Ever sit on the couch watching The Amazing Race, and say: "I could do that!"...Well, now you can!
GreatEscape2008, the around-the-world travel competition is looking for fifty globetrotting adventurers to take A Blind Date With The World? and compete for the annual title of The World's Greatest Traveler(TM).
The Global Scavenger Hun(TM), scheduled for next spring can be your ticket to fulfilling a dream adventure by offering the most intrepid of global travelers a three-week around-the-world travel adventure. Travelers will race from Los Angeles to New York--the long way!
For three magical weeks, 25 Teams of two will travel the globe visiting at least 10 countries scattered across 4 continents like Indiana Jones' (and Jane's) hot on the path of the Holy Grail. Teams earn points by completing a series of cultural-oriented scavenges (finding Buddha's tooth in Sri Lanka; explaining Thai cooking flavors; visiting King Tut) and challenges (take a photo of a wild orangutan in Indonesia; enter a camel race in India; learn to belly dance in Turkey) in exotic destinations. A cultural immersion at its best, the event is designed to be a rally rather than a flat out race. The object is to test each Team's ability to combat not only the inevitable jetlag, but language difficulties, LGIUM
Teams and single travelers alike, looking to participate are asked to visit The Global Scavenger Hunt's official website GlobalScavengerHunt.com and enter online or call 310.281.7809. Travelers will be interviewed for suitability and asked to help in the events fundraising goal of raising a million dollars for charities like: KIVA, CARE, Doctors Without Borders, UNICEF and Partners in Health.
JUST THE FACTS:
What? A 10-country, 4-continent, 3-week around-the-world global scavenger hunt travel adventure competition that will send players on A Blind Date With The World™. A combination of a race/rally, contestants will be doing things, solving riddles, following cryptic clues, answering travel trivia and looking for physical hints to discover unique and extraordinary items as they are culturally immersed in our Global Village. Previous events where held in 2002, 2004, 2005.
Who? Limited to Twenty-five Teams of two will compete for The World's Greatest Travelers™ crown in this first of its kind global race/rally. The annual travel competition is open to anybody who thinks they have the international savvy and know-how to compete on an international gameboard.
When? The competition begins again on April 11th, 2008 from some get-away on the West Coast of North America and will end three weeks later on May 3rd in New York City.
How? Each person will pay or raise $9,900 to participate in the three week event and for the chance to be crowned The Worlds Greatest Travelers™ and other prizes. That entry fee includes all their international air travel and first class hotels in each exotic scavenger hunt destination over the 23-day event.
Why? Along with the world-class fun, prizes and trophies, GreatEscape2008® has a goal of raising $1 million for worthy international charitable causes with GreatEscape Foundation.
Where? A circumnavigation of the globe. A true around-the-world (RTW) event from Los Angeles to New York City -- the long way! Countries to be explored on four continents that may be included in GreatEscape2008® The Global Scavenger Hunt; are: New Zealand, Australia, Japan, Korea, China, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Malaysia, Singapore, Philippines, Nepal, India, Turkey, Greece, Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Morocco, Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, Italy, Slovenia, France, Germany, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Hungry, Luxembourg, Czech Republic, Austria, Andorra, Spain, Peru, Argentina, Mexico and Canada.
Early Bird Priority Ends December 19th!
SOURCE: GreatEscape Adventures, Inc.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
For many of us, daily access to Email is akin to our morning cup of coffee - we simply have trouble getting through the day without it. Whether it's a business trip or a vacation, there's a need for access to our Email. No other medium of communication can match Email's speed, convenience, and economy. But how can you stay on top of your Email when you're in Madrid or Osaka, thousands of miles from your office or home computer?
Read below for some of the best advice on the subject from the experts at Magellan's Travel Supplies:
Plan ahead
The secret to getting your Email on the road is to arrange everything before leaving home. You basically have three options: remote access to your work Inbox (often located behind a corporate firewall), a POP3 account, or a Free Web-Based Email provider. In most cases, you'll bring along your own laptop. If so, be sure to read our article How to Stay in Love with Your Laptop.
1. Free Web Based Email Providers
Even with the Internet's evolution toward fee-based services there are still countless web sites offering free Email (Hotmail and Yahoo Mail are popular examples). If you wish to avoid these big providers (which are high profile targets for computer hackers), visit FEPG.NET, which lists hundreds of free Email Providers all over the world and details which features are available from each. How can such a useful service be offered free? That's easy: You're forced to look at the ads. But this seems like a small price to pay for getting your Email worldwide
Web based Email is often a terrific choice for all your personal Email and may be used in place of the service offered by your home Internet Service Provider (ISP) (a POP3 account). Web based Email can be accessed from virtually any computer with Internet access (so you can leave the laptop at home and simply use Internet Cafes or your hotel business center), and you don't have to change your Email address if you switch ISPs or careers.
