Costa Sur Resort & Spa a staple of the Puerto Vallarta hotel scene has started a proactive campaign to promote its lodging offerings to the LGBT market. A popular family hotel, Costa Sur has become one of the leading LGBT wedding hotels in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico’s leading LGBT international destination. “Costa Sur has been around for many years and we have many repeat and multi generations returning to the property,” said Gerardo Cilveti, General Manager of Costa Sur Resort & Spa. “The LGBT market has organically grown into our consumer base as the children and even grandkids of our guests continue the tradition of returning to Puerto Vallarta and staying with us. As a result, we have hosted multiple gay and lesbian weddings where entire families feel comfortable.” As part of the LGBT campaign, Costa Sur is introducing and adults-only section with 12 new Premium Ocean Front Suites luxuriously detailed with touches of natural stones, modern furniture, spotlighting and chromotherapy techniques. The suites are also equipped with a granite surfaced kitchenette with stainless steel appliances, free Wi-Fi, and an oversized “Smart: television with access to YouTube and Netflix. The adult’s-only section of the hotel will be serviced by its own club area with its own concierge and tech staff. Special dishes from the hotels award-winning restaurants will also be offered to guests staying in the Premium Ocean Front Suites. All Costa Sur’s Premium Suites are ocean front with an outside terrace providing a unique experience and view of the entire Bay of Banderas. Recognized as one of the friendliest destinations in the world, Puerto Vallarta Mexico has been home to a large LGBT community since the 1970’s and opens the Pride season with Vallarta Pride in May. Costa Sur Resort & Spa is located on a private beach with a crystal clear swimming lagoon only 7 minutes away from Puerto Vallarta’s gayborhood, the Romantic Zone, a local area known for its art galleries, coffee shops, gay- lesbian bars and its colorful bohemian atmosphere. WHEN YOU GO, TRY THE PROUD TO TRAVEL PACKAGEAt Costa Sur Resort we have created a package to pamper you all the way from the moment you arrive and for as many days as you wish to stay with us! Our Proud to Travel package includes:
SHERATON HACIENDA DEL MAR HOSTS THIRD ANNUAL CHEESE & WINE FESTIVAL, MARCH 7 The AAA Four Diamond Resort Hosts Celebration with a Toast to Los Cabos Los Cabos, Mexico (February 13, 2015) – After the destruction of Hurricane Odile this past September, the Sheraton Hacienda del Mar Golf & Spa Resort is celebrating the rebirth of Los Cabos with the return of its third annual charitable Cheese & Wine Festival. On Saturday March 7, 2015 beginning at 6:00 p.m., locals and tourists alike will come together to indulge in wine, bread and cheese from 10 of the industry’s best cheese and wine vendors. “As Los Cabos continues to rebuild from the hurricane, it is important for us to help bring fun, light-hearted experiences back to the community for both locals and visitors to enjoy,” said Renato Mendonca, General Manager of the Sheraton Hacienda del Mar. “With the Sheraton being the only resort in the area with two five star diamond award-winning fine dining restaurants, we pride ourselves in bringing one-of-a-kind culinary experiences to Cabo. And similar to previous events, our Cheese & Wine Festival will benefit a local charity, Sarahuaro AC Foundation, which provides women and children with workshops focused on community action and building self-esteem.” The Sheraton Hacienda del Mar emphasizes creating events in the best interest of the local community all while providing guests with extraordinary culinary experiences. The resort strongly pushes programs that encourage both locals and visitors to make a difference in the lives of those in need. Tickets for the Cheese & Wine Festival are 499 Mexican Pesos or about $34 USD per person, including tax and gratuity. For more information on the Sheraton Hacienda del Mar Golf & Spa Resort or to find out more about the Cheese & Wine Festival on March 7, 2015, please call 52-624-145-8000 or visit www.sheratonloscabos.com. For news, updates, and special offers, follow the Sheraton Los Cabos on Facebook and Twitter. For more information about the Sarahuaro AC Foundation, visit http://www.sarahuaro.org. Keywords: gay Travelers Magazine, Sheraton, Sarahuaro AC Foundation, Sheraton Hacienda del Mar, Los Cabos, GILBERT REPLACES CHANG IN ATP CHAMPIONS TOUR EVENT Former French Open Champion Nursing Injury DELRAY BEACH, FL: Former ATP pro, celebrated coach and television analyst Brad Gilbert will replace Michael Chang in the ATP Champions Tour event after Chang withdrew with a groin injury. Gilbert won 20 ATP titles and a bronze medal at the 1988 Olympics, reached the quarterfinals of two Grand Slams, and was ranked as high as No. 4 in the world (1990) during his playing career. Known as a brilliant strategist, Gilbert coached the last two Americans who have reached No. 1 in the world - Andre Agassi (1994-2002) and Andy Roddick (2003-2004). Gilbert coached Agassi for six of his eight Grand Slam wins, and was Roddick's coach when he won the 2003 US Open. Gilbert also coached Andy Murray to a world No. 8 ranking. He will join former Top 10 James Blake and Grand Slam mixed doubles champion Justin Gimelstob on the Team USA squad that will play the Team International trio of 2001 Wimbledon champion Goran Ivanisevic, two-time Grand Slam runnerup Mark Philippoussisand two-time Grand Slam doubles champion Emilio Sanchez. Here is the updated 2015 ATP Champions Tour schedule: Friday, February 13, 6:00 pm, James Blake vs Mark Philippoussis Friday, February 13, 8:00 pm, Brad Gilbert vs Goran Ivanisevic Saturday, February 14, 12:00 noon, Justin Gimbelstob vs Mark Philippoussis Saturday, February 14, NB 2:00 pm, Brad Gilbert vs Emilio Sanchez Saturday, February 14, 6:00 pm, Justin Gimelstob vs Goran Ivanisevic Saturday, February 14, NB 8:00 pm, James Blake vs Emilio Sanchez Sunday, February 15, 12:00 noon, Brad Gilbert vs Mark Philippoussis Sunday, February 15, 12:30 pm, Justin Gimelstob vs Emilio Sanchez (Ct 1) Sunday, February 15, NB 2:00 pm, James Blake vs Goran Ivanisevic * * * * * * 2015 ATP WORLD TOUR - SOCK & STEPANEK OUT Serbs Krajinovic and Troicki Into Draw DELRAY BEACH, FL: Filip Krajinovic and Viktor Troicki, two stalwarts of Serbia's recent successful Davis Cup teams, have joined the 2015 Delray Beach draw. They replace two players still rehabbing injuries: American Jack Sock (strained abs) and Czech Republic veteran Radek Stepanek (back). Troicki has participated in 15 Davis Cup ties since 2008 and was a member of the 2010 world champion Serbian Davis Cup team, while Krajinovic played for his country for the first time in 2014. UPDATED 2015 Singles Entry List: Kevin Anderson (RSA), Benjamin Becker (GER), Marin Cilic (CRO), Juan Martin del Potro (ARG), Ivan Dodig (CRO), Alexandr Dolgopolov (UKR), Teymuraz Gabashvili (RUS), Sam Groth (AUS), John Isner (USA), Malek Jaziri (TUN), Steve Johnson (USA), Ivo Karlovic (CRO), Filip Krajinovic (SRB), Mikhail Kukushkin (KAZ), Lukas Lacko (SVK), Yen-Hsun Lu (TPE), Adrian Mannarino (FRA), Marinko Matosevic (AUS), Sam Querrey (USA), Igor Sijsling (NED), Bernard Tomic (AUS), Viktor Troicki (SRB), Donald Young (USA) Keywords: Gay Travelers Magazine, Delray Beach, ATP, ATP Champions Tour, Florida, tennis, Film Festivals Flourish in San Diego The Sundance Film Festival held in the winter and the Cannes Film Festival held every spring may be known for drawing film fans to their annual celebrations, but cinephiles can find something to love in San Diego throughout the year. With more than a dozen specialty festivals screening everything from horror to fashion, and from LGBT- to Hispanic-themed films, San Diego is emerging as a leading destination for film lovers. The following are a few of the many film festivals that can be found in San Diego throughout the year:
Happiness is calling in San Diego. For more information on San Diego's offerings, including exciting vacation packages and valuable coupons for attractions, restaurants and more, visit the San Diego Tourism Authority's website at www.sandiego.org or call 619-236-1212. Keywords: Gay Travelers Magazine, San Diego, blog, film festivals, COLOSSAL CURL OPENS MARCH 7 Adventure Island’s Newest Family Thrill Slide Opens for the 2015 Season Tampa, Fla. (Feb. 13, 2014) – Adventure Island’s® newest family thrill slide Colossal Curl™ will open on March 7 for the start of the 2015 season. Construction on Colossal Curl has been ongoing since the end of last season and will be wrapping up in the coming weeks. True to its name and holding up to four passengers, this mega slide will stand at 70 feet high and deliver a high-adrenaline, action-packed adventure, making it the ultimate family thrill slide. Riders will hurtle high above Adventure Island’s 30 acres of water-drenched fun in the sun and experience a feeling of weightlessness before diving back in to the splash pool. Visit adventureisland.com for more information. And be the first to know about new events, special deals and future announcements by following the Busch Gardens’ blog at BuschGardensTampaBlog.com. Or join the conversation by using #conquerthecurl on Facebook Twitter or Instagram. Bicycle Adventures Is Wheeling in Families With New Cycling Holidays for 2015 Issaquah, WA, Oct. 30, 2014 – Bicycle Adventures http://bicycleadventures.com/ is wheeling into the active family travel market with a new-for-2015 Family Tour Series. This Pacific Northwest-based active travel company specializing in two-wheel tours in North America and internationally offers three new family options on vehicle-free bike paths in Idaho, South Dakota and Seattle. “What sets us apart? The most exciting thing about our family tours is is that all of them are on safe, car-free bike paths. The routes are super-fun, incredibly scenic and safe as can be,” said Todd Starnes,Bicycle Adventures’ President and Owner. He said his staff can arrange to accommodate infants and toddlers in trailers; children as young as four can participate in pedaling special tag-along bikes attached to the back of a parent’s bicycle. Equipment is provided by the company. “Our company receives most of our new trip and destination ideas from our loyal alumni riders,” explains Starnes. “For years we’ve been hearing, ‘what about more family trips?’ so we’ve responded with a sure-to-be-a-hit lineup of cool rides!” The two-wheel itineraries include such diversions as ice cream stops, amusement parks, swimming and river rafting. Here’s Bicycle Adventures’ new family trip roster: Idaho’s Coeur d'Alene Family Tour: Two of the "best paved bike trails in the U.S." - saysBicycling Magazine are the Trail of the Hiawatha and the Trail of the Coeur d'Alene. Guests ride through tunnels and over trestle bridges and even take a chairlift to the top of a mountain and ride bikes down again. There’s rafting on the Clark Fork River and a side trip to Silverwood Theme Park. This five-day program is $2,295; children’s discounts are available. Departures are June 29, July 13 and Aug. 17.http://bicycleadventures.com/tours/family-bike-tours/Coeur-d'Alene-Family---NEW! South Dakota’s Mt. Rushmore Family Tour: This itinerary opens up everything this astonishing area has to offer, from the country's #1-ranked bike path, the Mickelson Trail, to the world-famous Wall Drug to buffalo grazing in the Badlands to playing in hot springs. Families explore a pre-historic mammoth dig and Wind Cave NP (discovered by a bored teenager), rock climb before cycling to Sylvan Lake, the Flintstones' Bedrock City and to Crazy Horse Monument, the largest rock sculpture in the world. Then it's off to Mt Rushmore and a tour finish in the rough-and-tumble town of Deadwood, once home to Wild Bill Hickock and Calamity Jane. A Wild West gunfight is for show and tell. The six-day adventure is $2,395; children’s discounts available. Departures are June 14 and 28. http://bicycleadventures.com/tours/family-bike-tours/Mt.