Travel Destinations and Cruise Reviews

Vacation in the Big Apple - Visit New York City

2012-02-13T03:00:00.000-07:00

New York City is the largest city in the United States and has a population of over eight million, which, as people continue to flock to New York City, is likely to grow even larger. This is Broadway, this is Wall Street, this is a city of history and legends, and who wouldn't want to visit it at least once -even if it is just to say they'd been there.
Here are ten of the "must see" attractions of New York City:

New York's famous Empire State Building, a New York City Landmark and a National Historic Landmark, soars more than a quarter of a mile into the atmosphere above the heart of Manhattan. Located on the 86th floor, 1,050 feet (320 meters) above the city's bustling streets, the Observatory offers panoramic views from within a glass enclosed pavilion and from the surrounding open-air promenade. Since the Observatory opened to the public in 1931, almost 110 million visitors have thrilled to the awe-inspiring vision of the city beneath them.
Located on Liberty Island in New York Harbor, the Statue of Liberty was a gift of international friendship from the people of France to the people of the United States and is one of the most universal symbols of political freedom and democracy. Liberty Island is accessible by Circle Line-Statue of Liberty Ferry, Inc. ferries only. One round trip ferry ticket includes visits to Liberty and Ellis Islands.

Legendary Times Square, the heart of Broadway and of countless huge New York gatherings, recently celebrated its 100-year anniversary. Filled with its neon signs, screaming ads, giant screens, Times Square "the crossroads of the world" is more than ever a sight that overwhelms, its flashing lights reaching to the sky. The main attractions in Times Square include ABC Studios, WWE Store, Toys R Us and MTV's TRL. At the Times Square Visitors Center you can get free citywide information from multilingual tourist counselors, get free maps and brochures, purchase tickets to Broadway and Off-Broadway shows from the Broadway Ticket Center & more.
The United Nations Headquarters building in New York City is the home of the international organization and one of the most visited sites in the city. Guided tours are conducted seven days a week (Monday to Friday only during January and February). Tours are conducted from 9:30 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. Monday to Friday; Saturday and Sundays from 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tours in English normally leave every half hour and last for approximately 45 minutes to one hour.
At Madame Tussaud's New York, you will be able to mingle with nearly 200 amazingly life-like wax figures, including Brad Pitt, Jennifer Lopez, Michael Jackson, Madonna and even Elvis Presley and Marilyn Monroe. Open 365 days a year from 10:00 a.m. Monday through Thursday, last ticket sold at 8:00 p.m. Friday through Sunday, last ticket sold at 10:00 p.m.
One of the most successful ships in US history is now one of the most unique attractions in New York City. Berthed on the mighty Hudson River in Manhattan, the Intrepid Air & Sea Museum boasts educational exhibits and exciting events. After being closed for a lengthy renovation, the museum reopened to the public on Nov 8th 2008.
Central Park extends from 59th to 110th streets and 5th Avenue to 8th Avenue. It is home to a zoo, playgrounds, skating rinks and a lot more. One of the most romantic and popular ways to see Central Park is from a horse-drawn carriage. These carriages line up at 59th Street and Fifth Avenue across from the Plaza Hotel.

The Rockefeller Center is a place for exquisite shopping, fine dining and great entertainment. It also houses the NBC studios and the Rockefeller Center ice skating rink. During Christmas time, the whole place turns into a Winter Wonderland with the famous Rockefeller Center Christmas tree and beautiful lights and decorations everywhere. Tours are available of the Rockefeller Center as well as NBC studios.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art has specimens of different categories of art from all over the world during every epoch of recorded time. Going through the entire Met is a full day affair. Within are more than two million works of art including arts of Africa, Asia, Europe, Egypt, Greece, Rome, medieval art, musical instruments, photographs, and 20th-century art.
The Madison Square Garden or as it is popularly known, "The World's Most Famous Arena" is a must see for all sports fans. Be sure to take an All Access Tour of the Garden and visit the Knicks, Rangers and Liberty locker rooms; tour backstage of the Theater at Madison Square Garden; go inside the Star dressing rooms; see players practicing, performers in rehearsal or crews staging events! You'll never know what you'll see on the All Access Tour.
OK, so this is number eleven, but a list is not complete with a trip to the Bronx and Yankee Stadium. Love or hate the team, the greatness of those who have played for this team cannot be discounted. The new stadium is a masterpiece and a shrine to the sport, second only to Cooperstown.

What are you waiting for? Contact Jadd Fong Travel an Albuquerque travel agency and get started planning your trip.

Best Dive Vacations

2012-02-06T03:00:00.000-07:00

Dive Vacations

Scuba diving offers travelers seeking an active vacation the opportunity to view parts of our world seen by very few. Divers are part of an exclusive club, sharing experiences normally reserved for marine life. Like few other activities, diving provides an unparalleled reason to travel and one that will leave you searching for your next marine adventure. If the idea of sharing your holiday with angel fish, eels and sharks, watching turtles gliding along the sea bed and exploring shipwrecks appeals to you, read on and learn the basics of dive travel planning.
If you already are an experienced diver, you know the joy of seeing a rare underwater species or one that you have never seen before. Add to that experience the thrill of traveling to a new, perhaps exotic, destination to explore, and you have a real adventure at hand. Setting off on a dive vacation in a distant land may seem daunting, but with the help of your travel agent - who can take care of the planning - diving will add an entirely new dimension to your adventures. If you are new to diving, traveling with a tour company that provides expert guidance is one of the best possible introductions.
A successful dive trip relies on choosing your destination and travel dates wisely, a good travel consultant to assist with the logistics, a little luck, and a lot of coordinated planning. If you currently dive, it's likely that you have already traveled at some point to pursue your hobby. If you are new to diving, or if this is your first diving holiday, then you may want to consider taking a "learn to dive" holiday offered at many resort locations worldwide. PADI is a certification association for divers and a worldwide source of diving knowledge, advice and instructors. Dive resorts most often require PADI certification to rent equipment to divers or to provide refills for air tanks. PADI offers training through YMCAs and dive supply shops. Basic training can be done in a swimming pool with final certification taking place in "open water". A PADI open water certificate can be gained anywhere from 4 days to 6 weeks, depending on your training time and ability, and you can comfortably go on holiday to learn about and experience diving in the ocean by the end of a week. You'll need to learn a lot of the theory that goes with this qualification, which means you should be prepared to do some homework during your holiday - but it's time well spent.
As you begin planning, have a general idea of the amount of time you want to spend diving and the time you want to enjoy other activities. Also prepare your budget for the trip, weighing diving costs against transportation, lodging, food, and entertainment. When you evaluate the type of experience you'd like to have, ask yourself if there are species of marine life you particularly want to see, or if there's a part of the world you've always wanted to visit? Do you want a "live aboard" experience, or are you looking for a resort - and diving is a secondary activity? The more consideration you give these issues, the more efficient the planning process will be, the more you'll enjoy your vacation, and the quicker you will be on your way.
Your first stop should be a travel agent at Jadd Fong Travel experienced with tour operators offering dive trips and dive destinations. Because of the logistics of a diving trip and your investment in both time and money, it is important to have a practiced set of eyes watching out for you. Your travel consultant will know which destinations and tour operators are appropriate (and which to avoid) and can assist in pulling together less obvious components of the trip, often at substantial discounts.
If you are an experienced diver, then the world literally is your playground. Most divers have a long list of where they want to go and wrecks and marine life they want to see. Naturally, your budget will be a key factor when you finally decide where to go. Be sure to let your travel agent know any special preferences or requests at the first opportunity, so every possible detail is taken into account early in the planning process. In South America and the Caribbean, top destinations are Belize, the Cayman Islands, Turks and Caicos and Mexico. In Europe, Italy, Malta and its famous Blue Lagoon, Spain, and Croatia are all popular. The Red Sea is a world famous diving destination that's accessible from Saudi Arabia, Eritrea, Sudan, Jordan, Egypt and Israel. South Africa offers cage diving to see Great White Sharks, and opportunities are endless in Asia and Australasia. Not to be missed are Truk Lagoon in Micronesia, and of course - the Great Barrier Reef. Very few localities require special dive permits; in most cases, a local PADI dive center can obtain a permit in short order. However, in some countries, notably in the Middle East, permit acquisition can take more than a week, so plan well in advance.

Great Barrier Reef

The weather at your destination will greatly affect your dive experience. And unfortunately, when traveling great distances, it is not easy to cancel at the last minute without losing some or all of your deposits. Keep your eye on the weather and be careful about booking travel during times of the year, for example hurricane season in the Caribbean, when you'll have an above-average chance of trip disruption. Ask your travel consultant to check on the cancellation policies available from the tour operator or resort and if travel insurance is available for severe weather events.
As mentioned, a key consideration for any dive vacation is how much time you want to devote to diving. Some resorts offer diving opportunities as one of many activities for visitors, and only one afternoon of an entire week might be devoted to diving. Other destinations, however, center all activities around a full diving schedule, and travelers find themselves below the surface for hours each day - then usually relaxing at night with a big meal and a cold drink.
If you are going with a group, early in your planning, determine how much diving each traveler wants to do so you can choose the best location that offers interesting and alternative activities. Remember, too, that diving is an active sport with a small, manageable risk element. If the skill levels in your group vary greatly, your destination and tour operator should take those differences into account; if this is the case, you might not be able to dive together, unless the more experienced divers chose to do easier dives. Many dive centers will offer a range of dives allowing you to meet up with others in your group between dives. If you plan to travel with children, make sure that your travel consultant checks with the destination or tour operator about the appropriateness of the trip and alternative care, if needed.
You will most likely have a range of likely accommodation options, from budget to deluxe hotels. There are also "live aboard" options where you sleep on a boat and dive from the boat during the trip; if you go this route, you are likely to sleep in a twin bed cabin with limited space. However, if you want to maximize your diving opportunities, a live-a-board might be your best option. Imagine diving in the morning, enjoying lunch in the sun, diving after lunch and then reflecting on the day and making plans for tomorrow as you cruise to your next spot, watching the sun go down. These arrangements typically include high-quality meals and air for two dives per day in the package price. A couple of days on dry land at each end of your trip will give you a chance to enjoy life above the water as well.
While almost anyone can dive, make sure you are prepared for the physical demands of the trip and that the dive area is within your skill level. Some dives involve strong currents or extreme depths, so knowing what's in store and getting a few hours of preliminary dive time at comparable depth and terrain will make your time on vacation more productive and enjoyable.
In addition to considering physical demands of a dive vacation, be aware of any indigenous diseases in your chosen destination, such as malaria or yellow fever, and protect yourself against them. As early as possible in the planning stage, consult a physician to determine what shots and other precautions you need prior to travel. Importantly, also consult your physician and dive masters about your flight schedule and appropriate wait periods before your first airline flight and after your last dive prior to flying to prevent problems with nitrogen build-up in your blood from the compressed air in your dive tanks.
Your tour operator no doubt will provide a complete list of recommended clothing and gear. In general, however, it is a good idea to pack as lightly as possible to ensure you can carry all of the equipment you need with you. Most airlines charge for excess baggage, and diving equipment tends to be heavy. Most airlines will carry empty cylinders, but consider renting your cylinders and weights at your destination to save baggage costs. Remember that diving knives must be packed, not carried on. Some localities do not permit spear fishing equipment, so check prior to your trip. If you do travel with your cylinder, you will have to remove the pressure valve during travel. Many destinations will have rentals of all equipment available, so just confirm the availability during your planning stages. You will almost certainly want to pack your own mask and flippers as these will need to fit perfectly. And remember to bring along your certification card, which is required by most dive locations, in addition to a logbook, sunscreen, and any necessary international travel documentation, such as your passport and visas. Prescription drugs should be carried with you, not checked. Work with your travel consultant to check in advance that your airline will be able to take everything you want to carry with you.

You may be asking, is dive travel safe? It is important to remember that diving in new surroundings will always entail a greater degree of risk. So play by the rules, listen to your tour operator and dive master, and stay within the limits of your skill level. The basics of safe diving apply in every instance, no matter where you are. Use the buddy system, be smart about your dives and take the same reasonable precautions you would in any unfamiliar dive territory. Drinking and diving? Allow adequate detox time and be responsible. Finally, remember standard precautions about airline travel post-dive.
The costs associated with your dive trip will be your transportation to the destination, your transportation at the destination and to the dive sites, your accommodations, your food, any dive master services and any additional activities. Tipping should also be considered as an additional expense. Many tour operators cover all, or some large portion, of these items in the cost of their tour. Work with your travel consultant to determine exactly what is included and what's extra to avoid last-minute surprises.
Dive travel is almost more than a hobby, it can be a way of life. Come on in, the water's fine. Contact Jadd Fong Travel an Albuquerque travel agency to start planning your dive vacation!

Beautiful Barbados

2012-01-29T03:00:00.000-07:00

Beautiful Barbados

Barbados has a rhythm and beat all its own. The 166-square-mile island in the Lesser Antilles in the Caribbean lies west of St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and north of Trinidad and Tobago. Barbados is 21 miles long and 14 miles wide. The island is primarily flat, with its highest peak only 1,100 miles above sea level, Mount Hillaby.
Barbados became famous as the "sanatorium of the West Indies" in the 19th century. Wealthy British found the island perfect for overcoming "the vapors" in the relaxed, unhurried culture and perfect pink sand beaches. Today, it is a lively, much more active island but it has retained its staunchly British demeanor. Barbadians still love cricket, high tea and drive on the left side of the road.
Flora and Fauna
Barbados offers some beautiful tropical gardens. Welchman Hall Gully, in St Thomas, is owned by the Barbados National Trust and is an excellent start to an exploration of the island's natural beauty. Clove, nutmeg, fern tree and cocoa are plentiful and you might even see a wild monkey dangling from a tree. The garden has massive breadfruit trees which are thought to be descendants of seedlings brought onshore by the notorious Captain Bligh.