2. POP3 Access
If you wish to directly connect to either your office Email or the Email box provided by your personal ISP, you need to connect via POP3 (POP means Post Office Protocol). Connecting via POP3 is sometimes problematic. You must know your Email account information, which consists of three parts: your ISP's host name (i.e. mail.ispname.net), your username, and your password. You also need an Email client. Email client is just a fancy name for the software used to read and write Email (such as Eudora or Outlook Express) and often comes free with your computer. You also need to know if your ISP or company restricts POP3 access from the general Internet to their mail server for security reasons. Often, POP3 access is limited. It may work fine when connected from home but disallow access when using a different Internet connection. Contact your ISP or corporate IT Department for POP3 setup procedures.
3. Connecting to Your Company Email System
While you cannot beat the price of the free Email services, many business travelers prefer accessing their Email via full-featured Email software such as Microsoft Outlook. Depending on the size of your company, you may have the ability to connect directly to your company's Email system. Contact your company's IT department to see if they have any of the following:
Virtual Private Network (VPN)
A VPN allows you to connect to your company's network via the Internet. This requires you to bring your own laptop configured ahead of time with the correct VPN software. You simply logon to the Internet, start the VPN software and enter your password, creating a secure connection to your company's computer system. Once connected you have Email access and perhaps even access to documents stored on the corporate network.
Web-Based Email Client
If your company does not offer full VPN access, they may offer a slimmed down web-based Email access. This is similar to Free Web-based Email service but connects you directly with your own company's Email server using a Web browser software such as Internet Explorer. While you do not get full access to your corporate network, you often have complete access to your Inbox, Calendar, Contacts and such in your company's Email System. Typically, this does not require any special software, so it can be accessed from any Internet-connected computer. You connect your browser to a website such as http://webmail.yourcompanyname.com, enter your account name and password and you have a browser version of your Email. Like the VPN, any activity (Emails sent, appointments entered, contact information modified, etc.) is synchronized with your desktop system upon your return.
Inbox Forwarding
For smaller and less-sophisticated companies without a VPN or Web-Based Email Client, you may be able to automatically forward your Email to a Free Web-Based Email service. Then simply logon to your Free Web-Based Email to read. Depending on your system, you may have to leave your desktop computer turned on with the Email software running to forward the Email--a distinct security risk if someone has physical access to your computer. With other systems, the message forwarding is handled by the Email server so you need not leave your computer turned on.
Accessing The Internet to Get Your Email
No matter where you are, you will require access to the Internet to get your Email.
Local Access Number
Connecting is easy if you have a laptop computer and your ISP offers a large network of local connection numbers, as do AOL, MSN and Earthlink in the United States. If you travel often you may wish to set up an account with one of these providers simply for use while traveling. Or, consider setting up an account for a short period of time and then close it once your trip is done. Finally, you may choose an alliance of Internet Service Providers, such as IPass (www.ipass.com), which has local access numbers in some 150 countries.
Hotel Connections
Many hotels are adding high-speed Internet access. The prices may run $10-$15 per day (perhaps you can add it to your expense account?). Call ahead to see if your hotel has this access. To use high-speed access, your laptop must be equipped with a Network Interface Card (often called a NIC), as it is not compatible with a standard Modem connection. If your laptop is not equipped with a NIC, they are fairly inexpensive, readily available and easily installable. If your hotel does not offer high-speed access, ask if their phones have a data port for your modem. Traveling internationally? Be sure you have the correct phone and plug adaptors. Europe alone has about 30 different telephone jack connections. Before connecting via modem, check out your hotel's telephone access fees--often a hidden profit center. An hour local call may be as little as fifty cents or hundreds of dollars.
For more information about hotel connections see Magellan's article How to Stay in Love with Your Laptop. For detailed, country-specific information regarding voltage, and electrical and telephone socket patterns, visit http://www.magellans.com, click on "Shop by Destination".
No computer?
Even if you're on the road without a laptop, you're not up a creek without a paddle. There are many places to log on.
Most public libraries have free web access although the hours of operation are often limited. Cybercafes are popping up all over the world. Along with food and coffee, these java joints serve up computers with Internet connections at an hourly rate. To locate cybercafes, use the Cybercafe Search Engine (www.cybercafe.com), which lists more than 4,000 cafes in 140 countries. Before you leave home, look at the Web sites of cybercafes at your destination for directions, hours, and prices. After you arrive, you can also ask at your hotel or local computer store about nearby cybercafes.
Many hotels offer a Business Center for faxing, copies, and document printing. They often have computers available at an hourly rate. If yours does not offer a Business Center, check out the hotel across the street. You don't have to let on that you are not a guest.
