Lindy's List

2012-01-25T12:50:00.000-08:00

Message from Lindy for January/February 2012

(You can go straight to my picks by clicking on the photos above.)

Many of you already know that I made my first trip to Ireland in mid October and absolutely fell in love with the country. This photo exemplifies exactly what I was expecting Ireland to look like – very green. But it turned out to be oh, so much more than that! For the first time in my life, I found another place where I would live in a heartbeat. Up until now I’ve only felt that way about Canada.

Ireland has it all – medieval walled cities, architectural ruins, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, natural wonders of the world, spectacular scenery that takes your breath away, old castles and manor houses, picture-book gardens, history, personal heritage for those whose families emigrated, championship golf courses, and toe-tapping music! Oh, and did I mention food? Irish cuisine was a most pleasant surprise and I found out they even have cookery schools all over the country!

Everything in Ireland fascinated me but their most valuable attraction is their people. They are gregarious and exude warmth. Not only friendly, they are inquisitive – they truly want to know all about you. Even when conducting business, they first take time to build a relationship with you before ever giving you their pitch. Their pubs are community gathering places where you don’t just go to have a drink. You engage in conversation with the locals in a way that I have never experienced before.

Are you a photographer? Ireland is your paradise! A golfer? Stop anywhere in Ireland and you have your choice of excellent courses all around you. Do you have a green thumb? The flowers bloom in Ireland all year round! A passion for architecture? Centuries old buildings, still in use or in ruin, could keep you occupied for months. Maybe history is your thing. Ireland’s history permeates almost every town and building you come across around the country. Perhaps you are a Crafter. Visiting all the studios and workshops all over Ireland, featuring every artisan you can imagine, would take longer than one vacation! There is no lack of challenge for the more adventurous – cliff walking, cycling, kayaking, camping, hiking, horseback riding -- it’s all here. And Ireland is recognized as one of the best bird watching destinations in Europe.

For a country so small, it is amazing how much they have to offer world travelers. At the same time, it is surprising how many people don’t even have Ireland on their “must see” list. If you are one of those people, I hope this edition of Lindy’s List will change your mind.

Authentic Ireland

2012-01-25T12:46:00.003-08:00

The pubs in Ireland are nothing like the ones we find in North America. For one thing, there is no table service. If you want a drink, you have to go up to the bar to get it. And that’s a good thing! You can’t sit at your table and ignore, or be ignored by, the people around you. This is your chance to talk to the locals and really get to know what life in Ireland is like. Take advantage of this rare gift!

An Irish pub is a gathering place not just a watering hole! The people are amazingly friendly. They’ll share their stories and history with you but be warned, they want to know all about you as well. Here in North America, we’d probably call them nosy but in Ireland, it is common practice. They just want to get to know you and build a relationship with you. It is truly heart warming!

Want to know where the “must see” sights are in the area? Stop by a local pub. The staff and patrons will happily share their knowledge. Want to hear some toe-tapping, foot-stomping Irish music? You’ll find it at one of the pubs every night of the week. Want to dance, and laugh, and have a good time? Yup – the local pub!

The Irish have a word for it – CRAIC, pronounced crack. Liberally translated it means fun but it comprises so much more than that. Here is the literal Irish meaning –

C = CEOL (Singing)
R = RINCE (Dancing)
A = AGUS (And)
I = IMIRT (Playing Instruments)
C = CAINT (Talking)

And you’ll find it all in an Irish Pub!

The Trad

2012-01-25T12:46:00.002-08:00

Trad is the short form of the word traditional and, in this case, it stands for the traditional Celtic music, instruments, and dance in Ireland. We’ve all seen it in Riverdance or Lord of the Dance with Michael Flatley.

There is a revival going on in Ireland to bring them back to their own heritage – the native Irish language, their crafts, and their music and dance. No matter where you go in the country, you will find a venue offering the Trad. They even have an online website designed to connect performers with venues and festivals and ultimately create revenue from this medium
http://www.tradcentre.com/flash.html%C2%A0

I had the distinct pleasure of being entertained one evening by Trad on the Prom from Galway. Mairin Fahy’s unique fiddle playing was an integral part of Riverdance for over eight years but she has now returned home to add her talent to the band of Trad on the Prom where she is just one of the gifted performers in this production.

The fiddle is not unique to Irish music but combined with the tin whistle, the uileann pipes, and the bodhran (an Irish frame drum) it produces a style of music that ranges from shoe stomping to hauntingly eerie. If you have any Irish roots at all, the music will call you home!

No trip to Ireland is complete without experiencing this Irish Celtic Renaissance!

True Links!

2012-01-25T12:46:00.001-08:00

I’m not a golfer so I apologize in advance to all you purists out there for not using the correct terminology. I think you will get the message even if I don’t know all the technicalities. 

I do know that true links golf relies on sea, sand, and wind along with a golfer’s creativity. These courses originated in Scotland but Ireland also has its fair share. Classic links in the southwest of Ireland include Lahinch, Waterville, Tralee, Old Head, and Doonbeg. In the northwest you’ll find links line the coast from Carne in Belmullet to Ballylifin in Donegal. And while not necessarily links courses, Dublin itself sports some of the finest golf courses in Ireland.

It is possible to settle in to a single base and play a different course every day. If you are willing to do a few nights in 3 or 4 locations, you will be able to get your fill of golf. And some of these courses don’t cost much more than a few pints of Guinness!

If you have golfed all the courses at Palm Springs, Phoenix, or even Punta Cana, turn your sights toward Ireland. I can promise you won’t be disappointed.

Whatever Your Hobby!

2012-01-25T12:46:00.000-08:00

Are you a foodie? Ireland offers a number of cookery schools and Butler Chocolates does a factory tour where you get to make your own!

Maybe you’re more interested in good Irish Whisky or Guinness than food. You can tour both the Bushmills and the Guinness factories, complete with complimentary tastings.

If you are a crafter, one of the most amazing exhibits is found in New Ross – the Ros Tapestry Project. Local volunteers hand embroidered 15 tapestries that display the region’s history. It took them 10 years to complete and it is well worth a visit.

Do your ancestors come from Ireland? The Irish government makes it easy for you to search your history. They have a website set up where you can research old church records for free http://www.irishgenealogy.ie/ When you get to Ireland, not only can you search the old graveyards for family names, they have a replica of the Dunbrody at the port of New Ross. The Dunbrody was a famine ship that brought Irish settlers to North America during the famine. I highly recommend that tour. It gave me a first-hand glimpse of what conditions my family endured to start a new life in the Americas. You can check it out at http://www.dunbrody.com/

Equestrian holidays are big business in Ireland. Stud farms dot the Irish landscape. They have discovered that crossing the Thoroughbred with the Irish Draught horse has produced an especially fine Sport horse. Horse racing and equestrian performances are commonplace. If you’re interested in Irish Horsemanship training, you can find clinics all over Ireland.

Whatever your interest, you will find it in Ireland!

A Warm Welcome

2012-01-25T12:45:00.000-08:00

The people I know personally who have traveled to Ireland have all loved it just like I do. Kate McKenna is no exception. At the beginning of 2011, Kate was chosen by Transat Holidays to be their “Vacationer for a Year.” She traveled to all the places in the world covered by Transat and recorded her experiences on video. We got to see the world through her camera lens and she didn’t disappoint!

If you didn’t know about this and would like to see her videos, you can find them at http://www.vacationerwanted.com/

She also has a Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/transatvacationer

While Kate was in Dublin, she had the rare opportunity to visit a family in Maynooth, 30 minutes away. Kate considers this her “warmest welcome” which doesn’t surprise me after my own experience with Irish hospitality. This warmth and friendliness is not the exception – you will find it everywhere you travel in Ireland. Check out the video she took on this visit
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SXSzpOS7CNE

Message from Lindy . . .

2011-09-30T17:45:00.000-07:00

(To go straight to my picks, click on the photos above)

. . . Know Your Why!

One of the most important, yet often missed, questions to ask when planning your vacation is Why? Why do you like certain things? Why do you dislike others? Why are you thinking about that destination? Why did you choose this resort or cruise?

If you can clearly define why you are making your choices, you stand a much better chance of having your best vacation ever. Let me explain . . .

This past week I had two different clients call me to book a specific vacation for them. The first one was an all-inclusive resort on the Mayan Riviera while the second was a river cruise in Europe. In both cases, the clients knew exactly what they wanted and why.

Having worked with both of these clients before, I also knew why they didn’t like other things and both of these choices included those other things they don’t like, although neither of them knew that.

In the case of the Mayan Riviera resort, they chose it because friends had stayed there and loved it. What they hadn’t been told is that this particular resort was located behind the other resorts in the same complex and was a long walk to the beach, something I knew my clients would not like.

With the river cruise in Europe, the client chose a particular cruise line because they provided bicycles that would allow them to bike along the river between the ports. What they didn’t know was that this particular line catered to an older, less active clientele. These clients are younger and very active. They would not have enjoyed that cruise.

By asking each of these clients Why they had made those choices, I was able to get them what they were looking for and avoid what I knew they wouldn’t like. In both cases I was able to turn a potentially mediocre, disappointing vacation into a lasting memory.

It is your travel consultant’s job to know the differences between the many travel products on the market. We attend industry trade shows and take seminars to increase our knowledge. We talk to other agents who have experienced the various options. If you use the same counselor repeatedly, we get to know your likes and dislikes and can save you from unknowingly making choices that can spoil your vacation.

I strongly recommend that you find a good travel counselor, allowing him or her to help you find your Why. If you are passionate about travel, it is one of the best investments of both your time and money!

Well, I've shared my thoughts, now let's hear yours, what did you think of the new Lindy's List? Keep it? Toss it? Let me know!

See the Real Cuba!

2011-08-18T16:41:00.000-07:00

I have wanted to visit Cuba ever since I became a travel consultant in 2000. As I’ve mentioned several times before, I’m not a beach and water person so visiting the beaches of Varadero wasn’t appealing. I want to see Trinidad, Santiago de Cuba, and other places that let me see their culture and view their local customs.

Until now, getting around Cuba hasn’t been that easy but this winter Transat Holidays and Cuba Cruise are introducing a circumnavigation cruise that will go all the way around the island offering the best of both worlds – beach and culture!

Starting and ending in Havana, the cruise sails every Sunday from December 4, 2011 to March 11, 2012. Cruise fares start at $585 per person based on double occupancy and include your 7 nights accommodation, full meals and snacks daily, supervised children’s program for ages 4-12, daily and evening entertainment programs, and use of the fitness center. Airfare and taxes are additional. Most cabins will hold up to 3 or 4 people with some taking as many as 5.

To see the itinerary, click here.

Wine Tasting Season!

2011-08-18T16:33:00.000-07:00

Great Estates of the Okanagan have been offering wine tasting tours all summer but September is the time we start to think about wine tours. They offer a Wine Tour Experience that includes tastings at 4 wineries plus a deli lunch for $125 per person until September 30th. The included wineries are Inniskillin Okanagan, Jackson Triggs, See Ya Later Ranch, and Sumac Ridge Estate Winery. Optional tasting tours are also available at additional cost.

I was recently introduced to Jackson Triggs White Merlot. I know that sounds like a contradiction in terms but oh, it’s a lovely wine! If it isn’t included in your tasting, you should ask them to let you try it. Since I first tasted it I have been recommending it to everyone. So far all who have tried it really like it.

For more details, click here

The Wonder of Disney!

2011-08-18T15:24:00.000-07:00

I recently toured the Disney Wonder. That is one of the great advantages of living in Vancouver. The ships that do Alaska stop at our port making it possible for us to tour them. I have been lucky enough to see the inner sanctum of over 40 ships although I have only actually cruised on 5.

Of all the ships I’ve toured, the Disney Wonder is my favorite mainstream cruise ship. It has the best spa I have seen onboard any ship and they use the most innovative program for dining. But what impressed me the most is that Disney thinks of everything!

There were lots of adult only spaces (including their own pool) because not every Disney aficionado has children. Every stateroom onboard the ship has a bathtub because Disney understands that you don’t bath small children in a shower! Deck 5 is dedicated to the kids -- that’s where all the children’s programs are held. So what has Disney done? They lowered the ceiling so the kids don’t feel so small in a big space and they moved all the portholes on that deck lower to the floor so the kids can see out them. These are just a few examples of Disney innovation.

While they have the traditional early and late dining, they recognize that dining with the same people, at the same table, with the same wait staff every night can get kind of boring. So on the Wonder, you move through three different dining rooms over the seven night sailing. You never have the same dining experience twice.

In an area behind the children’s pool you will find self-serve drink dispensers. You can get soft drinks, water, milk, coffee, tea, and hot chocolate at any time of the day free of charge. If you ask a waiter to bring it to you by the pool, you will pay for it but if you get up and go serve yourself it is free. No other cruise line does that!

Those who read Lindy’s List on a regular basis have heard me say often that I love everything old. I am one of those baby boomers that refuses to grow up, meaning I’m very into Retro. This ship is decorated for people like me. One of the dining rooms is a retro diner with a definite Disney twist but the best part is their Route 66 area with the Cadillac Lounge. I walked in there and felt like I had just come home!

