Trips Magazine

(Vocus) May 15, 2009 — Alcatraz Media, a leading provider of worldwide destination travel (http://www.Reserve123.com) products, has its hand on the pulse of the current travel trends and stands ready to deliver quality travel services to those looking to plan a weekend away, regardless of the city of origin. With access to over 10,000 tours and attractions, the company’s customer base is able to select from a variety of excursions in the most popular travel destinations around the world. This year, with the current economic climate in mind, Alcatraz Media has come up with a list of several attractive options located closer to home for the holiday weekend:

-Hilton Head Island, South Carolina (http://www.hiltonheadtours.net)

This area has become a premier destination for holiday travelers. Conveniently located just north of Savannah, Georgia and south of Charleston, South Carolina, visitors take advantage of a host of family-friendly activities including outlet shopping, golfing on one of the area’s 24 golf courses, a visit to the top of the Harbour Town Lighthouse in Sea Pines, and a trip to the Coastal Discovery Museum. Upon arrival in the area, a great way to get acquainted is on the Hilton Head Red Trolley Tour, which showcases the physical beauty of the island and highlights several of its historical points of interest. The tour features a brief stop at Harbour Town, a quaint village on the water with unique shops, a picturesque harbor, and the landmark lighthouse.

-Washington, DC

The nation’s capital has more than a few things going on over the holiday weekend. From the National Memorial Day Parade to the Rolling Thunder Motorcycle Rally and GI Film Festival, those choosing to drop in to this city will have lots of ways to celebrate. Those thirsting for more historical knowledge can take a side trip to Pennsylvania on the Gettysburg Tour, or they can stay around to explore DC by bus or Segway.

-Chicago, Illinois (http://www.chicagotours.us)

The ‘Windy City’ is the host of one of the largest Memorial Day parades in the country, so it is no wonder that more than 10,000 spectators gather each year to join in on the fun. The day begins with a wreath-laying ceremony on Daley Plaza’s Eternal Flame before the procession. Other popular options for the weekend include the Chicago Antique Market, an architectural cruise, and a visit to the LEGOLAND Discovery Center.

-New York City

Nobody does a parade quite like New York, and during the Memorial Day holiday, the city celebrates Fleet Week – a series of events, parades, and military demonstrations which honors the US Navy and Marine Corps. As if New York itself didn’t have enough of a draw, this annual celebration brings spirit and patriotism to the next level, and families thoroughly enjoy touring the ships and watching the sailors perform and compete in challenges. During a visit to the city, travelers may also opt to participate in a tour or two in addition to the festivities. There is a wide variety of tours and things to do in New York, with activities covering everything from shopping to chocolate. One popular way to explore the city is on the New York Circle Line Cruise, which gives guests a spectacular view of all five boroughs and a close-up of the Statue of Liberty.

These are only a few of the cities doing something special this Memorial Day. For more information on cities served by Alcatraz Media, visit www.Reserve123.com.

About Alcatraz Media and Reserve 123:

Alcatraz Media is the world's largest provider of tours and activities, welcoming over a million visitors per month. They provide reservations for more than 10,000 tours, attractions and activities in over 400 destinations and 60 countries. The business was formed in 1999 in San Francisco, California and is now headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia.

Reserve123.com, the newest addition to the Alcatraz Media network consisting of over 2000 websites, provides one-stop shopping and an excellent way to research and reserve activities, vacation packages (http://www.Reserve123.com), and transportation services. They also provide a variety of travel resources including a Travel Blog, the VIP Tickets website, and a gift card program.

All of the tours and activities provided by Alcatraz Media have been hand-selected by a staff of travel experts, concierges, travel agents, and local operators. The company works hard to provide millions of customers with quality experiences and excellent customer service. They sell directly to consumers as well as through a network of agents and affiliates around the globe.

For more information, please visit Reserve123.com or contact Jamie Siegel by phone at (678) 320-2245 or email at Jamie (at) Reserve123 (dot) com.

Arlington, MA (PRWEB) June 27, 2008 — In an effort to expand beyond Europe and to uphold its mission to discover the best bicycling routes in the world, Ciclismo Classico, one of the country’s premier bicycle tour companies, has added three new regions to explore, giving travelers the opportunity to cycle during the fall and winter from October – March. For its 2008-2009 season, Ciclismo Classico has added Chile & Argentina, New Zealand and Vietnam.

