magazine jaxfax ® december 2009 the travel agents’ path to profits 18 australia from culture nature 22 korea jeju’s enticing mix 24 egypt tourism growth ahead 28 flanders antwerp’s focus 32 turkey treasures 37 mexico soulful side 38 argentina layover in buenos aires 40 st. lucia newest edge india<!TEKI!>f, j & c class 21% • z, a d 12% all economy 11% europe•israel•india•pakistan•middleeast•africa•s.e.asia•china•japan•s.pacificislands over 20 million consolidator net fares plus non-capped commissions for y published worldwide! gtt is celebrating 25 years of professional reliable services. accepts agent bookings in amadeus, apollo, sabre or worldspan. group requests send an email to gttgroups@gtttravel.com with number passengers, origin/destination, preferred airlines flexibility dates. proud member, united states air association commission special australia new zealand w . g t l o b m dallas - hdq 800-485-6828 detroit 248-626-9181 houston 713-774-4946 los angeles 626-570-9009 seattle 206-381-9588 quotes reservations visit gttglobal.com call: airfares from the u.s. to: syd, mel, akl, chc wlg ticketed by march 31, 2010 ua offers bne, cns, per, thru these are available cities mentioned above.published may vary price depending on point origin within and rules, terms conditions apply discounted airfares. subject change without notice. e r ® asta american society travel agents australia•newzealand•mexico•centralamerica•southamerica•puertorico•caribbean<!TEKI!>one globe. ticket. for further information please visit www.hahnair.com service partner and local helpdesk: airworld alliance toll-free number: 1 877 hr169hr email: servicedesk@hahnair.biz hahn air lines gmbh an der trift 65 d-63303 dreieich germany www.allairpass.com hr-169: trusted by 80,000 travel agents worldwide. offers smart ticketing best possible support more than a decade is proven specialist in providing e-ticketing solutions wide range of additio- nal services to agencies. today, e-tickets are available all gds 150 countries world- wide. has activated interline (iet) agreements with 200 iet capable airlines thus operates the industry’s leading universal et plat- form*. how do benefit from air? accessibility easy access vast number airline flights or combina- tions through simplicity standard process issue hr-169 speed fast process: booking source (gds), validating code (hr-169), e-ticket comprehensive tool one-stop-support personal assistance multilingual passionate helpdesk staff, num- ber: * iata<!TEKI!>2 december 2009 www.jaxfax.com magazine jaxfax ® volume 37, no. 12 800-952-9329 consolifare password: india driving (or riding in) a car in is cultural experience. despite the distances between states and cities, best way for tourists to get around by pri- vate automobile. there are no super-fast bullet trains, private provides convenience, flexibility, allows you keep your favorite driver … destination articles 18 australia from culture nature 22 korea outdoor activities, jeju’s enticing mix clients looking golf experience broad range of sight- seeing activities will find them on small volcanic... 23 cruise china’s river with viking cruises gazing out yangtze balcony state- room aboard century sun one many... 24 egypt gears up tourism growth 28 flanders antwerp refashions its focus antwerp, located northern belgium, has been designated six art cities (the others brussels... 30 czech republic bohemian attractions like many other frequent travelers, i habitually rank my top 5 10 overseas destinations. although fresh… 32 turkey revisiting turkey’s travel treasures given worldwide financial situation, that per- sists simply staggering, global brands mixing 37 mexico exploring soulful side high sierra de michoacan, guide rodrigo munoz pull into historic mountain village zacan. the… 38 argentina less than hours buenos aires day did not start off well. was can- celled at very end earth, province… 40 st. lucia newest edge long ago, oprah announced her own list “places go before die,” happily topped first five 42 new york city sparkles deals 47 news ats goes mecklenburg-vorpommern emagazine these additional features sign on: e40 trinidad & tobago carnival hotel e74 airline e75 message board e76-e81 buys e82 canada olympic gold song indianto cover feature journey india’s golden triangle publisher’s corner 7 selling package tours increase profits editor’s desk 9 when only snapshots 11 month review exclusive interview 46 betsy geiser vice president, uniglobe center<!TEKI!>tourist offices of spain water tower place, suite 915 east 845 north michigan ave. chicago, il 60611 tel. 1.312.642.1992 fax: 1.312.642.9817 e-mail: chicago@tourspain.es 8383 wilshire blvd., 960 beverly hills, ca 90211 tel: 1.323.658.7188 1.323.658.1061 losangeles@tourspain.es 1395 brickell avenue, 1130 miami, fl 33131 1.305.358.1992 1.305.358.8223 miami@tourspain.es 666 fifth 35th floor new york, ny 10103 1.212.265.8822 1.212.265.8864 nuevayork@tourspain.es discover hidden corners where life carries on day... and night. www.turismomadrid.eswww.turismomadrid.es www.esmadrid.comwww.esmadrid.com www.spain.infowww.spain.info<!TEKI!>c o n t e • d m b r 2 0 9 departments travel marketing magazine is published monthly by: jet airtransport exchange, inc. (jax) 52 w main st., milford, ct 06460, 203-301-0255, f: 203-301-0250 audited circulation douglas cooke, ctc publisher & editorial director, doug@jaxfax.com randi white | randi@jaxfax.com vice president associate jeff posner jeff@jaxfax.com publishing manager contributing editor maria lisella editor, maria@jaxfax.com katie hultgren katie@jaxfax.com assistant, listings and chantal guillou-brennan art production cbjaxfax@aol.com marjorie vincent marjorie@jaxfax.com business clifton n. ctc. cliff@jaxfax.com founding editor-at-large worldwide correspondents lillian africano: cruise tom bross: austria germany mercedes cardona: south america marian goldberg: asia danielle hayes: africa kathy feeney: southeast u.s.a. denise mattia - dive merrie murray: mediterannean j. herbert silverman: britain melanie reffes caribbean jonathan siskin: editors burdick, ron butler, jad davenport, katharine dyson, ben frank, christopher guillou-brennan, patricia earnest, harris, ted heck, joan jenkins, mark laiosa, bob levine, david lyon, barbara rogers, betty rolston, phyllis cocroft meres, maggie zellers advertising: sales@jaxfax.com subscriptions circulation@jaxfax.com; 800-952-9329 member of: asta–american society of agents; ata–africa assoc.; nta–national tour association; atme–association executives.; cha–caribbean hotel cto–caribbean tourism organization; pata–pacific travelassoc.;ustoa–unitedstatestouroperatorsassoc. “jax fax magazine” (issn 0279-7984) by air- transport exchange inc., west street, 06460. periodicals postage paid atmilford,ct,&additionalmailingoffices. postmaster: please send address changes to jax magazine, copyright 2009. all rights reserved. printed in no part this publication may be reproduced print or electronically without permission. direct requests for per- mission the publisher, fax, 06460 via e-mail: ® pacific 12 best buys news 17, 20-21 cruises 23 middle east 24 27 europe 28 34, 36 central 37 39 bermuda 40 41 north hawaii 42 43 host agencies/co-ops/consortia 44 green corner 45 exclusive interview 46 industry 47 market place directory 64 fam trips study programs 63 calendar trade show events 65 directories 48-72 destination 48 suppliers 72 front cover photo credit: india national tourist office 4 december 2009 www.jaxfax.com indiaturkey greece italy hong kong spain switzerland ireland peru 866-385-0801 www.trvloptions.com 703-385-0800 info@trvloptions.com customized itineraries group fit’s incentives meetings honeymoons culinary, wine, arts, opera tours history, archeology, civilization, religious fabulous 10 days deluxe from . $ 2980 delhi, neemrana, agra, jaipur, khajuraho, varanasi. beauties .$ 3450 pushkar, jodhpur, mandore, jaisalmer, udaipur portrait turkey 13 1245 istanbul, canakkale, kusadasi, pamukkale, antalya, cappadocia, ankara frames 11 1190 athens, argolis, olympia, delphi, kalambaka. cruise: mykonos, ephesus, patmos, rhodes, crete, santorini<!TEKI!>sharon engelsman of israel’s alpine team is climbing mount arbel overlooking the sea galilee, where your clients can feel power history-changing events that have taken place around this storied inland lake. and but in israel they majesty jerusalem, mystery masada, wonders ancient civilizations capernaum, caesarea, beit she’an, then enjoy glamour today’s tel aviv, city new york times calls ‘the capital mediterranean cool’? today: • there are more non-stop flights from cities than ever: continental, delta, el al us airways. hotels opening – major chains to luxury boutique hotels, country b&b’s. being included on cruise itineraries. else will so welcome, such a wonderful time, while gathering memories last forever? israel. else? www.goisrael.com/bestdeals 1-888-77-israel engelsman, instructor hebrew university student, arbel, near tiberius lower galilee. view be biblical experience for clients? visit they’ll never same.<!TEKI!> <!TEKI!>a s i look forward to the ustoa (united states tour operator association) annual conference from dec.8-10 in banff, alberta, believe it is well worth reiterating many advantages that selling packaged travel has for agents and their clients. addition cruise industry, which depend- ent on agent distribution system about 90% of sales, pack- aged industry also heavily dependent 69% overall sales. this makes very important group suppli- ers who are still extremely loyal channel. as ota’s (orbitz, expedia, etc...) continue attempt crack “dynamic packaging” model, they have with limited success, more than ever support those suppliers them. tours first foremost, money! represent one most prof- itable sales opportunities agents. why? because you making money every aspect your client’s vacation. sightseeing meals, anything included itinerary commission check (except taxes, etc.) cases, even airfare commissionable. when com- pare made package, compared booking hotel air separately, difference obvious substantial. another advantage package time will save researching operators experts destinations serve bundled what know years experience desirable hotels, dining options into one, easy sell package. packages clients value. purchase bulk at substantial savings able pass equally peace mind both client purchasing operator. good hands knows if something does go wrong, there someone (usually locally) turn help answers. other benefit knowing exactly trip going cost, since majority prepaid. additionally, opera- tors leverage buying power enable customers get spe- cial perks not available general public. whether be avoiding lines tourist attractions or getting reservations popular restaurants, give insider’s edge. some may wary per- ceive might too restrictive regimented. truth ages varied companies offer by needs, can offers right sit- uation. goodbye 2009 riddance! hard our december issue, i, like sad ring out year new sense renewed hope optimism. staff jax fax all you, best wishes safe healthy holiday season! douglas cooke, ctc, publisher increase profits publisher’s corner www.jaxfax.com 7<!TEKI!>china host of the 2010 shanghai world expo for info, contact national tourist office: air china: www.cnto.org www.cntovideo.org www.airchina.com new york 370 lexington ave suite 912 york, ny 10017 ny@cnto.org los angeles 550 north brand blvd 910 glendale, ca 91203 la@cnto.org<!TEKI!>s ome say the decline in tourism has bottomed out. so, things can only get better from this moment on – maybe not dramat- ically better, but simply worse. anyone who participated at any of three visit europe media exchanges (new york, san francisco or toronto) november might share view. organized by donald n. mar- tin and company lois gerber for european travel commission, event attracted slightly more exhibitors than last year a lot applicants, which is, after all, their goal. etc’s trans-atlantic newsletter was expected to report week that actually up july august, down 4.7 percent first eight months year, according u.s. dept. commerce. “the results are very good, surpris- ingly with growth 10%-15% summer. we knew there an increase since may, even expected, espe- cially august. still, is much pushed deals, con- centrated leisure market, gives us good reason be opti- mistic remainder year,” said jean-philippe pérol, chairman commission director atout france, france development agency. business accounted small summer loss around 1.3 may through pérol says lingering worry behind these figures exchange rate dollar, fluctuates daily. worldwide, international tourist arrivals declined 7% between janu- ary august 2009, eased past few months. during high-season (july august) 3% com- pared decrease 8% half data available september points continuation upward trend. unwto polled 330 experts worldwide confirmed confidence picking up. those negative outlook next four decreased 62% 42% while 58% they thought prospects near future were either “much better” “better.” revenues have suffered as consumers gotten used trading down, staying closer home traveling short- er periods time: receipts inter- national 9% 10% six 2009. expects moderate 2010. unwto’s panorama 2009 reveal all world regions except africa, bucked global trend increase. drop reported europe, particularly central eastern countries most affected, somewhat odd many seemed react favorably region its pricing value. asia pacific showed five percent; middle east saw downturn about americas, both north south still showing signs reversal decline. maria lisella, editor e d i t o r ’ k when way www.jaxfax.com december 9<!TEKI!>lori sidawi president, sunny land tours , costa rica “make sure you have your own copy of the most comprehensive travel brochure on rica. we are simply best source for insid- er information agent.” choose tours... know our personalized expert planning is just beginning ingredient how turn out incredible experiences. call us today when clients’ customized vacations. many members team live and all over what's new, not, great hot. remember, not a "go between" but rather to" company that offers one stop shop experience. selection programs visit www.costaricahotdeals.com or complimentary brochure: 1-800-783-7839. do clients meet these profiles? • families traveling with hard to please teens. infants young kids. couples looking honeymoon their dreams. socially conscious individuals who appreciate green responsible tourism practices. travelers seeking cost savings medical services wellness treatments. senior value, comfort inclusive tour packages. special interest groups add unique experience every day eco tour. budget minded trying match beat competitors prices. if more profiles, cannot afford tours. advice free, reliable indispensible in next trip life!<!TEKI!>king david jerusalem and dan tel aviv win awards mr. rafi baeri, vp marketing & sales, hotels, announced that the chain’s two flagship aviv, have won “best hotels in israel for 2009” europe africa category of prestigious property awards. more than 1,200 entries were judged. cnbc (the tv network) conducted competition, association with u.k. daily mail, new york times other 5 international media groups. baeri said winning award, “we’re very proud service we provide our guests delighted high level hospitality has been recognized this way.” cruising into world's biggest terminal port everglades commemorates its official open- ing port, local officials royal caribbean executives celebrating. from left to right: broward county mayor stacy ritter, hollywood, fl city peter bober, direc- tor phillip c. allen, cruises ltd. chairman richard fain, president adam goldstein, ltd., sr. vice land operations craig milan dutch are back netherlands board tourism cele- brated big apple’s ancestry grand style, a weeklong festival free bicycles, ceremonial flotilla along hudson vermeer’s famous paint- ing, “the milkmaid” at metropolitan museum. pic- tured louis van vlaanderen, chief de cabinet province zeeland, karla peijs, queen’s commissioner zeeland york-based conrad tiggelen, director, north america, conventions. jamaica celebrates jetblue’s nonstop kingston director tour operators airlines anthony (left), three-time olympian member jamaica’s 1988 olympic bobsled team devon harris (center), operat- officer rob maruster (right) cut ribbon signifying start non- stop kingston. route, representing 14th destination 60th overall, comes on heels may 2009 launch montego bay – airline’s most successful date. spice island resort garners virgin award luxurious 64-room beach grenada holidays' gold distinction as number one hotel company's platinum collection exclusive top resorts around world. marks fourth consecutive year earned honor. pictured honorable glynis roberts, minister grenada, sir royston o. hopkin lady betty hopkin. snapshots month review www.jaxfax.com december 11<!TEKI!>d riving (or riding in) a car in india is cultural experi- ence. despite the distances between states and cities, best way for tourists to get around by private automo- bile. there are no super-fast bullet trains, provides convenience, flexibility, allows you keep your favorite driver entire trip. at first i was extremely nervous car, especially night, with dark not- always-very-well-paved roads. fact, when my driver, rana, picked me up upon arrival indira gandhi international airport delhi, complained, “slow down. i’m not rush!” “what’s incessant horn?” just figured he wanted home, since jet air- ways flight had arrived after 10 p.m., we hadn’t even gotten into his until 11:15 p.m. nevertheless, week him driving all across north india, grateful that indebo travel (www.inde- bo.com), company arranged trip, carefully screens its drivers. been owner nandini ramaswa- mi’s wife’s personal before they agreed expert enough drive their guests. learned being is, itself, experience. one day, example, paying toll collector what seemed like substantial amount of rupees, proceeded about 50 miles per hour onto “highway.” but, then cars came head-on us opposite direction, honking swerving us. women carrying — atop heads baskets food, sacks rice or clay metal amphorae filled water, crossed street front cows – solo groups meandered road. alongside us, colorfully decorated trucks looked should have heading circus, displayed signs demanding “horn please!” reality, these were transporting everything from con- struction materials produce hordes local indians desperate means work, but moved speed dump truck laden lead pipes. fascinated minivans seats removed so packed men, children could close rear door, buses cramped passengers more rode on “fenced-in” top bus where least access fresher, cooler air down back ladder off quickly middle road, course stoplight stalled traffic. ubiquitous motorcycles another indian mode transportation. sometimes families four would ride bike, helmets, never wear helmets! roving vendors also favor as make quick sale stoplight. shopping experience while took round-trip new jersey transit-like train delhi haridwar mystical ganges river,specialists customized tours individuals groups. incredible vacations invites accredited agents discover magic india. our exciting, fam trip program starts february 25, 2010, includes round york com- prehensive tour india’s legendary “golden triangle” very special agent rate. extension southern available. unforgettable journey will reward first hand knowledge insight an selling details rates, call toll-free: 888-9c-india (888-924-6342). can register online www.sansincrediblevacations.com incredibly rewarding foryou. indianto gange river ganga ma,– "mother ganges" known throughout land sacred river: anyone who touches purifying waters today said be cleansed sins. golden triangle marian goldberg 12 december 2009 www.jaxfax.com<!TEKI!> <!TEKI!> <!TEKI!>the rest of my itinerary maneuvered me from city to and state by car. rana drove delhi jaipur samode ranthambore national park (www.ranthamborenationalpark.com) at sawai madhopur agra then back delhi. in agra, we visited a number local craft industry establishments that employ hundreds rajasthanis. some work anokhi stores, but most labor their homes. this gives people jobs without burden long, difficult, expensive commutes, also helps preserve centuries’ old crafts. is well-known as world gem-cutting center, especially for emer- alds well its wood-block, hand- stamped fabric designs specialized woven carpet patterns both yak wool silk. bhandari jewellers (www.bhandari- jewellers.com) employs up 90 store, including craftsmen who cut, polish assemble jewelry, which they demonstrate showroom visi- tors. more importantly, than 250 home-based skilled crafts- are assisted family members cutting stones, polishing faceting stones creating making other types handicrafts sold store. indi- go carpets & textiles (e-mail indigo- jaipur@hotmail.com), near jaipur’s lake palace amber fort, in-home workers weave rugs stamp fabrics sale. museum (www.anokhi.com) history indigo clothing preserved five staff plus one on-site block carver printer. tors can just observe or try carving hand-stamping techniques themselves. company, nearly 300 on- site workers,as print- ers, carvers, embroiderers, weavers, totaling 1,500 -2,000 craftspeople. many these people, attempts provide regular, year-round employment. common pietra-dura, type marble inlay, same art used decorate walls taj mahal when shahjahan built it 1653. floral geometric pat- terns, created with imported semi-precious such lapis lazuli (from afghanistan), malachite south africa), turquoise iran), coral italy), paua shell new zealand), cornelian india), carefully inlaid into non-porous white, black, green (baroda) indian marble. resulting pieces include: tabletops, plates, room tiles, boxes, coaster sets, chessboards, even vases wine cups. krafts (www.marble- krafts.com), 35-year-old business located 800 feet mahal’s western gate, hun- dreds crafts work- ers. all situations, goal enable craftspeople remain villages familiar envi- ronment, closer family. favorite cultural attractions course was magnificent 1632-1654 on orders shah jahan monumental tomb his wife, mumtaz mahal. fact, i actually hadn’t realized only mosque. those photographs appears be “on side.” planned view archi- tectural marvel dawn sun ris- ing background, pouring rain morning, so got another -- vision misty solitude… not too crowds spires clouds. haridwar, along river ganges (ganga hindu), had pleasure witnessing pilgrims over india arriving bathe wash away sins. but, exciting aarati ceremony, held banks singing lamp lighting set aglow candles. cere- mony denotes spiritual knowledge illumination truth total destruction ego light true — represented vanishing, burned-out camphor wick. delhi, gurdwara sis ganj sahib, holy place worship sikhs. translated punjabi, means “the doorway guru,” middle busy street chandni chowk area it’s exact where ninth sikh guru, guru tegh bahadur indianto www.jaxfax.com december 2009 15<!TEKI!>16 december 2009 www.jaxfax.com beheaded on the orders of mughal emperor in 1675 for refusing to convert islam. there are several relics here, includ- ing trunk banyan tree under which guru was martyred, and well where took his daily bath during imprisonment. it intriguing see how different gurdwara is from a muslim mosque. men women could sit together anywhere they chose, both have cover their heads. jaipur, i had special opportunity not only take tourist’s tour pink- washed amber fort, jaipur’s hill-top capital until 1728, but because indebo’s connections, got behind-the- scenes introduction as well. one security guards who knew my guide, another raj, personally us pri- vate area fort viewed solid silver chairs jeweled inlayed tables. samode, rode camel down village streets waving children readying themselves school local metal smiths hammering away at pots bowls. also out into fields. scariest part getting on. that jump! we spent five hours driving samode ramthambore national park, missed afternoon safari. next morning’s 6 a.m. safari delayed due rain, did finally jeep 9 pleased although any tigers, nature guide point other animal bird species, even though kind diffi- cult understand accent. upon our return, mr. balendu singh, owner dev vilas ranthambore resort (www.devvilas.com), staying, kindly me meet famous fateh singh rathore, for- mer park field director went tiger hunter protector less than lifetime. he founding members project (projecttiger.nic.in) lot say about challenge running ministry tourism rather wildlife conservation. noted what good attracting volumes tourists short term, often causes stress will ultimately affect distant future. an amazing engages visitors indebo (experienceindiatravel.com) founded over 30 years ago by malathi ramaswami, india’s first licensed guides, renowned her in-depth knowledge passion explore teach people country. indebo, now run mrs. ramaswami’s son, retired indian army colonel ravi provides added train- ing, pays them well, recognizes seeks exceptional service. girish, delhi, enthusias- tic, down-to-earth, clearly communicative, engaging story teller. car rides, explained history, religion, art, people, politics, festivals, celebrities pop culture, flora fauna. information shared willingly exuberantly without having ask. cultural accommodations besides ranthambore, stayed following hotels: haridwar, spa ananda himalayas (www.anan- daspa.com), enjoyed compli- mentary open-air morning yoga best massage life. treatment called abhyanga, tradi- tional full body with sesame oil, given simultaneously two ayurve- da therapists – strong-handed krishna southern india softer touch melody eastern india. authentic, restored palace, luxury her- itage hotel service so grand when asked clock room brought giant two-foot round wall certainly trick. www.samode.com three oberoi properties: new rajvil s amar- agra. these hotels all builds made look like former palaces integrating traditional handicrafts design décor. impressed individual tented- suites personal amarvil s, din- ner enhanced live tabla sitar music, musicians seemed draw in. awakening experi- ence moment jet airways (www.jetairways.com) flight. flights united states pass through brussels. flight newark brussels 7 15 minutes, passed time watching movies video screen, eating great cuisine sleeping lie-flat beds busi- ness class. plugged computer plane almost 8 reached airport. staff per- son escorted business- class transfer passengers directly club lounge offered comfortable leather seating, wide selection food drink, small large floor pillows. learned air- port largest chocolate store world. snuck buy boxes chocolate-coated biscuits duty-free shop before boarding 7-hour-20- minute delhi. gifts those would more india, call tourist office, 800-953-9399; west coast, 213-380-8855; www.incredibleindia.org sis ganj sahib consolidator airfares packages page 68-69<!TEKI!