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Amazing
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Our must-see
WORLD
2010
EVENTS
G U I D E
Adventure awaits you in
Hawai‘i
MORE INSIDE
REACHING OUT TO TURKS & CAICOS
WEDDINGS & HONEYMOONS
CONTESTS, GAMES, BLOGS & MUCH MORE
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OUR
SPRING BREAK
TOP
DESTINATIONS
Over 700 consultants here to help: 1-866-541-2111
We go out of our way for you.
2 FOOTPRINTS ‘To open up the world for those who want to see’
Winter 2010
At Flight Centre, we go out of our way to find you the perfect trip at a great price.
And with the passion and experience of over 8,000 consultants and support staff in nine
countries around the world, it’s no surprise that we stand behind the holiday you book.
In fact, when you book a holiday with us and it doesn’t end up being the holiday you
expected, simply let us know and we will give you a $100 voucher† for use towards
your next booking with Flight Centre.
† The Perfect Holiday Promise applies to bookings made at Flight Centre shops within Canada. Bookings must comprise of an airfare and one of the following – accommodation, cruises or tours. Claims must be made within one month of
Over 700
completed travel. consultants here towhen
Claims will be honoured help: 1-866-541-2111
an unwanted FOOTPRINTS
deviation from the paid itinerary occurs. In this event a $100 voucher per booking will be provided for future travel. Issue of the voucher is not an admission of liability. Voucher
must be redeemed in store within 12 months of issue for packages comprising an airfare and one of the following – accommodation, cruises or tours. Offer is subject to change at any time.
President’s Message
Welcome to the Winter edition of Footprints Magazine. What better way to kick off the
New Year than by planning your next holiday? Escaping the winter weather has never
been easier with such fantastic offers we are bringing to you in this edition. Consider
making 2010 truly memorable by skipping the Canadian winter altogether and heading
down under for the Australian summer sun (p.32). If you’re planning on getting away
for Spring Break, be sure to check out our Top 10 list of destinations (p.12).
For a short getaway, check out the new things going on in Las Vegas (p.15).
But don’t let our list limit your imagination! If you can dream it, we can make it happen.
Your vacation experience is backed by the experience and expertise of our
700 International Travel Consultants who are ready to work with you to plan the
perfect getaway that is tailor-made to your budget and needs. We also have access to better rates and more choices than you would ever find
trying to arrange it on your own. Let our experienced and knowledgeable team save you time and money while you focus on the fun.
While people generally build expectations around ‘last-minute’ deals as a by-product of the downturn in the economy, the reality is that several
capacity cutbacks on many holiday routes has meant that many flights are already heavily booked. Last minute deals could eventuate for those
people who have the flexibility to leave at a moments notice to a hotel and destination that may not have been on their wish list. If you have specific
dates and destinations in mind, avoid disappointment and book as early as possible to ensure you get what you want and keep it within your budget.
Happy New Year and happy travels.
Greg Dixon
President, Flight Centre North America
Editorial Director Alex Biafora Footprints Magazine is a quarterly publication of Flight Centre
Canada (“the publisher”) and is distributed FREE OF CHARGE
Art Director Cambie Pearson through our Flight Centre retail travel locations across Canada.
The magazine provides information to our clients and potential
Editor Allison Wallace clients on travel destinations, tips, and products from third party
sponsors and advertisers. The information is provided on an “as is”
Writers Alex Biafora, Allison Wallace basis with all faults and without any warranty of any kind, expressed
or implied. The publisher cannot be held responsible for the use of
& Malcolm Sorab unsolicited photographs and/or articles. The publisher, its parent/
principles, sponsors and/or advertisers, are not liable in any event
Marketing Alex Biafora, Eric Sakawsky for any and all actions, costs, damages (known and unknown),
& Nuno Alves expenses, claims, and liabilities whatsoever, at law or in equity.
No portion of this magazine can be reproduced in any form, or
Web Design Reuben Watson by any means, unless with the prior written permission from the
publisher and from the contributor of a specific article, photograph
Printed by Horseshoe Press or advertisement. Any violation of copyright or unauthorized usage
of any content, materials, graphics, trademarks, service marks, or
format of this magazine will be aggressively pursued by the publisher.
Editorial All trademarks or service marks (registered or unregistered)
contained in this magazine are the sole property of their respective
Hawai‘i Hawai‘i Visitors & Convention Bureau owners, including but not limited to the publisher.
Printed on Enova gloss text, made with 30% post-consumer
recycled fibre. By using this paper the following resources have Las Vegas Las Vegas Convention Publisher: The Flight Shops, Inc. DBA Flight Centre, FCm Travel
and Visitors Authority Solutions, FC Associates, and GOGO Worldwide Vacations
been saved:
• 80 trees Vancouver Head Office
Thailand Tourism Authority of Thailand 1133 Melville Street, Suite 600, Room H
• 36,788 gallons of water saved Vancouver, BC V6E 4E5
• 2,234 lbs of solid waste not generated Australia Tourism Australia
Toronto Head Office
• 25 million BTUs energy not consumed For advertising and/or distributing opportunities, 1 Dundas Street West, Suite 200
• 7,638 lbs of greenhouse gas emissions prevented please email footprints.magazine@flightcentre.ca Toronto, ON M5G 1Z3
4 FOOTPRINTS
Winter 2010
Contents
HAWAI‘I 7
Adventure awaits you
TOP 10 12
Ideas for your Spring Break vacation
las vegas 15
Check out what’s new on the Strip
Hands on 20
Reaching out to Turks & Caicos
Photo Contest 28
Top 10 photos
from our Fall photo contest
Australia 32
Hawai‘i 7 Food, wine & adventure!
