travel destinations

Honeymoons

Honeymoons too often take a backseat to the arrangements and plans of the actual wedding, but you owe it to yourself to give honeymoon planning greater and more careful attention. After all, while the wedding is mainly for your family and friends, the once-in-a-lifetime honeymoon that follows is a private getaway for you and your new spouse to celebrate your marriage.

Though you may spend a portion of your vacation relaxing and reflecting on this major life change, the honeymoon is most of all an opportunity to enjoy being a newlywed, spending quality time with your new spouse, and experiencing a romantic and exciting getaway.

Honeymooners have endless options. Following months of wedding planning, couples often retreat to a luxurious resort that caters to their every need, while others trek to an adventurous escape from their day-to-day lives. Whether a beach vacation, a safari or a ski trip, the honeymoon should reflect your joint personality and wishes.

Keep in mind that perfect honeymoons don't just happen, and planning requires thoughtfulness, patience, careful attention to details, and a lot of decision-making along the way. The more homework you do before leaving for your honeymoon, the more you will enjoy your special vacation.

Top Honeymoon Hotspots

Your honeymoon can be the most romantic trip you'll ever take, and it can also be a lot of fun. Look for a destination that offers everything you want. Remember that there is no "ideal" destination — the personality of you and your partner will determine where on the planet your honeymoon should be. However, the following locations traditionally are considered the greatest spots to honeymoon and top many newlyweds' travel wish-lists.

Hawaii - Hawaii remains the number one destination for honeymoons year after year because of its romantic sunsets, magnificent beaches, and luxurious hotels. Visitors to Hawaii can also conveniently hop from island to island to experience just about any climate and adventure under the sun, including kayaking, mountain climbing, surfing, scuba, and even hiking in a rainforest.

Mexico - From the Yucatan peninsula to the Pacific Coast, Mexico is all at once romantic, adventurous, and laidback. A collection of spectacular land- and seascapes larger than almost anywhere else in the world, reasonably priced attractions and an easy-to-reach location make a Mexico vacation hard to beat. Honeymooners can enjoy a wide variety of activities, including eco-tourism, water sports, horseback riding, diving, and touring ancient Mexican ruins.

The Caribbean - The islands of the Caribbean have long been favorites for honeymooners. While we mention a few below by name, your travel consultant can assist you with destination materials that provide a wealth of information for helping you choose the perfect spot.

Bahamas - With over 700 separate islands, you'll find numerous resorts with all the water sports, pampering, night clubs, fine dining, casinos, and beaches you could possibly want. Many amazing islands in the Bahamas can also be visited easily in one trip by booking a cruise. If you're seeking a truly romantic paradise for your upcoming honeymoon, look closely at the Bahamas.
Jamaica - If you're eager to just get away and relax after hectic wedding planning, Jamaica is the place to be. From the famous reggae music festivals to the beautiful shorelines, it's easy to get into the Jamaican state of mind. Whether you stay on the island in a luxurious resort or simply visit for a couple of hours on a cruise ship stop, Jamaica's culture of fun, sun, and romance will make you feel welcome.
Bermuda - Bermuda is a truly sightseer's delight, and couples are encouraged to rent a moped or take public transportation to see all the sights. Offering an array of ocean activities and charming historic towns, Bermuda provides a romantic and mysterious escape to an era of class and grace.
U.S. Virgin Islands - Replete with sailing, snorkeling, sports fishing, and tons of shopping, honeymooners have long been attracted to the Virgin Islands for an active escape.

Tahiti and the South Pacific - These islands are becoming an increasingly popular destination for couples (including celebrities) seeking an exclusive honeymoon experience and are the closest most ever get to a private island retreat. The sheer beauty and history of the land and the people allows couples to participate in awe-inspiring eco-tourism and cultural activities. Many also opt to stay in traditional style burés, some of which are directly over the water, to take advantage of the unparalleled views.

The Continental U.S. - Many couples are drawn to distinctive locations throughout the United States. California, one of the most popular, offers marvels ranging from San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge to the glamour of Hollywood. Las Vegas, Nevada, always draws a lively crowd. Its incredible range of world-class hotels, casinos, entertainment, and shopping venues gives honeymooners an exciting vacation from home. New York, Florida, and Colorado are also very popular destinations for honeymooners, as they offer fun and romantic tourist attractions that welcome visitors year-round. Traveling within the U.S. is an excellent opportunity to experience the unique diversity for which America is world-renowned.

Europe - Europe has always been high on honeymooners' lists, in part because of the distinctiveness of each country and the many destinations couples can visit during their trip. From the majestic views of the snow-covered Alps to the Eiffel tower in Paris, Europe is filled with unforgettable history and romance.
Australia and New Zealand - If you're looking for outdoor adventure both above and below the ocean bed, you'll love the exceptional beauty of these lands. From snorkeling and scuba diving to bush treks and mountain climbing, honeymooners won't find any more high-energy activities than these locations offer.

Planning a Hassle-Free Honeymoon

If you and your fiancé are just beginning to think about your honeymoon plans, a good place to start is agreeing on a specific destination. A recommended way to do this is to sit down together and compile a list of your top dream vacations. Choosing a destination and an itinerary that really works for your personality is also key. It's easy to get overwhelmed at this stage, since you have so many possibilities, but you can narrow down the options by deciding if you'd prefer a tropical beach, big city, or a place known for adventure travel. Also consider if you want warm or cool weather, a distant land or someplace closer to home, a vibrant location with people to meet, or seclusion, where it will just be the two of you. Speak with your travel consultant about all of your honeymoon ideas, and consider including adventurous and unusual travel themes along with more popular options like mass market cruises and all-inclusive resorts.