From there, head to Harrison's Cave, which is also located at Welchman Hall. Take a tram below the earth's surface to a fascinating natural phenomenon of stalagmites, stalactites, streams, pools and rushing cascades.
About a mile from the Cave, another garden that is worth the visit is, Flower Forest at Richmond Plantation. Take a leisurely stroll through this riot of color from heliconias, begonia, bougainvillea and many other native tropical flowers. This region of Barbados is often referred to as the "Scotland district" from the beautiful early morning mist that settles on the region.
The Barbados National Trust offers an early Sunday morning hike (6 a.m.). The location of the hikes varies from week to week throughout the year but local members of the Trust give excellent educational talks on history, geography, agriculture and geology. The hikes are free to participants and typically are about five miles long and take about three hours.
For those who love to golf, Barbados has several excellent courses. Sandy Lane Golf Course was the site of Tiger Wood's wedding in 2004 as well as the World Golf Championships World Cup in 2006. Try your skills at the Barbados Golf Club and the Rockley Golf Club also.
Scuba diving is another great activity to enjoy in Barbados. There are over 200 shipwrecks in the surrounding waters, making it a haven for wreck divers. The Greek freighter, SS Stavronikita, lies in 120 feet of water and is home to a number of colorful fish and coral. Carlisle Bay contains a number of historically significant wrecks such as the Fox, Berwyn, C-Trek and Eilon. Excellent for beginners, these sites provide viewing of eel, tropical fish and seahorses.

For the best windsurfing second only to Hawaii, head to the south shore of Barbados, around the area of Silver Sands for the best conditions. The season for windsurfing is November to mid-May, and surfers from all over globe flock to these beaches for superior conditions. Known as "the Soup Bowl," the Atlantic winds create a challenge for even the toughest professionals.
At night, head to St Lawrence Gap or Bay Street, in Bridgetown for a number of restaurants, bars and great views. Most nightclubs have live, local music every night. For romance, charter a sunset cruise on a catamaran and watch the world go by.
Whatever you decide to do for entertainment on this gorgeous, diverse island, you will always have memories of its charming beauty. From the lush tropical gardens, the coral beaches or the brilliant underwater life, it will be hard to slow down and just relax. Perhaps you too can rid yourself of "the vapors" like her original visitors some 200 years ago, and return home with a whole new, unhurried attitude.
What are you waiting for? Contact Jadd Fong Travel an Albuquerque travel agency and get ready to go.

Yellowstone National Park

2012-01-23T19:59:00.001-07:00

Come Visit the Birth of the Park Model at Yellowstone national Park with Globus

By: Globus
Every 90 minutes or so, hundreds of onlookers gather to admire the gush of Old Faithful, the world’s most famous geyser – a spectacle that remains as enthralling today as it was back in the summer of 1870, when Cornelius Hedges, a member of the scientific party to study the Upper Geyser Basin, first beheld it. After spending weeks on a grueling horseback trip to reach the remote Yellowstone plateau, the American adventurers were so astonished to see the 100-foot-high explosion of sparkling water that they threw up their hats and shouted for sheer joy at the sight. That very same night, Hedges apparently proposed to his fellow expedition members while sitting around a crackling campfire that this volcanic hotspot in the Rockies, which has 250 geysers and 10,000 geothermal features, should be protected from development and turned into the world’s very first “national park.”
Lobbying for the preserve in Washington, DC would be a long and complicated process, but on March 1st, 1872, Congress did pass the bill that protected Yellowstone: A staggering two million acres would be “set apart as a Pleasure Park or pleasuring-ground for the benefit and enjoyment of the people.” This was a unique concept, and one that would be copied around the world. But in 1872, the idea was still experimental, and Congress made no provision for management of the park or protection of its wildlife: The first superintendent, Nathanial Langford, had no salary, no staff, no budget and was only able to visit Yellowstone twice in his five-year tenure.
Destinations have stories. Globus and Jadd Fong Travel bring them to life.

Traveling Well to Israel

2012-01-16T20:46:00.001-07:00

By: Collette Vacations
Shalom!
Welcome to Israel...a land where Abraham forged his covenant with God...and today is a nation that has defied unbelievable odds to become an ancestral homeland for Jews and a place where democracy has flourished.
For the first time traveler to Israel, it is like a walk through history. Here three continents (Asia, Africa and Europe) and two seas convene making the country a blend of cultures, customs and traditions. Here was a crossroad to ancient routes of commerce and a home to diverse peoples reflecting the flood of conquering armies striving for eminence in this much-desired small country. Canaanites, Hebrews, Babylonians, Persians, Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Crusaders, Ottoman Turks and the British—each made their stand, briefly flourished, and were swept away leaving in their wake fortifications, castles and royal palaces. From sheikhs’ tombs with whitened domes to ancient synagogues decorated with colorful mosaics and the graceful arches of Crusader churches, Israel is an amazing feast for the senses.
Rooted in religion—though a majority of its people is quite secular—the old Walled City of Jerusalem is of great symbolic importance for Judaism, Christianity and Islam and their histories entwine on its labyrinthine streets. Walk along the Via Dolorosa or Way of Sorrows to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the site of Jesus, the Christian Messiah’s, crucifixion, burial and resurrection. Observe the solemnity of the Western Wall, the only surviving remnant of Judaism’s most sacred shrine, the Temple Mount. Gaze in awe at one of the world’s great architectural masterpieces, the Dome of the Rock, which was built over a rock said to retain Mohammed’s footprint. It is of particular veneration because of the belief that it is the place that had been visited by Mohammed, the Muslim Prophet, on his miraculous night journey which had taken him from Arabia to heaven.
Ancient and modern, secular and sacred, Israel beckons visitors with its magnificent sites, holy places and warm Mediterranean climate. And while Israel is a land of dynamic contrasts with age-old sacred shrines alongside futuristic skyscrapers and posh resorts with swaying palms alongside desert wasteland…it is its own unique Israeli blend—a fitting description for a nation that continues to confound expectations.
What time of year is best to visit Israel? Anytime of year is beautiful in Israel! Israel enjoys long, warm, dry summers (April-October) and generally mild winters (November-March) with somewhat drier, cooler weather in hilly regions, such as Jerusalem and Safed. Rainfall is relatively heavy in the north and center of the country, with much less in the northern Negev and almost negligible amounts in the southern areas.
Regional conditions vary considerably, with humid summers and mild winters on the coast; dry summers and moderately cold winters in the hill regions; hot dry summers and pleasant winters in the Jordan Valley; and year-round semi-desert conditions in the Negev.
Weather extremes range from occasional winter snowfall in the mountain regions to periodic oppressively hot dry winds that send temperatures soaring, particularly in spring and autumn.
Who are the Israelis?

Population of 7 Million
79% are Jewish
15% are Muslim
6% are Christian, Druze, Buddhist and more

Official languages:

Hebrew, Arabic
Almost everyone speaks English

Short Distances: - Israel is basically the size of New Jersey.

Tel Aviv-Jerusalem: 50 minutes
Jerusalem-Dead Sea: 45 minutes
Jerusalem-Masada: 90 minutes
Tel Aviv-Haifa: 90 minutes
Jerusalem-Tiberias: 2.5 hours
Tel Aviv-Eilat: 4 hours

Preparing for the Trip

No visas required
Just a passport with validity of 6 months
All major credit cards accepted
Accessible ATM’s
3.5 Shekels = $1

Electricity The electric current in Israel is 220 volts AC, single phase, 50 Hertz. Most Israeli sockets are of the three-pronged variety but many can accept some European two-pronged plugs as well. Electric shavers, traveling irons and other small appliances may require adapters and/or transformers, which can be purchased in Israel.

Israel: A Journey to the Holy Land

10 days
Tel Aviv • Jaffa • Caesarea • Tiberias • Sea of Galilee Nazareth • Jericho • Dead Sea • Masada • Qumran • Jerusalem • Wailing Wall • Bethlehem • Church of the Nativity • Mount of Olives • Mt. Zion

Did You Know?

Israel has 4 seas, 6 micro-climates, mountains, valleys, lush pastureland and deserts, all in a space the size of New Jersey.
Jerusalem is Israel's "Washington, D.C." and Tel Aviv is Israel's "New York City." Jerusalem, the capital, is home to three quarters of a million people. The Tel Aviv metropolitan area, Israel's center of business, culture, fashion and entertainment, is home to four million people.
Mount Hermon is 10,000 feet high, Jerusalem is 3,000 feet above Sea Level, and the Dead Sea is the lowest point on earth. Because it is 2,000 feet further from the sun's rays – even the fairest skin tans at the Dead Sea shore, but doesn't burn.
75% of Israelis are Jewish, 25% are Israeli Muslims, Christians, Druze, Baha'is and Buddhists.
Israel's official languages are Hebrew and Arabic and almost everyone speaks English.

A Taste of Israel: Filet of Sea Bass

Ingredients

4 fillets of Sea Bass (5 ounces each)
3.5 ounces of Spinach Leaves
3.5 ounces of Cooked Chickpeas
3.5 ounces of Blanched Green Ful (Fava Beans)
3.5 ounces of Baby Arugula
4 Thyme Leaves
1 Garlic Clove
1/2 cup of Olive Oil
1 grilled Eggplant
1 tablespoon of Sour Cream
Salt
Pepper
1/2 Lemon

Cooking Instructions

Cream of Eggplant: Burn the eggplant on an open flame. Cut in half and scrape out the inside. Throw away the peel. Mix the eggplant with salt, pepper, lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon olive oil to taste. Mix in a blender with 1 tablespoon of sour cream until it becomes a smooth cream.
Tomato Coulis: Slice an X into the top of the tomatoes. Boil in water for 1 minute. Remove the skin, cut into quarters, and take out the seeds. Put on a tray and sprinkle 2 tablespoons olive oil, pepper and salt to taste. Bake for 2 hours in the oven at 200 degrees.
Fish: Season fish with salt, pepper, and 2 thyme leaves. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil on a sauté pan. Place the fish on the pan and sear on both sides until brown. Take the fish off the pan and put on a baking sheet. Preheat oven to 350 degrees and cook fish for 4 minutes.
Vegetables: Fry spinach in a sauté pan with 1 teaspoon of olive oil. Season the spinach with salt and pepper. Let sit until it reaches room temperature. Sauté cooked chickpeas, fava beans, 1 garlic clove, salt, pepper, and 2 thyme leaves in a pan with 1 tablespoon olive oil on a low flame for a few minutes. Add tomato coulis and 1 tablespoon water and cook for another few minutes.

To Serve: Place the cooked chickpeas and fava beans in the center of the plate. Place the fish on top, then place the fresh arugula leaves seasoned with salt and pepper on top of the fish. Pour the cream of eggplant on the side.
Contact Jadd Fong Travel at jaddfongtravel@comcast.net or 505-999-1039 today to start planning your Israel journey.

Puerto Rico

2012-01-11T23:56:00.000-07:00

Puerto Rico is one of the largest islands in the Caribbean and while not a state, is under U.S. jurisdiction. However, if you are looking for anything mainland-ish on the island, look elsewhere. Puerto Rico is decidedly a different culture composed of many including Spanish, Latino and Caribbean. Their Spanish heritage comes through loud and clear and is especially noticeable in the restored Old San Juan District.
Being a very Catholic island, Puerto Rico is home to many monasteries, convents and shrines where the Virgin Mary is said to have made appearances before the faithful. One of the more storied convents is the San Juan Convent authorized by Spain's King Philip V. During the building's long history, it has been a nunnery, a grand hotel, and a casino. The San Juan Cathedral, dating to 1521 is the Western Hemisphere's oldest such structure. Also in San Juan, you will discover the oldest continually occupied governor's mansion, and the home of first governor Juan Ponce de Leon. A popular legend says that Governor Ponce de Leon set out to find the legendary Fountain of Youth and "discovered" Florida instead. In reality, he was in search of gold to fund the dowries of his many daughters.
Eco-tourism is alive and well in Puerto Rico. El Yunque, "The Anvil" in English, is a tropical rain forest jungle ensconced in mist and rain. Typical trees soar more than 100 feet off the forest floor. This jungle paradise is replete with the indigenous Puerto Rican Parrot and the tiny coqui (tree frog), which is a national symbol. The water from El Yunqueâ's two waterfalls is rumored to have a rejuvenating effect, but as with travel to most destinations, you are better off with the bottled stuff.
The Southwestern quadrant of the island is renowned for its fishing villages, hidden beaches and the laid back attitude of the residents. In this region, you can have some unique culinary experiences including fresh clams and oysters chased with fresh coconut water.
The capital city of Puerto Rico, San Juan, is one of the busiest ports in the Caribbean and a third of all Puerto Ricans live here. Nearly every visitor to the island arrives at San Juan, many on cruise liners. The port is the largest home-based cruise port in the world, hosting 28 vessels with more being added to the list each year.
San Juan is divided into three distinct districts: Old San Juan, the historic walled city, the beach and resort area and the outlying suburbs. Tourists are concerned mainly with Old San Juan, the site of most restaurants, shops, entertainment venues and the beaches. The old city is linked to the new by the largely residential Puerta de Tierra area, and a series of modern highways leading to the Condado beach front, which is reminiscent of Florida's Miami Beach with its high-rise hotels and apartment blocks.

