New Passport Requirements

On June 1, 2009, the U.S. government will implement the new requirements of the land and sea phase of WHTI (Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative). The proposed rules require most U.S. citizens entering the United States at sea or land ports of entry to have a passport, passport card, or other travel document approved by the Department of Homeland Security.

Children under the age of 16 who are citizens of the U.S., will be able to present the original or copy of their birth certificate, or other proof of U.S. citizenship such as a naturalization certificate or citizenship card.

The U.S. Passport Card: The passport card is only valid for re-entry into the United States at land border crossings and sea ports-of-entry from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean region, and Bermuda.

Also, a final ruling was issued allowing leniency for “closed-loop” cruises, or sailings that both originate and end in the same U.S. port. U.S. citizens taking “closed-loop” cruises are not required to have a passport but will need proof of citizenship and a government-issued photo ID, such as an original or certified copy of a birth certificate and a driver’s license. Children will also be required to carry a birth certificate and a photo ID if over the age of 15.

For more complete information about the WHTI, go to Travel.State.gov

For assistance booking your next international vacation, contact a Professional Travel Agent today!

Hanalei Bay Named Top U.S. Beach

Hanalei Bay, located on Kauai's north shore, was just named Top Beach in America, according to "Dr. Beach", or Stephen P. Leatherman. Leatherman based his selections on 50 criteria, including water quality and temperature, cleanliness, sand quality, weather, safety and facilities.

This remote 2-mile beach, located around the corner from the Napali Coast features breath taking views from every angle, and is practically untouched compared to Hawaii's other beaches. It is a perfect place for swimming, surfing, snorkeling, or just relaxing in the sand.

Even when the surf is up during winter months, parts of the bay are protected by an outer reef, so people are still able to swim safely.

Siesta Beach in Sarasota, Fla. was the runner-up on Leatherman's list.

Contact a Professional Travel Agent today to get started booking your next sunny vacation!

Some Cruises Returning to Mexico

Now that the CDC is no longer recommending against nonessential travel to Mexico, cruise lines are making plans to return to their regular itineraries.

Voyages with previously modified itineraries will continue and revert to their original routes in Mexico, as most itineraries were modified through mid-June. Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines will resume its port calls in Cozumel beginning with sailings that depart on or after May 24. Ships with Cozumel port calls include Freedom of the Seas, Liberty of the Seas, and Enchantment of the Seas. Mariner of the Seas will continue its modified Pacific Northwest itinerary, up to and including, its June 14 sailing.

Carnival Cruise Lines will make its first call back to Cozumel on May 30, with Carnival Holiday, but most ships will resume calls to Mexican ports in June, once all previously modified cruises have been completed.

Passengers on both Carnival and Royal Caribbean ships will still have to fill in a health questionnaire on embarkation and there will continue to be spot checks on anyone showing signs of flu.

For more information, or to book your next Cruise, contact a Professional Travel Agent today!

United Raises Bagges Fees

United followed US Airways in raising bag fees to $20 for the first bag and $30 for the second bag. The increase will be discounted $5 only if paid online. The increase goes into effect June 10 and applies to any purchases bought after May 14th.

AirTran to Add Wi-Fi to All Their Flights

AirTran Airways announced today that they plan to equip their entire fleet of jets with wireless capabilities.

The airline plans to have the Wi-Fi service installed in all of its planes by July of this year, which would make them the first airline to do so.

AirTran mainly just flies within the U.S., with the exception of Mexico and Puerto Rico.

First "Cruise with Purpose" Shore Excursion

Juneau's local tour operator Gastineau Guiding has created the first Cruise with Purpose shore excursion, in partnership with the Alaska Sea Grant's Marine Advisory Program and the Alaska Marine Conservation Alliance.

This program was designed especially for Holland America Line. Guests board an exploration vessel out of Auke Bay to look for and help document individual humpback and orca whales. Guests will identify individual whales by their tail "fingerprints" and record their songs using an underwater microphone called a hydrophone. Participants will also collect water samples, trawl for plankton and record ocean temperature readings.

Since plankton is a significant indicator in predicting the success of Alaska's salmon runs, this data will help manage this precious wild resource. All collected data and water samples are contributed to the body of research maintained by Alaska Sea Grant's Marine Advisory Program. The beach landing vessel will then make a one-hour stop at a secluded cove or shoreline where guests then turn into volunteer beachcombers. A naturalist-guide provides interpretation on the flora and fauna of the area as guests help pick up any non-native debris in support of the Alaska Marine Conservation Alliance's efforts.

The cost of this tour is $219 per person. At the tour's conclusion, guests receive a Cruise with Purpose VolunTour pin, and will be able to track the projects they contributed to at the program's web page http://www.hollandamerica.com/cruise-destinations/ShoreExcursions.action. The tour is available from May to September.

To get started booking your next Cruise vacation, contact a Professional Travel Agent today!

What to do in Melbourne, Australia?

Melbourne is the second most populous city in Australia, with a population of approximately 3.9 million and serves as the state capital of Victoria. Melbourne is located on the lower reaches of the Yarra River and on the northern and eastern shorelines of Port Phillip and their hinterland. Melbourne is a major center of commerce, education, tourism, the arts and cultural activities, and also industry.

It is consistently ranked one of the most liveable cities in the world.

Things to Do:

The Queen Victoria Market is the oldest and largest open air market in the Southern Hemisphere. Here you can find anything from fresh produce and gourmet food items, to clothing and souvenirs.

National Gallery of Victoria is the oldest and largest gallery and museum in Australia. It holds more than 70,000 items between its 2 buildings, which are just a short walking distance apart. One building houses international art, the other houses Australian art only. Both buildings are open year round, except for major holidays. And admission is free!

Royal Botanical Gardens are some of the most beautifully landscaped gardens in the world. Just a short walk from city center, these world famous gardens boasts more than 20 different types of gardens, including an interactive children’s garden and the Aboriginal Heritage Walk. Entry is free!

Federation Square is considered the city’s “hub”. This cultural precinct connects the city center with the Yarra River. It is comprised of art galleries, a museum, shops, restaurants, bars and a cinema.

The Melbourne Observation Deck, located some 237 metres above the city streets on the 55th floor of the Rialto Towers, offers spectacular views of the central business district and beyond.

The Melbourne Aquarium contains a variety of exhibits showcasing marine wildlife found in the Southern Ocean and the Antarctic.

Some other noteworthy attractions in Melbourne include St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the Melbourne Zoo, and the Victorian Arts Centre.

Eat:

Melbourne is also noted for the number, variety and quality of its restaurants. Major restaurant strips are found throughout the city and the suburbs, including:

Chinatown, on Little Bourke Street and now spreading out onto Russell Street in the CBD, offers numerous restaurants, mainly but not exclusively offering Cantonese cuisine, at the lower end offering Hong Kong-style noodle restaurants up to the Flower Drum, renowned for its Peking Duck and is generally regarded as Melbourne's best restaurant.

Lygon Street, in the inner-northern suburb of Carlton, offers a selection of mainly Italian-influenced food.

Brunswick Street in inner-suburban Fitzroy used to be a grungy hotbed of students, musicians, actors and the like, and still retains some remnant of that edginess with the presence of several live music venues, all manner of eclectic stores, accompanied by restaurants and cafes, many of which serve varied and contemporary menus.

