Send2Press Newswire

iExplore.com Surpasses 50 Million Visitors in All-Time Traffic

Mon, 17 Nov 2008 12:59:40 GMT

CHICAGO, Ill., Nov. 17 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- iExplore (www.iExplore.com), the leading online resource for adventure and experiential travel, announced today that it surpassed the 50 million all-time visitor mark for the first time this month. iExplore.com launched in February 2000 with no traffic and has steadily grown to over 1.3 million visitors per month today.

iExplore Founder and CEO, George Deeb, said "This is not only a testament to the iExplore team for building a website and booking service that encourages engagement by a growing base of impassioned adventure travelers, but it also a credit to the iExplore users themselves, who have honored iExplore with their continued loyalty and trust while making their adventure travel plans over the last eight years. We could not have achieved this level of success without them."

Founded in 1999, iExplore (www.iExplore.com) is the leading online resource for adventure and experiential travel, with a one-stop offering of travel content, community and commerce, and serves as a high-end tour operator of made-to-order, privately-guided tours under the iExplore Exclusives brand.

iExplore has been named the "Best Adventure Travel Website" by Forbes Magazine, Travel & Leisure Magazine, Yahoo, Google and Time Magazine, and powers adventure trips for many leading travel sites including Lonely Planet, Travel Channel, Travelocity, Fodors and Frommers.

iExplore is a wholly-owned division of UK-based TUI Travel PLC, the largest seller of international leisure travel in the world.

Note to editors:
Deeb available for interview.
Photos available.

iExplore, Inc., 954 W. Washington, Suite 3W, Chicago, IL 60607.

All trademarks are property of their respective owners.

Copyright © 2008 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, iExplore Adventure Travel Website, CEO George Deeb

Liberty Travel Selects Perillo Tours as Preferred Tour Partner

Tue, 11 Nov 2008 18:44:42 GMT

WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J., Nov. 11 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Liberty Travel, one of the largest retail travel agencies in the U.S., has selected Perillo Tours (PerilloTours.com), America's largest escorted tour operator to Italy as its most recent preferred partner for escorted tours. Over the past 64 years, Perillo Tours has brought more than a million Americans to Italy, earning its well-deserved reputation for providing high-quality, all-inclusive tours led by expert native Italian tour guides.

Now clients of Liberty Travel's more than 200 U.S. retail locations will have direct access to all of Perillo's tour offerings including special deals exclusive to Liberty Travel.

"We couldn't be more excited to have been selected as Liberty Travel's most recent preferred partner for escorted tours," says Steve Perillo, the third generation owner of Perillo Tours. "Liberty Travel's 1,000+ expert travel counselors offer specialized knowledge of destinations around the world and the fact that they now stand behind Perillo's tours really means something."

"This is a really powerful partnership of two strong companies. When others in the travel industry are now retracting, we're expanding," said Makis Xenatos, Vice President for Products, Cruises and Tour Operators for Liberty Travel. "In the months to come, we'll be joining together with Perillo to get the word out to the travel community and consumers about the benefits of this new Preferred Partner relationship."

Travelers who are interested in first class all-inclusive escorted tours of Italy can find out more about Perillo's tours by visiting any of the Liberty Travel branch office locations in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maryland, Washington D.C., Virginia, Rhode Island, Illinois, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Florida, and California. They can also find information online at www.libertytravel.com.

About Perillo Tours

Perillo Tours, is America's largest escorted tour operator to Italy. Led by its current CEO, Steve Perillo, the company was founded in 1945 by Steve's grandfather, Joseph Perillo and grown to its current industry-leading position by Steve's father, Mario Perillo, affectionately known for many years as "Mr Italy." Perillo Tours' fully escorted all-inclusive tours feature excellent sightseeing, first class and deluxe hotels, and expert native tour guides. All of the escorted tour itineraries also include transfers, baggage handling, American style breakfasts, tips, taxes and dinners with complimentary wines and mineral water. More information: www.PerilloTours.com.

About Liberty Travel

Founded in 1951 as the innovator of the vacation package concept, Liberty Travel is one of the largest travel companies in the United States, and is the largest privately held leisure travel company with more than 200 retail locations. Liberty Travel offers consumers the advantage of specialized travel agents offering extensive destination and product knowledge and access to the best values on vacation packages available online or in-person. Liberty Travel does not charge a service fee, part of the "simply exceptional" service promised to every client. Liberty Travel retail locations can now be found in 14 states from coast to coast and Washington, D.C.

All trademarks are property of their respective owners.