-Rushmore-Family-Tour---NEW! Seattle Family Tour: Cyclists gather on the coal miners' trail with a short trail ride to the Iron Horse B&B to stay in honest-to-goodness converted cabooses. Then they ride the John Wayne Trail through a two-mile bike path tunnel to the summit of Snoqualmie Pass and on to Rattlesnake Lake with a quick stop for rock climbing, hiking and/or a dip. There’s time for a ferry ride and to explore downtown Seattle, Pike's Place Market, the Seattle Aquarium, the Space Needle and pedaling the waterfront bike path. This five-day trip is $2,395; children’s discounts available. Departures are June 22, July 13 and Aug. 10. http://bicycleadventures.com/tours/family-bike-tours/Seattle-Family-Tour---NEW! Bicycle Adventures has offered a special trip for families in the past and will continue its popular Hawaii Family with extra kid-friendly activities built into the tour in addition to hiking, biking and catamaran cruising. Guests may opt for stand-up-paddle boarding or surfing lesson plus there’s plenty of time to snorkel and to enjoy some of the great swimming pools at the hotels when not pedaling quiet back roads and lanes. An ocean-side natural hot spring at Ahalanui Park heated with volcanoes is a big hit with the kids. The per person double rate for six days is $2,660; children’s discounts available. Departures Mar. 29 and Dec. 27, 2015.http://bicycleadventures.com/tours/family-bike-tours/Hawaii-Family-Bike-Tour For more information, 2014 and 2015 availability and reservations contact Bicycle Adventures by phone: 800.443.6060, email: office@bicycleadventures.com or visit online at: http://bicycleadventures.com/. About Bicycle Adventures - North America’s Premier Bicycle Touring Company™ Scenic byways, four and five-star accommodations and local dining and visits to National Parks are trademarks Bicycle Adventures, founded in 1984. Types of tours include Classic (25-50 miles a day), Classic Plus (50-60 miles a day) and Epic (70+ miles a day with the most demanding terrain). Value-driven Frugal category of trips offers budget-conscious lodging and meals, van support and shorter itineraries. Pre-set and custom tours embrace the Pacific Northwest into Canada, California and the Southwest, as well as Colorado, South Dakota, New York, Hawaii, New Zealand, Spain’s Basque region and Taiwan. Excelling in its own backyard the Issaquah, WA,-based company conducts tours of Washington State’s wine country and includes an immersion into the craft beer industry in California, Oregon and Washington. Keywords: Gay Travelers Magazine, Bicycle Adventures, Seattle, Manatees and Snowbirds Know That the Water In Citrus County is Perfect for a Winter Swim! Follow their lead. Manatees and snowbirds (of the human variety) know that the place to be during frigid winter months is in Citrus County, Florida, where hundreds of the gentle giants migrate each year to enjoy the relatively warm, spring-fed waters of Crystal River and Homosassa River. Why should your readers do like themanatees and visit Citrus County this winter? Because Citrus County is the only place in the U.S. where visitors can actually swim with these chilled animals while they stay warm in spring water! So go ahead and give a thousand pound manatee a bully rub or a quick tickle, when one swims up to you! Want to see manatees without getting wet? Visit the Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, where visitors can watch manatees up close in an underwater observatory in the main spring. Visitors can also see the rare whooping crane, deer, bears, bobcats, egrets and flamingos along unspoiled nature trails. Swimming with a manatee is a Bucket List item that can easily be checked off with a visit to Citrus County this winter. To learn more about the area, special offers, events and accommodations, please go to VisitCitrus.com, or call the Citrus County Visitors & Convention Bureau toll-free at 1-800-587-6667 Keywords: Gay Travelers Magazine, Homosassa Springs, manatee, manatees, Florida, Citrus County, Uniworld's Asia 2016 Boutique River Cruises and Journeys Open for Booking with New Destination and New Luxury All-Suite Ship DELRAY BEACH, FL, Nov. 24, 2014 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection announces 2016 Asia cruises and journeys are open for booking. Debuting in January 2016 will be Uniworld's newest destination, India. Guests traveling to India with Uniworld will be treated to a new luxury all-suite ship, Ganges Voyager ll, and will stay at the award-winning Oberoi Hotels & Resorts while visiting New Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. All of Uniworld's Asia programs, including China and Vietnam and Cambodia, feature five-star luxury hotels and ships designed with guests' ultimate comfort in mind. "We are incredibly excited about our product offering in Asia, especially announcing our newest destination, India, and our new all-suite luxury ship. Uniworld wants to continue to offer our clients a well-diversified portfolio of product offerings throughout the world, and we want to deliver to our guests the very best accommodations and amenities these regions have to offer," said Guy Young, President of Uniworld. "All three of our Asian programs--India, China, and Vietnam and Cambodia--are absolutely fascinating places to visit, with experiences and sights to entice even the most well-traveled guest." Uniworld's newest cruise and journey, the 13-day "India's Golden Triangle & the Sacred Ganges," includes seven nights onboard the most luxurious river cruise ship sailing the Ganges River--the all-suite 56-passenger Ganges Voyager II--and five nights onshore at three award-wining Oberoi Hotels & Resorts properties: The Oberoi, New Delhi; the Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra; and the Oberoi Rajvilas, Jaipur. Guests on this itinerary will visit India's Taj Mahal, Mother Teresa's tomb and former home, an enormous Vedic temple in Mayapur, five UNESCO sites, and much more. In China, travelers can delve into the country's millennia-old culture on one of Uniworld's four enticing river cruises and journeys. From the most iconic sites of Beijing, Xian, and Tibet, to the ethereal landscapes of Guilin, Suzhou, and the Yangtze, Uniworld guests will be treated to unsurpassed luxury and style. Uniworld uses only five-star luxury hotels onshore, including the Waldorf Astoria Shanghai and The Ritz Carlton Beijing. Onboard, guests will stay in Uniworld Signature Suites with exclusive VIP benefits available only to Uniworld guests. Adventurous souls looking to explore distant corners of the world can indulge their cultural curiosity with Uniworld's 15-day "Timeless Wonders of Vietnam, Cambodia & the Mekong." Guests spend seven nights onboard the intimate River Orchid, which boasts just 30 staterooms and carries no more than 60 guests, assuring more personalized service and small-group excursions. Onshore, guests stay at five-star luxury properties, including the Park Hyatt Saigon. From Vietnam's bustling cities of Saigon and Hanoi to Cambodia's Phnom Penh and Siem Reap--gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage Angkor Wat--Uniworld guests will experience the genuine warmth, cheerful hospitality, and resilient nature of the Vietnamese and Cambodian people. Travelers will also discover two ways of life joined by one mighty river, the Mekong. Whether you've already traveled through Asia or are contemplating your very first visit, Uniworld's river cruises and journeys will leave a lasting impression, as each itinerary is designed to take travelers to the world-class treasures and hidden gems these regions offer in incomparable luxury. And for those couples booking and paying in full at the time of reservation by June 30, 2015, they can save up to $1,200. For more details, please visit www.uniworld.com. Keywords: Gay Travelers Magazine, Uniworld, river cruises, river cruise, Boutique River Cruises, Florida Keys & Key West 2015 Event Highlights FLORIDA KEYS -- The Florida Keys & Key West provide year-round entertainment for visitors, from festivals focusing on the area's colorful history, artistic culture and eccentric ambiance to events celebrating the Keys underwater paradise and culinary offerings. While this calendar lists selected highlights for 2015, a full schedule of events throughout the Keys can be found at fla-keys.com/calendarofevents. Jan. 3: Orange Bowl Swim Classic. Key Largo. Some of the best college swimmers in the country, and perhaps future Olympians, compete each year at Jacobs Aquatic Center, mile marker (MM) 99.6 oceanside, in a free-to-attend event that is part of the celebration surrounding the annual Orange Bowl college football game in Miami. Visit www.jacobsaquaticcenter.org or call 305-453-7946. Jan. 9-10: Florida Keys Celtic Festival. Marathon. Some of America's most celebrated Celtic musical masters are to be featured at the event held at the Marathon Community Park, MM 49. The festival will also feature Highland athletics, Celtic merchandise, food and beverage booths and children's activities. Visitwww.celticheritageproductions.com/keys.htm or call 941-625-8544. Jan. 8-11: Key West Literary Seminar. The 2015 topic, "How the Light Gets In: Literature of the Spirit," will investigate literature's relationship to the inexplicable. The annual seminar attracts literary aficionados from around the world for readings, discussions and lectures led by some of contemporary literature's leading writers. Visit www.kwls.org or call 888-293-9291. Jan. 8-17: Uncorked ... the Key Largo and Islamorada Food & Wine Festival. Key Largo and Islamorada. Enjoy a multisensory experience as Key Largo and Islamorada's culinary experts team up to present tasty food, wine and spirits events. Savor the flavors of the Keys in 10 days of culinary events, cooking demonstrations, themed wine dinners, food and wine pairing classes, art and wine shows, gourmet chocolate-crafting classes for kids and "A Grand Tasting" finale. Visit www.floridakeysuncorked.com or call 305-394-3736. Jan. 9-11: Brew On the Bay. Key Largo. Presented by the Rotary Club of Key Largo, this craft beer festival includes a home brew competition and a main event featuring more than 100 craft beers from around the world, showcased in an unlimited tasting with food, music and entertainment along the waterfront at Rowell's Marina, MM 104.5 bayside. Visit www.keylargobrewonthebay.com or call 305-304-0554. Jan. 10: No Name Race. Big Pine & the Lower Keys. Join a 5k walk and run that benefits the Domestic Abuse Shelter of the Florida Keys. The race begins at 8 a.m., covers 3.1 miles and is based at the Old Wooden Bridge Guest Cottages & Marina on Big Pine Key. Call 305-743-5452. Jan. 12-16: Paradise Paint Out. Islamorada. This inaugural invitational plein air celebration features 25 artists creating a body of work that reflects Islamorada and the Florida Keys "in the open air." Presented by the Morada Way Arts & Cultural District, the event combines the vibrant colors of island living with talented artists from across the country. Visit www.moradaway.org/paradisepaintout. Jan. 16-17: 55th Annual Historic House Tours. Key West. Presented by the Old Island Restoration Foundation, the house and garden tours offer a rare opportunity to see inside some of Key West's magnificent, charming and tropical residences that reflect the varied tastes and originality of their owners. Additional tours are scheduled for Feb. 13-14 and March 13-14. Visit www.oirf.org or call 