Edmonton Tourism - is this really the same place I came from? huh!

Planning our annual road trip through the Rockies this summer to visit family in Edmonton. I know, not exactly the ideal place considering all the options available in the summer a little more exitic than "Edmonton." Don't get me wrong. I love Edmonton. Through all the snow and cold, mosquitos, tornado's, dust storms and crispy brown spring images...Edmonton is still pretty cool.

Being originally from Edmonton, there isn't much I don't know about the city. That's why I find this video absolutely hilarious. I watched it, and said to myself, "gee, I would love to visit that place....oh, wait a minute, I'm from there. Ooops!" It's amazing how a well crafted video can make even the dreary of places to visit seem like the "best place on earth."



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Thai travel warning issued for Canadians

By BRYN WEESE, Parliamentary Bureau

OTTAWA — The government is urging Canadians not to travel to Thailand because of political unrest there that has left protesters and civilians dead and injured.

Canadians currently in the Southeast Asian country should exercise "extreme caution," the government has warned.

The Department of Foreign Affairs upgraded an earlier travel advisory to the Kingdom of Thailand Wednesday to a full-blown travel warning saying all non-essential travel to the politically-unstable country should be avoided.

Large-scale and violent political demonstrations have plagued the capital city Bangkok for seven weeks.

The red-shirted protesters, who have been calling on the Prime Minister to resign since March 12, have been injured, beaten, and even killed during their campaign that has escalated recently. Another clash between protesters and the army left another protester dead Wednesday.

"Since March 2010, dozens of grenade attacks and other explosions have occurred, some of which have caused injuries at locations including government and military installations, protest gatherings, public banks, and key power infrastructure and fuel storage facilities," the travel warning from Foreign Affairs reads.

"The security situation is very volatile with significant potential for further civil unrest, violent clashes, and attacks.

"Canadians currently in Thailand should avoid all non-essential movement, exercise extreme caution, follow the advice of local authorities, closely monitor local media, and, if violence erupts, remain indoors."

The anti-government "red shirt" protesters, who number in the thousands and who have besieged Bangkok for several weeks, want Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva to step down and call a new election. The red shirts support former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who was removed from office following protests and a military coup in 2006 and 2007. The billionaire media tycoon was accused of being corrupt, but also brought in cheap health care and debt relief for the country's poorest people.

Foreign Affairs warns the country has suffered political unrest and violent protests for many years, and warned it is "unclear" how long the current situation will last.

"In recent years there have been several waves of mass political demonstrations and anti-government movements in Thailand, which have led to significant security problems and occasional violence," the warning reads. "There is a heightened threat of terrorism throughout Southeast Asia, including Thailand. Canadians should maintain a high level of personal security awareness at all times as the security situation could deteriorate rapidly without notice."



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Nevada Commission on Tourism Launches Varied Ad Campaign to Lure Summer Travelers

CARSON CITY, NV--(Marketwire - April 28, 2010) - Nevada is launching a new summer ad campaign aimed largely at the massive online and television markets to entice visitors to the Silver State, Lt. Gov. Brian K. Krolicki, Nevada Commission on Tourism (NCOT) chair, announced today.

"Our goal is to convince spring and summer travelers that Nevada is their best bet to experience an unforgettable vacation for outstanding value," Krolicki said. "We're taking our ads to the busiest marketplaces, where potential travelers spend the most time and are more likely to be influenced."

NCOT is using a marketing strategy that proved successful in the winter ad campaign, integrating a variety of media, such as television ads in mostly West Coast markets convenient to driving, Google In-stream video, online banner ads, mobile ads for BlackBerrys and iPhones, search engine marketing and print ads in national travel magazines.

"Consumers are starting to make summer vacation plans, and Nevada's campaign, hitting online, TV and print, is designed to capture their attention wherever they go for information and direct them to discover some of the world's greatest attractions," NCOT Director Dann Lewis said.

Google's marketing research shows that people between ages 25-54 spend 15 hours a week, or 30 percent, of their media time online; 17 hours, or 34 percent, watching TV; nine hours, or 18 percent, listening to radio; and only four hours, or 8 percent, of their time reading print publications.

Nevada's summer campaign, tailored to fit evolving media exposure patterns, devoted 39 percent of its budget to online advertising, 54 percent to television, 6 percent to print and 1 percent to mobile websites geared for iPhones, BlackBerrys and similar devices.

NCOT's winter campaign increased public awareness of Nevada as a visitor destination from 32 percent in 2009 to 39 percent, a significant rise during national economic uncertainty. Nearly 40 percent of consumers in the targeted markets claimed to have seen at least one of the ads.



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Port Metro Vancouver 2010 cruise season to be eco-friendly

VANCOUVER, April 21 /CNW/ - Holland America's ms Amsterdam will be the first cruise ship of the 2010 cruise season to call at Port Metro Vancouver when it arrives on April 25, and the first of 58 scheduled calls expected to connect to the Port's new shore power system. The ship will arrive in Vancouver after sailing from Petropavlovsk, Russia as part of a 114-day Grand World voyage.

"We're excited to kick off our cruise season with a shore power enabled ship, as this year will mark the first full year of operation for our two new shore power connections at Canada Place," said Port Metro Vancouver's President and CEO, Robin Silvester. "There are only three such systems in the world, which allow cruise ships to connect to the local electrical grid and shut off their diesel engines, greatly reducing their impact on the region's environment."

The system, completed in 2009, is a $9-million initiative by the Government of Canada, the British Columbia Ministry of Transportation, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, BC Hydro and Port Metro Vancouver which will reduce greenhouse gas emissions in Vancouver by up to 3000 tonnes/year. It was also a key component in Port Metro Vancouver's Air Action Program, which was recognized recently with an ecoFREIGHT Sustainable Transportation Award at Globe 2010, an international conference focussed on environmental issues.

"Congratulations to Port Metro Vancouver for being first in Canada to bring cleaner, greener electric power to ships at its terminal," said Hon. Shirley Bond, British Columbia Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure. "The Province is proud to have been a partner in this project, which will greatly improve local air quality and further our plan to eliminate one third of B.C.'s greenhouse gas emissions by 2020."

Despite forecasting declines this year to just under 600,000 passengers and 179 ship calls from 898,473 passenger and 256 ship calls last year, Port Metro Vancouver remains highly optimistic about its future cruise business. The decrease in 2010 is seen as an industry reaction to Alaska's restrictive tax and regulatory environment - which has recently been largely overturned by their House of Representatives and their state Senate - coupled with last year's downturn in the global economy.

The Port and its cruise industry stakeholders are confident that the Vancouver cruise product, coupled with environmental sustainability initiatives such as shore power, and convenient access between Canada Place and Vancouver International Airport via Vancouver's new Canada Line rapid transit system, will serve to keep Vancouver an attractive and competitive destination for the cruise industry.

Disney Cruise Line has already announced that they will home port Disney Wonder in Vancouver in 2011, and industry stakeholders are delighted that the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) cruise3sixty 2010 trade show will be held in Vancouver in June, marking the first time in its history the event has been held outside of Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.

The sold-out trade show is being hosted by Port Metro Vancouver, Tourism Vancouver, Tourism BC and the Vancouver Airport Authority. It will bring 1400 registered cruise lines and travel industry delegates to the city, helping to raise awareness of Vancouver as a cruise home port.

Port Metro Vancouver is Canada's largest and North America's most diversified port, trading $75 billion in goods with more than 160 trading economies annually. Each cruise ship call in Vancouver contributes approximately $2 million to the local economy.

For further information: on Port Metro Vancouver, go to www.portmetrovancouver.com or contact: Tel: (604) 665-9066, Email: Public_Affairs@portmetrovancouver.com


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Colwood Community Place doing great things on the West Shore

Our neighbour and proactive community members, Colwood Community Place, are busier than ever.  I have received numerous press releases and updates over the months, and I figured it was time to acknowledge the great community work they are doing.

