Travel Articles From www.escortedaustraliatours.com

Touring Australia and New Zealand

tours@atlastravelweb.com (Atlas Travel Web) — Mon, 9 Aug 2010 14:35 EST

When a place has as much to offer as Australia & New Zealand, it is wise to organize your time before leaving home. By arranging an independent tour or joining an escorted, group tour, you'll be able to make the most efficient use of your time and see more of the wonder down under.

Australia and New Zealand are full of amazing natural landscapes, vibrant cities and modern attractions. There's so much of interest it's not surprising visitors return inspired and excited about their experiences.

New Zealand is compact and can be covered, top to bottom, in a couple of weeks.

Across the Tasman Sea lies Australia. This vast country has many areas catering to visitors that are long distances apart.

Combining both countries is an adventure of a lifetime as you see two of the most fascinating countries in the world - from spectacular Fjordland National Park, New Zealand to Ayers Rock, Australia and everything surrounding these amazing places.

Independent Touring

Through our industry partnerships, we can arrange a custom vacation for you to see all you want in Australia and New Zealand.

From luxury hotels to budget camping adventures there are many options available for singles, families and groups.
In New Zealand, the road system on both the North and South islands is immaculately maintained and un-crowded making it easy to tour by car or motor-home. You can also travel by rail and coach.
Farm stays let you experience first hand a vital part of these agricultural nations.
With the long distances in Australia, take advantage of an air pass if you have limited time. There are also rail and coach passes available for independent travellers.
Independent tours designed for families include activities just for kids like a visit to the School of the Air, a program of radio instruction for children of the Outback.
For the outdoor adventurer, trekking, bird and wildlife viewing are safe and pleasant in New Zealand as there are no natural predators or snakes. Take a hike on White Island, an active marine volcano or through the Waitomo Caves to glow worm grotto. Go bungee jumping where it was invented, in Queenstown, the capital of extreme adventure activity.

Escorted Tours

For many travellers, organized tours with a group provide the most efficient way to see the most important areas of Australia and New Zealand. They enjoy the carefree experience with luggage handled for them, having a full time local guide and the camaraderie of travelling with others.

Tours are available with accommodation from budget to luxury with most sightseeing and some meals included.
Group Tours range from a one day tour to the Hunter Valley north of Sydney to comprehensive one month tours of both countries with domestic flights included.
Combine shorter tours and city stays to create your own adventure. Pick and choose from a wide selection of destination and special interest escorted tours.
A must see, easily visited by guided tour, is famous Ayers Rock, situated at the Red Centre of Australia, the dry, outback desert area in the middle of the country. The area is part of Uluru - Kata Tjuta National Park which is Aboriginal land and one of the few World Heritage properties listed for both natural and cultural importance. Experience Aboriginal culture at the visitors centre and music and dance shows.
To see more of the South Pacific, add a stop over in Fiji or the Cook Islands to your flight home.

Last but not least, you can combine both a land and sea vacation on a cruise tour of Australia and New Zealand. Cruising Australia and New Zealand is an adventure that offers a diversity of landscapes and experiences unmatched anywhere else in the world. The ports you'll visit are amongst the most varied and interesting in the world. You can discover more of these exciting countries by adding a tour before or after your cruise. This could certainly be your most memorable vacation

Australia tour packages and independant vacations were just released for all of 2011 through early 2012. There are some wonderful promotions available for booking made by the end of August.

Travel Improves Your Health

tours@atlastravelweb.com (Atlas Travel Web) — Tue, 1 Jun 2010 10:56 EST

We all “feel” better getting away on vacation. Did you know it really is not just your imagination? Science and statistics show it is true. Vacations can reduce risk of heart disease, depression and even slow down the aging process. How about this statistic… Two vacations can cut your risk of heart attack by 50%.

Vacations help reduce stress, which will always help your health.

Here are some other tips to reduce stress during travel.