>www.jaxfax.com december 2009 17 ports of india enhances golden triangle india’s package concentrates on the sites and sounds old new delhi including red fort, jama masjid, silver street, mahatma gandhi’s memori- al, gate, tower victory, humayun’s tomb, presi- dent’s residence parliament buildings; agra to see taj mahal, great fort baby taj, itmad-ud- daula’s tomb jaipur akbar’s abandoned capital fatehpur sikri, hawa mahal (palace winds), amber city palace museum jantar mantar observato- ry along with a tour that includes rickshaw ride. seven nights accommodations at first class, superior or deluxe hotels, daily buffet breakfast, pri- vate arrival departure transfers, sightseeing tours monument entrance fees, ac vehicles services eng- lish-speaking guides. price varies depending category hotel selected time year, beginning $1065 per person, double occupancy, for class accommoda- tions park in dehli, marina holiday inn from april 16 through september 15, 2010. call 800- 995-7997; www.picassotours.com cultural panorama travel is offering an eight day pushkar which covers all destinations are renowned their spectacular beauty historical relevance. unesco world heritage event pushkar, this shows multi-colors india. stays converted palaces, elephant ride, sunrise/sunset evening dinner, more. person ground only $400 plus taxes. international consolidator airfare also available. visit www.panoramatravel.com; 800-204-7130 louis cruises launches india, subsidiary every- one identifies greece eastern med, launched its operations choosing kochi as homeport. cruise arm group, leading european tourism organization based mediterranean 74-year-old histo- ry, 20 four five-star hotels cyprus fleet 12 ships. launch follows cruises’ strategy expanding developing mar- kets. cruising being fairly form holidaying indian market, aims further promote benefits beauties comfort style some region’s most enticing value money. will operate three-day one-day out port may 2010 board mv aquamarine. aquamarine currently oper- ates three four-day piraeus upon comple- tion her program aegean she sail kochi, be homeport winter season. aquama- rine carries 1,200 passengers boasts comforts amenities cater needs hospitality pas- sengers. operating itineraries – mal- dives route colombo route, addition one-night high seas sailing itinerary. 877-568- 4787; lclusa@louiscruises.com; www.louiscruises.com covering goway reports continued increase bookings drawing record numbers north americans. “india remains ‘must-see’ country many travelers want- ing best vacations exotic destination, hot”, says doug vogl, product & marketing manager, asia. offers complete vacation abundance culture, music, festivals, stunning scenery, holy cities, amaz- monuments delicious cuisine while extremely affordable. can take advantage pre post stopovers dubai, abu dhabi, oman, hong kong sin- gapore. add memorable experience.” classic priced $1,599 double. 13-day independent trip starts ends mumbai fascinating cities varanasi, kha- juraho, agra, udaipur. goway’s signature escorted odyssey major $1,969 traditional delhi, jaipur. seven-day affordably $619 more than 50 modules packages discerning traveler. “goway has covered.” 888-469-2988; info@goway.com; www.goway.com incredible fam vacations, specialist custom-designed individuals groups, announced agent familiarization program. “we want offer agents possible opportunity experience give them motivation recommend clients, demon- strate quality we offer,” said chairman, nalin kapadia. please go page 71 details www.sansincrediblevacations.com luxurious by sita tours, proud recipient “india’s operator americas,” awarded ministry 2009, distinct classes pro- grams (first luxury), well culinary back water cruises, rail excursions wildlife safaris. expanded line include air land such inclusive package. 11- $2,985 monthly departures dec 23, visiting sarnath, jaipur, mumbai, includes: accommodation private facilities (superior room) visited cities; york (jfk) india; american breakfast daily; welcome dinner + 1 lunch; transfers; itinerary coach; professionally local english-speaking guides sightseeing; fee events; boat ride ganges river varanasi; sunrise mahal; up fort. add-ons jfk interior points direct airfares available other gateway cities.call 800-421-5643 e-mail sitatours@sitatours.com www.sitatours.com newsindia news<!TEKI!>1 888 469 2924 or www.goway.com/aus roundtrip airfare with qantas from los angeles 3 free flights in australia 12 nights hotel (4 a choice of cities: sydney, melbourne, brisbane, cairns, adelaide, alice springs darwin) *price is per person, twin share. valid for departures may- 8 jun’10. fuel surcharges, us and foreign taxes fees are up to $230. sept 11 security fee an additional $150 $200. book pay by 15 dec’09. savings reflect couple travel darwin. cst # 2016613-20 days $1599* 1599* exclusive goway offer:savings $800!* culture nature ustralia made 6 states 2 territories. each these areas offers different australian experience. cul- ture founded on stories battlers, bushrangers brave soldiers. sporting heroes, working heroes plucky migrants. it’s all about ‘fair go’, the great outdoors healthy helping irony. today, also defines itself its aboriginal heritage, vibrant mix cultures, innova- tive ideas thriving arts scene. big cities outback barrier reef there much explore. culture: rich timeless tradition dreamtime sacred ‘time before time’ world’s creation. according belief, totemic spirit ancestors emerged earth descended sky awaken dark silent world. rock art, craft bark painting reveal stories, mark territory record history, while songs tell journeys, verbally mapping water sources other essential landmarks. their special lyrics have been passed down virtually unchanged at least 50,000 years, often accompanied clapsticks deep throb didgeridoo. similarly, traditional dances creation myths, enact deeds even recent historical events. colonial myths: soldiers australians believe ‘mateship’ go’ strong affection underdog, ‘battler’. values stem convicts early colonialists who struggled against harsh unfamiliar land unjust authority. australia’s most famous bushranger, ned kelly, protested poverty injustice british class system shipped here along convicts. goldfields mid-1850s, diggers were por- trayed as romantic villains embraced democracy. later, during world war i, courageous anzac served gallipoli gave new meaning term ‘tough aussie’. cravings multiculturalism theatre literature, quiet love affair arts. many host huge array cutting-edge cultur- al festivals, offer music, dance performances art exhibitions every day week. see bangarra theatre, throw your- 18 december 2009 www.jaxfax.com asia & south pacific australianto marlin harbor queensland<!TEKI!>self into the womadelaide international music festival in ade- laide and soak up theatre, ballet, opera painting brisbane’s huge cultural centre on south bank. sydney offers fabulous fusion food, world-class shopping a lively nightlife. see performance of opera, ballet or theatre at world famous house. wander cobblestone streets rocks, harborside quarter where modern australian settlement began. for day trip, heritage-listed blue mountains hunter valley vineyards lie just beyond city fringes. ride roller-blade centennial park, then stop coffee lunch oxford st mini-village five ways. take drive to 1840s victoria barracks army base, open public once week, restored victorian terraces wide, leafy streets. while you may valid overseas dri- ver’s license, remember left hand side road. since 1945 more than six million people from across have come australia live. today, 20 percent australians are foreign born 40 mixed origin. their homes speak 226 lan- guages - after english, most popular italian, greek, can- tonese arabic. you’ll find european flavors, tantalizing spices asia, africa middle east available everywhere street stalls star restaurants. samba capoeira bondi’s brazilian american festival, dance behind dragon parade during chinese new year stroll through transformed piazza annual italian celebra- tions. as nation, they embrace rainbow religious beliefs. catholic anglican churches, hindu, sikh bud- dhist temples, mosques synagogues lining coastal beauty fit an outdoor lifestyle beach is integral part laid-back offering plethora activities sun surf sailing, para- fishing, snorkeling, scuba diving combing. year’s eve, revellers sand watch fireworks manly bondi beaches glenelg adelaide. many host citizenship ceremonies christmas day, 40,000 visitors converge wearing santa hats bathing suits. australia’s sydney, kilda melbourne, surfers paradise queensland gold coast, cottesloe perth adelaide – attract locals well tourists. stretching coast wales gippsland victoria, wilderness discover eco-systems so precious protected by biosphere reserve croajingolong national park nadgee nature reserve. natural legends parks 224,000 miles areas cover about 7.55 australia's continental land area. hundred six- teen 3.42 surface registered under federal state legislation. addition, 2,700 designated conservation found all over aus- tralia 3.57 per cent surface. there also 145 marine areas, which almost 147,000 miles. range commonwealth parks, such great barrier reef fish habitat reserves, sanc- earn high commission hundreds products: • broad selection hotels budget ultra-deluxe sightseeing including 4-wheel-drive tours, helicopter walking bicycle wine tasting, whitewater rafting, snorkeling even bungee-jumping, skydiving diving! airport transfers flexible travel dates 800-808-9541 fit.nyc@gta-travel.com groups 800-808-9547 groups.tb@gta-travel.com www.booktravelbound.com melbourne brisbane alice springs ayers rock tasmania & zealand north island auckland,wellington, rotorua christchurch, queenstown, dunedin pacific tahiti bora bora, moorea, papeete fiji islands coral denarau, mamanuca australia, &south www.jaxfax.com december 2009 19<!TEKI!>travel bound adds innovative transfers ttrraavveell bboouunndd,, which sells f.i.t. products exclusively through agents, also offers private and shared transfers, as well 57 sightseeing tours attractions throughout this region. rates for bound’s australian hotels start low $45 per person night at a 4-star hotel (mercure grosvenor in adelaide), $82 5-star (mantra on the inlet port douglas). new zealand, goes little $47 (chateau park, christchurch); $85 (langham auckland). bonus nights are offered 18 hotels, two 6 tahiti three fiji. most free fourth paid nights. “surprisingly, we’ve seen 36% increase num- ber of passengers our agent partners booking australia year, 10% zealand,” notes nico zenner, president bound. “while many people staying closer to home these days, growing number travelers have become more sophisticated choosing take independent trips far- flung destinations like australia, zealand south pacif- ic, rather than clinging security blanket escorted group tours.” added 11 3-, 4- 29 properties recently lowered total 66 all bookable from pro- motions section company’s agent-only web site, www.booktravelbound.com pacific ‘fully escorted’ tour is offering fully escorted, 15 day highlights package with savings $300 cou- ple when booked by dec. 5. departing: 19, 2009 feb. 6, 2010 mar. 2010; include sydney harbour cruise, exploring queensland's far north town cairns full cruise great barri- er reef viewing stunning southern alps zealand’s island; 14 breakfasts, 2 lunches 7 dinners. land air price $5,327 includes domes- tic, trans-tasman flights to/from los angeles; taxes charges. special add-on airfares available other american cities. call 800-290-8687; reserva- tions@aptouring.com; www.aptouring.com aussie adventures values agents specializes consolidator pacific. individ- ual arrangements, tours, custom their relationships partners. an effort recognize contributions industry support they preferred program. registering program entitles commission levels earn commissions. now commissionable fares vaustralia economy, premi- um economy & business class commissions net qantas premium economy. always, offer nets econo- my, first classes. visit www.aussie- adventures.com; info@aussie-adventures.com or 866-828-aussie 20 december www.jaxfax.com newsaustralia newstuaries, aquatic reserves, conservation areas, marine coastal parks. mostly dry flat continent, nothing says challenge snow-clad mountainous alps. 16 national parks including namadgi capital territory, kosciuszko wales alpine, mount buffalo, snowy river baw victoria. world heritage-listed kakadu park tapestry wetlands, wildlife aboriginal rock art ‘galleries’ up 50,000 years old. cultural natural wonder lies half-day drive darwin. but only australia’s red centre can you lose find your- self. it place rich culture rugged outback beauty, iconic wonders uluru, kata tjuta, macdonnell ranges kings canyon. visitors set see side official opening talingru nyakunytjaku, sunrise area uluru. talinguru pitjantjatjara means “place look sand dune,” was unveiled octo- year will give 300,000 that come uluru perspective tourism icon. cost $19 million (funded federal gov- ernment), platform has been landscaped into dunes panoramic views over desert oaks both clear day. airpass $999 if you're planning traveling around then qan- tas perfect. international angeles, san francisco honolulu plus domestic (*plus charges). choose 3 cities your based zone furthest city. example: between 1 may 8 june serving sydney, melbourne, brisbane, adelaide, canberra, hobart launceston; $1,099 2. prices vary each 4 zones dates, 7, july 23, 2010. sales end dec 31, 2009. 888-306-3852 www.qantasvacations.com/aussieairpass.htm information, contact 310- 695-3200; fax, 310-695-3201; www.australia.com packages page 66-67 listings<!TEKI!>www.jaxfax.com december 2009 21 best buysbest buys asia & the south pacific $9480new zealand travcoa has collaborated with tui travel plc sister companies, such as tcs expeditions and quark expeditions, for years to expand its product offerings guests. zegrahm is newest member of portfolio north american expedition escorted tour brands. result new partnerships an 18-day cul- tural exploration aboard clipper odyssey, a small cruise ship, journey designed guests in mind. cruise, which takes place over holidays from dec. 19- jan. 5, focuses on natural history, hiking, culture, birding photography. ship makes calls queenstown, milford sound, christchurch, wellington, rotorua bay islands, among other destinations. costs $9,480 per person double. also can book 12-day indonesian priced $9,380, operated by odyssey march 2- 18, 2010. manado bali, snorkel dive remote islands visit komodo dragons. call 800- 992-2005; www.travcoa.com $2898bora bora earthly paradise shines universal pictures’ no. 1-hit comedy “couples retreat,” filmed at luxurious st. regis resort. air tahiti nui launched retreat” vacation pack- age, airline announced recently. currently theaters, film stars vince vaughn, jason bateman, jon favreau, faizon love, kristin davis, malin akerman, kristen bell, kali hawk jean reno – bora, director peter billingsley noted was another character film. prices package start $2,898 person, double occupancy, include roundtrip economy los angeles nui, inter-island flights airport transfers, five nights accommodation over- water villa resort daily breakfast. 877-824-4846; www.airtahitinuiusa.com/specials $2499china general tours world traveler’s 2010 exotic journeys catalog features enhanced collection yangtze river vacations, actually listing lower rates many departures while same time enhancing trips luxury hotels, exclusive sightseeing 5-star ship. sampler, group begins stunning sofitel wanda city- center beijing finishes hilton hotel overlook- ing historic french concession shanghai. xian, stay shangri-la golden flower, terra cotta war- riors experience timeless rhythms ancient silk road exclusive, specially arranged twilight bustling muslim district. trip highlighted all-inclusive 4-night 62-balcony stateroom, ms yangzi explorer, featuring all shore excursions, enriching shipboard program, à la carte dining, complimentary wine lunch dinner. sampler just $2,499 pp 800-221-2216; www.generaltours.com $2749new collette vacations lists eight this popular destination americans including 20-day all-new exploring zealand. visits both zealand’s added additional overnight auckland, beautiful “city sails” lowered starting rate $2,749 double, land only. passengers two-night balmy sub- tropical north. haven wildlife like seals dol- phins reveals famous “hole rock.” created wind waves, it resembles eye needle and, if conditions allow, passage through highlight passengers. area home waitangi national trust treaty house provides insight early beginnings nation start- under $3,000 only two free fiji when commences may august 611-3361; www.collettevacations.com/agents $470 china victoria cruises’ steeply-discounted winter specials three gorges highlights program upstream yichang chongqing (five days) or down- stream (four days). based occupancy (including accommodations, meals, entertainment, onboard lectures port taxes), are available select sailings 3, 14, spectacular views centuries-old pagodas nestled along yangtze, one-time excursion fee $65 applies (inclusive excursions). five- star jenna will be operating line’s chi- nese year feb. 14 feb 17, following downstream itineraries, respectively. special discounts accommodations jun- ior suites ($680 highlights; $1,260 explorer), deluxe ($890 high- lights; $1,710 explorer) ultimate luxu- ry, ($1,310 $2,030 explorer). 800-348-8084; or, www.victoriacruises.com $2899china delight 2010/2011 brochures expanded selection fives- tarplus programs gold distinctive collection. shift focus greater emphasis high-end appeal affluent clientele delight’s loyal retailer partners. $2,899 tours’ 13-day cities includes intra-china air/land transportation nine fivestarplus hotels ritz-carlton beijing, portman shanghai, xi’an, well night executive suite private balcony lavish, five-star vic- toria cruises vessel. most meals baggage handling, charges, taxes service fees. 800-221-7179 www.pacificdelighttours.com<!TEKI!>outdoor activities, jeju’s enticing mix by mark laiosa c lients looking to golf and experience a broad range of sightseeing activities will find them on the small volcanic island jeju, special self-govern- ing province. located off korean coast, it is little under an hour air from seoul serviced asiana airlines, with same level care demonstrated international flights. subtropical climate can be one reason there are twenty-six courses island, among them, private nine bridges. magazine rates as top 100 in world was part 2004 lpga tour (82-064-793-9999). some have english speaking caddys, carts required. jeju has tourists’ needs at heart modern infrastructure support groups or fits. accommodationa close airport major tourist attractions rama- da plaza ocean front, large atrium hotel 380 rooms, many balcony views. casino indoor swimming pool, complimentary use gym for guests. facilities include hot tub, jacuzzi, children’s whirlpool, sauna, steam room. path next water where guests jog, walk, bike, take seascape. (ramadajeju@empal.com) across second largest city seogwipo, 224 room, four half-star hyatt regency jeju. 12 sto- ries balconies sweeping views southern coast rolling hills. recreational pools, swim-up bar. english-speaking staff aqua view spa trained variety massage techniques. lounge set amid koi-filled pond live music nightly. overlooks jungmung beach, rated number beach korea its colored sands - black, white, red, gray. property also pinx coun- try club (www.thepinx.co.kr/golfclub/), known well- maintained course. (www.jeju.regency.hyatt.com) touring countryside driving through best way your clients see cultural highlights everyday life. roads well signage making easy fit explore. they notice sculptured figures man made pumice; these dolharubangs were originally placed gates provinces ward evil spirits. different arm positions denote if scholar warrior. now dol- harubangs outside homes businesses. cones dot landscape, mountains, dialect, “orums” miniature parasitic dormant volcanoes, craters. thatched roofed houses, surrounded high-walled gardens entrances three wooden poles show whether owner home away. may women divers lining shore round floats bobbing surface. women, called haenyeo, hold their breath dive deep floor collecting seafood seaweed, sometimes staying sub- merged over two minutes. depth look lifestyle available haenyeo museum, models fishing farming. experi- ential center interactive exhibits children touch tools, netting objects. dramatic seascapes that seen olle, pronounced ‘olay’. word once meant stone- enclosed paths between main road home, but used network coastal trails. marked, boardwalks, handrails steps walking. snack shops along ‘boonsik’ chance drink scenery refreshments. towering cliffs jagged stone outcroppings oedolgae tower, rising out surrounding sea been backdrops popular television movies. spirited garden came about determination mr. bum-young sung. he working while garden’s collection bonsai trees guides. elm, quince, apple cherry tended great 250 attendants. walk flat dry stones filled gentle waterfall feed koi fish. (www.spirit- edgarden.com) o’sulloc tea company. sited fields tea, ware simple clay pottery ornate precious metal bowls. short demonstration green leaves heated pan then brewed served clients. gift shop sells wide blends beauty products extract. teashop place fresh cup snack, ice cream view. (www.sulloc.co.kr) closer mount halla, more plantations rise very peak. halla extinct volcano whose unique shape earned unesco natural her- itage site designation. another seongsan ilchulbong (sunrise peak) tuff cone. vis- tas meeting land spectacular breaking waves. end trail, almost perfect bowl awaiting (http://jejuwnh.jeju.go.kr/english.php) nearby hall arboretum plants all world, including rare, local plant garden, medicinal edible forest, accessible walking paths, arched bridge, eventually taking up slope orum expansive country- side. free admission parking (korea travel phone +82- 64-1330 information english). additional visit: www.visitkorea.co.kr, successfully plan clients’ visit www.hije- ju.or.kr/english/main.html 22 december 2009 www.jaxfax.com koreanto jungmun asia & south pacific consolidator airfares packages japan page 69-70 listings section<!TEKI!>www.jaxfax.com december 2009 23 cruising china’s heavenly river with viking cruises by jonathan siskin g azing out on the yangtze from balcony of your stateroom aboard century sun is one many pleasures that await clients who book a cruise legendary “river heaven.” longest in asia (third world after nile and amazon), originates remote highlands tibetan plateau flows 3,700 miles through heart world’s most populous nation before emptying into east china sea north shanghai. along way, it passes 10 chinese provinces are home to some 450 million people—approximately 1/3 1.2 billion inhabitants. sun’s very deluxe amenities include full service restaurant (with cuisine created celebrity chef martin yan) observation bar lounge, deck 360- degree-views, business center, internet station, coffee bar, beauty salon, gym sauna. there also laundry massage services, doctor sails every cruise. prides itself directly managing all aspects its nautical technical expertise catering sightseeing while looked start finish well-trained, experienced crew stew- ards dining room waiters director hotel manager. everyone celebratory mood as ship slips moorings heads center river. throughout you get fascinating glimpse everyday life drift past terraced fields wheat, cotton tobacco. day an unending parade traffic both directions type vessel mammoth tankers, barges ferries rickety sampans bamboo rafts. takes captain negotiate changing cur- rents rises falls encoun- ters host obstacles way including reefs, rocks rapids. no experience rivals spectacular passage famed three gorges, wonders natural world. when sailing upstream first enters xiling gorge, 40-mile stretch framed soaring peaks plunging canyons dotted fruit orchards historic relics. then 25 mile long wu (also known witches) gorge where between 12 imposing shrouded fog mist. each has uniquely colorful name such ”climbing dragon peak”, “rising cloud peak” “flying goddess peak.” grand finale five qutang shortest dra- matic must navigate tricky currents maneuvering this super-slender narrows just 100 feet across at point. another highlight visit gorges dam learn details immense hydroelectric engineering project largest water conservancy ever undertaken any nation. upon completion will have taken 17 years build cost $30 dollars. due rising waters- already risen more than 300 soon reach final height 500 feet- people living near been relocated higher ground new cities built accommodate them. end waters submerged 13 cities, 140 towns 1300 villages well 600,000 acres cultivat- ed land. pre & post highlights centerpiece viking’s all-inclu- sive 12-day “imperial jewels china” “china’s cultural delights” itineraries. superb quality these affirmed national tourism office, which awarded 5 star rating. begin either beijing or shanghai; night stay includes guided tours forbidden city, tianan- men square, summer palace walk great wall two nights shanghai feature tour old bund, silk workshop evening attending performance shanghai’s acrobatic troupe revue. city xian highlighted 2000-year-old mausoleum emperor qin shihuang huang, contains over 6,000 size terra- cotta warriors buried emperor. was uncovered 1974 group farmers digging well, discovery established sought-after destinations visitors worldwide. 2010 prior decem- ber 18 entitled early booking discount featuring for land pricing beginning $3.470 per per- son. they can save $400 couple all-inclusive roundtrip air. call 877-668-4546; www.vikingrivercruises.com view floating yangtze, lobby (below). worldwide vikingrivercruises<!TEKI!