The website  (http://www.colwoodcommunityplace.ca/) sums it up like this:

"...a local living network intended to help you discover ways you can go green, go local, grow local veggies and our local economy while building a thriving city."

Over coffee this morning, I was thinking about all the challenges my neighborhood is facing within various levels of government, particularily taxes, planning, waste management etc, and it wasn't until I received this mornings news letter from Colwood Community Place that I instatnly realized there is much more going on that sometimes gets overshadowed. Colwood is a fabulous community.  Filled with some of the most incredible and dynamic people, local businesses and community events.  This, I strongly feel, is what makes our political boudries one of a kind.  I can say this because I have lived almost everywhere in the CRD, so based on that, it is very unique.

Swan - Colwood, BC

Photo by Brad Edwards www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com

Some of the events that we should be proud of include: The Island Chefs Collaborative and the Colwood Farmers Market. These are the things that make me feel at home and proud to be a neighbour.  There is however, so much more to this city we call home.  Locally run businesses that support local business and even travel and tourism. Yes, travel and tourism.  A great example of this is the Historic Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgaard Lighthouse, Hatley Castle and the Robert Bateman Centre at Royal Roads University. 

As I have written about on numerous occasions on this blog, when travelling to Victoria, tour groups need to think outside the box and realize there is more to Victoria and the CRD than the Inner Harbour and cheesy gift shops.  Venture twenty minutes down the road to our little gem on the south island, Colwood.  A huge tip of the hat to the Colwood Community Place for doing their due diligence in getting that message out.  Colwood is a fun place.  A super community to raise a family.  An outdoor enthusiasts dream come true.  Affordable real estate.  Great food and drinks.  Supportive community organizations and enterprises and the list goes on.

If it's happening in Colwood, than you should bookmark http://www.colwoodcommunityplace.ca/. Spend some time in our neighborhood, and we will show you the time spent travelling to find our little oasis was worth the drive.

West Shore Galleries is situated in Colwood, British Columbia.  West Shore Galleries is also affiliated with WSG Travel Blog (Fototrips). Posting news of interest from around the world relating to travel and photography.  You can find our home on the internet at http://www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/

Vancouver Airport Authority Chair steps down after 13 years

Graham Clarke's time at the helm of YVR ends on an Olympic high

RICHMOND, BC, April 29 /CNW/ - After 13 years, Graham Clarke is stepping down as Chair of Vancouver Airport Authority effective June 10, 2010. Clarke, who has been a member of the Board of Directors since YVR became Canada's first community-based airport authority in 1992, will continue as a director. The Airport Authority's new Chair will be announced at its annual public meeting on May 13.

"While I've been on the Board since 1992, and Chair since 1997, my connection with YVR dates back to the 1980s," said Clarke. "At the time, the Vancouver Board of Trade, together with other community groups and individuals, set out to turn YVR into a community-based airport, with management transferring from the federal government to our local airport authority. The results have been incredible. I think that by any measure, YVR has been a success, not just for British Columbia, but also for Canada. And that success was demonstrated most recently during the 2010 Winter Games."

"Looking ahead, I believe that the Airport Authority, like all successful organizations, will always be a work in progress. For me, that constant striving to improve is at the core of our achievements. And it's one of the reasons why it has always been an honour and a pleasure for me to serve our community and province as part of the airport family."

Vancouver Airport Authority President and CEO, Larry Berg said Clarke's leadership as Chair of the Board of Directors went a long way to keeping YVR closely connected to the community.

"As someone who was actively involved in creating the YVR we know today, Graham has always worked to make sure we stay true to our vision of being both a gateway and a local airport authority. Part of that vision is a pride in our province and in working with the community to be a significant contributor to British Columbia's economy," said Berg. "Under Graham's leadership, we've made sure that YVR looks and feels like British Columbia from the moment you land and walk into our terminals."

Clarke will continue to chair Vancouver Airport Services (YVRAS), a company owned jointly by Citi Infrastructure Investors and Vancouver Airport Authority. Currently, YVRAS manages a network of 18 airports around the world.

Graham Clarke is President and owner of the Clarke Group of Companies, which does business in the transportation, hospitality, marine and tourism sectors. Clarke has served as director or chair of numerous organizations and companies, including the Vancouver Board of Trade and Tourism Vancouver.



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Cruise news

Royal Caribbean: Oasis of the Seas passengers spending up a storm

Gene Sloan

JUST POSTED: NCL ships more full than ever. 

There are dozens of ways to spend money on Oasis of the Seas, the world's largest cruise ship, and it appears that passengers aren't shying away from them.

Royal Caribbean CEO Adam Goldstein told Wall Street analysts Wednesday that on-board spending on the much-ballyhooed, five-month-old vessel is running at a blistering pace.

"It has proven to be an even stronger on-board revenue generator than we had foreseen, and we were pretty optimistic before," Goldstein said during a conference call to discuss the company's first quarter earnings.

Responding to a question about the topic from Sharon Zackfia of William Blair and Co., Goldstein told analysts the on-board spending level on the 5,400-passenger Oasis of the Seas' is the best of the line's 21 ships.

Moreover, "it is relatively the most positive compared to the expectations that we had for the year," Goldstein added.

At 225,282 tons, Oasis is more than 40% larger than the next largest cruise ship, and it boasts an industry leading number of extra-charge restaurants, bars, stores and other outlets where passengers can spend money.

Goldstein said the line is looking at how it can translate Oasis' success in on-board spending and other areas to its older ships.

"Clearly, there (is) a lot of learning from Oasis with respect to both guest features and on-board spend potential, which we are evaluating with respect to how we might contribute those features or opportunities elsewhere in the fleet," he noted.

Sent from my iPhone

Okanagan Lake - Okanagan British Columbia

Photo by: Brad Edwards west Shore Galleries

Each year at this time, many people start thinking about that Long Weekend get-a-way in May.  The un-official start to Summer.  Recent reports are suggesting that coming off tough economic times for many Canadians, a new term has come up that suggests that most will be taking advantage of "Staycations".  Essentially vacationing at home, or close to home.  Makes sense, and it's more affordable if you know where to go and what to do.  Above is an old picture from one of our Staycation favorites, Penticton, British Columbia.  As close to home as possible without venturing too far away.  If sun, sand, water and camping are your thing, than the Okanagan has alot to offer.

 Penticton and Area: Secrets & Surprises

Photo by: Brad Edwards west Shore Galleries

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Canada and El Salvador Successfully Conclude Air Transport Agreement.

OTTAWA, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - April 29, 2010) - Canada's Transport Minister John Baird and the Honourable Peter Van Loan, Minister of International Trade, today announced that an open skies-type bilateral air transport agreement has been concluded between Canada and El Salvador. This new agreement is another accomplishment under Canada's Blue Sky international air transportation policy, and is great news for travellers and Canadian businesses.

"Since 2006, the Government of Canada has worked at an unprecedented pace to sign or improve air agreements that allow for greater benefits to Canadian consumers, businesses and our tourism sectors," said Baird. "This new agreement with El Salvador is part of our commitment to improve and expand air services between Canada and Central America."

"This agreement will encourage new trade and investment between Canada and El Salvador," said Minister Van Loan. "The air agreement with El Salvador will help Canadian businesses expand their interests beyond our borders, which in turn will create wealth and prosperity at home — another example of Canada's continued engagement with the Americas."

"Deepening Canada's engagement with the Americas is a priority for this government. This open skies agreement will play an important role in strengthening bilateral relations and will help foster greater people-to-people links between our two countries," said the Honourable Peter Kent, Minister of Foreign Affairs (Americas).

The agreement, which will replace an agreement negotiated in 1996, provides airlines with substantial flexibility for route selection, frequency of service and price setting. Any number of airlines may sell air transportation between each other's territory and third countries, in conjunction with scheduled passenger and/or all-cargo air services between the two countries operated at any number of cities in each other's territory.

New air services are anticipated by airlines of both countries in the near future. Constitutional requirements in El Salvador permit the new agreement to come into force only after it has been ratified.

