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Travel Briefs

The Trump Online Travel Site Goes Live

American entrepreneur Donald Trump has unveiled a new online travel site, www.GoTrump.com , dedicated to The Art of the Travel Deal. Initial partners in the project include Travelocity, American Airlines, American Express, Blue Star Jets and JoonBug Productions.

Trump launching the initiative in New York this month also announced his first-ever email address MrTrump@GoTrump.com  where he will offer travel tips and advice. GoTrump.com is powered by Travelocity and will feature over 60,000 hotels worldwide. "I will find you the great travel deals, whether you are looking to book a luxury getaway or just want the best rate on airlines and hotels worldwide," Trump said in a statement.

GoTrump.com features several services Trump claimed were unique to booking travel online, including Trump Picks, a special feature where Trump highlights specific hotel and vacation favorites; and Trump Deals, featuring over 30,000 hotel deals worldwide and a "120 per cent best price guarantee".

Largest Healthy Travel Site Launches With 100 Destinations

Athletic-Minded Traveler LLC, a San Diego based healthy-living media company, announced the launch of its new healthy travel portal, www.athleticmindedtraveler.com. This first-of-its-kind site arms travelers with accurate information and credible recommendations on fitness-focused hotels, superior health clubs and gyms, healthy eating options, running routes, retailers, and more in 100 North American destinations. The web portal is an extension of the company's best selling book, “The Athletic-Minded Traveler,” which achieved success across a variety of sales channels including individuals, corporations, catalogs, and specialty retailers around the world. "The online platform is a natural growth model that allows us to tremendously expand the depth and breadth of our healthy travel content," said Jim Kaese, co-founder and President of Athletic-Minded Traveler LLC. "Although the print edition will always be an appealing gift item, the online version provides us with opportunities to instantly add cities, including international destinations, offer graphic-intensive content such as interactive maps, grow content organically via user driven content, and offer other unique features such as a GPS distance calculator, a blog, and detailed running route maps. Customizing the service and creating a private label intranet solution also affords our corporate customers a simple method to distribute our unique content to employees as part of their wellness/work life programs."

Athletic-Minded Traveler LLC is a healthy-living media company offering print and online solutions for travelers who prioritize a healthy lifestyle while away from home. The San Diego based company services its clients through an expert staff of athletic-minded consultants at 1-877-272-6657 and online at http://www.athleticmindedtraveler.com

Asia Dominates Lonely Planet List Of 2006 Travel Hotspots

Asia has entered the Lonely Planet's inaugural Bluelist with a bang, with China topping the `Countries on the Rise' category and Shanghai taking out the number one spot for Cities on the Rise. The independent travel information company's new annual book “Lonely Planet Bluelist 06-07,” compiles information on the world's most popular travel destinations and gadgets. Cambodia's capital, Phnom Penh, made a strong debut on the list, taking out third place for cities on the rise. In other categories, Thailand ranks as the world's best destination for food, India has the best beach to swing a hammock, Japan has the world's best drink, while Australia has the world's best road-trip.

Colonial Williamsburg Offers Visitors New Way to Experience Colonial America

On March 20, 2006, Colonial Williamsburg will launch a new two-day interactive program, Revolutionary City—From Subjects to Citizens, to connect guests to the emotional and philosophical climate of the period leading up to and during the American Revolution. This is an exciting new way for visitors to feel involved as they are transported to the 18th-century when visiting this popular vacation destination.

Day one will feature the collapse of royal government, depicting pivotal events during 1774 to 1776, including British Royal Governor Lord Dunmore's dismissal of the House of Burgesses and the convening of the first Virginia convention.

Day two spans July 1776-September 1781, beginning with the Declaration of Independence and including the British Occupation of the city. Participants will have the opportunity to connect with the characters' personal stories and share the challenges they faced as they separated themselves from British rule. The two days can be experienced in any order and guests are free to roam and experience the series of events that happened in real time during the revolution.

The Revolutionary City program will take place in the Colonial Williamsburg Historic Area from 2:30 - 4:30 p.m. daily. Admission to the Revolutionary City is included with the Colonial Williamsburg general admission ticket. Website: http://www.williamsburg.com/index.cfm

Country Walkers Announces New Trips For 2006

Each year Country Walkers, the world’s premier small group walking tour company, gives its guests more walking opportunities.  2006 boasts 10 new walking destinations and a new program, Women’s Adventures. All of the new tours and the ‘tried and true’ favorites entice active, health-conscious travelers to experience regions from a fresh perspective—walking. “Our new tours and Women’s Adventures were created in direct response to what our guests are asking for,” says Bob Ellsasser, Country Walkers president.  “We're certain our new programs for 2006 will ignite a passion for exploring the world—an adventure to stimulate the mind, body, and senses.”  

New adventures for 2006 include, Slovakia: Budapest to Kraków, an eight-day exploration of walking trails in the High Tatras and UNESCO-preserved villages; Holland: Windmills & Waterways, which highlights national parks and acclaimed museums; France: Untamed Corsica with spectacular coastal scenery, and world-renowned hiking trails; Croatia: The Dalmatian Coast,  a unique land-and-sea journey with walking routes along the Adriatic and fascinating archaeological sites; Italy: Tuscany by the Sea Getaway, a sublime  four-day adventure heralding  the wine-producing Maremma region and Etruscan ruins; Wales: Ancient Pathways, with routes to ancient sites, and country manor houses; Panama: Tropical Jewel, accentuates this country’s varied ecosystems, and colonial history; Arizona: Grand Canyon & Sedona, a six-day adventure exploring impressive red rock formations and the high desert country, and of course walking the rim of the Grand Canyon; North Carolina & Tennessee: Smoky & Blue Ridge Mountains, offers walks along the legendary Appalachian Trail with pioneer and history; New York: Classic Adirondacks, welcomes guests with classic walks in the High Peaks and Central Regions and lots of time for optional kayaking, canoeing, and sailing. 

Country Walkers knows that nothing compares to the camaraderie of exploring new places and cultures with like-minded travelers, and has introduced Women’s Adventures.  Offering women of all ages ‘time out’ for themselves this new program is designed to for women with enthusiasm for active travel.  Incorporating all Country Walkers standards of excellence—small groups, expert local guides, authentic accommodations and cuisine, each Women’s Adventure includes special activities and a flexible single-supplement policy.  Special 2006 Women’s Adventures departures are planned for Italy: Tuscany & Umbria, Morocco: Fès to Marrakesh, Bhutan: Kingdom in the Himalayas; New Mexico: Santa Fe & Taos, and Canadian Rockies: Classic Rockies.

As with all Country Walkers tours, exceptional guides lead the adventures and Country Walkers takes care of all details.  Different trips fit varying levels of fitness, and departures are scheduled throughout the year.  AND Country Walkers guarantees its departures from the moment that a guest finalizes their reservation – no cancellations or disappointment. All of this and more information about Country Walkers trips can be found on the web at www.countrywalkers.com, in their catalog, or by calling 800-464-

Country Walkers, a Grand Expeditions Company based in Waterbury, Vermont (www.countrywalkers.com ) was established in 1980 and is the world’s premier small group walking tour provider.  Country Walkers offers well-crafted itineraries for walking, snowshoeing, and family vacations.  All trips highlight superb cuisine, outstanding tour guides, and authentic accommodations.

Air News & Offers

CWT Business Travel Indicator Reveals Optimism About Business Travel Growth

Whether you are a business traveler from New York City, Rio de Janeiro, London, or Beijing, you have more in common than not with your flying brethren across the globe. Security lines and flight delays top the list as the events that most negatively affect travel. And, the majority of business travelers do not want cell phone use allowed in-flight. As for travel managers, they say expectations from top management are cost savings and globalization of the travel program. These are among the findings of the Carlson Wagonlit Travel (CWT) global business travel survey, the "CWT Business Travel Indicator." The survey was commissioned by the travel management leader to gauge attitudes and perceptions of business travelers and corporate travel managers about the current and future state of business travel. The survey randomly sampled opinions of 2,100 business travelers and 650 travel managers, both CWT and non-CWT customers, in 12 countries.

For the purpose of reporting these results, regions are defined as follows: Asia Pacific (Australia, China, India, and Japan); Europe (France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the United Kingdom); Latin America (Brazil, which represents 50 percent of the business travel market for the region); and North America (Canada and the United States).

The majority of business travelers and corporate travel managers believe business travel will stay the same or increase in 2006, with travel managers even more optimistic than their travelers. Nearly 60 percent of travel managers say travel expenditures will increase this year. Slightly more than 30 percent of business travelers say they anticipate traveling more, while most (48 percent) believe they will travel the same amount as last year.

