Private Jet Charters Are a Far Better Alternative Than Airlines
Posted on May 27, 2008
Filed Under Charters | Leave a Comment
Have you ever thought “there’s just got to be a better way to fly than going commercial”? Well join the club. For most of us who fly often these days, what used to be no big deal, has become a nightmare to be avoided at all costs.
You know, I remember when flying was fun, and it still can be, if one can ditch the whole airline hassle. I’m talking about private jet charters. Now you may be thinking like I was, “yeah right – like I can afford that”. But things are different these days and the cost might just surprise you.
It was actually while waiting in airports that got me thinking of better alternatives, and remembered the most fun I ever had flying was in small planes. What I also recalled was no lines – just arrive at the airport, walk out, get on and leave. Such an enviable thought, especially when you’re waiting through yet another interminable delay.
That got me to start looking into jet charters even though I thought it would probably be expensive and beyond my reach. But I was pleasantly surprised. First, the advantages – and they are numerous.
No need to arrive two hours before your flight knowing it will still depart late – in fact only in rare instances will you even have a late flight. No long lines at ticket counters, metal detectors, waiting to board or when getting off the plane. No waiting on bags or wondering where your luggage got off to, plus no trying to squeeze everything into a carry-on just to avoid checking it.
No crowds, talkative neighbors, screaming kids, or being packed in like a sardine. You aren’t squashed against a neighbor, being bumped by the beverage cart, or losing feeling in your legs from them being crammed into to the seat ahead. Plus you won’t have the person in front of you recline into your lap.
Consider instead having total control. You set the schedule and destination, basically flying when convenient for you – not the airline. And you needn’t fly into a hub or deal with connections. A private jet charter can go anywhere there’s an airport you will also likely avoid the need to rent a car and wait in more lines.
You arrive just before takeoff, walk on with your luggage, sit down and relax. Shortly after, the door is closed and you’re on your way. In flight you have room to stretch out or spread out. Whether you want to work or rest, you’ll get to your destination having been more productive and less fatigued. Once there, walk off and leave – that’s it.
There is absolutely no comparison. If you’ve never experienced this type of travel, you will be amazed at the difference. Private jet charters are rapidly increasing in popularity as they decrease in cost. For all the reasons mentioned above, more and more folks are abandoning commercial airlines whenever they can. Next we’ll look at the costs of chartering a jet.
The Aggravation of Commercial Air Travel
Posted on May 19, 2008
Filed Under Charters, Transportation | Leave a Comment
One doesn’t have to spend a great deal of time flying these days to reach the point where they despise air travel. Actually, it’s not the travel part so much as the waiting, the lines, the delays, hassles, lost luggage, sardine seats, and so on.
There is little else that can set me off as much as taking the time to fight traffic to arrive an hour and a half early for a flight, just to have it delayed. I end up spending more time waiting around the airport than actually flying. What’s really pathetic is the delays are getting worse, to the point that at some hubs, like those in the northeast, they’re the norm.
Needless to say I’ve got plenty of time sitting around airports, to mull over possible solutions to this very large problem. Once upon a time, I really did enjoy flying, but these days the experience isn’t the same, and the large airports which I tend to frequent are the worst.
On occasion I end up going through a regional airport and it’s like night and day. By and large, you don’t have to arrive hours before your flight, the lines are shorter, and the hassles fewer. Delays don’t happen as often, and when they do the fault is rarely local, but lies instead with some major hub.
So what’s happened to our system of air travel? More travelers, more planes, more flights, all competing for the same airspace, while being managed by antiquated air traffic control technology, are the basic problem.
There is endless debate and finger pointing about resolving it, yet not much happens. It seems to me that modernizing the air traffic control system is a no brainer, and will certainly allow stacking planes closer together, but even doing that will only be a partial solution.
What would make a lot of sense is to make far more use of regional and local airports. Instead of forcing people to connect through hubs, just create more direct flights between regional facilities. There are some small, fuel-efficient jets available these days that would do the trick.
Of course the rental car companies will be lobbying against that as flying into where you actually want to go will negate having to rent a car as often.
Other solutions include going private. Using charter services that fly smaller aircraft were once far out of reach for most folks, but they are becoming a more competitive alternative.
Airline Reward Programs Have Become Worthless
Posted on May 12, 2008
Filed Under Transportation | Leave a Comment
Airline frequent flyer programs have always been marketing tools but nothing like they are today. Used to be that the rewards they offered were somewhat desirable and even useful – enough so to entice one to show some loyalty when choosing who to fly on that next trip.
Nowadays they’re mostly pure hype. They still claim to offer the same rewards, but it’s simply not true. They’ve so diluted the program that the rewards have become useless. By giving away miles for all sorts of reasons that have nothing to do with flying, the actual flyers don’t even have to be loyal to earn miles.