There is way more to this ship than I have space to tell you about here – split bathrooms, large staterooms, family cabins with Murphy beds for a family of 5, spa villas for ultimate pampering, amazing children’s facilities, cordless phones so you can keep in touch with your family wherever you are on the ship.

Yes a Disney cruise costs slightly more than the other mainstream cruise lines but I’ve become a believer -- I’m convinced it is worth the extra!

If you'd like to see the photos of the ship, this link will take you to my Facebook album. Click here.

Best City Break Value!

2011-08-18T15:10:00.000-07:00

I recently completed the course to become an Ireland Specialist and am now a Shamrock Club Member. I learned a lot about Ireland in the training but I continue to learn every month as they send me their newsletter.

As valuable as all this knowledge is, there is nothing like firsthand experience to really know a destination. I’m making my first trip to Ireland in October and can’t wait to see the country “up close and personal”. I’ll share my impressions when I get back.

Today, though, I read an article in the newsletter that I found very interesting and decided to share it with you. Belfast is a vibrant, lively metropolis offering history, varied cuisine, theatre, concerts, pubs, and shopping. The best way to view Belfast is on foot because everything is within easy walking distance of each other.

The icing on the cake is that Belfast provides the best value for your travel dollar. A short stay in Belfast is well under half of the price in London, according to a cost comparison recently conducted by TripAdvisor.

If you are interested in reading the article, click here.

A Break for Single Travellers!

2011-08-18T14:56:00.000-07:00

It’s not often that single travellers get a break on pricing so thought all you singles out there would like to hear about this one. Being single myself, I know how hard it can be to find someone whose vacation time coincides with yours or who shares your love of a particular destination. Scenic is now giving you a chance to travel without that hassle.

If a river cruise in Europe has been calling your name, here’s your chance. Scenic Tours has a couple of great itineraries this fall with no single supplement charge! This is 5-Star, all-inclusive cruising at it’s best. No additional charges for beer, wine and soft drinks with your lunch and dinner; complimentary espresso coffee and a fine selection of teas all day; all sightseeing included – no optional tours to jack up the cost; all gratuities included in the price; and all ships no more than 3 years old. Those who return from a Scenic cruise claim it was the best vacation of their lives.

For more details, click here.

Message from Lindy - We're Moving our Office!

2011-07-29T11:23:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone:

I apologize to those of you who check back regularly that I haven't posted anything new to Lindy's List lately. Preparation for our move this weekend has taken so much of our time this month. We should be settled in our new office by the end of the first week of August so I promise I will have something new for you soon!

Thanks for your patience!
Lindy

Message from Lindy for May/June

2011-06-30T15:21:00.000-07:00

(To go directly to my picks click on the photos above)

People frequently ask me to find them a “deal” for their vacation travel. One of the best ways to get real value for your dollar is to travel in the off season. This morning I priced a cruise in the Mediterranean and was amazed at the bargain! For a 12-Day cruise leaving Barcelona on September 28th (meaning the cruise is actually in October), the price is $500 per person less than the same itinerary in August!

A balcony cabin on Royal Caribbean Brilliance of the Seas is only $1067 per person before taxes. That is only $89 per day! And October is still very nice in the Mediterranean. In Barcelona, the temperature still gets up to 27 degrees, Sicily averages 23 degrees and Istanbul is around 20.

My daughter & I took a motor coach tour in Europe at Christmastime one year. We spent Christmas Day in London and New Year’s Eve in Paris. The weather was about the same temperatures we get here in Vancouver but without the rain. Since my daughter lives in Montreal when she is living in Canada, it was downright balmy for her. The price was excellent and there were no crowds at any of the attractions. We loved it.

So if that destination you have always dreamed of visiting has been out of your reach financially, consider going during the off season. You might be pleasantly surprised.

In the meantime, hope you enjoy my picks for this month!

WHITE WATER ADVENTURE!

2011-05-10T15:57:00.000-07:00

Does the thought of white water get your heart racing and make your breath catch in your throat? Would you like to just show up and have all the equipment provided for you so you can simply experience the thrill? Well I have just the trip for you!

BC has some of the best white water and Anderson Vacations has put together a six day rafting trip with lots of Class III and a couple of Class IV rapids on the Bell-Irving River & the Nass River. You leave Terrace on Day 1 and don’t get back until Day 6, camping in all-season tents, sleeping in all-season sleeping bags on Thermarest air mattresses, eating sumptuous hot meals, rafting 4 to 5 hours a day, and collecting around the campfire in the evening under star-filled skies.

The $2,900 per person, plus H.S.T., price has lots of inclusions but your roundtrip flights to Terrace and your hotel in Terrace for the first and last night are not included.

For more information click here and then call me to book it for you!

EUROPE OR BUST!

2011-05-10T15:54:00.000-07:00

Offering flights, hotels, tours, and the option to fly into one city and home from another, Transat Holidays makes travel to Europe very affordable this summer. There are many pre-bundled packages to choose from or you can customize your own itinerary.

With non-stop flights to Paris, Frankfurt, Munich, Amsterdam, Glasgow, London & Manchester from Vancouver you have lots to choose from. Fly into Amsterdam, take the train all over Europe, and then fly home from Munich. Or fly to Manchester, cover Great Britain, take the Eurostar to Paris, the city of lovers, and fly home from there.

Call us to help you work out your best itinerary to explore Europe this year.

ALWAYS FUN FOR KIDS!

2011-05-10T15:51:00.001-07:00

What child doesn’t love to go to Disneyland? Many think Disneyland is an expensive vacation for the family but I find it to be very reasonable this year. I just priced a package for a Dad and his 11 year old daughter in the middle of summer when prices are at their peak.

Staying at a “Good Neighbour” hotel just at the entrance to the Disney parks, for 6 nights, roundtrip flights from Vancouver, roundtrip airport transfers on the Disney Express Bus in Los Angeles, 5-Day Disney Park Hopper Passes, a Disney Character Dining, a 1-Day Universal Studios Pass with roundtrip transfers between the park and the hotel, and all taxes came to less than $2500 for both of them!

Ask us to check out Disneyland for your next family vacation.

DEALS! DEALS! DEALS!

2011-05-10T15:34:00.000-07:00

With the price reductions coming out for fall you don’t have to just dream of cruising – you can leave your armchair and get on a ship! Many of the cruise lines have huge discounts on 2011 sailings. Here are just a few -

Oceania Cruises has just released some great prices for select sailings this fall and into the Spring of 2012. Prices include up to 75% reduction on the cruise fares and they still include free airfare. This promotion includes sailings all over the world. Click here to see all the sailings and then call us to find a cruise suited just for you!

Crystal Cruises has been voted the World’s Best by the readers of Conde Nast Traveler magazine for 17 years in a row! The 2 for 1 Fares for 2011 are now discounted even further for select sailings this fall. They also offer free flights and a $2000 per cabin shipboard credit, based on double occupancy. To find a destination, date and price click here and then call us.

Do you prefer to purchase brands with a reputation for quality? Are enriching experiences an integral part of your vacation? Then Silversea is for you. With truly small ships (their largest one is only 540 guests), Silversea offers unmatched all-inclusive cruising in all ocean view suite accommodation. On select voyages this summer and fall you can get 60% discount on the cruise fare, free airfare,and $1000 per suite shipboard credit, based on double occupancy. Check it out here and call us to help you plan that trip of a lifetime!

IF YOU LOVE JAZZ . . .

2011-05-10T15:24:00.000-07:00

You will love this intimate, 5-Day celebration of the past, present, and future of the music in New Orleans, the hometown of Jazz, with Tauck Tours & renowned documentary filmmaker Ken Burns.

The event is limited to 300 guests and each small tour will have only 30 participants. You’ll stay at the Ritz-Carlton New Orleans, have dinner in the restored 20th century dining rooms of Arnaud, have private access to performances, and meet the musicians. The price of US$3490 per person includes your accommodation, most meals, and all tours. Flights are not included.

To see the full itinerary, click here and then call me to book it for you. You won’t want to miss this one! (This is a whole brochure on the tour so it will take a couple of minutes to open.)

Message from Lindy for March/April

2011-04-30T23:59:00.000-07:00

(To go straight to my picks, click on the photos above)

Hi All.

If you’re wondering what happened to me, I’m still here. It’s just been so busy I’ve had trouble finding time to write. Everyone wants to get out of our cold, wet weather these days. Can’t blame them when there are so many wonderful places in the world to visit! Here are just a few to check out.

By the way, when you go on vacation, how do you get to the airport? Do leave your car at the airport while you are away? Let us help you with that!

The Travel Group has negotiated a discount for the Park'N Fly at major Canadian airports. Use our discount code and save! Go to http://www.parknfly.ca/ and enter Code # 268534 to print a coupon that gives you our great rates. Here's an example of our rates at the Vancouver Airport

Vancouver: $53.85/week, $11.95/day. Save $35.90/week, $6.00/day. Pay only $53.85/week, $11.95/day. Click on 'Quick Rate' to obtain your coupon.

Just my way of saying, thank you for taking the time to read Lindy’s List and keeping us in mind when booking your vacation!

Step Back Into History

2011-03-07T12:29:00.000-08:00

A friend once asked me, “How many old buildings can you look at?” I don’t know the answer to that question because I haven’t reached my limit yet! One of the reasons why Europe is my first choice as a travel destination is because it does old so well!

The older the building, the better! Artifacts and relics don’t appeal to me as much as being able to visit a home that was occupied more than a century ago and finding it furnished just as it was then. The furniture and décor are works of art. I can spend hours in a room imagining the owner living there. It doesn’t have to be just castles or homes. I have the same fascination for cathedrals and even paintings of old buildings or rooms. My imagination runs wild with ideas of past lives living and worshipping in those places.

Consequently, the news of another old mansion being restored to its former glory and opened for public viewing thrilled me. Now I have another reason to return to France. Not that I need another reason, mind you! :-)

Louis Mantin built a mansion in Moulins, France and then died in 1905, just 8 years after its completion. Having no wife or children, he willed the house to the town of Moulins. The mansion fell into disrepair over time but the only stipulation in Mantin’s will was that the city turn it into a museum 100 years after his death.

Maud Leyoudec, assistant curator of Maison Mantin, describes the state of the building when a team of 30 specialists took on the project to restore it in 2004,

"There was woodworm and damp caused by the house not being heated, and many of the elaborate wall coverings were torn. There were insects everywhere in the house -- it was really awful."

For more on this story and pictures of the mansion restored to its former beauty, check out these links

http://www.cnn.com/2011/WORLD/europe/02/18/france.timewarp.house/index.html

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/europe/france/8357378/Mansion-left-for-100-years-reopens-as-time-capsule-museum.html

Do you share my love of history and old buildings? Wouldn’t it be wonderful to plan a trip to Europe with a group of other like-minded people to explore history where it occurred? Let’s start a history group in our travel club Milestone Journeys! Check out http://www.milestonejourneys.com/ and then give me a call or send me an email if this appeals to you.

2011 Year of India in Canada

2011-03-07T12:18:00.000-08:00

I recently arranged a tour of India for my daughter and her co-worker, who are living and working in Cambodia. They started out with 3 itineraries to choose from and finally settled on a combination of ideas from each of them.

They toured the northern part of India, even spending a night in a dessert camp while my own trip to India was at the very southern tip. She toured castles and temples while I stayed on a houseboat on the back waters where the fisherman earn their living. We met local residents and tasted the delicacies of each locale. All of us absolutely loved it!

Make no mistake. India is dirty, crowded and noisy. But you can’t make comparisons between another country and ours. Whenever you travel, you have to just get into the spirit of the local culture and enjoy it for its own richness. That’s why I’m excited about this year long celebration of activities and presentations that will help Canadians understand and value all India has to offer.

Here are my daughter’s comments,

“India was SPECTACULAR - I LOVED ITTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT."
"If you haven't already, Go if you dare, but, be warned, ‘tis EXACTLY like Cambodia.

But bigger, Dirty as all hell and definitely a developing country.”

I urge you to go to http://www.yearofindiaincanada2011.ca/festival_calendar.html to find out when the celebrations will be in your area. Discover the fascination of India for yourself here at home and then plan a trip to see the real thing.

Food & Wine Festival in Ixtapa

2011-03-07T11:55:00.000-08:00

Award Winning Chef & Author, Rick Bayless, and Food & Wine Magazine

Launches its 1st Culinary Festival in Latin America
March 26 – 28 at the Capella Resort & Spa in Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo

During the festival, Rick Bayless will join forces with Carlos Ambrossi, Sommelier and Tequila Master at Capella Ixtapa, and acclaimed chefs and mixologists from throughout Mexico to guide attendees on a palate-expanding journey of the country’s cuisine set in our Pacific Coast paradise. Together, the chefs will host three days of cooking demonstrations, tastings, seminars and intimate tours of the local culinary community to honor the philosophy of “32 tastes, 1 history, 1 soul”.

