of town.
-If the owner doesn't live in the area, find out if there's a local caretaker who can deal with problems like blown fuses or an overflowing toilet. Find out whom to contact in case of an emergency.
-If you have physical limitations, ask about handicap accommodations including elevator service. Everyone, with or without disabilities, is likely to want to know about noise levels, air conditioning and heating, and mattresses.
-If your group plans big communal meals, make sure there are enough pots, pans, utensils and table service. Inquire about essentials like coffee makers, cutting boards and good knives.
-Ask what the cleaning fees will be, and try to determine whether any fees have gone unmentioned. Pauline Frommer of Pauline Frommer travel guides notes that in some European countries you may have to pay extra for electricity or other utilities. Ask about phone service, Internet and Wi-Fi.
-If possible, visit the property before renting it.
-If a property doesn't live up to its billing, document problems with pictures or videos. Complain immediately to the owner or property manager. Keep receipts. Compile a meticulous record of all transactions and what went wrong. If you believe you've been a victim of fraud, you may be able to seek recourse in court. Check your state's consumer protection laws to see what you may be entitled to and whether there are deadlines for filing.
By Ann Levin, THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
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Here are a few tips from the Better Business Bureau, travel experts and seasoned renters to make sure you don't get burned when you rent a home for your vacation.
-Get a written agreement spelling out terms and conditions. Never wire money or write a personal cheque. Plastic is the way to go because your credit card company may offer some protection. If you can show that promised goods and services were not provided, you may be able to get a refund.
-Don't trust an owner who will only communicate via email, and don't hesitate to pick up the phone to ask the owner/property manager detailed questions or even request more photos than those displayed in the online ad.
-Find out how you'll get back your security deposit, if there is one, and what it covers.
-Ask friends for recommendations. If you decide on a house or condo belonging to a stranger, ask for references from others who have stayed there.
-If a deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is. In most cases, you get what you pay for.
-Plug the property owner and address into a web browser and see what comes up. You may discover complaints from previous renters. Make sure you're dealing with the real property owner. Scammers can steal information to create phoney listings.
-Seasoned renters suggest negotiating with owners/managers on price if vacancy rates in the area are high. You can also inquire about perks to sweeten the deal, like free tickets or discounts to local activities.
-Be skeptical of glowing online reviews, especially if the reviewers are anonymous.
-Ask the owner/property manager to define nebulous terms like "oceanfront property" and "five-minute walk to the beach." Make sure you're clear on such things as how far the house is from the centre of town.
-If the owner doesn't live in the area, find out if there's a local caretaker who can deal with problems like blown fuses or an overflowing toilet. Find out whom to contact in case of an emergency.
-If you have physical limitations, ask about handicap accommodations including elevator service. Everyone, with or without disabilities, is likely to want to know about noise levels, air conditioning and heating, and mattresses.
-If your group plans big communal meals, make sure there are enough pots, pans, utensils and table service. Inquire about essentials like coffee makers, cutting boards and good knives.
-Ask what the cleaning fees will be, and try to determine whether any fees have gone unmentioned. Pauline Frommer of Pauline Frommer travel guides notes that in some European countries you may have to pay extra for electricity or other utilities. Ask about phone service, Internet and Wi-Fi.
-If possible, visit the property before renting it.
-If a property doesn't live up to its billing, document problems with pictures or videos. Complain immediately to the owner or property manager. Keep receipts. Compile a meticulous record of all transactions and what went wrong. If you believe you've been a victim of fraud, you may be able to seek recourse in court. Check your state's consumer protection laws to see what you may be entitled to and whether there are deadlines for filing.
By Ann Levin, THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
WSG (Fototrips) Posting news of interest from around the world relating to travel and photography.
Photo of the day: The Other Side of Paradise: Caribbean
St. Lucia, Virgin Islands
Photo by: Brad Edwards www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
WSG (Fototrips) Posting news of interest from around the world relating to travel and photography.
Canadians may get e-passports by 2011
OTTAWA — As early as next year, Canadians who apply for passports will receive documents with chips that contain their digital images and personal information such as name, gender, and date and place of birth.
Passport Canada says the new electronic passports, known as e-passports, will increase security, provide greater protection against tampering and reduce the risk of fraud.
But they’ve also raised concerns about privacy, identity theft, misidentification and the growth of government surveillance of citizens.
“I am not reassured that the passport office has adequately addressed the many concerns,” said Andrew Clement, a professor in the Faculty of Information at the University of Toronto.
Full assurance, he said, “would require a thorough, expert and independent assessment with public reporting of all but the necessarily confidential aspects. As far as I know, nothing close to this has been done.”
The plan to introduce e-passports in 2011 — valid for 10 years instead of the current five — was announced in the 2008 budget, and re-announced in this month’s throne speech this month.
While 70 per cent of Canadians have passports, 82 per cent are unaware that the introduction of the electronic documents is imminent, according to findings of a survey conducted for Passport Canada.
That could soon start to change. Within the next couple of weeks, Passport Canada will begin a major online consultation with Canadians about its service, spokesman Jean-Sebastien Roy said yesterday.
After the results have been analyzed, the agency will consult Canadians again — this time focusing on the introduction of the new e-passport. Only then will its cost and date of implementation be determined, said Roy.
It’s even conceivable its introduction could be delayed until 2012, Roy said. “Everything depends on the consultations.”
Still, Passport Canada is keen to proceed. More than 60 countries already have e-passports — including every member of the G7 except Canada. The International Civil Aviation Organization recommended the adoption of e-passports in 2005.
“The transition to the e-passport will have a certain cost,” Roy acknowledged. “But the cost of falling behind other countries is much greater.”
Under a pilot project that started in January 2009, Passport Canada has already issued 25,000 diplomatic and special e-passports. “So far, no difficulties have been reported,” Roy said.
To address concerns raised by Canada’s privacy commissioner, Passport Canada backed away last year from the idea of including fingerprints and iris scans in the e-passport.
But “we continue to be very interested in this issue,” said Anne-Marie Hayden, spokeswoman for the privacy commissioner.
The commissioner’s office expects to receive an updated report on the national rollout of the e-passport in the next few weeks, she said.