Copyright © 2008 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, Perillo Tours, Italy escorted tour operator

Top Ten Solo Travel Destinations

Tue, 11 Nov 2008 17:31:05 GMT

CHICAGO, Ill., Nov. 11 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- iExplore (www.iExplore.com) announced today their list of Top Ten Solo Travel Destinations as determined by their Adventure Travel Consultants.

1. Serengeti, Tanzania
A wide variety of tours and loads of other travelers make this once in a lifetime sight one of the easiest for solo travelers.

2. Sydney, Australia
Make some friends at your hostel at Kings Cross, then go out to explore the beaches, nightlife, Macquarie Street, and the Opera House together.

3. Cuzco, Peru
It's hard not to meet people in South America's traveler epicenter; Cuzco is everything a solo traveler could want.

4. Bora Bora, French Polynesia
If paradise is your first thought when planning a solo vacation, look no further than Bora Bora.

5. Antigua, Guatemala
With more language schools per capita than anywhere else in the world, it is no wonder Antigua is a favorite stop on the gringo trail for solo travelers. When not studying, you can climb volcanoes, hike, go drinking, and visit with the remnants of the Mayan culture.

6. Katmandu, Nepal
Whether you're here to climb Mount Everest, hike the Anapurna Circuit, or drink beer from the world's highest brewery you will be in the company of many others.

7. Oahu, Hawaii
Whether you want complete relaxation in a natural setting or the opportunity to meet an assortment of travelers from around world, Hawaii's most populated island has you covered.

8. Red Sea, Egypt
For a little R&R and five star luxuries, gorgeous beaches and fine services, try the Red Sea.

9. Phi Phi Islands, Thailand
These idyllic islands near Phuket were the scene of the enchanting scenes from the backpacker favorite The Beach, where one man's solo search goes astray. Vertical rock faces rise right out of the water hiding tiny coves, caves, and tiny beaches of legends.

10. Santa Fe, New Mexico
The serenity of the desert is matched by nearby health spas and yoga retreats. Where spirituality and nature meet.

iExplore offers guided tours to most of the above destinations. Call 1-800-IEXPLORE (1-800-439-7567) for details and pricing.

Founded in 1999, iExplore (www.iExplore.com) is the leading online resource for adventure and experiential travel, serving over 1,300,000 visitors per month at its website.

Copyright © 2008 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, Top Ten Solo Travel Destinations, iExplore adventure travel

CheapOair is a Hitwise Award Winner 10 Times Consecutively

Thu, 06 Nov 2008 05:55:03 GMT

NEW YORK, N.Y., Nov. 6 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- CheapOair Wins Hitwise U.S. Top 10 Award for the quarter ending July - September 2008. During this period, CheapOair ranked No. 10 based on market share of visits among all U.S. websites in the Hitwise Travel Agencies industry.

The Hitwise U.S. Top 10 Awards Program celebrates the most successful U.S. websites in 160+ online industries. As Hitwise reports on the anonymous online usage and search behavior of more than 10 million U.S. Internet users-the largest online sample of its kind-this unique awards program recognizes excellence in online performance through public popularity.

CheapOair.com is a NYC based consumer travel web site offering low airfares and discount hotels to its 3 Million plus customer base. The CEO of CheapOair.com, Mr. Jain, said, "The success of our website's popularity is a result of our commitment to our customers, and our ongoing technological improvements that enhance the customer experience."

CheapOair.com is the brainchild of a group of travel industry professionals. Their vision has always been to infuse emerging technology into affordable travel solutions for the most budget conscious minds. Their motto is: "We Discount the Fares, never the Service!" CheapOair's portfolio of airfare products includes over 18 million exclusive airfares, and 85,000 cheap hotels worldwide, and the technological foundation to deliver the cheapest plane tickets and hotel rates online, all over the globe.

Hitwise is the leading online competitive intelligence service. Since 1997, Hitwise has pioneered a unique, network-based approach to Internet measurement. Through relationships with ISPs around the world, Hitwise's patented methodology anonymously captures the online usage, search and conversion behavior of 25 million Internet users. This unprecedented volume of Internet usage data is seamlessly integrated into an easy to use, web-based service, designed to help marketers better plan, implement and report on a range of online marketing programs.

To find out more about CheapOair, log onto, CheapOair.com.

To find out more about Hitwise, log onto, http://hitwise.com.

All trademarks are property of their respective owners.

Copyright © 2008 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, Hitwise awards program, CheapOair travel services

Vacation Buzz from Fare Buzz

Mon, 03 Nov 2008 09:00:46 GMT

NEW YORK, N.Y., Nov. 3 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Today, November 3rd 2008, Fare Buzz has launched a new, dynamic, web-based Vacation Package Booking Tool allowing its members to book vacation packages at net rates to worldwide destinations. This new Vacation Package Program offers air and hotel packages with the option to add cars and other local activities. This new program is available to most destinations within the U.S. and worldwide.

