See You In Jamaica Truffle hunting in Italy Iceland: Island of Adventure
Transcription
See You In Jamaica Truffle hunting in Italy Iceland: Island of Adventure
Sponsored By See You In Jamaica Discover why hearts beat faster on this island nirvana Truffle hunting in Italy Europe’s best-kept secret is a culinary delight Iceland: Island of Adventure Win a trip to Iceland! See page 29 for details. A G U I D E TO FA B U LO U S FA L L T RAV E L , S U P P O R T E D BY T H E A M E R I C A N S O C I E T Y O F T RAV E L AG E N T S More and more people are choosing to travel in the fall... and for good reason! Your search for the great vacation is over When you vacation with ResortQuest, you get the unexpected spaciousness, amenities and privacy of your very own, fully furnished vacation home or condominium. Our selection of nearly 17,000 vacation rentals ensures you’ll have the perfect number of bedrooms and bathrooms, roomy gathering spots, entertainment systems, balconies, decks, hot tubs, pools and more. Plus, you’ll enjoy all the nonstop fun our premier resort destinations across the country have to offer—and, if you wish, all the helpful service our local staff of professionals can provide. In short, you get everything you want on a ResortQuest vacation. Including the freedom to be left alone to enjoy it. For more information or to book the ultimate vacation, contact us today. 800-GO-RELAX | ResortQuest.com The beauty of a great travel escape is that intoxicating sense of freedom – being able to make your own choices, or not having to make choices at all. You give yourself carte blanche to be spontaneous or indulgent, or seek out a new adventure. Perhaps you’ve already taken that “Big Vacation” of the year… the thoroughly planned and budgeted-for, eagerly anticipated excursion during peak season, where you’re joined by family and so very many other vacationers seeking exactly the same thing. Yet by the end of the summer you find yourself at the old routines of back-to-school, commutes, and housework, and something is missing: a respite, something different that gives you the opportunity to take a breather, something for you and you alone. Who doesn’t need an escape? Best of all, autumn has emerged as the foremost season to find great travel deals. Colorado • Delaware • Florida • Georgia • Hawaii • Idaho • North Carolina • South Carolina • Utah • B.C., Canada 3 t wasn’t always this way – people simply have not taken vacations in the fall months. But our tastes and habits change. We tire of the same thing. We hunger for what’s new, exciting and meaningful to us, instead of what everyone thinks a vacation ought to be. Hotels, resorts, airlines, theme parks and attractions all are incredibly resilient; they work hard to help you get away from it all for one last blast of freedom. During the fall months, prices are cheaper, packages and options are more flexible, and the outfront time needed to book is generously shortened. It’s hard to go wrong in the fall travel season. The weather by definition is fair and accommodating, as reflected in our three international escapes. Thanks to the resourceful thinking of the airlines serving these destinations, there are more flights at cheaper fares with an irresistible array of hotel and tour packages. I 4 Great Escapes 2006 Ready. Set. Go. So, you and yours agree: An escape from the daily grind is in order. What to do? Your window of planning is narrow and the choices seemingly infinite. Thrills and chills or culture? How about Old World train travel? Perhaps something resort-like with a residential feel? If, like us, all you need are a few ideas to jump-start your imagination, then the following escapes should get you started. Thrills and Chills While many locally oriented theme parks board up at Labor Day, the big ones operate straight around the calendar. Some make sure each season is special in itself. In addition to its famed rides and attractions, Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida, offers an additional array of things to do in autumn. Try the ever-popular Halloween Horror Nights on 19 select nights in October. Universal Studios promises specially designed haunted houses, scare zones, and hundreds of street performers. Not to worry about accommodations, Universal has a mix of first-class resort hotels for all tastes. Check out www.universalorlando.com for the park’s full schedule of events. 