Also remember that you may need to psychologically accommodate to your new status as a partner and a spouse, and with proper planning and smart travel choices, you can enhance your opportunity to bond without undue stress over logistics or other complications. Your travel consultant can always develop a customized honeymoon that provides not just a vacation experience, but a real journey for the two of you set in a locale that reflects your personalities and values.

Once you've decided where you want to go, your next step is to make a budget. Find out if you have any frequent flier miles or hotel discounts you can use towards your trip. Also think about putting all the wedding expenses on a single credit card that accumulates frequent flier miles for the honeymoon. The cost of your honeymoon will, of course, be the sum total of the accommodations, activities, transportation, meals, tips, souvenirs and other travel costs. Be candid with your travel consultant to make your honeymoon economically comfortable.

When considering your budget, know that all-inclusive resorts take care of most of your meals, athletic equipment, and tips. Some also include liquor and bar costs as well as resort-specific activities. These arrangements vary widely, however, with some including roundtrip airfare, so find out exactly what is and is not included in the price.
Also note that honeymoon packages offered by hotels, airlines, and wholesalers typically include special perks for newlyweds that you can't get with standard packages. Your travel consultant will know to ask your hotel if special honeymoon packages are available.

Once you have a budget, decide when to go and for how long. Figure out how many vacation days you have and how many you'll need before the wedding to take care of odds and ends at the last minute. Decide whether you want to leave immediately after your wedding, or wait a few days or weeks to give yourself more time to focus on the trip. If you don't have very many vacation days, you may want to take a "mini-moon" the weekend of the wedding and then a longer, second honeymoon on your first anniversary. It's usually a good idea to give yourself at least a day or two to continue the honeymoon after returning home, before you head back to work and settle into your everyday life.

Don't forget to research the travel documents you might need for your honeymoon as well. U.S. citizens need valid passports for all air and sea travel to and from Europe, Asia, and Australia. As of January 8, 2007, passports are also required for travel to or from Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, and the Caribbean. Your travel consultant will assist with all of the necessary documentation, including documentation of your recent name change!

Be diligent about keeping copies of all correspondence, confirmation numbers, and invoices given to you by your travel consultant. Double- and triple-check all the plans to be sure that your departure and return dates are correct. Inform everyone along the way that you're traveling on your honeymoon, so you don't miss out on complimentary perks. Stay organized by creating a folder or notebook where you can keep all this information.
One last bit of advice: Have realistic expectations throughout the course of planning and taking your honeymoon trip. While it's only natural for you to want your honeymoon to be perfect, bear in mind that travel is inherently an adventure. Approach your honeymoon with an open mind, and prepare to have plenty of laughs along the way.

There really are endless possibilities for honeymooners. Whether you decide to go on an exotic foreign expedition or visit a nearby luxurious resort, start planning early to make sure you're right where you want to be... and then Bon Voyage!

Contact Jadd Fong Travel an Albuquerque travel agency, today to start planning your Honeymoon.

Film locations and Festivals

Film Locations and Festivals

Have you watched a movie filmed in a familiar setting and recognized buildings, a restaurant or a street? Have you ever wanted to visit a location after seeing a film? Watch the "Borne Identity" and you will see many Parisan locations. If you are ever in Prague, look for the many easily identifiable scenes from the first "Mission Impossible". Just outside Asheville, North Carolina in Lake Lure, you can see the spectacular backdrop for "Last of the Mohicans" and "Dirty Dancing". Where are the terrific scenes in the "Lord of the Rings" trilogy filmed? You probably know that New Zealand doubled for Middle Earth.

Researching and then visiting a film location is terrific entertainment as is visiting one of the over 1,600 film festivals held each year. If you are a film buff, there is no end to the game of identifying and then finding the locations of famous movie scenes. All you need is a Blockbuster account and a good travel consultant and you are not just off to the movies, but also on a very unique scavenger hunt.

The internet is a great place to begin locating your favorite movie settings. Go to Google, and use a search term resembling the following: 'set location for "dirty dancing"'. Most likely, you will get back dozens of search results assisting you with locating scenes, sometimes with great directional detail and, on occassion, with the actual lattitude and longitude geocoding for you GPS owners! If you are traveling to a destination already, try a search styled as follows: '"film locations" Seattle'. You will be rewarded with references to scenes from "Sleepless in Seattle" along with detailed directions for locating the spots familiar to fans of the movie. Many cities, such as New York, London, Paris, Los Angeles, Vancouver or Chicago have appeared in so many movies that the challenge will be to decide from which movies you wish to choose!

A film festival is an event that lasts anywhere from a day to over a week and features films, films, films. They are held all over the United States and in several other countries as well. Many film festivals such as the well-known Toronto International Film Festival and the Sundance Film Festival are well established, each with over a twenty-five year history, while new festivals are popping up every year.

Many film festivals offer a variety of films including independent films, documentaries, gay and lesbian themed movies, full-length feature films, comedies, foreign films, music videos and more while others stay with one theme for the length of the festival. There are usually a few film premieres at each film festival and some, such as the Breckenridge Film Festival, are adding strong educational components to attract more visitors. In addition to dozens of film showings, many festivals are located in areas that are worthy of a vacation alone. Who wouldn't want to visit the beautiful mountains of Utah? The Sundance Film Festival makes that region even more attractive. When there isn't a film playing that you want to see, you can ski the fantastic slopes. Want to visit France? Why not do it during the Festival de Cannes, one of the most famous and oldest film festivals in the world?