Renowned Chef Rick Bayless and the Food & Wine Magazine team selected Capella Ixtapa to be their host during the festival.

Capella Ixtapa has prepared Special Food & Wine Experiences prior to the festival in order to provide you a memorable food & wine experience.

From Tuesday, 22 March to Friday, 25 March Capella Ixtapa's culinary team will guide you through the utmost culinary experience in the Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo area:

Tuesday, March 22: A Cooking Class with Executive Chef Manuel Fernandez, which will start at the local organic market.
Wednesday, March 23: a Pastry class where attendees will learn to prepare Mexican candies and desserts.
Thursday, March 24: Wine Tasting Experience with Sommelier Carlos Ambrosi.
Friday, March 25: Chef's Table with a Special Tropical Pacific Menu created by Executive Chef Manuel Fernandez.

During the festival, on March 26, Saturday morning, join Capella Ixtapa on a Catamaran Tour around Ixtapa, and at 3.30 PM in the afternoon join us at the Spirits Seminar - Tequila Tasting.

Contact me if you want more details.

No Single Supplement!

2011-03-07T11:50:00.000-08:00

Are you tired of being penalized because you choose to travel alone? In a world where the resorts and cruise lines charge almost double for a single person to stay in their accommodation, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises floats in with a breath of fresh air! They are waiving the single supplement on select European river cruises this year.

On selected dates from March 23rd through to October 23rd, 2011 and on cruises of 7, 9, 10, 12, & 14 nights, you get to pay the same per person rate as everyone else! Thank you Uniworld!

Uniworld has remodeled all their existing ships and added five new ones to their fleet. The cabins are styled after the luxury, boutique rooms you find in the Red Carnation Hotels throughout the world. Averaging only 130 guests onboard, you get superior service. The shore excursions are always included as are extra amenities like free internet service and Wi-Fi, fine wine, beer, and soft drinks with dinner, beer and soft drinks with lunch, 24-hour specialty tea and coffee bar, bottled water in the staterooms, and L’Occitane en Provence bath and body products in the bathrooms.

Call me to get more information on this great offer from Uniworld.

Wide Open Spaces

2011-03-07T11:27:00.000-08:00

I was fortunate to spend a week in the Phoenix area at the end of January. What a great shot of energy that bold sunshine gave me in the middle of our winter! If you have never been to the Phoenix area, I highly recommend it. I love the wide-open spaces, the endless sky full of bright sunshine, the clean environment, and the soft colors. Everything about it is invigorating!

From great golfing, professional sports venues, amazing shopping, and fantastic spas, the greater Phoenix area has something for everyone. Whether you’re planning a guys’ weekend, a girls’ retreat, or a romantic getaway for just the two of you, it’s all here. And with Allegiant Air flying from Bellingham to Mesa, the price is right, too! We have to check for you almost daily to get the specials, but my ticket was only US$196.00 return including all taxes!

Message from Lindy

2011-01-03T09:00:00.000-08:00

(To go directly to my picks, click on the photos above)

Winter is my favorite time of year! I’m much more a cozy sweater, blazing fireplace, hot chocolate girl than I am beach, tanning, and salt water! So this month I’m giving you a choice between a beach vacation to get out of the rain or a family ski getaway just in case you’re like me and prefer to play in the snow! I know, most of you think I’m crazy, but there are a few people like me around.

As you read this I am off enjoying my Christmas vacation. I’m writing this Lindy’s List early to be published while I’m away. Not only do I love winter but the month of December holds a precious place in my heart. My grandparents and then my parents made Christmas such a special family time that now each generation continues the tradition. Throughout the year we get so wrapped up in our busy-ness but once December rolls around, we make a point of blocking off time for family. It reminds me every year to stop and count my many, many blessings.

My wish for you is that 2011 will be a year of health and joy and prosperity for each one of you! May this be the year that you get to take that once-in-a-lifetime vacation that you have always dreamed about.

Message from Lindy for November/December

2010-12-31T10:58:00.000-08:00

(To go directly to my picks, click on the photos above)

How much do you value your free time?

Is your measure of success based on personal possessions or on time well spent creating memories with loved ones?

So many “road warriors” have to sacrifice time with family to be able to provide a good quality of life for those very loved ones.

Combine that with the demands piled on the “sandwich generation” who are constantly pulled between the needs of their parents and those of their children.

Is it any wonder that when you get a free moment you are too exhausted to build quality into that time with your family? Who can be creative when they are so weary?

That’s where the family vacation comes into play – all three generations relaxing, playing, and learning together. Talk about creating memories!

A perfect match can be found for your family whether your idea of a great vacation is learning to sail at Club Med; zip-lining through the tree top canopy in Costa Rica; retracing the life of Mozart throughout Europe; or soaking up some rays on fine, white, powdery sand in the Caribbean.

Let us relieve you of some of that “busy-ness” in your life. We’re experts at finding the right vacation that’s perfect for you. It won’t necessarily be the cheapest, but quality never is. We do promise you, though, that it will be the best value for the money you spend!

Las Vegas Just Got Cheaper!

2010-12-15T15:18:00.001-08:00

Up until now, to get between the airport and the Strip you had to choose between quick but pricey or inexpensive but slow. Not anymore! The Westcliff Airport Express opened a new bus service on December 12, 2010 that has no stops between the airport and the Tropicana on the Strip. The trip takes between 7 & 9 minutes and costs $2.00 per direction.

Sheila Aue of travelinfo.ca says, “Las Vegas is one of several large airports that aren't served by local rail. Two other bus lines depart from the airport, but they are slower to get to the Strip because they make several stops along the way. The Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada says the new line serves visitors, but it will be used predominantly by local residents who want quicker access to the Strip and the airport, using a new park-and-ride center.”

The service is not 24 hours but it starts as early as 7:00 a.m. and ends around 11:00 p.m.

Time to Recuperate!

2010-12-15T15:13:00.000-08:00

With the holidays ending and the entertaining and celebrations winding down, are you worn out and ready for laying on a warm, sandy beach to recuperate? Can you picture yourself in the Caribbean, lazing on the best beach in the Riviera Maya?

One week, all-inclusive stays at the Barcelo Maya Beach Resort along with the flights to Cancun in January start at $1199 per person plus taxes based on 2 people sharing. Call us to help you find that much needed R&R away from our cold, dreary winters.

The Ultimate Family Getaway!

2010-12-15T15:00:00.000-08:00

If sun isn’t your thing and you would rather play in the snow, check out this message from one of our ski vacation suppliers –

Nothing says togetherness more than spending time in the mountains with family or friends. When the kids are old enough (3 for skiing and 5 for snowboarding), teaching them how to ski or snowboard can be a fun and exciting time for any family. Recognizing this, many resorts in Ski Country have developed programs and facilities specifically for families. Following is a list of some of the best mountain destinations for families:

> Steamboat, located in northwestern Colorado, offers the Kids Ski Free™ program allowing kids ages 12 and under to ski free when a parent or grandparent purchases lift tickets for five days or more. This year, the Kids' Vacation Center, a comprehensive children's complex, added another 3,000 square feet (a 40% increase). Eight new registration kiosks whisk young snow enthusiasts into a redesigned kid-friendly, western-themed facility.
>Snowmass, one of Aspen/Snowmass's four great mountains, recently built The Treehouse Kid's Adventure Center, a must see for all families. This two-story, 25,000-sq.-ft. facility is packed with fun and boasts a climbing gym, teen activities like movie nights and six interactive themed rooms for infants ages eight weeks and older.
> The Canyons Resort, located 45 minutes from the Salt Lake City airport, offers an array of ski and snowboard lessons for children and adults, including group and private lessons and sessions for women only. In the children's program, The Canyon Cats, kids ages 4 to 6 are guaranteed a 3 to 1 class ratio, an all-day lesson, a lift ticket, lunch and exclusive use of the new Magic Carpet lift right in the heart of The Canyons Village base area.
> Keystone Resort, located one and a half hours from Denver International Airport, delivers the Ultimate group experience. This semi-private group program never has more than four guests with one pro. Each child receives more attention and feedback from Keystone's pro and a head start on the other classes. Don't forget to ask us about Keystone's Adventure Passport. Guests booking select lodging accommodations receive their choice of three free activities, including night skiing, scenic sleigh rides, snow biking and mountain tours.

If you are interested in an ultimate family getaway, please call us so our Mountain Vacation Specialists may prepare a price quote for you that can include things like lodging, lift tickets, air and, of course, ski school. Our tour operator has a huge inventory of early-booking deals, some of which expire as early as January 15, so now is a great time to start planning your ski vacation.

The Best Way to See Europe!

2010-12-15T14:55:00.000-08:00

While doing research for a client, I came across this unusual river cruise being offered in Europe next summer. The best pricing is in April & May and these river cruises sell out early so I thought I’d pass on the information now. Moving through 8 spectacular countries on the River Duchess over 15 magical days, you just unpack once and relax!

Check out the day-to-day itinerary at
http://www.uniworldcruises.ca/Destinations/Europe/Imperial_Capitals_of_Europe/2011Day-To-Day/ and then call us to book your cabin while they are still available.

This is what Uniworld says about this unique itinerary -

Take a grand journey along paths forged by conquerors, crusaders, and kings through Turkey, Romania, Bulgaria, Serbia, Croatia, Hungary, Slovakia and Austria. Step back in time to explore the history and legends living in the hillsides among antiquated ruins and still-magnificent palaces. Immerse yourself in the colorful folktales and musical traditions of these extraordinary people and places you visit. And taste what has been termed the “Queen of Wines” while on your Epicurean Adventure excursion to Villány.

Who will enjoy this cruise? History buffs, archeologists, artists and photographers wanting to explore some of the world’s most impressive capitals—Istanbul, Budapest and Vienna.

See St. Petersburg with Azamara

2010-12-15T14:00:00.000-08:00

Have I ever mentioned that I have the best job in the world? I keep saying that I can’t believe I actually get paid to do this work! Not only do I get to travel all over the world but I also get to discover hidden treasures while researching trips for my clients. The Azamara Journey 7 Night Scandinavia Russia Voyage, sailing roundtrip from Stockholm with 3 full days in St. Petersburg, Russia beginning at $2169 per person plus taxes, is one of those great finds! This is how Azamara Club Cruises describes themselves -

Azamara Club Cruises is a destination-immersive cruise line for up-market travelers who want to not only see the places and cultures they visit, but to live them. Our two intimate, 694-guest ships offer a boutique European hotel ambience with extraordinary service, fine cuisine and wines from around the world, and wellness and vitality programs, all while sailing to a host of destinations larger ships can't reach. Azamara Club Cruises sails around the globe, with more overnight and late-night stays in every region.

The value pricing on Azamara this summer makes it a great time to become acquainted with this deluxe cruise line that is part of the Royal Caribbean family. Call me to help you find the cruise that’s right for you!

‘Tis the Season

2010-11-09T12:01:00.000-08:00

A Lindy’s List at this time of year wouldn’t be complete without some mention of a Christmas holiday. I am totally crazy about Christmas – just a big kid who never grew up!

But I’ve discovered that I’m not alone in this. The abundance of stores that open just for this time of year and the Christmas craft markets that spring up in November must be catering to someone.

So if, like me, you love everything Christmas, you are probably familiar with the Christmas Markets in Germany and other parts of Europe. But did you know that Britain alone has 155 Christmas Markets? http://www.christmasmarkets.com/UK.html

Non-stop flights from Vancouver to London are frequent and even Transat flies to London year round. If a long weekend spent checking out the Christmas Markets in Britain appeals to you, call me. I’ll help you plan it so that I get to live vicariously through your trip!

Napa Truffle Festival

2010-11-09T11:55:00.000-08:00

When we think of the Napa Valley, we usually associate it with wine. Well, here is your chance to be one of the first participants in this inaugural event!

You will get to take cooking classes from renowned Michelin-starred chefs at the Culinary Institute of America. You will learn everything you ever wanted to know about truffles from a unique gathering of leading truffle cultivation experts and scientists. You will master the art of pairing the perfect wine with your sought after truffles, and much more.

The Festival runs from December 10 to 12, 2010 and packages start at $2475 per person not including the flights. Click here for more details then call me to customize your trip.

Oceania Reception

2010-11-09T11:39:00.000-08:00

In case it crossed your mind that you would like to attend our Tastes of Europe Reception and then promptly forgot about it, I’m sending you a reminder.

We will be tasting appetizers and beverages from Spain, Portugal, Morocco, Italy & France. You will get a chance to meet our Oceania Cruises Director of Sales, Cathy Denroche. We will take a virtual tour of the new ship, Marina, and hear about how you can meet Jacques Pepin while sailing on her.

Click here to see the invitation. There are still a few spaces left so if you’re interested, call us right away.

If you like Walls, China has a GREAT one!

2010-11-09T11:30:00.000-08:00

This perfect introduction to China will be escorted from Vancouver by The Travel Group’s own Marie Chang!

