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WHAT'S NEW IN SUNNY J-VILLE, FLORIDA?
Winter 2009: What’s New in Jacksonville, Florida
Winter has arrived in Jacksonville! With an average temperature of 68 degrees there will be fun outside, as well as indoors. Don’t miss out on funny headliners, award-winning golf and brand new hotels! Call Visit Jacksonville at (800) 733-2668 or log on to www.visitjacksonville.com.
Accommodations
The TownePlace Suites Jacksonville Butler Boulevard opened this past September. It’s the first TownePlace Suites to open in Jacksonville and is operated by Marriott International. The extended-stay hotel has 85 suites and is convenient to the University of North Florida, Mayo Clinic, the beaches and Downtown. The hotel provides an upscale residential atmosphere for guests staying a week or more.
The property offers studio, one- and two-bedroom suites with fully equipped kitchens and separate living/working and sleeping areas. Other amenities include a 24-hour business center, outdoor swimming pool, guest laundry, In a Pinch Market, exercise room, free high-speed and wireless Internet in all guest rooms and public spaces and complimentary continental breakfast as well as 24-hour coffee service. www.jaxtps.com
Radisson Hotel Jacksonville Butler Boulevard boosted its technology amenities and in November added LG 32-inch, flat panel, high definition LCD televisions, equipped with wired and wireless Internet, and Web TV to all 167 guestrooms, as well as adding several large, flat panel LCD televisions to public spaces throughout the hotel. The hotel’s upgrade is an effort to continue exceptional customer satisfaction.
Also, in December the hotel announced continued efforts to be an environmentally conscious property by becoming certified under the Florida Green Lodging Program. To become a designated member of the Florida Green Lodging Program, hotels must implement a variety of green practices. At the Radisson Hotel Jacksonville Butler Boulevard, these practices include water conservation, a linen reuse program, high-energy efficient lighting and programmable thermostats. The hotel also reduces waste by providing the opportunity to recycle, purchasing items in bulk, purchasing post-consumer-recycled materials and recycling ink and toner cartridges. In addition, the hotel uses green cleaners and high-efficiency air filters. www.radisson.com/jacksonvillefl_butler
The Renaissance Resort at World Golf Village won “Best Renovation of the Year Award” for a franchised property at the recent 2008 Marriott International National Association (MINA) conference. The resort recently completed a $10 million renovation including remodeled guest rooms and suites, redesigned public spaces, a brand new restaurant, technology upgrades and more. Marriott judges awarded the honor based on the quality of the finished product in terms of workmanship, products used and overall appearance. Adhering to Marriott brand standards was also a part the judges’ critique. www.worldgolfrenaissance.com
Hotel Indigo – Jacksonville/Deerwood Park will open in January at Tapestry Park on the Southside of Jacksonville. Tapestry Park is a lifestyle center with unique shops, restaurants and residential properties. The boutique hotel features a waterfront café, as well as 2,100 square feet of meeting space that overlooks a lake. Hotel Indigo offers a relaxing and inviting environment in its public spaces for busy business travelers. This is the first Hotel Indigo to open in Northeast Florida. www.hotelindigo.com
Hampton Inn and Suites Jacksonville South-Bartram Park will open mid-January 2009. The hotel is conveniently located off I-95 at Old St. Augustine Rd. and across from Baptist Medical Center. The hotel is a smoke-free property and features many amenities including gift and convenience shop, guest laundry, business center, complimentary hot breakfast, an inviting lobby, wired and wireless high-speed internet access, fitness center, outdoor pool and meeting facilities. www.jacksonvillebartramparksuites.hamptoninn.com
Arts & Entertainment
Funny guys are on tap this winter in Jacksonville. Robin Williams lights up the stage at the Times-Union Center for the Performing Arts on March 11. Larry the Cable Guy comes to town on his “Eat Drink and Be Larry Tour” April 16 at the Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena. www.jaxevents.com
The Museum of Science & History (MOSH) takes advantage of its great view of the St. Johns River and its very large telescope, hosting the second annual “Bella Luna: Dessert Under the Stars.” This Valentine’s Day, MOSH invites couples to enjoy the view of the Downtown skyline from the museum’s rooftop, then gaze up at the stars, the moon and even Mars through MOSH’s 20-inch lens telescope! The romantic evening under the stars is complete with chocolates, strawberries and other tantalizing sweets. www.themosh.org
The FCCJ Artist Series has an incredible line-up of Broadway and Off-Broadway shows this winter. Oliver plays Feb. 11, followed by the Farewell Tour of Riverdance, Feb. 13-15. Broadway shows play at The Florida Times-Union Center for the Performing Arts. Gilligan's Island - The Musical, based on the popular TV show, plays March 6-8 at the Wilson Center at Florida Community College’s Beach Boulevard location. www.artistseries.fccj.org
The Florida Forum, an annual speaker’s series, continues at The Florida Theatre with David Gergen, George Stephanopoulos and Jim Lehrer on Feb. 3. And the concerts heat up in March with Ryan Adams and the Cardinals on March 9 and Ani DiFranco on March 17. Tickets are still available for all shows. www.floridatheatre.com
The Jacksonville Veterans Memorial Arena is kicking 2009 off with a bang and a schedule jam-packed with superstars. The Eagles perform their laid back tunes on Jan. 28. On Feb. 8, the Jacksonville Blues Festival heats things up. World-class blues entertainers Mel Waiters, Jeff Floyd, Theodis Ealey, Bobby "Blue" Bland, Clarence Carter, Latimore, Marvin Sease and Sir Charles Jones will all share the stage. And on March 2, two legends take the stage. Billy Joel and Elton John perform together on the “Face 2 Face” Tour. www.jaxevents.com
The Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra (JSO) continues an incredible 2008-2009 season with “Plugged In” and traditional performances. On Jan. 24 the JSO presents The Music of the Rolling Stones and The Who as a part of the “Plugged In” Series. Romance is in the air with the melodies of Romeo and Juliet scheduled Feb. 12-14. The JSO takes on the roaring sounds of Mahler No. 5 March 26-28. www.jaxsymphony.org
The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens exhibits Georgia O’Keeffe and Her Times: American Modernism from the Lane Collection of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston Feb. 4 through April 12. The Lane Collection is considered to be one of the greatest collections of American modernism. William H. Lane formed his pioneering collection in the early 1950s when these painters were little understood, though today they are considered to be the most important American artists of the early 20th century. Masterpieces by Georgia O’Keeffe, Charles Sheeler, Arthur G. Dove, Stuart Davis and Marsden Hartley will be on display.
