Over the next several weeks you will observe some gradual changes to our website. One of the more noticeable will be the increased font size of our text. While it may not be space friendly, hopefully it will make the reading of our thoughts easier on everyones eyes.
Some other changes will include the addition to the site of more destinations such as Tahiti, Thailand and China. You will also see some additional e-mail addresses for clients such as groups, golfers, honeymooners, and river cruises.
We are currently preparing several destination reviews so be on the lookout for future blogs on Puerto Vallarta, Los Cabos, Cancun and China for starters.
As a company, we have agents who are trained and certified as Caribbean Destination Specialists, Certified Sandals Specialists, Hawaii Destination Specialists, Tahiti Specialists, Official Cancun Counsellors, and Uniworld Grand River Cruise Specialists with ongoing training for additional destinations.
One further "FYI" will be the inclusion of a "direct booking options" page on the website. So please bear with us and give is a call, or e-mail, whenever we may assist your vacation travel plans. We look forward to working with you to win your business. NEW AT LION SANDS 3/2/2008 9:00:37 AM Link | | Add comment
“You have to know your roots in order to find your wings!” This is exactly how Guy Aubrey Chalkley felt when he first discovered the raw beauty and ancient spirit of the Kingstown Game Reserve, near the Kruger National Park, back in 1933. Not even he could have realised, on that warm November morning, the legacy he was creating. A legacy that has survived through four generations, the unpredictable nature of the Sabie River and the great responsibilities of protecting and ensuring the Kingstown Game Reserves ecological environment.
As a tribute to their predecessor’s pioneering spirit, Nick and Robert More, the great grandsons of Guy Chalkley and present-day owners of Lion Sands Private Game Reserve, have built their own private family camp. This, after the original family camp was washed away in the floods of 2000. Aptly named 1933 at Lion Sands, this exclusive sole use lodge welcomed their first guests on 24th October 2007. Since 1933 at Lion Sands has been designed by the family, for the family, it encapsulates both the warm, personal ambience associated with a family owned lodge and a world class luxury safari experience.
Nestling on the banks of the Sabie River, 1933 at Lion Sands represents a secluded environment where comfort and relaxation are the order of the day. There are four spacious suites, each with their own private view of the Sabie River. The bathrooms are just as inviting, courtesy of their double vanity units, elegant bath and outdoor showers. There is also a childrens dormitory, able to sleep up to 8 children, with his and hers bathroom and an interleading bedroom for the au-pair.
The lodge’s large windows, sliding doors and muted colours mirror the surrounding landscape and create a seamless, indoor-outdoor flow. Timber, thatch and screed flooring add earthy charm to the interior, where the decor is classic-contemporary. Take the lounge, for instance, with its natural fibres, oversized chairs and open fireplace that together create a haven for relaxation. The kitchen is ideal as it opens onto a dining area that’s equally suited to informal family meals or a banquet affair. All of these public areas open onto a large, wraparound wooden deck and lap-size swimming pool.
If this sounds like your dream home, that’s exactly what 1933 at Lion Sands strives to be: a gracious home away from home – with a few added luxuries, including your own private chef and ranger, with the exclusive use of a 4x4 Landrover for safari game drives.
A communal, self-contained space with a smart-casual vibe, where absolute privacy is assured – that’s 1933 at Lion Sands. However you choose to spend your leisure time here, the lodge is certain to leave you refreshed and re-acquainted with yourself, with the other members of your group and with the breathtaking, natural escarpment that’s unique to Africa. Listen closely to the Sabie River meandering past your suite, and you may just hear the soft, satisfied sighs of Guy Chalkley…
OUR THANKS TO ROB MORE FROM LION SANDS. For more information contact
GLOBAL PATHFINDERS TRAVEL
281-353-7226
Oh, and don't forget to ask us about the More's "sister" property, a small boutique property in Cape Town called The Cape Cadogan | TINGA UPDATE 3/2/2008 8:45:22 AM Link | | Add comment
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February 2008
“Make the boy interested in Natural History; it is far better than games”.
This quote was by Captain Scott, who took part in the ill-fated race for the South Pole. However, it is sound advice to which I adhered this Christmas, foregoing Playstations and Nintendo Wii. Instead, I bought my son a book entitled “Africa’s vanishing wildlife”. Rather worryingly, the book is somewhat large, with a number of species having the dubious distinction of being included, due alarming declines in their numbers. Two species of particular interest were the African wild dog and Black rhino.
Last week, whilst paging through my favourite publication, I noticed another book with an equally ominous title “100 animals to see before they die!” It included 15 species from Africa, and once again the African wild dog and Black rhino were featured. The reason I mention these two species is that in recent months Tinga has had some excellent (and regular) sightings of both these endangered species. In my experience though, people are generally unaware of the status of these animals, and do not realise how lucky they are to see them. In case you are wondering why wild dogs always manage to elicit a mention in the newsletter, it is because they are my favourite animal.
It is not just their rarity, but their fascinating life history, their sociality, and last, but not least, the thrill of following a pack on the hunt. Unlike the tense expectancy as lions or leopards painstakingly stalk their prey, wild dog hunts are high-octane :in late afternoon, the dogs rouse themselves, and start walking, slowly picking up the pace after a while. Pretty soon, they hit top gear as the pack spreads out, hoping to flush some or other species of antelope. Impala scatter frantically at the dogs' approach. Like heat-seeking missiles, the dogs latch on to a particular target and give chase. If they miss, they resume the hunt, and there can be several chases before, inevitably some hapless animal is brought to the ground. The dogs feed quickly, knowing that hyenas or lions may have heard the kill and will attempt to appropriate the carcass. Although they wisely do not dispute ownership with lions, they may sometimes take on the hyenas. As the younger dogs feed, the outriders may work together to drive them off. Even though the hyenas are considerably heavier, the dogs’ superior teamwork gives them the upper hand, provided the numbers are about even.