Experience The Great Wall and Beijing; Terra Cotta Warriors in Xian; Beautiful Hangzhou; and Ultra Modern Shanghai! Learn about ancient Chinese Healing & Wisdom, and then explore some of these techniques in the optional Yoga Classes with Marie.

Soul of China 13 Day Journey with Marie Chang
March 20, 2011
$2699.00 per person plus taxes (based on twin sharing)

Click here for more details.

FOR HARRY POTTER FANS!

2010-11-09T11:25:00.000-08:00

I recently returned from a conference in Orlando, Florida with 600 other travel agents and vacation providers. What a wonderful learning experience it was! After 10 years, I still can’t believe I get to do this job every day!

While I was there we had the privilege of being hosted exclusively at the new Harry Potter Wizarding World at Universal Studios. If you are a Harry Potter fan (and who isn’t?), you will love this theme park!

The holograph ride in the castle is fantastic; the roller coaster left me staggering when I was back on solid ground again; and Ollivanders Wand Shop will mesmerize your kids! I have to admit that the Butterbeer was a little too sweet for me but you have to try it since this is the only place you can get the authentic Butterbeer approved by J K Rowling!

I have always been a die-hard Disney fan but now I’m really into Universal Studios! Give me a call to help you plan a package to take your kids to see Harry Potter!

Message from Lindy for September/October

2010-10-31T12:04:00.000-07:00

(To go directly to my picks, click on the photos above)

One of our district sales representatives always emphasizes the meal being served at her functions. Her favorite line is, “It’s all about the food!”

Whether it's the latest emphasis on Culinary Travel or the news items about trying to get the Mediterranean diet officially listed as the healthiest diet in the world, it seems everyone is talking about food these days.

Well, it turns out that is also the focus of Lindy’s List this month. All the featured trips seem to center around food in one way or another. That doesn’t mean there isn’t anything for you to see this month if you’re not a Foodie. Whether your interests are art, architecture, history, beach, or wellness, you will find it all in Lindy’s List.

Enjoy . . .

Private Brewery Tour!

2010-09-17T11:53:00.000-07:00

Travelling to Boston on business anytime soon? If you’re a beer lover, you may want to extend your stay and take advantage of the Samuel Adams Behind the Scene Brewery Package offered at the Fairmont Copley Plaza.

Package Includes:

• Overnight accommodations
• A private “behind-the-scene” brewery tour
• A three-course beer pairing dinner prepared by

Chef Stefan Jarausch in the Oak Room with Samuel

Adams beer
• An in-room Samuel Adams “Bucket of Cheer” Amenity including a collection of Samuel Adams Boston Lager Print Glasses and apparel.

Guests will take a private tour of the brewery to learn how beer is made. Following the tour, a brewer will conduct a private tasting of Samuel Adams Boston Lager and limited edition brews, including Utopias, and other experimental beer varieties in the brewery’s barrel room.

Boston is also steeped in the arts, history, and nightlife so you won’t lack for things to do. Call us for more details or to book this for you!

Eat, Pray, Love in Ubud, Bali!

2010-09-17T11:40:00.000-07:00

If you loved the blockbuster movie Eat Pray Love this summer, you’ll love this vacation package to Bali offered by Exotik Tours. Ubud in Bali was the third destination in Elizabeth Gilbert's bestselling memoir.

This package offers meditation, cooking, and romance all in Bali’s tropical paradise!

The package includes:

• Yoga & meditation sessions
• A visit to a medicine man/palm reader
• Cycling tour of Ubud
• Cooking lesson
• Candlelight dinner on the beach
• Rice terrace visits
• Flights from Vancouver on China Airlines
• 7 nights in Ubud at the Ananda cottages
• 5 nights on the beach at the Grand Mirage Resort
• 18 meals: 12 breakfasts, 3 lunches & 3 dinners
• Airport Transfers

You can choose from various departures and prices start at $2499 per person based on double occupancy. Taxes and Visa cost are additional. China Airlines also charges a weekend surcharge of $55 per person for Friday, Saturday, or Sunday departures.

I visited Bali this past Spring and loved Ubud! Believe me, you won’t be disappointed with this vacation!

CHEFS & CULINARY EXPERIENCES!

2010-09-17T11:15:00.000-07:00

For an athlete, it’s Olympic gold. For a scientist, it’s the Nobel. For a writer, it’s the Pulitzer. And for a chef, it’s a Michelin star. Simply put, there is no higher honour a restaurant can earn, no greater compliment a chef can receive, than a tiny red star next to their red guide listing. Except maybe two stars. Or three.

Michelin stars are awarded sparingly and only to truly deserving establishments—fewer than 100 restaurants worldwide have earned the premier three-star designation. A Michelin star indicates more than just top-notch cuisine. It stands for quality, a continued commitment to excellence, and a decidedly uncommon dining experience.

Michelin Food & Travel experiences will bring travelers behind the scenes and into the kitchens of the world’s top food alchemists to watch them work. They work hard to design trips that fit your expectations of what a great vacation should be. Their itineraries are fully customizable: you tell them what you’d like to see and do, and they’ll do their utmost to satisfy your request. More downtime? Sure. Less downtime? You got it. A little extra time at that neat little gallery or market you discovered? No problem. Just say the word and they’ll take care of the details.

From fully independent, unguided trips to 100% fully planned with a local guide, Michelin will design the right trip for you. Do you prefer to travel in the off season when there are fewer tourists milling about? Autumn is still a very beautiful time of year to travel to the Cote d’Azur, Provence, or Paris! If this excites you, ask Lindy for more details.

Kona Coffee Festival!

2010-09-17T11:09:00.000-07:00

As an alternative to the Caribbean and Mexico in early November you might want to vacation on the big island of Hawaii and take in the Coffee Festival! Bet you didn’t know this festival has been happening for 40 years already!

“Each year, Kona welcomes visitors from around the world and residents alike to share in its celebration of their unmatched Kona Coffee at the oldest food festival in Hawaii.

This year's 40th annual Kona Coffee Cultural Festival will take place from November 5-14. Nearly 50 special events are designed to promote and sustain Kona coffee through agricultural tourism, including, but certainly not limited to, parades, the Miss Kona Coffee Scholarship Pageant, Holualoa Village Coffee & Art Stroll, Kona Coffee Picking Contest, recipe contest, tastings, cupping competition, art exhibits, entertainment, and farm & mill tours.” Click here for more details.

There are several choices for flights to Kona from Vancouver with only one connection along the way. There are resorts on the Big Island to suit every budget. Here’s your chance to catch some sun and beach, enjoy the Hawaiian culture, and pursue your love of coffee! And, of course, you won’t want to miss the ultimate “must see” on the Big Island – visiting Kilauea, the world’s most active volcano at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

Meet Jacques Pepin!

2010-09-17T11:03:00.000-07:00

Cruise With Renowned Chef Jacques Pepin!

Jacques Pepin has been chef to three French heads of state, including Charles de Gaulle. If you’ve seen his numerous, highly lauded cooking shows or purchased one of his award-winning cookbooks, here’s your chance to meet him in person and learn the techniques that exemplify his style of French gastronomy.

Cruise for 16 days aboard Oceania’s brand new, luxurious Mariner calling on French, Portuguese, Spanish, Moroccan, and Italian ports known for their cuisine, wine & artistry. Not only will the epicurean delights of this cruise please your palette but the history, architecture, and art will mesmerize you!

We have blocked space for this one time only cruise on August 10, 2011. Our exclusive prices get you a balcony cabin for US$6999 per person based on double occupancy and includes airfare from Vancouver, all port charges and taxes, and pre-paid gratuities!

If you are a food, wine, art, architecture, or history buff, you won’t want to miss this! Click here to see the itinerary and then call either Martha or Lindy for more details. We will be holding a special cruise night toward the end of November featuring Oceania’s Regional Sales Director for Western Canada to give everyone further details about this cruise. If you would like to be invited to this event, ask us to put your name on the list.

Click here for details.

Message from Lindy for July/August

2010-08-30T15:19:00.000-07:00

(To go directly to my picks, click on the photos above)

In 2003 I enrolled in the cruise certification program offered by Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). It took 2 years to complete the classroom training, ship inspections, stateroom sales, and actual cruises needed to obtain my Accredited Cruise Counsellor designation. This in-depth training into cruise geography, the various cruise lines, and all the different cruise ships out there gave me the expertise I needed to confidently counsel clients about cruising.

I personally love to cruise and highly recommend it if you haven’t tried it yet. I am presently enrolled in CLIA’s more rigorous Master Cruise Counsellor accreditation program – another 2 years of training. Why do I bother with all this? I believe clients deserve the best available knowledge and expertise when choosing a travel consultant.

The counsellors here at The Travel Group, expend much time and effort keeping up-to-date with what’s happening in the industry. When you book your travel with us, you are booking with specialists. If you are pleased with the work we do for you, please recommend us to your family, friends, and associates.

PRETTY WAIHEKE ISLAND FOR WINE & MORE!

2010-07-30T16:08:00.000-07:00

Jason recently spent a fabulous day on Waiheke Island - a comfortable 40 minute ferry ride from the city of Auckland. The trip to and from the island is part of the experience as beautiful views of Auckland and its nearby islands make that 40 minutes drift by pleasantly.

Fullers Tours operates a selection of Waiheke Island experiences and most are centered around the wineries on the island. Jason pleasurably sipped his way through the Taste of Waiheke Tour.

A coach met the ferry’s arrival and whisked them away to three wineries and an olive grove. Sampling wines, tasting olive oils, and sipping local beer at Wild on Waiheke was an extremely pleasant way to spend the day. The last stop at the award winning Mudbrick Vineyard & Restaurant afforded stunning views across the harbour to Auckland and the surrounding islands from its high elevation.

The tour also explored picturesque parts of the island such as beautiful Onetangi beach where you are instantly tempted to stay longer and stroll barefoot in the soft, white sand. Waiheke has a wide range of varied accommodation and also car, scooter and bike rentals making it easy to explore the island in your own time rather than taking an organized tour.

Fullers Taste of Waiheke takes five and a half hours at a cost of approximately CAD$95. It's a great option for a refreshing day away from the hustle and bustle of Auckland city. For further details contact Jason in the Australian and New Zealand division of The Travel Group www.travelg.com/new-zealand

City of Literature

2010-07-30T15:55:00.000-07:00

Most of us are aware that there are thousands of UNESCO World Heritage Sites throughout the world. What is not so well known is that UNESCO set up its Creative Cities Network in 2004.

Its aim is to promote the social, economic and cultural development of cities in both the developed and the developing world. The cities in the network promote their local creative scene and conform to UNESCO’s goal of fostering cultural diversity.

Out of this program has come the UNESCO City of Literature designation. Only four cities have received this status since its inception in 2004 – Edinburgh, Scotland in 2004; Melbourne, Australia in 2008; Iowa City USA also in 2008; and Dublin, Ireland in 2010.

"Dublin has been awarded this accolade because of the rich historical literary past of the city, the vibrant contemporary literature, the variety of festivals and attractions available and because it is the birthplace and home of literary greats," Mary Hanafin, Minister for Tourism, told the Belfast Telegraph.

Swift, O'Casey, Wilde, Shaw, Beckett, Behan and Joyce are just a few of the great literary names associated with this city on the River Liffey and just another reason to visit the emerald isle this year. We’d love to help you plan your trip!

Exquisite Restaurants

2010-07-30T15:44:00.000-07:00

One of my clients just returned from a ten day trip driving around Scotland. She kept repeating the word, “stunning” as she recounted their journey to me – stunning scenery, stunning castles, and stunningly beautiful drives. More comments about exquisite meals and gorgeous accommodations made me long to jump on a plane and head to Scotland.

I found her remarks about the food in Scotland very interesting. She said there are a lot of restaurants, established for 5 years or less, using locally grown foods in their culinary offerings. According to her the meals are exquisite and not very expensive. She has eaten in the best restaurants in Belgium, the Netherlands, and France but she says they don’t hold a candle to the ones she discovered in Scotland.

That’s the kind of information we share in our travel club! If you know someone who is over 50 and looking for a place to share their travel experiences, have them check out http://www.milestonejourneys.com/ and then contact me to join.

Weekend Getaway

2010-07-30T15:37:00.000-07:00

If you’re looking for that special weekend getaway, try the Brentwood Bay Lodge & Spa, a 2010 Trip Advisor Travellers’ Choice Winner.

Located 10 minutes from Victoria airport, 15 minutes from the ferry terminal, and 25 minutes from downtown Victoria, Brentwood Bay is your gateway to recreational activities, golf courses, wineries, and tourist attractions.

The resort is one of Vancouver Island’s top culinary and wine destinations with an award winning wine cellar and the Seagrille Dining Room featuring local coastal cuisine. Their executive conference facilities can accommodate intimate board meetings, seminars, banquets, exclusive corporate retreats, weddings and receptions for up to 120 guests, all in a spectacular seaside setting.

Click here to know more about the environmental initiatives at Brentwood Bay Lodge & Spa and then call us to book your badly needed weekend R&R.

Your Exclusive Retreat

2010-07-30T15:30:00.000-07:00

Looking for something unique for that special family celebration or your small group getaway?

