Turn Your Face to the Sun

TRAVEL ADVISORY

2007-05-08T11:50:00.000-07:00

Hurricane Season - hurricanes

The hurricane season extends from June 1 to November 30. Tropical depressions and storms that may develop into hurricanes occur in the North Atlantic and Northeast Pacific oceans. The east and Gulf coasts of the United States (including Florida, Louisiana and Texas), Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean are the most threatened areas. Extreme weather events of this kind appear to be becoming more frequent and may pose a growing threat in these regions. If you choose to travel during the hurricane season (June 1 to November 30), you may be affected by these storms. You should:

Confirm travel arrangements prior to departure and ensure that your travel insurance allows for trip cancellation/interruption in the event of a hurricane.
Ensure that detailed information – including the name of the tour operator, flight details, hotel name, location, room number and telephone numbers, cruise ship details and itineraries – is left with family or friends in Canada.
Ensure that page 4 of your passport is filled out properly, and leave copies of all travel documents with someone in Canada.
Consider registering with the responsible Canadian government office abroad through Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada's registration service. Registration can be done on-line or by calling the responsible Canadian government office abroad to request a registration form.
Monitor local news broadcasts and weather reports carefully, follow the advice, including departure orders, of local authorities and/or tour operators, and know how to contact the nearest Canadian government office abroad (embassy, high commission or consulate).
Carry details on how to contact Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada's Operations Centre at 1-800-267-6788 or 613-996-8885, which operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and accepts emergency collect calls from Canadians requiring assistance abroad.

Up-to-date weather forecasts for the region are available from the National Hurricane Center. Environment Canada's Canadian Hurricane Centre also provides recommendations on hurricane preparedness.

In the past, catastrophic storms have caused extreme damage to infrastructure (buildings, houses, telephone and power networks, roads, bridges and airports) and cut off transportation and other services, including emergency services and medical care, as well as access to water and food supplies. Airports and hospitals may be closed or only partially functional, causing delays. Roads in and out of cities may be flooded. In past storms, thousands of travellers have been stranded for days as a result of airport closures and damage to roads and runways. Travellers have been forced to evacuate hotels and move to temporary emergency shelters established by local authorities. Our ability to assist Canadian citizens may be limited in such circumstances.

Although most of the impacts associated with tropical storms and hurricanes occur in coastal regions, these storms can also affect inland areas. The biggest threat to life and property inland is damage from flash floods and landslides due to excessive rainfall. Isolated tornadoes are also possible in coastal areas.

For advice on travel, see our Travel Reports.

TRAVEL ADVISORY

2007-05-01T18:02:00.000-07:00

TURKEY - Demonstrations

Turkey enters a period of intensified political activity linked to the presidential election. Several demonstrations and public rallies were held in April 2007 and further demonstrations could occur in the weeks to come, particularly in major cities throughout the country.

Canadians residing in or travelling to Turkey should exercise vigilance and stay abreast of political developments in the country. They should also monitor local news reports, avoid large gatherings and public areas where demonstrations could occur, follow the advice of local authorities and contact the Embassy of Canada in Ankara, the Consulate of Canada in Istanbul, or Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada at 613-996-8885, should they require assistance.

TRAVEL ADVISORY - DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

2007-04-27T15:28:00.000-07:00

SAFETY AND SECURITY

GENERAL SAFETY MEASURES
The security situation is stable, but demonstrations and protests occasionally occur. These are not targeted at foreigners and do not happen near resorts. Canadians should exercise caution, monitor local news reports, and avoid large crowds and demonstrations.

Aquatic equipment offered at the beach may not meet Canadian safety standards. Check that your travel insurance covers recreational activities. Swimmers should remain in well-marked and supervised areas and be aware of water conditions including the possibility of strong undertows. Avoid swimming at or walking on deserted and unpatrolled beaches after dark.

Avoid excursions that are not recommended by tour operators. In general, travellers should ensure tour operators have taken proper safety measures, including the use of safety equipment such as helmets and life jackets, before undertaking extreme or eco-tourism types of activities, especially for excursions to the 27 Charcos/Damajagua waterfalls near Puerto Plata.

A number of cases have been reported of Canadians losing large sums of money while playing Progressive Keno, Super Keno and other Keno or Progressive Roulette games at Casinos. These games operate on a progressive wagering basis, and large amounts of money can be lost rapidly. Canadians should exercise caution in hotel casinos where these games are offered, especially when requested to provide credit card information.

CRIME
The crime rate has increased. While violent crime, including assault, has affected a few foreigners, petty crime, including pick pocketing, is common in urban areas. Thefts have also been reported in resorts. Canadians should exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings, especially after dark. Avoid showing signs of affluence and ensure passports and other travel documents are secured at all times. Do not leave personal belongings unattended on the beach.

Theft of items from checked baggage at airports, particularly in Puerto Plata, has recently increased. Thefts are reported most frequently upon departure. Money and personal items are sometimes stolen from carry-on luggage while travellers are going through security checks. Do not pack valuables in your checked luggage. Items most likely to disappear include electronics (especially digital cameras), jewellery and perfume. All bags are routinely x-rayed on arrival and departure, as part of normal local procedure.

