Trafalgar's "last minute deals" give you the opportunity to experience incredible savings on a select few European and North American award-winning vacations.

These selected departures are only available until March 15, 2010. All are Definite Departures. Space is limited, so come and experience Europe and North America with Trafalgar’s unbeatable services, tremendous value and great savings.
 
Please note: To get these special rates, please reference the tour’s ‘PROMO CODE’ at the time of booking. If booking online enter the 'PROMO CODE' in the "Apply Promotions" section during the booking process

Europe & Britain Tours

Everything is taken care of... hotel accommodations, transportation, most meals & included family-friendly activities like pizza making in Rome and flamenco dancing in Spain.  A Trafalgar tour travel experience is hassle-free, memorable and above all, fun for the entire family.

Learn more about family tour vacations

New Rides/Attractions

Experience new pulse-pounding rides.  On Dragon Challenge, you’ll need the courage of a Triwizard Tournament champion as you climb aboard one of two ferocious dragons that twist, loop and nearly collide in a high-speed, intertwining rollercoaster chase across the sky.  Each side provides a completely different ride.   On Flight of the Hippogriff, take off on a family friendly coaster that spirals and drives around the pumpkin patch and past Hagrid’s hut.   Last but not least, on Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, experience a state of the art attraction that brings the magic, characters and stories of Harry Potter to life in ways never before imagined.  Make your way through the classrooms and corridors of Hogwarts.  Then soar above the castle grounds on a groundbreaking new ride that lets you join Harry Potter and his friends on an unforgettably thrilling adventure. 

Food & Drink:

Sample fare from the wizarding world’s best known establishments.  Dine at Three Broomsticks where you can choose from fish and chips, shepherd’s pie, soup, salads and tasty desserts.  At Hog’s Head, enjoy Butterbeer, pumpkin juice and other beverages while adults can also choose from a selection of domestic and imported beers, specialty drinks, wine, spirits and mixed drinks.  Visit the legendary Honeydukes for sweets including Bertie Bott’s Every-Flavour Beans, exploding bonbons, treacle fudge, Chocolate Frogs and more.

Shopping:

Shop for magical supplies and wizarding  equipment at Dervish and Banges. Browse confiscated items and purchase Hogwarts and Quidditch clothing, movie prop replicas, magical created toys and more at Flich’s Emporium of Confiscated Goods.  In Ollivanders, step inside the small dusty shop where a Wandkeeper will help the wand choose YOU.  Try different wands with unpredictable results in this interactive experience.  Send letters with a Bogsmeade postmark from the Owl Post or visit Zonko’s Joke Shop where you can browse a selection of novelty items and toys including Sneakoscope, Extendable Ears and more.

Keep in mind when you book a vacation package, some packages ensure you will have Early Park Admission to experience all the magic and excitement of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.  Universal’s Islands of Adventure will open an hour early each day so guests can enjoy all three rides before the general publc…this can save you hours in line.  Call us for details.

Start by making things easier – If your budget is a little flexible, the best practice is have as few connections as possible. Book direct or non-stop flights whenever you can.

Make sure you arrive at the airport early so you are not stressed while finding parking, checking in and getting through security. Realize that traveling with young children always takes longer to walk through the airport than you expect.

Have your children carry their own bags with snack and entertainment items. Even toddlers can wear backpacks or use rolling bags and they like the responsibility. You may also want to carry on any favorite stuffed animal to avoid a problem if the checked bag gets lost.

Bring a favorite pillow to help your children sleep on the flight and on while on vacation. Airlines no longer supply everyone with pillows on flights.

Have some healthy snacks packed. Don't rely on the schedule of the flight attendants for food. Bring some paper cups and buy a bottle of water after you get through security. Some people take an empty water bottle and fill it after getting through security, saving money and the wait in line to purchase water.

Bring your own entertainment. Do not count on the movie selection being appropriate for children or being something that can hold their attention. Here are some suggestions for the different age groups:

• Older Babies and Toddlers - nested containers, sets of things to put into containers, Busy Boxes with hand activities and moving parts, board books, blanket, stuffed animal
• Pre-Schoolers - books, stickers and activity or coloring books, crayons, lap-sized wipe-off easels and pens, post-it notes, scotch tape, magnetic letters or dolls & metal tin
• Young School Age - books, comics, stickers and activity or coloring books, small magnetic puzzles, travel-size Etch-a-Sketch, Go-Fish cards, books on tape, miniature worlds: little houses with figures, hand-sized playsets, LeapFrog Leapster- fun games and assisted reading
• Older School Age - books, activity kits, blank paper for drawing, Hangman, or Xs & Os, deck of cards, travel size board games, Mastermind: a great game for age seven and up, cribbage set, small Lego sets, hand-held toys with the sound turned off, electronics (iPods, games, DVD players, used with headphones). If you do not have a DVD player, they can be rented at many airports.