“We plan to look at that report carefully to determine whether . . . we have any outstanding concerns or questions from a privacy perspective.”
As it stands, the only biometric element on the “proximity contactless chip” embedded in the passport’s back cover will be the holder’s photo.
That will let border authorities use facial recognition technology to compare the photo on the chip to watchlists of known terrorists and criminals.
Passport Canada touts this as a security enhancement. But facial recognition technology isn’t accurate enough to be used for “one-to-many” matching, Clement said.
“There will be higher numbers of wrongful matches, which could be inconveniencing — or worse — for the people involved,” he said, adding: “The passport office should provide some real evidence that it would work.”
WSG (Fototrips) Posting news of interest from around the world relating to travel and photography.
Passport Canada says the new electronic passports, known as e-passports, will increase security, provide greater protection against tampering and reduce the risk of fraud.
But they’ve also raised concerns about privacy, identity theft, misidentification and the growth of government surveillance of citizens.
“I am not reassured that the passport office has adequately addressed the many concerns,” said Andrew Clement, a professor in the Faculty of Information at the University of Toronto.
Full assurance, he said, “would require a thorough, expert and independent assessment with public reporting of all but the necessarily confidential aspects. As far as I know, nothing close to this has been done.”
The plan to introduce e-passports in 2011 — valid for 10 years instead of the current five — was announced in the 2008 budget, and re-announced in this month’s throne speech this month.
While 70 per cent of Canadians have passports, 82 per cent are unaware that the introduction of the electronic documents is imminent, according to findings of a survey conducted for Passport Canada.
That could soon start to change. Within the next couple of weeks, Passport Canada will begin a major online consultation with Canadians about its service, spokesman Jean-Sebastien Roy said yesterday.
After the results have been analyzed, the agency will consult Canadians again — this time focusing on the introduction of the new e-passport. Only then will its cost and date of implementation be determined, said Roy.
It’s even conceivable its introduction could be delayed until 2012, Roy said. “Everything depends on the consultations.”
Still, Passport Canada is keen to proceed. More than 60 countries already have e-passports — including every member of the G7 except Canada. The International Civil Aviation Organization recommended the adoption of e-passports in 2005.
“The transition to the e-passport will have a certain cost,” Roy acknowledged. “But the cost of falling behind other countries is much greater.”
Under a pilot project that started in January 2009, Passport Canada has already issued 25,000 diplomatic and special e-passports. “So far, no difficulties have been reported,” Roy said.
To address concerns raised by Canada’s privacy commissioner, Passport Canada backed away last year from the idea of including fingerprints and iris scans in the e-passport.
But “we continue to be very interested in this issue,” said Anne-Marie Hayden, spokeswoman for the privacy commissioner.
The commissioner’s office expects to receive an updated report on the national rollout of the e-passport in the next few weeks, she said.
“We plan to look at that report carefully to determine whether . . . we have any outstanding concerns or questions from a privacy perspective.”
As it stands, the only biometric element on the “proximity contactless chip” embedded in the passport’s back cover will be the holder’s photo.
That will let border authorities use facial recognition technology to compare the photo on the chip to watchlists of known terrorists and criminals.
Passport Canada touts this as a security enhancement. But facial recognition technology isn’t accurate enough to be used for “one-to-many” matching, Clement said.
“There will be higher numbers of wrongful matches, which could be inconveniencing — or worse — for the people involved,” he said, adding: “The passport office should provide some real evidence that it would work.”
WSG (Fototrips) Posting news of interest from around the world relating to travel and photography.
Monday, March 22, 2010
Foto Trips image of the day: Working the Plantation
Working the Plantation
Photo by: Brad Edwards www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com
Caribbean Resort Celebrates 20th Anniversary
Windjammer Landing Features Special Family and Couple's Promotions
Plus Summer Savings rates, offering up to 50 percent savings at St. Lucia's famed Windjammer Landing, are combinable with the 20th Anniversary offer on new bookings. Double occupancy nightly starting rates are priced as follows: Anthurium Lily Junior Suite - $149 per night, One-bedroom Hibiscus Suite (sleeps four) with private Jacuzzi - $275, One-bedroom Villa with private plunge pool - $275, Two bedroom villa (sleeps four) with private plunge pool - $520. Two children 12 and under stay free in their parents' room.
When guests mention at booking they want to celebrate Windjammer Landing's 20th Anniversary, they will receive the following 20th Gifts during their Caribbean vacation at the luxury St. Lucia resort, which caters to families and couples alike:
-- 20 percent discount on luxurious spa treatments;
-- 20th Birthday and 20th Anniversary candlelit dinner celebration complimentary;
-- 20 hours of complimentary babysitting/nanny services;
-- 20 percent savings on a romantic sunset cruise;
-- 20 percent savings on food and beverage all-inclusive packages;
-- Sun Dollar Savings (resort credit) range from $50 to $200 per night per stay.
Sun Dollars (resort) credit are combinable with Windjammer Landing's 20th option so guests can enjoy room upgrades, fine wine, spa treatments, island excursions like zip line trips and horseback riding, food and beverage purchases and more!
The 20th Anniversary offer on St. Lucia is available for bookings made by contacting the resort directly at (877) 522-0722 and requesting the 20th promotion.
"We are delighted to extend our special 20th Anniversary promotional savings and complimentary amenities to couples and families on vacation this summer. We are proud of our milestone and look forward to welcoming new and returning guests during this exciting year at Windjammer Landing," stated Anthony Bowen, managing director, Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort.
Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort features stunning and spacious accommodations, gourmet dining and dramatic sunset location. Patterned after a picturesque Mediterranean hillside village, the resort is set on a crescent-shaped, white-sand beach with stunningly-designed and appointed suites and villas spread among 60 exotic and flowering acres on the verdant Caribbean island of St. Lucia. The resort is conveniently located near an 18-hole championship golf at the St. Lucia Golf and Country Club. Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort is the perfect retreat for couples, families and anyone seeking top-level service and amenities. For reservations, contact (877) 522-0722 or visit www.windjammer-landing.com.
For further information: Sharon Pomerantz, pomerantz PR, +1-203-256-0460, pomerantzgroup@aol.com, www.pomerantzpr.com Web Site: http://www.windjammer-landing.com/
WSG (Fototrips) Posting news of interest from around the world relating to travel and photography.