Get away long enough time to let go of your daily grind. A week is recommended.
Watch your time zones – too many time zones actually increase your stress on your body’s natural rhythms.
Don’t over schedule your trip – Make sure you have quiet time each day.
Be social – making new acquaintances has a restorative power.
Enjoy physical activity – moderate exercise like swimming and walking are great energy boosters.

Fascinating Sydney, Australia

tours@atlastravelweb.com (Atlas Travel Web) — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 13:28 EST

Cosmopolitan Sydney, Australia’s largest city, offers so much to see and do—the stately Sydney Harbour Bridge, iconic Opera House, Bondi Beach, and Royal Botanic Gardens, as well as alluring outdoor recreation, lively shopping districts, international cuisine, and a vibrant nightlife. Despite this extensive menu of possibilities, though, one of Sydney’s most popular attractions remains the colorful historic area known as "The Rocks."

Founded in 1788 as a penal colony to house convicts from Great Britain’s overloaded correctional facilities, The Rocks’ original buildings were constructed of sandstone, a fact that led to the area’s name. Even from its earliest days, The Rocks had a bad reputation—one that didn’t improve as it established itself as a dockside slum filled with prostitutes, sailors, dockworkers, and even a street gang known for theft, assault, and battery.

Today, cobblestones still line the lanes and narrow alleyways, and some of the original buildings still stand—including Australia’s oldest house, Cadman’s Cottage, which dates back to 1816. The Rocks’ gritty past, though, has been tempered by a genteel charm. History and heritage now stand intermingled with quaint artisan shops, galleries, pubs, and street entertainment. The picturesque setting in the shadow of Harbour Bridge creates a captivating travel destination and true magnet for Sydney visitors, young and old alike.

Things to do in The Rocks area:

1) Take a cruise on Sydney Harbour.

2) Climb Sydney Harbour Bridge. Adventurous visitors can climb to the top of the Harbour Bridge, the world’s tallest steel-arch bridge, for amazing panoramic views.

3) Enjoy a pub tour. The Rocks houses many of Sydney’s oldest watering holes. Guided pub tours are available or you can visit them on your own.

4) Take a ghost tour. Journey through haunted houses and hear eerie tales of murder, violence, and treachery that took place in this historic area.

5) Visit a museum. The Museum of Contemporary Art is Australia’s only museum featuring contemporary art, while The Rocks Discovery Museum is located in a restored 1850s sandstone warehouse and showcases the history of The Rocks from the times before the convicts arrived to the present day.

6) Explore The Rocks Market. Operating each weekend, the market offers hundreds of stalls filled with locally grown produce, hand-crafted artwork, and many unique products and Australian delicacies.

7) Browse the charming shops & galleries. Many are converted workmen’s cottages, warehouses, and sandstone terrace houses.

Planning a trip to Australia? No one takes you further in the land down under than Globus. From the breathtaking scenery to the captivating culture, the lands of New Zealand and Australia offer a vacation like no other. Pick a vacation style that best fits you. Globus offers a wonderful selection of escorted and independent vacations to choose from. Learn more about Globus Australia tours and take advantage of early booking discounts for 2011 travel.

Places to Travel in October

tours@atlastravelweb.com (Atlas Travel Web) — Thu, 18 Aug 2011 09:39 EST

If you are planning to travel in October, here are some of the most popular things to see and do.

It's not too late to catch fall foliage in New England and Canada. The explosion of colors can vary from one year to another, however normally the best time to see the changing of the leaves at their peak, is the first two weeks of October.

Keep in mind that the further north you travel, the sooner the colors peak, so if you are visiting Maine or Canada, then late September or early October are best. If you are going to visit Boston or New York, then the second week of October is usually peak, unless there are several cold fronts early in the fall.

