Travel plan idea blog

Train travel web site

One of my travel dreams is to ride the Trans-Siberian railway so I was happy to find some interesting train travel experiences on this train travel site.

First, I recommend reading about The Eastern & Oriental Express. There's a lot of background information but you can go straight to the riding information by scrolling about half way down the page. Then, try this article on train travel in Sri Lanka. This is another very detailed article with an amazing amount of specific information.

If those articles aren't enough, check out the book reviews. You're sure to find a few train travel books that match your interests.

Tam Coc or Three Caves Vietnam travel experience

I recently heard a great travel experience from someone who used to live in Hanoi (10 years ago). One day they went to Ninh Binh, a small province where you can find Tam Coc or Three Caves. The water was clear and they could see plants under the surface.

To get to Tam Coc, they traveled through the rice paddies on a small bamboo boat, rowed by a Vietnamese woman. When they were almost there, it started raining so they took shelter in the caves.

Soon they decided that the clear rain drops and the bright, sunny weather outside were an experience not to be missed so they left the cave and stood in the rain.

What struck me about their story is that our greatest travel memories are often something unique. I need to think before I can say what my favorite travel experience has been, but I don't think it will be something generic like taking a cruise or seeing Rome's Coliseum. I think it will be something more specific and unique, like this Tam Coc experience.

What do you have to do to get kicked off a cruise ship?

According to one couple all it takes is a reasonable complaint. The complaints were even valid: Waiting 10 hours locked inside a Port Canaveral terminal because Carnival Cruise Lines' Sensation failed safety inspections. This caused the cruise ship to arrive late in the Bahamas so the shore excursion was canceled.

One couple complained because "her cabin reeked of sewage, there was mold in the shower and on the walls in the bathroom and she wasn't able to take a hot shower. She even found a pubic hair and toothpaste residue in the medicine cabinet."

Also, "not all of the elevators were working properly, cabin telephones didn't work and the buffet food wasn't kept hot, passengers said."

Even the complaint about getting sick from dinner seems reasonable when you consider that Nathan Leslie recently returned from Iraq where presumably the army food wasn't as good as the cruise cuisine.

Nathan Leslie, celebarting his marriage as well as his return from Iraq, said that there was "nothing abusive about their complaints. He told the captain he had gotten sick from dinner the previous night, and his wife had really been looking forward to swimming with the dolphins. There was no yelling or cursing, he said."

Carnival counters that "A guest's behavior has to be quite extreme to be ejected from the vessel." Carnival Cruise Lines spokeswoman Jennifer de la Cruz said six passengers were removed from the ship because they were "extremely, extremely verbally aggressive and abusive."

And for what it's worth, "Carnival offered passengers a $50 on-board credit and a 25 percent discount off a future cruise for the delay at the port."

Maybe the passengers did complain in a verbally abusive way, and of course we'll never know. Here's why I think Carnival did the wrong thing: they kicked the 6 people off the ship after they had peacefully left their meeting with the Captain and gone to the Bahmas for lunch. When they tried to get back on the ship, they learned "they were being disembarked for the safety of the other passengers."

To me, that's just wrong. Obviously they weren't putting anyone at risk on their way back from lunch. If you want to kick them off the ship or "disembark" them, you do it the second they begin to put "the safety of the other passengers" in danger. You don't wait for them to go eat lunch and then kick them off several hours after they did something "dangerous".

Colorado vacation plan: July 4th

This is a custom summer vacation plan contest entry geared for a family of four which include parents and two teenagers. This vacation plan will appeal to people who are reasonably fit and appreciate the beautiful outdoors. The destination is southwest Colorado with its evergreen-clad fourteeners, the treasures of our national parks, and small cities and towns that time seemingly forgot. This area is rife with gorgeous sights and it’s one of the most beautiful spots in the state. The length of stay is 10 days. All pricing is in U.S. Dollars. This trip is geared to take advantage of the July 4th holiday.

Day 1:

Fly into Colorado Springs and pick up a rental SUV at Avis ($698.00).

Drive 1 ½ hours to Canon City and stay at the luxurious and rustic Big Horn Mountaintop Lodge ($300.00 plus tax) which is just a stroll from the main gates of the 1,053-foot-deep Royal Gorge which was carved by the Arkansas River more than 3 million years ago. This is the site of the world’s highest suspension bridge. Ride the astonishing aerial tram (2,200 feet long and 1,178 feet above the canyon floor) and enjoy the outdoor musical entertainment. Dine on steaks, seafood or pasta at a locals-favorite, Merlino’s Belvedere (1330 Elm Avenue). Finish your evening back at the lodge and enjoy the unparalleled views stretching across this natural wonder.

Day 2:

Start out your day in the mid-morning. Today is the long, but scenic drive day southwest into Durango (about 5 hours). As you drive southwest, continue through Salida, over Monarch Pass (11,312 foot elevation) through Gunnison to the Black Canyon of the Gunnison with a short detour to the National Monument to view the Canyon. Continue south and experience the famous Million Dollar Highway and continue on and arrive in Durango in time for a late lunch or an early dinner. Try a place that is a local favorite called Ken & Sue’s Place (937 Main Ave). Wonderful contemporary cusine with a touch of an Asian accent.

Check into the historic and beautiful Strater Hotel (699 Main Avenue) ($169.00 for a room with two full beds) where the likes of Butch Cassidy, Louis L’Amour, John Kennedy and Marilyn Monroe have stayed and been entertained.

Finish your evening close to home base listening to the honky-tonk and ragtime entertainers and period-dressed waitresses at the Diamond Belle Saloon in the Strater Hotel. The Diamond Belle is truly an institution and will transport you back to the days of the turn of the 19th century.

Day 3:

Yesterday was a traveling day and today will be a day of relaxation. Sleep in and then mosey on out to explore downtown Durango. Have a juicy burger for lunch at Lady Falconburgh’s Barley Exchange and while you’re there, pick a beer out of more than 100 beers on the menu and 20 on tap!

After lunch, drive over to the Trimble Hot Springs. The main attractions there are the Olympic-sized outdoor pool and a smaller outdoor pool with massage jets and two private tubs. The source water, heated far beneath the LaPlata Mountains, emerges through a fault at Trimble at a piping hot 119 degrees before being mixed to a more tolerable temperature. The area is beautifully landscaped with outdoor grills and a volleyball court. Enjoy a therapeutic massage (30 minutes for $45.00 or 60 minutes for $67.00) or perhaps an herbal oil wrap that includes a foot massage ($72.00). These services include a complimentary private outdoor soak in the therapeutic waters.

Take your relaxed and rubbery body back to your hotel for a nap before dinner. Wake up refreshed and relaxed and enjoy dinner at The Red Snapper Restaurant (144 E. 9th Street). Be lulled by the beauty of their many saltwater aquariums and the delicious seafood and steaks.

Day 4:

Today is the 4th of July! Catch a ride on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gage Railroad. On Independence Day they have a special train called the Independence Day Express which will allow its riders to enjoy the holiday festivities in Silverton, a well preserved mining town, which include parades and fireworks that illuminate the glorious peaks surrounding the town (Adults $89.00, Children $49.00). Lunch at the Handlebar Restaurant (117 13th Street) which is as much a museum as an eatery with its mining artifacts and mounted animals—don’t miss the baby-back ribs! Buy a bottle of the sauce on your way out. To experience the unique beauty and history of the San Juan Mountain Range, nothing beats a trip along these tracks on a steam locomotive. This is an all day event.

Day 5:

Take a half-day white water rafting trip on the Animas River. Mountain Waters Rafting Outfitters (their booth is in the Albertson’s parking lot in downtown Durango; $176.00 for 4 people) provides river trips for all levels of experience and thrill. If you’re ready for high adventure, take the Upper Animas Trip which is a Class V! The Lower Animas has some good rapids, but is a bit more sedate. It winds its way 20 miles south through the Southern Ute Indian Reservation.

In the evening, try an old-fashioned chuck wagon dinner and show with the Bar-D (www.bardchuckwagon.com on County Road 250); corny but fun! The music is darned good and the frontier-style food isn’t bad! An evening of family fun and a few laughs.

Day 6:

Today we experience the dramatic Mesa Verde National Park with its twisting canyons, panoramic views and outstanding archaeological remains. Get an early start to be able to absorb everything this spectacular area has to offer. It is about a one hour drive from Durango and the entrance fee is $10.00 per car. Start at the visitor’s center for information, maps, tickets for tours and Indian exhibits. This is an all day event.

Day 7:

Today we see Colorado at its rugged best—on horseback! The Rapp Corral (47 Electra Lake Road) has a custom-designed itinerary and a personal and historical perspective for their trips into the San Juan National Forest. Consider the Hermosa Cliffs excursion into the elevated peaks, forests, and breathtaking views of Electra Lake and the LaPlata cliffs. This ride climbs 1,000 feet in elevation and is nothing short of spectacular. This is a 5 hour trip during which you stop for a picnic lunch ($120.00 per person).

In the evening, go to the Durango Pro Rodeo and see how real horseback riders can handle a mount! All performances start at 7:30 p.m. ($12.00 at the gate, $10.00 in advance) at the LaPlata County Fairgrounds (25th Street and Main). Full Western BBQ served at the concessions.

Day 8:

Check out of the Strater Hotel in the morning and head to Ouray (about a 1 ½ hour drive). Ouray is nestled in a narrow, steep-walled valley, surrounded by 14,000 foot peaks, and is appropriately referred to as the Switzerland of America. Check into the China Clipper Inn (525 2nd Street; $180.00 per night for a suite accommodation for 4). The China Clipper Inn has magnificent views of the San Juan Mountains, beautiful gardens and is tastefully decorated.