“When we started 20 years ago, our focus was on Italy,” says Ciclismo founder and cycling enthusiast Lauren Hefferon. “Over the years we added France, Spain, New England and many others continuing our goal of offering an array of safe, healthy, fun vacations that span Europe and immerse our riders in the culture and cuisine of the country they’re visiting. Now, with the addition of three new continents to our trip menu, new and returning cyclists will experience touring the Ciclismo Classico way in places where the lands are ripe with discovery and the dollar goes a bit farther.”

The company, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary, has put together these three new tours, all of which include local guides, a fully-outfitted bicycle rental, accommodations and meals, cultural excursions, travel planning and more:

Chile and Argentina – debuts October 25, 2008

Ciclismo’s South American tour is the only one of its kind and offers the option of an 8-day base trip or a 10-day extended trip. Riders will cycle nearly 200 miles of scenic mountain routes with the snow-capped Andes nearby. Along the way, you’ll get the chance to ride by the Seven Lakes, visit five national parks, take a hike to Petrohue Falls, stop at the Curarrehue Museum and soak in the Huife hot springs. The additional two days will feature a trip to Santiago and the Colchagua Valley, an exclusive discussion about Chilean wines with a local sommelier, three private winery visits, and a horse-drawn carriage ride through the Vina Viu Manent’s vineyard. The 8-day trip starts at $3.795/person. The two night post-trip extension is an additional $1,195.

New Zealand – debuts November 16, 2008

This itinerary offers the choice between the base 10-day trip and an extended 14-day stay. The nearly 300-mile journey on the South Island starts in Christchurch and continues along New Zealand’s west coast and through the Southern Alps. During the bike tour, guests will ride the TranzAlpine Train, one of the world’s greatest scenic railway journeys. In addition to great biking, guests will witness a jade carving demonstration, hike to the base of the Fox Glacier in Westland National Park, go sea kayaking, and even visit a sheep farm. The extended package includes an overnight cruise on Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound, the opportunity to ride an additional 100+ miles, a stay in Te Anau, a ride to the shores of Lake Wakatipu, and a steamship ride to Queenstown. The 10-day trip starts at $3,995/person. The optional four night post-trip extension is an additional $1,895.

Vietnam – debuts October 25, 2008

This 11-day ride from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh (Saigon) features more than 200 miles of scenic and cultural cycling including riverside riding, coastal explorations, mountain passes, rolling hills and small villages. Riders will get the chance to see a traditional water puppet performance in Hanoi, experience a garden and tea stop while cycling through Hue and boat to the Coral Islands off Nha Trang. The itinerary also features exclusive visits to the homes of four Vietnamese experts, a boat cruise on the Perfume River and a ride to the famous Cu Chi tunnels. Guests also have the option to extend this trip for four days for a visit to Angkor Wat, Cambodia, where they will explore the city of Angkor Thom, visit the famous temple complex and a local Cambodian orphanage. The 11-day trip starts at $3,995/person, and the three night post-trip extension is an additional $1,275.

These tours are designed for small groups of between 14 and 18 guests, so space is very limited. A $500 deposit is required to make a reservation. For more information on any of these trips or for other Ciclismo Classico excursions throughout Europe and New England, please visit www.ciclismoclassico.com.

Ciclismo Classico has been recognized by several publications for its outstanding trip itineraries. In 2004 and 2007, Outside Magazine awarded Ciclismo the “Trip of the Year” for Western Europe, and Men’s Journal named the Southern Italy: Sea to Sea trip as one of the “Top 100 Trips on the Planet.” Ciclismo has also been covered by the Denver Post, Bicycling, Business Week and Marin Magazine, among others.

About Ciclismo Classico

As a specialized boutique bicycle tour operator since 1988, Ciclismo Classico provides the most authentic, unique and exciting vacations in the adventure travel industry. Their well-crafted, award-winning educational trips in Europe, South America, New Zealand, Asia and New England are active immersions into local art, language, music, folklore and, delicious cuisine. By combining legendary service and rare cultural experiences, the Ciclismo travel experience continues to energize and transform each and every guest. For more information about Ciclismo Classico, visit www.ciclismoclassico.com

Bristol, VT (PRWEB) September 10, 2009 — VBT Active Vacations has announced 2010 departures for a new line of international walking tours (http://walking.vbt.com/) to complement its popular biking vacations, known for exceptional value. The five new walking vacations visit European and South American destinations, and start at $2595 for 10 days. Unlike most walking tour companies, VBT includes roundtrip international airfare, and in an unusual move, for 2010 they are also including all air fuel surcharges.