Vacation packages are available for budget as well as upscale travelers. Rates are very competitive and savings are huge. Fare Buzz members can log on to the new booking tool at www.farebuzz.com.

This new Vacations Program provides Fare Buzz members access to pre-negotiated, discounted net rates. Reservations can be made 24/7 on the website or by phone 7 days a week.

As an introductory offer, all Fare Buzz members will be eligible for 5% commission on all vacation packages booked until November 30th, 2008. This will be in addition to the regular mark up which members can add.

Fare Buzz had recently launched Buzz Rewards, an appreciation program for its members whereby they can accrue points for every air, hotel booking. Upon accruing 15 points, the member will automatically be sent a Co-Branded Buzz Rewards cash card pre-loaded with $15 from American Express. Since its launch on August 15th, 2008, over 4,000 members have registered for the Buzz Rewards Program. With this new Vacations Program, members will get 5 points per passenger per booking and be able to get their rewards card much sooner.

"With the holiday season approaching, this is a win-win situation for Fare Buzz members, as not only can they get discounted prices for Vacations but also will be able to receive their commission check within a week of booking. We at Fare Buzz are committed to providing our members with the best travel products and tools so they can compete with the big boys of the industry," says Arnold Walter, President and CEO of Fare Buzz.

Established in 1994, Fare Buzz is a New York-based travel supplier that has grown to be one of the leading travel suppliers in the country. Since their inception, the company revolutionized the world of travel through strategic negotiations and partner alliances. For years, they have been one of the leading travel suppliers. Fare Buzz backs up its product line with a "Price Meet or Beat Policy" and a "Product and Service Guarantee" - these are unique in the B2B world.

Fare Buzz is a pioneer in travel technology; they have developed state-of the-art and user-friendly booking tools for the travel industry. On August 15th 2005, Farebuzz.com was launched and since then it has registered over 30,000 members and is still growing.

Existing Fare Buzz members can log on to www.farebuzz.com and start booking or call 1-888-808-4123 and select option 5 to speak to a Travel Consultant.

New members can simply call to book or sign up to book online. "Fare Buzz - Empowering Travel Professionals."

Copyright © 2008 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, Fare Buzz, Vacation Package Booking Tool

Hariworld Launches Airline Booking Engine

Mon, 03 Nov 2008 08:55:19 GMT

NEW YORK, N.Y., Nov. 3 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Today, Hari World Travels, Inc. ("Hariworld") launched a new unrivaled web-based airline booking engine allowing travel professionals to book contracted and published air fares to worldwide destinations. The new booking engine provides travel professionals with access to more than 10 million fares to Europe, Asia, Africa, South America and beyond.

The travel agent can now complete an entire transaction with just a few clicks of the mouse. Travel agents can search for fares, choose the trip itinerary, book a trip, pay for tickets in 4 easy steps and add their own markup. Thereafter, they have the ability to track every ticketed booking as well as view and print their own invoices. All this can be done online in minutes. Membership is available to qualified travel professionals at no cost.

"Agents need access to state-of-the-art and user-friendly technology in order to provide their clients with the best fares and services available. I urge participants to view the booking engine and provide feedback so we can continue to enhance and meet your needs," says Prem Cohly, CEO.

For 40 years Hariworld has been catering to the travel community offering more seats on more airlines to more destinations at very competitive prices. From a modest beginning in 1968, Hariworld has grown into one of the country's most influential and respected consolidator.

"While our growth has been dramatic, with offices in New York, Chicago, Atlanta and San Francisco we have not sacrificed the personal, dedicated, professional attention to detail that has been the trademark of Hariworld since our inception," says Prem.

More information: www.hariworld.com.

Copyright © 2008 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, Hariworld airline booking engine, Hari World Travels

Travel with Your Own Backrest and Body Pillow! The Curvy Pillow Co. Makes New Curvy Pillow Covers for Home and Away

Wed, 29 Oct 2008 17:21:51 GMT

CHICAGO, Ill., Oct. 29 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Travel with a backrest or body pillow? Yes you can... with our Patent-Pending Curvy Transformational Pillow Covers...any bed pillows can be turned into a body pillow or backrest. The Curvy Pillow Company (curvypillows.com), a long established (since 1988) innovative designer of nature-inspired pillow products, now offers a way to turn ordinary, rectangular bed pillows into curvy, more comfortable, fully functional shapes.