Since January 2006, the Government of Canada has negotiated open, new or expanded air service agreements with a total of 52 countries, including:

•open skies-type agreements with nine countries: the United Kingdom, Ireland, Iceland, New Zealand, Barbados, the Dominican Republic, Costa Rica, South Korea and El Salvador;

•expanded agreements with nine countries: Portugal, Brazil, Mexico, Japan, Jordan, Singapore, the Philippines, Morocco and Cuba;

•new "first-time" agreements with nine countries: Algeria, Kuwait, Serbia, Croatia, Panama, Turkey, South Africa, Ethiopia and Tunisia; and

•a comprehensive air transport agreement between Canada and the European Union's 27 member states. This includes Cyprus, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Slovakia and Slovenia, with which Canada did not previously have air agreements.

Transport Canada is online at www.tc.gc.ca. Subscribe to news releases and speeches at www.tc.gc.ca/e-news and keep up to date on the latest from Transport Canada.


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CanNor Joins Up With Northwest Territories Tourism

YELLOWKNIFE, NORTHWEST TERRITORIES--(Marketwire - April 29, 2010) - Tourism in the Northwest Territories will benefit from marketing and promotion campaigns thanks to an investment from the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor)

The Honourable Chuck Strahl, Minister of the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency, made the announcement today.

CanNor will provide Northwest Territories Tourism (NWTT) with $170,000 for marketing and promotion campaigns targeted to domestic, international and business travellers. NWTT is an industry association representing tourism operators and owners in the territory. It works in close collaboration with the Government of Northwest Territories.

"Tourism is a crucial part of the economy in the Northwest Territories. This investment will allow the Northwest Territories to broadcast themselves to new markets, which will increase awareness of existing tourism businesses and services," said Minister Strahl, who is also the Minister of Indian and Northern Affairs, and Federal Interlocutor Métis and Non-Status Indians.

"By attracting new international and business travellers to the region, this project will result in increased revenue for local businesses and residents," said the Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister Responsible for the North and Minister of Health. "This investment will strengthen the economy in Canada's North."

"This contribution will allow us to be on the leading edge of tourism marketing activities which would not have been possible without CanNor's commitment to our industry and the economic opportunities it provides," said Jenni Bruce, Chair of Northwest Territories Tourism.

The investment is made possible through CanNor's Strategic Investments in Northern Economic Development (SINED) program, which focuses on long-term economic growth, economic diversification and capacity building across the North.

SINED is one of several of economic development programs within CanNor which is responsible for coordinating and delivering Canada's economic development activities in the territories, and for related policy development, research and advocacy.

For copies of CanNor news releases, visit: http://www.cannor.gc.ca/index-eng.asp

To learn more about Canada's Economic Action Plan, visit and for more information on Canada's Northern Strategy, visit www.northernstrategy.ca/index-eng.asp.


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2010 Stanley Cup Playoffs - Odds

We know this has nothing to do with our usual posting on this site, but because everyone around the office is in full tilt hockey mode, I thought this might be a little fun.  Who knows, you may have your own hockey pool going as well.

Odds to win the 2009/2010 Stanley Cup


Pittsburgh Penguins 5/2

Chicago Blackhawks 15/4

San Jose Sharks 5/1

Detroit Red Wings 5/1

Vancouver Canucks 11/2

Boston Bruins 12/1

Montreal Canadiens 15/1

Philadelphia Flyers 16/1



Odds to win the 2009/2010 Western Conference

Chicago Blackhawks 9/4

San Jose Sharks 23/10

Detroit Red Wings 5/2

Vancouver Canucks 3/1



Odds to win the 2009/2010 Eastern Conference

Pittsburgh Penguins 4/5

Boston Bruins 4/1

Philadelphia Flyers 5/1

Montreal Canadiens 11/2

2010 Stanley Cup playoffs courtesy of Bodog, www.bodog.ca

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Photograph - Street Graffiti Old San Juan Puerto Rico

Photograph by Brad Edwards Westshore Galleries

WSG (Fototrips) Posting news of interest from around the world relating to travel and photography.

Toronto Pearson Airport takes off with $130 million smarter transportation solution from IBM

MARKHAM, ON, April 28 /CNW/ - IBM (NYSE: IBM) has signed a $130 million Cdn, five-year agreement with the Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA) to create a smarter transportation solution that will lead to greater efficiencies and lower fees for airlines.

IBM's smarter transportation solution for the GTAA is expected to generate double-digit savings while improving responsiveness and service levels at the airport. Air carriers and other airport tenants will receive IT services directly from IBM to support critical operations at kiosks, passenger and bag check-in counters, as well as aircraft gates.

The agreement was signed in April 2010 with the GTAA, which has responsibility for the operation and management of the Toronto Pearson International Airport, Canada's busiest airport. With more than 75 years working with clients in the airline industry, IBM's transportation team has a full understanding of the challenges the airline industry faces.

The GTAA is implementing ways to reduce costs to airlines with a goal to improve passenger experiences. Day-to-day support of airport technology will be transitioned from a mix of in-house and subcontractor service providers to IBM. Airlines will see substantial savings as they are billed directly by IBM for their IT services.

"This transaction puts in place an innovative new model for delivering complex technology at Toronto Pearson," said Gary Long, Vice President and Chief Information Officer for the GTAA.

With more than 30.4 million passengers each year, Toronto Pearson is one of the world's largest airports built on a "common use equipment" model - a model by which most airport resources, such as check-in counters, boarding gates and kiosks, can be accessed and utilized by any of the airport's 60 airlines. Optimizing the use of the airport infrastructure seamlessly across each airline's individual platform allows the GTAA to operate at peak efficiency and maximize the use of limited physical assets, such as airplane gates.

"As one of the world's smartest airports, Toronto Pearson's common-use model is a great example of how intelligent solutions can be applied to transportation challenges," said Saad Toma, general manager, Global Technology Services, IBM Canada. "Moving technology support and billing to IBM allows the GTAA to focus on what they do best - running Canada's largest airport and ensuring safe travel for passengers, while maximizing savings for the airlines and the GTAA."

The Airline Consultative Committee's IT Subcommittee, with members from select airlines, the GTAA and IBM will establish a unique governance model based on the actual usage of kiosks and counters rather than on many of the traditional IT metrics, such as server and storage usage. This will allow the airlines to much more closely tie their actual costs and benefits of IT to their passenger pricing.

IBM serves major global airlines and airports with consulting services and technology to improve traveler experience, streamline operations, scheduling, maintenance, crew and equipment optimization, kiosks, as well as sense-and-respond systems for predictive applications.

For further information: Mike Boden, IBM Media Relations, (416) 478-7117, mboden@ca.ibm.com


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Canadian and U.S. Photographers Compete for 2010 Grange Prize

2010 partner institution is Chicago-based Museum of Contemporary Photography

TORONTO and MONTREAL, April 28 /CNW Telbec/ - Four leading-edge photographers, two Canadian and two American, will have the opportunity to win the $50,000 Grange Prize, presented by Aeroplan and the Art Gallery of Ontario. Each year, The Grange Prize partners with one international art institution in an effort to recognize the best in Canadian and international photography - and 2010's partner is the Museum of Contemporary Photography (MoCP) at Columbia College Chicago.

A joint panel of curatorial experts will meet to review the work of photographic artists from Canada and the U.S., narrowing the shortlist to four. Both the AGO and the MoCP will mount exhibitions of the shortlisted artists' works this fall, and members of the public will vote onsite or online to determine the winner, who will be announced November 2, 2010 at a special event hosted by Aeroplan and the AGO.

Each of the four shortlisted artists will participate in a ten-day residency: the Canadian nominees will travel to the U.S., and the American artists will visit Canada. Additionally, the three artists who are not selected by the public to win the prize will receive $5,000 toward the creation of work developed during their residencies, bringing the total amount granted to photographic artists to $65,000. This makes The Grange Prize Canada's largest photography prize. It is also the only major Canadian art prize voted on by the public.