European Waterways’ luxury hotel barges carry from 6 to 20 guests, each with its own Captain, Master Chef, and crew of one or two to provide your group with total relaxation and mouth-watering cuisine!

Your six night all-inclusive cruise can be themed around family, golf, wine, theatre, gardening, or whatever your group wants to experience on their vacation. Click here for more details and then call us to help you plan that private retreat.

Message from Lindy for June

2010-06-30T16:07:00.000-07:00

(To view my picks for this month just click on the photos above.)

Thank you to everyone who sent entries to the Where In The World Contest I ran last month. Out of all the responses to our contest, no one guessed where the photo was taken.

Just after I sent out Lindy’s List last month, Tourism Canada started a major TV ad campaign so I was sure someone would find it. If you check out www.localsknow.ca you will see that the photo was taken at Grand Beach, Manitoba! Right in our own backyard!

This is the coolest site if you are looking for some really interesting places to vacation closer to home. The photos were taken and the prose written by locals who love their province and what it has to offer. You will find some truly intriguing places to visit.

Since we didn’t have a winner, I’ve decided to give a consolation prize to the most creative answer. Joanne wrote, “Somewhere I’m not… sigh…” One of our insulated Travel Group coffee mugs is on its way to you, Joanne.

New York New York!

2010-06-14T16:24:00.000-07:00

As I was watching the Tony Awards on TV I realized once again how much I love live theatre. It is such a different genre than movies. We get a small taste of live theatre here in Vancouver but last night I found myself longing for a trip to New York or London just for the theatre!

A quick glance at the New York theatre scene displayed 42 theatres to choose from with plays to suit every taste. With roundtrip airfares hovering around the $600 range including taxes, New York is a good bet right now especially since the Big Apple has so much more to offer besides live theatre.

If you, too, have a longing to climb the Empire State Building or stroll through Central Park, give us a call. We’ll help you plan a quick getaway to discover first hand why New York is a “Better Place to Be.”

All Inclusive Madness!

2010-06-14T16:17:00.000-07:00

What a deal! The RIU Jalisco in Puerto Vallarta features stunning palatial architecture and alluring freshwater lagoons on a wide expanse of beach in the Nuevo Vallarta area. The natural beauty and stately facilities of RIU Jalisco make this the perfect destination for families and couples. During the summer, the prices are unbelievable.

Leaving July 17th for one week, prices start at $873.21 per person based on double occupancy including taxes. How often do you find 4-Star, all inclusive accommodation with flights from Vancouver and airport transfers for that kind of price? This truly is an affordable getaway!

Speaking of Close to Home!

2010-06-14T16:12:00.000-07:00

Savour the nectar of the gods. Sniff, swirl and sip your way through 100 wineries dotted along the sunshine-drenched lakes of the Okanagan Valley.

Sample a crisp Pinot Gris, a bright, pale Cabernet Franc, an aromatic Riesling or a fruit wine bursting with local Fuji apples. Let a sommelier show you the magic of moonlight-inspired ice wine.

Wander wine country by soaring over the Golden Mile by float plane or cycling the historic Kettle Valley Rail Trail. Hitch a ride on a hay wagon tour of the orchards and say “salut” at a vineyard lunch. Photo: Quails’ Gate Winery, Kelowna

BC also has wineries in the Fraser Valley and on Vancouver Island. Why not get a group of friends together and plan a long weekend of wine tasting and fun? Call us to help you plan it.

Yachting at its Best!

2010-06-14T16:08:00.000-07:00

What a fantastic opportunity to sample the casual elegance of Windstar Cruises at truly affordable prices! With teak-lined decks and towering sails, a vacation on Windstar is the ultimate affair for those who love the sea.

Wind Surf is small enough to indulge the every whim of its 312 guests with luxury and elegance yet you can leave the ties and formal gowns at home.

Cruise the Mediterranean from Rome to Venice on September 5th, 2010 visiting the Amalfi Coast and the best sites in Croatia. Prices start at US$ 2182 per person before taxes. This is amazing pricing for this caliber of Mediterranean cruise. You will want to act fast because it won’t last long at this price! (more)

Message from Lindy for May

2010-05-31T09:56:00.000-07:00

(To view my picks for this month just click on the photos above.)

Where in the World Is This?

Do you think you know where this is? Enter our contest to win a McBrine carry-on suitcase filled with goodies.

I was so surprised when I saw this photo and decided it would make a good contest for our Lindy's List audience.

You can email your entry to me at lindy@travelg.com

All correct entries will be entered into a draw. The winning name will be drawn on May 31, 2010 and the winner announced in June's Lindy's List.

In June, I will also feature this destination as one of my picks. Stay tuned!

Magical Tasmania!

2010-05-07T15:21:00.000-07:00

Island of Inspiration

Tasmania is Australia's Island State and is a magical place full of stunning scenery, abundant and unique wildlife and world renowned local food and wine. It has a rich convict history as well as unique Victorian buildings and fabulous markets.

Qantas Airways and Qantas Vacations have teamed up and are now offering $100 off the Qantas Airpass to visit Tasmania. The Airpass is now only USD$898 plus taxes departing from L.A. and includes flights to Tasmania as well as 2 other Australian cities.

Jason Stratford, head of the Australia division of the Travel Group will be experiencing the wonders of Tasmania first hand at the end of the month so please feel free to contact him for more information about Tasmania and this latest package deal.

Check it out this package here http://www.travelg.com/blog/australia/tasmania-unique-journey

For History Buffs!

2010-05-07T12:04:00.000-07:00

Voyages to Antiquity

Explore the history, culture, and archaeological treasures of the Mediterranean's ancient civilizations. In their inaugural year, Voyates to Antiquity is offering meticulously planned itineraries and prestigious guest lectures on each of their tours.

The price you see is exactly what you pay. It includes all taxes, the port charges, FREE flights from Vancouver, the shore excursions, on board gratuities and wine with dinner. And did I mention there is no single supplement in specified categories for those travelling alone?

I can hear you thinking, "If it includes all that, it must be expensive!" Not so. Prices start at $2995 per person based on double occupancy. Here are this year's tours -

The Bysantine Empire -Istanbul to Venice on June 28th - starting at $3495 per person

Sicily is the Key - Athens to Rome on July 26, 2010 - starting at $3195 per person

Pompeii & So Much More - Rome to Venice on August 9, 2010 - from $3195 per person

The Kornati Islands - Venice to Athens on July 12 & Aug 23rd - from $2995 per person

For complete details, click here. Then call us to book one of these "historian's delight!"

Our New Travel Club!

2010-05-07T11:34:00.000-07:00

A Travel Club

for those on the Best Side of 50!

Why are we starting a travel club for those 50+? Because we are at the age when community is becoming so important to us. We are slowing down from our jobs and spending more time building relationships with people. We are taking vacations with our children and our grandchildren and meeting other families doing the same thing.

We want to see the real culture and learn from our travel experiences. Part of that learning curve is sharing our knowledge when we return home. My favorite way to find a great place to have dinner is to just step into any shop along the street where the locals work and ask them where they would go for dinner if they were eating out that night. I have discovered some great little restaurants that way.

At the travel club we get to share those little treasures we have found and hear about ones that others have discovered. It is just a place to get together with others who love to travel as much as you do and share your stories. We will invite guest speakers to tell us about places we may not have seen yet and maybe we will form some lasting friendships with like-minded people we would enjoy travelling with.

If you know someone who is over 50 and would enjoy getting together with other people who love to travel, please tell them to check out http://www.milestonejourneys.com and contact me.

Family Fun!

2010-05-07T11:05:00.000-07:00

7 Day Wyoming Cowboy Family Adventure

Looking for something different to do with the kids this summer?

How about taking them to an authentic dude ranch? Spring Creek Ranch, is a year-round luxury resort, located on a wildlife sanctuary, almost 1,000 feet above the town of Jackson, with spectacular views of the Teton Mountain Range, including the world famous 13,700 foot Grand Teton.

Activities include a wildlife safari, horse back riding, hiking, touring Yellowstone National Park, a photograph excursion of the Tetons, and much more. You can join a pre-set tour or have one customized to suit your own family.

Prices start at US$2324 per person. Call us to help you plan a thrilling summer vacation for your kids this year! For more details, click here.

A Pampering Getaway!

2010-05-07T10:11:00.000-07:00

We have a tendency to think of Las Vegas as a bustling, noisy, frenetic destination but did you know it is a wonderful spa destination? Now that I've mentioned it, I can see you nodding your head and saying, "Of course! With all those mega hotels there have to be some great spas!"

Vegas actually offers spas that range from very affordable to luxuriously elaborate. There is a spa to suit every taste and budget. What you may not know is that the treatments are discounted considerably if you go mid-week rather than on the weekend.

For example, The Palms' lavishly modern Drift Spa has a Spring Fling promotion running right now where you can get 2 50-minute treatments for $185, valid Sunday to Friday! That is only $92.50 per treatment! These same treatments usually run between $135 to $160 each.

Whether you're looking for a romantic couples getaway, a girls' time out, a mother/daughter reconnect, or just some sorely needed R&R for yourself, Vegas has what you need, is only two and a half hours away, and can be very affordable! Call us to help you plan an excursion into self-indulgence. We all need that once in awhile.

Message from Lindy for April

2010-04-30T15:06:00.000-07:00

(To go straight to my picks, click on the photos above.)

For those of you who check my list on a regular basis, I apologize for the delay in getting out my picks for this month. I was traveling in Bali and didn’t get home until after the beginning of the month.

I have mixed feelings about Bali. It is very beautiful in the rain forest area of Ubud. I loved it there and would go back in a heartbeat. The stepped rice fields in the interior of the island are amazing, the shopping is excellent, and the spas are downright decadent! The beach resorts are fabulous with nice beaches (though not as nice as other parts of the world such as Hawaii), great swimming pools, excellent restaurants, intriguing décor, spacious grounds, and truly lovely rooms and luxurious villas. The sunsets are legendary!

Once you leave the resorts, though, the very touristy town sites are quite dingy in the Nusa Dua, Benoa, Sanur, Kuta, and Seminyak areas. The street and beach vendors are extremely aggressive in Bali, especially early in the day. As the afternoon gets hot, I’m not sure if it is because they have made their money for the day or whether it is just too hot, but they are much more relaxed.

I preferred the Monkey Forest Street in Ubud. It is a shopper’s paradise. While touristy, it is not as run down and dirty as the other areas. The Jazz Café in Ubud is definitely worth a visit. They have a different band each night of the week, the staff are wonderful, the food excellent, and the music fantastic! We went for dinner and stayed till closing – the music and dancing were so good.

If you absolutely want all-inclusive accommodation, there aren’t many and they are all in the Benoa area. I toured all of them and recommend the Grand Mirage Resort. The Melia Benoa is also a great hotel but the beach is not as nice.

My personal recommendation is to stay in the beach area of Jimbaran, at the Patra Bali Resort & Villas, for the first 3 to 4 days after arriving to recover from the long flight. Jimbaran is on the west side of the island, near the airport, but much quieter than Kuta or Seminyak and much cleaner than Nusa Dua or Benoa. Then go to the Maya Ubud Resort & Spa for the rest of your stay.

For the ultimate in luxury, stay at the Pita Maha Resort & Spa in Ubud! I was just savoring my tea after lunch in their open air dining room when a rain storm hit. I could have spent the whole afternoon viewing the lush vegetation from that veranda, sipping tea and listening to the rain on the roof. Now that is island paradise!

Best Value in the Industry!

2010-04-08T10:15:00.000-07:00

I just attended a breakfast presentation for Oceania Cruises this morning and am once again impressed with the value you receive for your dollar with Oceania! It's not just the small ship, country club casual ambiance they offer but the attention they give to every minute detail both in handling your reservation and in the actual cruise experience!

If you are looking for interesting itineraries, great service, luxury with real ease and style, and value for money, you can't beat Oceania! With their 2 for 1 pricing and no surcharge to eat at any of their fine restaurants, this is very affordable luxury. Many of their itineraries include free airfare, as well. Because of that, they sell out early. There are still some spaces left on the fall 2010 itineraries but now is the time to be booking for 2011.

For all you foodies out there, Oceania spends more money per guest for food than any other cruise line in the industry. Their goal is not to rival the other cruise lines but to surpass the best restaurants found on shore! Conde Nast magazine gave the Oceania Nautica a perfect score of 100 for its dining.

If you have cruised with Oceania before, I know you are anxious to return. If you have never tried them, you are in for the treat of your life. Call us to explore the possibilities!

The Perfect Gift!

2010-04-06T15:57:00.000-07:00

The Gift of An Incredible Adventure!

Looking for the perfect gift for that someone special in your life? How about an “incredible adventure”?

Fly a MiG 29 over Moscow; star in your own video flying an L-39 jet fighter in California; take a Zero Gravity flight in Florida; get behind the wheel of an authentic race car; “fly” a submersible, underwater craft; fly to the edge of space; become an air show pilot; take a shark diving adventure; experience fire fighting in a burning building; and much more.