Chapel Street, south of the city is a popular destination for fashionable clothes shopping, eating and entertainment. The long street contains commercial areas providing goods and services for local residents. Chapel Street intersects with Toorak Road, itself offering entertainment, food and shops.

Other prominent cafe strips include:
St Kilda's Fitzroy Street, Carlisle Street and Acland Street are home to many popular cafes.
Fitzroy's Brunswick Street
South Yarra's Chapel Street
Collingwood's Smith Street
Richmond's Bridge Road
Southbank's Southgate and Crown Casino

Drink/Nightlife:

Melbourne contains all manner of pubs, bars, and nightclubs. The CBD contains a wide variety of venues, from the ubiquitous faux-Irish pubs and more traditional Aussie hotels, through some very upmarket wine bars, serious jazz venues on Bennetts Lane, fashionable nightclubs and dance venues (where the Melbourne Shuffle was born), are often hidden away down obscure grungy alleys.

The restaurant strips, particularly Brunswick Street have their own bars, some of which are the best rock venues in Melbourne. King Street, on the southern side of the CBD, was traditionally a nightclub strip and still hosts several, but many are now exotic dancing venues. Chapel Street, Prahran, is perhaps the trendiest, most upmarket nightlife strip. Bayside St Kilda is the home of several huge music venues including the famous Esplanade Hotel (known as 'the Espy'), the Prince of Wales, and The Palace.

The recent influx of city-dwellers has given rise to the numerous underground bars and sidewalk cafes in the alleys between Flinders Street - Flinders Lane and Bourke Street - Lonsdale Street. Notable alleys include Block Arcade/Block Place, Degraves Street, and Hardware Lane.

Day Trips From Melbourne:

There are a variety of interesting things to see outside Melbourne proper but still within a day trip of Melbourne:

The Yarra valley region, producer of high-quality wine and with beautiful rainforest scenery nearby.

The Mornington Peninsula, with its wineries, beaches and the Arthurs Seat lookout.
The Surf Coast near Geelong, with excellent surf beaches and the spectacular views of the Great Ocean Road (Voted the world's best road trip in 2003).

Ballarat, a small city once the centre of the gold rush and site of the Eureka Stockade.

Phillip Island, home of the Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix, also has one of the few easily-accessible colonies of little penguins.

French Island in Western Port Bay

Geelong, 80 km down the Princes Hwy is the gateway to many of Australia's tourist destinations such as the Great Ocean Road, Twelve Apostles and Bells Beach. Geelong is famous for its world class waterfront on on Corio Bay. One of the largest waterfront redevelopments ever undertaken in Australia, Waterfront Geelong includes Cunningham Pier with its Smorgy's restaurant, a Carousel Pavilion, and the art-deco bathing area at Eastern Beach.

Gippsland region, home of the Gourmet Deli Tours, the Gippsland Lakes, Wilsons Promontory (with South Point, the most southerly point of the Australian mainland), and many picturesque towns such as Sale,Foster, Bairnsdale, Lakes Entrance, and Warragul - one of the richest dairy farming areas in Australia. The ghost town of Walhalla is filled with goldmining memorabilia.

Weather:

Australia is within the southern hemisphere where the seasons are reversed to those in North America. Melbourne’s changes of seasons are renown for starting late, the “official” first day of summer is 21st December, but it rarely feels like summer until mid January or even later. During the summer months outdoor activities in particular the fabulous Melbourne beaches are popular with both locals and visitors.

Melbourne enjoys a temperate climate with warm-hot summers; spring and autumn are balmy and mild, the winters cool. Melbourne is seldom unbearably cold or unbearably hot, temperature extremes when they do occur see the hotter realms of the thermometer causing more problems than the colder.

Contact a Professional Travel Agent today to book your vacation of a lifetime to Australia!

Facts About the Swine Flu

The Swine Flu seems to be spreading, perhaps unreasonable, panic and hysteria among much of the U.S. population.

To simply look at the facts, it’s easy to see that it’s not nearly as bad as the media is making it out to be. Here are some of the facts about the Swine Flu, plain and simple.

• The term "flu pandemic" simply means a new strain is infecting and spreading among people in several areas of the world at the same time. It can be mild, moderate, or severe.

• Swine flu viruses do not normally infect humans. However, sporadic human infections with swine flu have occurred. Most commonly, these cases occur in persons with direct exposure to pigs (e.g. children near pigs at a fair or workers in the swine industry). In addition, there have been documented cases of one person spreading swine flu to others. For example, an outbreak of apparent swine flu infection in pigs in Wisconsin in 1988 resulted in multiple human infections, and, although no community outbreak resulted, there was antibody evidence of virus transmission from the patient to health care workers who had close contact with the patient.

• President Obama has said the problem is a "cause for concern" and "not a cause for alarm."

• As of April 30, the United States Government has reported 109 laboratory confirmed human cases, including one death (which was a Mexican citizen who came to Texas for medical treatment).

• Every year this decade, between 30,000 and 50,000 American deaths were recorded from complications related to the regular seasonal flu.

• The swine influenza A (H1N1) virus is susceptible to the prescription antiviral drugs oseltamivir and zanamivir. In addition, the Federal Government has begun the process of developing a vaccine against this new virus.

• The World Health Organization advises no restriction of regular travel or closure of borders.

This information in this blog was collected from the World Health Organization website, CDC website and Forbes.com

What Do You Want on Every Flight?

That's what AirTran Airlines is asking their customers, what new amenity you would like to see on every flight?

The airline is conducting an online survey, you can go to www.everyflight.com to submit your suggestions and read other submissions. The airline promises to pick at least one of the new suggestions, saying the promotion is building towards a May 12 announcement about which new amenity the carrier will add on every flight. So far suggestions range from pizza to pilates.

Limits Have Been Set for Antarctica Sailings

As reported last week, countries with interests in Antarctica have agreed to impose mandatory limits on tourism to the continent to protect its fragile environment.

During a two week conference on the 50 year-old Antarctic Treaty, 28 countries have endorsed the US proposal to limit the size of cruise ships that land passengers on Antarctica. The number of people allowed ashore at any one time is also limited. The rules are voluntary at present but will become enforceable once each of the countries formally ratifies the agreement. Ships with more than 500 passengers cannot land in Antarctica and no more than 100 passengers can go ashore at one time.

There was no opposition to the terms of the agreement by any of the participating countries.

United to Charge Overweight Passengers for Additional Seat

Effective April 15, United Airlines will enforce a new policy adopted earlier this year. If a passenger cannot fit into a single seat, buckle their seatbelt, even with a seatback extender, or put the seat's armrest down, that passenger "must either purchase a ticket for an additional seat, or purchase an upgrade to a cabin with seats that address the above-listed scenarios," United Airlines wrote on its Web site. If the passenger doesn't agree to purchase the extra seat, he/she will not be allowed to board the plane. The only exception is couples flying together who can fit into adjoining seats.

Some suggest that this is discrimination. United insisted it was simply acting on the 700-plus complaints it received last year about obese travelers "infringing" on their neighbors' space. The policy applies to all tickets purchased on or after March 4 for travel after April 15.

Tulip in Netherlands Named After KLM

The Keukenhof, the gardens and tulip fields that are one of the Netherlands top attractions has decided to name a special hybrid tulip after KLM.