The Cummer continues its free Tuesdays program with a new sponsor, announced in the fall. THE PLAYERS Championship offers free admission each Tuesday from 4-9 p.m. THE PLAYERS Championship contributes to a diverse group of charities throughout Northeast Florida, living by the PGA TOUR’s mission to give back to the communities in which it plays. www.cummer.org
The Beaches Museum & History Center continues its “Tracking Florida History - Lectures on the First Coast” program in 2009. Elliott Klienberg will speak about “wacky” Florida history on Jan. 23 and Bob Patterson will share Florida stories and songs on Feb. 26. The events begin at 6:30 p.m. and are free and open to the public. www.bm-hc.com
Restaurants
Chef Tom Gray of Bistro Aix collaborated with the National Peanut Board at the 11th Annual Worlds of Flavor International Conference at the Culinary Institute of America at Greystone in St. Helena, CA. The event is widely acknowledged as the country's most influential professional forum on world cuisines and culinary flavor trends. Gray created innovative dishes incorporating peanuts into appetizers and entrees. Some of the menu items will be added to the menu at Bistro Aix in Jacksonville’s historic San Marco district. www.bistrox.com
Culhane’s Irish Pub kicks off St. Patrick’s Day early with the Dublin City Ramblers in concert on March 16 at 8pm. The band is a popular folk band in Ireland with top rated songs. Tickets are $20.00. The celebration continues on March 17 with live music, food and drink. www.culhanesirishpub.com
San Sebastian and Lakeridge Wineries announced their wines won a total of 58 medals (10 Gold, 29 Silver and 19 Bronze medals) in international wine competitions during 2008. San Sebastian Winery in St. Augustine is Florida’s second largest. San Sebastian's flagship wine, Vintners Red, won the coveted Double Gold at the Florida State Fair, while their Blanc De Fleur sparkling wine won the Gold medal at the Pacific Rim International Wine Competition. www.sansebastianwinery.com
Shopping, Sports & Adventure
Daily tickets to THE PLAYERS Championship for 2009 went on sale in December with customer value in mind. THE PLAYERS is offering free parking passes with early ticket purchases, including Daily Grounds Admission Tickets and Weekly Packages. New this year, children under the age of 16 are admitted free with a paying adult. THE PLAYERS is also offering a Family Plan package. www.pgatour.com/theplayers
The Jacksonville Equestrian Center has an array of shows coming this winter, including the National Team Roping League Finals Jan. 29-Feb. 3. Annually, this event is the largest roping competition held east of the Mississippi. There is lots of excitement for the public and admission is free. Other events include The Sunshine State Alpaca Expo Feb. 6-8 and Cowboy Mounted Shooting Competition Feb. 19-22. www.jaxevents.com
Jacksonville Ice & Sportsplex opened this winter, revitalizing an existing rink and sports program with 15 years of experience. The combined ice and sports facility offer 100,000 square feet of sports and meeting space. The facility currently offers hockey and figure skating programs, and will expand to offer sports programming, as well as a variety of camps. In addition, this flexible space offers over 20,000 continuous square feet of meeting space for corporate and private event needs. www.jaxiceandsportscomplex
The Jacksonville Suns announced a two-year player development agreement with the Florida Marlins. The Southern League Double-A baseball team was previously an affiliate of The Los Angles Dodgers. The Suns play a 140-game season from April through Labor Day and will open the 2009 season at home against the Tennessee Smokies on Apr. 9, 2009. www.jaxsuns.com
The “Best New Rally Driver in America” contest begins Feb. 4 at Rallydrive USA & European Rally School in Starke, FL. Contestants are given the opportunity to have some of the best rally instruction and win a full rally drive package. Rallydrive supplies try out and training cars, driving suits, helmets, venue and professional instruction. An entry fee is required. www.rallydriveusa.com
The World Golf Hall of Fame IMAX Theater at World Golf Village now provides closed and descriptive captioning services for hearing and visually impaired guests for a selection of its films. At no additional ticket cost, hearing and visually disabled adults and children can immerse themselves in IMAX films with the use of either an acrylic Rear Window display unit for closed captioning at their seat or a Starsound headset for descriptive narration during pauses in a film’s dialogue. Current films at the IMAX Theater with closed captioning service include Bugs! A Rainforest Adventure, Everest, The Polar Express and Wild Ocean. Descriptive captioning is currently offered with Everest. www.wgv.com
The two golf courses at World Golf Village in St. Augustine were named the 15th best Resort Courses in the nation in the 2009 list of “The Top 50 Resort Courses,” as selected by the reader’s of Golf Digest magazine. The ranking was based on such categories as the quality of the courses, condition of the courses, hotel accommodations, food/dining, off-course activities/amenities, service, golf practice facilities, accessibility, clubhouse/locker room, speed of play, reputation/prestige, golf pro shop and overall value. www.wgv.com
A NEW YEAR'S GIFT FROM AMANYARA
Reserve Four Nights or More...
