Photo Credit: TripAdvisor.com

In less than one week, travelers will be packing up the cars, turkeys and suitcases on the way to “grandma’s house” for a Thanksgiving holiday. Or perhaps a travel destination this holiday might be to the beach or a shopping mall. TripAdvisor® and AAA have announced the results of its Thanksgiving travel survey and forecasts and each have a slightly different ending.

Despite a continued downturn in the U.S. economy, 37 percent of Americans plan to travel this Thanksgiving, equal to 37 percent one year ago, according to TripAdvisor survey results. Other findings include that 57 percent of respondents plan to drive to their destination this Thanksgiving, down slightly from 59 percent, last year, while 38 percent intend to fly, up marginally from 37 percent, one year ago.

“We continue to see that Thanksgiving is a dedicated travel holiday among our respondents, regardless of circumstance,” said Michele Perry, vice president of global communications for TripAdvisor.

According to a released report by AAA, approximately 41 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more from home this Thanksgiving holiday weekend, a decrease of 600,000 travelers (1.4 percent) from last year’s total of 41.6 million. This is the first decline in Thanksgiving holiday travel since 2002 and is the fourth consecutive travel holiday this year with a year-to-year decline in the number of travelers.

Travelers are weighing spending money on holiday trips or conserving cash on other life needs. Even with the Dow dropping below 8000 on November 20, 2008, the continuing decrease in petroleum is contributing toward predicted decreases this holiday season from being worse.

“The overall state of the economy continues to present real challenges for some Americans looking to travel this Thanksgiving,” said AAA President and CEO Robert L. Darbelnet. “However, the desire to spend time with family, combined with significantly lower gasoline prices than earlier this year, will provide a strong impetus for many Americans to travel this holiday season.”

AAA reports the national average for self-serve regular gasoline is $2.07 per gallon. Today’s price is 88 cents less than a month ago and $1.03 less than a year ago.

Thanksgiving travel TripAdvisor survey results include:

Family Matters

Seventy-seven percent will see family and friends for the holiday. Seven percent said they are traveling specifically to avoid family and friends. Thirty percent of respondents said they feel pressure to travel and spend Thanksgiving with family.

Fifty-five percent said seeing family and friends makes Thanksgiving travel worth all the hassle, while 25 percent said just getting away makes it worth it.

Cash Considerations

Seventy-six percent of travelers said economic and market concerns have not affected their Thanksgiving plans. If money was no object, 30 percent said their dream Thanksgiving would be exploring an exotic tropical destination, while the greatest amount, 31 percent said their idea of a dream Thanksgiving is right at home with family and friends.

Time and Distance

Twenty-eight percent will travel to their destination on Thanksgiving Day, and 28 percent will travel the day before on Wednesday, November 26. Twenty-seven percent will travel home on Sunday, November 30. Thirteen percent will travel home on Thanksgiving Day.

Fifteen percent will travel less than 100 miles from home for Thanksgiving, and 36 percent will travel less than 300 miles. Nine percent said they will be traveling overseas this Thanksgiving. Fifteen percent of respondents said they will be traveling outside the U.S. for the Thanksgiving holiday.

Thirty-six percent will visit a city this Thanksgiving, 33 percent will go to the suburbs for the holiday and 15 percent will be going to a beach.

Thanksgiving Love and Hate

Thirty-four percent said they love everything about Thanksgiving. Ten percent cited flight delays as the most annoying aspect of Thanksgiving, 10 percent said getting stuck in traffic and 10 percent said they always eat too much.

Are you traveling this Thanksgiving holiday? If so, where and how far?

Part view of ornate Victorian gothic architecture of the iconic Big Ben clock tower at the Houses of Parliament, designed by Sir Charles Barry and Augustus Pugin; Photo Credit: visitlondonimages/ britainonview

The Las Vegas Strip is home to 17 of the 20 largest hotels in the United States. Photo Credit: The Las Vegas Convention & Visitors Authority

While last-minute travelers can score some good deals, this is not the case for the pending 2008 holiday travel season. Those who procrastinate might just have the Grinch steal their Christmas travel dreams.

