The Captain's Travel Catalogue - From Toronto Jun 09

FREE  JUNE 2009

The Captain’s

TORONTO EDITION

Travel Catalogue

10

TOP

OUR

C A N A D A

d e s t i nat i o n s

Costa Rica $649 7 days from taxes & fees included

page 12

Italy – Rail & Stay $429 Rail pass + 2 nights from taxes & fees included

page 8

Québec City $399 3 nights from taxes & fees included

Québec City, Québec

page 7

We go out of our way for you. At Flight Centre, we go out of our way to find you the perfect holiday 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, if 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 an airfare and one of the following – accommodation, cruises, car rental or tours. Claims must be made within one month of completed travel. Claims will be honoured when an unwanted 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, car rental or tours. Only one voucher may be redeemed per booking. Vouchers are not transferable. Offer is subject to change at any time.

Canada

6

Colorado Holidays

5

Europe Starter Holidays

8

Inside Airfares & Hotels..................................................................................................................... 4 Colorado Holidays................................................................................................................ 5

Adventure Tours

12

Cruise Holidays

13

Canada............................................................................................................................................................... 6

Welcome

Europe Starter Holidays........................................................................................ 8

Welcome to the June edition of The Captain’s Travel Catalogue.

Europe Tours....................................................................................................................................... 9

Summer is finally here so it’s time to do some exploring! It’s peak season for visiting the great continent of Europe and we have some fantastic tours available for Germany, Ireland and Eastern Europe. If you plan on discovering more than one or two countries, consider our Starter Europe Rail & Stays which include a rail pass along with accommodation options for your first few nights. Our feature this month is our own beautiful and vast back yard. Check out our Top 10 of places to visit across Canada. Whether you plan on hiking the West Coast trails or taking in the Jazz Festival in Montreal, you won’t be disappointed. If a visit to our neighbours to the south sounds enticing, we also have some great deals to Miami, Chicago, Las Vegas and Hawai‘i.

Terms and Conditions: ^ While all care is taken to ensure accuracy, no responsibility is accepted by Flight Centre for accuracy of information contained in the text, illustrations or advertisements. Catalogue valid until June 30, 2009. Travel restrictions and conditions apply. Prices subject to availability at the time of booking and vary seasonally depending on date of travel. Air only prices are

USA Holidays...............................................................................................................................11 Adventure Tours....................................................................................................................12 Cruise Holidays.......................................................................................................................13 Luxury Holidays.....................................................................................................................14

Happy travels! † The Perfect Holiday Promise applies to bookings made at Flight Centre shops within Canada. Bookings must comprise an airfare and one of the following – accommodation, cruises or tours. Claims must be made within one month of completed travel. Claims will be honoured when an unwanted 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.

Festivals & Events..............................................................................................................10

per person for return travel unless otherwise stated. Package, cruise, tour, rail and hotel prices are per person, based on double occupancy. Prices correct at time of printing, errors and omissions excepted and may change without notice. Taxes and fees, when listed, include transportation related fees, GST and fuel supplements and are approximate and subject to change. Depending on flight routing, additional international taxes and charges may apply. Additional local taxes may also apply. Photos are indicative of geographic location of holiday, they are not necessarily included in the holiday. Hotel room photographs may not be specific to the actual room occupied. Flight Shops Inc., trading as Flight Centre, is not itself a carrier, hotelier or tour operator. All product has been supplied by reputable airlines, hotels, wholesalers and tour operators, and is subject to conditions. Head office address: 1 Dundas St W, Suite 200, Toronto, ON. Call for retail locations. ONT. REG #4671384

www.flightcentre.ca 1 866 831 2263 | 1 flightcentre.ca 866 831 2263

Printed on Productolith Gloss Text, made with 10% post-consumer recycled fibre. By using this paper the following resources have been saved: • 4.06 trees • 11.72 lbs of waterbourne waste not created • 1723 gallons of waste water flow saved • 191 lbs of solid waste not generated • 2.87 million BTUs energy not consumed • 375 lbs net of greenhouse gas emissions prevented

Published by Flight Centre Artworks

4 Airfares & Hotels

Airfares

Air Canada

Hotels



MULTI-STOP

$1499

Australia

Travel between Jul 26 - Sep 21/qf

+ taxes & fees $433

Toronto – Brisbane – Melbourne – Adelaide – Sydney – Toronto

$1037

Europe

Travel between Sep 3 - Sep 26/ua

+ taxes & fees $626

Toronto – London – Warsaw – Barcelona – Zurich – Toronto

$886

Europe Capitals Travel between Sept 3 - Oct 21/kl

+ taxes & fees $442

Toronto – Amsterdam – Prague – Madrid – Toronto

$1291

South Africa

Travel between Sep 7 - Sep 30/kl

Air Canada is Canada’s largest full-service airline and the largest provider of scheduled passenger services in the Canadian market, the Canada-U.S. transborder market and in the international market to and from Canada. In 2008, Air Canada together with its regional affiliate Jazz carried approximately 33 million passengers, providing direct passenger service to more than 170 destinations on five continents.