>egypt gears up for tourism growth despite past recession by mercedes m. cardona t he sphinx and the pyramids are still big tourist draws egypt, but establishment is trying to broaden its appeal build on popular- ity. egyptian authorities have been working improve infrastructure, including a dramatic over- haul of cairo’s airport, step-up marketing encouraging development more luxury products. as late 1982, only offered cultural tourism, said hisham zaazou, first assistant minister tourism. today, offers sports sun sea, desert safaris, meetings conventions, wellness other offerings, said. red sea resorts now target lot new growth, with hotel chains tour operators targeting towns sharm el sheikh hurghada in particular. both movenpick chain malta-based chi hotels opened prop- erties this summer additional proj- ects works region. variety seen tool smooth over bumps created economic political conditions. series crises last 15 years led officials analyze process, decide offer needed diversification, karim minabawy, vice chair- man emeco travel, an travel destination man- agement company. egypt’s took hit after 1997 terrorist attack tourists at temple hatseptshut, popular stop near luxor, was recovering time sept. 11 attacks; it again fast clip when terrorists struck resort 2005. numbers visitors receipts continued rise global recession, 24 december 2009 www.jaxfax.com africa & middle east call: 800-248-3487 visit: www.fittours.com foreign independent tours ancient mystique...a lifetime memories let us show you: • see cradle civilization. river two seas! archeology art cruises history culture we egypt! come egypt: mediterranean susanmckee positive outlook 2010.<!TEKI!>save $500* per couple tuesday departures jan/feb 2010 egypt 9 days nile cruise & tour fam rate $499 grand package 10-days with air and 22 meals $1,399 from jfk affordable 18 $1,699* luxury 17 $2,299* sunny land® tours, inc. 1-800-783-7839 • www.egypthotdeals.com<!TEKI!>26 december 2009 www.jaxfax.com acknowledged some effects may yet be seen. the number of tourist arrivals has nearly doubled since 2002, said amr el ezabi, chairman egyptian authority. in 2008 topped 12.8 million, including 319,112 u.s. travelers. face rapid development speaking at recent conference african travel asso- ciation, ezabi that this is “a moment crisis” world economy. but, egypt been one destinations least affected by recession so far, he said. egypt’s efforts challenges both environmental and techno- logical, zaazou. country facing - there are 192,000 hotel rooms under construction today, com- pared to 211,000 currently operation, noted. thanks internet, customers have become better informed about offers more demanding. zaazou noted government hired consulting firm booz allen develop a pilot program reduce emis- sions sharm el-sheikh, order turn resort into green city as an example other destinations. taken measures aid tourism such improving airports, easing currency regulations run- ning ad campaigns promote diverse attractions abroad, well informing egyptians on how best deal with tourists, badr, managing director abercrombie & kent egypt. for example, opening new terminal 3 cairo’s airport, which boosted airport’s international capaci- ty from 9.5 million annual passengers 21 million. “cairo airport until very recently was small box,” badr. expansion part egyptair’s strategy cairo regional hub africa, ashraf hassan, general sales manager government-owned airline. terminal, capacity 11 passengers, opened nonstops york. it later added flights carriers, also partners star alliance, include usairways united airlines. egyptair moved its domestic ease con- nections. first four alliance lounges planned termi- nal september; eventually, t3 will two class business serving all partners. additional facilities large ticketing office, banks, eateries group reception areas tour companies, hotels agencies. service aircraft, livery, branding changes improve connections gateways. arrival 777 aircraft march 2010, airline introduce featuring flat beds, come service, coach cabins overhauled add individual seat-back screens improvements, hassan. gateways june code share airlines: san francisco, los angeles, chicago washington, d.c. york jfk 4, allows onward those types infrastructure improvements key developing any products, aber- crombie kent. “it’s not enough meet carnival (cruise lines),” “you build roads get ships.” information, call authori- ty, 212-332-2570 or email info.us@egypt.travel click www.egypttravel.com africa middle east consolidator airfares packages see page 58-59 listings section give your clients unforgettable experience departure our personalized extensive knowledge. let us guide. take journey dream destination. we specialize unique, high end, customized most desirable locations: egypt, jordan, israel, greece, south laos, cambodia, vietnam, australia, zealand europe. reservations information please jaxfax@reservationsmaster.com call: 800-381-4896 www.reservationsmaster.com<!TEKI!>best buysbest buys $1999south africa while prices have been rising for almost every- thing, south african airways vacations® announced that it is holding the line and adding value on something we all deserve – a much-needed vacation. saa vacations’ 9-day, air-inclusive “south sale” package will be offered at low starting price of $1,999 travel jan. 7-may 15, 2010. includes international domestic airfare air- ways, africa’s most awarded carrier, from either new york or washington, d.c. as an added bonus, free add-on flights 26 selected cities in u.s. once africa, features 4 nights cozy com- modore hotel overlooking victoria alfred waterfront cape town, which travelers use their base operations to explore stunning has offer. full-day peninsula tour, dinner portswood hotel’s quarterdeck restaurant 1⁄2-day winelands tour are included during stay. after exploring ready 2 bakubung bush lodge tucked into pilanesberg national park near sun city, where they go safari. golfing gambling additional options available bakubung. call 888-722-4872; visit www.flysaa.com $3399egypt, turkey fit tours’ two ancient cultures 15-day program combines egypt & priced $3,399 per person double. says diane panasci, “compare other operators sell this land-only $5,000!” fully-escorted includes: accommodations four five-star properties throughout, with stays cairo, three nile cruise sleeping outside junior-suite cabins (all shore excursions within egypt), one night each istanbul sleeper train cappadocia; cap- padocia antalya. sightseeing cairo itinerary lunch including entrance fees services guide. additionally, guests treated service english- speaking egyptologist egypt, transfers local hosting, well english-speaking guide transportation by conditioned motorcoach. optional hot-air balloon $299 person. 800-248-3487; www.fit- tours.com $3252botswana africaexperts goway introduced 14-day active vacation option botswana called okavango adventure. commented moira smith, general manager africaexperts, “travelers enjoy small group experience (max. 16 guests) unique hotels, lodges tented camps.” highlights trip include game drive boat chobe park, 3 delta.... start $3,252 13 accommodation, maun - delta maun, some meals, mokoro walks delta, cruise, kwan- do. 800-245-0920 www.goway.com kenya flies heart (kq) launched direct kisangani; democratic republic congo making airlines’ 47th destination. thrice-weekly operate monday, thursday friday bangoka airport. part kq’s aggressive network expansion, congo- brazaville libreville; march june year respectively. routes kq gaborone; ndola; zambia connects london, mumbai, accra, dubai, nairobi, hong kong delhi. airline operates daily frequencies johannesburg, twice lusaka, zambia; 10 week lilongwe, malawi harare, zimbabwe weekly maputo, mozambique. 866-kenya-air; www.kenya-airways.com reservation master’s ‘special’ reservations master (rm) offers eight pre-packaged tours various lengths areas visited, categories: stan- dard, superior, deluxe premium. scheduled departures travel: “in shadow cleopatra,” nine-night runs april 11-21 costs $2,850 double land arrangements only. shorter seven nights, “high- lights egypt,” departs oct. $2,150 per- son specializing customized tours, not only but exotic destinations such monaco’s de france, rm attracts who’s who celebrity corporate bigwigs movie stars. 800-381-4896; www.reservationsmaster.com come israel… t h e b i l n d offering guaranteed minimum passengers, private groups, pilgrimages individual travel. www.yallatours.com agents (800) 644-1595 information@yallatours.com association ronen paldi, president www.jaxfax.com december 2009 27<!TEKI!>flanders: antwerp refashions its focus by maria lisella a ntwerp, located in flanders northern belgium, has been designated one of six art cities (the others are brussels, bruges, ghent, mechelen and leuven) cool capital, yet it is still largely recognized for ship-building past, sparkling diamond present fashion future. even though may not be the first place your client will think when looking long- weekend getaway western europe, there reasons to reconsider. those become more apparent as 2012 approaches. now, prime clients into knowing just little about flanders, belgium. an city, surprise visitors with num- ber museums found within city center. all giant, blockbuster types, many such rubenshuis or rubens’ house, intimate. walking corridors home ruben lived worked lets vis- itors traipse past where he woke, his head lay at rest end long day painting intense portraits. presenting, room 17th- century antwerp, exhibit genre that emerged antwerp. inspired collectors who were fond showing off their possessions paintings called cabinets, displayed depict full – entire museum single painting. this continues until feb. 27 2010. visit www.rubenshuis.be mode also presenting one-of-a-kind exhibit: delvaux, 180 years belgian luxury. over nearly two centuries, luxury goods delvaux survived through revolutions wars, while firm contin- ued produce prodigious output travel local nobility hundred ago, rise modern handbag 20th century. remain on display 21, www.momu.be district, no doubt, fans. set near central station, actually contains area square mile which handles than 80% world’s rough diamonds. port charm backdrop north sea, attracted attention centuries today, sensibilities pose challenge milan paris, both once known heartbeat world. but port, second largest key what makes tick brought bring prosperity traders, tourists, artists brings flush energy city. market share less 38% trade between europe u.s. (antwerp various american companies like exxon mobil monsanto.) so deep some say you can capsize ships harbor. links belgium america have never limited alone. millions europeans began journey canada from 1872 1935 famous belgian-american shipping company, red star line (top right). recently, jf interviewed dan benjoseph, director flan- ders tourism new york flanders’ boast medieval settings, really most well-preserved poland? we get foryouwholesale! asamerica’s #1 tour operator poland since 1946,we in,whatever require.grouptravel.hotel accommodations.car rentals.fly/drive programs spavacations.fits.incentives. consolidatorairtickets lot polishairlines only non-stopto 3 u.s.gateways) order free 2009 brochuresatwww.amta.com call toll today 800-228-0877 fax: 212-581-7925 | 505 8 ave. ny 10018 visit:amta.com visit:www.lot.com flandersnto antwerp’s night sky 28 december www.jaxfax.com<!TEKI!>different edge to it. its profile is that of a working city, an industrial city and it boasts one the largest jewish popula- tions in europe, fact harkens past but also new project very near future – red star line proj- ect as voyage for many immigrants began antwerp. not unlike bremen immigration center ger- many, antwerp promises become major genealogy center. antwerp, turns out, was starting point some 2.7 million people who emi- grated cities on east coast america between years 1872 1935. according benjoseph, research indicates 80 85% those were from eastern europe. old warehouses cargo terminals port are now being refurbished into memorial will encom- pass expected reach completion by 2010. benjoseph said flanders with architects artists designed facilities at ellis island museum terms allowing visitors families, documents, manifests like trace their roots. has already inspired other forms expression. instance, line-from belgium international country-dance represents collabora- tion among philippe callens, belgian dance leader cho- reographer, two bands u.s. — joyful noise hold mustard. efforts, canvas, tv channel flemish radio (vrt), started documentary about emigration north america. team soliciting public provide information, most all, eye-witnesses may have emigrated 1920s or 1930s. barring live witnesses, group seeking diaries, photos documents long journey. call 586-777-2720. winter fests christmas market takes place groenplaats mid end december. ice rink square open mid-december early january; village piers scheldt up mid- december january nostalgic indoor winter- fair waagnatie january. below few hotel packages celebrat- ing radisson blu astrid hotel, offering special din- ner 24th 25th $117 per person including drinks. 31, dinner be offered $147 guests wishing overnight, rate $177 applies standard room $214 deluxe room. www.radissonblu.com/astridhotel-antwerp “christmas arrangement” ramada plaza includes: room, breakfast, free access per- sons skating grote markt skate rental delicacies priced $207 night through dec. 27. reservations, e-mail reserveringen@ramadaplazaantwerp.com; or, visit www.ramadaplazaantwerp.com hilton antwerp’s holiday includes $192 night. lunch/dinner $104 $138 wine. enjoy delicious brunch $75 person. reservations.antwerp@hilton.com; www.antwerp.hilton.com more contact tourist office flanders, 212-584-2336; fax 212-575-3606; www.visitflanders.us; facebook/twitter http://twitter.com/visitflanders consolidator airfares tour see page 50 listings section flandersnto donna franca specials italy!donna italy! reservations information please toll-free 800-225-6290 (617-375-9400 local calls). 888800000000----222222225555----6666222299990000 wwwwwwwwwwww....ddddoooonnnnnnnnaaaaffffrrrraaaannnnccccaaaa....ccccoooommmm donnafranca@donnafranca.com | 470 commonwealth avenue, boston, ma 02215 i’m italyby rome 4 days / 3 nights $515 dbl. occ.( land only) four three lovely first class imperiale via veneto. buffet breakfast daily eve & day gala dinners. taormina 6 5 $639 dbl.occ. pick your choice: isabella, villa diodoro, five san pietro occ., self drive car fiat grande punto door manual. venice day/3nights $2749 occ. spend enchanting danieli rooms overlooking grand canal. break- fasts, seven course wine parings sponsored perrier jouet followed after midnight traditional italian good luck meal "zampone lentils" music entertainement. resolution travel italy great style traditions this fantastic country!! our year book escorted flagship fever sicilian 31 2009 last year's rates www.jaxfax.com 29<!TEKI!>30 december 2009 www.jaxfax.com l ike many other frequent travel- ers, i habitually rank my top 5 and 10 favorite overseas destinations. although fresh perspectives the passage of time might cause some lineup-jug- gling, certain “european personals” stay right up there. like: czech republic. capital-city prague. old-time czechoslovakia—carved out austro-hungarian empire in 1918—underwent a major changeover 75 years later, when slovaks regained their independence. adjacent federal territory (just bit small- er than neighboring austria square mileage) features pair culturally vibrant regions: bohemia moravia. also, there’s no ignoring turbulent national history. it spans royal dynasties, religious upheavals, periods bitter war- fare, hitler-era takeover culminates 1989’s anti-soviet “velvet revolution” inspired by activist playwright future president václav havel, followed european union membership, achieved five ago. culture has an enduring worldwide appeal, noticeably art (mucha, svabinsky), literature (kafka, kundera) absolutely folkloric- themed classical music (dvorak, smetana, martinu, mahler). tops visual prominence hilltop altitude, prague’s enormous castle complex–begun 9th century–comprises gothic st. vitus cathedral plus romanesque basilica, chapels, governmental offices, four cer- emonial halls, courtyards, bohemian gallery garden. here, too (for terrific panoramic views) palace exhibiting lobkow- icz family’s collection old masters paintings beethoven manuscripts. meeting planners can book chande- liered salons for conferences, banquets speaking engagements. visit www.lobkowiczevents.cz historic landmarks & upscale hotels equally adaptable such corporate functions, downtown’s municipal house stages sympho- ny orchestra concerts as well each july-august’s prague proms fes- tival. completed 1912, this flamboy- ant civic center doubles showpiece nouveau murals decorative embellishments. sightseers zigzag few short blocks from there to reach one europe’s largest, liveliest most-pho- tographed main squares, framed packed-together rows baroque renaissance buildings. those are dwarfed multiple-steepled tyn church tall-towered town hall, where crowds watch its 15th-century astronomical clock’s hourly gyrations. mamaison group welcomes guests two five-star proper- ties, both splendidly restored buildings: riverside hotel pachtuv (www.mamai- son.com). rocco forte’s very deluxe 101-room augustine opened last may. overlook- ing ramparts walkably down- hill toward statue-lined charles bridge, designer-outfitted spa epitomizes continental finesse. corri- dors connect public spaces with fres- coed 13th-century thomas augustinian monastery. www.roccofortecollection.com experience mood swing touring josefov neighborhood’s jewish ghet- to, shaped vltava river bend. synagogues set tone, along cen- turies-old burial grounds museum dedicated holocaust victims. southward prague, roads curve deep into heartland. prime visitors destination, worth 112-mile/180 km. journey: picturesque ceský krumlov, squeezed inside tight loop. cute inns cafés huddle beneath moated colorfully painted watchtower, accentuated colonnaded wrap- around balcony. town, unesco world heritage site since 1992, hosts midyear festival (www.festi- valkrumlov.cz). audiences gathered operatic pro- ductions bellarie gardens do so while seated astonishing “revolv- theater,” which swivels smoothly scene outdoor scene. celebrated bohemians: smetana dvorak little laid-back litomysl (population 10,146), composer smetana’s east hometown, also puts on annual festivities lovers (www.smetanovalitmosyl.cz). soloists, chamber ensembles orchestras perform arcaded court- yard—part 16th-century pure- unesco’s list (1999). smallness doesn’t deprive fine four-star hotel. market- place, terraced behind, cluster buildings been turned sophisticated 21-room aplaus, comple- mented urbane restaurant, wine cellar, balconied frontage ample group-function amenities. range $114-190. www.hotelaplaus.cz mere mention inevitably brings antonin mind. he’s bona-fide patriotic icon, hence allure ancestral vysoká mansion pastoral central bohemia, vicinity príbram village, hour’s drive standing amidst woodsy nature trails, 19th-century lakeside memorial (and concert venue) chronicles dvorak’s family life, u.s. appearances eminent music-mak- career. www.antonindvorak.cz getting enactment 2007’s schengen agreement repub- lic’s borders neighbor coun- tries: germany, poland, austria, slovakia, making combining countries twin-steepled towers over prague's market tombross ‘czeching up’ attractions tom bross<!TEKI!>bit more streamlined for those clients inclined to do so. delta air lines operates round-trip service between new york and prague prg. your can take advantage of the carrier’s skyteam partnership extensive “reach” throughout north south america, europe far east. prague’s ruzynê airport, an inter- national gateway since 1937, modern- ized expanded socialism’s downfall, now consists four termi- nals—crisscrossed with 12.7 million travelers in 2008, a 7.4% increase over previous year. (note that, as october 23rd, csa czech airlines has ceased flying its round-trips from/to jfk toronto). straddling business pleasure among many boutique prop- erties, homegrown varieties national-branded lodging options are three that straddle market seg- ments leisure. below is short update on mix. clarion congress hotel – located at edge city center, brand opened march 2008. own shopping mall, galerie fenix, than 80 shops, bars restaurants within complex, well metro station access direct from hotel, it ideal base which explore heart city. being one largest hotels town, sets standard four-star cate- gory cozy bedrooms, number great meeting facilities 2,500 partici- pants. visit www.cchp.cz old town this erty set center proximity all major sights. offers outstanding comfort services atmos- phere 90 modern rooms luxury adjacent suites. www.cpi- hotels.cz/en/choice-hotels/clarion- hotel-prague/ buddha bar not just another it’s lifestyle. luxu- ry suites, first buddha- blends contemporary asian interior design french colo- nial influence histor- ical building few steps away square. state-of- the-art fitness facilities, complete hammam steam room, jacuzzi, spa treatments quiet convenience guest buddha-bar goes beyond expectations ensure relaxing yet rejuvenating harmonious experience. www.buddha-bar-hotel.cz/ available: asta’s travel manu- al, current travel-agents’ database, updated listings promotable tours packages, plus 15 pdf-download- able brochures. www.czech- tourism.com call tourist authority, 212-288-0830, ext. 107; fax: 212-288- 0971; email michaela palkova-claudi- no : palkova@czechtourism.com. consolidator airfares tour packages republic see page 51 section antonin dvorak memorial www.jaxfax.com december 2009 31<!TEKI!>revisiting turkey’s travel treasures g iven the worldwide financial situation, growth that persists in turkey is simply staggering, with glob- al brands mixing acclaimed turkish hospitality entities to make this already alluring country even more attractive for international visitors. from seven- star hotels five million-square-foot marinas and 700-year-old angels, tourism industry continues be defined by three words: expand, expand. a modern nation captivating blend of antiquity contemporary east west. cradle civilization center world history today stands as one fastest- growing destinations world. was site first human settlement; seat byzantine, roman ottoman empires; birthplace homer last home virgin mary, just name few. turkey, its spec- tacular coastline, majestic mountains, cosmopolitan cities quaint villages world’s most fascinating destinations. scene power: seven stars, exact. edition hotel istan- bul expected earn ultra-luxurious des- ignation that, currently, only own. massive undertaking price tag nearly $150 million (100 euros), 80-room property strictly suites houses some finest dining ambitious – joint project palmali holding marriott designed ian schrager –opens december 2009, time istanbul begin year-long celebration european capi- tal culture 2010. hilton corporation making presence felt plans open 40 properties across within years, including two new bursa, north- western region 170-room bursa convention centre & spa 106-room hampton bursa. which will located adjacent each other are both scheduled spring 2011. also greatly expand garden inn brand turkey. planning several coming year, kutahya quarter 2010 konya, mardin, sunliurfa bostanci district second visit www.hilton.com divan: newly opened, divan asia largest on istanbul’s anatolia, or asia, side. 23-story features 231 rooms eight suites, nine versatile meeting rooms, ballroom can accommodate 500 ban- quet restaurant, brasserie posh rooftop bar. top floors offer exclusive, executive-level services. com- plex sports center, indoor outdoor swimming pools fitness facilities. divan, developers rebuilding 50-year-old taksim, city’s social, cultural business center. 2010, 228-room feature themed restaurants, patisserie, facilities, spacious pool. www.divan.com.tr 118 years young: originally built 1892 guests arriv- ing legendary orient express paris, pera palas has counted kings, queens emperors among guests. historic re-open after major renovations restored building’s past introduced modern-day conven- iences. updated six-floor, 145-room property, featuring breathtaking views bosphorus strait’s golden horn, facilities accommodating up 400 guests, an elegantly appointed main bar patisserie. www.perapalas.com eco-luxury ankara: architecture firm rmjm partnered design 24-story, 400-room j.w. ankara, “green hotel” capital fourth four ballrooms, shops unique vertical stone fins serve solar shading, glass curtain walls environmentally friendly materials reduce heat, plentiful vegetation provide additional cooling. www.marriott.com 32 2009 www.jaxfax.com europe foreign independent tours ancient mystique...a lifetime memories 800-248-3487 | www.fittours.com come for: • landscape “moonscape” explore wineyards learn cook delights get married renew your vows! it’s all possible fit -call us today! turkey! turkeynto blue mosque<!TEKI!>become a certified destination specialist at the 5th annual international expo in istanbul, turkey. as only destination-focused conference, you will expand your knowledge to sell extraordinary of turkey and neighboring countries such greece, andorra, gibraltar, monaco, san marino, malta cyprus. conference features: • four days concentrated education that make an expert on surrounding region. trade show allows network with local companies won’t meet any u.s. based show. complimentary half full day tours around istanbul—so may see what clients experience. new certifications can add professional profile attract clients. asta debuts its newest course turkey, country housing treasures 13 consecutive civilizations, history spanning 10,000 years. turkey’s rich storied serves backdrop tourism infrastructure is thoroughly modern, accommodations mix activities portfolio suited sate virtually travel palate. cradle for three monotheistic religions christianity, judaism islam, safe secular country, respecting freedom worship. claudette covey share her extensive country’s long history. she also provide practical information how comprehensive sales marketing strategies unveil innovative ways this fascinating country. find out create vacations history, culture, affordable luxury more—all boost agency’s profits. turkeyapril 19-22, 2010 istanbul register now receive 4 night hotel stay!* www.asta.org/ide nighthotel packages available now* *limited quantity available. offer valid while supplies last.<!TEKI!>new attractions and discoveries europe’s largest aquarium, the turkuazoo istanbul, will make its grand debut by end of 2009 in istanbul. facility, home to 25,000 sea creatures including tiger sharks with whom brave vis- itors may actually swim, features several natural environments such as a rainforest, flooded forest tropical zone. exciting 275-foot long marinescape seatube, one world’s longest underwater tunnels, offer visitors panoramic view marine life. visit www.turkuazoo.com history re-surfacing: restoration turkey’s famed byzantine cathedral, hagia sophia, has unveiled long-concealed mosa- ic seraphim, or angel, hidden for more than 700 years. figure, yet be revealed, is even mentioned bible. meanwhile, archaeologists from university toronto have discovered collection cuneiform tablets dating back iron age previously unknown temple tell tayinat, south- eastern turkey. translated, information contained on help explain imperial ambitions ancient assyrian hittite civilizations. second yacht marina europe, d-marin didim at altinkum-didim opened much fanfare august 2009. $75 million, state-of-the-art facility stretches out over five million square feet capacity 1,200 vessels all sizes, though it primarily cater yachts 8m- 60m long. also include an on-site customs office world class amenities crew, owners guests club, shopping center, supermarkets, equipment shops, fitness banks, restaurants heliport. upcoming events: mevlana festival, december 7-17 konya, honors rumi, great 13th century sufi poet, saint founder mevlevi (whirling) dervish order. 