"The AGO is a strong advocate for the diverse and innovative contemporary photographers working both in Canada and internationally," says Matthew Teitelbaum, the AGO's Michael and Sonja Koerner Director, and CEO. "The Grange Prize is a wonderful embodiment of that commitment, and we're thrilled to partner with Aeroplan in bringing the work of these terrific artists to a global community."

"We're proud to be working with the AGO for a third year on The Grange Prize to promote the importance of photography as an art form," says Vince Timpano, President and Chief Executive Officer, Aeroplan. "We look forward to celebrating the works of the selected artists as we encourage the public to take action and vote for their favourite photographer."

The Grange Prize, now in its third year, was awarded to Mexican photographer Marco Antonio Cruz in 2009, and Winnipeg-based artist Sarah Anne Johnson in 2008, when the partner country was China. Johnson's installation House on Fire was exhibited at the AGO in Summer 2009; with the generous support of art collector Michael F. Nesbitt, the Gallery acquired the installation in its entirety in September 2009.

On May 26, Aeroplan and the AGO will announce this year's shortlist. The selection committee for the 2010 shortlist includes AGO assistant curator of photography Sophie Hackett; Toronto-based art collector and curator Dr. Kenneth Montague; Museum of Contemporary Art, Chicago associate curator Dominic Molon; and MoCP curator Karen Irvine.

Says Irvine, "The Museum of Contemporary Photography positions itself to be at the forefront of contemporary photography, so it's very exciting for us serve as a partnering institution for the Grange Prize. The prize creates a unique dialogue between our two countries, and highlights some of the best photographers working in both the United States and Canada."

Aeroplan and the AGO gratefully acknowledge the support of The Globe and Mail and Bravo!, official Media Partners for The Grange Prize. Contemporary programming at the AGO is supported by the Canada Council for the Arts. Updates, blog postings, and more information about The Grange Prize can be found at http://www.grangeprize.com./


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St. Kitts - Caribbean

Photo by: Brad Edwards West Shore Galleries

WSG (Fototrips) Posting news of interest from around the world relating to travel and photography.

Orlando Pulls Together to Help Stranded Tourists

MANCHESTER, UNITED KINGDOM--(Marketwire - April 28, 2010) - Despite the worst being over (at least for now), there are still thousands of European tourists stranded in various locations all over the world due to the backlog of flights that were cancelled when an Icelandic volcano erupted over a week ago. The eruption caused a massive plume of ash which covered many countries in Europe, making it unsafe for any flights either inwards, or outbound.

As far as being stranded goes, there are many worse places you could be than Orlando, Florida. With its beautiful weather, long days of sunshine, and exciting things to do, many people wouldn't complain if they were forced to extend their vacation! However, there are practicalities to consider and many people will be left out of pocket as they have to pay out for their accommodation, food and entertainment for an additional week or two that they just hadn't budgeted for.

However, it seems that everyone in the community, businesses and individuals are pulling together and pitching in to make stranded tourist's time in Orlando more fun, and most importantly, cheaper.

SeaWorld announced that they will allow stranded tourists to visit their three parks in Florida at no extra charge. Thousands of tourists have already taken up the offer, with many more likely to kill time in the SeaWorld parks. Walt Disney World is also pitching in, offering a free one-day pass to their parks for anyone who turns up with a cancelled plane ticket or expired boarding pass. Wet n Wild water parks, and Universal Studios have also announced similar deals, ensuring that any stranded guests will not have to splash out for expensive theme park tickets while they wait for their flight to be rescheduled.

Millions of tourists from the UK and other parts of Europe go on holiday to Orlando each year. With such a huge array of activities and places to visit, this holiday destination appeals to families, couples, and groups of friends. Travellers due to fly to Orlando in the near future will be comforted by the news that the theme parks and hotels are doing what they can to help stranded tourists, showing that if anything else were to happen, they would not be left to deal with it alone. This will doubt have a positive effect on tourism in the area, ensuring that millions of Orlando holidays are not cancelled in the coming months.

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Travel agents and tour operators join calls for relief measures for the travel industry

Travel Daily News - In view of the upcoming meetings of EU Tourism and Transport Ministers at EU level to discuss the impact of the airspace closure caused by the volcanic ash cloud, ECTAA and GEBTA call on the European Commission Vice-President responsible for tourism, Mr. Antonio Tajani, to support urgent relief measures for travel agents and tour operators.

Travel agents and tour operators have gone into great efforts to assist and repatriate their customers stranded abroad due to the air traffic closure over most of Europe. The cost incurred by travel agents and tour operators since 15 April is estimated to be in excess of 450 million euros. This figure excludes the cost of travel agents, which employed additional staff, opened call centres and enhanced their web operations to respond to the massive demand for information as well as booking or re-booking requests.

This estimate is very conservative, as it only provides an evaluation of costs incurred up to 26 April. It does not take into account the lost revenue from travel and package tours that have been cancelled or are being postponed due to the uncertainty in air travel.

ECTAA and GEBTA have approached the European Commission Vice-President, Mr. Antonio Tajani, to support the European tourism industry. Since February 2010 Mr. Tajani has responsibility for the tourism sector as part of his Commission portfolio of Enterprise and Industry.

The two associations are urging the Commission to include travel agents and tour operators in the economic impact assessment of the airspace closure. They are also calling on the Commission to grant travel agents and tour operators access to state aid or any other form of support for the industry that compensate damages for natural disasters or exceptional situations, if this is granted to the airline industry.

Said President of ECTAA: “Travel agents and tour operators have spent millions of euros to assist their stranded customers and repatriate them by all means of transport. The financial impact has reached an unprecedented level and plunged the sector right back into another crisis. If relief measures are not available, a number of travel agents and tour operators may face some very serious difficulties.”

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British Columbia Expands Park and Conservancies

VICTORIA - The B.C. government introduced legislation that will establish seven new "Class A" provincial parks and one new conservancy, as well as make land additions to 12 existing provincial parks, Environment Minister Barry Penner announced today.

Bill 15, the Protected Areas of British Columbia Amendment Act, 2010, continues this government's expansion of British Columbia's parks and protected areas system by adding 13,219 hectares.

The provisions in this bill include:

* Establishing six new "Class A" parks and making additions to two existing "Class A" parks in the Lillooet region as a result of the Lillooet Land and Resource Management Plan.

* Establishing a new "Class A" park in the Kamloops region as a result of the Kamloops Land and Resource Management Plan.

* Establishing a new conservancy in the Ure Creek area following an agreement with the Lil'wat First Nation.

If the legislature passes bill 15, since 2001 the B.C. government will have established 65 new parks, 144 conservancies, two ecological reserves and nine protected areas, and expanded more than 60 parks and six ecological reserves, protecting more than 1.9 million hectares of additional land.

This legislation also adds lands to improve park values in 10 "Class A"parks around the province, including:

* 7.9 hectares to Beaver Creek Park in the Kootenays as a result of a private land acquisition.

* 270 hectares to Brandywine Falls Park along the Sea to Sky Highway.

* 44.5 hectares of marine foreshore to Buccaneer Bay Park near the Sunshine Coast.

* 64.8 hectares to Eskers Park near Prince George as a result of a private land acquisition.

* 2.2 hectares to Francis Point Park on the Sunshine Coast as a result of a private land acquisition.

* 124 hectares to Gilpin Grasslands Park near Grand Forks as a result of a private land acquisition.

* 911 hectares to Mount Robson Park.

* 310 hectares to Skaha Bluffs Park near Penticton as a result of private land acquisitions.

* 5.6 hectares to Tyhee Park near Smithers as a result of a private land acquisition.

* 62.7 hectares of land as a result of a private land acquisition and18.3 hectares of foreshore to Valhalla Park in the Kootenays.