In the event that documents are lost or stolen, travellers should obtain a police report in order to receive a passport or an appropriate travel document from the Embassy of Canada in Santo Domingo or the Consulate of Canada in Puerto Plata.

Unaccompanied female travellers should exercise caution in dealing with strangers or recent acquaintances, especially regarding the acceptance of rides or other invitations. Incidents of assault, rape and sexual aggression against foreigners have been reported, including at beach resorts. In some cases, hotel employees have been implicated. Anyone who is a victim of sexual assault or other crimes should report the crime immediately. No criminal investigation is possible without a formal complaint to the Dominican authorities.

The Tourist Police (POLITUR) can provide assistance to tourists. They can be reached at 809-686-8639, or toll-free at: 1-200-3500.

Canadians planning to visit any area near the Dominican/Haitian border should be aware that Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada is advising Canadians to avoid all travel to Haiti.

TRAVEL ADVISORY

2007-04-19T15:14:00.000-07:00

BOLIVIA - NATURAL DISASTER...

Severe rainfall during January and February 2007 has caused significant flooding in eight of Bolivia's nine departments, especially Santa Cruz, Cochabamba, and Beni. The Government of Bolivia declared a state of emergency for severely affected areas. The situation has resulted in several casualties, displaced thousands of people, and affected road travel in these regions.

The heavy rains and flooding of the past months have left significant amounts of standing water, which have become breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Three mosquito-transmitted illnesses whose occurrences increase during the wet season in Bolivia are dengue, yellow fever and malaria. For further information about these three illnesses and preventative measures, please see the Public Health Agency of Canada website.

Canadians should monitor local weather and news reports, follow the advice of local authorities, avoid affected areas, and determine whether the situation will disrupt travel arrangements.

TRAVEL ADVISORY

2007-04-10T14:35:00.000-07:00

THAILAND - SECURITY

You are advised against non-essential travel to the capital, Bangkok. You are also advised against all travel to the far southern provinces of Narathiwat, Pattani, Yala and Songkhla (including the city of Hat Yai).

The Songkran Holiday (Thai New Year), sometimes called the Water Festival, will take place from April 13 to 17, 2007. Government and business offices will be closed. Caution should be exercised in areas where water fights occur as eye injuries may result from high-powered water guns or the throwing of talcum powder. Traffic accidents, often involving alcohol and/or drugs, are prevalent during this time of year and fatalities are common (over 400 deaths and 5,900 injuries in 2006).

Canadians are reminded that the risk of terrorist attacks is still credible and should avoid large crowds or areas where tourists may congregate. They should also maintain a high level of personal security awareness at all times, monitor local news reports, and follow the advice of local authorities.

Canadians seeking emergency consular assistance should contact the Embassy of Canada in Bangkok at 66 (2) 636-0540 or call collect the Emergency Operations Centre in Ottawa at 613-996-8885.

TRAVEL ADVISORY

2007-03-28T12:19:00.000-07:00

Ecuador - natural disaster

There are currently three volcanoes to monitor closely when travelling in Ecuador.
· Reventador, located 95 kilometres east of Quito, has started a new eruptive period and is showing increasing signs of volatility. On the four alert stages scale established by authorities (white, yellow, orange, and red), Reventador is presently at the orange level, meaning that an eruption is possible within hours or days. Its largest eruption took place in 2002, producing pyroclastic flows that travelled as far as 8 km and ash falls that severely disrupted services in Quito.

· Tungurahua, located south of Quito, is currently at "conditional yellow" and has been emitting ash, lahars (mud and ash flows) and gas intermittently since its last eruption in July 2006.

· Sangay, located south-east of Riobamba, has been in frequent eruption for several centuries and is currently at orange level.

Canadians travelling near these volcanoes should monitor local news reports, follow the advice of local authorities and be prepared to leave the area or modify their travel arrangements if necessary. They should also register with the Embassy of Canada in Quito.

TRAVEL ADVISORY - BOLIVIA

2007-03-23T10:59:00.000-07:00

Bolivia - demonstrations

On March 20 and 21, 2007, protesters addressing various grievances have set up several blockades that disrupted travel on the main road between La Paz, Oruro and Cochabamba. La Paz was also cut off from Tambo Quemado. On March 22, road blockages are planned around Tarija (near the border with Argentina) and Sucre.

Canadians should monitor local news reports, expect long delays and avoid all confrontations with the protesting groups. They are highly discouraged from attempting to pass through roadblocks. Canadians requiring consular assistance should contact the Consulate of Canada in Bolivia or the Emergency Operations Center in Ottawa at 613-996-8885 (call collect).