+ taxes & fees $414

Toronto – Amsterdam – Johannesburg – Capetown – Toronto

$1133

South America

Travel between Aug 1 - Dec 9/la

+ taxes & fees $357

Toronto – Buenos Aires – Santiago – Sao Paulo – Toronto

South East Asia

Travel between Sep 4 - Nov 30/cx



$1881

+ taxes & fees $229

Toronto – Hong Kong – Bangkok – Singapore – Bali – Toronto

$1348

Buenos Aires

from

Dazzler Suites Arroyo

$64

Sophisticated with distinguished style, Dazzler Suites Arroyo is situated at the centre of an exclusive neighbourhood of quiet residential streets, near the most prestigious art galleries, theatres and museums of the city and close to the most outstanding shopping areas.

Cairo

from

Le Meridien Pyramids

$98

A beautiful and popular resort style hotel with a great location just a short walk to the famous Giza Pyramids and a 20-minute drive to the centre of Cairo. Leisure facilities include an exquisitely designed swimming pool, waterfalls and four hydro-jet units providing underwater massage, a special pool for children and two flood-lit tennis courts, all with the dramatic backdrop of the pyramids.

Fiji

from

Radisson Resort Fiji

$135

Enjoy the great beach frontage at Fiji’s newest resort, the Radisson Resort Fiji Denarau Island. Only 20 minutes from Fiji International Airport, this resort has everything you want – water sports, fishing, beach activities, golf, island tours, large lagoon pool, a separate ‘Kids Club’ and a range of dining and entertainment options.

Montreal

from

Fairmont Queen Elizabeth

$94

In 2007, Air Canada began introducing ultra-modern, fuel-efficient Boeing 777 jets on international routes. The carrier will have 18 by July 2009. This year, Air Canada will have concluded its major fleetwide refurbishment, consisting of all new seats, industry-leading seat-back personal entertainment systems with hundreds of hours of movies, TV programs and music available on demand, as well as standard 110V electrical outlets.

Toronto – Tonga – Christchurch – Auckland – Rarotonga (Cook Islands) – Toronto

This large, famous, luxury hotel is popular with heads of state and celebrities. Grand and gracious, it is situated above the train station in central downtown and connected to an extensive underground city of restaurants and boutiques. Walk to Old Montreal, museums, sport events, and other attractions.

business Class roundtrip

New York City

Concurrently, Air Canada has introduced the first lie-flat beds of any North American carrier in business class across its international fleet. This summer, Air Canada will begin to offer live internet access to customers on select flights. In 2008, Air Canada received its 60th and final new Embraer aircraft for its North American fleet.

Travel Jul 15 - Jun 29/ac

New Fleet and On-Board Features

South Pacific

Travel between Jun 1 - Sep 21/nz

Hong Kong

Travel Jul 15 - Jun 29/ac

London

Travel Jul 15 - Jun 29/ac

Los Angeles New York City Travel Jul 15 - Jun 29/ac

Paris

Travel Jul 15 - Jun 29/ac

Sao Paulo

Travel Jul 15 - Jun 29/ac

Tel Aviv

Travel Jul 15 - Jun 29/ac

Tokyo

Travel Jul 15 - Jun 29/ac

+ taxes & fees $378

$3498

+ taxes & fees $151

$2098

+ taxes & fees $439

$3608

+ taxes & fees $280

$2296

+ taxes & fees $215

$1898

+ taxes & fees $386

$5097

from

Wellington Hotel

$119

Minutes from the Theatre District, Rockefeller Center, Empire State Building, Madison Square Garden, Central Park, Radio City Music Hall and Fifth Avenue shopping, this economical hotel provides courteous, personal service and a modern, comfortable ambiance ideal for travellers on a budget.

Shanghai

from

Renaissance Shanghai Yuyuan

$115

Located downtown near the famous Yu Garden and Old Town, the new Renaissance Shanghai Yuyuan Hotel is just minutes away from the Bund, Xintiandi and other tourist attractions. Whether staying for business or leisure, you’ll be right at home at the Renaissance Shanghai Yuyuan Hotel.

+ taxes & fees $362

$4442

Tell us about your hotel experience

$3498

There is no better recommendation than from someone who has real experience. Visit flightcentre.ca to read hotel reviews & share feedback with other travellers.

+ taxes & fees $284

+ taxes & fees $146

^Conditions apply. Refer to page 3 for details. qf=qantas, ua=united, kl=klm, cx=cathay, nz=air new zealand, ac=air canada, la=lan.