and Enjoy Meals on the House
Amanyara, arguably the most luxurious resort in the Caribbean, has just become even more irresistible. Guests who book four nights or more in one of Amanyara's Pavilions or Villas between January 4 and October 31, 2009 (excluding Presidents' Week, February 12-16, and Easter, April 3-17) will enjoy complimentary meals throughout their stay.
And these aren't just any meals. The Cuisine at Amanyara is known for its mix of classical Asian and modern Mediterranean cuisine in the Restaurant (Kerala-style Pompano in Coconut Milk Sauce or Baby Veal Chop Cannelloni with Onion Marmalade and Tomato Concasse, for example) and casual Caribbean fare, emphasizing fresh seafood (South Caicos Lobster Tail in season or King Prawns), at the Beach Club. Coffee, tea and juice at breakfast are complimentary; other beverages are additional. As always, dining in complete privacy on the terrace of the Pavilions or Villas is also a tempting option.
In other news, Amanyara's Serenity Villa, built around its own swimming pool, is now available for yoga and Pilates classes, holistic treatments and a range of spa and beauty treatments. The Villa consists of a reception pavilion, four double treatment pavilions, a yoga/Pilates studio and an open-air yoga sala overlooking the pool and pond.
And from January 22 to 29, 2009, Amanyara will host Tanya Streeter, a world record-setting free-diver (diving without the aid of a breathing apparatus), who will be in residence to offer one-on-one free-diving instruction, private snorkeling trips and insight into marine conservation and the winter migration of Humpback whales in the waters in front of the resort.
ABOUT AMANRESORTS
Amanresorts was founded in 1988 by Adrian Zecha who envisioned a collection of intimate retreats in beautiful surroundings with the unassuming, warm hospitality of a gracious private residence. Amanpuri, in Phuket, Thailand, introduced the concept, and since its launch two decades ago, Amanresorts has grown to encompass 19 resorts located in Bhutan, Cambodia, China, France, French Polynesia, India, Indonesia, Morocco, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Thailand, the Turks & Caicos Islands and the USA. Additional resorts will open in Montenegro, India, Laos and Utah in 2009.
For more information, please visit Amanresorts
Seven very special gifts from Hawaii
The colder days of winter may be upon us, but that doesn't mean there aren't some hot deals available from the Aloha state. Check out www.hawaii.com for some unbeatable holiday deals!
Here are seven very special gift ideas - you need to know someone going to Hawaii or send them to paradise and make it unbelievably memorable.
1. BigIsland Sailing Adventure: Leave the crowds behind and join a maximum of five other passengers for a private sailing trip. Sail along the beautiful Kona coast and snorkel in the clear blue waters. Get hands-on sailing experience or just kick back and relax. See dolphins, turtles, whales and many colorful fish. Food, refreshments, snorkeling equipment, sunscreen and towels provided. From $432.
http://www.hawaiiactivityworld.com/bigisland/sailing/4d7abb1eaa4b.htm?source=HOL
2. Sunset Special!: Sail into the Kohala Coast on theBigIsland at sunset, perhaps the most beautiful sight in the islands. You may see the legendary "green flash" or dolphins and whales as they playfully escort your vessel. Enjoy a libation from the open bar and delicious Hawaiian "pupus" -- appetizers -- as you watch the sun disappear into the sea. $90. For guests celebrating their anniversary, we invite you to participate in a "Ceremony at Sea" vow renewal. Only $25 additional.
http://www.hawaiiactivityworld.com/bigisland/cocktail_cruises/fd418629e9a3.htm?source=HOL
3. Whale Tales: See whales up close on a fun and exciting rigid hull inflatable boat! Hear whale sounds with our state-of-the-art hydrophone! This BigIsland whale watch features no more than 12 passengers per raft. Front row seats for everyone! $53.
http://www.hawaiiactivityworld.com/bigisland/whale_watching/13c8eff89d57.htm
4. Na Pali Sportfishing: Come aboard a 33' fully-equipped Bertram Sportfisher and experience the thrill of big game sportfishing on this Kauai fishing charter! You'll search for blue marlin, ahi (yellowfin tuna), mahi mahi (dorado), ono (wahoo) and aku (skipjack tuna). All essential gear is provided. Light refreshments. From $130/person (four-hour excursion). http://www.hawaiiactivityworld.com/kauai/fishing/8b8951d3f8d9.htm
5. Golf - 2009 Sony Open: Golf and Hawaii - the perfect match for pros and fans alike! Against the backdrop of Koko Crater and the vast Pacific Ocean, the 2009 Sony Open in Honolulu kicks off the PGA TOUR season January 12-18, 2009 at Waialae Country Club, minutes away from Waikiki. Packages start at $504/per person/double occupancy, with round-trip air from Los Angeles to Oahu.