Weddings 37
& Honeymoons
Let the experts plan your
wedding & honeymoon
blogs 40
Sharing our travel experiences
ANY
Apply today and get 20,000 Bonus TD Points upon approval.3
Whether you find the perfect travel deal in the newspaper, online, or at a travel
agency, the TD First Class Visa Infinite Card—unlike most other cards—lets you
TRAVEL DEAL book, and use your points to pay for it all.1 That’s right, the whole trip—flight, taxes,
accommodations, even your airport parking. Plus, you can book your trip whenever
YOU FIND you want because there are no blackouts, no restrictions, and no point expiry dates.2
So, whether you’d love to visit Machu Picchu or ride an elephant in India, this is the
travel rewards card that’ll get you there, on points. Try that with other travel cards.
1
To redeem TD Points for travel purchases charged to your Card that are not booked through the TD Visa Travel Rewards Centre (the “Centre”), Cardholder must contact the Centre after the travel purchase has been posted to the Account and
within 90 days from the transaction date of the travel purchase. The required TD Points will be redeemed from the TD Points balance available on the date TD Points are redeemed through the Centre towards the travel purchase, not the transaction
date of the travel purchase. The amount that will be credited towards the travel purchase will be equal to the value of the TD Points redeemed. Any amount of the travel purchase not covered by the TD Points redeemed will remain on the Account
for payment. TD Points must be redeemed in 10,000-point increments. 2Applies to Cardholders only. 3Bonus TD Points will be awarded to the new TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite Account upon approval. Offer applies to new Accounts only.
Offer may be changed, extended or withdrawn at any time without notice. Cannot be combined with any other offer. *�Trade-mark of The Toronto-Dominion Bank.
Winter 2010
8 FOOTPRINTS ‘To open up the world for those who want to see’
The famous Napali Coast on Kauai home to the spectacular and challenging Kalalau Trail.
Photo: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Ron Garnett
the place. With some of the deepest waters in the state right For those who can’t stand the heat ... another operator on the
off-shore, SCUBA diving and snorkelling are prime activities here. Big Island is bringing star-gazers up the slopes of Mauna Kea to
In fact, patrons of a local sailing vessel recently were visited by a whale observe the heavens. You’ll ascend the world’s tallest sea mountain
shark, a pod of dolphins, a humpback whale calf and sea turtles while just as the sun sets, all the while sipping hot chocolate as the
snorkelling Kealakekua Bay. tropics give way to knee-high snow fields. Get the inside scoop
from astrologists as they explain how the ancient Hawaiians
navigated by the stars—as well as how scientists today are
Kilauea began erupting half a century ago peering in to the future, one light-year at a time.
and hasn’t stopped. Visitors come in droves to Kaua‘i
Volcanoes National Park to hike the lava fields. Flying in to Hawai‘i’s northern-most island, it’s easy to see why
so many adventurists pine for a jaunt to Kaua‘i. With a single
continuation on page 10
Home to the annual Billfish Championship fishing tournament, the
Big Island offers a large number of deep-sea fishing charters. It’s not
uncommon for anglers here to reel in 150-pound ahi tuna—a battle
that leaves fodder (and the opportunity for plenty of exaggeration)
for years to come.
Everyone knows that here is where Kilauea began erupting half a
century ago and hasn’t stopped. Visitors come in droves to Volcanoes
National Park to hike the lava fields in hopes of getting a close-up of
the orange ooze. However, those in the know are taking a different
approach. Recently, an outfitter here began offering chartered sea
tours that bring you up-front and close to the gushing lava—just as it
hits the ocean. Plumes of steam and wild rock formations continually
occur as you witness the Big Island actually getting bigger.
Lava from Kilauea Volcano meets the sea, Hawaii’s Big Island.
Photo: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Kirk Lee Aeder
road that skirts a lush, mountainous interior, private property that doubled as
the terrain alone practically begs backdrops for Hollywood films like
for exploration. Tropic Thunder, Indiana Jones and Jurassic Park).
Start with the most obvious: Hiking the Some opt to soar above the trees on one
Napali Coast.
This 11-mile,
roadless Sheer drop-offs, azure seas, lush tropical
stretch of rain
forest offers
flora, trickling streams and all the tranquility
some of the you could ask for.
most gruelling
single-track
hiking, with the biggest visual pay-offs. Start at of Hawai‘i’s extensive zip-line parks. The
Ke‘e Beach, and wind your way up to a hilltop difference of zip-lining in Hawai‘i? Guides are
that peers over what’s to come. Sheer drop- knowledgeable on the forests that surround
offs, azure seas, lush tropical flora, trickling them, and are eager to share what makes the
streams and all the tranquillity you could ask Hawaiian jungles so special.
for. Spill onto Hanakapi‘ai Beach—from here, From cruising to à la carte, Flight Centre
campers will keep going an additional 8 miles, can help you plan your next adventurous
while thrill-seekers crisscross a river that hawaiian vacations.
leads inland to Hanakapi‘ai Falls, where you’ll
swim in what looks like a Hollywood set.
SPECIAL OFFER
Stop off in Hanalei on your way back south
and try your hand at surfing in the legendary Save $50 * when you book any
Hanalei Bay. While waiting for sets of perfect 7-night package to Hawai‘i from
barrels to sweep you to shore, look around Jan 4 - Mar 31, 2010.
at the Bali Hai views and picture-perfect *Conditions apply. Valid at Flight Centre stores across
Canada. Limit one (1) discount per booking. Not combinable
waterfalls that dot the cliffs above you. with any other offer. Must include roundtrip airfare and
7 nights accommodation. Valid on new bookings paid in full.
In Poipu, many excursion operators are vying
Expires March 31, 2010. Coupon Code: FPWN20103
to escorts adventurists on a kayak paddle
along the Wailua River, to a hidden swimming
hole only accessible with a tour guide (it’s on
Kayaking on the legendary Wailua River. Kauai is the only island in Hawaii with navigable rivers.