San Juan

The island's second largest city, Ponce, may have been named for Ponce de Leon, but history cannot confirm. Locals refer to the city as La Perla del Su - the Pearl of the South. Ponce bears a strong resemblance to provincial Spain in the daytime when locals gather in the cool shade of the Plaza Central.
While there is no shortage of fine resorts and hotels across Puerto Rico, the island is also home to many country inns known as paradores. These government-promoted inns, patterned after those in Spain, are ideal for inexpensive family vacations and usually come with a rustic, authentic setting.

Because of the U.S. ties, you can expect faster and more professional service in Puerto Rico than in other Caribbean nations. On the culinary scale, Puerto Rico has something for everyone-local, Spanish, Chinese, Creole, Japanese, seafood, nouvelle, or just plain American are all available to whet every appetite.
In terms of nightlife, there are two different times - day and night. And they are as different as, well, day and night. During the days, the bars and clubs of San Juan are flooded with cruisers who are either starting, ending, or stopping in this popular port of call. At night, the crowd is a bit more local and a lot more authentic with many clubs staying open until the wee hours. The drinking age in Puerto Rico is 18, yet strangely enough, in the airport it is 21! Although heavily Catholic, Puerto Rico is one of the more gay-friendly islands in the Caribbean basin.
Contact Jadd Fong Travel and start planning your vacation.

Explore the beauty of Alaska

2011-12-21T23:58:00.000-07:00

To many travelers Alaska remains a land of mystery, and that is a shame. Sure, many parts are rugged, barely accessible and nothing seems to be near anything else. Seeing Alaska by car or train will require a significant amount of time; however, the cruise lines have an answer for you. From majestic Mt. McKinley to the jagged edge of Glacier Bay, Alaska is unlike any place else in the world. One of the best (if not the best) to explore all Alaska's offerings than with a cruise coupled with a cruise-tour.

Ketchikan is an ancient city that is both fascinating and enjoyable. Even though there are some American restaurants and stores, (and it is part of the States, of course), it is certainly not your typical American town. If Anchorage is at one end of the Alaskan spectrum, you will definitely find Ketchikan at the other end. This small city contains more totem poles than anywhere in the world, and is set at the base of Deer Mountain.
Sitka is a small yet lively town in Southeast Alaska that is full of surprises. Just when you think that you have seen all there is to see in this remote city, you stumble upon something that will instantly catch your attention. This is the case for the best restaurants and a few of the premier shopping outlets. They simply spring up out of nowhere, making for an interesting and exciting stay. There are a couple of great museums, and the scuba diving and sea kayaking in Sitka is marvelous. The calm, protected waters make these two sports very popular among both tourists and locals.

Skagway is a Southeast Alaskan paradise, full of culture and brimming with life. Parts of the city seem stuck in 1897, never progressing beyond the height of the Alaskan gold rush era. This is speaking in architectural terms though, as some of the restaurants and shopping facilities offer distinctly 21st century fare. This unique blend of old and new really enhances the atmosphere of Skagway. There is so much to see and so much fascinating history to soak up. The saloons and bars, some of which date back to 1898, are splendid, full of artifacts and local heritage.
A visit to Alaska would not be complete (at least it should not be considered complete) without a visit to witness the magnificence (probably not a better word to describe them) of a glacier. One of the best glacier viewing vantage points is College Fjord — which deserves a bit of an introduction. In the summer of 1899, railroad magnate Edward H. Harriman, president of the Union Pacific Railroad and the Washington Academy of Sciences undertook a two-month expedition, intended initially as a family vacation; but eventually wound up as a scientific research trip consisting of an illustrious group of scientists, naturalists, writers, and artists. It was the Harriman Expedition party who named College Fjord as well as the glaciers that line it. The dozen or so glaciers lining this fjord were named for the Ivy League schools that members of the party attended. On the northwest side of the fjord, the glaciers were named after the women's colleges, such as Smith, Bryn Mawr, Vassar, Wellesley, Barnard, and Holyoke. On the southeast side, the glaciers are named after men's colleges Harvard, Yale, Amherst, and Dartmouth.

While the coastal towns are spectacular, it is recommended that travelers to Alaska take some time (preferably a few days) to explore the interior of the state. From the moment you step off the Alaska Railroad at the entrance to Denali National Park and Preserve, you'll feel as if you've been transported back in time, where skyscrapers and traffic jams have been replaced by snowcapped mountain peaks and flocks of native birds. This park truly defines the Alaskan experience. Towering above it all is t Mt. McKinley, the highest point in all of North America. At 20,320 feet, its summit welcomes more than 1,000 climbers each year who brave the elements for the chance to scale its majestic face. Located 240 miles north of Anchorage, Denali encompasses 6 million acres of forests, tundra, glaciers and mountains (to put that number in perspective, think the size of Massachusetts). Yet only 90 miles of main road traverse the park, leaving the moose, caribou, sheep and bears free to roam a wide area of land untouched by man.
What are you waiting for? Contact Jadd Fong Travel at 505-999-1039 or jaddfongtravel@comcast.net and get ready to go.

Tours of famous wine regions

2011-12-19T08:00:00.000-07:00

A tour of any of the great wine country regions of the world is an opportunity to explore culture, history, cuisine and wine in a single trip. Without exception, the scenery is beautiful, the people passionate, and the wine — nothing short of phenomenal.

What is a wine tour? It's a tour through a region that has developed a substantial vineyard and winery presence. Usually, a wine tour consists of visiting the wineries and tasting rooms to sample their current wines, often paired with food. Sometimes, a tour of the winery itself is included, and visitors can see where the wine is grown, processed, barreled, aged and eventually bottled.
Most people would first think of areas like the Napa Valley region of California or the Burgundy region of France as ideal locations for wine tours, and that's with good reason, as those are outstanding locations. However, there are vineyards the world-over. For the majority of United States travelers, wine regions are within a few hours driving distance of their homes or an easy weekend fly-drive retreat, provding plenty of options. If you are looking for a truly great epicurean vacation, you'll pleasantly discover that the experience ends up being about much more than the wine.
A number of tour operators specialize in regional wine country tours. Your travel consultant JADD Fong Travel has access to excellently priced tours of wine regions throughout the world, offering a variety of accommodations from luxurious villas to budget hotels. In many wine regions, wineries have formed "wine trails" to make it easy for visitors to find the participating wineries and to sample the wines. Often, tour operators can provide discounted passes to each of the tasting rooms at the different wineries. Along with a good travel consultant, you are sure to create experiences that would be hard to find on your own. On the best tours, you'll discover small, unknown producers, meet top winemakers and in some cases, even receive an invitation into a home of a vigneron. Top tour operators can give you the opportunity to enjoy meals and tastings as guests of the estates - just one example of the kind of event often not available if you travel on your own, even if you visit the same cellars. However, many tour operators can even arrange independent, self-drive opportunities with the same privileges as their group tours.

Top Regions to Tour

If you want to tour some of the finest wineries and taste some of the world's finest wines, certain regions are considered the regions to tour. They consistently produce excellent wines year after year, and some have been doing so for literally thousands of years.

Tuscan, Italy - Italy's most famous wine region has over 157,000 acres of vineyards throughout its picturesque countryside. The Italians have been making wine for thousands of years, and Italy boasts the largest output of wine in the world. Its climate and soil are ideal for growing grapes, and nowhere is the setting more ideal than Tuscany. The region is most famous for producing Chianti, a wine that pairs naturally with most Italian foods.
Bordeaux, Burgundy and Rhone, France - France has many wine growing regions, and each is worth a visit. The Burgundy region is especially popular because it is legendary for producing both excellent red and white wines. The rich history of wine making dates back to when the Romans first invaded the area. Visitors can tour old and new wineries that produce several well-known wines like Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Beaujolais.

Australia - In the past few decades, Australia has emerged as one of the fastest growing wine regions in the world. Although many wineries have been around for over a hundred years, the public has only recently taken a serious interest in this region. More than 70 wineries in the New South Wales region are located just a few hours drive from Sydney. Wineries here are best known for producing excellent Shiraz and Sauvignon Blanc.
USA - In the United States, the most popular region is certainly California's Napa Valley, which is also one of the world's newer wine regions. Its wine making history dates back less than 200 years, but those years have seen the birth of more than 260 wineries famous for producing Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, and Sauvignon Blanc. Not to be outdone, however, Oregon, Washington State and New York all boast thriving wine industries and vineyards. Smaller regions include the Texas Hill Country, as well as areas in Connecticut, Michigan and Pennsylvania.
Germany - German wines have historically been mostly white, made from Riesling grapes more suited to the northern climate. German wines are produced around the Rhine and its tributaries, and the vineyards are sheltered by mountains so steep that while they catch the most sunlight, they are difficult to harvest mechanically. Germany's 13 regions include Ahr, Baden, Franken, Hessische Bergstrasse, Mittelrhein, Mosel-Saar-Ruwer, Nahe, Pfalz, Rheingau, Rheinhessen, Saale-Unstrut, Sächsische Weinstrasse and Württemberg.
South Africa - Cape Town is the trailhead of the South African vineyards. The local wine industry has become a global force, producing approximately 3% of the world's wine production, ranking as 9th largest producer in the world. New wineries are opening at a fast clip. Pinot Noir and Reisling varietals are predominant.
But this list is far from comprehensive. Chile, Spain, Portugal and dozens of other countries have robust wine economies where local vineyards have adapted varietals to changing climates and soil conditions.

Considerations

Tell your travel consultant if you would prefer to travel independently or with a fully-guided tour group. In an independent setting, your agent will create an itinerary of wineries to tour, as well as any special events to attend, transportation, and lodging. You will then be on your own to follow the itinerary, which offers a great deal of flexibility.
A fully-guided tour provides you and other travelers with a knowledge-packed tour of the wine region. You will not have to worry about transportation, and the itinerary will include fixed times to visit wineries and other attractions as well as some free time to enjoy the wineries on your own. A fully-guided tour is an excellent choice for those who are going to regions so large that the options can be overwhelming, or for those who would rather leave transportation and other logistics to someone else. In addition, most tour companies provide a multilingual tour guide able to speak both English and the language of the region.
Remember, too, that you can travel a little more creatively. Hike or bike your way through wine country, and have an experience you could never get from a car or bus!
Prepare for your journey by reading about the region and its wines. Your travel consultant will obtain any materials from your tour operator to assist your studies, including maps, itineraries or brochures. If you're going to a region where you don't speak the language, learn a few choice phrases in the language before you go as a courtesy to your hosts.
If you are planning to purchase a lot of wine while you are on your trip and want to ship it back home, research your home's laws concerning importing alcohol from outside the country. Your wine could sit in customs for days or weeks before delivery, and in the heat of summer, wines could go bad while they are waiting to be delivered.
Many of the great wine regions offer seasonal festivals when it is time to bring out the new wines. Bigger wineries will hold their own festivals, while smaller wineries will often team with others in the region and have a festival where guests can taste the new offerings from all of the wineries in the same location. Travelers who time their wine tours right have a chance to experience a true cultural celebration. Many wine regions also offer activities such as spas, cooking classes, museums, arts and crafts festivals, music festivals and other events - just ask your agent what's available.
Most wine regions also offer restaurants that showcase both local cuisine and wineries. Also note the growing trend for restaurants that allow you to bring a bottle of your own - visit wineries during the day and choose a favorite bottle or two to enjoy with your meal in the evening.
It's impossible to come away from a wine tour without also getting a lesson in local culture. Most winery owners are not only passionate about their wine; they are also passionate about the land and region that supports their lifestyle. It is not unusual to hear about an immigrant family that bought a piece of property years ago and was told by their neighbors that they could never operate a successful winery on the land - and who eventually proved them wrong.
Those who choose a wine tour come away with much more than just a few new bottles of wine. They leave having experienced a deeper cultural appreciation of wine and those who make it.
What are you waiting for? Contact Jadd Fong Travel at 505-999-1039 or email jaddfongtravel@comcast.net and get started on your wine tour.

Beauty and sand of St. Marteen

2011-12-04T23:09:00.001-07:00

The story is that a gin-drinking Dutchman and a wine-guzzling Frenchman competed in a rather laid back manner by walking about the island to claim territory for their respective nations. The Frenchman walked faster and farther, but the Dutchman was more discriminating and claimed the more valuable real estate. St. Maarten/St. Martin is quite small — 37 sq. miles but enjoys a reputation for excellent hotels and nightlife.

The divided island holds the record as the smallest territory in the world shared by two nations. A sign reading Bienvenue Partie Française is the only way you will know you have crossed an international border. I was aware that I was crossing a border because of a very informative tour guide. Our tour began on the French side and I was amazed how two sovereign nations could share such a small island without disputing over territory. It appeared that there is a very good understanding between the nations as development is very apparent in touring the island.

The French side of the island is quieter and more sedate than its Dutch counterpart. The hotels are more secluded and you won't be overtaken with the cruise-ship crowds. The towns bear names like Colombier and Orléans, the streets are not streets but rues, and the flag of France flies in Marigot.

