Mexico Travel News

New resorts on Riviera Maya

Karisma Hotels & Resorts is unveiling Generations Resorts by Karisma. Under the new brand, Karisma will debut two all-suite resorts: Generations Maroma and Generations Riviera Maya. The resorts are targeted to multi-generational families, couples and wedding parties.

Generations will feature all-suite accommodations with unlimited nanny and butler service, as well as Karisma’s Gourmet Inclusive experience, including gourmet à la carte meals, premium alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, and 24-hour room service. Both properties will features suites with living areas with the option of adjoining other suites or converting into two or three-bedroom apartments to accommodate large groups.

Record sales for Mexico in March

Pleasant Holidays reports that it broke all records for March sales of vacation packages to Mexico in March of 2013. The company has been selling packages to Mexico for 20 years.

“Travelers can enjoy idyllic beaches and superb cuisine, exceptional accommodations and service, enriching cultural experiences for all ages, pampering spas and world-class golf at all-inclusive resorts that make luxury affordable,” said Jack Richards, Pleasant’s president and CEO

International News

Edinburgh’s colorful Military Tattoo

August is a busy month in Scotland’s capital city of Edinburgh as most of the Edinburgh Festival occurs during this fair-weather month. One of the most notable of the many annual festivals is the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, performed on the esplanade of Edinburgh Castle by international military bands and display teams.

The first Military Tattoo took place in 1949. The combined traditional sound of bagpipes and drums with the organized marching of military personnel in full regalia is exciting and diverse. The Tattoo is performed every weekday evening and twice on Saturdays throughout August. Tickets sell out early.

“Car Free LA” campaign

The Los Angeles Tourism and Convention Board has launched “Car Free LA,” a campaign designed to encourage visitors and residents to walk, bike or ride public transit. The city has created more than 120 miles of bikeways in the last two years, increased Metro transit options and the expanded CicLAvia, an annual bicycle-riding event.

The campaign features a series of itineraries centered on exploring Los Angeles’ neighborhoods and highlighting the city’s attractions, music scene, historic architecture, arts and culture, cuisine and entertainment. The itineraries are posted on the campaign’s web page. The self-guided itineraries provide navigation tools for exploring the destination without a car.

Cruise News

Smoke-free cruises

Crystal Cruises will eliminate smoking in all indoor areas, except for the Connoisseur Club smoking lounge, effective with the first cruises in 2014. The move eliminates smoking in all staterooms and suites, the lobby lounge and both nightclubs. Most areas have been non-smoking for several years, including restaurants, main entertainment lounges and the Casino.

The revised policy begins with the January 5 and 8 voyages of Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony. Crystal will continue to offer the Connoisseur Club, the only remaining interior smoking area, and designated spaces on exterior open decks for cigar, pipe and cigarette smoking.

Inaugural voyages for the National Geographic Orion

Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic will launch its new National Geographic Orion in March 2014 with three itineraries. The 102-passenger ship will carry kayaks, a state-of the-art ROV (remote operated vehicle) that can dive 1,000 feet deep, snorkeling gear, and a scuba program.

The three programs are Exploring Papua New Guinea and the Islands of Vanuatu and the Solomons, a 25-day trip departing March 19, 2014, priced from US$25,390 per person; The Great Barrier Reef, Papua New Guinea and Micronesia, embarking April 9, 2014, for 22 days, priced from US$19,990 per person; and Voyage to the Spice Islands and the Coral Triangle, a 17-day trip departing April 27 priced from US$14,730.

Air News

United Airlines raises change fees

United Airlines has raised their change fee by US$50 for all domestic and some international destinations. This took the domestic change fee from US$150 to US$200 and most international change fees from US$250 to US$300, primarily to South America. The new change fees apply to any tickets issued on and after April 17, 2013. At time of writing, no other carriers have followed suit.

BOX

Deal of the Week

“Celebrate Ireland,” an 18-day private small group tour, focuses on Ireland’s historic and cultural sights and the festivals and events of “The Gathering 2013.” This year the government of Ireland is inviting home the 70 million people worldwide of Irish descent and everyone else who loves all things Irish. The tour is limited to 16 guests and features a two-night stay at luxurious Dromoland Castle, the Ring of Kerry, National Stud, famed houses and gardens, Blarney Castle, Waterford Crystal and Northern Ireland including the Titanic Belfast, Derry, Giant’s Causeway and the Ulster American Folk Park. Special events include a weekend at the Galway Oyster and Seafood Festival, an Irish county fair and a weekend at the Dublin Theater Festival. Contact Judy Newell at Perfect Journeys for details.

Judy Newell heads the travel company Perfect Journeys which specializes in custom-designed tours, cruises and travel for everyone. Her private trips this year include “Splendor of Turkey” on July 9-22 and “Celebrate Ireland” on September 21-Ocotober 8. Contact Judy at cell 415-111-8765, email judynewell@perfectjourneys.net, or website www.perfectjourneys.net.

Sources: Travel Pulse, Europe Express, Nexion

In March three friends and I set off  for a 12 day trip to Guatemala. Through a small tour agency called Guatemala To Go, in Antigua, Guatemala, I prearranged our itinerary to include some of the wonderful Mayan Ruins in the tropical lowlands and also the culture and crafts of the highland area. Day 1 we flew from Mexico City to Guatemala City. The next morning we boarded the early morning flight from Guatemala City to Flores in Peten and took a shuttle to Tikal National Park for a two-day stay at the Tikal Inn. The instant we arrived we went for a tour or should I say a hike, of the extensive Tikal ruins with our English-speaking guide. On the way we saw coatíes (a relative of the raccoon) and spider monkeys. Tikal was a major Mayan ceremonial center with one of the highest temples in all the Mayan civilization. You can climb the 180 steps to the top of Temple IV to see the whole site. There are several other big plazas to explore on this large site with numerous temples, small buildings, stellae and a large mask below ground level. Breakfast, lunch and dinner were included in our two-day stay, with a single menu for all three meals. Our accommodation was in lovely little thatched bungalows surrounding the gardens and pool. We were very glad of the pool because it was very hot and humid and was refreshing after long sticky walks through the ruins. The next morning the intrepid types went on the Sunrise Tour to Temple IV at 4am to view the overall vista of Tikal with clouds and mist rising above the jungle. You can also arrange a Sunset Tour to the same temple.