VBT President Gregg Marston sees the expansion into walking tours as a natural step for the 39-year-old company, which was recently named among the "Best Adventure Travel Companies on Earth" by National Geographic Adventure magazine.

"VBT has always been about the overall travel experience," says Marston. "Walking, like biking, is an excellent means for discovery, because it connects you to your surroundings with all your senses. Our customers have been asking for us to include this exciting activity in our repertoire, so it was a natural fit."

VBT has been known for its strong customer focus. In recent National Geographic Adventure polls they were ranked among the top three "Best Bicycle Outfitters on Earth" two years in a row, and received client satisfaction ratings of 98.33/100 (the highest score of all top five competitors), and a quality service score of 94/100.

Marston also sees an easy operational fit as well as a philosophical one. "We've had long experience and great success at delivering high-quality travel experiences, while still providing exceptional value. Our walking tours will benefit from the same longstanding relationships we have with major international airlines and overseas suppliers, and the regional expertise and outstanding trip leadership that our biking tours are known for."

The newest collection of walking walking vacations (http://walking.vbt.com/) showcases five destinations that have been most requested by VBT travelers:

•    Quiet Pathways of Tuscany, 10 days from $2595, including roundtrip international airfare

•    The Amalfi Coast & Capri, 10 days from $3145, including roundtrip international airfare

•    Ireland: Walking the West Country, 10 days from $2945, including roundtrip international airfare

•    Slow Road Through Provence, 10 days from $3395, including roundtrip international airfare

•    Peru: Machu Picchu & the Sacred Valley, 11 days from $3595, including roundtrip international airfare

All programs include round-trip international airfare, distinctive accommodations, most meals, guided sightseeing and activities, the services of two bilingual local VBT Trip Leaders, support vehicles and other transport, transfers, use of VBT walking poles, and more. Daily route choices and continuous road support give travelers the opportunity to tailor the pace to their individual tastes. Groups are limited to 14-20 travelers, with two dedicated local VBT Trip Leaders offering continuous support.

For more information on family adventure vacations and walking tours (http://walking.vbt.com/), please contact Paul Williams at 802-453-4811 ext. 3414, or visit our website.

About VBT

Vermont Bicycle Tours (now known as VBT Active Vacations) was founded in 1971 as America's original bicycle tour company, and is now the leader in active family adventure vacations. Started by a Middlebury College professor with a love of the open road, the fledgling company quickly grew beyond its home turf to offer bicycle tours of Europe. Today, VBT offers active biking and walking vacations in 22 countries around the world, from the US to Asia to Europe and beyond. With headquarters in an eighteenth-century dairy farm in Bristol, Vermont, VBT has stayed true to its small town roots and values, which include a reverence for the great outdoors, a tradition of neighborliness (extended around the world), and a commitment to responsible tourism and community service.

(PRWEB) June 5, 2008 ?- Bikers (http://www.vbt.com/) looking for a unique European vacation package (http://www.vbt.com/Europe/Spain/Spain-Under-the-Andalusian-Sky-2008/Bicycle-Tour-Details.aspx) can sample the splendors of Southern Spain with VBT Bicycling Vacations? newest bicycling tour ?Spain: Under the Andalusian Sky.? This 10-day itinerary through Spain’s sunny southern province debuts in November, 2008.

?When we were deciding on a destination for cycling in Spain, we chose Andalusia for its undeniable beauty,? said Gregg Marston, VBT president. ?This is the Spain of vast, open plains, rustic farmhouses, and entrancing white villages. Cycling through them is truly a magical experience. And of course, in Andalusia, the sun shines almost all year.?

Rich cultural discoveries set this bicycling vacation apart. After an overnight stay in Seville, birthplace of flamenco, the program begins in Palma del Rio. From here, riders can choose cycle routes into the magnificent Guadalquivir River Valley to Carmona, a charming hilltop town overlooking the plains. Then bikers (http://www.vbt.com/) continue to Cordoba, where a free day allows for exploration of the Mezquita cathedral, and a visit to a hammam, or Arab spa. Leaving the city, VBT?s route traces the Wine Road of the Cordillera Subbetica mountain range and continues to Zuheros, a stunning pueblo blanco, or white village, overlooking the countryside and olive groves. Along the way travelers will sample local vintages at a countryside bodega, help a Spanish chef prepare paella, and sample sangria and Jamón Ibérico. The vacation package (http://www.vbt.com/Europe/Spain/Spain-Under-the-Andalusian-Sky-2008/Bicycle-Tour-Details.aspx) concludes in Granada, where bikers may visit the sprawling palace of the Alhambra.