October is spring time in South America. The average daily temperatures are in the upper 60's and low 70's. Buenos Aires is a city with culture and sophistication. Enjoy excellent restaurants, museums, shopping, parks and nightlife. Try to spend three or four days to take it all in, and make sure and take a tango lesson. South America tours 2012 itineraries and dates have just been released. Book early and save.

It's also spring in Australia from September to November. You'll find warm weather and flowers in bloom. It's a great time to visit the beaches. Travel to the Great Barrier Reef, which is the world's largest coral reef system. Many tourists stay in Whitsundays or Cairns, but if you have more time, try Hamilton or Lizard Island. If you don't scuba dive or snorkel, you can also see the reef by helicopter tour, seaplane or glass bottom boat. Now is a also great time to book your Australia tour 2012. There are lots of early booking promotions.

Fall is a popular time for wine festivals in Europe. In Tuscany, it is time to harvest the olives and grapes. Many travelers spend five or six nights in Florence and then take day trips to surrounding areas such as Lucca, Pisa and Montecatini. Also available are three to seven night culinary classes. Stay in historic hotels or villas, shop in local markets and learn to prepare authentic Italian cuisine. More on Italy tours and vacations.

Several river cruise companies like Avalon Waterways and Uniworld have theme cruises in the month of October. Choose from music or food and wine theme vacations. The music cruises include special performances both on board the ship and at venues, as well as visits to music festivals. The food and wine theme cruises include special culinary experiences during the cruise, as well as visit to vineyards, local restaurants and markets.

Whatever you choose to do, October offers great opportunities for travel and unique experiences.

World's Greatest Rail Journeys

tours@atlastravelweb.com (Atlas Travel Web) — Mon, 23 May 2011 12:33 EST

The Blue Train
South Africa
South Africa’s Blue Train presents itself as a five-star hotel on wheels, and it’s certainly not a misnomer. Individualized service and exquisite meals are combined with uniquely South African touches—including the country’s internationally famous wines.

But what makes this trip truly spectacular is South Africa’s peerless scenery. From Cape Town to Johannesburg and on to Pretoria, the country’s many facets can be examined from the comfort of a well-appointed compartment, as well as the train’s glass observation deck. You’ll witness snow-capped mountains, sun-kissed vineyards and charming colonial towns; sweeping grasslands, rocky gorges, and fields dotted with Baobab trees—not to mention South Africa’s majestic wildlife in its natural habitat.

Plus, included in every Blue Train itinerary is a stopover with a guided tour. For example, on the southbound trip, you can visit the Diamond Rush town of Kimberley, and tour the working diamond mine—with a chance to win a diamond to take home!

The Rocky Mountaineer
Canada
For majestic mountain scenery, it’s hard to beat the Canadian Rockies. But how do you take in all this beauty if you’re not an avid hiker?The Rocky Mountaineer train traverses British Columbia and Alberta, connecting the city of Vancouver, BC, with either Jasper or Banff, Alberta. Along the way, the Mountaineer wends through some of the most spectacular scenery in the world. Jagged, snow-capped peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and dense evergreen forests present a dazzling, unparalleled experience. In fact, The Rocky Mountaineer has won multiple awards over the years for being the world’s best train journey.

The Mountaineer’s wide windows and skylights provide sweeping views, with all meals served in your seat so that you don’t miss a single moment. Onboard attendants also give commentary, ensuring that you get the most of your journey.

The Royal Scotsman
Scotland
Scotland is a country out of a fairy tale—filled with legends and folklore. While even the remotest Highlands are dotted with a town here and there, Scotland is truly Britain’s backyard, its rugged open spaces largely unspoiled.

Luckily, Scotland’s far-off beauty is made easily accessible by The Royal Scotsman trains, which leave from Edinburgh along five routes. From short three-day journeys that traverse the rugged Highlands or the historic west, to eight-day grand tours that criss-cross between quaint cities and the sweeping, rocky, deep-green landscapes, The Royal Scotsman is the best way to see all of Scotland.