Colorado Holidays 5

Colorado – Family Adventure An all-inclusive way for your family to experience all that this great state has to offer; scenic gondola rides at Keystone and Vail, whitewater rafting in the Rockies, horseback riding in Beaver Creek and panning for gold in Breckenridge. You can do it all. Epic Summer – A Colorado Family Adventure.

Inclusions • 4-day Colorado Family Adventure with Epic Summer • 3 nights accommodation combining courteous hospitality and authentic regional flair • All meals and activities as per itinerary • Local transportation 4 days from

$724◊

taxes & fees included

Various departures/ggv.

UPGRADE to the 7-day Family Adventure with Epic Summer from $176 per day.

Colorado – Fly & Drive With the towering Rocky Mountains and numerous state and national parks, breathtaking natural beauty abounds. Whether you’re looking for big cities or small mountain towns, Colorado offers many unique experiences.

Colorado – National Parks & Trains Experience the spectacular scenery as well as its historic trains on this tour through Colorado. Highlights include the Garden of the Gods, Durango, Silverton, Mesa Verde National Park, Glenwood Canyon, Grand Lake and Rocky Mountain National Park.

Inclusions • Roundtrip airfare to Denver • 7-day car rental with unlimited mileage to enjoy Colorado at your own pace Airfare + car rental from

$598

+ taxes & fees $125

Various departures/ggv/ac.

Inclusions • 9-day group tour of Colorado with Cosmos • Private first-class A/C motorcoach and rail travel • Meals as per itinerary • Sightseeing & admission fees as per itinerary • Professional tour director & local guides 9 days from

$1459

taxes & fees included

Travel Sep 7, 14, 21/cos.

Denver

Inclusions Sitting at 5,280 feet (one mile) above sea level, in view of the Rocky Mountains, the Mile High City is a study in contrasts. Scratch the veneer of the New West look of urban Denver and you’ll get a glimpse of the Old West, too.

• Roundtrip airfare to Denver • 3 nights accommodation at the Doubletree Hotel in central Denver Airfare + 4 nights from

$688

+ taxes & fees $125

Various departures/ggv/ac.

ADD full-day Mountain Parks & city tour from $91.

^Conditions apply. Refer to page 3 for details. ◊Family holiday price based on 2 adults and 2 children 12 years and under. ggv=gogo, ac=air canada, cos=cosmos.

1 866 831 2263 | flightcentre.ca

Canada

10

TOP

OUR

C A N A D A

DestinationS

1. Niagara Falls The Niagara Falls honeymoon and family activities like the Maid of the Mist tour and Marineland are long-time traditions, while new Niagara attractions abound.

6. Prince Edward Island As Canada’s smallest province, Prince Edward Island proves the old adage that “good things come in small packages”. Known for the vivid colours and stunning natural beauty, PEI is sized just right for touring.

2. Banff & the Rockies From quiet meadows to thundering waterfalls, Banff offers a unique assortment of sightseeing and leisure activities including the gateway to the grand masterpiece of the west – the Canadian Rockies.

7.Victoria Known worldwide as the ‘City of Gardens’, Victoria is one of the most recreation-friendly cities in Canada. Locals and visitors alike enjoy the large variety of seasonal sports and recreational activities year round.

3. Montreal Jazz Fest Every summer for 11 days, Montreal celebrates Jazz at the Annual Montreal Jazz Fest complete with concerts, street performers and a musical park for children.

8. Ottawa The nation’s capital has been described as one of the most beautiful in the world. Ottawa enjoys the sophisticated amenities of a major city, yet still maintains the charm of a smaller city.

4. Peggy’s Cove, Halifax This idyllic fishing village is one of the most popular spots to visit in Atlantic Canada. Set along rocky shores, the lighthouse and village at Peggy’s Cove have become an iconic visual of Canada’s east coast.

9. Québec City Québec City is the perfect destination for an authentic cultural experience any time of year. As a UNESCO heritage site, there is no shortage of history or culture for you to discover!

5. Calgary Stampede This 10-day exhibition is Canada’s largest outdoor annual event and the world’s largest outdoor rodeo. With agricultural exhibitions, concerts, a parade, it is no wonder it draws over a million visitors each year.

10.Vancouver/Whistler The combined sites of the 2010 Winter Olympics, Whistler offers unparalleled outdoor recreational activities while Vancouver provides world-class dining, shopping and cultural experiences.

Canada Holidays 7

Banff – Mountains & Glaciers Weekend The Canadian Rockies offer incredible scenery with the astounding peaks of the Cascade Mountains, vast canyons and forests of pine. You can enjoy activities such as white water rafting, hiking, mountain biking or horseback riding. The resorts of Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper are all close by.