CASTRIES, St. Lucia, March 22 /CNW/ -- Award winning, Green Globe certified Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort, St. Lucia, is celebrating its 20th Anniversary with exciting Caribbean vacation savings this summer for both families and couples. The luxury St. Lucia resort features the "20th Anniversary Celebration Rate," where guests pay only $20 for any night of a minimum four-night stay that falls over the 20th of each month from May to August 2010.
Plus Summer Savings rates, offering up to 50 percent savings at St. Lucia's famed Windjammer Landing, are combinable with the 20th Anniversary offer on new bookings. Double occupancy nightly starting rates are priced as follows: Anthurium Lily Junior Suite - $149 per night, One-bedroom Hibiscus Suite (sleeps four) with private Jacuzzi - $275, One-bedroom Villa with private plunge pool - $275, Two bedroom villa (sleeps four) with private plunge pool - $520. Two children 12 and under stay free in their parents' room. When guests mention at booking they want to celebrate Windjammer Landing's 20th Anniversary, they will receive the following 20th Gifts during their Caribbean vacation at the luxury St. Lucia resort, which caters to families and couples alike:
-- 20 percent discount on luxurious spa treatments;
-- 20th Birthday and 20th Anniversary candlelit dinner celebration complimentary;
-- 20 hours of complimentary babysitting/nanny services;
-- 20 percent savings on a romantic sunset cruise;
-- 20 percent savings on food and beverage all-inclusive packages;
-- Sun Dollar Savings (resort credit) range from $50 to $200 per night per stay.
Sun Dollars (resort) credit are combinable with Windjammer Landing's 20th option so guests can enjoy room upgrades, fine wine, spa treatments, island excursions like zip line trips and horseback riding, food and beverage purchases and more!
The 20th Anniversary offer on St. Lucia is available for bookings made by contacting the resort directly at (877) 522-0722 and requesting the 20th promotion.
"We are delighted to extend our special 20th Anniversary promotional savings and complimentary amenities to couples and families on vacation this summer. We are proud of our milestone and look forward to welcoming new and returning guests during this exciting year at Windjammer Landing," stated Anthony Bowen, managing director, Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort.
Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort features stunning and spacious accommodations, gourmet dining and dramatic sunset location. Patterned after a picturesque Mediterranean hillside village, the resort is set on a crescent-shaped, white-sand beach with stunningly-designed and appointed suites and villas spread among 60 exotic and flowering acres on the verdant Caribbean island of St. Lucia. The resort is conveniently located near an 18-hole championship golf at the St. Lucia Golf and Country Club. Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort is the perfect retreat for couples, families and anyone seeking top-level service and amenities. For reservations, contact (877) 522-0722 or visit www.windjammer-landing.com.
For further information: Sharon Pomerantz, pomerantz PR, +1-203-256-0460, pomerantzgroup@aol.com, www.pomerantzpr.com Web Site: http://www.windjammer-landing.com/
WSG (Fototrips) Posting news of interest from around the world relating to travel and photography.
Spring Break Travel Poll: Consumers Plan Budget-Friendly Trips
LOS ANGELES, CA--(Marketwire - March 22, 2010) - Nearly two-thirds of local residents have planned at least one spring break overnight trip during March or April this year, but more than one-third of those travelers say they will spend less on spring break vacations than they did prior to the economic downturn, according to a new poll conducted by the Automobile Club of Southern California.
"The most popular dates for spring break travel have traditionally fallen during the week before and the week after Easter, which this year includes the period between this upcoming weekend and April 11," said Filomena Andre, the Auto Club's vice president for travel products and services. "But as school holidays and work schedules have changed, AAA travel agents find themselves booking spring break trips throughout the months of March and April."
A spring break trip was defined in the Auto Club poll as an overnight trip 50 miles or more away from home anytime during March or April.
According to the Auto Club poll, 46 percent of Southern California spring break travelers plan to spend $1,000 or more on their getaways, and 52 percent will make their getaway within the state, while 23 percent plan to go to a gambling destination such as Las Vegas or another casino resort area. Fifty-nine percent of travelers plan to drive to their spring break getaways, while 31 percent plan to fly.
Among the 24 percent of those polled who said they will definitely not take a spring break vacation, more than two-thirds cited the economic downturn as playing a role in their decision not to travel.
The first-ever Auto Club spring break survey also revealed that travelers are aggressively seeking out ways to save money on travel and spring break activities such as visiting amusement parks and attractions, going to the movies, or taking in a live performance.
The top money-saving tactic for travel and spring break activities among those polled was using specials and discount programs such as AAA. Fifty-six percent said they are saving money on spring break activities with discounts, and 35 percent said they are using discount programs like AAA to get cheaper hotel rates. Auto Club members get discounts on admission to several attractions throughout California such as Universal Studios Hollywood, Knott's Berry Farm, LEGOLAND California and the San Diego Zoo.
Another one-third of travelers said they are saving money on their trips by reducing their shopping/souvenir budgets, and 32 percent said they are traveling by car instead of flying to save money.
"Spring travel bookings have improved this year compared to last spring, but travelers are much more focused on getting the best value for their money," Andre said. "There are a few last-minute travel deals left for spring, but the availability of last-minute travel is shrinking and generally speaking, travelers who plan ahead are the ones who can get the better deals."
More than half of those polled (56 percent) said they plan to spend the same or more on travel in the next 12 months as they have in the previous year.
Top activities for those who are taking a spring break vacation, according to the poll, are:
•Sightseeing (51 percent)
•Visiting family (36 percent)
•Visiting an attraction (32 percent)
•Visiting friends (26 percent)
•Shopping (24 percent)
•Hobby such as golf or skiing (19 percent)
•Spa/relaxation (18 percent)
•Maintaining a family tradition of traveling during the spring season (12 percent)
The spring break poll was conducted online by the Auto Club's Marketing Research Department from Feb. 22 to March 1 of this year, and 659 Auto Club members responded to the survey. The poll has a margin of error of +/- 3.6 percent.
WSG (Fototrips) Posting news of interest from around the world relating to travel and photography.