According to the Official Airline Guide (OAG), nearly 60 million airline seats will be eliminated in the 4^th quarter of 2008, compared to available seats in 2007…just in time for the busy holiday travel season.

But here is an early holiday gift from MacNair Dream Trips (MDT). “If you have not yet planned your holiday vacation do not wait any longer,” according to Michael MacNair, owner of MDT and author of Smooth Landings. “We are still able to find special value in some of the more exciting destinations but space is disappearing quickly, so it is critical for travelers to act quickly.”

Below are some samples of great travel holiday ideas prepared by MDT Dream Trip Designers.

Costa Rica-8 Days/7 Nights Exploration

Photo Credit: www.tourism.co.cr & Photographer: www.photographerincostarica.com

Timeframe:

Departure December 21-28, 2008

Destinations: Gulf of Papagayo, Rincon Vieja Volcano, Arenal Volcano, River rafting on Penas Blanca River, Playa Tortuga and San Jose.

Activities: Special activities are planned every day to include visit to a working hacienda, horseback riding, an exciting river-tubing adventure and volcanically heated mud pools. Visitors will also be able to spot giant iguanas, monkeys, sloths, toucans and spot an occasional crocodile along with green turtles at Playa Tortuga.

Package Includes: All hotel and lodge accommodations, entertainment, breakfast, lunch and dinners, land transportation, sightseeing, luggage handling, the charter flight from Tortuguero to San José, and the services of the guides and drivers.

Resorts/Lodges: Hilton Papagayo Resort, Tilajari Resort Hotel, Pachira Lodge Tortuguero and Costa Rica Marriott Hotel

Not Included: International airfare.

Price: $2,795.00 per person

Rome Photo credit: Fototeca ENIT

Italian Dreams: Rome to Venice

Timeframe: 20-27 December; 8 Days/7 Nights

Destinations/Activities: Explore the imperial city of Rome and the legacy of the powerful Roman Empire that ruled the world millennia ago, and look up at the celebrated ceiling of the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel. View the amazing art treasures of Florence, birthplace of the Renaissance, try the art of pizza-making and demonstration, and travel to see famous Leaning Tower of Pisa. Take the high-speed Eurostar train to Florence and to Venice, and enter a remarkable world of Renaissance architecture surrounded by water and take in the view of Venice from a gondola.
Package Includes: Hotel accommodations, meals, sightseeing and transfers.

Hotels: Grand Hotel Parco dei Principi, Rome, Hotel Brunelleschi Florence and The Westin Excelsior, Venice Lido Resort.

Not Included: International airfare.

Price: $3,350.00 per person 

Photo Credit: Regent Seven Seas

Western Caribbean Holiday Luxury Cruise

Timeframe: December 18-29, 2008

Cruise: The Regent Navigator has a holiday sailing for December 18^th for 11 nights from Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.

Itinerary: Grand Cayman, Cozumel, Belize City, Guatemala, Costa Maya and Key West.

Package Includes: All inclusive rate includes a beautiful balcony suite, airfare from Washington, DC. Round trip transfers from airport to ship, all drinks and food.

Not Included: Shore excursions.

Price: $6,245.00 per person

European Dream

Timeframe: December 18-28, 2008

Destinations/Activities: Rome: Visit St. Peter’s Basilica to see the famous Pieta by Michelangelo, the Piazza Venezia to view the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and the Forum, Colosseum and Circus Maximus. Venice: Cruise the canals of Venice to St. Mark’s Square, visit a glass-blowing workshop, and the Italian lake district. Lucerne, Switzerland: See the Lion Monument and stroll across the Chapel Bridge.  Paris, France:

Visit Notre Dame Cathedral, an ascent to the second level of the Eiffel Tower and more. London, England: Visit the major sites of the British Capital including Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, and holiday shopping at Harrods.

Package Includes: Airport transfers in Rome; hotels; hotel taxes, service charges, and tips for baggage handling nine breakfasts; four three-course dinners; host service in London; private luxury motor coach; sightseeing with a local guide in Rome, Paris, and London; special features and scenic highlights will vary based on availability.

Not Included: International airfare.