But the real problem is that by giving away miles for all these other reasons, there are more folks trying to use them than the airlines have available seats. Each flight has only a handful of seats obtainable by redeeming miles but with everyone and their cat trying to cash in, they go fast. Instead of 2 or 3 weeks planning ahead, you can count on needing 6 to 9 months lead time.
Who wants to plan that far into the future? I like to pick up and go when I want, and that used to be possible using my miles. But no more. It also means you’re going to have the added expense of purchasing trip insurance because no way can one tell what might happen that far out.
I’ve had elite status for years but have stopped caring about mileage programs because it’s hardly worth the effort anymore. It’s more trouble trying to use the miles than they’re worth.
Here’s an example. With tons of miles stacked up, I recently tried to book a trip using them. Even looking out nearly six months, there were no seats. Well there were a few, but only by spending about 3 times the miles. The coach seats I got for a trip six months out, cost the same miles as those I got a couple years ago, with only six weeks advance planning and going first class.
And are the perks really worthwhile? Being able to board early means more of a chance of getting your carry-on into an overhead. Then again, that’s only become necessary because of the hassles of waiting on luggage or the airlines losing it.
Upgrades to the front of the plane are nice since you actually get a decent seat with leg room. Of course if airlines provided adequate seating in the first place, this would be a non-issue.
Similarly, using first-class check-in to bypass the long coach lines is useful but truth is no one should be required to wait forever in line. With the kiosks it’s gotten better, but like most things with airports, they’re still understaffed.
The reality is that airline seats have become a simple commodity. There is little to distinguish one from another, and therefore none of them deserve loyalty anymore. These days I find that by waiting until the last minute, I can buy seats at super discounts, and that works for me.
Volunteer For an Earthwatch Research Expedition and See the World
Posted on April 28, 2008
Filed Under Adventure, Asia, Budget Travel, Central America, Diving, Oceania | 1 Comment
Earthwatch is the world’s largest environmental volunteer nonprofit organization. In existence for over 35 years they have a goal that at its simplest is to help the world achieve a sustainable environment.
To this end they fund scientific field research and provide ways for regular folks – like non-scientists, to act as volunteers on projects around the world. Besides traveling to exotic locations, you get the opportunity to participate in these projects and maybe even learn a thing or two.
There are expeditions to a variety of locations, and depending on your interest will hold differing appeals. The ones I like are those involving the oceans and opportunities to dive as part of the work.
Below are some sample locations and a brief synopsis of what volunteers can expect:
First are the Coral Reefs of Thailand:
In the Gulf of Thailand and Andaman Sea, Thailand’s coral reefs are some of the most magnificent and diverse ecosystems on Earth. Like many of the world’s reef systems, Thailand’s reefs are facing the pressures of overfishing and destructive fishing practices, as well as the threats posed by global warming and coral diseases. Scientists from Reef Check are joining forces with Earthwatch to survey Thailand’s resplendent coral reefs and monitor the effects of marine protected areas as well as recovery from the 2004 tsunami. With this information, agencies and local communities can better manage and conserve these beautiful reefs.
Perhaps the south Pacific is more to your liking. Here’s a chance to spend a couple weeks Diving the WWII Wrecks of Truk Lagoon:
Now part of the Federated States of Micronesia — Truk (a.k.a. Chuuk) was an Imperial Japanese Navy base during World War II. Considered second only to Pearl Harbor in strength, the U.S. saw this base as a major threat and in February 1944 began Operation Hailstone, a 2-day intense aerial bombing campaign that continued in various forms until the war’s end. More than 50 naval and merchant ships were sunk in Truk Lagoon, along with up to 100 aircraft, with many intact, having been protected by the surrounding barrier reef. Maritime archaeologist Bill Jeffery, materials scientist Dr. Ian Macleod, and marine ecologist Maria Beger aim to document and help protect Truk Lagoon’s rich historic and biological heritage.
Or maybe the Belize Regional Initiative:
Be part of a collaborative effort to conserve an entire ecosystem. Based on remote islands scattered along the world’s second largest barrier reef, our Belize projects offer snorkeling, diving, and shore-based experiences. Surrounded by one of Earth’s largest barrier reefs, Belize is becoming a popular destination. But despite the designation of its waters as protected Marine Reserves, coastal development, overfishing, and tourism threaten the biodiversity of this tiny nation. We offer the chance to study and protect the life that depends on this reef. Whether your team is based at our remote Living Reef Center or at a beachside hotel, you can experience Belize in a unique way and be part of a group of projects working to help this country strike a balance between economic growth and ecosystem health.
Volunteers are responsible for the cost of getting to the assignment location plus a contribution amount that covers meals and lodging, plus other associated costs. This expense is far less than a typical vacation in the same area, and there is usually enough free time to check out the locale. Learn more about Earthwatch Institute and upcoming projects here.
Location, Location, Location – The Mayan’s Had It All Figured Out
Posted on April 25, 2008
Filed Under Adventure, Beaches, Central America | Leave a Comment
Known as the three most important things in real estate, location, location, location, was obviously something the Mayan Indians had taken to heart hundreds of years ago.