"The most popular dates for spring break travel have traditionally fallen during the week before and the week after Easter, which this year includes the period between this upcoming weekend and April 11," said Filomena Andre, the Auto Club's vice president for travel products and services. "But as school holidays and work schedules have changed, AAA travel agents find themselves booking spring break trips throughout the months of March and April."
A spring break trip was defined in the Auto Club poll as an overnight trip 50 miles or more away from home anytime during March or April.
According to the Auto Club poll, 46 percent of Southern California spring break travelers plan to spend $1,000 or more on their getaways, and 52 percent will make their getaway within the state, while 23 percent plan to go to a gambling destination such as Las Vegas or another casino resort area. Fifty-nine percent of travelers plan to drive to their spring break getaways, while 31 percent plan to fly.
Among the 24 percent of those polled who said they will definitely not take a spring break vacation, more than two-thirds cited the economic downturn as playing a role in their decision not to travel.
The first-ever Auto Club spring break survey also revealed that travelers are aggressively seeking out ways to save money on travel and spring break activities such as visiting amusement parks and attractions, going to the movies, or taking in a live performance.
The top money-saving tactic for travel and spring break activities among those polled was using specials and discount programs such as AAA. Fifty-six percent said they are saving money on spring break activities with discounts, and 35 percent said they are using discount programs like AAA to get cheaper hotel rates. Auto Club members get discounts on admission to several attractions throughout California such as Universal Studios Hollywood, Knott's Berry Farm, LEGOLAND California and the San Diego Zoo.
Another one-third of travelers said they are saving money on their trips by reducing their shopping/souvenir budgets, and 32 percent said they are traveling by car instead of flying to save money.
"Spring travel bookings have improved this year compared to last spring, but travelers are much more focused on getting the best value for their money," Andre said. "There are a few last-minute travel deals left for spring, but the availability of last-minute travel is shrinking and generally speaking, travelers who plan ahead are the ones who can get the better deals."
More than half of those polled (56 percent) said they plan to spend the same or more on travel in the next 12 months as they have in the previous year.
Top activities for those who are taking a spring break vacation, according to the poll, are:
•Sightseeing (51 percent)
•Visiting family (36 percent)
•Visiting an attraction (32 percent)
•Visiting friends (26 percent)
•Shopping (24 percent)
•Hobby such as golf or skiing (19 percent)
•Spa/relaxation (18 percent)
•Maintaining a family tradition of traveling during the spring season (12 percent)
The spring break poll was conducted online by the Auto Club's Marketing Research Department from Feb. 22 to March 1 of this year, and 659 Auto Club members responded to the survey. The poll has a margin of error of +/- 3.6 percent.
WSG (Fototrips) Posting news of interest from around the world relating to travel and photography.
Nita Lake Lodge in Whistler is under the new ownership
March 22, 2010 - Nita Lake Lodge in Whistler is under the new ownership of Tumuluri Asset Management Inc. with partners Ram Tumuluri, Jamal Hotel Holdings Ltd. and the Varshney family. Nita Lake Lodge is now managed by T & V Hospitality Inc.
Managing Director, Ram Tumuluri, will head the take-over team and lead the day-to-day operations for the hotel. Tumuluri’s extensive background in luxury hotel management includes a post-graduate degree in Business Management from Birmingham University in the UK, and a Culinary Arts degree from Osmania University in India. After holding various senior positions with Marriott International Hotels, Tumuluri brought his management skills to The Wickaninnish Inn in Tofino. Tumuluri is the owner of Cable Cove Inn and Spa in Tofino and Ayurcare International in India, Canada and South Africa.
The Jamal family is the owner of Jamal Hotel Holdings Ltd. with four hotels across B.C., and the owners of Retirement Concepts, the largest private operator of seniors’ homes in British Columbia. The Varshney family owns Varshney Capital Corp, a venture capital company based in Vancouver that invests in a variety of sectors such as real estate, mining and technology. Bringing a collective breadth and depth of knowledge and experience, the new ownership’s vision for Nita Lake Lodge includes an aggressive revitalization plan that will begin immediately.
“Nita Lake Lodge is a spectacular property perfectly positioned to be one of Canada’s leading boutique hotels,” says Ram Tumuluri, Managing Director for the Nita Lake Lodge. “We are thrilled to have the opportunity to elevate this hotel to the luxury standard it was designed to offer.”
Uniquely situated on the shores of Whistler’s Nita Lake, the 77-suite lodge features spacious deluxe studios, one and two bedroom suites that reflect a discerning lifestyle. Located a one and a half-hour drive from Vancouver along the Sea to Sky Highway, Whistler, home of the 2010 Olympic Games, is located at the base of two world-class mountains. A resort for all seasons, Whistler offers a wide variety of activities for all ages and interests from hiking, biking and fishing, championship golf, white water rafting and swimming.
-Tatiana Rokou Travel Daily News
WSG (Fototrips) Posting news of interest from around the world relating to travel and photography.
Managing Director, Ram Tumuluri, will head the take-over team and lead the day-to-day operations for the hotel. Tumuluri’s extensive background in luxury hotel management includes a post-graduate degree in Business Management from Birmingham University in the UK, and a Culinary Arts degree from Osmania University in India. After holding various senior positions with Marriott International Hotels, Tumuluri brought his management skills to The Wickaninnish Inn in Tofino. Tumuluri is the owner of Cable Cove Inn and Spa in Tofino and Ayurcare International in India, Canada and South Africa.
The Jamal family is the owner of Jamal Hotel Holdings Ltd. with four hotels across B.C., and the owners of Retirement Concepts, the largest private operator of seniors’ homes in British Columbia. The Varshney family owns Varshney Capital Corp, a venture capital company based in Vancouver that invests in a variety of sectors such as real estate, mining and technology. Bringing a collective breadth and depth of knowledge and experience, the new ownership’s vision for Nita Lake Lodge includes an aggressive revitalization plan that will begin immediately.
“Nita Lake Lodge is a spectacular property perfectly positioned to be one of Canada’s leading boutique hotels,” says Ram Tumuluri, Managing Director for the Nita Lake Lodge. “We are thrilled to have the opportunity to elevate this hotel to the luxury standard it was designed to offer.”