In terms of comfort, The Royal Scotsman lives up to its name. Old-fashioned Edwardian sophistication mixes with traditional plaids to make everything feel authentically Scottish. Dining experiences are elegant, cuisine is gourmet, and sleeping quarters are luxurious. But the train’s best feature is the observation cars with open-air verandas where passengers can take in the gorgeous spectacle, a perfect way to capture the magic of this storied country.

The Ghan
Australia
Named after the Afghan camel trains that used to traverse this same route, The Ghan traverses the very heart of Australia, from Adelaide on the southern coast to Darwin in the tropical “Top End” of the continent. The extension to Darwin is a relatively new addition, and The Ghan is celebrating by adding a new Platinum level of service. With spacious, double-size cabins including 24-hour room service, The Ghan is a stylish way to explore this vast continent.

The variety of scenery showcased aboard The Ghan is truly spectacular. Journeying north from Adelaide, The Ghan passes through fertile landscape into Australia’s expansive, red-hued desert interior—the famous Outback. From Alice Springs, the train travels through sweeping grasslands and gorgeous river scenery, to the quaint gold mining town of Katherine, before closing in on the tropical Top End and its capital city, Darwin. Darwin’s history and aboriginal influence, as well as World Heritage Kakadu National Park, make the region a worthy destination. The Ghan is quite simply the perfect way to take in the majestic heart of Australia, all in comfort and style.

Orient-Express
Europe and Peru
When it comes to rail journeys, the iconic Orient-Express always comes to mind. You’ll take a step back in time to the days when railway travel was the height of elegance and sophistication. All meals aboard are prepared from a variety of culinary genres by trained chefs. All compartments are designed and outfitted with comfort in mind. And of course, the service is impeccable. The Venice Simplon Orient-Express literally crisscrosses Europe, with popular destinations such as Rome and Paris linked to some of Europe’s most historic cities like Krakow, Budapest, and as far east as Istanbul.

For an entirely different—but no less elegant—experience, the Orient-Express’s Hiram Bingham line in Peru traverses some of the world’s most stunning natural scenery. You’ll travel through gorgeous river canyons and lush green mountains en route to the archaeological treasures of Machu Picchu. Live entertainment and a four-course dinner make the journey back a memorable way to unwind after a day of fascinating sights.

Family Travel: Exploring the World Together

tours@atlastravelweb.com (Atlas Travel Web) — Tue, 26 Apr 2011 15:33 EST

We answer some of your most frequently asked questions about family travel.

Q: Our teenagers are impossible to please. What do you recommend?

A: Cruises are a great options for families with teenages, as there are a wide range of activites on board. Take Royal Caribbean cruise line for example. On their Freedom Class ships which include the Freedom of the Seas, Independence of the Seas and the Liberty of the Seas, you will find a FlowRider^® surf park, canitilevered whirlpools, ice-skating rink, full-size boxing ring, H2O Zone waterpark and more!

If you prefer staying in one place, we urge you to consider ‘all-inclusive’ resort stays. You can have all of the features of a resort, great food, delectable drinks and unlimited activities, all included in the price. That gives the entire family the freedom to experience an amazing array of activities without stress or hassle. We love Club Med’s “Most Inclusive” family plan programs at resorts like the Cancun Yucatan, Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic and the recently renovated Sandpiper Resort in Florida. These are places that really know how to manage the diverse needs of family groups, from tots to teens to adults of all ages.

Q: I want to take my two older sons on a ‘sporty’ vacation (and not just golf!). Any suggestions?

A: There’s really nothing like fishing and hiking in the Canadian Rockies. The scenery is spectacular and the angling is world-class. We recommend the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise and the Fairmont Banff Springs. But caution: this trip can be very habit-forming! Hiking and river rafting in the National Parks is another great vacation.