Trip extensions are available in Seville and Barcelona. The first departure is scheduled for October 31, 2008, with additional dates through 2009. Prices for the ten-day vacation package itinerary start at $3095, including round-trip airfare, eight nights of lodging in authentic local accommodations, use of a VBT bike, and full van support.

VBT Bicycling Vacations was named ?Best Biking Outfitter on Earth? in a 2007 survey of more than 200 adventure travel outfitters by National Geographic Adventure magazine. Outfitters were ranked in six categories: education, sustainability, quality of service, spirit of adventure, references, and best overall. VBT emerged as the best overall in the Biking category.

Founded in 1971, VBT Bicycling Vacations offers 27 deluxe bicycling tours in 18 countries worldwide, including destinations in Europe, Costa Rica, New Zealand, Vietnam, Thailand, South Africa, Canada and the U.S.A. VBT promises its travelers worldwide bicycling and discovery vacation packages (http://www.vbt.com/Europe/Spain/Spain-Under-the-Andalusian-Sky-2008/Bicycle-Tour-Details.aspx) at the best value, guaranteed.

Bikers who would like to find out more about VBT Bicycling Vacations? newest vacation package, can visit www.vbt.com or for reservations, call 1-800-245-3868.

Bristol, VT (PRWEB) February 24, 2010 — VBT Active Vacations, a leading provider of international bicycling and walking tours, has announced the launch of two new itineraries in 2010: Walking Costa Rica's Central Highlands (http://walking.vbt.com/tours/Walking_Costa_Ricas_Central_Highlands_395.aspx)Walking Vacation and Hungary & Slovakia: The Best of the Danube (http://www.vbt.com/hungary-slovakia-bicycle-tour.aspx) Bicycling Vacation. According to VBT President Gregg Marston, these new vacations offer travelers "an enhanced selection of itineraries to choose from," at the company's trademark exceptional value.

Walking Costa Rica's Central Highlands represents the 39-year-old company's newest addition to its new-for-2010 line of walking vacations, which also visit Italy, France, Ireland and Peru. "Walking, like biking, is an excellent means for discovery, because it connects you to your surroundings with all your senses," Marston says. He adds that, with its diversity of plants and wildlife, stunning natural beauty and commitment to preserving the environment, Costa Rica is an ideal destination for a walking tour.

The 7-day tour starts at $2295 and encompasses a variety of activities and cultural events, such as a rafting expedition, a visit with farmers at an organic farm, hikes along the slopes of volcanoes, a visit to the country's largest family-owned coffee plantation, a dip in geothermal hot springs and a zip-line tour through a rain forest canopy. VBT Walking Vacations are not rigorously paced, so travelers can set their own tempo and enjoy time to immerse themselves in the local scenery and lifestyle.

VBT also prides itself on its distinctive accommodations, and this vacation will feature a stay at the Xandari Resort & Spa, which placed in Condé Nast Traveler's 2009 Top 10 Central and South American Resorts. Pre- and post-trip extensions to Panama and Costa Rica's Pacific Coast are also available.

Chris Skilling, VBT's Director of Worldwide Product, is "thrilled" to offer this new vacation to VBT travelers. "My team has put together a very comprehensive vacation that offers the kind of mind-body-spirit connection we strive for in all of our trips," he says. He adds that VBT was recently named among the "Best Adventure Travel Companies on Earth" by National Geographic Adventure and has also been ranked among the "Top Three Best Bicycle Outfitters on Earth" by the magazine two years in a row.

Newest among VBT's bicycling vacations is Hungary & Slovakia: The Best of the Danube, a 10-day tour that starts at $2795. "Our travelers have been asking for new choices to Central Europe," Marston reveals, noting the popularity of the company's Czech Republic, Germany & Austria and Slovenia, Austria & Italy bicycling vacations. "We listen to our travelers and are very pleased to add this new destination to our line-up."