• Be mindful of who is around when you are discussing your trip - there is no need to let too many people know or draw attention to the fact your house might be empty for a period.
• The best deterrent is to have someone housesit. If that is not possible, ask a trusted neighbor or friend to take in the newspaper, mail, and any other deliveries and keep an eye on the house. Give them your trip plans and an emergency phone number so they can reach you in case of an emergency. You can also arrange with the post office and newspaper to suspend delivery for the time you are away.
• Lock doors, windows and secure sliding doors (a metal rod or a broomstick in the sliding door track is an inexpensive lock), as well as the garage, the basement, and the attic. Some people even disconnect the power to motorized garage door openers.
• Move any valuables from plain sight.
• Check on your appliances, unplug anything that doesn't need to be on while you're away. Lower air conditioning/heating units to energy-saving levels.
• Set timers to turn on lights if you do not have someone staying at the house.

General Travel Tips

• Make sure your passport does not expire within six months of your date of travel. Some countries insist that your passport be valid for at least a six-month time period.
• Place an envelope in one of your checked bags containing copies of your passport, birth certificate and a back up form of photo I.D. in case your passport is lost or stolen.
• Place a copy of the detailed itinerary of your trip inside each piece of luggage. If your luggage is lost, this will help the airline locate you while you're traveling.
• If you are on Medicare and traveling outside the United States, be aware that Medicare does not cover any of your medical bills abroad. It's a good idea to get a travel protection policy that will cover these costs.
• Plan at least a day or two after your return home before scheduling any commitments; you may be tired after your journey.

Don't Forget

• Stow away some antibacterial wipes-they're a convenient way to clean up on the go.
• Bring a voltage converter with you, along with an adapter (to fit electrical plugs into foreign outlets). Note that some adapter kits don't include converters.
• Pack an extra pair of prescription glasses or contacts in case they are lost or broken.
• Comfortable, broken-in walking shoes are a must. Never pack new shoes.
• Wrap a long strip of duct tape around a pencil and bring it along for the ride. Duct tape is the magic fix for everything from torn suitcases to a broken sandal strap.

Click here for over 50 posts with helpful travel tips and advice.

Machu Picchu & the Inca Trail:  The "Lost City of the Incas," amongst the towering peaks of the Andes, is Peru's most famous and dramatic archeological attraction. Travel by train is feasible, however the trek along the 4-day Inca Trail is the insipration choice of tested travellers. For many tourists to Peru, this is the purpose for their trip.

Cuzco:  The ancient capital of the Inca Empire is the oldest continuously inhabited city on the continent. Stonewalled cobblestone alleys wind through a town filled with arcaheological wonders and local culture.  Surrounded by the majestic Andes, Cuzco is full of opporunities to go hiking, biking or rafting.

Nazca:  Along the southern cost of Peru lays a stony desert in which an ancient mystery is set.  The Nazca lines, a series of enormous geometric shapes and animal figures etched into the ground, are a compelling draw to many travellers.  The origins of these mystical formations are still unknown.

The Amazon:  Some of the best preserved and least expired parts of this massive rainforest lie in Peru.  It contains the origins of the Amazon River and thousands of unique plants and rare animal species.  The biodiversity is unmatched anywhere in the world.

Abercrombie & Kent’s Family Holidays include enriching activities for all ages and a range of exciting destinations for both escorted and independent family journeys.

TRAVEL IN THE BEST COMPANY

Abercrombie & Kent’s escorted Family Holidays are designed from the ground up with the family in mind.  They take place over holidays and school breaks and include mostly three-night stays at each destination to minimize packing and unpacking.  Selected departures are accompanied by a Children’s Activity Coordinator; all departures include fun and age-appropriate activities. 

DISCOVER THE WORLD ON YOUR OWN – TOGETHER

Every family is unique – why not travel together on holiday designed specifically for yours?  Tailor Made Family Travel allows you to come and go as you like, choosing only destinations ad sights you long to experience together.  We are happy to work with you to create your ideal private Family Holiday. 

FOR YOUNG TRAVELLERS, THE WORLD AWAITS

Ignite the spark of adventure in a traveler age 14 and under with free membership in Abercrombie & Kent’s Adventure Crew.  Once booked on an A&K journey, children can visit the Crew’s website, www.akadventurecrew.com and learn about their destination, find out about kids in other parts of the world, meet some of A&K’s guides and play a variety of fun games.

Central Valley Region:  Home to the capital city of San Jose, this is a region of coffee plantations, rolling hills, towering volcanoes and rainforest reserves.

Tortuguero:  Also called the "Amazon of Costa Rica," for its unique eco-system, this remote area is a place for eal nature enjoyment.

Arenal Volcano and Lake:  There's a lot to do and see in this area: the erupting Arenal volcano, the Tabacon hot springs, the La Fortuna waterfall, the Venado Caves and Cano Negras Biological Reserve.

Southern Pacific Coast:  This is an area of popular beache spots full of action. The Manuel Antonio National Park is a lush blend of jungle and beaches.

Caribbean Coast:  Home to Limon, this is a unique region of the country with beautiful palm-lined beaches, coral reefs, national parks and an Afro-Caribbean flavour.