In my day as a guide, I remember leaving a leopard sighting to view a pack of wild dogs that had been seen in the area. My guests were most annoyed that we had hurried to see “Alsatians with big ears” but I soon managed to change their perception of them. Of course, Tinga guides had it easier in December, when the abovementioned predators obligingly combined to form one excellent sighting – 26 dogs chased a male leopard up a tree on the Narina access road – and the guides had to leave a lion sighting just down to the road to see it!!
((Male leopard chased up a tree by wild dogs - Tony Park)
As for black rhino, I have only seen them four times in the wild – once at Tinga! The tracker was following up on some white rhino tracks. In the distance, we saw some rhinos running. As they turned, I saw quite clearly that they were black rhino. Guests with us on the vehicle were quite bemused by the reaction of my wife and I. Only when I explained the rarity of black rhinos did they appreciate their good fortune! More recently, one of our guides saw a group of five black rhino, which is something indeed. Furthermore, two of the rhino were mating. Wisely, the guide did not intrude on this intimate moment, and they observed from a distance. Head guide, Quentin had another wonderful sighting, and the rhinos actually approached the vehicle, allowing him to get some wonderful photographs. Last week, Megan managed to find five black rhino on the western concession, first seeing three animals, with another brace just around the corner. In her second sighting, the bull was obviously not in the mood for visitors, and she prudently retreated!
(Black Rhino on the western concession - Quentin Swanevelder)
What is really encouraging is that despite the ominous names of the books mentioned earlier, there is hope for both the wild dog and black rhino. The creation of the numerous “transfrontier parks” will be a lifeline for wild dogs, as they need large tracts of land. Although they are highly successful predators, they are sometimes their own worst enemies, as they break through the fences and attack livestock, and are often poisoned as result. The dogs are also vulnerable to diseases such as rabies and distemper. By having large conservation areas, such as Kruger, contact with domestic animals can be avoided.
Black rhinos are also showing an increase in numbers, but with only 3700 individuals (hopefully 3701 in a couple of months if our Tinga couple had a successful liaison), they are still classified as Endangered. Fortunately demand for the horn has dropped in the Middle East, and the black rhino is attaining value as a “must-see’ on safari. Strictly speaking it is the black rhino, not the white rhino, which is included in the Big Five. The alarming decline of the black rhino led to the white rhino’s inclusion by default, as it was so difficult to see them. At this point, we should tip our hats to those dedicated individuals at SANParks and KZN Wildlife, who have been instrumental in conserving these species. Peter Hathaway Capstick encapsulated it wonderfully, when he observed that the thickets of Africa would not have the same adventorous allure without the possibility of having a snoozing rhino come charging out of them.
A recent posting on a travel forum by a Tinga guest expressed dissatisfaction at not being able to drive on the Concession’s roads after rains in the area as we could surely repair them at a later date.
On behalf of Tinga, please permit a rebuttal.
Tinga is a concession lodge within the Kruger National Park. To operate as a concessionaire is a wonderful privilege, but with this privilege, comes great responsibility. The Kruger National Park can be considered one of South Africa’s crown jewels, and Tinga gave a firm commitment to SANParks, that whilst operating within the concession, we would adhere to the rigorous ecological guidelines set out by SANParks ecological department, specifically designed to preserve the ecological integrity of the sensitive ecosystems in which we would operate. Within the Concessionaires Manual for Operating Procedures, it is clearly stated that driving on the concession roads after rains is prohibited. Tinga is situated in a low rainfall area, so this would not be a regular occurrence. In practical terms, if rainfall in excess of 15 mm has fallen on the concession, the Head guide will make a decision to close the affected area for a designated period of time. The rationale, with which I wholeheartedly concur having had some experience myself, is that prevention is far better than cure. Using the analogy of a wound, the wound can be healed with treatment, but the scar will then remain. Once damaged, it is almost impossible to return them to their original state.
One of the advantages of Tinga, is that despite heavy rains, it is often possible to conduct a game drive on the roads which are off the concession. This is possible because they are on a different soil type, or because they are constructed gravel roads.
Essentially, what I am trying to get across, is that we are now in the age of responsible tourism. That includes the sustainable use of our natural resources. It is in all our best interests to ensure that our wilderness remains intact for the future generations. I would hope that when my son has children of his own, the names of the wildlife books have more optimistic titles!
Lastly, I would like to wish everyone a prosperous and successful 2008 and conclude with a charming Shangaan quote I read in an article from Sarah Borchert (Editor : Africa Geographic)
“ An elephant’s tusks are never heavier than its owner” – in other words, for every problem, there is a solution!
(Kruger Tusker - Bill Taylor)
Fambani Gahle
Ian
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| MORE FROM OUR FRIENDS IN SOUTH AFRICA 3/2/2008 8:40:59 AM Link | | Add comment
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| Sabi Sabi Newsletter - January 2008 |
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| New Johannesburg Office | First rains bring new life to the bush | Earth Lodge gets its own new baby | Starting a new life together | New book launched | Another conservation acknowledgement for Sabi Sabi | New Year |
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Rains bring new life to the bush
October saw the start of this season's rains at Sabi Sabi, bringing with them new plant growth, the return of migratory birds and some early babies.
