Slim: Just over 1/3 of an inch, as thin as most magazines
Lightweight: At 10.2 ounces, lighter than a typical paperback
Wireless: 3G wireless lets you download books right from your Kindle, anytime, anywhere; no monthly fees, service plans, or hunting for Wi-Fi hotspots
Books in Under 60 Seconds: Get books delivered in less than 60 seconds; no PC required
Improved Display: Reads like real paper; now boasts 16 shades of gray for clear text and even crisper images
Longer Battery Life: 25% longer battery life; read for days without recharging
More Storage: Take your library with you; holds over 1,500 booksFaster Page Turns: 20% faster page turns
Read-to-Me: With the new text-to-speech feature, Kindle can read every newspaper, magazine, blog, and book out loud to you, unless the book is disabled by the rights holder
Large Selection: Over 260,000 books plus U.S. and international newspapers, magazines, and blogs available
Low Book Prices: New York Times Best Sellers and New Releases $9.99, unless marked otherwise
Pros
Screen is easy to read both indoors and out, and font size is adjustable.
Longer battery life than Kindle 1; can last two weeks without recharging.
Slimmer design than original version.
Low-cost books (most for under $10), with free classics available online.
New free application lets you transfer existing Kindle titles to the iPhone.
Cons
High initial cost ($359).
Wireless function doesn't work outside the USA.
Limited participation by major guidebook publishers.
One-column format and lack of color for photos and maps.
Protective cover must be purchased separately; $30 through Amazon.com.
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Monday, March 2, 2009
Monday, February 9, 2009
Sunday, February 1, 2009
February 1, 2009 KSL Travel Show
February 1, 2009
KSL Travel Show
Black Book – Fairbanks, Alaska. Dog sledding day tour, Alaskan Tails of the Trail, by Mary Shields. The first woman ever to finish the 1,049 mile Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. She has participated in the Yukon quest and the Hope Race from Alaska to Siberia. Mary is the author of 5 books and has been featured in a PBS documentary. www.maryshields.com
Adventure on a Tank of Gas – According to Ski Magazine, Utah’s biggest secret – Snowbasin. The best Resort in the West you have never skied. http://www.skinet.com/travel/2009-01/utahs-big-secret-snowbasin
I don’t normally recommend Hotel’s, but if you do want to stay in one, I would recommend one on the list of HOSCARS.
The red carpet was rolled out in Dublin last night for one of the budget travel industry’s most anticipated events of the year as the HOSCARS (HOStelworld Customer Annual Ratings) took place to recognise the best hostels in the world.
The winners of the coveted Hoscars were:
1. Traveller’s House, Lisbon, Portugal
2. Rossio Hostel, Lisbon, Portugal
3. Lisbon Lounge, Lisbon, Portugal
4. The Riverhouse Backpackers, Cardiff, Wales
5. Greg-Tom Hostel, Krakow, Poland
6. Sitting On The City Walls Courtyard House, Beijing, China
7. Academy Hostel, Florence, Italy
8. Goodnight Backpackers, Lisbon, Portugal
9. Flamingo Hostel, Krakow, Poland
10. Mambo Tango Backpackers Hostel, Barcelona, Spain
Top Hostels by Continent: North America
1. Clarence Castle, Toronto, Canada
2. Hostel Seattle, Seattle, USA
3. Alexandrie-Montreal, Montreal, Canada
Latin America
1. HI Patagonia Hostel Puerto Madryn, Puerto Madryn, Argentina
2. Hostel Estoril, Buenos Aires, Argentina
3. Hostel Lao, Mendoza, Argentina
Africa
1. Equity Point, Marrakech, Morocco
2. Hostel Essaouira, Essaouria, Morocco
3. The Backpack & Africa Travel Centre, Cape Town, South Africa
Asia
1. Sitting On The City Walls Courtyard House, Beijing, China
2. Zhengjia International Youth Hostel, Pingyao, China
3. Eight Elephants Hostel, Taipei, Taiwan
Oceania
1. YHA Rotorua Treks, Rotorua, New Zealand
2. Dreamtime Travellers Rest, Cairns, Australia
3. Jailhouse Accommodation, Christchurch, New Zealand
Special Category Awards were also given to the following hostels:
Cleanest Hostel: Lisbon Lounge, Lisbon, Portugal
Most Secure Hostel: Budapest Bubble, Budapest, Hungary
Most Fun Hostel: Rossio Hostel, Lisbon, Portugal
Hostel with Best Location: Traveller’s House, Lisbon, Portugal
Best Staff: The Riverhouse Backpackers, Cardiff, Wales
Hostel with Best Character: Traveller’s House, Lisbon, Portugal
Best Small Hostel [Max 50 beds]: Rossio Hostel, Lisbon, Portugal
Best Large Hostel [Min 500 beds]: Wombat’s City Hostel, Berlin, Germany
Most Improved Hostel: Marlborough Hostel, Dublin, Ireland
Best Hostel Chain
Wombats, Austria and Germany
Hatters Hostels, England
St Christopher’s Hostels – Belgium, England, France, Netherlands, Scotland
Who says “Any Publicity is Good Publicity”?