Uniquely situated on the shores of Whistler’s Nita Lake, the 77-suite lodge features spacious deluxe studios, one and two bedroom suites that reflect a discerning lifestyle. Located a one and a half-hour drive from Vancouver along the Sea to Sky Highway, Whistler, home of the 2010 Olympic Games, is located at the base of two world-class mountains. A resort for all seasons, Whistler offers a wide variety of activities for all ages and interests from hiking, biking and fishing, championship golf, white water rafting and swimming.
-Tatiana Rokou Travel Daily News
WSG (Fototrips) Posting news of interest from around the world relating to travel and photography.
Carnival Cruise Lines Selects Rolls-Royce Propulsion for Carnival Glory
Carnival Cruise Lines has selected the Rolls-Royce propulsion system Promas Lite, combining propeller and rudder, for their cruise vessel Carnival Glory. Preliminary analysis of speed/power trials measurements indicates an increased propulsive efficiency improvement by 11-13 %.
The selection of the Promas Lite system came as a result of close cooperation between Carnival Cruise Lines and Rolls-Royce Marine Services and after extensive laboratory testing at Rolls-Royce Hydrodynamic Research Centre in Sweden. This resulted in an optimized Promas Lite design tailor made to fit the actual operational profile of the Carnival Glory.
A new twin 5.8 meter Promas Lite propulsion system has been installed during the ships regular dry docking at Grand Bahama Shipyard in February 2010. The new propeller – rudder system replaces the old five bladed mono-block propellers with modern four bladed Rolls-Royce propellers with bolted blades, hub caps and rudder bulbs, optimized to suit the actual operational profile that utilizes lower speeds than the vessel was built for. The new propeller design is optimized for maximum fuel efficiency and emission reduction.
Extensive full-scale testing on Carnival Glory as well as Carnival Freedom has been performed before and after installation of the new Promas Lite propeller system. The preliminary analysis of speed/power trials measurements indicates an increased propulsive efficiency improvement by 11-13 %. The measured improvement is regarded as a success since the fuel consumption and emission is reduced accordingly.
WSG (Fototrips) Posting news of interest from around the world relating to travel and photography.
The selection of the Promas Lite system came as a result of close cooperation between Carnival Cruise Lines and Rolls-Royce Marine Services and after extensive laboratory testing at Rolls-Royce Hydrodynamic Research Centre in Sweden. This resulted in an optimized Promas Lite design tailor made to fit the actual operational profile of the Carnival Glory.
A new twin 5.8 meter Promas Lite propulsion system has been installed during the ships regular dry docking at Grand Bahama Shipyard in February 2010. The new propeller – rudder system replaces the old five bladed mono-block propellers with modern four bladed Rolls-Royce propellers with bolted blades, hub caps and rudder bulbs, optimized to suit the actual operational profile that utilizes lower speeds than the vessel was built for. The new propeller design is optimized for maximum fuel efficiency and emission reduction.
Extensive full-scale testing on Carnival Glory as well as Carnival Freedom has been performed before and after installation of the new Promas Lite propeller system. The preliminary analysis of speed/power trials measurements indicates an increased propulsive efficiency improvement by 11-13 %. The measured improvement is regarded as a success since the fuel consumption and emission is reduced accordingly.
WSG (Fototrips) Posting news of interest from around the world relating to travel and photography.
Friday, March 19, 2010
BC PARKS RESERVATIONS BEGIN APRIL 1 WITH NEW FEE SCHEDULE
VICTORIA - With B.C. preparing for the upcoming summer season, the Ministry of Environment is taking steps to continue providing quality camping experiences. Starting April 1, campers will be able to reserve specific sites for the first time due to a new reservation system.
Environment Minister Barry Penner also said as a result of increasing operating costs for BC Parks, combined with reduced tax revenues to government, user fees for camping will increase between $1 and $6 for basic camping sites. The new fee structure will allow BC Parks to maintain high-quality service and is the first increase in two years.
BC Parks offers pricing that is generally lower than most private-sector camping opportunities around the province and is competitive with public sector campgrounds in other jurisdictions.
Fee changes:
* Camping fees for basic and moderate sites will increase by either $1 or $2 per night. (Basic sites will increase from $15 to $16 per night, and moderate sites will increase from $19 to $21 per night.)
* Camping fees in some developed campgrounds will increase by an additional $2 per night (from $26 to $28) and some by an additional $4 per night (from $26 to $30) for highest-demand sites with the highest levels of service.
* Premium backcountry fees for adults will increase by $5 per night (from $5 to $10) at Garibaldi, Cathedral, Berg Lake (Mt Robson), Wells Grey, Juan de Fuca, Strathcona, Cape Scott, Mt Assiniboine, Kokanee Glacier and Bugaboo. (Youth ages 13-18 yrs old will remain at $5 per night). Backcountry fees in 33 parks, including E.C. Manning, Wells Gray and Tweedsmuir, will remain at $5 per night.
* Mooring buoy fees will increase by $2 per night (from $10 to $12).
* Sani-station fees will increase by $3 per use (from $2 to $5 per discharge).
Since 2001, the B.C. government has invested $70 million in capital improvements for BC Parks, including upgrades to drinking water systems, washrooms and picnic areas. The B.C. government has also established 58 new parks, 143 conservancies, two ecological reserves and nine protected areas, and expanded approximately 60 parks and six ecological reserves, protecting more than 1.9 million hectares of additional land since 2001.
Today, a total of 14.26 per cent (more than 13.5 million hectares) of British Columbia is protected - more than any other province in Canada. For additional information on the recreational fees for individual
parks, go to: www.bcparks.ca.
WSG (Fototrips) Posting news of interest from around the world relating to travel and photography.
Environment Minister Barry Penner also said as a result of increasing operating costs for BC Parks, combined with reduced tax revenues to government, user fees for camping will increase between $1 and $6 for basic camping sites. The new fee structure will allow BC Parks to maintain high-quality service and is the first increase in two years.
BC Parks offers pricing that is generally lower than most private-sector camping opportunities around the province and is competitive with public sector campgrounds in other jurisdictions.
Fee changes:
* Camping fees for basic and moderate sites will increase by either $1 or $2 per night. (Basic sites will increase from $15 to $16 per night, and moderate sites will increase from $19 to $21 per night.)