That afternoon, enjoy the awesome alpine landscape in the back of a four-wheel-drive jeep. Switzerland of America Tours (226 7th Avenue; $60.00 per person) has experienced guides and will take you on a personalized high adventure tour to see ghost towns, unimagined scenic vistas, wild flowers and white-knuckled passes cut into cliffs with sheer drops. For the more adventurous, take the keys yourself to one of their vehicles and head into the high country. There are over 500 miles of 4 wheel drive trails in the area. Free mapping service is provided.

Head back into town and dine at the Buen Tiempo (206 7th Avenue) for delicious Mexican fare accompanied by their wonderful Margaritas.

Day 9:

Get up early today and hit the hiking trails. You can find both short and long trails to suit your abilities. A good map of hiking trails in the Ouray area can be picked up at the visitor’s center next to the Ouray Hot Springs Pool.

Leave the Ouray area in the early afternoon for the trip back to Colorado Springs (about 5 hours). Check into the Marriott Residential Inn in Colorado Springs (3880 N. Academy Blvd.; $139.00 for a studio suite for 4 people). Enjoy dinner in Colorado Springs, perhaps at The Briarhurst Manor if you want to end your trip on a luxurious high point (404 Manitou Avenue) or maybe at El Tesoro, whose building served as a brothel at the turn of the century (10 N. Sierra Madre Street) with excellent and authentic Native American cuisine.

Day 10:

Wake up and pack for home. The Colorado Springs Airport is just a short 15 minute drive away.

Submitted by Judy Potrzeba

Getting Acquainted With Europe, With a Touch of Haut Cuisine

Consider contest entry #9 this a guide for getting acquainted with Europe in a quaint manner; it mixes student resourcefulness with more expensive tastes. It would be perfect, in my opinion, for a mid-20s couple, who want to get a general sense of Europe, while experiencing some great food and great times. I am assuming that the reader I coming from New York City. I am assuming plain tickets are approximately $1000 round trip.

For the duration of your stay in London, you may wish to stay at the Cumberland Hotel for $184.00/night (book through expedia). The Radisson Edward Berkshire can be booked for 130 pounds per night, when on sale. Check hotels.com or expedia for cheaper hotels. Frankly, the hotel you stay at depends on the level of accommodations you want and your desire to go through the full itinerary. The London itinerary is rather packed, so it makes more sense to book a cheaper hotel, if you are not swimming in money, and spend more on a hotel in Paris.

Day 1: Fly from JFK to London.

Simply recuperate. I put very few requirements for the first day of your trip. However, there are two notable items on your itinerary for the day. First, you should visit Big Ben. You should request a tour 3 months in advance of your trip at http://www.britainexpress.com/London/Big_Ben.htm. Next, you should go to a play; I would recommend the Lion King or some other light hearted fare for your vacation.

Day 2: London Art

Get dropped off near the glob theater. Grab lunch at one of the many notable pizza restaurants in the surrounding area. Walk to the Globe Theater in London. This Globe Theater is a reconstruction of the original Globe. Take the tour of the Globe, it is worthwhile. If you are fortunate, perhaps you can substitute in a later production of a Shakespeare play for this portion of the trip (with due planning.) Walk across the Millennium Bridge, which is a spectacle in and of itself. Enter St. Paul’s Cathedral, constructed by Christopher Wren, the renowned architect. After St. Paul’s you have the opportunity to go the Tate Modern, Britain’s museum of Modern Art, which offers, to say the least “startling” artwork. Take a High Speed Boat Ride to Tate Britain, the original Tate museum that was renamed after the construction of the Tate Modern. Eat dinner at Gordon Ramsey at Claridge’s, be sure to have made a reservation long before your trip (a month in advice or more should suffice).

Cost: 9 Pounds (Globe Tour), 70 Pounds (Gordon Ramsey), 10 pounds (lunch at a pizza place), 20 pounds (miscellaneous expenses, including cabs).

Day 3: A trip to Cambridge (relaxation)

The architecture of Cambridge is, in and of itself, notable. Thus, the purpose of the trip is to enjoy the historic university. You may want to peruse King’s College, the King’s College Chapel, probably the most famous building in Cambridge, and the architecture of the other colleges. For lunch, go to the Cambridge Market. In addition to purchasing food, such as Ostrich burgers, you can purchase clothes, souvenirs, and other goods. Take your lunch on a short walk down to Christ’s Pieces Park and have a picnic. Finally, enjoy yourself on a punting tour of Cambridge. The tour guide pushes your punt along with a long pole that touches the bottom of the river Cam. Take some time to shop around Cambridge. Perhaps enjoy the nightlife for a night, though be prepared, tomorrow is a long day. Price: Just miscellaneous expenses.

Day 4: A Long Day Trip to Winchester, Stonehenge and Georgian Bath

This is a long day-trip. If you are looking for a shorter and more leisurely day trip, consider a trip only the Roman Baths. This will allow you to enjoy the Baths, Bath Abbey, and the Poulteney Bridge at your own leisure. Feel free to even enjoy some relaxation time at a spa if you make this choice. Otherwise, your day will begin with an early pickup. You will be transported to the Winchester Cathedral; from there you will visit Stonehenge in the mid afternoon. Finally, you will have an opportunity to visit the Roman Baths. Fortunately, because of the time constrained nature of this trip you will prompted to enjoy lighter cuisine today. Cost: 60 Pounds (Trip), 20 Pounds (miscellaneous).

Day 5: London Art 2

Breakfast of Crepes at Hampstead. Take a taxi to the British Museum, the oldest museum in the world, and one of the greatest museums in terms of art form all time periods. It is worthwhile to see the Rosetta Stone, the famous stone used to translate ancient lexicons. Perusing the museum can take hours upon hours, though I would recommend taking a guided tour and then perusing at your leisure. Enjoy a late lunch at a destination of you leisure. Take a Taxi to the National Gallery, a pre-eminent collection of art, founded without a royal collection, in Trafalgar Square. Interesting paintings include Van Gogh’s Sunflowers, some works by Da Vinci, and many other wonderful pieces. Enjoy the square at your leisure. Enjoy a late Dinner at Hakkasan, a Chinese Dim Sum eatery, famous for the quality of their food (though service can be shoddy depending on the day. Cost: 60 Pounds (Hakkasan), 15 Pounds (miscellaneous expenses, including cabs)

Day 6: Leisure

Take some time off, if you need it. Otherwise, feel free to add your own itinerary items on this day. For the evening, I highly recommend you make reservations at the 606 Club for a late Dinner and Jazz performance. This was one of the highlights of my last trip to London with my whole family. A good Jazz performance is worthwhile for most individuals 16 and older. If you have younger children, let them enjoy themselves in the hotel for a bit, while you enjoy a night of revelry and lovely music. Their website is located at http://www.606club.co.uk/. Price: 25 Pounds (606 Club)

Day 7: General London Tour and a Play

Enjoy a full day guided tour of the many sites of London. Included in the tour is a trip to the Tower of London, a viewing of the Changing of the Guard, a Thames River Cruise and Pub Lunch, a trip to Westminster Abbey, and my personal favorite, Afternoon Tea at Kensington Palace. The tour is available online at http://www.premiumtours.co.uk/tours/details.asp?iProductID=143. Cost: 70 Pounds (Tour), 20 Pounds (miscellaneous expenses, including food and drink)

In Paris, you may consider staying at the Hotel Le Walt ($200/night) or another luxury hotel. Otherwise, if you are on a tighter budget consider Les Jardins du Marais. Considered a “hidden treasure,” which is an extremely great value for its price.

Day 8: Off to France. Take the Chunnel between Paris and London. The trip is remarkably quick, so in truth, you have still have a half day to enjoy.

For Dinner, you may enjoy any one of Paris’ great restaurants. I would recommend Arpege, a Michelin 3 star French Restaurant. Expect to splurge on food, but according to Michelin a three star restaurant is worth a trip "to itself." You get to enjoy Arpege without taking a trip to go there. This restaurant is perfect if either of you are vegetarians; the chef himself, Alain Passard, one of the most celebrated in the world, recently turned vegetarian and the fair at Arpege is all vegetarian. Cost: 140 Euros

Day 9: The Louvre, Paris Museums & Cabaret

Today, you will have the opportunity to see the art contained in France. The Musee Picasso and Musee Rodin, hosting the works of their respective namesakes are also worthwhile. Feel free to enjoy another art exhibition in Paris, or simply enjoy the rest of your day at a leisurely pace. Consider taking a walk to Monmartre and Sacre Couer, if you feel you have enough free time. Finally, make reservations for dinner and cabaret at Le Lido, a cabaret on the Champs-Elysees. Dinner is at 7:30. Cost: 140 Euros (Le Lido)

Day 10: More Art

Take some time to relax today. You will have the opportunity to peruse more art at the Musee de l’Orangerie de Tuileries, located on the south side of the Tuileries terrace. It contains paintings by Monet, Matisse, Renoir, and Picasso. Then take the opportunity to enjoy the Centre Pompidou, which is famous for its glass elevators and controversial art. If you have the time, you may wish to enjoy a spa in the evening or go out once again for a 3 star Michelin meal at a restaurant such as Plaza Athenee, by Alain Ducasse, who incidentally runs another Michelin restaurant in New York City. Be aware that this restaurant is closed mid-July to mid-August and not for those without a hefty check book. Another interesting choice, for those less stuffy individuals is, L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon in Paris. Robuchon’s last restaurant also garnered three Michelin stars, though he chose to close it and start this one. Cost: 100 Euros (L’Atelier)