In the afternoon we took the shuttle to Flores and spent a lovely evening in the charming town of Flores which is on an island with a boardwalk lined with hotels and restaurants. We enjoyed drinks on the patio of the hotel and watched the sunset over the lake. Being Sunday there were lots of local events happening with music and food to enjoy in this pastel-colored town. It is definitely worth a longer stay if you need a restful place with Tuk Tuk taxis to drive you around the island.

Day four we were picked up at our hotel for a wonderful tour of Yaxha, another ruin in the Peten where we saw howler monkeys and learned about the first corn used by the early Mayan. We took a boat to get to the site, There were not many people at this site so we could enjoy it in peace and quiet. Our guide was an archeology student who was very knowledgeable about the environment as well as the ruins. We climbed to the top of the main temple and had a view of the tops of other ruins and the large lagoons surrounding the site. Later in the afternoon we took the long (four hours) drive to Rio Dulce. A short five minute boat ride took us to our house on the river. The property was built on stilts because of the changing tides of the river and we reached our little house in the jungle by raised wooden walkways. That night we went by boat to the opposite side of the river and had a lovely dinner on the outside patio of the local hostel hotel.

The next day (Day five) our hostess and guide Iliana took us on a long boat ride down the Rio Dulce to Livingston which is at the mouth of the river where it meets the Ocean. On the way we stopped several times to photograph herons, cormorants, pelicans and buzzards. We visited some small Mayan river communities that sold fish and crafts to locals and tourists. Young girls in small boats sold jewelry made from seashells and purses made from coconut shells. Along the river there were many yachts anchored in sheltered bays. Some of the owners had also built houses along the river and stay there during the hurricane season. In Livingston we stopped for a wonderful breakfast at Casa Rosada. After breakfast we walked around the small town which is populated with Garifuna, a black population whose ancestors arrived many years ago. Iliana told us that night time is the best time to visit here because the people love to dance and play music. The Garifuna also salt fish which they lay out in the sun to dry. Our hour-long boat ride back to Rio Dulce was bumpy and windy because of the changing tide but overall the trip was well worth it.

We left Rio Dulce at 1.00 pm and drove to Quirigua, a Mayan and UNESCO Heritage site that I had been looking forward to seeing because of the large number of beautifully carved stellae discovered there. The tallest stella (35 feet) ever found on a Mayan site stands among many others almost as tall and each one is intricately carved with a story of its rulers and the history of the Maya. Also there are several large round stones called zoomorphs carved to represent animals such as the jaguar and turtle. The zoomorphs and stellae at this site are very unique with their carvings well preserved because the stone found here is much harder than in other Mayan sites. There were not many people at this site so we had time to enjoy these Mayan treasures with our knowledgeable guide. Quirigua is incomparable with any other Mayan site I have visited and should be on every tourist agenda. Later in the day we drove another four hours along winding roads, hilly terrain and towns to Copan Ruinas, the small town in Honduras where we stayed overnight in the lovely Clarion Hotel.

The next day (Day six) we met up with our guide at Copan, another major Mayan site. Again there were only a small number of tourists at this site, although it contains some beautiful plazas, temples, paintings, three dimensionally carved stellae, and archeological tunnels dug under one of the temples. One of the stunning monuments is the magnificently carved stairway, built by the last ruler of this Mayan city to regain its honor after its king, Rabbit 18, was executed at Quirigua. We toured tunnels built by archeologists who were looking for evidence of previous Mayan cities. Subsequent rulers generally built on top of earlier temples. We viewed large-scale stone carvings and paintings excavated underneath the temple, proof of earlier Mayan structures. Macaws are carved into the stone  in the pyramids in the tunnels as an emblem. At Copan, the stellae designs are carved into the stone with detail on all four sides. The stone found in Copan is hard like that in Quirigua and has withstood time and erosion. At this Mayan site, they also had many beautiful, red, blue and yellow colored Scarlet Macaws that had been rescued and released back into the forest. Macaws had been hunted out in this area and they are trying to reestablish the population in the park. Next we visited Macaw Mountain Bird Park and saw many different birds and animals. Some parrots were tame enough that we could hold them and take photos. After lunch we had a long drive back to Guatemala City where we stayed overnight in luxury at the Barcelo Hotel. This was the end of the tropical section of our tour.

The next trip planned by Audubon Eco Journeys from April 19 through 22 is to the small mountainous state of Hidalgo, in eastern Mexico, where two separate mountain ranges, with pine, cedar and holm oak forests, present opportunities to get up close to nature for hiking and bird-watching.

Trip
Hidalgo mountain corridor
By Audubon Eco Journeys
April 19-22
US$615
(415) 152-3644

The Toltecs initially settled in what is now Hidalgo at the beginning of the 7th century. They were overrun by the Chichimecas, who in turn were ousted by the Aztecs in the 12th century. Today the state has several indigenous groups who have managed to maintain a relatively strong independent cultural identity since the Conquest.These ethnic groups include the Nahua, the Otomis and the Tepehuas, each still speaking their own language.

The beautiful Hidalgo mountain corridor takes in the former mining estates of Real del Monte, Huasca de Ocampo, and Mineral del Chico, all Pueblos Magicos. Wildlife includes 31 species of serpent, as well as mammals such as skunks, spider monkeys, wild boar, anteaters and gray foxes. The area has just about the widest variety of wild birds in Mexico, including eagles, hummingbirds, falcons and wild turkeys.

The tour will spend the first night in a charming inn in Huasca de Campo. With picturesque streets and colonial architecture, this charming village high up in the mountains is surrounded by plains, mountains, rivers, lakes and waterfalls. The town was created in the mid-18th century by Pedro Romero de Terreros, a Spanish count who at one point was the richest man in the world. There will be visits to Huasca’s Saturday market, the Prismas Basálticos rock formations, its waterfalls, and the remarkable Hacienda de Santa Maria Regla, plus bird watching by the lake and along country roads.

The next day the tour will move on to Real del Monte. A short drive from Hidalgo’s capital (Pachuca), the town is perched in the Sierra de Pachuca, part of the Sierra Madre Oriental. At an altitude of 2,680 meters (8,800 feet), this is one of the highest inhabited places in Mexico, with winding streets and houses in different pastel colors. Wrought iron balconies overlook the street. Casual restaurants sell pan de pulque (a bread made with pulque, a liquor similar to undistilled tequila) and Cornish pastries with a variety of fillings. But how did traditional Cornish pastries wind up in the mountains of Central Mexico? There’ll be a chance to sample them and find out why.