40th edition volvo youth sailing isaf champi- onship held istanbul july 8-17, 2010, 300 young competitors 60 countries. this first time turkey host event. www.isafyouthworlds.com turkey, contact turkish cul- ture tourism offices york 212-687-2194 or, washington, d.c., 202-612-6800, www.tourism- turkey.org www.kulturturizm.gov.tr europe consolidator airfares tour packages see page 55 listings section best buysbest buys $999 central holidays pleased introduce 8- day air + hotel-inclusive city duet hot deals rome paired choice paris, nice, london athens travel until march 25, 2010. priced per person, these amaz- ing are valid bookings made january 15, company coupled italy’s some most popular enchanting destinations choose among, each offering four wonderful nights two cities. round-trip international alitalia nyc (fuel surcharge included price), domestic flights between selected traveler, breakfast daily, eight hotel accommodation (four city), selected, taxes service charges. rome, where travelers can climb spanish steps, toss coin trevi fountain good luck magnificent vatican city. package rates fol- lows, person based double occupancy: & paris $999; nice $1,029; $1,169; $1,399. call 800-935-5000 www.centralholidays.com fit's • groups car rentals honeymoons worldwide accommodations river cruises greek mediterranean rail tickets passes. 800-882-3983 info@europtours.com www.europtours.com experience with... g reec ea u stria fra n c e erm any spain ita ly sw itzerland u.k. 34 www.jaxfax.com<!TEKI!>louis majesty cristal aquamarine coral orient queen aegean pearl calypso revealing destinations ! canary islands, croatia, cyprus, egypt, france, gibraltar, greece and greek islands israel, italy, jordan, libya, malta, montenegro, morocco, portugal, red sea, spain, tunisia, turkey members of: for cruise brochure, dvds other information: send e-mail request to: lclusa@louiscruises.com or call: (877) 568-4787<!TEKI!>best buys & newsbest news $945 turkey european tours, a company known for its value priced cruises and tours in europe, is selling nine-night tour through turkey, starting at per person double land arrangements only when paid full by jan. 15, 2010. oper- ate january december 31, 2010, with set departure dates. using four five-star hotels, the itineraries start istan- bul include stops cappadocia, pamukkale, kusadasi, canakkale. professional guides will explain all excursions, including topkapi palace, st. sophia, blue mosque grand bazaar istanbul, mausoleum of ataturk muse- um ankara, kaymakli undergound city open air gerome natural fortress uchisar. on way to visit 13th century seljikian sultanhan cara- vanseral konya, mevlana then ancient hierapolis necropolis. seleuk temple artemis, morning drive ephesus. addi- tionally acropol troy, are included. finally, crosses dardanelles gallipoli anzac cove, nek, conk bair, lone pine 57th regiment memorial. other fea- tures transfers, hotel accommodations three nights bul, two each cappadocia one night also included breakfast daily six dinners, baggage handling taxes. airfare not cost $1,035 double, but early bird booking deal if price drops double. call 800-882-3983; e-mail info@europtours.com; www.europtours.com $1435europe goway’s adventuresincorporated recent- ly launched winter brochure partnership topdeck travel, operator that caters 18-39 year old market segment. “prices lower, atmosphere scenes wonderland there less travelers road, allowing you enjoy major sites without crowds,” stat- ed don forster, product manager 39-year-old goway travel. nine-day program heads deux alpes, home europe’s largest ski-able glacier, which means “real” snow resort own league. add this an amazing nightlife, modern ameni- ties have perfect ski getaway. from $1,435 spirit $2,045 24-day program. explore 12 countries (france, switzerland, italy, vatican city, austria, hun- gary, slovakia, poland, czech rep., germany, netherlands belgium). experience includes staying combination hostels bungalows. 888-469-2949; www.adventuresincorporated.com $2150france amidst buzz movie julie julia, new york based culinary travel de forks announced taste julia child’s paris provence, eight day/seven package. $2,150 discounted international extensions normandy marseille, available. components itinerary can be further customized groups. details www.tourdeforks.com, 888- 345-3005; info@tourdeforks; $735 denmark nordique three-night package stay radisson copenhagen, country has been “happiest people.” sas royal most exclusive designer hotels city. located heart opposite tivoli gardens, close hall square famous shopping street “strøget,” certain win every guest’s heart. guests receive nights’ two, daily, bottle champagne strawberries room three-course dinner two. black out dates dec. 6-18. clients might want take advan- tage phenomenal post-christmas sales copenhagen. 800-995-7997; www.nordiquetours.com companions fly free trafalgar their 2010 europe britain summer vacation offerings deal. who book pay 30, 2009 advantage companion (plus tax, up $190) air- inclusive vacations. or, deals save them $1,090 couple vacations trafalgar’s 7.5% payment discount, available booked 2009. online www.trafal- gartours.com/europe as well brand first class britain, costsaver family experiences brochures. 866-544-4434. turkish airlines supports medical tourism airlines, nine hospitals signed agreement northwestern university-kellogg school management indiana. conduct research how much contribution achieved u.s. economy people chose go treatment. healthcare approximately 10 percent united states, resulting significant savings both individuals health insurance companies, were they provide coverage treatment turkey. highest number joint commission accredited world, evidences high quali- ty care offers 25% discount over system prices patients traveling treatment, waives penalty date changes. information, www.turkishairlines.com; www.medicaltourisminturkey.com donna franca memorable fam during 2009, alitalia selected 125 professionals share several informative trips italy highlighted regions tuscany, emilia romagna, le marche sicily, along malta. these trips–escorted stefano marzocchi, custom designed group individual travel–included specially arranged visits noble palaces, wine olive oil estates private museums. due franca’s personal connections her native forty years pro- grams $569 person. 800-225-6290 or email info@donnafranca.com 36 www.jaxfax.com<!TEKI!>www.jaxfax.com december 2009 37 south & central america exploring the soulful side of mexico by jeffrey steele h igh in sierra de michoacan, my guide rodrigo munoz and i pull into historic mountain village zacan. on square, we spot town’s main attraction. huatapera la immac- ulada concepcion maria is a quaint chapel that doubled as shelter hospital for 19th century travelers. but its ancient doors are locked. an inquiry at eatery sends us ambling down cob- blestone sidestreet to weathered green metal door two-story adobe house. resident converse moment, then closes. stepping back few feet, turn our gazes roof, where gunmetal gray loudspeaker crackles life. hear someone blowing microphone. then, voice audible miles, young woman says spanish: “to person who has keys huatapera, please come open place. there’s here wants see it!” ah, charms spectacular southwestern mexi- can state often dubbed “the soul mexico.” though not co american beach-worshippers’ fondest dreams, there more beguiling destinations those seeking immersion mystic, centuries-old history architecture colonial mexico. trek starts with overnight stay picturesque hotel villa montana (www.villamontana.com.mx) capital city, morelia. motor half-hour west patzcuaro (potz-kwor- oh), michoacan’s 15th cultural capital, today charming lake resort 100,000. centuries, patzcuaro’s heart been vibrant plaza, bustling vendors piloting umbrella carts, bordered fresno-lined walkways graced buildings shops restaurants street level living quarters upstairs. like other mexican cities, was colonized mis- sionaries followed 16th spanish conquerors benevolent were brutal, jesuits, domini- cans franciscans built monasteries taught native mexicans carpentry, baking skills. one many structures from time monumental basilica, whose construction launched 1554 revered first bishop, don vasco, com- pleted until 1883. short walk away, one-time dominican nuns’ convent now house eleven courtyards, artisans practice centuries- old arts indigenous people. within this serene setting, city sounds give way twitter birds stylings accor- dion player. near shops, pink begonias artisan’s hand-made red, yellow orange tablecloths add splashes color white walls. inside artists produce sell their own textiles, copper straw art pieces. practices maque, handpainting wooden plates parota wood paints mixed rocks, plants insects – craft dating 500 b.c. it’s soon evident magnet foreign-born hoteliers. venezuelan-born isabel lange may have lived england, china, norway, new york miami, when it came her hotel, siranda (lasiranda-casa- hotel.com), she chose patzcuaro. “here you feel you’re town, timeless town,” said. “when begin ridiculous. i’m walking walk, no place patzcuaro.” far self-proclaimed “california girl” priscilla madsen, gregarious, scarlet-haired san diego discovered decades ago, greets mansion los suenos restored 17th building. visit www.man- siondelossuenos.com. convinced just another sleepy yet savor jewel, “we’re some little puebla 7,400 feet air. we’re magical pueblito, everyone discover.” off again, half hour farther uruapan (oo-rop-in), avocado processing 300,000. del cupatitzio (www.mansiondelcupatitzio.com) becomes base tours adjacent parque nacional eduardo ruiz, former coffee plantation turned park rushing streams, waterfalls cobblestone meander through forests banana, fig guayaba trees. climb rodrigo’s jetta higher mountains along way, pass towns inhabited exclu- sively purepechans, women garbed traditional blouses skirts teal, scarlet pink. fresh air delectably crisp reach angahuan, sombrero-wearing men offer horseback rides famed pari- cutin volcano. february 1943, corn farmer noticed heat steam rising his soil, which weeks had disgorged roiling today, visitors rent horses 30-minute ride ruins juan, town abandoned volcanic lava ash rained upon it. or they take bracing 2-1/2 1,391-foot volcano itself. late afternoon, morelia relish stunning archi- tecture spacious plazas. named unesco world heritage 1990, 800,000 assiduously preserves historical treas- ures, among them plaza armas, adorned sculpted emerald ficus trees, fountains centerpiece gazebo. landmark 18th aqueduct, carried water mile spring homes morelia’s wealthiest families, big attraction, soaring cathedral morelia, finished 1744. each saturday night, fireworks light show illuminates cathe- dral’s spires musically-synchronized sweeps illumination. sanctuary lady guadalupe draws most attention. outside, tells me church every morelian bride be married, 15-year-old girl quince-anos, ceremony woman- hood. beautiful houses worship “why does reputation?” ask. “follow me,” responds, leads eye-popping baroque interi- or, seemingly lined ceiling floor gold. “any ques- tions?” he asks smile. one. how get michoacan? information, contact tourist board, 800-44-mexico; www.visitmexico.com center jeffreysteele consolidator airfares tour packages page 57 listings section<!TEKI!>less than 24 hours in buenos aires by maria lisella t he day did not start off well. i was on my way from a cancelled cruise at the very end of earth, province tierra del fuego, or fiery earth argentina, to long stopover aires. never having been aires, looked forward getting out domestic airport, where would have pick up lug- gage for next leg trip (the flight new york leave international airport around midnight). wanderlust (www.wanderlust.com.ar), ground operator, used many u.s. tour operators had an experienced guide wait- ing me gate. spite horrific weather, christina edbrooke (c-edbrooke@yahoo.com) plan. thunder, light- ning and buckets rain, however, could wash away thrill visiting even seat van, with one stop sample yerba mate tea (drank straw sieve end), which argentina grows drinks prodigious amounts, thin, crispy sandwiches called tostadas maybe experience what argentines call, “death dulce,” meaning how most people tasting dulce de leche first time, can easily overdo it – is that delicious, cloying addictive. do visit café tortoni, oldest city look its belle époque interior. we began old port, spaniards wanted themselves, english also coveted. worked her north is, west side interna- tional is. this four-hour few city’s well-known barrios neighborhoods, gave postcard view want upon return (it real- ly easy fall love aires). you cannot travel far without learning politics larger sense word, are important here. time juan evita perón will outlive any other, perón’s power brought different man presidency. evita, colorful controversial female lead opera, still has devoted fans. she buried small plaza rather laying state (like lenin red square) as aficionados wanted, but complicated story. firmly established barrio la recoleta, once dubbed “paris south america.” tree-lined avenues wend chic restaurants, galleries, boutique shops flashy hotels. high-end inhabited wealthy palatial properties. ritzy residences flash wide range archi- tectural styles, area close top attractions, parks like mayo franzia attract flea markets weekends. hyatt hotel just purchased property reco- leta owned vatican. outfitted hotel, join hyatt, former palace. while really sites, managed peek recoleta cemetery famous infamous rest beneath all manner chapels mausoleums, were cre- ated architects sculptors definitely worth longer for. some graves deep enough accommodate 70 caskets under single headstone. largest greenest palermo, con- tains botanical garden, rose gardens, japanese planetarium bosque parque paler- mo, forest woods palermo park. neighborhood own subsections chico, viejo, soho hollywood (no kidding). designed french landscape artist, district equestrian center. trendy, more cutting edge beautiful staid. chico home embassies circular crescent streets, follows simple grid pattern streets boulevards. san telmo perhaps bohemian area, much greenwich village old- est narrow cobble-stoned & central america downtown iguazu falls, patagonia brazil rio janeiro, salvador-bahia. amazon ecuador quito, galapagos islands, otavalo peru cuzco, machu picchu, manu reserve chile santiago, torres paine, ataca- ma bolivia paz, lake titicaca, santa cruz 38 december 2009 www.jaxfax.com<!TEKI!>www.jaxfax.com december 2009 39 for consolidator airfares and tour packages to argentina see page 56 of the listings section best buysbest buys $2280chile holidays may be over by new year’s in much world, but south pacific they’re just get- ting started with tapati festival on easter island from january 28 february 13, 2010. so get clients set party island-style during at posada de mike rapu explora en rapa nui, rates a three- night stay starting $2,280 per person double stan- dard room three program $3,030 suite. included this rate are airport transfers, accommodations, all meals bar daily explorations bilingual guides. call 866-750-6699; e-mail reservex- plora@explora.com; www.explora.com $899 panama christmas vacations is what ecocir- cuitos, panama-based specialist sustainable tourism, sell- ing. seven-night family vacation starts based four. package includes: trans- fers, seven nights’ lodging (3 nights holiday inn or similar + 4 solarium beach resort side), half day city guide, entrance fees, kit 24 hour assistance ecocircuitos staff. sug- gests if visitors want bring gifts local kids don’t give sweets; instead clothes, books school supplies, ask your guide operator them community elders that you encourage begging children. support locals. 507-314-0068; annie@ecocircuitos.com great deals america gru gig cwb bhz ssa rec mao eze mvd scl atlanta 758 938 775 599 649 724 1018969 1210 baltimore 620 822 675 499 588 663 936 960 boston 515 425 730 516 733 844 703 buffalo 750 910 633 charlotte 662 907 676 1099 673 chicago 630 810 710 799 829 613 denver dallas detroit 688 943 639 866 864 950 kansas los angeles 625 705 725 832 713 york 560 564 529 629 miami 580 orlando pensacola pittsburgh 579 643 philadelphia 573 513 850 san francisco diego tampa 704 969 washington 550 814 657 880 611 we also issue electronic tickets brazilian domestic carriers below — i r l n e s rico total webjet oceanair passaredo air minas nht pantanal team varig/gol trip us now! toll free: 866-361-3500 | fax: 212-695-8333 www.chanteclairtravel.com t v o u antique shops, tango performances bars (and streets weekends) have been operating since 1800s. immigrants other american countries tend settle here. barrio has home russian orthodox church, synagogue, catalans, galicians spain danes scottish arrivals. an up coming part puerto madero waterfront, dates 1880s risen its place redeveloped work renowned architects such as santiago cala- trava, norman foster, césar pelli phillippe starck. sig- nature calatrava build puente la mujer, women’s bridge – complement which named women. numerous structures gone past 10 years el mirador towers, renoir faro towers (currently tallest building buenos aires), chateau tower mulieris among others. many high-rises recently inaugurated include le parc hilton river view towers. one thing most do not know about here, however eco- logical reserves were declared natural park 1980s, built land fill demolished buildings good run- ning, walking getting look birds passage flamin- gos, egrets, ducks, parrots. aires’ newest luxury boutique hotel, algodon mansion, offering special three-night eve package. fes- tivities 10-room mansion will dinner hotel’s argentine-french restaurant, chez nous, along romantic show two famous alma- cen, welcome drink upon arrival, bottle champagne in-room early check-in, complimentary upgrade (subject availability), breakfast, 24-hour personalized butler service, 15-minute quick revival massage 95˚ spa private collection wine tasting set. priced $1,400 occupancy, valid dec. 29 through jan. 3, visit www.algodonmansion.com more information, contact govern- ment tourist office, 212-586-1786; www.embassyofar- gentina.us<!TEKI!>st. lucia’s newest edge n ot long ago, oprah announced her own list of “places to go before you die,” and lucia happily topped the first five places on that enviable list. it seems profile has been gathering steam during past few years now with new air access jetblue’s thrice weekly service from york’s jfk international airport hewanorra air- port in lucia, there is no stopping this island. (pronounced saint loo-sha) nestled halfway down eastern caribbean archipelago known for its natural beauty includes piton mountains - a unesco world heritage site tropical rainforest one world’s drive-in volcanoes. accessibility tends be very significant news as carries implications entire region (jetblue also started jamaica nov. 4). jet- blue’s operation certainly makes much more accessi- ble long-weekend destination paramount that, caribbean-american diaspora will an important part success service, sector tourism execu- tives are pursuing earnest. louis lewis, director board recently his office embarked public relations strategy encourage north american “come back home” vacation take advantage some exciting investment opportunities market- ing strategy, he revealed, target first, second third generation west indians abroad. “some our relatives have never explored their caribbean, having raised by parents or grandparents miami, york texas ... so we want let them know they home here nearby region,” said. minister civil aviation, senator allen chastanet said gives lucians other nationals abroad option visit loved ones,” participate 2010 homecom- celebrations, well experience renovated hotels, resorts attractions offer. “jetblue complements existing airlift island, available airfares significantly lowered between airline accessible residents big apple, including upwardly mobile constituencies,” chastanet. airlines restarted winter schedule last month, primed high-season visits. glamour ground bay gardens’ general manager, berthia m. parle mbe classic story native. former chair- woman president hotel association, she among most spokespersons behalf development lucia. “st. income sources beyond include call centers large companies, real estate about $50 million invested marina mega-yacht-visitors.” visiting city series road shows, told jf reduit beach top 10 cruise ports attracted half passengers 2008. besides physical plant gardens, which grown direct response demand, plans add enhance- ments further “recession-proof” property exten- sion, wedding coordinator place, free ceremonies pigeon island deals friends families, hopes keep visitation steady. gardens actually complex three properties: four-star resort & spa located directly beach, cozy gar- dens inn. all properties within highly desirable rodney village offer groups stay at one, play option. intimate, yet family- friendly inn tend accommodations eco- nomical prices. guests can rates $75 standard rooms 15 percent off room categories travel january 3 – february 28, 2010. www.bay- gardensresorts.com malabar near castries, barnard family, owners operators sunswept resorts, just completed refurbish- ment expansion rendezvous, boutique cou- ples. reopened october 18, 2009 following $15 renovation upgrade. “these challenging times industry world-wide fortunate resources improve time season. looking forward showing exceeding expectations returning offering highest choice, luxury com- fort,” andrew barnard, marketing resorts. “we certain renovations upgrades enhance intimate couples.” fully redesigned terrace restaurant resort’s main boast redone buffet area deck expanded water’s dining. reception porte-cochère areas being remodeled make lasting impression. free-form pool sweeping river was added concierge parlor offers bridal atmosphere finalize hassle-free weddings. 800-544-2883; www.theromanticholiday.com information, contact board, 888-4-stlucia, www.saintlucianow.com 40 december www.jaxfax.com bermuda consolidator tour packages see page 63 listings section stlucianto st pitons loom over sea<!TEKI!>$199 st lucia this winter when caribbean travelers book by january 15, 2010, they will receive up to 50 percent savings at the luxury green globe windjammer landing villa beach resort, st. lucia. sun dollars (resort) credit also be offered winter, so guests can enjoy room upgrades, fine wine, spa treatments, island excursions like zip line trips and horseback riding, food beverage purchases. provid- ed all suite categories on a nightly basis as follows: $50 for one bedroom or villa; $100 two $150 per three $200 four bed- villa. “winter savings” apply rates. works off double occupancy rates in 2010 with, instance, new anthuri- um lily rate starting $199, from february 1, through april 14, $239 (both regularly $399) exclusive of tax service. call 800-958-7376; www.wind- jammer-landing.com $1025st. martin honeymooners, second honeymooners incurable romantics, grand case club, located oceanfront martin, is offering its "honeymoon magic" package, ranging seven nights december 22, 2009 - 10, 2010. included package are air-condi- tioned accommodations with balcony terrace; continental breakfast daily; day car rental (gas insurance not includ- ed); match play casino vouchers; floral bouquet arrival; use tennis court; bag; bottle red white wine; picnic basket (one day); non- motorized water sports equipment including kayaks, float mats, snorkel gear, paddle boats sailboat. couple three-night begin $1,025 nights, $2,305. visit www.info@gcbc.com $1620bermuda tucker’s point hotel & celebrate first holiday season pair christmas year’s packages steeped tradition sophistication. it begins 23 four-night priced $2,300 person double, activities nights’ well daily. taxes gratuities additional. who choose option one, $1,900 $2,540 four. $1,620 $2,170 daily included. 866-604- 3764; www.tuckerspointhotel.com $4370st. barts, west indies schedule three-night, stay carl gustaf dash paradise which $4,370. an additional night added $1,258. sits atop hill overlooking lights gus- tavia’s harbor short stroll island’s gorgeous shell beach. valid jan. 9 feb. 1-feb. 11, 28-march 7 march 14 -march 20. local government 5% 212-616-5032; reservation@hotelcarl- gustaf.com; www.hotelcarlgustaf.com $330 usvi-st. thomas conjunction usvi tourism association, bolongo bay has amenities escape package. start room, night, based occupancy, dec. 30, plus 15% $5 ener- gy surcharge. vacationers booking promo- tion fifth free (with minimum five-night resort’s ai ep plan), resort dis- counts on-island shopping, activities, dining rentals. offer bookings made travel 4 used bolongo’s restau- rants— lobster grille iggie’s bar grill— towards sailing excursion aboard heavenly day’s, 53 ft. catamaran wave runner please mention “island promotion” time calling 800-524-4746; e-mailing reserva- tions@bolongobay.com. www.bolongobay.com anse chastanet entices agent indulge... agents their families experience lucia’s spectacular hideaway chastanet’s special “let us indulge you agent” packages. pp/dbl occ run house accommodation breakfast, dinner tax/service charges: jan-5-31 mar. 5-apr. 2010; $149 16- may 31 nov. 1-dec. 19, $139 june 1-oct. 31. wishing have guaranteed reservations specific 50% published applied superior deluxe cate- gories, 25% premium category. weekly such tropical tranquility total romance available over- discount various categories. 800-223- 1108; e-mail ansechastanet@candw.lc half moon introduces expert program 400 acres, ten private villas, championship golf, dolphin encounters extensive meeting function facilities host other amenities, myrtle dwyer, director sales marketing wants professionals experts selling 55- year-old jamaican introduced select online training program. divided into sections; takes property knowledge provides information destination culture. phase allows spe- cialize more specifically groups/events seg- ments. take test, submitted resort. those scoring least 95 each section certification section. able sections specializations. access agent-exclusive portal updates services, products features site include current jamaica, making one-stop resource client’s trip. become trav- el counselor, www.halfmoon.com/agents. www.jaxfax.com 41 best buys newsbest news<!TEKI!