It seems like just yesterday I was in my high school English class trying to memorize The Road Not Taken, a poem written  by Robert Frost.   At the time, I was a typical seventeen year old and I never really thought about what the poem meant to me.   I just wanted to finish my assignment and receive my grade.    Ironically, over twenty  years later,  I found myself reciting the poem as I glanced through the 2012  General Tours World Traveler Catalog.  You may be wondering what Robert Frost has to do with a travel catalog: it’s the words, “the road not taken” that stood out in my mind as I glanced through the pages of unique travel experiences offered by General Tours.  Destinations range from Europe’s most popular countries like Italy and Ireland to exotic places like Burma, India, Vietnam, China, South Africa, Morocco, Antarctica, Peru, and the Galapagos – just to name a few.

General Tours World Traveler offers more than 70 innovative small group journeys and surprisingly affordable privately guided tours worldwide.  With never more than 16 guests, these small group vacations feature some of the world’s finest 5 –star hotels, including intimate and historic properties that can’t accommodate traditional tour groups.  Guests enjoy convivial dining, unhurried touring, and attentive service from experienced trip leaders.  Exclusive small group discoveries provide authentic encounters and cultural experiences that are simply not available to  larger tour  groups.

 Perhaps one of the most intriguing itineraries that caught my eye was the  Luxury Tenting in the Serengeti.  It is no secret to those who know me well that a tent is definitely not my favorite type of accommodation.  In fact, camping to me means an RV with electricity and running water.    However, this is luxury tenting and it brings an entirely new meaning to the word tent.  In addition to offering unmatched game viewing in isolated, uncrowded settings of extraordinary natural beauty, the esteemed luxury camps capture the romance and simple elegance of classic Grand Safaris of a bygone era.  The luxury camps of Lemala have wooden floors and rugs, cozy beds, and spacious private baths with a dressing area and a large safari shower.   The classic “mess tent” offers dining and living areas with a central bar and is handsomely appointed with leather sofas and chandeliers.  In the evenings, guests gather around a campfire for Sundowner cocktails before sitting down to congenial dinners hosted by the camp manager.  Chances are, you won’t find any smores  or dutch ovens around this fire. 

The luxury camps offer exclusive, unobstructed viewing for what is perhaps the Greatest Show on Earth. Because they are uniquely mobile, the tents  are seasonally positioned for unmatched viewing of the Great Migration at any time of the year.  Depending on your travel dates, you could see  some of the 1.5 million wildebeest and zebra  that arrive in December and stay through February and March as the calving season begins.  General Tours does not want to you to miss the animals morning routine, so they include a  hot air balloon safari in the light of dawn followed by a champagne breakfast.  This is just one of many amazing experiences offered on the  nine day itinerary featuring two UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

As I continued reading the brochure, I stopped at the Machu Picchu and Galapagos itinerary.   Now, that is a great way to cross two items off my bucket list in one tour!  This two week tour includes five UNESCO World Heritage Sites.  The tour begins in Lima  where you will  stay for 2 nights and have the chance to see the city’s Colonial architecture  and museums.  From Lima, you will fly high into the Andes where Cuzco awaits.  You will be at ease knowing the 5 star hotel includes specially oxygenated rooms and vehicles are equipped with oxygen tanks to ensure your comfort at Cuzco’s high-mountain altitude.  Travelers will ride the Vistadome train to Machu Picchu and explore the ancient ruins for a day then the opportunity  to return the next morning for sunrise without the crowds.  The tour commences with two nights in Quito, Ecuador before continuing on a flight to the Galapagos Islands.  Board the MV Galapagos Explorer II,  the only all-suite vessel in the Galapagos, that offers the most balcony staterooms of any ship, fine international cuisine and inviting public lounges.  You’ll have the opportunity to step ashore with naturalist guides for up-close wildlife encounters at eight unique landing sites on five islands.  See everything from the Red-Footed Booby to the Galapagos Tortoise in its natural habitat.  Snorkelers will have a chance to explore the undersea realm of the Archipelago, rich with species like sea turtles and hammerhead sharks.  This tour and cruise is a wonderful way to discover the best of both worlds!   

 There are so many amazing itineraries and unique experiences offered in the General Tours World Traveler catalog, it was difficult to choose just two to write about.   I often hear our customers mention that they are looking for something different for their next vacation.  They want to try something new, other than traditional cruises or  run of the mill tours.  I think General Tours is the company that creates “the trip of a lifetime” with the wide variety of vacations that are off the beaten path.  Perhaps Robert Frost said it best at the end of his poem:  “Two roads diverged in a wood, and I, I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference.”

Before you break out your Guayabera shirt and sign up for mambo dancing lessons, there are a few things you should know.  The recently reintroduced people-to-people program reflects efforts by the U.S. government to engage U.S. citizens in “purposeful travel” to Cuba.  So far, the U.S. Treasury department has issued licenses to 35 travel companies to organize people-to-people guided trips that focus on art, music, history and culture.  The tours are organized through well known US tour operators and can be booked through a travel agent.  If you are looking for a relaxing vacation with days spent on the beach and nights spent in jazz clubs smoking Cuban cigars, you might want to seek another destination.   The itineraries are pre-planned and do not offer a lot of leisure time.    Tours range from a quick 4 day excursion to Havana, to the 9 Day Cuban Music & Art Experience.   To give you an idea on what to expect on a tour to Cuba, I chose to highlight the 8 Day Bay of Pigs itinerary from General Tours: 

Day 1: Bienvenidos a Havana!  Welcome to Havana! After clearing immigration and customs, your Cuban host will greet you and escort you to your hotel in the heart of Havana. Later that evening, celebrate your arrival with a welcome dinner at the hotel.