Marigot is the capital city of the French side of St. Marteen and was originally a fishing village. The fort on a hill near Marigot Bay is still one of the big attractions in the town. Another big attraction is the Marigot open market where a colorful array of home grown produce can be purchased. The architectural heritage of Marigot is a mix of French and Caribbean influences. The two-storied buildings of Marigot are largely built of wood and stone and painted in vibrant colors, with their characteristic sheet-metal roofs. Fabulousdoors, window moldings and verandas accent the flavor of the island's buildings.

Grand Case is another small Creole village outside of Margot at the northern tip of St Martin. Lined with boutiques and restaurants. The storybook village is full of small wooden gingerbread houses painted in pastel colors.

Phillipsburg is the capital city of the Dutch portion of St. Marteem and has the larger population than the French side. The Dutch portion is a member of the Netherlands Antilles. Philipsburg combines its historical legacy with 20th century excitement. Its waterfront has become a popular stop for cruise ships as tourism is an integral part of its economy. The town has many restaurants, cafes and night clubs and offer entertainment well into the night. The town offers accommodations to suit every need, from modern resorts to intimate guest houses.

Music is everywhere in St Martin. On every street corner, in the taverns and bars, you will hear a variety of musical forms and sounds that again mixes the traditional Caribbean with the modern. St Martin also has some of the best dining opportunities in the Caribbean, with many good bistros and restaurants

35 beaches encircle the island, each different in its own way. Activities for travelers include scuba diving, wake-boarding, windsurfing, sunbathing, and, of course, relaxing.

Ready to explore St. Marteen? Contact Jadd Fong Travel at 505-999-1039 or email jaddfongtravel@comcast.net

Palm Springs California

2011-12-04T22:58:00.001-07:00

The main drag through Palm Springs is North Palm Canyon Drive. Shopping the antique and specialty shops along this route is a popular pastime. Every Thursday the road is closed to vehicles, and local merchants fill the streets with goods and fresh produce, such as the plump dates that grow especially well in the valley. Sunbathing on one of the 355 days of annual sunshine is another popular pastime, and at night, the streets come to life with dance clubs, stage shows, and concerts. Palm Springs is located in south central California along I-10, about two hours from Los Angeles or San Diego.

Six must-do tasks for any visitor to Palm Springs.

Take the Tram. A "must see" while visiting Palm Springs, you'll be taken on a genuine Swiss tram car to the top of Mount San Jacinto - 8,516 feet above the valley. There you are transported to the threshold of the 13,000 acre Mt. San Jacinto Wilderness State Park, with 54 miles of biking trails, cross country skiing, and magnificent views of Coachella Valley below.
Visit Villagefest. Every Thursday evening from 6-10 PM glamorous downtown Palm Springs is transformed into a vibrant old fashion street fair, complete with musicians, local arts and crafts, food, and a farmer's market. Villagefest is located between Baristo and Amado Roads on Palm Canyon Drive.
See The City. Learn of the rich history of the area, view the city's distinctive architecture and see how the rich and famous live, including 30-40 homes of famous Hollywood stars. Palm Springs also has miles of well marked and maintained biking trails. For the more adventurous there is also horseback riding and ballooning, a spectacular way to see the valley.

See The Natural Splendor. Some of Southern California's most breathtaking scenery can be found in the Palm Springs area. Joshua Tree National Park offers 870 square miles of splendid wonder, including hiking, rock climbing, picnicking and more. The Indian Canyons are 3 magnificent canyons 5 miles south of the town center on South Palm Canyon Road with amazing plant life and lush vegetation among rock formations and waterfalls. The Living Desert is an incredible 1,200 acre reserve combining the delights of a zoo, botanical garden, and scenic wilderness in one facility. And the Moorten Botanical Gardens feature over 3000 varieties of cacti and desert plants from all over the world.
See The Arts. Palm Springs has always been associated with the arts. Here are a few of the area's top venues. The world famous Palm Springs Desert Museum offers an excellent permanent collection of Western and Native American art, as well as fine traveling collections. The McCallum Theater features top rated entertainment in all areas of the performing arts. The Annenberg Theater is a wonderfully intimate theater presenting top rated theater, dance, and musical entertainment. And among the top art galleries in the area are: B. Lewin Galleries, Coda Galleries, Heusso Gallery, and The Art Place.
Enjoy World Class Golf And Tennis. Whether you golf for fun or serious sport, Palm Springs has a course for you. The area boasts over 90 different golf courses, many designed by international legends such as Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer. Some of the best courses open to the public include: Mesquite Country Club, Tahquitz Creek Golf Resort, Westin Mission Hills, Palm Desert Country Club, and The Woodhaven Country Club. Excellent tennis is also available at many of the golf and tennis resorts located throughout the valley, and free court time can be found at Demuth Park, Palm Springs High School and Ruth Hardy Park in Palm Springs.

Contact Jadd Fong Travel and experience Palm Springs for yourself.

Cheers to Wine Tours: A Top 4 List

2011-11-30T12:36:00.001-07:00

Do you have a glass of red wine with dinner because you heard it promotes good health? Or maybe you just like the taste of a smooth merlot?

Whatever the reason, travelers today continue to search out tours that include a wine component in the itinerary. There are many places to learn about wine making and its subtle tasting nuances. Italy comes to mind – which is why all of our Italy tours include wine with every meal and a winery visit is included on most Italy programs. Wine tours are on the rise – and in more places than just Italy. Some of Collette’s food and wine tours include:

Spectacular South Africa — Discover the Cape Winelands region with its mountainous landscape and endless vineyards.
The Wonders of South America — Argentina is the land of sol y vino – sun and wine – and Mendoza, set at the base of the Andes Mountains is breathtaking.
Exploring New Zealand — Marlborough region considered one of the world’s best wine regions.

Reflections of Italy — the tour stops at a historic winery in the heart of the Chianti region complete with its very own 12th century castle.

Please call 505-999-1039 or visit http://www.jaddfongtraveldeals.com/ to get more information on how you can experience any of these wonderful destinations.

Sheraton Puerto Rico Hotel and Casino

2011-07-31T22:56:00.000-06:00

I stayed at the Sheraton Puerto Rico Hotel and Casino during a four day stop in Puerto Rico as part of my eight island swing through the Caribbean. During my visit I obtained information on Caribbean cruises and vacation packages in the region. I enjoyed every minute of my stay in Puerto Rico, and in particular my lodging at the Sheraton Hotel. I considered it one of the better hotels to vacation when visiting the island as it is very comfortable, perfectly located and provide exquisite services.

The hotel is also known as the Sheraton Convention Center Hotel and is part of the Starwood family of hotels. The hotel is located on 200 Convention Boulevard in San Juan, the capital. It is approximately 10 minutes from the main airport, Luis Munoz Marin International airport. The hotel provides easy access to a lot of local activities including cruise ship ports and old San Juan historic district. In fact if you reserve an ocean view room, you can see the cruise ships when they are in port. The hotel is much closer to the Pan American cruise ship terminal where the Princess, Royal Caribbean and Celebrity docks. If you are cruising at the Old San Juan cruise ship port, it is a short distance of approximately 10 minutes across the river.

The stylish 503 room hotel was built in 2007 and contains 22 fabulous suites. There are 4 conference rooms occupying 35,000 square feet of flexible event space equipped with the latest technology, including high-speed Internet access. It is also opposite to the fabulous state of the art San Juan convention center and next to the San Juan Marina. As a result, it is an ideal location for meetings and of course conventions.

The hotel has three restaurants, the awardd winner choice restaurant on the first floor and pool bar and grill on the fourth floor. The latter restaurant is part of a 57,000 square foot sun deck containing an infinity pool. The pool area is outstanding as the pool area is littered with umbrellas and chairs for sun bathing. There are kiddies pools and 3 adult pools. The amazing thing about the pools are the design. You can lean over the ledge and enjoy the beautiful view form the fourth floor. The main eating area is the nightly buffet at the Asian Grill and buffet. The eating house is so popular that advance reservations is required to get a seat. I am unable to provide a review of the food as I was unsuccessful on two occasions as they were booked two days out.

I think the biggest asset of the hotel is its staff. I felt very much at home as the staff went out of their way to make my stay an enjoyable experience. They were also knowable about the island and were able to provide valuable information about the islands attractions which made getting around very easy.

My room was very comfortable and spacious although it was a standard room with two double beds. It contained a flat screen TV, a tub for showering and free coffee and water daily. There was also free complimentary Internet service and a 24 hour in room dining service. Other hotel amenities included an Internet cafe and a well equipped gym.

I wish to strongly recommend this hotel to the potential visitor to Puerto Rico. I was impressed with the service provided and would give them thumbs up for excellent service and caring for the guests.

Antigua’s Airport Security over kill

2011-06-29T03:00:00.071-06:00

I am aware that maximum security is required for air travel because of the treacherous time that we live in but, the Caribbean island of Antigua took their security screening to a new level. My experience on the island during a stop-over flight from Dominica to Puerto Rico was astounding and to me frustrating. This stop was part of my eight (8) island swing through the Caribbean region gathering new information on Caribbean cruises and vacationing in the region.

My travel reservations were made with the regional airline Leeward Island Air Transport (L.I.A.T.) instead of the “American Eagle” which has direct flights from Puerto Rico to Dominica. On disembarking the aircraft we were taken through immigration where our documents were checked with boarding pass for accuracy. We then went to security for the electronic scanning of our hand luggage and complete body scan. I noted that individuals on the same flight who were traveling international were ushered to a different departure lounge from us who were domestic travelers. In the departure lounge we mingled with other passengers who were also traveling through the Caribbean.

The airline lived up to its reputation of being late as our flight was delayed due to maintenance problems. Frankly, I was not unhappy with the delay as technical problems do crop up unexpectedly. I was pleased when our flight was announced from what was a terrible intercom system, which was not audible if you were some distance from the gate.

I was surprised to see all passengers in line at our departure gate were being screened a second time before their arrival at the airline counter. This security check involved a physical pat down and a physical search of all hand luggage. Keep in mind that we had gone through an electronic scanner before entering the departure lounge. I thought we were in a secured area and the only contact we had with non travelers were the vendors who I assumed were approved by the Antigua authorities for operating their shops. If the shop vendors are smuggling items via passengers then Antigua has a serious credibility problem.

After leaving the manual pat down our passport and boarding passes were check at the gate by the airline personnel and they retained a portion of the boarding pass for their records. Our walk on the tarmac was uneventful until we arrived at the steps of the aircraft where a large number of bags were sprawled underneath the aircraft wings. We were asked to identify our luggage for placing same on the aircraft before we were permitted to enter the plane. On completion, I prepared to board the aircraft but was stopped at the base of the stairs and asked for my boarding pass and passport by another security person. With a sigh of relief, I climbed the aircraft stairs only to be confronted in the aircraft door way by the flight attendant asking for my boarding pass once again.

I understood that that the Airport terminal was recently up graded, but I consider the so called improvements a disaster. I do not see the necessity of six (6) different screening of domestic passengers. I am aware that the airline will be charged penalties for transporting illegal individuals and merchandise to the U.S. but, a better system needs implementation to avoid so many checking of documents. The action by the Antigua authorities is annoying and will be a big deterrent to visitors wishing to travel to Antigua especially when tourism is an integral component of the islands economy. I wish to recommend a thorough review of the current system by the tourism authority to make domestic travel via Antigua airport more pleasant to the traveler.

Please contact Jadd Fong Travel an Albuquerque travel agency for all your Caribbean cruises and Caribbean cruise deals.

Dominica stop in Caribbean visit

2011-06-27T21:52:00.008-06:00

I am presently on L.I.A.T. (Leeward Island Air Transport), the Caribbean airline, flying from Dominica to Antigua. A couple days earlier I was on the island of Dominica experiencing what I considered the "true Dominican" experience because I indulged in activities at the community level. My stay in Dominica was part of an eight (8) island swing through the Caribbean region. The purpose of this visit was to explore and strengthen new information on Caribbean cruises and vacationing in the region.

I have written past articles about Dominica, the nature island of the Caribbean, but this visit was different. I visited an agricultural farm in Riviere Cyrique, in the North Eastern part of the island. While there I participated in some farm activities and was rewarded in the evening by drinking some fresh jelly coconuts. The best part was I prepared the nuts with a cutlass for drinking. I also sucked on some succulent sugar cane which was some of the sweetest sugar cane I ever tasted. On my return journey to Roseau, the capital the city, I had some fried chicken at a popular pit stop and washed it down with a Caribbean brewed drink called malt.

Sometime was spent in Roseau where the heat was unbearable. Moving across town on foot was a task as I was sweating profusely. Because of the humidity and heat it was necessary to drink a lot of water during my city exploration. Everything is within walking distance in the city and it is not recommended to use a car to move from one location to another as there are very few packing spaces in the city. It is also very difficult to maneuver a vehicle around the narrow streets of the city.

The most relaxing part of my trip to Dominica was a visit to Screw's Sulphur Spa, a popular tourist destination in Wotton Waven. It is about a 30 minute drive from the city of Roseau and is nestled in the rain forest of the Morne Trois Piton National Park. The area is famous for having hot water sulphur springs in the back yard of homes. Screw’s has harnessed the hot water into five (5) man-made pools. Each pool is different in temperature ranging from cold to extreme hot water.

I was impressed with the work done to maintain the natural green look of the forest. A lot of effort was taken to make the rain forest appear undisturbed giving the feeling that you are part of the forest. The area is tranquil with the silence occasionally interrupted by the beautiful melodious sounds of birds flying overhead. To add to the warm atmosphere, there is the constant sound of reggae music in the back ground. The evening can be just as romantic with beautiful colored lights making you feel like there is no tomorrow. A soak in the pools can be soothing and takes the tension and worries away. The place opens weekly from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm with the exception of Tuesdays for a modest fee of $10 US per person.