305-294-9501. Jan. 17: 32nd Annual Art Under the Oaks. Islamorada. This show in the San Pedro Church gardens, MM 89.5, features fine art and original crafts in many mediums as well as food vendors, live music and raffles from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free. Visit www.artundertheoaks.com or call 305-664-0888. Jan. 17-18: 10th Annual Florida Keys Seafood Festival. Key West. This family-oriented feast features fresh local Keys seafood, drinks, marine-related crafts, youth activities and live music. The two-day event is held at Bayview Park from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 5.p.m. Sunday. Visit www.fkcfa.org orwww.monroe.ifas.ufl.edu. January 17-18: Third Annual Baygrass Bluegrass Festival. Islamorada. The annual Baygrass Bluegrass Festival is to feature several leading bluegrass bands -- both "oldgrass" and "newgrass" -- at the ICE Amphitheater, MM 87 bayside at Founders Park. Admission is a suggested donation of $10 per adult age 18 and older and free for children age 17 and under. Adult tickets are $12 at the gate. Money raised helps fund music, dance and art scholarships for local students. Visit www.baygrassbluegrass.com or call 305-587-0901. Jan. 17-18: Big Pine Key Nautical Flea Market. Big Pine & the Lower Keys. All things nautical are to be displayed and sold at the free-admission event that also includes live music, food and beverages, and raffles. The seafaring sale takes place on the grounds of the Lower Keys Chamber of Commerce, MM 31 oceanside, between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. Visit www.lowerkeyschamber.com or call 305-872-2411. Jan. 18: Key West Half Marathon and 5k Run. Key West. Recognized by Runners World magazine as one of the 10 great half-marathons of the winter season, the race follows a 13.1-mile course that includes Old Town Key West and the scenic waterfront. Visit www.keywesthalfmarathon.com or call 305-240-0727. Jan. 18-23: Quantum Key West Race Week 2015. Key West. The annual race week challenge features world-class competition and elite racing yacht crews from around the world. Boats from 23 to 72 feet are to compete for class championships in this international regatta. Fans can book seats on spectator boats ranging from excursion catamarans to historic tall ships or view the action from land at Key West's Atlantic-front restaurants, resorts and beaches. Visit www.premiere-racing.com or call 781-639-9545. Jan. 23-25: Winter Poker Run and Regatta 2015. Marathon. Powerboats, cars, custom bikes and aircraft are to converge at the new Hyatt Place Faro Blanco Yacht Club and Resort. Watersports entertainment is on the agenda with wakeboard pro riders and jet sports performers, along with a powerboat fun run set for Saturday. Powerboats, exotic cars and custom bikes are to be displayed for free public viewing. Visitwww.flpowerboat.com or call 954-545-1414. Jan. 24-25: 30th Annual Key West Craft Show. Key West. Approximately 100 juried artisans and crafters gather to display their talents at this popular outdoor festival on lower Whitehead Street in historic Old Town Key West. Visit www.keywestartcenter.com or call 305-294-1243. Jan. 24-25: Key Largo Stone Crab & Seafood Festival. Key Largo. Featuring fresh conch, local stone crab and other seafood, entertainment and fun for the entire family, the festival includes cooking demonstrations, eating and costume contests, kids' play area, arts and crafts vendors, music and more. Visitwww.keylargoseafoodfestival.com or call 305-451-4502. Jan. 25: 21st Annual Key West Master Chefs Classic. Key West. Local restaurants vie for top honors in appetizer, entrée and dessert categories. Attendees sample the culinary treats while judges pick the winners. The show is held from 4-7 p.m. at the Westin Key West Resort & Marina pier. Event proceeds benefit the nonprofit Monroe Association for ReMARCable Citizens. Visit www.masterchefsclassic.com or call 305-294-9526. Jan. 28 - Feb. 1: Key West Food and Wine Festival. Key West. Top chefs and restaurateurs display culinary creativity and the Keys' indigenous cuisine in a tasty schedule of events for food lovers. Highlights include the lively "Duval Uncorked Deconstructed," neighborhood wine strolls, food and wine pairings, intriguing seminars, an outdoor artisan wine market and a "Mile 0" grand tasting. Visit www.keywestfoodandwinefestival.com or call 800-474-4319. Feb. 6-8: Civil War Heritage Days. Key West. Colorful Civil War re-enactments and tours of Key West's historic Civil War-era Fort Zachary Taylor highlight the journey into the island's past. Visitwww.floridastateparks.org/forttaylor/ and click "Events" or call 305-292-6850. Feb. 7-8: 21st Annual Pigeon Key Art Festival. Marathon. More than 80 artists and craftspeople are to exhibit their work at Marathon Community Park, MM 49 oceanside, in this nationally recognized outdoor fine arts celebration. Renowned marine life artist Wyland is to create an ink painting for live auction, and other attractions include live music and food. The festival is a fundraiser for historic Pigeon Key, a tiny island where Florida Keys Over-Sea Railroad workers lived in the early 1900s. Visit www.pigeonkeyartfestival.com or emailpkartfestival@gmail.com. Feb. 16-22: 31st Annual Winter Star Party. Big Pine & the Lower Keys. Approximately 600 astronomers from around the world gather to view southern constellations, comets and stars in the Lower Keys' clear night skies -- virtually the only place in the continental U.S. where they can be viewed. Lectures, programs and workshops round out the event. Visit www.scas.org. Feb 19-22: 20th Annual Miami Boat Show Poker Run to Islamorada. Islamorada. This annual four-day event features over 100 teams that embark on an escape to the Florida Keys. Many leading powerboat manufacturers take their newest creations on display at the Miami International Boat Show to the water to attend this event, headquartered at the Postcard Inn and Marina. Free general admission is available for powerboat viewing. Visit www.flpowerboat.com or call 954-545-1414. Feb. 21-22: Old Island Days Art Festival. Key West. The 50th annual juried outdoor fine art festival features oil paintings, watercolors, sculpture, photography and other offerings by more than 100 artists from around the United States and beyond. The event takes place on lower Whitehead Street in historic Old Town. Visit www.keywestartcenter.com/festival.html or call 304-294-1243. Feb. 27: Garden Walk 2015. Key Largo. This unique self-guided tour showcases beautiful private garden properties in the Upper Keys. The event also includes a private garden tea party with live music, artisans, plant sales, original art, refreshments and more. Visit www.gardenclubupperkeys.org/gardenwalk.html or call 305-393-2976. March 2-31: Tennessee Williams Birthday Celebration. Key West. Events celebrate the 104th anniversary of Tennessee Williams' birth and his life in Key West. Planned highlights include screenings of films adapted from Williams' plays, a poetry contest, an artist challenge, a staged reading exploring Williams' bond with his sister Rose and a birthday reception at Key West's Tennessee Williams Center. Visitwww.twkw.org/events.html. March 6-7: Sombrero Beach Run. Marathon. A comprehensive race format includes a 15k challenge, 10k run and 5k walk/run, all staged at Sombrero Beach, MM 50. Several hundred runners participate in the weekend event organized by the Southernmost Runners Club. A kickoff is set for Friday night with music, awards, raffles, prizes, food and entertainment. Visit www.sombrerobeachrun.com. March 7: Conch Shell Blowing Contest. Key West. An island tradition for 53 years, this unique contest celebrates the historic importance of conch in the Keys and features contestants in several age categories attempting to make "music" with fluted conch shells. Visit www.oirf.org or call 305-294-9501. March 7: 39th Annual Marathon House & Garden Tour. Marathon. Tour beautiful homes and extraordinary gardens in the Marathon area that reflect Keys living. Each home is to be adorned with floral arrangements created by Marathon Garden Club members. Refreshments are to be served at the Garden Club, MM 50 bayside. Visit www.marathongardenclub.org or call 305-743-4971. March 14-15: Original Marathon Seafood Festival. Marathon. Gourmet delicacies from the waters of the Florida Keys, live music, a kids' play area and an array of vendors highlight this annual weekend event that generally attracts more than 20,000 seafood lovers and families to Marathon Community Park, MM 49 oceanside. Visit www.marathonseafoodfestival.com. March 28: Miss Gay Southernmost USofA. Key West. The Miss Gay Southernmost USofA and Miss Gay USofA Classic are to be the first preliminary pageants to allow contestants to compete in the annual Miss Gay USofA pageant held in Dallas. The showcase of female impersonation starts with a sunset cruise where all can meet contestants, judges and sponsors. Miss Gay Southernmost USofA and Classic pageants are set for Saturday night followed by Sunday and Monday night performances. Visit www.missgaysouthernmost.com or call 305-731-6557. March 28-29: Florida Keys Island Fest. Islamorada. The 24th annual event features music, art, food and fun. Island Fest hosts a notable art show with 100 artists and crafters, great live music and a "Taste of the Islands" competition where the best Upper Keys restaurants compete for coveted awards. Visitwww.islamoradachamber.com/events.cfm or call 305-664-4503. April 4: Florida Keys Ocean Festival and Waterfront Craft Show. Key West. The sixth annual event features a kids' fishing seminar, touch tanks and live animals, educational activities, a planned art auction, marine-themed games, refreshments, food and local vendors. The show is set to take place at the Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center on the Truman Waterfront, and celebrates the treasured Keys waters and environment. Visit www.keysoceanfest.org. April 13: Taste of Key West. Key West. Scores of area restaurants present mouthwatering samples of their cuisine to benefit AIDS Help Inc. The culinary celebration takes place at the Truman Waterfront overlooking Key West Harbor. Visit www.aidshelp.cc or call 305-296-6196. April 17-26: 33rd Annual Conch Republic Independence Celebration. Key West. A parade dubbed the world's longest, parties, a lighthearted "sea battle," a wacky bed race, a "drag race" and more commemorate the founding of the Conch Republic April 23, 1982, in response to a U.S. Border Patrol roadblock that halted traffic in and out of the Florida Keys. Visit www.conchrepublic.com. April 18: 34th Annual Seven Mile Bridge Run. Marathon. A field of 1,500 runners participates in this annual foot race across what is believed to be the longest segmental bridge in the world. Visit www.7mbrun.com or call 305-743-8513. April 18: Second Annual Cow Key Channel Bridge Run. Key West. Feel like running across a bridge in the Florida Keys without waking up early or breaking a sweat? Join participants, some in zany costumes, for the world's only Zero K across one of the shortest bridges in the Keys. The event is free to watch. Visitwww.cowkeybridgerun.com. April 19: BayJam. Islamorada. This music and art festival stars local and guest artists performing on the shores of Florida Bay at the ICE Amphitheater at Founders Park, MM 87. The 21st annual event supports youth arts and innovative arts programs in the Upper Keys. Visit www.keysice.com or call 305-395-6344. April 30 - May 3: Key West Paddleboard Classic. Key West. Presented by Lazy Dog Adventure Tours, the challenge includes a 12-mile Elite Race around the island and a 4-mile open race. Other events include a kick-off registration party, paddleboard clinics and races for kids. Visit