Day 2: Castillo del Morro, the Malecon and Casa de la Amistad: Your Cuban host will escort you on a breathtaking stroll through Castillo del Morro (Morro Castle), the majestic waterfront, and the elegant neighborhood of Miramar. In the afternoon, visit the neighborhood of Vedado to meet with representatives of the Instituto Cubano de Amistad con los Pueblos (Cuban Institute of Friendship to the People), an international Cuban organization that promotes cultural relations between the U.S. and Cuba. You’ll then enjoy a tour of Casa de la Amistad (Friendship House), a historic mansion where you’ll have the opportunity to observe a forum regarding U.S. and Cuba relations. This evening, you’ll attend a local community block party, where people from all walks of life and every generation come together to discuss neighborhood issues, eat, drink, and form friendships. This evening of celebration and unity is often referred to as one of the most incredible experiences offered.

Day 3: Explore Old Havana (Habana Vieja), visit a local school, and tour the Partagas Cigar Factory: Enjoy a stroll through the streets of historic Habana Vieja, exploring the famous Cathedral Square, Plaza de Armas, the City Museum, and the Havana Club Rum Museum. The city has been restored to its historic splendor by UNESCO World Heritage; it exudes colonial charm at its finest and is a must-see for all travelers.  Visit the Callejón de Hammel (Hammel’s Alley) – a community project promoting art, music, and culture. You’ll have the incredible opportunity to meet with several Afro-Cuban artists for an up-close and personal look at the thriving arts scene.  After lunch at a local restaurant, you’ll visit a grammar school in Havana. Here you’ll have the opportunity to participate in a lively group discussion. The children will get to demonstrate their knowledge of the English language and share their art projects with you, while you’ll gain a unique perspective of Cuban life from a new generation.  As the sun begins to set, your Cuban host will escort you on a tour of the Partagas Cigar Factory, one of the oldest in Cuba. Here you will find authentic torcedors (professional cigar rollers) working while they are continually being read newspapers on the main floor. After they have finished hearing the news, they are read classic literature, which is why many Cuban cigar brands are named after literary figures such as Romeo and Juliet and Monte Cristo. 

Day 4: The Bay of Pigs and Playa Larga: Adios Havana! This morning you’ll head south towards the Zapata Peninsula and the famed Bay of Pigs. Upon your arrival, you’ll visit the crocodile farm at Boca de Guama. Time permitting, you’ll also cruise through the swamp at Laguna del Tesoro and visit a re-creation of a Taino Indian village made up of roughly 50 small thatched huts spread over several islets in the lagoon. Here you’ll have the rare opportunity to meet some of the local Taino people and learn about their traditional way of life. Next stop is Playa Larga. After a quick check-in at the hotel, take some time to explore the area. Playa Larga is considered to be home to one of the most beautiful beaches in the region, and is well known for its white sand and turquoise blue water. Also located in Playa Larga is the Bird Watching International Center if you are a fan of our feathered friends.

Day 5: Bay of Pigs and Playa Giron:  Your Cuban host will escort you to the Bay of Pigs, also known as Playa Girón, site of the legendary battle in April 1961 between Fidel Castro’s forces and the counterrevolutionary army. Shrouded in history, the area is home to Museo Playa Girón (Playa Girón Museum). There you will find photos, relics, and a written history detailing the Bay of Pigs Invasion and battles. With its thriving biosphere, Playa Girón also strongly appeals to the nature lover. In the afternoon, travel to the rural town of Papite – home of the Korimacao Community Project, where residents from the surrounding communities are given the opportunity to develop and improve their performing skills such as singing, dancing, and playing musical instruments. You’ll learn about the growth and development of the program and interact with the talented students.

Day 6: Travel to Cienfuegos, then back to Havana: This morning you’ll venture off to the seaside city of Cienfuegos, also known as the “Pearl of the South”. Walk through the main square and marvel at the architecture, mingling with the vibrant people who call this beautiful city home. From there you’ll explore the attractions in the main square and the Punto Gorda Peninsula, stopping for lunch along the way. No trip to Cienfuegos is complete without touring the acclaimed botanical gardens before making your return trip to Havana.

Day 7: Back in Havana:  On your last full day in Cuba you’ll travel to one of Havana’s health facilities, also known as a “polyclinic”, and learn about socialized medicine. While at the facility, you’ll partake in a meet-and-greet with the director and staff, discovering the challenges and triumphs felt throughout the medical system. As the sun hangs low, tour through the Vedado and Centro Habana neighborhoods before indulging in a sweet treat at Copellia Ice Cream Emporium, which was featured in the movie Fresa y Chocolate (Strawberries and Chocolate).  If you have a passion for baseball (or are just looking for some good old-fashioned fun), head over to Estadio Latinoamericano to watch the beloved Havana Industriales take on their provincial rivals in a national game. The Industriales are to Cuban baseball what the New York Yankees are to American baseball.

Day 8: Adios Cuba!  After breakfast, you’ll bid farewell to Cuba as you board your flight back home.

