Take a Trek to Canada

www.trekamerica.com has a few tours to Canada.

Here's one called "Mountie"

From their site:

14 days, from SEATTLE to SEATTLE
Trek Type: TrekAmerica (18-38's)
Destination: Canada
Accommodation: Camping
Trek Code: MO

TREK IT OUT!!
Bathe in Sulphur Mountain's hot springs Delve into the wild on an included canoe trip See the sights of Vancover and Seattle

and

TOUR OVERVIEW

Explore the pristine wilderness of British Columbia and Alberta... Camp in the high Rockies, soak in hot springs, hike across an ice glacier, and canoe on a crystal clear mountain lake. The Mountie will take you into the heart of Canada's wilderness - the perfect outdoor adventure!

INCLUDED HIGHLIGHTS
2-day overnight wilderness canoe trip - (experience not necessary) Sulphur Mountain hot springs Wildlife viewing Scenic walks and hikes Sightseeing in Vancouver & Seattle National and provincial parks - Yoho, Banff/Lake Louise, Jasper and Wells Grey Services of a TrekAmerica tour leader All transportation by private adventure vehicle 13 nights camping fees & equipment (except sleeping bag)

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES (paid locally)
Canoeing US$25-US$75 Great national park hikes US$FREE Mountain Biking US$45-$95 Horseback Riding US$45-$115 Western saloon evening US$10 Aerial Tramway Ride US$10-US$30 Guided Glacier Walk US$65-$175 Scenic Glacier Flight US$180 Rollerblading US$10-$20 Seattle Space Needle US$12 Capilano Suspension Bridge Park US$30 Whitewater Rafting (in season) US$100-$200


TREK NOTES
This tour may operate in either direction.

PRIVATE DEPARTURES
Why not arrange your own TrekAmerica departure? For groups of 8 or more, we can offer private departures on any of our published itineraries enabling friends, families or organizations to enjoy our classic "Trek" style of travel at special rates. Although tours will run as per our standard itinerary shown here, slight modifications may be considered and dates can be chosen to suit your needs. (Subject to seasonal/operational restrictions). So contact us today and start planning your own adventure.

Travel Insurance

I was just visiting the GapAAdventures.com site, and I see they have a lot of info about Travel Insurance.

These days, travel insurance is a must. You never know when you're trip might be cancelled... either because of your illness, or because of bad weather. Travel insurance just makes good sense.

Here's a bit of what they have to say about it.

What insurance is required?
Travel medical insurance is mandatory. With a wide variety of company, credit card and travel policies out there, how do you know if your coverage is sufficient for our style of adventure travel? Our minimum insurance policy coverage for medical emergency evacuation and repatriation is USD$200,000 (or equivalent in other currency). If your pre-existing coverage does not meet these needs, you will be required to purchase travel medical insurance.

Why should I get cancellation insurance?
Adding cancellation insurance to your medical insurance is optional, but always recommended. By having 'all-inclusive' coverage you do not need to worry about emergencies that can happen any time, any where, before or during your travels. Including the cost of your airfare, as well as your tour(s), ensures that you do not have to worry about any unforeseen situations such as having to rush home to a family member or having a tour changed or cancelled because of a natural disaster.

How much does it cost?
Less than you'd expect! Travel medical insurance is based on the number of days of coverage - so how long you will be away. All-inclusive insurance, which adds cancellation to your medical insurance, is based on the dollar value of the tours, airfare, hotel nights and other services being covered. Typical costs, in USD, on a 10-day tour valued at $1000 with airfare coverage at $1000 as well would be:

Medical insurance only for 10 days = around $50
All-inclusive insurance (medical + cancellation) for $2000 (tour + airfare) = around $130

Get a quote on travel insurance!
Give our Adventure Specialists a call:

In North America - 1 800 708 7761
In the UK - 888 800 4100
In Australia - 1300 796 618
In New Zealand - 0800 33 33 07

Time for a Kenya Wildlife Adventure, May 23, 2010

If you visit the website for GapAdventures (GapAdventures.com) you'll find a Kenya Wildlife Adventure just waiting for you. The next adventure starts May 23, 2010. $1408 per person (not including taxes, of course.)

Here's the overview of the 9 day trip from their website:

Day 1 Arrive Nairobi
Arrive in Nairobi at any time.

Day 2-3 Samburu Game Reserve (2B,2L,2D)
Samburu is a wildlife haven with many species that are rarely found elsewhere. Enjoy a full day game viewing in search of this unique wildlife!

Day 4-5 Lake Nakuru (2B,2L,2D)
Descend into the Great Rift Valley enjoying stunning views of the escarpment on the way. Lake Nakuru is a shallow soda lake, renowned for its huge concentration of flamingos and over 460 species of birds. Embark on a safari within Lake Nakuru National Park, in search of the resident black and white rhino, buffalo, impala, and the elusive leopard.

Day 6-7 Masai Mara (2B,2L,2D)
With its vast open plains and distinctive flat-topped acacia trees, no visit to Kenya would be complete without a visit here! Spend time game viewing with excellent chances of seeing the "Big 5" - lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant and rhino.

Day 8 Nairobi (B,L)
Enjoy one last morning game drive in the Masai Mara, watching the animal kingdom come to life as the sun rises over the Mara plain. Continue through the Great Rift Valley on your way back to Nairobi.

Day 9 Depart Nairobi (B)

If you're a wine enthusiast, Italy is the place for you.

http://iexplore.com offers guided tours to Italy.

iExplore Luxury Wine Tour of Umbria

From their website:
Recommended times for this itinerary are May 1st to mid-July and September 1st to mid-October. Depart any day! Contact an iExplore Adventure Consultant for details

Unlike Tuscany, Umbria has luckily been untouched by large-scale tourism. Etruscans and Romans made wine in this fertile region 2,500 years ago. Innumerable artists have lived here enriching its piazzas with architectural jewels and frescoed its churches and palaces with dazzling masterpieces. Food ingredients and preparation have remained traditional. Olive oil, lamb and Durham wheat pasta. Truffles from Norcia. Pecorino tartufato. Stuffed "porchetta", young roasted pig flavored with wild fennel. Stringozzi pasta resembling rustic spaghetti. Cardoon and lentils are protected by IGP. Unsalted bread, “casereccio”, is baked in wooden ovens. This is “essential” cooking where everything is balanced beautifully and all the flavors are brought out to sing together with their wines to a perfect pitch, in one of the most magical settings in the world.
Day by Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive Rome, Italy- Torgiano
Upon arrival at the Rome airport, you will be met by your chauffeur and your local Customer Service Coordinator and will be privately driven to your hotel Relais Borgo Brufa in Torgiano, Perugia where you will be assisted with check-in. Enjoy the balance of your day at leisure.

Dinner at the Hotel. Borgo Brufa is a luxury resort set in a highly panoramic position on the crest of a hill, offering superb views of Perugia, Assisi, Spello, Foligno, Spoleto, and of the Umbrian countryside.
Dinner
Relais Borgo Brufa

Day 2: The Cantico Route. Pila and Perugia
This morning you will be met at your hotel by your local English-speaking guide and you will be driven to visit the first winery.