TRAVEL ADVISORY

2007-03-20T14:21:00.000-07:00

Thailand - natural disaster

Unhealthy levels of haze, resulting from forest fires and slash-and-burn-farming, are affecting the air quality in Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Lampang and Mae Hong Son provinces. This has prompted provincial authorities to declare some districts in the provinces of Chiang Mai, Mae Hong Son and Chiang Rai haze disaster areas, and to issue warnings concerning poor air quality. Several airlines have reportedly cancelled flights to the area and travellers should confirm domestic and international flights with their airline prior to departure as flights could be affected by restricted visibility. Thai health authorities are recommending people limit outdoor activities, and people with respiratory ailments, pregnant women, the elderly and children are advised to wear facemasks.

Canadians should monitor local news and weather reports, follow the advice of local authorities, avoid affected areas, and contact their travel agent or tour operator to confirm travel arrangements. For further information, please see the website of the Thai Pollution Control Department at: http://www.pcd.go.th/AirQuality/Regional/Default.cfm

TRAVEL ADVISORY - CIVIL UNREST

2007-03-19T14:38:00.000-07:00

ZIMBABWE - SECURITY

The ongoing political crisis in Zimbabwe is the cause of recent civil and social unrest. Violent clashes between protestors and security forces took place in the capital of Harare and other cities across the country, resulting in injuries. The situation remains unpredictable and could deteriorate without warning.

Canadians in Zimbabwe should avoid large crowds and public areas where violence could take place, monitor news reports and follow the advice of local authorities. Canadians should maintain a high level of personal security awareness at all times, and contact the Embassy of Canada in Harare should they require assistance.

Travel Advisory ... Italy

2007-03-14T16:59:00.000-07:00

Italy - Stromboli Volcano - natural disaster

Since February 27, 2007, the island of Stromboli has experienced increased volcanic activity. Eruptions may cause significant landslides, which in turn could create a tsunami effect affecting the Aeolian islands. The situation remains volatile and official advice changes daily. Canadians should strongly consider the risks of going to Stromboli, as it may be evacuated on short notice.

Canadians should follow the advice of local authorities and review their security arrangements accordingly. Canadians seeking emergency consular assistance in the area should contact the Embassy of Canada in Rome, the Consulate of Canada in Naples, or the Emergency Operations Centre in Ottawa toll-free at 1-800-387-3124.

Travel Advisory - Australia

2007-03-09T14:51:00.000-08:00

Australia - Tropical Cyclone George - natural disaster

Tropical Cyclone George, category 3, hit Port Hedland in Western Australia on March 8, 2007. Heavy winds and torrential rains caused extensive damage to the region. Transportation and other services may be disrupted. Canadians in or travelling to the affected areas should monitor local news and weather reports, follow the advice of local authorities, and determine whether the situation will disrupt travel arrangements.

Travel Advisory

2007-03-07T16:17:00.001-08:00

Ecuador - natural disaster

The volcanos Tungurahua (located south of Quito) and Sangay (located south-east of Riobamba) are showing marked increased activity. Local authorities are preparing for the evacuation of small communities near Tungurahua.

Canadians travelling near this volcano should monitor local news reports, follow the advice of local authorities and be prepared to leave the area if necessary. They should also register with the Embassy of Canada in Quito.

Indonesia - Earthquake

2007-03-06T23:00:00.000-08:00

Natural Disaster:

On March 6, 2007, an earthquake measuring 6.3 on the Richter scale struck the west coast of Sumatra. Reports indicate that hundreds of buildings have been destroyed and more than 70 people have been killed. An aftershock was felt after the first earthquake, and additional earthquakes could occur in the next few days.

Canadians currently in this region should avoid disaster areas, monitor local news reports and follow the advice of local authorities.

Canadians should contact the Embassy of Canada in Jakarta should they require assistance.

Canadians with good reason to believe that Canadian relatives are in the affected areas may contact the Emergency Operations Centre at: 1-800-387-3124; 613-943-1055 in Ottawa; or by e-mail at: sos@international.gc.ca.

Peru Travel Advisor

2007-02-28T15:19:00.000-08:00

Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against all travel to the region(s) specified below. (IDW5)

You are advised against all travel to the city of Abancay (Apurímac province) and surrounding areas. On December 5, 2006, a state of emergency was issued for Abancay, following an outbreak of violent protests that caused a significant number of injuries. Although order has now been restored, the situation remains tense. Canadians should monitor local news reports and contact the Embassy of Canada in Lima or local authorities for advice on the security situation.

You are advised against all travel to the province of La Mar in the Department of Ayacucho. The Shining Path rebel group has conducted an ambush against Peruvian policemen and officers of the Empresa Nacional de la Coca (ENACO) on the highway of Tambo-Rio Apurimac on December 16, 2006.

You are advised against all travel to the provinces of Marañon, Huacaybamba, Leoncio Prado and Huamalies in the Department of Huanuco; Tocache in the Department of San Martin; and Padre Abad in the Department of Ucayali. In December 2005, Peruvian policemen were ambushed and killed in the vicinity of Aucayacu, in the province of Huanuco. The Shining Path rebel group accepted responsibility for these killings.

You are advised against all travel to the border area with Ecuador, especially the Cordillera del Cóndor region, as landmines are still a problem.

You are also advised against all travel to the border area with Colombia because of narcotics trafficking. Since February 1999, this isolated jungle area has been patrolled by the Peruvian army to impede the entry of Colombian rebels.

OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada offers a registration service for Canadians travelling or residing abroad. Canadians who choose to travel to the region(s) specified despite this warning should register with the responsible Canadian government office in this country. Registration can be done on-line or by calling the responsible Canadian government office abroad to request a registration form. Canadians visiting other areas of the country for three months or more should also register. Canadians visiting for less than three months are strongly advised to: (a) leave a detailed travel itinerary and contact information with family or friends in Canada; (b) provide family with the emergency number for Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada (1 800 267-6788 or 613-944-6788); and (c) keep the phone number of the responsible Canadian government office on hand

Bolivia - Travel Advisory

2007-02-22T17:18:00.000-08:00

Bolivia - natural disaster

Severe rainfall during January and February 2007 has caused significant flooding in eight of Bolivia's nine departments, especially Santa Cruz, Cochabamba, and Beni. The Government of Bolivia declared a state of emergency for severely affected areas. The situation has resulted in several casualties and has displaced thousands of people. Road travel is severely affected throughout the country. With more heavy rains forecasted, interruptions to transportation are expected to continue.

Canadians should monitor local weather and news reports, follow the advice of local authorities, avoid affected areas, and determine whether the situation will disrupt travel arrangements.

FYI - Paris, France

2007-02-15T11:27:00.000-08:00

If you are going to be in Paris any time from May 4th - 17th, 2007 be sure to check out the Jazz Festival - St. Germain-des-Pres. Artists from all over will be performing jazz, blues and gospel. Enjoy!

INDONESIA - FLOODS - natural disaster

2007-02-14T15:16:00.000-08:00

Torrential rain that began on February 2 has caused extensive flooding in Indonesia resulting in several deaths and the displacement of many residents. Jakarta, the capital, was the region the hardest hit, where the majority of the sub-districts were affected. Several other provinces also experienced floods, including South and East Sumatra. While the water has receded, further flooding could occur following a heavy rainfall.

Travellers should be aware that power and telecommunications systems were affected and although all systems have been restored, there still exists a risk of future disruptions. Transportation routes, which were affected by the floods, have returned to normal. However, Canadian travellers are advised to maintain a flexible schedule to allow for unexpected interruptions. Travellers should also be aware of an increase in the transmission of water-born diseases.

Canadians in the region should exercise caution, monitor local news and weather reports, and follow the advice of local authorities. In case of emergency, contact the Embassy of Canada in Jakarta, or the Consulate General of Australia in Bali. You may also call the Emergency Operations Center in Ottawa at 613-996-8885.

TRAVEL ADVISORY

2007-02-12T16:00:00.000-08:00

Mozambique - natural disaster

Current heavy rains have caused flooding in Mozambique, mainly in the provinces of Zambezia and Sofala, along the entire length of the Zambezi River. This has affected road travel and sanitation in these areas.

Canadian travelers should avoid the affected areas until the situation has stabilized. Canadians currently in Mozambique should refrain from undertaking unnecessary overland travel in this area, monitor local news and weather reports, and follow the advice of local authorities.

Canadians seeking emergency consular assistance in the area should contact the High Commission of Canada in Maputo at 258 (21) 492-623 or the Emergency Operations Centre in Ottawa at 613-996-8885.

TRAVEL ADVISORY - BOLIVIA

2007-02-09T15:57:00.000-08:00

Bolivia - natural disaster
Severe rainfall in Bolivia during January and February 2007 has caused significant flooding, mainly in the regions of Chuquisaca, Santa Cruz, and Cochabamba, and in the departments of La Paz and Beni. The city of Santa Cruz is partially isolated by landslides that have affected the main highways (both old and new) between Cochabamba and Santa Cruz, and the road to Argentina through Yacuiba. Heavy rains continue in the region and interruptions to transportation are expected to continue. Canadians should monitor local weather and news reports, follow the advice of local authorities, avoid affected areas, and determine whether the situation will disrupt travel arrangements.

TRAVEL WARNING!

2007-02-08T15:14:00.000-08:00

Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against all travel to the region(s) specified below. (IDW5)You are advised against all travel to the border areas with Sudan, Somalia or Ethiopia or to the Tana River region due to armed banditry and cross-border violence. Kenya's border with Somalia is closed since January 3, 2007.

The In-Flight Dream Kit

2007-01-30T15:46:00.000-08:00

Below are a few items that may just make that long, long flight a little more tolerable:

Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream (1.7 oz tube packed in a clear ziploc bag)
Power Bar Pria (we recommend Chocolate peanut Butter Crisp)
Travel-size Wet Ones (perfect for washing your face or hands)
Pillow and eye-mask set from Suburban Silk (available at www.flight001.com)
Earplugs
Magnetic Sudoku or Travel Scrabble (available at www.flight001.com)
Bliss All Around Eye Cream (to prevent excess eye 'baggage',available at www.sephora.com).