>e40 december 2009 www.jaxfax.com hotel deals for carnival in trinidad t rinidad & tobago is located the southeastern region of caribbean. with their careful approach to tourism, dual island nation offers one last absolutely unspoiled caribbean des- tinations. trinidad, “cultural capital caribbean,” known its’ world-famous carnival, birth steel pan drum and emmy award-winning designer, peter minshall, his work on opening cere- mony salt lake city winter olympics. tobago, sister quintessential secluded beaches, quaint villages, award winning eco-attrac- tions private villas. trinidad’s cultural extravaganza as most exotic vibrant international festivals, extravaganza, will take center stage february 11–16, 2010. now time secure affordable accommodations before hotels are sold out, thousands revelers from across globe flock destination pre-lenten celebra- tion, which climaxes monday tuesday, 15 16, assist travelers planning, have released special rates both seasoned reveler returning curious newcomer who sim- ply wants enjoy sites sounds world’s great- est street festival. carlton savannah newest bou- tique hotels. featuring 165 guestrooms, provides luxurious a charming sophisticated atmosphere. 12–17, 2010, savan- nah offering that includes five nights’ accommodation daily breakfast starting at $1523 plus tax, based double occupancy. more information visit www.thecarltonsavannah.com or call 868-621-5000. courtyard by marriott features 119 stylish guest rooms conveniently within walking distance shopping, restaurants event venues. feb- ruary 12–16, nightly include two $299 www.marriott.com 868.627.5555. coblentz inn boutique this themed inspired an abundance influences. febru- ary cozy accommodations, continental compli- mentary stocked mini-bar upon arrival. start $275, inclusive tax. guests book four consecutive nights receive 10 percent discount. informa- tion www.coblentzinn.com 868-621-0541. kapok has 94 first class facili- ties, quality service elegant ambiance. can advantage kapok’s buffet. valid any night stay between 10–17, 2010 $1,450, tax reservations must be booked 1, 2009. additionally holiday rate three available meal options taxes costs $468 per night, occupancy dec. 15, jan. 14, (mention code: cl09gbr). www.kapokhotel.com. l’orchidee l’orchidée 12 orchid-themed offer comfort relaxation price. hotel’s 12–18, tickets following events: taste girl power, saturday party, sunday all-inclu- sive dimanche grande show ash wednesday maracas bay cool down. l’orchidee’s $2150, all taxes. www.trinidad- hosthomes.com 868-621-0063. hyatt regency newly constructed, luxury high rise, 428-room new port spain inter- national waterfront center. 43,000 square feet meeting space, fitness center, infinity pool, spa, business equipped 32-inch flat-screen tvs wireless internet. just steps away festivities, spain's crown jewel carni- val feb. 10-17 restaurant, occupancy; minimum four-night required. reservations: 868-623-2222; www.trinidad.hyatt.com www.gotrinidadandtobago.com www.visittoba- go.gov.tt 800-816-7541. trinidad&tobagonto consolidator airfares tour packages trinada see page 63 listings section<!TEKI!>$48 caribbean occidental hotels & resorts invites travelers to escape dropping temperatures and shortened days with all- inclusive rates starting at just per person, night in aruba, costa rica, dominican republic mexico. can take advantage of value-added offers like kids free (under 12) complimentary nights, available now through dec. 24, 2009. the allegro resorts, range from $55 pp/dbl, fourth plan, $61 $180 while royal hideaway playacar deal a $400 person. call 800-858-2258 or visit www.occidentalhotels.com $4995anguilla between january 6 march 13, 2010, malliouhana hotel spa four-night package, sure remedy summertime yearnings. getaway package is priced $4,995 couple, including taxes service fees an array activities. couples delight four 60-minute massage treatments (two person) as bonus, every couple receives $50 credit toward purchases made boutique airport transfer both directions. also included are daily conti- nental breakfast special four-course dinner, hand selected by chef alain laurent. 800-835-0796 website www.malliouhana.com $940 antigua inn english harbour which ideally situated next entrance historic town harbour, recently finished dramatic $1.5 million renovation that brought fresh face nearly corner colo- nial-style resort. may 10, room start for family-friendly junior suite, includes charges well three-course dinner. families children over 10 years old spread out relax their spacious suite. 268-460-1014; www.theinn.ag $850 grenada spice island beach resort has extended family offer into high-season, 16 - oct. 31, where first child 5-11 age stays when sharing accommodations two paying adults. valid minimum seven-night-stay ole- ander sea grape be combined other pro- motions. nutmeg pod, supervised children’s program enrollment ages 3-12 (children must toilet-trained). weekly schedule organized activities keep entertained 9 am 5 pm, arts crafts. fully-inclusive april 15, 2010 $700 oleander garden include accommodations; breakfast, lunch din- ner daily; afternoon tea; beverages house wine dinner; use non-motorized watersports such snorkel- ing, kayaking hobie cat sailing; golf greens nine-hole club; concierge service. 473-444-4258; e-mail spiceisl@spiceisle.com; www.spiceislandbeachresort.com “breeze” discerning looking kick off new year more money pockets. book seven-night stay one seven breezes november 18, 2009 travel 7 – august save up couple. $103 night, jamaica, $120 bahamas curaçao, $111 panama. information your getaway, 877- 273-3937; www.breezes.com gm appointed rockresorts dr announced werner hein been chosen general manager balcones del atlántico, rockresort opening 2010. he will his position effective immediately republic. comes impressive background luxury hospitality, most wyndham golden bear lodge/green village cap cana, previously inter- continental, sheraton americana; wealth experi- ence warm weather destinations having worked cuba, mexico planning openings rum cay marina, (scheduled open 2012); third turtle club spa, turks caicos 2013). www.rockresorts.com longer you stay, less pay st. maarten sonesta celebrating “the pay” deal, giving guests 55% regular rates. visitors maho casino sones- ta great bay enjoy these incredi- ble discounts. 3 3, resorts’ offer, eligible fol- lowing savings room, based on double occu- pancy: if they three discounts ranging 35% 55%; those who nights obtain 45% discounts; stay- ing eight get 50% 55%. 800-223-0757 www.sonesta.com/stmaarten fairmont’s holiday season, fairmont hamilton princess southampton offering booking incen- tives, throughout winter, famous agents. this agents reward themselves either princess. www.frhi.com/famousagents reser- vation once reservation confirmed, please email hamres@fairmont.com shpres@fairmont.com request rate converted night. exclusively 31. does not gra- tuity levy. additional terms conditions apply. www.fairmont.com; 866-326-6875 www.jaxfax.com december e41 best buys newsbest news<!TEKI!>for consolidator airfares and tour packages to new york see page 65 of the listings section sparkles with deals e xperience manhattan’s culture energy great that are hitting market in rapid- fire succession. average rate at hotels usually hovering $225, a close look following will place you your agency clients’ “blackbook” forever. book strand’s “room view,” grand opening pack- age clients receive their choice framed 17 x 17’’ iconic black white vintage print from condé nast archives, by photographers john rawlings, clifford coffin or henry clarke (valued $200). package is priced $595 through dec. 18, 2009 $495 january 1 – april 30, 2010. weekend includes accommodations two superior guestroom, one drinks hotel’s open-air rooftop lounge. call 212-448-1024; visit www.thestrandnyc.com portland square hotel getting ready its final curtain currently undergoing multi-million dollar transforma- tion become four-star boutique sanctuary hotel. right heart town times square, offer- ing luxe nine newly renovated studio rooms. guests preview starting $159 per night as well $50 credit future stay when providing feedback executive. offering sav- ings nearly 50%, once property’s overhaul complete, rates start $309 night. this promotion valid march 31, 212-382-0600 use promo code dress1 booking online www.portlandsquarehotel.com. www.sanctuaryhotelnyc.com more information. three gem city —soho, chelsea midtown west — special “cool yule” nightly $139 room. offer complimentary high-speed internet access, premium bottled water wolfgang puck cof- fee. loan ipods, pre-loaded audio tours areas including chinatown, little italy, meat- packing district square. guest, can sign up in-room phone messages on cell phones throughout stay. pricing december 13 29, 2009. www.thegemhotel.com. descriptions detail each property: soho, 135 houston street; balances bohemia, sophistica- tion, cast-iron architecture. 212-358-8844. chelsea, 300 w 22nd street boasts historic tree-lined streets dot- ted galleries, restaurants, even waterfront park. 212-675-1911. west, 449 36th 212-967- 7206, has been described proudly urban, it located near theater jacob javits center. among offers hilton family overnight stays doubletree guest suites metropolitan hotel, embassy city, hampton inn manhattan north, garden york/west 35th gar- den plus tickets official lincoln center guided discount coupons carnegie hall, b. smith’s restaurant & café wha. agents easily have selected five hotels, within mid- east, lower manhattan. upon check-in, following: (the world’s leading per- forming arts center); 20% off hall (enjoy an insider’s glimpse hour long journey music history). daily offered concert schedule permits (no during july august); (yes, smith - famous her tv show publi- cations!); 15% food spirits visit: www.hiltonfamily.com/performingarts 800-hiltons lj lj1. “a mad affair pierre” includes: luxuri- ous suite accommodations, 49 fresh $100 million renovations program, bottle champagne arrival, light plates share cocktails e, glamorous destination lounge bar, intimate evening featuring comfort 24-hour in- room dining, boxed set men dvds seasons enjoy suite’s bose home theatre system again home. retro attire encouraged mood. gift signature hermès scarf romantic memento you. note gentlemen: mere blocks away, fittingly madison avenue. prices begin $1,150, inclusive dining $150 dining; subject availability 800-743-7734 request pierre, if dare. customizing group big apple vacation packages’ department specializes unique itineraries personalized itineraries. all nycvp 10% commissionable inclusions: admission person empire state building observatory, museum ny taxi statue liberty express cruise; art, american natural history top rock observation deck; shopping discounts macy’s, blooming- dales south seaport; invitation be cbs early show; issues travel smart, america’s consumer newsletter; $25 dis- count next vacation... details 877- nyc-trip www.nyctrip.com 42 www.jaxfax.com north america hawaii soho<!TEKI!>$236 montana with an elevation of 11,166 feet and 150 runs, skiing north america may not get any better than the slopes at big sky. all packages, children 10 under stay free, ski for free 320 guest ranch. post holi- day & deal package, valid jan. 4 – feb. 12, 2010 offers guests a two-night two days skiing, additional one night lodging prices starting $236.50 per person entire three stay. spring season 13 mar. 28, who require nights’ lodging, days’ night’s day’s $357.50 full final pack- age, available 29 apr. 11, purchase call 800-243-0320, or visit www.320ranch.com $510 maine four historic inns rockland, me -- lime- rock inn, captain lindsey house, granite inn berry manor are offering clients way to tackle their own health care through series packages that include spa treatments discounted rates. will receive 10% off services room rates this package (only) offered 15, $510-750 couple, excluding tax. included accommodations in luxury rooms, many fireplaces multi-jet showers, whirlpool soaking tubs, multi-course cardio-healthy hearty breakfast two, couples massage welcome basket locally made cheeses chocolates. 877- 762-4667; www.historicinnsofrockland.com $297 missouri nestled lush green wilderness overlook- ing table lake, stonewater cove resort club sits heart mark twain national forest. secluded showcases stunning stone wood lodge 18 individually designed rooms suites. start night. located southwest on james river arm is about hours from tulsa, ok; half little rock, ar; kansas city, mo; st. louis, six memphis, tn. nearest airports branson, springfield, mo, fayetteville, ar. 800-792-3956; www. stonewatercove.com $408 colorado golf getaway broadmoor springs answers age-old question: vacation? includes accommoda- tions; 70-minute deep tissue including gratuity; round (weather permitting); personal locker, storage range balls. begin person, based double occupancy age april 30, 2010. www.broadmoor.com $60 california impeccable meetings agenda finish temecula creek situated southern california’s wine country. full-service, 129-room destination resort, 27 holes championship golf, has recently unleashed new “beyond boardroom” complete meeting packages. priced $85 minimum 20 taxes gratuities. more 12,000 square diverse space, ideal array different functions board directors meet- ings retreat-like business conferences. 877-517- 1823; e-mail temeculacreekinn@jcresorts.com; www.temeculacreekinn.com $269 washington women have no interest tailgating playing “second string,” pan pacific hotel seattle fea- turing sports widow which overnight deluxe guestroom, valet parking, amenity champagne straw- berries, followed by cocktail bar vida treatment (manicure pedicure, facial). february rate single $389 occupancy. subject availability do 877-324- 4856; panpacific.com/seattle www.jaxfax.com december 2009 43 best buysbest buys<!TEKI!>a ccording to kelly monaghan, publisher of the intrepid traveler and author www.hometravelagency.com, agents have wised up in new millennium, as their currency seems be rising some circles. he advo- cates they work with host agencies are bonded, accredited arc/iatan through which home-based make bookings. one best reasons join such an entity or group is get assistance collecting commis- sions that could elusive if just left agent chase all over town. there many agencies, this one, but another challenge small one-man one- woman shops developing strong supplier relationships. asta’s (the american society travel agents) annual supplier-travel marketing report (march 2009) con- cluded relationship between suppliers trav- el imperative both sides want increase amount business generate, also major give for joining agency group. “this year has reinforced us importance partnerships relationships, built on proven reputation,” said chris russo, asta president chairman board. below short précis what going at agencies. cruiseone: boasts close 500 locations independent- ly owned operated businesses combine latest tech- nology old-fashioned customer service, say unbeatable computerized fare search program. last month, cruiseone cruises inc. conducted sur- vey polling more than 1,000 cruise retail nearly half indicated bookings increased slightly sig- nificantly. results survey were issued its third quarter market trend underscored mexico bouncing back, consumers booking mid-sized ships, industry growth horizon 2010. other insights from included: 57.9% sub- jects polled caribbean most requested destination 2010; followed by alaska (11.8%) europe 10.1%. long list mega ships floating onto market, asked consumer interest impacted business. (61%) reported clients prefer mid-sized, family-friendly ships; 20% customers expressed curiosity about newest, biggest innovative while 18.5% regular, repeat opt intimate experiences smaller ships. www.cruiseone.com nexion: past year, nexion earned numerous awards recognition. general manager, jackie friedman, vice path member corporate advisory council. positioned full service host-agency support- ing independent agents. starters, offers access multiple bookings, administrative tools, optional gds systems ticketing fulfillment serv- ices. may important online sales commission tracking help keep trol impressive preferred well social network- community share ideas expertise. call 800-747- 6813; e-mail sales@nexion.com partners travel: 17 years, 400 several options when it comes income. can choose split program 70, 80 90 percent, 100 percent paying all-inclusive monthly fee. original network continues grow experienced who desire backed name trust, now luxury approved independ- ent home enjoying bene- fits belonging premium tour virtuoso affiliation, high commissions, lead referrals, rates exclusive amenities clients. does not require experience programs designed “new industry” individuals build related home. 800- 683-9092; www.partnersintravel.net vacation.com: come 2010, members vacation.com, will benefit diversity sheer volume free, supplier-funded pieces included vaca- tion.com calls schedule engagement, highly successful direct mail engagement turns pre- ferred into promotions sole action. 30 million these sent 44 december 2009 www.jaxfax.com coops & consortia news division uniglobe usa trusted since 1981 ‘the biz’. each comprehensive geared your level you heights. we train mentor those industry, provide tools resources needed start agents, non-gds offered based model needs. no initial fee monthly‘stay connect’ fees first 4 months qualified agents*! try out see yourself! include: ongoing assistance. sessions. webinars date products. co-op funds top-tier commissions.access very own portal includes: productivity reports, utc updates, training opportuni- ties, invoicing tool agentnet vax, amadeus consolidator shopper ezguider. email crm tools. (*$50 application apply must show proof $125k 12 months.) put our people today calling 1-800-863-1606, ext. 9070 www.uniglobetravelcenter.com bgeiser@uniglobetravel.com<!TEKI!>www.jaxfax.com december 2009 45 call us at 800.683.9092 or visit partnersintravel.com ourserviceandsupportwillhelpyouracepastthecompetition! our winningwinningjoinjoin teamteam green corner green: the hottest travel topics by mike kong & ny pata team y ou may be confused, if not outright skeptical, about claims for everything from shampoos to suvs. what is real, and has been re-labeled ‘green’ appeal your conscience (or ease guilt)? how can you tell? why should care? just want sell a trip. it’s job save planet… it? with being one of these days, impor- tant, profitable, informed this. that way, do something good planet make money doing it. that’s every- body’s favorite kind ‘green.’ was “eco-lodge” really environmentally friendly jungle lodge new name? did hotel actually reuse bath tow- els, as little sign says, were old habits in place? percent payment made carbon fund went offset footprint? scam artists are ready take advan- tage unsuspecting travelers (and agents). besides, most car- bon swaps green; they push gray someplace else! hint: keep copy al gore’s book, choice, refer- ence next jaxfax. we’d surprised it didn’t help more sales year-end. stay ‘tuned’ this month- ly column facts figures, news views around world, valuable tips on tourism friend environment. clients probably have tales travel. good, bad ugly, tell will entered into drawing spring free weekend 2 andaz, york city’s greenest hotel. get know least issues; will. any questions, information, email patagreenteam@optimum.net. giving vacation.com members opportunities market their services increase preferred supplier revenues.“the support engagement receives suppliers unprecedented. works motivating contact member agents purchase travel,” said stephen mcgillivray, vacation.com’s vice president marketing public relations. “members enthusiastically use benefit. consumers watching vacation dollars closely, essential rele- vant offers speak directly clients’ lifestyles.” than 35 included 2010 schedule, including delta vacations, cruise west paul gauguin cruises. total, 120 direct mail promotions sent throughout u.s. canada upcoming year. 800-843-0733; www.vacation.com planners international: full serv- ice host agency providing both home-based tradi- tional competitive edge since established 1988, named tripology sup- plier. an interactive referral service, links specialists high-intent travelers. veronique deblois, trade tripology. “travel international now receive exclusive perks tripology, service serve excellent source generating receiving leads.” www.tpionline.com<!TEKI!>46 december 2009 www.jaxfax.com uniglobe travel center is the world’s largest single brand franchise organi- zation with more than 750 locations in 40 countries across americas, europe, asia, africa, and middle east. operating under a well-recog- nized name, agen- cies specialize providing services to small-to-medium sized corporate accounts leisure travelers. 1999 started hosting home- based agents when it acquired organization outside of chicago, il. over years center, host agency division usa, has grown their home-based/ic programs by offering both non-uniglobe branded pro- grams that offer many same bene- fits program but allow agent maintain own identity. been one leaders catering home-based independ- ent contractor segment indus- try since 1981. for 2009, company placed most its emphasis on marketing development. jf interviewed betsy geiser vice presi- dent, about company’s directions coming year long-term plans may affect uniglobe’s role future. jf: several facets it, can you briefly outline them? uniglobe: organiza- tion has, non- benefits fran- chise main- tain how do respond claims are less necessary industry, consumer? this hot button me. anyone goes online book vacation an unknown destination spends $500 foolish. experience, knowledge resources ensure clients get best value money great experience. enrollment going new into utc’s one-on-one training ses- sions? we have brought 30 launched our men- torship jan 2008 does reach out agents, or recruiting campaigns? advertise attend trade shows. also belong ossn nacta lot interest from members those organizations looking reputable host. what challenging aspect attracting young industry? finding them if they not accessing industry orgranizations publications. after enroll initial uniglobe, next step? takes 4-6 weeks once complete portion program, access trainer as mentor balance first six months us. day working trainer. help trainees placements throughout no, train be inde- pendent through gram. continue very transient – old rule thumb was remained position no 1.5 years, still true people staying put? ‘career’ tend stay us years. tell mentorship came about, ago. response ytb. realized could complain offered opportuni- ty enter industry. wanted make sure thorough gave good foundation career started. address utc market- ing club helps and/or owners managers? allows oppor- tunity learn techniques implement them. able talk works, tried successful among themselves. encouraging words wis- dom advice agents? there nothing better then having sell dreams people. wonderful ever changing, so will never bored. salient piece would give who just starting volatile market? network, net- work. needs work hard build up business. need devote themselves ongoing education. take time these two things should successful. vision future roles agents; change 10-20 years? called consultants because do, consult internet web- site relationship, provide experience service like profession- al can. call 800-863-1606 x9070; e-mail bgeiser@uniglobetravel.com; www.uniglobetravelcenter.com exclusive interview maria lisella focuses generation<!TEKI!>www.jaxfax.com december 2009 47 ats goes to mecklenburg-vorpommern by jeff posner a merican tourism society (ats) delegates, professionals, government officials and university students attended the annual conference in (meck-pomm) ger- many. held grand hotel heilgendamm on beautiful baltic coast it began october 26 with reception dinner hosted tourist board of welcoming remarks sylvia bretschneider, president & parliament mecklenbrg-vorpommern ricarda lindner, director north america, german national office. bretschneider communicated how people meck-pomm have “business like manors but very warm hearts” is striving become more international as destination currently 97% their guests being domestic travelers an aging population, goal attract foreign tourists, meetings busi- ness. there are 70,000 cruise tourists who visit annually. she expects growth from american market new packages prod- ucts offered web site which now seven languages through travel collateral cooperation partners. has highest number four five star hotels, castles manor houses, than any other state germany. can be reached easily car or train about two hours berlin hamburg. event was chock full speakers panels during day conference. dave parry, chairman academic abroad spoke today’s fact that we still try- ing find bottom one deepest recessions since great depression. “travel will diverse, exotic individualized, bus tour groups europe yesterday’s news. motor coach tours down 30-60% market. buying value price until recovery market”. phil otterson, went say “there no short term fix for this economy. style travel, river cruising destinations provide greatest increasingly important tobias woitendorf, deputy ceo board, mecklenburg-vorpommern, had done mag- nificent job attending every detail conference, providing com- mentary insights what makes attractive u.s. bruce beckham, cares, non-profit us-based organization dedicated preservation experience future generations, its first project european soil alliance society. he stated “ats delegates trail blazers” opening doors cares preserving environment grants, student schol- arships volunteer projects. delivered mission over 300 seedling trees planted unveiling sign announc- german-american planting. integrated time part program, took place at climate forest within boundaries park vorpommersche boddenlandschaft. 200 universities rostock, stralsund, greifswald participated college rostock. established 1419, rostock oldest europe. subject material business topics were directed dean participating universities. developed course 9 months prior before implemented. industry professionals taught courses mar- ket traveler, impact social media marketing technology change way sell future. egypt, germany latvia also invited participate special panel share thoughts expectations undergraduates entering profession. 