I mean just look at some of the gorgeous locations they chose to build at. White sand beaches, incredible turquoise water, cliff-side locations to enjoy the tropical breezes – I mean these guys definitely knew what they were doing in picking out some prime beachfront locations.
If you don’t believe it, just check out a few of the pictures below that depict some of the Mayan ruins at Tulum in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. Now imagine standing on the bluffs, enjoying a spectacular view looking out over an emerald Caribbean Sea.
It just doesn’t get much better than that!
Around 1000 A.D. Chichen Itza in Yucatan was the center of the Mayan civilization, which was spread throughout the Yucatan Peninsula, through Belize and Guatamala, and on to the edges of Honduras and El Salvador.
Today the Maya number around five million and live mostly in the Yucatan Peninsula and the highlands of Guatemala. As they did over a thousand years ago, most live in villages and make their living from the land.
Our modern cities are primarily centers for commerce which is completely different from the purpose of the Mayan stone city remains we see today. For the ancient Maya, these were principally ceremonial sites and gathering places where they came for spiritual reasons.
During the early 1500’s the Spanish were determined to systematically destroy the Mayan civilization. One of the world’s greatest cultural crimes was their destruction of all the wriitten records they came across.
As for the people themselves, those not killed in battle, were mostly decimated by diseases carried to the “New World” from the “old”. Today the magnificent stone cities lie abandoned and in ruins once more.
Tulum or the “Walled City” was built by the ancient Maya on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean. One of the most visited archaeological sites in Mexico, it was occupied for over 300 years, from around 1200 A.D. until after the Spanish conquest.
Located at a convergence of both land and sea trade routes, Tulum was a major link in an extensive trade network. Artifacts found in or near the site indicate Mayan commerce ranged from Central Mexico to Central America and all points between.
The Castillo, sometimes referred to as the lighthouse, is the tallest building at Tulum and the most famous. It stands on the bluff, commanding a view of the ocean and coast for several miles in both directions.
Until the late 20th century when tourists became too numerous, the local Maya continued visiting the temples to burn incense and pray.
There is no way to gain a real appreciation of the Mayan culture without visiting some of these ruins that have been abandoned to the elements. There are hotels to be found in the area, plus the Tulum ruins are only a two hour drive south of the popular beach resort of Cancun, which makes for a pleasant day trip.
Photo Credits: Aaron Logan, Hugo van Tilborg, Keith Walbolt.
Diving the Ghost Fleet of Truk Lagoon
Posted on April 24, 2008
Filed Under Adventure, Diving, Islands, Oceania | Leave a Comment
This wreck diving Mecca was first introduced to the world by adventure divers like Jacques Cousteau and Al Giddings. Today, it’s called Chuuk, but most divers still refer to it as Truk Lagoon. By whatever name, it has a fascinating history, incredible marine life and the world’s largest concentration of diveable wrecks.
At over 40 miles across, the “lagoon” within this oceanic atoll is actually huge, and even though parts of it reach depths of 300’, the majority of wrecks lie on shallower reefs. Divers also enjoy surface conditions that are usually calm, year-round warm water temperatures, 50’ - 100’ visibility, and lack of strong currents.
One might think of Truk Lagoon as Japans Pearl Harbor. At it’s zenith, the Japanese Imperial Fleet based here numbered over 1000 ships and support vessels, along with many hundreds of aircraft. But in early 1944, to neutralize this threat, the U.S. Navy commenced “Operation Hailstone” which destroyed the base and sunk more than 50 ships and 100 airplanes.
For over 60 years, the ships and planes downed here have served as graveyards for thousands of Japanese who died during the war and they are respected as such. The government of Micronesia has declared Truk Lagoon a national monument and it is protected by law. Any disturbing of remains or taking artifacts is strictly prohibited.
Many of the shipwrecks in this ghost fleet remain virtually intact and it’s eerie to see the massive cargo holds of some of the supply carriers still containing tanks, trucks, and airplane engines, not to mention Japanese Saki bottles, china plates and other such things.
Likewise appearing to be frozen in time, are dozens of aircraft strewn across the bottom, and in some cases the cockpit has remained intact, providing the pilots final resting place.
But over the intervening years these machines of war have been slowly transformed into spectacular reefs teeming with a diversity of marine life. What were initially watery graves and scenes of destruction have morphed into places resplendent with vivid corals and sponges, along with colorful reef fish, and larger pelagic species.
Truk is an immense atoll that’s crowned with natural beauty. The surrounding outer barrier reef is accented with tiny idyllic islets that are mere spits of sand with a couple coconut palms. There are several volcanic island groups in the central lagoon which are mostly undeveloped. One of these is the capital island of Weno which has the only airport and lodging for tourists.
The land area of Chuuk State is only about 77 square miles, but it’s part of an island nation that spans 1,158,306 square miles of the southwestern Pacific Ocean. Chuuk along with Yap, Pohnpei, and Kosrae, make up the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), which itself is part of the Caroline Islands.