Driving down a serpentine road from Real del Monte there will be a stop at the Acosta Mine Museum on the way to the final destination of Mineral del Chico, which is the Shangri-La of this mountain corridor, in the heart of El Chico National Park. Within this stunning park there are mountains covered with pine and oyamel (fir) trees and impressive rock formations. The park offers nearly 7,000 acres for hiking and bird watching. The final night will be spent at a delightful small hotel in the middle of this peaceful mountain village, enjoying regional cuisine and warm friendly people.

The cost of the trip, based on double occupancy, is US$615, with a small discount for Audubon members. Reservations, which are requested by March 22, can be made with Colleen Besman at (415) 152-3644 or viajesconaudubon@gmail.com and more information is available at www.travelian.com.mx.

By Judy Newell

Mexico Travel News

eBoarding Pass for travel from Mexico

Delta Air Lines announced the eBoarding Pass service is now available for all passengers traveling from Mexico City. The option can replace the traditional paper boarding pass by sending a barcode to customers’ mobile devices when checking in online. Mexico is one of three countries offering the eBoarding Pass service to Delta´s customers in Latin America, along with Chile and Puerto Rico.

Once passengers complete the check-in process online, the eBoarding Pass will be available for them to send or view. If they do not need to check-in any luggage, they may proceed directly to the security point. Passengers with checked bags should go to the baggage drop locations at the airport and present their eBoarding Pass along with a valid government issued photo ID.

The eBoarding Pass can be used on most mobile devices with Internet access either via check-in online or through the Fly Delta app for iPhone, Android or BlackBerry smartphones. It can also be sent to an email address or mobile phone number in the format of an e-mail or text message from delta.com. Passengers should have the barcode image fully visible on the mobile device screen when approaching the security checkpoint or boarding gate for scanning.

Airline News

Istanbul plans world’s biggest airport

The new six-runway hub in Istanbul will be constructed on 77 million square meters of land near Istanbul, and will have a capacity of 150 million passengers a year – 60 million more than Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, currently the busiest in the world.

The airport will be built in four stages with the first stage to be completed in 2017. Currently Istanbul has two airports, Ataturk and Sabiha. Several other grand construction projects are planned for the city, including a high-speed train to Ankara, a third bridge over the Bosphorus, and a redesign of Taksim Square.

International News

Scotland tops CNN’s travel destinations

Scotland has now found itself at the top of CNN’s “Top Travel Destinations for 2013.” The CNN article highlights the huge array of outdoor events and activities taking place in Scotland as part of the Year of Natural Scotland 2013.

DreamWorks to open theme parks in three Russian cities

St. Petersburg, Moscow and Yekaterinburg will open new theme parks in 2015 that will be designed, built and managed by DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc. and the Regions Group of Companies. The new parks will be Europe’s largest year-round indoor entertainment zones, and each will be part of a larger entertainment development featuring a mixed-use movie and concert hall, 4D movie theater, three-star 400-room hotel, and a retail center with 11,000 parking spaces.

Cruise News

Passengers file lawsuits against Carnival

Carnival Cruise Line is facing a number of lawsuits filed by passengers aboard the Carnival Triumph, which lost power in the Gulf of Mexico and was towed into Mobile, Alabama. on February 14. Miami-based maritime law firm Lipcon, Margulies, Alsina & Winkleman is seeking class-action status for its law suit, filed in the US District Court in Miami on behalf of passengers who were on the ship, alleging that the conditions onboard endangered their health.

The suit also contends that Carnival Triumph should have headed for Progreso, Mexico, because it was closer and would have eased conditions faster. Carnival has said the ship drifted away from Progreso, and that plan was further complicated by the fact that 900 of the 3,000 passengers did not have US passports.

But not everyone believes filing lawsuits is the best strategy for passengers in this case. One of the cruise industry’s most strident critics, attorney Jim Walker of Miami, said that in order to have a legitimate case for compensation, a cruise passenger has to suffer a personal injury. “…taking cold showers, smelling toilets that can’t be flushed, eating Spam sandwiches in the dark or other similar ‘cruise from hell’ stories are not compensable.”

Carnival has already agreed to refund passengers’ fares and travel expenses, wiped out shipboard accounts, offered a free cruise and paid them $500 each.

RCI increases tips added to guest accounts

Royal Caribbean International is increasing its gratuities guidelines for sailings starting March 1. Royal Caribbean also will automatically add the recommended gratuities to passenger accounts if they haven’t prepaid tips before boarding. Guests can modify their gratuities at any time during the sailing. The new recommended daily gratuities for dining and housekeeping staff will be $12 per guest per day; suite gratuities are $14.25 per guest per day.

Deal of the Week

European Voyages

2-for-1 cruise fares, free airfare, and bonus savings of up to $3,000 per stateroom are being offered by Oceania Cruises. The offer expires March 31, 2013. Sample cruises: Treasures & Monuments, 12 days Istanbul to Rome, May 25 and August 16, from $3,999 per guest; Isles & Fjords, 12 days London to London, July 29 and August 15, from $5,199 per guest. Many other specials including Summer Music Festival at Sea, August 15 – sail along the fjords of Norway and the lush green coast of Ireland.

Judy Newell heads the travel company Perfect Journeys which specializes in tour and cruise travel for everyone. You can attend her free “Travel Tuesdays” seminar on March 12 from 2 to 3 pm in the Sala Quetzal of the Biblioteca to learn more about the 2013 private small group tours from San Miguel: Luxury Turkey with a Private Gulet Cruise, a 14-day tour July 8-21; and Celebrate Ireland at The Gathering, an 18-day tour September 21 to October 8. Contact Judy at judynewell@perfectjourneys.net.

Sources: Delta Air Lines, Travel Pulse, Oceania Cruises

Mexico Travel News

President Peña Nieto unveils National Tourism Policy

“We will open Mexico to the world, and the world will visit Mexico,” President Peña Nieto said. “Tourism is a fundamental component of our economy and a key driver of national development.”