There are 3 main wine routes In Umbria: The Cantico Route, the Etrusco-Roman Route and the Sagrantino route. We are starting with the Cantico Route. You will be driven to the Goretti Winery in Pila. This estate is in the DOC Perugia Hills and has its wine tastings in an imposing 14th Century tower, symbol of the winery. Outstanding wines are the red DOC L’Arringatore and the DOC Grechetto only grown in Umbria. L’Arringatore gets its name from 2nd Century BC Roman statue of “The Haranguer” (L’Arringatore) found on the Estate and which is now in the Archeological Museum in Florence. It also grows an awarded Sagrantino in Montefalco.

Wine tasting and lunch al fresco in the terrace overlooking the Colli Perugini and the city of Perugia.

Afternoon: you will visit Perugia, a notable artistic center of Italy. From its early days as an Etruscan city to the Renaissance the city played an important role in the history of the peninsula with powerful families giving birth to an overwhelming display of wealth and in turn the arts. The famous painter Pietro Vannucci, nicknamed Perugino, was a native of Perugia. He decorated the local Sala del Cambio with a beautiful series of frescoes; Notable sites are the Etruscan Arch, the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, Palazzo dei Priori, and Galleria Nazionale with paintings by Piero della Francesca and Beato Angelico.
Wine tasting and dinner at Relais Borgo Brufa.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Relais Borgo Brufa

Day 3: Torgiano
This morning you will be met at your hotel by your local English-speaking guide and you will be driven to the Hotel “3 Vaselle in Torgiano owned by the Lungarotti family, one of the outstanding wine makers of Italy. Here multi-award Chef Chef Domenico D’ Imperio holds his Umbrian cooking lessons. Guests will be receive recipe booklet, and certificate of participation.

For groups of less that 8 people the cooking class will be held at the Academy Cooking School in Bettona, near Perugia. Guests will receive recipe booklet, certificate of participation and photo of event.

Lunch today is at the Hotel Le Tre Vaselle; here you will have a 4-course D’Imperio lunch with the tasting of 4 wines from the classic Lungarotti line. Drawing from the millennial cuisine of the area Chef D’Imperio creates dishes that blend the traditional and innovative.

In the afternoon you will visit the nearby Wine Museum .The museum run by the Lungarotti Foundation is a history lesson on the making and drinking of wine through the ages from the role of wine in medicine to wine making techniques, equipment and the vessels used for storing, shipping and drinking wine . The Museum has also a world-class collection of art works ranging from paintings, prints, to ceramics on the consumption of wine.

Then you will be driven to the celebrated winery founded in the 60’s by Giorgio Lungarotti and run today by 3 Lungarotti sisters. Chiara Lungarotti is President of the National Wine and Tourism organization. Tasting Torre di Giano, Aurente IGT, Rubesco Riserva DOCG, Giubilante.

You then will be driven to your Hotel Relais Borgo Brufa where you will have dinner.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Relais Borgo Brufa

Day 4: Assisi- Todi
Today after checkout, your local English-speaking guide will meet you at your hotel for a full day dedicated to Assisi area.

You will be driven to the Sportoletti Winery in Spello near Assisi. The Sportoletti brothers own 40 acres on the hills of Spello and Assisi. Tasting will be with local specialties prepared by Mrs. Sportoletti. The produce 4 wines: Assisi Rosso D.O.C., Assisi Grechetto D.O.C., Villa Fidelia Bianco I.G.T., Villa Fidelia Rosso I.G.T

Lunch will follow at Il Frantoio in Assisi. The restaurant is housed in an old 17th century olive press with a garden terrace serving local specialties.

Afternoon visit of Assisi: The city, which is still within the confines of the old Roman wall has preserved most of its medieval buildings, and walking around its narrow streets is like stepping back in time. Frescoes by Giotto adorn the Basilica of St Francis of Assisi. The Cathedral of St. Rufino is built on a Roman cistern. And an imposing medieval castle, Rocca Maggiore, rises on top of the hill. Unesco declared Assisi a World Heritage site.

You will be driven to Todi to check-in at the Roccafiore Resort. This is a rich and comfortable rural farmhouse with a full view of the Todi hills. Gardens, vineyards and olive groves perfectly match the skyline of Todi’s medieval bell-towers and the beautiful landscape of the Martani Mountains. Sloping down from the pool one can contemplate the graceful lines of the Sangiovese and golden Moscato vineyards.

Each guest will receive a 30-minute full body massage in the spa.

Dinner at the Hotel: the Fiorfiore Restaurant blends homemade and refined cuisine based on the farm’s products (wine, oil, vegetables and legumes) and neighboring’ farm products (meat, cheese, truffles). Tasting of the Roccafiore wines: Rosso Sangiovese IGT, Roccafiore Grechetto.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Roccafiore Resort

Day 5: Todi
You will be met at your hotel by your local English-speaking guide for a ride to the Cantine Peppucci in Petroro di Todi. Housed in the 13th Century St Antimo Abbey, this very small winery is a family business run by the founder’s children, Elizabeth and Filippo. The abbey is considered one of the most fascinating architectural jewels of Medieval Umbria. The spectacular territory and the Peppucci’ family dedication to making high quality wines makes this a unique visit. Tasting: Petroro Red, Montorsolo Grechetto di Todi, Alter Ego Red.

Lunch at the Todini Winery in Collevalenza, Todi. The agritourism and winery are located in the heart of the Colli Martini next to Colli Perugini and the Sagrantino area. Wine tasting in the winery and then lunch in the luxurious agriturismo owned by Mr. Todini. The views are spectacular and so is the food.

Tasting: Rubro San Giovese, Bianco del Cavaliere ( Grechetto di Todi DOC), Tiaso Rosso IGT Umbria, Eteria Grechetto IGT Umbria and Nero della Cervara.

In the afternoon you will visit Todi, another medieval jewel. The Duomo built on the Roman Temple of Apollo, The Captain’s palace and the Prior’s Palace face the sloping main square, one of the most picturesque in Italy and regularly used as a film set.

Return to Relais Roccafiore and before dinner a visit to the Roccafiore Winery and Cellars or relax at the Roccafiore spa.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Roccafiore Resort

Day 6: Etruscan- Roman Wine Route- Orvieto
Today you will be met at your hotel by your local English-speaking guide for a ride on the Etruscan-Roman Wine Road.

The first visit is to the Falesco Winery in Montecchio. Owned by enologist brothers Enzo and Riccardo Cotarella the estate is home to great experimentation with old vines. This has resulted in great new wines among them the EST!EST!EST! Enologist Riccardo Cotarella introduces wines. Marciliano, Pesano, Vitiano Rose’ and Grechetto

Lunch at “Le Grotte del Funaro” in Orvieto. Dating from the 1100 this restaurant with a spectacular terrace serves Umbrian specialties. Wines: Dubini Winery: Ultima Spiaggia, Piviere San Donato

Afternoon: visit Orvieto. Orvieto is a medieval city built high up on a cliff. The defensive walls are built of the same stone so that the city rises like an impregnable monolith from the surrounding plain. It was a major center of Etruscan culture since the 7th century BC. A Papal residence since the Middle Ages it has striking monuments ranging from Etruscan ruins to its magnificent gothic Duomo and the spectacular Well of St Patrick.

Check-in at Locanda Palazzone, Orvieto.

Dinner at Locanda.