Carry-On at a US Airport

2006-11-26T16:42:00.000-08:00

Returning to Vancouver from Southern California (flying out of John Wayne Airport - Orange County) I very diligently packed certain carry-on items in ziplock clear plastic bags. After waiting in a long line to go through security I was pulled aside because I didn't follow the RULES... subsequently everything I had in my purse and small carry-on was pulled out and placed on a table. Then I was instructed how things should have been packed. All this was done out in the open - I guess for more effect??? and perhaps public humiliation. Anyway, FYI make sure that you put mascara, lip balm, hand cream, body butter, toothpaste, mousse, hair gel, lipstick, eyeshadow, etc., basically anything that you think may/may not apply must go into this small ziplock bag. There should be nothing that is larger than 100ml otherwise it gets tossed. Make sure you check your purse & carry-on carefully, because that is how I got pulled over, because I didn't think lipstick & lip balm would be problem - who knew!!! Just remember that you are allowed only 1 clear plastic ziplock bag to hold all these things and it must be removed from your carry-on bag and placed beside it. If you have meds. they must be in a clear ziplock bag as well and placed so the agent can see them easily. Remember NO BOTTLED WATER even if the seal in not broken!

Happy flying...

FLIGHT PLAN...

2006-11-07T16:55:00.000-08:00

Have you ever been in a seat on an airplane and it didn't recline, or you couldn't see the movie - UGH!! Now you can avoid this happening - check out www.Seatguru.com, it details the good, the bad and the very uncomfortable on all aircraft of almost every major airline. Hope this helps you out....

Would love to hear your comments if you use seatguru.com

China Pix

2006-11-02T15:33:00.000-08:00

Some pix from our recent trip to China...

A senior playing a 3-string instrument in Yangshuo

Downtown street in Hong Kong

Path along the river in Songpan

Morning tea from a vendor in the square.

2006-11-01T18:05:00.000-08:00

Hey! All you Aeroplan users/savers changes are going to be happening to your frequent flyer points.

Starting next year (2007), Canadians will have to redeem or accumulate Aeroplan points at least once a year, or else lose all of the points in their account. Existing points in every member's account will also be time-stamped starting Jan. 1, 2007, and will expire after a 7-year period.

Accounts not used in a 12-month period - points collected or redeemed - will become dormant and it will cost $30 plus 1-cent for every mile in the account to restore the points. For example, an account with 25,000 points - the minimum needed for many economy class flights within North America - that will mean a total fee of $280.

Once you pay the fee, the points will be reinstated for another 7 years, but under the same activity requirement.

The changes are designed to encourage people to use their memberships on a more frequest basis. If you have Aeroplan points get in touch with Air Canada for complete and up-to-date details, phone 1.888.247.2262 or go to AC website at www.aircanada.ca

2006-10-27T11:35:00.000-07:00

A Travel Advisory: If you are going to be travelling to Guatemala in the near future FYI: non-essential travel south of the capital Guatemala City, in the departments of Escuintia, Suchitepequez and Santa Rosa, which are adjacent to the Pacific coast. Flooding and landslides caused by heavy rains in the last few days have led to several casualities and created serious insecurity in these departments. Several thousands of inhabitants were isolated as of October 25th, 2006. A portion of the Pacific Highway near the border with El Salvador in Santa Rosa has collapsed. There have been serious landslides on the main hightway (CA-1) from Guatemala City to the Mexican border, as well as in Escuintia, Panajachel, Solola, Los Encuentros, Santiago and Atitlan.

Transportation, electricity, communications and other essential services may be delayed or unavailable at the moment, especially since some areas are still recovering from the structural damage caused by Hurrican Stan earlier in October 2006. Epidemics also pose hazards in this zone due to the presence of stagnant waters.

With more rainfall forecasted, the situation could get worse in the next days and/or weeks. For current information on this area or others check-out www.voyage.gc.ca and go to Current Issues page.

2006-10-17T15:07:00.000-07:00

FYI!!! REMEMBER WHEN PACKING...
Transport Canada has made changes to current restricitons on carry-on baggage. Guests will be permitted to bring liquids, gels & aerosols through secruity screening at Canadian airports provided that the items are packaged in containers with a capacity of 90ml/90grams/3 oz. or less. The containers must fit comfortably in one clear, closed and resealable plastic bag (such as a Ziploc) with a capacity of no more than 1 litre (7" X 8" or 6" X 9"). One bag per guest will be permitted.
Liquids, gels and aerosols can be placed in checked baggage but will be at the guests' own risk. Cigarette lighters are notpermitted in either checked or carry-on baggage. Any of the above mentioned items will be confiscated at pre-board security screening.
All of these restrictions are subject to change. For updated information on these or other Government of Canada security requirements please visit; www.tc.gc.ca or www.catsa-acsta.gc.ca or phone 1.888.294.2202

2006-07-11T18:14:00.000-07:00

CHINA …

Started our China tour in bustling Hong Kong. It was hot, had a fun time, how very British in many ways. We had ‘High Tea’ at the Peninsula Hotel, pricey but worth it. We got really used to hoping on the Star Ferry from Kowloon to Hong Kong Island it is a very efficient means of transportation. Take a ride on the double deck bus, for mere pennies. Don’t forget to take the funicular up The Peak, to enjoy the great view of the harbour and the city.