* Camping fees in some developed campgrounds will increase by an additional $2 per night (from $26 to $28) and some by an additional $4 per night (from $26 to $30) for highest-demand sites with the highest levels of service.
* Premium backcountry fees for adults will increase by $5 per night (from $5 to $10) at Garibaldi, Cathedral, Berg Lake (Mt Robson), Wells Grey, Juan de Fuca, Strathcona, Cape Scott, Mt Assiniboine, Kokanee Glacier and Bugaboo. (Youth ages 13-18 yrs old will remain at $5 per night). Backcountry fees in 33 parks, including E.C. Manning, Wells Gray and Tweedsmuir, will remain at $5 per night.
* Mooring buoy fees will increase by $2 per night (from $10 to $12).
* Sani-station fees will increase by $3 per use (from $2 to $5 per discharge).
Since 2001, the B.C. government has invested $70 million in capital improvements for BC Parks, including upgrades to drinking water systems, washrooms and picnic areas. The B.C. government has also established 58 new parks, 143 conservancies, two ecological reserves and nine protected areas, and expanded approximately 60 parks and six ecological reserves, protecting more than 1.9 million hectares of additional land since 2001.
Today, a total of 14.26 per cent (more than 13.5 million hectares) of British Columbia is protected - more than any other province in Canada. For additional information on the recreational fees for individual
parks, go to: www.bcparks.ca.
WSG (Fototrips) Posting news of interest from around the world relating to travel and photography.
Fototrips Image of the Day: #followfriday It's Friday...A Martini on us!!
Luxury tourism sector looking to recover
High-end resort operators coming off a dismal 2009 season
Operators of many of B.C.’s high-end resorts are casting a wary eye on news reports in the U.S. suggesting luxury hotels will see business rebound this year.
It was a dismal 2009 in B.C., with one of the province’s first high-end resorts, the Aerie, shuttered and revenues at many others dropping 10 per cent or more. As this year’s tourist season looms, local highend operators are taking a wait-and-see approach.
Craig Murray, owner of Nimmo Bay Helicopter Fishing and Wilderness Adventures, noted in his usual straight-to-the-point manner:
“2009 was the pits. But 2010 seems to be a little bit of a rebound, though there’s probably a later booking season. Then again, nobody in the world has any crystal balls for what will happen.”
Murray says he can only be hopeful, after a 2009 when they did enough business “to still have black ink on the bottom line,” that 2010 brings more people looking for adventure in the aftermath of the recession.
Victoria - (Times Colonist) Charles McDiarmid, managing director of the Wickaninnish Inn in Tofino, said 2009 was their worst year ever “by a significant amount” and is reluctant to expect much better this summer.
“I’m not optimistic that it will just bounce back and everything will be wonderful,” he said. “We planned for a small increase over 2009, but [projections show] the business we have on the books for this summer is about the same [as 2009] which is not great.
“We are hopeful there will be more last-minute demand,” he said, adding there is also hope the afterglow of the Olympics could have an effect.
“We’re hoping the Olympic halo we were counting on comes through as soon as this summer, that Europeans and Americans that saw those wonderful pictures will come back to B.C., and if they come to Vancouver that could float all of the boats.”
Hospitality industry consultant Frank Bourree of Chemistry Consulting is more pessimistic about feeling an immediate Olympic impact, but says he believes the high-end market could feel a rebound.
“At the high end, many of the long-haul tourists feel they have a God-given right to travel and nothing will stop them,” he said referring to the recession and the high Canadian dollar. “Middle-income people may be feeling stressed, but rich people don’t care.”
That is why Bourree does not advocate dropping rates to draw in tourists at that market — a practice that ran rampant in the U.S. last year, according to Bloomberg News.
“A lot of operators cut off their nose to spite their face last year,” he said, noting the Fairmont Empress discounted rooms last year, which led to the rest of the city following suit. “I think they realize now it was a mistake.”
Murray, whose Nimmo Bay adventure packages start at $7,250 for a threeday program, refused to buy in to discounts.
“I don’t play that game. It’s not a good place to go especially when you are offering a good service,” he said. McDiarmid, whose Wickaninnish Inn high-season rates start at $500 a night, agrees and says it can lead to lower revenue and less cash to invest in upgrades, maintenance and service — which means the deterioration of standards.
“We made a decision early on that we weren’t going to compromise quality or service and we weren’t going to compromise rate, we weren’t going to do whatever it would take to bring people in,” he said. “You can do it shortterm, but all of a sudden you get less revenue and I frankly don’t believe you make it up with more volume. Plus the market you attract is temporary, when rates go back they are going somewhere else.”
It’s unlikely anyone will be going to the Aerie Resort this year.
The 19-year-old resort closed its doors in November, citing three years of difficulty. According to owner Maria Schuster, she is still working with different investors but no deal to sell the property has been finalized.
“I can’t see that the Aerie will be open this year,” she said.
The resort is now under the care of court-appointed receiver Glover-Drennan.
WSG (Fototrips) Posting news of interest from around the world relating to travel and photography.
Operators of many of B.C.’s high-end resorts are casting a wary eye on news reports in the U.S. suggesting luxury hotels will see business rebound this year.
It was a dismal 2009 in B.C., with one of the province’s first high-end resorts, the Aerie, shuttered and revenues at many others dropping 10 per cent or more. As this year’s tourist season looms, local highend operators are taking a wait-and-see approach.
Craig Murray, owner of Nimmo Bay Helicopter Fishing and Wilderness Adventures, noted in his usual straight-to-the-point manner:
“2009 was the pits. But 2010 seems to be a little bit of a rebound, though there’s probably a later booking season. Then again, nobody in the world has any crystal balls for what will happen.”
Murray says he can only be hopeful, after a 2009 when they did enough business “to still have black ink on the bottom line,” that 2010 brings more people looking for adventure in the aftermath of the recession.
Victoria - (Times Colonist) Charles McDiarmid, managing director of the Wickaninnish Inn in Tofino, said 2009 was their worst year ever “by a significant amount” and is reluctant to expect much better this summer.