Monteverde: Monteverde is famous for its cloudforests and incredible biodiversity.  A highlight of the region is the famous Skywalk Canopy tour.

Guanacaste:  The most popular beach area in the country.  Home to Tamarindo. Guanacaste is blessed with hundreds of miles of pristine, sandy beaches.

The 12-night cruisetour offers the best of Alaska by land and sea and includes a variety of special features not usually included in a cruisetour package. Families will have the opportunity to travel on a jetboat, pan for gold, take an interactive tour of Denali National Park, and experience what Alaska is like in the winter when it's many degrees below zero.

The cruisetour (number: FUN) is offered at a 25 percent discount for all berths, so all members of the family are included in the special pricing.

"This is really the ultimate family vacation," said Charlie Ball, president of Princess Tours. "Alaska is a wonderful travel destination with kids, so we wanted to make it easy and affordable to plan the perfect Alaska experience for everyone in the family."

The Family Fun cruisetour includes a seven-night Voyage of the Glaciers cruise plus a five-night land tour featuring one night at Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge, two nights at Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge and two nights at Fairbanks Princess Riverside Lodge. At sea, families can also take advantage of Princess' many onboard programs especially for children, including a special Junior Ranger program in Glacier Bay National Park.

In addition, the following special extras are included in the tour:

Daily Breakfast -- Everyone in the family can start their morning off with the most important meal of the day.

Direct-to-the-Wilderness Rail Service with Lunch -- Princess' acclaimed Direct-to-the-Wilderness rail service gets families to their wilderness lodge faster, and includes lunch aboard the train.

Three Rivers Jetboat Tour (Mt. McKinley) -- An exhilarating alternative to taking a motorcoach to Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge, this tour travels from Talkeetna to the lodge by jetboat, with stops along the river to view historic encampments and learn about the native wildlife.

Arctic Blast (Denali) -- Family members can experience winter in Alaska -- in the summertime. This special chamber is chilled to wintertime temperatures, so visitors can find out what happens to hot water when it is thrown in the air and whether soap bubbles can survive the cold.

Music of Denali Dinner Theater (Denali) -- This rollicking musical comedy tells the legend of the first expedition to the summit of Mt. McKinley, accompanied by a hearty, family-style meal featuring smokehouse ribs and Alaska salmon.

Experience Alaska with Alaska Geographic Tour (Denali) -- A more intimate tour of Denali National Park, this special experience includes a variety of interactive experiences, including an enhanced view of the Denali ecosystem and current research taking place. The narrated bus tour takes guests 15 miles into the park to a beautiful river valley where they embark on a short walk to the historic Savage River Camp, where they can participate in a number of hands-on experiences.

Denali Sourdough Expedition Breakfast (Denali) -- While fueling up for the day with a family-style, Alaskan roadhouse-style breakfast, guests experience an unforgettable journey up Denali through breathtaking images in Laurent Dick's Climb Denali. Participants have the opportunity to meet this real mountain climber and ask questions about mountain climbing.

Riverboat Cruise and El Dorado Goldmine Tour (Fairbanks) -- Families can enjoy traveling on an authentic sternwheeler for a fully-narrated cruise along the Chena River and try their hands at gold panning at the El Dorado Gold Mine, where they will learn about Alaska's gold mining history.

Fares for the Alaska Family Cruisetour (#FUN) start at $1,743 per person for the first and second berths, and $1,191 per person for the third and fourth berth passengers.

Each tour itinerary on our site is an expertly crafted for an exceptional travel experience and offers unparalleled insights into the culture, history and people in every unique region. Your Travel Director will introduce you to places you would never find on your own and will make every experience come alive as only a Trafalgar travel professional can. Combined with luxury coaches, legendary trains and breathtaking cruises to the Great Barrier Reef every detail is handled to ensure that you have the ultimate vacation. You will also have ample free time to discover and enjoy those things and places that are most special to you.

One of the most adventurous characters in children's literature, Flat Stanley, traveled to the prestigious Library of Congress today where he, along with the first three books in Flat Stanley's Worldwide Adventures series, were inducted into the Library to help Adventures by Disney and HarperCollins Children's Books celebrate an exciting new project called "The Search for Flat Stanley's Next BIG Adventure."

Now budding writers and artists are invited to create their own Flat Stanley story in "The Search for Flat Stanley's Next BIG Adventure." In this nationwide contest, children ages 7 to 12 can win an Adventures by Disney vacation by creating a specially themed Flat Stanley and a 150-word story about his "Next BIG Adventure."

Entries will be judged in three age groups - one for 7 to 8-year-olds, one for 9 to 10-year-olds and one for 11 to 12-year-olds. One winner will be chosen in each age group and each of the three winners can choose one of Adventures by Disney's 19 worldwide vacations for their prize.

Parents, kids and educators can check out www.FlatStanleyBooks.com/AdventuresbyDisney for Official Rules and complete information on the Contest; fun, interactive games; and fascinating informational resources. The Contest runs through November 30, 2009 and no purchase is necessary to enter or win.