Photo: Hawaii Tourism Japan (HTJ)
DESTINATIONS
1 Fort Lauderdale, Florida 3 Jamaica
Pegged as the original Spring Break destination, it A little more laid-back but no less fun, Jamaica is
offers the world famous ‘Spring Break Beach’ with quickly becoming a Spring Break hot spot. Known
over 7 miles of white sandy beach, an award-winning for its reggae grooves and fabulous nightlife, nobody
wavewall and signature beachfront promenade. masters ‘island time’ like the Jamaicans.
We suggest: Air + 7 nights accommodation at the We suggest: Air + 7 nights all-inclusive at
Westin Beach Resort + Everglades airboat tour. Beaches Boscobel + river tubing.
2 Cancun, Mexico
Made famous by MTV and a movie that sent parents
into shock, Cancun boasts a wild party atmosphere
and is intent on maintaining its reputation.
We suggest: Air + 7 nights all-inclusive at
Club Med + Mayan Ruins tour.
Florida Keys
5 Bahamas
Known for white sandy beaches and world-class
casinos, the Bahamas is the perfect escape for
your spring break. We suggest: Air + 4 nights
accommodation at the Atlantis Resort +
Bahamas Rose Island Robinson Crusoe Cruise.
12 FOOTPRINTS ‘To open up the world for those who want to see’
Cancun, Mexico
9 Costa Rica
If you’re looking to stay away from the Spring Break cliché but still get
some sun & surf, consider Costa Rica. Combine a few days at one of
the famous surf beaches with a few more days ziplining through the
rainforest canopy. We suggest: Air + volcanoes and surfing tour
+ ziplining adventure.
10 Las Vegas
There is nothing in the world quite as dynamic as the never-ending
party scene in Las Vegas. Glamour, excitement, entertainment and
games of chance – all yours 24 hours a day. We suggest: Air + 4 nights
accommodation on the Strip + Grand Canyon helicopter tour.
Simply mention the words LUXURY HELI COMBO when you book your Outrigger (deluxe or bure style accommodation) and
• One hour spa treatments for two people at Outrigger on the Lagoon’s new Bebe Spa. Your stay at this multiple
award-winning resort also includes the luxury of a Fiji-style Butler service - the famous “Talai” service - truly taking
pampering to new heights.
• Scenic 20 minute helicopter transfer between Outrigger and Castaway Island for 2 guests. Not only breathtaking
but a seamless way to travel.
• Dolphin Safari Tour for two people, aboard Castaway Island’s fast luxury speedboat around the Mamanuca Islands.
This magical luxury bonus is valued at over
$700 per couple and it's yours FREE.*
* 1/ Must book three consecutive nights at Outrigger in Deluxe Oceanview Room, bure or suite 2/ Must book three consecutive nights at Castaway in any
bure category 3/ Bonus items limited to two persons per room/bure booked 4/ Transfers other than one way helicopter transfer between Outrigger and
Castaway or vice versa are not included 5/ Not valid for sale in conjunction with other promotional offers (except Honeymoon Bonus Package)
BOOK NOW WITH YOUR FLIGHT CENTRE TRAVEL CONSULTANT
Winter 2010
Amazing
Cosmopolitan and Traditional
Thailand is a land of contrasts—each region offers something unique.
Bangkok is a cosmopolitan and exciting city that never stops! This
metropolis is home to over ten million people, who have astounding
Thailand!
success in combining the ancient and modern world in their daily lives.
During the day, you might want to visit any one of the 400 Buddhist
temples that glitter in the Bangkok sun. The Grand Palace and Wat
Phra Kaeo especially are a treasure trove of Thai art with their gold-
plated Reclining Buddha, and the Emerald Buddha, the most revered
Buddha in Thailand. Later on, receive a traditional Thai Massage at
Sawadee! Welcome to Thailand! With its
Wat Pho, learn to meditate at one of the city’s meditation centres,
cultural and historical heritage, adventure or take a river cruise. For an urban adrenaline rush: try shopping!
tourism, stunning beaches, turquoise waters, Floating markets on the Chao Phraya river, the mazes of the famous
Chatuchak weekend market, and the most modern shopping centres
shopping and delicious food, Thailand is
will delight any shopper. When the sun sets, Bangkok’s night markets
truly every traveller’s paradise. Over 60% of come alive with everything from street-food to luxury products. Most
Canadians visiting Thailand every year are, in importantly, all of these sites can be comfortably reached by Skytrain
or Underground.
fact, repeat visitors! This not only attests to
Just 86 kilometres north of Bangkok is Ayutthaya, one of Thailand’s
Thailand’s attractions, to the hospitality and
most impressive historical sites, and the former Thai capital. The
generosity of the Thai people, but also to the Kingdom Ayutthaya ruled over an area that extended far into present-
recognition of Thailand as a value destination— day Laos, Cambodia and Myanmar for 417 years. A UNESCO World
Heritage Site, the Ayutthaya city complex’s ancient architecture is a
there are temptations for every seasoned, and
fascinating mix of Khmer style and early Sukhothai style. Its prangs
every novice traveller, at every budget. And and wats, reflecting this combination of Hindu-inspired Khmer and
the country’s continual development of tourist Buddhist motifs, and are not to be missed.
products means that there are more places to Relaxed and Adventurous
visit, more discoveries for travellers with each After the hustle and bustle of Bangkok, travellers can retreat to over
passing year. Amazing Thailand—Amazing Value! 2500 kilometres of beautiful beaches in Thailand’s South, a region
extending down from Bangkok to the Malaysian border. The region is
situated between the Andaman Sea on the west and the South China
Sea on the east. Both coastlines offer white sandy beaches, offshore
islands and many national parks.
Islands on the east side, such as Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao,
have long been popular holiday spots for the laid-back traveller,
with their many small beach bungalows, informal atmosphere and
seaside restaurants.
Phuket, on the west, is a sophisticated resort destination whose
hospitality has never failed to impress. Spend your days in one
of Phuket’s luxurious spas, feel the sea breeze on a world-class
golf course, or taste Phuket’s spell-binding seafood in one of
its restaurants.