The Dutch Minister for Foreign Trade emphasized KLM's economic importance to the flower industry. "KLM's success as an airline echoes the wider success of the Dutch logistics industry. Frederique van der Wal, current owner of the lifestyle and flower collection, "Frederique's Choice," was invited to join in the naming ceremony with Peter Hartman, KLM CEO.

Bouquets of KLM tulips will be on view at Schiphol Airport in the days to come. The airport will have its own "mini-Keukenhof" in Terminal 2 at Schiphol Plaza. If you are flying into or through Schiphol be sure to look for the display.

The new hybrid tulip is called ‘Tulipa KLM’ and can be ordered online at http://www.klm.com/.

Obama Lifting Restrictions on Family Travel to Cuba

In a measured break with a half-century of U.S. policy toward communist Cuba, the Obama administration lifted restrictions Monday on Cuban-Americans who want to travel and send money to their families in Cuba.

This includes the removal of limits on the frequency and amount of remittances that Cubans can send to family members in Cuba. Travelers will be authorized to carry up to $3,000 in remittances. And Cuban Americans will be able to visit relatives in their Island homeland for as long as they like and as often as they like.

In a further gesture of openness, U.S. telecommunications firms were freed to seek business there, too. However, the U.S. economic and trade embargo of communist-ruled Cuba will remain, but leaders of Latin American countries at this week’s Summit of the Americas are expected to push Obama to repeal it. The summit takes place April 17 to 19 in Trinidad.

Mexico Assures Safety at Tourist Destinations

The Mexican Tourism Board and its affiliates are advising the travel agent community and their clients that vacations will not be harmed by the current problems related to the drug trade.

"The violence occurring in Mexico is concentrated in five municipalities in the Northwest side of Mexico and is far removed from resort areas," said the Board. There have been no reports of tourists affected by the violence which is predominately located along the US-Mexico border.

The Tourism Board has a new web site to keep agents updated about the situation and it is found at www.mexico-update.com The map on the site underlines the distance from the affected areas to resort areas.

Continental Voted Best North America Airline by SkyTrax

This is the second year in a row Continental Airlines has been named "Best Airline: North America" in the SkyTrax 2009 World Airline Awards.

The awards are based on an independent survey of more than 16 million passengers from 95 different nationalities conducted over a 10-month period. Continental is the world's fifth largest airline and is 75 years old this year. Fortune magazine named the airline the No. 1 World's Most Admired Airline on its 2009 list of World's Most Admired Companies.

Congratulations to Continental.

Air New Zealand Cancelling Flights Due to Lunch Breaks

Air New Zealand will have to cancel 25 regional flights each week, because its air traffic control staff have to eat lunch at scheduled times, according to a statement from the carrier.

Changes in the Employment Relations Act, which came into effect on Wednesday, April 1st, will see the Air Line Pilots Association insisting that members take their breaks at scheduled times rather than working flexibly as they have in the past. Air New Zealand says this means the Civil Aviation Authority from Wednesday will be forced to close five towers, twice each day, for 30-45 minutes.

Air New Zealand short haul head Bruce Parton said it was farcical that services to five regional airports would have to be cancelled. Regional customers will face disruption and reduced frequency as Air New Zealand is forced to remove approximately 2500 seats each week from regional capacity. Air New Zealand also stands to lose up to $3 million in revenue through the cancellation of these services to Gisborne, Napier, New Plymouth, Rotorua and Invercargill Airports."We appear to be the victims of an overly rigid dictate to business on how to achieve a healthy and safe workplace", Parton said.

There are many other airlines that fly between the U.S. and New Zealand. Contact a Professional Travel Agent today to book your vacation to the South Pacific!

America's Most Popular Tourist Attractions

According to Forbes Traveler and USA Today, these were America's most popular tourist attractions in 2008.

Times Square, New York, NY

Most people who visit the U.S. make sure to visit the Big Apple, and most visitors in NYC make sure to visit Times Square, making it the most popular tourist attraction.

Las Vegas Strip, Las Vegas, NV

Last year alone, more than 30 million people visited the Las Vegas strip, and either stayed overnight or gambled on the strip.

National Mall & Memorial Parks, Washington, D.C.

Many of the nation's iconic public landmarks are found in the 1,000-plus acres of the National Mall and Memorial Parks, including the Washington, Lincoln, and Jefferson Memorials, and the Korean and Vietnam War Veterans Memorials.

Faneuil Hall Marketplace, Boston, MA

The cultural significance of this marketplace makes this a cultural attraction, and a very popular one!

Disney World's Magic Kingdom, Lake Buena Vista, FL

This park is the most popular of any of the Disney Florida attractions, and includes the Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and Country Bear Jamboree.

Disneyland, Anaheim, CA

The original Disney Park in California has been a huge American attraction every since it's opening in 1955.

Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco, CA

The estimated visitors to Fisherman's Wharf last year alone was between 12-15 million.

Niagra Falls, NY

The falls can be viewed from observation towers, by boat, from an antique cable car, or from hiking trails on the Canadian side.

Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Tennessee, North Carolina

This park draws more visitors than the Grand Canyon or Yosemite. Most visitors come to the park to see bears, as there are more than 1,500 bears that live in the park.

Lake Mead national Recreation Area, Arizona, Nevada

Lake Mead is the U.S.'s largest man-made lake and is a recreational mecca for boaters, swimmers and fisherman.

Contact a Professional Travel Agent today to get started planning your next vacation!

Curbside to Shipboard in 15 Minutes?

The bigger the ship, the more hassles there are embarking and disembarking at the beginning and end of a voyage, typically. But officials at Fort Lauderdale's Port Everglades say the much-ballyhooed, 5,400-passenger Royal Caribbean Oasis of the Seas, the largest cruise ship ever built, will be an exception to the rule when it debuts at the port later this year.

Industry watcher Johanna Jainchill of Travel Weekly today quotes port director Phillip Allen as saying the port plans on moving passengers from "curbside to shipboard in 15 minutes." In anticipation of the arrival of the Royal Caribbean vessel, which debuts in November, the port has done extensive renovations to one of its terminals to allow passengers to flow quickly on and off the ship. The port boasts that the terminal is now the largest single-ship cruise terminal in the world.

The Oasis of the Seas has 28 ultra-modern loft suites and 2,700 spacious staterooms, and 16-decks featuring 4 pools and 10 whirlpools, 4 different venues offering nightly entertainment, Casino Royale, day spa and fitness club and six different dining options.

To get started booking your next cruise, contact a Professional Travel Agent today!

Random Screenings at Airport Gates to Resume

The Transportation Security Administration announced on Wednesday that they are going to be doing more random gate checks at airports from now on. They actually started doing them a few months ago.

The Spokeswoman for TSA, Laura Uselding said "this is not because of any specific threat", but additional measures to help prevent "weapons or other contraband from being passed from an employee to passenger before boarding". "Gate screening is particularly effective at addressing insider threats and serves as a random and unpredictable security layer that, like all TSA's security measures, was developed using a risk-based approach," Uselding said.

The TSA sent letters out to airports last week informing them of the changes.

Holland America Introduces "Showroom at Sea"

Holland America Cruise Line will introduce a new concept in shipboard entertainment with its first "Showroom at Sea" in May, 2009.