Adventures by Disney introduces families to diverse cultures and exciting activities with 19 immersive, authentic, fun and educational trips to destinations throughout the United States and around the world, including South Africa, China, Australia, Europe and the Americas. Every aspect of each trip - from excursions to accommodations to dining - is specifically designed for families traveling together. Immersive activities created just for kids allow young travelers to learn and have fun in places like museums that aren't always as entertaining for the younger set. For example, at the Louvre in Paris, the Junior Adventurers play an Art Detective game throughout the museum with their Adventure Guides, while adults take a privately guided tour with an art historian.

"Changing the Guard dates to Henry VII (reigned 1485-1509) and was designed to show military discipline as well as ceremony. The tall bearskin hats were introduced in the 18th century to make the soldiers look taller and thus more frightening, and they were adopted for ceremonial use in 1832. The ceremony we know today started in the late 1800s and involves real soldiers who fulfill all military duties, guarding the Queen being just part of their service."

The Tower of Pisa, one of Europe's most famous towers and designed by Bonanno Pisano, is a freestanding bell tower, of the cathedral of the Italian city of Pisa. The Tower of Pisa was a work of art, performed in three stages over a period of about 177 years. It stands 183.27 feet tall from the ground on the shortest side and 186.02 on the highest side. 

Construction of the first floor of the white marble campanile began on August 9, 1173. This first floor is surrounded by pillars with classical capitals, leaning against blind arches.

The tower began to sink after construction progressed to the third floor in 1178. This was due to a mere three-meter foundation, set in weak, unstable subsoil and the construction was halted, allowing time for the underlying soil to settle, otherwise, the tower would almost certainly have toppled. 

The construction resumed in 1272. Trying to compensate for the tilt the engineers built higher floors with one side taller than the other. This made the tower begin to lean in the other direction. Because of this, the tower is actually curved. Construction was halted again in 1284.

The seventh floor was completed in 1319. The bell-chamber was not finally added until 1372. There are seven bells in the tower, one for each note of the tuned musical scale. 

After a phase (1990-2001) of structural strengthening, the tower is currently undergoing gradual surface restoration, in order to repair visual damage, mostly corrosion and blackening.

After 2001, the tower reopened to the public. However, the number of visitors is strictly controlled via compulsory 35- to 40-minute guided tours where you are able to climb to the top. There are 294 stairs with no hand rails and the walls are worn smooth. The stairs are slippery and were built in a very tight spiral. You may think it was harder getting down than going up.

Enjoy a hassle-free tour with enough time for you to relax, shop and explore on your own. Trafalgar’s experienced Tour Directors have the local knowledge, will be there to answer your questions, show you the main and less-visited attractions and help you organize your vacation – travelling in the UK and Ireland has never been easier.

The eclectic mix of history, tradition, culture and sightseeing attractions make a vacation to the UK and Ireland truly exceptional. With Trafalgar, all you need to do is decide on where, when and for how long.

When we travel, my husband and I enjoy the half day city sightseeing tours to get acquainted with a destination.  However, rather than choose another tour for the afternoon, we enjoy getting to know the ambiance, local shops and people.   After a visit to the Academy to see the famous Michaelangelo’s David as well as the artist’s numerous unfinished and fascinating sculptures, we went to the Arno River.   The only bridge to survive World War II was the Ponte Vecchio and it is a must!  It’s a short walk actross the Arno with lovely little open air jewelers and other shops and when you arrive at the south end of the bridge, there are charming outdoor dining venues with incredible pasta.   After relaxing over a leisurely lunch, walk just a few steps to the fabulous Pitti Palace.  This was originally owned by a Pitti but is famous as the residence of the infamous Medici family.  It’s a small art museum and the Boboli Gardens behind the museum are also well worth a look.   Besides lush plantings, there are waterfalls, reflecting pools, sculptures and an amazing view of Florence itself as it is up on a hill.  Great photo ops…

Written by: Laura U
laura@atlastravelweb.com

If you only have 1 hour to visit, you have time to see the Crown Jewels, pay a visit to the White Tower built by William the Conqueror, which today houses displays from the Royal Armories' collection and walk through surprisingly rich colors and comfortable furnishings of the Medieval Palace. If you can stay for 2 hours, join one of the famous Yeoman Warder tours and hear exciting tales from the Tower's past, and then follow the route above. If you're not in a rush, other things to see and do include enjoying lunch in the New Armories' Restaurant and visiting the Traitors' Gate.You can also take an audio tour. Personal interaction makes it an awesome experience, and you can choose five different tours about the Medieval Palace, imprisonment, executions, the dazzling Crown Jewels or learn about what it's like to live in the Tower today.