If you have “been there, done that” or just want to discover a new destination, consider traveling to Cuba for your next vacation.   Don’t wait too long though, tour licenses are limited and space is selling out quickly.  Tourists are eager to discover this time capsule waiting for them  in the Caribbean!

The holidays are steeped in family traditions, but nobody likes the traditions of holiday travel like inching the car through a traffic jam on the interstate and standing in an airport line that just doesn’t move. To maximize holiday travel happiness and minimize coal-in-the-stocking grief, follow these helpful holiday travel tips compiled by ASTA (American Society of Travel Agents). Some of the most travel-wise people in the world, ASTA members know the secrets that will help you and your family arrive at Grandma’s house full of holiday cheer.

Most Americans tend not to stray too far from their family’s roots, making long drives on the interstate an integral part of the holiday ritual. The first step to ensure a smooth car trip is to keep your car in good working order. As temperatures drop during November and December, being stuck on the side of the road while waiting for an overworked tow-truck driver is not the place to be. Before you leave, have a qualified mechanic check all the car’s vitals: brakes, battery, fluid levels, tire pressure, light bulbs and any parts that need regular maintenance.

As with all long-distance winter road trips, it’s wise to bring emergency equipment, such as a first-aid kit, flashlight, blankets, drinking water and snacks, along with flares and jumper cables. An ice scraper and chains for the tires will also come in handy. While a white Christmas is great for the memories, it’s not ideal for winter driving conditions.

Pad your schedule to allow plenty of time for the drive. Like shopping malls, the roads are busiest on the days right before and after the major holidays. If possible, take an extra day off to reduce the chances of being lodged in a traffic jam.

Once on the road, drive carefully, patiently and stifle any burgeoning impulses of road rage. Try not to view other cars and traffic signals as personal obstacles. Work with your fellow drivers and not against them. Indicate during lane changes and give everyone plenty of room. Also, be forgiving when someone demonstrates reckless driving.

Don’t leave valuables in your car. Pack all items, especially brightly wrapped packages, in the trunk. If afraid of squashed bows, wait until you arrive to wrap the gifts.

Overall, try to make driving fun, and view it as part of the holiday, not as a chore. If traveling with children, get everyone involved by singing or reminiscing about favorite past holidays and playing games. The ride will be over before you know it!

Packing light saves time and energy when it comes to filling the trunk with fragile bags packed with gifts or racing to fill the last empty space in the overhead bin. One holiday travel tip for packing lighter is to ship your gifts to your destination ahead of time. Allow at least two to three weeks for your package to arrive, for the holidays are hectic times for courier services like UPS and Federal Express.

Before leaving, be sure to secure your house. Lock all doors and windows, and don’t forget to set the alarm. Also, give your home that lived-in look to repel potential burglars by having a friend collect your mail, setting lights on timers and not leaving details of your trip on the answering machine.

For some,  your holiday travel plans will most likely bring you, and millions of others, to the airport. But fear not – with a few precautions and a little travel sense, your pre-flight schedule will be absent of anxiety.

If possible, have a friend drive you to the airport  or take a shuttle. Shuttle services generally pick up guests early to ensure a timely arrival. If you drive and park at the airport lot, do not leave any valuables, such as CDs, or GPSs in plain view. Also remember to put jumper cables in the trunk in case the battery dies during your trip.

Take the worry of getting to the airport completely out of the equation by staying at an airport hotel the night before an early flight. The additional sleep is well worth it. In some cases, hotels will allow guests to leave their car in the hotel lot for the duration of their trip, so make a few calls to discover which hotels offer this valuable service.

As flights are sometimes overbooked during the holidays, it’s critical to check in early and if possible, check in online 24 hours prior to your flight time. Domestic travelers should arrive at the airport two hours prior to departure, while international travelers should arrive three hours in advance. Spending an idle hour in the gift shop is much more fun than missing your flight by ten minutes. Always check to see if your flights are scheduled to depart on time before departing for the airport.

If you do not send your gifts ahead, then do not wrap them before the flight. With safety a priority for all airlines, security personnel will need access to all items. Pack collapsible gift bags to be used as wrapping upon arrival.

Keep a positive attitude, but also be mentally ready for setbacks. Delays happen, and airlines do the best they can to keep their schedules on time. Bring snacks, an inflatable pillow and eye mask, a good book, your favorite CDs, MP3 player and a deck of cards. Boredom is the true enemy in these situations, so be prepared to conquer it!

If  Santa can travel safely year in and year out, so can you and your family. Just remember these tips from ASTA and everyone will be home for the holidays with warm memories to share.

“Did you know that as a travel agent you can get free vacations, have deeply discounted travel, and make money all at the same time?”   This is just one of the many tag lines  I discovered while investigating my new “hot button”, the travel agent “license”.  It all started with a few telephone calls to my travel agency with inquiries as to how someone could purchase a travel agent license from me and receive travel benefits.  At first, I was somewhat taken back by the question.  “A travel agent license?” I asked.  “Yes, you know, like a real estate license” the caller replied.  “I pay you a fee and then I can travel at reduced rates or even for free.”   I was shocked.  There is no such thing as a license in our industry and that was where my investigation began.   My first inquiry was with The American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA), who released a ten page report about the topic.  While I don’t have room for all ten pages, I wanted to share a summary:

It’s easy to see why the allure of travel around the world at reduced rates, often accompanied by a promise of actually making money, could appeal to consumers. Ads promise the chance to make money with little effort. But the allure is a facade, and the promise an illusion perpetuated by sellers of deceptive travel agent credentials, commonly referred to as “card mills.”  Card mills are businesses that sell deceptive identification cards, sometimes accompanied by a package of worthless training materials that falsely identify the purchaser as a “travel agent.” These offers often say “travel like a travel agent” and are designed to permit buyers of travel services to pass themselves off as sellers of travel services.