Getting there: Truk Lagoon lies about 750 miles north of Papua New Guinea, 600 miles southeast of Guam and 3,300 miles southwest of Hawaii. Continental Micronesia makes several flights per week between the main population center of Weno, and Guam. There are daily connections to Guam from Tokyo and the United States, and a couple flights a week from Cairns.
Photo credits: Wreck Dives: wjsiv; Map: Google Maps
What’s the Definition of the World’s Most Perfect Beach?
Posted on April 23, 2008
Filed Under Beaches | Leave a Comment
No brainer – white powder sand, turquoise water, no crowds. But wait, I’d really like some clear water & reef to do some snorkeling, so maybe a little rocky offshore – but keep some of the bottom sandy for playing on without stubbing a toe.
And I’d like to do a little body surfing too, but then the kids can’t handle the big stuff. Oh yeah, what about shade, maybe there should be a few palm trees placed strategically – but don’t block the sun. Better make sure it’s wide enough for some volleyball too – don’t want the beach disappearing whenever low-tide comes around.
Speaking of low-tide, those tide-pools left behind are cool for finding little critters, so maybe some more of those reef rocks up on shore – not too many though……
Hmmm, maybe this isn’t such a no-brainer after all. I suspect everyone has some sort of fuzzy notion in their mind of what the perfect beach looks like, but when it comes time to actually pick one out as a destination, it becomes a bit more complicated.
The real answer is it depends – it depends on what you want to do at the beach. And that answer will no doubt have several parts that change with every trip, not to mention ages of the travelers.
Lets go a step further and really complicate things. If you were going to pick a beach to settle or retire on, which would it be?
Now you have to start considering other things, like how often will you be blown away by hurricanes, how far from groceries and other stores, how far from services like doctors and hospitals, and a hundred other typical home buying questions.
Sort of takes the fun out of it eh? Not really, but makes for a much more thought provoking question. For instance, while I really like being right on the beach, I might not like it during bad storms, or potential flooding.
In fact I might want to get off the beach and live high up where I can enjoy cool breezes and a panorama view of the ocean. There was great illustration of such a place in a film called “The Thomas Crown Affair” starring Pierce Brosnan and Rene Russo. (Actually was a remake of the original with Steve McQueen.) It was filmed in Martinique where Crown had a cottage up a couple thousand feet, on top of a mountain. It was totally secluded with a magnificent 360 degree view out over the ocean.
As much as I like the idea of stepping out the back door and walking to the beach, I’m becoming more interested in something like Crown’s place where I get the breeze and view, but would have a longer walk down to the water. Probably more sensible in hurricane areas and would certainly save on insurance as well as property cost.
Another reason for considering locations not directly on the beach would be that no beach will likely provide for all the different activities I might want to do. These range from sunning, reading in the shade, taking long walks, surfing, snorkeling, scuba diving, sailing, finding shells, searching tide-pools, enjoying both calm seas and crashing waves, and on and on.
There just isn’t one place to do it all, which is a bit frustrating because the reason one goes to the effort and expense of living on a beach is to do beach things. So not being able to do all of them would be rather annoying.
And the end of the day, there will no doubt be compromise involved. What do you think – what comes to mind when thinking about a “perfect beach”, or have you already found you place in the sun?
Atiu, Cook Islands - Perfectly Way Off the Beaten Path
Posted on April 23, 2008
Filed Under Budget Travel, Diving, Eco-Travel, Islands, Oceania | Leave a Comment
Atiu is one of those places that remains mostly undiscovered. Translation – it’s not been turned into a typical tourist trap. One reason for this is it takes some effort to reach, and the masses are unwilling to work that hard. But that’s good news for those looking to go where others don’t.
As part of the Cook Islands in the South Pacific, Atiu is one of 15 islands with a combined land area of only 240 square kilometers (92.7 square miles), but spread across 1.8 million square kilometers (0.7 million square miles) of ocean.
Even though the country spans an area the size of India, it’s population numbers just 16,000 with two-thirds of them living on the island of Rarotonga. The Cook Islands are a self-governing parliamentary democracy in free association with New Zealand. They have their own language and enjoy a vigorous and diverse culture that displays significant differences between each island.
The Cooks were first settled in the 6th century A.D. by Polynesians who migrated from nearby Tahiti which lies to the southeast. The people are friendly, and despite around 100,000 visitors annually to the capital island of Rarotonga, they are largely unspoiled by tourism.
“They offer a rare opportunity for people from the cities of the world to experience a different type of vacation. There are no high-rise hotels, only four beach buggies and very little hype. Ideal for travelers seeking more than the usual clichés associated with the South Seas, each island has its unique qualities and offers the visitor a special experience.”
Atiu itself, with only about 600 people living there, is called the Warriors Island. It’s elevation of 14,500 feet (4500 meters), and beautiful scenery make it an especially good choice for travelers wanting a vacation that involves more than just lying on the beach.