The President announced the formation of a committee that will coordinate a multi-sector effort to grow the tourism industry in Mexico. According to Mexico Tourism Board, tourism is responsible for close to nine percent of Mexico’s gross domestic product. Mexico will achieve a competitive edge by providing diverse offerings in such categories as culture, health, meetings and conventions and eco-tourism.

“Growth of the tourism sector is important for tourists and Mexicans alike,” the President continued. “The opportunity to explore Mexico should be attainable by all Mexicans.”

Investor group buys large share of Aeromexico

A group of Mexican businessmen, led by Eduardo Tricio and Valentin Diez-Morodo, purchased shares representing 20.19 percent of the outstanding shares of Aeromexico. Tricio is head of dairy producer Grupo Lala and Diez-Morodo is president of Grupo Nevadi International. Tricio will become chairman of the board and Diez-Morodo will serve as vice chairman.

The news about the purchase of shares came on the same day Aeromexico released its financial earnings for all of 2012 and the fourth quarter. The carrier reported record revenues of US$3.1 billion in 2012, representing 10.5 percent growth year-over-year for the full year.

A volcano is born

On February 20, 1943 Dionisio Pulido, a farmer in the Mexican state of of Michoacán, was working in his cornfield along with his wife and son. From the center of the field, a hissing noise began. Suddenly a plume of smoke and ash began spewing from the ground from a fissure that opened. Pulido and his family were witnessing the birth of Volcán de Parícutin.

The farmer and his family fled the area and the town of Parícutin was soon covered in ash.

Twelve months later, the volcano was a thousand feet tall. For the next eight years, the eruptions continued. Lava poured out of the volcano, scorching more than 14 square miles of surrounding land. In 1952 the eruptions ended and Parícutin went quiet, attaining a height of 1,275 feet. Scientists believe it to be a “monogenetic” volcano, meaning it will most likely never erupt again.

Cruise News

Windstar purchases three Seabourn ships

Windstar Cruises made headlines when it announced that it was buying three 208-passenger ships from Seabourn. By 2015, Windstar will double its fleet by adding the more-traditional cruise ships to its trio of motor-sail vessels.

Seabourn Pride will move over to the Windstar fleet in May 2014, with Seabourn Legend and Seabourn Spirit following a year later. The ships will undergo a renovation and their names will be changed. When complete, Windstar will have a total of 1,230 berths.

Baseball Legends voyages

American Queen Steamboat Company is offering two “Baseball Legends” voyages this summer. The July 19-27 cruise from St. Louis to Cincinnati will feature veteran umpire Al Clark, New York Yankee Ron Blomberg and 1969 World Champion Art Shamsky, who played for the Mets from 1968 to 1972.

The July 26-Aug. 1 cruise from Cincinnati to Pittsburgh will feature former Texas Rangers, New York Yankees and Atlanta Braves outfielder Billy Sample, Jay Johnstone, who played for seven teams including the Los Angeles Dodgers twice, and Al Clark again.

Fares begin at US$1,820 per guest and include a one-night pre-voyage hotel stay, shore tours in every port and complimentary wine and beer with dinner.

International News

Indian Arts and Culture Festival

The 13th annual Indian Arts and Culture Festival will take place May 25-June 2, in southwest Colorado’s Mesa Verde Country. Featured as a “must-attend festival” in Patricia Schultz’s best seller, 1,000 Places to See Before You Die, the celebration takes place amid ancient cliff dwellings, pinion pines, and sandstone canyon walls. A juried Indian art market, featuring artists from Pueblo, Zuni, Hopi, Navajo, Ute and Apache tribes, and a Navajo rug seminar and auction highlight the weekend.

Where bin Laden went down, a theme park to rise up

Move over Orlando, here comes Abbottabad. Pakistan’s tourism officials have announced plans to build a US$30 million amusement park on the outskirts of the Himalayan foothills town that gained worldwide attention as the place where US Navy SEALs killed Osama bin Laden. The 50-acre site will include a zoo, restaurants, water sports, miniature golf as well as rock climbing and paragliding, officials said.

The project will take five years to complete, with work beginning in late February or early March. According to the Pakistan tourism ministry’s website, Abbottabad is a popular summer resort area and a gateway to mountain adventures. “It is a charming town spread out over several low, refreshingly cool and green hills,” the site reads.

Deal of the Week

Free gratuities and upgrades on Celebrity

Celebrity Cruises’ “Summer Sizzle” sale offers free gratuities, upgrades and discounts on 2013 cruises in Alaska, Bermuda and Europe. Booking dates are through March 10. Europe cruises bookings offer receive free gratuities, free upgrades from ocean-view to veranda staterooms or a US$99 upgrade from ConciergeClass to AquaClass staterooms. Deposits are also reduced by 50 percent. Captain’s Club members will receive a US$500 onboard credit when booking a suite.

Those who book an Alaska or Bermuda cruise through March 10 will receive free gratuities and 50 percent reduced deposits. Captain’s Club members will receive a US$400 onboard credit when booking a suite.

Judy Newell heads the travel company Perfect Journeys which specializes in tour and cruise travel for everyone. She also conducts private tours from San Miguel de Allende. She announces here her two small group tours for 2013: Luxury Turkey with a Private Gulet Cruise, a 14-day tour July 8-21; and Celebrate Ireland at The Gathering, an 18-day tour September 21 to October 8. Contact her at judynewell@perfectjourneys.net.

Sources: Travel Pulse, Travel Research Online, Media Kitty, NBC New

Mexico Travel News

Carnival moves port calls from Belize to Puerto Costa Maya

Carnival Cruise Lines has switched scheduled Belize calls to Puerto Costa Maya in Mexico on nine cruises by the Carnival Glory and Carnival Legend. The company said the change was made “due to port congestion in Belize on those dates.”

The affected dates will be in February, March, and December 2013. Carnival plans to update the shore excursion packages for those cruises and add on additional port time for passengers to enjoy Cozumel.

New invitational golf tournament in Nuevo Vallarta

Vidanta Golf, the largest golf course operator in Mexico, announced the creation of the Grand Luxxe Member Invitational golf tournament at its Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course in Nuevo Vallarta. The tournament is scheduled to be held from May 27 to 29.