Price: $1,799.00 per person

Las Vegas New Years Quick Escape

Timeframe: December 30, 2008 -January 2, 2009

Destination: Stay at the exciting Excalibur Hotel and Casino and bring in the New Year Las Vegas style. The Excalibur features 4,000 rooms, a deluxe spa and fitness center, tournament of kings’ dinner show, swimming pools, 5 restaurants, 5 bars and lounges and 100,000 square feet of non-stop gaming action. Located on the 4 corners of Las Vegas Boulevard and Tropicana, the Excalibur is one of Las Vegas’s best value resorts.

Package Includes: Roundtrip airfare from Dulles (Washington, DC) to Las Vegas and hotel accommodations. 

Not Included: Sightseeing, dining, beverages, gratuities, and transfers.

Price: $840 per person

What is your holiday travel dream destination?

Photo Credit: IgoUgo.com

Holiday traditions? Every Thanksgiving, a tradition for many travelers is making the trek to New York City to experience the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade (airs live on November 27^th, 2008 at 9am EST on NBC). For those who do not make the trip, they can still witness this amazing event from the comfort of their home. Meanwhile, others take to the air and roads for their own holiday celebrations.

Thanksgiving is often boasted as one of the most traveled holidays via air and car. From day trips to long weekends, travelers are preparing for what could be a busy few days on the roads and in the air.  For Thanksgiving alone, TripAdvisor® reports that 37 percent of Americans plan to travel this Thanksgiving, which is equal to those traveling last year.

Fifty-seven percent of respondents plan to drive to their destination this Thanksgiving, down slightly from 59 percent, last year, while 38 percent intend to fly, up marginally from 37 percent, one year ago, according to the TripAdvisor survey.

“The holiday season is always the year’s busiest time for travel, but it doesn’t have to be frustrating,” according to the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) President and CEO Chris Russo. “One sure way to make holiday trips smoother is by having a travel agent take care of all your travel details. Travel agents’ always have inside information and can make holiday travel a lot less stressful.”

ASTA has prepared some travel tips for both air and car trips to help ensure smooth travels. Tips for air travel include:

• Book your ticket ASAP. If you must book last minute, remember, you have options. The key to securing the best deal is flexibility in travel dates–ask your ASTA travel agent to check into holiday fares; the slow week between Christmas and New Year’s; or consider flying into an alternate airport and renting a car. If your holiday vacation includes international travel, make sure you have a valid passport.
• Arrive early. Difficult airport parking, long lines at security checkpoints and the possibility of the airline overselling the flight and bumping passengers, should all be considered when deciding what time to arrive at the airport. Give yourself plenty of extra time. Need some incentive? Keep in mind that those who arrive earliest for an overbooked flight stand the greatest chance of staying onboard.
• Avoid getting bumped. 1) Get an advance seat assignment. Passengers with seat assignments are typically only bumped if they arrive late and their seat assignment is released. 2) Check-in online. Most airlines allow you to do so within 24 hours of departure. Seat assignments that were not available at the time of ticketing may be available when checking in online. 3) Don’t be late. If all else fails, get to the airport early. Some airlines reserve a portion of their seat assignment inventory for airport check-in. If you are denied a seat assignment at check-in, put your name on the “standby” seat assignment list.
• Remember 3-1-1. New regulations limit the amount of gels and liquids passengers can take through security in their carry-on luggage to travel-size toiletries of three (3) ounces or less that fit comfortably in one (1) quart-size, clear plastic zip-top bag and the one (1) bag per passenger must be placed in the screening bin.
• Know your limits. Pack light and know baggage limits. Some airlines place special restrictions during the holidays and allow only one carry-on.

Tips for travel by car include:

• Plan itineraries and arrange accommodations well in advance. Reservations for hotels, restaurants and rental cars get booked quickly during peak travel times. Your travel agent can help you get the lowest rate and make sure your rental car has room for your family, luggage and whatever souvenirs you bring home.
• Get a tune up. Before any long-distance drive, make sure to have your oil changed and your brakes, fluids and tire pressure checked. The slightest deficiency in air pressure significantly reduces your car’s gas mileage. On the flip side, too much air can result in a flat.
• Get an early start to avoid holiday gridlock. Traveling during late night/early morning hours helps. The worst times to travel are after meals since most travelers postpone leaving until they’ve eaten with their families. Make sure that all drivers are thoroughly rested.