Even further south along the coast is a Thailand not often advertised,
a Thailand of sparkling coves. Phang-nga, Krabi and Trang offer
breathtaking limestone rock formations you can climb or simply enjoy
from your beach towel, brisk sailing winds and a unique cultural milieu.
Because of the rubber industry, this region has long been engaged
with foreign peoples. Strong Portuguese, Chinese and Malaysian
influences are apparent in this region’s architecture, history and
even language.
Unbeknownst to many, Thailand offers some of the world’s best
diving opportunities in the South’s clear waters and coral reefs.
Photo courtesy of Tourism Authority of Thailand continuation on page 18
FOOTPRINTS 17
Photo courtesy of Tourism Authority of Thailand
In the Andaman Sea, the best time to dive is from October to April,
and in the Gulf of Thailand, from May to September. Almost all major
resort towns have reputable dive shops affiliated with PADI or other
international dive bodies and that hold courses in multiple languages.
Diverse and Colourful
Nestled between the rugged
mountains on the northern DIDYOUKNOW?
borderlands with their waterfalls Thailand is one of
and rivers, and the sweeping the most affordable
plains of the lower north, exotic destinations in
the Northern region is the the world.
birthplace of Thai civilization.
The gateway city to the North
is Chiang Mai—despite the fact
that its name literally means new city, Chiang Mai is over 700 years
old! The city’s temples are some of the most important temples in
the region, and its Songkran (Thai New Year) festivities attract
visitors worldwide to the city’s gates. While in Chiang Mai, travellers
often take advantage of the fabulous facilities for health and
well-being, which use a combination of modern and traditional
Thai massage techniques.
Trekking adventures, elephant rides, rafting, and hillside lodges await in
the northern mountains. These mountains are also home to Thailand’s
ethnic hilltribes. Six main tribal groups—the Karen, Hmong, Lahu,
Mien, Akha and Lisu—have maintained their own unique customs
and clothing, as well as their nomadic lifestyle, while welcoming all
travellers to experience cultures like no other.
The northeast of Thailand, known as Isan, is one of the
Trekking adventures, elephant rides, country’s most intriguing and unknown travel destinations.
rafting, and hillside lodges await in the Covering a vast plateau, Isan is a starting point not only
for adventure journeys to the mighty Mekong river, but to
northern mountains. Thailand’s archeological wonders. Udon Thani and Khon
Kaen are an amazing entry into the archeology of Bronze Age
civilizations as well as the legacy of the great Khmer empire— deeply. Volunteering opportunities abound for those willing to teach
complexes, palaces and pagodas. With regular flights to Isan’s regional English, assist in career planning and organize outreach projects all
airports, this once-hidden jewel is becoming a travellers’ favourite. over the country.
Unique and Unconventional No matter what kind of vacation you choose, Thailand is easily
accessible from Canada, and travel around Thailand is fully integrated
For those looking for a vacation that is unique and even
with very frequent and efficient air connections around the country,
unconventional, Thailand offers a world of delights. In recent years,
rail and bus connections at affordable rates. Come and see why
Thai food has become one of the most popular cuisines in the world.
Canadians keep returning to Thailand! It’s just simply amazing.
Its combination of fresh herbs and biting spices is a distinct taste
sensation that has become immediately From tours and sailing adventures, to cooking
recognizable by epicureans of all sorts. Why classes and à la carte vacation packages,
not deepen your knowledge of Thailand’s four Flight Centre can help plan your next trip.
distinct culinary regions by taking a cooking
class or a cooking tour at a specialty school in
Bangkok, Chiang Mai or another resort town?
SPECIAL OFFER
The Elephant Conservation Center in
Lampang offers short courses for those Save $50 * when you book any package to
who not only want to learn the basics of Thailand from Jan 4 - Mar 31, 2010.
looking after elephants, but who also want *Conditions apply. Valid at Flight Centre stores across
to learn about the serious problems that Canada. Limit one (1) discount per person. Not combinable
with any other offer. Must include roundtrip airfare and
Thai elephants face, especially in the wake a minimum of 3 nights accommodation. Valid on new
of new sustainable tourism initiatives. bookings paid in full. Expires March 31, 2010.
Coupon Code: FPWN20105
Perhaps some travellers would like to get to
know life in Thailand, and its people, more
Photo courtesy of Tourism Authority of Thailand Photo courtesy of Tourism Authority of Thailand Photo courtesy of Tourism Authority of Thailand
20 FOOTPRINTS ‘To open up the world for those who want to see’
Over 400 Flight Centre employees descended on Beaches Turks & Caicos Resort Villages & Spa,
Providenciales to hold their National Leadership Conference.
For the first time ever, the conference included which led to a cheque presentation for chance to prove that we are responsible
community based volunteer activities that had $50,000 to Adam Stewart, CEO of Sandals and caring travel professionals by getting
them completing 10 projects in conjunction Resorts International. engaged in some charitable work with our
with the Sandals Foundation that had a direct great partner, Sandals, and our friends –
“We are so extremely grateful and quite
positive impact on the people and destination the Caribbean locals,” said Flight Centre
frankly overwhelmed by the commitment
of Turks & Caicos. It was the largest President Greg Dixon. “Flight Centre is a
and generosity of Flight Centre in taking on
community outreach program of its kind ever company made up of incredibly passionate
this initiative, the first and largest of its kind
held on the island. and dedicated people. This was our chance
within our Sandals Foundation,” said Adam
The list of projects included the re-building to show ourselves and the travel industry
Stewart, CEO, Sandals Resorts International. how working together can produce amazing
of vegetable and reading gardens to planting “Through Flight Centre’s example and our
mangroves and building playgrounds for local results. We are leaving a legacy and starting a
ongoing partnership with them, we will not trend that we hope lasts for years to come.”
children. Flight Centre asked each of its shops
only enhance the lives of our Caribbean
and businesses sending representatives to At Flight Centre, giving back is a big part of our
communities but further engage the
the leadership conference in September to company philosophy. When you book with us,
travel industry and consumers alike in the
raise money to cover the cost of materials, you are booking with a company that cares not
opportunities to make a difference.”
tools and transportation in order to make only about the communities we operate in,
the projects happen. To make the donation “Working on these projects gave us a but also the destinations we send thousands of
even more significant, the company matched chance to give back to the destinations travellers to every year. Sustainable tourism is vital
its staff’s fundraising efforts dollar for dollar that help us make a living – it was our to our future and we plan on leading the way.