5 Nick Troubetzkoy’s JADE MOUNTAIN Anse Chastanet • St. Lucia Ublf zpvs tqb fyqfsjfodf An architectural poem to celebrate one of nature’s most alluring settings up uif ojoft/ ::: SpdlSftpsutÖ tqbt- jodmvejoh jut ßwf mvyvsjpvt Bwbozv© Tqbt- csjoh zpv foemftt qbnqfsjoh boe uif jodmveft uisff ojhiutÖ vmujnbuf jo sfmbybujpo/ Gps kvtu bddpnnpebujpot boe %::: tqb dsfeju %444 qfs ojhiu gps uisff ojhiutsfdfjwf efmvyf bddpnnpebujpot boe %::: xpsui pg tqb usfbunfout/ Gps bo fyqfsjfodf uibu xjmm opvsjti zpvs cpez boe mjgu zpvs tqjsju- btl gps dpef QLH::: ps dpotvmu zpvs usbwfm qspgfttjpobm/ % 800 223 1108 www.jademountainstlucia.com Tel 758 459 4000 • Fax 758 459 4002 Walking through fall foliage in Vermont TRANQUILITY • ROMANCE • ADVENTURE 800 223 1108 www.ansechastanet.com 6 Tel 758 459 7000 • Fax 758 459 7700 Escaping by Foot Sometimes it’s the simple things that work best, and what can be simpler than walking? Still, simple doesn’t mean ordinary or boring, as Country Walkers (www.countrywalkers.com), of Waterbury, Vermont, demonstrates year after year with its customdesigned foot excursions around the globe. They design urban and country walks through some of the most scenic and romantic destinations you can imagine—Ireland, Tuscany, New Zealand, Bhutan, Nova Scotia, and, of course, the United States. Country Walkers coordinates everything from local guides and authentic accommodations to exquisite meals typifying the local cuisine. Best of all, the firm shuttles your belongings from location to location, so that all you need is a backpack, water bottle, and sense of adventure. A small sampling of the October walks includes trips to Tuscany, Vermont, the Adirondacks of New York, Corsica, New Mexico, and Sonoma, California. Perhaps the best way to take your next great escape might be one step at a time. Great Escapes 2006 Great Train Escapes in New England Old World Train Travel We jog in the morning, drive like it’s Daytona on our commutes, hustling to and fro, each on our way through life. How about sitting back and watching the world slide by from a train for a change? Better yet, do it in the autumn season. Amtrak (www.amtrak.com) of course fans out across the country, allowing you to customize trips geared to just the amount of time you have to spend. There are also customized packages. Great Train Escapes LLC (www.greattrainescapes.com) of Seattle, Washington, offers luxurious train and motor coach combination journeys through some of the most scenic portions of the United States and Mexico. Its eight-day/seven-night fall foliage package includes stops in Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Connecticut, and Massachusetts with plenty of stops for sightseeing. For the stunning autumn scenery of Canada, try John Steel Rail Tours (www.johnsteel.com). John Steel offers group and independent trips traversing the Pacific Northwest, among other exciting itineraries. LFZTUPOF MPEHF Lfztupof- DP UIF MPEHF ' TQB BU DPSEJMMFSB Wbjm Wbmmfz- DP MB QPTBEB EF TBOUB GF SFTPSU ' TQB Tboub Gf- ON UIF FRVJOPY SFTPSU ' TQB Nbodiftufs Wjmmbhf- WU SPTBSJP SFTPSU ' TQB Psdbt Jtmboe- XB TOBLF SJWFS MPEHF ' TQB Kbdltpo Ipmf- XZ SBUFT GSPN %:::- JODMVEJOH UISFF OJHIUTÖ BDDPNNPEBUJPOT NJEXFFL BOE %::: TQB DSFEJU QFS SPPN )WBMJE GPS BOZ TQB USFBUNFOU PS DPNCJOBUJPO PG TQB USFBUNFOUT*/ DPMPSBEP OFX NFYJDP WFSNPOU XBTIJOHUPO XZPNJOH XXX/SPDLSFTPSUT/DPN 0 HSFBUFTDBQFT 2.988.752.SPDL Pggfs tvckfdu up bwbjmbcjmjuz< cmbdlpvu ebuft nbz bqqmz/ Tff xfctjuf gps bwbjmbcmf ebuft gps fbdi SpdlSftpsu/ 7 Escape in Style Frequently, the location of your escape and your accommodations will be the same. Resorts at the beaches and mountains have gotten so sophisticated and all-inclusive that many times you need never leave the main gate. Some companies, like ResortQuest (www.resortquest.com), offer the full array of privately owned, fully furnished vacation homes, condominiums, hotels, lodges, villas, and cottages for rent on the mainland U.S., British Columbia, and Hawaii. Golf, skiing, beaches— that’s the beauty of a national brand and its ability to satisfy so many tastes. Robert Trent Jones Golf Course in Palmetto Dunes, Hilton Head Island !WAITING 9OUR !RRIVAL s "EAUTIFUL WHITE SAND BEACH s 4WO ZEROENTRY FREEFORM SWIMMING POOLS s RICHLY DECORATED ROOMS AND SUITES s 3LEEP .UMBER BEDS s .%7 SQ FT FULL SERVICE ,ARIMAR 3PA s &OUR $IAMOND RESTAURANT PLUS CASUAL DINING s #ASINO s &AMILY ACTIVITIES AND WATER SPORTS \ RADISSONCOMARUBA 9 Strong – National Museum of Play, Rochester, NY Sunset at Glen Haven, Skaneateles Lake, NY Study Fun in the Finger Lakes Far removed yet equally accessible from major metropolitan areas from Cleveland to Washington, D.C. to New York City, rests New York State's treasured Finger Lakes Region. World-renowned for its production of awardwinning wines, this natural wonderland offers a getaway locale that is as visually stunning as it is peaceful. Fall is a fantastic time to savor expansive vistas of colorful foliage and, of course, the shimmering lakes. If you’re enjoying a family escape, consider an excursion to Rochester, home of Strong – National Museum of Play (www.museumofplay.org). It’s the first and only major museum in the world devoted to the study and interpretation of play. It’s also home to the National Toy Hall of Fame and a massive collection of toys, dolls, and other play-related artifacts. The museum recently underwent a $37 million expansion to address the many aspects of play. Some of the new exhibits and activities include: Reading Adventureland, a 12,000 square foot exhibit that invites guests to follow the Yellow Brick Road into five magical literary landscapes: Adventure Island, Mystery Mansion, the Upside-Down Nonsense House, Fairy Tale Forest, and the Wizard’s Workshop; Field of Play, featuring a walkthrough kaleidoscope and a giant, people-powered ball-machine; and Upstate New York’s first and only indoor butterfly garden. Reading Adventureland T H E V E RY B E S T O F S A I N T L U C I A the bodyholiday LeSPORT Beyond the lush surroundings and warm Atlantic Ocean breeze, you’ll discover each other…again. Relax with miles of pristine beach, golf, tennis, dining and more. Or do nothing at all. Stay at the AAA Four-Diamond Boardwalk Inn or a luxury home or villa. Just minutes from historic Charleston, SC. Call 888.845.8880 or visit wilddunes.com for more information and reservations. 