Day 11: Notre Dame, the Eiffel Tower and Opera

The purpose of today is to visit two very famous Parisian landmarks. Notre Dame de Paris the Eiffel Tower are landmarks of historical and touristy importance. Thus, take a taxi to the Notre Dame Cathedral and enjoy a tour. From there take a taxi to the Eiffel Tower. If you are adventurous, feel free to try to walk up some of the many flights of stairs. After you spend time at the Eiffel tower, make a reservation for the French Opera at the Opera Nacional de Paris. Cost: 50 Euros (Opera), 20 Euros (Miscellaneous expenses)

Day 12: The Louvre, Tuileries Gardens, Champs Elysées

You will get an opportunity today to peruse the Historical axis of Paris. It is a line of monuments running through the center of Paris, including the Louvre, the Tuileries Gardens, and the Arc de Triomphe. The Louvre hosts many priceless works of art, including the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo; the lines for the Louvre can be long, but it is really necessary to wait them out, since the Louvre is, in truth, such a critical part of a trip to Paris. From the Louvre, you can walk to the Tuileries Gardens. Here, feel free to simply revel in their natural Beauty. Continue walking to the Champs-Elyse and the Arc de Triomphe. Around the Arc de Triomphe, feel free to shop and eat. Cost: 50 Euros (Miscellaneous expenses)

Day 13: Relax. Consider a wine tasting for the afternoon. Take the chance to visit the sites not listed on this itinerary that interest you. Consider lunch at another Michelin 3 star restaurant. You will either be continuing your journey to Italy, or going home at this point.

Total Cost: Less than $4500/person all inclusive.
At some level this concludes the trip. Consider Italy an addition that does not focus on cuisine. If you decide to add an Italian leg to the trip, I recommend reversing the order of your trip and beginning in Italy. That way, you will experience two “foreign” places, before coming back to an English speaking country. Moreover, the charm of Italy and Paris will stand in stark contrast to the United States, whereas London offers a more subtle and thereby less remarkable initial transition.

Days 14-22 are in Italy. They are comprised of a Trafalgar Tour, located at http://www.trafalgartours.com/UK/DisplayTour?TourID=2820&Detail=4. Interesting additions to the tour include: "Rome. Ancient and Christian Rome; Venice. Gondola Serenade; Florence. Jewels of the Renaissance; Rome. Michelangelo’s Rome."

Anonymous

Diseney Magic European Cruise 2007 dates

The Disney Magic will offer eight 10-night / 11-night Mediterranean cruises, departing from Barcelona, Spain, and stopping in eight European cities in Italy, France and Spain from May to August 2007. Those cities are:

Palermo, Sicily
Naples, Italy, with access to Pompeii
Olbia, Sardinia
Civitavecchia, Italy, with access to Rome
La Spezia, Italy, with access to Florence and Pisa
Marseille, France
Villefranche, France

In addition to deciding which cities to visit and where to eat, company President Tom McAlpin said, "At the end of the day you know you're coming back to the ship and having five-star dining, great entertainment and you know your kids are going to have a good time."

Packages for European cruises coupled with a side trip to Disneyland Paris are on the way.

Culinary travel in Italy, San Francisco, Thailand

There's an interesting article on culinary travel in Business Week. There are some fun travel ideas here though they are not all for me.

For example, the Caribbean beach barbecue is not for me:

For a mere $3,000 per couple, not including lodging, visitors to the Four Seasons Nevis in the Caribbean can take part in a new "Dive & Dine" program. Available to groups of two to six certified divers, it features a brief seminar on local marine life and a private dive with Chef Cyrille Pannier. He instructs guests on the fine art of lassoing local spiny lobster and later cooks up the catch at an intimate beach barbecue.

I think a week at a Four Seasons resort and cooking school in Chiang Mai, Thailand might be more my style. Travelers learn to make pad thai, banana blossom salad, and more Thai cuisine.

Anyway, I do recommend the article which also mentions Italy, cruises, San Francisco, and more.

Medical tourism in Singapore

Thank you to Neal, both for his interesting comments on India's medical value travel marketing campaign and for emailing me this article on medical tourism in Singapore (the article also mentions Malaysia, Thailand and India as countries who will see increased medical tourism). However, the fact that some Indians travel to Singapore for transplants is telling.

The Living Donor Liver Transplant program at Gleneagles is popular with foreigners, partly due to excellent medical care (it's headed by "world renowned transplant and hepatobiliary surgeon Dr KC Tan"), and because "unlike India, Singapore law allows transplants in situations where there is an emotional link between the donor and recipient."

The article also goes on to discuss stem cell transplant and stem cell treatment for patients with advanced cancer tumors at Mount Elizabeth Hospital. One big attraction: "cost of treatment here ranges from USD 72,000 to USD 90,000 per person, compared to USD 235,000 for similar treatment in the US."

The article also discusses health care in other Asian countries and is certainly worth reading.

Discount luggage online store

A friend of mine has some discount luggage deals on his website and I wanted to give him a little plug. The discount is pretty substantial. For example, a leather luggage set is 79.95 and includes 5 pieces, a rolling backpack, a fanny pack, a backpack, a tote bag, and a shopping bag.

The rolling leather backpack alone would be 34.95, which seems really good to me. Then there's another rolling backpack that's only 29.95. However, the shipping weight on the less expensive one is about 5 pounds more than the shipping weight of the 35.00 one. I think you have to go with the lightest luggage you can get, personally.

Anyway, I just wanted to make sure you knew about my friend's online store if you're looking at luggage.

Playa del Carmen: Ikal Del Mar & Shangri-La Caribe

I heard from one person who read my tips for Mexico's Riviera Maya and wanted to add something:

I went to Playa del Carmen for my honeymoon and stayed at Ikal Del Mar for 3 days and the Shangri-La Caribe for 3 more. Ikal was a remote, secluded place that was just gorgeous. It has about 20 private wooded villas with plunge pools in the back yards. they spoil you rotten and the food is unbelievalbe. The beach is 100% private, they have a luxury spa for facials, massages, etc. They also ahve workout programs led by their instructors. If you truly want to get away for a few days this is the place.

Shangri-La is more of a resort type village setup w/ the rooms spread around walkways and a huge beach that is by far the best in the area. A lot of the beaches are rocky in that area but the Shangri-La beach is perfect. Tons of chairs and palapas and the water is rock free as well. They have an included Breakfast and dinner which is good but not great food, but the atmosphere there is great.

You want to head to 5th Avenue for the shops and restaurants, some of which are also just OK and some are outstanding. You get a real feel of the culture if that's what yuo're after and it has some clubs and bars that are fun. A lot of the resorts are close by but the noise from the street can be distracting from what I read and heard. Renting a car is your best bet, it's cheap and not that hard to get around the area.

I can't personally confirm any of this, but I would like to comment on the rental car. Most of the people I've spoken to suggested taking cabs instead because there are lots of them and they are inexpensive.

Aadvantage member: Pudding Guy, David Phillips

Pudding Guy, David Phillips, a civil engineer at UC-Davis, says he spent just over 3,000 dollars in purchases (most of which he donated to charity and wrote off on his taxes) and added 1,037,000 miles to his American Airlines account.

Surpassing the million-mile mark, gave Pudding Guy Aadvantage Gold status for life. Aadvantage Gold members get a special reservations number, priority boarding, upgrades and bonus miles. He had already gotten enough to fly to Europe 31 times, but a few extra miles never hurt anyone. Here's what pudding guy had to say:

For the record, counting the soup and other miscellaneous products I bought and ate, I received 1,253,000 miles from the Healthy Choice promotion. Does pulling off this venture get me into the frequent flyer hall of fame?

Isn't it strange to think that the million-miler sitting next to you in first class got there solely by buying chocolate pudding?

I haven't checked myself, but any skeptics are welcome to check out some newspaper articles that I'm told covered the story:

Bone, James. "Pudding Buyer Can Fly Free for a Lifetime."
The [London] Times. 26 January 2000.

Costello, Jane. "Shopper Turns Lots of Pudding Into Free Miles."
The Wall Street Journal. 24 January 2000 (p. B1).

McManis, Sam. "Pudding Cups Win Engineer Creamy Miles."
The San Francisco Chronicle. 14 April 2000 (p. 1).

Robertson, Blair Anthony. "Road to $25,000 Worth of Air Travel Was Paved with Pudding Purchases."
The Fresno Bee. 26 January 2000 (p. A13).

Tips on Riviera Maya, Mexico: Playa Del Carmen

Playa Del Carmen is about 45 minutes south of Cancun (Cancun has good clubs but is very touristy), and a little more laid back.

To see the sights around Playa Del Carmen, you can book day-trips via a tour operator (every hotel will have one) or get a cab and buy your own tickets. Some of the must see attractions are Xcaret (a theme park) and/or Xel-Ha plus Tulum, Chitzen-Itza, and Ek-Balam (Mayan culture and architecture).

Xcaret is a couple of miles south from Playa del Carmen. It's kind of a theme park with cool shows, ruins, animal exhibits, and an underground river that you float in for 45 minutes. The evening show is very good there. Tickets are $59 for adults. Before you go to Xcaret, put on your sunblock. A friend of mine was not allowed to bring in any sunblock. I’m told that there are perfectly acceptable biodegradable products.

