Two chicks with major wanderlust who live to see the world: themselves, through others, or just living vicariously with the latest & greatest gadgets, travel accoutrements - from luggage to skincare
Belize Travel Agent and Tour Operator Green Dragon Adventure Travel recently announced their new travel package: a 5 Night Extreme Jungle Adventure. Based out of their Belize Jungle Dome in the adventure center of Belize, it's a comfortable,
tranquil sanctuary in the heart of the Cayo District. "We provide very comfortable surroundings for
our guests, with modern conveniences at the Belize Jungle Dome," explains owner Andy Hunt, a former British Professional football player. "We encourage our guests to spend every day meeting local people, exploring
the region, discovering the deep history and culture of Belize and of
course having an adrenalin filled adventure on the way. It is our
intention to take care of everything our guests need so that all they
have to do is turn up at the airport and have fun."
While not suitable for children, this package - which features the steamy jungle, wildlife-rich rivers, and sacred caves - is replete with adventure galore, as well as Mayan history and archaeology. Additional days can be added on to relax and enjoy the beautiful beaches and reef
system the country is famous for.
5 Night Extreme Jungle Adventure:
DAY 1Arrive in Belize City. Transfer to the Belize Jungle Dome
DAY 2Actun Tunichil Muknal Caving and Jungle Hike. A trip into the depths of the Belize Jungle to visit sacred saves and explore an untouched Mayan Site - a cave system consisting of a series of chambers, ending in a 300 by 50 meter Cathedral where sacrificial ceremonies once took place
DAY 3Kayaking Day Trip Rapids. A combination of rapids and plenty of calm water, with lunch and swimming at Clarissa Falls Resort, followed by a full day of kayaking.
DAY 4Hiking & Jungle Rappelling Adventure. A hike through the jungle to the infamous Black Hole Drop - 200 feet above the rainforest canopy - that grows out from the basin. After abseiling down into the jungle canopy and enjoying the sound of your own screams echoing back at you, a mouth-watering picnic awaits at the bottom, along with a scenic cave. (If you opt for the romantic overnight caving adventure, you'll stay inside a Mayan underworld complete with dinner, candles, and even a flower-strewn bed.) A hike back to base camp follows.
DAY 5Cave Tubing & Zip Line Adventure Tour. Go cave tubing along underground waterways just like the Mayans who used these caves a thousand years ago (fascinating artifacts remain). The cave walls glisten, showing off their crystal formations, and beautiful stalactites & stalagmites. Then enjoy zipping through the canopy of trees from platform to platform on cables!
DAY 6Adios! Transfer back to Belize International Airport for connecting flight or transfer.
A longtime fave hideaway for the rich & fabulous on Spain's Costa de Sol now boasts equally fab accommodations. Nestled between the Sierra Blanca Mountains and the Mediterranean Sea about two miles from the heart of Marbella, the newly unveiled 29-room Sentidos en Rio Real is the resort town's sole member of the elite Small Luxury Hotels of the World.
Designed by the same architect who was commissioned by the Spanish royal family, it's a blend of traditional Spanish architecture with Asian and Mediterranean influences. Guests have the option of landing on the 24-hour helipad, and then slipping in through a gated entrance geared toward utmost privacy. An equally private entrance to one of the various spacious rooms reveals a peaceful, modern space appointed with hand-selected furnishings, Egyptian cotton linens, and a private terrace with commanding views of the cliff-side golf course - an 18-hole, par-72 wonder stretching across a
beautiful valley, softly sloping from the mountains to the
Mediterranean.
Apres golf, players can hang out in the club house and munch on gourmet snacks or enjoy a bevvy, all the while availing themselves of the golf concierge (who is always on hand). Other options include a game of tennis on the hotel's court, catching some rays on the sun deck or by the pool, horseback riding, water sports, or an outing aboard the hotel's opulent private yacht, the Rio Real III. (Custom-designed itineraries can be created with accommodations and use of the hotel yacht for upwards of $40,000 per week.) The hotel's pristine, glass-walled spa offers myriad pampering indulgences, including a range of therapeutic and relaxing massages, body wraps and facials utilizing locally grown flowers, citrus fruits and olive oils.