The survey found

--Latin American travelers (represented by Brazil) are the most optimistic about business travel with nearly 50 percent saying it will increase this year, followed by travelers in Asia Pacific (44 percent), Europe (32 percent), and North America (27 percent). Within the Asia Pacific region, 74 percent of travelers in India and 45 percent of travelers in China say their business travel will increase in 2006.

-- Airport security lines top the list as having the most negative impact on business travel (25 percent of business travelers), with flight delays coming in a close second (24 percent), followed by work-life balance and customer service tying for third (21 percent).

If airlines are listening to their most frequent travelers, they may want to shelve any thought of allowing cell phone use during flight. Whether they are hesitant to give up their "alone time" or they simply don't want to put up with noisy flights, 61 percent of business travelers surveyed said they are not in favor of allowing people to talk on cell phones in-flight. Europeans are most adamant about not allowing cell phone use with 70 percent responding unfavorably, while North Americans appear more tolerant with just 57 percent opposing their use.

-- Of all the annoyances business travelers face, the biggest pet peeve on a global basis is fellow travelers not checking luggage when they should (18 percent), followed closely by crying babies (17 percent), and those travelers who stow luggage far forward from their seat (14 percent).

--Regionally, pet peeves vary. Business travelers in Asia Pacific are most annoyed by crying babies; Europeans are bothered by travelers not checking bags they should; Latin Americans dislike passengers who disturb them; and North Americans are irritated by people stowing luggage far forward from their seat. All agreed vacationing travelers are the least of their annoyances.

--The survey also finds business travelers are more hesitant than their company's travel managers realize to travel to various regions of the world. The Middle East is the region most travelers say they are hesitant to travel to (74 percent of travelers versus 67 percent of travel managers), followed by Africa (53 percent versus 38 percent), Latin America (46 percent versus 26 percent), Asia Pacific (38 percent versus 18 percent), Europe (22 percent versus seven percent), and North America (11 percent versus seven percent).

-- Travel managers most often believe technologically advanced security check-in procedures, such as fingerprint or iris scans, will be a part of business travel in five years. An interesting second choice indicates 83 percent foresee virtually all bookings online in that time frame.

The Indicator clearly shows frequent travelers are relatively unaffected by the state of some air carriers today, including those experiencing financial instability and labor issues and offering fewer services and amenities. For example, when business travelers were asked what impacts their travel negatively, only seven percent selected frequently for airline management issues, such as strikes and bankruptcies. At the same time, they've resigned themselves to the fact that airline food and beverage service will continue to be limited five years down the road. Additionally, nearly 70 percent of travelers say it is very or somewhat likely there will be fewer major airlines and more discount carriers in five years, while 61 percent predict flight crew-size reductions.

Sixty-six percent of business travelers report having used a low-cost carrier at one time or another and 14 percent of them do so 61-100 percent of the time. Business travelers in Latin America are the most frequent users with 28 percent of them saying they use a low-cost carrier for more than 60 percent of their business travel. In North America, 16 percent of travelers say the same, and in Europe just nine percent. In Asia Pacific, China and Japan do not have low-cost carriers, but in Australia and India combined, 16 percent of travelers use them for more than 60 percent of their business travel. Conversely, nearly 50 percent of European business travelers say they have never used a low-cost carrier.

Fifty-eight percent of business travelers extend their business trip to include leisure or vacation time, at least one time a year, either at the beginning or end of their trip. Of those, 47 percent said they occasionally or frequently have family or friends join them for the leisure portion of the trip.

The "CWT Business Travel Indicator" survey, conducted by KRC Research, was fielded October 27 to November 23, 2005. The survey included responses from 2,100 business travelers and 650 travel managers in 12 countries. The data files were weighted to accurately reflect the current business travel landscape. The margin of error for the total sample of travel managers surveyed is N=650 +/- 3.8 percentage points. The margin of error for the total sample of business travelers surveyed is N=2,100 +/- 2.1 percentage points. The survey did not target CWT clients but does include some as randomly selected through the research process.

British Air Offers First Class Upgrade

British Airways is offering clients a new business class deal to London that includes a one-way upgrade to first class and a side trip to one of 24 destinations in Europe. The Club World deal is priced from $9306 from Sydney, which includes taxes and surcharges, as well as the upgrade and side trip. Clients must book and depart before March 31, 2006.

Jet Airways Commands 35 Percent Of The Market In India

Indian airline Jet Airways is to buy rival carrier Air Sahara in a deal worth $500m (£284m). The takeover - the biggest in India's aviation history - will create the country's largest airline. Jet Airways, which was founded by London-based former travel agent Naresh Goyal, controls about 35% of the Indian domestic airline market.

Analysts say the deal will help the company consolidate its position in India's flourishing aviation market. Air Sahara, owned by the reclusive businessman Subrata Roy, controls about 12 percent of India's market, analysts say.

The BBC's Monica Chadha in Mumbai (Bombay) says the takeover, subject to approvals from the government, would allow Jet Airways to use Air Sahara's fleet, air routes and traffic. 

 The deal is very good for business, our shareholders, [and] the industry.. it will prove that in India things can be done better than anywhere in the world

The deal could also mean more international routes for the airline, as Jet Airways and Air Sahara were the only two private Indian carriers who were permitted to fly overseas.

Jet has 42 aircraft and runs 271 scheduled flights daily within India. It recently won government permission to fly to London, Singapore and Kuala Lumpur.

Air Sahara has 27 aircraft and operates 134 flights daily in India. It recently begun flying to the US, London and Singapore.

Indian airlines emerged as big buyers at last year's Paris Air Show, placing orders worth roughly $12bn. State-owned Indian Airlines and Air India will be buying 111 new airplanes between the two of them, including 50 wide-bodied long-range planes, and 43 Airbus aircraft to replace an existing fleet.

But India's aviation industry is hampered by overcrowded airports, stretched air traffic controls, antiquated ground handling equipment and a shortage of pilots and engineers.

India began to open up its domestic airline market - previously dominated by state-run carrier Indian Airlines - in the 1990s.

Air Canada To Begin Toronto-Shanghai Non-Stop Flights

From June 16th, Air Canada will launch a non-stop flight between Toronto and Shanghai. The carrier will operate three non-stop services per week between Toronto and China's financial hub. With an elapsed time of 14 hours 45 minutes westbound and 13 hours 40 minutes eastbound, the airline's new flight will save travelers over 3 hours in each direction compared to the Vancouver routing. The service will depart Toronto on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays arriving in Shanghai the following day. Website: www.aircanada.com

Qantas To Operate Extra Los Angeles-Sydney Flights & Begins Flights To Beijing

Starting from March 31st, Qantas will add additional non-stop flights between Los Angeles and Sydney. The Friday flights feature the Skybed business class sleeper seat and add over 1,200 seats monthly to the airline's present schedule. Meanwhile, the Australian carrier has started three non-stop flights per week from Sydney to Beijing to add to its four weekly services to Shanghai. The Australian airline expects to offer daily flights to both Chinese cities within two years. Website: www.qantas.com.au

India's Air Sahara Launches London Heathrow-New Delhi Flight

Air Sahara on January 6th commenced direct flights from London Heathrow to New Delhi. The flight is operated with a Boeing 767 aircraft, which has 10 Business Class Premium seats and 32 Business Class seats. Website: www.airsahara.net

 Singapore Airlines To Launch Flights To Abu Dhabi

From March 1, Singapore Airlines will begin a three times per week flight service to the United Arab Emirates destination of Abu Dhabi. The services will depart Singapore on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays arriving at Abu Dhabi on the same day. From there, they will continue on to Jeddah in Saudi Arabia. Website: www.singaporeair.com.sg

Reagan National Airport and Washington Dulles International Airport Unveil Explosives Detection Trace Portal Machines

With a sharp eye focused on the threat of explosives, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced this month that it has deployed explosives detection trace portal machines to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) and Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD). The two airports join Baltimore-Washington International and 21 others nationwide in a program designed to prevent explosives material from getting on-board commercial aircraft. "The trace portal is a sophisticated tool that allows us to detect a broad range of explosive materials quickly and efficiently," said Pat Hynes, TSA's Federal Security Director at DCA. "This new technology, along with enhanced training for our security officers and new checkpoint procedures, ensure we have a robust system in place to address the serious threat of explosives."

Passengers identified as needing additional screening, as well as passengers selected at random, will pass through the trace portal for explosives detection screening. As passengers enter the trace portal, they are asked to stand still for a few seconds while several "bursts" of air are released, dislodging microscopic particles from passengers that are then collected and analyzed for traces of explosives. A computerized voice indicates when a passenger may exit the portal. TSA Officers will take necessary and appropriate steps to resolve alarms. "This significant security enhancement would not be possible without the cooperation and hard work of the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority and our airline partners," said John Lenihan, TSA's Federal Security Director at IAD. "Working together we will continue to enhance security and the overall traveler experience."