The 3-Piece Set of Curvy Pillow Covers instantly turns your pile of rectangles into a world of curvy comfort that includes a Curvy Backrest, Curvy Head Pillow, and Curvy Body Pillow.

Why do we sleep with rectangle-shaped bed pillows anyway? This is not the most comfortable shape for our bodies! And what do we do with all of those bed pillows that we wrestle and try to get comfortable with?

The answer is to transform them into better, more useful shapes that support us in all of the positions that we need for comfort in bed.

Curvy Transformational Pillow Covers are made of 100% cotton (organic cotton also available) and will transform your ordinary pillows into 3 new functional supports: 1) A Curvy Backrest that supports your head, back, and arms, for reclining, reading and watching television in bed. 2) A Curvy Head Pillow that is oval and can easily adjust, spin and flip without falling out of its case. 3) A Curvy Body Pillow that is the most like a human body and offers support exactly where you need it.

3-Piece Set of Curvy Pillow Covers costs $99.95 plus 5.00 shipping and is available on Amazon.com.

Each Curvy Pillow Case comes with a zippered closure that keeps your bed pillow securely in place. Curvy Covers are an economical way to create comfort in your own bed or on the road. They are compact and easy for travel.

Using ordinary hotel pillows, you can have your backrest, head and body pillow with you wherever you sleep. Curvy Covers easily pack in a small section of your suitcase or purse. They make a great gift for any-body!

More information: www.curvypillows.com.

IMAGES:
*(PHOTO 1 72dpi: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/08-1029-CurvPil1_72dpi.jpg)

*(Caption 1: 3-Piece Set of Curvy Travel Covers.)

*(PHOTO 2 72dpi: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/08-1029-CurvPil2_72dpi.jpg)

*(Caption 2: 3-Piece Travel Cover Set Creates an Island of Serenity)

*(PHOTO 3 72dpi: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/08-1029-CurvPil3_72dpi.jpg)

*(Caption 3: Travel Backrest Cover for Reclining in Bed.)

* Print resolution images available to media.

Copyright © 2008 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, Curvy Pillow Company, Transformational Pillow Covers

Top Ten Culinary Destinations

Mon, 13 Oct 2008 14:02:52 GMT

CHICAGO, Ill., Oct. 13 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- iExplore (www.iExplore.com) announced today their list of Top Ten Culinary Destinations as determined by their Adventure Travel Consultants.

1. New Orleans, Louisiana
Food in New Orleans is a way of life and a big part of the city's charm. Any visit here will mean getting your mouth around dishes such as catfish, jambalaya, gumbo and more.

2. Trastevere, Rome
Trastevere's quiet alleyways, traditional restaurants and picturesque quarters are some of the most desirable areas to eat in Rome.

3. Djemaa el-Fna, Marrakech, Morocco
The nightly open-air market that takes place here after dusk is possibly the greatest in the world. Stalls set up under gaslights and the air becomes hazy with the scent of barbecuing meats and seafood.

4. Donguwa Bazaar, Kashgar, Xinjiang, China
These impressive daily markets offer an incredible array of nuts, dried fruits and spices and a popular milky ice drink.

5. Brunswick Street, Melbourne
Brunswick Street best reflects Melbourne's multi cultural, artistic and tolerant soul. Cafes serve up tasty food and organic vegetable shops and flowers line the footpaths.

6. Oaxaca, Mexico
The markets of Oaxaca are famous for their chocolate and unusual local delicacies such as fried grasshoppers and toasted worms.

7. Spice Market, Istanbul, Turkey
No visit to Istanbul is complete without a visit to the spice markets with their piles of heaped saffron, cumin, sumac, apple tea and Turkish delights.

8. San Sebastian, Spain
For a true Hemingway experience of the Basque region you can't go past San Sebastian. Wander the streets of the old town for tapas and down it with local beer and wine.

9. Newtown, Sydney
Newtown is a Bohemian suburb well known for its numerous bars, Thai eateries and Indian takeaways. Nepalese, Maltese and Japanese are just some of the gamut of cuisine on offer.

10. San Francisco
San Francisco is the restaurant capital of the country and awash in culinary riches.

iExplore offers guided tours to most of the above destinations. Call 1-800-IEXPLORE (1-800-439-7567) for details and pricing.

Founded in 1999, iExplore (www.iExplore.com) is the leading online resource for adventure and experiential travel, serving over 1,300,000 visitors per month at its website.