The tournament will feature a $1 million prize hole-in-one contest for the 12 players closest to the pin during the tournament. An additional prize of a TaylorMade driver will be presented for the man and the woman who make the longest drives on Hole Number 8. Vidanta Golf will also present several other closest-to-the-hole prizes.

Cruise News

No single supplement on Amazon and Galapagos cruises

International Expeditions is offering select cabins on all 2013 Amazon and Galapagos Voyage departures with no single supplement fees. A new Amazon riverboat for 24 passengers has been launched that offers unrivaled access to the Peruvian rainforest’s most pristine areas. In the Galapagos Islands, enjoy an intimate experience with a nature cruise aboard the 32-guest Evolution. Space is limited.

Smash hit “Dancing With the Stars” sizzles on board

Holland America Line has added a host of celebrity and professional dancers to its “Dancing With the Stars: At Sea” theme cruises. “Dancing With the Stars” is one of the biggest television shows on earth and the six theme cruises in 2013 and early 2014 will give guests a chance to learn the steps, meet the stars, and join in the fun. They’ll also feature dance lessons and a production starring the celebrities and dance pros. Performers are subject to change.

International News

What do Gandhi, Jesus and Stalin have in common? Theme parks!

Mahatma Gandhi is the latest historical figure to rate a theme park created in his image. The “Gandhi for Tomorrow” theme park is to be built on 10 acres near an ashram he established and inhabited for six years.

As theme parks go, this one sounds more sedate than riotous. Its centerpiece will be a convention center adjoining the existing Sewagram Ashram in the Indian state of Maharashtra. It will include space for local artisans and scientists and have a study center and hostel for those “keen to learn Gandhian thoughts.”

But Gandhi isn’t the only historical figure − peace-loving or otherwise − to be a theme-park catalyst. Last year, the mayor of a small town southwest of Paris announced plans for a “Napoleonland,” which will celebrate the diminutive emperor’s empire-building conquests. A highlight: re-enactments of the storming of the Bastille.

“The Holy Land Experience,” a Christian theme park in Orlando, puts Jesus stage-front with regular reenactments of the Crucifixion.

Hacienda Nápoles, the former mansion of notorious Colombian drug lord Pablo Escobar, was converted into a theme park in 2007 by the local municipality about 100 miles east of Medellin. Highlights: drug-smuggling planes, a bullring and giant plaster dinosaurs.

And 75 miles east of Vilnius, Lithuania, “Grutus Park,” aka “Stalin World,” pays homage to the bad old days of Soviet domination. Featured are Soviet-era statuary and re-creations of Gulag prison camps.

Travel Advisory for El Salvador

The US Department of State issued a travel advisory warning US citizens regarding security in El Salvador. While the advisory notes that US citizens “do not appear to be targeted based on their nationality,” it adds that 22 US citizens have been murdered in El Salvador since January 2010. During the same time period, 230 US citizens reported having their passports stolen and armed robberies of climbers and hikers in El Salvador’s national parks are common.

Tens of thousands of US citizens safely visit El Salvador each year for study, tourism, business and volunteer work, according to the advisory, but crime and violence are “serious problems throughout the country” and “El Salvador lacks sufficient resources to properly investigate and prosecute cases and to deter violent crime.” A country of roughly six million people, El Salvador has hundreds of known street gangs totaling more than 20,000 members, according to the advisory.

BOX

Deal of the Week

Celebrate America aboard a steamboat

Summertime savings on the American Queen offer a two-category stateroom upgrade and savings of up to US$750 per stateroom, plus there’s no single supplement on inside cabins and a 20 percent single supplement on outside staterooms.

Celebrate Independence Day on the July 5 voyage with a complimentary hotel night in St. Louis to enjoy Fair St. Louis, one of the nation’s largest Independence Day celebrations. Baseball fans can meet legends of the game face to face on the July 20 and July 27 voyages, with the added bonus of terrific live music each evening. Space is limited.

Judy Newell heads the travel company Perfect Journeys which specializes in tour and cruise travel for everyone. She also conducts private small group tours from San Miguel de Allende. In September, a 14-night program will visit Ireland to celebrate “The Gathering 2013.” Contact her at judynewell@perfectjourneys.net.

Sources: Travel Pulse, International Expeditions, Holland America Line, USA Today, Rail Europe, American Queen Steamboat Company

Mexico Travel News

Cancun celebrates end of Mayan Calendar

Cancun Convention and Visitors Bureau reported that the week of December 21 was among the most successful tourism weeks in the destination’s history. Hotels across Cancun enjoyed above average occupancy rates, while locals and tourists alike took part in celebrations that would bid farewell to the end of an era and welcome in a new one.

One of the most popular and moving festivities took place at Punta Sur on the southernmost point of Isla Mujeres. Hosted by Dolphin Discovery, the all-night celebration began the evening of December 20 and lasted until daybreak on December 21. More than 600 people gathered in all-white clothing to embrace the first rays of sunlight to reach Mexico’s shores, a moment the Mayan community had been awaiting for 5,125 years. Prior to sunrise, Mayan dancers entertained guests while shamans blessed them using ceremonial copal.

New “Generations” brand in Riviera Maya

Karisma Hotels & Resorts plans to expand its new Generations brand adjacent to El Dorado Beach Riviera Maya this summer. It will cater to families who want to combine adult and family experiences. The Riviera property will initially launch with at least 100 rooms this summer, with more accommodations and facilities opening in phases. Generations enables families to experience separate activities so that parents may enjoy time away from the kids.

Cruise News

Queen Elizabeth 2 to become floating hotel in Asia

A Singapore-based ship management company, Oceanic Group, is heading up plans to transform Cunard’s former Queen Elizabeth 2 into a floating luxury hotel based at an undisclosed location in Asia.

After the renovation, the liner will offer 400 European-style guest rooms and suites, three Michelin-starred restaurants, over 100,000 square feet of retail shopping, a QE2-themed museum, exhibition space, and a grand ballroom.

Oceanic announced the plans in Port Rashid, Dubai, where the beloved vessel has been docked since 2008. Before its retirement to Dubai, the QE2 cruised around the world and operated scheduled liner service across the Atlantic Ocean between Southampton and New York. The iconic vessel carried 2.5 million passengers, sailed nearly 6 million miles and completed 806 trans-Atlantic crossings during 39 years of service for Cunard.