Many travelers recommend Xel-Ha over Xcaret. Xel-Ha’s river is cleaner for swimming and snorkeling. Plus you can go swimming with the Dolphins. At Xcaret, there were two "rivers" to snorkel in, an underground river and another. The underground one had no wildlife. It was fins and butts in front of you and somebody's head smacking your fins to the rear. At Xel-Ha, you entered a river at the mouth of an underground river and floated along with the current. Wildlife was much more plentiful. So, if you care about a more satisfying snorkeling experience, Xel-Ha might be a better choice.

If you really like to snorkel, take the ferry over to Cozumel and do a snorkel trip from there. Some of the best snorkeling in the Eastern Hemisphere is along the Palancar Reef. All day with drinks, and a stop for lunch is around $75 p/p.

Of course some people never leave the hotel. If you're in one of the high-end resorts, they have everything that you need for a laid back vacation. One friend says that the only thing he recommends is going into Playa central for a day. There are some neat little restaurants and some cool shops. Don't do any of the "shopping" day trips, as they are total ripoffs.

Speaking of resorts, Royal Hideaway has more luxurious accommodations than other nearby resorts and a reputation for the best food. The only observable downside is that their beach is quite small compared to other resorts. They make up for it with a cool looking pool beachside. Some people say the hurricane actually made the beach bigger but I don’t know anyone who has seen it.

If you've been to Riviera Maya, please leave a comment!

Music and Theater on your US vacation

When you go on vacation, you want to do something. However because dates you'll be in town are usually not flexible, if you don't plan well in advance you could end up missing the show you really want to see.

Well this blog is lucky enough to have a sponsor who can find hard-to-get tickets. Let's start with the city where I take my vacation twice a year, New York. New York Theatre includes hits like Lion King at New Amsterdam Theatre and Mamma Mia to Harlem Gospel Choir to Metropolitan Opera and New York City Opera.

New York Concerts includes everything from Dream Theater to Yo-Yo Ma (I love them both though I haven't seen Dream Theater yet). And don't forget two more of my favorites, BB King and James Brown (I haven't seen James Brown yet either).

If you happen to be going to Sin City, Las Vegas Theatre includes Blue Man Group, Cirque Du Soleil - Mystere, Cirque Du Soleil - O, and Cirque Du Soleil - Zumanity. I've never been to any of them but my sister says Blue Man Group is very good.

The Concert Tickets section will help you pretty much anywhere in America where the famous bands tour. From Aerosmith to Celine Dion (my wife's favorite) to the Allman Brothers Band (my favorite - I've seen them at least 5 times and they always put on an awesome show).

Theatre Tickets can also help you find something almost anywhere in America. Here we have the Arizona Opera and the Atlanta Ballet to Sesame Street Live in Boston MA, Cincinnati OH, Corpus Christi TX, Erie PA, Hollywood CA, Long Beach CA, New Brunswick NJ, Phoenix AZ, Raleigh NC, Richmond VA, and Rosemont IL.

You can probably find something interesting fo just about any US vacation, so why not check out our sponsor?

Cruise lines and who they cater to

I found two articles in the news today about choosing the right cruise and how each cruise line has its own personality.

The Winnipeg Sun gives an overview of how different cruises are designed for different folks. They mention Disney cruises for families and a few other obvious ones but end things up with "talk to your travel agent".

Then the Orlando Sentinel lists several cruises for different ypes of people. This article is far more detailed. For example:

If you: Plan black-tie galas for your country club . . .

Then consider: Regent Seven Seas. This ritzy cruise line draws the six-figure crowd.

Ships include: Seven Seas Voyager, Seven Seas Mariner, Seven Seas Navigator and Paul Gauguin. There are 300 ports on all continents, except Africa.

Tidbits: Three ships have kitchens run by Le Cordon Bleu. . . . Ed Asner and Gena Rowlands are among celebs set for a "Theater at Sea" cruise in April -- one of this year's 26 specialty cruises. . . . Some Baltic trips this year include free airfare.

Travel to the West Bank and Hospitality Club

Here's an interesting CBS News article about a tourist experience in the West Bank, Palestine. They say it's not as dangerous as you'd think since most suicide bombings happen in Israel and there are some good touristy things to do:

Despite frequent blackouts, Israeli army incursions, a lack of hot water, and nary a mint on the pillow, some foreigners find the West Bank - and other global hot spots like Syria, Iran, and Afghanistan - prime vacation territory.

The article also taught me about Hospitality Club, which sounds quite nice:

Meet friendly people and find free accommodation when you travel to any corner of the world. There are no obligations (you do not have to host anyone at your home!), membership is free and we would love to have you in our world wide web of friendly people!

I've signed up, which takes a few minutes and am waiting for my application to be reviewed.

Politics: seal hunt and Canadian travel boycott

Yesterday's post on the cruise ship disappearances wasn't exactly political, but it was on a fairly controversial topic. This post is all politics so be warned (and if you want the controversial posts to stop, don't worry - I'm working on a post about wolf watching in Spain). Quotes below come from the Edmonton Sun.

Anyway, you've probably heard about this issue, the Seal hunt in Canada that has environmentalists crying themselves to sleep or sending you petitions in your email.

Well one U.S. family, the McLellans of Minnesota, cancelled a Canadian vacation because of the seal hunt. They wrote to some Canadian senators about their plans to boycott their vacation in Canada to protest the seal hunt.

Quebec Senator Celine Hervieux-Payette replied "What I find 'horrific' about your country is the daily killing of innocent people in Iraq, the execution of mainly black prisoners in the U.S., the massive sale of guns to U.S. citizens every day, the destabilization of the whole world by the aggressive foreign policy of U.S. government, etc."

Separately, Senator Celine Hervieux-Payette advised, "Look in your own backyard and start correcting things that are more horrific than the seal hunting in Canada."

Now I should note that other Canadian politicians are distancing themselves from Senator Celine Hervieux-Payette, so it's not like she speaks for all Canadians. We're talking about one politician with a very critical message.

Personally, I'm not a fan of war or hunting and I don't really see why protesting the seal hunt has to be connected with US foreign policy. Actually, I think a more rational person would connect this issue with environmental policy in the US (which is also fairly easy to criticize).

Royal Caribbean's Brilliance of the Seas disappearance

I've been putting off blogging about this, but since there are no new contest entries to publish, here we go.

The facts are that a man vanished from a Mediterranean cruise last summer while on Royal Caribbean's Brilliance of the Seas. They found blood stains on a canopy that covers life boats, but no body.

There are two sides to every story. On one side we have the family of George Allen Smith IV, a 26-year-old honeymooner from Greenwich, Connecticut. The family wants an apology and for the CEO of Carnival to be fired because he called the incident a "nonevent."

"And so now comes the Smith case. But I mean, it's a nonevent. It's more entertainment than anything else," said Robert Dickinson, Carnival’s CEO. "The facts of the case, the story of the husband and wife, the bride and groom, and it's just absolutely bizarre, but it has nothing to do with safety on cruise ships. And the fact that we have to get up here and defend our safety record is absurd," Dickinson said, according to the letter.

Smith's family says "The lack of compassion illustrated by Mr. Dickinson in calling George's murder a 'nonevent' is beyond belief. His view that George's murder is a 'nonevent' is definitely not shared by George's family and friends whose lives have been devastated by his murder and the subsequent cover-up by Royal Caribbean."

Dickinson says, "My comments were within a larger discussion on cruise industry issues and were not meant to minimize the tragedy of George Smith's disappearance," Dickinson said. "I regret any pain my comments may have caused his family." Royal Caribbean says there is no cover up.

I honestly don’t know what to think. I don’t know why his family is so convinced that there was a murder or why they feel there was a cover up. On the other hand, cruise company's have to face facts; people are worried about their safety on cruise ships (if for no other reason than because of the media attention this case is getting) and saying that there’s no reason to defend their safety record seems a bit out of touch. Then again, I would go on a cruise tomorrow and not be overly concerned about safety.

Rock of Gibraltar and Barbary Apes

There are lots of places I want to go around the Mediterranean: Greece, Turkey, Italy, France, Spain, and Gibraltar. When visiting the famous Rock of Gibraltar, look out for the monkeys. They are called Barbary Apes, but they are technically monkeys.

Anyway, the monkeys called Barbary Apes want to be fed. Be careful though; some people have been attacked as the “apes” search for food. If it happens to you just let go of the food and the Apes will leave you alone as they go for the food.

Voyage of the Glaciers Alaskan cruise on the Sapphire Princess

Enjoy 2006 summer travel writing contest entry #8!

Come in out of the heat to one of the world’s most natural wonders. Princess Cruises offers the Gulf of Alaska: Voyage of the Glaciers cruise. A 7-day cruise with fantastic ports of call, including visits to scenic cruising in Glacier Bay National Park and College Fjord. Meals that are fit for a king and entertainment are inclusive.

In order to really enjoy one of these cruises you must book a Balcony Cabin where you can see all the sites (whales, glaciers etc) from your cabin and in addition, Balcony cabins are usually bigger in size then your standard cabins and to do a inside cabin would be a waste. So I am defiantly choosing a balcony cabin.

DAY 1 Fly from JFK to Anchorage. We check in to our fantastic ship The Sapphire Princess and have dinner at one of her great restaurants the Pacific Moon Dining Room where you are treated like Royalty... Servers are just waiting for your glass to become half full. There I ordered a gourmet dinner that was fit for a Queen and all I had to do is sit back and enjoy.