These are hands-on experiences with you as the pilot – not simulator training. If you know someone who has always wanted to try an extreme adventure, call me. These adventures are available for individuals or groups.

Testimonial from Robert "Anchor" Morrison

This experience was too awesome to describe. The briefing was professionally done by Otter–despite no previous experience with aerobatics or combat flight, I felt like I understood what we were trying to do. [The instructor] walked me through the drills in the air very clearly and with patience. I felt extremely safe at all times. It was clear that he was not only an accomplished, talented pilot himself, but he was also a great teacher and looked for reasons to give positive feedback…

The Chef's Table!

2010-04-06T15:26:00.000-07:00

New culinary program for Carnival
By Sheila Aue, Tavelinfo

CARNIVAL Cruise Lines is introducing a new fine dining option for its guests – The Chef’s Table.

Launched last year as a pilot program aboard the Carnival Dream and Carnival Ecstasy, the Chef’s table will be rolled out to six other ships, this one-of-a-kind culinary experience includes an exquisite multi-course dinner hosted by one of the line’s master chefs along with a private cocktail reception and a personalized tour of the galley.

With The Chef’s Table, a select group of 12 guests enjoy cocktails and hors d’ouevres hosted by the ship’s chef de cuisine. The chef then takes the group on a personalized tour to see the galley in operation, providing participants with a unique perspective on Carnival’s extensive food and beverage operations.

The evening concludes with a sumptuous full-service dinner with delicious appetizers, entrees and desserts created by the line’s master chefs. Depending on the vessel, the meal takes place in non-traditional dining venues throughout the ship – the galley, library, conference centre, etc.

The Chef’s Table program is being rolled out to the following six ships over the next several weeks: Carnival Liberty, Carnival Sensation, Carnival Imagination, Carnival Inspiration, Carnival Pride and Carnival Fascination.

The program can be booked on board through the ships’ guest information desk. The cost is US$75 per person.

Call me to book your Carnival Cruise if this program appeals to you. . . . Lindy

Visiting Ireland?

2010-04-06T15:19:00.000-07:00

Visiting Ireland This Year?

Do you know a Senior Citizen who is thinking of a trip to Ireland in the future? If so, you may want to tell them this is the year to do it!

Seniority comes with privileges in Ireland this year. The Emerald Isle has announced that Canadians over the age of 66 can enjoy free rail travel throughout the Irish Rail system for up to 12 days this year, thanks to the Irish government’s new Golden Trekker initiative.

Irish Rail crisscrosses the country, offering easy access to its many tourist pleasures. Passes must be booked a minimum of 72 hours before arriving in Ireland. Upon arrival, passes can be picked up at any Irish Rail ticket office by presenting the Golden Trekker confirmation number and your passport. Each pass is valid for four days. Travellers are allowed a maximum of three passes, which can be consecutive. The offer is not valid in Northern Ireland.

If you, or someone you know, would like to take advantage of these passes, call us to book it for you.

Wine Lovers Take Note!

2010-04-06T15:12:00.000-07:00

The Wine Chateaux of St-Emilion Opens Doors on May 1
Apr 02, 2010 By: Mary Winston Nicklin Luxury Travel Advisor

Twenty-three miles east of Bordeaux in Aquitaine, the ancient town of Saint-Emilion is an alluring tourist destination not only for its medieval cobblestoned streets and underground church, but also for its UNESCO-listed vineyards. The history of vine cultivation is impressive. The Romans first planted vines in these parts in the 2nd century, composed Latin odes to the wine produced here, then monks took over the grape cultivation, creating stellar blends. To this day, Saint-Emilion appellations win acclaim around the world.

Wine lovers, take note. The viticulteurs of Saint-Emilion, famous for producing some of the world’s best vintages, are opening their doors to visitors on the May 1 weekend. Discover the beautiful paysage of Saint-Emilion, unchanged for centuries, and a diversity of wines. Your first stop should be the Maison du Vin de Saint-Emilion, situated in the historic city center, to get information about the various chateaux participating in the festive spring weekend. And to get a primer on wine tasting with the oenologue, of course. History buffs can partake in a number of guided city tours and vineyard explorations with the Tourist Office. Best of all: A free contest where you can win bottles of wine (first prize: 48 bottles of A.O.C. du Saint-Emilion).

For accommodations, consider Le Relais de Franc Mayne (pictured), a stylish design hotel nestled in the heart of the vineyards, home to a vast network of underground caves where wine was traditionally aged in barrels.

If you are a wine aficionado and would like to take part in this event, call us now!

Message from Lindy for March!

2010-03-30T15:13:00.000-07:00

(Click on the photo above to check out my picks this month!)

The Olympics have come to a close and the Paralympics begin on March 12th! Don't you just love the energy these games brought to our city? You can see from this picture that our office got right into the spirit of it all!

Vancouver showed the world that we can host a successful, international sporting event. Bravo to the throngs who celebrated the fun but maintained an attitude of respect. My hope now is that we will repeat if for the Paralympics. So often these games get ignored. Let's make sure that doesn't happen in Vancouver!

It's been hard to concentrate on work in the midst of all the excitement! But I know that when the emotion settles and the city gets back to normal, you'll be looking for ideas for your next vacation.

Hope you like my picks this month.

Stunning Yukon Getaway!

2010-03-01T16:21:00.000-08:00

Jason recently spent a weekend in the clean, vast wilderness of the Yukon with its abundant wildlife. Flying for the first time on Air North, he was impressed with their old-fashioned service. Food and drinks onboard are complimentary! Flying over breathtaking views of northern BC and the stunning Yukon landscapes, he arrived in charmingly historic Whitehorse. He recommends you start with a visit to the Whitehorse Information Centre for an overview of the diversity of touring options available.

Alayuk Adventures’ Dog Sledding excursion was the highlight of his trip! They transport you ½ an hour out of Whitehorse and provide all the gear and fun needed to try your hand at mushing. The serenity of the trails will rejuvenate your city weary soul. The MacBride Museum showcasing Klondike history is also a must see.

Only 2 hours away by air, this is the perfect weekend getaway! A package that includes your roundtrip airfare and 2 nights accommodation is available from Air North for $339 per person, twin share, plus taxes. Dog Sledding packages start at $120 per person. For more details, check Travel Group Yukon and Alayuk Adventures. Then call Jason at 604-605-5184 or email him at jason@travelg.com

Civil War History!

2010-03-01T14:25:00.000-08:00

Are you a history buff? Here's your chance to explore those cities that played a major role in the American Civil War!

American Canadian Caribbean Line are a small ship (96 passengers or less) cruise line who give you a chance to experience river cruising without travelling all the way to Europe. This Antibellum Cruise takes you from Charleston, SC through Georgia to Jacksonville, FL.

There are two departures - April 27th or May 7th for 7 nights. Prices start at $1995 per person plus taxes of $75 per person for the cruise only. And if you book before April 15th, you can save an extra $500 per couple! Your flights are additional. You can check out the itinerary and the ship at http://www.accl-smallships.com/Cruise_Details.cfm?Cruise_ID=44

River Cruising At Its Best!

2010-03-01T14:14:00.000-08:00

One time only at this price!

Scenic Tours is opening a new European River Cruise itinerary - 13 Days Amsterdam to Basel. The inaugural cruise is on October 11, 2010 and the prices have been reduced to 2 for 1 fares to introduce this new route. Next year this will be one of their regular cruises and pricing will return to normal.

Scenic offers all-inclusive river cruising in Europe. There are no "optional" extras with this tour company. For complete details click on http://www.milestonejourneys.com/files/Scenic_Tours.pdf

Calling All Foodies!

2010-03-01T13:57:00.000-08:00

Gourmet Provence Experience!

Culinary lessons, wine tastings, private villa accommodations, shopping local markets in Provence for the freshest ingredients for your day's meal! Sound like a dream vacation?

This experience happens only once each year and only 8 people can participate so if this appeals to you, call us right away.

For more details, check out their website at http://www.gourmet-provence-et-vous.com/ and then call us to reserve a place for you.

Spectacular Yangtze!

2010-03-01T11:47:00.000-08:00

Fully escorted from Vancouver, this tour hits all the highlights you most want to see in China - Beijing, Xi'an, Chongquing, Gullin, Suzhou, & Shanghai in addition to the Yangtze River. I recommend this especially if this is your first time to China.

Flights from Vancouver on Japan Airlines; upscale hotels; an outside cabin with balcony on an deluxe, American managed ship on the Yangtze; local tours and attractions in China over 18 days! Prices start at $3890 per person plus taxes and fees. Click here for a detailed itinerary.

Message from Lindy for February!

2010-02-28T11:33:00.000-08:00

(Just click on the photo above to see my picks for this month)

Join Our New Travel Club!

People travel for numerous reasons. Some of us who work hard every day can’t wait to just kick back on a beach, soaking up some rays and playing in the warm water like children. It is our chance to recharge our batteries. When it includes our extended family, it is also a time to reconnect with each other.

For many, travel is an education or an opportunity to pursue our passions, such as following our favorite sports team, learning tricks from the world’s top gardeners, or being privilege to the insider’s tips from a master chef.

But for most of us, the best part about traveling is sharing those experiences with like-minded souls. Sometimes we travel with others who share our passions. At other times we recap our adventures for those who couldn’t accompany us. For us, the joy of the experience is enhanced through sharing.

That’s why we are starting a travel club for those coming up to retirement. If you are over 50 and would enjoy getting together with others who love traveling as much as you do, please check out www.milestonejourneys.com. And please share this site with anyone else you think would enjoy being part of a travel club.

We will get together in person to talk about where we’ve been and where we still want to travel. We may meet strangers who will become new friends and traveling companions. We will invite guest speakers to talk about destinations we have only dreamt about. And once we get to know each other well, we may find we’d like to take trips together. Who knows what may come of it? The possibilities are as endless as the reasons why we each travel!

Mother’s Day!

2010-02-01T12:15:00.000-08:00

Mother’s Day is coming up on May 9th. A mini cruise from California up to Vancouver with the whole extended family is a great way to honor both Mom and Grandma! With three ships and varying lengths of itinerary to choose from, there is something to suit every family.

Holland America’s Ryndam – May 5th to 9th. The ship departs from San Diego, spends 2 days at sea, has a whole day touring in Victoria, and ends in Vancouver. Prices start at CA$439.00 per person, including the flight from Vancouver. Taxes are extra.

Coral Princess – May 6th to 10th. This one departs from Los Angeles, spends 2 days at sea, another whole day in Victoria, and ends in Vancouver. Prices start at CA$529.00 per person, including the flight from Vancouver. Taxes are extra.

Golden Princess – May 9th to 14th. This cruise takes 5 days instead of 4 and stops at Catalina Island, San Francisco, and Victoria before arriving into Vancouver. Prices for this one start at CA$669.00 per person, including the flight from Vancouver to Los Angeles. Taxes are extra.

Milestone Journeys

2010-02-01T12:11:00.000-08:00

Do you dream about exploring your passions all over the world? Would you like to share those passions with like-minded souls who share your dreams? Join Milestone Journeys, A Travel Club for those on the Best Side of 50!

Non-Traditional Travel!

2010-02-01T11:58:00.000-08:00

Tauck Tours has 85 years experience and expertise in offering tours that inspire, educate, and entertain travelers. They have now designed a new segment of their tours called Tauck Culturious – tours for non-traditional travelers looking for something exciting and different. Here’s what they say about their tours –

Culturious is designed for the growing segment of the market who seek:

Immersive adventures that let them discover and embrace what’s special in the places they visit in authentic, meaningful ways

Sightdoing rather than merely sightseeing

Enjoying the fun of being "in the moment" without having to worry about arranging and managing the day-to-day details themselves

Being part of a small group of no more than 16 like-minded folks

Being pampered at unique boutique hotels right in the midst of what they’ve come to experience and dining on the best of local cuisine

Opportunities to mix and mingle with local people in ways that
increase cultural understanding

Hands-on experiences highlighting the local environment, traditions and customs

A chance to see, to hear, to touch and to taste a place in personally enriching ways

A chance to expand their intellectual and physical boundaries – at a pace they choose

If this appeals to you, ask me about Tauck’s Culturious journeys to Tuscany & Cinque Terre, Provence, Costa Rica and South Africa & Namibia.

Antarctica in 2010!

2010-02-01T11:45:00.000-08:00

The New York Times ran an article on The 31 Places to Go in 2010. One of the items was about the new restrictions on tourist ships in Antarctica that take effect within the next two years.

If Antarctica is on your “someday” list of places to see, you might want to consider it sooner rather than later. Here’s what they said in that article –

9. Antarctica
This may be the last year that Antarctica is open to mass tourism — not because the ice is melting too fast (though it is), but because of restrictions that would severely curtail travel around the fragile continent.

Until recently, most vessels passing through Antarctica were limited to scientific expeditions, but an exploding number of tourists now flock to what is arguably the world’s last great wilderness. The tourism boom, scientists argue, poses a major environmental threat. Indeed, several passenger ships have run aground in recent years.