TRIPADVISOR'S DIRTIEST HOTELS IN THE UNITED STATES
1. Hotel Carter, New York 2. Continental Bayside Hotel, Miami Beach 3. New York Inn, New York 4. Eden Roc Motel, Wildwood, N.J. 5. Days Inn Cleveland Airport, Brook Park, Ohio 6. Days Inn Airport/Stadium Tampa, Tampa 7. Travelodge Bangor, Bangor, Maine 8. Velda Rose Resort Hotel, Hot Springs, Ark.9. Ramada Plaza Hotel JFK International Airport, Jamaica, N.Y. 10. Days Inn & Suites Gatlinburg, Gatlinburg, Tenn.
This is Hilarious, because with this list above, Tripadvisor lists the price and ability to book on line through their site.
KSL Travel Show
Black Book – Fairbanks, Alaska. Dog sledding day tour, Alaskan Tails of the Trail, by Mary Shields. The first woman ever to finish the 1,049 mile Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. She has participated in the Yukon quest and the Hope Race from Alaska to Siberia. Mary is the author of 5 books and has been featured in a PBS documentary. www.maryshields.com
Adventure on a Tank of Gas – According to Ski Magazine, Utah’s biggest secret – Snowbasin. The best Resort in the West you have never skied. http://www.skinet.com/travel/2009-01/utahs-big-secret-snowbasin
I don’t normally recommend Hotel’s, but if you do want to stay in one, I would recommend one on the list of HOSCARS.
The red carpet was rolled out in Dublin last night for one of the budget travel industry’s most anticipated events of the year as the HOSCARS (HOStelworld Customer Annual Ratings) took place to recognise the best hostels in the world.
The winners of the coveted Hoscars were:
1. Traveller’s House, Lisbon, Portugal
2. Rossio Hostel, Lisbon, Portugal
3. Lisbon Lounge, Lisbon, Portugal
4. The Riverhouse Backpackers, Cardiff, Wales
5. Greg-Tom Hostel, Krakow, Poland
6. Sitting On The City Walls Courtyard House, Beijing, China
7. Academy Hostel, Florence, Italy
8. Goodnight Backpackers, Lisbon, Portugal
9. Flamingo Hostel, Krakow, Poland
10. Mambo Tango Backpackers Hostel, Barcelona, Spain
Top Hostels by Continent: North America
1. Clarence Castle, Toronto, Canada
2. Hostel Seattle, Seattle, USA
3. Alexandrie-Montreal, Montreal, Canada
Latin America
1. HI Patagonia Hostel Puerto Madryn, Puerto Madryn, Argentina
2. Hostel Estoril, Buenos Aires, Argentina
3. Hostel Lao, Mendoza, Argentina
Africa
1. Equity Point, Marrakech, Morocco
2. Hostel Essaouira, Essaouria, Morocco
3. The Backpack & Africa Travel Centre, Cape Town, South Africa
Asia
1. Sitting On The City Walls Courtyard House, Beijing, China
2. Zhengjia International Youth Hostel, Pingyao, China
3. Eight Elephants Hostel, Taipei, Taiwan
Oceania
1. YHA Rotorua Treks, Rotorua, New Zealand
2. Dreamtime Travellers Rest, Cairns, Australia
3. Jailhouse Accommodation, Christchurch, New Zealand
Special Category Awards were also given to the following hostels:
Cleanest Hostel: Lisbon Lounge, Lisbon, Portugal
Most Secure Hostel: Budapest Bubble, Budapest, Hungary
Most Fun Hostel: Rossio Hostel, Lisbon, Portugal
Hostel with Best Location: Traveller’s House, Lisbon, Portugal
Best Staff: The Riverhouse Backpackers, Cardiff, Wales
Hostel with Best Character: Traveller’s House, Lisbon, Portugal
Best Small Hostel [Max 50 beds]: Rossio Hostel, Lisbon, Portugal
Best Large Hostel [Min 500 beds]: Wombat’s City Hostel, Berlin, Germany
Most Improved Hostel: Marlborough Hostel, Dublin, Ireland
Best Hostel Chain
Wombats, Austria and Germany
Hatters Hostels, England
St Christopher’s Hostels – Belgium, England, France, Netherlands, Scotland
Who says “Any Publicity is Good Publicity”?