Took the train to Guangzhou, mainland China, where we then got on an overnight train to Guilin (14 hrs). The train stations are really crowded, but the trains a great, just remember to bring your own food. Remember to get a ‘soft sleeper’ for overnight travel. The soft sleepers only have 4 people per sleeper, the other sleeper is call ‘hard sleeper’ and can have up to 6-8 people in them, and are not nearly as nice as the ‘soft sleeper’.

From Guilin had a 1.5 hr drive to get to Yangshuo. Yangshuo has some of the most spectacular scenery and relaxed atmosphere in the country. We rode bicycles into the countryside it was like a traditional Chinese painting! Mountains, rivers, bamboo, rice paddies and water buffalos. The vendors stall are all so colourful and great prices as well, just remember to bargain, it is a game and can be lots of fun. Went to a traditional Chinese market, really interesting but an eye opener – snakes, frogs of all sizes, pigs blood along with all kinds of freshly slaughtered meat and fresh vegetables – not for the squeamish,,,

No trip to China would be complete without cruising the Yangtse River. We boarded the boat just outside of Yichang and would end in Chongqing, taking in the famous section knows at the Three Gorges. So many of the areas have changed due to the rising water of the Three Gorges Dam. We went through 5 locks. Phenomenal undertaking, 1.5 million people have been relocated. Already so much has changes along the Yangtse, in another couple of years so much more will be under water.

Our visit to the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base outside of Chengdu was fabulous. We got to see a 7 week old baby. The Pandas are just like big stuffed bears!!!! While in Chengdu we went to see the 200-year old Sichuan Opera what fun. Chengdu is the capital of Sichuan Province, the food here is spicey with peppercorns and chillies. The parks in Chengdu are wonderful to walk in, you can see people playing mah-jongg, ballroom dancing or doing tranditional dances, stop and have some tea.

We headed for Songpan located high on the Tibetan Plateau, this area is really not touched by tourism. We had a very special occasion happen while here. The office of tourism was having its official ribbon cutting ceremony (office was just opening after a year of planning). There was all sorts of entertainment in the square. Dancers, Tibetan singers, children dancing, mandolin players. We were the only non-locals to attend this special occasion. We had a journalist take our pictures and talk to us and take us around town so he could write an article about the tourist in Songpan… If you need/want a deep message this is the place to get one. For $3.00CAD you can get a 1-hour full body message, painful but you do feel good after.

We headed further north through the grasslands where the nomads were tending their flocks of sheep and herds of Yak. We were stopped often because of cattle crossing/walking on the road. Langmusi is very tiny village, mostly Tibetan and surrounded by beautiful mountain peaks. This remote town had absolutely great ‘yak burgers’. The streets were cleaned by families of pigs wandering freely. You just had to be careful of the metre deep drains on each side of the dirt road. There are 2 Tibetan monasteries here which you can going in a spend time wandering around for a fee. The ‘Sky High Burial’ ground is inside the monastery area. We visited a local school here and had fun with the children. We left Langmusi over rough dirt/mud roads heading for Xiahe, which has the largest Buddhist monastery outside of Tibet. We had a tour of the magnificent 18^th century Labrang monastery with its 4km circuit of prayer wheels that surrounded the monastery, rest of the time spend just walking around and exploring the markets and shops.

We took another overnight train from Lanzhou to Xi’an arriving early morning. We head to the famous Terracotta Warriors, absolutely fabulous. We got there early so for about 1 hour there were very few tourist then later in the morning it got really crowded. Walked along the top of the city wall, separates ‘Old Xi’an’ from the New and modern Xi’an. The Muslim markets are great and a good spot to sample some great food.

We ended our trip in Beijing after another 14 hr. overnight train trip. Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City not to be missed. Be sure to do a tour of the Huotongs, they are slowly disappearing, but I believe that the government is going to keep the area as a heritage area. Don’t missing having Peking duck in the city that invented it. We travelled for approximately 3 hrs each way to get to the area of the Great Wall were we did our 12.5km hike. One of the most memorable spots for me was when we reached to top of the Wall to start our hike, and I looked at the view and as far as I could see the Great Wall snaked its way over the crest of the mountains and the tours poked through the mist – whow!!! - awesome.

One cannot leave Beijing without shopping at the Silk Market, Pearl Market and Fashion Market easily accessible by subway or taxi. Be prepared to bargain, bargain, bargain.

I have fabulous memories of our China trip that will last forever. China is a huge country of extremes – from the fast paced extremely modern cities to dirt roads and the quiet rural settings of the small villages along the Li River with the exquisite scenery of the Karst landscape. It is a country that is exploding into the 21st century.