 The features that distinguish legitimate travel agents from ordinary travelers equipped by these cards to pose as agents are easily recognized — travel agents are sellers of travel and card mill ID holders are generally buyers of travel.  Card mills neither require nor monitor the work or productivity of their cardholders, few if any of whom make their livings selling travel. Mills make little pretense that a cardholder need sell any travel to obtain a card or retain it. Moreover, whereas professional travel agents understand that today’s rare personal travel privileges are an incidental benefit of their occupation, card mills and their customers treat such occasional privileges as the primary benefit of a one-time purchase transaction. Most importantly, legitimate travel agents do not pay to enter the profession or need an identification card to practice it; credential mills sell a product whose only function is to defraud travel suppliers, and often, the purchaser himself. – ASTA, 2007.

Unfortunately,  many members of our community have fallen victim to such practices. Consumers are charged a start-up fee of less than $500 (to avoid franchise laws and possible FTC investigation) , often followed by a monthly fee of $50 or so via credit card or automatic payment from a checking account. Many of the recipients of these so-called licenses find themselves without travel benefits and scammed out of thousands of dollars. 

As a travel agency owner and 20 year travel industry veteran, this practice is very alarming to me.  My number one concern is for our clients and their vacation experience, not profiting from the purchase of travel industry cards.  I would never assume liability or allow anyone to sell travel under my agency name without formal education and experience. The perception may be that working in this industry provides endless access to free and discounted travel.  It is simply not true. In most cases, we must meet required sales goals in order to obtain educational trips and that is exactly what they are:  educational.  The days of free airfare are virtually non-existent and most days on the educational tours are spent touring hotels and attending seminars to better serve our clients.   Although it may seem easy to make travel plans with the click of a mouse, rules and regulations of travel are very complicated. It only takes one simple mistake to ruin a vacation.  Why anyone would want to assume that risk with  inadequate training, or why a consumer would trust their vacation to someone with little knowledge and experience is simply mind boggling.   

ASTA offers this tip for consumers:  “Consumers simply interested in obtaining the best travel bargain should be highly skeptical of offers that require them to purchase an identification card or otherwise suggest that they are being taken into the business, bearing in mind the old adage that if something seems too good to be true, it probably is.”

The honeymoon is a special time for couples to enjoy together, before they return to the stress of everyday life.  I often hear couples say that they are going to wait and go on a honeymoon later in life.  They spend the wedding budget entertaining everyone else and forget about that window of time they can enjoy together.  While the intention is to go later, later usually ends up being many years down the road.  Before they know it, buying a house, having babies, and being tied down to work seem to take precedence over the honeymoon they always wanted to go on.  With some advance planning and budgeting, every couple can go on a memorable honeymoon.   Listed below are some helpful hints and destinations for couples to consider:       

• Don’t Wait.  Consult with a travel professional as soon as the wedding date is selected.  Many couples wait until the end, when the prices are higher and many packages are not available. Most honeymoons can be reserved with a small, upfront deposit and balances are due 75-60 days prior to departure.  Payments can be made in between, allowing time to save and budget.
• Leave the honeymoon planning to the professionals.  Travel consultants are experts in understanding and deciphering the complicated rules and regulations of travel, including passport regulations, age restrictions, and name requirements.  Best of all, The Travel Connection professional do not charge for their services!  It’s free!  I often like to share the story about a groom that wanted to go to San Jose,  Costa Rica and accidentally booked San Jose, California online.  One key stroke can ruin a honeymoon, so leave the details to a professional.
• Determine your budget ahead of time.  Your travel consultant will find the best value for you.  Consider a cruise or all-inclusive resort where meals and most activities are included.   Various travel agencies offer a honeymoon registry where guests can contribute to honeymoon costs.
• Select your honeymoon destination together.  Popular honeymoons include:

Cruises:  A great value as most food and activities are included.  Cruises are available around the world from  5 nights in the Caribbean to two weeks in the Mediterranean and everything in between.  Couples can see many destinations without the hassle of packing and unpacking.  They can even participate in the newlywed game during the evening activities onboard the ship.

South Pacific:  Destinations range from a lovely beach resort in Hawaii to an over-water bungalow at the St. Regis Bora Bora in Tahiti.  It is the ultimate romantic vacation offering white sand, turquoise water, rest, and ultimate relaxation. 

All Inclusive Resorts:  The resorts are available throughout Mexico and the Caribbean.  With all of the food, beverages and activities included, all inclusives are one-stop shopping for an enjoyable honeymoon.

Regardless where you go, it is important to plan ahead and enjoy that special time as you start your life together.

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When I think of where I want to spend my summer vacation, I normally consider a tropical destination with a beautiful beach; sailing the seas on a new cruise ship; or cooling off in the mountains.  A few months ago, I received the invitation to visit Cleveland, Ohio with a friend for a family celebration.  “Cleveland?  You want me to spend my summer vacation time in  Cleveland ?” I asked.    I only knew a few facts about Cleveland:  1.  It was home to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.  2. It’s humid in the summer and freezing in the winter. 3. The Cleveland Cavaliers lost LeBron James last year to the Miami Heat.  Obviously, Cleveland was never a destination I considered for my  vacation. 