Almost overnight the bushveld was transformed from its winter browns to lush, green and teeming with new life. A huge variety of wildflowers have made their appearance, startling visitors with their unexpectedly bright colours. The new growth has done nothing to hide the abundance and diversity of game on the reserve, with guests reporting spectacular sightings of the Big 5 (Lion, Leopard, Rhino, Buffalo and Elephant) as well as a wide range of other wildlife and birds.
Migratory birds returned from their winter sanctuaries in far northern countries. The distinctive lilting call of the Woodland Kingfisher, heralding the start of summer, has been heard on all parts of the Sabi Sabi reserve; the spectacular plumage of plum coloured (violet) starlings and Carmine Bee-eaters has added beautiful splashes of vibrant colour, and there have already been sightings of other migratory species such as the Wahlberg's Eagle and European Roller.
New Lion and Leopard cubs have survived their first few weeks in the bush, and a baby Rhino was seen close to Earth Lodge in early November. Newborn Impalas, Kudus and Zebras have also been seen taking their first halting steps. Breeding herds of Elephants are delighting everyone, with inquisitive young calves, trunks extended, peering out from behind their mothers' huge legs.
It is a season of renewal, of rebirth and of rejuvenation, and the bush is bursting with promise.
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Earth Lodge gets its own new baby
Earth Lodge managers, Stefan and Nadia Schoeman welcomed a new baby - their first - at the end of October. Weighing in at a healthy 3.5kg, he followed family tradition by being named after his dad. Described as 'very relaxed' by his mum, Baby Stefan went on a tour of South Africa to meet his relatives before settling in at his new home at Sabi Sabi.
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Starting a new life together
South African men's hockey coach, Gregg Clark, and new wife, Nadine Dalling spent part of their honeymoon at Earth Lodge in November. A former player, Clark, with 250 caps, is the most-capped South African men's hockey player in history. He has represented South Africa at two Olympic Games, two World Cup Tournaments and five Africa Cup of Nations events. He is hoping to lead the South African men's team to the Olympic Games in Beijing in 2008, and took time out before a hockey trip to Chile to relax and enjoy the bush.
During their memorable stay at Earth Lodge, the couple had fantastic wildlife encounters which included an excellent sighting of a mother Leopard and her cub in a tree, a 300-strong breeding herd of Buffalo and the seldom witnessed impressive sight of Rhinos mating.
Gregg and Nadine were surprised by the unexpected extra honeymoon touches that Earth Lodge arranged: returning from their evening safari to find their suite romantically lit by candles, with flower petals strewn on the bed and a drawn bubble bath awaiting them in the bathroom. Added to that was an exclusive private dinner on their patio.
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New book launched
Sabi Sabi Research and Conservation Manager, Rael Loon, published his second book in November. Entitled 'Hidden Wonders - the small 5005 of southern Africa', the book showcases insects, spiders, frogs and reptiles, stunningly portrayed in photographs by the late photographer, Dan Lieberman. Rael conducted the research and wrote the book's text - The result is a beautiful portfolio of what he describes as 'the forgotten inhabitants of the African savannah.' He says that while witnessing the Big 5 is an awe-inspiring and humbling experience, the bush is so much more. The so-called Little 5 - Elephant Shrew, Leopard Tortoise, Ant Lion, Buffalo Weaver and Rhino Beetle - along with the other '5005' small creatures represent the richness and diversity of Africa's wildlife. Rael describes the book as "first and foremost a memoir of Dan Lieberman's work&quo t;. Just a few days after its launch, Hidden Wonders was acknowledged by topping the CNA's Natural History Recommended Book List. Rael's first book, Birds - The Inside Story, has already gone to three printings.
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Another conservation acknowledgement for Sabi Sabi
Sabi Sabi was recently awarded the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT) Cheetah Award in recognition of its ongoing commitment to conservation and community development in South Africa. The Cheetah Award is only awarded infrequently, going to companies or individuals who show continuous dedication to conserving the environment for future generations; and Sabi Sabi has demonstrated such a commitment for nearly three decades. In this latest initiative, several local community members were trained as trackers through a joint project that Sabi Sabi supported - among them were seven women, the first ever females to have the opportunity of undergoing such training.
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| SOUTH AFRICAN GAME PRESERVES 12/26/2007 11:50:39 AM Link | | Add comment
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November 2007
Summer in the Kruger manifests itself in a variety of ways. As the days get hotter, the storm clouds over the escarpment begin to gather. A brooding air of expectancy hangs over the bushveld, as the tantalising signs of rain appear, only to disappear again. Finally, the western skies blacken, the bush grows quiet, the wind picks up, and then the electric storm explodes spectacularly in an awesome display of Nature’s power.
Narina Main Deck (Photogrpah courtesy of Quentin Swanevelder - Tinga Head Guide)
Another sign of summer, on a far more subtle scale, is the reappearance of the frogs at the ephemeral pans in the concession. There is something quite surreal about sitting at the edge of one of these pans as the different species call antiphonally. Antiphony is when the male frogs call sequentially – this gives the female a chance to judge which is the fittest, as in frogs, female choice is based largely on the call strength. However, some males, knowing they are outgunned in the vocal stakes, play a sneaky strategy, in that they sit quietly, close to the Oral Powerhouses, and attempt to intercept the females as they make their way to the prime males. Isn’t nature fascinating! Bubbling Kassinas are my personal favourites, as they make a sound like popping wine corks – which invariably leads one to wonder about stopping for sundowners!