The hotel's Sentidos Restaurant specializes in Andalucian cuisine and boasts a wine cellar stocked with vintages from across Europe and around the world. Many of Hollywood's old school elite from the 60s maintain villas nearby and often drop by to take in the views from the floor-to-ceiling windows, or dine al fresco on the patio overlooking the golf course - and soak up some warm Andalucian
hospitality.
males weigh between 900 to 1,600 pounds (females are half that)
they measure from 8 to 10 feet long
a polar bear's oversized paws enable them to swim up to 6 mph, spread their XXL weight across thin ice, avoid wiping out on slippery surfaces, and contain claws that measure in excess of 2 inches - perfect for hunting (and keeping) prey
mating occurs on the ice in
April or May, and the fertilized egg attaches at the end of late
September
polar bear moms-to-be excavate birthing dens in the snow banks in October and fast until they give birth to twins, between late November and early January
blind upon birth, it takes polar bear cubs two months before they can venture out onto the ice
babies nurse up to 20 months, and stay with month for 2.5 years
there are 20,000 - 40,000 polar bears worldwide
what do polar bears eat? typically, they wait patiently by breathing holes in the ice for ringed seals to pop up...so they can pounce on their 200 pound meal
To find out more about seeing them for yourself, check out the article in MercuryNews.com.
Old World meets new on this Iberian Peninsula mix of architecture, culture and history. During the 15th century, it was a
naval powerhouse and home to Ferdinand Magellan, the first man to
circumnavigate the world. Baixa, the center of Lisbon, Portugal's
capital city, is being considered for UNESCO World Heritage Site
status. Popular sites to visit include Aqueduct of the Free
Waters, Belem Tower, Lisbon Cathedral, Monument of the Discoveries,
Museums of Ancient Art and Portuguese-Style Tile Mosaics, and the
National Theater of Saint Carlos.
In addition to the city's whopping 3,300 hours of sun per year, Lisbon has an active nightlife,
shopping and world-class eats - in particular grilled fish specialties. "While Lisbon has a very young and trendy feel, it still maintains its
traditional elements," says Robert Paris, Co-president of Club ABC. From its music-driven bars, to its
boutiques and shopping malls, and general vibe, the city is diverse and distinctive. And if you're a non-E.U. resident, it's all tax free!
Club ABC Tours, a large private travel club, is offering a 6-day independent air/land travel package, Lisbon Weekend Escape. Visit the culturally rich and thoroughly modern city of Lisbon, Portugal, starting at just $899* per person. The package includes:
roundtrip airfare on regularly scheduled flights from Newark
roundtrip airport to hotel transfers
4-star accommodations at
the Hotel Mundial in the heart of Lisbon (near Rossio Square)
buffet breakfast daily
hotel taxes and service charges
a half-day panoramic city tour
*Prices are based on double occupancy and include fuel and handling charges. Departures from other U.S. cities are available at an additional cost. Because of limited availability, early reservations are recommended.
Snow white mountains, crisp air, bright blue skies: nothing beats a day of snow filled fun on the slopes, especially if it's affordable. BnBfinder.com, one of the top-rated B&B directories, recently selected their fave winter getaway packages. Bellevue, IA - Mont Rest Bed & Breakfast: Winter Ski Package
Includes a stay in a deluxe room plus
free lift tickets at Chestnut Mountain in Galena, Illinois or Sundown
Ski resort in Dubuque, Iowa. Two-night, three-day ski packages start at
just $200 per person based on double occupancy (includes one day lift
ticket at an area ski resort). Cross country skiing is also available.
(From 09/30/2005 through 12/30/2006) For more info: (877) 872-4220.
Take advantage of low rates and un-crowded slopes during weekdays this
winter. Enjoy lodging in one of the inn's comfortable rooms, read the
latest snow reports over breakfast, then choose between an all-day lift
pass to one of the valley's 7 super ski areas or a trail pass, lesson
and rental at one of the 6 beautiful Nordic centers. One and two night
packages start at just $93.50 per person, based on double occupancy and
excluding tax. Not valid 02/18/2007 through 02/22/2007. (From
01/02/2007 through 03/31/2007) For more info: (877) 423-6779.