An innovative musical repertory company consisting of seasoned Broadway performers will be the centerpiece of the new entertainment lineup. Created in partnership with Stiletto Entertainment, producers of Emmy award winning TV shows and concert tours, the new programming debuts on the Veendam in May as part of Holland America Line's Signature of Excellence enhancements.

The Showroom at Sea, a modern-day take on the classic nightclub, will feature state of the art technology and a different show and themed environment nightly. Comprised of cast members with credits such as Les Miserables and Rent on Broadway, National Tours of Mamma Mia and performances with the Tokyo Philharmonic, the shows include "Street Singin'," "Encore," "Live from the Stardust Lounge," and "Bob Mackie's Broadway."

The Showroom at Sea is a completely redesigned main stage, with all new seating and an enlarged dance floor enabling guests to combine cocktails, dancing and a show. A new sound system, enhanced lighting, and state of the art video projections transport guests into diverse environments as scenery and decor leap off the stage and into the seats.

Each evening features unique drink menus and table settings. From four vocalists singing pop/rock on the street corner, to two classical vocalists backed by a lavish 14-piece orchestra, to an evening at a fictitious Vegas nightclub hosted by the resident comedian, each night reveals an exciting new production.

Contact a Professional Travel Agent today to book your next Cruise!

Travel Deals Abound!

Trying to figure out how to fit a vacation into the budget this year? There are some great travel deals to be found right now! Discounted airfares and packages are being offered to just about any part of the globe, but especially to the South Pacific & Hawaii!

Some of the unbelievably great specials that we are offering right now include;

Roundtrip airfare from Los Angeles or San Francisco to Sydney or Melbourne, Australia starting at $475.00 plus tax, non-stop!

Roundtrip airfare from Los Angeles to Auckland, New Zealand as low as $598.00 plus tax!

Roundtrip fares to Hawaii from San Francisco starting at $298.00 plus tax!

Also, we have some great package deals right now, such as a 7 day air & land package to the beautiful Fiji Islands, for just $1750.00 plus taxes, per person!

These are some of the lowest prices that have been offered in years!
To find out about our other great specials, or to get started booking your next vacation, contact a Professional Travel Agent today!

New Airport Security Rules Require More Personal Information

The TSA is getting ready to institute new rules in regards to booking airline reservations. In the near future passengers will be required to give their birth date, sex, and their full name. The name on the ticket MUST match exactly the name on the photo ID you will be using. So you will need to be very careful when booking an airline reservation.

The new program is called Secure Flight and takes responsibility for checking passenger names against "watch lists" from the airlines to the TSA. Only passengers who are cleared by the TSA will be given boarding passes. The TSA says the program will improve the quality of the watch lists and will reduce the misidentification of innocent travelers who are mistakenly placed on the "no-fly" list.

The new rules are set to begin first on domestic flights early this year and on international flights late in the year. The TSA says the information will be held for no more than seven days. It will cost the airlines an additional $630 million to reprogram their reservations systems.

U.S. Dept of State Issues Travel Warning for Mexico

On February 20, the U.S. Department of State issued the following Travel Alert:

While millions of U.S. citizens safely visit Mexico each year (including thousands who cross the land border every day for study, tourism or business), violence in the country has increased recently. It is imperative that travelers understand the risks of travel to Mexico, how best to avoid dangerous situations, and whom to contact if one becomes a crime victim. Common-sense precautions such as visiting only legitimate business and tourist areas during daylight hours, and avoiding areas where prostitution and drug dealing might occur, can help ensure that travel to Mexico is safe and enjoyable.

The greatest increase in violence has occurred near the U.S. border. However, U.S. citizens traveling throughout Mexico should exercise caution in unfamiliar areas and be aware of their surroundings at all times. Mexican and foreign bystanders have been injured or killed in violent attacks in cities across the country, demonstrating the heightened risk of violence in public places. In recent years, dozens of U.S. citizens have been kidnapped across Mexico. Many of these cases remain unresolved. U.S. citizens who believe they are being targeted for kidnapping or other crimes should notify Mexican officials and the nearest American consulate or the Embassy as soon as possible, and should consider returning to the United States.

U.S. citizens should make every attempt to travel on main roads during daylight hours, particularly the toll ("cuota") roads, which generally are more secure. Occasionally, the U.S. Embassy and consulates advise their employees as well as private U.S. citizens to avoid certain areas, abstain from driving on certain roads because of dangerous conditions or criminal activity, or recommend driving during daylight hours only. When warranted, U.S. government employees are restricted from traveling to or within parts of Mexico without prior approval from their supervisors.

When this happens, the Embassy or the affected consulate will alert the local U.S. citizen Warden network and post the information on their respective websites, indicating the nature of the concern and the expected time period for which the restriction will remain in place. U.S. citizen visitors are encouraged to stay in the well-known tourist areas of the cities. Travelers should leave their itinerary with a friend or family member not traveling with them, avoid traveling alone, and should check with their cellular provider prior to departure to confirm that their cell phone is capable of roaming on GSM or 3G international networks. Do not display expensive-looking jewelry, large amounts of money, or other valuable items.

For more information, check the U.S. Dept of State Website.

To get started booking your next trip to Mexico, or anywhere else, contact a Professional Travel Agent today!

V Australia Takes Off!

V Australia had a grand send off from Sydney yesterday as Sir Richard Branson threw a great party to celebrate the launch.

The three class boutique style airline offers 33 Business Class lie-flat beds, 40 Premium Economy club seats and 288 economy seats. The suite of in-flight products includes two in-flight bars, a female toilet complete with piped music and Australian icons featured on subtle wallpaper murals. All seats on the brand new 777-300ER aircraft offer personal state-of-the-art seat back entertainment with user friendly touch screen options and seat to seat 'chat' or competition connectivity.

V Australia is the only carrier to operate the economically and environmentally efficient Boeing 777 aircraft on the long haul trans-Pacific route. You will be able to recognize thier planes, as they have the Southern Cross painted on the tail.

To book your next trip to Australia, contact a Professional Travel Agent today!

Why Not Take a Fiji Stopover?

Planning a trip to Australia or New Zealand? Perhaps you should consider a stop over in Fiji!

Many flights to Australia and New Zealand will allow a stop over in this beautiful island paradise either on the way there, or on your way home - for free, or just a small surcharge. From crystal clear aquamarine water, brilliant colored coral and the sway of the palm tree to spectacular waterfalls and breath taking sunsets, if there's adventure in your soul, Fiji is the place to indulge it!

Contact a Professional South Pacific Agent today to get started booking your vacation of a lifetime!

Eurostar Back in Service

Eurostar is operating on a full timetable starting today, five months after the Channel Tunnel fire.

It is offering increased service from 2008 levels with 19 trains per day to Paris and up to 10 per day to Brussels. This adds up to 1 million additional seats to the end of the year. Eurostar reports that business day trips are again on the increase and customers do not want hidden extras or a reduction in service frequency.

Need A Reason to go to Hawaii?

In case you've been thinking about taking a vacation to Hawaii and need another reason to go, Hawaiian Airlines came in first in on-time arrivals among U.S. carriers, for the fifth year in a row!

This is according to a U.S. Department of Transportation Air Travel Consumer report, that was released on February 9th. Southwest Airlines came in second place. To meet the DOT's standards, flights must arrive within 15 minutes of their scheduled time.