That being said, I consider myself  to be the kind of person that will try new things and keep an open mind.  I feel that you can discover something unique about any destination , so I said yes and  my flight to Cleveland was confirmed before I knew it.  A few weeks ago, I said goodbye to the 110 degree desert heat and boarded my plane for what was once referred to as “The Greatest Location in the Nation” (FYI the local weather man still refers to the city that way).   Apparently, I visited during a perfect time as it was just 75 degrees and low humidity.   As it turns out, I was not only surprised by Cleveland, I now consider it to be one of my favorite vacations.  When I mentioned that at a party a few nights ago, my friends were shocked.  After all, I have been fortunate to travel to some amazing places throughout my life.  It was a combination of beautiful scenery, historic buildings, and good Midwestern people that made my vacation memorable, so I decided to share a few of the highlights:

My first day consisted of a behind the scenes  tour of  Progressive Field -  home to the Indians and Cedar City’s own Mitch Talbot.  The field is located in the heart of the city and despite my love for  the Boston Red Sox, I thoroughly enjoyed the tour and learning about the Indian’s history.  We were lucky enough  to watch fan favorite Grady Sizemore during batting practice right from the dugout.  Next was the  Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the museum is incredible.   The history of rock and roll is brought to life through special exhibits displaying everything from Johnny Cash’s tour bus to Lady Gaga’s meat dress.  Yes, the real meat dress (they dried it like jerky and painted it bright red to bring it back to the original condition, just in case you were wondering).    The Hall of Fame is next door to Cleveland Browns Stadium on what locals call North Coast Harbor as the area is located along the great Lake Erie.

We ate at delicious restaurants, but my favorite was located in Little Italy.  It was there that my palate had the pleasure of discovering  Corbo’s, the best Italian bakery I have ever encountered.  I was overwhelmed with the choices in the display cases.  Although the Cannoli was my favorite (they hand-piped the filling fresh while I waited), the Cassata Cake and almond cookies were a close second. Cassata Cake is a delicious sponge cake  moistened with fruit juices (strawberry in this case) and layered with ricotta cheese and vanilla filling similar to canoli cream.  At this point, I did not even care if I ate lunch, so I ordered a pound of Italian cookies for the road.  

 A highlight from downtown Cleveland was the observation deck at Terminal Tower,  a landmark skyscraper. It was built during the skyscraper boom of the 1920s and 1930s, and was the second-tallest building in the world when it was completed.  After September 11th, the observation deck was closed.  However, it recently re-opened and we were offered a 360 degree view of Cleveland, Lake Erie, historic buildings, and the beautiful suburbs.  There were photos of Cleveland during its manufacturing era  lining the walls.  What a vibrant, thriving city this once was!  I learned that Cleveland was home to John D. Rockefeller and the birthplace of Standard Oil.    As my eyes glanced over the art deco style décor and photos of  Cleveland in its heyday,  I could not help but think of many great manufacturing cities that built our country and now find themselves trying to restructure after so many lost jobs.   However, there were several  signs that Cleveland is making a comeback, including the movie being filmed right at Terminal Tower during our visit.  We were lucky enough to be on the set of The Avengers, starring Robert Downey Jr. and Scarlett Johansson. 

My visit was not confined to the city.  We made our way to Cedar Point Amusement Park in Sandusky, about one hour away.  If you have ever wanted to find your real age or discover that you are not as young as you thought, then I encourage a visit to Cedar Point. Cedar Point is  the second oldest amusement park in North America, with a history dating back to 1870.  This classic amusement park/resort is located on the shore of Lake Erie features some of the most thrilling roller coasters in the world.  In 2000,  Cedar Point stunned the coaster world when it debuted the tallest (310 feet) and fastest (93 mph) “giga-coaster” on the planet, Millennium Force.  My personal favorite was the 420-foot-tall, 120-mph Top Thrill Dragster, which again made Cedar Point home of the tallest and fastest roller coaster in the world.  There are rides for every member of the family and Cedar Point is a must see attraction in Ohio.

Although Downtown Cleveland and Cedar Point were great attractions, my favorite area was in the suburbs of Mentor and Kirtland.  Now  I understand why so many people choose to visit Kirtland every year.  Not only is it rich with their church heritage, it is very picturesque with green trees and colorful flowers lining the streets.  Holden Arboretum  is located nearby and features over 3600 acres of  hiking trails, flower collections and gardens.  After spending so much time in the red desert sands of Dixie, Holden was a nice change of scenery  with breathtakingly beautiful flowers, lush trees, and ponds filled with fountains and Lillie pads.  The Hydrangea flowers were bigger than both of my fists put together.  I would definitely recommend a stop at Holden  for a walk or picnic if you are ever in the area.

Unfortunately, I don’t have the space to write about the other great attractions I discovered during my introduction to Cleveland like the wine country, Downtown Willoughby, and Lake View Cemetery .  However, there are spectacular photos on my blog at www.stgeorgetravel.com that showcase the area.  Although Cleveland was not on my “must see” list, it is now on my “must return” list.  Regardless if  travel  takes you away for business, family functions, or  a vacation; it is great to learn about  the history, discover the food, and experience the culture. After all, that is what travel is all about.  There is a famous quote that is on the front page of my website that summarizes my experience:

 “The World Is a Book and Those Who Do Not Travel Read Only One Page.”   - St. Augustine.