A lot can happen in 365 days. At any given time, several celebrations and festivals are Los Angeles
Palm Springs
New Orleans
going on around the globe. 2010 is no exception. Here is a list of a few that we think
you shouldn’t miss!
Oberammergau La Tomatina
JANUARY MARCH Passion Play Aug 25
Québec Winter Carnival Vendimia Festival May 15 – Oct 3 Buñol, Spain
Jan 28 – Feb 14 Mar 1 – 8 Oberammergau, Germany The world’s most famous food fight
Québec City, Canada Mendoza, Argentina Performed every 10 years, 2,000 consists of 45,000 tourists hurling
An ice hotel, snowball fights and This extravaganza celebrates villagers of this German town will bring 130,000kg of over-ripe tomatoes until the
parades are just a few things you will Argentinean wine big-time, the story of Jesus of Nazareth to life. streets are ankle-deep in tomato sauce.
find at the biggest winter festival on packing the city of Mendoza with
the planet. hundreds of thousands of the JUNE SEPTEMBER
world’s wine aficionados. Midsummer Celebration
Dubai Shopping Festival Toronto Film Festival
Jan 28 – Feb 28 St Patrick’s Day Jun 18 – 19 Sep 9 – 18
Dubai, UAE Mar 17 Sweden Toronto, Canada
Shopoholics rejoice! The shopping Dublin, Ireland Traditional singing and dancing fills the Among the top prestigious film festivals
capital of the Middle East has a A 5-day festival that celebrates the countryside of Sweden, with hard-core in the world, this annual event draws
month-long festival filled with bargains Irish and Irish culture with parades, partying well into the night on the stars and star-gazers alike.
and sales you don’t want to miss. Guinness and everything green in longest day of the year.
what better place than Dublin! Glastonbury Festival OCTOBER
FEBRUARY Jun 23 – 27 Fantasy Festival
Rio Carnival APRIL Glastonbury, England Oct 22 – 31
Feb 13 Songkran Water Festival The largest greenfield music and Key West, USA
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Apr 13 – 15 performing arts festival in the world. An annual adult-only festival known
K nown as the glitziest and wildest party Chiang Mai, Thailand Known for the music, this event also for street parties, parades and
around, the streets and beaches of Ring in the Thai New Year with features dance, comedy, theatre, circus, clothing-optional celebrations.
Rio de Janeiro are filled with music, Thailand’s biggest water festival by cabaret and many other arts.
dancing and celebrations. eagerly hurling buckets of water over
Halloween
Oct 31
Chinese New Year your fellow traveller or Thai local. JULY New York City, USA
Feb 14 Coachella Music Festival Love Parade A massive costume parade takes over
Beijing, China Apr 16 – 18 Jul 17 – 20 Manhattan – from the bottom of SoHo
R ing in the year of the tiger with a Palm Springs, USA Berlin, Germany to the top of Chelsea – making it the
3-day celebration that features A 3-day music festival that takes Every year a million people head for the world’s biggest Halloween celebration.
parades, skyscrapers bedecked in place in the California desert with live techno-music fest that has become one
neon and one of the world’s biggest performances from the world’s top acts. of the world’s largest free music festivals. NOVEMBER
fireworks displays. San Fermín Festival Melbourne Cup
Sydney Mardi Gras MAY Jul 6 – 14 Nov 2
Feb 21 – Mar 6 2010 World Expo Pamplona, Spain Melbourne, Australia
Sydney, Australia May 1 – Oct 31 From drinking endless amounts of sangria Billed as ‘The race that stops a nation’,
Parades, art festivals, beach parties, Shanghai, China to running from the bulls, this is truly a this horse race is one of the most lavish
concerts and sporting events are some 5.28 km2 area of exhibitions, events and festival where anything can happen. events in the world.
of the events that make up the largest forums on the ‘Better City, Better Life’,
Gay & Lesbian festival in the world. theme of this year’s Expo. AUGUST DECEMBER
Mardi Gras Cinco de Mayo Beer Can Regatta New Year’s Eve
Feb 16 May 5 Aug 8 Dec 31
New Orleans, USA Los Angeles, USA Darwin, Australia Rome, Italy
A collection of parades, parties, Those of Mexican descent celebrate An annual event which includes End the year off at the Piazza del
bohemian street revels and secret this significant day with parades, food, participants racing boats made using Popolo in Rome where celebrations
masked balls in America’s ‘Big Easy’. mariachi music and folkloric dancing to empty beer cans among other equally include fireworks, rock and classical
commemorate their heritage. creative competitions. concerts lasting well into the night.
22 FOOTPRINTS ‘To open up the world for those who want to see’
Winter 2010
Sweden
Dublin Berlin
Quebec City Glastonbury Munich
Oberammergau
Toronto Pamplona
Buñol Rome Beijing
New York
Shanghai
Chiang Mai
Darwin
Rio de Janeiro
South Africa
Mendoza Sydney
Melbourne
DIDYOUKNOW?
Booking early is the best
way to secure space and
save money when travelling
to big events.
24 FOOTPRINTS ‘To open up the world for those who want to see’
Winter 2010
experience that most closely matches one’s lifestyle. Flight Centre has
cruise specialists across Canada to help you decide which is best for you.
When is the best time to take an Alaskan cruise tour?
The Alaskan cruise tour season is from May to September.