Like VBT's new walking tour, Hungary & Slovakia: The Best of the Danube promotes harmony with the environment and offers an up-close experience of these two countries in a way that invigorates mind, body and spirit and refreshes all the senses. The tour follows easy bike paths along the Danube and through the Hungarian countryside and includes sightseeing tours of Hungary's royal cities and a local train ride, as well as unique cultural events such as a home-hosted family meal, a cooking demonstration, a brandy tasting and a visit to an artist's studio. Among the distinctive accommodations on the itinerary are the Arcadia Hotel and Mamaison Andrassy Hotel, both of which have been cited among the Leading Small Hotels of the World. Travelers may also add trip extensions to Bratislava, Slovakia, and Budapest, Hungary.

Unlike most active tour companies, VBT includes roundtrip international airfare for all vacations, and, new for 2010, they are also including all air fuel surcharges. In addition, both programs include superb accommodations, most meals, guided sightseeing and activities, support vehicles and other transport, transfers, use of VBT bicycles or walking poles, and more. Daily route choices and continuous road support give travelers the opportunity to tailor the pace to their individual tastes. Groups are limited to 14-20 travelers, with two dedicated local, bilingual VBT Trip Leaders offering expert guidance and support.

For more information on these adventure vacations and VBT Active Vacations, please contact Paul Williams at 802-453-4811 ext. 3414, or visit our website.

About VBT:

Vermont Bicycle Tours (now known as VBT Active Vacations) was founded in 1971 as America's original bicycle tour company, and is now the leader in active vacations. Started by a Middlebury College professor with a love of the open road, the fledgling company quickly grew beyond its home turf to offer bicycle tours of Europe. Today, VBT offers active biking and walking vacations in 24 countries around the world, from the US to Asia to Europe and beyond. With headquarters in an eighteenth-century dairy farm in Bristol, Vermont, VBT has stayed true to its small town roots and values, which include a reverence for the great outdoors, a tradition of neighborliness (extended around the world), and a commitment to responsible tourism and community service.

CONTACT:

Paul Williams, Director of Marketing

802-453-4811 ext. 3414

pwilliams (at) vbt (dot) com

(PRWeb UK) April 16, 2010 — Leading Escorted tour operator and Italy Lake Garda holiday (www.thetraveldepartment.ie/Destinations/Europe/Italy/Lake-Garda.aspx) specialist, The Travel Department, has launched a dedicated You Tube Channel featuring three new videos showcasing its Lake Garda Italy holiday. The videos highlight key sites and attractions from the operator’s recent Lake Garda holiday including escorted tours of Venice and Verona.

www.youtube.com/user/TTDIreland

Stephen Glavin, Marketing Manager, The Travel Department said:

“The beauty and charm of Lake Garda mixed with the wonders of Venice and Verona form the perfect basis for our video launch on You Tube. The new videos are designed for everyone who is interested in exploring Lake Garda, ranging from our existing customers who can gain a reminder of their experience to holiday-makers looking to visit Lake Garda or the Italian Lakes for the first time.”

Viewers can watch three separate videos on the You Tube Channels filmed on location during a recent Lake Garda holiday. The first video on Lake Garda features a boat tour of the lake, the town of Riva del Garda and the Grand Hotel Liberty. The Verona video offers an overview of the ‘city of Romeo and Juliet’ and its world famous Roman Amphitheatre. Venice forms the basis for the third video and features an escorted tour of the city including landmarks such as St. Mark’s Square and a Gondola ride through the Venetian canal network.

The seven-night Lake Garda, Venice and Verona holiday is one of The Travel Department’s best selling escorted holidays and is available from Dublin, Belfast, Edinburgh, Bristol, Leeds Bradford, London Heathrow.

The Travel Department is a leading operator of escorted holidays worldwide. The tour operator’s holidays range from popular city breaks, European touring holidays, Mediterranean cruises and long-haul packages to Asia, America and Africa. The Travel Department has a full range of Italy holidays from Ireland (www.thetraveldepartment.ie/Destinations/Europe/Italy.aspx) and UK including Lake Garda and Lake Como, Tuscany, Sorrento / Amalfi Coast.

Full details of all Republic of Ireland departures are available on www.thetraveldepartment.ie or by calling 01 637 1600 and UK departures information is available at www.thetraveldepartment.co.uk or by calling 028 9099 8620 (Belfast) / 0207 0999 665 (London)

NEWBERG, OR (Vocus) May 11, 2010 — Nearly 200 George Fox University students are on 12 international study trips this month and next in locales that include Asia, Africa, Western Europe, Australia, Egypt and Central America.