By Celece Seegmiller, for The Spectrum Newspaper/September 6, 2011

A few months ago, I had the opportunity to take my daughter Ashlie on a vacation following graduation.  It was my way of rewarding her for all of the effort it took to graduate  from Dixie High School and receive her Associate of Science degree from Dixie State College simultaneously.  When I asked Ashlie where she wanted to go, her first response was Australia.  Although Australia is a destination on the top of my bucket list,  I knew it would not be feasible this year.   So I started researching, informed Ashlie her trip would be a surprise, and sent her straight to the passport office.

A few weeks later, I found a great offer to Cancun for a week.  I wrote an article a few months prior regarding safety and tourism in Cancun and thought this would be the perfect opportunity to check it out for myself.   I have traveled to Cancun several times throughout my life, but had not been back since 2006 and I knew there were still many great attractions waiting to be discovered.

When Ashlie’s passport arrived, I wrapped it up and presented her travel documents to Cancun on the night of graduation.  She was elated!   I am sure she had typical visions from MTV Spring Break of college students partying on beautiful beaches and dancing all night long in the clubs, but I was determined to show her a different side of Cancun.  We left on May 28^th and the convenience of flying from our beautiful new airport in St. George and avoiding the drive to Las Vegas was wonderful.  It was a simple flight to Salt Lake City, a 45 minute connection and then a non-stop flight to Cancun.  In under 6 hours, we arrived in paradise! 

Upon arrival, I could not help but notice the increased security at the airport and the swift operation of transferring us to our hotel.  We were greeted by our friendly transportation company  as soon as we cleared customs, and escorted to our van within minutes.  We even had to show identification as registered guests in order to proceed into the hotel parking lot.  This procedure was much different than my previous visits. 

We checked into the lovely Fiesta Americana Condesa hotel,  located in the southern portion of the hotel zone.  I stayed at the resort ten years ago and it has always been one of my favorites.  The hotel captures the spirit of Mexico with the open air lobby and rooms that overlook the white sandy beaches and stunning turquoise water of the Caribbean.   The hotel has undergone renovation  since my last stay, but the friendly service and delicious food remained the same.  The property is now all-inclusive, meaning all of our food and beverages were included in our package price.   This is a great value, especially with my daily trips to Cevichería  for some the best fresh fish tacos, guacamole, salsa and ceviche I have ever had the pleasure of encountering. I can’t forget to mention the grilled bananas, served with warm caramel sauce and coconut ice cream!  Cevicheria is a delight to all of the senses as it is set in an open-air palapa, surrounded by sapphire blue swimming pools, waves crashing on the beach, and rhythms from the live Mariachi band playing in the background.  Now that is what I like to call atmosphere!   The hotel features four other restaurants offering everything from American to Italian, all of which are “delicioso!”  

As much as I would have loved to have stayed in my favorite beachside lounge chair soaking in the sun  with  a good book, Bob Marley playing on my iPod, and my attentive waiter catering to my every need, I decided to take Ashlie on a few excursions. Even though I could not give Ashlie the Great Barrier Reef, I could give her the Great Mayan Reef.  The reef is the largest in the Western Hemisphere stretching 420 miles from the Yucatan Peninsula to Honduras and features over 3000 species of flora and fauna.  We departed for a snorkeling excursion in the town of Puerto Morales, a charming fishing village just a short drive from Cancun.  We encountered colorful coral, stingrays, starfish, and barracuda.  After four hours of snorkeling, we enjoyed lunch at a beachside restaurant where we dined on fresh fish, caught earlier that day.  It does not get much better than that!

There are many so many sights and excursions to choose from in Cancun, it’s often hard to make a decision and I have been very fortunate to experience almost all of them.   Some of the most popular activities  include the awe-inspiring Mayan Ruins of  Chichen Itza and Tulum;  Xel Ha and  Xcaret eco adventure parks; sailing on catamarans; swimming  with dolphins; ziplines; scuba diving; snorkeling; parasailing; jetskiing; and more.  There was a new tour that really caught our eye with a company called Alltournative. We spent a full day on the Coba Mayan Encounter, a tour that included a hike, rappelling into a Cenote (an exposed sinkhole containing water); zip lining  through the Mayan Jungle; a canoe ride, and climbing 120 steps to the top of  the Nohoch Mul pyramid at Coba.  It was definitely a day full of adventure and a great way to explore the Mayan culture.

I have traveled to many destinations throughout my career and Cancun will always be one of my favorite vacations.  It is incredibly beautiful, but the people, their service, and genuine hospitality  continue to exceed my expectations. From the friendly entertainment staff at the hotel, to the Mayan Medicine Man who performed our “cleansing”, we enjoyed learning about the Mexican culture.  During our hike in the middle of the Mayan jungle, we found beautiful ladies sitting around an open fire making fresh tortillas and empanadas – the best we have ever tasted!  At Coba, we encountered a delightful ten year old businesswoman named Andrea with a huge smile that melted our hearts.  She greeted our tour group with homemade cookies and coconut milk popsicles.  We enjoyed listening to the traditional mariachi band, watching the beautiful dancers, and learning the Mayan language from cultural lessons at our hotel.  Everywhere we went, the locals were eager to share their history and traditions with us. 