This Hotel and winery owned by Giovanni and Ludovico Dubini is a treat. Built like a town palazzo by a Cardinal in the 13th century it stands alone on top of a hill with spectacular views of Orvieto. It is now a converted farmhouse with 7 luxurious residences. Reds: Armaleo, Rubbio, whites: Terre Vineate, Campo del Guardiano. They are the only producers who age Orvieto.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Locanda Palazzone

Day 7: Orvieto
In the morning you can lounge around the pool or take strolls through the vineyards. Later in the morning you will be met at your hotel by your local English-speaking guide for a drive to The Winery of Decugnano dei Barbi.

Wine was grown on the Decugnano Hills since the 13th century. Claudio Barbi owns it since the 1960’s and his son Marco runs the company. Impressive caves have been excavated in lava rock to age the sparkling wine Decugnano Brut for which they are famous.

Tasting and lunch al fresco around the pool.

Wines Decugnano Rosso-Lago di Corbara DOC, Rosso Umbria IGT, Decugnano Pinot Nero – Lago di Corbara DOC, white: Orvieto Classico DOC, Bianco Umbria IGT.

After lunch your guide will take you to visit the winery Antinori’s Castello della Sala in Orvieto. The 1,000 acres estate has as its center a totally restored Medieval Castle built in the 14th Century, The Antinori's, giants among Italy’s wine producers bought the castle in the 1940s to take advantage of Umbria’s unique microclimate and to expand into whites. The castle’s tasting room feels like Henry the VIII could come in any time. Tasting: Cervaro della Sala, Muffato della Sala, e Pinot Nero.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Locanda Palazzone

Day 8: Montefalco
Today after checking out you will be met at your hotel by your local English-speaking guide for a trip on the Road of Sagrantino.

No more than 20 growers only make this wine in the Montefalco and Bevagna area.

Visit to the Arnaldo Caprai winery. Caprai in the 1970’s took the old Sagrantino, an ancient dessert wine and experimenting with the vine created the first Sagrantino red. Wines: Sagrantino di Montefalco DOCG, Sagrantino di Montefalco Collepiano DOCG, Montefalco Rosso DOC

Lunch Enoteca Alchimista Montefalco: In the midst of Montefalco’s main square the Enoteca Alchimista is true to its name concocting fanciful flavors out of classic umbrian recipes. Wines: Caprai’s Anima Umbra, Bea’s Montefalco DOC Rosso.

Afternoon visit of the village of Montefalco and the St. Francis Church with its remarkable frescoes by Benozzo Gozzoli.

And then another visit to an important grower: Paolo Bea . The family roots in Montefalco go back to the 1500’s.The small, still artisanal production focuses on high environmental standards and organic farming barring chemicals in the vineyard. Among its unique organic methods is the burying of globe artichokes under the vines to improve exhausted soil.

Tasting: Santa Chiara IGT bianco, Rosso de Veo, Montefalco Doc Rosso Riserva, Montefalco Docg Sagrantino Secco, Montefalfo Docg Sagrantino Passito.

Dinner at “Il Bacco Felice” Foligno. Owner Salvatore Denaro is a passionate proponent of growing your own food. His chickens, rabbits and pigs as well as his tomatoes and fava beans come from his farm. You do not order. He brings out whatever he has created for the day. A dictatorial chef well worth the surprise. The only place in which wines are not included in the dinner.

Your Hotel for the night is Villa Pambuffetti in Montefalco. This is a 19th Century family Villa under majestic trees turned into a 4 star resort.
Villa Pambuffeti
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9: Montefalco- Rome- Depart
Today you will be privately transferred to the Rome airport.
Breakfast

Take a tour to Australia with iexplore.com

From their website:

Tours to Australia depart on any day. Just contact www.iexplore.com to discuss.

Tour Overview
Australia's biggest attraction is its natural beauty. The landscape varies from endless sun-baked horizons to dense tropical rainforest to chilly southern beaches. Scattered along the coasts, its cities blend a European enthusiasm for art and food with a laid-back love of sport and the outdoors.

Visitors expecting to see an opera in Sydney one night and meet Crocodile Dundee the next will have to re-think their grasp of geography in this huge country. It is this sheer vastness that gives Australia - and its diverse population - much of its character.
In cities, visitors will experience a blur of fashion-festooned boutiques and plate-clattering restaurants, then lose themselves in a long fluid moment inside a beer or wine glass. In the interior, they might be harangued by the thump of rocks under their 4WD, only to be transfixed by a slow, silent swirl of outback dust. Around the coast, they'll take an endless breath in the depths of a rainforest, then slowly realize they have an entire beach to themselves.

Day by Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive Sydney, Australia
Today when you arrive at Sydney International Airport, you will be met and driven to your hotel for check-in. Enjoy the balance of your day at leisure in Sydney.

You will be confirmed for three nights at the Grace Hotel in a standard room. The landmark Grace Building is recognized as one of Sydney's most elegantly restored Neo Gothic buildings located in the heart of Sydney. Modeled on the Chicago Tribune building and opened in 1930, the Grace Building was originally the headquarters of the Australian department store, Grace Bros. Converted into The Grace Hotel in 1997 it stands beautifully renovated with many of the original features restored and retained. The Grace’s 382 spacious guest rooms were designed with the frequent traveler in mind. These luxuriously appointed rooms are complete with thoughtful amenities to ensure being away from home and the office is a pleasure for all the senses. The pièce de résistance in every room is the exceptionally comfortable bed with its soft feather comforters and pillows.

Sydney, the capital of the state of New South Wales, is Australia’s most well known city. With its extraordinary icons both natural and man-made, this is a city that never fails to please the eye. It’s magnificent natural harbor spanned by the ‘coat hanger’, the Sydney Harbor Bridge, and the man-made sails of the Sydney Opera House are just some of its most widely photographed views.
The Grace Hotel- Standard Room

Day 2: Sydney
Enjoy your morning at leisure.

Later, walk to Circular Quay (across the street from your hotel) and check-in for your scheduled 90-minute Magistic lunch cruise on Sydney Harbor. Cruise aboard a modern catamaran and see Sydney in style! Cruise in air-conditioned comfort as you glide effortlessly past some of the most wonderful sights in the world.
Breakfast, Lunch
The Grace Hotel- Standard Room

Day 3: Sydney
Enjoy a full day at leisure in Sydney.

Most of the major attractions of the city are within easy walking distance of your accommodation - Sydney Opera House, Darling Harbor, Centrepoint Tower, Circular Quay, The Rocks etc. Our local office can assist you with dinner reservations, sightseeing excursions and/or theater and opera venues.
Breakfast
The Grace Hotel- Standard Room

Day 4: Sydney- Ayers Rock
Today you will be driven to Sydney Airport for your flight (not included) to Ayers Rock. When you arrive in Ayers Rock, you are met and transferred to the Desert Gardens Hotel.

Desert Gardens Hotel is set amongst magnificent ghost gums and flowering native shrubs. With over 65 tours, local activities attractions within the resort and the Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park, your stay will be action packed.