TRIPADVISOR'S DIRTIEST HOTELS IN THE UNITED STATES
1. Hotel Carter, New York 2. Continental Bayside Hotel, Miami Beach 3. New York Inn, New York 4. Eden Roc Motel, Wildwood, N.J. 5. Days Inn Cleveland Airport, Brook Park, Ohio 6. Days Inn Airport/Stadium Tampa, Tampa 7. Travelodge Bangor, Bangor, Maine 8. Velda Rose Resort Hotel, Hot Springs, Ark.9. Ramada Plaza Hotel JFK International Airport, Jamaica, N.Y. 10. Days Inn & Suites Gatlinburg, Gatlinburg, Tenn.
This is Hilarious, because with this list above, Tripadvisor lists the price and ability to book on line through their site.
Sunday, January 25, 2009
KSL Travel Show January 25, 2009
KSL Travel Show by Douglas Wren
January 25, 2009 – Sunday noon – 2pm MST
Airline Fees: Two sites that I think are great for comparing airline fees.
http://rickseaney.com/domestic-airline-fee-chart-2/
Rick Seaney (pronounced See knee) is one of the original founders and the CEO of farecompare.com.
http://www.smartertravel.com/blogs/today-in-travel/airline-fees-the-ultimate-guide.html?id=2623262 from this link you can download the latest PDF version of airline fees brought to you by SmarterTravel, Airfarewatchdog, and SeatGuru.
Why use a Travel Agent/Travel professional? An experience this weekend reminded me again why a travel professional working for you is the best decision you can make when planning a trip. When booking a last minute trip for three business professionals from Philadelphia to Dubai I found that British Airways would provide the best connections and value for business class travel. The problem I encountered was seat assignments. I could book three business class spaces, but no seats were available for selection until 24 hours in advance. As they were traveling on a Saturday night, I planned on being home on Friday night making their seat assignments via the internet. Sure enough on Friday night at 23 hours and 59 minutes before departure, I was logged on to the British Airways website, making the seat assignments my clients had requested. Unfortunately I ran into technical difficulties and ended up calling British Airways for assistance. After 30 minutes on the phone, I was informed they could not help with seat assignments, only via the web going through the entire check-in process could seats be made. I went back to the Airlines website and researched their seat assignment policy and found out, “First class passengers customers can choose their seat at the time of booking and change at any time until they have checked in.” I called back and 25 minutes later, I was speaking with a supervisor pleading my case. Well, it all worked out after about an hour and 15 minutes total time on a Friday night. My Point is, get a travel agent, who cares about your trip, as much as you do. Start a business relationship with them and be loyal, they will go the extra mile!
The Good ole days are back! This Sunday there is an 8 page spread in the Deseret News and Salt Lake Tribune from Morris Murdock Travel. Amy Ochoa of Morris Murdock will be in Studio at 12:15pm sharing inside information on the 13th annual Morris Murdock Travel Show at the South Towne Expo Center from January 30-31st. Listen to the Pod cast for information how to get a free pass.
Tips for cruising on a budget – Make a budget!!!!
http://www.independenttraveler.com/travel%2Dbudget%2Dcalculator/
American Express Agents Report Trends for 2009 Fri Jan 09 2009, by Travel Trade Staff American Express Travel specialists say their top travel trends for 2009 include the continued growth of special interest and niche travel, climate travel and solo travel, as well as some patterns emerging from the economic downturn.
These include:
"Second City Travel" - Visiting smaller, lesser-known cities can yield a more affordable, though equally enriching, vacation experience, according to the Amex agents. For example, visiting Birmingham, England instead of London; or vacationing in Calgary, instead of Toronto.