2006-07-11T18:10:00.000-07:00

TURKEY …

Istanbul is a combination of the old and new. The new area of Istanbul is very cosmopolitan and modern while the old area is as the name says small streets, little unknown hotels quaint but also changing in character to be more modern. This is where we stayed, in a small wooden hotel called the Pina. It was a great location because we could walk to The Blue Mosque and Sophia’s Palace and also the Grand Bazaar. These 3 sights are not to be missed. Make sure when you are in the Grand Bazaar not to miss the Spice Market. Brace yourself to be hassled by the shop keepers and also be ready to haggle when you purchase something. The sights and sounds of Old Istanbul are amazing. The Call to Prayer 5 times a day, the carpet hawkers, street vendors, people trying to have you hire them as guides are all a little intimidating at first but you quickly get used to it. Don’t be afraid to be forceful when you don’t want to be bothered or are not interested in what is for sale, it is all a game.

Izmir is a modern bustling city with a wonderful promenade and cafes. We stayed here only a couple of days. Took a bus south from Izmir to Dalyan located on the Aegean. The 6 hour bus ride was great, we were served sandwiches, drinks and had a host go around with an antibacterial hand wash before and after we ate … what service!

Our tour started in Dalyan where we explored Greco-Roman sites, many of them off the beaten track and rarely visited. We took a small boat through reedbeds (which was like working your way through a maze) to the ruins of Caunus, an important city circa 400BC. We climbed to a high point of the Citadel , the panorama was spectacular, overlooking the reed-beds all the way to the Aegean Sea.

If you want some beach time, take a boat to Iztuzu Beach, perhaps one of the best beaches in Turkey. The water is warm and the sand is wonderful. Also there are change rooms and a restaurant.

The number of ancient ruins in this area is unimaginable. Most are not even touched as yet, left to decay on there own (not enough money). We stopped at many of these ruins and were just blown away. At the ruins of Alinda, a place where time stopped at the close of antiquity and now seems to be part of a lost landscape. Olive trees are growing in the ancient theatre, cows graze everywhere and yet you can still see the theatre and rows and rows of seats and outer buildings. Situated on a rocky hilltop close to the village of Karpuzlu, this was Ada’s capital; and she built a wall around her city in circa 344BC. She welcomed Alexander the Great who in turn rewarded her with the governorship of the Carian region. Our next stop Didyma, where the Temple of Apollo held an oracle as important as the one at Delphi, in Greece. The massive columns have fallen. Here there is a wealth of intricate carvings indicating the power of the cult of Apollo. Then onto Miletus, where the 15,000 seat theatre is evidence of the city’s importance in Greek and Roman times. Miletus was situated on a harbour in ancient times but gradually silt totally filled in the area which caused people to abandon the city because there was no long easy access to the sea, now the area is very rich farm land. We arrived at the smaller & more picturesque site of Priene perched on a hillside overlooking the Menderes (ancient ‘Meander’) valley. This Ionian city was untouched by the Romans so gives you a vivid picture of the scale and layout of a typical city of the 4^th century BC. In viewing all the above ruins we were the only ones there (16 in our group including guide). We stayed in Selcuk, with its prominent Byzantine fortress and remains of the huge Temple of Artemis, once considered to be one of the seven wonders of the Ancient World, but sadly totally destroyed. We got really spoiled with only ourselves at these incredible sites.

We visited the great Greco-Roman city of Ephesus, once visited by Mark Anthony and Cleopatra, and also by the evangelist St. Paul (which inspired the Epistle to the Ephesians). A lot of money has been spent excavating at Ephesus and the reconstruction is fabulous. Be prepared for huge crowds. After being spoiled with the other sites it was hard to take the crowds, try and get there as soon as it opens and be prepared to spend at least ½ a day. Leave the crowds of Ephesus to be greeted with more crowds at Pamukkale (‘frozen waterfall’) with its warm mineral pools. High on an escarpment Pumukkale has been an attraction since Roman times (as Hierapolis, a health spa). The view overlooking the Menderes Valley is so peaceful. We arrive at the ancient site of Aphrodisias late afternoon. This is one of my most favourite sites, the late afternoon sun turned the columns golden and the small theatre had a very personal feeling about it. The city was also renowned as an artistic centre. The athletic stadium is one of the best preserved from the classical world.

We leave behind the wonderful ruins and thoughts of ancient times and head for the beautiful Taurus Mountains where we will hike from village to village staying in homes of the villagers for the next 5 nights. On average we walk 6 – 7 hours each day. The homes vary from being quite modern to very quaint, but we did have hot water every night for a shower. Which felt absolutely fabulous after trekking on dirt trails, over rocks all day. The food was basic but tasted great – ‘hunger makes good kitchen’. Some of the homes we shared room with 6 people others with 2 so you can’t be modest!!! The villagers and farmers we met on our trek were wonderful. So kind and generous and wanting to share what ever food they had. They are very hard working and at times we wondered how they grew any crops at all on the soil they had to work with. What a fabulous way to get to spend time with the locals. Winding our way down to meet the bus we rounded a corner and there below us was the most spectacular bay with a gulet anchored and the sun sparkling on the water it took our breath away. Wouldn’t have missed this hike for the world..