We already mentioned Royal Caribbean cruise line with a number of sports activities onboard, but they aren't the only cruise line. Consider Norwegian Cruise Line, specifically their new ship, the Norwegian Epic. Here they'll find a sports deck with a repelling wall, extreme rock climbing wall, bowling alley, full size basketball court, volleyball, soccer, dodge ball, a batting cage, bungee trampoline, rope adventure course and a 24 ft. tall enclosed climbing cage called the spider web. Then they can cool off in the first ever Aqua Park that offers 3 waterslides. The Epic Plunge, the only tube slide at sea, has a thrilling drop through a 200 ft. long tube. How that for a variety of "sport activities?"

Q: We’re having a tough time deciding which U.S. National Park to visit this year. Any clues?

A: Yellowstone is great for kids, with all the animals and geysers. Yosemite is good for older kids and adults, who can climb Half Dome and appreciate the waterfalls and wildflowers. For a little more adventure, how about hiking the Appalachian Trail or camping in Maine’s stunningly beautiful Acadia National Park?

Q: We’re planning a big family reunion getaway. Do you have any suggestions?

A: We keep getting rave reviews from large reunion groups that cruise together. There’s loads to do, both aboard and on shore, great accommodations for group activities and staff that really know how to entertain and satisfy the needs of several generations in one party. Depending on your time and interests, consider a family cruise to Alaska or the Mediterranean.

Q: We want to start planning our next great family adventure. What are the hottest “long-haul” destinations right now?

A: Australia and South Africa are at the top of our list of favorites. We can take you to both places, from azure oceans to cosmopolitan cities to the wild outback. Take a fabulous safari to South Africa and travel to Cape Town and the Kapame Game Reserve. Discover Down Under with a grand journey to the Great Barrier Reef, Ayers Rock and Sydney. Whether you want an experienced guide to help you navigate the new terrain or would rather venture on your own, we’ll help you choose a guided vacation or craft a tailor-made independent journey just for you.

Q: My husband and my kids and my parents want to go to Hawaii. Help!

A: Hawaii is the perfect multi-generation family destination. From lounging at the pool to hiking, surfing, shopping, golf, spa treatments, etc., there’s truly something for everyone. Consider Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa, where children 18 and younger stay free. Or how about the new Aulani Disney Resort & Spa on Oahu? It’s the first Disney resort not attached to a theme park…and sure to be a big hit!

Q: Any last-minute packing tips for traveling with families?
A: Limit each person to one wheeled suitcase and one carry-on backpack or shoulder bag (keep one hand free to hold onto your child). Make a packing checklist for each person and let older kids be responsible for their packing. Pack several days before you leave so you have time to remember those last-minute items. Pack each day’s clothing together in outfits. Choose washable clothes that can be mixed and matched and dressed up with a jacket or shawl, and make sure shoes are comfortable and broken in before your trip! Visit our Travel Advice section on our blog for more travel tips. If you are looking for a new luggage set or carry on bag, take advantage of this ebags coupon code.

Q: Any recommendations for a family getaway at the end of the year?

A: For a really ‘magical’ holiday, the dazzling Christmas markets in Europe will please all the family. Or, for an off-the-beaten-path holiday and an escape into warm weather, take a Paul Gauguin Cruise to Tahiti or enjoy a relaxed resort experience on Fiji. But plan ahead! Resorts sell out in the summer for the holidays and family suites tend to sell out first.

Q: We’d like to take our kids on a guided vacation as a graduation gift for our daughter. What do you suggest that would appeal to both the young people and the adults?

A: For starters, here are two very different suggestions: Costa Rica and Italy tours. Both of these remarkable places are packed with scenery, colorful culture, fantastic food and warm, welcoming people. There are plenty of other options across the globe, so give us a a call and we’ll help you craft the experience that fits your preferences and your budget.

Q: I’m worried about what will happen if someone gets sick when we’re on our trip.

A: Being sick on a trip is never fun, but you can protect yourself against some of the anxiety and inconvenience with travel insurance. There are many options and we’d be happy to talk with you and help you choose the best plan for your family.