Since my return, I have had many questions about safety and how I felt traveling alone with my 18 year old daughter to Mexico. I can sum it up by saying that there are cities within the United States where I have felt very unsafe. I felt completely comfortable throughout my vacation and I am happy to report that Cancun is making every attempt to make their guests feel safe and secure.  I would not hesitate to return or suggest it to our customers.  I know I can’t wait to go back!            

Disscover the Mighty Miss on a River Cruise!

When my ninth grade teacher announced our required reading assignments for the year,  Adventures of Huckleberry Fin by Mark Twain was first on the list.  As a fifteen year old girl, I was not excited to read about the story of a teenage misfit who found himself floating on a raft down the Mississippi River with an escaping slave.  However, I changed my mind once I opened the book and started reading.    Because he was a former riverboat pilot on the Mississippi, Mark Twain had a way of making the river come to  life.  I was fascinated with the river and often wondered what it would be like to discover the beauty, history, culture, and excitement  along one of the greatest inland waterways of America.  Thanks to American Cruise Lines, I just might get the opportunity.  American Cruise Lines operates the newest fleet of small ships in the industry and offers more than 30 unique itineraries along the inland waterways and rivers of the Pacific Northwest, Alaska, and East Coast of the United States, from New England to Florida. Beginning in August 2012, the Queen of the Mississippi  riverboat will make her debut and she is so popular, the first sailing is already sold out.  

The Queen of the Mississippi  is not just any ordinary boat.  She will boast staterooms larger than any former Mississippi riverboat.  She offers spacious private balconies and all of the amenities today’s cruisers expect, while maintaining the elegance and traditional Victorian appearance of classic Mississippi riverboats.  With the option of cruising at significantly higher speeds, more itineraries are possible than ever before, with longer visits to the river towns. A number of unique 7, 10, and 14-day cruises are planned that take passengers along the winding waters of the Mississippi, Illinois, Missouri, Tennessee, Cumberland and Ohio Rivers.  The “Mighty Miss” is the largest river in the United States, stretching over 2,300 miles.  Along the river you will find cities and towns with influential histories.  These establishments helped our country grow to a bustling nation.  Guests will be transported back to a simpler time in the middle of America’s heartland as the sternwheeler churns away.  Cruisers will discover the bayous and woodlands along the river’s shore.  Much of this area remains unchanged since French fur traders first ventured into the area. 

The  seven night  New Orleans to Memphis itinerary  will appeal to a wide audience.   History  buffs can retrace footsteps of Civil War soldiers on the battlefields and visit the museums.  Musicians will tap their toes to the blues in Memphis and jazz in New Orleans.  Foodies will fancy the wide variety of culinary delights from Cajun to Creole. Architecture enthusiasts will marvel at perfectly preserved homes and buildings in Natchez where 1,000 of its historic structures are listed in the National Register of Historic Places.  Gardeners will be amazed by Oak Alley Plantation, commonly referred to as  the Grande Dame of the Great River Road. A quarter-mile canopy of giant live oak trees, believed to be nearly 300 years old, forms an impressive avenue that leads you to this classic Greek-revival style antebellum home.  Your souvenir photos will  look like they are straight out of Home and Garden magazine.

If you are looking for a unique vacation experience that does not require a long flight outside of the United States and features the best in Southern hospitality,  find your inner Huck Finn and consider a cruise on the Queen of the Mississippi.

Last year, I wrote a column about the positive effects travel can have on  the body, mind and soul.  When I wrote the article, I had no idea that my Grandmother, Verda Jensen had been recently diagnosed with multiple myeloma and that her journey during the past year would put my theory to the test in more ways than I could possibly imagine.

I  like to compare my Grandma Verda to the Activity Director on a cruise ship.  The Jensen family “cruiseship” consists of 6 children and their spouses, 24 grandchildren, and 47 great grandchildren.  For as long as I can remember, Grandma was the “ultimate organizer” of family activities and vacations.  From reunions for the masses at Bear Lake to weekend getaways at the family cabin in Big Cottonwood Canyon, it seemed like Grandma was always planning a family function and everyone was invited.  Just like the activity director on the cruise ship, Grandma was always there to greet us with a big smile, positive attitude, and more energy than most of the kids!   It seemed like she was the first one in the water and the last one to go to bed at night because we had to finish that last game of Rook or SkipBo. 

Grandma Verda’s motto was “Have Bags, Will Travel” and oh did she travel!  I  loved receiving her Christmas cards.  Of course, Grandma did not send out regular store-bought cards.  Every year, I received a photo of Grandma Verda and Grandpa Leon in front of places like the Great Wall of China, the World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C., or the beautiful islands of Hawaii.  She always included a letter with her Christmas cards, describing her travel experiences throughout the year.  During their 61 years of marriage, Leon and Verda discovered amazing destinations around the world together.  In fact, they should have had their own show on The Travel Channel, they would have put Samantha Brown to shame. In 2007, Grandma and Grandpa had a vacation planned to their beloved Hawaii.  Unfortunately, Grandpa passed away prior to their trip.  Rather than cancel like most people, Grandma Verda packed her bags, invited her 4 daughters and said “Daddy would want us to do this together.”  She spent two weeks enjoying the sun and sand, and of course, cherishing the many memories she shared with Leon in Hawaii.