Taking some time for preparation and planning results in travels with less-stress and anxiety…allowing time to celebrate the season.

Do you plan to travel this holiday season? If so, where are you going and how are you traveling?

Photo Credit: www.KennedySpaceCenter.com

Today marks another possible NASA launch at 7:55pm EST of the Shuttle Endeavour at Kennedy Space Center (KSC) in Florida, which is located just 45-minutes east of Orlando. An anticipated launch just heightens the visit for travelers and actually even is a destination activity in itself. However, one has to caution that there is no guarantee. There are many complications that can arise that may leave spectators disappointed to not witness one of the most spectacular space-related launches.

I have personally traveled to Florida’s space coast to witness a launch, but unfortunately five minutes prior to the scheduled launch, the mission was scrubbed. While we were disappointed to not see the actual launch in person, it was still a worthwhile journey to see the space shuttle on the launch pad and to partake in what can only be described as a tailgate party. Cars are lined for as far as you can see hours prior to the scheduled launch and people have music and food setting up their own launch party.

For travelers not able to witness a launch, touring the Kennedy Space Center will not disappoint. According to the KSC Web site, there is much to do during a visit from “live action theatrical shows like Mad Mission to Mars, to the inspiring Astronaut Encounter with an actual NASA Astronaut - one of the few people on Earth who have been to space. View ten-story high rockets from all eras of space exploration in the Rocket Garden, walk through a full-size Space Shuttle mock-up, see IMAX space films on gigantic five-story screens, and see an actual Gemini program capsule on display in Early Space Exploration.”

A typical admission to the KSC is $38 adult/$28 child (ages 3-11) plus tax and is not valid on shuttle launch days or December 25^th. In addition to the general admission, KSC has put together unique activities that are an additional cost such as “Lunch with an Astronaut” and guided tours.

For kids, there is even a Space Camp offered during the summer allowing participants to actually participate in a space shuttle mission simulation along with other stunning activities. This enriching space experience is designed for kids’ ages eight to 14, youth entering 2^nd-9^th grades. In 2008, the cost for this week-long program was $295 for the hours of 9am-4pm.

Matchbox® Mega Rig® Shuttle Mission; Photo Credit: www.mattel.com

To help keep the space mission alive, travelers can visit the KSC gift shop for a souvenir including astronaut ice cream or an astronaut helmet. Another great idea, particularly for kids for the holidays, is Mattel’s new Matchbox® Mega Rig® Shuttle Mission. This building system starts as one gigantic space ship and breaks down to 30 different combinations of space vehicles for kids to create. Equipped with cool accessories, including a space arm to grab things, an ATV and a UFO with a space alien inside, the Mega Rig® Shuttle Mission provides kids with hours of fun and imaginative play for boys and girls and adults alike. This new dream inspiring product is easy to transport along for travels too. Suggested retail price is $44.99 and is appropriate for kids age 4+. Visit Mattel’s Web site for more information.

Have you visited the Kennedy Space Center or witnessed a shuttle launch or re-entry?

Photo Credit: www.TLTravels.com

Photo Credit: www.TLTravels.com

Fascination with taking wet sand and creating magical castles and figures starts with kids’ first trips to the beach. This fascination never ends with some people and in fact, becomes an art form. At Ft. Myers Beach in Florida the 22^nd Annual American Sandsculpture Championship Festival just concluded where about 20 amateurs and master sand sculptors competed and showcased their art. Overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, the free event takes place beachside at the Outrigger Beach Resort and the Ft. Myers Beach Holiday Inn. More than 75,000 were estimated to attend the four-day event.

The weather cooperated as these artists carved, sculpted and created statues and figures made of sand beyond most people’s imagination. A few personal favorites at this year’s competition include a bigger than life size pirate, complete with a “wooden” peg leg and a parrot on the shoulder; a depiction of Wall Street with a large man holding the money and a smaller man holding the bail out; and a living sea featuring a mermaid with ocean friends. Truly, the details result in amazing works of art and not the typical sand castles most of us created at one time or another with a bucket!