Culinary Cruises 2011

tours@atlastravelweb.com (Atlas Travel Web) — Mon, 14 Mar 2011 11:31 EST

Have you ever been curious about what makes a soufflé rise? About how French or Italian or Asian chefs choose their ingredients? About how you could reproduce their results at home, in your own kitchen? Whether you want to expand your view of the world, spend quality time with your loved ones or discover the culinary secrets of master chefs, we invite you to experience cruising at its finest. You’ll enjoy (and prepare) extraordinary cuisine and discover unparalleled levels of personal service.

As your cruise specialist, we’ll provide invaluable insight and advice. With new ships, new ports and new deals around every corner, we're here to answer all your questions, save you time and make sure you enjoy the most delicious cruise vacation! The range of offers available on today’s cruises has never been more tantalizing, and we’ll see that you get the best value available. Wherever you want to go, whatever you want to do, let us help you plan the perfect mix of ingredients for your next getaway. Call us today!

Days	Depart Date	From Price	Offer ID
10-night Ultimate Caribbean Cruise Roundtrip Ft. Lauderdale “Savor Your Destination” Food & Wine Specialty Cruise*	Celebrity Cruises Celebrity Equinox	10	04/01/2011	$1,129	442337
15-night Spirit of Discovery Voyage Segment Six Singapore/Dubai Culinary Arts Voyage* Exclusive Amenities	Silversea Cruises Silver Spirit	15	04/03/2011	$12,097	533041
16-night Panama Canal Cruise San Diego/Ft. Lauderdale L'École des Chefs Voyage* Exclusive Amenities	Silversea Cruises Silver Cloud	16	04/09/2011	$5,558	530073
11-night Ultimate Caribbean Cruise Roundtrip Ft. Lauderdale Celebrity Cruises “Savor Your Destination” Food & Wine Specialty Cruise* Exclusive Amenities	Celebrity Cruises Celebrity Equinox	11	04/11/2011	$1,409	442345
10-night Ultimate Caribbean Cruise Roundtrip Ft. Lauderdale “Savor Your Destination” Food & Wine Specialty Cruise*	Celebrity Cruises Celebrity Equinox	10	04/22/2011	$1,129	442338
8-night Caribbean & Bermuda Cruise San Juan/Cape Liberty “Savor Your Destination” Food & Wine Specialty Cruise*	Celebrity Cruises Celebrity Summit	8	04/30/2011	$1,239	580696
10-night West Coast Wine Cruise San Diego/Vancouver Savor Your Destination Wine Cruise	Celebrity Cruises Celebrity Millennium	10	05/03/2011	$949	589596
16-night Spirit of Discovery Voyage Segment Eight Athens/Southampton L'École des Chefs Voyage* Exclusive Amenities	Silversea Cruises Silver Spirit	16	05/03/2011	$10,358	533043
10-night Asia Cruise Shanghai/Incheon Culinary Arts Voyage* Exclusive Amenities	Silversea Cruises Silver Shadow	10	05/07/2011	$7,398	531333
12-night Mediterranean Cruise Roundtrip Barcelona “Savor Your Destination” Food & Wine Specialty Cruise*	Celebrity Cruises Celebrity Solstice	12	05/14/2011	$1,949	589614
14-night Transatlantic Cruise New York/Southampton L'École des Chefs Voyage* Exclusive Amenities	Silversea Cruises Silver Whisper	14	05/17/2011	$7,238	531391
12-night Mediterranean Cruise Roundtrip Barcelona “Savor Your Destination” Food & Wine Specialty Cruise*	Celebrity Cruises Celebrity Solstice	12	06/07/2011	$1,999	589616