The bill also confirms the implementation of the 2004 decision for mining/tourism zones in the Lillooet plan area. Bill 15 will create a new South Chilcotin Mountains Park, a "Class A" park comprising 56,796 hectares from the area currently designated as Spruce Lake Protected Area. The remaining approximately 14,550 hectares are proposed for tourism and mining, but commercial logging will be prohibited.The plan protects 56,796 hectares of land as a new "Class A" park, while opening up new economic opportunities by creating certainty on the land base. This plan strikes a balance that will provide job opportunities for families that live and work in this region, while still protecting the natural environment.

In addition to South Chilcotin Mountains Park, five other new "Class A" parks and two park additions are being established in the Lillooet area. These five new areas and two additions total 21,801 hectares. There is also a name change for one existing "Class A" park in the Morice plan area as a result of discussions with the Wet'suwet'en First Nation.  Amendments to the Protected Areas of British Columbia Act are regularly required to establish new parks and conservancies, to add land to existing parks, and to modify the boundaries of parks and conservancies.

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Holland America suggests tax cuts could mean more cruises for Alaska

The day after the capital city, Victoria British Columbia, received its first ship load of enthusiastic passengers enroute to Alaska, an interesting article surfaces regarding the one ship line providing most of the traffic.  Holland America. 

By George Tibbits, THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

SEATTLE - Holland America Line is going to look far more favourably at bringing more vacationers to Alaska now that the state's passenger head tax has been reduced, the president and CEO of the company said Monday.

The Seattle-based cruise line has long since decided how many ships to devote to Alaska this year and next. But CEO Stein Kruse said pro-business actions this year by Alaska Gov. Sean Parnell and the state Legislature "will certainly be a positive influencing factor" as the company makes its deployment decisions for 2012.

"I can't say right here and today what we will do because those decisions haven't been made, but I can tell you that it's a far more positive outlook than it has been for the last couple of years," Kruse said.

He spoke in an interview with The Associated Press on the bridge of the Holland America liner MS Amsterdam, which made a half-day call in Seattle as it wraps up a world cruise. Kruse stopped by to visit with Capt. Olav van der Waard and crew members of the 1,380-passenger ship, which next week begins a series of 14-day cruises from Seattle to Alaska.

A few hours before adjourning last week, Alaska lawmakers passed a bill to lower the state head tax from $46 a passenger to $34.50. The measure was heavily pushed by Parnell and was key to a settling a federal lawsuit filed by the Alaska Cruise Association against the state.

The association has blamed state regulations and tax costs for the expected loss of three ships and about 142,000 passengers this season.

Cruises are booked far in advance, and Kruse said figures indicate the total Alaska business will be down about 16 per cent to 17 per cent this year. He said that when 2010 deployment decisions were made two years ago, the recession was less a factor than Alaska's business climate.

"Alaska went through the hoops of trying to make it complicated for businesses like ours to operate up there," he said.

Holland America will have eight ships on Alaska runs from Seattle and Vancouver, British Columbia, one more than in 2009, and 149 total departures from the two cities. Next year it will deploy seven ships making 125 total departures.

Seattle's cruise business is growing, with a record 223 port calls scheduled this year, five more than in 2009. Much of that stability has been at the expense of Vancouver as cruise lines seek to cut costs.

The Port of Seattle says cruise ships and passengers account for $425 million in annual business revenue for the region and nearly $19 million annually in state and local tax revenues.


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Skyscanner reveals top 5 places for eruption observation

Travel Daily News - Blasting billons of tons of ash and lava 10,000ft into the atmosphere, Iceland’s unpronounceable volcano – Eyjafjallajokull – has grounded all UK flights, a first in aviation history. But once planes return to our skies, where are the best places for lava lovers to watch the spectacular site of a volcano erupting? Flight site Skyscanner brings you the top five destinations for volcano voyeurs.

Stromboli, Italy

Known as the ‘Lighthouse of the Mediterranean’ due to its spectacular night time explosions, this Aeolian Island has been attracting global lava lovers for years. Stromboli is almost unique in that it has been active since records began. The eruptions are so regular that the word Stromboli is now used to mean ‘small explosion’ and its shape means you can get remarkably close to the action –just 200m above the active crater!

Montserrat, West Indies

In 1995 the Soufriere Hills volcano erupted, burying and burning the former capital of Plymouth to such an extent that they had to relocate the government permanently. Ash continues to fall to this day making much of the area off limits, but some parts of the exclusion zone are now open for guided tours allowing visitors to see the half-buried houses. The volcano itself is best viewed from Jack Boy Hill from where you can watch its angry red glow after dark.

Kilauea, Hawaii

Kilauea on the Hawaiian island of Kauai claims the title of the world’s most active volcano – so a visit here is likely not to disappoint. You’ll need to take a boat ride to see one of its most spectacular sights – red hot lava oozing into the ocean which causes the sea to boil and vaporise into white plumes of steam.

Cotopaxi, Ecuador

The Avenue of the Volcanoes in the Andes Mountains includes Cotopaxi volcano which, at almost 6000 metres, is the world’s highest active volcano. Even if Cotopaxi doesn’t blow her top during your visit, her perfectly symmetrical cone surrounded by pristine forests, lakes and wild horses should offer ample compensation.

Sierra Negra, Galapagos

One of the largest volcanoes in the Galapagos Archipelago, Sierra Negra last went off in 2005. As one of the most active volcanic areas in the world, the Galapagos Islands are considered perfect for volcano watching –so far there have been more than 50 eruptions in the last 200 years.


Note from WSG:  We recently visited St. Lucia in the Caribbean, and found this live one as well, while probably not as grande as these other ones, still a must see (and smell) if your into this kind of thing. St. Lucia offers up a Drive-through Volcano. La Soufriere.

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Travelling to Cuba: Medical Insurance is a Must

LÉVIS, QC, April 26 /CNW Telbec/ - Desjardins Financial Security, Desjardins Group's life and health insurance company, reminds us that starting May 1, Cuban authorities will require all travellers to the country to obtain insurance policies that cover medical costs. Uninsured travelers may, however, purchase insurance locally.

The Cuba Tourist Board advises that provincial health insurance cards will be accepted as proof of medical insurance. All travellers and those accompanying them-including children-must have this card in their possession when entering Cuba.

Note that provincial health insurance plans offer only minimal coverage for medical costs for services provided abroad. These plans are not designed to cover travellers outside of their home province. It is therefore essential that all travellers carry travel insurance to avoid having to spend large amounts on accident or illness-related costs that are not refunded by their provincial health insurance plan.

All Desjardins clients carrying travel insurance that includes medical protection (for example, through a credit card, group insurance or a separate policy) are covered and are encouraged to contact the Desjardins assistance service, Sigma Assistel, in case of illness or accident while visiting Cuba.

For further information: (for journalists only): Caroline Phémius, Advisor, Media Relations, Desjardins Group, (514) 281-7000, 1-866-866-7000, ext. 7646,


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Canadian Consumer Behavior is Changing

TORONTO, April 27 /CNW/ - The 2008/2009 recession fundamentally changed Canadian attitudes and spending behaviour, according to survey research jointly conducted by American Express Canada and LoyaltyOne, the company that runs the AIR MILES Rewards Program.

Survey results that American Express Canada President and CEO Denise Pickett presented to an audience of marketing professionals at the CMA Business of Ideas Forum, showed changes in how Canadians live, and particularly how they spend, potentially are as fundamental for the current generation as the changes that the Great Depression brought about in the 1930s.

The survey, conducted in February 2010, polled more than 1,000 AIR MILES Collectors. The AIR MILES Reward Program has more than 10 million active collector accounts representing two-thirds of Canadian households with a broad cross section of consumers nationwide.

Most Canadians surveyed said the recession is behind them. No less than 62% feel more positive about the economy and 58% feel more positive about their personal financial future. However, almost half (48%) still feel nervous about their personal financial situation.

For the overwhelming majority-a full three quarters of those surveyed-impulse shopping is a thing of the past and most people are now being much more cautious about their discretionary spending and deciding what to purchase.