One weather element that entered Southwestern Florida during the competition was some increased wind, which does not necessarily mix well with Ft. Myers Beach fine, white powdery sand. However, one trick of the trade I learned was that the artists mix some Elmer’s glue and water to spray a type of coating to help set the sand and to prevent the intricate details from disappearing.

Those locals and barefoot tourists alike who attended the sand castle festival also had the opportunity to enjoy the various award-winning beaches nearby in addition to Ft. Myers Beach, including Lovers Key and Lighthouse Beach on the neighboring Sanibel Island. For those looking to escape the start of winter, head south to Florida the first weekend of November each year to not only enjoy the warm, tropical weather; but, to also take in some sand wonders that are only here for a week.

Three winners were announced at the closing of the event: Thomas Koet from Florida for his sand sculpture named “Paris”; Canadian Michel Lepire for his piece called “Pristine Nature”; and John Gowdy from Italy for his creation titled “Jack’s view above the clouds and over the moon.”

To see additional photos, visit the festival’s photo gallery.

Photo Credit: Walt Disney World

As the fall temperatures and humidity begin to drop in sunny Florida, Epcot’s world showcase heats up becoming the centerpiece for an epicurean delight.  Epcot’s International Food & Wine Festival launched in September and runs through November 9^th, offering even more selections of food, wine, beer, musical entertainment as well as culinary demonstrations to stimulate the palate than what is normally available. Furthering the cultural aspect of this much anticipated event, many food and beverage kiosk are staffed with natives of the particular country represented.  Located at Disney in Florida, a regular park admission ticket is needed to experience all the delightful taste and smells of this festival with an international flair. 

World showcase is a collection of 11 different countries with representation from Norway to China to Morocco.  These countries host examples of architecture, culture through performances and art as well as food and beverage options.  During the festival many other temporary marketplaces (31) are set up to represent countries such as Greece, South Africa, Spain and New Zealand. 

Truly, one can sample their way through the world with tapas-sized portions in both food and drink ranging from $2 to $5. A few examples of offerings for the hungry and thirsty are potato pierogies from Poland, a spicy beef empanada from Chile and a nice Riesling from Austria.  The sweet tooth is not forgotten as many offer a sugary options such as Puerto Rico’s “Gypsy’s Arm” jelly roll. The United States had an additional New York and Louisiana food and beverage opportunities featuring some true Cajun cuisine and fine upstate wines from New York wineries.  A few other favorites include Canada’s famous cheddar cheese soup and the sausage in a pretzel bread wrap in Germany coupled with one of its six Riesling wines.

Novice Sommeliers and Brew masters will find a copious selection of fine wines and beers from the participating countries of the festival.  France offers a champagne and wine seminar that provides an in depth look at the history of wines, various growing regions and the fermentation process used to produce these libations.  Taste samplings are available from maple syrups and sugars to edible paper creations for the adventurous.  Lovers of hops and barley can experience the “History of Beer in America” or try the international sampling of beers at the Brewers Collection. 

Entertainment abounds with the America Gardens Theatre setting the tone for outdoor concerts with headliners from Sheena Easton to Boyz II Men.  These concerts are put on daily with up to three shows a day and offer both covered and outdoor seating.  Many of the 11 resident countries offer some form of musical or dance troupe that display the energy and beauty of their counties.  Passersby of Canada can experience the Celtic rock band Off Kilter whose members are outfitted in flannel shirts and kilts while Japan features traditional Taiko drummers at the base of the pagoda.  These cultural displays will stimulate visitors both visually as well as thru music.

Epcot’s 2008 International Food & Wine Festival marks the 13^th year of this annual event.  The dates for 2009 have yet to be released; interested visitors should check the Epcot Web site for details of the event.  Long known to be a destination for families for the theme parks, water parks and recreation, Disney continues to make a name for itself among those planning their travel around food and beverage.

Photo Caption: International Indulgence — Savory samplings from around the world will be on the menu during the 13th annual Epcot International Food and Wine Festival Sept. 26 - Nov. 9, 2008 at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. The popular six-week-long culinary extravaganza showcases celebrated chefs and vintners, cooking demonstrations, wine pairings and live entertainment.