Contact a Professional Travel Agent today, to get started planning your Hawaii vacation!

US Firm to Repair Damage to Coral Reefs

RESOLVE, a US based company in Fort Lauderdale is helping to repair damage done by ships through a pioneering coral reef replacement system.

The company has developed a technique to effectively grow coral and anchor it to the sea bed atop custom made underwater structures. The company leads the field and has placed more artificial ship reefs on the ocean floor than any other company. It built the world's largest artificial reef using a decommissioned Navy aircraft carrier, the Oriskany, and successfully prepared and sank the vessel for reefing purposes off the coast of Pensacola.

Last week a Panama flagged tanker, which struck a reef in the Caribbean, has agreed to pay the high cost of replacing the damaged coral. RESOLVE fragments healthy coral, nurturing them in a lab, attaches them to a larger eco friendly reef structure and then transplants them back into their previous environment. These structures provide a porous, yet sturdy substrate to promote rapid growth, environmental complexity and an animal friendly habitat.

To get started booking your next Dive Vacation, contact a Professional Travel Agent today!

US Airways to Start Charging for Pillows and Blankets

US Airways announced yesterday that they will start charging $7.00 for their "Power Nap Sack" kit, beginning February 16th, for all their domestic flights. At this point, they are not planning to charge for pillows and blankets on international flights.

This kit will include a neck pillow, a 34 x 60-inch fleece blanket, eye shades and ear plugs, and they all come in a drawstring bag. Kevin Jackson, a marketing official for Tempe-based US Airways, said selling the pillows and blankets "is a natural extension of our 'pay for what you choose and use' model we began rolling out last year."

The airlines have began increasing fees, such as paying for onboard amenities and checked bags, to help cover part of their financial losses they have been facing due to the downturn in travel due to the recession.

Disney Resorts Anaheim Has Introduced New Green Measures

Disneyland Resort has introduced two initiatives to reduce carbon dioxide emissions. It has begun using compressed natural gas to fuel its guest trams and recycled cooking oil to power its Disneyland Railroad steam trains and Mark Twain riverboat attractions.

Holland America Named Best Cruise Value

World Ocean & Cruise Liner Society (WOCLS) members named Holland America Line as the Best Overall Cruise Value for the 17th year in a row for its premium cruise experience.

"It's a tremendous achievement to be recognized by the members of theWorld Ocean and Cruise Liner Society once again," said Richard D.Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales and guestprograms. "The recognition of the society members year after year speaks to the continued relevance of Holland America Line to today'stravelers and commitment to investing in our product through programs such as Signature of Excellence and expanding our fleet and itineraries."

WOCLS is a 29-year-old organization comprised of thousands of experienced cruisers who average taking two cruises a year. The society reviews all cruise lines annually and noted in its monthly publication, Ocean and Cruise News, that "Holland America Linep assengers continue to mention the excellent value that the line provides, they easily win again within this category. Further adding to the sense of value is the consistency of the product across its entire fleet of ships."

Thomas Cassidy, editor of Ocean and Cruise News, wrote, "Some of the elements that combine to make Holland America Line the best overall cruise value include its effort to continually improve such as its fleet wide Signature of Excellence upgrades, the impeccable appearance of its ships, its friendly well-trained Indonesian and Filipino crew,the extra effort to properly train and supervise its staff, the more extensive choice of dinner menus in its restaurant, alternative restaurant and Lido, and all the little extras such as canvas totebags, hot hors d'oeuvres at cocktail time, chilled beer glasses, a no-charge ice cream bar and later lunch hours when in port."

Holland America Line also received top marks in the High-Deluxe,5-Star, Large Ships category during the annual Best Cruise Valueawards by the World Ocean and Cruise Liner Society.

Holland America Line's fleet of 14 ships offers nearly 500 cruises to320 ports in more than 100 countries, territories or dependencies. Two-to 108-day itineraries visit all seven continents, and highlights include Antarctica, South America, Australia/New Zealand and Asia voyages; a Grand World Voyage; and popular sailings to ports in the Caribbean, Alaska, Mexico, Canada/New England, Europe andPanama Canal. A 15th ship, ms Nieuw Amsterdam, is scheduled to join the fleet in 2010.

Fleetwide, the company features Signature of Excellence enhancements,a commitment totaling more than $525 million, that showcase theCulinary Arts Center presented by Food & Wine magazine -- a state-of-the-art onboard show kitchen where more than 60 celebrated guest chefs and culinary experts provide cooking demonstrations and classes -- Explorations Cafe powered by The New York Times, teens-only activity areas and all new stateroom amenities highlighted by flat-panel TVs and plush Euro-top Mariner's Dream Beds.

Holland America Line is a member of the exclusive World's Leading Cruise Lines alliance, which also includes Carnival Cruise Lines, Princess Cruises,Cunard Line, Seabourn Cruise Line and Costa Cruises. Sharing a passion to please each guest and a commitment to quality and value, these lines appeal to a wide range of lifestyles and budgets. The World's Leading Cruise Lines offer exciting and enriching cruise vacations to the world's most desirable destinations.

For more information contact a Professional Travel Agent.

Source: Holland America

Obama Election Boosts Travel to the USA

On the day of his inauguration into office, US President, Barack Obama is changing attitudes to the US in more ways than one, according to a 10,000-strong poll by over-50s holiday company Saga.

Recent research conducted by Saga Holidays shows that over the last 8 years, its own passengers have been abandoning the USA with custom down 71%. Since the election of Barack Obama in November, the Populus poll, conducted in December indicates a much greater interest in travelling to the US with 98% saying that they are just as likely or more likely to visit the country citing his election as the reason. Over one in ten stated his election has made travel to the US much more likely with London showing the greatest enthusiasm.

Source: TravelDailyNews

High Speed Channel Tunnel Services Will Resume Next Month

The Channel Tunnel will become fully operational to high speed trains again as of late next month, after the completion of fire damage repairs.

Eurostar is to resume full high speed services through the tunnel beginning February 23.

For more information, or to book your next trip to Europe, contact a Professional Travel Agent today!

World's 10 Best Airports

1. Hong Kong International, China

This airport ranks at the top because of the free wireless internet, pay-to-use arrival lounge, express train service right into downtown Hong Kong, as well as plenty of shopping and a good mix of international and regional eateries.

2. Singapore Changi International, Singapore

This airport has terminals catering to luxury passengers and budget travelers alike. Some of the amenities include an indoor orchid garden, rooftop swimming pool, TV lounges, and even a free sightseeing tour for passengers with at least a 5 hour layover.

3.Seoul Incheon, South Korea

Some of the main features of this airport are the 72-hole golf course, a childrens playroom, a hair salon on-site, business centers, showers and massage services.

4. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

This airport has some of the best immigration services, offering international passengers very smooth arrivals and departures. Airport services include free wi-fi, luxury shopping, ample dining and even massage services.

5. Munich, Germany

Some of great the amenities include miniature golf, a cinema, cosmetic services and even a doggy bar. This ariport promotes aviation history & technology, with airport tours available, and even "kinderterminals", which are touch screens that help kids understand how the airport works.

6.Kansai (Osaka), Japan

Built on a man-made island and opened just 15 years ago, the Kansai airport offers onsite doctors and dentist offices, a pet hotel, DVD & movie rentals and VIP meeting rooms.