"Canadians are now much more careful and deliberate about how they spend their money, or pay down the money they owe," Pickett said. "The recession's made people rethink what's really worth their hard-earned money."

The research found that more Canadians are bargain hunting (62%) but results suggest that price is not the primary motivating factor for consumers. Quality, value, service and trust, have all risen to the top (74%) in terms of importance and impact.

According to Pickett, Canadians now need a rational reason for buying a product or service, and they think a lot harder about where they're spending their dollars, focusing more attention on overall value. Additionally, there is a growing group of former impulse shoppers who are now holding to a pre-determined spending budget, many for the first time.

"This increased emphasis on service and quality is something marketers need to pay more attention to, particularly as Canadians are far less loyal to brands than before the recession," Pickett said.

LoyaltyOne President Bryan Pearson concurred. "The key to capturing consumers' loyalty in the post-recession era is to focus on The Three R's: rewards, recognition and most important, relevance. Savvy Canadian businesses are recognizing that in the new economy, the way to create customer engagement and relevance is to connect with consumers in ways that show them you understand who they are and what they care about. This survey demonstrates that marketers need to recognize that consumers are less impulsive and more careful about how they are spending," he said.

According to Pickett, American Express continues to invest in improving its servicing capabilities, including moving deeper into everyday spending categories like groceries and gas as a way to both respond to consumer needs and to shift more spending on its cards to non-impulse categories.


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ArounderTouch: A First-Class Ticket to Your Flights of Fancy

LUGANO, Switzerland, April 27 /CNW/ - Imagine the luxury of worldwide travel being virtually real for everyone. It's true at http://Arounder.com, an online travel magazine, offering lifestyle, cultural, historic and economic information on cities and destinations spanning our universe.

Providing "world-class" content and the "best of" quality, http://www.arounder.com went mobile by launching ArounderTouch - a free iPhone app - in Italy on December 3, 2009. Now the current 200,000+ users welcome the world as ArounderTouch 1.1 becomes available globally.

Arounder's main attractions are 360-degree, fullscreen panoramas of 3,500+ locations - including new destinations of:

Rio de Janeiro, New York, London, Sydney, Moscow, Rapanui, Tahiti, Krakow, Montreal, Hawaii, and Mars.

And since these were created by guest photographers intimately familiar with their locations, Arounder showcases the best in VR panoramic art:

AYRTON, Will Pearson, Sam Rohn, Oleg Gaponyuk, Aaron Spence, Andrey Ilyin, Gregory Panayotou, Szymon Madey, Dean Karamehmedovic, Jean Pierre Lavoie and Hans Nyberg.

Multimedia Press Release: http://www.aroundertouch.com/press-release/pr-aroundertouch-1-1-english.html

Website: http://www.aroundertouch.com Download: http://itunes.com/apps/aroundertouch/

With "on-the-go" access, the combination of photographic artistry and digital technology heightens the sense

of "being there"...anywhere. Also the updated version ArounderTouch 1.1 features:



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PREMIER'S STATEMENT ON EARTH DAY

VICTORIA - Premier Gordon Campbell made the following statement on the 40th anniversary of Earth Day.

"Earth Day is an important opportunity to raise awareness for our environment. There is no denying that the world has changed. Climate change is real and we must all do our part to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions and minimize the impact our actions have on the world.

"In British Columbia we are fortunate to have some of the most beautiful, pristine land on the planet. The province's natural beauty is diverse and unparalleled. We are blessed with a land that deserves preservation and we have a responsibility to protect it.

"The B.C. Government is working to lead by example both domestically and internationally. This year B.C. will become North America's first jurisdiction to have a 100 per cent carbon-neutral public sector. Today, more than 13.5 million hectares of British Columbia are protected, more than any other province in Canada. This is an area equal to the size of Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and PEI combined. We generate 90 per cent of our electricity from no- carbon or low-carbon sources. But we still must conserve energy and spread the message of the importance of reducing consumption.

"Each one of us can make a difference with our actions. Whether it is ensuring we recycle or conserving energy, every little bit helps. By working together, we can leave a better planet for our children and grandchildren."


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EARTH DAY WALK IN ITS 29TH YEAR

This is the 29th year of celebrating our Grassroot community with a Concert and an Environmental Fair on the closest Saturday to Earth Day. This year the organizers on the Earth Walk Committee are very excited to be using the new facilities that the City has provided in Centennial Square. The improvements dubbed the “amphitheater” are on the west side of the square and look more like a loading dock for the McPherson Theater than a stage for community events. Still it will be interesting to see how the event transpires.

The Earth Walk will be parading up instead of down Government Street for the second year in a row, when asked why the major change in direction for the Walk? Steve Filipovic a member of the volunteer committee said, “Over the years it has become harder and harder for the grassroot organization to collect donations on the lawns of the Legislature because of a tightening or the rules that govern that property. So since the Earth Walk is all about boosting community support and financial contributions for groups challenging the many issues our society is facing we felt Centennial Square would be a better place for the concert.”

Colleen Eccleston, a lecturer in Fine Arts at the University of Victoria will be the emcee, and she would like to invite everyone in Victoria to this fun family event. Samba du Soleil and Masala, two fantastic drumming groups, will unite to lead the Walk from the Legislature at 12:30. From there the colourfully dressed participants will parade up Government Street, making their way with the aid of the Victoria Police clear to Centennial Square. At the Square Victoria favourite Oliver Swain, his big base and his very talented friends are set up on stage. Vicky Husband will share some information about our Crown lands and Ross Crockford, one of the organizers of the most successful petitions in Victoria will be there to engage the citizens of Victoria in some contemplations about democracy. Then the Ecclestons will bring us home. There will be dancing, laughter and of course information tables from the numerous groups that are involved in thinking globally and acting locally.

Join our Facebook Group ‘EARTH WALK’ and RSVP to our event!

For more information about Earth Day visit www.earthwalkvictoria.ca and visit out our partner in hosting this annual event www.VIDEA.ca a great example of the type of organization we are supporting by holding this annual event.


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Transport Canada eases carry-on luggage restriction

OTTAWA — Canadians travelling by plane to the United States can once again get on board with a piece of luggage in each hand, Transport Canada announced yesterday.

Transport Minister John Baird said that restrictions on carry-on items, put in place in December after the failed terrorist attack by the so-called Underwear Bomber, have been eased but he stressed that both U.S. and Canadian governments have made security a top priority.

“The government of Canada is unwavering in our commitment to implement the most effective measures possible for a safe and secure aviation system, while upholding a level of comfort and convenience for air travellers,” Baird said.

The change to the baggage rule to allow two carry-on items on U.S.bound flights was to go into effect today.

After Umar Abdulmutallab failed to detonate his bomb on a Northwest Airlines plane Christmas Day, security for all travel into the United States was drastically tightened. Even though Abdulmutallab had got on a plane in Amsterdam, bound for Detroit, all travellers boarding U.S.bound flights in Canada were immediately subjected to more searches.

Travellers were also told on Dec. 27 that only one carry-on item could be taken on U.S. flights. The next day, all carry-on items were banned.

On top of all that, travellers were told to stay in their seats during the last hour of any U.S.-bound flight.

Those restrictions were eventually loosened even as government agencies on both sides of the border looked at ways they could improve security while, at the same time, minimize disruptions to passengers.

The biggest change since then on the Canadian side are full-body scanners at major airports and a new tax on air travel the federal government says it needs to help pay for $1.5 billion worth of beefed-up security enhancements.


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US pilots can take antidepressants on job

The government is lifting a 70-year-old ban on letting pilots fly while on antidepressants, citing improvements in the drugs and an unforeseen side effect of the restriction: Depressed pilots kept flying but just kept their conditions secret.

"Our concern is that they haven't necessarily been candid," Federal Aviation Administrator Randy Babbitt told reporters in a conference call.