This election season was no different as Michael MacNair, president and CEO of MacNair Travel and author of Smooth Landings, was contracted to develop travel management systems and strategies for all commercial travel related to the campaign. MacNair Travel also facilitated online and call-in ticketing.

“In a given day we moved 1,200 people from one campaign spot to the next,” MacNair says. “We are managed travel for advanced personnel, staff coordinators, consultants, finance personnel, VIP’s speaking on behalf of candidates, and their staffs.”

Presidential travel management differs from traditional corporate travel, according to MacNair. “First, Presidential campaign travel ramps up to about a $3 million dollar travel budget in months and then shuts down. Second, there is new staff and volunteers who need travel everyday so an authorization process must be stringent. And, third, there is more change involved than with average companies,” he explains.

There are particular travel management items the MacNair travel consultants have to ensure they pay attention to. “Price, authorization, travel change requests and car rental age requirements, since it’s hard to rent a car to anyone under 25, are just a few detailed items to monitor,” he adds. “Based on our experience garnered from the previous seven Presidential campaigns we have managed travel for, we create, implement and enforce very tight and defined travel management policies.”

Not only did MacNair Travel arrange for airline tickets, but the team also secured hotel rooms, car rentals and other travel items. “Often hotel rooms are pre-paid and that is a bit of a challenge, but we have an excellent system. We also rented SUV’s for the candidate’s entourage and vans, along with Secret Service coordination,” MacNair says.

The 2008 Presidential campaign was the second highest in travel volume, only coming behind the current President Bush’s campaigns, according to MacNair.

It takes a special skill set among travel agents to manage Presidential level travel, especially during the heat of the campaign trail. MacNair Travel specializes in developing travel management systems (policies, procedures, billing processes, customize online booking sites, preferred supplier deals). “Our Travel Consultants are faster, more flexible, more knowledgeable of U.S. geography, and can handle VIPs better,” MacNair states.

Which Presidential campaign events have you attended in your lifetime?

Photo Credit: SedonaMagoRetreat.org

When selecting travel destinations, many factors go into a traveler’s decision-making criteria. Is it a destination that has been on a wish list? Is it an activity offered at a location? Is there a lifestyle reason driving a certain type of vacation?

According to SpaFinder’s 2008 State of Spa Travel survey an increased interest in travelers seeking wellness/health elements at spas exists. Health and wellness is now one of the most critical considerations for today’s spa traveler, with 90 percent of travel agents reporting that health/wellness is either ‘very’ or ‘somewhat’ important to their vacationing clients.

“Spa travel is increasingly a fundamental part of the health and wellness regime for many Americans, young and old,” said Susie Ellis, president of SpaFinder.

Photo Credit: SedonaMagoRetreat.org

One destination and travel experience a traveler might consider when planning their next vacation or personal wellness escape is the Sedona Mago Retreat Center in Arizona. The Mago Retreat Center is more than “treatments” as it is known for its wellness and self-improvement programs.

First, the location can not be ignored as the breath taking red rocks are some of the most splendid natural beauty in the United States one can witness and experience. Just being in this location esults in a sense of relaxation and desire to tackle the outdoors. Sedona is an ideal location for travelers’ experiences in learning, meditation and healing.

In fact, one of the attractions to this geographic area is Sedona’s heritage coupled with the Navajo, Apache, and Yavapai Native American tribes when they roamed its landscape.

“Sedona Mago Retreat is a place where you can experience spiritual values of growing your soul for total health and well-being, discovering universal principles for a meaningful life, and showing respect for our sacred home the Earth. Mago means Mother Earth in ancient Asian cultures,” Larry Rosenberg, communication director for Mago Garden Retreat Center says.

To compliment the vacation experience, be sure to participate in one of the many program offerings including the Tao Wellness Retreat, a one-day, customized program designed to rejuvenate one’s mind, body and soul. Through a private one-on-one consultation, health guide and exercise classes, your body and mind can become totally rejuvenated. A few program benefits include a morning and evening yoga class, a spa and rock sauna, starlight meditation in outdoor Jacuzzi and more. All of this for $300, inclusive of accommodations.