"Tried and True Travel" - Travelers are expected to return to destinations that they know and love in greater numbers, because, according to Amex, it is a safe way to ensure an enjoyable vacation, and it allows travelers to explore destinations more thoughtfully, while giving them a true sense of costs.
"Closer to Home" Travel - Expanding beyond this year's "staycation" trend, travelers are expected to seek "closer to home" and affordable alternatives to overseas destinations. For example, visiting Montreal, instead of Paris.
Vacation Home Rentals Support Multigenerational Travel - Vacation home rentals and villas that offer multigenerational families a "home away from home" experience while on vacation, will continue to gain popularity, according to Amex.
Value Vacations Expected to Grow - Value oriented vacations, such as all-inclusive resorts and cruise lines that continue to expand their offerings, will become more appealing to travelers who had not considered them in the past.
For example, travel agents indicated that travelers are taking advantage of their American Express Membership Rewards program points, including the Pay With Points feature that allows cardmembers enrolled in the program to use points toward all or part of their trip while avoiding holiday blackout dates and seat restrictions.
Other trends indicating that some consumers are moving forward with their travel plans, regardless of the economy, are:
"Climate Sightseeing" - A growing number of travelers are moved to visit destinations threatened by climate change such as the Galapagos, Machu Picchu, Alaska and Canada's Churchill, an area where polar bears are threatened by extinction.
"Authentic Travel" and "Niche Tours" - According to American Express travel agents, demand for vacations driven by special interests will continue to rise in 2009. Among these, agents named both "authentic travel" - experiencing a destination more intensely through longer stays and deep cultural immersion; and niche tours - where groups of people with like-minded interests travel together.
"Solo Travel" - Travel agents expect to see a rise in solo travel due to lifestyle factors, and the rising age of couples getting married.
- Article from Travel Trade http://www.traveltrade.com/news_article.htm?id=4983&p=news_archive.htm?tab=industry#
New Ports of Call for Cruisers in 2009….. http://www.nydailynews.com/lifestyle/travel/2009/01/11/2009-01-11_the_news_on_cruises_for_2009_lots_of_new.html
KSL Insider Deal brought to you by Hotel Park City
FREE $100 DINNER IN
RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE
Or Use $100 Voucher in The Spa at Hotel Park City or
Ski Lift Tickets to any Park City Mtn. Resort!
When you book the
LOCAL’S ONLY SPECIAL 1–NIGHT ROOM PKG
With Hotel Park City for just $349* per night, double occupancy
Offer available ONLY by calling 435-200-2000 or 435-940-5000. (Not available on-line)
PLUS! Stay before Jan. 31 and enjoying skiing at Park City Mtn. for just $13 when you present local ID
*Valid for stays through Feb. 28, 2009. Must present local ID upon check-in. Ask for the “Local’s Only Special”
www.hotelparkcity.com address: 2001 Park Ave. Park City
January 25, 2009 – Sunday noon – 2pm MST
Airline Fees: Two sites that I think are great for comparing airline fees.
http://rickseaney.com/domestic-airline-fee-chart-2/
Rick Seaney (pronounced See knee) is one of the original founders and the CEO of farecompare.com.
http://www.smartertravel.com/blogs/today-in-travel/airline-fees-the-ultimate-guide.html?id=2623262 from this link you can download the latest PDF version of airline fees brought to you by SmarterTravel, Airfarewatchdog, and SeatGuru.
Why use a Travel Agent/Travel professional? An experience this weekend reminded me again why a travel professional working for you is the best decision you can make when planning a trip. When booking a last minute trip for three business professionals from Philadelphia to Dubai I found that British Airways would provide the best connections and value for business class travel. The problem I encountered was seat assignments. I could book three business class spaces, but no seats were available for selection until 24 hours in advance. As they were traveling on a Saturday night, I planned on being home on Friday night making their seat assignments via the internet. Sure enough on Friday night at 23 hours and 59 minutes before departure, I was logged on to the British Airways website, making the seat assignments my clients had requested. Unfortunately I ran into technical difficulties and ended up calling British Airways for assistance. After 30 minutes on the phone, I was informed they could not help with seat assignments, only via the web going through the entire check-in process could seats be made. I went back to the Airlines website and researched their seat assignment policy and found out, “First class passengers customers can choose their seat at the time of booking and change at any time until they have checked in.” I called back and 25 minutes later, I was speaking with a supervisor pleading my case. Well, it all worked out after about an hour and 15 minutes total time on a Friday night. My Point is, get a travel agent, who cares about your trip, as much as you do. Start a business relationship with them and be loyal, they will go the extra mile!