I would strongly recommend Screw's to all including my friends and clients because a soak in the hot sulphur pools is an unbelievable experience.

The visit was part of the continued education of agents of Jadd Fong Travel, an Albuquerque travel agency. Please contact us for all your future vacations as we specialize in Caribbean cruises and vacation tarvel.

Bahamas Sun, Sea and Sand

2011-06-10T16:14:00.001-06:00

Bahamas.

The Bahamas, an English-speaking countryconsists of 29 islands, 650 cays, and close to 2,500 islets and is located in the Atlantic, north of Cuba and Hispaniola. It stretches East of Miami as far South as the Turks and Caicos Islands. Infact it is claimed that the Bahamas are not part of the Caribbean because of their location in the Atlantic ocean. A small number of the iuslands are habited and the majority is very small or mere rocks in the ocean. When you add up the land area, it is slightly larger than Connecticut and Rhode Island.

The Bahamas is one of the most prosperous nations in the Caribbean basin and relies on tourism to generate most of the economy. Tourism accounts for 60% of their gross domestic product and provides jobs for more than 50% of the country's workforce. To see the impact of tourism at work, one only needs to look at the number of cruise ships which dock in the capital city of Nassau.
An example of Tourism in the Bahamas is the number of cruise ships that land in the capital of Nassau where tourists visit the straw market to buy different items or have their hair braided. After tourism, the most important economic sector is financial services, accounting for around 15 percent of GDP.
There are four main areas of the Bahamas, New Providence, Grand Bahama, Abaco, and the Out Islands. The rest are, relatively speaking, uninhabited.

New Providence

This is the island most visitors erroneously call Nassau. Nassau is the capital city of the Bahamas and is by far the largest of the island. Nassau was named in 1695 for the Dutch Prince of Orange-Nassau after he took over the British throne. New Providence is home to 2/3 of the population and is not the largest island. The allure of Nassau, and its fame Straw Market, have fueled incredible development on the island. Some of the most popular resorts are Atlantis, Cable Beach, & Paradise Island. Atlantis is one of the biggest draws to Nassau. The hotel is famous for hosting the famous pop star Michael Jackson and the room is still a big attraction. Also, Atlantis is famous for it water park activities and its walk through aquarium.

Grand Bahama

I was in Grand Bahamas for a three day visit which was memorable because of numerous incidents that involved my family on the island. We visited several beauty spots and spent a lot of time on the beaches. During one of our beach time, we were frolicking in the clear cyrstal sea water, my son left foot was bitten by what I later learnt was a barracda fish. It was very severe and required the family spending several hours at the Emergency hospital room in the Bahamas. He got four stitches from the cut and he was unable to take any sporting activities on his return to the US. For a much lower key experience, head to Grand Bahama Island. GBI offers many activities for the environmentalist in us all. They include eco-adventures such as kayaking, hiking and jeep tours through remote areas for a close-up look at mangroves, birds and marine life. Or you could snorkel on a spectacular reef, ride horseback along trails and beaches or enjoy the sheer beauty of nature in wild and cultivated settings. But GBI is not without some cosmopolitan flair. Freeport boasts the Port Lucaya Marketplace and the International Bazaar for shopping and dining as well as some great resorts.

Abaco

The Abaco islands are really a crescent shaped mini-archipelago comprising 130 square miles of land, 82 cays and 208 rocks. They are The Bahamas' crown jewel, according fans and residents alike. The Abaco islands are distinctly distant from modern feel of New Providence or Grand Bahama. These serene islands are renowned for clear turquoise waters, coral reefs and silky beaches. The Bone fishing in the flats is also a winner. Rare Bahama Parrots can be found in Abaco National Park; and if you are lucky, you might catch a peek at some descendents of horses that travelled with Columbus when he landed here in 1492.

The Out Islands

About two dozen of the Bahamian islands are inhabited, and each has its own, distinct personality. Even the terrain and weather varies, as the islands are scattered over 100,000 sq miles of ocean &emdash; an area about the size of Great Britain. With so many islands, cays, and around 2,000 islets, the country could take months of exploration.
All in all, the islands are low lying, with sandy beaches, coral reefs (cays), and a laid back culture that is a mix of American (Grand Bahama Island) and British (New Providence). This difference also flows over into the architecture where you are apt to spot simple wooden homes in bright pastels, luxury Florida-esqe villas all next to the latest Arnold Palmer golf course.
New Providence has the most attractions, including the Christ Church Cathedral, galleries, museums, gardens and forts. Fort Charlotte is the largest and most impressive with its 42 cannons, moat and dungeons. Of course, the Atlantis Hotel on Paradise Island is a destination in and of itself. However, some of the most memorable sights are the natural ones: the Bahamas has the world's third largest barrier reef, one of the largest systems of underwater caves and clearest waters with visibility of more than two hundred feet. There are whales and dolphins to spot, world class dive sites and 109 species of birds breeding. And don't forget the marine reserves, like Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park, which are accessible by boat.
The Bahamas will have an appeal to everyone from the eco-traveler, to the adventurist, to the shopper, to the one looking for glitz and glamour, to the sportsman, and to the one that just wants to sit on a beach with an umbrella in their drink. And you wonder why the Bahamian Ministry of Tourism's tag line is "It's better in the Bahamas"?
What are you waiting for? Contact Jadd Fong Travel and get started in planning your trip.

Ghostly tornado of bats – USA Must See

2011-06-06T21:12:00.007-06:00

Bats exit area

I was informed that the highlight of visiting the Carlsbad's Cavern should be the evening bat flight from the caves. The picture painted of the event was almost beyond comprehension. Can you Imagine about 4 thousands bats exiting from a whole in the mountain forming a dark cloud in the gloomy twilight. I learnt that the number of bats at at one time was as large as 400, 000 thousand. No it is not a movie from Hollywood but an event right in the Carlsbad Caverns in the Carlsbad National Forest.

An out-door amphitheatre was built outside the caves, so persons can view the bats exit in a comfortable seat. I was anxious and excited about the viewing, so I made an early entrance to the venue. I was also interested in getting to a good vantage point where I could maximize my view of the spectacle. Just visualize me perched at the end of my seat, twitting my fingers awaiting the start of the evening show.
As an introduction before the main course, the forest ranger present provided a short history of a bats life. Everyone was asked to turn off all electronic equipment including cameras and video recorders as the radio waves do affect the small critters. According to the rangers, the bats fly Southeast on exiting the caves towards Mexico in early Spring through October and stays in Mexico for the winter. During their flight they feast on small insects and each bat would eat about half of its body weight nightly. This exercise is of tremendous benefit to farmers, as the bats reduce the number of insects affecting agricultural produce.

Bats are very sensitive to the environment around them as their numbers are being seriously dwindled over the years. The biggest danger to bats are humans. The US bat population is also being seriously affected by a new deadly disease called White Nose-syndrome. The name originates from a white fungus which grows around the nose and wings of bats. The fungus awakens the bat during hibernation causing them to wander outside in the cold and where they die. So far, it appears that the bats at Carlsbad Caverns have not been affected by the disease.

My expectations were dashed at about 8:00 pm when the forest ranger announced that there would not be a mass exodus of bats that evening. Only a small insignificant number of bats had left the cave that evening. We were informed that the number of bats that fly in and out of the caves varies depending on the time of year, weather or season. The dry spell in the area meant fewer insects for the bats to feast on. The lack of food and the time of the year could be some of the numerous reason for the poor showing of the bats. It appears the best bats showing in term of numbers happens during the fall season. You can contact Jadd Fong Travel, An Albuquerque Travel Agency for reservations to the Carlsbad Caverns.

Carlsbad Caverns Underground Beauty and Enchantment - USA Must See

2011-06-01T16:40:00.010-06:00

I had a unique experience when my family and I visited one of New Mexico’s major tourist attractions - the Carlsbad Cavern in Carlsbad National Park during the Memorial day weekend.

Carlsbad cavern is located in the Southeastern section of NM and is approximately 23 miles from the town of Carlsbad. Although the caverns are an unbelievable sight and worth the trip. Getting there from Albuquerque is a very boring and unsightly 4 hour drive. The communities are very far apart and in between them is nothing but large expanse of bare land covered in shrubs and dotted with the occasional tree. The most interesting sight was a few cows grazing in pastures along the way.

The caves were originally called the “Bat Caves” because of the numerous bats residing there. It is reported that miners visited the caves to extract bat guano which was shipped to California for use as fertilizer in orchards. The early explorers never ventured deep into the cave and were only interested in the excretion from the bats. A young local by the name of James Lackin White was intrigued by the cave and he ventured beyond the bats to explore the caves. His interest and exploration resulted in the caves becoming a national monument in 1923 and a national park 7 years later.

I entered the caves the easy way via an elevator instead of the grueling track down hill. The decent was quick as we travelled about 750 ft below ground. On exiting the elevator you enter a large chamber called the visitors center containing souvenir shops and a small restaurant.
I was struck by the cold temperature within the caves. It was amazing to leave the hot temperature of 90 F above and experience the 56 F within the caves. I was dressed for summer in my shorts and a light t-shirt. There are several tours available to explore the caves. They were sold out so I had no choice doing a self guided tour. Being in the caves some 750 ft below ground felt like another world. It was strange to listen to the quietness apart from the human chatter. There were no sounds of birds or crickets only the occasional sound of footsteps interrupting the silence.

Our self guided tour covered a mile walking for about an hour and a half at a moderate pace in the big room. I would recommend the purchase of a light and the electronic audio recorder to learn of the caves history. It was a circular walk during which we came across several beautiful stalagmites and stalactites. The most notable ones were the twin domes , the totem poles and the giant domes. The big room is approximately 8.2 acres and contain a bottom less pit which I did not mind exploring to see how deep it was. The big room is so vast that it is estimated that 13 football fields would fit comfortable in it. I must commend the park authorities for the work done in the caves and making it accessible to persons with wheel chairs. It is advisable that a person on wheel chair should be accompanied by a companion to assist them along the trail.

There are other tours including the Kings Palace guided tours that takes about 11/2 hours. The tour is conducted by forest rangers and goes into the deepest portions of the caves. I should also mention the other self guided tour which goes through the natural entrance. It should be noted that this tour is for persons in good physical condition as you are required to travel through steep and narrow trails with a decent to 750 ft below ground.

After 2 hours below ground in very mild temperatures, I was ready to see the sunlight above ground. After waiting approximately one hour, I was finally able to get the elevator to higher ground. Please contact Jadd Fong Travel, an Albuquerque travel agency if you wish to make reservations to the Carlsbad Caverns. Return for new blogs on "US Must See Places."

Venetian Resort and Casino in Las Vegas

2011-05-23T19:57:00.057-06:00

Venetian Resort

You can experience the excitement of Venice, Italy while visiting Las Vegas Nevada because the all suite Venetian Resort and Casino provides an exquisite and unbelievable atmosphere of all the charm and romance of Venice. The hotel is ideally located and easily found on the Las Vegas strip.

Venetian Lobby

You will fall in love with the 5 star Venice themed Venetian Hotel Resort and Casino as the decoy, color and splendor is unbelievable . The connecting corridor from the lobby to the casino is a fantastic walkway littered with gold platted pillars and the ceiling is decorated with magnificent art and chandeliers fit for a palace.

Typical Suite

The hotel has 4027 rooms with a variety of quality suites. The basic suite has a flat screen TV in the bathroom, living room and sleeping area. These suites are not your typical hotel room as it is very spacious, approximately 700 square feet which is roughly twice the size of an average Las Vegas room. The layout is great and designed for persons with many discriminating taste. The bathroom has marble counters, a tub, a shower and a reasonable size vanity table with mirror. The living area makes you feel like lazing around the entire day with an L-shape angle sofa and large desk for doing work. There are also the Venetian luxury suites with exclusive amenities for the high end customer.

There are a wide variety of entertainment in addition to the gaming excitement at the casino. You can enjoy and participate in the Blue Man Group entertainment or seat back and relax at the Jersey Boys or Phantom shows. There are several boutiques about 80 at the grand cannal for shopping including Barneys New York and Van Cleef and Arpels. The layout can be considered an indoor mall where guest can walk through the Itilian style streets. The true Italian experience would be a ride on the Venetian gondola along the grand canal.

Corridor to Grand Cannal Shops

You will find several eating choices at the Venetian among the 19 ineternational restaurants. It's your choice to munch on sandwiches or indulge in a mouth watering menu at several of the award winning restaurants by celebrity chefs. In addition there are 4 bar lounges for your nightly entertainment.

Everyone is assured of getting something at the Venetian and the agents of Jadd Fong Travel, an Albuquerque Travel Agency was no exception. During my stay at the Venetian for a travel conference, it was unfortunate that I did not have time to immerse in the 3 outdoor pools.

NACTA educates Travel Agents

2011-05-16T22:35:00.008-06:00

Jadd Fong Travel, an Albuquerque travel agency was one of many agencies benefiting from the National Association of Career Travel Agents (N.A.C.T.A.) training at Tech Fest 2011. A tremendous amount of hands on presentations were provided on the topic of social media. As a result of the program, agents who attended are now better able to communicate with clients. The packed weekend of intensive training took place at the Embassy Suites North Shore/Deer Field in Chicago from May 14-15, 2011.