The hours of operation for the Tower of London vary throughout the year.  In the summer, March 1 through October 31, the hours are Tuesday-Saturday 9:00-17:30 and Sunday-Monday 10:00-17:30 with the last admission at 17:00. During the winter, the Tower of London is open through November 1 to February 28 on Tuesday-Saturday 9:00-16:30, and Sunday-Monday 10:00-16:30 with the last admission at 16:00. If you are interested in a tour, the last Yeoman Warder tour starts at 14:30 (winter), and 15:30 (summer). All the internal buildings close 30 minutes after the last admission. The Tower is closed on December 24-26 and January 1. It is always recommended that visitors allow at least 2-3 hours. During busy times, lines, (known as queues in London,) are likely to form within the Tower. Also, if visiting during school holidays or in the summer, more time may be needed for your visit to allow for a thorough exploration of the Tower.

The cost of admission for visits through March 1, 2009 and February 28, 2010 is £17.00 per adult and £9.50 children ages 6 through 16. Children under the age of 5 are free of charge, and the Tower strictly enforces that they must be accompanied by an adult at all times. You may book by telephone, in person, and most conveniently online.

Here are just a few of the most popular places where others have been "togethering":

• Hawaiian Islands
• National Parks 
• Galapagos
• Beaches Resorts 
• Alaska 
• Orlando Florida
• Costa Rica

Take advantage of discounts and even free travel, when you put together a travel group.

BURBANK, Calif., Aug. 11 /PRNewswire/ -- Whether floating down the Colorado River or climbing the Great Wall of China, families participating in Adventures by Disney vacations will connect with the world - and with each other - during a variety of guided group travel experiences spanning six continents in 2010. Created specifically for families, Adventures by Disney itineraries lead guests through the history and culture of each destination while providing unique experiences and exclusive access along the way.

Entering its fifth year, Adventures by Disney designs tours with the family in mind and provides educationally-enriched experiences so even younger travelers understand, appreciate and have fun in their new surroundings. These hassle-free vacations, rooted in the service and quality of family travel leader Disney, provide distinctive opportunities and special touches to make memories that last a lifetime.

"We are able to offer vacation experiences to some of the most fascinating places on earth, literally bringing history to life for our guests," said Don Gross, Vice President, Adventures by Disney. "Each itinerary is carefully planned, creating a vacation that includes the most iconic and must-see sites as well as off-the-beaten path excursions. In fact, guests often tell us the hardest part about the trip is choosing the adventure."

The Disney Difference

From snorkeling with sea turtles in the Galapagos to discovering Europe's classic history, each itinerary is as matchless as its surroundings. Yet one aspect holds true for every trip: the special touches that are collectively called "the Disney difference" . . .

Adventure Guide: Part storyteller, ambassador, concierge and role model, Adventures by Disney's highly-trained Adventure Guides are the friendly hosts and travel specialists who lead guests on every trip. With two guides assigned for every group (of up to 40 people), travelers receive individual attention to ensure a fun and enriching vacation.

Junior Adventurers: Young travelers are transformed into Junior Adventurers - seeing, hearing and tasting things that they might otherwise not have experienced. The immersive activities created just for kids allow young travelers to learn and have fun in places like museums that aren't always as entertaining for the younger set. For example, at the Louvre in Paris, the Junior Adventurers play an Art Detective game throughout the museum with their Adventure Guides, while adults take a privately guided tour with an art historian. In addition, the Adventure Guides are expert storytellers and are trained to create fun and unique, locally-based experiences for the kids. On almost every departure, there is also a Junior Adventurers night, in which the kids have a special evening experience with their Guides, while the adults get a quiet evening on their own at the resort.

Local Experts: An authentic Tuscan chef, a naturalist from Costa Rica, a Chinese tai chi master - these local experts share a passion; they live and breathe the local history and culture of their destination. They are an integral part of every Adventures by Disney vacation. They join guests to share their stories and provide an "insider's" perspective to each destination.

VIP Access: Travelers vacationing with Adventures by Disney receive VIP experiences that are practically impossible to schedule on their own. Special entry to otherwise crowded sites, unique accommodations (like castles in Ireland and Germany, a dude Ranch in Yellowstone and at the base of a live, active volcano in Costa Rica. Guests also get backstage access of celebrated performances like "The Lion King" in London. These are just a few of the exceptional moments woven through each itinerary, promising expedited service and a broader knowledge of each destination.

Adventures by Disney's 2010 destinations include 19 global itineraries:

Asia & Pacific

• Enchanted China - China: Beijing, Chengdu, Guilin, Shanghai and Hong Kong
• Safari to South Africa - South Africa: Cape Town, The Garden Route and Kapama Game Reserve
• Discovery Down Under - Australia: North Queensland, Ayers Rock and Sydney
  

British Isles & Europe

• Cities of Knights and Lights - England and France: London and Paris
• The Emerald Isle - Ireland: Dublin, Killarney and Shannon
• Once Upon a Fairytale - Germany: Heidelberg, Trendelburg, Rothenburg and Munich
• Alpine Magic - Italy and Switzerland: Stresa, Zermatt and Lake Lucerne
• Viva Italia - Italy: Rome, Tuscany and Venice
• Bella Italia - Central Italy: Sorrento and Florence
  

