Keep an eye out for “local grinds” (island comfort foods) and “Hawaii Regional Cuisine” (a culinary movement that inventively blends Hawaii’s diverse ethnic flavors with the cuisines of the world) for some of the most delicious meals among our recommendations.

An island-by-island overview of a few of our current favorites:

Oahu
There are a number of chefs whose names have come to symbolize the finest in island dining – Alan Wong, Chef Mavro and Nobu. Though Alan Wong’s Restaurant, Honolulu, has been open for 15 years, the Hawaii Regional Cuisine (HRC) flavors that flow from Wong’s kitchen continue to be among the world’s most delectable. James Beard Award winner George Mavrothalassitis presides over Chef Mavro Restaurant, Honolulu, where his exquisite dishes are sourced from the harvest of dozens of local boutique farmers and specialty fishermen. The influence of Japanese fare on the Hawaiian table is nowhere more spectacularly realized than at Nobu Waikiki, at the Waikiki Parc Hotel. These are restaurants both elegant and intimate, with food that is truly memorable.

One of Oahu’s signature experiences is the Waikiki Starlight Luau at Hilton Hawaiian Village. Dine under the stars on traditional island fare, such as kalua pig while you’re entertained by the island’s most accomplished dancers and musicians.

For a special treat as you’re driving around Oahu, be sure to sample the fresh offerings of the famous North Shore shrimp trucks. And take a shave ice break and cool your palate with crushed ice flavored with sweet, brightly colored syrup. Other must-try local grinds: malasada (a Portuguese hole-less donut) and laulau (a steamed fish and pork wrap), and, in Chinatown, try a manapua (meat-filled bun also known as bao).

The Big Island 
Another of the names behind HRC, Peter Merriman’s culinary genius can be sampled at Merriman’s Waimea, known for the freshest ingredients and the nightly specials, including opakapaka (local Hawaiian pink snapper) served with a sauce of Tropical Apricot. Another influential name in Hawaiian dining, Roy Yamaguchi, now presides over 31 locations worldwide, including Roy’s Waikoloa Bar & Grill, with signature items such as Braised & Charbroiled Garlic Mustard Shortribs, Grilled Chili Pepper Island Ahi and unforgettable Chocolate Soufflé. Named the best restaurant on Hawaii Island by the 2011 Zagat Survey, Pahu i`a at the Four Seasons Resort is known for treats such as sushi, Dungeness Crab Won Tons and Wild Boar.

For a true Big Island experience, the Sunset Luau at the Waikoloa Beach Marriott lavishes guests with the sights, sounds and flavors of Polynesian tradition. A favorite hangout is the Hilo Farmer’s Market, open Wednesdays and Sundays, where some 200 local farmers and craftspeople sell their produce, crafts, gift items and tropical flowers. While you’re in Hilo, stop by Cafe 100, the originators of loco moco (hamburger patty over rice, topped with eggs and gravy) or Kuhio Grill for laulau.

Maui 
Located among the pineapple fields of Upcountry Maui, Haliimaile General Store is popular among locals and visitors for its tasty and varied menu, from Crab Pizza to Grilled Rack of Lamb. Mala Ocean Tavern, at the water’s edge in Lahaina, offers small plates, prepared with mostly organic ingredients and loads of flavor. If you’re a fan of Fleetwood Mac, get in line for Mick Fleetwood’s latest venture, Fleetwood’s on Front Street, opening soon in Lahaina.

For under-the-stars dining, nothing beats the Old Lahaina Luau, where you’ll get to sample local grinds such as lomilomi salmon (raw, salted salmon with diced tomatoes and sweet onions) and the coconut pudding known as haupia. Yum! On your island circuit, hang out with the locals at Mama’s Fish House on the north shore, where they’ve been serving fresh fish in old Polynesian style since 1973.

Kauai 
On the Garden Isle of Kauai, Merriman’s Fish House Poipu offers plantation-style comfort, a luscious HRC menu, terrific views and an impressive wine cellar. Roy’s Poipu Bar & Grill presents Roy’s delectable fare in a casual open-air setting in Poipu Shopping Village. For the freshest beef, pork, rabbit and fish from Kauai ranchers and fishers and locally-sourced vegetables, nothing beats 22 North, where the menu combines these ingredients with the eclectic influence of international cuisine.

Luau Kalamaku, on Kilohana Plantation, includes all the traditional treats as well as regional arts and crafts, and, if desired, a train ride through the 105-acre historic plantation. Say hello to the locals and have pupu (appetizers) during Aloha Happy Hour at Duke’s on the sand at the Kauai Marriott, Kalapaki Beach.

Hawaii tours 2012

Our tour specialists are always available to help you understand what is included on a tour vacation, so that you can plan how much money to budget on your European vacation.

Imagine swimming in the sapphire blue lagoons, or relaxing under the palm trees swaying in the gentle breeze.  Explore the rainforest, admire the cascading waterfalls and see the amazing and colorful wildlife.  Tour the landscapes of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.  Relax at your beachfront hotel admiring the shimmering sunset.  The welcoming smiles of the local people and the warm friendliness of the Aloha Spirit await you.

Start planning a Hawaii tour.

On each cruise guests will can participate in informal lectures by Casper and other athletic stars such as sportscaster Jim Huber.  Of course there is also lots of time for golf.

• Poipu Bay (Kauai)--top Hawaiian course surrounded by ancient places of worship
• Royal Portrush (Belfast)--designed by course-architect great, Harry Colt
• Carden Park (Liverpool)--Jack Nicklaus/Golden Bear "thinking golfer's" fairway with spectacular views
• Royal Dublin (Dublin)--Ireland's second-oldest links
• El Saler (Valencia)--one of Golf Magazine's "100 Greatest Courses in the World"
• Golf Club Del Sur (Canary Islands)--home to several PGA European tour competitions, surrounded by 8,000 palm trees
• Palheiro (Funchal)--coastal ridge greens on a 200-year-old estate.

Crystal provides transportation, caddies, warm-up time, lunch, '19th hole' get-togethers, TaylorMade club rentals or cleaning of your clubs and shoes, team-pairing, parties, awards, and private clinics with PGA instructors like John Clark and Bill Stutzer.

Two-for-One fares start at $5,470/person, and include free air from two-dozen North American cities (or air credit), up to $1000/person "As You Wish" spending credits, and additional savings for family/friend groups, early payment, or new-to-Crystal travelers.

Crystal Cruises' Feng Shui spa and gym, personal trainers, nutrition and exercise classes, exclusive workout equipment, and dietary choices offer guests extensive opportunities to enhance their health and fitness regimes on every sailing.

Construction to begin building the ship was authorized by Congress on March 4th, 1913. The vessel was named Arizona for the 48th state, which was added to the union on Valentine’s Day of 1912, and the keel was laid on March 16th, 1914 in the Brooklyn Navy Yard. Sponsored by the daughter of W. W. Ross, Esther Ross, the Arizona was launched on June 19th, 1915. On October 17th, 1916, she was commissioned in her builder’s yard with Captain John D. McDonald at her helm.