TSA has already advanced its explosives detection capabilities at the passenger security checkpoint by deploying trace portals at airports in Baltimore; Boston; Dallas (DFW); Gulfport, Miss.; Jacksonville, Fla.; Las Vegas; Los Angeles; Miami; Newark; New York (JFK); Palm Beach, FL; Phoenix; Providence, R.I.; Rochester, N.Y.; San Francisco; San Diego; Pittsburgh; Tampa, Fla.; Fort Lauderdale, Fla.; San Juan, P.R.; and Indianapolis, Ind.

TSA will continue to increase its explosives detection capabilities and expects to announce the next round of airports to receive these trace portal machines in the coming weeks. TSA purchased the trace portal equipment from GE Infrastructure, Security and Smiths Detection.

Air Canada to launch daily non-stop service between Denver and Montreal

Air Canada today has announced the introduction of non-stop flights between Denver and Montreal. Beginning June 16, 2006, Air Canada will operate year-round daily non-stop service creating an important and strategic link between two Star Alliance carriers' hubs and their extensive networks. Flights are conveniently timed to offer travelers a wide range of connecting flights in Montreal to and from: Ottawa, Quebec City, Rouyn-Noranda, Sept-Iles, Moncton, Fredericton, Saint John NB, Deer Lake, St. John's NF, Sydney NS, Halifax and Charlottetown, and on United Airlines operated flights in Denver to and from: Phoenix, Portland, Salt Lake City, and San Diego. Air Canada becomes the only airline to offer this direct service cutting existing air travel time by approximately two hours. Tickets are now available for purchase at aircanada.com or through travel agents.

Rail News & Offers

Eurostar Seeks To Capitalize On "Da Vinci Code" Tourism

Eurostar, the high-speed train connecting the UK with France and Belgium, will lead an international campaign to promote tourism to London, Paris and Edinburgh in conjunction with the May 19 release of the Columbia Pictures’ movie based on Dan Brown’s bestseller, “The Da Vinci Code.”  Eurostar was named the first global partner of the eagerly awaited film.  

With most of the film/book scenes taking place in London and Paris, the Eurostar train is the most convenient way for fans to follow “The Da Vinci Code” plot themselves.  In fact, the book’s popularity has already helped boost Eurostar sales, and the film is expected to accelerate “The Da Vinci Code” effect on train ticket sales, according to both UK-based Eurostar and New York-based Rail Europe, Eurostar’s official North American representative and leading North American distributor of European rail travel.  Eurostar ticket sales in North America were up 7 percent for 2005 compared to 2004. “An increasing number of our leisure travelers are on The Da Vinci Code trail,” notes Paul Charles, Director of Communications for Eurostar.  “The book is one of the most common items in our lost property office these days.”

Eurostar and Rail Europe together with tourism officials in the England, France and Scotland will soon launch a series of TV, online and in-rail station marketing and promotional programs in the US, France, the UK and Belgium in support of the film’s May release.

Traveling at speeds up to 186 mph, Eurostar makes the London-Paris journey in an astonishing 2 hrs 35 min, London-Brussels in 2 hrs 15 minutes on the fastest schedules.  Travel times will shrink by another 20 minutes in 2007 when the last segment of high-speed track is completed in England. Fares start at just $90 US roundtrip between London-Paris (or London-Brussels). More than 65 million travelers have ridden Eurostar since the launch of service in 1994.

 For more information visit www.eurostar.com or contact Rail Europe, Eurostar’s official North American representative at www.raileurope.com in the US or www.raileurope.ca  in Canada or call 1-800-EUROSTAR (1-800-387-6782).

More details about The Da Vinci Code film can be found on the Internet at www.TheDaVinciCode-Movie.com.

Amtrak To Reduce Discount On Monthly Fares Starting February 16

Completing the second of a two-phase fare change for monthly commuter passes in the Northeast Corridor, the Smart Pass discount will be adjusted from 60 percent to 50 percent beginning February 16, 2006. The 50 percent discount continues to be the largest discount offered commuter railroad passengers in the Northeast (based on 18 monthly roundtrips). Smart Pass tickets are good for unlimited travel on designated Amtrak trains during the month for which they are purchased.

Adjustment of the fare, first announced in September 2005, is intended to cover increases in current and anticipated expenses across the board, including the cost of fuel. Amtrak serves about 2,000 Smart Pass monthly passengers in the Northeast Corridor, most of whom commute between Pennsylvania, New Jersey and New York.

Passes purchased prior to February 16 are available at the current 60 percent discount, and passengers may purchase passes up to three months in advance.

Amtrak provides intercity passenger rail services to more than 500 destinations in 46 states on a 22,000-mile route system.  For schedules, fares and information, passengers may call 800-USA-RAIL or visit www.Amtrak.com.

Hotel News & Offers

Four Seasons Announces Development Projects In Asia

Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts has entered into letters of intent for three new development projects in Shanghai, Taipei and Macau. Four Seasons Hotel Shanghai at Pudong will join the present Four Seasons Hotel Shanghai, and will house 190 rooms and suites and 60 residences, along with space for meetings.

 Four Seasons Hotel Taipei, scheduled to open in 2009, will contain 275 rooms and suites, and 50 serviced apartments for business travelers. Four Seasons Hotel Macau will offer 400 hotel rooms and up to 600 serviced vacation suites. Website: www.fourseasons.com

Historic Hotels of America(R) Has Affinity for Animals

Think pet-friendly hotels are a recent phenomena? Guess again. Some of America's oldest hotels have hosted guests of all persuasions, from four-legged friends to songbirds and steers. For a listing of more than 60 pet-friendly hotels, visit the Historic Hotels of America website http://www.historichotels.org/catalog/Vacations_and_Leisure/Pet_Friendly.htm

London’s Brown’s Hotel Reopens After Multimillion Dollar Renovation

After being closed for 20 months for a complete renovation that cost in excess of £20 million ($35.6 million), London’s famous landmark hotel has reopened. Brown’s Hotel will be the flagship hotel for Rocco Forte Hotels and marks Sir Rocco’s successful return to the hotel industry, just over 10 years since Granada launched an aggressive takeover bid for Forte plc.  In less than a decade, Sir Rocco has created a collection of luxury hotels that is enjoying an aggressive expansion throughout Europe.  Brown’s Hotel is the tenth hotel to join the group. 

Over the next three years, an additional five properties will open, as Sir Rocco continues to work towards his aim of building a collection of luxury hotels covering all major European cities. Three properties are under construction in Germany (Villa Kennedy opens in Frankfurt in March 2006, Hotel de Rome in Berlin in September 2006 and a yet to be named Munich property in 2007) making Rocco Forte Hotels the country’s integrated into the public areas and all guest rooms.

A luxury hotel is due to open in Prague in 2007 and work has recently started on Rocco Forte Hotels’ first resort property, Verdura Golf Resort & Spa, which will open in Sicily in 2008, bringing the total number of hotels in the Rocco Forte Hotels collection to 15.

All members of the Rocco Forte Hotels collection share a commitment to individual stylish design, attention to detail, exceptional levels of comfort and personal service, and the latest technology – and Brown’s Hotel is no exception.   Olga Polizzi, Rocco Forte Hotels’ Director of Design and Sir Rocco’s sister, has created a stylish new design that maintains the refined English charm for which Brown’s Hotel has always been known, successfully combining it with a more contemporary and comfortable style.  The latest in guest innovation and technology have also been installed. For further information, online reservations and images, please visit the Rocco Forte Hotels website at www.roccofortehotels.com.

Carlson Hotels Announces Radisson Plaza Hotel Tianjin In China

Carlson Hotels Asia Pacific has announced the development of the Radisson Plaza Hotel Tianjin. Slated to open in July next year, the 238-room hotel Tianjin will cater to the needs of business people traveling to the Chinese city. Located 20 minutes from Tianjin International Airport, the hotel will feature three Plaza Club floors and a Plaza Club executive lounge, conference and banqueting facilities, and a business centre.

Starwood To Manage Sheraton Dameisha Resort, Shenzhen

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide will manage the Sheraton Dameisha Resort in the Chinese city of Shenzhen. Slated to open in early 2008, the Sheraton Dameisha Resort will contain 402 rooms and more than 16,000 square feet of meeting space. The resort will be located at eastern Shenzhen's Dameisha Beach, some 24 kilometres from downtown Shenzhen. Website: www.starwoodhotels.com  

Winter Historic Getaways from Historic Hotels of America(R)

Take time to enjoy the wonders of winter and plan a romantic getaway, ski the mountains or explore a great southern town. Historic Hotels of America is offering nearly 60 getaways with packages to beat the winter blues.