7.Copenhagen, Denmark

This airport features beautiful architecture and art through out, polished wooed floors, upscale shopping and many dining options.

8.Zurich, Switzerland

Not only can one get a day room with a kitchenette here, but childcare services are available in nurseries and playrooms with trained childcare providers. This airport also offers extra services for VIP's such as limousine services and a VIP lounge.

9.Helsinki, Finland

Something that makes this airport very unique is the meditation room, offering passengers a quiet place to relax. There are also several working lounges with pay as you use internet access and also plenty of dining and shopping options.

10.Cape Town, South Africa

This airport has porters that will tranfer your luggage from one terminal to another for a minimal fee. There is also a medical clinic onsite, as well as many restaurants and lounges.

Contact a Professional Travel Agent today to get started booking your next trip!

World's First Airplane Hotel Opens!

One of the world's coolest hotels has just opened in Sweden, The Jumbo Hostel is the first hotel of its kind!

This converted Boeing 747-200 jumbo jet is located at the highway entrance to the Stockholm Arlanda Airport and features 25 rooms, each accomodating up to 3 adults, all with seperate shared shower and toilet facilities, as well as quad dormitory-style rooms, a luxury suite in the converted cockpit with a panoramic view of the airport, and a cafe and lounge.

Standard rooms start around $130.00 USD per night.

Tours are also available for those not spending the night, but reservations must be made in advance.

For more information, you can either check out the Jumbo Hostel Website, or contact a Professional Travel Agent today!

Carnival Offers Unprecedented Early Booking Savings

Carnival Cruise lines has launched their Early Saver Booking program, which offers fares up to 25% lower than their best available rates, and will provide rate protection if rates drop below the original price paid by the consumer.

Early Saver rates will be available beginning today, January 12, and offered up to three months prior to sailing date for cruises of five days or less and up to five months prior to sailing date for longer length voyages, subject to availability. All state room types qualify for this program, including suites.

The Early Saver rate protection feature provides that if a lower Carnival advertised rate becomes available after the booking is made, a rate adjustment can be requested and the cruise line will issue the difference in the form of a shipboard credit. The lower fare must be for the same ship, sailing date, stateroom category and number of guests.

To request a lower price, a rate-protection form must be completed and emailed to Carnival up to two business days prior to departure. This form can be found online.

This is a fantastic savings opportunity for those who are able to plan ahead and book early!

Contact a Cruise Specialist to start planning your next cruise today!

Five Great Spas for Post-Holiday Recovery

By Marnie Hunter

CNN

Feeling sluggish after a few too many eggnogs and a halt to your fitness routine?

January can be a bleak month to get rolling on those resolutions, so perhaps you need a little spa getaway to recover from the holiday revelry and get yourself pointed in the right direction for 2009.

CNN asked Mary Bemis, editor-in-chief of Organic Spa magazine, to recommend five places to unwind and detoxify after the busy holiday season.

Gurney's Inn, Montauk, New York
This unpretentious spa on the tip of Montauk boasts a stunning waterfront location in the Hamptons, but it's how this spa uses seawater that sets it apart.
"They are one of the only true spas in North America to offer thalassotherapy, which is highly detoxifying," Bemis said. Thalassotherapy uses mineral-rich seawater and seaweed to enhance good health.

Day visitors to the resort can purchase a pass for $30 to gain access to the Russian steam room, the Finnish rock sauna and indoor heated seawater pool. A full menu of spa treatments is available, including a seaweed wrap or seawater hydrotherapy massage, each for $75.

The combined 90-minute Marine Kur therapy, which includes exfoliation, a powerful shower that stimulates nerves, a massage performed while the client is immersed in a tub of 94-degree seawater and a full seaweed body wrap, runs $220. The 110-minute Ultimate Detox treatment uses clay mined in northern France rather than the seaweed in the sequence above for $285.

Red Mountain Spa, Ivins, Utah
This destination spa nestled among the red rocks in Ivins, Utah, offers a full lifestyle package.

"If you really want to make a life change and you really want to learn how to not only detoxify, but eat better, exercise, it's a great program," Bemis said.

While there are some day treatments, only overnight guests can take full advantage of the spa's many programs, including guided hikes and wellness classes.

Through February 28, the spa is offering rates starting at $199 per person, per night, which includes accommodation, three meals daily, unlimited fitness classes, guided hikes and other programs.

Spa Montage, Laguna Beach, California
This luxurious oceanfront spa offers a beautiful setting, delicious spa cuisine and a range of relaxing and restorative treatments in both indoor and outdoor facilities.
"This is a very high-end, lovely experience," Bemis said.

The staff will customize treatments to a visitor's particular needs and will show guests how to maximize the benefits of the spa's water circuit. The 60-minute Art of Spa treatment, which uses water at different temperatures to help the body balance itself, is $190.

"You're using heat and water to detoxify yourself. So you're spending, say, 15 minutes in the sauna or the steam room and then you come out and do a cold plunge," Bemis said. This cycle is repeated several times for maximum effect.

Check into the resort for one or more nights of luxury, or gain access to the spa, spa pool and the lounge areas, stream room and sauna with the purchase of a 60-minute spa treatment.

SpaTerre at La Playa Beach and Golf Resort, Naples, Florida

La Playa resort guests can enjoy a range of treatments at the intimate SpaTerre, right on the Gulf of Mexico.

The spa offers a menu of Global Rituals, including a volcanic earth clay treatment (80 minutes, $220) that includes a detoxifying volcanic clay body mask, a Balinese foot massage, an aromatic shower and a traditional Balinese massage.

Bemis enjoys the option of adding a Japanese soaking tub ritual before or after a massage. Fresh flower petals and aromatherapy essence are added to the soothing soak.

Rancho La Puerta, Tecate, Baja California, Mexico

Bemis calls this spa, which is in a sheltered valley an hour's drive from San Diego, "the great-grandma of all destination spas."

Founded in 1940, Rancho La Puerta welcomes guests from Saturday to Saturday, providing a full week to reset and learn about healthy living.

"It's a beautiful location, they have organic gardens and organic food. It's just set up to really take stock of your life and to change what needs to be changed," Bemis said.
Doubles start at $2,795 per person for the week, including all meals, guided hikes, fitness classes, evening programs and transportation to and from San Diego International Airport.

Original Article: 5 Great Spas for Post-Holiday Recovery

Contact a Professional Travel Agent today to start planning your next Spa Vacation!

U.S. Department of State Issues Travel Warning for Israel

On January 6, 2009 the Department of State alerts U.S. citizens that the Israel Defense Force (IDF) is engaged in a military operation against terrorist organizations in the Gaza Strip. This operation began on December 27, 2008, with aerial and naval bombardment, and expanded on January 3, 2009, to include ground operations. Since the December 19, 2008, expiration of a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, terrorist organizations have launched ongoing rocket and mortar attacks from Gaza into southern Israel. The Department of State urges U.S. citizens traveling to and within Israel and the West Bank to maintain a high level of vigilance and take appropriate steps to increase their security awareness. No official U.S. Government travel is permitted within the Gaza Strip. Due to the ongoing conflict and limited ability of the U.S. Government to assist American citizens in the Gaza Strip, the Department of State urges American citizens, including journalists and aid workers, to avoid all travel to the Gaza Strip. This Travel Alert expires on January 31, 2009.