The Good ole days are back! This Sunday there is an 8 page spread in the Deseret News and Salt Lake Tribune from Morris Murdock Travel. Amy Ochoa of Morris Murdock will be in Studio at 12:15pm sharing inside information on the 13th annual Morris Murdock Travel Show at the South Towne Expo Center from January 30-31st. Listen to the Pod cast for information how to get a free pass.
Tips for cruising on a budget – Make a budget!!!!
http://www.independenttraveler.com/travel%2Dbudget%2Dcalculator/
American Express Agents Report Trends for 2009 Fri Jan 09 2009, by Travel Trade Staff American Express Travel specialists say their top travel trends for 2009 include the continued growth of special interest and niche travel, climate travel and solo travel, as well as some patterns emerging from the economic downturn.
These include:
"Second City Travel" - Visiting smaller, lesser-known cities can yield a more affordable, though equally enriching, vacation experience, according to the Amex agents. For example, visiting Birmingham, England instead of London; or vacationing in Calgary, instead of Toronto.
"Tried and True Travel" - Travelers are expected to return to destinations that they know and love in greater numbers, because, according to Amex, it is a safe way to ensure an enjoyable vacation, and it allows travelers to explore destinations more thoughtfully, while giving them a true sense of costs.
"Closer to Home" Travel - Expanding beyond this year's "staycation" trend, travelers are expected to seek "closer to home" and affordable alternatives to overseas destinations. For example, visiting Montreal, instead of Paris.
Vacation Home Rentals Support Multigenerational Travel - Vacation home rentals and villas that offer multigenerational families a "home away from home" experience while on vacation, will continue to gain popularity, according to Amex.
Value Vacations Expected to Grow - Value oriented vacations, such as all-inclusive resorts and cruise lines that continue to expand their offerings, will become more appealing to travelers who had not considered them in the past.
For example, travel agents indicated that travelers are taking advantage of their American Express Membership Rewards program points, including the Pay With Points feature that allows cardmembers enrolled in the program to use points toward all or part of their trip while avoiding holiday blackout dates and seat restrictions.
Other trends indicating that some consumers are moving forward with their travel plans, regardless of the economy, are:
"Climate Sightseeing" - A growing number of travelers are moved to visit destinations threatened by climate change such as the Galapagos, Machu Picchu, Alaska and Canada's Churchill, an area where polar bears are threatened by extinction.
"Authentic Travel" and "Niche Tours" - According to American Express travel agents, demand for vacations driven by special interests will continue to rise in 2009. Among these, agents named both "authentic travel" - experiencing a destination more intensely through longer stays and deep cultural immersion; and niche tours - where groups of people with like-minded interests travel together.
"Solo Travel" - Travel agents expect to see a rise in solo travel due to lifestyle factors, and the rising age of couples getting married.
- Article from Travel Trade http://www.traveltrade.com/news_article.htm?id=4983&p=news_archive.htm?tab=industry#
New Ports of Call for Cruisers in 2009….. http://www.nydailynews.com/lifestyle/travel/2009/01/11/2009-01-11_the_news_on_cruises_for_2009_lots_of_new.html
KSL Insider Deal brought to you by Hotel Park City
FREE $100 DINNER IN
RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE
Or Use $100 Voucher in The Spa at Hotel Park City or
Ski Lift Tickets to any Park City Mtn. Resort!
When you book the
LOCAL’S ONLY SPECIAL 1–NIGHT ROOM PKG
With Hotel Park City for just $349* per night, double occupancy
Offer available ONLY by calling 435-200-2000 or 435-940-5000. (Not available on-line)
PLUS! Stay before Jan. 31 and enjoying skiing at Park City Mtn. for just $13 when you present local ID
*Valid for stays through Feb. 28, 2009. Must present local ID upon check-in. Ask for the “Local’s Only Special”
www.hotelparkcity.com address: 2001 Park Ave. Park City
Sunday, December 7, 2008
KSL Travel Show December 7th, 2008
Special Guest
Jim Barsh from Morris Murdock Travel, http://www.morrismurdock.com/
Jim talked about the Utes BCS Packages, http://morrismurdock.com/specials/Ute_Bowl_2008.cfm
He also talked of the LDS Travel Study joining the Morris Murdock family of brands, http://www.ldstravelstudy.com/.