This afternoon, join your tour to Kata Tjuta (“the Olgas”). Discover the magnificence of the Olgas, as your guide walks you through the Olga Gorge describing the geology and Aboriginal plant use in the area. You will return to the hotel for approximately one-half hour before your pick up for the Sounds of Silence Dinner tour. Here you will dine under the stars amongst the serenity of the outback desert. Upon completion of the tour, you will be returned to your hotel.
Breakfast, Dinner
Desert Gardens Hotel- Standard Room

Day 5: Ayers Rock
Beginning prior to sunrise, this 9.4km walk, including a light breakfast, will introduce you to the geology of Uluru and you will hear how plants and wildlife have adapted and survived in such a forbidding environment.

Hear of the relationship of the Anangu people to Uluru, which provided shelter, water and a tangible link with their creation ancestors. On the walk around the base hear and see the creation time stories of these ancient people unfold, see where they lived and carried out ceremonies. From a distance Uluru is spectacular; from close up it is powerful and deeply moving.

Balance of the day at leisure at the hotel.
Breakfast
Desert Gardens Hotel- Standard Room

Day 6: Ayers Rock- Cairns- Palm Cove
Late morning transfer to the Ayers Rock airport to board your scheduled flight to Cairns (flight not included). On arrival in Cairns you will be met and transferred to Palm Cove.

The Beaches of Cairns stretch for 26km along a beautiful coastline beginning north of the city. One of them is Palm Cove – just 20 minutes north of Cairns, and considered one of the top 10 beaches in Australia. Palm Cove's beach offers warm tropical water year round and a silky sandy beach lined with majestic Palm trees with beautiful views of the Coral Sea – the ingredients for an idyllic tropical holiday; warm seas, watersports and uncrowded sand with a sweeping backdrop of rainforest mountains.

Sebel Reef House is a charming boutique hotel, capturing the essence of the tropics with natural Australian style and offering elegant superbly appointed accommodation, three swimming pools, spa and a choice of restaurants and bars.
Breakfast
Sebel Reef House- Verandah Room

Day 7: Great Barrier Reef
Transfer to Marina Mirage in Port Douglas and board ‘Quicksilver’ cruise for a full day excursion to Agincourt Reef. Situated on the very edge of the Great Barrier Reef, Agincourt Reef provides a sheltered anchorage for the Quicksilver vessel and the prefect spot for passengers to snorkel, dive, and view the spectacular coral formations.

Return to Port Douglas and transfer by coach to Sebel Reef House.
Breakfast, Lunch
Sebel Reef House - Verandah Room

Day 8: Palm Cove
Enjoy a full day at leisure at Sebel Reef House. Perhaps join in some of optional activities available from the lodge such as spa and massage treatments, hiking, freshwater swimming, canoeing, tennis, golf, fishing and bike riding. Or take a guided walk through the rainforest during the day or evening.
Breakfast
Sebel Reef House- Verandah Room

Day 9: Palm Cove- Cairns- Depart
Transfer to Cairns International Airport for your departing flight.
Breakfast

How much does it cost?

2010- 11 Prices:
April 1, 2010 to March 31, 2011
$2,795 per person double occupancy.
$2,495 per person, triple share.
$4,175 solo traveler.
$1,125 single room supplement.

Prices for your dates of travel may vary- please contact iExplore for an exact quote. Quoted prices are based on current rates of exchange, tariffs and taxes as of December, 2009. iExplore reserves the right to increase tour prices to cover increased costs, tariffs and taxes received after prices are published, and to reflect fluctuations in foreign exchange rates. iExplore is under no obligation to give breakdown costs involved in any package.

Inclusions:
· Sydney airport meet and assist upon arrival and welcome packet
· Accommodation as detailed:
o The Grace Hotel – Superior Room
o Desert Gardens Ayres Rock – Standard Room
o Sebel Reef House Palm Cove – Veranda Room
· Airport transfers in Sydney, Ayres Rock and Cairns by private vehicles
· Meals as indicated (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
· All sightseeing excursions and transfers are on a non-exclusive basis
· Entrance fees while sightseeing

Exclusions:
· International and Domestic air and taxes
· Internal air: Sydney-Ayers Rock-Cairns
· Internal air: Cairns-Sydney
· Meals other than those indicated
· Optional sightseeing excursions
· Items of a personal nature
· Travel Insurance
· Departure tax
· Gratuities
· Holiday surcharges

These trips are priced assuming two travelers. Surcharges for solo travelers and discounts for groups, if any, will be applied. Prices assume itinerary is purchased "as is". Minor changes to hotels or hotel add-ons to the beginning or the end of the existing itinerary can be made at no extra charge. Any customization requiring us to start with a new base itinerary will require a non-refundable upfront planning fee of $250 that is creditable towards the final trip price.

Group Discounts
The more people you bring on your next iExplore adventure, the more you save. Learn how with iExplore Group Discounts.

Last Minute Special to Central America and Mexico

GapAdventures (www.gapadventures.com) offers last minute travel specials all the times.

Well, last minute is a relative term when it comes to the travel business...

There's a 46 day tour to Central America and Mexico that leaves on May 15, 2010. It's at a special price, used to be $2900, now $2549 - although there'll be taxes added on to that, of course.

Here's the info from their website:
Day 1-17 Mexico
Arrive in Mexico City at any time on day 1. Begin in the world's largest metropolitan area, Mexico City, and explore several not-to-be missed art and ancient artifact museums. Next, head south to Puebla where the street life will more than fill your days and nights. Continuing south, visit Oaxaca for handicraft markets and the impressive Zapotec ruins of Monte Alban; the highland gem of San Cristóbal and Mayan site of Palenque in Chiapas and then finally on to the famous Yucatán towns of Mérida, Cancún and Playa del Carmen, home of some of the best beaches in Mexico.

Day 18-21 Belize
Belize's famous barrier reef and the laid-back Caribbean atmosphere sum up Caye Caulker, a top snorkelling and diving spot. The Mountain Pine Ridge area provides us with several fascinating options for exploring the jungle wilds of Belize.

Day 22-30 Guatemala
Deep in the Guatemalan jungle lies Tikal, one of the largest excavated Mayan ruin sites in the Americas. Visit the colourful town of Flores on Lake Petén Itzá. Rio Dulce, the gateway to the Guatemala's Caribbean Coast, stands in sharp contrast to the colonial highland town of Antigua, and Mayan centres of Chichicastenango and Panajachel, on breathtaking Lake Atitlán.

Day 31-35 Honduras
Explore the superb ruins of Copan, with temples, pyramids and intricately carved stelae that predate many European civilizations. Swim, dive, snorkel or simply relax in the crystal blue waters and white sand beaches of Roatan Island

Day 36-40 Nicaragua
Nicaragua has flourished in recent years and boasts both friendly people and impressive natural beauty. Granada's colonial charm is enhanced by the active volcanoes and lakes that surround it. Day trips from here are a fun and easy option. Hike, cruise, or just explore the city's markets and museums.

Day 41-46 Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a must see for its breathtaking flora and fauna. Travel through the highland cloud forests and coastal rainforest and experience the full spectrum of the country' s diverse natural highlights. Take time to bird watch, go horseback riding or try mountain biking. Soak up some pure mountain air before ending our journey in the capital of San José. Depart on Day 46.

TrekAmerica goes to Peru

From its name, you'd expect that TrekAmerica would deal only with "America" or the United States of America, but it's really a global name... there's North America, Central America and South America, after all! (Although the fact that their logo features the striped reds and whites of the US flag does seem to hint that they only do the US!)