In the fall of 2009, Grandma Verda received a diagnosis of multiple myeloma.    Grandma politely declined chemotherapy and traditional treatment.  She told the doctor she would return if she was in pain and promptly packed her bags.  Her travels then included a Mediterranean cruise with her family, various destinations throughout the United States, and an adventure to China and Mongolia.  Imagine my surprise when I received a photo of my 84 year old Grandma Verda on a camel in Mongolia!  Of course, that was my favorite Christmas Card.   No one would have ever known cancer was slowly taking over her body.  Grandma did not let that dreaded disease stop her love of traveling with family and friends and enjoying the rest of her life.  After a partial amputation of her right foot, she received an invitation to visit the Big Island of Hawaii with her girlfriends.  She told me she was going to Hawaii and stick the “toes she had left” in the sand.  That was the kind of woman Verda Jensen was, always finding the good in every situation.  

Verda celebrated her 85^th birthday on June 23^rd with a big party of course. She posted a thank you on her Facebook wall  (yes, my 85 year old grandma actually had her own page on Facebook) and on July 15^th,  Grandma Verda’s journey ended peacefully. When I attended her funeral last week, I could not help but notice how many of the comments were about her love of travel and how many memories were shared about being on vacation with Verda. Family gatherings and vacations with Grandma Verda created memories that our family will cherish forever.  She left a wonderful legacy and taught us to enjoy and experience the world.  My theory proved to be true after all, travel was good for Verda’s body, mind, and soul – even up to the very end.

One of my favorite books is 1000 Places to See Before You Die by Patricia Schultz. Every time I travel, I read it to see if there is something I need to “cross of my list.” When I had the opportunity to visit Florida in November for business, I checked the book and decided that I needed to extend my trip for a few days and celebrate Thanksgiving in Key West.

Although there are flights to and from Key West daily, the best way to experience the true essence of the Florida Keys is to rent a convertible and drive. Take the top down, play your favorite Jimmy Buffet or Bob Marley songs, and soak in the sun as you make your way to the southernmost point in the continental United States. The Keys are linked by 42 bridges scattered along 126 miles of historic U.S. 1, including the impressive 7-mile bridge. Although I am generally not a fan of road trips, I must admit the drive was spectacular. Four hours on a two lane highway seemed to fly by as I watched birds soaring by and beautiful blue water on both sides.

Upon arrival, I checked in at Key West Marriott Beachside Hotel, a seven-acre waterfront property with beautiful tropical gardens, and a wonderful waterfront swimming pool. My room was a one bedroom suite and it was stunning. With over 800 square feet, the room featured a half bathroom; a gourmet kitchen with granite countertops and high-end appliances; a beautiful dining room for six; a comfortable living room with a large LCD flat panel television; and a gorgeous master suite with a marble Jacuzzi tub. Just off the living room was a large balcony, the perfect location to sip my morning coffee and enjoy views of the waterfront, swimming pool, and lush landscape. I have stayed in amazing hotels around the world and this property ranks among one of my favorites simply because of the large, tastefully decorated rooms in what I like to call, “island elegance”. In addition to the one bedroom suite, the Marriott also offers two and three bedroom suites, perfect for large families. Although I was tempted to cook my own Thanksgiving dinner in the beautiful gourmet kitchen in my suite, I chose to dine at Tavern and Town, the fine dining restaurant at the hotel. The ambience of the restaurant was exquisite and the food was delicious. I thought I might actually miss slaving away in the kitchen for my traditional Thanksgiving, but I must admit this meal was far better than anything I could have come up with.

The Marriott offers a free shuttle to the heart of the action, Duval Street. It is called the longest main street in world because it goes from coast to coast – from the Atlantic Ocean to the Gulf of Mexico. The street is lined with unique shops, restaurants and bars – including Sloppy Joes, a Key West tradition and Hemingway hangout. See where Ernest Hemingway lived and wrote in Key West for 10 years at the Hemingway House and Museum, located just one block off Duval Street.

Key West is known for the world-famous sunset celebrations. There are nightly extravaganzas held at Mallory Square featuring a wide variety of vendors, artists, musicians, and street performers. It is like an outdoor carnival with a colorful cast of characters. One evening, I chose to sail on the “Commotion on the Ocean”, a full-size catamaran with live music, appetizers and cocktails. The warm ocean breeze and beautiful tropical waters provided an excellent backdrop for the magnificent sunset. Regardless if you experience it from land or sea, the Key West sunset should not be missed.

While the waters of Key West are famous for shipwrecks and treasure troves, water sports and deep sea fishing are some of the most popular activities. I had the opportunity to sail on the Fury Catamaran on their Ultimate Adventure. If was a full day on the water that included snorkeling, jet skiing, and my new favorite adventure: parasailing. If you really want to see Key West, get up in the air for the birds-eye view on a parasail – it is amazing! The Ultimate Adventure also included kayaks, a water trampoline, and rock wall. It was a full day of fun in the sun and a great way to enjoy the water playground in Key West.

Although I only had a few days to enjoy Key West, it was one of the most fun and relaxing Thanksgiving holidays I can remember. The locals have a saying that captures the true essence of The Keys. It’s from the Jimmy Buffet song, “Changes in Latitude, Changes in Attitude”. If you want to “change your attitude”, turn off your cell phone, leave your laptop at home, rent a convertible and head for a relaxing drive to Key West for a few days. It’s a welcome change of pace.