Be adventurous and drive your own sled team. Enjoy 2 nights lodging and
breakfast daily. Chat by the fire on Friday with appetizers and watch a
video and demo by the dog sledding instructor. You'll drive your own
team on Saturday and then enjoy hot chocolate and a fabulous dinner on
Saturday night. You can choose skijoring instead if you can ski!
Package is $339, plus tax, based on double occupancy. (From 01/05/2007
through 01/07/2007 and 03/02/2007 through 03/03/2007) For more info: (800) 530-9898.
Ashland, NH - Glynn House Inn: Sleigh Ride, Ski and Snowmobile Getaways
Experience one (or more!) time honored New England traditions and enjoy
the beauty and tranquility of New Hampshire's winter wonderland. Getaway includes luxury accommodations, gourmet breakfast and early
evening wine and hors d'oeuvres. Choose from a sleigh ride pass for two
for $25, 2 two-day adult ski lift passes for $140 or a half-day
snowmobile rental for $140. Or, choose all three for a complete winter
fun experience! (From 11/01/06 through 10/31/2007) For more info: (866) 686-4362.
Fresh
snow lies deep in the New Hampshire mountains, challenging you to strap
on your snow shoes and go out into the moonlight. With mountain-wise
guides to lead you, get ready for some winter fun, knowing there's a
cozy fire to return to at evening's end. The weekend includes two
nights lodging, hearty country breakfasts, Saturday evening hors
d'oeuvres and a fireside supper. Guided tour and dinner package is an
additional $39 per person above room rate. (From 01/05/2007 through
01/07/2007, 02/02/2007 through 02/04/2007, 03/02/2007 through
03/04/2007). For more info: (800) 938-5273.
If this is your year to learn how to ski, Columbine Inn has the package
for you. This New Mexico inn is offering a Learn-To-Ski package that is
inexpensive and easy. The package includes lodging, lift tickets, ski
lessons, ski rentals, and breakfast. Packages start at just $300 per
person, based on double occupancy, excluding taxes and fees. (From
01/03/2007 through 03/03/2007) For more info: (888) 884-5723.
Your ski and stay getaway to the Pocono Mountains includes
accommodations in a room with a private bath, full breakfast each
morning, ski lift tickets, and a dinner coupon good for up to $25.00
per person for each night in our dining room. All taxes and gratuities
included. Mid week from $109 (for 2 days, 1 night and 1 full day lift
ticket) to $219 (for 3 days, 2 nights and 2 full day lift tickets).
Weekends from $159 (for 2 days, 1 night and 1 full day lift ticket) to
$299 (for 3 days, 2 nights and 2 full day lift tickets). Prices are per
person, based on double occupancy. Elk Mountain is a short 21 miles
from the inn. (From 12/10/2006 through 03/20/2007) For more info: (800) 248-2519.
Book a reservation between March 26 and April 10 and receive 10% off
your stay. This historic and elegant inn will be the perfect place for
you and your loved one to spend your ski vacation. Indulge yourself in
luxury by reserving one of the beautiful, spacious King suites complete
with a romantic fireplace to cuddle in front of. (From 03/26/2007
through 04/10/2007) For more info: (800) 824-1672.
If you are looking for a winter getaway that offers endless adventures
with spectacular views, then try The Mountain Top Inn & Resort. This 3-night package starts at $925, based on double occupancy
and includes: 3 nights lodging in a Classic Lodge Room, a hearty
Vermont breakfast each morning, a 30 minute snowmobile tour, 30 minute
dog sled ride, rental equipment for one full day of Nordic skiing
and/or snowshoeing, a horse drawn sleigh ride, ice skate rentals (one
hour), cross country ski passes for the three days (80km of trails),
and unlimited sledding. Tax and resort charges included. Please call
for availability. (From 12/01/2006 through 03/31/2007) For more info: (800) 445-2100.
Hurricane Ridge has some of the best snowshoeing trails in Western Washington. Try a great alternative to downhill skiing and snowboarding with a two-hour guided snowshoe walk. The package includes snowshoe rentals with every weekend stay plus a delightful Après-ski fondue served fireside in your suite. Enjoy breakfast each morning, wine and hors d'oeuvres in the evening and cider after a long day of winter fun. Linger in the hydrotherapy spa under the stars after an invigorating day! All this is included for $495 per couple (not including taxes and gratuities). (From 01/06/2007 through 03/30/2007) For more info: (888) 683-2431.