The winter specials and packages from Historic Hotels of America are featured at http://www.historichotels.org/page/WinterGetaways.htm . The following are selected samples.

-- River Street Inn, Savannah, Georgia. Enjoy a Paula Deen Trolley Tour and get to know the South's favorite cooking enthusiast—Paula Deen with this Savannah's Fare Package. Sip evening wine and champagne, accompanied by hors d'oeuvres, chocolates at turndown and in-room Godiva coffee. (Available through March 15, 2006; $210 per couple, per night for two-night stay.) Visit http://www.historichotels.org/hotels/River_Street_Inn.htm

-- Cranwell Resort Spa & Golf Club, Lenox, Massachusetts.  Cranwell's Romance Package includes overnight lodging, candlelight dinner, champagne and chocolate-dipped strawberries, full country breakfast and use of the spa. (Available through April 30, 2006; $329 per couple midweek. $369 per couple weekends.)  Website: http://www.historichotels.org/hotels/Cranwell_Resort_Spa_and_Golf_Club.htm  

-- Wort Hotel, Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Escape with this Jackson Hole Ski Package which includes a three-night stay in a deluxe room, two-day lift ticket at Jackson Hotel Mountain Resort, complimentary ski shuttle and storage, full breakfast each day, use of the Jacuzzi and fitness room and hot beverages in the hotel lobby apres ski. (Available through March 30, 2006; $516 per person, based on double occupancy, includes all taxes.) Website: http://www.historichotels.org/hotels/The_Wort_Hotel.htm  

-- Mohonk Mountain House, New Paltz, New York. Indulge in friendship with this Girlfriends' Midweek Getaway. Enjoy a choice of $125 worth of spa treatments, use of steam sauna, mineral pool and solarium. Savor chocolate treats, a midnight snack, 10% outlet coupon book, fitness classes, ice-skating or cross-country skiing, three meals daily and afternoon tea and cookies. (Available through March 23, 2006; $364 per person, per night Sun.-Thurs., double occupancy, two night minimum stay required.) Website:  http://www.historichotels.org/hotels/Mohonk_Mountain_House.htm  

Historic Hotels of America, a program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, has identified more than 200 hotels that have faithfully maintained their historic integrity, architectural and ambiance. To be selected for this prestigious program, a hotel must be at least 50 years old, listed in or eligible for the National Register of Historic Places or recognized as having historic significance. Reservations can be made though Historic Hotels of America http://www.historichotels.org.

Destinations

Dominican Republic: Where Humpback Whales Make Winter Home

Beginning in January, the Atlantic Ocean's largest population of majestic humpback whales, an estimated 2,000 to 5,000 males and females, make their annual pilgrimage to the protected waters of the Dominican Republic (DR). Established in 1986 by the DR government, the "Sanctuary for the Marine Mammals of the Dominican Republic" is the winter home for nearly a third of the Atlantic Ocean's humpback whale population and encompasses the Northern and Eastern coasts of the Dominican Republic (DR), two of the most popular tourism regions in the country.

The colossal 50-foot long humpbacks use the three-month period of January through March in the DR as their breeding haven. Cave drawings throughout Samana indicate that humpbacks have been visiting the area for centuries and continue to be attracted to its warm, shallow, calm waters that provide natural protection during their mating rituals. A spectacular sight, this is the time when the whales are most acrobatic with photogenic displays of breeching, twirling and an activity called "spyhopping" in which the whale lifts its head out of the water for up to 30 seconds for a look around.

While whale watching excursions are available from energetic Puerto Plata and Cabarete on the north coast and popular Punta Cana on the east coast, a stay in Samana provides a more rustic, less traveled experience for families, nature and adventure lovers or those looking for a unique retreat to a land pristine with powdery white sand beaches.

The cost of a whale watching tour to the Sanctuary can vary depending on an individual's expectations, needs and departure location. Tour operators can provide a tailored trip to suit serious nature enthusiasts while a package tour may be more appealing to families or those on a budget. Determinants include the transportation mode to the dock, whether it be by car, bus or air; the type of boat used during the trip; the number of people on a tour; and the length of the excursion. Typically, tours consist of a morning departure with several hours of whale watching and a Caribbean lunch served upon the postcard-quality beaches of Cayo Levantado.

When looking for a tour company, visitors should only book with operators that carry whale watching permits from the DR government. In order to protect the whale populations, the DR has developed strict guidelines for whale watching activities and requires mandatory workshops for all tour operators and tender drivers applying for a permit to the Sanctuary. These companies are trained in regulations, feeding zones, natural history, whale behaviors and other topics beneficial to the whale seeker. Regardless of the operator, it is unlawful for visitors to swim or snorkel with the whales and vessels must stay at least 165 feet from adult whales and 270 feet from a group if it includes a calf. Companies carrying permits include Victoria Marine (http://www.whalesamana.com ; Prieto Tours  http://www.prieto-tours.com; and VIP Travel Services http://www.viptravelservices.com..

Rich in history, the Dominican Republic's first tourist was Christopher Columbus in 1492. Since then, it has developed into a diverse destination offering both Dominican and European flavors. At 10,000 feet, the Dominican Republic is home to the highest point in the Caribbean. It also features some of the best golf courses and beaches in the world, the largest marina in the Caribbean and is a chosen escape for celebrities, couples and families. For more information on the DR's whale watching excursions, accommodations and other activities, visit http://www.dominicana.com.do.

Germany: In Mozart's Footsteps

 German towns and cities start celebrating Mozart's 250th anniversary with festivals and concerts. T he year-long celebration of Mozart's anniversary in Germany is getting under way with three huge festivals in Dresden, Leipzig and Munich. For the first time, the "Dresden Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart Festival" will take place in the historic Simper Opera with the premiere of "Le Nozze de Figaro" (www.semperoper.de). In Munich six Mozart operas will be performed at the "Mozart Festival Weeks." (www.bayerische.staatsoper.de). In the meantime, Leipzig is preparing for a repeat of Mozart's 1789 "Gewandhaus Concert" (www.gewandhausorchester.de).

From the tender age of six, the prodigious young Mozart toured Europe and frequently spent important time in Germany. For example, Augsburg is where Wolfgang Amadeus's father, Johann Georg Leopold Mozart, was born and Wolfgang visited the city 17 times. In Munich, Mozart composed some of his operatic works, including the opera "La finta giardiniera" and the opera "Idomeneo."  Passau is where Mozart first heard the basset horn, which became his favorite instrument. And, Mannheim is where the child genius became acquainted with and influenced by the court orchestra style and met his future wife. He played in Frankfurt to the 14-year old Goethe, in Schwetzingen Palace, and later in Dresden. He left his mark on Leipzig where he conducted the Gewandhaus Orchestra in some of his own compositions and performed improvisations on the organ in the St. Thomas Church. These places and many other German towns and cities with special Mozart connections are celebrating the great composer's life and music. For more information, go to www.germany-tourism.de and for a map of his travels to: www.germany-tourism.de/musikland/mozartkarte.htm.

Andalusia: A Year Round Flamenco Festival

All year long – during any given week – visitors can enjoy flamenco in cities and towns throughout Andalusia.  In tablaos, peñas and theatres, this region of southern Spain hosts a non-stop fiesta devoted to the region’s signature dance form. Nowhere is the stamping of tacones, the clapping of hands and the chording compas of the guitarra more in evidence than in the cradle of flamenco, Jerez de la Frontera.  Andalusia’s flamenco season kicks off February 24 with the Tenth Festival of Jerez featuring such renowned flamenco greats as Manuela del Carrasco (2/25), Merche Esmeralda (2/27), Sara Baras (3/03), Los Farrucos (3/05), Antonio el Pipa Company (3/08) and Pedro Cierra (3/10).  Closing this two-week extravaganza on March 11 will be the legendary Fosforito.  This year the festival—one of the world’s most important—is presenting an expanded program of 49 flamenco performances and guitar concerts and 36 flamenco courses as well as exhibitions and lectures.

Opening the festival on February 24 will be native son and flamenco dancer Joaquín Grilo with the premiere of his show “A Solas.”  During the 16 days of the festival (three more than last year) aficionados will be able to enjoy two other premieres as Carmen Cortés debuts “La puerta del silencio” (The Door of Silence) (3/04) and Aída Gómez  presents her “Carmen” (3/09). The Villamarta Theatre, a carefully restored architectural jewel from the 1920s in the old quarter of Jerez, will host many performances.  Other shows and guitar concerts will take place at Los Apóstoles Inn, La Campañía music hall and the Villavicencio Palace.  The Guadalcacín Theatre will host two series: “De la frontera” (“From the border”) and “Los Novísimos” (“The Very New Ones”).