Americans in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza should be vigilant about security at all times. They should monitor local news, vary their routes and times, and consider the level of security when visiting crowded public places, such as shopping malls, hotels, restaurants, or entertainment venues. Some American citizens in Gaza and their immediate family members were assisted in departing Gaza on January 2, 2009. American citizens remaining in Gaza should consider notifying the Consulate General in Jerusalem at the address below of their whereabouts in the event they wish to participate in possible future evacuations of foreign nationals from the Gaza Strip.

American citizens are advised to maintain valid travel documents and register with the Department of State or U.S. Embassy Tel Aviv/U.S. Consulate Jerusalem through the State Department's travel registration website, https://travelregistration.state.gov/. By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy and the Consulate to contact them in case of emergency. The U.S. Embassy is located at 71 Hayarkon Street, Tel Aviv 63903. The U.S. Consulate General in Jerusalem is located at 27 Nablus Road, Jerusalem 94190.

New Passport Rules Go Into Effect in 2009

As of June 1, 2009 the U.S. Department of State will begin to implement the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), basically the new U.S. Passport laws.

This will primarily effect cruise passengers, and those traveling between the U.S. and Canada or Mexico. Currently U.S. citizens can travel via cruise ships, or drive accross the borders with simply a birth certificate and photo ID. However, after June 1st everyone will be required to have a valid Passport, or the new Passport Card.

If you need to get a new U.S. Passport or renew yours in 2009, make sure to allow plenty of time, as it sounds like the Passport Agencies are getting pretty backed up.

See the U.S. Department of State's latest Press Release on the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative.

Delta Will Cut Capacity in 2009

Delta has laid out plans to cut capacity in 2009 by 8% to 10% on domestic routes and by 3% to 5% on international routes. The cuts will be made on routes that have the least fuel-efficient flights. The reason is, of course current economic global conditions and a decline in demand. American has already said it would be cutting domestic demand by about 8.5% in 2009 but would only cut international by about 1%.

The Most Travel-Inspiring Movies of 2008

By msnbc & Budget Travel

1. "Australia"
Northern Territory and Western Australia. In director Baz Luhrmann's tribute to his native Australia, aristocrat Lady Sarah Ashley (Nicole Kidman) takes an arduous journey across the country with a rough-and-tumble stockman named the Drover (Hugh Jackman) as World War II is about to break out.

Arriving in Oz
Sarah disembarks from a ship in Darwin, Australia, with so much baggage that she has to enlist four porters to help her off the vessel. The scene was shot in Bowen, a beach town in northeastern Queensland with excellent snorkeling and diving.

Beau of the ball
Sarah is surprised to see a rather dapper-looking Drover, whom she hired to help her drive cattle across Australia, at a high-society party one evening. The scene was filmed at Strickland House, an 1850s Italianate villa in Sydney, built for the city's first elected mayor, John Hosking. You can only tour the home once a year (the 2009 date is April 13), but visitors can stroll through the villa's manicured grounds year-round and eat a picnic lunch on a hill that overlooks Sydney Harbour (011-61/2-9337-5999, house tour $3).

In love in the Outback
Sparks fly between Sarah and Drover as they traverse hundreds of miles across the Outback to a cattle station that Sarah has inherited in the Kimberley region of Western Australia. "The area has the most incredible sunsets and sunrises, and practically everything in the scene is authentic—the sunshine really burns, the dust is real," says James Fisher, one of the film's still photographers. You can explore this rugged countryside via a bus tour, which leads trips through the red-rock valley that surrounds the Ord River, with stops at an aboriginal art gallery and Ivanhoe Crossing, which has some of the best crocodile spotting in the region.

2. "Mamma Mia!"
Greece. Based on the hit Broadway musical, "Mamma Mia!" tells the story of Sophie (Amanda Seyfried), who's on a quest to find out who her real dad is before she gets married. After narrowing the pool down to three men, she invites them all to her mom's hotel on the fictional Greek island of Kalokairi. The result? Chaos, and a whole lot of Abba tunes.

Shipping out
Sophie's prospective fathers meet for the first time when Sam (Pierce Brosnan) and Harry (Colin Firth) miss the last ferry to Kalokairi and Bill (Stellan Skarsgård) offers to take them on his boat. The scene was filmed on Skiathos, an island in the Aegean Sea about 85 miles north of Athens. Ferry tickets can be purchased in Greece, and cost about $95.

Boatloads of fun
When the men learn that Sophie's mother, Donna (Meryl Streep), doesn't want them at her daughter's wedding, they make a hasty retreat back to the mainland on Bill's boat. Determined to stop them, Sophie swims out to her could-be dads, and the group sings a playful rendition of "Our Last Summer." A peninsula off Glysteri beach, on the island of Skopelos, served as the scene's backdrop. Boats can be chartered to explore the peninsula, along with the isle's many beaches and coves.

Going to the chapel
The wedding takes place in a tiny church built on a steep rock formation overlooking the Aegean Sea. Before Donna climbs up to the chapel, she pours her heart out to Sam, singing "The Winner Takes It All." The scene was filmed at the rustic Agios Ioannis sto Kastri on Skopelos Island, where you can scale the 100-plus stairs to the top of the dramatic cliff.

3. "Quantum Of Solace"
Italy, Austria, England.
The highly anticipated sequel to Casino Royale marks the return of 007 (Daniel Craig). Bent on avenging the death of his lost love, James Bond outwits the British government and the CIA on a covert mission that takes him around the globe.

Horsing around
In the fast-paced opening scene, Bond chases a spy through a warren of medieval aqueducts in Siena, Italy. In the summer, tours are available to the public. Bond eventually pops up through a manhole in Piazza del Campo—directly into the path of the Palio horse race. During the competition, which has been held in Siena since 1310, riders must complete three laps around the piazza, avoiding spectators along the way (July 2 and Aug. 16, free).

Opera on the water
Bond tracks down villain Dominic Greene (Mathieu Amalric) at the Bregenz Festival House, a 7,000-seat concert hall with a floating stage on the banks of Lake Constance in Austria. The 2009 festival season runs from July 22 to August 23 and features Verdi's tragic opera Aida (tickets start at $40).

4. "The Other Boleyn Girl"
England. Sibling rivalry really heats up when sisters Anne (Natalie Portman) and Mary (Scarlett Johansson) catch a glimpse of a young Henry VIII (Eric Bana)—and his spectacular palace. The movie is based on Philippa Gregory's best seller, which took its inspiration from English history.

Grassy knole
Henry VIII's home, Whitehall Palace, burned down in 1698, so production designer John-Paul Kelly turned to Knole, the king's country manor in Sevenoaks. Kelly was struck by the house's massive scale: "It looks more like a small town than a building!" The estate has 365 rooms, 52 staircases, 12 entrances, and 7 courtyards. From mid-March to early November, you can tour the rooms—complete with opulent Jacobean-era furnishings—as well as the Japanese sika deer park that surrounds the 1,000-acre property (nationaltrust.org.uk, $18).

Get thee to the nunnery
Queen Catherine of Aragon (Ana Torrent) gives the Boleyn girls a rough welcome to court, forcing a timid Mary to sing for the queen's ladies-in-waiting in Lacock Abbey. Today, visitors to Wiltshire can explore Lacock's main hall, octagonal tower, botanic gardens, and medieval cloisters—which also had a cameo in two Harry Potter films (nationaltrust.org.uk, $18).