Latin America

• Path to Pura Vida - Costa Rica: San Jose, Arenal and Manuel Antonio National Park
• Treasures of the Galapagos - Ecuador and Galapagos Islands
• Sacred Valleys and Incan Cities - Peru: Lima, Sacred Valley and Cusco
  

North America

• Spirit of America -Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, Pa., and Williamsburg, Va.
• Quest for the West - Wyoming: Jackson Hole, Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks
• Southwest Splendors - Arizona and Utah: Sedona, Grand Canyon and Moab
• Backstage Magic - Southern California: Hollywood and Disneyland Resort
• Golden Path to Yosemite - Northern California: Lake Tahoe, Yosemite National Park and San Francisco
• Taming the Last Frontier - Alaska: Fairbanks, Denali National Park and Kenai Peninsula
• Rocky Trails and Mountie Tales - Montana and Canada: Glacier National Park and Banff National Park

For more on Adventure by Disney, visit www.luxurytour.com

Q.  I'm confused about luggage, specifically carry on. Is my purse considered a carry on item? How about my husband's camera case? My husband wants to bring his computer, it is slightly over the 12x11x6 Is this a problem?

A.  #1.  A purse or camera case is not considered a carry on. You can still have a separate carry-on bag.

#2.  As far as your husband's computer, carry-on bags must be small enough to store in overhead bins or under the seat in front of you on motorcoaches and other transportation. If it is a very minimal difference, (1 inch,) then it should still fit in the overhead without a problem, but these measurements are given to ensure you will not have any issue while touring.

Services offered include services of 24/7 agent for any last minutes changes, pre-trip travel advice such as what vaccines are required, embassy contacts, weather and currency information.  They also offer assistance for last minute changes, such as cancelled or delayed flights, making hotel reservations or ground transportation reservations. Benefits include coverage in the event of cruise line, airline or tour operator default (financial default non applicable to all suppliers) Coverage for sickness, injury or death of immediate family member. Terrorist incident that results in loss of life or major damage to property, by any person

With a good policy, you receive 24 hours assistance replacing lost or stolen documents such as visas, passports or tickets. Cash advance for travel or medical emergencies. They can also help you locate English speaking medical specialists, facilities and assistance with medical evacuations anywhere in the world.

They will provide you with baggage and personal effects loss coverage, baggage delay coverage and luggage tracing services. They have a bilingual staff for telephone interpretation for medical or legal emergencies.

If you purchase your travel insurance within 15 days of making your initial deposit your coverage will include pre-existing conditions which applies to the first $25,000 of trip cost.

Whether a child gets the flu, or a close family member has a medical emergency, travel protection has a plan that will protect you before or during your vacation. The right kind of insurance is essential. It will provide you with peace of mind, medical evacuation in case of an emergency, baggage coverage, flight delay and flight cancellation coverage.

In addition to these services some insurance policies also provide a concierge service which is available to assist you with restaurant reservations, event tickets, tee time reservations and floral services.

This is only a brief description of some of the benefits and travel services provided. All policies and coverage may vary, and may not be available in all states. There are also expanded coverage plans that offer business related covered reasons for trip cancellation and interruption, and other that let you cancel for any reason.

At times it is best to purchase the insurance with the tour operator or cruise line as part of your package, where on other occasions you can save money and get better coverage medical and evacuation coverage. An experience agent can explain your options to that you can purchase the best policy for your individual needs.

Good travel insurance isn't always expensive. We have negotiated excellent policies exclusive to Atlas, where rather than paying by age, which can add up for seniors, everyone is charged a flat amount base on the cost of the trip.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site is a site that holds a list of outstanding cultural or natural universal value such as, the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. It could be a monument, building, mountain, forest, lake, desert, complex or city.

So how is a site selected?

Only countries that have signed the World Heritage Convention, pledging to protect their natural & cultural heritage can submit nominations for properties on their territory to be considered for inclusion in UNESCO’s World Heritage list.

A nominated property is independently evaluated by several Advisory Boards. Once a site has been nominated & evaluated, the intergovernmental World Heritage Committee makes the final decision. One per year, the Committee meets to decide which sites will be inscribed on the World Heritage list.

The program aims to catalogue & preserve sites of outstanding importance, either cultural or natural, to the common heritage of humankind.

There are currently 878 World Heritage Sites in 145 countries. These include 679 cultural, 174 natural and 25 mixed properties.

You may have visited a place in the U.S. already, not realizing it was a UNESCO site such as the Statue of Liberty, Grand Canyon, Yosemite Yellowstone or Olympic National Park.

Click here for a full list of site.

I have seen 20 sites in 9 countries, so only 858 to go, but I have to say that certain countries do not interest me AT ALL, so my goal would be to see at least half of the UNESCO sites while traveling the world.

How many UNESCO sites have you visited?

Should you bring a laptop while traveling?

This is a personal question that really depends on many things. What you’ll be doing, where you are going and how long will you be traveling?

I would like to share some guidelines that may help with your decision.