www.keywestpaddleboardclassic.com May 2: Keystock Music Festival. Key West. Crowds are expected to gather at Truman Waterfront for a daylong event featuring several musical performances. Keystock is sponsored by Lazy Lakes RV Resort, Homes for Veterans Inc., Southernmost Homes, Howard Livingston and the Mile Marker 24 Band. Concert profits benefit Homes for Veterans Inc. Call 305-292-7729. May 6-10: Key West Songwriter's Festival. Key West. Celebrating its 20th anniversary, the annual showcase of musical magic features a large roster of America's foremost performing songwriters. Dozens of concerts are staged in intimate, audience-friendly, island settings. Visit www.keywestsongwritersfestival.com. May 14-17: Kamp Key West. Key West. This second annual event is designed for LGBTA outdoor enthusiasts and adventurists who recall the fun and games of summer camp. Attractions include on-the-water subtropical island activities and games for adults. Visit www.kampkeywest.org. May 14-17: Key Largo Original Music Festival. Key Largo. Enjoy the entertainment, food and ambiance of Key Largo. Presented by the Key Largo Merchants Association, the event features on-the-water venues, unique entertainers and local musicians. Visit www.keylargooriginalmusicfest.com or call 305-394-3736. May 14-17: Key West Air, Land and Sea Poker Run. Key West. Fans and aficionados can join a unique motorsports event presented by the Florida Powerboat Club, drawing participants from around the United State to enjoy motoring, boating and flying fun in a subtropical paradise. Cars, boats and motorbikes can be viewed at the Poker Run Village. Visit www.flpowerboat.com/key-west-air-land-sea-poker-run.html or call 954-545-1414. May 15-16: 13th Annual Harry S. Truman Legacy Symposium. Key West. Key West's political history is highlighted in panel discussions, a reception and tours of the Little White House where Truman spent many working vacations during his presidency. The 2015 topic is "America's Greatest Humanitarian Effort -- The Marshall Plan." Visit www.trumansymposium.com or call 305-294-9911. May 16: Battle in the Bay Dragon Boat Festival. Marathon. The waters off pristine Sombrero Beach are to be transformed into a swift racecourse for a day of dragon boat racing with teams of paddlers moving in unison. The festival is free and open to the public. Food, beverages, merchandise and entertainment are to be available shoreside. Visit www.battleinthebaydragonboat.com or call 813-426-3544. May 28 - June 1: Sunset Celebration Welcomes Tall Ships. Key West. Historic sailing ships join the traditional sunset celebration at Mallory Square Dock for a multiday festival of ship tours, sunset and day sails, artisans, performers, music, storytelling and more. Visit www.sunsetcelebration.org or emailTallShipsKeyWest@gmail.com. June 10-14: Key West Pride. Key West. The festival celebrates all of Key West and honors the diversity, openness and freedom in the city that is consistently recognized as one of the world's top gay and lesbian vacation destinations. Events typically include pool and dance parties, comedy and film, a street fair, contests and pageants, a pride parade and more. Visit www.keywestpride.org. June 13: FKCC Swim Around Key West. Key West. The officially sanctioned event is a 12.5-mile swim clockwise around the island of Key West that is open to all age groups. Individual swimmers and relay teams can compete. Visit www.fkccswimaroundkeywest.com or call 305-809-3562. June 18-21: Africana Festival. Key West. Explore music, art, and Key West's Afro-Caribbean culture during a three-day destination retreat focusing on thought, culture and wellness. The festival is to integrate music, art and cultural tourism, exploring Afro-Caribbean culture in Key West. Visitwww.facebook.com/keywestafricanafestival. July 3-5: 4th of July Weekend Super Boat International Offshore Race. Marathon. Super Boat International brings the tradition of July 4 offshore racing back to Marathon, where high-speed powerboats competed for years under and along the famous Seven Mile Bridge. In addition, an extensive July 4 fireworks show is to be produced off Sombrero Beach Road, MM 50. Visit www.superboat.com or call 305-296-6166. July 3-5: Key Lime Festival. Key West. A wacky Miss Key Lime Pageant, pie-eating and cooking contests, and other tasty temptations await Key West visitors during the third annual Key Lime Festival. A Key Lime Martini and Margarita Sip and Stroll will kickoff the weekend-long event. Visit www.keylimefestival.com. July 4: Independence Day Fireworks. Throughout the Florida Keys. Food, fun and fireworks are on tap in the Florida Keys during the July 4 holiday. Independence Day can be enjoyed all along the island chain with beachside barbecues, picnics, parades and world-class fireworks displays. For individual event details, visit fla-keys.com/calendarofevents. July 9-12: Mel Fisher Days. Key West. Mel Fisher fans, past and present crewmembers, Fisher family members and treasure-hunting enthusiasts celebrate the anniversary of Fisher's discovery of the shipwrecked 1622 Spanish galleon Nuestra Señora de Atocha. Visit www.melfisherdays.com or call 305-296-6534. July 11: 31st Annual Underwater Music Festival. Big Pine & the Lower Keys. A quirky concert broadcast underwater for divers, snorkelers and the occasional mermaid emphasizes reef preservation. The submerged songfest is held at Looe Key Reef in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Visitwww.lowerkeyschamber.com/festival.cfm or call 305-872-2411. July 21-26: Hemingway Days. Key West. The 35th annual celebration of the legendary author's work and lifestyle features literary readings, a short story competition, marlin fishing tournament, Sloppy Joe's "Papa" Hemingway Look-Alike Contest and more. Hemingway lived and wrote in Key West during the 1930s. Visitwww.sloppyjoes.com for look-alike events or www.hemingwaydays.net for all other events. July 25: Hemingway 5k Sunset Run & Paddleboard Race. Key West. The oldest ongoing 5k run in Key West, the event is to be held at 7:30 p.m. on a flat, fast course starting at the Southernmost Point in the continental United States. The 3-mile Lazy Dog Paddleboard Race is scheduled as well. Visitwww.keywestspecialevents.com or call 305-240-0727. Aug. 13-16: Tropical Heat. Key West. The Key West Business Guild presents this all-male celebration that typically includes pool and dance parties, on-the-water adventures and more. Visitwww.gaykeywestfl.com/calendar-of-events/. Aug. 14-16: Second Annual Mystery Writers' Key West Fest. Key West. Fans of mystery fiction can learn how their favorite authors craft tales of murder and mayhem. Presented in part by the Mystery Writers of America, the festival features acclaimed authors sharing insights on intrigue with readers and offers aspiring writers a chance to pitch their plots to editors and e-book publishers. Visitwww.mysterywriterskeywestfest.com or email MichaelHaskins@bellsouth.net. Aug. 15: Anything That Floats Race. Key Largo. Participants grab their oars and anything that floats to compete in this wacky, family-friendly, on-the-water race of vessels crafted from items found around the house. Visit www.keylargoanythingthatfloatsrace.com. Aug. 20-23: Upper Keys Reef Crawl. Key Largo. See the beautiful reefs and abundant sea life of the Upper Florida Keys at sites from Key Largo to Islamorada. Attendees can enjoy fun, sun and camaraderie as they dive, snorkel, kayak and paddle the amazing reefs along the way. Other attractions include hands-on seminars by the Coral Restoration Foundation and Reef Environmental Education Foundation. Visit www.reefcrawl.com. Sept. 3-7: Key West Brewfest. Key West. More than 150 beers and micro-brews are to be on tap at the sixth annual "tasty" event that benefits the Key West Sunrise Rotary Club of the Conch Republic. Beer tastings, seminars, food, parties, musical rhythms and the Signature Tasting Festival round out the weekend activities. Visit www.keywestbrewfest.com. Sept. 4-6: Heroes Salute. Duck Key. Each fall Hawks Cay Resort hosts an annual Heroes Welcome program to honor military, fire and rescue, law enforcement and medical personnel. Planned attractions include an All-American barbecue, fireworks, heroes tribute and country music concert. Visitwww.hawkscay.com/heroessalute or call 877-484-9342. Sept. 10-13: Womenfest. Key West. Thousands of singles, couples and groups of women flock to Key West each year for this renowned celebration for lesbians and their friends. Activities generally include dance parties, poolside gatherings, sailing and snorkeling, live music, comedy performances and more. Visitwww.womenfest.com. Sept. 17-20: Phil Peterson's Key West Poker Run. Florida Keys. Motorcycle enthusiasts from around the U.S. travel the Keys' scenic Overseas Highway from mainland Florida to Key West to raise money for charity. Stops are arranged throughout the Keys with a final celebration in Key West. Visit www.petersonsharley.com. Sept. 19: Islamorada Swim for Alligator Lighthouse. Islamorada. In the event's third year, swimmers participate in an 8-mile roundtrip race from Islamorada to the Alligator Lighthouse and back. All proceeds benefit the Friends of the Pool in Islamorada, helping provide scholarship opportunities to those in need, and preserve treasured historic lighthouses on Florida's coastal waterways. Visit www.swimalligatorlight.com. Sept. 25-26: Conch Scramble "On the Water" Charity Golf Tournament. Islamorada. This wacky on-the-water charity golf tournament brings together four-person teams to enjoy a game of nine holes by boat. Participants "drive" biodegradable golf balls toward floating greens (without any sand traps), and proceeds benefit Keys charities. Visit www.conchscramble.com/faf/home/default.asp?ievent=1107009. Oct. 8-11: Key Largo Columbus Regatta. Key Largo. Celebrating the anniversary of the discovery of America in 1492, this event focuses on boaters of all kinds with activities at waterfront entertainment hotspots like Gilbert's Resort, Jimmy Johnson's Big Chill and the Marriott Key Largo Bay Resort. Saturday includes a Columbus Treasure Hunt Poker Run where boaters seek out hidden treasures from a series of clues. Visit www.flpowerboat.com or call 954-545-1414. Oct. 8-11: Southernmost Marathon & Half Marathon. Key West. Entrants in the annual challenge follow a 26.2-mile or 13.1-mile route while enjoying views of the Atlantic Ocean, Gulf of Mexico and historic Key West landmarks. A full weekend of events is planned around the race. Visit www.somomarathon.com. Oct. 15-20: Key West Halloween Half Marathon and 5k Run. Key West. Competitors are encouraged to dress in their favorite costumes for this Halloween-themed running event. The half marathon and 5k are scheduled for Sunday, Oct. 18. The other event days feature parties at local restaurants and bars. Visitwww.halloweenhalfmarathon.com or email halloweenhalf@exclusivesports.com. Oct. 21-25: Humphrey Bogart Film Festival. Key Largo. The festival celebrates the legendary actor's life and films on the island setting of his classic "Key Largo." Events include screenings of Bogie's classics and other memorable films, a gala ball, tours on the restored African Queen and a panel discussion with the star's son. Visit www.bogartfilmfestival.com. Oct. 23-24: Goombay Festival. Key West. Held in the historic Bahama Village neighborhood, the family-friendly Goombay presents sights, sounds and flavors recalling Key West's Bahamian heritage. Attendees can enjoy island-style food, arts and crafts, nonstop live entertainment and dancing in the streets. Visitwww.bahamavillagegoombay.com. Oct. 23 - Nov. 1: 36th Annual Fantasy Fest. Key West. This outrageous 10-day costuming and masking celebration features flamboyant masquerade competitions including