Choosing a festival

What festival to attend depends a great deal on your idea of fun. At many festivals, you will see big name stars touting their new movies and walking the streets, shopping in local stores and eating in the same restaurants as the attendees. Often the media will interview the stars about their feature films and their reasons for attending. Many times, it is possible to sit in on these live interviews an opportunity to see and in some cases, visit, with the actors and actresses, directors and producers who make the films.

Festivals typically double as business venues for writers, directors and producers shopping their scripts, hoping to make contact with the elusive financier or actor. As with the stars, there are often open interview sessions with directors, producers and writers.

Legendary film critics also frequent film festivals. It is always fun to watch the critics while they see a film for the first time and to hear their initial reaction. Maybe you will even get a heads- up on the next academy award winning movie.

If it is your goal to see and meet these famous people, choose one of the better known, more established film festivals. Almost every film festival has a web site. Visit the sites and see who has attended that festival in the past. The list of past attendees will be a good indication of the caliber of stars, directors, producers and media that are attracted to this particular film festival. Next, visit with your travel consultant to find the best possible travel package to your destination. The most well attended festivals book early in advance and accommodations can be at a premium. Your travel consultant will have access to professional booking tools and hotel allotments that they can often tap into for hard to get bookings.

Film festivals are also an important networking venue for those hoping to enter the film making industry. Since so many important "players" in the industry are located in one spot, the festival creates an opportunity to make key business connections in a short period of time. Location, location, location — always an important factor in any vacation or trip, location is also something to consider for a film festival vacation. Depending on your funds, you may wish to choose a trip close to home or one in a vacation resort. Again, if you want to combine the festival with other activities, explore the area to see the offerings. Don't forget to factor in the climate. If you hate the cold and snow, you sure aren't going to want to attend the Sundance Film Festival high in the mountains of Utah in January.

Many film festivals have added educational components such as workshops, presentations, classes and hands-on experiences in addition to the film viewings. There may be numerous opportunities to be exposed to all aspects of film making at a festival. Want-to-be actors, directors, writers, producers and filmmakers can get advice from the pros. There may be actual readings, production sessions and meetings with agents. Some carry workshops on public relations and marketing films. You may even learn how to finance a movie.

Perhaps the most important factor in planning a film festival vacation is the types of films you want to see. Some festivals host a variety of types of films while others will stick to one particular theme. As mentioned above, there are usually several films premiering at a festival.

Popular themes for film festivals include: independent films; documentaries; comedy; foreign films; gay and lesbian; full-length features; black films; outdoor and nature films; and music videos. There are even such niche film festivals as the Bicycle Film Festival, the Screamfest L.A. Horror Film Festival and Roger Ebert's Overlooked Film Festival.

Just as for any successful vacation, proper planning is essential. Some of the more popular film festivals are booked well in advance. Once you choose which festival you wish to attend, have your travel consultant check out the local accommodations. Depending on your price range, you may wish to stay at local motels or hotels, local bed and breakfast or maybe even camp. Ask your consultant to check for the availability of tour packages that might coincide with your visit, and which could mean additional savings by combining air, hotel and rental car. Taking along the children? Determine what opportunities are available for all family members and arrange child care at the accommodations in advance if necessary. If you are traveling to find famous locations for films, your timing is much more a matter of personal preference and budget.

Ask local establishments if they have special film festival packages on lodging and passes to the movies and events. Some festivals have featured accommodations where film goers get better rates. This information is usually listed on the festival web sites or ask!

Check out the transportation situation at the festival. Not only do you need to know how you are getting to the festival, will you need transportation once you are there? It may be a small town and having a car would be a waste of time and money. Many festivals are doable by walking or utilizing local public transportation but find out in advance so you aren't stranded in an out-of-the way hotel with no means to make it to the films! Get a map of the town to see the spots where films will be shown in relation to hotels and restaurants.

Determine if the festival has any dress requirements. Many festivals do require black tie for special events or screenings in a high-end hotel or venue.

Most film festival locations have plenty of restaurants and eating establishments but find out in advance if you need to make reservations. Some restaurants may be leased to corporate sponsors and you will be left making peanut butter and jelly sandwiches in your hotel room without proper planning.

You will also need passes to some events at the festival. Some festivals allow you the opportunity to purchase various types of passes depending on how many films you wish to see, events you wish to attend and days that you will be attending. You may be able to purchase individual passes or packages. There will be a great deal of entertainment and many parties at a film festival. Find out if they are private or open to the public and if your passes include any of these parties. Are workshops and presentations included in the passes? You may need additional tickets for such extras. Order your passes and tickets in advance.

Keep in mind that not all festivals have open screenings and events. Notably the Cannes Festival is largely closed to the public at large and invitations and passes provided to industry insiders. Research carefully the rules and regulations of the particular festival you wish to attend.The highlight of a festival is usually the closing night when the "Best Ofs" are awarded, the best documentary, best feature film, best foreign film, best actor, best writer and so on, sort of like a mini-Academy Awards ceremony. The event may be fancy or rather casual, depending on the overall climate of the festival. Awards are usually distributed and it is a good time for "star gazing."

Film festivals and film location vacations add a new dimension to travel. Planning in advance makes sure you make the most of your trip and avoids disappointment.