The United States Navy enlisted Alfred Preis, a Honolulu architect, to design the USS Arizona Memorial. The specified that it be in some form of a bridge that would float above the wreckage of the Arizona, and that it must accommodate at least 200 people. The 184-foot national memorial has two peaks at either end and comes together in the middle in a sort of ‘sagging’ shape. The design was initially called a "squashed milk carton" by critics. Preis explained his design as, "Wherein the structure sags in the center but stands strong and vigorous at the ends, expresses initial defeat and ultimate victory."

At the end of World War II, the wrecked superstructure was removed, and efforts to erect a memorial began. In 1949, the Pacific War Memorial Commission, or PWMC, was made to build a permanent site in Hawaii. A temporary memorial site was erected above the ship’s deckhouse. In 1951 and 1952, Admiral Arthur Radord requested funds to build the memorial, but the requests were denied due to budget constraints during the Korean War. During the entirety of the 1950s, there were disscussions of doing away with the Arizona altogether. But, in 1958, President Eisenhower approved the creation. The USS Arizona Memorial was built in 1961, and was officially dedicated on May 30th, 1962.

The Arizona Memorial is only accessible by boat, and can hold 200 visitors at a time. Over 1 million people visit it annually. The main parts of the memorial are the entry, shrine, and assembly room. In the central assembly room, there are seven big, open windows on the walls and ceiling, meant to stand for the date the attack on the ship occurred. There is also an opening in the floor of the memorial that looks down on the sunken decks of the ship. Here, visitors come to pay there respects and, in honor of the sailors that lost their lives, toss flowers into the water.

The USS Arizona Memorial is located in Pearl Harbor in Honolulu, Hawaii. You can visit the memorial Monday through Sunday between 7 am and 5 pm. To visit, it is free of charge, and you are shown a movie on the history, and given access to the museums and the actual memorial site itself.

NCL Golf - As the official cruise line of the PGA TOUR and Champions Tour, NCL offers a fantastic golf experience during your cruise in Bermuda and Hawaii with the following items included:

• Access to top courses in Hawaii and Bermuda
• Certified golf instruction with trained golf professionals on board to service you every day of your cruise
• Guided VIP golf excursions with personalized expertise
• Sophisticated golf academy experience using the V1 Digital Coaching system to help improve your game during your vacation
• Complete Nike Golf club and shoe rentals and the custom order equipment program allow you to enjoy the very best irons, drivers, golf balls and more
• Priority tee times
• Transfers between ship and courses
• Club valet and storage (only available aboard Pride of America in Hawaii.)

Golf Simulators, Putting Greens and Driving Cages - Improve your game with these facilities aboard ship. Costa Favolosa will introduce the most advanced golf simulator at sea when she enters service in July, 2011. You'll also find simulators aboard some ships in the Princess and Royal Caribbean fleets. Putting greens and driving cages are found on many ships. Putting areas range from decorated mini-golf courses to greens for the serious putter.

Golf Excursions- You'll be surprised at just how many excellent courses are offered on excursions from your ship around the world. Here are three enticing examples:

• St. Andrews - Home of Golf, Scotland, Princess Cruises - Visit the ancestral home of golf on this full day excursion from Edinburgh. Visit the old medieval cathedral town, the site of the Royal & Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews and the incomparable Old Course. Tour the British Golf Museum, photograph the facade of the venerable Royal & Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews, stroll a portion of the Old Course and browse the town's shops.
• Signature Golf Package, Hamilton, Bermuda, Holland America Line - There are several golf excursions offered in Bermuda by HAL but this is the most special. Play with the Premier of Bermuda, the Honorable Dr. Ewart F. Brown, on the Port Royal Golf Course, home of the 2009 and 2010 PGA Grand Slam Championships. Your day begins with a tour of the Cabinet Building followed by a round of golf with the Premier on this outstanding course then ends with a cigar and glass of champagne in the limo en route back to the ship.
• Golf at the Denarau Golf & Racquet Club, Fiji, Princess Cruises - Your outing includes roundtrip transportation to and from the club, green fees, club rental if required, access to the practice range, balls, tees and cart. Lunch is served in the clubhouse.

Golf Theme Cruises- Enjoy a more intense golf experience on golf theme cruises. Crystal brings golf celebrities, PGA pros and qualified instructors on board to discuss the Tour and offer professional tips to improve your game. Optional Crystal Adventures® take you to some of the world's most exclusive courses. Available in 2011 on the following sailings:

• April 24, 2011, 14 days, round-trip Los Angeles to Hawaii aboard Crystal Symphony
• July 22, 2011, 11 days, round-trip from Dover to the British Isles aboard Crystal Serenity
• Nov 27, 2011, 11 days, Barcelona to Lisbon via Spain, Morocco, the Canary Islands and Madeira aboard Crystal Serenity

Again, cruising offers many great options for those with a special interest. We can help you narrow down the choices for a golf vacation you'll never forget.

Ranging from seven to 14 days and featuring landscapes from the Blue Ridge to Rocky Mountains and Canada to the Canyonlands, In 2011 Cosmos’ nature-inspired North American Regional Discoveries, Panoramas, Escapes and Rail Journeys offer travelers an inclusive-style of travel.  Some sample tours where North America’s backdrop takes center stage, include:

·         Alaskan Adventure (7 days, priced from $1,409 land only)

·         Highlights of the Canyonlands (8 days, priced from $1,089 land only)

·         Heart of the Canadian Rockies (9 days, priced from $1,409 land only)

·         Colorado’s National Parks & Trains (9 days, priced from $1,479 land only)

·         Western Wonders (11 days, priced from $1,289 land only)

·         Enchanted Southwest (12 days, priced from $1,489 land only)

·         Canadian Coastal Adventure (13 days, priced from $1,889 land only)

·         NEW The Rocky Mountaineer & Canadian Rail (12 days, priced from $3,149 land only)

·         Splendors of the Hawaiian Islands (13 days, priced from $2,159 land and intra-tour price)

And, as part of its 2011 launch, Cosmos tours is offering single travelers "No Single Supplement" options, including select departures of Heart of the Canadian Rockies (9 days), Southern Journey (11 days), Ontario & French Canada (8 days) and New York, Niagara Falls & Washington, DC (8 days).*

From start to finish, Trafalgar carefully plans every aspect of your vacation. 

There are some exciting new USA tour with Trafalgar in 2011:

8 day San Fransisco and Wine Country Delights
8 day Golden West Contrasts with optional Disneyland extension
8 day Great East Coast Cities
8 days Tastes & Sounds of the South
8 day Rockies Thrills and Glacier Chills with optional Calgary Stampede

See all Trafalgar US Tours for 2011

From the top of the Empire State Building to the foot of the Statue of Liberty to the bright lights of Times Square, New York City provides thrills 24 hours a day. There, the best and brightest are front and center – in the museums, on Broadway, at the United Nations and at historic Yankee Stadium. Take a tour out of New York to visit Boston and New England during the fall and enjoying the changing of the leaves and amazing scenery. You can also cruise through New England and Canada.

There’s more than one reason why Florida is called the Sunshine State.  It’s also a description of how you feel wherever – and whenever – you travel Florida.  With endless coastline, Florida’s beaches are always a glorious welcome. Popular areas to visit are Key West, Miami, Ft. Lauderdale, Boca Raton, Orlando, Ft. Meyers and Daytona Beach.  Take the family to Walt Disney World, SeaWorld, Busch Gardens or Universal Studios for a memorable vacation.