http://pts.get2hawaii.com/ots/Index.do?promotion=HI13101382336AH&agID=2097
6. Kauai 4x4 Drive/Hike Adventure: This is an exciting tour that will be long remembered. Mt. Waialeale, at the center of Kauai, is the wettest place on earth. This half-day adventure combines four-wheel drive access and hiking to give you an unparalleled experience. From convenient departure locations our expert guides will lead you to the heart of Kauai.
No children under 5. Adults $76.80, children (5-12) $48.
http://www.hawaiiactivityworld.com/kauai/hiking/f9af352f0379.htm?source=HOL
7. Surf's Up! - Titus, one of the last remaining professional big wave riders of pure Hawaiian descent, will meet his clients on the beach near the beautiful Hanalei pier on Kauai. He will provide an hour and a half lesson in the gentle waters of Hanalei and discuss his culture. Titus is a world renowned big wave rider and has traveled to over 30y countries to teach others how to surf. At age 50, he is still competing in big wave contests worldwide so his clients will be learning from the best.
Group lesson $60; private lesson $120. http://www.hawaiiactivityworld.com/kauai/surfing_lessons/efb67c184211.htm?source=HOL
NEW YEAR’S CELEBRATIONS AT THE RITZ-CARLTON, ATLANTA (DOWNTOWN)
181 Peachtree Road
(404) 659-0400
www.ritzcarlton.com/atlanta
Two overnight packages are offered to guests of The Ritz-Carlton, Atlanta, downtown’s only AAA Five Diamond hotel, for New Year’s Eve.
The hotel’s newly-renovated guestrooms feature ostrich-patterned leather headboard, lush linens and silk throws, gleaming marble foyer, newly-designed marble bath with granite vanity and rain shower head, i-Pod® docking station, high definition flat panel televisions and the all-important coffeemaker, sure to be welcome the following morning!
New Year’s Eve Dinner Package, from $379*
- Overnight deluxe accommodations
- Four course dinner for two in Atlanta Grill created by star chef Bennett Hollberg
- Champagne toast and party favors at midnight
- Access to the Georgian Room with continuous DJ music and dancing
- Overnight valet parking
New Year’s Eve Package, from $219*
- Overnight deluxe accommodations
- Bottle of Champagne delivered to guestroom
- New Year’s Eve amenity
*Packages are offered December 31, 2008, subject to availability and cannot be combined with any other offer. Advance reservations are required; rates do not apply to groups. Rates listed are per room, per night, single or double occupancy, and exclusive of taxes, gratuities and other charges unless otherwise noted.
Downtown’s only AAA Five Diamond hotel, The Ritz-Carlton, Atlanta is a luxurious oasis in the heart of the city with newly-renovated guestrooms and suites. The hotel is surrounded by the state’s centers of law, finance and government, and minutes from America’s Mart, the Georgia World Congress Center, the Georgia Aquarium and sports events at Philips Arena, Turner Stadium and the Georgia Dome. For information and reservations, please call (800) 241-3333, the hotel directly at (404) 659-0400, a travel professional or visit www.ritzcarlton.com/atlanta.
GRANITE STATEVACATIONS.COM KICKS OFF SKI SEASON WITH “DESIGN YOUR OWN” PACKAGE
Third Night Free and Choice of Four Country Inns and Three Ski Resorts
Ski season is officially underway in Central New Hampshire and the inns of GraniteStateVacations.com have created a special “Design Your Own, 3rd Night Free” package that allows guests to create the package they want by selecting the inn they want to stay at, the mountain they want to ski, and the option to include or not include dinner.
PICK THE INN
Each of the four participating inns has a distinctive character that will appeal to different guests and the package is designed to allow skiers to choose the style they prefer. Whether its a fun family ski vacation at the kid-friendly Blue Acorn Inn, a romantic weekend at the Rosewood Country Inn, a girlfriends’ getaway at the Henniker House B&B, or a culinary retreat at the elegant Highland Lake Inn, there’s an inn that’s the perfect fit.
PICK THE SLOPE
The package includes lifts tickets to a choice of three ski resorts including Mount Sunapee which has been ranked "best snow surfaces in the East" for the third year in a row by SKI Magazine readers, with 13 trails and terrain for all abilities, and three quad chairs including the high-speed Sunapee Express; Ragged Mountain with lift access to two peaks, 45 trails, three terrain parks, a wonder carpet for the kids and the only six pack lift in New Hampshire; and Pat’s Peak with 22 trails & slopes, five gladed areas, nine lifts and one of the highest capacity computer controlled snowmaking systems per acre in the Northeast.