Ready? Lights...camera...travel! Contact Jadd Fong Travel an Albuquerque travel agency and get started!

Golf Vacations

Imagine breathing in the ocean wind while teeing off in Bermuda or learning the history of the game while making par at St. Andrew's. Whether you want to see how your game measures up against the pros on a PGA Tour course, or bask in the lush green scenery of an exotic locale, a golf vacation is the ultimate getaway for those who love the game. Find real excitement playing a new, unfamiliar course, especially one thousands of miles from home.

Planning an invigorating, unforgettable golf getaway can be daunting: lodging, transportation, restaurant choices, shipping clubs, local course rules, tee times and cart rentals all conspire to add new complexity to your itinerary. Here is where your travel consultant is worth their weight in gold. Golf travel can be expensive and the planning time consuming. Having the practiced eye of your travel consultant to arrange your vacation is a good idea - to make the most of your financial and time investment. Your travel agent can suggest tour packages at just about any destination that include all of the necessities and more, letting you enjoy your golf and travel without worrying about the logistics.

Because of golf travel's popularity, tour operators are offering increasingly competitive deals on domestic and international packages - from budget to luxury. Work with your travel consultant to narrow down the many tour operators that offer packages to destinations you would like to visit and play. In particular, you want a tour operator experienced in golf packages that can provide you with excellent, even preferred tee times and can coach you and your companions in all of the local rules of the courses you will visit. Many tour companies offer "golf widow" rates for any in your group who may travel along but do not play. Tour operators assist with daily itineraries, accommodations, and transportation and provide access to courses and opportunities you might not be able to achieve on your own.

Choosing a destination and a corresponding course that suits your game is the most important factor in planning your dream golf vacation. If traveling with other players, you will also need to take their abilities, ages and health into consideration. If the skill levels of your companions vary dramatically, perhaps you will choose a destination that boasts an assortment of courses with varying difficulty. And if non-golfers will be joining you, you'll need to make sure other activities are available for them to enjoy, such as the beach, mountains, museums, art galleries, historic landmarks, and other tourist attractions.

The number of potential destinations for your golf vacation is truly staggering. Practically every country in the world that has a tourism industry has golf listed as one of its primary attractions. You could head to Ireland or Scotland and become one with the history and mystery of the game as well as enjoy summertime hours on the course as late as 9 p.m. You can head to Hawai'i and learn to surf and bogie on the same day. The Caribbean, comprised of 700 islands, offers more possiblities than you can imagine. Then you have exotic, Far East destinations where golf has taken a firm but zen-like grip on nations like Japan and Thailand. Not to mention spectacular domestic destinations like Phoenix, Palm Springs, or the Greenbriar in West Virginia.

Perhaps you will want to take advantage of several courses on your trip. If this is the case, you should allocate sufficient time for transportation between courses and the logistics of settling into your accommodations. On the other hand, if you're limited to a weekend trip, sticking with one or two courses will allow for some relaxing downtime. If you wish to play courses other than those included in your tour package, your travel consultant should easily be able to make the necessary arrangements and adjust the price of your package accordingly.

Booking tee times in advance is a must. Your travel consultant will determine from the tour operator how far in advance reservations can be made, as this varies with each course. If not, you will need to inquire about tee time reservation guidelines and make your arrangements as early as possible, especially for better-known courses. Also be aware that many golf resorts offer their guests first choice concerning tee times, which might give you reason to stay at the resort rather than off-premises.

If you are traveling internationally, remember to leave time to acclimate to time zone changes. The day of arrival in Europe from the United States is often a gray haze of addled thinking and tired reflexes - not the optimal conditions for a game of golf. Leaving a day or two for sightseeing and relaxing will help assure that your golf game will be up to par, or as close as you can get, anyway.

Before leaving home, you will want to know whether the course you'll be playing has any restrictions. More popular courses often require a particular handicap of players, and at times, a home course letter of recommendation. Such courses might also specify a maximum amount of time allotted to complete a round - something to consider, especially if the course does not allow golf carts. These restrictions ensure that play is continuous and enables more golfers to enjoy the course. When playing a new course, it's a good idea to arrive early and familiarize yourself with its layout. Allowing time for practice on the range and putting greens should help you adjust to the course more quickly.

Do remember to take into account your destination's climate. When traveling to the U.K., for instance, know that rain and wind will likely be factors in your game. When heading to the southeastern U.S., consider hurricane season. Furthermore, if a course closes because of rain, you may want to be in a destination that has other means of entertainment. But if there is nothing you would rather do on vacation besides golf, be sure to choose a destination with a mild and consistent climate.

If you're on a budget, you have an opportunity to save money and still play some of the best courses by traveling off-season. Your travel consultant will help you plan for "low" to "high" season travel, but if you choose the low season, remember that the trade-off is almost always your weather conditions. While the savings can be substantial, if you are planning on a trip to Florida or a tropical destination, do not underestimate the heat. However, in other destinations, such as Ireland and Scotland, off-season weather can translate into wet, cold and gale-force winds. Choose wisely!

Another option would be Vacationing at a golf school, which can be the perfect opportunity for players at every level who are looking to lower their scores. Many golf schools boast instructors who are PGA Tour professionals. Many also use state-of-the-art technology to analyze and enhance your golf swing. The training can be as focused or as broad as you wish, given the many schools offering multiple programs. For this reason, advance research is imperative.