The allure of Arizona packs all of the enchantment you could ask for. Whether exploring the Grand Canyon, relaxing in a Scottsdale spa or playing golf in Phoenix, the only state you’ll be in is one of bliss.
Why not tour the National Parks or river raft in the Grand Canyon?

Perfect weather is the perfect backdrop to your California dreaming. Experience the glitz of Hollywood, the renowned San Diego Zoo, the charm of San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Wharf and the beauty of Sonoma’s wine country. 

The amazing Hawaiian Islands, Denali National park in Alaska, historical Boston, you could go on and on at all the amazing places to visit in the U.S.  With hotels varying from the ultra luxurious to the economy variety, there are accommodations that will fit every budget, within every state.

Trafalgar's "last minute deals" give you the opportunity to experience incredible savings on a select few European and North American award-winning vacations.

These selected departures are only available until April 30, 2010. All are Definite Departures. Space is limited, so come and experience Europe and North America with Trafalgar’s unbeatable services, tremendous value and great savings.
 
Please note: To get these special rates, please reference the tour’s ‘PROMO CODE’ at the time of booking. If booking online enter the 'PROMO CODE' in the "Apply Promotions" section during the booking process

Europe & Britain Tours

Trafalgar's "last minute deals" give you the opportunity to experience incredible savings on a select few European and North American award-winning vacations.

These selected departures are only available until April 15, 2010. All are Definite Departures. Space is limited, so come and experience Europe and North America with Trafalgar’s unbeatable services, tremendous value and great savings.
 
Please note: To get these special rates, please reference the tour’s ‘PROMO CODE’ at the time of booking. If booking online enter the 'PROMO CODE' in the "Apply Promotions" section during the booking process

Europe & Britain Tours

• Be mindful of who is around when you are discussing your trip - there is no need to let too many people know or draw attention to the fact your house might be empty for a period.
• The best deterrent is to have someone housesit. If that is not possible, ask a trusted neighbor or friend to take in the newspaper, mail, and any other deliveries and keep an eye on the house. Give them your trip plans and an emergency phone number so they can reach you in case of an emergency. You can also arrange with the post office and newspaper to suspend delivery for the time you are away.
• Lock doors, windows and secure sliding doors (a metal rod or a broomstick in the sliding door track is an inexpensive lock), as well as the garage, the basement, and the attic. Some people even disconnect the power to motorized garage door openers.
• Move any valuables from plain sight.
• Check on your appliances, unplug anything that doesn't need to be on while you're away. Lower air conditioning/heating units to energy-saving levels.
• Set timers to turn on lights if you do not have someone staying at the house.

We suggest booking prior to your cruise, as some shore excursions do sell out.

PEARL HARBOR & HONOLULU CITY TOUR

Learning can be fun and inspirational too.  Check out the history of Hawaii from it’s simple beginnings to its complex role during World War II.

GRAND CIRCLE ISLAND TOUR

120 miles of absolute grandness includes Diamond Head crater, the spouting Blow Hole, North Shore’s Waimea Bay, Sunset Beach, the Banzai Pipeline and more.

CIRQUE HAWAII

The aerial Acrobatics of the more than 30 performers from around the world are nothing short of jaw-dropping.  So go ahead – run off and join the Cirque.

OAHU GOLF

Brag about the views, if not your score.  Nestled at the foot of historic Pali Lookout, the Ko’olau Golf Club looks out over the Pacific and the 2000-foot cliffs of Ko’olau Range.

HAWAIIAN WATERFALL HIKING ADVENTURE

Go take a hike – way into the Ko’olau Mountains to an incredible rainforest world complete with magical waterfall.

O’AHU DELUXE HELICOPTER

See Hawaii’s awesome rainforests, beaches, Pearl Harbor, Battleship Row, Punchbowl National Memorial Cemetery, Diamond Head Crater and Sacred Falls from a different perspective.

POLYNESIAN CULTURAL CENTER

It’s a day-long reality adventure unlike any other.  Take a canoe ride past island villages.  Have dinner at the Ambassador Buffet.  Then enjoy a nighttime show that includes over 100 performers and a volcanic eruption.

USS MISSOURI, ARIZONA MEMORIAL & PEARL HARBOR

Pay your respects at Pearl Harbor’s Arizona Memorial and Visitor Center.  Tour the battleship USS Missouri.  Drive through historic downtown Honolulu and see the Punchbowl National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific.

General Travel Tips

• Make sure your passport does not expire within six months of your date of travel. Some countries insist that your passport be valid for at least a six-month time period.
• Place an envelope in one of your checked bags containing copies of your passport, birth certificate and a back up form of photo I.D. in case your passport is lost or stolen.
• Place a copy of the detailed itinerary of your trip inside each piece of luggage. If your luggage is lost, this will help the airline locate you while you're traveling.
• If you are on Medicare and traveling outside the United States, be aware that Medicare does not cover any of your medical bills abroad. It's a good idea to get a travel protection policy that will cover these costs.
• Plan at least a day or two after your return home before scheduling any commitments; you may be tired after your journey.

Don't Forget

• Stow away some antibacterial wipes-they're a convenient way to clean up on the go.
• Bring a voltage converter with you, along with an adapter (to fit electrical plugs into foreign outlets). Note that some adapter kits don't include converters.
• Pack an extra pair of prescription glasses or contacts in case they are lost or broken.
• Comfortable, broken-in walking shoes are a must. Never pack new shoes.
• Wrap a long strip of duct tape around a pencil and bring it along for the ride. Duct tape is the magic fix for everything from torn suitcases to a broken sandal strap.

Click here for over 50 posts with helpful travel tips and advice.

Hawaii – an incredible collection of isolated tropical islands in the very center of the Pacific Ocean – is a place of unique and wondrous beauty, often called Paradise on Earth. 

With its perfect climate, flourishing green forests, everlasting sandy beaches and deep turquoise waters, it is one of the most stunning locations in the world to visit.

Imagine yourself swimming in the sapphire blue lagoons, or relaxing under the palm trees swaying in the gentle breeze.  Explore the rainforest, admire the cascading waterfalls and see the amazing and colorful wildlife.  Tour the landscapes of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.  Relax at your beachfront hotel admiring the incredible vibrant sunset.  The welcoming smiles of the local people and the warm friendliness of the Aloha Spirit awaits you.

Vacation Highlights:

Hotels:  Westin Moana Surfrider in Honolulu & Westin Maui Resort & Spa

Look for this symbol in the online itineraries 

Dining experiences include:

• The Inn at Leola Village, Pennsylvania’s Amish Country - Hosted by local Amish women, enjoy a traditional Amish meal and participate in creating an Amish dessert.
• Los Dos Cooking School & Hacienda Teya, Merida, Mexico - Hosted by Chef David Sterling (as seen on Oprah) in his magnificent colonial home. Learn how to make local foods and mix the perfect Margarita.
• Nicholson Ranch Winery in Sonoma, California - Welcomed with a glass of wine, enjoy spectacular views as you are shown the workings of this winery followed by a lakeside alfresco lunch.
• Kapalua Farm, West Maui - After a tour of the farm, you will enjoy a luncheon of local specialties and organic produce from Kapalua Farm.
• Jack Daniels Distillery, Nashville - After a tour of the whiskey-making process, you are treated to a delicious luncheaon with each course based on Jack Daniels.