10 go wild Great Escapes 2006 SAINT LUCIA HAS BEEN VOTED THE MOST BEAUTIFUL ISLAND IN THE CARIBBEAN. FOUR OF ITS MOST PRESTIGIOUS BEACH RESORTS OFFER DIFFERENT WAYS TO DISCOVER ITS BEAUTY IN FIRST-CLASS LUXURY. THE BODYHOLIDAY: COTTON BAY: Give us your body for a week and we’ll give you back your mind in the world’s original holiday of health and well-being. Rejuvenate in first-class luxury as you enjoy a full wellness programme, complimentary golf and spa treatments. In fact, the most complete spa experience in all of the Americas. The pleasure principle is alive and well in this new beach and golf resort designed specifically for the whole family. Experience the finest in accommodation, food and service as you enjoy abject luxury on a mile of pristine beach, plus spa, championship course and lots to do for the kids. Barefoot luxury at its very best. JALOUSIE PLANTATION: RENDEZVOUS: Heaven meets earth here between the magic Piton Mountains. Its dramatic beauty has won it designation as a World Heritage Site. A protected marine park sits right off the beautiful white sands of Forbidden Beach. A great escape for you and your family. The first and only boutique hotel for couples anywhere. Two miles of stunning white sand beach, glorious food and drink, first-class accommodation, a complete programme of land and water sports are all complimentary. You think of nothing but your two hearts’ desire. For details on winter specials and reservations call 1 800 544 2883. www.SunSweptResorts.com 11 Travel Agents Save You Time, Money and Headaches he best airfare or hotel rate is not the cheapest. The best is the one that combines a fair price with quality, convenience, comfort and reliability to exceed your expectations. That’s what professional travel agents do best. Possessing a wealth of experience, travel agents seamlessly combine air and ground transportation with hotel accommodations, spa packages, tours and more while saving you money with early booking discounts and special fares. T ...travel agents are there for you before, during and after your trip to stop headaches before they start. 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Agents go the extra mile to advise you on cancellation penalties and passport requirements before you leave; help you in case of emergency during the trip; and assist you with any hassles afterwards. Visit www.TravelSense.org today to find a trusted member of the American Society of Travel Agents, along with travel tips, articles, news and more. The fastest way to learn a language. Guaranteed.™ WIN A TRIP TO CHINA! See You in China Sweepstakes “See You in China Sweepstakes.” NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Void where prohibited. Must be a legal US resident of the lower 48 states age 21+ to enter. Sweepstakes ends November 22, 2006. Sponsor: Fairfield Language Technologies, 135 W. Market St. Harrisonburg, VA 22801 and Intrepid Travel. For official rules and to enter, visit: RosettaStone.com/syia SAVE 10% The Cove On Ormond Beach Fully furnished condos with oceanview balcony, Plasma TV’s, indoor pool, fitness area, internet access, huge oceanfront activity deck. 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Rosetta Stone is available for learning: Arabic • Chinese • Danish • Dutch • English • Farsi • French • German • Greek • Hebrew • Hindi Indonesian • Italian • Japanese • Korean • Latin • Pashto • Polish • Portuguese • Russian Spanish • Swahili • Swedish • Tagalog • Thai • Turkish • Vietnamese • Welsh 13 S ugary white beaches fringed with leafy palms, salmon-colored sunsets over a turquoise sea, lush forests with tumbling waterfalls… Jamaica is the picture-perfect paradise of postcards. The third-largest island in the Caribbean is also one of the most captivating. With Jamaica’s easy connections from North America and Europe, visitors have long flocked to this tropical hideaway. And it’s no wonder why. Jamaica’s range of accommodations appeals to every taste: private villas overlooking empty beaches, all-inclusive SuperClubs, boogie-tildawn couples-only resorts, exclusive luxury resorts PRESENTED BY 14 From the oh so vogue to the shabbily chic, Jamaica continues to renew and refresh. Great Escapes 2006 like Half Moon, and charming boutiques like Jake’s on the South Coast, called “the chic-est shack in the Caribbean” by Vogue magazine. But Jamaica is more than just fun-in-the-sun. The island reverberates with a spirited culture. This