Embassy Suites Chicago

It was also a golden opportunity for agents to learn the benefits of being a NACTA member which include:

Recognition as a career travel agent
Receiving publications of industry news and events
attending annual conventions for learning coupled with fun activities
Destination seminars for continued education at sea and land
Skill training seminars
Members only website providing information on upcoming events
A one sheet promotional display of member agency that can be viewed by clients

Relaxing moment

It was amazing but not surprising to hear of the number of travel agents who were not using social media to educate their clients. It was a new area for some participants whereas, those with some knowledge learnt enhanced techniques to write effectively, communicate and interact with their customers. Other areas covered included the design and launch of an agency’s business page, using YouTube videos to promote your business, Blogging and how to take advantage of the numerous goggle tools to promote your agency and save cash.

Conference session

The training concluded on Sunday evening with a resounding applause of satisfaction by the participants. As a result of the tremendous success of the first Tech Fest, plans are already in the pipeline for next years Tech Fest 2012.

Hotel for cruises from Florida

2010-11-22T03:00:00.005-07:00

Numerous persons who are going on a cruise from Florida are looking for a hotel that has an ideal location. The present down turn in the economy should not only be a concern for persons who are looking for Caribbean Cruise deals from Florida, but also a hotel that offers all the necessary services at a reasonable price.

I spent a week at the Hyatt Place Ft Lauderdale Airport North while attending a cruise conference in Ft Lauderdale in 2010. Several attendees of the conference stayed at the Hyatt and were going on a cruise from Florida to the Caribbean. I was impressed and very satisfied with the general service and the hotel layout. The six (6) floor and one hundred and twenty six (126) room hotel is located at 1851 Se 10th Street in Ft Lauderdale, FL. It is about two (2) miles from the Fort Lauderdale Hollywood International Airport, 2 miles from the beach and a half mile from the Convention Center and Port Everglades, the cruise port.

My room was very spacious by hotel standards. It was well kept and contained a small refrigerator and a 42” flat panel HDTV. The room also contained a microwave and a posh cozy over sized corner sofa sleeper which was separate from the sleeping area. The complimentary wifi in the bedroom was a great asset, as I could keep up to date with all activities at my office. There were also a couple computers with printers in an E-room area for guests who did not have a computer. This was neat as several persons took advantage of that service to keep in touch with the rest of the world.

I was also impressed with the hotel on a whole. There was a reasonable size exercise room that was well equipped with tread mills and other basic gym equipment. The hotel provided a free continental breakfast but I never partook in same, so I won’t comment on the quality. The other hotel features include outdoor swinging pool and hot tub, wheel chair accessible, business center, meeting rooms, dry cleaning/laundry, smoke free and room service. There were several good shopping and eating restaurants within walking distance of the Hotel. A person had the option of eating at Outback steak House which was one quarter mile away or the Dough Boys Pizzeria and Italian Restaurant about the same distance away.

The service that I was impressed with during my stay was the complimentary shuttle service to and from the airport. The service is also extended to and from the cruise ship port. The shuttle was available on a regular basis and my longest wait was approximately thirty (30) minutes. This was a great cost saving benefit for persons who are going on a cruise from Florida.

I was very satisfied with the overall service at the hotel and would strongly recommend it to my clients. As mentioned previously, it is not only the service but the location of the hotel.

Jadd Fong Travel donates cruise from Florida to charity

2010-11-15T02:30:00.010-07:00

Albuquerque, NM, November 10, 2010. Jadd Fong Travel, a New Mexico travel agency made a charitable contribution of a cruise from Florida to the General Albuquerque Medical Association (GAMA) for their Second Annual Vendors fair held on October 12, 2010 at the Marriot Pyramid Hotel in Albuquerque, NM.

Educating a client

Jadd Fong Travel had a display table at the fair and provided promotional materials to persons present. Brochures were available for Alaska vacations and other popular destinations like Hawaii and Mexico. The agency took the opportunity to educate the persons who visited their table about their website: www.jaddfongtraveldeals.com, Caribbean cruise deals from Florida and other packages to Europe and South America.

GAMA partnered with the Albuquerque health Care for the homeless to raise funds during the event. As a result, Jadd Fong Travel donated a four (4) day cruise to the Bahamas on Royal Caribbean International cruise line which was raffled at the fair. The decision to give back to the Albuquerque community demonstrated the agency’s appreciation of the public support during the past years. The agency felt the money raised from the raffle would go a long way in helping the homeless in the Albuquerque area. Other institutions also donated prizes for the event.

The annual fair was open to the general membership of the association. It was an opportunity for vendors who were directly or indirectly involved in the health industry to showcase their products to their members. The people who attended were encouraged to take part in the leisure activities and participate in the fund raising charity raffle and good food. This was a good opportunity for people to participate and win prizes including a cruise from Florida. The fair also allowed physicians to network with colleagues and access information regarding new or improved technology to enhance their practice.

Winner of cruise certificate

The donation by Jadd Fong Travel was the highlight of the evening and the owner of the agency was in attendance to make the presentation to the winner. The cruise was won by a female attendee who was ecstatic about taking a cruise from Florida to the Bahamas.

New TSA travel requirements

2010-09-26T03:00:00.006-06:00

A client of mine questioned my asking for her date of birth, saying that it was not necessary for completing her booking for her Alaska vacation. She was not hostile but very curious in knowing the reason for asking. After some explanation she was very willing to provide the information.

This was my motivation for writing this blog as it appears that some travelers are unaware of the new regulations that govern travel. A lot of things have changed since the attack on the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001. Among these changes are the manner we travel and what is expected of us. These new regulations govern all our travel, whether it is an Alaska vacation or a Caribbean cruise deal to the region.

From August 20, 2010 the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires all passengers to have accurate flight passenger data for all bookings. In simple terms, all travelers must provide their date of birth, gender and their name as it appears on their official travel document. Failing to provide that information will not allow the person to complete their booking. The regulation will be enforced by the TSA from November 01, 2010 irrespective when the reservation was made.

Domestic travelers can continue using their driver’s license as their official ID but international travelers would require a passport for travel. It is expected that all persons will comply and avoid being denied boarding an aircraft of ship because of inadequate information. Clients can call Jadd Fong Travel for more information on the matter.

Worlds largest virtual cruise event

2010-09-22T13:06:00.008-06:00

Jadd Fong Travel invites you,

to a very special event from

October 01-31, 2010

join us on the web at

http://wlcn.cruising.org/jaydfong

We’re joining with member travel agencies from the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) across the US and Canada to host the World’s Largest Virtual Cruise Month – an opportunity for travelers like you to come and learn more about one of the most popular vacations: cruising!

Cruising is all about you. You can find adventure, culture and education or, relax the day away. Dine on fine cuisine. Indulge at the spa. Reconnect with family. Share romantic moments. All this, in the destination of your choice, for a few days, a week or more, on a cruise that's right for you.

Join us on the web during the entire month of October and

Learn about your favorite destinations and take advantage of our Caribbean cruise deals and Alaska cruises among other special promotions. Get ready to take advantage of great deals,and much more!

cruise the world with us!

For additional information or to book call

Jadd Fong Travel at

1-888-282-8721 / 505-999-1039 or

Email: jaddfongtravel@comcast.net

Carnival cancels cruises from Florida to Dominica

2010-09-13T03:00:00.012-06:00

I have been officially informed by the Carnival Cruise Line that the Carnival Victory will no longer be stopping in the port of Dominica during her Southern Caribbean cruise. The Carnival Cruise Line has discontinued its visit to Dominica with effect from November 21, 2010. The ship’s itinerary has been amended and a day at sea will replace the time allocated for the island stop.

Carnival cruise line is one of numerous cruise lines that provide Caribbean cruise deals to Dominica. Several persons who cruise from Florida to the Southern caribbean will no longer enjoy the Nature Island of the Caribbean.

No explanation was provided for the change in the ship’s itinerary. The original itinerary was very impressive with a port stop on each day of the cruise. In fact some customers purchased that cruise because they expected a port stop each day of the cruise and in particular the stop in Dominica. A number of individuals were considering withdrawing from the cruise and visit the Southern Caribbean with a different cruise line. I had to use all my persuasive skills to get them to reconsider.

I have been monitoring the national radio station of the island in an effort to find answers for my clients because they are disappointed with the new itinerary. In an announcement from the radio station, a government official said they were looking into the matter and would do their utmost best to have Carnival Cruise Line return to the island. The official claimed that the Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), had a similar problem in the past with fuel cost and discontinued it service, but he was happy to report that cruises from Florida would include the NCL in the new future.

The Carnival Cruise Line has served Dominica during the past 21 years and is an integral part of the island growing tourism industry. It has also provided numerous Caribbean cruise deals to the region and it is hoped that the problem will be resolve soon so the Carnival victory can return to the island of Dominica.

My Alaska vacation cruise

2010-08-22T04:00:00.009-06:00

Norwegian Star

I was excited when asked to organize a cruise to Alaska for my in laws for their 10th wedding Anniversary gift. I jumped to the idea as they had spoken of an Alaska vacation on many occasion. I knew an Alaska vacation was their dream holiday because they made several indirect comments about not wanting to cruise from Florida.

Their vacation quickly mushroomed into a family reunion with relatives coming from the Caribbean, USA and Canada. I was ecstatic about planning such a vacation because I considered Alaska as an unknown vastness of snow. After some mini hitches in making the flights arrangements, I was able to schedule everyone arrival to Seattle, a day prior to the cruise within a two hour window.

Our reunion began with an overnight stay in Seattle, as we were departing early the next morning on a 7 night round trip cruise to Alaska. The weather in Seattle was slightly gloomy for a mid-summer day but we were fortunate as it never rained during our pre and post cruise stops.

Seattle skyline

The hotel provided transportation to the port as part of the hotel package. As expected, we were on the first bus shuttle to the port. After a hassle free check in through security, it Was finally time to board the Star of the Norwegian Cruise Line. The departure from the harbor was smooth and appeared effortless. In fact, it went unnoticed until I observed the port building getting smaller on the horizon. The first couple of hour on the ship was spent exploring my new residence of the next 7 days. I will provide a review of the Norwegian Star in a subsequent blog. As expected, I did not get much sleep the first evening at sea as I took the opportunity to explore the ship and discover all it had to offer.

From Seattle, we traveled through the inside passage towards Ketchikan. The passage extends north from Washington, along the British Columbia coast to the Alaskan Panhandle. The cruise ships use this particular route that goes through a series of passages between the islands to avoid the bad weather in the open ocean.

Ketchikan salmon hatchery

Our first stop was in Ketchikan – the self proclaimed salmon capital of the world. We visited a salmon hatchery, one of several built to process the abundance of salmon in the area. We were amazed at the effort and technology being used to produce salmon for export to the rest of the world. We were provided with an in depth explanation of the life of a salmon. I was amazed to learn that a salmon life began in the fresh water streams and lakes of Alaska. The young salmon migrates to the ocean and would return after several years to their place of birth in the streams and lakes to spawn.

Totem pole

We also visited an area where our tour guide educated us on the history of the Haida tribe – the Pacific Northwest Indians. We learnt how they lived and traded extensively throughout the region. Time was taken to explain the significance and purpose of the Totem Pole. I was amazed to learn that these monumental structures carved from large trees, mostly red cedar were the life history of an important Native American. From my estimation, I think the poles were approximately 20 feet tall containing engraved images of animals and individuals. The carvings were also painted which gave the totem poles a very attractive appearance.

Mendenhall lake and glacier

Mendenhal glacier lake

Many Alaska vacation tours excursions were available, but I jumped to the idea of visiting an ice glacier. The day was gloomy and interspersed with the occasional shower. As soon as we disembarked from the ship, we took a short bus ride to the Mendenhall Glacier in Juneau. I had never seen an ice glacier before, so I was not allowing the rain to dampen my anticipation and excitement as this was one of the main reasons I went on the cruise. There were several trails on each side of the lake which is at foot of the glacier. I took one of the trails that appeared less muddy and had easy access to the lakes edge. The trail also provided a beautiful view of the valley and glacier which is situated between two mountains that appear to stretch for miles. At the bottom of the glacier is the Mendenhall Lake which gets it supply of water from the glacier. In short, the glacier looked like a huge mountain cliff that was sparkling white from the occasional reflection of the sun when it popped out between the grey clouds.

Mendehall glacier welcome center

I must compliment the local authority in Juneau for the development of the area to cater for the large crowds of yearly tourists. The welcome center was impressive and the information within made the trip very educational. Also it was a good opportunity to get out of the cold and enjoy the warmth inside the building. During the tour of the facility, we were entertained with a short historic film of the glacier. I left the area with a deep feeling of sadness and disappointment. It was heart breaking to learn that the location of the welcome center was part of the glacier a couple hundred years ago. The glacier had receded significantly and its progress was being measured every year. Whether the reason for the melting of the glacier was global warming or other reasons, we have to examine our life style because the beauty of our world was being wasted away.

Sawyer glacier

The next place of interest was the Sawyer Glacier. Several Individuals were glued on deck as the ship navigated the icy waters containing several huge chunks of ice. The decks were crowded with cruisers who were enjoying every minute of the journey. This was an amazing sight to see the huge chunks of ice floating near the ship.

White Pass Scenic railway

Skagway is the furthest point North via the inside passage and it was the next port stop. At the corsair desk we were informed that the White Pass scenic railway ride was a good opportunity to see the Alaskan countryside and wildlife. Unfortunately the only wildlife we saw was a glimpse of a herd of wild goats in the far distance that were taking advantage of the warm sunshine. The deep gorges and mountainside were beautiful and breathe taking and everyone soaked in the fresh crisp air of the high elevation.