Copyright © 2008 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, iExplore adventure travel, guided culinary tours

Harvard Doctor Offers Peace of Mind to Florence and Tuscany Travelers

Wed, 24 Sep 2008 11:11:32 GMT

BOSTON, Mass., Sept. 24 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Navigate Health International, an innovator in international medical assistance services, announces its first service line, Florence Medical Assistance. Florence Medical Assistance is a service providing coordinated access to medical care for internationals living in or visiting Florence, Italy, and the nearby Tuscan countryside. This service, with its high level of in-person client assistance, will be the first of its kind in the travel industry.

The Medical Director and CEO, Kevin M. Ban, MD, has been working in Tuscany for the last five years as the Director of the Tuscan Emergency Medical Initiative, a collaboration among Harvard Medical Faculty Physicians, the three university hospitals in Tuscany, and the Tuscan regional government. He is currently serving as Director of the Meyer Pediatric Trauma Center in Florence, in addition to continuing his role as Assistant Clinical Professor at Harvard Medical School.

According to Kevin M. Ban, MD, "Throughout my stay in Tuscany, I have witnessed a disconnect between the Italian health care system and the non-Italian-speaking patient. While medical care in Italy is quite good, the health care system is complex and difficult to navigate for the non-Italian. This, along with language and cultural barriers, often leads to variable care provided to the English-speaking patient. My hope is to help internationals living in or traveling through Tuscany to find the superior care that exists in this region."

While there are many travel insurance and high-end concierge medical service companies that offer medical assistance for travelers via telephone, Navigate is the first company to offer in-person, concierge-level coordinated care to international travelers. Navigate's doctors all work within the Italian system, speak the language, and understand Italian medical culture and practices. The team is led by an American physician, board-certified in the U.S., and a member of Harvard Medical School's teaching faculty.

Navigate's expertise in both the Italian and American health care systems is the key to its service. What is Navigate's promise to clients? Navigate guarantees that, with its in-person expert assistance, internationals living in or traveling through Florence will be guided to the best care that exists in the region.

Navigate Health International, founded in 2008, offers coordinated access to medical care for internationals living in or visiting Florence, Italy.

Its website, www.Navigate-Italy.com offers a variety of service plans for students, travelers, and foreign residents of Tuscany.

If you would like more information about this topic, or to schedule an interview with Dr. Kevin Ban, please call Meaghan Cussen, Director of Business Development, at (USA) 866-377-3848 or e-mail mcussen@Navigate-Italy.com.

Copyright © 2008 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, Navigate Health International, Tuscany medical assistance services

Hyatt Hotels and Resorts Teams with Athletic-Minded Traveler(R) to Add Customized Run Routes to Its Stayfit@Hyatt Program

Tue, 09 Sep 2008 10:12:17 GMT

Joggers and walkers enjoy fresh air with confidence thanks to palm-size route maps

CHICAGO, Ill., Sept. 9 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Athletic-Minded Traveler(R) today announced that Hyatt Hotels & Resorts' North American properties will provide jogging and fitness-walking guests with palm-size route cards designed by Athletic-Minded Traveler(R), a leading healthy-travel and lifestyle media firm. Hyatt is the first major hospitality company to partner with Athletic-Minded Traveler and will feature the maps as part of the StayFit@Hyatt program at participating Hyatt Regency and Grand Hyatt properties.

Enhancing the dynamic selection of StayFit@Hyatt workout programs that cater to fitness-conscious business and leisure travelers, these easy-to-carry cards will provide runners and walkers of all levels with essential information to help them follow healthy pursuits while away from home. The Athletic-Minded Traveler maps offer detailed directions on one side (beginning at each property's front door) and a colorful map with mileage markers on the other (routes range from 2 to 8 miles). The unique tools encourage runners to head outdoors by answering the vital questions "Where?" and "How far?"

"Our staff of active-lifestyle experts is extremely proud to provide Hyatt guests with individually-researched route maps," says Jim Kaese, Co-Founder of San Diego-based Athletic-Minded Traveler, LLC.

"Because jogging and walking are the most popular endurance activities for North Americans (e.g., even the frequent running population - 100+ days/year - is estimated at an impressive 16 million, according to the Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association) runners will always be the largest group of Hyatt guests in search of a quality fitness experience. By offering this resource, Hyatt conveys to the running and fitness-walking communities that it understands their plight of identifying legitimate routes while staying in unfamiliar destinations and aspires to accommodate their healthy lifestyle choices."

"This new service from Athletic-Minded Traveler adds a valuable component to our StayFit@Hyatt program," said Gordon Tareta, Vice President of Spa Operations for Global Hyatt Corporation. "Every participating property has been assessed by Athletic-Minded Traveler staff which is made up of fitness-conscious individuals who share our guests' interest in living a healthy lifestyle. Athletic-Minded Traveler shares Hyatt's dedication to providing uncompromising service and is an ideal partner."