For the uninitiated, the art of flamenco exists in cante (song), baile (dance) and guitarra (guitar).  The modern day tablao (a flamenco stage with regular shows) evolved from the famous 19th century cafes cantantes, or singing cafes.  Peñas are private clubs for local aficionados. 

The festival is also an opportunity to celebrate two of the city’s other iconic lures: Andalusian horses and sherry. Jerez is home to the acclaimed equestrian school, the Real Escuela Andaluz de Arte Ecuestre and the capital of Spain’s sherry production so visitors can enjoy displays of superb horsemanship and tastings at local bodegas.  The Centro Andaluz de Flamenco in the Palacio de Penmartin gives a good introduction to the art, the Museo de Relojes has one of the largest clock collections in Europe and the 12th century alcázar de Jerez houses a former mosque.

Last month Malaga announced “Malaga en Flamenco,” an ambitious year-long series of activities. Upcoming festivals include:

-- June 23-July 9 – Granada International Festival of Music and Dance

-- July 1-14 – International Guitar Festival in Cordoba

-- July-August – Cadiz Flamenco Summer Festival

-- Mid-July thru August – Flamenco Thursdays in Cadiz

-- August – Quadalquivier Festival in Sanlucar de la Barrameda

-- August – Flamenco Fridays in Jerez de la Frontera

-- September 13-October 15 – the 14th Biennial de Flamenco in Seville

-- October – World Fair of Flamenco Seville

The following tour operators are offering packages to Andalucia: Central Holidays  www.centralholidays.com/andalucia  (866) 521-4180; Spanish Heritage Tours  www.shtours.com   (800) 456-5050; Sun Holidays www.sunholidaytours.com  (800) 422-8000 and Trafalgar Tours www.trafalgar.com   (800) 854-0103.

Tickets for performances start at 12 euros and courses cost about $360. 

For further information go to www.festivaldejerez.es;  for more information about the region of Andalusia visit www.spain.info  or o www.andalucia.org. 

Travel Tour Groups

Spendida Italia Launches Its 2006 Italian Vacations

Spendida Italia, a division of Picasso Travel, has launched its 2006 independent and escorted tours. From spending a week in a villa or farmhouse in Tuscany to visiting the birthplace of the Renaissance in Florence, Spendida, Italia vacations offer travelers a variety of experiences and destinations at an excellent value.

This year there are several new Spendida Italia vacation options, such as the exclusive four days/three nights package to Minori on the spectacular Amalfi Coast at the family-owned Villa Romana Hotel. The package includes all meals, local taxes and service charges and a variety of activities—wine tasting, pasta and sweet pastry making demonstrations, a Limoncello distillery visit, a lecture on local history and traditions and entertainment by local musicians, singers and folk dancers -- beginning at $189 per person, double occupancy.

Prices for most of the tours are lower than last year and there is a greater volume and variety of hotel accommodations especially in Rome. Travelers will find more flexibility in mixing and combining any of the vacation packages offered by Splendida Italia or Nordique Tours and SwissMade Tours, other divisions of Picasso Travel. Because Picasso Travel is one of the largest air wholesalers, they can guarantee the best international airfare at the time of booking.

For more information on 2006 Spendida Italia, call 1-800-995-7997 (Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m. PST) or visit its web site at www.picassotours.com.

Spendida Italia is owned and operated by Picasso Travel. It provides extensive personal travel protection through Travel Guard International. And its staff is knowledgeable about the travel destinations it represents. Picasso Travel is a member of ASTA, IATA, CLIA, USACA, ARC and BTC.

TourCrafters Announces Bargain Packages to the Amalfi Coast

There are few places in the world as beautiful or famous as Italy’s Amalfi Coast. In addition, it has a pleasantly sunny year-round climate. So it’s good news that TourCrafters has organized two bargain-priced breaks through March 30: a five-day/four--night package for $658 and an 8-day/7-night package for $729. (Four people traveling together and sharing a car will pay only $569 each for the 4-night package.)

Both packages include round-trip air from New York to Naples’ Capodichino Airport where a rental car awaits, 5 or 8 days car rental, accommodations at the family-run Hotel Villa Romana in the charming village of Minori on the Amalfi Coast, daily breakfast and dinner, and hotel service charges and taxes (the 7-night break includes a special farewell dinner, as well). Departures from other cities mean higher air fares: Boston, $42; Washington, $66; Atlanta, $48; Miami, $128; and Chicago, $72.

A delightful picture of terraced lemon groves, old churches and antique manor houses—not to mention panoramic views—Minori is also a convenient base for sightseeing. The postcard-pretty towns of Amalfi, Ravello and Positano, with their enticing shops and restaurants, perch along the scenic Amalfi Drive. The ancient Roman ruins at Pompei and Herculaneum are only a fifty-minute drive inland, and the legendary island of Capri is a pleasant boat ride offshore. The 4-star Hotel Villa Romana, named for a nearby first-century Roman villa, is known locally for its fine Mediterranean cuisine.

All prices are per person, double occupancy, are subject to availability and do not include airport taxes or fuel surcharges. Reservations must be paid for within 72 hours. For more information, visit www.tourcrafters.com . For reservations, call +1-800-482-5995 (US).

Around The World: Special Festivals Highlight Adventures Abroad Tours

Soft adventure tours with a strong cultural content can be further enhanced by the inclusion of local festivals or fairs that provide intimate insight into the local way of life. The following list features just a few of the upcoming trips offered by Adventures Abroad that are set to coincide with special events that allow travelers to interact with their hosts and immerse themselves in local traditions.

-- Jaisalmer Desert Festival; Elephant Festival -- India

In January or February, the sands around Jaisalmer come alive with the brilliant colors, music and laughter of the Desert Festival. Over the years, the desert dwellers in their solitude have woven a fascinating tapestry with threads of music and rhythm and the Desert Festival is a celebration of their heritage. The Elephant Festival gets underway in the month of Phalgun on the eve of Holi, the Festival of Colours every March in Jaipur. Land cost from US$2,550.

-- Inti Raymi -- Cuzco, Peru

This festival was celebrated by the Incas as the Festival of the Sun, where the God of the Sun, Wiracocha, is honored and the day proclaimed by the high priest as the New Year. Many special events including expositions, street and square activities, are held during the daytime and evening; along with live concerts given by the very best of Peru's diverse musical talents. This is the second biggest festival in Latin America, after Carnival in Rio. Land cost from US$1,262; combinations with Bolivia and the Nazca Lines also available.

-- Teschu Festivals -- Bhutan

At the yearly Paro Tsechu, see monks in masks and brilliant silk costumes whirl and leap against a background of sky and mountains, accompanied by blaring horns, booming drums, and clashing cymbals. Land cost from US$2,950. Spring departure; combinations with Sikkim and Tibet also available.

For detailed information on these exciting trips call Adventures Abroad at 1 800 665 3998 or visit the website at www.adventures-abroad.com.

Adventures Abroad has been in operation since 1987 and offers small group, cultural/ historical, adventure, and special interest tours in over a hundred different countries worldwide.

Italy: Country Walkers Amalfi Coast and Capri

If you are someone who relishes days filled with healthy, rigorous hikes rewarded by spectacular vistas, fresh, Italian cuisine, and elegant hotels, then Italy: The Amalfi Coast and Capri is sure to become one of your most memorable vacations ever.

Highlights Include:

Picturesque towns of Amalfi, Ravello, Sorrento, and Positano

Guided walking tour of Pompeii

Classic walk on the "Sentiero degli Dei" (Path of the Gods)

Bountiful wildflowers and cool spring temperatures

Three days on the Isle of Capri

Abundant seafood and delectable local cuisine

Elegant hotels with stunning coastal and mountain views

Tour price per person is $3,548 based on double occupancy; Single supplement is $575.

Moderate terrain with challenging options

Dates: May 7 to 13/ May 14 to 20. Fall dates are also available.

Consider reserving the Tuscany by the Sea Getaway as an extension to this tour, and reward yourself with this relaxing, 4-day coastal escape. Website: www.countrywalkers.com or email info@countrywalkers.com.

Egypt: Solar Eclipse Tour of Egypt

On March 29, 2006 a total solar eclipse will occur in Egypt. The Solar Eclipse tour is a grand way to witness this spectacular natural visual delight in the mystical ambiance of Egyptian desert city of Saloum.