                                               Book early & save!

           Save up to $300 on 2010 USA tours booked by October 30, 2009.

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Here are just a few of the most popular places where others have been "togethering":

• Hawaiian Islands
• National Parks 
• Galapagos
• Beaches Resorts 
• Alaska 
• Orlando Florida
• Costa Rica

Take advantage of discounts and even free travel, when you put together a travel group.

USA & Canada Tours

 
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USA & Canada Tours

Save $500 per couple on air-inclusive 2010 Globus family of brands Hawaii vacations booked between August 12 and October 13, 2009.*

Booking window: August 12 – October 13, 2009

*Book a 2010 Globus or Monograms Hawaii air-inclusive vacation to receive the $250 per person discount. Booking must be made, under deposit and discount applied between August 12 and October 13, 2009 for travel commencing through December 31, 2010. Offers not valid with any other offer except Journeys Club and applies to new 2010 Hawaii bookings only. Offer reliant on space availability. Full cancellation penalties will apply. Additional restrictions may apply. 

The Islands of Aloha are a scenic paradise, and you will explore the rich cultural history of the Hawaiian people which makes your visit to the islands even richer.

Since the weather in Hawaii is very consistent, Hawaii is the perfect destination to visit anytime of the year. You can discover the beautiful beaches, tropical waters and the very unique cultures. Hawaii offers an ideal experience for couples, families, golfers and honeymooners. Here are some highlights of what you can see and do on the most popular islands:

Oahu – "The Gathering Place"

The city of Honolulu recently expanded its beachfront where you can attend weekend concerts, sunset torch-lighting ceremonies and free hula performances.

Waikiki makes Oahu the most-visited island. It has more restaurants, shops, and nightlife than all the other Hawaiian Islands combined.

Close to Waikiki is the USS Arizona Memorial which commemorates the women and men that died on December 7, 1941, during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor.

Along the North Shore of the island, you can drive to the 42-acre lagoon park, The Polynesian Cultural Center. Enjoy the authentic Hawaiian luau experience at the award-winning Ali’i Lu’au dinner and show. The Polynesian Cultural Center is the number-one paid attraction in Hawaii.

Maui – "The Valley Isle"

Maui is second most visited island. The most popular area is along Kaanapali, which is on the western shore of the island. Kaanapali is considered to have one of Maui’s best beaches. 

Home to 36 holes of championship golf, Ka'anapali offers golfers both spectacular views and a   challenge. So if golf is your passion, then you're in one of the best spots on Maui.

In Lahaina, on a specially built, open-air luau grounds next to the ocean, the Old Lahaina Luau is one of the finest luaus in the world, offering excellent Hawaiian food and entertainment.

Hana is Hawaii’s very own Garden of Eden with its unspoiled tropics with shimmering waterfalls, beautiful flowers and breathtaking cliffs.

Kauai - "The Garden Isle"

You could say Kauai is on any list of the world's most beautiful and spectacular islands as it is made up of lush tropical greenery and sparkling beaches. Formed some six million years ago, Kauai is the oldest island in Hawaii.

South of the island is Poipu which is the perfect resort area. The accommodations range from ultra-luxury hotels to cozy bed-and-breakfasts. Here you will find gourmet restaurants and specialty shopping.

Wailua Falls is the must-see waterfall to visit on the garden island of Kauai, mainly, because it is the most easily accessible waterfall. The falls was made famous when it was the opening scene of the popular show, Fantasy Island. 

Hawaii – "The Big Island"

The island of Hawai‘i is the youngest of the Hawaiian isles, but by far the largest island. The Big Island offers so much diversity. You can go from fiery volcanoes to fascinating waterfalls or from a snowy winter to sultry summer all within a 50 mile drive, passing through spring and fall along the way.  

You can head to Hawaii’s Volcanoes National Park. The park highlights two of the world’s most active volcanoes. It includes Mauna Loa, world’s largest volcano, and Kilauea, which has been continuously erupting since January 1983. The park displays the results of 70 million years of volcanism, migration and evolution.

Kona offers calm and clear waters which are perfect for snorkeling, diving or even spotting dolphins and green sea turtles. Kona is the home of hundreds of coffee plantations and many offer tours to the public. The high elevation and rich volcanic soil creates the ideal environment for harvesting this unique Hawaiian coffee bean. Be sure to sample Kona’s unique Hawaiian coffee and experience the rich flavorful taste that makes Kona coffee so highly valued.

Whether this is your first time visit or returning, the islands offer distinct experiences that will entice any traveler. For every visitor, Hawaii is a fantasy realized!

Europe & Britain Tours

USA & Canada Tours

TOUR NAME	DEPARTING	WAS	NOW	SAVINGS	PROMO CODE
Tastes and Sounds of the South	Sep 10	$1,865	$1,675	$190	LMDUSA41
Hawaii Four Island Adventure - First Class	Sep 11	$3,570	$3,210	$360	LMDUSA42F
	Sep 25	$3,570	$3,210	$360	LMDUSA42F
Hawaii Four Island Adventure - Moderate	Sep 11	$3,380	$3,020	$360	LMDUSA42M
	Sep 25	$3,380	$3,020	$360	LMDUSA42M
Hawaii Four Island Adventure - Premier	Sep 11	$4,135	$3,715	$420	LMDUSA42P
	Sep 25	$4,135	$3,715	$420	LMDUSA42P
Historic Highlights	Sep 19	$1,675	$1,499	$176	LMDUSA43
Scenic Parks Explorer	Sep 20	$2,765	$2,485	$280	LMDUSA44
Autumn Colors	Sep 21	$1,750	$1,575	$175	LMDUSA45
Best of Canada's West	Sep 22	$3,320	$2,980	$340	LMDUSA46
Treasures of the Yucatan	Sep 30	$1,865	$1,675	$190	LMDUSA47
Best of Eastern Canada	Oct 2	$2,365	$2,125	$240	LMDUSA48
Western Discoverer	Oct 3	$2,599	$2,339	$260	LMDUSA49
The Californian	Oct 3	$1,875	$1,685	$190	LMDUSA50

Contact 800-942-3301

• Hawaii lies 2,397 miles west - southwest of San Francisco
• South Point on the Island of Hawaii is the southern most point in the United States
• Hawaii is actually a 1,523 - mile chain of islets and eight main islands. Hawaii, Kahoolawe, Maui, Lanai, Molokai, Oahu, Kauai and Niihau
• Hawaii has the world's most active Volcano, Kilauea crater on Mauna Loa
• Mt. Waialeale on Kauai is known to be the wettest place on earth
• Hawaii is the only state with an official native language
• Hawaii boasts the most diverse population mix of all the states
• Hawaii is the only state ever governed directly by monarchs who were recognized by international law. Iolani Palace on the Island of Oahu is the only royal palace in the United States.
• During WWI, many Hawaiians went into the service

Other Fun Facts:

Capital: Honolulu

Date of Statehood: August 21, 1959

Population: 1,224,398 ( 2001 estimation )

Primary Industry: Tourism

State Bird: Nene or Hawaiian Goose

State Mammal: Humpback Whale

State Tree: Kukui or Candlenut

State Flower: Yellow Hibiscus

State Motto: Ua Mau Ke Ea O Ka Aina I Ka Pono ( The Life Of The Land Is Perpetuated In Righteousness )

State Song: Hawaii Pono'i

State Gem: Black Coral

Nickname: Aloha State

Elsewhere in the United States, Honolulu is probably best known for Pearl Harbor. Today on that site stands the Arizona Memorial, the most visited attraction in Hawaii. Just outside of town is the Punchbowl Cemetery. The Polynesian Cultural Center is the second most visited attraction in Hawai’i and offers traditional Hawaiian entertainment as well as insight into Hawai’ian culture. The Japanese-style Buddhist Byodo-In Temple welcomes people of all faiths to visit and participate in its traditions.