There are also Internet kiosks at most major airports, from New York to Singapore. Other possible access points include public libraries, Kinkos, and Mail Boxes Etc. For a list of available public kiosks, visit Laptoplane (www.laptoplane.com).
About Magellan's
Since 1989, Magellan's has been the world's most trusted source of travel supplies. Their current catalog is available FREE by calling (800) 962-4943, or by visiting Magellan's on-line at http://www.magellans.com. Magellan’s is staffed by trained Travel Gear Specialists, ready to answer questions on everything related to travel. All Magellan's products are backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
Source: Magellan's Travel Supplies
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Even in the dead of winter, cultural life goes on. That's a good thing for holiday travelers.
How best to plug into cultural offerings as you head out for a cool-weather retreat? Keep reading:
· Newport, Rhode Island (Home of The Chanler): Three of Newport's most prominent Gilded Age mansions - The Breakers, The Elms and Marble House - will be decorated for the holiday season from November 17, 2007 to January 1, 2008. Come and enjoy the spirit of Christmas as these opulent summer cottages are transformed into Winter Wonderlands. Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.(The Chanler hotel is located at the start of Cliff Walk on Memorial Boulevard offering easy access to all that Newport has to offer. For info and reservations call 401-372-2578 or visit www.thechanler.com)
· Kennebunkport, Maine (Home of the White Barn Inn): In 1982, the village of Kennebunkport, Maine threw its first Christmas Prelude celebration, featuring a tree-lighting ceremony, River Arts concert, chowder luncheon, candlelight caroling, and Santa's arrival by lobster boat. These days, the Christmas Prelude consists of three tree-lighting ceremonies, Arts & Crafts Fairs, programs from the local Historical Society, a dozen dining venues serving breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea or dinner, and 12 programs of music celebrating the season. Santa still arrives by lobster boat, escorted by two very special "lobster elves." The Christmas Prelude runs December 10 -December 30, 2007. (The White Barn Inn & Spa is one of the leading Kennebunkport hotels and inns. Make an online hotel reservation enquire online at www.whitebarninn.com or call 207.967.2321)
· Taos, New Mexico (Home of El Monte Sagrado Living Resort & Spa): If you happen to be enjoying a relaxing holiday getaway at El Monte Sagrado Living Resort & Spa, head to the base of Taos Ski Valley at 6 p.m. on Christmas Eve to watch resort employees holding flares as they glide down Snakedance trail. The undulating ribbon of red is a must see. (El Monte Sagrado, well-known as a leader in alternative energy, blends its commitment to sustainability with a setting of indulgent luxury. For info and reservations: 800.828.8267; www.elmontesagrado.com.)
· Beverly Hills, Los Angeles (Home of Maison 140): The streets of Beverly Hills look better at night than during the day. This is especially true at Christmas time, when the Yuletide displays in the shop windows take on a particularly lovely glow and twinkle-lights adorn the many trees. During the holiday season, Rodeo Drive's center divider is planted with banks of bright red poinsettia flowers, and the trees are tied with matching red ribbons. Some of the stores, such as Louis Vuitton, really outdo themselves with delightful Christmas décor. (Maison 140 is an intimate, 43-room luxury boutique hotel in the heart of Beverly Hills. For telephone reservations call
800 670 6182 (From US and Canada); online visit www.maison140beverlyhills.com)
Source: Hawkins International
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Tour Scotland in a Vintage Campervan
Scooby Campers of Edinburgh offer a unique way to explore Scotland 1960s-style. Their fleet of vintage right-hand-drive Volkswagen campervans has been lovingly restored by a team of VW mechanics who have installed brand new engines, satellite navigation, state-of-the art sound systems and DVD players. And, like every proper campervan, each one is fitted with bunks, gas cooker, fridge and sink – the ultimate mobile home for a flexible touring vacation.
Scooby campervans can be hired for any length of time from one day upwards. Hire includes bedding, guide books and suggested itineraries. The base in Edinburgh is ideal for touring the West Coast and the Scottish Borders.
Scooby Campers operates all year round, with prices starting at £275 (around $550) for a long weekend, Friday to Monday.
Website: www.scoobycampers.com.
SOURCE: British Tourism www.visitbritain.org
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Imagine traveling with all the right things with only one carry-on bag! Sound impossible? Read what the travel experts at Magellan's Travel Supplies have to say on the subject:
Why Carry-on?
Mishandling of checked luggage is on the rise, with more than six out of every thousand travelers experiencing problems with delayed, damaged, and lost luggage. Add to that the time wasted at the luggage carousel, and the hassle of hauling a large and heavy suitcase and it's clear why so many seasoned travelers choose to carry-on.
Smart Packing.