This special interest eight-day tour scheduled to depart on March 26, 2006. The Total Solar Eclipse tour will cover all the popular cities of tourist interest like Cairo, Alexandria and of-course Pyramids of Giza with an option of Nile cruise as well.

Indus Travels Inc, a Vancouver, Canada- based tour operator is conducting a Solar Eclipse Tour in Egypt. Website:  http://www.industravels.ca/tours/solar-eclipes-tour-egypt.html  

Italy: Maupintour's Intriguing Italian Tours Include February's Carnevale

Maupintour offers a number of excellent escorted and independent tour products exploring the numerous regions of Italy, as well as several independent city stays in Rome, Florence and Venice. For travelers seeking an exciting winter escape, the Carnevale in Venice tour is the perfect opportunity to begin their 2006 travel.

On the seven-day independent tour, guests attend one of the world's premiere pre-Lenten celebrations in exotic Venice, where exciting masquerade parades, fireworks and festivities make for a unique winter escapade. With plenty of free time built in, guests may shop for Murano glassware and lace, explore the many art galleries which house incomparable paintings and sculpture from across the ages, and sample exceptional wines and cuisine. Highlights include a half-day guided walking tour of Venice, a visit to the Doges' Palace, an evening gondola ride (with a musical serenade), exploration of the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, and the opportunity to join the Carnevale fun through the streets and along the canals of enchanting Venice. Roundtrip airport/hotel transfers, five nights at the Hotel Bauer, a Vaparetto Card for unlimited public waterbus service, five breakfasts and one dinner are included. Departs February 20, 2006. Priced from $,2629 per person/land only.

For further information on these programs or to book a tour, please call Maupintour at 800-255-4266 or visit www.maupintour.com.

Tuscan Way Announces New Cooking Vacation

Continuing its tradition of hosting guests in authentic settings, Tuscan Way has announced a new cooking vacation site—the 18-century Villa Poggliarello.  Its fourth location, in the 1,000-year-old village of Roccastrada, 34 miles south of Siena, is surrounded by vineyards, rolling hills, medieval villages and natural parks.  Participants in the four- or seven-day cooking vacations are taught in the style of “La Cucina Povera Toscana” —the Tuscan peasant's cuisine, are treated to the foods and wines of Southern Tuscany, explore the medieval villages, attend local food festivals and stroll the sandy beaches of the nearby seaside.  Departures are March through October, off-season visits can also be arranged.  Prices range from $2,000 per person, double for four days to $3,250 for the full week.

The cooking vacations held at the villa are of the same intimate nature of its three other locations -- Casa Innocenti, Villa Castelletti and Villa Gaia: hands-on cooking classes led by an accomplished chef, Romeo Innocenti, whose specialty is Maremma seafood dishes, small groups, comfortable surroundings and a member-of-the-family atmosphere not found in more formal schools. An array of excursion choices offers flexibility in accommodating guest interests: examples include Montepescali, whose panoramic position dominates the grossetana plain, the well-preserved medieval village of Roccatederighi and the seaside villages of Talamone and Porto Santo Stefano, and wine tasting in Montepulciano, with architecture that rivals its wine in reputation, and Montalcino, known for the celebrated Brunello wine. 

Set amongst the woods and vine groves of the Maremma region and surrounded by a large natural park, the one-time farmhouse dates back to the 1700s and offers a stunning view of sunsets and the surrounding hills from its 1000-year-old tower, traditional-styled apartments with full amenities, an outdoor swimming pool, optional horseback riding and mountain bike rentals and easy access to and from Siena.

All courses include accommodations, meals, wine, transfers and local transportation for scheduled excursions.  There are five hands-on cooking courses during the seven-day package, three during the four-day package, a wine-tasting session and escorted visits through the local markets, restaurants and vineyards. 

Tuscan Way is a specialized provider of packaged and custom tours to Tuscan destinations and villa rentals. Reservations, brochures and information can be obtained from Tuscan Way, 2829 Bird Avenue, PMB 242, Coconut Grove, FL, 33133; telephone (800) 766-2390 or (305) 598-8368, fax (305) 598-8369. Website: www.tuscanway.com

Grandtravel Introduces “Grands” To The Grandeur Of The American West

Combining learning with fun, grandparents and grandchildren are introduced to the multiple cultures, rough and ready history and grandeur of the American West on two Grandtravel summer packages: the 11-day Western Parks, Western Space and the new nine-day Grandest Canyons.  Grandtravelers sit down for a chuck wagon dinner in the Black Hills, take in a rodeo, fish on Lake Yellowstone, tour Monument Valley with a Navajo guide, float down the Colorado and Snake Rivers, ride horses, pan for gold, visit Little Bighorn Battlefield and Buffalo Bill Historical Center, and walk along the rim of the breathtaking Grand Canyon.  Departures are July 10 and 21, 2006 for Western Parks and June 20 and July 12 for Grandest Canyons.

-- From the humbling vastness of the Grand Canyon, with its awe-inspiring views, to the isolated red mesas and buttes of Monument Valley, Grandtravelers take in the magical world that nature carved into the American Southwest on the new nine-day Grandest Canyons package.  Starting with a small taste of Las Vegas, grandparents and grandchildren cross Lake Mead on an old-fashioned paddlewheeler; explore Zion National Park; take horses to the bottom of Bryce National Park and enjoy an evening at the Bryce Rodeo; board an all-terrain vehicle for a Navajo-led tour of Monument Valley, visiting a traditional Navajo home; float down the Colorado River; walk along the south rim of the Grand Canyon; take a scenic drive through the Coconino Forest and Oak Creek Canyon; and visit an old homesteader’s cabin in Sedona.  Prices are $4,680 per person, double and $4,490 for triples.

-- Grandtravel's 11 Western Parks, Western Space emphasizes the history of pioneers and Native Americans and the grandeur of national parks and landmarks.  Heading into the Black Hills of North Dakota, one of the richest gold-mining districts in the country, the tour stops to view Mount Rushmore National Memorial, take a guided tour of the Old Thunder Gold Mine, try panning for gold (keeping what they find) and ride horses through the scenic countryside.  At Little Bighorn Battlefield in Montana, Grandtravelers learn both sides of the story of Custer's Last Stand and, in Cody, visit the five museums of the Buffalo Bill Historical Center.  Other highlights include a walk around Devil’s Tower, spending a day in Yellowstone with a National Park historian, floating down Snake River, fishing for cutthroat trout in Lake Yellowstone and whooping it up at the Cody Night Rodeo. 

Among special meals on the tour is dinner at Ft. Hayes Chuckwagon and Buffalo Bill Cody’s Irma Hotel, picnics on the shores of Yellowstone Lake and at the base of Devil's Tower, and a special grandparents-only Grands Night Out at the Wagon Box Restaurant while grandchildren have their own fun evening with the Activity Director.  Cost is $5,695 per person, double; $5,295 triple. 

Prices include deluxe or best available accommodations with private bath, most meals, transportation, admission to all scheduled attractions and events, en route activities for children, pre-departure guidance, a professional tour manager, a Grandtravel Activities Director (always an experienced educator or youth counselor), and service charges and hotel taxes.  Further information, brochures and reservations can be obtained from Grandtravel, 1920 N Street, NW, Suite 200, Washington, DC 20036-1601; telephone, (800) 247-7651, (202) 785-8901, web site www.grandtrvl.com.

Grandtravel, celebrating its 20th year, develops its intergenerational programs with the help of teachers, psychologists, leisure counselors and educators, giving special attention to creative activities, access to experiences not available to individual travelers or families, historical sites and natural attractions. 

Cities and Culture

Boston

Boston Hosts Major Museum Exhibitions In 2006

A great lineup of exhibitions—ranging from “Americans In Paris” to the “Star Wars” exhibition—which will both go on tour for years throughout the world are being presented in Boston.

One of America’s oldest & finest museums- Boston’s Museum of Fine Arts- has begun a $500 million expansion. The new waterfront Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA is 70 years old in 2006) will open in September 2006. The American Museum Association will convene in Boston to celebrate its centennial and proclaim 2006 The Year of The Museum.  The largest urban project in America’s history- the $14.8 billion ‘Big Dig’ -s virtually complete and this summer begins construction of a mile-long north-south downtown park- the Rose Kennedy Greenway, which will also include two new museums. Three blocks from the Greenway the new ICA will open its glass masterpiece on the waterfront in September.

The exhibition lineup:

-- David Hockney Exhibition Boston Museum of Fine Arts February 26-May 14, 2006  David Hockney's new paintings represent his continuing dialogue with his English roots and reveal his inexhaustible inventiveness, are presented at Boston Museum of Fine Arts, the first venue in the United States to exhibit his new works. The exhibition also features new work of huge, stage like landscapes of the Grand Canyon.