But, in any event, what's happening in Peru?

From their website:

Many travelers are convinced that Peru is the most colourful nation in South America. It had thriving Indian civilizations long before the Spaniards arrived and its ruins, including Machu Picchu, are the most spectacular on the continent.

If you're planning a trip to Peru, there is plenty to see and do! While trekking the traditional Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is the most famous journey, there are many other dynamic places to visit.

Highlights include the Colca Canyon - a gorge twice as deep as the Grand Canyon; the mysterious Nazca Lines - whose shapes tell forgotten stories from the past; Lake Titicaca's native island communities will welcome you to their traditional cultures and then there is Cusco with its traditional markets, historic archaeological sites and the excellent cafes and nightlife that make the city a visitor's favourite.

Here are the tour highlights:

Cusco: Heart of the Incan Empire and home to the nearby Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. Its many markets and colonial architecture will take your breath away as you acclimate for your journey to Machu Picchu.
Machu Picchu: "Lost city of the Incas" and ultimate hiking destination, the winding trails or comfortable train will provide you with an unforgettable sunrise over the Inca citadel.
Lake Titicaca: The highest navigable lake in the world is located in the high plains between Peru & Bolivia. The villagers' traditional cultures are illustrated in their local artisans' handiwork.

TrekAmerica offers three tours to Peru: Inca Trail - 8 days from Cusco, Flight of the Condor - 14 days from Lima, and Classic Peru - 21 days from Lima.

I'll talk about each in a later post.

From Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon

Trek America (www.trekamerica.com) offers a 4-day roundtrip tour from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon and back.

This tour starts in May, and can be booked through to October.

Here's what you'll get to see:

Our routes have been carefully chosen to include the best night stops and highlights. However, as local conditions and passenger requests vary, no two trips will ever be the same. With the guidance of your Trek Leader you may modify certain nightstops and highlights to give a truly unique experience!


Day: 1 Las Vegas & Cowboy Camp
Leaving Las Vegas we'll pass through colourful Colorado City and the Grand Staircase / Escalante National Monument en-route to Lake Powell for a 'must do' swim and fantastic photo op. Then tuck into an authentic Western BBQ and tales around the campfire at the rugged Paria Canyon Ranch.
Accommodation: Bunkhouse included | Meals: Lunch & dinner included


Day: 2 Cowboy Camp & Monument Valley
Saddle up for an optional horseback ride before heading out to Monument Valley. Along the way we'll stop off for a short hike to Horseshoe Bend and a quick visit to the Indian market, before jumping on our guided Jeep tour deep into the valley for an overnight experience with the Navajo in one of their traditional mud-hut Hogans.
Accommodation: Camping included | Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner included


Day: 3 Monument Valley & Grand Canyon
Passing through the Painted Desert we'll make our way to the Cameron Trading Post sat on top of the Little Colorado River Gorge. Stopping off at various view points along the way, you'll have plenty more photo opportunities to catch the sun setting over one of the Seven Wonders of the Natural World.
Accommodation: Camping included | Meals: Breakfast & lunch included


Day: 4 Grand Canyon & Las Vegas
Catch a bird's eye view on an optional scenic helicopter flight before making our way back to Las Vegas via the famous Route 66 and Hoover Dam. Tour The Strip and outlet malls for some last memories and mementos of your south-western adventure.
Meals: Breakfast included.

Tour ends in Las Vegas at approx. 17:00 on day 4.

So check it out at their website.

Take a Mini-Trek to Niagara Falls

trekadventures.com leads adventure travels on journeys all across the United States.

What's in store for you?

How about a "Mini-Adventure" to Niagara Falls?

Here's the ifo from their website:

3 days, from NEW YORK AREA to NEW YORK AREA

TOUR OVERVIEW


If you've got a taste for the USA but time is in short supply then TrekAmerica's New York to Niagara mini-adventure is just the ticket. Leaving the bright lights and crazy nights of New York City behind, venture deep into 'up state' New York for a night on the shore of the Finger Lakes with it's many waterfalls and wineries, then on to the thundering wonder of the incomparable Niagara Falls!



INCLUDED HIGHLIGHTS


Delaware Water Gap / Poconos Finger Lakes hiking & swimming Niagara Falls and the Maid of the Mist scenic boat cruise College town of Syracuse, NY Woodbury Common Outlet Mall Select breakfast, lunch, dinners Services of a TrekAmerica tour leader All transportation by private adventure vehicle 2 nights camping fees & equipment (except sleeping bag)



OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES (paid locally)


Wine tasting US$12-$35 Outlet Shopping Malls US$Your credit limit! Walk across Rainbow Bridge to Canada (subject to visas) US$FREE Illumination viewing of Niagara Falls US$FREE


TREK NOTES

The tour will pick-up from the Chelsea Hostel (address below) in New York at 07:30 A.M followed by our gateway hotel in New Jersey, The Holiday Inn Secaucus, at 08:30.

You must specify at the time of booking if you want to be picked up at the Chelsea hostel otherwise it will be presumed you will meet the group at The Holiday Inn, Secaucus.

Chelsea International Hostel
251 West 20th Street
New York, NY 10011
Tel: 212.647.0010
www.chelseahostel.com

Southern Sun Tour from Trek America

Let's see what Trek America has on offer today. (Well, what they have on offer every day, but that we're going to talk about today!)

How about their Southern Sun tour. You're on the road for 21 days, camping out under the stars at night.

Here's what their website has to say about it:

Experience the fast paced East, the slow moving South and the laidback West with exciting activities such as whitewater rafting, horseback riding and hiking on offer - don't forget about the nightlife of New Orleans and Las Vegas!

The first of these Southern Tours stars on April 21, and you'll be travelling, one way, until 11 May. Prices start at $2109.

INCLUDED HIGHLIGHTS
Night time illumination tour of Washington D.C monuments Limousines in Las Vegas New Orleans' Bourbon Street Grand Canyon sunrise or sunset San Antonio's Riverwalk Alien spotting in Roswell Scenic walks and hikes National parks and monuments - Carlsbad Caverns, Monument Valley, Grand Canyon, Lake Powell and Zion Services of a TrekAmerica tour leader All transportation by private adventure vehicle 16 nights camping fees & equipment (except sleeping bag)


OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES (paid locally)
Whitewater Rafting (in season) US$60-$175
Great national park hikes US$FREE
Waverunners US$50
New Orleans Jazz Clubs US$10-$20
Mississippi Steamboat Ride US$20-$75
Southern Mansion Tour US$10
Smithsonian National Museums US$FREE
Grand Canyon Scenic Flights US$135-$400
Monument Valley Navajo guided jeep tour US$50-$95
Western horseback riding US$45-$95
IMAX Theater US$8-$12
Las Vegas clubs and casinos US$50-US$150
Swamp tour US$20-$40

TREK NOTES
We are no longer including a day trip to Mexico on this tour due to previous problems experienced at the border crossing.

Travel specials from iexplore: Galapagos Explorer

Let's take a look today at a travel special from http://www.iexplore.com/.

The Galapagos Explorer expedition was priced at $2620, it's now at $2320. That's a savings of $300. You must book by April 30, 2010 to get this special rate.