smiling, laid-back vibe is contagious; the pace of the island moves to a music-infused soundtrack. Vacationers find that Jamaica caters to the whims of everyone. There is flavorful cuisine, jungle river rafting, excellent scuba diving, and the best golf courses in the Caribbean. And fall is the best time to plan a tropical escape, with sensational bargains of 15 up to 50 percent off at the island’s hotels and resorts. Discover the perfect vacation getaway in all corners of Jamaica. Montego Bay, affectionately called MoBay, is a popular playground of beautiful beaches, excellent shopping, and exuberant nightlife. Jamaica’s capital of fun on its north coast is convenient and easily accessible, with non-stop flights from many U.S. cities on Air Jamaica. Both Doctor’s Cave Beach and Cornwall Beach offer miles of soft sand, crystal clear waters, and extensive beach facilities. Tour the historic colonial houses such as Barnett Estates, the legendary Rose Hall plantation, and the Greenwood Great House, the sugar plantation owned by the family of poet Elizabeth Barrett Browning. Revel in the world-famous nightlife on Gloucester Avenue, nicknamed the “Hip Strip,” brimming with trendy hot spots such as Margaritaville and Coral Cliff, frequented by big name celebrities and locals alike. Accomodations run the gamut from the playful and exciting, like Sunset Beach Resorts where everyone in the family can splash their way through the magnificent, new Pirate’s Paradise water park – to the super-inclusive Breezes resorts, located on Doctor’s Cave Beach and in the middle of all the Mobay action. ÝVi«Ì> ÃiÀÛVi à iÝVi«Ì À >>V>° Ì À >>V>] Üi «À`i ÕÀÃiÛià «ÀÛ`} «>ÃÃi}iÀà ÜÌ Ì i LiÃÌ ÃiÀÛVi Ì i Ãið i}i`>ÀÞ ÛiLÀ` ëÌ>ÌÞ] V«iÌ>ÀÞ V >«>}i >` Ài Ì > Îää ÜiiÞ ÃV i`Õi` y} Ìà >i À >>V> Ì i Ì« V Vi Ì Ì i >ÀLLi>° Ãi À >>V> Ì`>Þ° The pace is slower here; the mood, sunny and tranquil. Located two hours east of MoBay, the garden paradise of Ocho Rios is a favorite of honeymooners for its lush landscapes and a bundant waterfalls. The pace is slower here; the mood, sunny and tranquil. Slow down to island time, and absorb Jamaica’s natural splendor. Climb to the top of the world-renowned Dunn’s River Falls: 600-foot cascades of cool mountain water. Indulge in a myriad of sumptuous dining options, right by the sea. Relax in a hammock on the beach, kissed by cool sea breezes, tropical drink in hand. Swim with frolicking bottle-nose dolphins at Dolphin Cove. Tour the Cranbrook Flower Forest, abloom with native flora, or follow a guide through the spooky limestone formations of the Green Grotto Caves, once a hide-out for runaway Great Escapes 2006 &DOO XV WRGD\ DW Ì>Ì> U >ÌÀiÉ7>à }Ì U > >>à U >ÀL>`à U >Ài U >Þ> Ã>`à U V>} U ÕÀ>X> U ÀÌ >Õ`iÀ`>i Ài>`> U }ÃÌ U ` U à }iià U > U Ìi} >Þ U iÜ 9À U iÜ>À U "À>` U * >`i« > U -Ì° ÕV> U /ÀÌ DLUMDPDLFDFRP SuperClubs, we’re not just for couples, we’re for everyone. We’re luxury. We’re family. We’re active. We’re a little wicked. From the world’s best land and water sports, including golf and scuba,† to candlelit dinners and moonlight strolls along powder-soft beaches. From dining in gourmet restaurants by chefs voted No. 1 in the Caribbean to exclusive star-studded entertainment and trendy bars overflowing with top shelf brands. Vacation home to countless celebrities. Absolutely everything is included in one upfront price and no tipping is permitted. No wonder 9 out of 10 travel agents trust and recommend SuperClubs. slaves and pirates, to discover the eerie underground lake. For the ultimate in family fun, go where Frommer’s decreed it’s like a “Hollywood production,” the Sunset Jamaica Grande in Ocho Rios, where there is always something for everyone to do.. On the island’s westernmost tip, Negril entices with the best beaches in Jamaica and miles of coral reef just offshore, teeming with marine life for excellent scuba diving and snorkeling. The worldrenowned Seven Mile Beach is certainly Negril’s claim to fame: its crescent of golden sand is lapped by the azure-green waters of a protected lagoon. This former hippie hang-out is famous for its fantastic live reggae concerts and blazing Cave on Negril Coast For more information on Upgrade Specials & Last Minute Deals, visit www.superclubs.com Or call your travel agent or 1-800-Go-Super (467-8737)/Ext 8801 Ask About Free* Wedding, Honeymoon & Anniversary Packages • SuperGroups • Guaranteed Getaways D E S I G N E R V T A C A T I O N S J A M A I C A A I L O R • C - M U R A D E A Ç B Y A S U P E R C L U B S. O Grand Lido Negril • Grand Lido Braco • Breezes Runaway Bay • Breezes Montego Bay Breezes Curaçao** • Hedonism II • Hedonism III • Starfish** • Rooms** †Call for details. Activities, facilities & treatments may vary at each resort. *Government/Administrative fees are additional, minimum stays apply, call for details. Grand Lido Resorts, the only all-inclusive resort group to receive the AAA 4-Diamond Award rating. In the 1999 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice poll, Grand Lido Negril ranked in the top 10 Caribbean/Atlantic resorts. **Families with children welcome. 