Weather in Alaska can be unpredictable during any of those months,
however June to August typically offers the most amount of sunshine
and warm weather.
When is the best time to book an Alaskan cruise tour?
Early, and we mean early! Alaskan cruise tours go on sale more than a
year in advance, and the best deals are typically found when booked
further in advance. Many cruise lines offer additional booking offers
between January to March in order to fill all leftover space, so these
months can still prove to be a popular booking period.
Are there any tips when it comes to planning an
Alaskan cruise tour?
Itinerary is usually the primary consideration. Choose a cruise itinerary
that offers a good mix of both ports and glaciers (some itineraries visit
multiple glaciers!) The land itinerary should include sufficient time
for all the excursions you wish to take part in (some land tours spend
What are the accommodations like on the land tour? 2 days at Denali National Park!) Also, itineraries with more rail travel
Cruise lines use some of the best and most charming hotels and than coach travel are usually prized! Some cruise lines and/or itineraries
lodges available in Alaska, located in some of Alaska’s most scenic offer a fully escorted tours. For the cruise, book a room with a view,
towns and national parks. since there is a lot of scenery happening outside your room, even during
days at sea. Balcony staterooms and suites are the most popular, and
What places do cruise tours visit that cruises do not?
therefore sell out the quickest. Balconies offer the convenience of taking
There are over a dozen different destinations that can be visited on in the passing scenery from your room, in the comfort and privacy of
the land tour component of a cruise tour. The most popular include your own deck chair. The main tip is to book early.
Talkeetna, Fairbanks, Anchorage and of course Denali National Park,
Speak to your Flight Centre consultant today about a cruise tour that
which houses Mount McKinley, North America’s tallest peak. Denali
best suits your taste.
National Park is one of the premier areas for viewing wildlife, as well
as various flora and fauna.
Which cruise line offers the best Alaskan cruise tours? SPECIAL OFFER
Princess and Holland America have long been the leaders in Alaskan Receive a $50 * onboard credit when you book any Alaska
cruise tours, and have the most number of cruise tours options. cruise tour from Jan 4 - Mar 31, 2010.
Royal Caribbean and Celebrity have equally impressive cruise tours, *Conditions apply. Valid at Flight Centre stores across Canada. Limit one (1) onboard credit
all of which are fully escorted. It’s best to choose a cruise tour based per cabin. Not combinable with any other offer. Cruise must be a minimum of 7 nights.
Valid on new bookings paid in full. Expires March 31, 2010. Coupon Code: FPWN20106
on itinerary, as well as cruise line and ship. Each cruise line and ship
offers distinct features and experiences, so it’s best to choose the
We have lots of itineraries to Baja Mexico and the Mexican Riviera departing from L.A.
and San Diego. It’s all about options. It’s all about fun. It’s all about you. And it’s about
time for a Margarita, sí?
© 2009 Carnival Cruise Lines. All rights reserved. Ships’ Registry: The Bahamas and Panama.
photo
contest
In our last edition of Footprints, WINNER
we held a travel photo contest for Andrew Rushwor th
our readers to submit their best
travel photo with the chance of
having their photo published and a
shot to win a $400 Flight Centre
prize pack!
With over 100 submissions,
our favourite 10 images are the
following, with the winning photo
coming from Andrew Rushworth
of Calgary, AB. Congratulations to
our winner and top 9!
28 FOOTPRINTS ‘To open up the world for those who want to see’
Winter 2010
DIDYOUKNOW?
testimonials
You could win a Flight Centre Here’s what our customers have to say....
Prize Pack valued at $400
by submitting your best “We booked our destination wedding with one of your shops in
travel photo! For details visit Vancouver and we had to write to tell you about the great job they
flightcentre.ca/footprints did. They made sure that every detail was perfect. They were more
than accommodating and made this such an easy and seamless
experience. My husband and I appreciate your efforts for making
our wedding day so special. It couldn’t have been more perfect.
Thank you so much!”
“Thank you so much for your help booking my trip. I spent so much
time online trying to figure things out on my own, but you guys
made sense of all the info I looked up and even managed to find me
something way more affordable and better than what I could find
myself. You guys are amazing! I’m definitely booking with you again.”
J.S. – Calgary, AB
“I just returned from a last minute business trip in Europe that went
better than planned. Your team was able to work with my crazy
itinerary and even crazier time restraints and were able to piece
everything together for me efficiently and effectively. Your team
booked airlines that I never heard of and assured me that they are
very reliable and have a good reputation. Needless to say, they were
right! Everything went off without a hitch, and thanks to your efforts
I landed a business deal that I have been trying to land for months.
Many thanks!”
A.L. – Toronto, ON
“My mother recently booked a trip at one of your offices and she is
raving about the service she received from Flight Centre. She is in a
wheelchair, so booking travel can be quite difficult, but you were able
to take care of all my moms needs and even arranged for someone
to bring my mother and her luggage to her connecting flight in
another terminal at London airport. Thank you for helping. We’re both
extremely thankful!”
V.C. – Halifax, NS
N.T. – Mississauga, ON
Egypt Express
HIGHLIGHTS Pyramids
$ 389
of Giza, the Sphynx, Egyptian
+ local payment USD$125 Inca Trail Express
HIGHLIGHTS Lima’s
$ 930
historic centre, speak Quechua with
taxes & fees included
$ 1299
Greek Islands Sailing Adventure
HIGHLIGHTS travel aboard a 50-foot yacht, Aegean
taxes & fees included
Museum, felucca sailing around the Elephantine and Sacred Valley locals, Trek the trail that once linked the Sea, Cyclades Islands, snorkelling and exploring ancient
Kitchener Islands, Luxor, Valley of Kings and Abu Simbel. Inca Empire, experience awe at a Machu Picchu sunrise, archaeological sites. Sail from Mykonos to Santorini.
Roundtrip Cairo. Departs Saturdays January - April/tdk. peruse Peru’s colonial and Inca architecture. Departs most Sundays May - October/gap.