Day 2 Collage Fjord, Alaska. (scenic Cruising) ahhh now this looks lovely. To cruise around the Fjords and be able to cruise real close to the whales and actually snap pictures of them. The weather is a nice balmy 60-70 degrees heck I even need a light jacket. After taking in the scenery, I find myself going to the Boutiques for some duty free shopping. I picked up some perfume which is usually about $50.00 for half the price and even a carton of cigarette's was only $20.00 (one carton per person). I then traveled my way to the Lotus spa to take in a nice massage actually was a couples massage. The price was 150.00 per person but ahhh it was well worth it. I felt like a new person.

Day 3 Glacier Bay National Park. (scenic cruising) Now this is heaven. The beauty of this is breath taken. It is hard to describe such scenery. So peace full and picture worthy. In addition, I figured I would take my hand in the nine hole putting course. My golfing is less than desired but fun and laughable with my partner. We also decided to see all the beautiful art in the World-class art collection gallery where they have exhibits of some of the worlds fantastic art collections. Night falls and we finish our dinner (which is lobster and steak) at the Sterling Steakhouse. What was nice about this Cruise on the Sapphire is that the dining was Personal Choice so we could eat when we wanted and of course like all cruises, as much as we wanted. We then went to the Grand Casino and I actually won about 300.00 dollars in the slot machines. My eyes grew dreary and we went back to our beautiful balcony cabin, in which all our towels where set up as animals on our bed. We cozy-ed into our bed and just listened to the waves and fell fast asleep.

Day 4 Skagway, Alaska. We rise and eat a gourmet breakfast and then take a shore excursion on the Valley of the Glaciers via a helicopter. We actually landed on a sheet of ice and walked all around it. Surrounding us was these big beautiful glaciers. Of course, I had to bundle up a bit but I was enjoying the coolness break from the summer heat. The excursion was spectacular and invigorating. I just stood there in amazement on the beauty that was surrounding me. The cost of this excursion ranges from 100.00 to 200.00 per person. Also if you want to add on the White Pass Railway and Heli hike. There are additional costs. We arrived back at the ship just in time for a quick swim and a Delicious meal at the Sabatini's Italian Trattoria. We then took in a show at the Princess Theater which reminded me a little of Broadway.

Day 5 Juneau, Alaska. At Juneau there was so much to do and see. We chose the Glacier Flight-seeing tour via float plane where we experienced the grandeur of Alaska while flying in a nostalgic float-plane over five glaciers.

Day 6 Ketchikan, Alaska. At Kechikan I finally got to do some Kayaking through Alaska's beautiful wilderness. I was able to see Bald Eagles, seals and also sea lions.

Day 7 At Sea... another beautiful day at sea where we took in more of what the Sapphire Princess has to offer. There is not one day where you can say.. hum I have nothing to do. The fun part is that it always either really fun activities or pampering of ones self.

Day 8 Vancover, British Columbia. Now is the time to disembark. I wish I could stay just a little bit longer. I had the time of my life. I will never forget the sites and the places and also the people I have met during my journey through Alaska.

The total cost of this trip for 2 people
$4369.68 cruise portion
$1,400.00 Airfare from NY
$500.00 on drinks.. we are light drinkers
$600.00 for shore excursions
$100.00 for tips at the end of your trip.

Total amount for 2 $6,969.68 and it was well worth it. So if you want to come out of the heat I highly recommend this trip.

Jennifer Permenter

Cabo Jazz Escape 2006 dates

I love jazz. I loved the Ottawa Jazz Festival that I went to in the summer of 2004 and I’ve been wondering when I’ll have the chance to hit another jazz fest.
I found some information on the Cabo San Lucas three-day jazz festival, Cabo Jazz Escape from December 1-3 2006.

I've seen jazz in America and Canada, why not Mexico? Normally I’d link the official website, but http://www.cabojazzescape.com/ seems to be down at the moment. I suppose you can try it tomorrow.

Then I found some information on Cabo San Lucas history. It seems that one of Cabo's big draws is fishing. I don't fish. If you do, Cabo is good for Marlin, Dorado, and Tuna fishing.

That Cabo history was a sub page of this Cabo San Lucas vacation rental site. I saw 2 bedroom places going from 150/night to 250/night. Prices seem to go up around Dec. 19th, but Cabo Jazz Escape would be over by then…

I figure, the idea is to hit a few beaches, listen to some jazz, do some snorkeling, maybe take the wife to one of the night clubs and pretend to be young for a night...

2006 Vacation With The Grandkids

I'm very pleased with the variety of plans the vacation writing contest is generating. Entry #7 is one that children will surely love. I have great childhood memories from the very places mentioned in this travel plan:

Day 1

Fly from Houston Intercontinental Airport to Philadelphia--2 adults, 2 children (ages 7 & 3)--$964.00, Rent car ($100.00)

Drive to Strasburg Railroad Station for a Day Out With Thomas-The Tank Engine--4 tickets @$21.75=$87.

Lunch at the depot café ($20.00), ride Thomas, visit Mr.Topham Hatt, shop for toy trains and souvenirs, ride the excursion train, get face painting of Thomas.

Drive to Sleep Inn-Mountville (approx. 30min.) $129.00/night. Dinner at local diner/ice cream shop--$25.00.

Play miniature golf (next door to diner)$20.00

Day 2

Drive to Hershey Park (45 min.)--2-day passes--$170.00

Rides, shows, attractions--Eat lunch & dinner in park ($50.00)

Fireworks show in evening

Return to Sleep Inn-Mountville

Day 3

2nd day at Hershey Park--more rides & do water activities--Picnic with a Hershey character ($40.00). Dinner in the Park ($20.00).

Return to Sleep Inn-Mountville

Day 4

Drive to Langhorne, PA to Sesame Place--4--2-day passes--$167.80

Rides, shows, attractions, get autographs from Sesame Street characters, watch Character Parade in evening lunch & dinner in park ($50.00)

Stay at Sleep Inn-Bensalem, $109.00/night

Day 5

Return to Sesame Place for "Breakfast with the Characters" ($40.00)

More rides, shows, and Elmo's House, lunch in the park ($20.00)

Dinner at family restaurant ($30.00) on the way back to Sleep Inn

Day 6: Return flight to Houston, TX

Mary Hutto

Walking around the world: Stephen "Walker" Malone's charity walkabout

Irishman Stephen "Walker" Malone is launching his 26,000 mile / 40,000 kilometer charity hike on April 1, 2006 (I'm told it's no April Fool's joke). The World Wide Walk for AIDS orphans begins from "San Martin", Millicent Road within the village of Clane, Co. Kildare, about 20 miles (32 kilometers) west of Dublin.

The goal is to raise funds for Aids Orphans. The travel plan is roughly: Ireland, the United Kingdom, Spain and France. Then Asia, Oceania, and the Americas.

Of course, there are a few ships involved. For example, the first day's walking will take Stephen "Walker" Malone to the ferry terminal at Dublin Port. Then he takes a ferry from Dublin Port across the Irish Sea to Holyhead in Wales.

Grenada summer vacation plan

Contest entry #6 is scheduled for a return flight from Toronto to Grenada: 1471.89 march 13th to March 20th. However the same vacation itinerary can be used in the summer so we're including it in the travel writing contest.

Room at Gem holiday beach in St George resort 1 bedroom ocean view is 126usd*7 nights. Plus 10% service charge with $8% tax. Total of $1040.86 http://gembeachresort.com/

Or one could stay at the beautiful Maca Bana villas for the 7 nights at a price of $2394usd with a 10% service charge and 8% tax. http://macabana.com/

Day 1

Enjoy the rest of this day by lounging at the beach and getting excited about the weekend.

Day2

Take the all day 8-hour tutti-frutti tour offered by sensation tours which explores most of Grenada. http://www.grenadasunsation.com/rates.htm. This tour includes lunch, drinks, admissions, collection and return to the hotel.

The price of this tour is 70usd. After dinner at one of the hotels or restaurants, which could run you $15 to $45 a meal, we will say $25 for a meal. Because of the long journey tonight you rest at whichever hotel you chose.

Total:
$70usd for tour
$25 for dinner
$5 for breakfast
$10 for extras
$125.00cnd

Day 3

On day three you would like to try diving so you go to Dive Grenada where the discover scuba diving certificate program will run you $80usd as well as a 5% government tax so a total of $84usd. http://www.divegrenada.net/. After diving since you’re at the beach you stay there for the rest of the day soaking up the sun and having a few drinks and a light snack $25. For dinner you may just have a light meal $15. After that light meal it is time to go out and experience what nightlife Grenada has to offer. You may check out club bananas, which is supposedly a popular club for young people and it is a hang for all the medical students. Or maybe if you’re a bit older you check out club fantasia 2001 were on Wednesday it is golden oldies night for the young at heart. Either or $50. You might need to take a taxi back to your hotel $15.

Total:

$5 for breakfast
$84usd for scuba diving
$25 for beach snack and drinks
$15 for light dinner
$50 for nightlife
$15 fro taxi ride to hotel
$210.00cnd

Day 4

No breakfast for the obvious. You may wake up a bit late because Grenada has a good nightlife. Today may be a good day just to relax on the beach. Today is a day just for you. Maybe talk to some locals, make some friends. Don’t spend a lot of money today. Maybe take advantage of some stuff in the hotel like play some non-motorized sport usually free of charge. In the evening just have a moderate dinner $20. The whole day should just be for relaxing so take that chance.

Total:

$10 for lunch
$15 for daily activities
$20 for dinner
$45.00cnd

Day 5

Well it’s Friday and you know what that means - Shopping!!!!!!!! There are many good things to purchase but one must pick up some nutmeg grenades #1 export. As well beautiful wood carvings, rum of course, guava jam, local arts, perfumes, soap, as well as local clothing. Maybe you rent a car for the day to get around and do you shopping. Car rental plus shopping might run you $200. Maybe after that we get dinner for $20.