Here's all the info from their website - go there to book it!

Flying to Baltra we cross by ferry to Santa Cruz island and continue by road to Puerto Ayora where we'll visit the Galapagos tortoise research program at Darwin Station. In the afternoon we board the M.Y San Jose and cruise to Leon Domido and the large island of San Cristobal where we visit the new interpretation centre and the rugged volcanic peaks of Cerro Brujo. Next stop is isolated Espanola Island where we find waved albatrosses plus blue-footed and masked boobies, Galapagos hawks, Darwin finches, sea lions and marine iguanas. On the 'Buccaneer' hideaway island of Floreana we'll visit Post Office Bay and the island's volcanic cone, a great spot for snorkelling, full of sea lions and colourful fish. You'll also encounter the stately, pink flamingos as they wade in the shallow waters of inland lagoons. Arriving back at Santa Cruz Island we'll visit Black Turtle Cove and cruise amongst the mangroves, where the array of wildlife kicks into overdrive! The lagoons are a nursery for many sharks and rays. Amongst all this activity you will also find time to relax sunbath, swim, snorkel and enjoy new friendships.

Day by Day Itinerary
Day 1: Quito
On arrival at Quito's Mariscal Sucre International Airport you are met and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at your leisure. There is a pre-departure meeting in the evening where you meet others travelling on your cruise to the Galapagos Islands. Please look for a notice in the hotel reception confirming the time of the meeting.

Note: Quito is located at 2850 metres above sea level. At this altitude you may possibly experience some of the milder effects of altitude sickness, such as dizziness, insomnia and a shortness of breath. If this is the case we recommend that you avoid any strenuous activity.

Day 2: Galapagos (Santa Cruz - Puerto Ayora - Charles Darwin Station)
This morning we are transferred to the airport for our flight to the Galapagos. Lunch is normally served on the flight. On arrival at Baltra Airport in the Galapagos you must pay the US$100 arrival tax for entry to Galapagos National Park. This is best done using cash, as using credit cards can be a time consuming process. We are met in the arrival hall and transferred by boat and bus to the 'M.Y. San Jose' in Puerto Ayora, on Santa Cruz Island. Once our luggage has been stored on board we commence our exploration of Santa Cruz, the second largest island in the Galapagos. The small town of Puerto Ayora is the economic centre of the archipelago, whilst the island is home to the Charles Darwin Research Station. If you didn't take your lunch on the flight you can eat in one of the many excellent restaurants in town. In the afternoon we visit the Darwin station to observe the tortoise research and breeding program. It is here in the station that we have the opportunity to get up close to some Galapagos giant tortoises. In the late afternoon we board the 'Endeavour' and set sail for San Cristobal.
Meals included: 1 breakfast, 1 lunch, 1 dinner

Day 3: Galapagos (San Cristobal Island)
The town of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno on San Cristobal is the capital and administrative centre of the Galapagos Islands. There is a good interpretation centre here that is well worth a visit. The centre focuses primarily on the history and geography of the archipelago, from its volcanic origins to the present-day ecosystem. We pass through Leon Dormido (Kicker Rock), which is a magnificent rock in the middle of the sea, set in a shape resembling a sleeping lion. The rock rises 150 metres above the surface and is divided into two parts by a narrow channel navigable by small vessels. We also visit Cerro Brujo, where there is a chance to go hiking, swimming and snorkelling. The sandy beach is home to Sally Lightfoot crabs, brown pelicans and blue-footed boobies.
Meals included: 1 breakfast, 1 lunch, 1 dinner

Day 4: Galapagos (Espanola – Bahia Gardner - Punta Suarez)
Today we cruise to the island of Espanola - the southernmost island of the Galapagos. Because of its remote location this place has a large population of endemic fauna. It is the breeding site for nearly all of the world's 12,000 pairs of waved albatrosses and also home to colonies of blue-footed and masked boobies. We also visit the beautiful white sandy beaches at Bahia Gardner, which are great places for swimming and relaxing. The rocks off the coast provide excellent snorkelling opportunities, with reef sharks, turtles and many species of tropical fish, including surgeon and angelfish, often seen. The small white-tipped reef sharks are also often spotted resting under the rocks. We also pay a visit to Punta Suarez, one of the most attractive locations in the Galapagos and home to large and varied wildlife population.
Meals included: 1 breakfast, 1 lunch, 1 dinner

Day 5: Galapagos (Floreana - Post Office Bay - Punta Cormorant)
Our destination is the island of Floreana, where we go ashore at Punta Cormorant. Here, the sand is made up of fine olivine crystals, a glassy volcanic mineral, giving the beach its olive-green colour and it is the best place to we see Galapagos sea lions. Today is also our best opportunity to see pink flamingos and other water birds wading in the lagoons, including pintails and stilts. Devil’s Crown is an old eroded volcanic cone and a popular roosting site for seabirds such as boobies, pelicans and frigates. Red-billed tropicbirds can also be seen nesting in the rocky crevices. The centre of the cone is an outstanding snorkelling spot, full of sea lions and colourful fish. Floreana is also home to Post Office Bay, where 18th Century whalers used a barrel as an unofficial mail drop. This custom continues to this day with visitors to the Galapagos!
Meals included: 1 breakfast, 1 lunch, 1 dinner

Day 6: Galapagos (Caleta Tortuga Negra - Baltra) - Quito
Today we take an early morning excursion to Caleta Tortuga Negra (Black Turtle Cove) - a mangrove swamp on the north shore of Santa Cruz Island. In the smaller corners of the cove we paddle a dinghy for a wonderfully peaceful journey through this beautiful and unique area. This is often an excellent place to see green turtle, golden ray and Galapagos shark. There is also abundant birdlife, such as yellow warbler and lava heron. It is not uncommon to see turtles mating. This is our final excursion before we return to the airport in Baltra for our flight back to Quito.

As you will be leaving the boat this morning, please remember that if you have enjoyed the services provided by your guide and crew, a tip would be very much appreciated by them. As a guideline we recommend each passenger consider US$15 per day for the crew and US$7-10 per day for your guide. You can leave tips in envelopes that are placed in your cabin on this last day of your journey. Upon arrival in Quito Airport you are transferred back to our hotel for an overnight stay.
Meals included: 1 breakfast

Day 7: Quito
Our 'Galapagos Explorer' adventure ends today after breakfast.
Meals included: 1 breakfast

Included: An experienced English-speaking naturalist, arrival transfer, cruise transfers, transport, four-night cruise and activities.

Not Included: Airport departure taxes, international departure transfer, visas where required, meals not included in the itinerary, insurance, laundry, any optional tours or activities during free time, tips, items of a personal nature, Galapagos transit card and the entrance fee to the Galapagos Islands National Park.

Meals: 6 breakfasts,4 lunches,4 dinners



Notes:

M.Y. San Jose
The San Jose is a modern vessel. She has a comfortable lounge and dining area, as well as a sun deck where you can view the wildlife or just kick back and relax. She has eight well-appointed, air-conditioned, twin cabins and yet, at 34 metres, she is small enough for us to offer an individual level of service. She's just perfect for a more personal look at this great marine reserve.8 large double cabins with private facilities, all lower berths.9 crew including bilingual Naturalist.Fully air conditioned, Radar, HF, VHF Radio, Satellite Navigation, 2 motor boats.The M.Y. San Jose was previously marketed as the Endeavour.Accommodation on board is based on twin share. Single supplements are available on request should you require a cabin to yourself; however, be warned, they are expensive.Please remember that the sun in the Galapagos can be quite fierce. Make sure you bring along a hat, sunglasses and plenty of sunscreen. You should also bring insect repellant for use on some shore excursions and excursions into the mangroves.