ENJOY A FREE NIGHT
The Design Your Own, 3rd Night Free Ski package includes the following:
• Three nights lodging for the price of two nights at a choice of Blue Acorn Inn, Henniker House B&B, Highland Lake Inn or the Rosewood Country Inn
• Hearty country breakfast each morning
• Complimentary weekday lift tickets for 2 days of skiing at choice of Pat’s Peak, Mount Sunapee and Ragged Mountain
• Dinner each evening (optional add-on)
The package is valid throughout the 2008/2009 ski season, from now through March 30, 2009, based on availability. Rates start from $245 per person, per night, double occupancy for a stay at the Blue Acorn Inn. Rates at the other inns vary.
The participating GraniteStateVacations.com Inns include:
The Blue Acorn Inn offers six individually decorated rooms and suites in an 1847 farmhouse situated on 22 acres with sweeping views of Mt. Sunapee. The kid-friendly inn is stocked with toys, games, children’s books and DVDs and features a Great Room with a fieldstone fireplace that’s perfect to enjoying a board game and hot chocolate after a day on the slopes. For reservations or information on the Blue Acorn Inn, call 603-863-1144 or click here to visit the website.
Henniker House, a gracious guesthouse set in the college town of Henniker overlooking the scenic Contoocook River, less than three miles from Pat’s Peak offers five individually decorated rooms and enjoys a location close to the quaint shops in Concord and the outlet mall in Tilton. Walk to four restaurants in Henniker, visit the Riverside Artisan's shop, or arrange for an in-room massage after a day of skiing. For reservations or information on the Henniker House, call 866-428-3198 or click here to visit the website.
The Highland Lake Inn, a restored gentleman's farmhouse that was originally built in 1767 is one of the oldest homesteads in Andover. Just 12 miles from the slopes of Ragged Mountain, the inn offers a casual elegance and 10 spacious guest rooms with luxury Italian linens, designer bath amenities. Guests particularly enjoy the sumptuous breakfasts, special treats and dinners prepared by innkeeper Pecco Beaufays who received his chef training at the Sacher Hotel in Vienna.For reservations or information on the Highland Lake Inn, call 603-735-6426 or click here to visit the website.
The Rosewood Country Inn, selected as "One of New Hampshire's Eight Most Romantic Inns," is set against a backdrop of rolling hills and fields. Its sunlit porches and English gardens reflect a gracious lifestyle. Each of the 11 suites has its own warmth and character with period furnishings, fine linens and stenciling. Many offer four-poster canopy beds, Jacuzzi tubs for two, and cozy fireplaces.
For reservations or information on the Rosewood Country Inn, call 800-938-5273 or click here to visit the website.
Ski Beech at Beech Mountain Resort enters its fifth decade with a variety of improvements and new options for winter sports enthusiasts.
A TIME FOR GIVING BACK:
Boundless Journeys Announces Annual Charity Event For 2009
December 1, 2008 ― STOWE, VERMONT Award-winning tour company, Boundless Journeys (www.boundlessjourneys.com), is offering its August 2-9, 2009 Peru: The Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu trip as a special charity event to benefit the Instituto Machu Picchu (IMAPI; www.imapi.org.pe/english/index.htm) and a community school in the village of Huanca. This 2009 event follows the company's successful 2008 event, a Tanzanian safari benefitting the Foundation for African Medicine and Education (FAME; www.fameafrica.org). The 2008 charity event trip resulted in a donation of $6,000 to FAME and the participation of 10 Boundless Journeys clients in a well-child check at a Karatu, Tanzania orphanage.
Founded in 1999 by Alfredo Ferreyros, IMAPI is a natural extension of the philosophies and practices that made him a 2007 winner of the Adventure Travel Trade Association's Lifetime Achievement Award. A Peruvian nonprofit association dedicated to the conservation of natural and cultural resources in the Machu Picchu Sanctuary and Cusco region, IMAPI's primary goal is to promote and execute projects related to the sustainable development of tourism, agriculture, cottage industries, education, and scientific research.
Each year, hundreds of thousands of people visit Peru and its iconic archeological site, Machu Picchu. Peru is truly one of the world's great travel destinations, but very few visitors actually get off the beaten path and truly connect with the people and places they are there to experience. As Karen Cleary, Peru Trip Manager for Boundless Journeys notes "It is part of Boundless Journeys' mission to plan an annual charity event trip as one aspect of our commitment to sustainable tourism. The Huanca community school is in need of renovation and restoration. Our donation to the project of approximately $4,900 USD, plus the time our guests will spend working, will allow the community to accomplish this important goal."
Along with the popular walking and hiking tour including important sites in the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, Boundless Journeys guests who participate in the August 2-9 charity event will have the opportunity to:
• Spend a day working side by side with Huanca villagers, assisting electricians, carpenters, painters, and masons to complete the community school renovation project (no construction experience is necessary, just a desire to help out and a willingness to get a little dirt under your nails).
• Spend the night camping in the Huanca community, giving participants time to get to know the villagers better, and enjoying a traditional party to celebrate the completion of the project.
Group size is limited to 16, and reservations are currently being taken for Boundless Journeys' Peru: The Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu charity event. The August 2-9, 2009 trip cost is $4295 per person (not including international airfare).
CONTEXT LAUNCHES TRIPS
Leading walking tour company moves into the packaged tour business with thematic, small-group trips led by scholars; 2 ½-day “mini trips” define new category.
Context, the network of scholars who lead critically acclaimed walking tours in New York and several European cities, announce the launch of 2 ½- and 8-day packaged tours to Rome, Naples, Florence, Venice, London, Paris, Sicily and Istanbul. The first trips will run in April, 2009.