In general, golf schools offer professional instruction for small groups with a particular skill level. Be sure to inquire about the school's teacher/student ratio before you go. One-on-one lessons may also be available at an additional cost. Instruction is usually given early in the day so participants can practice what they've learned in the afternoon. Golf school programs vary in length from a day to a week, and program costs vary as well. Costs are generally dependent on the intensity of the instruction, travel season, and whether or not accommodation and meals are included.

As you pack, keep in mind that golf courses have strict requirements regarding attire. Golf shoes are a must, as well as collared shirts, long shorts and/or pants. Also be aware of your destination's climate - rain gear is always advisable. Since playing with a set of clubs different from your own can hinder your game, renting clubs, though an option at many courses, is not advisable if it can be avoided. When traveling by plane, pack your clubs in a high quality travel bag, and stuff the bag with as many small items as possible (gloves, balls, tees, etc) to conserve space in your luggage and to provide a bit of padding for your clubs. Just a note - clubs cannot be a carry-on item, so don't even try. A hard-case is recommended for travel on airlines to prevent damage to the clubs from other bags and inevitable rough handling. As a precaution, check to see if the loss of your clubs would be covered under your homeowners insurance, or if a rider to your policy is necessary.

Travel insurance is also a good idea. Items generally covered by a typical travel insurance policy include airfare, baggage, health, and trip cancellation/interruption for up to a year. Remember that your own health insurance may not be valid abroad, so also check into that.

When you make your final plans, inquire about relevant cancellation policies, as well as any fees incurred if you change your golf schedule. And although you're counting on sunny skies, you may want to ask about a rain refund policy.

Once your plans are set — it's time to relax and enjoy the trip ahead. Travel on, and tee up! The green awaits. Contact Jadd Fong Travel an Albuquerque travel agency and get started!http://www.travelexinsurance.com/quote/?nc=1

Freestyle on a Budget in St Lucia

By: Lea Ann FessendenSt. Lucia is one of the most beautiful islands of the Caribbean basin with its breathtaking natural resources such as the emerald green covered Piton Mountains, dense bird- filled rainforests and mind blowing waterfalls. Most tourists end up in the northern area of the island near the capital city, Castries. Rodney Bay, Cap Estate and Gros Islet are home to some of the most sought after luxury resorts in the world, where celebrities are frequently spotted winding to some good reggae, Soca or calypso music
But you don't have to be a celebrity to enjoy the luxuries of this exceptional vacation spot. Some truly hidden gems that will not pinch your pocketbook can be found in the south of the island. The best sites of the island are near Soufriere anyway. One thing to keep in mind about St Lucia, that unlike some of the other Caribbean islands, this island is not known for a lively night scene, except on weekends. During the week, spend your energy hiking, swimming, snorkeling, walking, diving, wind surfing, sunbathing, taking leisurely drives and relaxing under waterfalls. Most of these activities are very reasonable, some even free.
The currency used on the island is Eastern Caribbean (EC) which is currently 2.65 to 1 US dollar. Basically, if something is 15EC, divide by 3 to get a price of US5.00. On a calculator it actually translates to $5.66 US dollars, but I just divide by 3 to make it easy on my brain. When you are visiting the craft shops in Choiseul, and there are several, this will help you to quickly calculate how much that beautiful wood carving will cost.
Budget accommodations are easily found if you know where to look. Try the Villa Caribbean Dream in Vieux Fort which offers rates as low as $45 (single) or $55 (double). Included is a stunning view of the ocean and perhaps a Salsa lesson or two. Just minutes from the Hewanorra International Airport are The Reef Beach Huts and Café. Rates are only $50 (single) and $60 (double) and this includes breakfast on the beach. The Reef is located on a beautiful stretch of white sand beach overlooking the Maria Islands where leatherback turtles and the rare turquoise and black zandoli iguana reside. This is also the perfect spot to kite and windsurf the Atlantic Ocean. Meals at The Reef are also reasonably priced: lobster in season is about $13.00 and a cheeseburger with fries will run $5.00. This is also a free Wi-Fi spot so don't forget your laptop.
Renting a car is the best way to enjoy the island but for budget conscious travelers, there is island wide bus service that is very affordable. The buses will have license plates that start with an M and the fare to ride from Vieux Fort to Castries, about a one hour, trip runs $3.00 each way. Typically they just run along the one main highway but if you need to go off this road a short ways, ask the driver and they will usually comply. Tip them a little if they do.
The town of Soufriere has some fantastic attractions. Among my many favorite things to do is a visit to the Diamond Falls Botanical Garden which has mineral baths from the days of King Louis XXIV, where you can soak and take in the therapeutic waters that pour straight from a volcano in a breathtaking waterfall. Entrance to the Gardens is $5.00, mineral bath in outdoor pool is an additional $4.00 or for a private indoor bath the cost is $6.00. The gardens are a visual treat with luscious tropical flowers, homemade benches and stunning waterfalls.
Some of the very best snorkeling on the island is in this southwest corner near Soufriere. Anse Chastanet has a buoyed off snorkeling area called Fairy Land which drops from 20 to 140 feet into a wall of coral and spectacular underwater life which is an underwater photographer's paradise. Nearby Jalousie Plantation also has some fantastic snorkeling, hit their spectacular wall dive, Superman's Flight beneath the Piton Mountains. The wall drops to a depth of 1600 feet and boasts excellent visibility via the crystal clear waters. You can get equipment rental and directions at any local dive shop.
Ladera Resort was rated by Conde Nast 2005 as Best Hotel in the World. If the accommodation rates for their three sided ocean view rooms is to steep for your budget, at least stop in for a drink at their bar snuggled between the majestic Piton Mountains. The view is worth the slightly higher drink price.
Across the street, the new Hotel Chocolat, on the historical Rabot Estate, is busy growing and harvesting the best cocoa for delicious chocolates and treats. Two more excellent working plantations that encourage visitors are also in this region: Fond Doux Estate, which includes guest cottages, restaurant and hiking tours, and Mourne Coubaril, a reconstructed 18th-century village which provides visitors with a historical glance into Creole life.
On the road to the Jalousie Plantation Hotel, be sure to stop at the Piton Falls. Entrance to this little paradise is only about $2.00 US. A 10 minute walk through the tropical gardens leads you to a mineral waterfall cascading into a refreshing waist high pool. After you take in the warm thermal waters of this pool, all of your aches and pains will melt away. Therea's also a cooler pool to invigorate your senses. Be sure to go to the Sulphur Springs Volcano and take their short tour of the bubbling sulphur and the volcano's history. Treat yourself to some sulphur soap hand made by locals while you are there, it is great for aching joints and those who have arthritis pains.
Enjoy southern St Lucia, there is so much rich culture and beautiful scenery, there isn't enough time to see all the waterfalls, snorkel all the coves or hike all the trails that abound. Plan to go back, really soon.
Ready to enjoy St. Lucia? Contact Jadd Fong Travel and get started