Countries that manage Antarctica are calling for limits on the number of tourist ships, for fortified hulls that can withstand sea ice and for a ban on the use of so-called heavy oils. A ban on heavy oil, which is expected to be adopted by the International Maritime Organization later this year, would effectively block big cruise ships.

With the new rules taking effect within two years, tour operators are promoting 2010 as the last year to visit Antarctica, while, at the same time, procuring lighter vessels that would be permitted. Abercrombie & Kent, for example, is introducing a new ship, Le Boreal (www.abercrombiekent.com), which its public relations firm argues “meets all the environmental regulations, so access to Antarctica via A&K will not be affected.”

Launching this year, the compact luxury ship holds 199 passengers and features an outdoor heated pool, steam rooms and private balconies that offer intimate views of some of the world’s remaining glaciers. — Denny Lee

If you are interested in where others think are the hot spots for 2010, you can check out the whole article at http://www.nytimes.com/2010/01/10/travel/10places.html?utm_source=enews%2001%2F21%2F10&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=NY%20Times%20The%2031%20Places%20to%20Go%20in%202010&ecrmID=1164&gldy=22

Attention Quilters!

2010-02-01T11:42:00.000-08:00

Starting Milestone Journeys Travel Club has me on the lookout for trips that cater particularly to people’s passions. Imagine my delight when I found 3 tours that cater to Quilters! If you know someone who loves to quilt, please tell them to call me for more details about these tours.

These 12 day journeys let you tour the tourist attractions in each area but they focus on points of interest to Quilters, such as quilting, fabrics, needlework, embroidery, rug hooking, mat making, and more. You will meet with local crafters and take in quilt shows.

Quilting in England in the Spring – May 13 – 24, 2010
Takes in the Malvern Quilt Show and the 300 Years of Quilting exhibit at the Victoria & Albert Museum in London.

Quilting & Textile Travel in Newfoundland – Aug. 15 – Sept 4, 2010
Experience the history, geology, scenery, food, culture, language, music, and laughter that is truly Newfoundland.

Quilting & Needlework in England in the Fall – Sept. 29 – Oct. 10, 2010
Special tours at Hampton Court with the Embroiders Guild and the Needlework Museum as well as the Needlework Show at Alexandra Palace will be featured.

Message from Lindy for January!

2010-01-31T22:15:00.000-08:00

(Just click on the photo above to see my picks for this month)

This is the time of year we make resolutions to improve our lives somehow - lose weight, exercise more, spend more time with loved ones and less time working! In keeping with our interest in pursuing a healthier lifestyle, the travel industry offers a multitude of walking, hiking, or biking tours. Not only do these help us stay in shape, they give us a much more "up close and personal" view of the world around us.

Several destinations in the world are particularly conducive to walking tours which expose the traveller to the best of nature and culture. If you appreciate hot climates, wildlife and flat terrain, you could opt for a walking safari in Zambia. Those who can handle the cold, could hike the glaciers in Patagonia. If you are a beginner and worried about distance or level of difficulty, you could pick a tour with shorter walks and/or gentle hikes. The fun of walking tours is that they are easily personalized by the traveller.

You can expect to walk between 4 to 8 miles a day but seeing the world by foot yields a rare experience. You get to bond with interesting locals, travel down roads used by local villagers, stroll through great landscapes, and learn the ecology, history and culture of the area.

I have never done a walking tour but I do know I can walk 8 miles. I've been seriously thinking of trying this form of travel. Anyone want to join me?

Charming Portland!

2010-01-01T13:55:00.000-08:00

If you asked your friends, family, or coworkers where to go for a short getaway a little closer to home, I’ll bet not many of them would suggest Portland, OR. While Portland isn’t any warmer than here this time of year, this big city with small town charm has lots to offer for an extra long weekend.

Portland makes a great shopping destination because Oregon has no sales tax. The city is easy to navigate with the MAX Light Rail which is free in the downtown core. Powell’s Book Store has no equal anywhere in the West. It kept me occupied for a whole afternoon. They have a great zoo, an authentic Chinese Garden, a happening Saturday market (that operates both Saturdays & Sundays), and their famous rose garden in the summer, but over the next two months, Portland offers culture galore!

The Reel Music Festival (Jan. 9-31) explores the interplay of cinema, music and culture. From ukuleles to self-playing guitars, this year’s lineup will be music to the ears of film fans and music lovers alike. At the Fertile Ground Festival, Jan. 22-Feb. 2, you can pick from more than 30 theatre premieres and other arts events. The Portland Jazz Festival, Feb. 21 -28, features an array of local and international acts, including the U.S. debuts of rising Norwegian stars. With so much jazz on tap, you’ll want to stay another night.

So whether you are looking for a Girls Weekend or a quick getaway for 2, you might want to ask us to check out Portland for you.

Reliving Fairy Tales

2010-01-01T11:41:00.000-08:00

Sleeping Beauty, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, and the valiant Bremen Town Musicians are known around the world. Disney has popularized them but they are actually tributes to two brothers, Jakob & Whilhem Grimm who lived in Hanau, Germany in the early 1800s.

Although UNESCO only recently declared their fairy tales a part of the World Document Heritage, the German Fairy Tale Route was established 30 years ago. The route begins in Hanau where the annual Brothers Grimm Fairy Tale Festival takes place against the picturesque backdrop of Philippsruhe Palace from May to July.

But all along the route which winds its way north to Bremen, the route features art, culture, and poetic landscapes in which childhood dreams come alive. Wonderful little towns with half-timbered houses lie in wait all along this beloved route, as well as the lively towns. Museums and galleries bring the fairy tales of the region to life.

If you’re looking for something special that appeals to children and adults alike, call us to help you plan a trip down fairy tale road!

Beijing to Vancouver!

2010-01-01T11:04:00.000-08:00

For those of you who can take a longer vacation, how does a one-way cruise from Beijing to Vancouver sound? With 3 days in Beijing and a 23 day cruise via Korea, Russia, Japan, and Alaska, the starting price of $2838 per person including the flight from Vancouver to Beijing is a fabulous deal!

And no, this isn't a barge at that price. Cruise aboard the Diamond Princess, stay at the Jade Palace for 3 nights in Beijing, take 2 full day tours with an English speaking guide in Beijing,
and enjoy their famous Peking Duck Dinner in Beijing. Package also includes breakfast daily, two lunches, and one other dinner while in Beijing. Taxes and Visas for China and Russia are extra.

Click here for itinerary and then call us to book it for you.

Bali Getaway

2010-01-01T10:40:00.000-08:00

Looking for somewhere warm but tired of the same old; same old? How about trying Bali? Here's what the Lonely Planet has to say about Bali's diversity -

"Small obviously doesn’t mean limited. The manic whirl of Kuta segues into the luxury of Seminyak. The artistic swirl of Ubud is a counterpoint to misty treks amid the volcanoes. Mellow beach towns like Amed, Lovina and Pemuteran can be found right round the coast and just offshore is the laid-back idyll of Nusa Lembongan."

Packages include roundtrip economy class flights from Vancouver on Japan Airlines, roundtrip airport transfers in Bali, 7- or 12-nights accommodation, breakfast daily, 2 full day and 1 half day sightseeing tours with the 7 day package, and 3 full day and 2 half day tours with the 12 day package.

You can choose from a 2-1/2 Star property right up to a 5-1/2 star resort with prices ranging from $1270 to $1820 per person based on double occupancy. Taxes and Visa (obtained upon arrival) are extra. Click here for more info and then call us to help you get out of the rain!

In Pharoah's Footsteps!

2010-01-01T10:20:00.000-08:00

As the weather cools down, may we suggest the exotic land of Egypt this month? Pour a cup of hot chocolate, curl up to the fire and imagine yourself exploring the markets of Cairo, the Pyramids of Giza and walking in the footsteps of the Pharaohs.

Viking River Cruises offers two wonderful itineraries in 2010. The 12 day Pathways for the Pharaohs takes you on an extended journey down the Nile and into Lake Nasser to explore not only the Valley of the Kings and Queens but also the temples at Abu Simbel. Time to seek the treasures of Cairo and Luxor, shop in the souks and take a felucca ride on the Nile are all included.

For those looking for a shorter journey, they offer the Nile Explorer. Enjoy a fully guided 9 day adventure exploring the antiquities of Cairo, the Nile and Aswan all with an experienced Egyptologist. What a great way to escape winter!

Call us for more details.

Romantic Fiji!

2009-12-01T16:29:00.001-08:00

Fiji is a wonderful place to visit and one of the world's best kept untouched secrets! Tokoriki Island Resort is a true island escape without the crowds, where romance meets affordable luxury.

Tokoriki's latest offer is for stays of 6 nights or more receive a free Kavuni Wedding or Renewal of Vows Package. This super deal includes flowers for the bride and groom, traditional flower leis and floral tiara and the ceremony by a Minister. The Deluxe Beach Bure for this 6 nights package for 2 people is currently C$3264 plus approx C$200 per person for ferry transfers to and from the island for departures after 01 April 2010. Air Pacific are offering great airfares to currently from C$1298 per person plus taxes from Vancouver.

Tokoriki is a delightful island for an idyllic escape, combining style with a relaxed atmosphere on a picturesque beachfront in the Fijian Mamanucas. Contact Jason in our South Pacific Division for more details regarding this special and many more options to the world's friendliest country, Fiji!

For you winter lovers out there!

2009-12-01T12:25:00.000-08:00

I'll admit that I am probably one of a small minority, but if you love winter like I do, you might want to consider a trip to Crested Butte.

Crested Butte is a true Colorado ski town that has retained its small-town charm and the adventurous soul it has always had. With no traffic lights or chain stores, the genuine nature of the community and the pristine surroundings immediately capture you. When you're in Crested Butte, you're connected with an adventurous mountain lifestyle amid an unspoiled mountain landscape and dramatic peaks.

Walk the streets of the historic mining town or view the ski area's iconic crested peak for the first time and you will know this is a special place. The resort has a natural character that is both distinctive and exhilarating. From the abundant wide-open green and blue groomed trails to more advanced long cruisers and the famous extreme limits of the North Face and Headwall, this mountain has it all.

The sense of exploration continues off the slopes. With 30 bars and everything from sushi to sandwiches, the town of Crested Butte offers some of the most diverse and distinctive bars, restaurants and nightlife found in any ski town.

The Best Shore Excursions!

2009-12-01T11:21:00.000-08:00

Our affiliation with Ensemble Travel now allows us to specialize in smaller, more creative, and better priced shore excursions and activities for all your cruises. Ensemble staff have personally met and approved each of our 2,000 world-wide operators, all of whom are licensed, insured, and the best in their field.

Whatever you need: excursions, activities, transfers, or pre- and post- cruise accommodations, we are able to fulfill your requests. Immerse yourself in travel at its best - experience new cultures, escape the crowds, participate in activities run by the best guides in the world.

Here’s a comment from well known travel writer, Arthur Frommer –

"Shore Excursions. . . At last! A company that will book your shore excursions for less than you'd pay to a cruise line & for a better tour."

A Foodie's Dream Come True!

2009-12-01T11:13:00.000-08:00

THE CARIBBEAN'S PREMIER EPICUREAN EVENT

Join famed Chef Eric Ripert for a weekend celebrating food, wine and the stunning tropical surroundings of the Cayman Islands.

This fabulous dining event, held January 14-18, 2010, features an incomparable roster of world-famous chefs including Anthony Bourdain, David Chang, Gail Simmons, Grant Achatz, Jose Andres and Dean Fearing.

Ask us to reserve the Cayman Cookout package* and you will enjoy accommodations, tastings, demonstrations, tours, and dinners that celebrate the Cayman Islands.

To view the chefs participating in this cookout, go to http://www.caymanislands.ky/cayman_cookout/bios.aspx

Holiday Memories!

2009-12-01T10:36:00.000-08:00

The holiday season is the time to create those lasting family memories. Think of the fun the kids will have teaching Dad to surf; or the lasting memory of skating hand-in-hand with grandma on an ice rink at sea! The kids will have wonderful tales to tell when school starts again in January.

Every member of the family, at every age, will find lots to keep busy on Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines' ships. And they still have space available on several of their holiday sailings in the Caribbean.

Call us today to make sure you don't miss out!

The Christmas Train

2009-12-01T09:52:00.000-08:00

Just click on the photos above to see my picks for this month.

You can take the kids to see Santa at the mall but for an unusual treat this year, why not take in the CPR Holiday Train and support your local food bank in the process.

The Canadian Pacific Holiday Train hit the rails again this November, visiting over 130 communities in eight states and six provinces. In the last decade, the Holiday Train has helped raise $4 million and 2 million pounds of food for local food banks.

In these tough economic times, 20% more Canadians are turning to food banks for support this year and 30% more Americans are at risk of hunger. Hunger continues to be a problem and food banks need our help now more than ever.

Bring a cash or food donation to the Holiday Train event in your community and help feed the needy.