Inclusions • 3 nights 3-star accommodation at the Banff Rocky Mountain Lodge • 3-day car rental with unlimited mileage 3 nights from

$539

taxes & fees included

Various departure dates in July/ggv.

ADD whitewater rafting trip at Kicking Horse River Whitewater Rafting from $130.

Consultant’s Corner

Prince Edward Island – Weekend Prince Edward Island is like a well-tended and inviting back garden. The weeds and wilderness have been tamed to create a pastoral green patchwork of rolling potato fields, tidy gabled farmhouses and seaside villages. The whole of it is rimmed with miles of vivid red cliffs, sand dunes and fabulous beaches.

Inclusions • 3 nights 3-star accommodation at the Delta Prince Edward • 3-day car rental with unlimited mileage 3 nights from

$579

taxes & fees included

Various departure dates in July/ggv.

Tara Halupa Canada Specialist Flight Centre Queensway

Québec City – Weekend Québec City, the only walled city in North America, is listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. The heart and soul of francophone culture in the New World, with a boisterous and down-to-earth population proud to show it all off.

Victoria – Whale Watching Twice named ‘Best City in the Americas’, Victoria truly is a world-class destination. From superb cuisine, to its magnificent gardens, its beaches and abundant outdoor adventure, the city offers a truly remarkable experience and escape from everyday.

Inclusions • 3 nights 3-star accommodation at the Best Western City Centre • Québec City dinner cruise & half day trip to Montmorency Falls & Sainte Anne 3 nights from

$399

taxes & fees included

Various departure dates in July/ggv.

Inclusions • 3 nights 4-star accommodation at the Dalton Hotel & Suites • 1-day Whale Watching Excursion 3 nights from

$369

taxes & fees included

Various departure dates in July/ggv.

ADD 3-day car rental with unlimited mileage from $64 per day.

^Conditions apply. Refer to page 3 for details. ggv=gogo vacations.

1 866 831 2263 | flightcentre.ca

Favourite Canadian destination? Banff! It’s an adorable town nestled in spectacular mountains. There’s so much to do, no matter what the season. Favourite must-see/must-do in Banff? Stop and watch the milky blue glacier water pour over Bow River falls, it’s an unusual and beautiful sight. You might even be lucky enough to see some passing deer or a pick-up hockey game! Best specialist tip? Pack really good walking shoes, even if you’re just passing through. Once in town it’s hard to resist an impromptu hike! Toll Free: 1 866 704 5379

8 Europe Starter Holidays

Austria – Rail & Stay Austria is known for its historical buildings, worldclass museums & galleries and breathtaking mountain scenery. Vienna, Europe’s cultural capital, is a metropolis with unique charm, vibrancy and flair. It boasts grand imperial palaces, bombastic art baroque interiors, museums flanking magnificent squares and the famous Hofburg Imperial Palace.

Italy – Rail & Stay Italy with its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage has inspired poets and painters for centuries. Rome is an epic, vibrant cosmopolitan city with reminders of its Imperial past, superb restaurants, lively cafes and fabulous shopping. After visiting historic Rome, be sure to explore Tuscany and Venice. Wherever you decide to go, there is something for everyone in Italy.

London – Starter Package London is full of historical monuments, splendid architecture, rich history, great theatre, revolutionary music and a vibrant nightlife. Visit museums, take a cruise along the Thames, go shopping, see a play, treat yourself to a pint at your local pub or get out to the countryside and see the sights. Whatever you decide to do, London will be memorable.

Spain – Rail & Stay

Inclusions • 2 nights 4-star accommodation at the Delta Vienna Hotel in Vienna • 3-day 2nd Class Eurail Austria Rail Pass Rail pass + 2 nights from

$499

taxes & fees included

Daily departures starting Jul 1/ggv.

Inclusions • 2 nights 3-star accommodation at the Hotel Aprodite in Rome • 4-day 2nd Class Eurail Italy Rail Pass Rail pass + 2 nights from

$429

taxes & fees included

Daily departures starting Jul 1/ggv.

Inclusions • Roundtrip airfare • First 3 nights 3-star accommodation at the Mayflower Hotel Airfare + 3 nights from

$789

+ taxes & fees $361

Various departures Jul 1 - Jul 31/ggv/ts.

Inclusions Vibrant, exciting and bursting with energy, Spain has quickly established itself as one of Europe’s favourite destinations. The Catalonia capital Barcelona has a distinctly Mediterranean feel with unique architecture, artistic masterpieces, cuttingedge design, great shopping, mouth-watering cuisine, superb wines, an electrifying nightlife and wonderful beaches – Barcelona truly has it all!

^Conditions apply. Refer to page 3 for details. ggv=gogo vacations, ts=transat.

• 2 nights 3-star accommodation at the Hotel Rialto in Barcelona • 3-day 2nd Class Eurail Spain Rail Pass Rail pass + 2 nights from

$429

taxes & fees included

Daily departures starting Jul 1/ggv.