Sightseeing highlights: Arizona Memorial, Bvodo in Temple, Pearl Harbor, Polynesian Cultural Center, Punchbowl National Cemetery of the Pacific, Society of Seven Show & Waikiki Beach

Informtion provided by Perillo tours. For more Perillo Hawaii tours, visit the deluxe section on this site.

Q.  I'm confused about luggage, specifically carry on. Is my purse considered a carry on item? How about my husband's camera case? My husband wants to bring his computer, it is slightly over the 12x11x6 Is this a problem?

A.  #1.  A purse or camera case is not considered a carry on. You can still have a separate carry-on bag.

#2.  As far as your husband's computer, carry-on bags must be small enough to store in overhead bins or under the seat in front of you on motorcoaches and other transportation. If it is a very minimal difference, (1 inch,) then it should still fit in the overhead without a problem, but these measurements are given to ensure you will not have any issue while touring.

Visitors to Kauai can enjoy some of nature’s most spectacular creations, from the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific" to the twin cascades of Wailua Falls, the thrilling Na Pali coast and even one of the rainiest places on earth.

Popular sites: Mount Waialeale, Waliua Falls & Waimea Canyon

Information provided by Perillo tours. To see Perillo tours of Hawaii, click on the deluxe tour section.

Services offered include services of 24/7 agent for any last minutes changes, pre-trip travel advice such as what vaccines are required, embassy contacts, weather and currency information.  They also offer assistance for last minute changes, such as cancelled or delayed flights, making hotel reservations or ground transportation reservations. Benefits include coverage in the event of cruise line, airline or tour operator default (financial default non applicable to all suppliers) Coverage for sickness, injury or death of immediate family member. Terrorist incident that results in loss of life or major damage to property, by any person

With a good policy, you receive 24 hours assistance replacing lost or stolen documents such as visas, passports or tickets. Cash advance for travel or medical emergencies. They can also help you locate English speaking medical specialists, facilities and assistance with medical evacuations anywhere in the world.

They will provide you with baggage and personal effects loss coverage, baggage delay coverage and luggage tracing services. They have a bilingual staff for telephone interpretation for medical or legal emergencies.

If you purchase your travel insurance within 15 days of making your initial deposit your coverage will include pre-existing conditions which applies to the first $25,000 of trip cost.

Whether a child gets the flu, or a close family member has a medical emergency, travel protection has a plan that will protect you before or during your vacation. The right kind of insurance is essential. It will provide you with peace of mind, medical evacuation in case of an emergency, baggage coverage, flight delay and flight cancellation coverage.

In addition to these services some insurance policies also provide a concierge service which is available to assist you with restaurant reservations, event tickets, tee time reservations and floral services.

This is only a brief description of some of the benefits and travel services provided. All policies and coverage may vary, and may not be available in all states. There are also expanded coverage plans that offer business related covered reasons for trip cancellation and interruption, and other that let you cancel for any reason.

At times it is best to purchase the insurance with the tour operator or cruise line as part of your package, where on other occasions you can save money and get better coverage medical and evacuation coverage. An experience agent can explain your options to that you can purchase the best policy for your individual needs.

Good travel insurance isn't always expensive. We have negotiated excellent policies exclusive to Atlas, where rather than paying by age, which can add up for seniors, everyone is charged a flat amount base on the cost of the trip.

Whales migrate from Alaska to Hawaii every winter to mate and give birth in warmer waters, before turning back each spring and returning to the Arctic. The best times to see whales are early morning and late evenings, from about November to April or May. Calving season starts in late January, and occasionally some calves will come close to shore.

You will find good viewing along the east to north shores of Kauai. There are many on-the-water whale watching tours available, but bear in mind that it's illegal to come closer than 500 feet to a whale. However, boat tour operators often cut their engines and float in whale territory – whales will come right up to the boat to investigate.

On Maui, McGregor Point and the shallow warm waters off the west coast offer excellent vantage points for spotting humpback whales from land, so boats will not disturb the whales or pollute the water.

These select departures are only available until 15 July, 2009. All are Definite Departures. Space is limited, so come and experience the history of Europe’s cites or North America's wide open spaces this summer, all with Trafalgar’s unbeatable services, tremendous value and now great savings.
 
Please note: To get these special rates, please reference the tour’s ‘PROMO CODE’ at the time of booking. If booking online enter the 'PROMO CODE' in the "Apply Promotions" section during the booking process.

Europe & Britain Tours
 

USA & Canada Tours

Contact 1-800-942-331

Conditions: For new bookings only. Book between July 1 and July 15, 2009. Subject to availability. Full payment due at time of booking (within 45 days of departure). This offer is combinable with all applicable Trafalgar discounts.

In downtown Honolulu is the largest Hilo Hattie in the islands. It’s a fun place to visit – they carry the largest selection of "Aloha wear" you’ll find anywhere. Aloha shirts, floral print dresses, t-shirts, souvenirs and all kinds of Hawaiian products, including macadamia nuts and other packaged food items. They even have seamstresses on hand, in case you need that special muu muu altered!

Honolulu's Chinatown District, historically the oldest Chinatown in the country, is filled with exotic Asian shops, and Maui Divers Jewelry carries beautiful, locally made jewelry. For excellent quality, this is a great place to buy Hawaiian jewelry, especially coral pieces. Down the block from Chinatown on Honolulu Harbor is the Aloha Tower Market Place, famous for the Aloha Tower and now for some fabulous stores and restaurants.

Kauai, on the other hand, is known more for its beauty and resistance to change than for shopping. Nevertheless, there are many fun and interesting places to browse and buy. The Poipu Shopping Village has about 30 great little shops and restaurants, and in downtown Lihue you can find anything that you might need.

Although Maui is more laid back than Oahu, there are plenty of shopping opportunities. The Whalers Village Shopping Center is Maui's only oceanfront shopping center. A number of shops and restaurants surround the Whalers Village Museum, too – and be sure to check out the museum!

Another must-see on Maui is the town of Lahaina, the first capital of the Kingdom of Hawaii as well as one of the most important whaling towns in the world. Front Street has many specialty shops, art galleries, restaurants and popular night spots.