9524-8/06 19 #ARIBBEAN $ESTINATIONS /VER (OTELS 2ESORTS 3UNSET 2ESORTS (EDONISM ))) 0LAN THE 0ERFECT 4ROPICAL %SCAPE /UR ELITE TEAM OF 2ESERVATION 3PECIALISTS AT !IR *AMAICA 6ACATIONS CONSIDERS THE #ARIBBEAN THEIR SPECIALTY 2EGULAR VISITS TO THE ISLANDS PROVIDE OUR TEAM WITH EXCEPTIONAL FIRSTHAND KNOWLEDGE OF DESTINATIONS PROPERTIES AND ACTIVITIES TO BETTER ASSIST YOU WITH YOUR SELECTIONS &ROM THE INSTANT YOU SELECT !IR *AMAICA 6ACATIONS AS YOUR GUIDE TO *AMAICA AND THE #ARIBBEAN WE WILL HELP YOU PLAN THE DETAILS OF YOUR ADVENTURE WITH METICULOUS CARE SO YOU CAN RELAX AND ENJOY YOUR VACATION Round Hill Resort orange sunsets. Visitors are drawn to Negril’s laidback roots and casual, cool attitude. Negril also is home to the only officially sanctioned nude beach in Jamaica. The daring bare all at SuperClub’s Hedonism II, and for couples looking to rediscover one another Couples Negril is that special enchanted beach resort to call their own. For those tourists looking for a perfect hideaway to indulge their sens- Vacationers turn to Air Jamaica Vacations as the renowned specialists of the island for the inside scoop about its treasures. es, Sunset at the Palms is an intimate resort replete with tree-house style guestrooms praised by Architectural Digest, and just steps from the beach. Bronzed sun-worshippers have certainly discovered the charms of Negril, but Jamaica’s South Coast remains largely untouched. This pristine stretch of coastline attracts adventure-seekers who venture off-the-beaten path and are rewarded with unspoiled 20 #OUPLES 2ESORTS coastline and pristine beaches, fabled since the time of the Arawak Indians who once dwelled here. Cruise up the nearby Black River, its mangrove swamps home to freshwater crocodiles. Or trek to Y.S. Falls to see its impressive cascades, nestled in a papaya plantation in the foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains. At the area’s charming restaurants, enjoy savory fresh fish caught by local fishermen. A visit to Jamaica is not complete without an exploration of the vibrant capital city of Kingston. Soak up the spirit of the island at the thriving capital, where the pulsing cultural mix proudly manifests Great Escapes 2006 &ALL AND %ARLY 7INTER 30%#)!,3 !6!),!",% #ALL FOR $ETAILS )RU 5HVHUYDWLRQV ,QIRUPDWLRQ 6HH <RXU 7UDYHO $JHQW RU &DOO /29(%,5' RU YLVLW ZZZDLUMDPDLFDYDFDWLRQVFRP Kingston’s Greenfield Stadium. Among the city’s numerous galleries and theaters, the Bob Marley Museum is a must-stop for visitors to discover the roots of reggae. Kingston also is a convenient jumping off point for exploring the nearby Blue Mountains—one of the most spectacular and lush parks in the Caribbean with excellent bird-watching and hiking. The untouched haven of Port Antonio, a former fishing village and fashionable celebrity retreat, attracts anglers from around the world for its renowned deep-sea fishing. Jamaica boasts the best golf in the Caribbean. Jamaica boasts 12 championship golf courses, a golf academy and mini golf park Enthusiasts and serious golf professionals are delighted by the natural beauty and challenges of the coursitself during annual festivals like Carnival. Also in es. Situated at Jamaica’s premier golf and spa resort, the March, Kingston will host the 2007 World Cup for Ritz-Carlton Rose Hall, the White Witch golf course is Cricket, with opening ceremonies staged at carved out of 600 acres of lush, rolling countryside at a stunning 1,000 feet above sea level. The par 71 course features panoramic vistas of the Caribbean sea from 16 of its 18 holes. Enthusiasts and serious golf professionals Caddies are like personal concierges at this are delighted by the natural beauty and newest of Jamaica’s fine courses. No wonder challenges of Jamaica’s courses. the hotel was named #1 Golf Resort in the Caribbean by Condé Nast Traveler Magazine. Likewise, the Rose Hall Resort and Country Club (formerly Wyndham) is celebrated as one of the top courses in the world, traversing both oceanfront and mountain terrain. You’ll enjoy championship golf at the world-renowned Tryall Club and the par 72 Robert Trent Jones-designed golf course at Half Moon Resort. Vacationers turn to Air Jamaica Vacations (www.airjamaicavacations.com; 1-800-LOVEBIRD) as the renowned specialists of the island for the inside scoop about its treasures. Whether seeking a spa holiday or a jam session with the friendly locals, vacationers trust the experts at Air Jamaica Vacations to point the way to the best deals for the ultimate Jamaican vacation. Voted best airline in the Caribbean, Air Jamaica offers more non-stop flights to Jamaica than any other airline, along with awardwinning in-flight service. Air Jamaica Vacations designs exciting packages to fulfill your individual vacation needs. These package and hotel choices— Fun Family Travel, Dream Weddings and Honeymoons, Adventures of a Lifetime, Be Jamaican for a Week, the Ultimate Luxury—are the most extensive offered by any travel company. J a m a i c Dolphin Cove a 4HE "EST !IRLINE TO THE #ARIBBEAN (/7 4/ '%4 4/ *!-!)