2007. post-tour organized association (nta) ats. michelle michaelowicz nta led dele- gates cities schwerin berlin. del- egates spent night ulrichshusen castle, heart mecklenburg lake district. nothing compare breathtaking view countryside seen grounds castle. must when traveling meck-pomm! castle built 1562. february 1987, shortly end east republic, burnt ground, cause fire unknown. baron helmuth alla von maltzahn bought 1993 years hard work rebuilding finally completed 2001–and hotel, venue mecklenburg-west pomeranian music festivals charming attraction. nestled meck- lenburg´s most stretches countryside, surrounded nature steeped history. been tastefully restored exemplary care skill. information, info@ulrichshusen.de. berlin, arrived just 20th anniversary fall wall officially november opportuni- ty city. they visited brandenburg gate, potsdamer platz, check point charlie, memorial, kennedy museum embassy district well many sights capital federal republic located 3,400,000 inhabitants, largest city history, energy culture blends old destination. english spoken throughout americans feel comfortable safe. museums art exhibits class. welcome adlon mr. ralf ostendorf, sales, joyce olivia bernitt, manager study tours, tourism. further information please www.visitberlin.de/index.en.php. marked wall, cold war reunified europe, founded non-profit, non-political challenging modern 1989. initially focused former soviet union, expanded geo- graphic interest include eastern central states, red sea mediterranean. membership posed governments, executives, operators, airlines, lines, offices, firms, retail agencies interests. merging know-how core val- ues sustainable tourism, serves bridge communication understanding between countries peoples world. lends priority access internationally known companies overseas conferences, marts seminars regions members. additionally, organizes showcases these collective expertise enterprise, marketing, educational initiatives promotion, provides visibility trade publications networking among maintains reciprocal memberships organizations such united states operators commission. works - here indispensable link agencies. branding product development, reference travel-related seek- otterson announced kosovo, “a newborn country”, 2010 dates 25 28 pristina. www.americantourismsociety.org news (left), nico zenner (right), bound address audience . janrudomina<!TEKI!>48 index www.jaxfax.com december 2009 africa 60 ethiopia . .60 ghana ivory coast kenya liberia .61 madagascar mali mauritius nigeria south sudan tanzania togo zimbabwe asia pacific 66 australia .66 cambodia .67 china .68 cook islands fiji hong kong india indonesia .69 japan kazakhstan .70 korea kyrgyzstan malaysia new zealand philippines samoa singapore .71 tahiti taiwan thailand tonga uzbekistan vietnam caribbean & bermuda 62 antigua .62 aruba barbados dominican republic grenada guadeloupe haiti .63 jamaica martinique saint martin st. kitts lucia vincent grenadines trinidad tobago u.s. virgin central america 56 argentina .56 brazil chile .57 colombia costa rica ecuador french guiana guatemala guyana honduras mexico nicaragua panama paraguay suriname uruguay europe 49 armenia .50 austria azerbaijan belarus belgium britain croatia czech .51 denmark estonia finland france georgia germany .52 greece hungary italy latvia .53 lithuania malta moldova .54 poland russia slovakia spain sweden .55 switzerland turkey ukraine the middle east 58 bahrain .58 egypt israel .59 qatar syria united arab emirates • canada hawaii 64 california .65 illinois missouri york texas consolifares password: listings sections worldwide airfares cruise rail packages tour/hotel/resort coming next month... january cover: round-up feature ......................caribbean honeymoons mid. ...........................................tanzania .............................................................singapore ........................................dominican c. s. america..................................belize, galapagos news...................caribbean sailings, ship review europe........................................................cyprus, industry news ..........................................home based agent usa ...........................us spas, north ski supplement: guide to specialist programs notice travelagents: displayed in jax fax may or not include all of government taxes/fees, fuel surcharges, airport facility and airline security charges, since these will vary depending upon airline(s) used specific route flown for ticket(s) actually purchased. travel agents are hereby advised that department transportation requires consumers be total amount applicable taxes, fees charges before ticket sale is consummated. sure determine from wholesaler what advise your clients.— publisher<!TEKI!>europe december 2009 www.jaxfax.com 49 go away! go...up & awaygo away net fares in coach business classnet class to asia, africa, europe, middle eastto east www.upandaway.comwww.upandaway.com call up travel: 800-275-8001 • 212-889-2345 new york washington boston miami los angeles save 50% on travelsave travel<!TEKI!>forcontactinformation,websiteaddress&emailseedirectorypage72 50 europe www.jaxfax.com december 2009 armenia new york to:yerevan daily sked air net/comm downtown travel all year 212-481-1800;www.downtowntravel.com austria to:vienna tur $ 689 czech vacations to 2/28/10 www.czechvacations.com;800-204-7130 325 net hari-world call for dates 888-449-8783;www.hariworld.com azerbaijan detroit to:baku 800 impressa club, ltd. oth city;718-645-8578;impressaclub.com belarus to:minsk tour pkg 3 220 russian american consult. 877-268-2677;visas;htls avbl belar. 340 abroad 10/1/09-12/13/09 ow $217;net;call:800-228-0877 belgium to:brussels 355 c & h international 12/31/09 888-8238839;cecilia.chang@cnhtravel.com britain boston to:london 189 205 legend and tours 12/15/09 800-295-3436;call business chicago 204 dallas/ft. worth 2985 4929 rules/oth cities los angeles 3500 extra value 800-758-1382;other 1st avbl. 2800 4900 miami 315 bus./oth 1295 2550 arrow other cities;866-359-2776 194 crown peters from 11/1/09 biz nets avbl;800-321-1199;more dests 3200 san francisco 1595 2750 seattle 345 650 bus cl/oth washington dc 211 866-787-2288;pete.chhabra@cnhintl.com to:manchester 2759 4945 1942 3875 250 croatia atlanta to:dubrovnik 804 skybird 888-skybird;other available 711 485 685 people usa europe;800-999-9912 to:zadar 1162 980 to:zagreb 798 320 class fares: save up 50% cheapest economy fares worldwide destinations. search your at www.panexpresstravel.com 800-518-7437 • 800-518-7726 877-475-1049 fax 212-730-1486 email: info@panexpresstravel.com trip # round price validity departing type days min max supplier period additional information www.vienna.info www.visitflanders.us<!TEKI!>december 2009 www.jaxfax.com europe 51 czech republic new york to:karlovy vary daily sked tur net/comm downtown travel all year spa rep;800-952-3519/212-481-1800 net panorama travel, ltd. wb avbl;800-204-7130 atlanta to:prague air $ 327 c & h international to 12/31/09 888-708-0088;sode.delrisco@cnhintl.com 307 american abroad 10/26/09-12/10/09 ow $181;net;call:800-228-0877 371 888-8238839;cecilia.chang@cnhtravel.com 260 vacations 3/31/10 www.czechvacations.com;800-204-7130 689 2/28/10 212-481-1800;www.downtowntravel.com denmark seattle to:copenhagen business 2695 4425 legend and tours 12/15/09 800-295-3436;call for rules/oth cities washington dc 2245 3875 estonia chicago to:tallinn 735 vytis call 800-778-9847;add-ons avbl. los angeles 852 800-778-9847;fits 530 800-778-9847;add-ons,fit’s newark 640 800-778-9847;other san francisco 725 finland to:helsinki 800-778-9847;ow available france to:nice 1950 2850 arrow other cities;866-359-2776 264 crown peters from 11/1/09 biz nets avbl;800-321-1199;more dests to:paris 2768 4895 boston 1989 4625 2552 4495 2050 2950 3800 extra value 800-758-1382;other 1st miami 379 345 650 bus cl/oth 3300 georgia (ex soviet republic) to:tbilisi 395 3/2010 add-ons consolidator fares override commissions worldwide destinations u.s. gateways 800-742-2776 www.picassotravel.com groups: 877-742-2776<!TEKI!>forcontactinformation,websiteaddress&emailseedirectorypage72 52 europe www.jaxfax.com december 2009 germany boston to:berlin daily sked air $ 289 net 659 legend travel and tours to 12/15/09 800-295-3436;call for bus cl/oth cities chicago 528 skybird & 12/31/09 888-skybird;other available new york 370 atlanta to:cologne 551 san francisco 676 detroit to:frankfurt 570 business 1950 3250 arrow all year call other cities;866-359-2776 275 crown peters from 11/1/09 biz nets avbl;800-321-1199;more dests 3300 extra value 800-758-1382;other 1st avbl. 269 650 251 299 washington dc 268 hari-world dates 888-449-8783;www.hariworld.com denver to:hamburg 355 750 los angeles to:munich greece to:athens tur 7 799 975 aegean/med cruises/tours 8/31/10 888-968-0335;13-16%comm:cruises/tours 331 dallas 1015 1120 888-968-0335;13-16%comm:weddngs/tours miami 394 1350 air;6n ath;city tour;more 347 6 899 med. destinations land tour+air/taxes;800-2-greece philadelphia tampa 1080 888-968-0335;13-16%comm:cultural 543 hungary to:budapest 337 american abroad 10/26/09-12/10/09 ow $181;net;call;800-228-0877 271 260 czech vacations 3/31/10 www.czechvacations.com;800-204-7130 689 italy to:florence 374 855 to:milan 285 459 359 1995 270 365<!TEKI!>december 2009 www.jaxfax.com europe 53 atlanta to:rome daily sked air $ 355 net 750 legend travel and tours to 12/15/09 800-295-3436;call for bus cl/oth cities 770 skybird & 12/31/09 888-skybird;other available boston 285 crown peters from 11/1/09 biz nets avbl;800-321-1199;more dests chicago 340 hari-world call dates 888-449-8783;www.hariworld.com 755 los angeles miami 365 new york tur 5 599 999 aegean/med cruises/tours 8/31/10 888-968-0335;13-16%comm:cruises/tours 8 799 1299 283 to:venice 306 latvia to:riga vytis 800-778-9847;add-ons avbl. 852 800-778-9847;fits,tours 4,7 475 united corp. 888-838-1674;212-245-1100;ow ok american abroad 10/1/09-12/13/09 ow $285;net;call:800-228-0877 net/comm downtown all year 212-481-1800;www.downtowntravel.com 530 800-778-9847;add-ons,fit’s;tours newark 640 800-778-9847;other san francisco washington dc 725 lithuania to:vilnius 495 800-778-9847;fits 800-778-9847;land 545 705 impressa club, ltd. oth city;718-645-8578;impressaclub.com 800-778-9847;add-ons,fit’s,tours 800-778-9847;ow philadelphia 745 malta to:malta 6 325 med. destinations land tour;800-247-3323 consolidator fares override commissions worldwide u.s. gateways 800-742-2776 www.picassotravel.com groups: 877-742-2776 scandinavia • czech republic russia group departures packages low airfares fits toll free: 800-7789847 718-423-6161 fax: 718-423-3979 www.vytistours.com email: vyttours@earthlink.net 40-24 235th street, douglaston, ny 11363 bbaallttiicc ssttaatteessl i t h u a n l at v e s o ssttaatteess<!TEKI!>forcontactinformation,websiteaddress&emailseedirectorypage72 54 europe www.jaxfax.com december 2009 malta los angeles to:malta daily sked tur 6 $ 325 med. destinations call land tour;800-247-3323 miami new york newark washington dc moldova to:chisinau air 385 net panorama travel, ltd. 10/1/09-3/31/10 c,wb,u.s. add-ons avbl;800-204-7130 seattle net/comm mission valley travel all year 800-321-8069;www.mvti.us;all cities poland to:krakow 350 american abroad 10/1/09-12/13/09 ewr same;ow $265;net;800-228-0877 atlanta to:warsaw 363 10/26/09-12/10/09 krk,gdn $215;net;800-228-0877 boston 358 krk $212;net;call:800-228-0877 chicago 410 $268;net;call:800-228-0877 detroit 416 $247;net;800-228-0877 houston 300 8/17/09-10/25/09 gdn,ktw $177;net;800-228-0877 philadelphia $265;net;call:800-228-0877 to:wroclaw 450 $267;net;800-228-0877 russia to:irkutsk 925 1125 people usa to europe:800-999-9912 to:moscow downtown 800-952-3519;www.downtowntravel.com htl pkg 3 210 russian consult. 877-268-2677;visas;htls avbl business 2050 2950 arrow for other cities;866-359-2776 257 crown peters from 11/1/09 biz nets avbl;800-321-1199;more dests 212-481-1800;www.downtowntravel.com 400 impressa club, oth city;718-645-8578;impressaclub.com quotes 241 avail;800-204-7130 877-268-2677;htls vary ship 11 1200 1760 877-268-2677;visa svcs;htls;all gates san francisco to:st. petersburg slovakia to:bratislava 390 czech vacations 3/31/10 www.czechvacations.com;800-204-7130 spain to:barcelona 14 599 1299 aegean/med cruises/tours 8/31/10 888-968-0335;13-16%comm:cruises/tours 243 to:costa del sol 799 1999 consolidator fares and override commissions worldwide u.s. gateways 800-742-2776 www.picassotravel.com groups: 877-742-2776<!TEKI!>december 2009 www.jaxfax.com europe 55 chicago to:madrid daily business $ 2350 net 2950 arrow travel all year call for other cities;866-359-2776 new york sked tur 14 699 1699 aegean/med cruises/tours to 8/31/10 888-968-0335;13-16%comm:cruises/tours air 233 crown peters from 11/1/09 biz nets avbl;800-321-1199;more dests sweden to:stockholm 2577 4295 legend and tours 12/15/09 800-295-3436;call rules/oth cities switzerland los angeles to:geneva 351 hari-world dates 888-449-8783;www.hariworld.com 1950 2460 3975 1757 3514 perfect 212-840-6777 rules/othr to:zurich 2360 3989 1864 3728 2263 4526 miami 1840 3680 1760 3515 turkey atlanta to:istanbul 372 c & h international 12/31/09 888-708-0088;sode.delrisco@cnhintl.com denver 624 866-206-8065;kalyani.ravi@cnhtravel.com 528 7 1299 888-968-0335;13-16%comm:pilgimages 687.5 888-8238839;cecilia.chang@cnhtravel.com 338 czech vacations 2/28/10 www.czechvacations.com;800-204-7130 ukraine washington dc to:dnepropetrovsk 550 795 people usa europe;800-999-9912 to:kiev tour pkg 3 295 russian american consult. 877-268-2677;visas;htls net/comm downtown 800-952-3519;www.downtowntravel.com houston mission valley 800-321-8069;www.mvti.us;all 340 abroad 10/1/09-12/13/09 ow $310;net;call:800-228-0877 212-481-1800;www.downtowntravel.com 500 impressa club, ltd. oth city;718-645-8578;impressaclub.com quotes 265 panorama travel, wb,addon;800-204-7130 san francisco seattle to:lvov to:odessa 255 + swisstix.com us at: 800-878-5228 discounted coach, first class fares • live agent support consolidator override commissions worldwide destinations u.s. gateways 800-742-2776 www.picassotravel.com groups: 877-742-2776 trip # round price validity departing type days min max supplier period additional information<!TEKI!>central & south america forcontactinformation,websiteaddress&emailseedirectorypage72 56 www.jaxfax.com december 2009 argentina miami to:buenos aires daily sked air $ 529 net chanteclair travel call 1-866-580-2427 www.c-travel.net new york business 3300 extra value all year 800-758-1382;other cities 1st avbl. t/f/s brazil to:belo horizonte 620 to:manaus 580 to:rio de janeiro 599 560 trip # round price validity departing type days min max supplier period additional information<!TEKI!>december 2009 www.jaxfax.com central & south america 57 brazil atlanta to:sao paulo daily sked air $ 758 net chanteclair travel call 1-866-580-2427 www.c-travel.net los angeles 625 miami 599 new york business 1950 2550 arrow all year for other cities;866-359-2776 560 3800 extra value 800-758-1382;other cities 1st avbl. san francisco chile to:santiago 529 colombia to:bogota 355 445 costa rica to:liberia 495 skybird tours to 12/31/09 888-skybird;other available 517 to:san jose wkly tur 10 995 1095 caravan.com 800-227-2826;fully escorted ecuador to:guayaquil 325 450 people usa lat amer;800-999-9912 to:quito french guiana to:cayenne 895 so. america;800-999-9912 guatemala to:guatemala city 11 268 guyana to:georgetown 425 550 honduras pedro 218 248 mexico to:copper canyon 8 1195 to:mexico 1045 nicaragua to:managua 138 panama to:panama 320 paraguay to:asuncion 300 suriname to:paramaribo 699 uruguay to:montevideo 465 consolidator fares and override commissions worldwide destinations from u.s. gateways 800-742-2776 www.picassotravel.com groups: 877-742-2776 trip # round price validity departing type days min max supplier period additional information<!TEKI!>the middle east forcontactinformation,websiteaddress&emailseedirectorypage72 58 www.jaxfax.com december 2009 bahrain los angeles to:bahrain daily business $ 3400 net 5100 legend travel and tours to 12/15/09 800-295-3436;call for rules/oth cities egypt atlanta to:cairo sked air 580 c & h international 12/31/09 888-708-0088;sode.delrisco@cnhintl.com austin 784 866-206-8065;kalyani.ravi@cnhtravel.com boston 565 866-288-5663;ken.chong@cnhintl.com tur 7 799 1599 aegean/med cruises/tours 8/31/10 888-968-0335;13-16%comm:nile crs/tours new york 649 1699 trip # round price validity departing type days min max supplier period additional information 40%-60% off first class fares no advance/min/max required. we can get space. discounts on most major carriers. serving agents over a decade. sales@highviewtravel.com • 888-3-highview<!TEKI!>december 2009 www.jaxfax.com the middle east 59 egypt philadelphia to:cairo daily sked air $ 401 net hari-world travel call for dates 888-449-8783;www.hariworld.com israel atlanta to:eilat 792 skybird & tours to 12/31/09 888-skybird;other cities available san francisco 678 chicago to:tel aviv 431 530 los angeles business 1818 3306 perfect 212-840-6777 rules/othr new york 700 impressa club, ltd. all year oth city;718-645-8578;impressaclub.com 395 panorama travel, 10/1/09-3/31/10 more cis;add-ons avbl;800-204-7130 1658 2976 739 seattle quotes mission valley 800-321-8069;www.mvti.us;all qatar to:doha 3400 4950 legend and 12/15/09 800-295-3436;call rules/oth syria to:damascus 655 795 people usa east;800-999-9912 united arab emirates to:abu dhabi 4275 extra value 800-758-1382;other 1st avbl. houston to:dubai 4995 2950 4450 arrow other cities;866-359-2776 4495 436 washington dc 576 c h international 866-787-2288;pete.chhabra@cnhintl.com class fares: save up 50% cheapest economy fares worldwide destinations. search your at www.panexpresstravel.com 800-518-7437 • 800-518-7726 877-475-1049 fax 212-730-1486 email: info@panexpresstravel.com consolidator override commissions destinations from u.s. gateways 800-742-2776 www.picassotravel.com groups: 877-742-2776 trip # round price validity departing type days min max supplier period additional information<!TEKI!>a f r i c forcontactinformation,websiteaddress&emailseedirectorypage72 60 africa www.jaxfax.com december 2009 fly on ethiopian airlines tthhee oonnllyy ddiirreecctt fflliigghhtt ffrroomm wwaasshhiinnggttoonn dduulllleess ttoo aaddddiiss aabbaabbaa book online at www.transamtravel.com 800-822-7600 available 24/7 ethiopia philadelphia to:addis ababa daily sked air $ 999 net 1250 travel people all year usa to africa;800-999-9912 ghana washington dc to:accra 985 hari-world call for dates 888-449-8783;www.hariworld.com ivory coast houston to:abidjan 1295 1395 kenya new york to:nairobi business 3750 4950 arrow other cities;866-359-2776 trip # round price validity departing type days min max supplier period additional information 40%-60% off & first class fares no advance/min/max required. we can get space. discounts most major carriers. serving agents over decade. sales@highviewtravel.com • 888-3-highview<!TEKI!>december 2009 www.jaxfax.com africa 61 fly on ethiopian airlines tthhee oonnllyy ddiirreecctt fflliigghhtt ffrroomm wwaasshhiinnggttoonn dduulllleess ttoo aaddddiiss aabbaabbaa book online at www.transamtravel.com 800-822-7600 available 24/7 kenya new york to:nairobi daily sked air $ 875 net goway all year 800-387-8850;airfares@goway.com 620 hari-world travel call for dates 888-449-8783;www.hariworld.com seattle 1075 1195 people usa to africa;800-999-9912 liberia to:monrovia 1548 1710 madagascar to:antananarivo 1295 1795 mali boston to:bamako 1645 1845 mauritius to:mauritius 1150 1425 nigeria to:kano 725 998 chicago to:lagos 779 south atlanta to:johannesburg business 4995 extra value 800-758-1382;other cities & 1st avbl. 3750 4950 arrow other cities;866-359-2776 1288 666 sudan to:khartoum 1380 1840 washington dc 774 tanzania miami to:dar es salaam 834 1224 orlando to:kilimanjaro togo to:lome 1299 1450 zimbabwe to:harare 1430 1890 consolidator fares and override commissions worldwide destinations from u.s. gateways 800-742-2776 www.picassotravel.com groups: 877-742-2776 trip # round price validity departing type days min max supplier period additional information notice agents: the listings displayed in jax fax may or not include of government taxes/fees, fuel surcharges, air- port facility airline security charges, since these will vary depending upon airline(s) used specific route flown ticket(s) actually purchased. agents are hereby advised that department transportation requires consumers be total amount applicable taxes, fees charges before ticket sale is consummated. sure determine wholesaler what advise your clients.— publisher<!TEKI!>caribbean & bermuda forcontactinformation,websiteaddress&emailseedirectorypage72 62 www.jaxfax.com december 2009 forcontactinformation,websiteaddress&emailseedirectorypage88 antigua new york to:antigua daily sked air $ 425 net 550 travel people all year usa to caribbean;800-999-9912 aruba houston to:aruba 474 skybird tours 12/31/09 888-skybird;other cities available los angeles 466 423 325 450 barbados to:barbados 365 495 dominican republic to:punta cana 299 grenada to:grenada guadeloupe miami to:point-a-pitre 475 trip # round price validity departing type days min max supplier period additional information<!TEKI!>december 2009 www.jaxfax.com caribbean & bermuda 63 familiarizationtrips antiguaantigua all inclusive fam trip. until dec 20, $80 pp. plus 25% off massages at the palm wellness centre. jolly beach resort: 866-905-6559; www.jollybeachresort.com egyptegypt winter excape with nile cruise travel egypt announces a special program for agents. this 9 day/8 night includes round trip air from jfk, domestic flights in egypt, top hotels and deluxe 5 star 4 day/ 3 cruise. agents pay only $1,095, companions $1,395 clients $1,695 (all ticket taxes). departures january through april. open to recognized iata, clia ossn, their clients. no limit number of one agency 15% commission on client bookings. call 877-778-3497; www.travelegypt.com/winter2010fam.htm indiaindia thursday february 25 october 31, 2010 feb. - april 15, price is $1,795 “golden triangle” tour, $895 southern india extension. 16 2010, tour $1,595 extension $795. accompanying adults $1,895 $995 15; prices are respectively. early booking discount $100 offered who book by 2009. also applies adults. includes: rt new york’s jfk international airport delhi; compre- hensive india’s legendary (delhi, agra, jaipur); accommodations seven nights four-star hotels; breakfast dinner daily; transfers transportation within india, per itinerary. services professional escort while sight- seeing admission fees included. an optional “green available. 888-9c-india, mike@sansincrediblevacations.com israelisrael 8-days "holy land tour" departing lax jan 14 return 21, 2010. explore biblical cities jerusalem bethlehem. discover dead sea, jordan river, sea galilee. enjoy tel aviv, city that never sleeps. additional visits include massada, colorful druze market, church annunciation st. joseph’s workshop nazareth, tomb king david room last supper. iatan welcomed companion supplement. sunny tours 1-800-783-7839; www.hotfamtrips.com/israelfam.htm $499 9-days egypt: arrival cairo saturdays, following sunday allowed information, qualifications registration please contact: www.hotfamtrips.com peruperu $599 7-days peru: lima/cusco included saturdays turkeyturkey 8 day turkey post asta ide 23-30, $1499 include: ac minibus or midibus coach transfers. english speaking guide. entrance itiner- ary. turkish style four five hotels. 18 meals. shi sha break tea coffee corlulu ali pasha medresah. show including 2 local drinks. airfare. kervansaray. porterage 1-6 pax 8-16 midibus. options: hot balloons cappadocia 6, wednesday 28th $199. opportunity upgrade cave hotel $190. foreign independent inc: 800-248-3487; www.fittours.com haiti miami to:port au prince daily sked $ 120 net 240 people year usa caribbean;800-999-9912 jamaica ft lauderdale to:montego bay 148 218 york 423 skybird 12/31/09 888-skybird;other available san francisco 576 martinique to:fort de france 475 550 saint martin to:st. maarten 335 450 kitts washington dc 460 590 lucia 428 c h 888-8238839;cecilia.chang@cnhtravel.com 325 vincent grenadines 735 845 trinidad tobago spain 385 495 u.s. virgin islands thomas 250 360<!TEKI!>64 u.s. • canada hawaii www.jaxfax.com december 2009 forcontactinformation,websiteaddress&emailseedirectorypage72 advertise in this directory call katie at 203-301-0255.marketplaceair charter brokers air brokerage international 800-494-7886 www.airbrokerage.com aircraft and leasing service for travel agents, tour operators, special interest/affinity groups, executive charters, cruise lines, govern- ment agencies carriers worldwide. contact steve berger: steve@airbrokerage.com 7947 racoon hollow court, pleasanton, ca 94588; fax: 925-417-1341 escrow depository banks national city bank contact: david valpredo: 248-729-8375 www.nationalcity.com/corporate leading public private purpose agreements, surety trust standby letters of credit, funds protection plan (tfpp) more. our clients include: carriers, brokers, wholesale operators participating ground vendors. domestic coverage. 248-729-8803. david.valpredo@nationalcity.com 755 west big beaver, suite 1400, troy, mi 48084 motorcycles, atv, watercraft, tours worldwide, usa, mexico, spain, france eaglerider motorcycle rentals & 310-536-6777 www.eaglerider.com 310-536-6770, rent@eaglerider.com, 11860 s. la cienega boulevard hawthorne 90250-3461 escorted costa rica, copper canyon, guatemala, galapagos, caravan 800-227-2826 www.caravantours.com 312-321-9845, info@caravan tours.com<!TEKI!>december 2009 www.jaxfax.com u.s. • canada hawaii 65 california st. louis to:los angeles daily sked air $ 318 net legend travel and tours to 12/15/09 800-295-3436;call for rules/oth cities atlanta to:san francisco 329 dallas los to:montreal 465 to:ottawa 369 to:toronto 450 new york 295 san 389 363 to:vancouver 485 georgia to:atlanta 325 illinois to:chicago missouri to:st. 338 chicago to:new texas boston to:dallas 380 philadelphia trip # round price validity departing type days min max supplier period additional information industryevents 2009/10 event location contact 6 - 13 ptana conference & cruise seminar carnival pride, bwi www.ptana.org 1-3 luxury expo 09 las vegas, nv www.luxurytravelexpowest.com 8-10 ustoa banff, www.ustoa.com/conference 2010 january 9–10 donald e. stephens convention center chicago, il info@africatravelassociation.org 9-10 adventures in www.adventureexpo.com 10-12 caribbean marketplace juan, puerto rico www.caribbeanhotelandtourism.com february 13–14 angeles, ca 13-14 21-23 the jordan tourism board n. america jordan, at dead sea www.jordantravelmart.com 26-28 times show city, ny nfo@nytts.com; nytimes.com/travelshow march 6-7 washington, d.c. 6–7 washington dc november seattle, wa, state wa<!TEKI!