According to Associated Press, the change in policy, which includes a degree of amnesty for pilots who lied about their diagnosis and treatment on medical certification forms, is aimed in part at clueing the government in on how many pilots suffer from a disease whose symptoms can include thoughts of suicide, FAA officials said.

The National Institute of Mental Health estimates that about 9.5 percent of people 18 and older suffer from a mood disorder. A 2009 study by Columbia University showed that as many as 10 percent of Americans were taking antidepressants. FAA officials assume the percentage is about the same among pilots.

But the agency has no hard numbers because the ban gave pilots a disincentive to report depression or treatment for it. Under the ban, airline and other pilots who suspected they were depressed but wanted or financially needed to fly generally faced a choice: seek no medication for treatment, because doing so would disqualify them, or self-medicate and lie about it on a required medical certification form — a federal crime. Neither, Babbitt said, is acceptable.

"We need to change the culture and remove the stigma associated with depression," Babbitt said. "Pilots should be able to get the medical treatment they need so they can safely perform their duties."

Under the new policy, pilots who take one of four antidepressants — Prozac, Zoloft, Celexa or Lexapro — or their generic equivalents will be allowed to fly if they have been successfully treated by those medications for a year without side effects that could pose a safety hazard in the cockpit. The antidepressants are classified as SSRIs, which help regulate mood.

The ban had endured because earlier generations of antidepressants caused concerns about side effects, such as drowsiness and seizures, Babbitt said. But a panel of medical experts for the FAA found during two years of research that newer versions don't cause side effects in everyone. When they do occur, they tend to subside in time.

In addition, the FAA will grant a sort of amnesty for pilots who have kept their treatment a secret. The agency will not take civil enforcement action against pilots who, within six months, disclose their diagnoses of depression and treatment.

Technically, the new policy would not protect pilots who lied about the issue from criminal prosecution, a spokesman for the agency said. But the inspector general of the Department of Transportation has said that prosecution would only be sought in extraordinary cases, such as when other criminal conduct was involved, according to Les Dorr, spokesman for the FAA.

Several labor unions representing aircraft owners, pilots and crews had urged the government to lift the ban, and the Air Travelers Association does not object, according to its president, David Stempler. The Army, the Civil Aviation Authority of Australia and Transport Canada already allow some pilots to fly who are using antidepressant medications.

But others say that lying on a federal form for any reason should disqualify would-be pilots.

"The FAA, by essentially granting amnesty to thousands of pilots who suffer from mental illnesses, and lied about those illnesses, is rewarding dishonesty and in so doing making our skies less safe," said Joseph Gutheinz Jr. a former commercial pilot and government investigator who teaches about aviation security and safety issues at the University of Phoenix.

A team of psychiatrists and aviation medical examiners will help the agency monitor pilots under the new policy, modeled on a program established 40 years ago to assess and treat pilots suffering from alcohol and drug abuse issues, the FAA said.

-Travel Daily News.com April 6, 2010

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"Bring Your Boots" to Alberta

CALGARY, ALBERTA--(Marketwire - April 6, 2010) -

Travel Alberta has launched a new marketing campaign aimed at long-haul travellers in key North American markets, inviting them to bring their boots and experience everything Alberta has to offer. "Bring Your Boots" taps directly into what travellers love most about a vacation in Alberta - the chance to get out and do different things.

"Bring Your Boots" is not just a reminder; it's a heartfelt and compelling invitation for travellers to share in the countless travel experiences Alberta has to offer around our province," said Travel Alberta Vice-President, Marketing Jon Mamela. "Consumers in our key markets are being courted by countless destinations around the world. We feel strongly that Travel Alberta's new campaign will stand out amongst the crowd".

In addition to colourful print advertisements running in major U.S. and Canadian newspapers, interactive banner ads and a 60 second video will appear on high-traffic news, social media, and travel Websites, with the invitation for consumers to visit Alberta and bring their boots. Eye-catching images of extended boot-clad legs against a backdrop of iconic Alberta scenery and attractions will give the ads a quirky and playful feel.

The campaign was created by Calgary-based Karo Group.

Research of potential travelers fitting the Canadian Tourism Commission's award winning consumer segmentation indicated that travellers from New York, LA and Toronto look to Alberta to provide an authentic outdoor adventure within breathtaking natural beauty. The campaign will drive travellers to TravelAlberta.com, where they will be served a full range of opportunities to experience what Alberta has to offer.


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'BC EXPERIENCE' IN SAN FRANCISCO TO PROMOTE TOURISM

VICTORIA - One of the most popular activities during the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games is heading to San Francisco as part of an exciting tourism marketing campaign, announced Kevin Krueger, Minister of Tourism, Culture and the Arts.

From April 8 to 18, a 183-metre (600-foot) zipline will be set-up in Embarcadero Square in San Francisco as part of the BC Experience showcase. The showcase will feature the Whistler-based Ziptrek Ecotours zipline, free public dance performances by the Le-La-La Dancers - a world-renowned Aboriginal dance group - an interactive video display featuring videos and beautiful images of B.C., a 3-D art installation and an updated version of the "You Gotta Be Here" advertising campaign in subway stations throughout the
city.

"We've just finished hosting the largest and most successful celebrations in the world and the zipline in Robson Square was obviously one of the most popular public activities during the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games," said Krueger. "We want to bring that excitement to San Francisco, a city that is one of our key markets for attracting new travellers, to show people the diverse range of travel experiences they can find in B.C. and invite them to visit."

The Canadian Tourism Commission is also hosting their annual US Media Marketplace in San Francisco April 12-14, at which over 150 US-based travel writers and editors will meet with Canadian tourism representatives. To help launch the BC Experience, two gold-medal winning Olympians, Canadian ski cross racer Ashleigh McIvor and US speed skater Shani Davis, will be among the first to try the zipline and participate in a public autograph signing.

As a result of the Olympic marketing campaign, the number of Americans in the target demographic considering a leisure trip to B.C. has nearly doubled. This increase represents nearly nine million more potential U.S. visitors. Approximately 14 per cent of US visitors to B.C. come from California.

The BC Experience is part of a post-Olympic North American consumer marketing campaign that will use online advertising, social media and search marketing to reach potential visitors. The campaign will reach out to consumers who have already expressed interest in travel to B.C., and present customized offers
based on their interests.

The campaign will focus on a range of experiences, including golf, food and wine, and outdoor adventure to create a greater depth of interest in experiencing B.C.'s tourism products.

For more information on B.C. tourism opportunities, please visit http://www.hellobc.com/.


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Radisson passes Hilton as Europe's largest upscale hotel brand

Radisson Blu Hotels & Resorts and Radisson Edwardian Hotels collectively offer 170 hotels and 38,079 rooms; followed by Hilton with 146 hotels and 37,806 rooms; and Marriott with 86 hotels and 20,806 rooms.

"We are proud to finally have reached this leading position, a result of our strategic and ambitious business development, our creative marketing campaigns and our innovative service concepts at our hotels," commented Olivier Jacquin, Senior Vice President of Marketing, Sales & Distribution at Rezidor, which manages Radisson Blu in Europe.

Full-service brand Radisson Blu (formerly Radisson SAS) has design heritage that dates back to Arne Jacobsen's historic Royal Copenhagen, the world's first designer hotel celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. Recent Radisson Blu collaborations with the likes of Matteo Thun, Adam D. Tihany and Francois Champsaur have resulted in standout design hotels in Zurich, Frankfurt and Paris.

Radisson Blu brand standards feature the "Yes I Can!" service concept, including Nespresso machines in business class rooms, 3-hour express laundry, Grab & Run breakfast, and complimentary high-speed internet access in all guestrooms.

While city-center business hotels remain a major component of the portfolio, Radisson Blu has also diversified considerably in recent years. New openings include spa resorts in Dubrovnik, Croatia and Cesme, Turkey; boutique hotels in Paris and Madrid; and "new breed" airport hotels featuring designer interiors and chic wine towers in Zurich and Stansted international airports.