Photo Credit: SedonaMagoRetreat.org

For those who are more adventurous or looking for a physical transformation, Dahn Mu Do, which is based on Korean martial arts practices, may be ideal. While very intense and physically demanding, it is also very gentle and healing for the body. According to the Sedona Mago Retreat Center founder Ilchi Lee, “everyone should master some sort of physical discipline in order to master the brain. Through overcoming the limits of your body, you overcome the limits of your mind, as well.” Depending on skill level, two courses are offered starting at $5,500 (which includes accommodations).

Another unique and beneficial retreat program is its Successful Aging Seminar which focuses on brain fitness. Based on the five-step Brain Education method and the latest findings in neuroscience, the course will show its participants simple and practical exercises to get the most out of life by using the brain to its maximum potential. This course is the perfect long-weekend escape.  Upcoming 2008 program offerings include: November 21-23; and December 19-21. A two-night session is $490 and an accommodation fee of $124 (+$35 per day for meals).

Regardless of program a traveler selects, there are other wellness activities offered too. For people who experience excessive stress and tension, or have a lot of accumulated physical/mental fatigue, there are physical relaxation, stress relief healing and energy balancing healing sessions (price ranges from $90–$250 for 30 to 80 minute sessions).

Photo Credit: SedonaMagoRetreat.org

Horseback riding is a popular excursion for many vacationers. How about horseback meditation? Partaking in this activity at the Mago Retreat Center is not just riding a horse versus it allows a rider to experience wild nature and vortex energy on horseback. This activity brings together a healing horse, energy and health. Offered at $100/hr.

There is nothing ordinary about the Mago Retreat Center’s programs or activities. Other activities include a Vortex tour, Organic Garden tour, daily exercise classes, a Ki Meditation Tour and more. Its yoga that is taught is Dahn Yoga, the only form of yoga that focuses on improving brain health thereby reducing stress, increasing cognitive ability, and other benefits. Not only do the programs, environment and activities call to a healthier well-being, but the cuisine is health conscious and organic vegetarian meals.

“Mago is a nonprofit foundation committed to advancing values that harmonize humanity and the Earth, and develop greater physical health, emotional well-being, and spiritual connection,” Rosenberg explains.

Luxury does exist in wellness. Travelers can choose from a standard casita (starts at $136/night with taxes and fees included) to one of four luxury suites in its Heaven Rock House ($414/night with taxes and fees included) which features its own living room, Jacuzzi bath, kitchen, washer-dryer, cable television, wireless Internet access and more. With over 120 modern guest rooms, most of which can sleep two comfortably, the Sedona Mago Retreat Center can accommodate over 200 guests.

For more information, or to make reservations, call toll free 1-800-875-2256. To learn more, visit: www.sedonamagoretreat.org.

Traveling to this wellness center in Sedona is more than a trip…it is a life changing experience. So, in essence, the Sedona Mago Retreat Center is a vacation souvenir that travelers will keep reaping the benefits from upon their return home.

Festival camping is so different from normal camping. For a start you have to park about three miles away from the entrance to the site so everything must be lightweight. From there you have to find somewhere to pitch your tent which is no mean feat. The hardcore party animals will have been there for hours in order to get the best pitch and it is therefore of utmost importance that you haven’t brought the biggest and most complicated tent to pitch. In the time taken to read the instructions someone else will have snuck in and used part of your space – leading to saggy tent syndrome. Which never ends well - even when the rain stays away.

In an ideal world I would take a tent with a bedroom and living quarters (for entertaining friends over a civilised meal and wine) however due to the time and space constraints a pop up tent would be ideal. Many others have the same idea so you might find yourself pitched in a field of the same tent (albeit some green others blue). Therefore some kind of patterned tent or customised tent is definitely a requirement. Unless you want to return to a drunken smelly oaf sound asleep in your tent (believe me it has happened!).

Other essentials are a wee cooking stove (so I can have a wee cuppa in the morning to wake me up) and something for boiling water in. This could double up to make porridge, beans, sausages etc. Some festivals don’t allow stoves due to the particular fire risk caused by inebriated individuals and naked flame. In this instance unless you’re prepared to lose the stove – leave it at home.