>australia• new zealand•asia pacific forcontactinformation,websiteaddress&emailseedirectorypage72 66 asia www.jaxfax.com december 2009 australia los angeles to:adelaide daily sked air $ 1104 net aussie adventures limited 1/17/10-6/16/10 866-828-aussie;air only avail boston to:brisbane 123 1003 qantas vacations sale fare 800-348-8146;www.qantasvacations.com chicago 1804 low season houston 1761 1503 930 1099 goway all year 800-387-8850;airfares@goway.com york 1847 san francisco 40%-60% off business & first class fares no advance/min/max required. we can get space. discounts on most major carriers. serving travel agents over a decade. sales@highviewtravel.com • 888-3-highview trip # round price validity departing type days min max supplier period additional information<!TEKI!>december 2009 www.jaxfax.com asia pacific 67 consolidator net fares and override commissions to worldwide destinations from all u.s. gateways 800-742-2776 www.picassotravel.com groups: 877-742-2776 washington dc to:brisbane 123 sked air $ 1860 qantas vacations low season 800-348-8146;www.qantasvacations.com los angeles to:cairns daily 1040 aussie adventures limited 1/17/10-6/16/10 866-828-aussie;air only avail atlanta to:melbourne 1848 charlotte dallas 1767 houston 1762 1504 1234 business 3975 year 930 1099 goway 800-387-8850;airfares@goway.com 369 skybird travel & tours 12/31/09 888-skybird;other cities available new york 3450 4450 arrow call for other cities;866-359-2776 portland,or 880 sale fare san francisco seattle 1676 to:perth 1265 to:sydney 801 c h international 888-708-0088;sode.delrisco@cnhintl.com cleveland 933 1672 548 1414 3250 4150 prm econ 2451 4990 extra value 800-758-1382;other 1st avbl. miami 1758 1096 888-8238839;cecilia.chang@cnhtravel.com 5900 1180 phoenix 1517 1629 raleigh-durham 4351 1072 1771 cambodia to:siem reap 798 1298 people usa asia;800-999-9912<!TEKI!>forcontactinformation,websiteaddress&emailseedirectorypage72 68 asia pacific www.jaxfax.com december 2009 forcontactinformation,websiteaddress&emailseedirectorypage64 china chicago to:beijing daily business $ 3400 jbti tour llc year round 800-967-2345;212-696-2058;info@jbti.com los angeles 2700 sked air 635 net tokyo travel service to 12/31/09 rates chng;800-227-2065;cst#1017187-60 new york 3300 san francisco washington dc 3800 extra value all 800-758-1382;other cities & 1st avbl. 530 jgt low season 800-926-7274;www.jgttravel.com to:shanghai 4500 3100 2750 3950 arrow call for other cities;866-359-2776 5000 3150 cook islands to:rarotonga 718 aussie adventures limited 866-828-aussie;air only avail fiji boston to:nadi 1047 qantas vacations sale fare 800-348-8146;www.qantasvacations.com 1428 dallas 991 houston 1385 828 1127 1471 1484 hong kong (china) to:hong 3200 3500 2250 2950 655 goway 800-387-8850;airfares@goway.com 740 skybird tours 888-skybird;other available 800-227-2065;cst#1017187-60;no adv. 2580 18% comm on pub fares;cst#1017187-60 3600 658 2800 570 india to:chennai 525 c h international 866-288-5663;ken.chong@cnhintl.com 40%-60% off first class fares no advance/min/max required. we can get space. discounts most major carriers. serving agents over a decade. sales@highviewtravel.com • 888-3-highview learn more about traveling visit www. .org<!TEKI!>december 2009 www.jaxfax.com asia pacific 69 india chicago to:chennai daily sked air $ 435 net skybird travel & tours to 12/31/09 888-skybird;other cities available dallas 925 c h international 866-206-8065;kalyani.ravi@cnhtravel.com new york 429 hari-world call for dates 888-449-8783;www.hariworld.com 370 san francisco 305 atlanta to:delhi business 4800 extra value all year 800-758-1382;other 1st avbl. 471 los angeles 365 350 panorama travel, ltd. 3/31/10 other cities;add-ons avail;800-204-7130 washington dc 575 houston to:hyderabad 580 415 boston to:mumbai 455 866-288-5663;ken.chong@cnhintl.com detroit 590 1060 goway 800-387-8850;airfares@goway.com 379 285 480 866-787-2288;pete.chhabra@cnhintl.com indonesia to:bali, denpasar 760 to:jakarta 838 jgt low season 800-926-7274;www.jgttravel.com japan to:nagoya 1234 505 tokyo service 12/11/09 800-227-2065;cst#1017187-60;fares chng to:okinawa 757 to:osaka 495 to:tokyo 3995 3548 jbti tour llc round 800-967-2345;212-696-2058;info@jbti.com 1346 3116 18% comm on pub fares;cst#1017187-60 405 2850 3750 arrow cities;866-359-2776 class fares: save up 50% cheapest economy fares worldwide destinations. search your at www.panexpresstravel.com 800-518-7437 • 800-518-7726 877-475-1049 fax 212-730-1486 email: info@panexpresstravel.com trip # price validity departing type days min max supplier period additional information himalayan visit: www.himalayantours.com airfares tours@himalayantours.com nepal bhutan tibet thailand reservation brochure: 800-421-8975 consolidator and override commissions destinations from u.s. gateways 800-742-2776 www.picassotravel.com groups: 877-742-2776<!TEKI!>forcontactinformation,websiteaddress&emailseedirectorypage72 70 asia pacific www.jaxfax.com december 2009 japan new york to:tokyo daily business $ 4200 jbti tour llc year round 800-967-2345;212-696-2058;info@jbti.com sked air 558 net tokyo travel service to 12/01/09 800-227-2065;cst#1017187-60;rates chng san francisco 3500 extra value all 800-758-1382;other cities & 1st avbl. 3200 washington dc 560 jgt low season 800-926-7274;www.jgttravel.com kazakhstan to:almaty pkg 3 346 russian american consult. 877-268-2677;visas;htls avbl kazak. korea atlanta to:seoul 600 c h international 12/31/09 888-708-0088;sode.delrisco@cnhintl.com chicago 2830 los angeles 565 800-227-2065;cst#1017187-60;more 1306 888-8238839;cecilia.chang@cnhtravel.com 2630 2300 620 kyrgyzstan to:bishkek 310 kyrgy. malaysia to:kuala lumpur 798 1298 people usa asia;800-999-9912 zealand to:auckland 2950 arrow call for other cities;866-359-2776 4403 aussie adventures limited 866-828-aussie;air only avail 752 1/17/10-6/16/10 prm econ 2199 7295 1025 goway 800-387-8850;airfares@goway.com 1471 qantas vacations 800-348-8146;www.qantasvacations.com 1399 1815 1255 skybird tours 888-skybird;other available 4780 2299 884 945 1828 to:christchurch 1578 1922 to:wellington 1553 1897 philippines to:cebu 825 995 to:manila 575 2650 18% comm on pub fares;cst#1017187-60 650 samoa to:apia 779 1/17/10-5/14/10 class fares: save up 50% cheapest economy fares worldwide destinations. search your at www.panexpresstravel.com 800-518-7437 • 800-518-7726 877-475-1049 fax 212-730-1486 email: info@panexpresstravel.com trip # price validity departing type days min max supplier period additional information<!TEKI!>december 2009 www.jaxfax.com asia pacific 71 notice to travel agents: the listings displayed in jax fax may or not include all of government taxes/fees, fuel surcharges, airport facility and airline security charges, since these will vary depending upon airline(s) used specific route flown for ticket(s) actually purchased. agents are hereby advised that u.s. department transporta- tion requires consumers be total amount applicable taxes, fees charges before ticket sale is consummated. sure determine from wholesaler what advise your clients.— publisher singapore chicago to:singapore daily business $ 3230 jbti tour llc year round 800-967-2345;212-696-2058;info@jbti.com new york 3030 newark 2650 net 4250 arrow call other cities;866-359-2776 san francisco 2430 washington dc sked air 600 jgt low season 800-926-7274;www.jgttravel.com tahiti atlanta to:papeete 1389 qantas vacations 800-348-8146;www.qantasvacations.com 1366 dallas 1100 fare houston 1330 los angeles 1006 1048 goway 800-387-8850;airfares@goway.com 1168 taiwan to:taipei 630 skybird & tours 12/31/09 888-skybird;other cities available 550 635 tokyo service 800-227-2065;blckout;cst#1017187-60 2690 18% comm on pub fares;cst#1017187-60 570 thailand to:bangkok 775 315 2290 690 via osa;800-227-2065;cst#1017187-60 365 660 765 to:phuket 798 1298 people usa asia;800-999-9912 tonga to:tongatapu 855 aussie adventures limited 1/17/10-5/14/10 866-828-aussie;air only avail uzbekistan to:tashkent pkg 3 160 russian american consult. 877-268-2677;visas;htls avbl uzbek. 4,7 1036 united corp. 888-838-1674;212-245-1100;ow ok vietnam to:hanoi 875 to:ho-chi-minh city(saigon) 650 800-227-2065;cst#1017187-60;rates chng 526 consolidator fares override commissions worldwide destinations gateways 800-742-2776 www.picassotravel.com groups: 877-742-2776 trip # price validity departing type days min max supplier period additional information<!TEKI!>e74 december 2009 www.jaxfax.com airlines’ on-time stats improving u.s. airlines reported an arrival rate of 86.2% in sep- tember, higher than the 79.7% august 2009, according to dot’s bureau transportation statistics. best belonged hawaiian with 94.1% its flights arriving on time. alaska ranked second at 90%, and southwest third 89.1%. worst performance records were atlantic south- east, 72.2% time arrivals, comair 80.5% delta 82.2%. seven tarmac delays three hours or more for september–a favorable comparison against 70 august. british airways & iberia plan merge after 16 months negotiations, air- ways announced two carriers’ execs have agreed a $10.7 billion merger, which would create one world’s largest that will compete air france-klm lufthansa. like france-klm, companies be separate operating entities distinctive brands holding company umbrella over both. merger is expect- ed completed late 2010. upgrades business class has radical upgrading class, by march, entire a340 fleet, used routes between spain united states, latin america, south africa altered. airline removing row seats, reducing number seats from 52 42 a340/600s 36 a340/300s. this allow slightly six feet rows reach fully horizontal position sleeping. addition, also remodel vip lounges madrid-barajas airport, add limousine services airports buenos aires, são paulo, mexico city, offer on-line check-in all destinations boarding cell phone, new features plus frequent flyers’ program, including platinum membership card. visit www.iberia.com el al offers savings winter airfares offering lower economy travel israel through march 2010 fuel sur- charge included promotional fares. passengers trav- eling now 23, roundtrip fare $906 york (jfk/newark) and, as dec. 1, $1,274 nonstop flight los angeles. atlanta, boston, chicago, miami, pittsburgh, washington, dc $959. austin, cleve- land, cincinnati, columbus, dallas/ft worth, detroit, ft. laud- erdale, houston, indianapolis, orlando, minneapolis, raleigh/durham, san juan, st. louis, tampa, west palm beach $1,043 roundtrip. las vegas, phoenix, portland, diego, francisco, jose, seattle $1,127. are offered exclusive class. $2,704 $3,504 angeles flight. similar apply other locations. call 800-223-6700; www.elal.com india announces direct service d.c. delhi begins daily washington d.c.’s dulles international airport boeing 777lrs. depart 12:10 p.m., stop en-route york’s jfk continue non-stop delhi, 4:45 p.m. follow- ing afternoon. continuing kolkata. pas- sengers bound mumbai able transfer carrier’s evening jfk-mumbai feature 34” seat pitch, therapeutic footrest, built-in 10.6” lcd monitor. executive enjoy flat beds, spacious 76” privacy partition, 15.4” screen. first cabins boast bed com- partments massage system, buddy seat, large 23” screen, generous 80” pitch. agents earn 4% commission (without cap) tickets issued 800-255-3191 virgin joins facebook launched application flying club members view information their account details page: real departure highlights including, mini statements detailing recent activity miles summary, recently booked up-to-date promotions. facebook, need register interest within communication preferences section www.virginatlantic.com. once completed, they receive activation pin, enable con- nect page. non still use enroll into via facebook. delta’s low fares kitts weekly atlanta operate wednesdays, beginning decem- ber april 7, peak season, complementing saturday non- kitts. lines dl573 departs 9:40 a.m. arrives kitts’ robert l. brad- shaw 2:35 return dl574 3:35 7:14 these times convenient round- trip connections 90 cana- da. listed local www.delta.com. jet enhances nepal effective 2, connect india’s commercial capital nepalese city kath- mandu, introduction mumbai-kathmandu sector, aboard state-of-the-art 737 aircraft. 9w 266 8:30am hrs, kathmandu 11:15. 265 then 12:45pm, 3:30. operates delhi-kath- mandu days week, totaling 13 frequencies sector. www.jetairways.com news levine<!TEKI!>www.jaxfax.com december 2009 e75 message board thai airways usa has a new general manager to lead the airline’s market. sutsveta svetasob- hana brings 20 years of senior man- agement experience in airline industry. svetasobhana officially assumed office on september 1, taking over from manit chaisukumara, who retired. coming his latest post at korea, mr. is seasoned and marketing professional with expe- rience across world. prior he was sta- tioned hong kong where over- saw all sales marketing. “this market for me, but one that i am excited learn about. my goal continue provide legendary service our customers america. that, i’m thrilled announce beginning we will resume daily, nonstop flights los angeles bangkok. passengers now be able fly any day week. they have opportunity visit newly designed web- site or contact travel partners book ticket,” said. (thai) national carrier thailand more than 74 destinations 36 countries five continents. operates fastest services southeast asia u.s its direct, non-stop bangkok beyond. call 800-426-5204; www.thaiairwaysusa.com gianni miradoli just been appointed created role chief operating officer central holidays group. as coo, responsible overall operation organi- zation ensure business efficien- cy effectiveness are carried through within each function company whole. course performing this role, work closely executives compa- ny’s numerous brands well italy. tourism industry veteran 35-plus field, most recently served executive vice president “after 15 company, it’s great honor prestigious position. holi- days very advantageous position marketplace, offering expertise product depth some world’s desirable vacation desti- nations. solid foundation devoted staff organization, focus efforts asserting leadership mediterranean specialist look for- ward continued growth long future holidays.” joined 1995 development mis. 2003, serve world group & operations. 800-935-5000; www.centralholidays.com coo welcomes frans george richardson commissioner economic affairs, aviation sports st. maarten. posi- tion, three sena- tor representing maarten netherlands antilles parliament. "i honored com- missioner eager private sector usher maarten's industry, raise awareness island key markets europe americas," said richardson. "tourism impor- tant pillar econo- my," noted, "but it's also what do best, 37 immaculate beaches restaurants found caribbean island." expressed optimism positive turnaround country strategically positioned convenient airlift major u.s. markets. "airlift con- tinue govern- ment so reap benefits massive influx soon global economy begins recover," added. began political pur- suits 2003 when elected council government. born raised maarten, remained loyal native went school developed career. renowned busi- nessman public official, driven excel initiatives. well-rounded individual, an extensive history successful various capacities, includ- ing car rental cinema, real estate construction. www.vacationstmaarten.com tourism, dutch<!TEKI!>airline news air mauritius adds to airbus family at presstime, took delivery of its new a330-200 aircraft, which is named after the legendary aquat- ic plant nenuphar that proliferates sir seewoosagur ramgoolam botanic garden pamplemousses. aircraft along with first trochetia was delivered in 2007, expected enhance mau- ritius’ regional reach and will be mainly deployed on medi- um-haul routes india, asia australia. equipped ge cf6 engines operated a two-class configuration – 24 lie-flat business class 251 economy seats. it features fly-by-wire controls. unique cockpit shared across entire allows flight crews fly each mini- mal additional training. manoj r.k. ujoodha, g.o.s.k, airline’s ceo, who said, “this milestone history airline, as emerges from very challeng- ing times for aviation industry worldwide. is, fact, looking future renewed confidence plans grow capacity worldwide next year. improvement our offering represents opportunity overall customers partners.” commercial mumbai nov 3. call 800-537-1182; e-mail nyc@airmauritiusna.com; www.airmauritius.com cruise royal alaska wilderness sale princess cruises again popular promotion, featuring special lineup cruisetours offer passengers extra convenience roundtrip travel seattle. these packages make planning an land/sea vacation easier than ever by including all once pas- senger gets seattle, airfare between seattle alaska. runs through december 31, 2009, 10 seattle-based cruisetour options. alaska, motorcoach transfers vancouver, overnight stay are included package. fares start $1,899 interior stateroom $2,299 balcony 11-night vacation, includes free category upgrade. can choose different itiner- aries. some feature line’s famed direct-to-the- rail service transports guests right their ship denali area, giving them time heart alaska’s wilderness. explorer itineraries include nights off-the-beaten-path lodges, copper river lodge or kenai lodge. itineraries, enjoy lodging mt. mckinley and/or 800-426-0442; www.onesourcecruises.com africa & middle east $360 saudi arabia park hyatt just opened jeddah marina, club spa, second hotel chain, five-star property open city since 2004. travelers love convenient location, quick five-minute drive financial district. resort remarkable engineering feat reclaimed prime waterfront land red sea while retaining delicate surrounding marine life. also faces iconic king fahd’s fountain, world’s tallest shoots up water 233 miles per hour illuminated over 500 spotlights night. rates visit www.jeddah.park.hyatt.com $3533morocco baobab expeditions offers chance follow footsteps great explorer, british television presenter, adventurer bruce parry 50-mile trek moroccan desert old cara- vanserai route. baobab’s ten-day tribal morocco journey set february 20th march 1st, 2010. pricing begins $3,533 person double occupancy accommodations, meals expedition breakfasts hotels, local experienced guides, drinking water, transportation excursions. luxury upgrade avail- able. kathleen cook-hunter, 214-282-9108 www.baobabexpeditions.com $603 south oceana beach wildlife reserve has estab- lished “little big five” program children go dune boarding, create sand castles, collect shells one finest private beaches. located halfway port elizabeth london. visitors may take helicopter directly reserve’s helipad, doubles putting green. road transfers, range $677 (per night, pp) suites $763 $837 ocean house; depending season. www.oceanareserve.com $250 zambia sindabezi island, camp near victoria falls, reopened july rebuilding facilities most exacting “green” standards. celebrate, island rate pp, night sharing bookings. chongwe house dropped 2010 $550 $700 (low high season) (with minimum four people). likewise, reduced $500 $800 stan- dard tents $600 $1,000 pp albida suite cassia suite. all-inclusive. sausage tree “kigelia house” 2009 opening $695 bookings three people. mondoro, favorable only $555 down $750 extraordinary sav- ings. www.zambianhorizons.com e76 www.jaxfax.com best buys<!TEKI!>www.jaxfax.com december 2009 e77 $1399egypt sunny land tours has introduced a 10- day, “grand nile cruise tour of egypt” with weekly depar- tures during january and february 2010. the price for this is $1,399 per person, including round trip airfare from new york (jfk), all domestic flights in egypt. also included 7-night aswan ports call at kom-ombo, esna, edfu, 2 nights on board luxor, allowing shore excursions luxor kar- nak temples, thebes, valley kings, queens, nobles, medinet habu. meals entertainments are included. grand provides night cairo to visit egyptian museum, pyramids giza, sphinx. offered an abu simbel excursion addi- tional $199, air. sunnyland offers tuesday, friday sunday departures their most popular programs 800-783-7839; or email tours@sunnyland- tours.com; www.hotfamtrips.com $1079egypt brendan vacations launched number deluxe products partnering four-star estab- lishments as oasis hotel novotel airport cairo, packages include transfers, meals, break- fasts taxes service charges. seven-day pro- gram three starts $1,079 intra-egypt airfare. eight-day program four-night $1,149 arrangements air (cairo-aswan, luxor-cairo), two hotel, one four river cruise, inclusive ship, fast daily. 800-421-8446; www.brendanvacations.com spa specials south africa pezula resort & africa’s famed garden route added private castle complex, perfectly positioned overlooking noetzie beach. actually separate castles five spacious luxury suites, complex features sumptuous bathrooms, vast living areas, terraces breathtaking views beach, sea rugged coast. each resident chef, housekeeper butler. fully equipped gym, heated outdoor pools thatched gazebo complete extraordinary facilities. was recently awarded best title by uk condé nast traveler. celebrate, they offering stays 10% off standard rate, compli- mentary treat your choice, further treatments 35% discount. package requires three-night minimum stay. dreams includes rooms, helicopter transfers airport, wines, daily treatment sports up 10 guests priced about $43,235. book, e-mail reservations@pezula.com; www.pezulare- sorthotel.com singita, there five-night sabora sweethearts $10,450 people that luxu- rious all-suite accommodations, teas coffees. landrover guide duration stay, 30- minute couples swedish massage din- ner beneath stars, drinks, more. reserva- tions@singita.com; www.singita.com/index.php /game-reserves/packages/singita-sabora-for-sweethearts digs turn ancient coins largest collection roman-period bar- kokhba revolt discovered excavations cave judean hills north jerusalem. cache 120 gold, silver bronze found batches deep cavern located nature reserve. coins, imprinted jewish religious images texts, believed have belonged group fighters hiding bar-kokhba rebellion against romans year 132. “this discovery verifies assumption refugees fled caves center popu- lated area addition more isolated areas desert,” says professor amos frumkin hebrew university. “bar-kokhba quality quantity never before been loca- tion israel.” weapons, pottery other roman were cave. www.goisrael.com reports growth nta president lisa simon addressed workshop, “marketing ‘destination africa’ u.s. marketplace” corporate council seventh us-africa business summit. simon’s remarks support nta’s partnership travel associa- tion, which created part foster opportunities between members both organizations. association-led workshop ‘desti- nation birds-eye view african tourism industry, exploring where how fits into global marketplace, what current future consumer trends are. spoke value continent american tourists well u.s.- based professionals. according world organization, few regions experienced so far 2009, arrivals expected grow additional percent year. office industries reported nearly 320,000 americans traveled last year, increase 56 over 2007. “tour operators always looking innova- tive product destinations, everything hot right now—cultural experiential tourism, adventure authentic experiences,” said simon. “we often think single destination, yet great diversity culture, fashion, music history among its 53 nations.” www.ntaonline.com southafricanto market<!TEKI!>e78 december 2009 www.jaxfax.com asia & south pacific japan’s new hotel portfolio in spite of a global recession that seems to shadow inter- national tourism, tourism offer is flourishing as it becomes more colorful and varied, offering roster properties, from grand intimate. st. regis osaka: the first property japan, will open heart osaka’s commercial cultural dis- trict. located on midosuji avenue, equivalent champ elysées, with easy access urban life business district, yet offers world’s top class relaxation. hotel’s restaurant serves renowned chef jean-georges’ culinary experience. set october 1, 2010. visit www.starwoodhotels.com capitol tokyu: tokyo’s political tokyu be renewed hotels groups flagship debut fall, just like all other hotels’ properties over country, this 2010 effi- ciency, luxury hospitality group has cultivated. interior designed modern architectural essence japanese traditional beauty. www.tokyuhotelsjapan.com hoshinoya kyoto: century old ryokan reborn historic riverside chalet another one-of-a-kind superb kyoto, destination. for thorough hospi- tality arrival, guests are taken directly guestroom by boat before checking homey high quality tradi- tional ryokan. 25 guest rooms have river view, secluded location quiet private strolls kyoto’s his- toric arashiyama. www.kyoto.hoshinoya.com sankara spa yakushima: world natural heritage site yakushima island celebrate opening resort march, house centuries-old untouched nature including ancient cedar trees, mystique trekking courses through forests. sankara, named after sanskrit word benefit heaven, luxurious space harmonizes stunning island. www.sankarahotel-spa.com akihabara washington hotel: next spring, been adopted one major chain hotels, renewing its property, ground zero anime pop culture. focusing utili- ties digital oriented travelers, amenities include net connections, center an exclusive women only floor. occupies third 13th floor 14-story brand-new building. www.wh- rsv.com/english/akihabara citycruise ginoza: tropical destination oki- nawa which becoming popular than ever, ginoza, many okinawa’s beach towns, hotel, ginoza. consists cottages time-share guestrooms, accommodating visi- tors longer stays enjoy climate vacation. www.city-cruise.com westin sendai: sendai, hub tohoku region (northeast tokyo), august accommodates visitors western style hospitality. www.westin-sendai.com information, contact japan organization www.japantravelinfo.com goway “couples retreat” getaways islandsescapes…by released their latest savings tahiti. year-round pleasant climate, tahiti great opportunity escape harsh north american winter. perfect romantic getaway, or simply daily routine life. magical moorea, travelers choose two spectacular resorts spend 4 nights, affordably priced $1,149. included international airfare los angeles air nui, round-trip papeete airport-resort transfers four nights accommodation. can either moorea pearl resort, staying garden room breakfast, lanai at intercontinental spa. polynesian 95 bungalows, situated 7.5 acres white sand beachfront. short drive arrival points island, miles magnificent cooks bay. continental north- side gardens islets. nestled between mountains blue lagoon, main attractions dolphin lagoon where play swim along, unique experi- ence. “the honeymoon registry provides innovative way gift giving. not use, much con- venient visiting department store, printing pages off searching store find items list” continued boyd. call 800-667-6601, www.islandsescapes.com. europe $3499germany [oberammergau] mayflower tours’ oberammergau packages reportedly distinct others because accommodations, right village within walking tance passion theater, rather outside town requiring bus transportation. 