About Global Hyatt Corporation

Global Hyatt Corporation, headquartered in Chicago, is one of the world's premier hotel companies. The hotels owned, operated, managed or franchised by its subsidiaries provide authentic hospitality to guests in 45 countries through a passionate commitment to personalized service, cultural relevance, and the environment. Global Hyatt subsidiaries own, operate, manage or franchise more than 365 hotels and resorts worldwide under the Hyatt(R), Hyatt Regency(R), Hyatt Resorts(TM), Grand Hyatt(R), Park Hyatt(R), Hyatt Place(R), Hyatt Summerfield Suites(R) and Andaz(TM) brands with additional properties under development on five continents. Global Hyatt Corporation is also the owner of Hyatt Vacation Ownership, Inc., operator of Hyatt Vacation Club(R). The success of Global Hyatt is driven by the commitment and energy of the approximately 90,000 men and women around the world who provide exceptional service to hotel guests. From the U.S. and Canada, reservations for any Hyatt hotel worldwide may be obtained by calling 1-800-233-1234 or visiting www.hyatt.com.

About Athletic-Minded Traveler LLC

Based in San Diego, Athletic-Minded Traveler LLC is a leading active-lifestyle media company providing unique content and resources to Fortune 500 corporate travel and wellness/work-life programs, print and online media firms, and the travel and fitness industries. Inquiries can be addressed at 1-877-272-6657 or: www.athleticmindedtraveler.com.

All trademarks acknowledged.

Copyright © 2008 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, StayFit at Hyatt program, Athletic Minded Traveler

Top Ten Hiking and Trekking Vacation Spots Worldwide

Mon, 08 Sep 2008 12:37:32 GMT

CHICAGO, Ill., Sept. 8 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- iExplore (www.iExplore.com) announced today their list of Top Ten Hiking and Trekking Vacation Spots Worldwide as determined by their Adventure Travel Consultants.

1. Annapurna Circuit, Nepal
The 186.5 mile, three week Annapurna circuit gets you up close to some of the highest mountains in the Himalayas, and is considered the best hike in the world by many.

2. Appalachian Trail
Each year tens of thousands of people set off to complete the entire length of this 2,175 mile trail that takes months to complete, while thousands of others hike just sections of the trail.

3. Santa Cruz Trek, Peru
It's a 4-day, 31 mile hike through wildflower filled meadows, turquoise lakes, and near the highest snow capped peaks outside the Himalayas.

4. Kilimanjaro National Park, Tanzania
Apart from the snow-capped cone of Mount Kilimanjaro, the various routes take you through gorges and past Africa's amazing wildlife.

5. Tour de Mont Blanc, France/Italy/Switzerland
The 106 mile trail near the highest peak in the Alps (15,780 feet) traverses three borders.

6. West Coast Trail, British Columbia
A 75 mile coastal hike on Vancouver Island's pristine wilderness includes views of caves, cliffs, coves, beaches, shipwrecks, and much more.

7. Overland Track, Australia
The 80km (50 mile) Overland Track in Cradle Mountain and Lake St. Clair National Park in Tasmania is often considered Australia's best.

8. Torres del Paine, Chile
Torres del Paine National Park in the far south of Chile is home to two legendary trails: The Loop and the W.

9. John Muir Trail, California
Named after the founder of the Sierra Club, you will traverse Yosemite, Kings Canyon, and Sequoia National Parks. Ansel Adams would be jealous.

10. Camino de Santiago, Spain
Hiking this 460 mile pilgrimage footpath, a thousand year old tradition, leads to cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, the third holiest site in Christianity.

iExplore offers guided tours to most of the above destinations. Call 1-800-IEXPLORE (1-800-439-7567) for details and pricing.

Founded in 1999, iExplore (www.iExplore.com) is the leading online resource for adventure and experiential travel, serving over 1,300,000 visitors per month at its website.

Today, Fare Buzz is Proud to Announce the Launch of Buzz Rewards - a New Rewards Program for Fare Buzz Members

Fri, 15 Aug 2008 11:57:07 GMT

NEW YORK, N.Y. (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Buzz Rewards is an appreciation program whereby travel professionals accrue points for every air and hotel booking made with Fare Buzz. Each point translates into $1. Upon accruing 15 points in purchasing power, the member will automatically be sent a co-branded Buzz Rewards Card, pre-loaded with a $15.00 value from American Express Incentive Services. The Buzz Rewards Card can be used at over 190 retail chains throughout the United States for shopping, dining, travel and entertainment. The Card is re-usable and will be re-loaded weekly as the member continues booking with Fare Buzz.