Roundtrip Cuzco. Departs weekly in 2010/itp.
India Cooking in Goa, 7 Nights $ 1699
Costa Rica 8-Day Tour $ 539 Britain 8-Day Tour $ 1225
Casa de Goa taxes & fees included
Budget Costa Rica taxes & fees included HIGHLIGHTS 3 hands-on cooking classes with expert
Taste of Britain taxes & fees included
HIGHLIGHTS Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna and chef, lunch of what you prepared, visit to the local food
HIGHLIGHTS Chester, Liverpool, Grasmere, Gretna
Montezuma. Roundtrip San José. Departs bi-weekly on markets with your chef, hand printed recipe book, spice
Green, Edinburgh, Jedburgh, Hadrian’s Wall, York, & utensil guide, apron, spice garden excursion, airport
Saturdays in 2010/gap.
Coventry & Stratford-upon-Avon. Roundtrip London. arrival transfer and cooking session transfers.
Departs weekly March - Novemeber/tfg. Travel Saturdays from January - April/otg.
Africa Wildlife Safari, 8-Day Tour $799
Kenya Wildlife Safari + local payment USD$300
Thailand Sailing, 7-Day Tour $ 1279 Antarctica 11-Day Tour $ 5999
HIGHLIGHTS tribal life with Masai warriors, watch Thailand Sailing Adventure taxes & fees included Antarctica Classic taxes & fees included
flamingo flocks make Lake Nakuru blush pink, spot HIGHLIGHTS Phuket, Koh Ping Kan, Gypsy Sea Village, HIGHLIGHTS travel on the M/S Expedition, Tierra del
giraffes in the Masai Mara National Reserve, marvel at Koh Yao Noi, Maya Bay, Koh Phi Phi Islands, Phang Nga Fuego, the South Shetland Islands, Antarctic Peninsula,
pelicans and fish eagles swooping over Lake Naivasha. Bay, Bay Hai Harn, Koh Yao Yai. Departs Saturdays amazing wildlife and immense icebergs. Roundtrip
Roundtrip Nairobi. Departs various Sundays in 2010/itp. January - April/gap. Ushuaia. Departs various days in November/gap.
EUROPE
EGYPT
AFRICA
AUSTRALIA
NEW
ZEALAND
34 FOOTPRINTS ‘To open up the world for those who want to see’
Winter 2010
the day’s freshest catch after getting close to the sea with a Kayak
and Crayfish experience. From Hobart, learn to cook like a local at
the Agrarian Kitchen, or meander Tasmania’s Whiskey Trail for the
ultimate taste of the island.
Pair your culinary explorations with a hike through Freycinet National
Park to the Wineglass Bay lookout. Treat yourself to the panoramas
of white sand beaches, lush green forests, and deep blue ocean that
greet you below. Sample more of Tasmania’s raw natural beauty at
Cradle Mountain - Lake St Clair National Park. Take a leisurely stroll
over the park’s miles of boardwalks, embark on a hike to the top of
Cradle Mountain, or treat your inner-adventurer to a multi-day
trek to Lake St Clair.
Southern Ocean Lodge © Tourism Australia
Depart Australia with amazing memories of adventure and surprise
among stunning landscapes, wildlife, and friendly locals. Amid such a
wide variety of possibilities, a journey through this country provides
an experience for every taste.
Talk to your Flight Centre consultant today to plan your exciting
trip to Australia.
SPECIAL OFFER
Save $50 * when you purchase a Qantas Aussie AirPass from
Jan 4 - Mar 31, 2010.
*Conditions apply. Valid at Flight Centre stores across Canada. Limit one (1) discount
per person. Not combinable with any other offer. Valid on new bookings paid in full.
Expires March 31, 2010. Coupon Code: FPWN20101
Blue Mountains © Tourism Australia
Package includes:
Get two more nights FREE when you buy a
• 5 -nights at one of the Hotels of the
3-night Disneyland Resort vacation package Disneyland Resort
• 5-day Disneyland Resort Park Hopper
with a discounted 5-day Park Hopper Ticket. Bonus Ticket, which provides admission
Available for travel January 5 – April 29, 2010. You must book by April 1, 2010. to both Disneyland Resort Theme Parks:
Disneyland Park & Disney’s California
Adventure Park
Call your Flight Centre consultant for more details • One Magic Morning admission which
1-866-541-2111 allows early entry into a designated
Theme Park
Offer is valid for bookings from 11/9/09 through 4/1/10 and for arrivals from 1/5/10 through 4/29/10 with travel being completed by 5/4/10. Blockout dates of 1/15-1/17, 2/12-2/14, and 3/28-4/10 and other restrictions apply. Upon the purchase of a 3-night package,
with 5-Day Disneyland Resort Park Hopper Bonus Tickets at a participating hotel, two (2) consecutive free nights will be added to the hotel stay. Limited to two (2) free nights per package / reservation and not valid for previously booked rooms. Check for offers associated with
longer night stays. The Disneyland Resort Park Hopper Bonus Tickets expire 13 days after first use or 5/12/10, whichever occurs first, and each day of use of a ticket constitutes one full day of use. Tickets may not be sold or transferred for commercial purposes. Offer subject to
availability and blockout dates; advance reservations required. Not valid with any other discount or promotion. Subject to restrictions and change without notice. As to Disney artwork/properties: © Disney
Winter 2010
professionals are working for your perfect day, whether it’s a candlelit So, now all you have to do is think about the
you to make sure every last ceremony on a beach, or romantic nuptials romance. Let us think about the rest.
in a rainforest.
detail is perfect. Flight Centre Wedding Registry
Your Flight Centre Wedding Specialist has
Still struggling over what to buy the couple
years of experience, and will happily work
who has everything? Are you a couple getting
with you to select your dream destination,
married that would rather plan a special
with your budget
and needs in mind.