My Black Book - Galapagos Eclipse
Situated 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, the archipelago consists of nineteen islands and more than forty islets, which were created six million years ago when they emerged from the Pacific in a flurry of volcanic activity.
The islands were discovered in 1535 by Tomás de Berlanga, who sent the first known description of the Galapagos to the King of Spain; "...nothing but seals and turtles and such big tortoises that each could carry a man on top of itself and many iguanas that are like serpents". He also remarked on the tameness of the creatures; "...many birds like those of Spain, but so silly that they do not know to flee and many were caught in the hand."
The most important visitor to the Galapagos Islands was Charles Darwin, who arrived in 1835 on board the Beagle. He was amazed by the extraordinary life he found on the islands and obtained very important samples and facts to develop and sustain his theory of evolution and natural selection. In fact, he was responsible for bringing the Galapagos to the world's attention in 1859, when he published The Origin of Species.
Climate:
December to June - possibilities of rainTemperatures range from 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F)
July to November - dry (garúa) season Temperatures range from 20°C to 27°C (68°F to 80°F)
The Eclipse has 4 types of cabin, all of which have sea views:
4 Deluxe Staterooms on the Boat Deck8 Superior Staterooms on the Boat Deck12 Staterooms on the Main Deck2 Single Staterooms on the Main Deck
Itinerary
Saturday
Flight to Baltra Island, Galapagos Santa Cruz Island - Las Bachas Beach
Sunday
Santiago Island - Puerto Egas Bartolomé Island
Monday
Santa Cruz Island - Cerro Dragón Rábida Island
Tuesday
Isabela Island - Tagus Cove Isabela Island - Elizabeth Bay
Wednesday
Fernandina Island - Punta Espinoza Isabela Island - Punta Vicente Roca
Thursday
Santa Cruz Island - Charles Darwin Research Station Santa Cruz Island - Highlands
Friday
Española Island - Gardner Bay Española Island - Punta Suárez
Saturday
Santa Cruz Island - Black Turtle Cove Departure from Baltra
Family Departures
Taking children to the Galapagos Islands is an immensely rewarding experience. For this reason we have developed selected family departures during the months of March, April, July, August and December.
Specialist guides can be assigned to educate and entertain your children throughout the day for groups of a minimum of 10 children, while you enjoy the cruise at your own pace, in the knowledge that your children are in safe hands and making their own discoveries about the history of evolution and the wonders of the islands. However, if parents wish to take their children with them in their group, they may do so.
Adults are more than welcome to accompany a group of children, as long as the group does not exceed the limit of 16 passengers per guide.
On family departures children are accepted from the age of 5, on non-family departures children are accepted from the age of 10. All children under 12 sharing a cabin with one adult receive a 25% discount on the published rates. The Eclipse offers around 20 family departures a year, during spring break, the summer holidays and the Christmas period.
Booking information
PanAmerican Travel Services, 800-364-4359, http://www.panamtours.com/
A-List Report
Travel Gifts from Sarah Gold at Travel + Leisure all under $100.
http://www.travelandleisure.com/articles/affordable-travel-gift-guide-2008
KSL Insider Deal
The Seven Day Weekend at Club Med/7 all-inclusive nights for the price of 3
NEW! JANUARY through APRIL 2009 DEPARTURES available at select resortsTravel between now and April 25, 2009The Club Med 7 day weekend available at:
Family Resorts:> Sandpiper, Florida, USA starting from $793/person>
Ixtapa Pacific, Mexico starting from $965/person>
Cancun Yucatan, Mexico starting from $965/person>
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic starting from $929/person >
Caravelle, Guadeloupe (French West Indies) starting from $996/person>
Buccaneer's Creek, Martinique (French West Indies) starting from $1,065/person
Singles or Friends and Couples Resorts: > Columbus Isle, Bahamas starting from $965/person> Turkoise, Turks & Caicos starting from $965/person
Adventure on a Tank of Gas
Brad Call with Maverik shared the latest edition of Kickstart which filmed on Lake Powell. Kickstart airs on KSL channel 5 on Saturdays at 11:30pm.
Jim Barsh from Morris Murdock Travel, http://www.morrismurdock.com/
Jim talked about the Utes BCS Packages, http://morrismurdock.com/specials/Ute_Bowl_2008.cfm
He also talked of the LDS Travel Study joining the Morris Murdock family of brands, http://www.ldstravelstudy.com/.