On the Big Island of Hawaii, check out King's Shops, which has more than 35 specialty shops and restaurants.

It goes without saying that Hawaii is full of amazing places to explore. Take your pick. Active volcanoes, deep, lush canyons, endless beaches. And that's all before the Lu`au begins. Just below the surface of Hawaii's stunning natural beauty, lies a wealth of cultural, natural and mythological history to be discovered island by island.

Let freedom ring
Pride of America - home of the free. Designed to celebrate her arrival as the first new U.S.-flagged cruise ship in nearly 50 years, this vibrant Americana themed ship is full of choices to occupy your time aboard your Freestyle Cruise. Void of schedules, you'll have ample opportunities to venture about, scoping out the décor, spacious staterooms and regional dishes served in 11 restaurants - or whatever else you feel like doing. Plus, we've got a warm and friendly American crew ready to assist you on your Hawaiian island adventure and make sure your cruise is just that, yours.

We created Freestyle Cruising® for you. People who like to do their own thing. People who know a good wine list is just as important as the list of Shore Excursions. With all the cookie cutter cruise lines out there, we thought we'd step out of line and give you a cruise that's equally liberating and luxurious.

Featured sailing November 28th- December 5, 2009
Category N from $799 pp plus tax

Combineable with our other current NCL specials which include ship board credits and complimentary soda package.

Before You Go

• Secure Your Home: Cancel all newspapers, pay bills and consider what to do about the mail. You can ask your Post Office to hold it while you’re away, or get someone to look after your house.  Put some lights and a radio or TV on a timer. If applicable, park a car in your driveway.
• Be prepared:  Bring an emergency contact list, including the telephone numbers of your insurance people, credit card issuers, and home numbers of close relatives or friends, in case of an emergency.
• Back up important information: Copy or scan your travel documents – passport, travelers, identity and vaccination card and credit cards – front and back. Make two sets of copies, leave one at home or with a trusted person, and store the second in a secret place in your suitcase. If your wallet is lost or stolen, you will have all the information and phone numbers you need. If you choose to scan your documents, send them to your email address. In case of a problem, you can access them from any business center or cybercafe in the world.
• If you have a black or blue suitcase, you may want to wrap brightly colored electrical tape or ribbons around the handles of check luggage to make it easy to identify, OR use colored luggage tags.
• Just in case your luggage is lost, make sure you have your name, address and phone number on each piece, so that the airline can contact you. We suggest using a work address rathern than home whenever possible.
• Medications: Remember, all medications and vitamins must be in their original containers when traveling. You can ask your pharmacist to label small bottles with just enough medication in for your trip. Always carry these in your carry-on. Also, take a few days extra supply, in case you are delayed coming back.

Useful Items When Traveling

• Sun glasses
• Pen & small notepad
• Small retractable umbrella
• Sun block
• Chapstick
• Package of wipes or bottle of hand sanitzer
• Plastic bags. Take various size zip-lock bags – the heavier duty the better. They are great for packing things that might leak, like shampoo and lotions, and come in handy again for dirty clothes, the beach, etc.
• Camera with extra film or memory cards
• Chargers for any electronics you may be bringing (such as Ipod, camera, cell phone, labtops, etc.)
• Small bag packed into your suitcase. This can be used to carry souvenirs.
• Book or magazine
  

Many clients wonder what the differences are when traveling with a budget, first class or deluxe tour operator. As we have discussed in previous posts, a lot has to do with the type of accommodations used, the location of the hotels, the number of people on the tour and how much is included in the price (i.e. sightseeing, meals, etc.)

Today our focus is to explain the difference in meals.  In most cases, on a budget tour you will receive continental breakfast. This is a basic breakfast of usually consisting of cereals, pastries, juice and coffee. Once you take a first class tour and above, breakfast is normally buffet. This offers the widest choices, quickest service and as much or as little food as you desire.

Budget tours rarely include dinners, and when they do, it is normally in the hotel. First class tour operators offer a combination of both hotel dinners and some dining at local restaurants. However, there is usually a limited menu. It includes 3 to 5 courses with a more limited choice of appetizer, entrees and desserts. We are not suggesting the food is bad, on the contrary, frequently the limited menu includes the chef's freshest market specials of the day and takes less time to serve.

Dining is a delightful and integral part of the travel experience when traveling abroad. Deluxe and luxury operators select restaurants that offer a true taste of each region you visit, and offer full choice of menu to include a starter course (hot & cold appetizer, soup or salad,) main course, dessert and beverage. You’ll savor a delectable assortment of classic dishes and regional specialties. Many meals include wine with dinner and at times entertainment.

Regardless of which tour you book, gratuities to the wait staff are included. For lunches and evenings that meals are not included, the knowledgeable tour directors can assist you in finding dining options based on your the type of food you want to have and your budget.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site is a site that holds a list of outstanding cultural or natural universal value such as, the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. It could be a monument, building, mountain, forest, lake, desert, complex or city.

So how is a site selected?

Only countries that have signed the World Heritage Convention, pledging to protect their natural & cultural heritage can submit nominations for properties on their territory to be considered for inclusion in UNESCO’s World Heritage list.

A nominated property is independently evaluated by several Advisory Boards. Once a site has been nominated & evaluated, the intergovernmental World Heritage Committee makes the final decision. One per year, the Committee meets to decide which sites will be inscribed on the World Heritage list.

The program aims to catalogue & preserve sites of outstanding importance, either cultural or natural, to the common heritage of humankind.

There are currently 878 World Heritage Sites in 145 countries. These include 679 cultural, 174 natural and 25 mixed properties.

You may have visited a place in the U.S. already, not realizing it was a UNESCO site such as the Statue of Liberty, Grand Canyon, Yosemite Yellowstone or Olympic National Park.

Click here for a full list of site.

I have seen 20 sites in 9 countries, so only 858 to go, but I have to say that certain countries do not interest me AT ALL, so my goal would be to see at least half of the UNESCO sites while traveling the world.

How many UNESCO sites have you visited?

• Click here for Swine Flu talking points
• Click here for U.S. Travel's statement.
• Click here for the CDC website with more information on Swine Flu.

For all travelers, CDC recommends the following steps to help you stay healthy:

• Be sure you are up-to-date with all your routine vaccinations, including a seasonal influenza vaccine. The seasonal vaccine is not expected to offer protection against swine flu viruses, but it can protect against seasonal influenza viruses which may still be circulating in Mexico and the Southern Hemisphere.
• Pack a travel health kit that contains basic first aid and medical supplies. See Pack Smart in Your Survival Guide to Safe and Healthy Travel for a list of what to include in your travel health kit.
• Identify the health-care resources in the area(s) you will be visiting.
• Check if your health insurance plan will cover you abroad.  Consider purchasing additional insurance that covers medical evacuation in case you become sick.  For more information, see Medical Information for Americans Traveling Abroad from the U.S. Department of State.
• Remember that U.S. embassies, consulates and military facilities do not have the legal authority, capability, and resources to evacuate or to give medications, vaccines or medical care to private U.S. citizens overseas.