“Atiu Villas is situated on Atiu Island on the outskirts of the central villages. The site provides a quiet and relaxing environment surrounded by wild tropical gardens and is only a short walk from the white sandy beaches of the southern coastline.”
The villas are unique chalet style structures made almost entirely of local native timbers and materials and feature the polished woods of mango, coconut, Christmas nut, acacia, cedar, java plum and many other tropical trees.
Each villa has a private verandah, cooking facilities, separate bathrooms, tea and coffee making facilities and a fully stocked larder from which guests pay for what they use upon leaving. The larders are well-stocked with dairy food, beverages, packaged and tinned food.
The villas have sleeping configurations that can take from 2 to 6 people. There is plenty of water and each villa has a solar hot water supply. Electricity and water run 24-hours a day. Your hosts will help you organize transportation, tours, and activities.
As I said earlier, getting to Atiu, takes a little effort, but it’s well worth it. Air New Zealand, Air Tahiti and Pacific Blue are the three international carriers that fly into the international airport on Rarotonga. You then fly Air Rarotonga which provides regular domestic service to Atiu.
Dive St. Croix - Americas Backyard
Posted on April 22, 2008
Filed Under Caribbean, Diving, Islands | Leave a Comment
One could liken St. Croix to a sort of “hidden gem”, not just for divers looking for great diving in lesser known locales, but for anyone wanting to get away from the crowds and more visited places that have become way too “touristy”. Here divers will find healthy, pristine reefs, a few wrecks, great macro diving, plus the famous “Wall”.
Because it’s off the beaten path, Saint Croix is one of the more affordable islands in the Caribbean. You’ll not only find great deals on dive packages, but everything else from accommodations, to great places to eat, to transportation, and more, is all very reasonably priced.
For about 7 miles, the “Wall” runs along the north shore, starting at about 50’ and dropping off to 3200’. It’s only a couple hundred yards offshore making it an easy shore dive, but you’ll also want to do some diving off a boat to explore as much of it as possible. Many locations have mooring buoys to protect the reef from anchoring.
Two of the most popular sites are Northstar and Pavilion, where you’ll see gorgeous sponges – purple tubes, lavender vases, red ropes; several stands of black coral, as well as prolific schools of fishes, including a few bait ball swarms. Don’t forget to peek under the ledges where lobster and large crab can be found hiding.
Over near Salt River, the location where Columbus landed in 1493, are several sites to the east and west of the reef where it protects the harbor. You’ll find huge coral heads with some small caves and giant swim-throughs. These are just plain fun, and dives there are always going to end way before you can tire of this part of the wall.
There are tons of crevices that provide ample hiding places for large lobster and crab, and by taking your time and looking in and under the ledges, you’ll see them lurking. This area also attracts hawksbill turtles. An especially large one was nonplussed enough with divers to allow us to swim alongside for a good while.
Somewhere on your agenda, be sure and include a dive under the Frederiksted Pier. While most of the premier diving is along the north shore, this west-end location shouldn’t be missed. Especially for macro photographers, it’s a potpourri of goodies.
The pier was built for cruise ship traffic but with their absence over the last few years, it’s become home to a variety of creatures who’ve moved in. In fact it’s got more fish and other critters packed into a smaller area than most anywhere else you’ll visit. Interestingly enough, you’re virtually assured of seeing not just one octopus, but several on any given dive.
On both the west-end north of the pier, and the northeast side of St. Croix are several wreck sites. All the vessels were made safe before being intentionally sunk, and are shallow enough for most divers. Some penetration is possible, but they don’t require technical diving skills. Most of the sites are sandy bottoms teeming with garden eels, and frequented by southern stingrays.
These wrecks have been submerged long enough to have healthy growth over much of them, yet the structures are still quite visible. Highlighted in the clear water, with the right lighting, they make excellent photo opportunities.
It’s hard to beat the spectacular diving, or modest prices found in Saint Croix. Seemingly overlooked by most divers and other travelers as well, it’s a piece of “America’s backyard” waiting to be discovered. Do yourself a favor and take a look.
The Magellan Residential Cruise Line
Posted on April 22, 2008
Filed Under Cruising, Luxury Travel | Leave a Comment
First off, this isn’t your usual kind of cruising. This is where you can buy an address on a luxury ship and enjoy the world as your backyard. Never see the same destination more than once every four years, your view changes continuously as the ship sails around the earth forever.
As an interesting historical aside, the guy it was named for, never actually made it completely around the world. Ferdinand Magellan, a Portuguese maritime explorer in the service of the Spanish crown, led the expedition credited with the first circumnavigation of the earth.
He was actually attempting to find a westward route to the “Spice Islands” of Indonesia but was killed in the Philippines in route. It was the Spaniard Juan Sebastian Elcano, having taking command after Magellan’s death, that led the few remaining crew back to Spain 3 years later.