My Black Book - Galapagos Eclipse
Situated 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, the archipelago consists of nineteen islands and more than forty islets, which were created six million years ago when they emerged from the Pacific in a flurry of volcanic activity.
The islands were discovered in 1535 by Tomás de Berlanga, who sent the first known description of the Galapagos to the King of Spain; "...nothing but seals and turtles and such big tortoises that each could carry a man on top of itself and many iguanas that are like serpents". He also remarked on the tameness of the creatures; "...many birds like those of Spain, but so silly that they do not know to flee and many were caught in the hand."
The most important visitor to the Galapagos Islands was Charles Darwin, who arrived in 1835 on board the Beagle. He was amazed by the extraordinary life he found on the islands and obtained very important samples and facts to develop and sustain his theory of evolution and natural selection. In fact, he was responsible for bringing the Galapagos to the world's attention in 1859, when he published The Origin of Species.
Climate:
December to June - possibilities of rainTemperatures range from 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F)
July to November - dry (garúa) season Temperatures range from 20°C to 27°C (68°F to 80°F)
The Eclipse has 4 types of cabin, all of which have sea views:
4 Deluxe Staterooms on the Boat Deck8 Superior Staterooms on the Boat Deck12 Staterooms on the Main Deck2 Single Staterooms on the Main Deck
Itinerary
Saturday
Flight to Baltra Island, Galapagos Santa Cruz Island - Las Bachas Beach
Sunday
Santiago Island - Puerto Egas Bartolomé Island
Monday
Santa Cruz Island - Cerro Dragón Rábida Island
Tuesday
Isabela Island - Tagus Cove Isabela Island - Elizabeth Bay
Wednesday
Fernandina Island - Punta Espinoza Isabela Island - Punta Vicente Roca
Thursday
Santa Cruz Island - Charles Darwin Research Station Santa Cruz Island - Highlands
Friday
Española Island - Gardner Bay Española Island - Punta Suárez
Saturday
Santa Cruz Island - Black Turtle Cove Departure from Baltra
Family Departures
Taking children to the Galapagos Islands is an immensely rewarding experience. For this reason we have developed selected family departures during the months of March, April, July, August and December.
Specialist guides can be assigned to educate and entertain your children throughout the day for groups of a minimum of 10 children, while you enjoy the cruise at your own pace, in the knowledge that your children are in safe hands and making their own discoveries about the history of evolution and the wonders of the islands. However, if parents wish to take their children with them in their group, they may do so.
Adults are more than welcome to accompany a group of children, as long as the group does not exceed the limit of 16 passengers per guide.
On family departures children are accepted from the age of 5, on non-family departures children are accepted from the age of 10. All children under 12 sharing a cabin with one adult receive a 25% discount on the published rates. The Eclipse offers around 20 family departures a year, during spring break, the summer holidays and the Christmas period.
Booking information
PanAmerican Travel Services, 800-364-4359, http://www.panamtours.com/
A-List Report
Travel Gifts from Sarah Gold at Travel + Leisure all under $100.
http://www.travelandleisure.com/articles/affordable-travel-gift-guide-2008
KSL Insider Deal
The Seven Day Weekend at Club Med/7 all-inclusive nights for the price of 3
NEW! JANUARY through APRIL 2009 DEPARTURES available at select resortsTravel between now and April 25, 2009The Club Med 7 day weekend available at:
Family Resorts:> Sandpiper, Florida, USA starting from $793/person>
Ixtapa Pacific, Mexico starting from $965/person>
Cancun Yucatan, Mexico starting from $965/person>
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic starting from $929/person >
Caravelle, Guadeloupe (French West Indies) starting from $996/person>
Buccaneer's Creek, Martinique (French West Indies) starting from $1,065/person
Singles or Friends and Couples Resorts: > Columbus Isle, Bahamas starting from $965/person> Turkoise, Turks & Caicos starting from $965/person
Adventure on a Tank of Gas
Brad Call with Maverik shared the latest edition of Kickstart which filmed on Lake Powell. Kickstart airs on KSL channel 5 on Saturdays at 11:30pm.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Las Vegas getaway
My favorite places to stay in Vegas...
1. The Four Seasons Las Vegas. This is my families favorite hotel. The attention to detail by the staff is the best. Not being a gaming hotel located inside the Manadaly Bay gives it the best of both worlds. An oasis from the hustle and bustle of Vegas, yet the convenience of the best wave pool, lazy river and other amenities of the Mandalay.