As with their daily walking seminars in cities around the world, Context will strictly limit group size on each trip to no more than six or eight people. Instead of relying on a single trip leader, Context will apply its model of scholar-led walking seminars to these packages: Groups will be passed from expert to expert throughout the trip depending on the specific site, museum, or topic in order to take advantage of the specialized, in-depth knowledge contained within the Context network.
“The trips program was born out of a desire to offer longer, in-depth itineraries to intellectually curious travelers who want go beyond the superficiality of packaged tourism and come away with a deeper experience of place,” says Katie Parla, a culinary historian and long-time Context docent in Rome who has been tapped to organize and oversee the entire Context Trips program. “As well, our small groups allow us to provide a hands-on, intimate experience and to gain special access to places not traditionally open to the public.”
In April, Context will launch the following 8-day trips:
- A Taste of Two Cities, the Food Cultures of Rome and Naples, featuring programs on the cuisine of ancient and Renaissance-era Rome and Naples; cooking lessons, market walks, and annotated meals, all led by internationally known food writers, trained chefs, and key figures in the discipline of culinary history.
- Across Disciplines: Florence and the Renaissance Ideal, in which a collection of scholars looks at the Renaissance through an interdisciplinary lens, considering the role of painting, architecture, poetry, theology and science in that most influential of periods.
- Mediterranean Palimpsest: Sicily Through History delves deep into the art, architecture, wine, and food of the Mediterranean’s largest island, tracing the impact of three millennia of conquest in Sicily.
Context is also introducing a series of 2 ½-day “mini trips” in each of its cities, weaving together walking seminars on such topics as art history, archaeology, cuisine, and architecture into an in-depth orientation. The company will launch these in April in Paris, Rome, Naples, Florence, Venice, and Istanbul.
“The mini trip is a ‘category buster,’” notes Context founder Paul Bennett. “Because we have a network of over 180 scholars and experts across these cities and are running walking seminars on a great range of topics every day, we’re able to offer an entirely new way for people to take a packaged tour. At only two and a half days, it can work as a base from which independent travelers get started in country and also as an add-on for a participants on a longer group tour.”
Each mini trip begins in the late afternoon on day one with an orientation walk and welcome dinner. The following two days focus on key features of each city, mixing together visits to important, well-known sites with more unusual, surprising thematic walks.
Visit Context Travel for more information.
Airlines Baggage Fees to Hit Ski and Snowboard Bags for the First Time
From Ski Butlers in Park City, Utah
I could never quite understand how skiers and golfers could check their equipment for free. My lightweight bike, windsurf and surf boards have always been charged a $75 fee each way. Forget about the good old days, fees for skis are here and they're here to stay. Over the past year, the troubled airline industry has been looking for ways to increase revenues, leading them to start charging for every service they can think of; meals, snacks, curbside check-in, etc. You name it, you pay for it. We knew it would come and it has now arrived.
With the cost of ski and snowboard equipment going up, skiers have debated
whether to buy, lease or rent. With the escalating fee for each bag
checked, it now makes more sense than ever to rent. If you can't fit your
ski boots in your suitcase with your ski and street apparel, you will end up
with at least three bags; one for clothes, another for skis/snowboard and a third for ski boots. The first bag will cost between $15 and $25 each way,
the second bag will cost between $25 and $50 and the third bag will cost
between $100 and $125. (See fee chart below).
Don't worry about renting; it isn't like it used to be. New in-room fitting
services are the thing to do now. No more trips to the overcrowded, dark
and smelly rental shop. Instead of wasting time standing in line, companies like industry leading Ski Butlers (877-754-7754, www.skibutlers.com) will
come to your accommodations. While in the comfort of your lodging, Ski
Butlers will fit you for all of your equipment needs. With extended hours of
operation, you can be fitted at your convenience from early morning (7 a.m.)
to as late as 9 p.m., seven days a week. "It's hassle-free," explained Bryn Carey, President of Ski Butlers. "Ski Butlers is in the business of making it easy to rent. We are focused on customer service," he added. "Our goal is to take the stress out of renting skis and boards in addition to all of the hassles associated with going to a rental shop; standing in line, and lugging all of the equipment back to your lodging, especially if you have kids."
Let's look at the numbers. The cost of buying new high performance skis and
boots at a ski shop is between $1100 to $1500. The one way cost of checking
three bags (clothing, boots and skis) is between $140 and $160. While
flying on Delta Airlines, the round trip cost will skyrocket to $320. The
cost of renting top performance demo equipment for four days is $236, so it
makes sense to rent. Under this scenario you could rent for five to seven years if you ski or ride only a few times per year for about the same price as buying or paying baggage fees. Plus, you will have the latest and
greatest equipment on the market and less hassles.
Ski Butlers is an innovative leader in the ski rental delivery business.
Carey emphasizes the fact that this is a high quality service without a big
price tag. Leaving your ski equipment at home is cost effective in this new age of baggage fees.
Ski Butlers features high quality equipment from industry leaders Rossignol,Volkl, Roxy, Head, Fischer, and Elan. As a full service rental operation, Ski Butlers also rents helmets, boot dryers, and 2-way radios. If you forget your sunscreen, sunglasses or lip balm, Ski Butlers offers these items for sale in addition to a nice selection of gloves, hats, goggles and hand warmers.