-- Star Wars: Where Science Meets Imagination. The world premiere of “Star Wars: Where Science Meets Imagination” 26-week exhibition is being hosted by Boston’s Museum of Science October 27, 2005 - April 30, 2006..The world premiere exhibition  features  actual artwork, props, models, film clips and documentary footage of the “Star Wars” movies.  How do the film’s landspeeders compare with magnetic levitation technology being implemented today for trains and even automobiles? What personality traits do C-3PO or R2-D2 share with the walking and talking robots on the drawing board today? Lucasfilm Ltd., the creator of “Star Wars” collaborated with the museum in designing the exhibit, which will employ actual artwork, props, models, film clips and documentary footage of the “Star Wars” series. You and your kids will be able to study up close the Naboo Royal N-1 Starfighter featured in Episode I, create chain-reaction contraptions like those that take place in the films, and much more. 

-- 100-painting exhibition Americans in Paris Boston  June 25- September 25, 2006.  The Museum of Fine Arts is hosting the 100-painting exhibition jointly organized by the Boston Museum and the National Gallery, London—it will open at the National Gallery February 22 and run through May 21,2006. The exhibition will feature James McNeill Whistler, John Singer Sargent, Thomas Eakins, and Mary Cassatt from June 25-Sept. 24, 2006. The exhibition travels to NY’s Metropolitan in October 2006.

Paris was the centre of the art world in the 19th century, and a magnet for American art students and artists, eager to experience the cosmopolitan delights of the city and to steep themselves in its artistic atmosphere. The exhibition will look at why American artists were drawn to Paris, what they produced there, and how their art changed.

-- Kennedy Presidential Library Museum in Boston. John F. Kennedy and Ireland, a special, new exhibit opening March 17 that explores President Kennedy’s relationship to his ancestral homeland, featuring a large selection of never-before-seen materials from the Museum Collection including gifts presented to the president by the people of Ireland as well as other artifacts, documents, photographs and film footage relating to his Irish heritage and his heritage June 26-29, 1963 state visit to the country of his forbears. The new exhibit will display for the first time many of these gifts bestowed on the President by the people of Ireland as well as personal items of the President relating to his Irish heritage.

-- Painting Summer in New England.   The Peabody Essex Museum will present  a 60-painting exhibition featuring artists 1860s to the present, including works by Winslow Homer, John Singer Sargent, Childe Hassam, Andrew Wyeth, Stuart Davis, George Bellows, Edward Hopper, Lois Dodd, Alex Katz, and Fairfield Porter. While some works reflect the leisure activities of the summer, others touch on the counterpoints of city living, rural existence, and the impact on natural settings and resources. April 22-September 4, 2006

-- West African Gold: Akan Regalia from the Glassell Collection exhibition at the Boston Museum of Fine Arts November 2, 2005 - March 26, 2006 will feature the most extensive collection of African gold in an American museum, with more than 130 extraordinary works of jewelry, staffs, crowns, sandals, swords, figurative sculptures

-- Frank Stella 1958 exhibition at Harvard: Featuring 18 of Stella's previously neglected works together for the first time, at Harvard’s Sackler Museum February 4-May 7, 2006

-- Harvard University Fogg presents American Watercolors featuring Harvard’s most magnificent watercolors by John Singer Sargent, Winslow Homer, and John La Farge, an extraordinary group of pastels by J. A. M. Whistler, and superb groups of 20th-century watercolors by Edward Hopper, John Marin, and Charles Demuth, at Harvard’s Fogg Art Museum April 8-June 25, 2006

Gentile Bellini and the East at the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum from December 16-March 26, 2006. East and West met in Renaissance Venice, where three cultures Byzantine, Christian, and Muslim mingled. They meet again in a special loan exhibition. Gentile Bellini and the East explores the Western fascination with the exotic East, still a salient feature of our culture, by examining how the cultures of the Mediterranean were transmitted to Venice. Gentile Bellini traveled to Istanbul in 1479 to work for Sultan Mehmed II, the conqueror of the city who was exceptionally open to the arts of Italy.

-- Harvard’s Museum of Natural History will present dramatic color landscape work by world renowned photographer Robert Turner in the exhibition, Rare Places in a Rare Light: The Wildlands Photography of Robert Turner through March 26, 2006.

-- Harvard’s Peabody Museum of Archaeology & Ethnology is hosting an exhibition Pusan, Korea, 1952-54: The Photographs of Roger Marschutz that begins February 15, 2006.

-- The Boston  Museum of Fine Arts will host the Degas to Picasso: “Modern Masters exhibition January 18-June 18, 2006. The exhibition will feature Museum of Fine Arts collection of European painting, sculpture, and graphic arts from 1900 through the 1960's, beginning with the late works of the Impressionists (Degas, Monet, Cézanne) and post-Impressionists (Gauguin, Redon, Rodin, Maillol) the exhibition will explore clusters of works by major figures in 20th-century Europe.  German and Austrian Expressionism will be shown in paintings, prints, and sculpture by Kokoschka, Kirchner, Nolde, Beckmann, Kollwitz, and their Norwegian mentor Munch

-- The Museum of Fine Arts will present Facets of Cubism until April 16, 2006 featuring 40 rarely seen masterpieces including several Picasso & Braque artworks

For more information, visit the Greater Boston Convention and Visitors Bureau at www.bostonusa.com.

London

Canaletto Exhibit At Queen’s Gallery

An exhibit entitled Canaletto in Venice, from the Royal Collection is currently on display until April 23rd 2006

Giovanni Antonio Canal (1697-1768)—otherwise known as “Canaletto”—spent all but nine years of his life in Venice. His familiarity with this city is a key feature of the cityscapes in this excellent little show at the Queen's Gallery in Buckingham Palace. Expect exquisite architectural details and vibrant depictions of canal life.

Joseph Smith, the British consul in Venice in the mid-18th century, commissioned the works. When his finances foundered, he sold them to George III in 1762, and they were hung in what was then Buckingham House. Visitors can trace the development of Canaletto's style in a sequence of 14 paintings of the Grand Canal. The show also includes 70 sumptuous drawings, all finished works rather than preparatory sketches. Though Venice hardly suffers for beauty, Canaletto is known for enhancing his vignettes with a bit of poetic license. John Ruskin, a Victorian critic, accused him of “mindless imitation”, but this exhibition suggests otherwise.

The Queen’s Gallery, Buckingham Palace, Buckingham Palace Rd, SW1. Tel: +44 20 7766 7301. Open: daily, 10am-5.30pm. Tube: Victoria, Green Park or St James’s Park. Admission: £7.50.

New York

VisitScotland Expands Tartan Week Celebrations for 2006

Get ready for kilts a flyin'! New York will come alive with the sites, sounds and tastes of Scotland when VisitScotland once again takes over Grand Central Terminal's Vanderbilt Hall for Tartan Week. From April 1-9, enjoy free entertainment and events daily, including live music, dance performances, cooking demonstrations, fashion shows and the latest news on The Da Vinci Code film (visit www.TartanWeekNY.com  for a full list of events). New this year, Vanderbilt Hall's "Scottish Village" will feature a display of celebrity kilts and a literature section where Scottish authors will do readings and book signings.

The US Senate designated April 6 as National Tartan Day in 1998 to honor "the outstanding contribution of millions of Scottish-Americans to our great nation." The significance of April 6 dates back to the 1320 signing of the Declaration of Arbroath, the Scottish Declaration of Independence, which was used as the model for the American Declaration of Independence.

VisitScotland and Continental Airlines will be giving away one free flight for two to Scotland every day at the Scottish Village. Winners will stay in a Macdonald Hotel. Visitors to the Scottish Village can also learn about Scottish festivals and events, special travel deals, and pick up free literature to help plan a trip to Scotland.

The following events are free and open to the public:

-- Highlands 2007. Learn about the rich cultural heritage of the Scots and

    this upcoming yearlong festival, and see ancient artifacts from the

    pivotal Battle of Culloden.

-- Celebrity Kilts. - See kilts worn by Ozzie and Jack Osborne, the Duke of

    Windsor, Liam Neeson (Rob Roy) and others.

-- Live Cooking Demonstrations. - Join Scottish chef Joe Queen of the

    Scottish Culinary Olympic team as he prepares Scottish delicacies and

    hands out free recipe cards.

-- Live Music.  Check out two of Scotland's liveliest Celtic-inspired

    bands, the Peatbog Faeries and the Findlay MacDonald Band, when they

    perform rocking renditions of both Scottish classics and their own work.