Bubbling Kassina – Kassina senegalensis ( Photograph courtesy of Marius Burger)
Tinga game sightings in October were really exceptional, with 89 lion sightings, 70 leopard sightings, 77 white rhino sightings and 14 black rhino sightings. We lost count of buffalo and elephant sightings. Particularly exciting was 32 sightings of wild dogs. Interestingly, about 10 of these sightings were of a lone female who frequents the western portion of the concession. She has been seen on several occasions on the past few months, which proves that she is an adept huntress. However, she needs to meet up with a roving band of male dogs, in order to breed. Although wild dogs are renown as successful pack hunters, the main reason the dogs form packs is to protect the young against stronger predators. Wild dogs numbers are of a concern to the Kruger ecologists, and a project is underway to identify all individuals in the Kruger. Our female seems to be of good genetic stock, and it would be a loss to the Kruger, if she was unable to bear any offspring.
Wild dog (Photographs courtesy of Quentin Swanevelder - Tinga Head Guide & Megan Heramb)
Speaking of Conservation projects, Tinga guides will be getting involved with SARCA – the South African Reptile Conservation Assessment. I met with Project Herpetologist, Marius Burger, who was delighted to hear about Tinga’s environmental policies – specifically the fact that Tinga does not collect firewood from the concession, but rather purchases offcuts of non-indigenous species from accredited dealers outside the Kruger. The local collecting of firewood does have a negative effect on the microfauna in an area. Marius will be training the guides on this project, and we sincerely hope that our guests will also be encouraged to take part in the project, which essentially involves photographing any reptiles in the area, and forwarding the pictures to SARCA.
Jones's Girdled Lizard (Photograph courtesy of Marius Burger)
On a more prosaic note, can I please emphasise that as Tinga is a concession lodge within the Kruger National Park, we are bound by rules of the KNP, which includes adherence to Gate Opening and Closing times. Please bear this in mind when flights to KMIA are being booked, as KNP Regional Rangers will not issue emergency late entry permits a month in advance. It takes a minimum of 1 & 1/2 hours to drive from KMIA (Nelspruit International) to Tinga, so it is best to choose flights that land before 15h00!
Famba Gahle
Ian
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With Special Thanks to
Ian Taylor
Managing Executive
Tinga Game Lodge
South Africa
For information or reservations contact Global Pathfinders Travel
| DESTINATION WEDDINGS 3/30/2007 9:40:02 AM Link | | Add comment An increasing number of couples are choosing destination weddings over traditional "white gown and rehearsal dinner" weddings. Destination weddings provide a fun opportunity to reunite family and friends in a truly amazing setting or to celebrate a private ceremony in an unforgettable locale.  With destination weddings representing approximately ten percent of all weddings, it is easier to find more cruise lines and resorts offering robust and attractively priced packages especially designed for wedding parties.
But destination weddings take considerable planning, and the best accommodations are not always available to last minute shoppers. The earlier you begin to plan your wedding, and the more experienced and professional assistance you have, the greater your chances of pulling off a hassle-free, exotic wedding. Use this guide as an introduction to destination weddings that you can take to your travel agent to begin planning your own personal idea of perfection. A professional travel consultant skilled in the details of destination weddings is invaluable. Using your travel consultant as a contact point provides you with a "one stop shopping" opportunity. A travel consultant can ensure that you are presented with a range of destinations and options, as well as assemble a travel package for the wedding party that is the best possible value. An experienced travel consultant can also provide you with wedding planners local to your chosen destination to handle the logistics of the ceremony and reception, however minimalist or involved.
 The most important decision in planning a destination wedding is the location. Some couples choose a destination that they have already vacationed or visited, while other couples choose somewhere new - hoping to create brand new memories they will always relate to their wedding day. Many have had a dream setting in mind since their engagement. Some of the most popular destinations are the beaches of the Caribbean, Hawaii and Mexico, while others prefer historic settings or national parks. Extreme activity and sports-themed weddings are also considered destination weddings, and couples can take their vows while skydiving or scuba diving, or the ceremony can take place at a very non-traditional venue like a NASCAR race. For those who want to travel to Europe, consider England, which boasts the shortest flight to Europe and romantic settings like manor houses or castles, while Italy is known for scenic villa and winery weddings. Couples with a more limited budget may enjoy destinations like Las Vegas or Florida, which are popular for all-inclusive weddings. A higher budget will afford an exotic wedding in Fiji or Australia.
Travel dates and trip length are major factors in choosing a location. Will you and your guests want to fly, drive or take a train? Traveling out of the country will require more time as well as passports or other documentation for couples and guests. Some will choose to have their wedding at a closer location, and then splurge on a dream honeymoon once guests head back home. Before you are set on anything, though, check with your travel professional, as some hotel or resort packages include a free honeymoon if the couple commits to a certain number of rooms or guests for the wedding.
The couple planning a destination wedding must also take weather and season into consideration. Beach weddings can be spectacular, but weather conditions change quickly and can be uncertain. Couples wishing to marry in the Caribbean have hurricane season to consider and may opt for an island like Aruba, which is out of the hurricane belt during the fall months. Finally, planning your ceremony during a destination's peak travel season can mean crowded resorts and perhaps a less intimate backdrop for the ceremony. Given your special itinerary, your travel consultant can make recommendations or help you narrow down your destination wish-list.
Destination weddings can range from amazingly inexpensive, and far less than a traditional wedding, to very costly. Once you have an idea of where you would like to be married, analyze your budget. Carefully assess the costs of travel, accommodations, activities and meals. Decide how many guests you can truly afford at the wedding and whether or not you will pay for any part of their travel. If you are hoping for a crowd of guests and/or expect them to pay for any expenses, planning early and sending travel information well in advance is a must!