Europe Tours 9

Eastern Road

Inclusions This is Eastern Europe at its best! Travel from Berlin to Warsaw visiting Prague, Vienna, Budapest, Slovakia and Krakow. The history and beauty of each country will captivate the imagination. Also visit Dresden, a city devastated by fire bombing in World War II, Banska Bystrica in Slovakia and an unforgettable visit to the Auschwitz memorial.

Greek Islands – Sailing A yacht adventure is the ideal way to experience what many consider the world’s most beautiful islands: the Greek Islands. Sail 8 days aboard our 50-foot yachts from Mykonos to Santorini, with time for hiking, snorkelling and relaxing. Explore ancient archaeological sites and taverna-lined harbours, dine on fresh seafood and don’t forget to try the Ouzo!

Highlights of Germany This comprehensive vacation focuses on the crowning jewels of Germany, starting and ending in Frankfurt. Visit Hamburg, Cologne, Berlin, Leipzig, Nuremberg, Munich and the Black Forest. Highlights include Rhine cruise, Romantic Road, German Alpine Road and the Bavarian Alps.

• 12-day ‘Eastern Road’ group tour with Contiki • Private A/C motorcoach • 11 breakfasts & 5 dinners • Sightseeing & admission fees as per itinerary • Professional tour director & local guides 12 days from

$1975

taxes & fees included

Various departures/ctk.

Consultant’s Corner Inclusions • 8-day ‘Greek Island Sailing Adventure’ with G.A.P Adventures • Private cabin accommodation on a 50-foot sailing yacht • Snorkelling equipment • A full time skipper and captain 8 days from

$899

+ local payment EUR200

Various departures/gap.

Marya Shaharyar Europe Specialist Flight Centre Hillcrest

Inclusions • 12-day group tour of Germany with Cosmos • Private first-class A/C motorcoach and Rhine River cruise • 11 buffet breakfasts & 6 dinners • Sightseeing & admission fees as per itinerary • Professional tour director & local guides 12 days from

$1686

taxes & fees included

Various departures/cos.

Favourite destination in Europe? Prague, Czech Republic. Favourite must-see/must-do in Prague? Walking through Old Town to Charles Bridge at night is a must. Nothing beats seeing the city lit up at night and the reflection of the town in the water. Very romantic! Best travel tip? Learning a few basic words of the language helps. Plus a local travel guide to show you the city is great! Toll Free: 1 866 704 5375

Ireland

Inclusions Experience the complete Emerald Isle as you visit both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Highlights include Dublin, Belfast, Giants Causeway, Galway Bay, the Ring of Kerry, Blarney Castle, the Antrim Coas, the lake District and of course the Irish people and culture.

• 12-day ‘Irish Experience’ group tour with Trafalgar Tours • Accommodation: twin-bed rooms with private facilities • Transportation: luxury air-conditioned coach with reclining seats • Meals as per itinerary • Tour leader, local guides 12 days from

$2360

taxes & fees included

Various departures/tfg.

^Conditions apply. Refer to page 3 for details. ctk=contiki, tfg=trafalgar, cos=cosmos, gap=gap adventures.

1 866 831 2263 | flightcentre.ca

Festivals & Events

Calgary Stampede

La Tomatina

Calgary Stampede

Beer Can Regatta

La Tomatina festival in Spain gives new meaning to the expression ‘playing with your food’. For most of the year, Buñol is a ho-hum industrial town, 40km from Valencia, quietly going about its own business. However, on the last Wednesday of August, the town turns into a salsa riot leaving the streets flowing with a river made of tomato juice.

The Calgary Stampede brings around a quarter of a million spectators to the Canadian Prairies every year. It’s not just about chaps in chaps either; this is the real thing – a succession of seriously manly events that kicks off on the first Friday of July with a traditional parade, featuring the several thousand participants and their horses.

The festival includes a week long celebration with musical acts, fireworks and food. The tomato fight itself has been a tradition in Buñol since the mid-1940’s. No one is completely certain how this event originated, but year after year, dressed in goggles and old t-shirts, over 40,000 visitors from around the world come together to pave the streets (and each other) red using over one hundred metric tons of over-ripe tomatoes in the world’s largest tomato fight.

Thereafter, the focus of activity is Stampede Park, a vast open area that contains an amusement park, bars, restaurants, all sorts of stalls and nightly country-and-western performances.

If you want an Australian festival that fulfills a few stereotypes, then this may be the one. In a town whose drinking capacity is pretty legendary anyway, even by Aussie standards, the Beer Can Regatta sees Darwin given over to the single-minded downing of as many ’tinnies’ as possible, culminating in a ‘regatta’ in which the ‘boats’ are made exclusively out of beer cans to raise money for local charities.