“I’m not optimistic that it will just bounce back and everything will be wonderful,” he said. “We planned for a small increase over 2009, but [projections show] the business we have on the books for this summer is about the same [as 2009] which is not great.
“We are hopeful there will be more last-minute demand,” he said, adding there is also hope the afterglow of the Olympics could have an effect.
“We’re hoping the Olympic halo we were counting on comes through as soon as this summer, that Europeans and Americans that saw those wonderful pictures will come back to B.C., and if they come to Vancouver that could float all of the boats.”
Hospitality industry consultant Frank Bourree of Chemistry Consulting is more pessimistic about feeling an immediate Olympic impact, but says he believes the high-end market could feel a rebound.
“At the high end, many of the long-haul tourists feel they have a God-given right to travel and nothing will stop them,” he said referring to the recession and the high Canadian dollar. “Middle-income people may be feeling stressed, but rich people don’t care.”
That is why Bourree does not advocate dropping rates to draw in tourists at that market — a practice that ran rampant in the U.S. last year, according to Bloomberg News.
“A lot of operators cut off their nose to spite their face last year,” he said, noting the Fairmont Empress discounted rooms last year, which led to the rest of the city following suit. “I think they realize now it was a mistake.”
Murray, whose Nimmo Bay adventure packages start at $7,250 for a threeday program, refused to buy in to discounts.
“I don’t play that game. It’s not a good place to go especially when you are offering a good service,” he said. McDiarmid, whose Wickaninnish Inn high-season rates start at $500 a night, agrees and says it can lead to lower revenue and less cash to invest in upgrades, maintenance and service — which means the deterioration of standards.
“We made a decision early on that we weren’t going to compromise quality or service and we weren’t going to compromise rate, we weren’t going to do whatever it would take to bring people in,” he said. “You can do it shortterm, but all of a sudden you get less revenue and I frankly don’t believe you make it up with more volume. Plus the market you attract is temporary, when rates go back they are going somewhere else.”
It’s unlikely anyone will be going to the Aerie Resort this year.
The 19-year-old resort closed its doors in November, citing three years of difficulty. According to owner Maria Schuster, she is still working with different investors but no deal to sell the property has been finalized.
“I can’t see that the Aerie will be open this year,” she said.
The resort is now under the care of court-appointed receiver Glover-Drennan.
WSG (Fototrips) Posting news of interest from around the world relating to travel and photography.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Dominica Virgin Islands: Photo of the Day from West Shore Galleries
New photo's just added to http://www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/ reflecting our recent visit to Dominica in the Eastern Caribbean Virgin Islands.
Attendants can refuse to fly if pilot suicidal
OTTAWA — The Federal Court has ruled flight attendants can refuse to fly with a pilot they believe to be suicidally depressed. The decision stems from a court challenge from the union representing four Air Canada flight attendants who were told by the airline they did not have the right to refuse their assignments.
Court heard that on Aug. 24, 2008, Erick Brouillette and three co-workers refused to board a Paris-bound jet after a discussion with Hugh Bouchard, the in-charge flight attendant, who had booked off sick that evening after meeting the pilot.
Bouchard told Brouillette that on a previous flight, the same pilot had threatened to fly a plane into the Atlantic. As a result, four flight attendants refused to work, citing their rights under the Canada Labour Code, which protects employees from workplace danger.
Replacements were found and the plane departed Toronto, landing in Paris without incident.
Transport Canada was advised of the situation on Aug. 24 and a federal health and safety officer was dispatched to investigate the circumstances of the work refusal.
The federal official refused to launch a formal investigation into whether an actual danger existed on the flight and concluded, based on her preliminary inquiry, that the flight crew had no right to refuse work that evening.
She interviewed the flight attendants, the operations manager and others who knew the captain. Aside from the flight attendants, no one else criticized the pilot. They all stood by his ability to do the job, according to the health and safety officer.
The union representing the attendants appealed the findings to the Federal Court of Canada, which backed the attendants.
Comment: WSG. If the pilot is suspected of being suicidally depressed, what the hell are they doing flying for the airline in the first place?
WSG (Fototrips) Posting news of interest from around the world relating to travel and photography.
Court heard that on Aug. 24, 2008, Erick Brouillette and three co-workers refused to board a Paris-bound jet after a discussion with Hugh Bouchard, the in-charge flight attendant, who had booked off sick that evening after meeting the pilot.
Bouchard told Brouillette that on a previous flight, the same pilot had threatened to fly a plane into the Atlantic. As a result, four flight attendants refused to work, citing their rights under the Canada Labour Code, which protects employees from workplace danger.
Replacements were found and the plane departed Toronto, landing in Paris without incident.
Transport Canada was advised of the situation on Aug. 24 and a federal health and safety officer was dispatched to investigate the circumstances of the work refusal.
The federal official refused to launch a formal investigation into whether an actual danger existed on the flight and concluded, based on her preliminary inquiry, that the flight crew had no right to refuse work that evening.
She interviewed the flight attendants, the operations manager and others who knew the captain. Aside from the flight attendants, no one else criticized the pilot. They all stood by his ability to do the job, according to the health and safety officer.
The union representing the attendants appealed the findings to the Federal Court of Canada, which backed the attendants.
Comment: WSG. If the pilot is suspected of being suicidally depressed, what the hell are they doing flying for the airline in the first place?
WSG (Fototrips) Posting news of interest from around the world relating to travel and photography.
B.C. Ferries warns extra rules mean you’d pay more, get less
VANCOUVER — Acting on the Transportation Safety Board’s recently released Watchlist of recommendations would increase costs and reduce service on B.C. Ferries, according to a company spokeswoman.
Deborah Marshall of B.C. Ferries didn’t have the exact costs of implementing the TSB Watchlist but said it would increase costs “a lot more.” “We certainly wouldn’t be sailing every hour,” said Marshall.
The Watchlist was released by the TSB to address critical, recurring safety issues in Canada’s transportation system. Among the concerns singled out by the TSB was the lack of emergency preparation on Canada’s large passenger vessels. One of the TSB’s recommendations was to develop “a framework that ferry operators can use to develop effective passenger accounting for each vessel and route.”