If cost is an important factor, your travel agent can offer a variety of options in any destination. It is possible and often very desirable to take a minimalist, stress-free approach to your destination wedding. In many instances, all you'll need are a justice of the peace or similar official, a wedding license, and a romantic spot. Don't let price be the ultimate determinant of your dream ceremony. Be creative.
At home or in an exotic locale, the guest list can pose problems. Many couples choose to elope and skip invitations. They simply send an announcement when they return home and maybe throw a fun party so everyone can still get together and celebrate. Other couples find that destination weddings give them the option to invite only a few close friends or family members, so they are forced to reduce their guest list a very manageable number of special invitees. And still others will send invitations out to a larger number, placing the decision solely in guests' hands (and perhaps their wallets) to attend the wedding. Keep in mind that some resorts only allow guests over age 16 or 18, so an adult-only location may not work for guests with families.
Who can you expect to attend a faraway wedding? Sometimes the RSVP's are quite surprising. Many who are invited actually attend in order to combine their own vacation with the couple's special day. Conversely, some may not have the financial means or the ability to take off work to travel. Most hotels will offer special room rates to couples and their guests or a certain number of rooms may be part of the wedding package itself.
Give some forethought to how long guests will stay at the wedding site. Couples can travel alone and have guests arrive a day or two later, or everyone can travel together as a group. If guests arrive a few days before the wedding, fun options are arranging a group tour or sightseeing in smaller groups, if you have a lot of people, or guests with different interests. You may also plan nothing at all, and allow guests some quiet vacation time of their own before the wedding; in this case, consider sending along a destination guide (often available free from your travel agent) so they can choose their own itinerary.
As you might imagine, the legal requirements for far-away nuptials vary greatly by destination. Most popular destination wedding locations in the United States and abroad have streamlined the process and provide very solid information on their consular or official tourism web sites. Some destinations require a residency period before you can be married. In places like France and Fiji, couples may have to spend up to 40 days in residency before the wedding, which can make things very difficult and much more expensive. Other locales only require a waiting period of 3 days or less and are far more manageable. Your travel consultant will assist you with these details, and again - this is where having an expert help really counts! There are no end of stories of brides who end up with a great honeymoon, and a civil ceremony that follows at home because they were not prepared.
Couples will need documentation before they travel, and often a few months before the event itself. Required documents may include birth certificates, passports, previous marriage certificates or divorce decrees if applicable. Your local contacts will provide information on requirements for blood tests or applications for licenses. American diplomatic and consular officers are not permitted to perform marriages. Marriages abroad are almost always performed by local civil or religious officials. In general, marriages that are legally performed and valid abroad are also legally valid in the United States, but in any event, inquiries regarding the validity of a marriage abroad should be directed to the attorney general of the state in the United States where the bride and groom live.
Minimum marriage age varies from one country to another. Persons under the age of 18 must, as a general rule, present a written statement of consent executed by their parents before a notary public. Some countries require the parental consent statement to be authenticated by a consular official of that foreign country in the United States. In short, don't underestimate the rules and regulations you'll need to address, sometimes far in advance. And you always have the option of marrying at home before or after a non-binding ceremony at your destination - you may find this to be the best choice to ensure that you'll enjoy every minute of the trip.
Once you choose a destination and have a good idea what it will cost and who you are going to invite, you can start planning the ceremony details. Wedding coordinators can make a lot of the arrangements, and many resorts and cruise lines even have their own wedding departments. If an on-site wedding planner is not available, think about hiring your own planner to help with details, research and correspondence. Destination wedding planners will often offer traditional choices for flowers, food and music to fit a wide variety of budgets. Wedding details that may have taken months to plan for a hometown wedding can often be chosen in just a matter of minutes at the destination itself. If you are on a budget, remember that many hotels, beaches, outdoor settings and the like are inherently decorated or beautiful in their own right - this is one step you may be able to skip.
Regardless of your location, however, many of the decisions remain the same. Do you want a rehearsal dinner the night before? Do you want a formal reception or just a table for two at a romantic restaurant? Do you want to wake that morning and leisurely get dressed and married or do you want to enjoy a spa treatment or massage? Music can be planned in advance or chosen on site, or some couples may choose no music at all and rely on things like waterfalls or ocean waves as the backdrop. Food can be catered and include ethnic or theme-oriented foods applicable to the locale or setting.
Like any wedding, attire can be formal and fancy or simple and casual. Clothing can reflect local culture and tradition, or you may prefer to still "walk down the aisle" in a more elegant wedding gown. If flying, formal wear like a wedding gown or tuxedo should be packed as a carry-on, if possible. If it is very important to arrive with particular items of clothing or other accessories, carry them onto the plane and avoid the heartbreak of a lost gown - or plan the wedding with time to allow for delivery of lost luggage, just in case. To avoid traveling with wedding wear, clothing can be shipped separately and in advance (this may result in a small storage fee at the hotel), or attire can sometimes be rented at the hotel or resort.
Photography, video and flower choices are abundant and often quite similar to traditional wedding choices. Couples can choose to hire a photographer, or they can simply rely on guests to capture more impromptu photos. Many all-inclusive wedding plans also include a photography package and video. Some videos will even include local footage of the area, like dolphins swimming or a video introduction of the resort or island. Flower arrangements are usually provided by a local florist and can often be chosen before you arrive or on site from photos and catalogs. Couples can also choose from popular pre-written wedding vows or write their own.