Buñol, Spain

The aftermath of La Tomatina puts any bloodinjected, horror-film set to shame. Do not count on recognizing your friends, or them recognizing you for that matter. You don’t want to miss out on all the fun of this unusual festival and the one food fight that is okay to join in.

Calgary, Canada

The biggest attraction are the rodeo events, fiercely competitive affairs that draw the bravest and most talented cowboys from every corner of the continent. The Park may be the heart of the Stampede, but the spirit is everywhere. Watch for live country music & concerts, free pancake breakfasts, maybe even a free cowboy hat! July 2009 will mark the 97th anniversary of this massive 10-day festival that is fun for the whole family. Whether you’re a country bumpkin or a city slicker, there is something for everyone.

Darwin, Australia

The inaugural beer can regatta in 1975 was an instant success, and it was decided that it would be an annual event held every July. They’re bizarre contraptions – ranging from full-scale Viking warships to bathtub look-alikes – but the crowds who head down to nearby Mindil Beach to watch the spectacle take it all pretty seriously. They also know how to enjoy themselves, indulging in an assortment of cultural activities either side of the race, where tug-of-war, sand castles and thongthrowing (‘thong’ is the Aussie word for flip-flops, in case you were wondering) competitions are a particular specialty. If you love beach activities that bring recycling to new and exciting levels, you won’t want to miss this!

USA Holidays 11

Chicago

Inclusions The recently renovated Essex Inn is an intimate hotel providing excellent views of the city, Grant Park and Lake Michigan with convenient access to Chicago’s Magnificent Mile. Guest rooms are traditional in style and a reasonable size with a good range of amenities.

Hawai‘i

• Roundtrip airfare • 3 nights 3.5-star accommodation at the Essex Inn Airfare + 3 nights from

$629

+ taxes & fees $105

Various departures in July/ggv/aa.

UPGRADE to the 4-star Hilton Palmer House Hotel from $12 per night.

Inclusions The Ohana Waikiki West is a 661-room hotel located just behind the International MarketPlace on Kuhio Avenue. Here you’ll find Ohana’s special brand of island hospitality. This popular hotel offers a slew of services, including a pool overlooking the street, a sundeck and coin-operated laundry.

Las Vegas

• Roundtrip airfare • 7 nights 3-star accommodation at the Ohana Waikiki West in Honolulu Airfare + 3 nights from

$1079

+ taxes & fees $115

Various departures in July/ggv/ws.

UPGRADE to the 4-star Outrigger Luana Waikiki from $32 per night.

Inclusions Set on Las Vegas’ famous four corners, The Flamingo Las Vegas is a convenient stop on the Monorail and provides guests with casino action, entertainment, resort-style facilities and unique restaurants including Jimmy Buffett’s ‘Margaritaville’. Guests of all ages will enjoy fun-filled stays at Flamingo Las Vegas.

Miami

• Roundtrip airfare • 3 nights 3.5-star accommodation at the Flamingo Hotel & Casino Airfare + 3 nights from

$549

+ taxes & fees $109

Various departures in July/ggv/aa.

UPGRADE to the 5-star MGM Grand Hotel from $15 per night.

Inclusions One of Florida’s most complete resorts, this property is filled with classic style and ambience backed by superior service. Its 5 spectacular golf courses are topped by the fabled Blue Monster, home of the PGA’s annual Ford Championships. Swing away on 11 courts at the Arthur Ashe Tennis Center and choose from 100 treatments at the spa.

• Roundtrip airfare • 3 nights 4-star accommodation at the Doral Golf Resort & Spa Airfare + 3 nights from

$559

+ taxes & fees $103

Various departures in July/ggv/aa.

UPGRADE to the 4-star Loews Miami Beach Hotel from $40 per night.

^Conditions apply. Refer to page 3 for details. ggv=gogo vacations, aa=american, ws=westjet.

1 866 831 2263 | flightcentre.ca

12 Adventure Tours

Costa Rica

Inclusions Visit two of Costa Rica’s signature spots. First visit the outdoor adventure playground around active Arenal Volcano for world-class rafting and rivers of volcano-heated hot springs. Next, hop on the Adventure Bus and head to the beaches of Guanacaste, Costa Rica’s northwest coast, known for dry sunny weather all year round, killer surf and beaches that stretch for miles.

Ecuador – Galapagos Adventure Discover strange and wonderful wildlife and wilderness on a cruise through the remote and hauntingly beautiful Galapagos Islands. Get up close to the animals, see amazing birdlife and spend endless days exploring the islands, swimming and learning the history and conservation of this remarkable destination. This voyage is ideal for those who want a big experience in a short amount of time.