one for pets, a headdress ball, exuberant promenades, street fairs and a grand parade on Halloween night that stars marching groups, island-style bands and lavish floats. The 2015 festival theme is "All Hallows Intergalactic Freak Show." Visit www.fantasyfest.comor call 305-296-1817. Oct. 26: Heroes and Villains 5k Run/Walk. Key West. Walk, run or fly to the finish line in this annual Key West race. Participants are encouraged to dress as their favorite superhero or villain. Prizes are awarded for the most creative, best group, scariest and funniest characters. Visit www.themeruns.com/home/heroes-and-villains-5k. Nov. 7: Key Largo Bridge Run. Key Largo. Enjoy the sunrise where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Gulf of Mexico while racing over part of the historic 18-Mile Stretch and the Jewfish Creek Bridge at the gateway to the Keys. The race is an outreach of Key Largo Baptist Church. Visit www.keylargobridgerun.com. Nov. 8-15: Key West World Championship Powerboat Races. Key West. High-speed powerboats continue Key West's longstanding tradition in a challenge described as the Indianapolis 500 of powerboat racing. The course layout provides spectators unmatched close-up views of the action. Visit www.superboat.com or call 305-296-6166. Nov. 11-15: Key West Film Festival. Key West. This fourth annual festival features films that are chosen for their excellence in storytelling and ability to capture Key West's core values of creativity, diversity, sustainability and beauty. Films are screened at various historic and colorful Key West locations. Attractions also include social events with filmmakers, actors and film lovers. Visit www.keywestfilmfestival.com. Nov. 27-29: ART! Key West! Key West. This annual event comprises three days of artistry throughout historic Old Town Key West, with spotlight events rotating among the island's multiple cultural districts. Highlights include live mural painting, gallery openings, performance art, theater and musical showcases. Visitwww.artskeywest.com. Nov. 28: Big Pine & the Lower Keys Island Art Festival. Big Pine & the Lower Keys. Highlights of this holiday event include live music by local entertainers, food, exhibits and booths featuring locally produced arts and crafts. Festivities traditionally take place on the grounds of the Lower Keys Chamber of Commerce, MM 31 oceanside. Visit www.lowerkeyschamber.com/art_fair.cfm or call 305-872-2411. Dec. 3-20: Key West Holiday Fest. Key West. Each year a wide range of seasonal celebrations takes place throughout Key West. Events include the lighting of the Harbor Walk of Lights, tours of historic decorated inns, a holiday parade and much more. Visit www.keywestholidayfest.com. Dec. 3-6: Hot Pink Holidays. Key West. This four-day event is full of seasonal activities as well as special retail opportunities on the island. Organized events include "flash mob shopping sprees" for gifts galore, holiday light tours, a hometown holiday parade experience and Christmas caroling. Visit www.hotpinkholidays.org. Dec. 4: Florida Keys Holiday Festival. Islamorada. This extravaganza traditionally begins with a tree-lighting ceremony at Founders Park, MM 87. Other attractions typically include a holiday parade featuring Santa, a mountain of snow for mitten-clad munchkins, a gift bazaar and a silent auction of ornaments decorated by local artists. Visit www.islamoradachamber.com or call 305-664-4503. Dec. 5: Key West Triathlon. Key West. The Key West Triathlon and Expo expects to host 1,000 participants and some of the sport's best-known triathletes. TRIKW participants are to swim in the waters of the Atlantic Ocean, bike along a portion of the Florida Keys' scenic Overseas Highway and run on a fast, flat course beside the Atlantic. Visit www.trikw.com. Dec. 10-12: Grimal Grove Holiday Chocolate Festival. Big Pine Key. This weekend extravaganza features chocolate-making workshops, tastings, educational seminars on growing cacao in South Florida, activities for kids, music and a festival of lights showcasing the many rare tropical fruit trees at the grove including cacao.Visit www.growinghopeinitiative.org or call 305-923-6663. Dec. 12: Florida Keys Holiday Boat Parades. Throughout the Florida Keys. Boats ranging from deep-sea cruisers and mega yachts to kayaks and canoes light up the waters of the Florida Keys during holiday boat parades that take place throughout the island chain. Locations typically include Key Largo's Blackwater Sound, Boot Key Harbor and Key Colony Beach in the Middle Keys, the Lower Keys and Key West's Historic Seaport. Visit fla-keys.com/calendarofevents for complete regional event details. Dec. 31: Key West New Year's Eve Celebrations. Key West. The Southernmost City typically celebrates with a "conch shell drop" at Sloppy Joe's Bar, 201 Duval St.; the descent of a super-sized red high-heel shoe carrying drag queen Sushi at the Bourbon St. Pub/New Orleans House complex, 724 Duval St.; the lowering of a pirate wench from atop a tall ship's mast at the Schooner Wharf Bar, 202 William St.; and the "splashdown" of a huge replica Key lime wedge into a giant margarita glass at Ocean Key Resort, 0 Duval St. Visitwww.sloppyjoes.com, www.bourbonstpub.com, www.schoonerwharf.com and www.oceankey.com. Dec. 31: New Year's Eve Fireworks on Blackwater Sound. Key Largo. The back bay is the setting for the annual New Year's Eve fireworks extravaganza hosted by Sundowners, Jimmy Johnson's Big Chill, Señor Frijoles, Cactus Jack's, Gus's Grille at the Marriott Key Largo Bay Resort and the Caribbean Club, MMs 103-104. Visitwww.keylargofireworks.com or call 305-451-4502. Florida Keys events calendar: fla-keys.com/calendarofevents Florida Keys visitor information: www.fla-keys.com or 1-800-FLA-KEYS (1-800-352-5397) Keywords: Gay Travelers Magazine, Key West, Key West calendar, Key West events, Florida, AdventureSmith Explorations Cruises Guests on Small Ships Into Intimate Ports of Call this Spring2/12/2015 AdventureSmith Explorations Cruises Guests on Small Ships Into Intimate Ports of Call this Spring TAHOE CITY, CA, Dec. 2, 2014 – Small ship cruise expert AdventureSmith Explorations http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com announces Spring 2015 cruises that probe, among others, the fecundity of the Galapagos and the profundity of classical Greece. “Cruises into pristine, nature-focused destinations such as Darwin’s magical archipelago, the ancient Greek Isles of Plato and Homer and into Baja’s Sea of Cortez, a favorite playground and laboratory of Jacques Cousteau are voyages every modern adventurer should take. Plus it’s ever so much more exciting in the spring when the oceans are full of life and rebirth,” said Todd Smith, Founder and President of AdventureSmith Explorations. Looking ahead to next year, here are Smith’s favorite spring trips for the upcoming 2015 season: Small Yacht Galapagos Cruises While equatorial Ecuador and theGalapagos Islands technically have no “spring season” weather-wise, April and May offer the best air and water temperatures and calmest seas, making these months best for snorkeling with sea lions, penguins and tropical fish. Stunning waved albatross return to Espanola Island; many other birds and reptiles are nesting in the spring. Favorite springtime ships include the 20-passenger sister shipsEric, Letty and Flamingo. According to Smith, “Their family cruises are second to none” and are offered during spring and Easter break in March and April. These ships boast the best guide-to-passenger ratio and are some of the more eco-friendly yachts to ply Galapagos waters. Hawaiian Seascapes Springtime in Hawaii means perfect weather and an explosion of flowers, blossoms and fruit. Rainfall diminishes as trade winds fade; the surf also calms and water temperature rise, all adding up to excellent snorkeling, kayaking and paddleboard conditions. Whales are active in the Auau Channel. The 36-guest adventure yacht Safari Explorer navigates a unique Hawaiian Seascapes cruise itinerary to Molokai, Lanai, Maui and the big island introducing authentic Hawaii in intimate ports of call. Delfin II Amazon River Cruise The weather cools down in March, April and May marking the end of theAmazon’s high water season, Smith’s favorite time to cruise. But the water is still high enough so that skiffs can make forays into the rainforest to sight wildlife. Four or five day cruises aboard the luxurious 28-guest Delfin II are more affordable than other ships in the region. Activities include skiff rides, kayaking, hiking and fishing. From the river guests often extend their adventure with a trip toMachu Picchu or a Mountain Lodge Trek. Classical Greece Savvy travelers know that spring is the best time to travel in Greece. Temperatures are moderate, winds are calmer, crowds are light and wildflowers are abundant. Classical Greece aboard the 49-guest Harmony Vembodies the best of spring in the islands and Mediterranean small ship cruising. The ship accesses smaller ports of call that aren’t accessible to large ships: Delos, Mykonos, Santorini, Crete and Nafplion. Along the way the ship stops in hidden coves and glimpse ancient history away from tourist crowds. Great Barrier Reef Cruises It’s autumn in the southern hemisphere in April and May, a small window between high and low seasons offering comfortable air and water temperatures and less rain making snorkeling and diving ideal in the Great Barrier Reef ofAustralia. The Coral Princess I andCoral Princess II are specially outfitted to explore the reef in style. Unlike live-aboard dive cruises, these small ship voyages of four, five and eight days focus on average travelers who would like to explore on foot, by skiff and by snorkeling, with an option to dive. Cousteau's Aquarium of the World The elegant and functional 84-guestSafari Endeavour is returning to Bajafor the first time since she was Cruise West’s Spirit of Endeavour. Recently refitted with ample air conditioning, spacious common areas, comfortable cabins and numerous off-vessel activities, this expedition ship cruise includes hiking, kayaking, snorkeling and sunbathing as primary activities. After whale season ends, the weather warms up and winds die down making Baja a great beach and adventure getaway. Think snorkeling among gentle whale sharks and sea lion pups. In a setting of steep bluffs and sandy beaches, guests explore Cabo Pulmo, where French Oceanographer Jacques Cousteau led numerous expeditions. Baja is easily reached in less than four hours from most major US airports. For more details on all spring 2015 cruises from AdventureSmith please see: http://www.adventuresmithexplorations.com/top-small-ship-cruises-for-spring-2015 About AdventureSmith Explorations Founded in 2003, AdventureSmith Explorations is based in Tahoe City, CA, along the northern shore of Lake Tahoe. A recognized leader in small ship cruising, in 2012 owner Todd Smith joined the ranks of Conde Nast Traveler's prestigious Annual Travel Specialists List as the world’s expert on small ship expeditions. A distinction he still enjoys. For information, availability and 2015 reservations, Phone: 800-728-2875 toll-free or visit www.adventuresmithexplorations.com. Keywords: Gay Travelers Magazine, AdventureSmith Explorations, Galapagos, cruise, small ship cruise, yacht cruise, African Safari Company Celebrates Pride and Progress for LBTQ Community SEATTLE, WA, Dec. 3, 2014 – To celebrate the strides being made in recognizing LBTQ rights, African Safari Company (http://www.africansafarico.com/) is hosting a for-women-only 12-day Out Explorations Safari in early November 2015. Leading this adventure will be Julia Nesbitt, co-owner of this ground-breaking tour company, and her wife, Shannon Nesbitt, who also works with Seattle-based African Safari Company. The