Las Vegas the City of 2 Worlds

Vegas is a city of stories, amazing facts and history. Over 37.5 million people visit Las Vegas each year. Each one arrives with the small glimmer of hope that this trip could be the one where they return wealthier than they arrived. At the very least, each leaves with a story of their own to tell.

I have been to Las Vegas on several occasions for sporting events but, most importantly as a representative of Jadd Fong Travel, an Albuquerque travel agency. On each trip, I am left with a different impression of the city of Las Vegas.

Seventeen of the 20 largest hotels in the United States are in Las Vegas.
The first casino was licensed 1931. The current number of licensed gambling places is over 1,700.
There is gambling aplenty, from penny slots to the highest stake tables and even private card games.
Mobster Bugsy Siegel named the Flamingo after the long legs of his girlfriend. Siegel's "financiers" were unhappy when the budget for the casino went from just over one million dollars to nearly 7 million dollars.
Las Vegas is one of the most popular places to get married in the world with very few legal requirements and even a drive-through marriage chapel.
Las Vegas has historically been an adult destination, but during the 1990's city leaders and publicists attempted to remake the city into a more family-friendly destination. Results were mixed.
Visitors almost always underestimate the amount of walking they will do in Vegas. The hotels are huge, the distances between hotels equally long. Take comfortable shoes!

Not everyone spends time outdoors, but a good sun block is important as well. Speaking of the outdoors, Vegas hotels are famous for their lavish and lively collection of swimming pools, some of which are adult only.
There is nothing subtle about Las Vegas architecture. Where else will you see the New York City skyline next to the Eiffel Tower next to the canals of Venice, next to one of the Pyramids, next to Camelot?

Las Vegas casinos are famous for their bargain dining options and buffets, but the city is also home to world-class dining in many of the major hotels with a collection of famous chefs that rival any city anywhere.
Vegas weather is predictable. If you are looking for cooler weather come from October to February. Looking for hotter weather? Come March through September.
The casinos are not the only attractions. Grand Canyon tours are popular as are trips out to the desert.

Ready to experience Las Vegas? Contact Jadd Fong Travel to get started.

Vacation in the Big Apple - Visit New York City

New York City is the largest city in the United States and has a population of over eight million, which, as people continue to flock to New York City, is likely to grow even larger. This is Broadway, this is Wall Street, this is a city of history and legends, and who wouldn't want to visit it at least once -even if it is just to say they'd been there.
Here are ten of the "must see" attractions of New York City:

New York's famous Empire State Building, a New York City Landmark and a National Historic Landmark, soars more than a quarter of a mile into the atmosphere above the heart of Manhattan. Located on the 86th floor, 1,050 feet (320 meters) above the city's bustling streets, the Observatory offers panoramic views from within a glass enclosed pavilion and from the surrounding open-air promenade. Since the Observatory opened to the public in 1931, almost 110 million visitors have thrilled to the awe-inspiring vision of the city beneath them.
Located on Liberty Island in New York Harbor, the Statue of Liberty was a gift of international friendship from the people of France to the people of the United States and is one of the most universal symbols of political freedom and democracy. Liberty Island is accessible by Circle Line-Statue of Liberty Ferry, Inc. ferries only. One round trip ferry ticket includes visits to Liberty and Ellis Islands.