India – Tigers & Wildlife Adventure Visit four of the best Wildlife Parks that India has to offer searching for tigers, spotted deer, sloth bears, panthers and siberian cranes in this varied journey. Add in the cosmopolitan cities of Delhi and Mumbai and the ancient splendour of Agra with the Taj Mahal, and you have yourself a true wildlife adventure.

Nepal – Everest

• 7-day ‘Route 1 Adventure Bus’ with G.A.P Adventures • Accommodation: 7 nights • Breakfast daily at most hotels • Transportation: adventure bus • Punctual, experienced chauffeurs 7 days from

$649

taxes & fees included

Daily departures starting Jun 1, 2009/gap.

Inclusions • 6-day ‘Galapagos Adventure’ small group tour with Intrepid Holidays • Accommodation: 2 nights hotel, 3 nights twinshare cabins on board motorized yacht • Transportation: plane, minibus, boat • Meals: 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners • Tour leader, local guides 6 days from

$1435

+ local payment & park fees USD510

Departures every Sun/itp.

Inclusions • 14-day ‘Tigers & Wildlife Adventure’ small group tour with G.A.P Adventures • Accommodation: 12 nights hotels/ guesthouses, 2 nights sleeper train • Transportation: Train, local bus, charter bus, auto-rickshaw • Meals as per itinerary • Tour leader, local guides 14 days from

$1469

+ local payment USD250

Departures Oct 19, Nov 2, Nov 16, 2009/gap.

Inclusions An unforgettable expedition into the most mountainous corner of the world, the Nepalese Himalayas. Everest has traditionally been the ultimate goal for mountaineers. Explore the mountains and valleys around the towering peak, while learning about the traditions and cultures of the famous Sherpa, also spending time in exotic Kathmandu.

^Conditions apply. Refer to page 3 for details. gap=gap adventures, itp=intrepid holidays.

• 15-day ‘Everest Base Camp’ small group tour with Intrepid Holidays • Accommodation: 2 nights hotels/ guesthouses, 12 nights teahouse lodges • Transportation: plane, bus, walking • Tour leader, local guides 15 days from

$860

+ local payment USD300

Departures on selected Wed & Sat/itp.

Cruise Holidays 13

Alaska

Inclusions Experience the natural beauty and majesty of Alaska on one of the world’s top rated ships. Ride a helicopter, hike a glacier, stroll around town, then take a relaxing soak in a bubbly thalasotherapy pool... top that off with world class dining and a broadway style show – just a typical day on Celebrity Millennium!

• 7 days aboard the Celebrity Millennium • Sail from Seward (Anchorage) to Vancouver and visit Hubbard Glacier, Icy Strait Point, Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan and sail the beautiful inside passage • Onboard meals, entertainment and activities • Port charges 7 days from

$499

+ taxes & fees $119

Sails July 31, 2009.

UPGRADE to oceanview stateroom from $25 per day.

Hawaiian Islands Cruise & Stay Sail the Hawaiian islands with NCL’s Pride of America. From Waikiki sail to the beautiful beaches of Maui. Next visit the world’s most active volcano on the Big Island, including an evening sail where you’ll witness lava flowing into the ocean, before continuing to the resort town of Kona. The last two days are in Kauai, Hawaii’s Garden Isle, including a late afternoon sail along the scenic Napali coast.

Mediterranean

Inclusions • 7 days aboard NCL’s Pride of America • Sail roundtrip from Honolulu to Kahului (Maui), Hilo (Big Island), Kona (Big Island) and Nawiliwili (Kauai) • 1 night pre-cruise accommodation at Outrigger Waikiki On The Beach • Onboard meals, entertainment and activities • Port charges 8 days from

$989

+ taxes & fees $81

Travel July 10, 2009/ggv.

UPGRADE to oceanview stateroom from $16 per day.

Inclusions Celebrity Summit is one of the most beautiful ships ever built. Begin your grand Mediterranean voyage in style, sailing by Venice’s Grand Canal and St Mark’s Square, out into the sunny Adriatic Sea. Then enjoy 14 pampering days to some of the most gorgeous ports in the Mediterranean.

• 14 days aboard the Celebrity Summit • Sail from Venice to Barcelona and visit Dubrovnik, Piraeus (Athens), Kusadasi, Naples, Civitavecchia (Rome), Livorno (Florence/Pisa) and VilleFranche (Nice) • Overnight stays in Venice, Kusadasi & Rome • Onboard meals, entertainment and activities • Port charges 14 days from

$1569

+ taxes & fees $129

Sails Oct 17, 2009.

UPGRADE to oceanview stateroom from $14 per day.

Western Caribbean Embark on a Funship cruise to the popular Western Caribbean, and enjoy some of the best beaches, shopping and snorkelling/diving the Caribbean has to offer! Carnival Glory, one of the largest ships in the Caribbean, promises to offer one of the most fun and exciting vacations you’ll ever have in the Caribbean!