10-day program, accommodations 13 meals, costs $3,499 per person double land arrangements. additionally, mayflower’s seating performance center-stage, unobstructed view. participants three cities: munich, germany, salzburg vienna, austria munich sightseeing dinner famous ratskeller restaurant; mozart’s touring delights; vienna - din- ing grinseng wine tavern. covers neuschwanstein castle, full-day tour berchtesgaden eagle’s nest, benedictine abbey melk.travelers opportunities<!TEKI!>free companion flights from chicago o’hare. call 800-323- 7604; or, visit www.mayflowertours.com/tours/oberam- mergau.html $2760ireland ashford castle offers a special three-night christmas package that includes luxurious accommodations for the entire family, wide range of holiday activities and mr. claus himself. at on eve, niall rochford, general manager, welcomes guests with an irish tradition mulled wine mince pies. evening then unfolds cocktail reception dinner in george v dining room as ireland’s west quartet plays background. after dinner, santa arrives pres- ents everyone, followed by performance st. mary’s children’s church choir. hearty breakfast room, morning options include golf estate grounds, annual treasure hunt or simply rest nearest fireplace. cocktails, gala more dancing round out hol- iday, night wouldn’t be complete without midnight snack. larry hingerton jazz band set off cruise along lough corrib. afterwards, some castle’s culinary secrets will revealed cooking demonstration, are available afternoon, including guided walk grounds local historian mick may. restaurant entertainment molloy brothers night. rates start approximately $4,405 single occupancy, $2,760 per person double occupancy. www.ashford.ie. south & central america $1499mexico trafalgar recently introduced its exclusive my guest feature into new 2010 usa, canada mexico program, which takes tour participants guidebooks very heart culturally rich destinations visited. example, chef david sterling, often seen oprah, teach how to make mexican cuisine mix perfect margarita his magnificent colonial home merida. class, sit down sample yucatan specialities. this experience is nine-day treasures yucatan, priced $1,599 person. mexico's copper canyon welcomed torres family their beautifully restored 1800's mansion el fuerte, dine family. delicious regional specialties such locally caught black bass performances traditional hispanic indigenous dancers. $1,499 double. 866-544-4434 www.trafalgartours.com/usa-canada $332 cozumel offering fall dive adventure packages great perks like discounted hotel rates, break- fast, cocktails house, dives, spa treatments... coral princess resort three- day deluxe jungle-view complimentary daily american two days diving. each entitled diving tanks day. $437 800- 253-2702; www.coralprincess.com clients who book seven-night vacation palace, receive $400 airfare discount stay. scuba lovers booking stay palace tank dives aqua world. plus, staying three nights longer auto- matically passport, unlimited selected tours, 30 percent green fees adult/unlimited during stay, 25 select treatments adult/per day, car rental buy one get swim dolphins. 800-635- 1836; www.palaceresorts.com cid la ceiba beach all-inclusive five- boat shore diving, lodging. pack- ages $409 divers $309 non-divers, 800-637-3277; www.elcid.com/ceiba_beach/dive_center/ cozumeleño four- ocean-view accommoda- tions, trips tanks, belt weights, presence master. $584 diver based 437-3923; www.elcozumeleno.com $453 year’s season, convince opt sand instead snow. del mar features 88 rooms beautiful mayan architecture. reserving season – those crossing dec. 31 can enjoy all luxuries amenities would expect award-winning, five-star well planned just holidays. watch children break piñata, caroling din- ner xtabay restaurant; christ- mas beachfront arrecife grill lounge 25; dance lively music under stars between 26 jan. 7; fire show 28; 31, eve celebration scrumptious feast. holidays add luxury gourmet meal plan, carte meals, snacks beverages, $615 (under 12) eat same parents. www.ceibadelmar.com www.jaxfax.com december 2009 e79 irelandnto castle, ireland<!TEKI!>$2299peru see fabled inca sites like machu picchu, the tranquil landscapes of sacred valley and preserved colonial architecture lima cuzco. general tours world traveler’s five days in peru trip features affordable luxury hotels, complimentary dining a free extra night at hotel monasterio, landmark orient-express set 16th century monastery with these features, includes two nights 5-star miraflores park (also an orient- express hotel), three luxurious monasterio cuzco, eight meals, luggage handling, roundtrip flights between all on-tour transportation. in- depth sightseeing private car, driver guide is also included. clients will tour famed larco herrera museum lima, explore journey aboard vistadome train through val- ley to visit picchu. this vacation priced $2,299 per person double. value-added promotion valid for travel from january 1 march 30, 2010. bookings deposits must be made by 12/31/09. call 800-221-2216 or generaltours.com $3589brazil country walkers celebrated its 30th anniver- sary year, pulling out significant stops new across four continents as well renewed emphasis on value returning guests. desti- nations include northern ireland, piedmont region italy, brazil’s pantanal, tablelands, & amazon, turkey’s lycian way ephesus, yosemite lake tahoe california. every 2010 reservation prior december 15, 2009 receives 5% savings. guests can combine that savings they already receive total 10%. brazil, tablelands amazon program cov- ers ecosystems welcome adventur- ous amble state mato grosso western brazil. 10-day walking, horseback riding boat- ing takes pantanal wetlands, cerrado (savannah) ever-amazing rain forest, exotic flora fauna wide-eyed view. $3,589. departures 2010: june 19, july 17, august special departure sep- tember 11 renowned photographer, richard koegl. 800-464-9255, www.countrywalkers.com brazil operators are celebrating agents now have terrific resource packages association (btoa) just debuted 26-page brochure. organi- zation’s 24 active members, who sea- soned professionals – many accredited iata recognized experts about listed copies, email: admin@braziltouroperators.org current members include: aat american adven- ture tours; abreu; air projects; vacations; avanti destinations; borello nuts brazilian center; brol/brazil online travel; chanteclair; cox kings usa; discover dumonde travel, 4 star south america fred- son globus; hotur - marnella pan services; sita sky- line specialists; tourlite international, vip group, tours. sea cortez… pueblo bonito rosé resort spa, which overlooks cortez, offering all-inclusive option staying more nights. able enjoy amenities added plan.“our goal always ensure our most carefree cost effective possible,” said enrique gandara, corporate director sales marketing. “we very pleased offer highly requested optional package.”the package includes: daily a-la-carte buffet breakfast, snacks, poolside beachside lunch, dinners room service. non-alcoholic selected alcoholic beverages, such house beers, wines spirits. small additional charge applied seafood themed dinner boni- rosé’s award-winning italian restaurant, fellini’s. purchased during booking upon arrival. day, addition rates, $100 adults over age twelve $50 children 5 years old. there no infants toddlers up age. all- inclusive entire length stay guests.now truly “the pink life” resort’s exceptional meals beverages included convenient plan. www.pueblobonito.com u.s. canada $4060montana triple creek ranch, mon- tana’s beautiful relais châteaux hideaway, five-night mountain romance getaway rate $4,060. bitterroot mountains against 600 acres breathtaking big sky beauty, has long been favored escape couples appreciate per- fect balance rest, rocky ture. cabin wood burning fireplace, living room, fully stocked bar, double steam shower deck hot tub while enjoying 20% discount relaxing couple’s mas- sage. $4,060 couple available $760 nightly; avail- dec. 1, feb. 28, 800-654-2943 406-821-4600; e-mail info@triplecreekranch.com; www.triplecreekranch.com e80 www.jaxfax.com<!TEKI!>$144 colorado women searching for rest and relaxation will find respite at the park hyatt beaver creek resort & spa with a special girlfriends getaway package incorporating fit- ness, food fun. located base of mountain, is home to award winning allegria spa, measuring 30,000 sq. ft aqua sanitas ‘healing waters’ water sanctuary, as well brand new 8100 mountainside bar grill. includes luxurious lodging two creek, treatments (choice of: 50 min. swedish massage, 45 minute holistic facial, or signature manicure pedicure), fitness classes kinesis club allegria, buy one, get one 50% off in spatique entree rates start per person night based on doubles two- minimum. www.parkhyattbeavercreek.com $1239new york emerson york’s hud- son valley encouraging guests explore observe nature this autumn its bird-watching star-gaz- ing packages. just hours from manhattan, ideal city-goers who want enjoy vibrant fall foliage crystal clear skies without traveling too far. adult-only eastern-inspired inn features 26 jewel-toned suites, each 24 bottle in-room wine selection, fire- place plush italian linens. adjacent 27-room lodge overlooks esopus proving warm cozy envi- ronment outdoor enthusiasts families spacious, adirondack-style guestrooms. also houses mobil four-star restaurant, country store, café world’s largest kaleidoscope. perfect couples, friends alike, star-gazing packages both begin $788 $1,239 inn, double occupancy valid until decem- ber 31, 2009. call 877- 688-2828 visit www.emersonre- sort.com $129 florida golden door naples grande beach resort, eco-smart retreat southwest florida's paradise coast, has introduced exclusive menu featuring an array rejuvenating body rituals, scrubs, wraps, facials more, many starring organic botanicals native florida. all book servic- es may experience zen-style village's co-ed whirlpools, steam sauna chambers meditation labyrinth.in addition, offers three miles pristine gulf coast beach, 200-acre preserve mangrove estuary, inventive dining championship golf tennis. coastal view accommodations through december 22, 2009, pre-booked services suit your schedule, you can indulge pre- holiday that prepare mind, spirit genuinely company family. 888- 722-1266; www.naplesgranderesort.com www.waldorfastoriacollection.com $148 pennsylvania pocono manor announced celebration unlike anything ever before seen region: magical fireside christmas. yuletide circa 1902 property - oldest continu- ously operating poconos north america be open public take season long historic kicking thanksgiving weekend. christmas appeal “child” within every visitor while providing countless christ- mas festivities activities age. spectacular event day remain weekends 27, admission complimentary activity tickets available purchase $1 ticket. overnight family four guestroom throughout celebration. 800-233-8150, www.innatpoconomanor.net $395 california beverly hills hotel l.a.’s hottest holi- spot. dorchester collection, “the pink palace” unveiling enticing offerings including by la prairie, which wraps up holidays treatment pack- ages year. sensation “wrapped luxury” prairie caviar facial massage ($460); shine “winter radiance” pure gold radiance essence energy ($515); limit “maximum indulgence” firming performed simultaneous- ly pedicure ($415); drop ultimate pampering experience” platinum rare infusion, dia- mond perfection treatment, silver rain $1,000. room night. 310-887-2777. www.jaxfax.com 2009 e81 beavercreeklodge-www.dsc-co.com<!TEKI!>e82 december 2009 www.jaxfax.com olympic gold for a song i n general, the most convenient way to get accommo- dation and tickets 2010 winter games is go through one of official hospitality providers who are authorized sell packages. it’s also guaranteed find hotel room when many downtown rooms sold out. ticket sales events those living outside canada, regardless citizenship, you must purchase agent your national committee. example, us resi- dents (including canadian citizens in us) pur- chase cosport, sister company jet set sports, committee (usoc). list committees agents have chosen participate vancouver program, contact cosport’s office at 908-766-2227; e- mail: cosport@cosport.com; visit www.cosport.com package deals cosport provider usa, australia others. inventory changing constantly, but has number packages available, including three-night stay marriott pinnacle down- town, breakfast, choice four sporting curling, snowboarding, men’s ice hockey figure skating), victory ceremony, all $3,863 per person double. eager join festivities olympics whistler, b.c., pan pacific whistler just released small block suites public consumption. valid from february 11 28, 2010, will be offering competitive rates guests that reserve five-night minimum stay. call 888-905-9995; www.panpaci- ficwhistler.com as an added bonus, book during feb- ruary period receive two pairs iconic red mittens. this pacific’s sup- porting athletes while helping keep cozy build excitement around coming magic 2010. hundred percent net profits mittens purchases “own podium” ini- tiative. 888-966-5575 ask team; e-mail olympicrooms@panpacific.com; www.pphg.com cruise ship offers inclusive option: newest special proj- ects lp, partnership with norwegian lines, accommodation on star, which moored north (across stanley park). on-board stays include meals, transfers, entertainment about everything would expect cruise. three- night inside stateroom 13 16 costs $1,012 person. www.newwesttravel.com rent house or condo local experience: make like by renting house, con- dominium, apartment, staying bed breakfast. search breakaway vacations emr vacation rentals - approved property rental agencies 2010destina- tionplanner.com website where can dozens properties available metro vancouver. www.2010destinationplanner.com rv option although per- manent parks surrounding out games, announce- ment recreational vehicles (rvs) allowed park jericho spanish banks beaches $92 night. rv-ers lucky enough secure spot enjoy some best views city mountains great access downtown. www.vancouver2010rv.com persons disabilities vanoc committed providing accessible venues services both paralympic extends warm welcome spectators disabilities. been reviewed accessibility. includes consideration blind visually impaired, deaf hard hearing mobility and/or agility impairments. if require seating, please our ticket- ing centre 1-800-tickets (1-800-842-5387). tdd line 604-629-7140. certain tell seating so proper arrangements made. cannot purchased vancouver2010.com phase 3 time. tips & updates key customers advised check www.vancouver2010.com www.twitter.com/2010tweets clock counting down opening georgia howe streets<!TEKI!>britain los angeles to:london daily business $ 3600 net extra value air all year 800-758-1382;other cities & 1st avbl. sked 355 solar tours 1/1/07-3/31/07 800-388-7652;other available new york 375 amtravel corporation taxes xtra;call 973-373-3300 1950 3650 arrow travel call for other cities;866-359-2776 tur 4 445 695 eurogroups low season 3n stc htl;800-462-2577;subj/avblty hhooww ttoo uussee jjaaxx ffaaxx lliissttiinnggss sseeccttiioonn departing: specific dates of departure (i.e., feb 13). on numbered days the week: 1 = mon, 2 tue, 3 wed, thr, 5 fri, 6 sat, 7 sun • generic terms (mnthl, daily) trip round only via scheduled airline type: chtr charter land package apt apartment with round-trip vila villa rent car rental package. additional. tour pkg motorcoach htl hotel/land class first cruz cruise accommodations only. # days: number tours, flights or hotel packages dura- tions. (number nights: usually one less). minimum price: lowest quoted price within validity period. restrictions may apply. availability seats limited. must be applicable 45 unless otherwise stated. if are included, fare is round-trip. rooms per person/double occupancy (pp/do). net: word between min and max fares indicates that agents pay supplier full displayed (or agreed) add whatever they feel their com- pensation should when billing clients. maximum highest during supplier: contact information, including (800) local phone numbers, can found in our advertisers listers directory (last 8 pages book). validity: time span prices additional information: details from notice to agents: listings jax fax not include government taxes/fees, airport facility fees security charges, since these will vary depending upon airline(s) used route flown ticket(s) actually purchased. hereby advised u.s. department transportation requires consumers total amount taxes, charges before ticket sale consummated. sure determine wholesaler what advise your —the publisher i h g f e d c b a listingsarecolorcoded departing type period information key labels country city from/to feature stories written by leading writers on-site correspondants. edited provide needed sell featured worldwide destinations. provides reach suppliers mentioned story. includes maps, photos quick reference info. box bring destination life. updates arranged 11 editorial easy including: usa/canada, europe, caribbean/bermuda, central south america, africa eastern med, asia pacific. news briefs formatted paragraph you need reference. latest offerings airlines, operators, lines, hotels destinations worldwide. second half each issue consists consolidator listings. publications front features, articles.<!TEKI!>advertisersdirectory® aegean & mediterranean cruises tours 1702 quentin rd., brooklyn, ny 11229; 888-968-0335; 718-645-6499; f: 718- 645-4865; www.aegeanmedtours.com; aegean@aol.com aeroflot 1384 broadway, 22fl, new york, 10018.; 212-944-2300, 212-944-5200; nyc-info@aeroflot.ru; newyork@aeroflot.ru air astana 285 westside avenue, suite 277-278, jersey city, nj, 07305; 888-855- 1557; usa.sales@airastana.com, usa.reservations@airastana.com american travel abroad, inc. 505 eighth ave, ste 801, 10018; 212-586-5230; 800-228-0877 ex ny; 212-581-7925; info@amta.com ; www.amta.com arrow 280 madison ave., 10016; 212-889-2550; 212-889-5959; 866-359-2776; www.arrowtravel.com; info@arrowtravel.com aussie adventures 4200 eutaw drive, boulder, co 80303-3627; 866-828-aussie; 303-828- 0757; 303-828-0820; info@aussie-adventures.com c h international 4751 wilshire blvd., 201, los angeles, ca 90010; 800-833-8888; 323- 933-2288; 323-939-2286; www.cnhintl.com caravan tours, 401 n. michigan chicago, il 60611; 800-caravan; 312-321-9800; 312-321-9810; www.caravantours.com; info@caravantours.com chanteclair / aka- c-travel 152 west 36th street, 805, 866-361-3500, 212- 695-3514; 212-695-8333, info@chanteclairtravel.com; www.chante- clairtravel.com china national tourist office 370 lexington 912, 10017; 212-760-8218; 212-760-8809; info@cnto.org; www.cnto.org crown peters 34-10 astoria, 11106; 800-321-1199; 718-932-7800; 932-2930; travel@crownpeters.com; www.crownpeters.com czech vacations 12 east 33rd st. 1200, 10016 donna franca 470 commonwealth boston, ma 02215; 800-225-6290; 617-375-9400; fax: 617-266-1062 downtown 3 35th street 8th floor, 10001; 800-952-3519; 212-481- 1800; 212-481-5516; downtowntravel@nyct.net; www.downtown- travel.com eaglerider motorcycle rentals 11860 south la cienega boulevard hawthorne 90250-3461, 310-536- 6777; 310-536-6770; rent@eaglerider.com; www.eaglerider.com elite • 28790 chagrin 180, woodmere, oh 44122; 800-354-8320; 216- 514-9000; 216-514-9001 9070 kimberly 49, boca raton, fl 33434; 561-208-7777; 561- 208-0700 european 523 w. sixth st., 542, 90014; 800-882-3983; 213-624- 9378; 213-624-4898 www.europtours.com info@europtours.com extra value 150 boulder ridge rd, scarsdale, 10583; 800-910-0575, 914-478- 6186 1155 warburton ave. 6p, yonkers, 10701; 800-758-1382; 914-966-1979 14 jana weston, ct 06883; 800-990-7321; 203-222-1804; sales@extravalueair.com; www.extravalueair.com for flanders, belgium 620 44 fl., 212-584-2336; 212-575-3606; www.visitflanders.us foreign independent 2125 center 209, fort lee, nj 07024 800-248-3487; 201-585- 1549; 201-585-2298 www.fittours.com goway 5757 century blvd, 807, ca; 800 387 8850; fax 665 4432; res@goway.com; www.goway.com; www.gowayagent.com g.t.t. 4100 spring valley #202, dallas tx 75244; 800-485-6828; 972-239- 5068 900 fourth #555, seattle, wa 98164; 800-827-5882; 206-381- 5996 3250 #1908 angeles 866-868-8890; 213- 251-9967 4810 beauregard #224, alexandria, va 22312; 703-354-9288; 703- 354-9567 9449 balboa #212, san diego, 92123; 858-614-0260; 858- 614-0312; www.gttglobal.com; airfares@gttglobal.com hahn 1-877-hr169hr (1-877-471-6947); servicedesk@hahnair.biz; www.hah- nair.com hari world 25 45th 1003, 10036; 212-997-3300; 212-997-3320 5255 mawry freemont, 94538; 510-795-5000; 510-795-6183 6346 washtenaw 60659; 773-381-5555; 773- 381-2797 3400 peachtree ne 815, atlanta, ga 30326;404-233-5005; 404-233-5020 www.hariworld.com highview 199 lee 686, 11211, 888-3-highview; 732-2123; inquiries@highviewtravel.com himalayan 286 fifth 212-564-5164; 212-564-2188; www.himalayantours.com impressa club ltd. 2307 coney island ny, 11223; 718-645-8578fax. 718-336- 6708 india tourism 1270 of the americas , 1808, 10020; ad@itonyc.com, dvenka@gmail.com, www.incredibleindia.org; 212-586- 4901, 212-582-3274 israel ministry second 888-77-israel; 212-499-5660; 212-499-5665; www.goisrael.com, info@goisrael.com jbti llc 118 e 28 375, 212-696-2058. 800-9672345, 212-696-2057: info@jbti.com; www.jbti.com jgt 1629 k nw, 601, washington, dc 20006; 800-926-7274; 202-833- 3531; 202-833-4370 legend 1730 military trail palm beach, 33415; 800-295-3436, 561-965-5482 louis cruise lines 2801 183rd 2204, aventura, 33160; 877-568-4787, 786- 207-8429, 786-207-8430; www.louiscruises.com, nfilip- pidis@comcast.net lufthansa german 1640 hempstead turnpike, medow, 11554; tel: 800-645-3880, www.lufthansa-usa.com/pr_tvlagt marnella 5171 glenwood 111, raleigh, north carolina, 27612; 866- 993-0033; 919-782-1664, 919-782-1664; info@marnellatours.com; www.marnellatours.com marriott corporation 10400 fernwood road, bethesda md 20817;; www.marriott.com destinations 8600 chester pike, upper darby, pa 19082; john kamb; 610- 789-1500; 610-789-3500 mission travel, 112 cooperative way, kalispell, mt 59901; 800-321-8069; 406-758-4848; 406-758-4828; www.mvti.com pan express 55 39th 301, 800-518-7437; 212-719- 9292; 212-730-1486; gen@panexpresstravel.com; www.panex- presstravel.com panorama ltd., 12th 800-204-7130;212- 741-0033; 212-645-6276; webmaster@panoramatravel.com; www.panoramatravel.com partners in 800-683-9092; www partnersintravel.com perfect 19 44th 310, 212-840-6777; 840-6707; sales@perfecttravel.net picasso 11099 s. cienaga 210, 90045; 800-pi- casso, 310-645-1206 350 n y, 10118; 800-247-7283; 244-5454; 212-240-0747 5250 w blvd.,ste 626, 310-645-4400;www.picassotravel.com qantas 300 continental blvd. 350; el segundo, 90245; 800-641-8772; 800- 248-5830; f 310-640-1024 qatar airways 1430 nw 10th 20005; 202-558-4396; ww.qatarairwaysus.com reservations master 133 amherst dr, greenwood, sc 29649; 800-381-4896; 864-538-4355; www.reservationsmaster.com russian consulting corp., 45 34th st, 703, 877-268-2677; 212-268-9336; 212-268-9368; racc@russianconsulting.com; www.russianconsult- ing.com sans incredible 421 7th av, 1004, 212-695-1005, 888-9c india; 212-6951006; www.sansincrediblevacations.com skybird inc- sky 24701 swanson southfield, mi 48033; 888-sky-bird; 248-372-4800; 248-372-4810; skybirdtravel.com 104 1425, 60603; 312-606-9600; 312-606-0925 2637 peterson 773-878-0300; fax. 878-7543 610; 212-563-0300; 212-563-2056; newyork@skybird-travel.com 3913 old highway #32b, fairfax, 22030; 703-934-8999; 734-8157 360 sepulveda 2050, 90245: 310-647-3400; 310-647-5800 1601 bayshore highway, 340, burlingame, 94010; akshay shah: akshay@skybirdtravel.com; skylink 980 ave americas, 401, 800-247-6659; 212-573-8980; 212-573-8878 1025 connecticut 213, 20036; 202-822- 6666; 202-755-8046 3525 773-463-4667, 773-478-2501 8383 430, beverly hills, 90211; 323-653-6718, 323-655-4393; www.skylinkus.com sunnyland 21 kings rd. n, b-212, coast, 32137; 800-783-7839 386- 449-0059; 386-449-0060, www.sunnylandtours.com swisstix www.swisstix.com; 800-878-5228 spain 666 york 800-ok-spain, 212-265-8822; 212-265- 8864 tokyo service 835 320los 90017; 213-680-3545; 488-9206 trans am 4222 king 130, 22302; 703-998-7676; 822-7600; 703-824-8190; hdq@transamtravel.com 5200 330, 310-670-2111; 310-670-1875; www.transamtravel.com bound 5 penn plaza, 5th 800-808-9541 (fit); 800-808- 9547 (grp); 800-808-9542, www.booktravelbound.com; fit@booktravel- bound.com; groups@booktravelbound.com people 10707 s.w. 104th miami, 33176; 800-999-9912; 305-596-4800; 305- 596-2344; www.travelpeople1.com; world@travelpeople1.com turkish airlines 8501 higgins 60631; 773-693-5849; 773-693-2849; www.thy.com united 701 #1000, 10036-1505; 800-245-0203; 212-245- 1100; 212-245-0292 uniglobe (usa) 18662 mac arthur 100, irvin, 92612; 949-623-9070; www.uniglogetravel.com up away 347 305, 212-889-2345; 800-275-8001; 212-889-2350; www.upandaway.com 1010 vermont 1011, 800-746-4766; 202- 639-0520; 202-639-0525 376 boyleston 204, 02116; 800-347-3813; 617- 236-8100; 617-247-2920 1022, 888-978-7629; 323-852-9775; 323-852-9771 2701 lejeune 402, coral gables, 33134 877-876-2929; 305-446-9997;fax: 305-446-0797 vienna board obere augartenstrasse 40, vienna, austria; 011-4312-111-4361; 011-4312-168-492; 212-575-7723, xt 16 gerble@vienna.info; www.vi- enna.info vytis 40-24 235th douglaston, 11363; 800-77-vytis; 718-423-6161; 718-423-3979; vyttours@earthlink.net; www.vytistours.com ya’lla usa 4711 sw huber 2, portland, or 97219; 800-644-1595; 503- 977-3758; 503-977-3765 information@yallatours.com; www.yalla- tours.com thisdirectoryisprovidedasafreeserviceforouradvertisersand listers.jaxfaxtravel marketingmagazinemakeseveryefforttoprovidecorrect&currentcontactinformation however, jaxfax does not guarantee accuracy validity information con- tainedinthisdirectory.anychangestotheaboveinformationshouldbesubmittedinwrit- ingto:doug@jaxfax.com.—dougcooke,ctc,publisher/editorialdirector 72 december 2008 www.jaxfax.com<!TEKI!> <!TEKI!>france belgium the netherlands germany bruges ghent brussels leuven antwerp flanders north sea