After supper of course another night to party tonight, you find yourself on the rumrunner. This party boat offers a cruise along the coast with rum punch, BBQ, calypso and soca music. The evening with taxi home $100.

Day 6

Well its Saturday time to get up and really enjoy the weekend. Breakfast today must be a good one it may run you $15. After breakfast we take a boat charter for the day. It’s a beautiful day and the ocean is calm as calm can be. Well you found a company were you and three of your friends can go on a whole day boat cruise just what you needed. The company is called footloose Caribbean yacht charters http://www.grenadasailing.com/day_charters.htm. The cost is a minimum of $300usd for four people. The boat leaves at 9:30a.m and it ends at 5:30p.m. Barbecue swordfish steaks, chicken, salad, fruit, rum punch, beer, soft drinks, and snorkeling equipment provided. After the beautiful boat excursion you go for a nice dinner with your friends $30. After supper of course another night to party tonight, at the Tiki bar a popular Saturday night spot. Live music plays until 11:00p.m then a DJ takes over and spins hits until the early morning. Nightlife and taxi home $100.

Total:

$15 for breakfast
$75usd for boat trip
$30 for dinner
$100 for night life
235.00cnd

Day 7

Sunday, it’s time to relax. Going home tomorrow so now it’s time to do some last minute things. Maybe you do some last minute shopping $50. For lunch perhaps just a light snack $10. In the afternoon a relaxing time on the beach a few drinks and enjoy your last day $20. For dinner you might as well go all out. Find the nicest restaurant and spoil yourself $50. Take a nice relaxing evening on the beach or at the local club at what ever hotel you stayed at $50.

Total:
$50 for shopping
$10 for lunch
$20 for beach
$50 for supper
$50 for the night
$180.00cnd

Day 8

Time to go home.

Total for the week:

Total cost in cheaper hotel: $3307.75+ 10%gratuities.
Total cost in expensive hotel: $4660.85+ 10%gratuities.

Compared to Air Canada all inclusive to Grenada 3 star resort is at same time $2005.26

However if you compare to Air Canada Vacations most expensive 5 star resort AI at the same time its price is $4519.00cnd.

Mark & Ashley

10 days in the Tampa Bay Area with Orlando side trip

Contest entry #5 was written for 5 friends from Kentucky taking an extended vacation in Florida enjoying the beach, live music, great food and theme parks. The actual vacation is for May 20, 2006 - May 30, 2006 but because the vacation could easily be taken in June, July, or August it is a valid entry in the travel writing contest.

Day 1 – Depart Louisville, KY Airport (SDF) at 12:45pm Arrive at Orlando International (MCO) at 2:50pm. Pick up rental car from Dollar Rent A Car (Standard SUV $317.47). Drive to Downtown Disney to see the 6pm showing of Cirque Du Soleil “La Nouba” (tickets range from $61-$95). From Orlando drive to Indian Rocks Beach to our 2 bedroom/2 bath rental condo at Oceanside Condos ($1164.00 one week rental).

Day 2 – Awake to the sound of the ocean waves rushing in. Relax on the beach; make a run to the grocery store and stock up for the week. Visit Guppy’s on the Beach ($18-$25 entrees) for dinner.

Day 3 – Start the day with a relaxing walk on the beach. Travel to Clearwater for a day on the ocean with a full day sailboat rental ($795.00 for 8 hrs). Pack lunch and dinner at PJ’s Oyster Bar ($7-$12pp)

Day 4 – Travel to Tampa for a day of shopping, fine dining and nightlife. Some places to visit are Ybor, South Howard Avenue, and the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino. (Visit Bern’s in South Howard for nice dinner $18-$30pp.)

Days 5 and 6 – Relax by the pool or on the beach, go fishing on The Pier and check out the amazing sunsets, grill out (our freshly caught meal) and make some new friends! Visit local pubs for nightly entertainment and live music. Jimmy Guana’s is a popular spot.

Day 7 – Last day on the beach- so we breathe deeply and sigh at the sights and sounds we have fallen in love with over the past week. Walk the beach and pick up any last minute seashells. Also visit some of the local orange groves, farmers markets, etc. for the ultimate freshness in fruit and veggies. Visit Keegan’s Seafood Grill for lunch ($6-$9pp) the original Crabby Bill’s Seafood for dinner ($11-$18 pp).

Day 8 – Pack up and head to Orlando. Check into our 3-bedroom/2.5-bath rental condo at Emerald Island Resort ($290.00 for 3 nights). We stop at random places of interest for example the Florida Mall, outlet shops, miniature golf and Pointe Orlando.

Day 9 and 10 – Universal Studios and Islands of Adventures ($99.00 for a 2-day/2-park pass. *Buy online for bonus days and free City Walk Pass). These amusement parks are the ultimate in theme parks. Arrive early and stay late, back to the condo to freshen up then out on the town to City Walk for nightlife. City Walk offers many venues for dancing, dining, and drinking.

Day 11 – Depart the Orlando International Airport (MCO) at 10:45am and arrive in Louisville, KY at 12:50pm.

I hope someone has some great feedback on our trip. I am getting excited and already counting down the days.

Rayna Ortwein

Dream big: cruise-based business

The idea of starting a home-based business has really been gaining steam these days. No surprise there, who wants to commute to the office and do the regular 9-5 (or 6 or 7), and then commute home during rush hour?

But why not dream bigger? Why not run your business from a cruise ship instead of your home? Most will have wireless internet access, so bring your laptop to the lounge or the cafe and get to work.

Of course, my travel blog empire won't allow this sort of lifestyle. I still have a real job (I'm a teacher trainer - SLA or second language acquisition - for the curious), but maybe one day. After all, being a travel blogger on an around-the-world cruise makes perfect sense doesn't it? All I need is around 50,000 dollars if I go alone or 100,000 if I bring my wife (and that's with the cheap rooms).

A five day, activity-packed trip to Washington, DC

I hope you enjoy contest entry #4 and also hope that we'll see more people competing in my travel writing contest for the $1,000 in prize money.

Pre-trip: call local congressional office, arrange for free tours of Capitol, FBI, Bureau of Printing and Engraving. Contact Ticketmaster to get advance, free tickets to the Holocaust Museum and the Washington Monument. Make reservations in advance for tea at the National Cathedral, and to see the Capitol Steppes. Make sure to check the Washington Post Weekend section the weekend prior to your visit---fun, free activities abound in DC. New sneakers for trip, which will involve lots of walking: $70

Day One: Arrive in Washington DC by train---stop for coffee at Starbucks ($5) and take a quick tour of Union Station. Take Metro ($2) to Metro Center, to J.W. Marriott ($200 per night), which is centrally located for everything you want to do in DC. Unpack.

Go to Ticketplace, buy 1/2 price ticket to show at Kennedy Center ($40); get there by 6 to see the free show at Millennium Stage. Cab to Kennedy Center ($8) have a light dinner on Rooftop Terrace ($35). After the show, walk back to the hotel, getting to know the Foggy Bottom, White House, and downtown area on your way.

Day Two: Breakfast at the hotel ($15). Tour Capitol (free----Congressional private tours take about two hours, typically from 10 - 12) then head to Union Station for a Duck Tour ($35) around the city. These amphibious vehicles take visitors all over the city---a tour and an adventure. (1:30 -3:00) Note: there are often half price ticket coupons on their "web" site.

Work in lunch or a snack at Au Bon Pain in Union Station ($10). Spend rest of afternoon touring Capitol Hill area----a quick peek at the Folger Library, a visit to the Library of Congress, and a longer visit at the Sewall Belmont House (all free, donations encouraged at the third.) The House, which was once the home of the National Women's Political Party, is one of the lesser-known treasures of the DC area.

Dinner and drinks at La Colline (fixed price dinner with wine about $45)---try to get a seat near the windows looking at the Capitol, and see if any newscasters are taping with the Capitol as a backdrop. And check out the restaurant for any famous faces. Take the walk down Pennsylvania Avenue from the Capitol to the hotel (no cost, and a gorgeous walk) End day two with a long swim in the JW Marriott pool.

Day Three: Breakfast at the Corner Bakery, around the corner from the hotel ($6). Take the five-minute walk to the Bureau of Priming and Engraving on 14th Street. Get the 8:30 tour of the Bureau of Printing and Engraving, and watch new money be made, and old money be shredded.

At 10, be at the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum (use Ticketmaster for advance, free tickets) and plan to spend at least two hours touring this remarkable place. Take a cab to Georgetown ($8) and wander around the shops, University, and neighborhood. Wonder, as DC residents always do, how people can actually afford to live there.

Cab to the National Cathedral ($5) by 3:00, for a tour of the Cathedral followed by a rooftop tea ($33). If you pick the right day, you may be treated to the choir practicing. Back to the hotel for a quick rest, then a quick walk to the Washington Monument---try to arrive at the top of the monument just as the sky is changing from day to night for spectacular views of the beautiful city.
Walk back to the Hotel Washington on 15th Street, for drinks and a light dinner at their outdoor restaurant ($25), which also offers wonderful views of the city.

Day Four: Breakfast at the Old Ebbit Grille, up the street from the hotel ($18)----keep an eye out for famous faces, and for the important and the self-mportant.