International News

Europe’s highest suspension bridge opens in Swiss Alps

Caution: Switzerland’s newest tourist attraction may make your knees go weak and your heart beat a little faster, but, oh, what a view.

The Titlis Cliff Walk, Europe’s highest suspension bridge, sways at 10,000 feet above sea level in the Swiss Alps. On a clear day, visitors can gaze at central Switzerland, experience a beautiful panorama of the surrounding mountains, and glimpse parts of Italy and peek down more than 1,600 feet into the abyss.

The 3-foot wide, 320-foot long bridge will be open whenever the Mount Titlis cable car is operational and the cost of walking across it is included in the roundtrip ticket up to the mountain – about US$90.

Amsterdam won’t enforce coffee shop tourist ban, mayor says

Amsterdam police will turn a blind eye to foreigners buying cannabis in its famous “coffee shops” when a national ban comes into force next year. The mayor put an end to months of uncertainty over a ban that was introduced last year by a Dutch national government coalition, which has since collapsed.

“It has been decided that Amsterdam law enforcement authorities will not attach any priority to enforcing the local residence requirement,” Amsterdam mayor Eberhard van der Laan wrote in a letter to the current government.

The previous Liberal-Christian Democrat coalition government, which introduced the ban, complained that coffee shops attracted crime and unwelcome visitors. But the legislation was greeted with dismay by officials in Amsterdam, whose more than 200 coffee shops are a major source of income.

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Deal of the Week

Cunard & Princess launch promotions

Sister companies Cunard Line and Princess Cruises launched Wave Season promotions. Cunard is offering savings on select trans-Atlantic crossings aboard Queen Mary 2 and European cruises on Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria. In addition, savings of up to US$1,000 per couple on airfare are available on select European cruises of 12 days or longer. The offers expire March 31.

Fares now start at US$999 per person (including government fees and taxes) on seven-day crossings departing April 26, May 3, May 25, December 15 and January 3. Additionally, guests booking a Britannia Club on the Queen Elizabeth’s May 26 “Norwegian Fjords & North Cape Explorer” can save up to US$1,200 per stateroom in cruise fare.

Princess is offering savings on both cruise prices and airfare when booking with Princess eZAir through February 15. Featured cruise deals will save passengers up to US$1,000 per stateroom on their sailing, plus up to US$1,000 savings per couple on airfare.

The sale includes cruises in Europe and Alaska. Sample cruise deals include a 12-day Greek Isles cruise priced from US$2,529 for a balcony (was US$3,029) and air savings of US$500, as well as a seven-day Alaska cruise priced from US$1,299 for a balcony (was US$1,399) and air savings of US$100.

Judy Newell heads the travel company Perfect Journeys which specializes in tour and cruise travel for everyone. She also conducts private small group tours from San Miguel de Allende. 2013 tours will be announced in soon. Contact her at judynewell@perfectjourneys.net.

Sources: Travel Pulse, NBC News.com, Cunard Line, Princess Cruises

Mexico Travel News, great travel spots in Mexico, Part Two

In last week’s article I gave you five great travel spots in Mexico. And here are four more. Discover the real Mexico in 2013 — great beaches for snorkeling and surfing, an affordable wine country, pirate legends and ancient Maya temples are reasons enough to make new travel discoveries in 2013.

Akumal, Quintana Roo

Fly Into: Cancun (66 miles away) or Playa del Carmen (23 miles away)

Why Go: To snorkel with sea turtles near the beach

An easy drive on a modern four-lane highway south of Cancun brings you to this quiet little town on the Riviera Maya’s Half Moon Bay. In Akumal, or “Place of the Turtles,” green and loggerhead sea turtles make the calm Caribbean bay their home year-round. This year alone, more than 30,000 hatchlings have been released by volunteers and visitors from Akumal’s ecological center. Snorkel out from the palm-lined white sandy beach to see the graceful swimmers—some as big as semitruck wheels—and hear them munch on sea grass. There are only a handful of small hotels, casual restaurants and artisan shops in this low-key, get-away-from-it-all destination.

If You Go: Rent snorkel or scuba gear on the beach at Akumal Dive Center or Akumal Dive Adventures. The Jungle Place spider monkey sanctuary is just west of Akumal.

Ensenada, Baja California

Fly Into: San Diego (88 miles away) or Tijuana (72 miles away)

Why Go: For wine country that’s still affordable

Near the US border in northwestern Baja, Ensenada sits at the edge of Mexico’s most popular wine-producing valley, Valle de Guadalupe. There are rustic family cellars, large award-winning wineries, vineyards with cute B&Bs, and upscale restaurants that give the region an authentic charm similar to Tuscany or Napa, but without blowing the budget. And, since this coastal town is also a fishing village, fresh hauls of seafood fill the boardwalk’s open-air fish market and tacos that are sold from Ensenada’s legendary street carts.

If You Go: Taste wine at more than 55 wineries in Ensenada and Valle de Guadalupe. Try fresh seafood tostadas at La Guerrerense, a favorite of Anthony Bourdain’s. Take a whale-watching excursion to see grey whales migrating in January, February, and March.

Campeche, Campeche

Fly Into: Mérida (105 miles away)

Why Go: Seaside forts, colonial architecture, and pirate legends

On the west side of the Yucatán Peninsula opposite Cancun, the capital city of Campeche is a colonial beauty in pastels. Walk the streets of Old Town to see the stately, well-preserved buildings awash in pink, blue, and yellow; these were once protected from pirate attacks by the surrounding city walls and maritime bastions. Many of Campeche’s forts and watchtowers are now museums that reveal stories of this city’s history as a major shipping port between New Spain and America.

If You Go: Step inside historical strongholds that now house attractions like Campeche’s archeological museum, the Museum of Ships and Weapons, the Botanical Gardens, and a museum about piracy. Just outside of town is the Edzna archaeological site’s ancient Maya temples and underground irrigation canals.

Sayulita, Nayarit

Fly Into: Puerto Vallarta (30 miles away)

Why Go: Boho-chic surf-town vibe

Sayulita is synonymous with peace, love and surfing. This little laid-back Riviera Nayarit beach town just north of Puerto Vallarta is a top Mexican surf spot. Experience the bohemian vibe in beachfront restaurants and local bars and on the beach, where the sound of drums accompanies friendly gatherings. Diversity is the norm here. Local fishermen mix with expats and international visitors in the village’s coffee shops and fish-taco joints. Homes and B&B bungalows dot the forested hillside overlooking the ocean.