per person double rate for the Nov. 1-13 Out Explorations: South Africa 2015 Safari is $6,800 (single supplement $1,610). A post-safari beach extension to Mozambique (Nov. 13-18) is an additional $1,950. The rates are nearly all-inclusive. Some meals and on-own touring expenses are extra. The adventure begins with VIP assistance through customs and immigration before heading into the city to meet your hosts and enjoy a group dinner with traditional African cuisine. Air transfers bring travelers to Hoedspruit, a gateway to Greater Kruger Park. Here Kapama Private Game Reserve on 13,000 hectares has all the big game of Africa with 42 mammals and some 350 bird species. One of the highlights while staying at Kapama Buffalo Camp is a face-to-trunk interaction with a herd of rescued elephants. The famously leopard-rich Sabi Sands Reserve on 65,000 hectares is home later in the week. Guests lodge at Lion Sands River Lodge with an optional Sleep Out in one of Lion Sands exceptionally beautiful Treehouses (sleep out at additional cost). A flight whisks guests from the world of the wild to Cape Town and accommodations at a boutique hotel, More Quarters. The old and established suburbs of Gardens, Oranjezicht and Tamboerskloof merge into each other as they line the foothills of Table Mountain and Signal Hill. The area enjoys convenient proximity to the city, the Table Mountain Cableway, as well as the beaches. Narrow streets are lined by original Cape buildings, many restored and some now housing museums and art galleries, as well as lively sidewalk cafés and highly acclaimed restaurants. Known for its trendy and modern vibe, this area is wonderful to explore on foot, encompassing the historic parliament buildings, the Company Gardens and the unique boutiques of Kloof Street. On Nov. 9 and 10 the highlights of the Cape are revealed, including Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve via Chapman’s Peak, one of the world’s most breathtaking coastal drives, to the magic of where the Indian and Atlantic oceans meet. The African Penguin breeding colony at Boulders Beach and Stellenbosch, a winegrowing and tasting center, are also included with an optional visit to Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for many years. Following two days of touring the focus turns to the culinary heritage of the region with a local expert who knows all the hidden spots that represent the tastes of the rainbow nation. Some of the foods to be sampled are African Soul food (pap, samp & beans, a meat stew and vetkoek), Falooda (a traditional Muslim Rose Milkshake), a gourmet bunny chow to get a little taste of Indian Cuisine, coffee from one of the micro artisan coffee roasters in the city, and babotie pies (a modern take on the traditional Babotie dish which both the Cape Malay group and white Afrikaner group refer to as their traditional dish). See: http://www.africansafarico.com/safari/out-explorations-south-africa-safari-2015/ While this tour ends on Nov. 13, some may opt for a flight to Mozambique and a beach extension that includes overnights at an exclusive private villa, Villa Santorini, local markets, motorized beach activities and more. Nesbitt’s passion for Africa shines through in every adventure she creates and she is thrilled to be leading the first Out Explorations Safari to some of her favorite places in South Africa with partner Shannon. Never daunted by a language or cultural barrier, one of Shannon's favorite parts of traveling is meeting new people and submerging herself in the local way of life and regional cuisines. Shannon is a trained chef and owner of Fig Tree Catering when not assisting African Safari Company with social media. The couple led their first group trip to South Africa in 2013 and continue to hone their extensive wildlife and destination knowledge with every trip. About African Safari Company & Small Ship Safaris Mike Nesbitt, a native of South Africa, and daughter Julia bring an intimate knowledge of wildlife migrations, climate variables and cultural opportunities to the African Safari Company that he founded in 1998. Specializing in small group travel and custom safaris for the independent and inquisitive adventurer, the company carefully vets each lodge, camp and safari partner they work with in Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda & Rwanda, South Africa, Botswana, Zambia and Namibia. A new division launched in 2013, Small Ship Safaris features a similar exotic adventure experience - on water instead of land. Expedition ships for between 16 and 210 guests transport wildlife and nature enthusiasts to remote areas of Alaska, Hawaii, Amazon, Polar Regions, Baja Sea of Cortez, Galapagos and Patagonia. For more information, itineraries, availability and reservations please call: 1.800.414.3090 or 206.284.7682; or visit: http://www.africansafarico.com/ orhttp://www.smallshipsafaris.com/. Keywords: Gay Travelers Magazine, Africa, African Safari Company, Small Ship Safaris, LGBT, NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE UNVEILS 2016/2017 ITINERARIES MIAMI – December 9, 2014 – Norwegian Cruise Line today announced its 2016/2017 deployment. Highlights include the addition of San Juan, Puerto Rico as a seasonal homeport for Norwegian Gem, along with new eight-day Eastern Caribbean and six-day Western Caribbean Norwegian Escape sailings from Miami. In addition, all guests sailing a Western Caribbean itinerary in 2016/2017 will have the opportunity to enjoy a visit to Harvest Caye, Norwegian’s new island destination in Belize. Seasonally, Norwegian also continues to offer three ships in Alaska, four in Europe, two in Bermuda, as well as a variety of exciting South America; Bahamas & Florida; and repositioning cruises. Norwegian will also continue to offer its unique inter-island Hawaii cruises year-round on Pride of America from Honolulu and short Bahamas itineraries from Miami year-round on Norwegian Sky. The new itineraries open today for group bookings, and go on sale on December 16, 2014 for our Latitudes Rewards guests and President’s Club travel partners and on December 18, 2014 for all bookings. “Once again, Norwegian Cruise Line continues to offer a wide variety of exciting cruises for our guests to choose from in 2016 and early 2017,” said Drew Madsen, Norwegian’s president and chief operating officer. “Guests can cruise to the Caribbean year-round while experiencing the incredible innovations on Norwegian’s newest ships, Norwegian Escape and Norwegian Getaway. In addition, we continue to offer the best of Europe on four beautiful ships including Norwegian Epic year-round, and the opportunity to experience the scenic beauty of Alaska on some of the youngest ships in the industry.” Bermuda Norwegian will continue its tradition of sailing from both New York City and Boston to the pink sand beaches of Bermuda between April and October, 2016. Norwegian Breakaway will return to Bermuda, sailing from New York City on seven-day cruises every Sunday from April 24, 2016 through October 23, 2016. From Boston, Norwegian Dawn will sail seven-day cruises, departing every Friday, from June 3, 2016 through September 2, 2016 and from October 7, 2016 through October 21, 2016. Caribbean Norwegian’s newest and largest ship, Norwegian Escape, will sail seven-day Eastern Caribbean sailings from Miami year-round. Ports of call include St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, Tortola, British Virgin Islands and Nassau, Bahamas. Norwegian Escape will sail an eight-day Eastern Caribbean itinerary from Miami on July 23, 2016, August 6, 2016, and August 20, 2016. Ports of call will include Philipsburg, St. Maarten; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; Tortola, British Virgin Islands; and Nassau, Bahamas. Norwegian Escape will also sail a six-day Western Caribbean itinerary from Miami on July 31, 2016, August 14, 2016, and August 28, 2016. Ports of call include Roatán, Bay Islands, Honduras; Harvest Caye, Belize; and Cozumel, Mexico. This six and eight-day itineraries can be combined to create an incredible 14-day Caribbean vacation. Norwegian Getaway, Miami’s Ultimate Ship, will sail from Miami to the Western Caribbean on seven-day cruises every Saturday from April 24, 2016 to April 23, 2017. Ports of call include Roatán, Bay Islands, Honduras; Norwegian’s newest destination Harvest Caye, Belize; Costa Maya, Mexico; and Cozumel, Mexico. Norwegian returns to homeport in San Juan, Puerto Rico in 2016 on Norwegian Gem. She will sail a seven-day Southern Caribbean itinerary from San Juan on October 23, November 6 and 20, and December 4, 2016. Ports of call will include Bridgetown, Barbados; Fort-de-France, Martinique; Basseterre, St. Kitts; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; and St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands. Norwegian Gem will also sail a variation of the seven-day Southern Caribbean itinerary on October 30, November 13, and November 27, 2016. Ports of call include St. George’s, Grenada; Castries, St. Lucia; Roseau, Dominica; St. John’s, Antigua; and Tortola, British Virgin Islands. Norwegian Spirit will sail alternating seven-day Western Caribbean and Eastern Caribbean itineraries departing on Saturdays from Port Canaveral. The Western Caribbean itinerary begins December 10, 2016 and continues to April 15, 2017. Ports of call will include Cozumel, Mexico; George Town, Grand Cayman; Ocho Rios, Jamaica; and Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas. The Eastern Caribbean itinerary stops in Nassau, Bahamas; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; and Tortola, British Virgin Islands, from December 3, 2016 to April 8, 2017. Norwegian Jade will sail a seven-day Western Caribbean itinerary every Saturday from Houston from November 19, 2016 to April 15, 2017. Ports of call include Cozumel, Mexico; Harvest Caye, Belize; and Roatán, Bay Islands, Honduras. Norwegian Dawn will sail a seven-day Western Caribbean itinerary every Sunday from New Orleans from November 20, 2016 to April 16, 2017. Her stops will include Cozumel, Mexico; Roatán, Bay Islands, Honduras; Harvest Caye, Belize; and Costa Maya, Mexico. Norwegian Star will sail a seven-day Western Caribbean itinerary every Sunday from Tampa from October 23, 2016 to April 16, 2017. Ports of call will include Cozumel, Mexico; Costa Maya, Mexico; Roatán, Bay Islands, Honduras; and Harvest Caye, Belize. Alaska Norwegian will continue to sail three ships in Alaska in the summer of 2016: Norwegian Pearl and Norwegian Jewel from Seattle, Washington and Norwegian Sun from Vancouver, British Columbia and Seward, Alaska. Norwegian Jewel, departing Saturdays, will sail a series of seven-day Sawyer Glacier cruises from Seattle between May 7, 2016 and September 10, 2016. Departing Sundays, Norwegian Pearl will set sail on seven-day Glacier Bay itineraries from May 15, 2016 through September 18, 2016. Both itineraries feature stops in Ketchikan; Juneau; Skagway, Alaska; and Victoria, British Columbia. For those wishing to cruise on a longer Alaska itinerary, Norwegian Jewel will sail one ten-day Glacier Bay itinerary on September 17, 2016, and will visit Ketchikan; Juneau; Skagway; Icy Strait Point; and Sitka, Alaska; and Victoria, British Columbia. Norwegian Pearl will offer a 10-day Glacier Bay itinerary from Vancouver on May 5, 2016, stopping in Juneau; Skagway; Sitka; Icy Strait Point; and Ketchikan, Alaska; and Victoria, British Columbia. Norwegian Sun will sail seven-day Glacier Bay one-way cruises between Vancouver, British Columbia and Seward, Alaska every other week from May 30, 2016 through September 5, 2016. Sailing north from Vancouver, guests will enjoy a cruise through the Inside Passage, Glacier Bay and Hubbard Glacier and visits to Ketchikan, Skagway and