Consultant’s Corner

Inclusions • 7 days aboard the Carnival Glory • Sail roundtrip from Miami to Grand Cayman, Roatan, Belize and Cozumel • Onboard meals, entertainment and activities • Port charges 7 days from

$349*

+ taxes & fees $73 *

Sails Nov 29, 2009.

UPGRADE to oceanview stateroom from $12* per day.

^Conditions apply. Refer to page 3 for details. *Price in US dollars. ggv=gogo vacations.

1 866 831 2263 | flightcentre.ca

Stephannie Phillips Cruise Specialist Flight Centre Fairview Mall Favourite cruise destination? My favourite cruise destination is Grand Cayman. Favourite must-do in Grand Cayman? You can swim with stingrays at Stingray City and there is a worldclass snorkelling area that is just a 5-minute walk from where the ship docks which is free if you have your own equipment (or you can rent it there). Best cruising travel tip? Check in online prior to your departure to avoid having to do it at the pier on the day of embarkation. That way you can get on the ship and start enjoying all it has to offer as quickly as possible. Toll Free: 1 866 581 7765

14 Luxury Holidays

Beaches Turks & Caicos

Anyone looking for a rare and exotic holiday will find this destination to be the crystal clear choice. The waters are the most transparent you’ll ever see and aglow with more shades of turquoise than you could ever count. People are outnumbered by the infinite variety of tropical fish. There will be moments you’ll swear that time stands still. Dive into a one-of-a-kind, unbelievably exciting family vacation at Beaches Turks & Caicos. A 45,000 square-foot, state-of-the-art waterpark; three magnificent villages, boasting the architecture and ambiance of Italy, France and the Caribbean; incredibly sumptuous accommodations; a powder-white-sand, 12-mile beach lapped by clear turquoise waters; endless fun activities for everyone, from tots to tweens and teens, featuring Sesame Street ® characters, the new Xbox 360 ® Game Garage and a sizzlin’ teen disco, Club Liquid – all amid some of the most gorgeous tropical scenery on the planet.

Inclusions • 7 nights luxury accommodation in the 2-bedroom Sienna or Riviera Penthouse Water’s Edge Family Suite with separate kids’ room • All meals and drinks • 42’ flat screen TV • 24-hour concierge service • Separate kids’ room with mahogany bunk beds, television and Xbox ® gaming system • Over 16 restaurants to choose from • Airport transfer 7 nights from

$3749* taxes & fees included

Departs daily in July/ggv.

Sandals Grande Antigua

Of all the most beautiful places on earth, only Sandals Antigua has earned the title of ‘World’s Most Romantic Resort’. Filled with the authentic charm of the islands in its lush garden oasis known as The Caribbean Grove and resplendent with European grandeur amid its palatial retreat known as The Mediterranean Village, this spectacular resort offers the best of both worlds on one idyllic island. Where balmy breezes still whisper tales of yore when British Admiral Lord Nelson sailed these famous shores. Tone and tighten your body as you excite your spirits with the finest and most comprehensive sports facilities on land and sea that can be found anywhere. Soothe your being and calm your soul with a visit to the spectacular European spa, a heavenly sanctuary guaranteed to transport you to a realm of peaceful bliss. Splash with abandon in any one of the 5 pools. Explore glorious tropical gardens with vivid blooms and countless paths to wander down. Take in a show under the stars or dance the night away to the strains of sultry island beats. Whatever your pleasure, whatever your longing, Sandals Grande Antigua far outdoes your wildest fantasies and fulfills your deepest desires.

Inclusions • 7 nights luxury accommodation in the luxury beachfront Rondoval room • All meals and drinks • Over 1400 sq feet of living space with private plunge pool • Personal butler service • 24-hour concierge service • Over 9 restaurants to choose from • Airport transfer and complimentary scuba diving 7 nights from

$4959

taxes & fees included

Departs daily in July/ggv.

^Conditions apply. Refer to page 3 for details. *Prices based on 2 adults and 2 children 12 years and under. gg=gogo vacations.

Waiting for a last minute deal? Wait no longer! Now you can book today and if the price drops we’ll pay you back. How it works

◊

Book and pay in full for any international airfare during June 2009 and if a cheaper advertised fare becomes available on the exact same flight, day and booking class, we’ll refund the difference using a Flight Centre gift voucher.

Things you should know • applies to international airfares advertised by Canadian registered businesses and websites for travel departing from Canada • only available in-store • excludes charter flights by Transat, Flyglobespan, Skyservice, CanJet and Sunwing • excludes flights to the USA • valid for travel until September 30, 2009 Gift vouchers will be issued within 10 working days of presentation of an advertisement for a cheaper fare and will be issued to the passenger named in the original booking. Offer subject to Flight Centre’s gift voucher terms and conditions.

Got the travel bug?

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