Marshall pointed out that B.C. Ferries does have such a system on its two northern routes but requires passengers to arrive 2 1/2 to three hours before sailing. In the south, Spirit-class vessels can carry 2,100 passengers and sail every hour in the summer. “You would have to have identification and a manifest list of each and every person,” said Marshall of what appears to be unworkable system.
B.C. Ferries and Marine Workers Union president Richard Goode agreed with Marshall about the unwieldiness of accounting for every passenger. “You’d almost have to have 100 per cent reservations,” said Goode. He pointed to routes like the one to Gabriola Island, where identifying all the passengers could take longer than the 20-minute trip.
While some of the recommendations aren’t feasible, Marshall said some are already part of B.C. Ferries. For instance, B.C. Ferries vessels already have voyage data recorders and the company has put 1,300 of its employees through a special course to manage passengers in an emergency.
The TSB release received less attention because it was released on the same day as criminal charges were laid against the navigation officer of the Queen of the North as a result of the sinking of the vessel March 22, 2006.
WSG (Fototrips) Posting news of interest from around the world relating to travel and photography.
Deborah Marshall of B.C. Ferries didn’t have the exact costs of implementing the TSB Watchlist but said it would increase costs “a lot more.” “We certainly wouldn’t be sailing every hour,” said Marshall.
The Watchlist was released by the TSB to address critical, recurring safety issues in Canada’s transportation system. Among the concerns singled out by the TSB was the lack of emergency preparation on Canada’s large passenger vessels. One of the TSB’s recommendations was to develop “a framework that ferry operators can use to develop effective passenger accounting for each vessel and route.”
Marshall pointed out that B.C. Ferries does have such a system on its two northern routes but requires passengers to arrive 2 1/2 to three hours before sailing. In the south, Spirit-class vessels can carry 2,100 passengers and sail every hour in the summer. “You would have to have identification and a manifest list of each and every person,” said Marshall of what appears to be unworkable system.
B.C. Ferries and Marine Workers Union president Richard Goode agreed with Marshall about the unwieldiness of accounting for every passenger. “You’d almost have to have 100 per cent reservations,” said Goode. He pointed to routes like the one to Gabriola Island, where identifying all the passengers could take longer than the 20-minute trip.
While some of the recommendations aren’t feasible, Marshall said some are already part of B.C. Ferries. For instance, B.C. Ferries vessels already have voyage data recorders and the company has put 1,300 of its employees through a special course to manage passengers in an emergency.
The TSB release received less attention because it was released on the same day as criminal charges were laid against the navigation officer of the Queen of the North as a result of the sinking of the vessel March 22, 2006.
WSG (Fototrips) Posting news of interest from around the world relating to travel and photography.
Where will Germans be travelling this year?
BERLIN--(Marketwire - March 18, 2010) - HotelsCombined -- the world's leading hotel search engine -- reports the top 10 domestic and international travel destinations for German residents in 2010. Statistics are based on the Web site's current booking leads for the upcoming year. Berlin and Hamburg top the list for domestic destinations while New York and London rank highest for international destinations.
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Top 10 Domestic Destinations for German Travelers in 2010
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Average Average Percent of Total Hotels on
City Room Rate Night Stay Domestic Travel HotelsCombined.de
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1. Berlin EUR 80 2.5 8.2% 922
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2. Hamburg EUR 81 2.1 6.0% 364
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3. Munich EUR 88 2.2 4.3% 414
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4. Frankfurt am Main EUR 75 1.9 2.1% 252
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5. Cologne EUR 91 2.1 1.1% 384
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6. Dresden EUR 78 2.5 1.0% 194
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7. Leipzig EUR 68 1.9 0.6% 111
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8. Duesseldorf EUR 82 2.2 0.4% 257
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9. Stuttgart EUR 86 1.9 0.4% 160
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10. Nuremberg EUR 72 1.7 0.3% 150
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Top 10 International Destinations for German Travelers in 2010
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Percent of
Average Average International Total Hotels on
City Room Rate Night Stay Travel HotelsCombined.de
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. New York EUR 116 5.1 5.1% 608
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2. London EUR 90 3.5 4.0% 1,437
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3. Bangkok EUR 52 3.6 3.1% 560
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4. Dubai EUR 125 5.1 2.4% 407
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5. Paris EUR 99 2.9 2.2% 1,740
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6. Prague EUR 68 2.6 1.8% 785
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7. Vienna EUR 84 2.9 1.3% 436
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8. Rome EUR 91 3.7 1.2% 2,023
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9. Amsterdam EUR 93 2.5 1.1% 397
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10. Barcelona EUR 92 3.7 1.1% 797
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WSG (Fototrips) Posting news of interest from around the world relating to travel and photography.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Top 10 Domestic Destinations for German Travelers in 2010
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Average Average Percent of Total Hotels on
City Room Rate Night Stay Domestic Travel HotelsCombined.de
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Berlin EUR 80 2.5 8.2% 922
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2. Hamburg EUR 81 2.1 6.0% 364
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3. Munich EUR 88 2.2 4.3% 414
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4. Frankfurt am Main EUR 75 1.9 2.1% 252
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5. Cologne EUR 91 2.1 1.1% 384
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6. Dresden EUR 78 2.5 1.0% 194
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7. Leipzig EUR 68 1.9 0.6% 111
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8. Duesseldorf EUR 82 2.2 0.4% 257
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9. Stuttgart EUR 86 1.9 0.4% 160
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10. Nuremberg EUR 72 1.7 0.3% 150
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Top 10 International Destinations for German Travelers in 2010
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Percent of
Average Average International Total Hotels on
City Room Rate Night Stay Travel HotelsCombined.de
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. New York EUR 116 5.1 5.1% 608
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2. London EUR 90 3.5 4.0% 1,437
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3. Bangkok EUR 52 3.6 3.1% 560
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4. Dubai EUR 125 5.1 2.4% 407
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5. Paris EUR 99 2.9 2.2% 1,740
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6. Prague EUR 68 2.6 1.8% 785
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7. Vienna EUR 84 2.9 1.3% 436
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8. Rome EUR 91 3.7 1.2% 2,023
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9. Amsterdam EUR 93 2.5 1.1% 397
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10. Barcelona EUR 92 3.7 1.1% 797
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WSG (Fototrips) Posting news of interest from around the world relating to travel and photography.
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