Prince Rupert Bay, Canada

On our return journey we stopped at Prince Rupert Bay in Canada. This stop was interesting because it gave us an insight into the lives of a small Canadian community. The town seemed extremely quiet and appeared undisturbed by the huge number of Alaska vacation visitors. From Prince Rupert Bay, it was time to journey back to Seattle.

The cruise was enjoyable and memorable not only for the numerous shore experiences, but it was an opportune time to reunite with relatives we had not seen and out of touch for a very long time. We laughed and shared endless old memories during the Alaska trip. I could claim the cruise a tremendous success because everyone was keen on doing a repeat cruise from Florida.

Fantastic Hotel for vacation to Europe

2010-08-16T03:30:00.002-06:00

I found an ideal hotel to stay while visiting London during my vacation to Europe. It was clean, had a friendly staff, and most of all, it was located near to numerous sightseeing attractions. This place is perfect to launch your vacation and enjoy all your fascination of London.

I stayed at the Novotel London City South during my stopover in London as part of my family vacation to European tour. My family out voted me as I wanted a cruise to Europe instead.We spent 10 days at the hotel, but the majority of the time was spent outdoors enjoying the beauty of London. (I will inform readers of my London experience in a subsequent blog).

The hotel has an AA 4 stars rating and I think it deserved that score. The hotel’s sleeping accommodation consisted of 182 non smoking rooms, 4 suites and 10 accessible rooms. The rooms are categorized into superior and executive. I selected an executive which accommodated 4 individuals. It contained all the features of the superior room (26” LCD TV, pay movies, broad band internet access, hair dryer, iron and mini bar) plus an Espresso coffee machine, Bose iPod docking station complimentary internet access, and bathrobe and slippers. Other facilities included laundry, parking, currency exchange and sauna/steam rooms. The staff was friendly and was never hesitant in providing information about places to visit while in London.

Our stay can be considered uneventful apart from an idiot who made everyone leave their room at about midnight. I was asleep and thought I was dreaming only to realize the screeching sound was coming from within my room. Then it dawned on me that the fire alarm was going crazy. Groggy, confused and half asleep, I rushed out from my room to be joined by several other guest in the corridor. Everyone quickly made it to the outside parking area. We were fortunate that it was a wonderful London evening and it was not raining. To everyone’s dismay and relief we were informed that a guest attempted to smoke in a non smoking room causing the smoke alarm to go off.

As mentioned earlier the hotel location was a plus as it was a short walking distance to the River Thames, the London eye, the Millennium Bridge, Shakespeare Globe Theatre, St. Paul’s Catheredral and many other London attractions. Also the London tube was minutes away and a short ride would take us to shopping areas, nightlife and theatres on the west end. A stone throw away from the hotel was a small market containing everything you could possible want. Apart from meat and fish, there was a wide variety of vegetables and fruits. I was extremely happy to find the market and made regular visits for my fresh supply of fruits.

On discovering how close the hotel was to the banks of the River Thames, we immediately decided to explore our new surroundings. We were amazed at the level of activity that was happening all along the river banks. It was not only a beautiful sight to behold but it contained several attractive looking eating places. In addition numerous characters were on sight performing to the large crowds delight and were compensated for their efforts.

I would recommend this hotel to families or individuals who wish to vacation in Europe and London in particular. The hotel is also suitable for persons visiting London on business.as well as persons who are visiting London for business.

Lourdes vacation to Europe

2010-08-09T04:30:00.017-06:00

Since I was a kid, I have heard several people mention the name of Lourdes (pronounced Lourdz). I knew practically nothing about it apart from hearing that it was a very religious place. That impression changed drastically after visiting Lourdes, France during my family vacation to Europe. The visit was part of swing through Europe with stops in Paris and London. My vacation to Europe was a tremendous success as it gave me an opportunity to farmilarize myself with many of the products that I am selling.

Lourdes is a small market town lying in the foothills of the Pyrenees. It is located in the Southwestern end of France or 497 miles south of Paris and is very close to the Spanish boarder. There are several ways of getting there during a vacation to Europe. You can get there by rail, car or get an airline ticket for the local airport. The nearest airport was approximately 20 minutes from the town center for persons who wish to get there by air. I choose to travel by rail during my visit as it was inexpensive and it gave me the opportunity to see the French countryside. It was very picturesque and was littered with numerous huge farms of sunflowers, corn, and vegetables among other crops. The sunflower farms were extremely beautiful with acres of yellow and green.

The population is in the region of 15,000 but that number swells drastically due to the large influx of tourists and pilgrims throughout the year. It is estimated that a total of 5 million visitors travel to Lourdes annually. The best time to go on vacation is from March to October as the rest of the year is rather cold.

Interestingly Lourdes has 2 sections which vastly differ from each other. The international section by the river consists of the spiritual area containing the grotto and churches. The second area is the French portion centered around the marketplace and the Hotel de Ville.

On arrival at the train station several taxis were available for the transfer to my hotel. I was fortunate to have booked a hotel within walking distance from the grotto and was able to walk there without any difficulty. It is important to get a hotel near the grotto if you are physically challenged as there is a small hill from the train station to the grotto. Please note that the town is friendly to walkers and it is easy to get around the town center. I observed that numerous hotels were available to visitors. It is estimated that Lourdes has about 270 hotels and is second only to Paris in hotel density per square mile.

It is famous for the apparitions of our lady of Lourdes that occurred in 1858 to Bernadette Salubrious. Since, it has developed into a major place for Roman Catholic pilgrimages and miraculous healing. Bernadette saw a vision of the Virgin Mary in the hollow of a rock. No one saw the vision although other people were present with her during some of the lady’s appearance. One day she was told to drink water from a mysterious spring in the grotto area. At the time there was no sign or existence of a spring but to everyone amazement water gushed out after she dug a hole in the ground.

Lourdes is the largest Catholic pilgrimage destination in France and one of the most popular catholic shrines in the world. The sacred grotto and site of the spring that Bernadette discovered, is now one of the major pilgrimage sites in Lourdes, as millions come to drink its waters, which are believed to have healing powers. A statue of the Virgin Mary was erected in the grotto in 1864, where it can still be seen today.

I attended the evening procession which takes place every day from 5:00 pm. The procession began in the grotto with the sick and disabled at the front followed by several different groups and ends in the underground Basilica. The Basilica of St. Pius was constructed almost entirely underground. It is a sight to behold because it is a unique type of architecture and was built to accommodate the large crowds that visit the shrine. The sanctuary is situated on a raised platform and the ceiling is low and is supported by pre-stressed concrete pillars which meet 29 concrete beams which cross the ceiling, giving it the impression of an upside down ship. This design creates a very large open space for maximum visibility from any part of the nave. When full it can accommodate up to 25,000 worshippers.

It is understood that international masses are held in 6 languages including English, French, Italian, Spanish, German and Dutch. The masses are held simultaneously on Sunday mornings and the choir is open to anyone who arrives early. You can rehearse with the choir and sing with people of all 6 languages. You also have an excellent view of the mass from the choir.

There are nightly candle light processions in front of the Basilica and around the main square. People sing and pray the rosary in many languages. The procession of the sick to the underground basilica each afternoon is particular moving.

I was not only captivated by the beautiful and unique structures but experienced the presence of holiness. During my stay I felt at peace with myself and my God and bathed in the spirit. I would recommend a visit to Lourdes during a vacation to Europe because it is a spiritual experience more than words can ever describe.

Dominica is the Nature Island

2010-08-02T04:30:00.062-06:00

The approach to Dominica is breath taking as you descend between the mountains in a sea of greenery. Although I have visited the island during several Caribbean cruises from Florida, I was still amazed at the beautiful vegetation of the island. The lush mountains were covered with numerous canopies of vines that create an umbrella over the tall shrubs. As the aircraft came to a stop at Melville Hall, Dominica, I could not avoid the amazing sight of tall coconut palm trees swaying in the breeze as if they were bowing their branches, welcoming me to the island.

In a previous post, I mentioned the purpose of this visit to the island. I was born in the Caribbean and have visited several of the other islands during my stay there. I am fortuntate to have benefited from several Caribbean cruise deals to the region. Dominica is also known as the Commonwealth of Dominica to differentiate it from the better known Dominica Republic which shares the island with Haiti and Hispaniola. Several persons do claim the island is an undiscovered paradise, so I intended to confirm if she deserved the name of “Nature Island “of the Caribbean.

My first expedition took me to Dominica’s Morne Trois Piton National Park which was established in July 1975 by an act of parliament and was the first of Dominica’s park to be legally established. In 1998 it was recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage site. It was the first enlisted natural site in the Eastern Caribbean, and its inauguration was also marked with a Regional conference on the World Heritage Convention. The national park protects some of the islands clear streams, mountains and some of the tropical virgin forest for their educational, scientific and scenic values. Today the park includes numerous attractions like the Boiling Lake, Valley of Desolation, Boeri Lake/Fresh Water Lake and the Emerald pool among other attractions.

One of the many attractions in the Morne Trois Piton National Park is the Emerald pool. It is a very popular area for bathing and is a short walking distance from the main motor able road to Castle Bruce. The Emerald Pool has a strong appeal to locals and tourist alike because it is surrounded by many of the island beautiful ferns and faunas. Also, the water is crystal clear but it can be cold as it is shaded by several trees.

My next visit was to the lesser known Northern National Park which consists of 23, 000 acres of land in the Northern part of the island. The major attraction of this national park is the mile long walk Syndicate rainforest trail. In this national park I came across the Balata tree. People claim that this tree is one of the hardest trees in existence. The wood from the tree was widely used for engineering bushes in sugar cane mills when the brass ran out.

During my walk through the rain forest, I was over whelmed and surprised by its quietness. It was very isolated and I did not come across anyone during a two hour hike. It was like walking into another world of peace and tranquility with the silence being interrupted occasionally by the distant sound of a melodious song of a bird chirping from the foliage. The air was fresh and crisp and was filled with a rich aroma floating from the beautiful flowers and vegetation.

It should be noted that the syndicate area is the home of two parrots found only in Dominica. The Amazon Imperial which is known locally as the Sisserou Parrot and is the island’s national bird. The other parrot is the red neck and is referred to locally as the Jaco (Amazon Arausiaca). It is smaller than the Sisserou parrot and can be found at much lower elevations than the Sisserou. I was fortunate during my visit to the Syndicate Forest to catch a glimpse of the Sisserou parrot. Passing through some wild tall growing bushes and tangled vine I came to an abrupt halt and looked in the direction of some trees where I heard an unusual sound. I slowly looked towards the light between the tall trees and saw the shadow of a Sisserou - the largest Amazon Parrot. She was a real beauty as the upper parts and back was mostly green and purple with a bluish head. There was also a red streak on the wing tips and a green-tipped red tail.

Another big attraction in Dominica is the boiling lake, which is considered the biggest in the world. It is a very long and tedious walk to get there, so I began my journey very early that morning. The trip is approximately 6.5 miles or three and a half hours walking distance each way. Unfortunately the day was rainy and the trail was muddy and very difficult. The trail was clear and well kept but it did not help my fear as some areas were winding across rocks and ridges. The trail took me across the Breakfast River, where I stopped for refreshments and got re-energized. An interesting part of the trip was the Valley of Desolation which contained several holes in the ground from which flowed warm springs. After some walking I saw the distant vapor of the boiling lake rising from the forest floor accompanied by a strong smell of sulphur. Although the walk was tiring, the sight of the boiling lake took all my fatigue away. The lake is located in a basin and looked like a huge melting pot of sulphur.

On the return journey, I stopped for a refreshing bath in an area called “Titou Gorge”, near a small village called Laudat. The water was enticing and refreshing to my aching feet and muscles. I wish to mention that Dominica has 365 rivers (one for each day in the year), and several waterfalls. One of the more popular falls is called the Trafalgar Twin Waterfalls which is approximately 20 minutes driving distance from the capital, Roseau. The rivers are crystal clear and are all suitable for bathing.

I was told that a visit to Dominica without going whale watching would be an incomplete vacation. After some quick investigations, I joined a tour party for a very reasonable price. I was the first person to arrive at the pick-up point but was joined later by several other persons who came from cruises from Florida. The first hour of the trip was uneventful as the boat navigated from one location to the other. The only visible movement on the horizon was the occasional bird that would hover above then plunged into the water seeking a meal. Our host was still confident that we would spot whales although I did not share his optimism. Everyone was very disappointed as we made our journey back to the harbor. A sudden exclamation of joy from the left side of the boat had everyone turning in that direction. I could hardly believe my eyes as a number of grey shapes were surfacing then disappearing beneath the water. At one point it appeared that they were trying to keep pace with the boat – as the boat went forward so did the school of happy melon –headed whales.

Dominican has a much slower pace of life than most developed countries and it appeared that people were very happy to socialize and talk about their island with visitors. I think one of the of Dominica’s biggest asset is its people. The island is a small nation with a population of approximately Seventy thousand, but everyone has a big heart. The people are free spirited and enjoy life to the max.

There are several ways to visit the island and enjoy the beauty nature has to offer. You can also participate in the fun and frolic during carnival and the islands independence celebrations from Great Britain. Apart from flights from the locally owned Caribbean airline, there are direct connections to the US main land via Puerto Rico. In addition, all the major cruise lines do regular stop over during the Caribbean cruise season. The best time to visit the island would be during the cruise off season so you can benefit from the large number of Caribbean cruise deals that are available.