#! !IR *AMAICA OFFERS NONSTOP mIGHTS FROM MORE 53 CITIES THAN ANY OTHER AIRLINE )F YOURE mYING FROM .EW 9ORK .EWARK 0HILADELPHIA "ALTIMORE !TLANTA #HICAGO -IAMI&T ,AUDERDALE /RLANDO ,OS !NGELES !IR *AMAICA HAS A NONSTOP mIGHT TO WHISK YOU AWAY IN STYLE TO THEIR ISLAND PARADISE #ALL YOUR TRAVEL AGENT OR OR WWWAIRJAMAICACOM (/7 4/ %3#!0% &OR THE BEST AIR AND HOTEL PACKAGES TO MORE HOTELS RESORTS AND INTIMATE INNS AND VILLAS IN *AMAICA CONTACT YOUR FAVORITE TRAVEL AGENT OR !IR *AMAICA 6ACATIONS AT ,/6%")2$ OR WWWAIRJAMAICAVACATIONSCOM !IR *AMAICA 6ACATIONS CAN ALSO PROVIDE TOURS AND EXCURSIONS TO MOST OF THE ACTIVITIES AND ATTRACTIONS LISTED BELOW 7(!43 '/).' /. ). *!-!)#! 4HE MOST COMPREHENSIVE WEBSITE FOR ALL THE EVENTS ATTRACTIONS AND TOURS IS THE OFlCIAL WEBSITE OF THE *AMAICA 4OURIST "OARD (ERE YOULL lND WHATS GOING ON EVERY DAY OF THE YEAR IN *AMAICA !ND THERES ALWAYS SOMETHING GOING WWWVISITJAMAICACOM Visit our newest resort COUPLES SANS SOUCI Rediscover one another. In a naturally beautiful, personally pampering setting that redefines everything you've ever known about an all-inclusive resort. From fine dining to imaginative spa treatments to adventurous off-site excursions, you'll find a wealth of ways to indulge your every desire. And to rediscover the passion and connection that first brought you together. Call 1.800.COUPLES or your travel professional for details & reservations. Connect with us and view our special offers at couples.com/visa &OR 2ESERVATIONS )NFORMATION 3EE 9OUR 4RAVEL !GENT OR #ALL ,/6%")2$ OR VISIT WWWAIRJAMAICAVACATIONSCOM 22 O C H O Great Escapes 2006 R I O S S A N S S O U C I the all-inclusive refined. redefined. S W E P T A W A Y N E G R I L 23 I am a world traveler an honorary citizen of Jamaica a pilgrim in search of relaxation and beauty a beach goddess a voracious reader of vacation paperbacks a Caribbean island hopper a surfing legend in the making an explorer, a wanderer, a trailblazer a navigator who never gets lost a pool lounging expert And my travel agent gets me there. Travel agents use a world of experience and a lot of TravelSense to get you where you want to go and make the most of your time while you’re there. Discover yourself. Find your travel agent today at... ASTA is proud to have Air Jamaica Vacations as a member. Use a travel agent when booking your next Caribbean vacation. 24 Message brought to you by the American Society of Travel Agents Without a travel agent, you’re on your own.® Great Escapes 2006 25 scaping to Italy is as much a seduction of the senses as it is a vacation for the mind and body. Infusing everything there is a passion, a deeply rooted desire to live life with a personal sense of joy and contentment that fortifies one’s mind, body and spirit. And nowhere is this truer than in Torino, Italy’s newest, and oldest, worldclass city. New because Torino gloriously redefined and transformed itself for the 2006 Winter Olympics, old because of its essential role in Italian automotive history as the home of FIAT, Torino is blazing a fresh and exciting new path. It has successfully adapted to the changing global economy by refocusing on those unique exports and experiences it alone provides. Nestled in the Piedmont Region of northwestern Italy, Torino offers natural beauty year-round, from the stark contrasts of winter to the emergent colors of spring to balmy summer sun to cool and pristine autumns. For connoisseurs and gourmands, fall is the favorite time to visit the region, as the world famous white truffle of Alba can be found in October and November. Chefs and foodies alike travel thousands of miles to taste the earthy, ethereal, incomparable flavor of the white truffle. And as E you sit back to savor the tastes of the region, you are overwhelmed with vistas of the snow-covered Alps forming backdrops behind dramatic skylines in Torino and vine-covered hills in the Langhe/Roero and Monferrato regions. Piedmont’s passion is perhaps most obvious in its meals made of impeccably fresh ingredients, dug from just over the next hill, or picked from the field just outside the kitchen window. Cheeses subtle and sharp, creamy and dense are crafted in equal parts by the glory of nature and human ingenuity. Piedmont’s divine hazelnut is the centerpiece of Nutella, the hazelnut and chocolate spread that has become a worldwide favorite, as well as the central ingredient in the regional hazelnut torte not to mention ice creams and other confections. The earth also nurtures the grapes that give Piedmont its rightful place as one of the world’s best wine producers, featuring bold red Barolos and Barbarescos and complex, dry, Gattinaras and Ghemmes and sweet, lighthearted white Astis. Between meals there is plenty to do. New York may have its Statue of Liberty, Paris its Eiffel Tower, but Torino boasts the unmistakable Mole Antonelliana, which houses the National Cinema Museum (www.museonazionaledelcinema.it) and dominates the skyline. Situated in a vast baroque palace, the captivating Egyptian Museum (www.museoegizio.org) houses the world’s second most important collection