Reasons you should bring a laptop:

You can email your family and friends. Having your laptop, you can email your loved ones back home. This is something you could do at most internet cafes, which is a much nicer atmosphere than your hotel room. Most cafes around the world do offer free Wifi when you order something. Not all cafes have free Wifi; some do have a small charge. Newer cruise ships also offer Wifi, but make sure and purchase a package, as usage rates can be high.

You can download all your photos. You can download your digital photo right to your laptop. This will keep your camera’s memory stick free everyday. This will allow you to capture that favorite photo. If your memory stick is full, you would lose that favorite photo moment.

Keeping a journal of the cities you visited. Sometimes we see so much on our vacation that we tend to forget something. Keeping a journal along the way will allow you to never forget. It also allows you to post your travel blogs in writing.

Calling home for free (or very cheap) with Skype. For mere cents per minute you can make calls to landlines and cell phones from all over the world with Skype. It allows you to call from any web-enabled laptop. It’s a great way to keep in touch over the phone.

You can get lots of local information. Many laptops today have maps, directions, schedules and must-see sites for key cities. Maybe you would like get tickets to a play or need to get those directions to a restaurant. You can get all the information you need right from your laptop. Usually it’s much better than carrying around big guidebooks.

You can work. Even though we are on vacation, sometimes we still have our work on our minds. Maybe you have an on-line business and need to be kept informed. Having your laptop with you allows you to still work.  

Reasons you should keep your laptop home:

It could get lost, stolen or damaged. Where you are traveling really depends on the risks, which could range from mild to extreme. Getting your laptop insured by home or travel insurance is really not likely. Most insurance companies won’t cover you unless you pay a very high premium.

It’s extra weight to carry. If weight is an issue then you may want to keep it home. Depending on where you are traveling, you would need to bring your power adapter and any plug in devices to operate your laptop.

Surfing the internet. As we all know, the internet can be addicting. You could spend hours surfing the web, when we should be enjoying the experience of the city that you paid to see.

Checking in at the airport.  Our new airport regulations require us to open our carry bags to get through security. When you are traveling with your laptop, you will have to remove your laptop from the carry case for security inspection, so allow extra time for check-in.

You need to base your decision on where you are going. The more remote destinations you are traveling to, the less likely you will find a Wifi connection. Some remote islands will probably only have a dial up connection, which would probably be very slow.

The biggest consideration is whether you feel you actually need a laptop. Some people absolutely need to stay connected. If you decide to bring it, I would recommend a soft case to protect it. I would use a water-resistant case. Remember to never stow your computer in your luggage.

Contributed by: A Sternberg
angie@atlastravelweb.com

Before You Go:

Research:  Do your homework and find out what each area is known for and decide what items you'll look for. Find out what similar items sell for. If you are considering pictures or other items to decorate your home with your travel finds, take measurements, then pop your tape measure into your travel bag. Bring a fabric swatch if needed as well. If you plan on having garments custom-made in the Orient for example, pack a favorite item to copy. Also research customs, GST and VAT tax refunds, shipping large items, and other important rules. Thailand and China, for example, are known for antiques, but you'll need appropriate paperwork to bring them home. In Europe when you make a purchase you must fill out the tax refund form supplied by the ship. You pay the full price, but when you leave Europe there is usually an area in all major airports called 'VAT Refund' after you have cleared security. You take the tax forms to be stamped and drop them in a box. In one to two billing cycles you should see the tax refunded back onto your credit card. If you are traveling on an escorted tour, your tour manager can give you tips on the best places to shop. On a cruise, they normally hold presentations and replay them on the ship channel in the cabin, with shopping tips on each port as well.

Shopping Strategies:

Local markets offer a rich travel experience, and a treasure trove of shopping options. Here are some bargaining tips to make that a more rewarding experience:

Get the Lay of the Land - Be Strategic:  Stroll around, take in the colors and the smells of the market while checking around prices on similar items. Watch how merchants interact with their customers. In Italian markets you'll encounter a hard sell; merchants in Arab markets often bargain after you've shared a cup of tea.

The Art of the Deal: Start by offering half the quoted price. Your merchant will tout the value of his handicrafts and bring the price back to almost the original. Split the difference. By the 3rd round your price will likely be about 75% of the original. Instead of haggling again, count out your cash until you reach slightly less than his price. You should have a deal. If the merchant is aggressive, step away. Likewise there is no need to be rude to the merchants, as they are only try to make a living.

Consider Shipping Your Items Back Home: The most difficult part is waiting a few weeks for your items to arrive if you are overseas, but with airlines charging for additional baggage weight, shipping can save you money. Just make sure to insure the package if it is breakable.

In the end, the important thing is that you enjoy the experience and keep in mind, more important than the exact cost will be priceless travel memories derived from your new-found treasures.

We'd love to hear about some of your shopping strategies?