If You Go: Sign up for a surf camp at one of the many surf schools. Sailing charters to secluded beaches and on-the-beach horseback-riding tours are affordable in Sayulita. Shoppers will find colorful boutiques with local Huichol arts and crafts.

BOX

Deal of the Week

Two-for-One Deal on Tanzania’s Great Wing Safari

Great Safaris is offering a two-for-one deal for its eight-day Great Wing Safari in Tanzania. The deal is good only for departures January 20, 22 and 24; February 1, 3, 13 and 15; May 16; June 9 and 23; and August 24. Under the terms of the offer, the first traveler pays US$6,984 for all-inclusive land arrangements and internal airfare and a companion receives the same for free.

Guests will fly to the safari lodge on a nine-seat executive aircraft and stay in first class accommodations with gourmet cuisine. The itinerary includes Arusha, Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti Park. Accommodations will be at the luxurious Elewana camps and lodges.

The offer is valid only on departures listed above. The fully inclusive two-for-one fare is US$6,984 and includes luxury accommodations, meals, guided game viewing, and internal airfare by private aircraft. International airfare to Tanzania and Tanzania park fees of US$395 per person are not included.

Judy Newell heads the travel company Perfect Journeys which specializes in tour and cruise travel for everyone. She also conducts private small group tours from San Miguel de Allende. 2013 tours will be announced in soon. Contact her at judynewell@perfectjourneys.net.

Sources: Smarter Travel, Travel Pulse

Great travel destinations in Mexico, part one

Ready to discover the real Mexico? If you’ve traveled all over the world and still have much to discover in Mexico, here’s help. Charming historical plazas, tequila, mezcal and mole poblano, an affordable wine country, and a canyon bigger than the Grand Canyon are reasons enough to make new travel discoveries in 2013. Next week we’ll take a look at more destinations for you to visit.

Mérida, Yucatán

Fly Into: Merida or Cancun (190 miles away)

Why Go: It’s a cosmopolitan cultural capital

The cultural capital of the Yucatán Peninsula, Mérida has become a favorite destination among European travelers. They come for the colonial history (only Mexico City has a larger historical center), the region’s best museums, and a fabulous Sunday market. Walk the narrow brick streets in the tree-lined historical Plaza Grande and you’ll see majestic white-limestone buildings and a cathedral built in the 1500s with stones from Maya pyramid ruins. From here, you can easily day-trip to the Maya archaeological sites of Chichen Itza (75 miles away) and Uxmal (50 miles away).

If You Go: Shop the busy Sunday market at Plaza Grande, which fills with locals selling crafts, playing live music, and dancing in traditional dress. Rent a bike any Sunday morning, when the city closes sections of the road to traffic to create the Bici Ruta bicycle route.

Tlaquepaque/Guadalajara, Jalisco

Fly Into: Guadalajara

Why Go: Traditional pottery and tequila tours

One of Mexico’s top destinations for arts and crafts, Tlaquepaque (pronounced “tlah-kay-PAH-kay” and roughly translated “Place above clay land”) is known for its long history of pottery making. Visitors come to browse the clay ceramics and other fine arts in the trendy shopping district of this quaint colonial village that was absorbed by urban sprawl and is now a part of Guadalajara. At the Regional Ceramics Museum, you can learn the ancient techniques that locals still use for working the clay. For a quintessential tequila experience, ride a luxury train to the town of Tequila, about 90 minutes away, to see the agave landscape and how the spirit is processed.

If You Go: The best shopping is along the pedestrian-only Independencia and nearby Avenida Juárez. Find craft stalls, fresh flowers, and food vendors at the mercado, open daily. Hear mariachis perform traditional music as you enjoy a cocktail or a meal at El Parián.

Copper Canyon, Chihuahua

Fly Into: Chihuahua City (255 miles away)

Why Go: This canyon one-ups the Grand Canyon

For the adventurous, Copper Canyon is Mexico’s answer to the Grand Canyon, only bigger. These green-hued walls are longer and deeper than the grand walls in neighboring Arizona and have plenty of stunning waterfalls, hot springs, lakes, caves, and rock formations to explore. If you arrange an excursion to the bottom of the canyon with a Tarahumara guide, you’ll see a remote village of the native Tarahumara people, who are known for their long-distance-running and basketry skills. To get to the canyon, it’s a six-hour trip on the popular El Chepe train from Chihuahua City.

If You Go: Hike, mountain bike, or go horseback riding with a local guide. Copper Canyon Adventure Park, which opened in 2010, has a scenic gondola over an abyss and seven zip lines connected with two sky-high suspension bridges.

Puebla, Puebla

Fly Into: Puebla or Mexico City (82 miles away)

Why Go: Mexico’s best mole poblano

In the country’s central highlands, just beyond two imposing volcanoes southeast of Mexico City, is a gem that has it all: a beautiful landscape, gold-encrusted baroque churches, winding streets, fountains, and exquisite Talavera pottery. Then there’s Puebla’s historic claim to fame: the victory (against impossible odds) over the French on May 5, 1862, for which the Cinco de Mayo holiday was named. But Puebla’s greatest source of pride is its food. The city is the birthplace of mole poblano (chile, nuts, and chocolate sauce, poured over chicken), chiles en nogada, and chalupas.

If You Go: Don’t miss the gorgeous display of books at Biblioteca Palafoxiana, the oldest library in the Americas. A 30-minute drive from Puebla is the archaeological site of Cholula and one of the world’s largest pyramids.

Oaxaca, Oaxaca

Fly Into: Oaxaca

Why Go: Festivals, arts, and mezcal

In Oaxaca (“wa-HAH-kah”), the fiesta never ends. No matter when you visit, you’re bound to encounter a celebration of one kind or another in this festive capital city. Brass bands, dancing, traditional processions, and fireworks are usually part of the festivities. You can also get a glimpse into the colonial city’s culture at two weekly markets or in the many museums and art galleries around the main square. Travel just outside of town to see villagers creating Oaxaca’s renowned handicrafts: black-clay pottery and alebrijes, colorful painted animal carvings.