The college study abroad (http://www.georgefox.edu/college-admissions/academics/study-abroad.html) tours are part of the university’s Juniors Abroad program. Since 1987, the program has sent third- and fourth-year students on three-week overseas study trips led by professors. Excursions have reached every continent except Antarctica. George Fox pays transportation and program costs; students pay room and board. Each trip holds preparation classes during the spring semester.

George Fox is a national leader in study-abroad participation. Last year, 64 percent of the university’s traditional undergraduates reported studying abroad before graduation. According to data compiled by U.S. News & World Report magazine for its 2010 “America’s Best Colleges” issue, George Fox ranks No. 22 out of approximately 1,400 accredited institutions in the nation in percentage of students studying outside the country. George Fox also was among the top five Christian colleges in study abroad participation.

A brief description of this year’s Juniors Abroad trips:

Amsterdam to Paris: This trip is traveling to Amsterdam and Haarlem in Holland; Bruges and Brussels in Belgium; and Paris and World War II sites in Normandy, France. Students will tour chocolate factories and take a bicycle tour in Bruges; learn about the European Union in Brussels; tour Mont Saint Michel and visit historic WWII beaches in Normandy; and stop at the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre and the Musee D’Orsay in Paris.

Australia: In Australia, students will start in Sydney and work their way 1,600 miles north toward the tropics. The trip is for those who love the outdoors, as it will include sailing, snorkeling, kayaking, white water rafting, swimming, hiking, riding scenic trains, and visiting eucalyptus (gum) forests, a pineapple plantation, mountain ranges, rain forests, ocean beaches and coral reefs.

China and Tibet: Students on this trip will experience a seven-city tour, which will include sites such as the Great Wall and the Forbidden City in Beijing, the French concession region in Shanghai, the Terra Cotta Warriors of Xian, and the “Roof of the World,” Lhasa, Tibet. There, they will see panoramic views of Mt. Everest and the Himalayas.

Costa Rica and Honduras: This study tour is focusing on the contrasts between the different cultures, ecosystems and rainforests of these countries. It is a trip of great contrasts, from lush tropical rainforests and jungles teeming with tropical flora and fauna to hot sunny beaches; from bright sunny days to steamy tropical downpours; and from sleepy laid-back villages with ancient pyramids and temples to bustling modern cities with all the comforts of modern life.

East Africa: This course will focus on the endangered wildlife of East Africa. Students will have opportunities to explore a variety of rich and distinctive ecosystems, such as jungles, tropical rainforests, tea plantations, savannas, and marine habitats. In particular, they will study the efforts to save the elephant from extinction due to poaching.

Egypt: This trip is focusing on providing foundational knowledge of the history and culture of Egypt. The team will explore the treasures of Egyptian history such as the Pyramids and the Sphinx, pharaoh’s tombs, temples, Valley of the Kings, the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, King Tut’s treasures, mummies and more. The trip will include a three-day cruise on the Nile River, a camel ride to the top of Mt. Sinai to watch the sunrise, and snorkeling in the Red Sea.

Italy/France: The purpose of this trip is to enhance students’ appreciation of the richness found in the history, arts, land and people of Italy and France, with a special emphasis given to the correspondence between historical events and the art produced during Classical, Medieval and Renaissance periods. Students will experience a 10-city tour, which will mingle sites such as the ruins of the Colosseum, the Imperial Forum and the Pantheon with the magnificent architecture of St. Mark’s Cathedral in Venice, Santa Maria del Fiori in Florence, and the medieval towns of Carcassonne and Sarlat in France.

Italy/Tunisia: The destinations for this course will be the backdrop for the study of classical civilizations in the Mediterranean, the heritage of Christianity and Islam in the region, and the modern nation-states of Italy and Tunisia. Students will visit Rome, the region around the Bay of Naples and the Amalfi coast, the island of Sicily, and the North African nation of Tunisia.

Rome to Berlin: This trip is designed to be a pilgrimage in the oldest sense of the word—a journey to special places for Christian faith in Europe. Students are taking time to linger at these places of special meaning in hopes that, like pilgrims of old, they receive a spiritual deepening. Stops include visits to St. Peter’s Cathedral and the Sistine Chapel in Rome, the faith community in Taize, France, and the cities of Geneva and Berlin.