Peregrine Community Trust & The Galapagos Conservancy
If, after having visited this unique and precious region of the world, you would like to make a donation towards the protection of the Galapagos, the recently launched Peregrine Community Trust is the easiest and most convenient way to do so. We support the work of The Galapagos Conservancy. The Conservancy is dedicated to raising funds and awareness for Galapagos conservation. It is a membership-based organisation and the largest source of private support for conservation efforts. The 11,000 Friends of Galapagos are individuals and institutions who care deeply about the Galapagos Islands, and understand the scientific importance of preserving this one-of-a-kind ecosystem.Funds raised by the Galapagos Conservancy support the core operations of the Charles Darwin Research Station (CDRS) and the Galapagos National Park Service (GNPS), both located on the island of Santa Cruz.Please see below for details on how to make a contribution to the Peregrine Community Trust or refer to the Pledge Card provided at your pre-cruise briefing which contains details for making a donation.

Starts/Ends: Quito to Quito

Responsible travel

Tourism to "undeveloped" countries is always a Catch-22.

On the one hand, the tourists get to see undeveloped country, and bring some much needed money to the area.

On the other hand, the more tourists go there, the more they want their creature comforts, and the more developed the country becomes, so that the original charm and character are lost.

That is not yet the case with such rmeote locations like Machu Picchu in Peru, but it is fast getting there, as more and more people from around the world travel their, expecting to find first class, air conditioned hotel rooms and so on!

Then there's all the litter, not to mention the strain of the visitors on the site's sanitary systems.

It is the responsibility of the tourist, or traveller, to take care of each and every site they visit, not only by packing out their own garbage, but even the garbage they see, left by others.

Here's an example from a visit to Stonehenge a year or so ago. Admittedly the people were attending a festival - but really, that's no excuse!

Revelers Leave Trash All Over Stonehenge

The good news is that lots of people got to visit Stonehenge for the summer solstice this past weekend. The bad news is that they left the place covered in litter. Over 36,000 people came to the sacred site on Salisbury Plain for the annual celebration, and local Druids are not happy about the mess. One said, "It is nice to see a lot of people here because there is no better place to learn about our culture and history... But it is upsetting to see so much litter, and some people can be disrespectful."

There had been some controversy a few weeks back, regarding increased police presence. However, local authorities say the attendees were well behaved, with only two dozen arrests. Not bad at all for a crowd that size.

Anyway, the article doesn't indicate whether the trash left behind was due to a shortage of garbage bins, or just people being lazy. My guess would be that it's a combination of the two. Really, if you're attending a public festival like this and you have garbage, you should be responsible enough to take it with you when you go home if there aren't enough trash cans.

Then people wonder why a site they've come a thousand miles to see is all roped off, with no one allowed within a hundred yards of it. Why? Because if they were allowed to get up close and touch it, somebody's hand would sneak out and grab a rock to take away for a souvenir, or spraypaint a clever little slogan...

Info on Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu is a pre-Columbian Inca site located on a mountain ridge above the Urubamba Valley in Peru. Most archaeologists believe that Machu Picchu was built as an estate for the Inca emperor Pachacuti (1438–1472). It is often called "The Lost City of the Incas", and is perhaps the most familiar icon of the Inca World.

It is believed that the Incas started building Machu Picchu around AD 1400 -- but that it was abandoned a century later when the Spanish conquistadors arrived and started decimating the populace.

Although known ever since by the locals, the "outside world" didn't know about it until 1911 when American historian Hiram Bingham discovered it.

In 1981, Machu Picchu was declared a Peruvian Historical Sanctuary, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. For some reason the Spanish never plundered the site, so it is especially important as a cultural site and is considered a sacred place.

Built in the classical Inca style, Machu Picchu has polished dry-stone walls. Its primary buildings are the Intihuatana, the Temple of the Sun, and the Room of the Three Windows. These are located in what archaeologists call "the Sacred District."

An affordable tour from Gap Travel: Inca Discovery tour

Who isn't looking for bargains these days?

Well, Gap Travel, has quite a few.

Here's their latest tour to Peru to visit the archeological sites of the Inca.

Inca Discovery - book now as it leaves April 13, 2010!

Trip Style: Active
Service Level: Standard
Physical Demands Rating: 4
Next Available Departure: Tue, Apr. 13, 2010
Highlights
Cuzco, Sacred Valley, Inca Trail, Machu Picchu.

Follow in the steps of the Incas on this trip to the "must-see" highlight of Peru - the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu! The 4-day trek from Cuzco is spectacular and the first glimpse of Machu Picchu will leave memories to last a lifetime.

Machu Picchu was recently the site of tremendous thunderstorms that made travel difficult for many weeks. Here's the latest update:

In an effort to preserve and protect the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, the Peruvian governing bodies have taken drastic measures in the past few years to limit the amount of people hiking the Trail. As of March 2004, no more than 500 people (including support staff) per day are allowed on the Inca Trail and this number is strictly adhered to. As Sustainable Tourism is constantly at the forefront of our business philosophy, Gap Adventures is happy to work within the framework of these regulations in order to properly protect the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu. Our company policies regarding the Inca Trail are put in place in order to guarantee an excellent passenger experience and also as a way to directly address these issues and make sure that this information is clear and understood.

The rules and regulations controlling the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu are continually changing and it is important to be aware of the issues detailed in this document before embarking on your adventure to Peru.

Current Inca Trail Regulations
As stated above, no more than 500 people per day are allowed to start the Inca Trail trek at km. 82. This number includes all support staff (ie. porters, cooks and guides) and is very tightly controlled. Once this limit of 500 people is reached, the Trail is effectively closed off for the day and no further bookings can be made. Reservations are not held on the Trail and all permits to trek must be bought as far as possible in advance with complete and correct passport information, to which no modifications can be made. Any attempts at modifications result in a loss of the permit and any money paid.

Booking policies
Inca Trail permit availability will be reflected on our website under individual trip departure dates.

With immediate effect, the Gap Adventures policy for all Inca Trail bookings is:

Bookings made 65 days or more before the Inca Trail portion* of any Gap Adventure should proceed without any issue if we receive the following pieces of information:
Full name (exactly as it appears on the passport)
Date of birth
Passport number
Nationality
Date of passport expiry
Bookings between 64 and 31 days before the Inca Trail portion* of any tour will be taken on a request basis.

Please Note: The passport number and name that is submitted to Gap Adventures, at time of confirmation, will be used to purchase the Inca Trail permit. This passport number and name will be used to identify yourself as you enter the check point at the start of the trail and throughout the hike. If this information does not match the information you have submitted at time of confirmation, then you will be subject to delay, fine, and/or cancellation of admission to the Inca Trail.