Spy morning follows---walk to your visit to the FBI (a great two hour tour, including lots of gory info about famous and infamous killers, a shooting demonstration) followed by a trip around the corner to the International Spy Museum ($18 admission---but if a museum charges in DC, it has to be worth the price!) to learn everything you ever wanted to know about espionage.

Late lunch in local Chinatown ($18), followed by a free tour of Ford's Theatre and Museum (where President Lincoln was killed) . Stop at National Archives (free) to see U.S. Constitution and the Declaration of Independence.

Back to hotel (walking, of course) to shower and change for 7 p.m. Capitol Steppes show at the Reagan Center ($40)---former Congressional staffers sing hilarious songs poking fun at politics. After the show, drinks and a light dinner at the Hay Adams hotel bar across from the White House (really expensive, at about $40, but lovely).

Day Five: The Smithsonian.

Pack and store your bags at the hotel. (Hotel bill: about $800). Breakfast at the Corner Bakery ($12).

Take the full day to tour the city's greatest free treasure---the museums of the Smithsonian, most of them located on the mall between the Capitol and the Washington Monument. Start at American History (politics, pop culture), and wander as your interests dictate, to Natural History (dinosaurs, gems), the Air and Space Museums (planes, astronauts), the art museums (your choice of traditional, modern, Asian, sculpture). Try to catch an Imax film $6---an oldie but goodie is "To Fly" at Air and Space. Take a break and ride on the carousel ($3) in the mall.

Make your way back to the hotel, pick up your bags, and cab to Union Station ($8). Pick up dinner at one of the Union Station eateries ($10) to eat on the train home. (Train ticket price depends on originating destination.)

And make plans to come back soon: you still haven't seen Arlington Cemetery, the Supreme Court, the National Zoo, the Woodrow Wilson House, the Philips Collection...

Denise Neary

Royal Caribbean's Freedom of the Seas ship facts

Royal Caribbean's Freedom of the Seas is being launched in June 2006 (and no, it's not too early to book a cruise on Freedom of the Seas). According to Royal Caribbean, Freedom of the Seas will be sailing year-round, 7-night Western Caribbean itineraries from Miami. Ports of call will include Cozumel, Mexico; George Town, Grand Cayman; Montego Bay, Jamaica; and Labadee, Hispaniola (remember the post about cruise lines and false or misleading advertising like calling Haiti Hispaniola).

A few highlights of Freedom of the Seas:

3,600 passengers with double occupancy and 4,370 if you count triples and quads. Don't forget the 1,400 crewmembers.

An ice-skating rink.

Rock-climbing.

Giant hot tubs suspended on “wings” 114 feet above the ocean.

A water park.

Onboard surfing.

Flat-screen TVs in all staterooms.

Preventing or treating traveler's diarrhea

I had my reservations about writing on traveler's diarrhea, until I read that it affects up to 70% of travelers. It usually doesn't require medication, but it sure can ruin a trip.

Some precautions include staying away from tap water, lettuce, ice cubes and undercooked foods (in high-risk locations). Another option would be preventive antibiotics before your trip or antibiotics that you bring and take at the first symptom. Travel medicine specialists are divided about which medicinal approach is best.

"We arm every traveler [going to high-risk areas] with antibiotics," says Dr. Herbert L. DuPont, director of the Center for Infectious Diseases at the University of Texas School of Public Health, Houston, and chief of internal medicine at St. Luke's Episcopal Hospital, Houston.

For prevention, he prescribes rifaximin (Xifaxan), a drug that blocks most of the organisms that cause traveler's diarrhea. DuPont helped develop the drug but has no financial connection with the manufacturer. He recommends it for travelers to Mexico and Latin America, Southeast Asia and Africa if the trip is three weeks or less.

"If you're going longer, it's not a good idea," he says, because the drug is expensive at $3.50 a pill and because immunity develops over time with repeated exposure.

But others, including the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, don't recommend antibiotics as a preventive for traveler's diarrhea. I'm not sure why exactly when they are mostly effective.

"Most travel medicine doctors don't give preventive medicine across the board," says Dr. Terri Rock, a travel medicine physician in Santa Monica. She prescribes preventive antibiotics for "those who have had a tough time with traveler's diarrhea or those who can't miss a single day of their trip." Travelers might bring emergency antibiotics such as Cipro (ciprofloxacin) instead.

I was surprised to read that traveler's diarrhea is such a common problem, never having suffered from it personally. I think these are things that helped me avoid the problem.

I tend to eat safe foods: steaming hot or dry (like bread). Moist, room temperature foods are the worst. In a developing country avoid foods like salad and cold meat. Also avoid milk products unless you can be certain they were pasteurized. Beer and wine should be fine, but alcohol diluted with water or ice could be a problem. Even fruit juices served in a glass could be diluted with contaminated water.

Medications like Prilosec reduce stomach acid and put you at higher risk for traveler's diarrhea. Just in case you needed some extra incentive to be careful...

Vacation planning activity for kids

One interesting idea I heard recently is involving kids when planning a family vacation. I don't have kids, but I am an educator and I love this idea. Kids can learn about budgeting, responsibility, and compromise.

Kids might plan one day of your vacation. This would include choosing restaurants, activities and possibly transportation. Give them a vacation budget and let them make the choices about what to do and where to eat.

The kids can create a folder with the itinerary, just like a travel agent. They can include "brochures" that they can make themselves.

Of course kids information and travel resources, a folder, paper, scissors, and glue for the brochures. The travel resources could come from a travel guide (this is a comprehensive collection of travel guides with reviews), the website of a newspaper local to wherever you're going, brochures from the travel agent, etc. Internet savvy kids might enjoy searching Yahoo and Google for restaurant reviews and the like.

Waimea, Kaua'i in Hawaii

Waimea, Kaua'i in Hawaii might need to be added to my Hawaiin travel plan somehow. The National Trust for Historic Preservation named Waimea, Kaua'i to its 2006 list of America's Dozen Distinctive Destinations.

On the Hawaiian island of Kaua'i, Waimea is a cozy town with much to explore. Waimea has the 3,567-foot deep Waimea Canyon, nicknamed the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific" by Mark Twain. Menehune Ditch is an irrigation system built by the Polynesians in the 13th century.

Waimea has the Russian Fort Elizabeth, the Old Stone Church, Waimea Pier, and the Waimea Plantation Cottages, where visitors can stay in a restored cottage from the sugar plantation era. Plantation living can be experienced.

Waimea has brilliant sunsets and many outdoor activities including bird watching, hiking (Waimea has untouched forest), and cycling. I love sunsets and forest, and old forts. Learning about sugar plantation life also seems interesting. There's just too much to do in Hawaii!

Cruise for the cultural experience?

This article from telegraph.co.uk says that a cruise ship "truly is a microcosm of the culture it serves." They go on to discuss cruise lines from England, Germany, Spain, America, India, and Indonesia.

While experiencing a cruise from a different culture might be quite an adventure, the article does warn that "being on a ship where English is not the first language can be a lonely experience - unless you're in a group." Also, it can be difficult to book a foreign country's cruise and the article doesn't have much advice on how to book a cruise.

Aeroscraft: the future of air travel?

California-based Worldwide Aeros' Aeroscraft is a 174mph, 400-ton craft. The Aeroscraft is more than an acre in size. The prototype should be completed by 2010. The inventor, Igor Pasternak, says "You can land it on water or snow," and "It's a new vision of what can be done in the air."

This "cross between an airship and a plane" will be able to "ferry passengers across continents and oceans". The picture in this Popular Science article is worth a peek if you're curious.

Cruise the Mighty Mekong River from Saigon, to Siem Reap

A unique “soft adventure” cruise up the Mekong from Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) to Siem Reap in Cambodia is planned for November 7-21, 2006. Organized by the Landmine Relief Fund and Value World Tours, and escorted by Bill Morse, the founder of the Relief Fund, this tour offers a truly special look at Vietnam and Cambodia today, with English speaking guides who will talk about the history of the countries, its peoples and life today along the Mekong River, one of the major rivers of the world. You will have ample time to explore on your own, and relax on the deck of your private cruise ship, while sailing a river few have had the opportunity to see up close.

The tour will culminate with a visit to the Cambodian Landmine Museum in Siem Reap Cambodia, where you’ll meet Aki Ra, its founder and Managing Director. Aki Ra spends his time "making his country safe for his people" by clearing as many landmines and IEDs as he can find (over 60,000 to date), and caring for the 15 orphaned and maimed children he and his wife have adopted.

Days 1- 4 After flying overnight to Asia, we’ll start our adventure in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). We’ll spend three nights in a 5 Star hotel while we explore this unique and historical city as few have had the chance.

After we rummage through the markets of Saigon, and discover its old sections by pedicab, we’ll travel to the tunnels of Cu Chi to see where the Viet Cong hid themselves from American troops during the “American War” of the 60’s and early 1970’s. Full breakfast and dinner are included while in Saigon.

After Saigon we head for our next home away from home, the Mekong Pandaw, a ship designed and built by the Irrawaddy River Company of Burma. Specially designed to navigate and explore the rivers of Southeast Asia, the Pandaw accommodates only 80 passengers. Your teak cabins accommodate two comfortably, with en-suite bathrooms, and full air conditioning. All your meals will be taken in the ship’s dining room, and you’ll have the chance to discover the beauty of the Mekong from the covered top deck of the ship, from your comfortable chaise lounge, or deck chair. Lectures and daily updates on our itinerary will be presented in the inclusive, air conditioned bar on the bow of the ship.