I’m not sure about essential, but I always enjoy the weekend more when I have a comfy seat. Being one of the people that always manage to sit on a huge rock or the only damp blade of grass I find that a folding chair can make all the difference. However these chairs are incredibly heavy for their size. Arriving late one year I had agreed to take an extra chair in return for a friend pitching my tent. Never again! Struggling the three miles in the blazing sunshine with two folding chairs (that got heavier every hundred yards or so) I contemplated selling the chairs to the highest bidder. Unfortunately it seems everyone had these heavy chairs & everybody was regretting it! Next time I think I’ll take a cushion!

Eating and entertaining has so far been covered but what of sleeping? Well camping usually involves a ground sheet or airbed, sleeping bag, sleeping bag liner, warm Berghaus jackets, warm socks, thermals and plenty of fleece layers. At a festival you should only take these if you do indeed intend to sleep. Plenty of money is wasted on these items every year by people who know that they will not see the inside of their tent from Friday evening until Monday morning.

Taking all these factors into consideration I would recommend researching the festival camping guidelines and rules before you buy any equipment and certainly before you pack up the car ready to go. I, along with many others, buy cheap and cheerful equipment and leave it behind on site. This seems like a disgusting waste of money however my local festival collects the tents, sleeping bags and other equipment and then puts them to good use. These items get distributed to those who actually need them, which makes a huge impact on others lives. Taking the equipment home would be more frugal on my part but I’d much rather replace it in a year and allow others to benefit.

Photo Credit: TremblantLiving.com

A luxury getaway in a Mont Tremblant condo or chalet can set the tone for year round family fun and relaxation without sacrifice.  Located outside of Montreal, Quebec, this resort area hosts a variety of outdoor activities ranging from snow skiing to golf.

Surrounding a pedestrian village of the resort area are several condo, chalet and cottage choices for vacationers to explore.  Mont Tremblant accommodations are available to house from 10-20 people in a variety of lavishly appointed residences.

Mont Tremblant accommodations are impressive and if the outside attractions were not so appealing, a traveler could have an amazing vacation just by staying inside.  These expansive rentals feature a multitude of bedroom and bath combinations.  The smallest option offers 3 bedrooms and 4 baths feature a billiards table with a hot tub.  The largest chalet is 8 bedrooms and includes a children’s playroom with ski-in/out options in the winter.  The ski in/out option is a must when maximizing time on the slopes. Not to mention the convenience and ability to snow shoeing or cross country skiing from the chalet door.

Photo Credit: TremblantLiving.com

Many other amenities include heated pools, saunas and home theaters as well as access to the beach and lake.  All feature a washer/dryer, fine linens, beautiful furniture and dishes to enhance the luxury experience. 

Activities abound year-round in the Mont Tremblant resort area with the title “Best snow skiing in eastern North America” 12 years running (Ski Magazine).  Sledding, snowmobiling and ice climbing are options for those seeking alternatives to down skiing.  Warmer weather activities include golf at one of the four championship courses, hiking, biking and sailing on the lake.  The excursions offer something for everyone at all physical levels not forgetting the ever relaxing afternoon nap on the porch or in front of the fireplace.

Food and night life offerings are many to visitors while in the resort area.  The pedestrian village houses several restaurants varying from French to Italian even a 5-star fine French offering for those with a more exquisite palate.  High energy dancing at many of the local bars on the resort runs from happy hour to the wee hours of the night offering an alternative to the adult crowds.  Catering and concierge services with in-home chefs preparing culinary delights are available at additional costs.

Photo Credit: TremblantLiving.com

Reaching Mont Tremblant via automobile for many of the major cities on the eastern seaboard of the U.S. is possible in a little over six hours drive time.  Air travelers may opt for either Montreal about one and a half hours drive north or Ottawa about two hours east or the smaller Tremblant airport near the resort.  The resort airport offers fly-in options from New York and Toronto via airlines such as Continental.  Several ground transportation options exist from limousines to shuttle buses with local rental care agencies near the resort. 

Taking in a winter or summer Mont Tremblant vacation in Canada can be for the romantic, the adventurous, the large family, the golf pro, or the ski enthusiast. There is something for everyone and this is one escape Travel Advocate recommends.