Should any requests made within 64 days before the Inca Trail portion* of any tour be denied, the following three alternatives will be offered:

In the unlikely event that we are unable to secure permits, the following options will be offered:
Hike the Lares Trek route through the Sacred Valley, a fascinating and challenging 4-day, 3-night trip ending in Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu. This trek takes in much of the Inca's most sacred and important countryside and many monuments. All transportation, accommodation, guide services etc. will be included.
Spend two nights in Cuzco, travel by train for a night in Aguas Calientes, and join the hikers for the tour of Machu Picchu.
Cancel or change the trip without penalty

If changes to the current government policy affect our ability to provide access to the advertised itinerary including the Inca Trail, we will endeavor to provide clients with the best options and customer service available. Please also see clause 17 in our terms and conditions concerning our responsibilities.

*When booking any trip involving the Inca Trail, please book as far in advance as possible in order to increase the possibility of securing space on the Trail during the peak periods of the year.

Should you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Thank you for your understanding.

Iceland Adventures

Here's another trip sponsored by www.gapadventures.com:

The next trip to Iceland is scheduled to leave September 8, 2010.

Arctic Highlights - Spitsbergen, Greenland, and Iceland

Trip Style: Expedition
Physical Demands Rating: 2
Next Available Departure: Wed, Sep. 8, 2010
Highlights
Spitsbergen, Longyearbyen, the Greenland Sea, East Greenland, the Scoresbysund Fjord, Reykjavik, Zodiac cruises, tundra, unique wildlife, and local communities.

Description
Sailing from Spitsbergen to Greenland, follow the ice's edge always on the lookout for wildlife. Navigating south, explore this remote landscape not only by ship but also on foot and by Zodiac. This journey highlights the contrast and change in the Arctic as you move south finally ending in the "land of fire and ice," Iceland. Inuit villages, unique wildlife and remote destinations are some of the highlights on this truly unforgettable voyage through the Arctic

Time for more Gap Adventures

I hope everyone had a pleasant Easter weekend.

Now let's get back to talking travel!

What's the latest at gapadventures.com/?

Well, lets talk about Finland.

Nestled between Russia, Norway and Sweden, Finland is a perfect balance of modern development and unspoiled nature. Helsinki is the metropolitan Capital, but this northern European nation boasts over 200 000 lakes, and some of the best cross-country skiing you can find.

How about a 6 day trip to Finland?

Finland Winter Activity Week and Igloo Village
Trip Style: Canada Goose
Service Level: Comfort
Physical Demands Rating: 2
Highlights
Stunning Lapland scenery, Igloo Village and night in a snow igloo, Variety of winter activity options, Northern Lights

Description
Venture to the heart of Finnish Lappland and surround yourself with the natural beauty of this winter wonderland! Spend your days keeping busy with a variety of optional activities such as dog-sledding, a reindeer safari, or ice fishing. Keep warm at night in your traditional log-cabin and snow igloo, and of course keep warm with your Canada Goose parka, included with this tour.

List of caverns in Virginia

There are 13 "showcaves" in Virginia - caves or caverns that are open to the public.

US Showcaves Directory - Virginia Caves (and Virtual Cave)
National Caves Association - Virginia Caves
Crystal Caverns at Hupp's Hill
Gap Cave (formerly Cudjo's Cave)
Dixie Caverns
Grand Caverns (and the geology)
Endless Caverns
Luray Caverns
Natural Bridge Caverns
Natural Tunnel State Park
Shenandoah Caverns
Skyline Caverns

There are many more caves that are not accessible to, or suitable for the general public. These take the appropriate gear and safety precautions.

Butler-Sinking Creek System --Bath County 17 miles of passages
Chestnut Ridge Cave System --Bath County 14 miles of passages
Perkins Cave --Washington County 10 miles of passages
Stompbottom Cave --Tazewell County 7.7 miles of passages
Unthanks Cave --Lee County 7.3 miles of passages
Paxtons Cave --Alleghany County 7.2 miles of passages
Paul Penley's Cave --Bland County 6.6 miles of passages
Newberry - Bane Cave --Bland County 6.6 miles of passages
Helictite Cave --Highland County 6.5 miles of passages
Clarks Cave --Bath County 6.4 miles of passages
Fallen Rock Cave --Tazewell County 6.4 miles of passages
Cudjo's - Cumberland Gap
Saltpetre Cave --Lee County 6 miles of passages
New River Cave --Giles County 5.3 miles of passages
Spring Hollow Cave --Bland County 5 miles of passages
Endless Caverns --Rockingham County 4.7 miles of passages
Gilley Cave --Lee County 4.5 miles of passages
Breathing Cave --Bath County 4.5 miles of passages
Crossroads Cave --Bath County 3.5 miles of passages
Williams Cave --Bath County 3.4 miles of passages
Barberry Cave --Bath County 3.3 miles of passages
Banes Spring Cave --Bland County 3 miles of passages
Yer Cave --Giles County 3 miles of passages
Lowmoor Cave --Alleghany County 2.6 miles of passages
Millers Cove Cave --Roanoke County 2.5 miles of passages
Salamander Cave --Giles County 2.4 miles of passages
Starnes Cave --Giles County 2.2 miles of passages
Clover Hollow Cave --Giles County 2.1 miles of passages
Cavin Cave --Lee County 2.1 miles of passages
Reasor Pump Cave --Lee County 2.1 miles of passages
Buchanan Saltpetre Cave --Smyth County 2.1 miles of passages
Doe Mountain Cave --Giles County 2 miles of passages
Witheros Cave --Bath County 2 miles of passages
Hancock Cave --Smyth County 1.9 miles of passages
Porters Cave --Bath County 1.9 miles of passages
Smokehole Cave --Giles County 1.8 miles of passages
Kimbalton Mine Cave --Giles County 1.7 miles of passages
Vickers Cave --Washington County 1.7 miles of passages
Jessie Cave --Russell County 1.7 miles of passages
Aqua (Lockridge) Cave --Highland County 1.6 miles of passages
Locomotive Breath Cave --Alleghany County 1.6 miles of passages
Blair - Collins Cave --Scott County 1.5 miles of passages
Surgener Cave --Lee County 1.5 miles of passages
Cave Spring Cave --Rockbridge County 1.5 miles of passages
James Cave --Pulaski County 1.4 miles of passages
Buddy Penleys Cave --Bland County 1.4 miles of passages
Kelly Cave --Wise County 1.4 miles of passages
Starr Chapel Saltpetre Cave --Bath County 1.4 miles of passages
Lowes (Fritz Breathing) Cave --Washington County 1.4 miles of passages
Hairy Hole --Wise County 1.3 miles of passages
New Castle Murder Hole --Craig County 1.3 miles of passages
Stay High Cave --Giles County 1.3 miles of passages
Pig Hole --Giles County 1.2 miles of passages
Wildcat Cavern --Wise County 1.2 miles of passages
Stonleys (Divides) Cave --Tazewell County 1.1 miles of passages
Cribb Cave --Scott County 1.1 miles of passages
Wilburn Valley Cave --Giles County 1.1 miles of passages
Rufe Caldwell Cave --Craig County 1.1 miles of passages
Flannery Cave --Scott County 1.1 miles of passages
Skyline Caverns --Page County 1 mile of passages
Slussers Chapel Cave --Montgomery County 1 mile of passages
Young - Fugate Cave --Lee County 1 mile of passages