Day 5 We start our 7 day river adventure up the Mekong in My Tho and after a light buffet lunch explore Vinh Long and the Tien Giang islands in a traditional junk. B/L/D

Day 6 Cai Be and Chau Doc We’ll visit floating markets and a rural French Gothic Cathedral tourists seldom see. You’ll also have the opportunity to visit riverside villages and watch the locals make hand made coconut candy and pitch in to make your own rice paper. B/L/D

Day 7 Chau Doc and Cambodian Border Take a morning rickshaw ride through this French colonial city and then board smaller boats to visit a local Cham Minority Tribal village. This evening we cross the border into Cambodia. Don’t worry, all the paperwork is done by the crew while you relax on the top deck. We moor this evening near Phnom Penh. B/L/D

Day 8 Phnom Penh Rich in French Colonial architecture, Phnom Penh is the capital of Cambodia, the home of its king, wonderful markets, and the haunting vastness of the Killing Fields of the Khmer Rouge. B/L/D

Day 9 Leaving Phnom Penh, we’ll travel up the Mekong, visiting Kampong Cham, a silk weaving village. B/L/D

Day 10 Today we cruise Cambodia while visiting an 8th century Wat (temple) in the morning and the unique Wat Nokor in the afternoon. Wat Nokor is special in that a modern Wat is set inside the ruins of the original temple.

Day 11 Today we’ll travel up the Tonle River to Kampong Chhannan to visit her bustling rural market, a sight seen seldom by Western eyes. B/L/D

Our final stop will be Siem Reap, home of Angkor Wat, one of the true wonders of the world. Angkor Wat was built in the 12th century as the capital of the Angkor empire which stretched from the Thai border into Vietnam. Our local guides will walk you through temples overgrown with jungle and take you places you never dreamed of seeing. You’ll have three full days in Siem Reap. Your home in Siem Reap is a 4 star hotel/resort with pool, air conditioned rooms, full restaurant and bar.

Day 12 Siem Reap After breakfast we disembark our ship for the last time and transfer by coach to Siem Reap, the second largest city in Cambodia. Our afternoon will include a visit to a silk farm and a local artist village where you can watch these artisans at work. The day ends with dinner at the Foreign Correspondents Club. B/L/D

Day 13 Today you visit the Angkor Temple complex. In the morning we’ll tour the lesser known Temples, Angkor Thom, Elephant Terrace, and Leper King. Lunch is at the Red Piano, a favorite of Angelina Jolie, a regular visitor to Cambodia and star of the Tomb Rader movies. After lunch we head to the unbelievable main Angkor Wat Temples for a magnificent sunset tour of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. We have a special dinner planned for this evening with performance of the Apsara Dance, Cambodia’s national folklore. B/L/D

Day 14 Our final day in Siem Reap will include an optional trip to the Cambodian Landmine Museum. Founded by Aki Ra, native to the area, its sole purpose is to make Cambodia safe for its people. (B)

The Landmine Relief Fund, sponsors of the trip, has been supporting Aki Ra and his work since Bill first visited in 2004. Aki Ra was suppressed into the Khmer Rouge Army at the age of 5 when the KR overthrew the government of Pot Pot and attempted to take Cambodia back to its agrarian roots. Banning all forms of money, breaking up families, emptying the cities and changing the calendar to year “0”, the Khmer Rouge began eliminating anyone they saw as a threat, eventually murdering millions of their own citizens.

Aki Ra received his first gun at 5, and by his mid teens was an expert at designing and planting landmines, true terror weapons, that continue to kill and maim to this day. Eventually the Khmer Rouge were overthrown, and the UN came to Cambodia to assist in establishing some form of normalcy. They hired Aki Ra to help de-mine the country.

He had found his trade.

Today Aki Ra spends his time clearing landmines, defusing IEDs and caring for the 15 maimed and orphaned children he and his wife Hourt have adopted as their own. With their two children his family of 19 is surviving through the donations of visitors to their museum, and the help of others.

Day 15 Siem Reap – Home (B)

A portion of the proceeds of this trip will be donated to Aki Ra. Price for land & cruise only is $2,499.00 and estimated airfare from LAX is $1,000.00. A special $100 discount per person if reservations are made through the Landmine Relief Fund website.

Included:

33 meals
3 nights deluxe 5 star hotel in Saigon
3 nights fist class/deluxe hotel in Siem Reap (Angkor Borei, Angkor Century Hotel, Sofitel Resort or similar)
2 full days of sightseeing in Saigon with English speaking guides
All transfers to and from the ship
Welcome drink and information meeting on board ship
Farewell Captains dinner
All excursions from ship
Round trip airfare from the USA to Vietnam and out of Camboida*
Temple tours in Siem Reap
Arrival and departure transfers

*If air is purchased through them

Learn more about Aki Ra and Landmine Relief Fund at: www.landmine-relief-fund.com

See a more detailed itinerary at:
http://www.landmine-relief-fund.com/MekongRiverTour2006.html

See some pictures from previous cruises at:
http://www.landmine-relief-fund.com/MekongPictures.html

Information on traveling with Habitat for Humanity

Habitat for Humanity operates in many countries, including Bangladesh, India, Malaysia, Mongolia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Samoa, Sri Lanka, Vanuatu and many other locations.

I read somewhere that Habitat for Humanity is launching "Operation Home Delivery," to help provide assistance and rebuilding opportunities in New Orleans and elsewhere along the Gulf Coast in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. However, I was unable to find information on this at the Habitat for Humanity website.

I did learn that they operate in all 50 US states. I also read their FAQ and learned that this is a "holiday with a difference" and that no construction knowledge or skill is required. You do get a unique experience:

Global Village trips are different from usual tourist trips. Host Habitat affiliates offer teams an insight into their localities that normal tourists rarely witness.

Itineraries are balanced with plenty of work, and plenty of recreational activities and free time.

Traveling and working in unfamiliar places, often overseas, is challenging as well as rewarding. Plans change and work may progress more slowly than expected. Global Village participants need to have the right mind-set: a flexible attitude and commitment to their team leader and fellow team members.

However, this is a bit more than volunteer work as you also have to make a donation: "Global Village participants each make a donation to the host affiliate in addition to covering their own travel, living and sightseeing costs."

Be wary of cruise line advertisements

The San Francisco Chronicle has a very interesting article on cruise lines and advertising claims that just don't add up. For example Carnival Cruise Line advertises that its cabins are bigger than any other cruise line's cabins.

"All other cruise lines," apparently, does not include Princess, Disney, Celebrity, Cunard, Holland America, Crystal, Radisson Seven Seas and Silversea, among others.

According to the article cruise goers should be on the look out for ocean view cabins that are completely obstructed, misleading names (Hispaniola instead of Haiti), and digitally altered (enhanced) photos.

The witty conclusion is that cruisers should "Study up, be skeptical and ask questions. Cruise vacations are about escaping reality, but often the ads are doing the same."

Sustainable tourism in developing countries

For my winter vacation, I'm going to Cambodia's Siem Reap. In 2002 Siem Reap had 2,500 rooms. The figure is now 5,000 rooms and is predicted to reach 8,000 by the end of the year. Meanwhile electricity does not meet the demand of local residents, and poor waste treatment is causing pollution. There is also concern (and there is no imminent danger of this happening as far as we know) that using so much underground water will lead to landslides and the collapse of Angkor Watt’s temples.

I don't think there's a lot that we can do as tourists (beyond the obvious conserving water and energy and we should do that no matter where we are) but I sure hope that governments like Cambodia's can find the right balance between developing tourism and preserving the environment.

Washington DC’s National Cherry Blossom Festival 2006 dates

Washington DC’s National Cherry Blossom Festival is a showcase for the beautiful flowering trees on the Tidal Basin. It’s also a celebration of Japanese culture through music, dance, culinary events and more. Official festival dates are March 25 - April 9, but savings on hotels run through spring break, March 15 - April 30. Parade tickets can be purchased here.

On April 5th, don't miss Grand Sushi & Sake Tasting. This event is presented by the National Sushi Society, National Geographic Society, and the National Cherry Blossom Festival. Grand Master Sushi chefs from Japan and Washington DC area Japanese restaurants present an evening of extraordinary sushi and sake samples. The cost is 85.00 and of course you ahve to 21 or older...

Cruise cabin tips: beds, noise, discounts

Cruise goers who book early can often choose the exact cabin they want. So this article on MSNBC suggests finding out how big your windows are, how private your balcony is, and gives some more advice an how to get a good cabin for your cruise.

Find out how the beds or berths are arranged. You could end up sleeping on one side of the room while your partner sleep on the other.

Find out where your cabin is located. Cabins in the middle of the cruise ship tend to get less engine/anchor noise but could be near the children’s playroom, high-traffic elevators, self-service laundries or crew work stations. Cabins above the disco and below the pool area are the worst. Carnival Destiny has "night owl" cabins where cruisers who don't mind the noise from the disco can get a discount.

Crime and safety on cruise ships

The Miami Herald is reporting that cruise ship operators have released information on cruise safety because of a Congressional hearing on cruise ship safety next week.

Cruise ship safety has come under scrutiny following the disappearance of Connecticut honeymooner George Smith, 26, who was reported missing from Royal Caribbean's Brilliance of the Seas last summer. The FBI is investigating the possibility of murder, and Smith's family has threatened to file a wrongful-death lawsuit against Royal Caribbean.

I would have guessed that theft would have been the most sommon crime, but sexual misconduct ranging from inappropriate touching to rape accounted for the vast majority of reported crimes.

Mount Kilimanjaro Climb and African Safari

2006 Summer vacation plan travel writing contest entry #3

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, at 19,000 is one of the great