of Egyptian artifacts, after that of Cairo. And Salone del Gusto (www.salonedelgusto.it), from October 26-30, 2006, is a celebration of gastronomy for those seeking to discover, know and appreciate artisan and small-scale food and wine production. Simply walking the streets and piazzas of Torino beneath arched porticos and beside the royal palaces of the Savoys takes you back to eras ancient, medieval, baroque and more. Take a moment to relax in a café over a warm cup of the bicerin, a local specialty concocted of coffee, chocolate liquer and heavy cream. Enjoy the freeflowing nightlife in the Quadrilatro Romano and sip wine among the friendly Torinese. Daydream by the River Po, and consider its mighty journey westward all the way to Venice. Great Escapes 2006 Beyond the city limits of Torino, there is even more to experience. Trek out to the Langhe/Roero, Monferrato or Canavese regions, and visit a wine producer, explore a medieval castle, or dine in one of several Michelin starred restaurants dotting the countryside. Ski the same Alps trails used in the Olympic downhill and slalom events in Sestriere, or snowboard the Olympic half-pipe and bordercross trail in Bardonecchia. In warmer months, explore Lake Maggiore and experience the beauty Ernest Hemingway described in A Farewell to Arms, as well as the exquisitely restored 17th century palace and gardens of the Borromeo Family on Isola Bella, among other sights. Getting to Torino and the Piedmont Region is just as convenient as visiting anywhere else in Europe. Alitalia (www.alitalia.com) and Delta (www.delta.com) offer daily non-stop flights from several U.S. airports to Malpensa International Airport, just west of Milan and a little more than an hour’s drive from Torino. Convenient connections from most other European cities can be made through Torino International Airport Caselle, which is located just 16 miles north of Torino. The massive investment and preparation for the 2006 Winter Olympics has left many sparkling new hotels throughout the region. In Torino, check out both of the Le Meridien properties (www.lemeridien-lingotto.it) in the Lingotto, a former FIAT factory that has been completely transformed into a combination hotel, shopping mall and convention center. For contemporary comfort located just a block away from Cattedrale di San Giovanni Battista Duomo, where the Holy Shroud is housed, try the NH Santo Stefano (www.nh-hotels.com). Beyond Torino, you will find a wide variety of properties throughout the region, from five-star luxury to smaller, personable properties with an emphasis on the finest service. Learn more about Torino and the Piedmont Region online at the following websites: www.seeyouinpiemonte.com www.piemontefeel.it or call: +390115221035 27 Iceland: The ultimate theme park for those who crave the best H 28 ere’s you: looking for fun, seeking something different, ready for a new adventure. Beaches? Been there, done that. Bed & breakfast slash antiquing slash wine festivals? Please.You’ve got energy to spare, adrenaline to burn. If a need for outdoor action and high adventure is your fever, the only cure is Iceland. Closer to the U.S. than anywhere else in Europe, and one hop away from your favorite airports via daily flights from Icelandair, Iceland is the ultimate theme park for those who crave the best in extreme travel. The staff of Orbitz recently named Reykjavik, Iceland as one of the top five up and coming destinations in the world. Maybe you’ve ridden a snowmobile…have you done it on a glacier? Iceland offers several glaciers and outfitters who can take you there for an afternoon. Hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding also are favorite pastimes for Icelanders and tourists alike. Whatever adventure you choose, there’s one stop that you must make to wind down and relax before taking in Reykjavik’s nightlife. That would be the Blue Lagoon (www.bluelagoon.com), a natural geothermal spa in which you can lay back, enjoy a drink, and soak in the incredibly soothing seawater. Open year-round, the only things you’ll forget are your aches and pains…the Blue Lagoon is truly memorable. Iceland’s hotel accommodations are top-notch as well. Reykjavik is the place to stay, as you’ll want to be close to the town’s restaurants and clubs. For character, quality and convenience, nothing beats the Hotel Borg, (www.hotelborg.is) a four-star, 1930 art deco structure in downtown Reykjavik . If you’re more into sleek, modern, Euro spaces, then try either the Hotel 101 (www.101hotel.is) or the Nordica Hotel (www.icehotel.is). Great Escapes 2006 Dining in Reykjavik is a celebration of the freshest ingredients the land and sea have to offer.Top Icelandic chefs take full advantage of the pure and natural Icelandic ingredients, most notably the lamb, salmon, halibut, and lobster. Serious foodies should try Apótek,VOX, Humarhusid (The Lobster House), Sjavarkjallarinn (The Seafood Cellar, featured on the 2004 Condé Nast 100 Best Hot List), and Restaurant Siggi Hall (also featured on the 2004 Condé Nast 100 Best Hot List). Also try local