Filled with attitude, insight, and a fresh perspective on must-see destinations, MTV's new series of travel guidebooks will help some of the 190,000+ college students participating in abroad programs & upcoming fun-seeking Spring Break'ers get the most out of every trip. Penned in a fresh, edgy, irreverent and opinionated tone, the guides provide no-nonsense, insider advice on everything from staying in the best hostels to booking student tickets on-line for the Louvre to buying vintage chic for the chillest nightlife.
The first three in the series, MTV Guide to Europe, MTV Guide to Ireland, and MTV Guide to Italy cover the best places to indulge in a night of flamenco, chill out to jazz, do something other than get high in Amsterdam, surf in the North Atlantic, and indulge your inner sun worshipper on fabulous and unspoiled islands in the Adriatic. The guides' MTV Best icons highlight the most happening places and things to do, while mtvU icons provide handy, practical tips for students studying abroad. "Free" icons point readers to museums with no admission charge, complimentary bar food, and no-cover charge entertainment. Upcoming guides will cover Spain, France, England and American Road Trips in April 2007. Podcasts with the writers are available for download on frommers.com/podcast or iTunes.com.
Hearken back to the time before wireless this and speedy that by watching the world drift by, ensconced in your own plush private rail car. "Private rail car travel is the ultimate luxury land cruise," explains Simon Pielow of Train Chartering about their private charter which follows at the rear of a regularly scheduled Amtrak train. "The railroad between the Big Apple & the Windy City makes the whole journey not only memorable but also carbon responsible. What a very special Christmas present!"
The company's Mount Vernon rail car was built between December 1949 and June 1950 for Pullman service on the Union Pacific Railroad. Following renovation completed in 2004, it is a six bedroom lounge car for up to ten passengers & two crew. Onboard entertainment includes a TV, DVD/video, audio CD & XM satellite radio receiver. There is a full kitchen and a marble-tiled shower room. Each bedroom has an en suite WC & basin. Dividers between bedrooms can be opened to create suites of beds and lounge. Dining in the separate lounge/diner can be on separate tables or round a banquet-style single table.
Ride in a private rail car from New York to Chicago:
Day 1 (you select the date) Depart New York Penn Station at 3:45pm; dinner is served. Day 2 Arrive Chicago Union Station after breakfast at 9:45am. The route between New York & Chicago city centres takes in Albany, Buffalo & Cleveland, passing along Lake Erie for much of the journey. Overnight in Chicago at the hotel you choose & book. Day 3 Depart Chicago Union Station at 5:45pm; dinner is served. Day 4 Travel day, dining en route, & arriving New York Penn St at 10:29pm. The return is via Cincinnati, the New River Gorge (West Virginia), Washington DC to New York City.
The full service option for the charter is $17,500, which includes fine dining and all beverages, along with the services of the executive chef. A 'no frills' board-only option is available for $13,500. Prices are for up to 10 passengers, including the services of a car attendant; however, flights, transfers & hotels are excluded.
A lot of people talk about reducing global warming, but one enterprising scientist is actually doing something about it.
Eric Woodroof, Ph.D, has created Green Pleasures, a program that allows travelers to not only save thousands of dollars on exotic trips, but offset the the average emissions they generate by driving, traveling and just everyday living through carbon emission credits. For, say, a week-long vacation, Green Pleasures will purchase 4,400 lbs of carbon credits (equivalent to planting nearly one acre of trees) which more than offsets the carbon emissions impact of the entire trip. "This is a new vacation concept," explains Woodroof. "Our clients love it because, while on vacation they are helping to slow global warming." To date, the program has helped a variety of organizations save millions in cost-reduction programs.
With a company motto of "No is not an option" - Private Travel in Iceland offers guided tours where travelers are actively encouraged to change their plans. Specializing in personalized luxury travel services, they bridge the gap between strictly scheduled (and sometimes boring) standard guided tours - where, typically, a guides hurries (and herds) the group through attraction after attraction in order to stay on schedule - and first-class itineraries where travelers have the freedom to change what they do at any time.
Whether you're into Icelandic horses,
glacier adventures, or clubbing in Reykjavik, Private Travel will design a flexible guided tour based on what you like to do, see, or even eat.
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