Rome to Paris: This tour is highlighting the art, history, and architecture of medieval and Renaissance Europe. The group is visiting Rome, Pompeii, Florence, Tuscany, Salzburg and Paris. Highlights of the trip include the hillside villages along the Mediterranean Sea, a concentration camp known as Dachau, and the beaches of Normandy.

Ireland, England and Wales: This historical study trip will start with the life of the Irish, starting in medieval times. Students will explore the natural and geographical history of the Island with a trip to Dingle, the western most tip of Ireland where the Gaelic language is still spoken. Crossing the Irish Sea, the trip continues with exploration of the castles of North Wales, the countryside of the Cotswold, including Shakespeare’s Stratford and medieval Warwick castle. The trip ends in London.

Ethiopia: This course is an opportunity for George Fox nursing students to experience medical mission work in Ethiopia in both rural and urban settings. They will be working in collaboration with staff from SIM (Serving in Mission), and spend time in Addis Ababa, the capital city of Ethiopia, for one week. There they will hear from seasoned SIM missionaries about how they integrate faith and learning in their lives and within the Ethiopian culture.

For more information on the Juniors Abroad program, visit juniorsabroad.georgefox.edu.

George Fox University is ranked by Forbes as one of the top 100 colleges in the country and highest among Christian colleges (http://www.georgefox.edu/academics/). George Fox is the only Christian university in the Pacific Northwest classified by U.S. News & World Report as a national university. More than 3,300 students attend classes on the university’s campus in Newberg, Ore., and at teaching centers in Portland, Salem, and Redmond, Ore., and Boise, Idaho. George Fox offers bachelor’s degrees in more than 40 majors, degree-completion programs for working adults, five seminary degrees, and 12 master’s and doctoral degrees.

Contact:

Paul Chamberlain

Juniors Abroad Director

503-554-2702

Alahambra, CA (PRWEB) March 12, 2009 — The United Kingdom is a nation famous for a number of reasons. Firstly, it is one of the last surviving nations governed by a monarch, currently ruled by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and will be succeeded by His Royal Highness Prince Charles. Secondly, UK is also home to famous sports such as football and rugby. Thirdly, this nation of four countries (England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales) gave birth to such talented people as William Shakespeare, Jane Austen, Charles Dickens in the world of literature; The Beatles, Queen, The Rolling Stones in the world of music; and Francis Bacon, Sir Alexander Fleming, and Sir Isaac Newton in the world of science. These are just a few reasons the United Kingdom is an interesting country that many tourists are dying to visit this nation.

Fortunately, for the wanderlusts planning to take a trip to the United Kingdom, online China tour expert introduces the most affordable UK travel deals with their 9-Day Best of UK package. For only USD 1,299, travellers can now witness the spectacular sites in the United Kingdom. RitzTours.Com, a leading China tour travel authority, (http://www.ritztours.com/tourPackage/AboutUs.aspx?utm_source=PRW&utm_medium=Press+Release&utm_campaign=China+Tour+UK)offers the Best of UK program inclusive of accommodations in four-star hotels, air-conditioned motor coach transportation, meals and entertainment, as well as the services of knowledgeable tour guides. Based on a double occupancy, ticket prices are available only on departure dates of April 25 and May 16, 2009.

The exciting 9-day Best of UK package (http://www.ritztours.com/tourPackage/topdeals/Best-of-UK-9-Days.html?utm_source=PRW&utm_medium=Press+Release&utm_campaign=China+Tour+UK) allows travellers to witness scenic spots such as the Tower of London, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace. Tourists will also enjoy the wonderful cities and towns of Cambridge, York, Oxford, and Edinburgh, where the famous Edinburgh Castle is located. Ending the 9-day travel vacation is a trip to the intriguing Stonehenge, a stone circle built over 5,000 years ago by the pre-Indo-Europeans of the British Isles.

RitzTours.Com also offers budget friendly China tour, Indochina excursions, as well as Bangkok and Hongkong travel deals. (http://www.ritztours.com/tourPackage/destinations.aspx?utm_source=PRW&utm_medium=Press+Release&utm_campaign=China+Tour+UK) With the most affordable all-inclusive vacation packages available in the market, rest assured that RitzTours.Com only cares for the enjoyment of tourists. Vacations are supposed to be memorable, and China tour travel expert RitzTours.Com makes sure that this happens.