Buzz Rewards is absolutely free and open to all existing and new members. Existing Fare Buzz members need to Register for this program online at farebuzz.com/rewards.

New members simply need to sign up for their free Fare Buzz membership at farebuzz.com/rewards and they will automatically be enrolled in the Buzz Rewards program. All bookings made as of August 15, 2008 will qualify for Buzz Rewards points.

According to Arnold Walter, president and CEO of Fare Buzz, "The Buzz Rewards program is a token of thanks and gratitude to our members for their continued support. This program is truly one-of-a-kind as none of our competitors offer anything similar in the marketplace. We at Fare Buzz are very excited about this new program and hope that our partners will make the best of it."

Today, August 15, 2008, Fare Buzz is also celebrating the third anniversary of the launch of FareBuzz.com and was established in 1994. Based in New York City, Fare Buzz has grown to be one of the leading travel suppliers in the United States. Since their inception, the company revolutionized the world of air travel through strategic negotiations with key suppliers and establishing strong partner alliances that provide a wide range of travel solutions for our members.

For years, they have been one of the leading suppliers of premium class airline tickets. Recently, they launched a new net rate Hotel Booking Engine enabling travel professionals to book hotels at net rates at over 100,000 hotel and resort properties worldwide.

Helpful Links:
* Existing Fare Buzz members - Register at www.farebuzz.com/rewards
* New members - Sign Up at www.farebuzz.com

Email: memberships @farebuzz.com

Program Information contact:
Tannia Ortega
Phone: 1-888-808-4123, Ext. 100
Email: tannia @farebuzz.com

All trademarks acknowledged.

Seven Sure-bet Reasons You'll Get More Euro for Your Dollar in Tucked-away Tuscany

Thu, 14 Aug 2008 18:12:22 GMT

MIAMI, Fla. (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Off the Beaten Strada, a company that creates in-depth tours to Central Italy, announced today its new Touring Tuscany by Car packages by highlighting Seven Sure-bet Reasons You'll Get More Euro for Your Dollar in Tucked-away Tuscany, as determined by the travel staff of Off the Beaten Strada, along with their Italy tour partners.

"The secret to getting more euro for your dollar in Tuscany," says president and founder of Off the Beaten Strada, Pamela Haack, "is traveling away from over-crowded tourist areas, and heading to the treasure-filled countryside." With a focus on value, Haack suggests seven sure-bet ways to stretch your dollar in Tuscany by visiting tucked-away villages and hamlets.

1. Accommodations: Venturing off the beaten strada into the countryside of Tuscany means you'll get more accommodation for each euro you spend - lots more. For as little as 50 euro per person you can get a first-rate (and we do mean first-rate) sleeping room in an agriturismo (farmhouse accommodation) with private bath, homemade Italian breakfast and fabulous views.

2. Organic Foods: We say, "organic." They say, "Is there any other way?" Farmer's markets, fruit and vegetable shops and restaurants throughout countryside villages in Tuscany sell and serve the freshest foods they have on hand, and the prices are impossible to beat. Most often what you buy or eat is produced organically on a nearby farm.

3. Shopping: Almost every village and town in Tuscany has a market day - ask at any bar or tobacco stand to find out which day. You'll pay local prices (way cheaper than the cities) and find everything from shoes to purses to flowers to cheeses.

4. Cheap (Excellent) Wine: The Tuscan countryside is filled with vineyards and wineries, and many offer tastings and tours. Look for roadside signs that read "enoteca" (wine tastings) or "vendita diritta" (direct sales) and you'll save a bundle on wine. Also, check out supermarkets. It's not uncommon to find good table wine for one euro per bottle!

5. Thermal Baths: Tuscany boasts many spa resorts - most are exclusive and very pricey. To have the experience of restorative waters, without the hefty price tag, villages like San Casciano and Bagno Vignoni have free thermal baths just outside their town centers. Ask for directions in the tourist information centers.

6. Works of Art: Churches in tiny villages and hamlets throughout Central Italy are filled with important works of art, and most only ask that you leave a donation for viewing. These were the places that famous artists (Raphael, Michelangelo, Perugino) schooled before heading to the larger palaces and cathedrals in the cities - and you won't have to stand in line for viewing.

7. Better Meals: Ok, that's a big claim (because it's hard to find bad food in Tuscany) but the truth is, the further you venture from the tourist-filled areas, the more likely you'll find the real deal - authentic Italian cooking - and often for a fraction of the price charged in over-crowded spots. Fantastico!

Off the Beaten Strada creates in-depth tour experiences into less-traveled areas of Tuscany and Central Italy. Fully guided upscale tours and affordable Touring Tuscany by Car tours are available. Visit www.offthebeatenstrada.com or call 1-888-436-8901 for details and pricing.