Practice healthy habits to help stop the spread of swine flu

• Wash your hands often with soap and water.  This removes germs from your skin and helps prevent diseases from spreading.
  • Use waterless alcohol-based hand gels (containing at least 60% alcohol) when soap is not available and hands are not visibly dirty.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze and put your used tissue in a wastebasket.
• If you don't have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve, not your hands.
• Wash your hands after coughing or sneezing, using soap and water or an alcohol-based hand cleaner (with at least 60% alcohol) when soap and water are not available.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Germs spread that way.
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people. (Influenza is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing of infected people.)
• It is important to follow the advice of local health and government authorities.  You may be asked to restrict your movement and stay in your home to contain the spread of swine flu.

If you have specific questions about the swine influenza cases see http://www.cdc.gov/contact/  or call 1-800-232-4636, which is 1-800-CDC-INFO.

To learn more about travel health, visit www.cdc.gov/travel.

More information will be provided as the situation develops. Please continue to check our website on a regular basis for updates.

Planning to travel in a group?

•  Four color tri-fold brochures or Four color flyers which can be used as 
   hand-outs or mail-outs to prospective participants
•  Power Point Presentations for group level meetings to explain the
   program to possible participants
•  Presentation by a member of our group department to local South
    Florida organizations

Should you bring a laptop while traveling?

This is a personal question that really depends on many things. What you’ll be doing, where you are going and how long will you be traveling?

I would like to share some guidelines that may help with your decision.

Reasons you should bring a laptop:

You can email your family and friends. Having your laptop, you can email your loved ones back home. This is something you could do at most internet cafes, which is a much nicer atmosphere than your hotel room. Most cafes around the world do offer free Wifi when you order something. Not all cafes have free Wifi; some do have a small charge. Newer cruise ships also offer Wifi, but make sure and purchase a package, as usage rates can be high.

You can download all your photos. You can download your digital photo right to your laptop. This will keep your camera’s memory stick free everyday. This will allow you to capture that favorite photo. If your memory stick is full, you would lose that favorite photo moment.

Keeping a journal of the cities you visited. Sometimes we see so much on our vacation that we tend to forget something. Keeping a journal along the way will allow you to never forget. It also allows you to post your travel blogs in writing.

Calling home for free (or very cheap) with Skype. For mere cents per minute you can make calls to landlines and cell phones from all over the world with Skype. It allows you to call from any web-enabled laptop. It’s a great way to keep in touch over the phone.

You can get lots of local information. Many laptops today have maps, directions, schedules and must-see sites for key cities. Maybe you would like get tickets to a play or need to get those directions to a restaurant. You can get all the information you need right from your laptop. Usually it’s much better than carrying around big guidebooks.

You can work. Even though we are on vacation, sometimes we still have our work on our minds. Maybe you have an on-line business and need to be kept informed. Having your laptop with you allows you to still work.  

Reasons you should keep your laptop home:

It could get lost, stolen or damaged. Where you are traveling really depends on the risks, which could range from mild to extreme. Getting your laptop insured by home or travel insurance is really not likely. Most insurance companies won’t cover you unless you pay a very high premium.

It’s extra weight to carry. If weight is an issue then you may want to keep it home. Depending on where you are traveling, you would need to bring your power adapter and any plug in devices to operate your laptop.

Surfing the internet. As we all know, the internet can be addicting. You could spend hours surfing the web, when we should be enjoying the experience of the city that you paid to see.

Checking in at the airport.  Our new airport regulations require us to open our carry bags to get through security. When you are traveling with your laptop, you will have to remove your laptop from the carry case for security inspection, so allow extra time for check-in.

You need to base your decision on where you are going. The more remote destinations you are traveling to, the less likely you will find a Wifi connection. Some remote islands will probably only have a dial up connection, which would probably be very slow.

The biggest consideration is whether you feel you actually need a laptop. Some people absolutely need to stay connected. If you decide to bring it, I would recommend a soft case to protect it. I would use a water-resistant case. Remember to never stow your computer in your luggage.

Contributed by: A Sternberg
angie@atlastravelweb.com

The story had a nice ending, as Mr. Elliott was able to get the client a full refund, but not all stories end this way, and clients lose thousands of dollars for not asking the right questions prior to making a reservation.

Be aware of penalties! At Atlas, when we book reservations for our clients, not only do we provide them with a confirmation, but also the Terms and Conditions for each supplier, as cancellation penalties vary for each company. At times, there are 3 to 5 pages of "conditions" for the client to read over, but all of this is done prior to booking the reservation, so you have no surprises down the road.

Furthermore as the article mentions, if there is any chance you may have to cancel your trip, a consolidator is not the way to go when booking airline tickets, as their penalties are usually higher than booking with the airline or suppliers directly.

Final thoughts...no one can anticipate or predict the future. Be prepared and have piece of mind, by purchasing travel insurance for every trip! Suppliers such as Travel Guard & Access America offer add-ons to several of their plans that allow you to cancel for work reasons or even cancel for any reason, and receive up to 75% of your penalties back. Many cruise lines and tour operators offer their own version of cancel for any reason policies, but in some cases rather than money, you receive vouchers for future travel.

It can all be a bit confusing, so make sure to consult a travel professional to help you select the best coverage to protect your investment.

Click here to read the article published on CNN.

For more information on the pros & cons of booking airfare separately from a vacation, click here.

The beaches of this magnificent island run the range from white to black – and are all bounded by beautiful emerald seas that offer a full variety of watersports. Visiting Kona requires bringing a sense of play and an active imagination – whether diving into the deep bluesea, dancing a festive hula or feasting on a traditional luau.

People who have traveled to Hawaii save a piece of it in their hearts. Honeymooners cherish the golden days of unbridled romance. Families treasure the days of welcoming bliss under a shining sun. Adventurers thrill at the thought of catching the perfect wave. With extraordinary natural beauty, fascinating culture, rich history and endless activities, Hawaii can be all things to all people - or something unforgettable just for you.

Before You Go:

Research:  Do your homework and find out what each area is known for and decide what items you'll look for. Find out what similar items sell for. If you are considering pictures or other items to decorate your home with your travel finds, take measurements, then pop your tape measure into your travel bag. Bring a fabric swatch if needed as well. If you plan on having garments custom-made in the Orient for example, pack a favorite item to copy. Also research customs, GST and VAT tax refunds, shipping large items, and other important rules. Thailand and China, for example, are known for antiques, but you'll need appropriate paperwork to bring them home. In Europe when you make a purchase you must fill out the tax refund form supplied by the ship. You pay the full price, but when you leave Europe there is usually an area in all major airports called 'VAT Refund' after you have cleared security. You take the tax forms to be stamped and drop them in a box. In one to two billing cycles you should see the tax refunded back onto your credit card. If you are traveling on an escorted tour, your tour manager can give you tips on the best places to shop. On a cruise, they normally hold presentations and replay them on the ship channel in the cabin, with shopping tips on each port as well.

Shopping Strategies:

Local markets offer a rich travel experience, and a treasure trove of shopping options. Here are some bargaining tips to make that a more rewarding experience:

Get the Lay of the Land - Be Strategic:  Stroll around, take in the colors and the smells of the market while checking around prices on similar items. Watch how merchants interact with their customers. In Italian markets you'll encounter a hard sell; merchants in Arab markets often bargain after you've shared a cup of tea.