Contributed by: S Brage

In order to be a good travel agent, you need education so that you can pass the information on to your clients. The Travel Institute has certifications that take about 6 years to complete, as you are not eligible to participate unless you have been in the business for a certain amount of time. Cruise Lines International has a 3 step certification process up to a ECC (Elite Cruise Counselor) You have to be in the business a minimum of 10 years to participate in the program as well as conducting various ship inspections. There are also various destination & product specialists programs, seminars, conventions & trade shows throughout the year.  Our office has speakers from various preferred partners come in at least twice a month, to ensure we are up to date with new products or changes.

So the next time you book your vacation, keep in mind that travel agents are trained professionals with your best interest in mind, and there is no additional cost to you to book through an agent. In fact, agents will always save you time (& time is money!) and also in many cases, get you a better price or added amenities.

Tapas is a tradition that is believed to have begun in the 19th century in Andalusia, where single slices of cheese or ham were used to "cover" glasses of sherry to deter flies (Spanish verb Tapar means to cover). After finishing their drink people would eat the ham or cheese. Tapas are so much a part of the culture & social scene in Spain, that they invented the verb tapear which means to go & eat tapas!

Want to experience authentic tapas in Spain? You can travel to Barcelona & Madrid

Disney Cruise Line just opened for reservations this week for

The Disney Magic will offer 12 day cruises to Scandinavia, Germany & Russia, as well as Med cruises. Do you think Russia is a child friendly destination? The ship will stay overnight in St. Petersburg. Children will be able to dress up as princes & princesses and attend balls at a real castle. Would parents be willing to do separate excursions from that of their children, or miss out on all that St. Petersburg has to offer?

Common question asked by clients

Answer:

You would be surprised how many things can be packed and not exceed 50 lbs. There are some wonderful no wrinkle, light weight fabrics for traveling and you don't need a pair of shoes for each outfit. When staying in the same hotel for more than 1 night, you can take advantage of the laundry facilities they have to offer.

Make a list before packing and make sure to mix and match outfits. Always pack tightly. Scarf or jewelry can change the look or a blouse. Packing loosely will waste space and cause clothes to wrinkle from moving around. Use all the space you have available to you, such as putting socks & under garments inside of shoes.

You can get a great packing list from Frommers.

Keep in mind that the airlines are changing their restrictions and charges often these days. Make sure and go to their web site or call a couple of weeks before travel to get the latest information.

There are exceptions, especially with adventure trips or luxury travel, where preliminary documents are sent, as well as personal registration forms to be filled out.

You will of course always receive written confirmations from us for your records.

Day 1 with the budget and first class tours is "always" the overnight flight to Europe, arriving on Day 2 - this means Day 2 is your first hotel night.

Day 1 with the Deluxe & Luxury Tours is the day you arrive in Europe to start your tour.

With US and Canada tours, day 1 is the day your tour begins.

With other exotic destinations such as South America, Asia and Australia, please check with you agent, as there could be as many as 1 to 2 days for the flight over.

In most cases, booking your own airfare is fine, but I want to remind you to keep a few things in mind.

When you book airfare with the cruise or tour operator, transfers are included to & from the airport. When calculating how much money you are saving, make sure & factor in the additional cost for transfers.

Tours can cancel due to lack of participation. If you book your own air, we suggest booking a tour that is "guaranteed" to operate. Many suppliers have added hundreds of guaranteed departures on their popular tours.

If you experience a problem with your flight being cancelled due to weather or other circumstances, when you book your airfare along with your travel packages, you will have assistance in booking the next available flight to meet up with your trip. If you book your flights online, how difficult will it be to get someone on the phone to assist you in rebooking another flight?

Insurance is another consideration. If you book your own air, normally the cruise or tour operators insurance will not cover the value of your flights. Make sure to speak to an agent about outside insurance coverage so that your entire purchase is protected.

Book early & save. Many suppliers offer air promotions for bookings made well in advance.

On many occasions we do advise our clients to buy airfare separately, but make sure to take the time to discuss your options with an agent to ensure you are receiving the best value.

I told her they would be delivered by UPS to her home address on Monday.

This is 8 days prior to her departure.

She was satisfied with this and we ended the call.

She called back about 10 minutes later and asked where the documents were being mailed to. I told her they were on their way to her address in Chicago. She said, “But I’m in Rhode Island”.

I asked why she did not advise me of this and she said, “We always spend our summers in Rhode Island”

Okay, so now I need a crystal ball with all of the other hats I wear! I was supposed to know this??

I told her I would see what I could do and called the supplier to ask if another set of documents could be generated and mailed out.

This reservation was made with a Luxury Tour supplier and they agreed to send the documents directly to her Rhode Island address.

If this were a supplier other than a Luxury Tour operator, a duplicate set of documents would have a fee to generate and the overnight mail would have to be paid for by the client.

Please think of your travel agent as one of your circle of family and friends. Keep us in mind to notify us of any changes in your life. Give us your airline schedule if you make your own airline reservations; give us all contact numbers and dates when you’ll be at another location. Don’t think you’re bothering us with trivia. Our job is to give you the best customer service we can, but to do this we need your help.