2. The Wynn. For a shopping weekend this is the place to stay. Directly across from the Fashion Show Mall. The rooms are beautiful and tasteful. The casino does not seem overwhelming to me like most on the strip.
3. The Bellagio. Great location and always seems to be a buzz in the Casino. The rooms are spacious and luxurious.
4. The Venetian. Their standard rooms are suites. I love their rooms and have always had a great experience at this hotel.
5. Treasure Island, TI. To get rooms at times between $69 and up, this is the hotel with great value, especially since they redid their rooms to a modern TI fit.
My recommendations for Dinning....
1. Michael Mina in the Bellagio. A little pricey, but the Seasonal Tasting Menu is a real treat. (great for a special occasion)
2. Auerole in the Mandalay Bay. The tasting menu and the three course menu are both eclectic. The ambiance is very cool with the "wine angels" flying around the four story temperature controlled wine tower.
3. RM Seafood at Mandalay Place. I love seafood and have had some great lunches here.
4. Todd English's Olives in the Bellagio. Great food with a Mediterranean flare. The views of Lake Bellagio and the fountains are an added bonus.
Anytime delight....
1. Jean Philippe Patisserie in the Bellagio. The greatest Sorbet's in Vegas. I recommend the Coconut Sorbet. If sorbet is not your thing, try the amazing crepes.
Entertainment.....
1. Any Cirque du Soleil show. Mystere in TI is probably my favorites. KA in MGM has an amazing stage. I have yet to see O, but here from friends it is the best.
2. Danny Ganns. Opening in Feb 2009 at the Wynn, he is amazing. He has been entertainer of the year numerous times at the Mirage and now cant wait to see him at his new venue.
3. Le Reve. Mr. Wynn knows how to bring the best to his hotel.
Off the Strip.....
1. The Red Rock Bowling Lanes. I have attended two separate parties at the VIP bowling lanes and both experiences have been a blast. They have 12 lanes which are completely private. Music, lights, catered food, cool videos and a real VIP feel.
1. The Four Seasons Las Vegas. This is my families favorite hotel. The attention to detail by the staff is the best. Not being a gaming hotel located inside the Manadaly Bay gives it the best of both worlds. An oasis from the hustle and bustle of Vegas, yet the convenience of the best wave pool, lazy river and other amenities of the Mandalay.
2. The Wynn. For a shopping weekend this is the place to stay. Directly across from the Fashion Show Mall. The rooms are beautiful and tasteful. The casino does not seem overwhelming to me like most on the strip.
3. The Bellagio. Great location and always seems to be a buzz in the Casino. The rooms are spacious and luxurious.
4. The Venetian. Their standard rooms are suites. I love their rooms and have always had a great experience at this hotel.
5. Treasure Island, TI. To get rooms at times between $69 and up, this is the hotel with great value, especially since they redid their rooms to a modern TI fit.
My recommendations for Dinning....
1. Michael Mina in the Bellagio. A little pricey, but the Seasonal Tasting Menu is a real treat. (great for a special occasion)
2. Auerole in the Mandalay Bay. The tasting menu and the three course menu are both eclectic. The ambiance is very cool with the "wine angels" flying around the four story temperature controlled wine tower.
3. RM Seafood at Mandalay Place. I love seafood and have had some great lunches here.
4. Todd English's Olives in the Bellagio. Great food with a Mediterranean flare. The views of Lake Bellagio and the fountains are an added bonus.
Anytime delight....
1. Jean Philippe Patisserie in the Bellagio. The greatest Sorbet's in Vegas. I recommend the Coconut Sorbet. If sorbet is not your thing, try the amazing crepes.
Entertainment.....
1. Any Cirque du Soleil show. Mystere in TI is probably my favorites. KA in MGM has an amazing stage. I have yet to see O, but here from friends it is the best.
2. Danny Ganns. Opening in Feb 2009 at the Wynn, he is amazing. He has been entertainer of the year numerous times at the Mirage and now cant wait to see him at his new venue.
3. Le Reve. Mr. Wynn knows how to bring the best to his hotel.
Off the Strip.....
1. The Red Rock Bowling Lanes. I have attended two separate parties at the VIP bowling lanes and both experiences have been a blast. They have 12 lanes which are completely private. Music, lights, catered food, cool videos and a real VIP feel.
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