But as is typical in historical accounts, it’s generally the “top dog” that gets the credit, so most people have never heard of Elcano. To be fair, it was indeed Magellan that kept pushing on when his crews wanted to turn back, and his death did provide a distraction which allowed the remaining crew to escape. Anyway, I digress.
As the new namesake of that intrepid explorer, this new ship, the Magellan of Seas will go much further, doing so incredibly faster, and all while providing far more luxurious surroundings than poor ol’ Ferdinand could’ve ever envisioned.
I mean not only has it got all the usual top-end amenities, but comes with it’s own retractable marina, a helipad complete with 2 Bell Jet Helicopters, and even an observatory for checking out all those spectacular constellations and nebulas that are visible no where better than nighttime in the middle of the ocean.
As you’ve no doubt guessed, this type residence is a bit pricey. In fact, if you don’t have a few million bucks lying around gathering dust, this may have to remain a dream. Prices range from just under 3 million to over 16 million, plus an “annual assessment” of several thousand to over a half million bucks. How’s that for a homeowners association?
Actually it’s the monthly fees that pay for utilities, insurance and crew. The big numbers are just buying you a spot. Oh and that spot is supposed to be guaranteed for 100 years, although the last 50 may see her permanently docked like the queen Mary.
Okay, so here’s some good news. The Magellan offers fractional ownership in increments of 2 weeks or a month. So while an average place runs 5 or 6 million plus about 200k annually, you can just take a piece. That brings the cost for a single month down to only a half million with a measly 15k assessment.
Of course that sort of makes it like a time share – a fairly costly one, but it does offer a way in. But then you have to wonder if lowering the bar will let too many of us riff-raff types in. Yup, there goes the neighborhood. 
Yes that was very tongue in cheek. I thought this was a cool idea upon first hearing of it, and I still do. Unfortunately, it’s somewhat out-of-reach. I’ll just have to commiserate with the other riff-raff and stick with buying my cruises a week at a time.
Rich History in the Dordogne River Valley
Posted on April 21, 2008
Filed Under Budget Travel, Europe | Leave a Comment
Located in the southwest part of France, the Dordogne River valley is one of the most beautiful and serene areas in the country. Locally it’s known as the Perigord, a name that dates back to the time of the Gauls.
Taking the name of the river running through it, the Dordogne region is famed for it’s rich history spanning from early man, through the Hundred Years War, the Renaissance, and finally more modern times. Known for its many prehistoric caves and numerous castles, there is plenty to keep ones interest.
Of course, one of the big draws of the region is food, and it’s been referred to as the gastronomic capital of France. Meals are hearty, and the wine robust. Restaurants abound, prices are affordable, and it’s just hard to find a bad meal in the Perigord.
Besides superb eating, you’ll find extremely reasonable accommodations. There is lodging of every description, ranging from small B&Bs to elegant hotels. Below are a couple great choices, especially for the budget conscious. You can find more details and other lodging in this article, the Secret Hotels of the Dordogne.
Le Bellevue
Overlooking umpteen miles of rolling hills and the tiny town of Montignac, these basic accommodations offer a view that your average luxury hotel would kill for. Not only that, but the setting is appealingly serene as there’s nothing around but fields and farmland. You might even forget that the Lascaux Cave, home of France’s most famous prehistoric paintings, is just a five-minute walk away. Though none of the five rooms gets the view face-on, you can take in the scenery over café au lait in the breakfast room or simply plop down on the hillside at any time of day. One of the rooms has a small private terrace, so book well ahead; unlike most of these hotels, Le Bellevue is open year-round.La Maison des Peyrat
Sarlat is probably the prettiest town in the Dordogne, but its popularity can make for a less-than-tranquil experience. This is all the more reason to stay at La Maison des Peyrat, about half a mile uphill in a residential neighborhood. The long, one-story stone building dates back to the Middle Ages and at various times was a hospital for plague victims, a residence for nuns and a farm. Part of its appeal was ample water as you may note by the well in what is now the hotel’s reception area. Current owners Martine and Jean-Luc Ginestet preserved the historic character of the building, while also injecting a dash of modern design. The result is 10 simple, airy rooms in light colors with rattan furniture; common areas feature exposed beams and original artwork, including some of Martine’s sculptures. Outside, a chestnut tree shades the terrace where breakfast and dinner are served in good weather.
Although the Dordogne is beautiful throughout the year, it’s the most beautiful in spring, when the many fruit orchards are in bloom, and the fall, when the light makes the landscape seem to come alive with color. Summer of course is popular and though Dordogne is no more crowded than other places, it can be frustrating trying to navigate the riverside villages. In winter, many shops and hotels close for the season.
Getting there: The Dordogne River valley is within the area known as Perigord, and the French use the terms interchangeably. The flights from Paris-Orly to Bordeaux are about an hour long; you can rent a car in Bordeaux and drive to Perigueux in about 90 minutes. You might also take the high-speed TGV train from Paris to Bordeaux (three hours), or a regular train to Brive-la-Gaillarde (four hours) or Souillac (41/2 hours), and then rent a car. Driving from Paris to Souillac via the autoroute (a toll highway) takes approximately five hours.