Ski Butlers provides the newest ski and snowboard equipment on the market so
there is no need to worry about these new fees that have been implemented by
the airlines. At a fraction of the cost, Ski Butlers provides a wonderful
opportunity for skiers in an easy and convenient way. Give it a try.
Sample baggage fees from select Airlines:
Carrier Bag 1 Bag 2
Bag 3
Delta FREE $50
$125
United $15 $50
N/A
A/A $15 $25
$100
US Air $15 $25
$100
Southwest FREE FREE
FREE
Ski Butlers ski and snowboard rental prices:
High Performance Plus Package $47 - $59
High Performance Package $39 - $49
Sport, Junior and Junior Performance Packages $25 - $43
For more information on Ski Butlers, click here.
THE RITZ-CARLTON HOTEL COMPANY, L.L.C. INTRODUCES
RITZ-CARLTON RESERVE, A NEW COLLECTION OF RESORT EXPERIENCES
Phulay Bay in Thailand to open as first location
The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. is launching a new exclusive brand extension for the most discerning global travelers; Ritz-Carlton Reserve. Phulay Bay in Krabi, Thailand will be the first property to open in 2009. As of today, guests can visit a dedicated website at
These unique resorts have been designed for those who seek to escape the stresses of everyday life by retreating to experience new cultures and adventures.
Each exquisite destination will feature signature, one-of-a-kind low density resorts situated in choice settings, each with a distinctive personality and sense of place. Future development will be limited to select corners of the globe with upcoming locations to include Costa Rica, Puerto Rico, Turks & Caicos and The United Arab Emirates.
"The entire Ritz-Carlton Reserve portfolio of idyllic retreats will offer guests a contemporary interpretation of the local lifestyle and culture. The concept is simple and yet exudes style and luxurious levels of comfort. The resorts provide a complete escape to the unexpected; a private, exclusive leisure experience that blends unique elements of the local culture, history, and heritage with intuitive individual service, exquisite indigenous design, casual ambiance, and respect for the surrounding environment," said Simon Cooper, president and chief operating officer, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company. "We do not work to one design mold, but rather allow the creative process to be destination and customer focused. Each Ritz-Carlton Reserve property around the globe will personify a unique design befitting of its locale."
The architectural design philosophy is to create low-rise suites and villas that boast private panoramic views of serene oceans, tropical gardens or desert landscapes. The four natural elements are represented in the design: Fire to create romantic interiors, Water in bathing sanctuaries, Air in creative spaces for contemplation and reflection and Earth with the discreet treatment of technology that can be utilized or ignored.
The visionary design allows guests to experience a completely secluded environment, with as much or as little contact with the rest of humanity as they choose. Tranquil spa treatments, candlelit dining and a refreshing dip in the water can be done in the privacy of a villa or suite, or within the intimate settings of the resort facilities. The indigenous décor will be reflected in guestrooms and public spaces, with the finest quality furniture, finishes, artwork and detailed touches. Expansive villas and suites may feature personal plunge pools, outdoor rainforest showers or baths and private verandahs. Coupled with individualized service by a personal concierge to provide assistance that is unobtrusive yet intuitive, felt but not seen, invisible yet apparent.
The launch of Ritz-Carlton Reserve sees the beginning of a journey to the most captivating corners of the world, abounding with extraordinary possibilities and attention. A voyage of discovery steeped in luxury and limited only by ones imagination.
Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
Nestled on the shore of the Andaman Sea, the exclusive resort is the vision of in-demand Thai architect Lek Bunnag and features modern styling and architecture with accents of Thai culture and design.
The architecture, landscape, interiors and accessories fuse to create a marriage of style and design that is completely in keeping with and tied to the natural environment of the location. Oversized beds, pillows, chairs, baths and doorways create a sense of comfort and welcoming that sets the guest at ease and welcomes them into the resort.
Combining contemporary Thai styling in the buildings with preservation of the environment, the natural flora of existing trees and plants relies on the past and tradition to create something sustainable today and for the future. The use of traditional Lanna art forms both in architectural structure and design as well as paintings and artworks on the walls and doors of the villas further create a contemporary setting that draws on tradition to offer a unique and luxurious environment and further enlivens the senses.
With accommodations that offer unspoiled ocean views, private plunge pools, sheltered outdoor baths and showers set among lush indigenous flora, the sense of privacy and comfort allows guests to indulge in the scenery and detach from the world during their stay. Coupled with the natural warmth and easy smiles of the Thai people and the legendary Ritz-Carlton service, Phulay Bay is the perfect destination to host the first of Ritz-Carlton Reserve’s exotic, hand-picked hideaways.
The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. of Chevy Chase, Md. operates 72 hotels in the Americas, Europe, Asia, the Middle East and Africa. Over 30 projects are under development around the globe including future Ritz-Carlton Reserve openings Costa Rica, Puerto Rico, Turks & Caicos and in The United Arab Emirates. For more information about Ritz-Carlton Reserve, contact The Ritz-Carlton (U.S.) toll free reservations line at 1 (800) 241-3333, visit the Ritz-Carlton Reserve website at www.ritzcarltonreserve.com, or consult a travel professional.