   Watch traditional Highland dances, listen to live

    performances of ancient Gaelic songs, and catch a musical presentation

    by the Scottish Youth Theatre.

 -- Whisky Discussion.  Learn how Scotch whisky is made from a Glenfiddich

    master distiller.

-- Well-Being.  Learn about Scottish spas.

-- Literary Scotland. Meet famous Scottish authors during live book

    readings and signings.

New York City will host several other Tartan Week events throughout the week of April 1-9 including a parade down Sixth Avenue (Saturday, April 8), Whisky Live, Dressed to Kilt charity fashion show, museum exhibits and live Scottish music throughout the city. For complete details on the Scottish Village and other events, please visit www.TartanWeekNY.com .

Art Dealers Association Of America Annual Art Show

The Art Show, America's most prestigious art fair, has announced an outstanding list of exhibitors for 2006, comprising top art galleries from across the country. Seventy of the nation's leading art dealers will participate in The Art Show from February 23 - 27, 2006, at the Seventh Regiment Armory, Park Avenue at 67th Street, New York City. Organized by the Art Dealers Association of America (ADAA) for the 18th year, the show will feature museum-quality works in diverse genres, including paintings, sculpture, drawings, prints, photographs and ceramics from the 19th century to the 21st century. The Art Show Gala Preview on February 22, 2006, will benefit Henry Street Settlement, one of New York City's best-known and most effective social services and arts agencies.

"For 2006, we have once again struck the right balance between established contemporary and Modern artists," noted Richard Solomon, President of both the ADAA and Pace Prints. "The 2005 Art Show was attended by a markedly younger audience, and met with an enthusiastic reception. It was considered by many to be the most diverse, and exciting Art Show in years." Solomon also noted: "Collectors consistently look forward to The Art Show as they enjoy its intimate scale, allowing them to visit booths of interest multiple times. At The Art Show, there isn't the distraction of other events like at larger fairs, so the expert dealers who exhibit really get to spend time talking with clients both seasoned and new to the market."

Solo Shows and New Exhibitors

Solo shows have consistently been a unique and anticipated feature of The Art Show and the 2006 edition is no exception. Several solo exhibitions will be on view at The Art Show 2006: Alex Katz's recent paintings at PaceWildenstein; Gregory Crewdson's gelatin silver prints from 1996-1997 at Luhring Augustine; and, Norman Bluhm at James Graham & Sons. Two first time exhibitors at The Art Show will be featuring solo exhibitions as well: Tanya Bonakdar will be showing works by Thomas Scheibitz, while sculpture by MacArthur Fellowship winner Teresita Fernández will be at Lehmann Maupin. In addition to Lehmann Maupin and Tanya Bonakdar, both of New York, two other exhibitors will debut at The Art Show in 2006: Mary Ryan Gallery, New York and Weinstein Gallery, Minneapolis.

An archetypal drawing by Willem de Kooning of two women c. early-1960s will be on view at Linda Hyman Fine Arts. De Kooning made the drawing when he began spending a great deal of time in East Hampton, New York. While bicycling near the ocean in Montauk at the tip of Long island, he would watch clam diggers wading in shallow water and consequently created figures that seem to float as evidenced by this drawing. Closely related paintings can be found at The Art Institute of Chicago and the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, Washington, DC.

An unusual masterpiece by Helen Frankenthaler will be exhibited by David Tunick, Inc. Gateway, 1982 - 1988, combines three mediums: painting, sculpture and printmaking. Three prints and three paintings are encapsulated in a striking large bronze screen. Only nine examples exist and two are in museums including the National Gallery in Washington, D.C.

A new painting by Donald Sultan, Red and Blacks May 15 2005, made with enamel and tar on tiles will be at Ameringer Yohe Fine Art. A landscape painting, Cloud Beach, 2005, by Isca Greenfield-Sanders and one of Ed Ruscha's archetypal word paintings, Jinx, 2004 will be on view at John Berggruen Gallery, San Francisco. A painting from 1967 by Gyorgy Kepes (1906-2001), the founder of the Center for Advanced Visual Studies at MIT, will be offered at Alpha Gallery, Boston.

A number of compelling portraits will be on view at The Art Show 2006. Friedrich Petzel Gallery is offering the work of an artist who is known for her self portraits. Maria Lassing's Der Tod und das Maedchen (Death and the Girl), 1999, shows the artist as a young woman dancing with a skeleton. The artist's ouvre has a youthful energy and is frequently mistaken for work by a much younger artist: Lassing is actually 86 years old. Another perspective on portraiture can be seen at Greenberg Van Doren Gallery, St. Louis: Gerhard Richter's Portrait of Laszlo, 1966. The Photopainting slightly obscures the subject, in this case, a real person, Carl Laszlo, a Holocaust survivor and important Basel-based art dealer and collector.

Next to his mother and sister, David Hockney's friend Celia Birtwell has been the artist's most popular female model. Hockney's Celia, Nude, 1975, will be on view at Richard Gray Gallery. The work, made with colored crayon on paper, is considered one of the most intimate of the subject who leans on a pillow that looks like angel's wings.

Picasso's Nue aux bras levees, 1955, an oil portrait of Jacqueline Roque will be a highlight at James Goodman Gallery. Picasso first met Jacqueline in 1954, when he was still with Françoise Gilot and painted the portrait the year after they met. All in all, Picasso painted Jacqueline more often than any other woman. They married in 1961. Jill Newhouse is offering Pierre Bonnard's Reclining Nude, 1927, the beginning of a series of works done in the late 20s and 30s depicting his wife Marthe in the bath. The subject matter can be seen as a response to the Marthe's continual health problems for which she sought spa treatments repeatedly and unsuccessfully.

All Art Show exhibitors are members of the Art Dealers Association of America (ADAA), a non-profit membership organization of the nation's leading galleries. Founded in 1962, ADAA seeks to promote the highest standards of connoisseurship, scholarship and ethical practice within the profession. More information on the Art Dealers Association of America may be found at: http://www.artdealers.org

Providence, Rhode Island

Summer 2006 Festivals Will Be Hot In Providence

Travelers seeking a break from the sun and sand this summer can take the short trip from coastal waters to the metropolis of Providence, New England’s hottest destination, where a dynamic schedule of cultural festivals, many free to the public, has been announced.

-- Waterfire, May through October 2006. The most popular tourist and cultural attraction in Rhode Island is WaterFire, an award winning art installation created by Barnaby Evans that consists of more than 100 bonfires blazing above the three rivers of downtown Providence. Celebrating its 11th season with a May kick-off, WaterFire is a remarkable multi-sensory fantasy that must be experienced rather than explained. The sounds, scents and flickering firelight are complimented by the movement and pulse of the crowd and the enchanting music from all around the world.  WaterFire is a free event, enjoyed by thousands of young and old, art enthusiasts and lovers, who quietly stroll along the riverbanks.  WaterFire was selected by National Geographic Traveler as one of the “Top 20 Events in the U.S.” in the April 2005 issue. For more information and a complete 2006 season schedule, please visit www.waterfire.org.

-- Third Annual FirstWorksKIDS, June 2006. FirstWorksKids is an international performance festival for kids and their families.  The world’s a stage for every age at this celebration of sights, sounds and spectacles.  The festival includes Waterplace Park concerts, the Rising Stars Showcase for aspiring new talent, hands-on Imagination Market workshops and a rompish River Procession.  For more information, please visit www.firstworksprov.org.

-- Providence Preservation Society 27th Annual Festival of Historic Houses, June 2-3, 2006. The Providence Preservation Society (PPS) will host its 27th Annual Festival of Historic Houses, offering history buffs, art lovers and design enthusiasts intimate glimpses of some of the country's finest architecture, homes and landscapes.  Returning to its roots on Providence's East Side, the Festival will include a candlelit tour of Benefit Street, one of the nation’s largest collections of 18th century homes, and the best of the historic houses on Prospect and Congdon streets. The tour is a signature fundraising and educational event for PPS and provides visitors with an opportunity to learn about the wonderful historic architecture in Providence's distinctive neighborhoods.  For more information, log on to www.ppsri.org or call (401) 831-7440.

--  Sound Session, July 17-22, 2006. Created to transcend musical genres, Sound Session is a city-wide, trans-cultural music celebration reflecting the dynamic vitality of Providence while crossing boundaries with an array of sounds such as Jazz, Reggae, House, Latin, Classic Soul, Funk, Hip Hop and Afro beat.  Many of the events, including a lively block party, are free and open to the public and take place all week long in and around the Providence Black Repertory Company.  For more information, visit www.providencesoundsession.com  or call the Providence/Warwick Visitor Center at (800) 233-1636.