5. "The Chronicles Of Narnia: Prince Caspian"
New Zealand, Poland, and Slovenia
The Pevensie clan—Lucy (Georgie Henley), Edmund (Skandar Keynes), Peter (William Moseley), and Susan (Anna Popplewell)—returns to Narnia only to find its creatures have been forced into hiding by the Telmarines. So the children set out to help Prince Caspian (Ben Barnes) reclaim his throne—a spectacular journey that was filmed in four countries.

Tunnel vision
One minute the kids are in a London Tube station, and the next they're emerging from a rock arch onto a white-sand beach in Narnia. The arch is part of Cathedral Cove, a marine reserve on New Zealand's Coromandel Peninsula. Boat tours to the reserve, along with the other North Island film location can be booked in advance (tickets are $44).

Rock on
As the foursome sets off in search of the Narnians, Peter leads the group through a lush forest dotted with jagged rock formations, refusing to admit that he's lost. Fittingly, the scene was shot at Lost Rocks, in Poland's Góry Stolowe National Park ( pngs.pulsar.net.pl, $2). "It looks like the Grand Canyon, but full of greenery," says executive producer Perry Moore of the park's sandstone passageways. "The truth is that some of the best magic in the Narnia movies is grounded in reality."

Watershed moment
The movie's epic battle between the Narnians and the Telmarines culminates in a showdown along the banks of Slovenia's Soca River. "It was a complicated location to scout," says producer Phil Steuer. "We needed access to a river and permission to build a bridge." Wedged amid the Julian Alps, the Soca River valley is an adventure-sports haven for hikers, rafters, bikers, kayakers, and paragliders. If you want to hit the rapids, the Bovec Rafting Team arranges white-water trips (011-386/5-388-61-28, half-day tours from $50).

Original Article : The Most Travel-Inspiring movies of 2008

To get started booking your vacation to any of these amazing destinations, contact a Professional Travel Agent today!

JetBlue Announces Service to San Jose, Costa Rica

JetBlue Airlines has announced that it plans to add new daily non-stop service from Orlando - San Jose, Costa Rica. The service is scheduled to begin on March 26, pending authorization from the Costa Rican government. Introductory fares begin at $99 one-way, and must be purchased by December 23rd.

Their service from Orlando - Bogota begins January 29, and service from Orlando - Nassau on February 1st.

To get started planning your next trip to Central or Latin America, contact a Professional Travel Agent today!

Bike Friendly Travel

Good news for bicycle enthusiasts! The American Association of State Highway & Transportation and the Adventure Cycling Association have been working together for the past four years to put together a transcontinental bikeway system in the U.S..

This map system will connect over 50,000 miles of pedal friendly pavement to form a vast network of byways, off road trails and cities, reaching every corner of the country, much like the one created for cars over half a century ago.

A similar network is being put together in Europe, and the 2,700 mile route in Quebec was finished last year. Once completed, this would be the largest bike route network in the world!

Upon writing this blog, there was no information as to when this system is expected to be completed.

Tough Economy? The Perfect Time for a Repositioning Cruise!

By Jason Cochran, WalletPop.com

Among the first vacation sellers to get slammed by recession jitters were the cruise lines. When the stock market tanked in late September, the phones stopped ringing. Rather than spend their cash, vacationers would rather hang onto it until they see where things are headed.

Standard cruises are begging for customers, and they're now insanely cheap. Priceline.com is now listing cruises for between $40 to $80 a night whereas a few years ago, you could easily pay double that. But for even more insane savings, look beyond the regularly scheduled runs and do a one-way trip.

One of the best bargains in cruising has long been the so-called "repositioning cruise," during which ships are relocated from one part of the world to another in preparation for the next season. These trips, which often include long stretches at sea in total (i.e. forced) relaxation and few cattle-call stops at ports, are now so cheap they're practically being given away. How about $18 a day?

That incredible price, which of course includes all meals, your room, and more than offsets what you'll send in the open-jaw airfare to reach the starting and ending points of the trip, is for the Costa Fortuna, which in March will spend 17 nights going from the Caribbean to the Italian Mediterranean (stopping in the Canary Islands, Portugal, and Barcelona) for an astounding $300. For the whole trip. Even adding in the mandatory taxes, the whole 17 night getaway comes to just $743.

Repositioning cruises typically happen at the change of seasons. This one, for example, leaves the Caribbean at the end of winter to ready for the warm European summer. In the fall, the repositioning bargains will be for the reverse direction. They're not always so long; some are a week or less. The ones that transfer ships from America's West Coast to the Caribbean, or vice-versa, usually come with a trip through the Panama Canal (although that treat may draw so many passengers that the price may not be so cheap).

Every travel agent worth anything will know what one is, and any cruise line that operates in more than one hemisphere (including Celebrity and Norweigan ) will have a few on offer each year. The cruise fan site Cruise Critic rounds up the upcoming options, although you'll have to get price quotes elsewhere (such as through Cruise Compete, where multiple travel agents bid on your business).

As with so many forms of transportation, prices usually rise as bookings mount, so it's always smartest to make reservations as far ahead as possible.

Original Article: Tough economy? The perfect time for a repositioning cruise

Contact a Cruise Specialist to book your cruise vacation today!

Airline Fees Are Here to Stay, Even as Fuel Costs Sink

By USA Today Staff

You had better get used to all those new airline fees. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution writes "although airlines are enjoying lower fuel costs, it doesn't mean the end of extra fees for travelers. That's because the airline industry has made fees for everything from seat assignments to checked bags part of a new strategy which appears to be here to stay. Tacking on fees makes it easier to charge passengers more, even if competition makes it difficult to raise fares."

When airlines began adding such fees earlier this year, most cited high fuel costs for the changes. However, airline consultant Bob Mann tells the Journal-Constitution: "I think that was a convenient excuse." Regardless of why, the new "a la carte" pricing system appears to be becoming increasingly entrenched. "I think quite frankly the environment that we're in we're really unlikely to roll any of those back," AirTran CEO Bob Fornaro is quoted as saying by the Journal-Constitution about his airline's fees. AirTran officials say the carrier could make as much as $130 million a year combined from its first-checked-bag fee and from selling advance seat assignments.

AirTran CFO Arne Haak discussed the move toward a la carte pricing -– and customers' purchasing behavior -– last month while speaking at a conference. "For many years, airlines have stuck with one price gets you everything whether you need it or not," Haak is quoted as saying by the Journal-Constitution. "Really what is happening is an unbundling of the services… . That’s how customers respond. Our customers will spend three hours on the Internet figuring out how to save $8 when they buy an airplane ticket. Then they're going to come to the airport and spend $20 to buy a soda, a bag of chips, a candy bar and a magazine that they could have bought for half the price."

Still, not all airline attempts to add fees have worked. United, for example, backtracked from a plan to sell meals on some of its trans-Atlantic flights out of its Washington Dulles hub. Others, including Delta, have scrapped fees that they had been charging fliers to use the curbside "skycap" check-in option. But, for now, at least, many of the new fees appear to be permanent.

Original Article: Airline fees are here to stay, even as fuel costs sink

Contact a Professional Travel Agent today to get started planning your next vacation!