Be sure to inquire whether you need to supply your own witnesses for the ceremony, or whether the resort can provide them for you. Also remember that many wedding packages do not include gratuities for services provided by ministers, bartenders or transportation companies, so budget accordingly.
As you finalize arrangements, remember that some of the same tips that apply to traditional weddings also apply to destination weddings: avoid over-planning and allow ample free time for you and your guests to enjoy the wedding. Group activities can be a fun way to spend time with everyone, but don't overwhelm yourselves or guests with a rigid schedule or a strenuous activity the day before the wedding. Most importantly, remember that this is your day. Plan your dream wedding and make it your own. That's what destination weddings are all about.
Contact your Global Pathfinders Travel specialist at 281-353-7226 or bob@globalpathfinderstravel.com for suggestions, pricing and availability. | ROME: The Historic City 2/21/2007 8:46:19 AM Link | | Add comment Rome can not be seen in a day, a week or a year. No, a city with this much history takes centuries to get to know. It is literally a city of layers, one generation, one millennium building on top of the next.  It is the " Eternal City", and we are mortals. Since time is not on our side, consider moving Rome higher on your list of places to visit, and start planning now. With a little organization and a good travel consultant, your trip to Rome can be not only fun, but even deeply rewarding.
This brief overview is not comprehensive... it just represents a few, favorite "must see" spots in the city that you'll find filled with the very essence of Rome. Take other guides and see other sites. This little stroll presents you with highlights to make sure you have the time to see Rome at the pace it is meant to be seen: at your leisure.
The key to experiencing Rome is to visit everything on foot - and just a little bit "off-hour" (early-morning or late evening when possible) to avoid the sometimes overwhelming crowds of tourists. Most everyone agrees that Rome is a city to be walked, and if you are in reasonably good shape, it will not be a problem. Do not travel without your most comfortable, already broken-in walking shoes, however, and carry plenty of bottled water and a hat for shade. You'll be ready in no time to set off of your own, private archeological and cultural excursion in a city of antiquities, art and monuments.
First, let's get oriented. Early on, develop a sense for the Italian titles of the common English, as they are often exchanged freely (i.e., the Foro Romano and the "Roman Forum"). The Centro Storico is on the east side of the Tevere (the Tiber) and is the center of the historical city, set amongst the Seven Hills on Rome; here you will find the Campidoglio (Capitoline Hill) and the nearby Foro Romano, Trajan's Markets, the Imperial Forum, the Colosseum and the Arch of Constantine. Just south of the Centro Storico are Palatine Hill, the Circus Maximus, and the Baths of Caracalla, the city's famous catacombs.
The Foro Romano, though a mass of tumbled stone and ruin, still provides a glimpse of what was once the center of the great city, and perhaps the entire Roman world. Romans conducted their public business in the Forum, and the road leading into the Foro Romano is the "Via Sacra", the route for sacred processions. The Arch of Septimus Severus is in the center of the Forum, and nearby, you'll find the reconstructed Senate House. The footing here is uneven, so if you or your companions are physically challenged or travel with a baby carriage, plan accordingly, allowing for extra time or assistance.
The Colosseum, or more properly the "Flavian Amphitheatre" seated 60,000 people and could also be canopied to shelter the crowds on rainy days or from the hot summer sun. The floor of the Colosseum could actually be flooded to float small boats. The numbered seats, rows and sections allowed spectators varying views of the gory, bloodbath battles between gladiators. Over the centuries, the walls of the Colosseum began to crumble, the result of earthquakes, neglect and the need for stones to build the walls and other structures that surround Rome, but lighted at night, the structure still emits a stately glow. The hours of admission to the Colosseum are staggered throughout the year, but during the height of tourist season in April - June, it is typically open from 9am to 7pm. For your convenience, elevators can take you to the upper tiers and you can rent audio guides for a few dollars. Guided tours in English are also available throughout the day. It costs approximately eight dollars to visit the Colosseum.
The Arch of Constantine is the largest arch in Rome, constructed in the 4 th century. It stands to the side of the Colosseum, just before you tackle the heavily cobbled road of Via Sacre that leads to the Forum.
Trajan's Markets and Forum, immediately east of Piazza Venezia and the Capitoline Hill, included a massive basilica, libraries, a temple, Trajan's column, and the open marketplace. Trajan's column and the markets are in excellent states of preservation. You can pay a fee for admission to the complex, or you can view it from the street on Via Alessandrina.
If you walk north of the Foro Romano, you will see the Piazza Venezia and Piazza Campidoglio. Take the Via del Coroso from the Piazza Venezia to the Piazza del Popolo, and just a bit further south you will find the Piazza di Spagna and the Spanish Steps. No trip to Rome is complete without seeing the Spanish Steps. Early in the morning the steps are relatively empty, providing a great opportunity to view them without large groups of tourist covering their beauty. The incredible sweep of architecture lifts from the Piazza di Spagna up to the Trinita' dei Monti (Trinity of the Mountains). The Spanish Embassy was at one time at the bottom of the Steps, influencing the sites' names - the "Piazza di Spagna" and the Spanish Steps.
Piazza del Popolo was originally the site of both festivals and public executions. It is home to four lion fountains and one of Rome's twelve Egyptian obelisks. At one end of the square, you'll find two churches that many mistake for copies of each other. However, the space available for the construction of the 'Santa Maria de Montesanto' was less than that available for the 'Santa Maria dei Miracoli', and as a result, the Montesanto has an oval dome, as opposed to the round dome on the Miracoli.