KEY WEST HALF MARATHON SET FOR JAN. 25
KEY WEST, Florida Keys -- Several hundred runners are expected to race through Key West's historic Old Town and waterfront areas Sunday, Jan. 25, during the annual Key West Half Marathon. Set to begin at 7 a.m., the sporting challenge takes place on a flat, fast 13.1-mile half-marathon course in the scenic island city.
Now in its 11th year, the race typically attracts participants from throughout the United States, as well as other countries including Great Britain, Canada and Mexico, to compete in Key West's balmy January climate.
A registration booth for the race is to be set up from 5-8 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 24, at Lands End Marina at the foot of Margaret Street. Race packets can be picked up at that time. The registration booth also will be open on race day starting at 6 a.m.
Events surrounding the race include a Saturday night pasta party and a presentation by renowned distance runner Lynn Jennings. Jennings is a 1992 Olympic bronze medal winner, three-time world cross-country champion and holder of 39 national titles in track, road and cross-country running.
An awards ceremony with entertainment follows Sunday's half marathon. Awards are to be given to the first- through third-place male and female finishers in categories ranging from age 14 and under to age 75 and over. In addition, organizers are to present first-place overall awards to the top male and female competitors, first and second Masters Awards and awards in the race's military division.
The entry fee is $45 per person ($50 per person on race day). The first 700 entrants will receive a race T-shirt designed by a local artist.
Proceeds benefit the Key West High School track program.
For more information and special racers' accommodation rates, call event coordinator Barbara Wright at (305) 296-7182 or e-mail bwpromo2@bellsouth.net.
For lodging information in Key West, contact the Key West Chamber of Commerce at 1-800-LAST-KEY (800-527-8539) or visit the Keys Web site at www.fla-keys.com.
ROCKY MOUNTAINEER VACATIONS
INTRODUCES NEW ESCORTED RAIL TOURS FOR 2009
~ Travellers enjoy the personalized service of a Rocky Mountaineer Tour Escort throughout their journey ~
Rocky Mountaineer Vacations has always offered seamless vacation experiences, but now the company is taking it a step further by introducing five new Escorted Rail Tours through Western Canada in 2009. Guests enjoy the personalized service and expertise of a Tour Escort onboard the internationally acclaimed Rocky Mountaineer as it travels through the magnificent Canadian Rockies. Escorted Rail Tour guests also have access to a private lounge onboard the train which features entertaining and educational presentations such as wine tastings, natural history, regional storytelling and photography lessons.
“We are consistently striving to exceed our guests’ expectations by creating innovative and unique product offerings,” says Hubert Wat, Vice President, Marketing of Rocky Mountaineer Vacations. “With our new Escorted Rail Tours, travellers are given personalized service by our knowledgeable Tour Escorts, offering an in-depth experiential journey through Western Canada .”
Escorted Rail Tour guests have exclusive access to two coaches onboard the Rocky Mountaineer. In the designated dome coach, travellers can relax and take in the stunning scenery or head to the Escorted Tours Lounge, where they can mingle, browse the library or enjoy onboard presentations such as Wine Appreciation, Take Better Photographs, Storytelling and Natural History. Guests may book their Escorted Rail Tour depending on which feature appeals to them the most. A schedule is available in the new 2009 Rocky Mountaineer Vacations’ brochure.
One of Rocky Mountaineer Vacations’ five new Escorted Rail Tours offered during the 2009 season, is the Escorted Rockies Highlights which is a five-night/six-day package. It combines heart-stopping scenery by day and deluxe accommodations by night. On this fully escorted vacation, travellers visit Vancouver , British Columbia , Lake Louise and Banff , Alberta and enjoy a thrilling summit Helicopter Tour for a spectacular view of the Rockies from the air. Prices for this package begin at $2,539.
Another new package is the Escorted Rockies Circle, where travellers experience ten-nights/eleven-days in Canada ’s West. Guests marvel at the vast forests, winding river canyons and surrounding peaks of the Coast Mountains, Cascade Range and the Canadian Rockies as they journey aboard Rocky Mountaineer’s Kicking Horseand Yellowhead routes. They also stay in Fairmont Hotels & Resorts properties throughout their stay and spend time in the great Canadian Rocky Mountains. Prices begin at $5,249.
All Escorted Rail Tour packages include a Tour Escort throughout the itinerary, transportation, accommodations and welcome and farewell dinners. For additional information or to book a Rocky Mountaineer Escorted Rail Tour, contact your local travel professional or Rocky Mountaineer Vacations directly at (800) 665-7245, or visit
www.rockymountaineer.com/escorted
Rocky Mountaineer Vacations offers unique Canadian vacation packages and four spectacular rail routes through British Columbia and Alberta . Best known for the world-acclaimed Rocky Mountaineer train, a two-day, all daylight rail journey through Canada’s West and the Canadian Rockies, the company also offers trips onboard the Whistler Mountaineer train, a daily three-hour experience between North Vancouver and Whistler, BC. Since its inception in 1990, the company has grown to be the largest privately owned passenger rail service in North America and welcomed its one millionth guest in 2008. In 2007, RMV was honoured with the World Travel Award as “World’s Leading Travel Experience by Train” for the third consecutive year and named by National Geographic as one of the World’s Greatest Trips.
Men's Traveler online travel magazine