Savannah’s Historic Squares & Hospitality
Posted on April 21, 2008
Filed Under North America, Reviews | Leave a Comment
The historic district of Savannah is one of the most tranquil and picturesque towns in the country. Millions of people visit here, not just for its historic mansions, elegant architecture, beautiful fountains, and shaded squares with their moss-covered oaks, but for that sense of a genteel history and reputation for good ol’ southern hospitality.
A centuries old city, Savannah was founded in 1733 by General James Oglethorpe. It’s location near a high bluff overlooking the Savannah River, is where the General along with the other 120 passengers of the ship “Anne” first landed. Savannah became the first city of the 13th and final colony, which was named “Georgia” by Oglethorpe, after King George II of England.
Savannah is also known as America’s first planned city. If you look at a map, or walk around the historic part of the city you can easily see how Oglethorpe laid it all out in a series of grids.
He did this so there would be wide streets intertwined with shaded public squares and parks that would also serve as town meeting places and centers of business. Today, 21 of the original 24 squares are still in existence.
Over the years, the city and its people have been through more than their share of tough times, but have shown themselves to be a resilient sort. A devastating fire in 1796 and another in 1820, each wiped out half the town. Also in 1820, a yellow fever epidemic killed about a tenth of the population. Add in hurricanes and other natural disasters, and you can better appreciate the hardy individuals that call Savannah home.
Although the destruction mentioned above has certainly taken a toll, and many original structures had to be re-built, there are still several historically significant buildings remaining.
One of these is the “Pirates House”, that is today a renowned restaurant. This tavern was frequented by pirates who sailed these waters in 1794, and events there provided inspiration for Robert Lewis Stevenson’s novel, “Treasure Island”.
Dinner at “Pirates House” is an enjoyable experience, and if you are part of one of the many “ghost tours”, you’ll get to go through the old underground rooms and tunnels which are still haunted. Even if you miss the ghosts, the food is excellent and well worth the visit.
Another great haunt for dinner is the “the Olde Pink House” built in the 1770’s. It’s definitely pink but look close and you’ll see the antique bricks poking from beneath the stucco. The structure has been many things including a bank, but the house is now set up with dining tables and chairs in the different rooms making for smaller and intimate eating areas.
The setting is lovely and the food is superior. We were seated in what had once been an upstairs parlor, and it was like going back in time. Come here for a relaxed evening of fine dining, and perhaps a ghost or two. Like the “Pirates House”, the “Pink House” is haunted as well and featured on most all the tours.
Savannah is said to be one of America’s most haunted cities, and there are several tour providers quite happy to show you why. A couple of them offer walking tours that start around 9 pm and are a great way to enjoy a late walk after dinner. Be sure to avoid getting left behind by allowing a little extra time to finish your meal and still arrive at the starting point. (Usually one of the squares)
I’d recommend staying in the older historic part of the city by the river as it’s close to several great restaurants, and convenient to walking through the many squares and parks, as well as along the river itself. There are a few B&B’s there plus some nice hotels to choose from.
The Hampton Inn - Historic District was sort of the best of both, and definitely not your usual Hampton Inn. It’s a relatively new building built to look a century old, which made it blend in nicely with the ambiance of an earlier period.
Located on Bay Street, a block away from River Street, you’re close to the water but away from the noise of the night life along the riverfront. Try and get a room on an upper floor on the corner. They have superb views of the river and park areas below. They are also quite large, with a sofa in the sitting area, a very comfortable king bed, and tasteful furnishings. There’s also a full breakfast offered in the mornings that’s worth getting up for.
Old Savannah is definitely a great walking city, and with several days you can cover from the riverfront through all the squares. You can also cheat some and take advantage of the trolleys. But if you’re not up to tons of walking, plus want to reach places farther out, you’ll probably want to get a car. Parking can be dicey at times but worth the effort.
Savannah has also been the site of several memorable movies. You may remember the bus stop bench in “Forrest Gump” and the statue of the little girl in “Midnight in the Garden of Good & Evil”. In addition there was the epic “Roots”, “The General’s Daughter”, “Legend of Bagger Vance”, and many others filmed here.
Any list of “must see” things will no doubt be incomplete. Best thing to do is grab a free map when you arrive and make your own list. Of some note would be a visit to Paula Deans restaurant, but be prepared for insanely long lines. If you drive out of town, you can dine at her brother’s place, and get some of Bubba’s shrimp without waiting at all. It’s also where she films her show.
Of course, there’s the statue of the famous “Waving Girl”. She was Florence Martus who lived with her brother George, the lighthouse keeper. Between 1887 and 1931 she waved a greeting to over 50,000 inbound and outbound vessels. How’s that for friendly?
You definitely have to see the mansion made famous by the murder in John Berendt’s novel that became history’s longest running New York Times bestseller. With the same name as the film mentioned earlier, “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil” brought so many visitors to see the statue shown in the cemetery, that they ended up having to move the statue to a museum.