About Ritz Tours:

Ritz Tours is an industry leader in providing the most memorable China tour and other Asia tours at the best prices. A member of highly respected and recognized travel associations, Ritz Tours is a proud member of the U.S Tour Operators Association (USTOA), Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) as well as the International Airlines Travel Agents Network (IATAN).

Most people dream of roaming around the Avenue des Champs-Elysees but they are not willing to risk their future to finance the trip. However, traveling to Europe may not really cause you to mortgage your future. Anyone can have a cheap holiday vacation over the place. It doesn’t mean though that you have to hitch free rides to strangers or go backpacking. One way to help you reach that European dream is to go for a packaged bus tour.

Because of the tour operators’ ability to secure group rates on hotel accommodations, sightseeing attractions, and ground transportation, packaged bus tours only offer the best value per day. This is actually hassle-free because you don’t need to get any international driver’s license, or rent a car and memorize those streets and roads so that you won’t get lost, or experience the difficulty of reading train schedules in foreign languages. Everything is all set for you. All you have to do is enjoy!

For a more enjoyable and hassle-free European bus tour, here are some helpful tips:

- Prepare Your Camera – Secure the number of batteries you have and bring in some extras. You will get to see many attractions on packaged bus tours. They are usually for one stop only because as you move along, you won’t be able to go back on a certain sight. So take pictures for yourself while you’re on the spot.

- Keep an Open Mind – European culture is rich in history. Touring around Europe can help you enrich your mind by learning about local culture and traditions, interacting with some locals and even with some passengers to share some ideas and interests with them.

- Bring Some Gadgets and Stuffs – You will have a lot of traveling on your packaged bus tour to Europe so you may have downtime between attractions. Bring your iPod, PSP, or any thing that will keep you from boredom. A book or a magazine may also preoccupy you while en route to the next destination.

- Eat Wisely – Prices are usually high on major sightseeing venues, so take advantage of any meal inclusions available in the hotel. Also, bring with you some snacks to munch while on the bus as you may get hungry.

- Dress in Comfort – You will do a lot of walking, sitting, and riding a bus. So dress sensibly and appropriately. Wear something that you will be comfortable of during the entire tour. You already have the idea on what kind of tour it is so you know what to wear.

- Always be ready – bring some necessary things that you may think will be useful in case of emergencies. First aid kit, extra clothing, extra cash, and the likes.

The tips given can really help you enjoy your European packaged bus tour. It is a cheap way to explore Europe and you also get to see a lot of tourist attractions compared to just staying in one place and do things on your own. So while on tour, make the most out of it and enjoy the things that Europe can offer.

Know more tips on how to have great holidays while spending less at Cheap Holidays 24. Visit the site and read on our latest article about Visit Barcelona, Spain For Excitement to get more holiday ideas!

If marriage is on the card, and also refers to the place to go after the marriage, then here is how you.Europe first honeymoon destination in the world and each year thousands of couples who got married a visit to different places do not pay special time.
After a tedious day of marriage ceremony, it’s time to celebrate and hope that your friend in an exotic place, far from their daily life. The best way to go for holiday, wedding packages that are options to manage all your travel needs and Hospitality. Continent has beautiful scenery, great culture, famous buildings, rich heritage of different places. Europe is very large and have many countries that have something to be presented to Honeymoons. Place in the fun with friends and most importantly of all, but in price wedding packages offer terjangkau. A trip to the continent can be a wonderful honeymoon experience.
Some countries such as Greece, Italy, France, Germany, Switzerland and Hungary are the best for Europe. There are many travel trips and programs available in these countries, which offer the opportunity to partner.Honeymoon very good time with Italy, which is valued by most couples in the city called Venice, which is considered as the capital of romantic Italy.
According to the time available and interested, you can choose a specific destination of your choice. You should also have provisions for financial mind, can save as much as possible to collect packets travel the truth. The aim is to find the best places, so do not miss any. This wedding package is to ensure that everything is by van from the airport to travel. Help maintain easily tension booking hotel reservation and air tickets.This Taksi not only save money, but also to enjoy more money spent on things that directly add to the conclusions.
Europe tour packages designed for all types of tourism. This allows you to enjoy the privilege of my life to enjoy a holiday, vacation time is very cost-effective rate. You offer a place such as waiting to find you have not been here, and what better time after marriage.

Jordan jacobis author of christmas destinations ideas. For more information about christmas destinations ideas, Christmas Holiday Ideas visit http://www.christmasdestinationsideas.com