Legendary Times Square, the heart of Broadway and of countless huge New York gatherings, recently celebrated its 100-year anniversary. Filled with its neon signs, screaming ads, giant screens, Times Square "the crossroads of the world" is more than ever a sight that overwhelms, its flashing lights reaching to the sky. The main attractions in Times Square include ABC Studios, WWE Store, Toys R Us and MTV's TRL. At the Times Square Visitors Center you can get free citywide information from multilingual tourist counselors, get free maps and brochures, purchase tickets to Broadway and Off-Broadway shows from the Broadway Ticket Center & more.
The United Nations Headquarters building in New York City is the home of the international organization and one of the most visited sites in the city. Guided tours are conducted seven days a week (Monday to Friday only during January and February). Tours are conducted from 9:30 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. Monday to Friday; Saturday and Sundays from 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tours in English normally leave every half hour and last for approximately 45 minutes to one hour.
At Madame Tussaud's New York, you will be able to mingle with nearly 200 amazingly life-like wax figures, including Brad Pitt, Jennifer Lopez, Michael Jackson, Madonna and even Elvis Presley and Marilyn Monroe. Open 365 days a year from 10:00 a.m. Monday through Thursday, last ticket sold at 8:00 p.m. Friday through Sunday, last ticket sold at 10:00 p.m.
One of the most successful ships in US history is now one of the most unique attractions in New York City. Berthed on the mighty Hudson River in Manhattan, the Intrepid Air & Sea Museum boasts educational exhibits and exciting events. After being closed for a lengthy renovation, the museum reopened to the public on Nov 8th 2008.
Central Park extends from 59th to 110th streets and 5th Avenue to 8th Avenue. It is home to a zoo, playgrounds, skating rinks and a lot more. One of the most romantic and popular ways to see Central Park is from a horse-drawn carriage. These carriages line up at 59th Street and Fifth Avenue across from the Plaza Hotel.

The Rockefeller Center is a place for exquisite shopping, fine dining and great entertainment. It also houses the NBC studios and the Rockefeller Center ice skating rink. During Christmas time, the whole place turns into a Winter Wonderland with the famous Rockefeller Center Christmas tree and beautiful lights and decorations everywhere. Tours are available of the Rockefeller Center as well as NBC studios.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art has specimens of different categories of art from all over the world during every epoch of recorded time. Going through the entire Met is a full day affair. Within are more than two million works of art including arts of Africa, Asia, Europe, Egypt, Greece, Rome, medieval art, musical instruments, photographs, and 20th-century art.
The Madison Square Garden or as it is popularly known, "The World's Most Famous Arena" is a must see for all sports fans. Be sure to take an All Access Tour of the Garden and visit the Knicks, Rangers and Liberty locker rooms; tour backstage of the Theater at Madison Square Garden; go inside the Star dressing rooms; see players practicing, performers in rehearsal or crews staging events! You'll never know what you'll see on the All Access Tour.
OK, so this is number eleven, but a list is not complete with a trip to the Bronx and Yankee Stadium. Love or hate the team, the greatness of those who have played for this team cannot be discounted. The new stadium is a masterpiece and a shrine to the sport, second only to Cooperstown.

What are you waiting for? Contact Jadd Fong Travel an Albuquerque travel agency and get started planning your trip.

Best Dive Vacations

Dive Vacations

Scuba diving offers travelers seeking an active vacation the opportunity to view parts of our world seen by very few. Divers are part of an exclusive club, sharing experiences normally reserved for marine life. Like few other activities, diving provides an unparalleled reason to travel and one that will leave you searching for your next marine adventure. If the idea of sharing your holiday with angel fish, eels and sharks, watching turtles gliding along the sea bed and exploring shipwrecks appeals to you, read on and learn the basics of dive travel planning.
If you already are an experienced diver, you know the joy of seeing a rare underwater species or one that you have never seen before. Add to that experience the thrill of traveling to a new, perhaps exotic, destination to explore, and you have a real adventure at hand. Setting off on a dive vacation in a distant land may seem daunting, but with the help of your travel agent - who can take care of the planning - diving will add an entirely new dimension to your adventures. If you are new to diving, traveling with a tour company that provides expert guidance is one of the best possible introductions.
A successful dive trip relies on choosing your destination and travel dates wisely, a good travel consultant to assist with the logistics, a little luck, and a lot of coordinated planning. If you currently dive, it's likely that you have already traveled at some point to pursue your hobby. If you are new to diving, or if this is your first diving holiday, then you may want to consider taking a "learn to dive" holiday offered at many resort locations worldwide. PADI is a certification association for divers and a worldwide source of diving knowledge, advice and instructors. Dive resorts most often require PADI certification to rent equipment to divers or to provide refills for air tanks. PADI offers training through YMCAs and dive supply shops. Basic training can be done in a swimming pool with final certification taking place in "open water". A PADI open water certificate can be gained anywhere from 4 days to 6 weeks, depending on your training time and ability, and you can comfortably go on holiday to learn about and experience diving in the ocean by the end of a week. You'll need to learn a lot of the theory that goes with this qualification, which means you should be prepared to do some homework during your holiday - but it's time well spent.

As you begin planning, have a general idea of the amount of time you want to spend diving and the time you want to enjoy other activities. Also prepare your budget for the trip, weighing diving costs against transportation, lodging, food, and entertainment. When you evaluate the type of experience you'd like to have, ask yourself if there are species of marine life you particularly want to see, or if there's a part of the world you've always wanted to visit? Do you want a "live aboard" experience, or are you looking for a resort - and diving is a secondary activity? The more consideration you give these issues, the more efficient the planning process will be, the more you'll enjoy your vacation, and the quicker you will be on your way.
Your first stop should be a travel agent at Jadd Fong Travel experienced with tour operators offering dive trips and dive destinations. Because of the logistics of a diving trip and your investment in both time and money, it is important to have a practiced set of eyes watching out for you. Your travel consultant will know which destinations and tour operators are appropriate (and which to avoid) and can assist in pulling together less obvious components of the trip, often at substantial discounts.
If you are an experienced diver, then the world literally is your playground. Most divers have a long list of where they want to go and wrecks and marine life they want to see. Naturally, your budget will be a key factor when you finally decide where to go. Be sure to let your travel agent know any special preferences or requests at the first opportunity, so every possible detail is taken into account early in the planning process. In South America and the Caribbean, top destinations are Belize, the Cayman Islands, Turks and Caicos and Mexico. In Europe, Italy, Malta and its famous Blue Lagoon, Spain, and Croatia are all popular. The Red Sea is a world famous diving destination that's accessible from Saudi Arabia, Eritrea, Sudan, Jordan, Egypt and Israel. South Africa offers cage diving to see Great White Sharks, and opportunities are endless in Asia and Australasia. Not to be missed are Truk Lagoon in Micronesia, and of course - the Great Barrier Reef. Very few localities require special dive permits; in most cases, a local PADI dive center can obtain a permit in short order. However, in some countries, notably in the Middle East, permit acquisition can take more than a week, so plan well in advance.