14-night North Cape Panorama Cruise Copenhagen/Stockholm Crystal Wine & Food Festival* Exclusive Amenities Exclusive Amenities & Host	Crystal Cruises Crystal Serenity	14	06/13/2011	$9,230	551141
12-night Cathedrals & Castles Cruise London/Rome Wine & Food and Floral Design* Exclusive Amenities Exclusive Amenities & Host	Crystal Cruises Crystal Serenity	12	08/02/2011	$7,115	551158
12-night North American Majesties Cruise Roundtrip San Francisco Wine & Food Exclusive Amenities Exclusive Amenities & Host	Crystal Cruises Crystal Symphony	12	08/13/2011	$4,890	552774
14-night Alaska to Asia Cruise Seward/Tokyo L'École des Chefs Voyage*	Silversea Cruises Silver Shadow	14	09/08/2011	$6,118	531349
10-night Wine Cruise Vancouver/San Diego Savor Your Destination Wine Cruise	Celebrity Cruises Celebrity Millennium	10	09/09/2011	$2,299	589597
14-night Ultimate Alaska Cruise Vancouver/San Diego “Savor Your Destination” Food & Wine Specialty Cruise* Exclusive Amenities	Celebrity Cruises Celebrity Century	14	09/18/2011	$1,540	613494
14-night Mediterranean Treasures Cruise Venice/Barcelona Crystal Wine & Food Festival* Exclusive Amenities Exclusive Amenities & Host	Crystal Cruises Crystal Serenity	12	10/01/2011	$5,955	551163
12-night Mediterranean Cruise Roundtrip Barcelona “Savor Your Destination” Food & Wine Specialty Cruise*	Celebrity Cruises Celebrity Solstice	12	10/11/2011	$1,499	589628
10-night Pearls Of The Riviera Cruise Barcelona/Rome Pearls of the Riviera*	Oceania Cruises Nautica	10	10/15/2011	$3,799	573359
15-night Transatlantic Cruise Lisbon/Bridgetown L'École des Chefs Voyage* Exclusive Amenities	Silversea Cruises Silver Spirit	15	10/21/2011	$5,638	534877
11-night Mediterranean and Transatlantic Cruise Rome/Cape Liberty Exclusive Amenities	Celebrity Cruises Celebrity Silhouette	11	10/22/2011	$1,897	662329
6-night Bermuda & Caribbean Cruise Cape Liberty/San Juan “Savor Your Destination” Food & Wine Specialty Cruise*	Celebrity Cruises Celebrity Summit	6	10/23/2011	$399	580695
12-night Epicurean Discoveries Cruise Athens/Istanbul Crystal Wine & Food Festival* Exclusive Amenities Exclusive Amenities & Host	Crystal Cruises Crystal Serenity	12	10/24/2011	$6,695	551165
16-night Middle Eastern Cruise Athens/Dubai L'École des Chefs Voyage* Exclusive Amenities	Silversea Cruises Silver Wind	16	11/11/2011	$7,918	535264
17-night Middle East, India & Seychelles Cruise Dubai/Mahe L'École des Chefs Voyage*	Silversea Cruises Silver Wind	17	12/04/2011	$6,198	535266
15-night Asia to Australia Cruise Singapore/Sydney Culinary Arts Voyage*	Silversea Cruises Silver Shadow	15	12/06/2011	$5,518	531357
7-night Eastern Caribbean Cruise Roundtrip Miami “Savor Your Destination” Food & Wine Specialty Cruise*	Celebrity Cruises Celebrity Eclipse	7	12/10/2011	$649	592208
10-night Sun-Kissed Shores Cruise Roundtrip Los Angeles Crystal Wine & Food Festival* Exclusive Amenities Exclusive Amenities & Host	Crystal Cruises Crystal Symphony	10	12/11/2011	$3,260	552793

Collette Exporations: Small Group Travel...Big Experiences

tours@atlastravelweb.com (Atlas Travel Web) — Sun, 28 Nov 2010 09:00 EST

Explorations small group tours are rich in experiences, yet packed with value. On each carfeully designed vacation you will have a professional tour manager, as well as local expert guides who bring insider knowledge and perspective.