To see the train schedule or to make an online donation go to- http://www8.cpr.ca/English/General+Public/Holiday+Train/default.htm

Galapagos & Peru!

2009-10-29T16:02:00.000-07:00

I have clients who pointed out this tour to me and, as a photographer, I think this is an incredible combination. The website describes it much better than I could, so please check it out -

"Thematically, one might ask, why connect a visit to Peru with an expedition to the Galápagos Islands? For that, we have two distinct answers: Firstly, as magnificent as the Galápagos Islands are for wildlife, so is Peru from an historical and archaeological perspective. Secondly, Peru’s capital city of Lima, is less than two hours away by air from Guayaquil. So, if you have the time, you’re almost there anyway!

There are a couple of key issues to point out following the expedition to Galápagos aboard National Geographic Endeavour: We spend a full week in Peru. Even though for many the highlight of the trip is an overnight stay in Machu Picchu, the fact is that rushing from sea level through the high altitudes of Machu Picchu and back to sea level in only a few days is just not wise. It takes time to adjust. The main reason however is that there is just so much more to Peru, including Lima, The Sacred Valley of the Inca and the ancient Incan capital of Cusco, which you can read more about in the Day-by-Day itinerary.

So please, read on and we hope you become inspired to join us." http://www.expeditions.com/Itineraries45.asp?Expedition=706&Destination=294

Wellness & Adventure!

2009-10-29T15:32:00.000-07:00

One of our own agents, Annie Smits, has friends who run wellness retreats in Costa Rica. Their aim is to "provide you with an unforgettable and renewing experience in which your body, mind, and spirit will be pampered in this invigorating tropical setting."

What makes this resort so unique is that they combine yoga classes, surfing lessons, and spanish lessons! Costa Rica is one of the best surfing destinations in the world and what better way to experience the culture than to learn the language and mix with the local people! They offer packages that take in many of the attractions of Costa Rica or they will customize a retreat for your group.

Check them out at http://sotoretreats.com/ and give Annie a call if this piques your interest. Her direct line is 604-605-5178.

Wander Paris!

2009-10-29T14:36:00.000-07:00

Paris, the city of love, is popular all year round and I just discovered some really unusual tours for those of you who have been there many times and think you've seen it all.

Paris Along Unknown Streets - This is a walking tour that takes you up narrow streets and into flowery courtyards. Your hostess will introduce you to her friends -- the artists and residents of working class Belleville -- rather than lecturing on its history. It's also a great place to shop for unique gifts. A bargain at EUR 12.00.

Water Tour - A knowledgeable guide shows you the beauty of the fountains and rivers of Paris while explaining their history and significance to the local people. Did you know that artists make the rivers of Paris come to life with sculptures? This tour is not only informative but takes in the beauty of Paris! A unique way to see the city for only EUR 5.00.

2CV Driving Tour - This is a quirky tour with a title that translates to "four wheels under one umbrella". Your driver, sporting a beret, will show you around Paris in the popular French Citroen 2CV car. Prices start at EUR 19.00.

Paris Prive - This is a made-to-order private service for those who can pay for exclusivity! See the Eiffel Tower after hours, master the art of French cuisine with the help of a starred chef, or sample custom-made perfumes in the city's most exclusive boutiques. You'll need to put out EUR 400.00+ for this one!

This is only a sampling of what is available if you dig below the surface of this fascinating city! Ask me about others.

This Non-Techie Needs Your Help

2009-10-29T13:21:00.000-07:00

If you want to skip my blurb you can see my picks by just clicking on the photos above.

Those who know me well are painfully aware that I am the most technologically challenged person you could meet. I don’t own a cell phone and I only just this month graduated from dial-up to ADSL for my home computer! My kids kept telling me I must be the last person in the world still on dial-up!

Technology holds no interest for me and as long as there is a techie around who can take care of all the technical issues that arise, I can spend my time pursuing the things that do interest me, like travel. I read an article recently, though, on how to locate the best Wi-Fi at airports and hotels worldwide that I thought might be of interest to you!

Just because there is a Wi-Fi signal it doesn’t necessarily mean it will work well. And when it is clogged from overuse or has a weak signal do you know how to locate another, possibly stronger or less used, signal nearby? Have any of you discovered and do you use the Wi-Fi finder at http://v4.jiwire.com/search-hotspot-locations.htm? Can you share with our readers, who may not have used it yet, whether or not it is a good tool?

The rule of thumb in writing is "stick to what I know", but I thought this might be valuable info for those of you who travel a lot and need to stay in touch. Since I'm not savvy enough to know these things, we need comments from those of you who have tried this site to let us know if the info it supplies is useful. You can leave your comments by clicking here. Thanks for your help!

Think Christmas!

2009-10-29T12:50:00.000-07:00

The best resorts sell out early for the Christmas holidays so now is the time to be booking if you are wanting to get away at that time. Signature Vacations has some good properties still available at more affordable pricing than we usually see at Christmas time. Here are a couple of suggestions for the week of December 20th to 27th

Grand Marival Nuevo Vallarta - This 4-Star family resort sits on a 900 foot stretch of beach and has something for everyone! There is a water park for the kids; an active pool for those who like the action; and a quiet, adult oriented pool for complete relaxation. The all-inclusive rate in a grand room is $1238 per adult and $908 per child. Taxes and fees are extra at $262.75 per person, making the total for a family of 4 - $5343.

If you prefer a romantic getaway for 2, the adults only Golden Parnassus Resort & Spa in Cancun is only $180 per person more. This resort has 4 a-la-carte restaurants but it also gives you access to all the services and facilities at their sister property, Great Parnassus, just 5 minutes away. Transportation is provided between the two hotels hourly and is free of charge. Total price for two is $3361.50. A great price for the holiday season!

Creating Memories!

2009-10-29T12:17:00.000-07:00

Are you looking for a Christmas vacation where the whole family can travel together and still have something interesting and fun for each generation? That’s where cruising excels! And I think a couple of the cruise lines do it better than others –

Carnival Cruise Lines – I recently cruised with Carnival and have to admit I was pleasantly surprised. I’m in my 60’s and was traveling with my daughter who is in her early 30’s. I had heard that Carnival is the party hearty cruise line so I was not really expecting to enjoy it. I discovered they have something great for all ages – interesting and educational children’s/teens activities; a happening disco for the younger crowd tucked away where the noise wouldn’t disturb the other passengers; a karaoke bar for those who like to be their own entertainment; a country bar if line dancing is your thing; a piano bar that played New Orleans style jazz; dancing to music from the 60’s & 70’s in one of the theatres; and a classical trio in yet another bar. All this in addition to the casino and the show lounge. With this variety in the evening and the abundance of activities to choose from during the day, you’ll have lots of opportunities to create lasting memories!

Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines - Their Voyager Class and Freedom Class ships are absolutely amazing! With their surf simulators, golf simulators, rock climbing walls, skating rinks, sports courts, water parks, boxing rings, and miniature golf courses, everyone can find something fun to do! The Royal Promenade in the middle of the ship is like a city street with boutique stores, coffee & ice cream shops, and restaurants. It's a great place to just stroll. I’ve had a number of multi-generational families cruise on these ships and they just love it! The new Oasis Class ships have even more WOW! You can’t go wrong with any of these ships.

If any of you have cruised with your family on one of these ships, please share your experience with the rest of us!

Lindy’s List for October 2009

2009-10-28T12:47:00.000-07:00

1. Thinking of taking the kids to Disneyland? Now is the time to do it. If you book before September 30th, the kids get to fly for the taxes only. We can build you a package including the roundtrip flights, hotel, airport transfers, Disney passes, character breakfasts or lunches, and/or anything you’d like to add. OR

For a more exciting adventure, you could cruise down to Los Angeles for 3 days on the beautiful Sapphire Princess, spend 3 days in Anaheim staying at the Sheraton Park Anaheim, and fly home. more

2. Germany’s Romantic Road! This 350 km. highway from Wurzburg to Fussen with all its medieval German towns along the way has become Germany’s best known and most popular tourist route. Because I like everything old, it is one of my favorite parts of Europe.

What is the Romantic Road? If a straight line is the shortest connection between two points, the Romantic Road is undoubtedly the most attractive connection between more than two dozen South German towns, all of which hold staring places in travel guides on the region. more

3. Lend a Helping Hand: Have you ever thought of what it takes to make a difference in someone’s life? There are many opportunities today to actually contribute to the betterment of the world. One of those opportunities that is becoming more and more popular is to volunteer abroad.

Do you love animals? If so, how about going to South Africa to help feed baby lions or to work with dolphin conservation? What about heading to China to help develop educational programs to help support Pandas?

If working with people is more your thing, programs abound that allow you to work in disadvantaged communities to help build houses, volunteer as a teacher or a sports coach, or contribute as a conservation volunteer. There are so many ways in which we, as a more prosperous people, can help others. more

4. Cool City - Buenos Aires: This capital city, once a prosperous European-style metropolis teeming with glamorous tango halls and grand cafes, buckled under the strain of a military government and several economic collapses. But Buenos Aires is back on its feet. A talented generation of designers, soccer players, musicians and restaurateurs have reinvigorated the beleaguered capital, transforming it into one of the most talked-about travel destinations on the planet.

The hype, after all, is warranted – the steak really is the best in the world, dance halls fill with tango students every night of the week, the soccer matches are intense and passionate, the wine is affordable and delicious. But Buenos Aires’ magnetism, as any local will tell you, extends well beyond such clichés. Architecturally speaking, the city is a fascinating microcosm of styles from colonial to belle epoque to modernist. The Parisian-style cafe circuit, backed by an intriguing literary history, is paradise for bookish types and coffee lovers, and the edgy local fashion scene seduces design-minded travelers. more

5. Tour Vietnam: Since we are coming up to the best time of year to visit northern Vietnam (September to December, and then again in March to April) I thought it would be a good idea to feature this lovely country this month.

This tour gives you everything – the history, the culture, a view into the real daily life of local people, the stunning natural beauty of the mountains, the geographical splendours of Halong Bay, rice paddies, caves, the rivers, and the trains.

This 11-Day tour leaves Vancouver daily from September to March on either Japan Airlines or Cathay Pacific. Prices start at $2420 per person based on double occupancy and include the transpacific flights. Taxes are additional. You will also need a Vietnam Visa for this trip. To view the daily itinerary go to more

All-Inclusive Madness!

2009-09-28T15:53:00.000-07:00

Nolitours is offering a fantastic deal to the Royal Decameron Complex in the Nuevo area of Puerto Vallarta (now called Vallarta Nayarit)! For departure on October 17th for one week, a package that includes your roundtrip flights from Vancouver, roundtrip airport transfers, and 7 nights all-inclusive accommodation in a regular hotel room is only CA$397 per person plus taxes of $263.25, for a total of CA$660.25 per person! Now that's a deal!

This is a solid 3-1/2 Star resort situated right on the beach and has a high satisfaction rating with those who have stayed here in the past. With its unique Mexican influence and many local guests, it is a Canadian favorite and great value at these prices.

A Message from Lindy

2009-09-28T15:15:00.000-07:00

Hope you like the new format of Lindy's List. If you want to skip my blurb you can see my picks by just clicking on the photos above. For those of you who are interested in news and events in the travel industry, I'll be using this message at the beginning to tell you about things that might pique your interest.

This month, let me share with you this messsage from Boris de Munnick, Head of Publicity for the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam. This is my favorite museum in Amsterdam. Many people think the whole museum is closed to the public while it is undergoing renovations. Not so. It is still possible to view some of their best pieces -

As you know, the main building of the Rijksmuseum has been closed for renovation, reconstruction and restoration since December 2003. As from this month, September 2009, the builders have started their work and the museum will reopen to the public in the first half of 2013. As soon as we know the exact month and day of re-opening we will of course inform you as soon as possible.

After the reopening in 2013, the Rijksmuseum’s visitors will experience how art and society have changed over the centuries, from medieval times through the Golden Age to today. History and art will be combined chronologically in order to create a sense of time and a feeling for beauty. In the newly renovated Rijksmuseum there will also be two new additions: the Asian Pavilion and an educational building.

Until reopening, the Rijksmuseum shows the very best of its collection in an exhibition called The Masterpieces. This presentation in the Philips Wing provides an exceptional opportunity to see the highlights of the Golden Age: the beautiful doll houses, a wealth of silverware, the best Delftware, the spectacular civic company pieces, icons of Dutch history and of course the public’s favorites like the famous paintings by Jan Steen, Frans Hals, Vermeer and Rembrandt, among which The Nightwatch. Over 400 masterpieces are on show.

Rijksmuseum, Museumplein/Jan Luykenstraat 1, Amsterdam, telephone 020-6747000, www.rijksmuseum.nl; open every day except January 1, 9 am to 6 pm, Friday 9 am to 9.30 pm

Avoiding Olympic Fever!

2009-09-28T15:08:00.000-07:00

There are those of us who thrive on the excitement of having the Olympics in our own city and then there are those who would like to be out of town at that time. For those of you who count yourselves in the latter group, click here to see the great offers Air Canada Vacations has put together just for you!