Great Barrier Reef

The weather at your destination will greatly affect your dive experience. And unfortunately, when traveling great distances, it is not easy to cancel at the last minute without losing some or all of your deposits. Keep your eye on the weather and be careful about booking travel during times of the year, for example hurricane season in the Caribbean, when you'll have an above-average chance of trip disruption. Ask your travel consultant to check on the cancellation policies available from the tour operator or resort and if travel insurance is available for severe weather events.
As mentioned, a key consideration for any dive vacation is how much time you want to devote to diving. Some resorts offer diving opportunities as one of many activities for visitors, and only one afternoon of an entire week might be devoted to diving. Other destinations, however, center all activities around a full diving schedule, and travelers find themselves below the surface for hours each day - then usually relaxing at night with a big meal and a cold drink.
If you are going with a group, early in your planning, determine how much diving each traveler wants to do so you can choose the best location that offers interesting and alternative activities. Remember, too, that diving is an active sport with a small, manageable risk element. If the skill levels in your group vary greatly, your destination and tour operator should take those differences into account; if this is the case, you might not be able to dive together, unless the more experienced divers chose to do easier dives. Many dive centers will offer a range of dives allowing you to meet up with others in your group between dives. If you plan to travel with children, make sure that your travel consultant checks with the destination or tour operator about the appropriateness of the trip and alternative care, if needed.
You will most likely have a range of likely accommodation options, from budget to deluxe hotels. There are also "live aboard" options where you sleep on a boat and dive from the boat during the trip; if you go this route, you are likely to sleep in a twin bed cabin with limited space. However, if you want to maximize your diving opportunities, a live-a-board might be your best option. Imagine diving in the morning, enjoying lunch in the sun, diving after lunch and then reflecting on the day and making plans for tomorrow as you cruise to your next spot, watching the sun go down. These arrangements typically include high-quality meals and air for two dives per day in the package price. A couple of days on dry land at each end of your trip will give you a chance to enjoy life above the water as well.

While almost anyone can dive, make sure you are prepared for the physical demands of the trip and that the dive area is within your skill level. Some dives involve strong currents or extreme depths, so knowing what's in store and getting a few hours of preliminary dive time at comparable depth and terrain will make your time on vacation more productive and enjoyable.
In addition to considering physical demands of a dive vacation, be aware of any indigenous diseases in your chosen destination, such as malaria or yellow fever, and protect yourself against them. As early as possible in the planning stage, consult a physician to determine what shots and other precautions you need prior to travel. Importantly, also consult your physician and dive masters about your flight schedule and appropriate wait periods before your first airline flight and after your last dive prior to flying to prevent problems with nitrogen build-up in your blood from the compressed air in your dive tanks.
Your tour operator no doubt will provide a complete list of recommended clothing and gear. In general, however, it is a good idea to pack as lightly as possible to ensure you can carry all of the equipment you need with you. Most airlines charge for excess baggage, and diving equipment tends to be heavy. Most airlines will carry empty cylinders, but consider renting your cylinders and weights at your destination to save baggage costs. Remember that diving knives must be packed, not carried on. Some localities do not permit spear fishing equipment, so check prior to your trip. If you do travel with your cylinder, you will have to remove the pressure valve during travel. Many destinations will have rentals of all equipment available, so just confirm the availability during your planning stages. You will almost certainly want to pack your own mask and flippers as these will need to fit perfectly. And remember to bring along your certification card, which is required by most dive locations, in addition to a logbook, sunscreen, and any necessary international travel documentation, such as your passport and visas. Prescription drugs should be carried with you, not checked. Work with your travel consultant to check in advance that your airline will be able to take everything you want to carry with you.

You may be asking, is dive travel safe? It is important to remember that diving in new surroundings will always entail a greater degree of risk. So play by the rules, listen to your tour operator and dive master, and stay within the limits of your skill level. The basics of safe diving apply in every instance, no matter where you are. Use the buddy system, be smart about your dives and take the same reasonable precautions you would in any unfamiliar dive territory. Drinking and diving? Allow adequate detox time and be responsible. Finally, remember standard precautions about airline travel post-dive.

The costs associated with your dive trip will be your transportation to the destination, your transportation at the destination and to the dive sites, your accommodations, your food, any dive master services and any additional activities. Tipping should also be considered as an additional expense. Many tour operators cover all, or some large portion, of these items in the cost of their tour. Work with your travel consultant to determine exactly what is included and what's extra to avoid last-minute surprises.

Dive travel is almost more than a hobby, it can be a way of life. Come on in, the water's fine. Contact Jadd Fong Travel an Albuquerque travel agency to start planning your dive vacation!