Upcoming signature openings in 2010 will include the first Radisson Blu in Milan and the Radisson Royal Hotel Moscow, a historic renovation located in one of the city's original "Seven Sisters" skyscrapers and featuring a destination spa, culinary cruises along the Moskva River, and over 1,200 works of original Soviet-era art.

- Travel Daily News

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??? Expedia.ca

*By the way – when you visit us at expedia.ca, you'll see that Virtual Vacations aren't real (and neither is Craig Ruse). Hey – it's April Fool's Day – remember?



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Expedia.ca reveals exciting new innovation that will change the way you experience travel

Imagine climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef or being one with nature on the Galapagos Islands without ever leaving your home. It may sound virtually impossible, but it's now virtually a reality, thanks to an exciting new innovation from Expedia.ca™. Today, Expedia.ca announces the launch of Virtual Vacations, a revolutionary innovation that will change the way Canadians experience travel forever*.

"With Expedia.ca's Virtual Vacations, the trip is virtual but the memories are real -- now for the first time in travel history, you'll be able to try before you buy," said Craig Ruse, newly appointed Vice President, Expedia.ca Virtual Vacations. "Canadians now have the opportunity to test drive their vacations before they book, at a fraction of the cost. It's not every day you can climb Mount Kilimanjaro and still be home in time for dinner."

Expedia's Virtual Vacations operates using a Vacation Buddy system. Once a destination is chosen by a user, they can pick an Expedia® Vacation Buddy who is waiting at the chosen destination equipped with a state-of-the-art HD 2080p wide-angle, light weight panoramic video helmet. Using Expedia's patented new virtual reality head wear, which will be sent to users after they sign up, virtual travellers can see and communicate with their Travel Buddy in real-time and tell them where they want to go.

"With Expedia's Virtual Vacations, the world is virtually at your doorstep. You can climb mountains, explore caves, talk with local residents and take pictures for your own personal photo album, all from the comfort of your own home," said Ruse. "And if you like their virtual vacation destination, you are just a few clicks away from booking a flight and accommodations."

With three easy steps, you'll be transformed from your living room to your dream vacation:

1.Pick a destination

2.Enable the Expedia.ca Vacation Buddy System

3.Tell your Vacation Buddy where you want to go!

Let's get Virtual

Expedia.ca is offering a limited time special introductory offer to some of the world's hottest destinations including:

•Mount Kilimanjaro

•Galapagos Islands

•Alaska

•Great Barrier Reef

•Yucatan Peninsula

Details on how to make your dream vacation a virtual reality are just a click away. Visit www.Expedia.ca for more information*.

Expedia Canada Corp., a subsidiary of Expedia, Inc., operates Canada's most visited full-service online travel service, Expedia.ca. Expedia.ca customers are supported by customer support agents available 24 hours a day, seven days a week via a toll-free number and email response. For more information, visit www.Expedia.ca


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Skyscanner.com today launches cheap flights into space

EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND--(Marketwire - April 1, 2010) - While excitement is building about the increasingly imminent prospect of space tourism following Virgin Galactic's successful test flights in March, the prohibitive $200,000 price tag makes this a final frontier too far for many would be astronauts, so today Skyscanner announces the launch of cheap flights to space.

"Virgin Galactic is doing a brilliant job of creating excitement and raising awareness that space tourism is a real possibility, but this is not a one-rocket space race by any means and space travel doesn't have to cost the Earth," said Skyscanner co-founder Barry Smith. "The 'no frills' model has transformed air travel over the last decade, so it's no surprise a low-cost contender has emerged to make this market more accessible to all."

Low cost space travel venture Copenhagen Suborbitals – based in Denmark – is taking a no-frills approach in order to bring the cost of space travel back down to Earth. Prices per trip have not been finalized but are anticipated to substantially undercut the Virgin Galactic fare and half price discounts may be offered for one way tickets. There will be no in-flight service – partly because the spacecraft can actually only accommodate one person – no baggage allowance and no seating – passengers will have to stand throughout the duration of the space flight, although 'buttock and armpit support' will be available.

"We'd like to call this company the Ryanair of space travel but we can't – you don't have to pay extra for check-in baggage. In fact you can't take any baggage at all," said Barry Smith.

He concludes: "It's one small click for the user, but one giant leap for us as a company, opening up opportunities for our business to boldly go into some exciting new market niches. It's even possible we may see some interest from forlorn former Concorde passengers who miss the view on flights from New York to London. Although the flights are currently starting from a barge in the Baltic Sea, and I'm not actually sure where they're landing, so that may not be ideal for them."

Copenhagen Suborbitals is planning a test flight in June of this year, powering a spacecraft into a suborbital trajectory. Budding astronauts can follow progress as the company launches a series of rockets to validate and test performance before launching humans into space.


WSG (Fototrips) Posting news of interest from around the world relating to travel and photography.

Top 10 Snorkeling and Diving Beach Destinations around the world.

BOSTON, MA--(Marketwire - April 1, 2010) - Colorful coral reefs, long-forgotten shipwrecks, exotic sea creatures, mysterious caves -- all these undersea treasures offer divers and snorkelers an adventure beyond comparison. So on your next beach holiday, skip the lounge chair in favor of the underwater environment and observe some of the world's most beautiful marine life.

At Cheapflights.com, we've pulled together a list of our favorite beach destinations for scuba diving and snorkeling. See a sampling here and view the complete list in our blog. Continue reading below for our travel tips on planning a smooth trip and making the most of your time underwater.

•Belize: While some refer to it as the Great Barrier Reef's kid sister, there's no joking around when you dive into the Belize Barrier Reef. This coral masterpiece runs the length of the coastline and is considered the diving "holy grail" of the area. Search and compare cheap flights to Belize.

•Bonaire: Bonaire's surrounding waters are designated as an official marine park, and diving here offers a chance to explore a seemingly untouched and unspoiled environment. The South Caribbean water is exceptionally clear, making underwater photography a must. Search and compare cheap flights to Bonaire.

•Cayman Islands: Exploring the Grand Cayman's seven miles of reefs and wreck dives offers travelers a world of sponges, corals, algae and tunicates in an unimaginable variation of color to discover. Search and compare cheap flights to Cayman Islands.

•Cozumel, Mexico: The sea off Cozumel, Mexican Caribbean's largest island located just 12 miles from the Yucatan Peninsula, is home to many eels, nurse sharks, barracudas, crabs, lobsters, and sting rays. Save the Corona for dry land however! Search and compare cheap flights to Cozumel.

•Fiji: The soft coral capital of the world, Fiji has plenty of luxury resorts and eco-hideaways that pair stunning beaches with exotic underwater environments. Its ever-changing current allows the corals to bloom into color. Search and compare cheap flights to Fiji.

The next five destinations to make the list include the Galapagos Islands; the Great Barrier Reef; Hawaii; Rocktail Bay, South Africa and Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt. To read more on these diving and snorkeling hot spots visit our blog at http://news.cheapflights.com/2010/03/top-10-snorkeling-and-diving-beach-destinations/

To make sure you have a great underwater getaway, follow these quick hints:

•Pack a small medical kit. Decongestants and ear drops, sunscreen and sea-sickness pills are all good to have on hand.

•Pack smart to stay within the weight limits. And think ahead about what to check and what to carry-on. Obviously, check your dive knife but also your wetsuit, booties, fins, snorkel and buoyancy compensator. Your scuba dive computer can go into your carry-on luggage, packed in a box that will prevent accidental activation. You should also bring your mask, log book and certification cards in your hand luggage.

•Make sure your travel insurance will cover you. There are a couple of things to think about here. There's your scuba gear -- how much will you be covered for if it's lost or stolen? Are you covered adequately if you need medical attention?

•When you're finished diving, build in a day to relax. It's dangerous to fly immediately after scuba diving. You'll need 12 to 24 hours to avoid decompression illness.


WSG (Fototrips) Posting news of interest from around the world relating to travel and photography.