Exporations tours bring you up close and personal with destinations from Italy and Australia to Egypt, Asia and Peru. What's special about this unique brand? With a group size of no more than 28 passengers on every departure, you'll gain access to historic sites and exlusive expeirnces so that you will have a more personal journey.

Culinary classes, meals with local, sightseeing off the beaten path, plantation tours, wine tastings and culturally immersive acitivities open you eyes, your mind and your heart to what these destinations are really all about.

The power of small groups:

Explorations combines the benefits of escorted travel with the more personal and interactive experiences of small group touring. Travel as part of a group of individuals. With just 16-28 passengers , Explorations tours go where larger groups can not.

Engage your senses:

There are many ways to experience the world.

Taste: Food and drink – the stuff of life. Sampling the local cuisine is one of the best ways to participate in our world’s cultures. Let your palate be your guide. Whether it’s rolling up your sleeves for a cooking class or indulging in a local delicacy, culinary adventure awaits.

Live: On an Explorations tour, your accommodations are more than a place to lay your head. They are highlights of the journey, bringing you closer to the soul of the destination. Relax in comfort when you stay in quality, authentic hotels, resorts and villas that reflect the local culture.

Explore: At the heart of Explorations is the desire to really explore the world. From ancient wonders like the Pyramids of Giza and the “Lost City” of Machu Picchu to a relaxing ride aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train, every tour brings you up close and personal to the best our world offers.

Connect: Venture off the beaten tourist path when you meet the locals and interact with them in various ways from sharing a meal to mingling with them in the community. Learn the rhythms of daily life. Come away with a truer sense of who they are – and who you are, too.

After Explorations

Return home with great stories, sharp memories, and a new perspective.

Start "exploring" this new vacation experience today, by browsing the 15 exciting Collette Explorations tours.

Sydney Opera House: One of the World's Most Iconic Buildings

tours@atlastravelweb.com (Atlas Travel Web) — Mon, 20 Sep 2010 15:06 EST

The Sydney Opera House is a late modern architecture masterpiece. It is admired all over the world and proudly treasured by the Australian people. It was created by a young architect who envisioned the potential provided by the site against the gorgeous backdrop of Sydney Harbour.

The structure represents creativity, both in architectural form and structural design. It is a great urbanized sculpture carefully set in a remarkable waterscape, and it is considered a world famous iconic building. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Not only is this a place to see great works of art, music and theatre, but it is also a breathtaking piece of history to admire. Every year, visitors from around the world come to visit the Sydney Opera House in Australia.

When visiting the Sydney Opera House, there are many options to choose from such as special tours and show packages. You can indulge in an evening of exceptional entertainment and delicious food. When purchasing your performance tickets, just add a show plus package. Enjoy a 2-course pre-theatre dinner, a couple of drinks, and choose between Parking or The Essential Tour. Also, you may choose from a range of casual and fine dining restaurants. The Gold Show Plus package is $98 per person, and the Silver Show Plus is $78 per person. These packages change as often as the shows do, so please be sure to check with your travel agent or the Sydney Opera House website, to find out which package sparks your interest and what is available at the time you are traveling.

In its short lifetime, the Sydney Opera House has earned an incredible reputation as a world-class performing arts center. It has become a symbol of both Sydney and the Australian nation. If you are an individual who can appreciate beauty and history under one roof, then this is an experience in life that you do not want to pass by. There is never a shortage of choice when there are over 2,500 performances each year. Keep in mind that many Australia packaged vacations include a tour and show of the Opera house in the price.

The Opera House is only one of the many things to enjoy in Sydney, Australia. Other popular sites are the Sydney Aquarium and Wildlife World, the Royal Botanic Gardens, China Town and the Harbour Bridge. Try to spend a minimum of three nights in the city to have time to take it all in.