Ended our journey with a week on a gulet – just 8 of us. Oh, what fun, to be on a 25 metre wooden boat that was fashioned after the old style fishing boats. We had a captain, cook and a general helper. We sailed from one wonderful cove to another, swam in the beautiful clear warm waters of the Aegean, ate, sipped, slept under the stars and just enjoyed. A fabulous way to end our unforgettable journey to Turkey, would recommend this way of travel to everyone.

2006-07-11T18:05:00.001-07:00

CROATIA… Cycle, Cruise & Land Tour

The Dalmatian coast is littered with over 1000 islands and has some of the best cruising in the Mediterranean. We started our cycle & cruise on an ‘Old Timer’. These Old wooden boats have been in families for years being passed down from father to son. We set sail out of Dubrovnik. Dubrovnik is a delightful walled town, with great restaurants where you can enjoy local cuisine and fabulous historic monasteries, palaces, museums and old buildings. Now restored following the damage from shelling in the Siege of Dubrovnik in 1991-92. UNESCO has granted Dubrovnik World Cultural heritage status as one of the world’s finest examples of a fortified medieval town.

We leave Dubrovnik and sail towards the forested island of Mljet. We cycle this National Park which has 2 beautiful salt-water lakes. On an island in the larger lake we visited the Monastery of St. Mary, built in the 12^th century and still used today. There is a wonderful serenity to this area.

Next stop is Brna on Korcula Island, this area is little-visited and traditional part of the island. As we leave town on the coastal road, we work our way to Prizba and to Grscica where a swim cools us off. Then continue to the town of Blato, which contains buildings associated with the patron saint of the town, St Vincenca, including All Saints Church. Historic buildings abound including the baroque summerhouse "Castle Arneri" in the centre.

Korcula Town - is a wonderful walled town, with its red terracotta roofs, stone cathedrals and winding roads. We cycled west along coast-hugging road with fabulous views across to the Peljesac Peninsula, we passed by tiny fishing villages and peaceful bays and inlets on our way to Racisce a delightful bay where we had fabulous chocolate cream cake and pivo. Later that evening we went to Lumbarda to do wine tasting and in particular to taste the famous Grk white wine and have a chance to taste the local cheese and olives – fabulous… Not to be missed is the performance of ‘Moreska’ dancing – unique to Korcula.

Sudurad on Sipan Island is the largest of the Elafiti Islands. It is a rich fertile region where grapes, figs, olives, citrus fruits, carob and pomegranate grow. In the 15th century the elite of Dubrovnik built residences here, the best know being Sorkocevic’s or Duke’s Palace in Sudurad. We cycle to Sipanska Luka, which is a picturesque little town on a bay where we sat sipping something cold and watched an exciting game of bocce ball in this sleepy almost forgotten little corner of Europe.

We end our cycle portion in Cavtat (founded by the Greeks in the 3rd century BCE) where we cycle the Konavle valley. Cavtat is a busy tourist town, but once outside of the town we cycle through the Konavle region, an area rich in traditional and folklore, where local people can be seen farming in a way unchanged for many years. We had a fabulous lunch, the meat was cooked slowly under a clay pot.

Now onto the land portion – leaving Dubrovnik we drive and take a ferry to Split via Peljesac peninsula with its many vineyards and along the Cetina river and gorge. Split is a great seaside town with lots of great restaurants and a wonderful promenade with ‘watering holes’ to sit at and watch the world go by. A walk around the cellars and courtyards of the Roman palace of Diocletian is a must. Recommend to take a guided tour, very informative.

We leave Split and head deep into the mountainous hinterland of Croatia to Plitvice Lakes, the first and most beautiful National Park in the country. We spent a fabulous time hiking the trails, following the 16 crystal-clear lakes on their dramatic descent over 92 travertine barriers and waterfalls. Then, following scenic country back roads, we make for the northern Dalmatian coast and ferry to the lace-making island of Pag also known for its cheese – Pag Cheese (similar to parmesan, but softer).

After a morning walking the streets of the Old Town of Zadar we follow the twisting Dalmatian coast road south, pausing at the picturesque coastal towns of Sibenik and Primosten en route to Trogir. Give yourself time to explore the delightful town of Trogir with its narrow alleys, hidden squares and plentiful cafes. We end our tour here….

Some helpful tips – tap water is drinkable throughout all of Croatia. The Croatians currency is the Kuna – you can change euros for kunas at any bank in Croatia, however if you need to change in the reverse or have other currency you must go to Exchange offices. The Exchange offices are sometimes hard to find and the hours can be a little unusual. ATM’s are available in all the towns and cities and are easy to use.

Canadians don’t require a tourist visa just a valid passport (must not expire for 6 months after your return date) also there is not an entry/exit fee. Keep in mind that the infrastructure (main roads) is minimal and what you think might take just an hour to drive will take double that, so don’t be in a hurry.

1000 islands dot the coastline, but only 65 are inhabited, so makes for a sailors dream come true.

Towns become really busy in July and August, so if you want a vacation that is not too busy with tourist go in June, September & October. The Adriatic is a beautiful aqua colour and so clear and by late summer the water is really warm. Remember to bring aqua shoes because the pesky sea urchins abound.

2006-06-21T09:45:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Turn Your Face to the Sun!