Start with your suitcase. Older bags (even soft-sided luggage) can weigh 15 pounds or more empty. New luggage has been developed with light weight in mind, often coming in at less than half the weight of older bags. These new bags are made with modern materials that are very light but durable, without giving up the convenience of wheels and telescoping handles.
Begin packing a few days early, laying out all of the clothing you think you might need. Then spend a day or two removing items that aren't strictly necessary, are too heavy or bulky, or don't match the rest of your travel wardrobe.
To avoid wrinkles and airport security delays, pack in easily inspected modules. Mesh cubes, mesh pockets, and packing folders keep your clothing organized, neatly folded, and compacted, and can belifted out individually during inspection without disturbing your...
Click here to read the full "Seven Days and One Carry-on Bag" article.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Think Thanksgiving. Think giving. Consider combining an adventure vacation in the mountains of Belize with important volunteer work with the not-for-profit Casa Avian Support Alliance (www.casaavian.org).
A five day/four night holiday stay at Casa del Caballo Blanco eco lodge (www.casacaballoblanco.com) includes a visit to the major Mayan ceremonial site of Tikal, tubing through Xibalba, the Mayan underworld of the Caves Branch River, and hands-on work with the center’s avian rescue and rehabilitation program.
Casa del Caballo Blanco eco lodge is a six-casita accommodation on 23 scenic hilltop acres near San Ignacio, Belize. It shares space with an avian rehabilitation and release center called Casa Avian Support Alliance and offers voluntourism and adventure opportunities on premise and throughout the region.
Concerned travelers now can put words into action by booking a visit here and participating in avian rescue and rehabilitation efforts while also enjoying the culture, adventure and tranquility of a vacation in Belize. This is the first avian voluntourism program of its kind in Belize. It has been endorsed by the Rainforest Alliance sustainable Tourism Program (www.rainforest-alliance.org), Belize Audubon Society, Friends for Conservation and Development and Birds Without Borders.
The four-night Thanksgiving package, dubbed the “Toucan Tour” runs $815 per person inclusive of accommodation, most meals, planned outings and on-site volunteer work with the various ongoing avian support projects. Excluded are local taxes, optional activities and service charges. Operation of both the lodge and its avian project, both not for profit, depend partly on guest revenues from the lodge operations as well as volunteer labor and participation to fulfill its vital mission.
“Habitat destruction, the effects of global warming and the illegal poaching and capture of exotic birds are real world problems. The work we do here seeks to understand and support the biodiversity of Belize that attracts and sustains over 530 species of migratory and resident birds spotted in a given year,” explains lodge owner Vance Bente.
E.O. Wilson, citing work done by leading wildlife biologists on the destruction of rain forests in the Americas, suggests that within a century, “The stage will be set…for the inevitable loss of 12 percent of the 704 bird species in the Amazon Basin and 15 percent of the plant species in South and Central America.”
Lodge visitors are encouraged to assist with on-site nest-box building, general maintenance and feeding as well as habitat restoration, nature trail building, wild bird identification and signage. In addition, lodge guests can access numerous Mayan ruins and indigenous villages in Belize and across the border into Guatemala including Flores on Lago Peten, the World Heritage site of Tikal, and the recent Survivor site at Yaxha/Topoxte.
Casa’s hacienda-style Main House celebrates the region’s Hispanic culture with high, beamed ceilings, tile floors, hand-made furniture and interior design features hand-crafted by local artisans to evoke the footprint of an ordered, spiritual world of centuries ago. Nestled on a hillside overlooking the Mopan River Valley, the location provides a stunning view of the Mer de Verde, the “Green Ocean,” a site that could likely have been used in a similar manner by the Mayans. The guest quarters, six thatch-roofed, fully screen cabanas, all have en-suite bathrooms, refrigerators, hand-crafted furniture and Mayan-inspired fabrics.
Meals served in an airy, thatch-roofed dining room include Mayan food prepared in centuries-old Quiché, Mopan and Yucatecan traditions. Creole foods combine exotic Hispanic and Caribbean flavors. All produce is fresh from Casa’s own gardens and local markets and prepared locally by Belizeans.
On-site facilities provide a haven for avian wildlife recently freed from captivity or treated for injury or illness. Here birds can heal, rehabilitate and eventually be released back into their natural habitat. The facility is dynamic and will evolve annually with the guidance and cooperation of the Forest Department, Belize Audubon Society, Friends for Conservation and Development, Aves Sin Fronteras, and other organizations and experts from the avian community. Visit the alliance website for more information, www.casaavian.org
Lodge guests are also welcome to join its Passport Program that over time will showcase a half dozen other properties in the Americas with organizations who have similar goals and missions such as avian support.
For information on year-round educational programs and vacation packages, please visit www.casacaballoblanco.com or call 707-974-4942.
SOURCE: Widness & Wiggins PR
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".