favorites, Caruso, Thrir Frakkar, Jomfruin, and Laugaras. Despite all of the stylish accommodations and fine dining, the real action begins with the nightlife in Reykjavik. Routinely rounding out most “Hot Lists” for the best bars and clubs worldwide, Reykjavik a global hotbed for music, art and just simply celebrating. Late September is a chance to combine film and jazz, with the Reykjavik Inter national Film Festival from September 28 through October 8, 2006, and the Reykjavik Iceland Jazz Festival from September 27 through October 1, 2006. Get ready to rock with the third annual Iceland Airwaves Music Festival from October 18 through 22, 2006, when Reykjavik will host the world’s most innovative musicians. Thousands of fans from around the globe are expected to groove to cutting-edge tunes from alternative artists from both sides of the Atlantic, featuring the Kaiser Chiefs. Visit www.IcelandAirwaves.com for details. The cozy atmosphere, vibrant street life and the myriad of cafés and restaurants in Reykjavik will make your shopping time an enjoyable one. Be sure to pick up a sweater or cap woven from Icelandic wool. The culture of Reykjavik is broad and varied as Iceland’s terrain. The city’s many museums and galleries offer fascinating glimpses of everything from the country’s Viking heritage and the latest in visual arts. As for the performing arts, Reykjavik hosts a symphony orchestra, an opera, several theatre companies and the highly acclaimed Icelandic Dance Company. For a true escape, you need to abandon the same old, same old. Get yourself to Iceland this fall and winter and challenge yourself. A free trip to Iceland right in the palm of your hands. Enter now for your chance to win a free trip to Iceland at www.icelandair.com/greatescapes ICELAND TRAVEL RESOURCES I CEL AN D TO U R I S T B OAR D www.icelandtouristboard.com I CEL AN DA I R www.icelandair.com www.icelandtouristboard.com 29 AZ_3.25"x9.125"_PC_Erfurt 27.07.2006 16:38 Uhr Seite 1 Flying to Europe? GERMANY FACES Christmas Magic www.ComeToGermany.com When was the last time you took a trip of a lifetime? Asia Stretch your legs, not your budget. See You in Immerse yourself in a sea of magic candlelight. Savor the aroma of spicy, mulled wine. Wander among festively-decorated booths laden with handicrafts. Sample dozens of delicious Christmas delicacies. Enjoy that special, enchanted, pre-holiday atmosphere that characterizes Germany’s more than 2,500 Christmas markets. See your travel agent now. After all, the holidays are just around the corner! Book Germany’s Christmas markets today… www.ComeToGermany.com Germany 30 When you visit Asia, you embark on a journey that you will most certainly never forget. The oldest civilizations and cultures. Modern cities and high-tech sophistication. Mighty rivers, palm-lined beaches, tropical islands, and world wonders. Visit www.SeeYouInAsia.com to begin planning your vacation of a lifetime. This supplement was written and produced by Partner Concepts and did not involve the reporting or editing staff of this publication. Partner Concepts LLC 128 Lubrano Drive, Suite 301 Annapolis, MD 21401 410-224-7688 www.partnerconcepts.com Partner Concepts develops custom integrated marketing programs for destinations and Fortune 500 companies worldwide. Great Escapes 2006 MAXjet’s All Business Class services start at just $1499* roundtrip, including all taxes and fees, and fly to London Stansted the gateway to over 150 European destinations. From anywhere in the USA to anywhere in Europe, it’s now smarter to consider the common sense and comfort of connecting with MAXjet. MAXjet’s All Business Class services fly from New York JFK or Washington Dulles to London Stansted from where you can reach more European destinations than from any other European airport. And what can you expect flying with MAXjet? The highest levels of service and comfort: departure lounges, gourmet meals, personal on-demand entertainment and extraordinarily comfortable deep-recline leather seats with extremely generous legroom. All at remarkably low fares, starting from just $1499 for a roundtrip fare to London, including all taxes and fees. PLEASE VISIT MAXJET.COM AND MAKE A CONNECTION. All Business Class * Tickets are nontransferable, but may be reissued for a $100 change fee plus any applicable difference in fare and are refundable for a $300 fee. Seats are limited and certain flights and/ or days of travel may be unavailable at lowest prices, especially during busy travel periods. Fares and schedules are subject to change without notice, and other restrictions may apply. What time weakens, nature can strengthen. It can add years to life. It can ease the stress of modern living. And it can even improve immunity. It’s the ‘science of life’, and as old as mankind. It uses self-knowledge and self-care to bring harmony to your mind, body and soul — with secrets gathered from leaves, flowers, roots, oils and stones. Ayurveda will nourish you. Much like Incredible !ndia. 32 indiatourismla@aol.com www.incredibleindia.org Great 1-213-380-8855 Escapes 2006