The Art of the Deal: Start by offering half the quoted price. Your merchant will tout the value of his handicrafts and bring the price back to almost the original. Split the difference. By the 3rd round your price will likely be about 75% of the original. Instead of haggling again, count out your cash until you reach slightly less than his price. You should have a deal. If the merchant is aggressive, step away. Likewise there is no need to be rude to the merchants, as they are only try to make a living.

Consider Shipping Your Items Back Home: The most difficult part is waiting a few weeks for your items to arrive if you are overseas, but with airlines charging for additional baggage weight, shipping can save you money. Just make sure to insure the package if it is breakable.

In the end, the important thing is that you enjoy the experience and keep in mind, more important than the exact cost will be priceless travel memories derived from your new-found treasures.

We'd love to hear about some of your shopping strategies?

Contributed by: S Brage

Most people visit Europe to see the famous sights they’ve always heard about. But an equally important part of any travel experience is to savor the real flavor of a city or country. Stay where the Europeans stay, eat where the Europeans eat, and share the European view of Europe.

Book a 2009 Cosmos vacation between January 2, 2009 and March 3, 2009, and you will save $100 per person on the land only price.*

$100 per person discount applies to Cosmos Europe, United States & Canada trips.

*Book a 2009 Cosmos vacation and receive $100 off per person on the land only price. Booking must be made, under deposit and discount applied between January 2, 2009 and March 3, 2009 for travel through December 31, 2009. Offers not valid with one-another or with any other offer except Journeys Club. Applies to new 2009 bookings only, and offer will not be applied to pre-existing bookings. Offer reliant on space availability. Full cancellation penalties will apply. Additional restrictions may apply.

Have more questions?  SkyMiles members can contact the Delta SkyMiles Center at 1-800-323-2323 or the number on the back of their membership cards. WorldPerks members should continue contacting the WorldPerks Service Center at 1-800-44-PERKS (or the number on the back of their membership cards).

Packages are reasonably priced, but sell out quickly. Each include a game ticket, hotel accommodations & transportation to & from the game. Other packages include ticket upgrades, tail gating parties & more. If you are looking to save money, you can go with a package that does not include the official NFL Pro Bowl Tailgate Party.  We currently offer 6 itineraries with prices starting at $995 pp  For more detail, visit our web site dedicated to Hawaii travel packages. Our sports agents can also assist you in booking the best priced airfare.

Just in case you have not seen the 2009 NFL player selections, here is a list:

Offense: QB Kurt Warner & Payton Manning; RB: Adrian Peterson & Thomas Jones; FB: Mike Sellers, Tony Richardson; WR: Larry Fitzgerald, Anquan Boldin, Andre Johnson, Brandon Marshall; TE: Jason Witten & Tony Gonzalez; OT: Jordan Gross, Walter Jones, Jason Peters, Joe Thomas; OG: Steve Hutchinson, Chris Snee Alan Faneca, Kris Dielman; C: Andre Gurode, Kevin Mawae

Defense: DE: Julius Peppers, Justin Tuck, Dwight Freeney, Mario Williams; DT: Kevin Williams, Jay Ratliff;  A. Haynesworth, Kris Jenkins; OLB: Lance Briggs, D. Ware, James Harrison, Joey Porter (Go Dolphins!); ILB: Patrick Willis, Ray Lewis; CB: Antoine Winfield, Charles Woodsont Nnamdi Asomugha, Cortland Finnegan; FS: Nick Collins, Ed Reed; SS: Adrian Wilson, Troy Polamalu 

Special Teams: P: Jeff Feagles, Shane Lechler; K: John Carney, Stepehn Gostkowski; KR: Clifton Smith, Leon Washington; ST: Sean Morey, Brendon Ayanbadejo

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Common question asked by clients

Answer:

You would be surprised how many things can be packed and not exceed 50 lbs. There are some wonderful no wrinkle, light weight fabrics for traveling and you don't need a pair of shoes for each outfit. When staying in the same hotel for more than 1 night, you can take advantage of the laundry facilities they have to offer.

Make a list before packing and make sure to mix and match outfits. Always pack tightly. Scarf or jewelry can change the look or a blouse. Packing loosely will waste space and cause clothes to wrinkle from moving around. Use all the space you have available to you, such as putting socks & under garments inside of shoes.

You can get a great packing list from Frommers.

Keep in mind that the airlines are changing their restrictions and charges often these days. Make sure and go to their web site or call a couple of weeks before travel to get the latest information.

There are exceptions, especially with adventure trips or luxury travel, where preliminary documents are sent, as well as personal registration forms to be filled out.

You will of course always receive written confirmations from us for your records.

Day 1 with the budget and first class tours is "always" the overnight flight to Europe, arriving on Day 2 - this means Day 2 is your first hotel night.

Day 1 with the Deluxe & Luxury Tours is the day you arrive in Europe to start your tour.

With US and Canada tours, day 1 is the day your tour begins.

With other exotic destinations such as South America, Asia and Australia, please check with you agent, as there could be as many as 1 to 2 days for the flight over.

In most cases, booking your own airfare is fine, but I want to remind you to keep a few things in mind.

When you book airfare with the cruise or tour operator, transfers are included to & from the airport. When calculating how much money you are saving, make sure & factor in the additional cost for transfers.

Tours can cancel due to lack of participation. If you book your own air, we suggest booking a tour that is "guaranteed" to operate. Many suppliers have added hundreds of guaranteed departures on their popular tours.

If you experience a problem with your flight being cancelled due to weather or other circumstances, when you book your airfare along with your travel packages, you will have assistance in booking the next available flight to meet up with your trip. If you book your flights online, how difficult will it be to get someone on the phone to assist you in rebooking another flight?

Insurance is another consideration. If you book your own air, normally the cruise or tour operators insurance will not cover the value of your flights. Make sure to speak to an agent about outside insurance coverage so that your entire purchase is protected.

Book early & save. Many suppliers offer air promotions for bookings made well in advance.

On many occasions we do advise our clients to buy airfare separately, but make sure to take the time to discuss your options with an agent to ensure you are receiving the best value.

I told her they would be delivered by UPS to her home address on Monday.

This is 8 days prior to her departure.

She was satisfied with this and we ended the call.

She called back about 10 minutes later and asked where the documents were being mailed to. I told her they were on their way to her address in Chicago. She said, “But I’m in Rhode Island”.

I asked why she did not advise me of this and she said, “We always spend our summers in Rhode Island”

Okay, so now I need a crystal ball with all of the other hats I wear! I was supposed to know this??

I told her I would see what I could do and called the supplier to ask if another set of documents could be generated and mailed out.

This reservation was made with a Luxury Tour supplier and they agreed to send the documents directly to her Rhode Island address.

If this were a supplier other than a Luxury Tour operator, a duplicate set of documents would have a fee to generate and the overnight mail would have to be paid for by the client.

Please think of your travel agent as one of your circle of family and friends. Keep us in mind to notify us of any changes in your life. Give us your airline schedule if you make your own airline reservations; give us all contact numbers and dates when you’ll be at another location. Don’t think you’re bothering us with trivia. Our job is to give you the best customer service we can, but to do this we need your help.