The Campidoglio, perhaps the most beautiful piazza in Rome, sits on top of the Capitoline Hill, the smallest of the Seven Hills of Rome. It is home to the amazing Capitoline Museum, housed in the two palazzi on opposite sides of the piazza. The "Cordonata", designed by Michelangelo, is the elongated, elegant stairway to the piazza. The building, which will appear directly in front of you, is the Palazzo Senatorio that now houses the office of the Mayor of Rome. The view from this spectacular Renaissance piazza is one of the best, especially at sunset and in the dark night. Here, you will also find a bronze statue of the Emperor Marcus Aurelius on horseback.
In the Villa Borghese, start with a visit to the Galleria Borghese ( www.galleriaborghese.it). A twenty dollar admission fee and a prior reservation (required) restricts the size of the crowds in this lovely museum, where you'll find paintings by Titian, Rubens and Raphael, along with a collection of marvelous sculptures. The Villa Borghese's physical and cultural endowments are overwhelming. The Borghese family amassed one of the greatest family fortunes and art collections ever assembled. The Villa Borghese was built to display the great art pieces owned by the family, and Napolean used a part of the collection to form the cornerstone of the Louvre's own portfolio.
On the west side of the Tevere is Vatican City. See St. Peter's Basilica on any day other than Saturday and Sunday and you'll avoid the crowds that line up on the weekends to hear the pope (if you'd like to see the pope yourself, then line up early). Tradition tells us that Peter was buried here in 64 A.D. near the place of his crucifixion. Constantine, the Roman emperor that made Christianity the official religion of the Empire, commissioned the basilica to be built over Peter's tomb. The present basilica was completed during the late 16 th century. Inside the massive church are the works of the great masters and many holy relics, including a piece of the Cross. Tombs tours of past popes lying in the church can be arranged in advance at the Ufficio Scavi. Note that you must abide by a very strict dress code: no shorts or bare upper arms.
If you want a great view of the city, take a taxi or a nice stroll to Piazzale Garibaldi, or the Janiculum Hill, where a cannon goes off every day at noon. The skyline here is magnificent, and you'll discover an idyllic view of practically all of Rome's monuments. Walk along the road to the Fontanone and then down the staircase into Trastevere. You will not be disappointed.
The Trevi Fountain is a center of tourist adoration, but if you go to see it late at night or very early morning, you will better understand its attraction. The crowds have largely vanished and the lights on the water give the fountain a pleasant glow. The Fontana di Trevi dominates the small Trevi square located in the Quirinale district.  The water for the fountain is the product of the Aqua Virgo, an aqueduct constructed in 19 BC. It brings water all the way from the Salone Springs, where legend has it that a virgin maiden showed soldiers where to find the water's source. The central figure of the fountain, in front of a large niche, is Neptune, god of the sea. He is riding a chariot in the shape of a shell, pulled by two sea horses. One of the horses is calm, the other one agitated, symbolizing the moods of the oceans.
If you catch the famous Pantheon early in the morning, before 10:00, you will miss the morning rush that starts around 10:30. The Pantheon is the best preserved of the ancient Roman buildings. Its dome is more than 130 feet high and at the top is a large opening, the oculus, which is the only source of light. Built in honor of "all gods", the structure has survived largely intact.
Remember that much to see and do in Rome is always free - totally without charge. Here are just a few examples:
- Roman Forum
- Capitoline Hill
- Trevi Fountain
- Spanish Steps
- Pantheon
- Mouth of Truth
- Piazza Navona
- St. Peter's Basilica
Note, too, that the exterior of many of the monuments such as the Colosseum and Castel Sant'Angelo are free to visit, even though there is a charge, and well worth it, for the interiors. Churches, their paintings, vaults and relics are typically free as well.
Legend has it that if you throw a coin into the Trevi fountain, you will return to Rome. It's a good place to deposit your spare change in any case, so give it a toss. If you have visited everything on this short list of favorites, you'll still find much more to do in the Eternal City.
Contact your Global Pathfinders Travel specialist at 281-353-7226 or bob@globalpathfinderstravel.com for suggestions, pricing and availability. | HAWAII Paradise in Six Islands 2/13/2007 12:19:43 PM Link | | Add comment If you are like most who have never been to Hawaii, the state's islands blend into a mass of unpronounceable vowels and indistinct images of a tropical paradise. The geography of the islands is not difficult, however, and all it takes is one trip to make visitors long to become experts. So if you have never been, or if you have only been to one island, this introduction should whet your appetite and familiarize you with the islands and their most important characteristics. Perhaps the most amazing fact you'll find is how close and reasonably priced Hawaii really is. Long thought of as a distant playground for the wealthy, Hawaii is less than 6 hours from the west coast and terrifically, wonderfully affordable.
Most do not realize that Hawaii's islands span more than 1,500 miles, creating the longest chain of islands in the world. In total, Hawaii is actually 130 separate islands if you include the atolls and coral reefs above sea level. However, the eight of these islands that cover 99% of the land area receive all of the attention, and of those, only six offer tourism opportunities (Niihau is privately owned and Kahoolawe was once a test range for the US Navy). The six major islands are Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui, and Hawaii's Big Island. Each island has its own identity, ambiance, climate and geological features that make it unique.
The Hawaiian Islands are volcanic, the products of millions of years of undersea eruptions; today, however, the only active volcano is on Hawaii's Big Island. Hawaii's climate is an amazing phenomenon, as well. Climatologists will tell you that the earth has 13 types of climatic conditions, and of those, 11 are represented on Hawaii - the only missing conditions are Arctic and Saharan. At sea level, summer temperatures average 80 degrees Fahrenheit and in winter, a balmy 75 degrees. Year round, the average water temperature is 74 degrees.