Whatever else you do in Savannah, be sure to stop and smell the roses, or in this case walk through some of the squares and relax. It won’t take long to start getting used to a much more serene pace.
All Beaches Are Not Created Equal
Posted on April 21, 2008
Filed Under Beaches, North America, Reviews | Leave a Comment
Of course that probably goes without saying and it should come as no surprise that what works for some people doesn’t work for others.
I’m talking specifically about Hilton Head Island in South Carolina, and Tybee Island, Georgia. Both are popular and well known, so decided to drive around the area and check them out.
In general, the beaches along most of this area are typical light brown sand that packs well. In several places you can even drive on the beach. Most of them are wide and flat with dune and grass areas that while rising up only a few feet, do a good job of protecting inland areas from storm surge.
The ocean will often provide some decent body-surfing waves, but there’s no real reefs in the area so waves aren’t particularly high, except ahead of big storms where they can be a lot of fun. Following these storms is also about the only good time to find shells washed up.
Without much reef to speak of, there’s no snorkeling or diving. You can however dive further out on various wrecks found up and down the coast. Also, the ocean floor is mostly sandy, with visibility underwater running anywhere from about 8’ to 40’.
I found Tybee Island, at least along the beach in the main part of town, to be very touristy and crowded. Lots of visitors packed in like sardines. Driving further saw diminished crowds, but being limited by the length of the island, you can only get so far away.
There are many folks that live on the island, but because a lot of surrounding marsh area limits beach choices, the few existing beaches seem to draw tons of people from nearby towns and cities.
On up at Hilton Head you can get into some fairly exclusive areas once you get out to the island. Overall it was quite nice, and comparatively spread out. Like the Tybee area, there’s a lot of waterfront besides the ocean itself, in the nature of harbors, inlets, bays, and rivers, which is good for boaters, fishing, and such, but my interest was focused on the beaches.
Although not so much as Tybee, the Hilton Head beaches that were easiest to reach were the most crowded. No big surprise, but there were some other places, that if you could get across the marshy area separating them, let you out onto less crowded beach areas.
Bottom line was you could get away to more quieter areas if willing to trek a bit. Also, the beaches were lighter, softer sand. Of course you want to bring everything with you to avoid the need to go back before days end.
Overall there seem to be a lot of folks who either really like this area, or just use these beaches because they’re the closest option. Likely some of both. Having lived near various beaches including some along the east coast of Florida, I found these to be quite similar.
One of the real challenges in finding beach areas in which to visit or even settle, is locating those that haven’t yet been discovered, not to mention over-run with people. Although it’s highly unlikely that anything still remains undiscovered, I’m intrigued by the idea of finding places that haven’t really been “done” yet.
Seaview Hotel Grand Cayman
Posted on April 21, 2008
Filed Under Caribbean, Diving, Islands, Reviews | Leave a Comment
This is a quaint little hotel that sits maybe a few minutes walk south of Georgetown. It has the reputation of being the oldest hotel on Grand Cayman as it was built in 1953. Along with nearly everything else on the island, it got trashed pretty badly in late 2004 during hurricane Ivan.
Like so many properties, it had to close down until it could be made habitable for customers once more. They were supposed to have re-opened in 2005, but there’s been no word on that, and I know of several other establishments that shut down for good.
Seaview is a nostalgic place. It’s small, only about 15 rooms, and caters to divers who can hit some of the most fabulous reef anywhere by just stepping off the shore out back. They’ve also got a great deck area surrounding the pool perfect for watching the sun set.
Besides that was a super bar and restaurant called the Naked Fish. It was always crowded with locals who knew where the best eats were, but never took that long to get served. Food was always tasty, especially after a day in the water.
Found the place my first time on island. Was actually staying on the other side of Georgetown at a hotel called Treasure Island Resort. It sits at the start of the famous Seven Mile Beach, and is also a great place but much larger. I always think of the steel band playing during the weekly party night while we drank rum punches.
Anyway, was wandering around the capital of Georgetown where all the cruise ships come in checking out the shops and eats, and went on out the other side of town and found the quieter areas to the south. Definitely not crowded. Just a few homes and two hotels. The first was Sunset House, of Cathy Church Photography fame, and then Seaview just a bit further.
It was night and day compared to Seven-Mile Beach. Completely relaxed and laid back, it set a whole other pace away from all the tourists. I immediately decided to re-locate once my reservation was finished at Treasure Island.
Got lucky because they had a room opening just when I could take it. Now this is nothing fancy mind you. That’s what was so nice. Just basic accommodation, clean and quiet, with most of the guests there to dive their brains out.
Seaview became my hotel of choice when visiting Grand Cayman, and even though it’s mostly a diving crowd, everyone is welcome. Just bear in mind that if it’s fancy hotels and night-life, along with their attendant hustle and bustle, then you’ll want to move on over to the 7-mile area.