Off the Beaten Strada (offthebeatenstrada.com) is a member of the American Society of Travel Agents and the International Eco-tourism Society, and happily supports community tourism by using only local experts, guides and services. Tours are created with an impeccable attention to detail and quality.

Top Ten Summer World Travel Destinations for Cultural Exploration

Mon, 11 Aug 2008 12:33:05 GMT

CHICAGO, Ill. (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- iExplore (iExplore.com) announced today their list of Top Ten Summer World Travel Destinations for Cultural Exploration as determined by vacation purchases of its adventure and experiential travelers.

1. The Pyramids, Egypt
The largest man made structures in the world and are one of the most lasting symbols of ancient civilization.

2. Machu Picchu, Peru
Recently named one of the world's new seven wonders; this remote Inca citadel has perhaps the most dramatic setting of any ruin in the world.

3. Thailand
Thailand is a rush to traveler's senses: a bustling, exotic, and vivid culture that never ceases to amaze visitors.

4. Madagascar
Madagascar, the fourth-largest island in the world is a land unlike any other. Madagascar is an enticing destination for those who find its lack of modern conveniences, tourist infrastructure and efficient transport system an interesting proposition rather than a problem.

5. Great Wall, China
The only man made structure that can be seen from space spans more than 4,000 miles across mainland China.

6. Jerusalem, Israel
The old walled city of Jerusalem, a holy site of Judaism, Christianity and Islam, is dominated by historic sites such as the Dome of the Rock, Wailing Wall, and church of the Holy Sepulchre.

7. Taj Mahal, India
The world's most famous testament of love. This white domed mausoleum made of the finest stones in Agra, India is the finest example of Mughal architecture and Muslim art and recognized for its beauty the world over.

8. Tunisia
Tunisia, the smallest country in North Africa, has a lot to offer travelers including Mediterranean beaches, the Sahara desert, to sets from the film Star Wars.

9. Vietnam
Only in Vietnam is the past and the present encapsulated so perfectly.

10. Japan
Ancient temples and futuristic cities; mist-shrouded mountains and lightning-fast bullet trains; kimono-clad geisha and suit-clad businessmen: Japan offers all of this and more.

iExplore offers guided tours to most of the above destinations. Call 1-800-IEXPLORE (1-800-439-7567) for details and pricing.

Founded in 1999, iExplore (www.iExplore.com) is the leading online resource for adventure and experiential travel, serving over 1,300,000 visitors per month at its website.

Top Ten Family Travel Vacations Worldwide

Wed, 30 Jul 2008 11:56:01 GMT

CHICAGO, Ill., July 30 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- iExplore (www.iExplore.com) announced today their list of Top Ten Family Travel Vacation Experiences Worldwide as determined by the iExplore team of world travel experts.

Top 10 Family Travel Vacations - Overall

1. Fly fishing, Scotland
If your kids love to fish this is the ideal location where you can fish for salmon or trout.

2. Dude ranch stay
Give your kids an authentic taste of the old West and take a step out of your hectic family life.

3. Cappadocia, Turkey
Kids will love this region of underground cities where they can explore the subterranean levels and the labyrinth of tunnels.

4. Galapagos, Ecuador
Take the family to the famed Galapagos Islands and enjoy the diversity of marine life by exploring the islands by sea kayak.

5. Skiing Mt Cook, New Zealand
If you're in this part of the world and really seeking a white winter family vacation, this is really the best place to go.

6. Horse riding, Argentina
Go on a unique family vacation on a horse Estancia in the Cordoba hills to try some home rides, long-distance pack trips, polo, bird watching, walking or simply relaxing.

7. Ice Hotel, Quebec, Canada
Families with kids are more than welcome at this amazing hotel, constructed entirely of ice and snow, for either overnight stays or day trips.

8. Morocco
Live like a desert nomad for a night, ride a camel in the Sahara, relax by the beach in Essaouira, souvenir shop in the souqs, sample the tasty cuisine or even journey into the Atlas Mountains.

9. Elephant safari, Chiang Mai, Thailand
Visit colorful ethnic hill tribes and sleep deep in the jungle on these safaris on elephant back.

10. Egypt
This is such an adventure location and can really bring ancient history to life for young minds.

iExplore offers guided tours to most of the above destinations. Call 1-800-IEXPLORE (1-800-439-7567) or 1-312-492-9443 for details and pricing.

Founded in 1999, iExplore (www.iExplore.com) is the leading online resource for adventure and experiential travel, serving over 1,300,000 visitors per month at its website.