Getting around on the islands is a cinch. A ferry runs between Maui and Lanai and Maui and Molokai, and inter-island flights on both Aloha and Hawaiian Air offer multi-island passes at a discount. Another small commercial carrier, Island Air, flies between the smaller airports on the islands. Most visitors relish self-drive adventures, touring the winding roads along the beaches or into the interior of the islands at their own pace. Rental options range from scooters to Ferraris, but for a classic experience, try renting a Jeep.
What's truly unique about Hawaii, though, is the sheer number of activities available in such an amazingly beautiful setting - the scenery is unmatched and unlike anything in the world. Mountains and beaches, tropical rainforests and snow. Pineapple plantations and volcanoes. Sit and do nothing, or try just a few of the built-in diversions that nature has given a home here: water sports like surfing, windsurfing, boating, sailing, snorkeling, diving, fishing and kayaking; or try golf, tennis, world-class bicycling, hiking and camping. The islands are also home to an entire health industry, with internationally recognized spas, yoga and holistic centers throughout the state. And Hawaii takes the precious gifts that nature has bestowed very seriously, so ecotourism is practiced with a particular zeal here, and many tour and local guide companies offer programs designed around the islands' flora and fauna.
Geologists say that Kauai is the oldest island of the six tourist islands. The rugged coast boasts more miles of beach and hiking trails than all the other islands. This is the island serving as a backdrop to many films, including Jurassic Park. Its primitive, tropical beauty evokes the Garden of Eden - it is an island of mountains and valleys, waterfalls and beautiful beaches. On the Northwest side of the island, 3,000 foot cliffs line the Na Pali Coast, much of it inaccessible except by boat or hikes on foot. The island is circular in shape, offering five areas developed for tourism. This well-rounded destination appeals to commercial shoppers, fine diners, and eco-tourists alike.
Oahu is the most commercial of the islands, and home to Waikiki and Honolulu. But do not let that fool you: Oahu mesmerizes visitors with rainforests, mountains, valleys, and spectacular ocean waves. A great suggestion for any island newcomer is to rent a car (an open top is ideal) and drive the perimeter of the island - you may well be awed by how undeveloped and quaint much of the island remains. Honolulu, on the southern tip of Oahu and bordered by both mountains and ocean, is actually one of the largest cities in the United States and home to near 80% of the Hawaiian population. Waikiki is famous the world over, where urban culture and the distinct Polynesian flavor of Hawaii co-exist in perfect harmony. Diamond Head, a mountainous volcanic crater, is a famous and easily recognizable landmark.
Words most often associated with the island of Molokai are peace and tranquility. Molokai is home to many of the ecological and adventure-oriented activities found in Hawaii. The eastern side of the island is very green and tropical, and the western side, in contrast, offers dry grasslands and beaches. To the north, tall sea cliffs rising more than 3,500 feet above sea level look out over the ocean and create Hawaii's tallest waterfall. The Kalaupapa Peninsula is considered one of the state's most beautiful areas and is ironically the former home of the island's famous leper colony, bordered by high, sheltering cliffs on one side. The main "urban" area is Kaunakakai, a town with no traffic lights.
Lanai is a largely rural island, sheltered from the leeward winds by Maui, some nine miles away. There are only 32 miles of pavement on the island, and much of it is given over to luxury resorts, golfing, and activities for adventurous personalities, and it is oft-considered the Hawaii's best snorkeling and scuba diving spot. Lanai was at one time a giant pineapple plantation and is home to some of Hawaii's most famous beaches, such as Hulopoe Bay. The only town on the island is Lanai City, a quaint town filled with small shops and artist studios. Lanai entertains many visitors with large luxury resorts and their attendant championship golf properties.
The island of Maui has something for everyone. The dormant Haleakala volcano (though officially classified as "active") and Kahalawai volcano watch over Hawaii's second largest island and shape the island's mountains, valleys and waterfalls. Visitors to Maui are surprised by how undeveloped most of the island feels, and yet how much it offers in terms of dining, resorts and nightlife. Maui is also the whale watching center for the islands (the humpback whale is the state animal). Driving to the top of Haleakala to watch the sunrise is a Maui visitor ritual (many opt to bike back down from the top), as is a drive around the island's perimeter on the 50 mile Hana Highway. Another attraction is the small village of Lahaina, full of great shops and restaurants.
The Big Island is the home to the Kilauea volcano: the still active, currently erupting volcano is the most active volcano in the world, with a continual lava flow pouring into the ocean since 1983, creating approximately 40 new acres of island every year. The Big Island is as large as all of the other islands combined, with more than 260 miles of coast. During the winter, it can actually snow on the island's tallest mountain, Mauna Kea, and you can snow ski on its 13,796 foot altitudes, weather permitting. The Kona-Kohala Coast on the Big Island hosts several luxury resorts and golf facilities along with its white-sand beaches. Here, too, is the town of Hilo, displaying its tropical, quintessential Hawaiian culture.
Again, this overview is just a start at describing the amazing destination of Hawaii. Its cultural and environmental significance can only be fully understood through a visit in person - to see is to believe. Once you are there, consider leaving the beaten path to explore the lush outdoors of America's 50th state. For more information contact Global Pathfinders Travel, your "Hawaii Destination Specialist", at 281-353-7226 or by e-mail at bob@globalpathfinderstravel.com. | |
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