If You Go: Sip your way along the region’s new mezcal route and learn that the handcrafted spirit, like tequila, is produced from a species of agave but is imparted with a smokier flavor. Visit two nearby archaeological sites, the hilltop Monte Alban (six miles away) and Mitla (28 miles away), with ruins of palaces and a number of tombs.

Deal of the Week

Tahiti luxury cruises 50 percent savings and free air from LAX

50 percent off standard cruise fares plus included roundtrip airfare from Los Angeles on all 2013 sailings of the m/s Paul Gauguin. Tahiti & the Society Islands, 7 nights from US$3,995; Society Islands & Tuamotus, 10 nights from US$4,747; Cook Islands & Society Islands, 11 nights from US$4,997; Marquesas, Tuamotus & Society Islands, 14 nights from US$5,997; Australs & Society Islands, 11 nights from US$5,297.

Judy Newell heads the travel company Perfect Journeys which specializes in tour and cruise travel for everyone. She also conducts private small group tours from San Miguel de Allende. 2013 tours will be announced soon. Contact her at judynewell@perfectjourneys.net

Sources: Smarter Travel, Paul Gauguin Cruises

Strong progress on National Agreement on Tourism

Secretary of Tourism Gloria Guevara Manzo said the National Agreement on Tourism has achieved 85 percent of goals committed to by the federal government and is expecting 2012 to be a record-breaking year.

Tourism represents nine percent of Mexico’s GDP and generates more than 2.5 million jobs. The administration of President Felipe Calderon created the agreement for the development of tourism in Mexico and it was one of the administration’s principle achievements.

Because of coordinated efforts during 2011, Mexico reached a record-breaking number of tourists, with over 191.5 million domestic and international travelers. Ms. Guevara noted that by the end of 2012, more than 200 million domestic and international tourists are expected to Mexican destinations, exceeding last year’s record-breaking figure.

Wine & Food Festival scheduled for March

The second annual Cancun-Riviera Maya Wine & Food Festival will take place from March 14 to 17, bringing together consumers and prestigious food, wine, spirits or coffee producers, importers and distributors.

Under the theme “Europe Meets the Americas,” the festival will celebrate Italy and feature avant-garde chef Massimo Bottura of three-star Michelin restaurant Osteria, and Mexican chef Enrique Olvera, whose restaurants Osteria Francescana and Pujol were ranked No. 5 and No. 36 in the world, respectively.

The 25-plus events will include a conference on “The Future of Cuisine” by the two star chefs;  exceptional wine and spirits tastings; celebrity chef cooking demos; the American Express gourmet tasting village where guests will savor signature dishes from the 20 best restaurants of Cancun and Riviera Maya; and a closing fiesta with the theme, “Italy meets Mexico: Same Colors, Different Flavors.”

Airline News

Surprising things you can pack

Airline security seems like it’s all about the word “no” these days. But you might be surprised to learn what the TSA says “yes” to − including these seven items. So leave your 151-proof alcohol at home, but go ahead and pack your meat cleaver.

Snow globes

This formerly forbidden souvenir has now been given the OK by the TSA to be packed in your carry-on bag. Keep your snow globes small, though − the tchotchke must contain less than 3.4 ounces of liquid and fit in a quart-sized resealable bag.

Martial arts and self defense items

Most people’s packing staples are things like sunscreen and toiletries, but if you can’t fly without billy clubs, brass knuckles, police batons, nunchucks, stun guns, and throwing stars, the TSA is cool with that too. All of the above can be safely packed in your checked luggage. Go ahead and throw in some pepper spray, too.

Human remains

Even TSA agents might not know this, but you can bring the cremated remains of humans or animals in carry-on luggage. TSA workers are not allowed to open a crematory container, so make sure that the ashes are kept in a receptacle made out of something that is easily screened (such as wood or plastic), because if the X-ray machine cannot see through the container, your loved one’s remains might not be allowed onboard.

Firearms

Don’t just throw your machine gun in a carry-on bag and roll up to the TSA checkpoint. But, if you feel naked without your firearms, you can pack them in your checked bag. You’ll need to declare your weapons during check-in, and all firearms must be unloaded and in a locked hard-sided container. Be sure to check the local gun laws if you are flying between states or out of the country, as gun possession laws may be different in your destination.

Lighters and matches

Remember the failed shoe bomber who we can all thank for making us take our shoes off at security checkpoints? Well, shoes are still a no-go, but the matches and lighters you could use to light a bomb are now OK. In 2007, the TSA lifted the ban on lighters in carry-on luggage after agents were wasting time confiscating around 22,000 of them every day. You can also bring one book of safety matches in your carry-on, but you can’t check them.

Monkeys

We’re not monkeying around − “helper monkeys” and other service animals are allowed on flights. Be sure to tell TSA agents if the animal accompanying you onboard is a service animal, as they can move you to the front of the line to accommodate the longer screening process required. Also know that TSA agents are not supposed to touch your animal without permission.

Spearguns

If your plane goes down on a deserted island, you’ll be one step ahead of the other survivors by packing a speargun in your luggage. You’ll need to put this one in your checked baggage, but otherwise, you can treat it the same way as packing anything else − no need to declare it or any other scuba-diving equipment. However, be sure to wrap or otherwise encase the speargun so that it doesn’t cause injury to baggage handlers or security inspectors.

Deal of the Week

Exotic cruise aboard L’Austral

Cruise from Recife, Brazil to Las Palmas in the Canary Islands from March 19 to April 4, 2013 aboard the mega-yacht of Compagnie du Ponant.  There are only 132 cabins on the luxurious French vessel. L’Austral will depart from Recife, cross the Atlantic, and then sail along the African coast where the Bissagos Islands will reveal their distinctive villages and authentic traditions. Go ashore on some of the most beautiful volcanic islands of Cape Verde, discover the volcanoes and tropical forests of the Canary Islands, visit with natives in local villages, and make excursions to national parks via Zodiac to explore the more remote destinations. 17 days/16 nights, from $5887 per person.

Judy Newell heads the travel company Perfect Journeys which specializes in tour and cruise travel for everyone. She also conducts private small group tours from San Miguel de Allende. The 2013 tours will be announced in January.  Contact Judy by email at judynewell@perfectjourneys.net.

Sources: Travel Pulse, Smarter Travel, Compagnie du Ponant