The greenery of the island is unbelievable. This was truly an isle of Nature or seemingly an unspoiled natural beauty. It is untouched and has a lot to offer the visitor. It is said that Christopher Columbus would recognize the island if he returned to the island today. What Dominica lacks in beaches and fancy resorts it makes up with hiking trail through rugged terrain. There are few places on earth that remains so untouched and yet as accessible as Dominica – indeed it is the Nature Island of the Caribbean. A visitor will forever carry the memories of the boiling lake, national parks, soul-stirring songs of the multi colored birds, and awe-inspiring sight of diving whales that touched my life with its majestic presence.

Alaska Vacation from Vancouver

2010-07-26T04:30:00.032-06:00

I entered a new world of beauty, peace splendor and warmth as I stepped from the harbor ramp on to the Volendam of Holland America cruise line. The world outside was nothing in comparison as it was gloomy, cold and rainy on this 3rd day of June 2010. I am sure this was not a typical day in Vancouver, BC. This port has become one of the mojor hubs for Alaska vacation departures. Vancouver may not offer as much as the ports for cruises from Florida but it is another option from Seattle for travelers who wish to cruise to Alaska.

The Purpose of my ship visit was to inspect the Volendam as part of my continued training as an Accredited Cruise Consular (ACC). Being a member of Cruise Line International Agency (CLIA), you are granted privileges to do on the job training to familiarize yourself with the product being sold. I was part of a group of approximately 200 cruise professionals visiting the ship that particular day. This first hand information about the cruise product will help the travel professional recommend and match clients to the right ships during vacation counseling.

The MS Volendam is a sister ship to the Zaadam and is considered a mid-size ship in the “R Class” of ships. The other ships in that same class are Rotterdam and Amsterdam. The ship theme is flowers and fresh displays and has an abundance of both items. It also contains paintings of museum standard such as an oil painting of the city of Utrecht, in the Netherlands painted in 1842, as well as contemporary art like the series of photographs of music great Dizzy Gillespie and BB King. The ship is one of the many cruise lines that do Alaska vacation cruises from Vancouver. Here are some basic facts about the ship.

Number of staterooms: 1,432 Tonnage: 61, 396

Number of passenger decks: 10 Crew: 588

Year built: 1999 Year refurbish: 2005

The ship amenities include but not limited to bars/lounges, library, internet center, Casino, disco/nightclub, video games/arcade and card room. There are also activities for children and teens like age specific activities, teen programs and group babysitting. There are facilities for the physically challenged like close caption TV, accessible public areas, visual assistance for visually impaired, Braille signage and accessible tendering among other things. There is also a fitness center, full service spa, beauty salon, outdoor pool and an outdoor sports area.

My first area of interest was the Penthouse Verandah suite of deck Number 7 – the Navigation deck. The suite was spacious and appeared more like a residential apartment than a cruise ship stateroom. In the luxurious 1,126 sp ft suite, I discovered an ambiance of refined beauty containing one king size bed and a sofa bed for two persons. It also contained an over sized whirlpool bath and shower, living room, dining room, private verandah, pantry, mini bar, refrigerator, guest toilet and floor to ceiling windows. That deck also has other suites of lesser quality like the Deluxe Verandah and Verandah suites. The Neptune lounge is in close proximity and is for the exclusive use of persons in the penthouse and deluxe verandah suites.

My next stop was a standard ocean view state room on deck 3, the Lower Promenade Deck. It was of note to say that room appeared to be bigger than the average stateroom on a cruise ship, measuring about 197 sq ft. It contained two lower beds that could convert into one queen bed, bathtub and shower, and potholes instead of windows. It was very comfortable accommodations for a cruise ship. I had seen the top of the line and the average stateroom of the Volendam.

The day came to a climax with lunch for the entire group in the Lower Rotterdam dining room on deck four. The lunch was great and everyone ate to their hearts content. Everyone took the opportunity to discuss their finds and what stood out during the tour. It was generally held that the Volendam was very well maintained and left with a positive impression of the cruise line – Holland America.

The ship crew did their utmost to entertain as during the limited time provided. It is important to note that the ship was being cleaned and resupplied for an Alaska vacation trip that evening. Everyone was busy but took time off from their busy schedule to answerer our questions and concerns.

Are Travel Agents extinct?

2010-07-19T03:25:00.040-06:00

Are travel agents becoming an extinct species? I am sure this question has crossed several people’s mind. My perspective as an agent involved in the travel industry, is definitely no! As far as I am concerned travel agents will never go into oblivion and continue to provide an essential service to the traveling public and industry.

The definition of a travel agency is to sell travel and related products and services to customers on behalf of suppliers. The function of a travel agent is not only to book a vacation but to educate and provide advise to their clients. I am sure a client wishes much more information than to book a Caribbean cruise deal or an Alaska vacation. It is the responsibility of the travel professional to provide much more so the client can make an educated decision about the vacation.

The travel industry has gone through many changes over the years and the travel agent has not been immune to those changes. New technology like the internet has affected all facets of our lives and has revolutionized the way business is done presently. Travel information that would take weeks to research and was only available to the travel agent is now at everyone finger tips in a couple of minutes. The benefit of this new phenomenon is tremendous as a large volume of information on all walks of life is available not only to travelers but to the general public. Any destination can be analyzed and dissected into different components in a matter of seconds. This is a plus to the traveler as they can research and book their travel online from the comfort of their homes.

The internet also has its negatives. With so much information available – the traveler can be over whelmed and confused. Can you imagine that you Goggle “Alaska vacations” and come up with two million responses. The traveler can be lost in the sea of information trying to decide what is genuine and what is fictitious. The danger of the internet is in the numerous number of scam website that are in existence. Many a traveler has booked a hotel on the internet based on the photos displayed, only to be very disappointed on arrival. They soon found out that the hotel was very different from what was advertised and a dream vacation became a night mare. As the saying goes, “all that glitters is not gold”. If the reservations were made through a travel agent, there would be a guarantee of the quality of the hotel. Many travel agents visit locations or receive recommendations from other agents if they are unable to visit the destination.

There are approximately 28, 000 travel agencies operating in North America. In that number are the traditional independent, chain and consortium-affiliated agencies. The independent agent is unaffiliated with any larger institution and is referred to as the mom and pop store. These agencies are usually small with few members of staff but are usually very familiar with their community. These agencies are at a serious disadvantage because of their small size. They have no bargaining power with their suppliers; therefore they are unable to obtain lower prices. Their numbers have dwindled significantly and presently represent about 35% of the travel industry.

Chain agencies are very popular and do have a regional and national presence in North America. The number of agencies that make up the chain varies in the travel industry. They vary from dozens in some cases to hundreds in different geographic locations. Some of these agencies are well known and do have a lot of power and are able to negotiate favorable rates from preferred suppliers. Theses chain agencies sell franchises which helps in the distribution of the name brand.

The consortia affiliated agency is a blend of the independent and chain agency. It provides a lot more independence than the affiliated agency but is a part of a big organization. The significant difference is these agencies operate independently of the consortium and are governed by their own rules. Being part of a large organization, they are able to benefit from the preferred supplier relationship of the consortium. They are also able to get assistance with training, marketing support, financial advice and sometimes a 24 hour backup reservation service.

From these agencies evolved the home based agent. There are many traditional agents in existence but, the home agent has become very popular in the industry. One of the biggest changes the industry has experience is the advent of the home base agent. I must complement the early pioneers as they were considered taboo and were not accepted by the travel industry. In fact the biggest resistance came from the traditional agencies who felt threatened by these new agents. The early home base agent persevered and was gradually accepted into the fold of travel agents. Now, home base agents have not only grown in numbers but are fully recognized by the industry. There are several reasons why the home base agent is so popular. They include but not limited to:

• Setting your own work hours,

• Working from the comfort of your home,

• Being available 24/7 to your clients, and

• A significant reduction in over head cost (reduce rent, utilities etc)

The recent events in Iceland strengthen the notion that travel agent services are essential. Several thousand travelers were stranded in and out of Europe because of the ash from the volcano in Iceland. Imagine the discomfort and misery of persons who booked airline tickets online and were calling the airline to make new reservations. The travelers who booked through a travel agent did not have that worry as they quickly got in contact with their agent whose responsibility it was to make a new booking. I am sure the online bookers had difficulty reaching the airline reservation desk in addition to being place on hold for extremely long periods.

The advantage of using the expertise of a travel agent is limitless especially for purchasing a cruise. Imagine searching for Caribbean cruise deals can be a very complicated matter and is very different from purchasing an airline ticket. A cruise is an experience and not a commodity and it is difficult to get that emotion from the internet. Cruises differ from each other and the travel professional will use his experience to analyze, advice and determine the correct cruise is matched with the right client. Cruisers want to enjoy food, activities entertainment, destinations and an environment that matches their life style. The agent will ensure your vacation goes without a hitch from beginning to end going over all the minute details. There is very little chance of being turned away from the airport due to inadequate documents. Can you imagine going on a Alaska vacation and you are not properly attired as the website you booked on did not provide that information. Also, a person who makes an internet booking might be losing out on a great deal. Some resorts have packages that can only be booked by a travel agent. This means that you may be able to get a better package deal or a better price if you use a travel agent.

In conclusion, I will reiterate that travel agents do provide an essential service that compliments the travel industry. I think that travel agents will be around for a long time to educate travelers and assist with their cruise vacation packages.

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Where is the Nature Island?

2010-07-09T16:54:00.016-06:00

The aircraft slowly climbed out of the dark grey clouds as we made our approach to the island. Suddenly, out in the blue ocean sprung tall towering mountains that seemed to melt into the clouds. The mountains appeared very majestic as they cascaded from the sea. My thoughts were jolted to the present as the flight attendant booming voice announced our arrival to Melville Hall airport in Dominica. I was day dreaming of a Caribbean cruise deal I had purchased to visit the region. The flight from the West coast of the US with a change of aircraft in Puerto Rico was uneventful. After about two hours of flying from Puerto Rico, the Dominica coast line was a welcoming sight.

Where in the world is Dominica? The twenty nine (29) mile long and sixteen (16) mile wide-island appeared green and misted against the blue-black ocean. You can get to island if you are on a cruise from Florida or via aircraft from Puerto Rico. Very little is known of the secluded tiny island located between the two French islands of Guadeloupe in the north and Martinique to the South in the Eastern Caribbean.

It is different from the better known Dominica Republic which shares the island with Haiti. The island is approximately 295 sq miles with a population of about 75,000 people. The population is concentrated along the coast line as the interior of the island is very mountainous. In fact the island is considered more mountainous per sq mile than Switzerland.

I have been to the Caribbean on several occasions because I am from the Caribbean, but this visit was special. I was on a Caribbean island vacation to explore the island and confirm if she deserved the name as the “Nature Island of the Caribbean.” Numerous people in the region call Dominica the untouched gem of the Caribbean and refer to it as the Cinderella of the Caribbean. From my point of view the island appears to be undisturbed and tranquil and has not been severely affected by the large number of tourist that visit from cruises from Florida and other regions. The island is part of the Eastern Caribbean itinerary for the numerous cruise lines that sell Caribbean cruise deals to the region.

The island is blessed with 365 rivers – one for each day of the year. In addition the island has numerous beautiful attractions with a very hospitable population. Please, come back for part two of my observations in a subsequent post which will cover the islands beautiful natural attractions, its people and local festivals. See you soon.

Cruise Trainning & Education

2010-07-01T12:29:00.010-06:00

As part of my continuing education in the travel industry, I attended the Travel Weekly Cruise World 2010 conference at the Fort Lauderdale Convention Center in Fort Lauderdale from April 03 – 06, 2010. The entire conference was educational, interesting and had some light moments. Fort Lauderdale is a very important port for cruises from Florida.

In attendance were approximately 1300 participants from the US and as far as Canada and about 168 suppliers. The suppliers included but not limited to airline companies, cruise companies, tour operators, and Tourist Board representatives from different countries.

The conference was a good opportunity to network with other travel sellers and catch up with new travel techniques and trends in the industry. It also gave me a chance touch base and share some wonderful moments with old friends. It was impossible to attend every session, so I was very selective on what topics to focus on to get the maximum benefit from my attendance. Some of the participants had obtained Caribbean cruise deals to sail on the ship after their inspection.

One of the high lights of the conference was the ship inspection that was conducted in conjunction with Cruise Line International Agency (CLIA). I wanted to inspect the Royal Caribbean Cruise line Oasis of the Sea but was bitten to it by my fellow travel agents. I guess it was the first choice of everyone who registered for ship inspection. That is the price I paid from procrastinating, as I registered somewhat late. I was fortunate to register for the Freedom from Carnival Cruise, Star Princess from the Princess Cruise Line and the Westerdam from the Holland America Cruise Line. This was an exciting and fun experience as you are being educated in an entertaining environment.

I was fortunate to pass very close to the Oasis of The Sea, as it was in port for the ship inspection before it began to cruise the Caribbean. Now I fully understand the hype about the ship. I think it is huge, magnificent and attractive. It was difficult to miss the ship as it stood tall and towering above everything in the Fort Lauderdale harbor. The port was modified to accommodate the mass of a floating resort which has taken the industry to new heights. As a result, Fort Lauderdale stands out as one of the outstanding ports for cruises from Florida to the Caribbean, Mexico, Central America and cruise to Europe.