W
last detail. We’ll take care
of everything including We have arranged a
flights, accommodation, Wedding Registry
tours, car hire and travel with Flight Centre for
our honeymoon.
insurance. The Flight
Centre wedding registry If you would like to
can be put towards contribute to our
exactly what honeymoon you may
do so at any Flight Centre
the couple wants and
location or online at
is guaranteed
flightcentre.ca /weddings
to help provide
lifelong memories.
SPECIAL OFFER
Receive a $100 * Cara Foods gift card when you book your
destination wedding from Jan 4 - Mar 31, 2010.
*Conditions apply. Valid at Flight Centre stores across Canada. Limit one (1) gift voucher
per booking. Not combinable with any other offer. Must include roundtrip airfare and a
minimum of 3 nights accommodation and 6 travellers. Valid on new bookings paid in full.
Expires March 31, 2010. Coupon Code: FPWN20102
38 FOOTPRINTS ‘To open up the world for those who want to see’
Intro text...
Body copy
BLOGS
DIDYOUKNOW?
You can read from over
Seoul, Korea – Kimchi,
Soju and Shopping Galore!
100 blogs on the Flight
Centre website. Check
out more travel blogs at
flightcentre.ca/footprints
by Theresa Babic, Flight Centre Oakville
What a diners delight to venture out into the city And my most favourite dining experience included
of Seoul, Korea looking for dishes unique to the the famous Korean Barbeque. A group of 4-6 people
North American palate. sit down together at a charcoal grilling station to
share a feast of cooked pork, chicken or beef. I had
My first mission was to find and devour Kimchi. I had
never tried this side dish before but had heard so
much about it. It is a traditional Korean pickled dish
made of vegetables with varied seasonings, usually
cabbage, and can be very spicy. There are over
100 different varieties of Kimchi and I believe that
I only managed to try 6 varieties at most.
40 FOOTPRINTS ‘To open up the world for those who want to see’
Winter 2010
So if you are looking for a dining and shopping holiday that is ‘off the
beaten path’, I strongly encourage you to try Seoul Korea. If even
you find yourself in Incheon airport for a 9-hour layover en route to
another destination, go out to eat or shop till you drop!
How would you like to visit a place where the men worship the
A Journey of a Lifetime… women and the bigger you are the more desirable you become?
Hawai‘i, Samoa and Vanuatu Yes ladies, we have been missing out on the best place on earth,
Samoa. In a traditional household in Samoa, the man does all of the
by Elizabeth Robertson, flight centre Toronto
cooking AND still works to provide for the family. The women are
cherished and in each village there is an elected ‘Princess’ who is
Seeing the South Pacific, Australia and New Zealand was something I
in charge of how that village is run and any decisions that need to
had always wanted to do. But, making it a reality seemed to be so far
be made. A world run by women, I like that idea! Their culture is
out of my reach given the distance and the means needed to get me
very open and they have a very communal way of life. Their ‘Fales’
there. When I finally had the opportunity to see it all on a cruise ship,
(traditional homes) are open with no walls, having only blinds to
you can imagine how excited I was, it was a dream
shield them from bad weather. I could go on
come true. The ship started in Alaska and made its
forever about their unique cultures and lifestyles –
way across to New Zealand and Australia. Along Sharing our but it is something you have to see
the way, we visited Hawai‘i, Samoa, Fiji, Vanuatu,
New Caledonia and Bay of Islands. It was about unbeatable for yourself!
G U D B O S B B C E L W W A P D H R F W
&
E N F I Y U R L F G H A I Z I W C E Y A
CONTESTS
T B A D D I T I U I N R P N Y F A D U L
D E N R S G L B T E O I G O E E E N A L
GAMES E
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E A W M D N V O D D E H S N N U N O A Q
O X N A E Q U V B I O U F A T A O D I M
S W Y G Z G E E R X T O R L U A B O D E
PHOTO N S V J A N E R S P X H U I L C I R E L
CONTEST I Z M O T R A V Y U M H S C U L V N D B
H X A U C B O L Q Y O O P E R T H V S O
P S R H T E A O E E K H J S U U J T A U
L E K A K C O R S R E Y A P O L G L T R
O I E L U T A S M A N I A R B H A B U N
Submit your best travel photo and you D R U E Z A R R E B N A C I E O W M Y E
can win a Flight Centre prize pack! G D N A L S N E E U Q T U N K P E N I W
SPOTTHEDIFFERENCE
GREENMESSAGE
When you’re finished reading
Footprints magazine,
don’t throw it out.
Pass it on to a neighbour, a colleague,
a relative, a travel companion,
a school….
By ‘recycling’ this magazine,
you will be doing your part to help
the environment and help inspire
those around you to see and
experience everything the world
has to offer.
The above is a photograph of Santorini, Greece. We have made 7 changes to the picture on the right.
Can you spot the differences? For the solution to these puzzles, visit us at flightcentre.ca/footprints
42 FOOTPRINTS ‘To open up the world for those who want to see’
Enjoy family fun
without hesitation
> Taking the kids away for spring Our comprehensive product suite offers*:
> Unlimited benefits for emergency medical treatment
break? Before you leave, make sure > Trip Cancellation and Interruption protection
your family is protected with travel > Baggage and Personal Effects coverage
insurance from RBC Insurance®. > Flight and Travel Accident insurance
> 24/7 emergency assistance and upfront payment
of eligible medical expenses when possible
Underwritten by RBC Insurance Company of Canada. In Quebec, certain coverages underwritten by RBC General Insurance Company.
® Registered trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada. Used under licence.
* Subject to policy terms and conditions. Please review policy for complete details.
Conference
and group
travel.
† The Perfect Holiday Promise applies to bookings made at Flight Centre shops within Canada. A $100 voucher for future travel will be provided to customers who experience an unwanted deviation from their paid
itinerary. For full details visit www.flightcentre.ca or speak to a Flight Centre consultant.