Juneau, Alaska. On Norwegian Sun’s Southbound seven-day Sawyer Glacier one-way itineraries from Seward, Alaska, sailing every other week from June 6 to September 12, 2016, guests will cruise the Inside Passage, Sawyer Glacier and Hubbard Glacier and enjoy stops in Icy Strait Point, Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan, Alaska. Norwegian Sun’s one-way cruises give guests the opportunity to see more of beautiful Alaska and make their cruise an adventure by adding on a pre or post-cruise CruiseTour, giving guests the chance to experience more of Alaska. Norwegian Sun will also offer three seven-day Glacier Bay roundtrip cruises from Vancouver on May 16, 2016, May 23, 2016, and September 19, 2016. Ports of call will include Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan, Alaska, and will include cruising the Inside Passage and Glacier Bay. Europe Norwegian will offer a four-ship deployment in Europe during the summer of 2016. Norwegian Epic will remain in Europe year-round from her homeport in Barcelona, sailing seven-day Western Mediterranean itineraries from April 17, 2016 to November 20, 2016. Her exciting ports of call include Naples, Italy; Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy; Florence/Pisa (Livorno), Italy; Cannes, France; and Palma, Majorca, Spain. On November 27 and December 28, 2016, and February 19, March 12, and April 13, 2017, Norwegian Epic will sail a 10-Day Canary Islands & Morocco itinerary. Her stops will include Tangier, Morocco; Las Palmas, Canary Islands; Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Canary Islands; Funchal, Madeira; and Granada (Malaga), Spain. Norwegian Epic will also sail an 11-Day Western Mediterranean itinerary on December 7, 2016 and January 7 and 18, February 8, March 1 and 22, and April 2, 2017. Ports of call include Cagliari, Sardinia; Messina, Sicily; Naples, Italy; Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy; Florence/Pisa (Livorno), Italy; and Palma, Majorca, Spain. Norwegian Star will return to the Baltic, offering nine-day cruises from Copenhagen, Denmark on May 8 and 24, June 2 and 25, and July 4 to September 5, 2016. This exciting itinerary includes an overnight in St. Petersburg, Russia, as well as a scenic sail through the Stockholm Archipelago following the ship’s afternoon departure from Stockholm, Sweden. Other calls include Warnemünde, Germany; Tallinn, Estonia; and Helsinki, Finland. On June 11, 2016, Norwegian Star will sail a 14-day North Cape itinerary, during the summer solstice. This incredible itinerary will set sail from Copenhagen, Denmark and will visit the best of Norway including Alesund, Hellesylt, Geiranger, Trondheim, Leknes, Tromso, Hammerfest, Honningsvag, Molde, and Bergen, Norway. This itinerary can also be combined with a nine-day Baltic Capitals itinerary for the ultimate northern Europe experience. Norwegian Star will also sail two seven-day Norwegian Fjords itineraries from Copenhagen, on May 1 and 17, 2016. This breathtaking itinerary will sail through the beautiful fjords of southern Norway featuring stops in Alesund, Geiranger, Flam and Bergen. Norwegian Star will also sail a 14-Day Norway, Iceland, & Faroe Islands cruise from Copenhagen on September 14, 2016. Port calls will include Bergen and Alesund, Norway; Lerwick, Shetland Islands; Thorshavn, Faroe Islands; Reykjavik, Iceland; Greenock, Scotland; and Dublin, Ireland. Norwegian Jade will return to Venice and sail alternating seven-day Greek Isles and seven-day Adriatic, Greece & Turkey itineraries from May to October 2016. Guests may also choose to combine these two exciting itineraries to enjoy the ultimate 14-day adventure. The Greek Isles sailings will run from May 7, 2016 to October 1, 2016 with calls in Corfu, Santorini, Mykonos, and Olympia (Katakolon), Greece, while the Adriatic, Greece & Turkey itinerary includes Dubrovnik, Croatia; Athens (Piraeus), Greece; Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey; and Split, Croatia from May 14, 2016 to September 24, 2016. For an incredible combination of eastern and western Mediterranean itineraries, guests can embark on Norwegian Spirit’s 12-day Grand Mediterranean from Venice on May 19, June 12, July 6, August 1 and 25, September 18, October 12, and November 5, 2016. This incredible itinerary visits five different countries, with calls in Athens (Piraeus), Greece; Ephesus (Kusadasi) and Istanbul, Turkey; Mykonos, Greece; Naples, Rome (Civitavecchia), and Florence/Pisa (Livorno), Italy; and Provence (Toulon), France. Additionally, Norwegian Spirit will sail a 12-day Grand Mediterranean one-way itinerary from Barcelona to Venice on May 7 and 31, June 24, August 13, September 16 and 30, and October 24, 2016. Her stops include Provence (Toulon), France; Florence/Pisa (Livorno), Rome (Civitavecchia), and Naples, Italy; Mykonos, Greece; Istanbul and Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey; Athens (Piraeus), Greece; and Venice, Italy. Norwegian Spirit will also sail a spectacular 14-day Grand Mediterranean open-jaw itinerary from Barcelona to Venice on July 18, 2016. Port of call include Provence (Toulon), France; Florence/Pisa (Livorno), Rome (Civitavecchia), and Naples, Italy; Mykonos, Greece; Istanbul and Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey; Athens (Piraeus), Greece; Kotor, Montenegro; and Dubrovnik, Croatia. Bahamas and Florida Norwegian Gem will sail seven-day Bahamas & Florida cruises from New York in 2016 from April 30, 2016 to May 14, 2016 and from June 18, 2016 to August 27, 2016. This popular family-friendly itinerary includes visits to Orlando and the Beaches (Port Canaveral), Norwegian’s private island Great Stirrup Cay and Nassau, Bahamas. Along with recent enhancements to add brand favorites Sugarcane Mojito Bar and O’Sheehans Neighborhood Bar & Grill, Norwegian Gem also features exclusive Nickelodeon™ programming on board. On May 21, 2016 and June 4, 2016, Norwegian Gem will sail eight-day Bahamas and Florida sailings that feature an additional sea day, as well as a full day in Orlando and the Beaches (Port Canaveral). For a shorter cruise option, Norwegian Sky will continue sailing three and four-day cruises to the Bahamas year-round from Miami departing Fridays and Mondays. Ports of call include: Nassau, Grand Bahama Island, and Great Stirrup Cay, Norwegian’s private island. Norwegian Getaway will also sail a one-time two-day Bahamas itinerary from Miami on September 2, 2016, stopping in Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas. Canada & New England Norwegian Gem will again offer two summer Canada & New England roundtrip cruises from New York City in 2016. These six-day sailings on May 29 and June 12, 2016 call in Halifax, Nova Scotia; Saint John, New Brunswick; and Portland, Maine. Norwegian Gem will also offer seven-day cruises roundtrip from New York City from September 3 to October 8, 2016, visiting four beautiful ports of call: Halifax, Nova Scotia; Saint John, New Brunswick; Portland, Maine; and Newport, Rhode Island. Norwegian Dawn will offer one-way seven-day cruises between Boston, Massachusetts and Quebec City, Quebec from September 9 to 30, 2016. The northbound itinerary features visit to Portland, Maine; Halifax, Nova Scotia; Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island; Gaspésie, Quebec; and Saguenay (La Baie), Quebec, while the southbound route begins with an overnight in Quebec City, Quebec and then visits Sydney, Nova Scotia; Halifax, Nova Scotia; Saint John, New Brunswick; and Bar Harbor, Maine. These sailings can be combined for an ultimate 14-day Canada & New England experience. Hawaii The recently-enhanced Pride of America will continue to sail her very popular seven-day Hawaii itinerary departing from Honolulu every Saturday through April 2018. Offering more than 100 hours of sight-seeing time, ports of call include an overnight in Kahului, Maui; Hilo, Hawai`i; Kona, Hawai`i; an overnight in Nãwiliwili, Kaua`i; and an afternoon cruise past the breathtaking Nãpali Coast. Panama Canal Back by popular demand, Norwegian Pearl will sail 11- and 10-day Panama Canal itineraries from Miami beginning fall 2016. The 10-day Panama Canal sails November 28 and December 19, 2016, and March 13 and April 3, 2017, with calls in Oranjestad, Aruba; Cartagena, Colombia; Colon, Panama; and Puerto Limon, Costa Rica. The 11-day Panama Canal on December 29, 2016 will include port calls in Cartagena, Colombia; Colon, Panama; Puerto Limon, Costa Rica; Roatan, Bay Islands, Honduras; Harvest Caye, Belize; and Costa Maya, Mexico. An alternate 11-day Panama Canal round-trip itinerary on November 17 and December 8, 2016, and March 23, 2017 will include calls in Cartagena, Colombia; Colon, Panama; Puerto Limon, Costa Rica; Roatan, Bay Islands, Honduras; Belize City, Belize; and Costa Maya, Mexico. South America Norwegian Sun returns to South America to sail 14-day South American one-way Westbound itineraries from Buenos Aires to Santiago (Valparaiso) and Eastbound from Santiago (Valparaiso) to Buenos Aires. The 14-day South America from Buenos Aires (Westbound) sails on December 3 and 31, 2016 and January 28, February 25, and March 25, 2017, with calls including Montevideo, Uruguay; Puerto Madryn, Argentina; Stanley, Falkland Islands; Ushuaia, Argentina; Punta Arenas, Chile; Puerto Chacabuco, Chile; and Puerto Montt, Chile. During the cruise, guests will sail Cape Horn, across the Beagle Channel offering breathtaking glacier views, the Strait of Magellan, the majestic Chilean Fjords, the Patagonic Channels, and Canal Moraleda. The 14-day South America cruise from Santiago (Valparaiso) sails on November 19 and December 17, 2016 and January 14, February 11, and March 11, 2017 with calls in Puerto Montt, Chile; Puerto Chacabuco, Chile; Punta Arenas, Chile; Ushuaia, Argentina; Stanley, Falkland Islands; Puerto Madryn, Argentina; and Montevideo, Uruguay. During the Eastbound cruises, guests will also cruise the Patagonic Channels, Chilean Fjords, Strait of Magellan; Beagle Channel, and Cape Horn. Guests can also choose to extend their South American exploration with a CruiseTour, providing an unparalleled opportunity to explore this region’s culture and spectacular destinations such as Machu Picchu, Iguazu Falls and Easter Island. Mexican Riviera Norwegian returns to the Mexican Riviera, offerings cruises from two different homeports. Norwegian Jewel will sail a seven-day itinerary from Los Angeles from October 2, 2016 to April 23, 2017, with calls in Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlán, and Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Norwegian Sun will sail an 11-day Mexican Rivera itinerary from San Diego on September 30, 2016 and October 11 and 22, 2016. Ports of call will include Acapulco; Zihuatanejo/Ixtapa; an overnight call in Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlán; and Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Repositioning Cruises In spring of 2015, Norwegian will offer a variety of once-in-a-lifetime repositioning cruises including Caribbean repositioning, Transatlantic cruises and Pacific Coastal itineraries. For more information and to book these exciting new itineraries, contact a travel professional, call 866-234-7350 or visit www.ncl.com. Keywords: Gay Travelers Magazine, NCL, Norwegian Cruise Line, cruise, itineraries, 2016 itineraries, GLOBUS RETURNS TO CUBA IN 2015 LITTLETON, Colorado – December 10, 2014 – Shrouded in mystery for the past 50 years, the island nation of Cuba is waiting to be rediscovered. Now, Globus is presenting travelers with a rare opportunity to experience the colorful history and lively culture of this captivating nation with three (3) itineraries for 2015: Cuba’s Charming Colonial Cities & Havana (9 days); Eastern Cuba’s Hidden Gems (9 days); Grand Cuba Coast to Coast (17 days). “We’re thrilled to be among an elite group of tour companies granted a license by the US Department of the Treasury, Office of Foreign Assets Control, which allows us to offer small group, people-to-people educational exchange programs to Cuba,” said Scott Nisbet, chief executive officer for the Globus family of brands. “We have put together three culturally interesting and diverse programs – two of which are NEW for 2015 – that give our travelers the rare opportunity to engage in meaningful and insightful discussions with the Cuban people.” Examples of people-to-people activities included on Globus’ Cuba itineraries include:
Cuba’s Charming Colonial Cities & Havana (9 days, priced from $3,089 land-only): Every day of this program is wrapped in compelling education and conversation, where both Cuban and American residents can openly share their ideas and opinions. Travelers can join in a variety of discussions about Cuba’s history, agriculture, music, religion and art. They will also have the opportunity to fully embrace Cuban culture when meeting with the dancers of the world-renowned Camagüey Ballet Company, interacting with local artists and exchanging views on the importance of art to a community, enjoying a dance lesson and engaging with musicians who will introduce them to son, Cuba’s popular music before being introduced to Cuban baseball players and discussing this favorite pastime in both Cuba and the U.S. Eastern Cuba’s Hidden Gems (9 days, priced from $2,719, land-only): As part of this itinerary, travelers will be immersed in everyday Cuban life through captivating educational activities and conversations with Cubans about a wide range of topics. Visits include a print shop that still employs traditional printing and binding methods, a mechanical music-organ factory, the Casa de la Cultura in rural Velasco, Fidel Castro’s boyhood home at Birán, the Matachin Museum in an 18th-century Spanish Fortress, the semi-indigenous Guirito community, a cocoa farm, Santiago de Cuba’s historic city center, the San Pedro de la Roca Castle UNESCO World Heritage Site, Teddy Roosevelt’s fabled San Juan Hill and even a local family’s home and an elementary school. Travelers will also join in a farm-to-table cooking demonstration and an interactive dance lesson, enjoy a scenic cruise on Santiago Bay, and see the changing of the guards at Santa Ifigenia Cemetery. Grand Cuba from Coast to Coast (17 days, priced from $5,434 land-only): Travelers have the rare opportunity to discover the best of Cuba from coast to coast on this comprehensive 17-day people-to-people program with Globus. Itinerary visits include highlights such as Hotel Nacional de Cuba, Revolution Square, Colon Cemetery, and the Cuban Institute of Music; Ernest Hemingway’s Finca Vigia home; a print shop that still employs traditional printing and binding methods; a mechanical music-organ factory; Casa de la Cultura in rural Velasco; Fidel Castro’s boyhood home; the Matachin Museum in an 18th-century Spanish Fortress and Bay of Pigs Museum; the semi-indigenous Guirito community; a cowboy interaction at Kings Ranch; a cocoa farm; pottery, ceramic and local art studios; the historic city centers of Santiago de Cuba, Trinidad, and Havana; San Pedro de la Roca Castle; Teddy Roosevelt’s fabled San Juan Hill; an elementary school, daycare center, library and local family’s home. Travelers will also enjoy a farm-to-table cooking demonstration, interactive dance lessons, a scenic cruise on Santiago Bay, the changing of the guards at Santa Ifigenia Cemetery, interactions with Cuban baseball players and dancers at the world-renowned Camagüey Ballet Company, a ride in an Old Styler car and performances by jazz musicians and the Cienfuegos Orchestra. Dinners at local paladars (privately owned restaurants), lunch at a Casa Particular (Bed & Breakfast) and an organic urban farm are just a few of the tantalizing special dining experiences. “All of these people-to-people encounters provide travelers once-in-a-lifetime enriching and enlightening experiences as well as a deep understanding of Cuba and its people,” said Nisbet. ABOUT GLOBUS With more than 85 years of international travel expertise, Globus is the world’s leading tour operator. Globus has teams of people on the ground in more than 65 countries around the world, and is an expert in providing travelers a holiday from the everyday by helping them truly experience and enjoy each destination. We bring to life cultures and histories through storytelling and in-depth journeys in the heart of each city, region or country. Honored with countless industry awards, including Travel Weekly’s Reader’s Choice Awards and Recommend magazine’s Best Tour Operator to Europe for more than 10 consecutive years, Globus also unites travelers with similar interests through niche tours, including family vacations, music-oriented journeys, faith-based travel and holiday excursions. The Globus family of brands is a member of Sustainable Travel International (STI). Consumers can book a Globus vacation or request brochures by visiting a preferred travel agent or by calling the following toll free number: 1.866.313.2855. For more information, please visit www.globusjourneys.com. Keywords: Gay Travelers Magazine, Globus, Cuba, Cuba tour, Wildland Adventures Combines Far-Flung Regions of Costa Rica To Tempt Families with Teens SEATTLE, Dec 10, 2014 – Following the path less-touristed, Wildland Adventures’ nine-day Costa Rica Far-Flung Family Adventure targets families with adventurous teens. This itinerary brings travelers from the Caribbean to the Pacific on river rafts, surf boards, zip lines and small aircraft, en route viewing exotic wildlife, helping local youngsters brush up on English, dining well and overnighting in some of Costa Rica’s foremost ecolodges. Scheduled departures are Dec. 20-28, 2014; Dec. 26-Jan. 3, 2015; Jan. 10-18 and Feb. 14-22, 2015. The group size is a maximum of 12. The per person double rate is from $3,995. Private departures may be arranged upon request and the program can be tweaked for families with young children or adults only. This itinerary unique to Wildland Adventures was created by Grettel Calderon, the company’s Central America Program Director and a native “Tica” from Costa Rica, who for 20 years has been designing eco tours to Costa Rica, Panama, Nicaragua, Belize and Guatemala. The main ingredients of her expert mix of adventures include wildlife viewing in cloud forests and jungles, natural history, cultural exchange, active adventures and local cuisine. This off-the-tourist-track adventure brings guests from San Jose to the Pacuare River for Class III-IV whitewater rafting before a two-hour boat trip to Tortuguero National Park, so remote it can be accessed only by jungle canals or small air strip. A short repositioning flight back to San Jose points guests in the direction of the Pacific and an ecolodge a short distance from the beach in the Dominical region that accesses Marino Ballena (Whales) National Park, Osa Animal Sanctuary, Corcovado National Park and Cano Island, one of the most prolific humpback whale migratory routes and dolphin habitats in Central America. “Many areas of Costa Rica that aren’t promoted to visitors have a lot to offer and Dominical is one of them. We've located still-secluded beaches surrounded with lush tropical forests teeming with wildlife, and pristine tropical waters where marine life thrives,” Calderon underscored. “We've discovered wonderful local restaurants that offer extraordinary culinary experiences. For example this little rural town of Ojocha is nothing but amazing restaurants where local ex-pat resident chefs who have moved there from France, Italy and Indonesia, have blended recipes from home with fresh tropical ingredients and Tico-style cooking to open restaurants in their homes and gardens offering creative cuisines in an ambiance you would never expect in the middle of nowhere,” she said. In her years of scouting trips Calderon has recently uncovered new private reserves, small coves and barely known beaches, an animal rehab sanctuary, off-the-tourist-track villages to visit and some of the hemisphere’s best whale watching. Kurt Kutay, who founded Wildland Adventures (http://www.wildland.com/) in 1986 after having worked for the Costa Rican National Park Service, noted that “most outfitters run insensitive (and even illegal) whale viewing trips and Grettel found the right boat operator who provides education and great viewing in comfortable and safe boats. Another far-flung aspect of this trip is that we return overland from the southern coast over the Cerro de la Muerte mountain pass, stopping for a hike in the new Los Quetzales National Park where there are good chances of seeing the Holy Grail of birdwatching – the Resplendent Quetzal.” In Tortuguero, besides kayaking, boat and village tours, families may join locals in a fun and interactive word adventure game helping kids learn a bit of English (while guests practice their Spanish). On the Pacific participants can join in several water activities: outrigger kayaking (an ancient form of kayaking), regular kayaking or stand up paddle boarding. En route to Caño Island looking for whales, a stop is made at Playa Violines, a secluded beach accessed through mangrove forest on the Sierpe River. Here are opportunities for sightings of monkeys, sloth, crocodile, boa constrictor, iguana and more before reaching the ocean. Departures are guaranteed for two or more people. Group is limited to 12 people. The trip begins and ends with overnights in San Jose. See:http://www.wildland.com/trips/central-america/costa-rica/costa-rica-far-flung-family-adventure/overview.aspx#/overview For more information and reservations contact Wildland Adventures at 1-800-345-4453 or by email at: info@wildland.com. Keywords: Gay Travelers Magazine, Wildland Adventures, Costa Rica, ecolodges, Five Mississippi Casino Golf Courses Earn National Acclaim (JACKSON, Mississippi) – Mississippi continues to shine as a premier golf-and-gaming destination with five of its courses landing on Golfweek’s recently released “Best Casino Courses, 2015.” The courses – along with their affiliated casino resorts – are:
Golfweek rates courses each year by sending out a panel of experienced evaluators using criteria that includes overall strength of routing, shaping, natural setting, variety of holes and conditioning. “Mississippi attracts visitors who savor our combination of top-notch golf courses, world-class casinos, authentic blues music and more,” said Malcolm White, Visit Mississippi Director of Tourism. “We are gratified that our casino resorts offer first-rate service and amenities, year-round optimal golf weather and a wide array of post-play activities.” Fallen Oak, open exclusively to guests of Biloxi’s Beau Rivage Resort & Casino, is known for its centuries old Oak and Magnolia trees, playability and impeccable service. The Tom Fazio design annually hosts the Mississippi Gulf Resort Classic, a PGA Champions Tour event that will be played this year on March 26-29. The Preserve Golf Club surged eight spots in new rankings, the largest year-over-year climb of any Mississippi course. U.S. Open champion Jerry Pate designed the course around the stunning scenery of a Gulf Coast nature preserve. The course also earned a “Best Resort Course” nod from Golfweek for the first time in November. Grand Bear Golf Club, a Jack Nicklaus Signature design also located in the Gulf Coast region, traverses through the wetlands and towering pines of DeSoto National Forest and sports packed pine needle rough amongst its notable cosmetic accents. Dancing Rabbit Golf Club once again saw both of its courses land on the list. The Oaks remained at No. 40 and is joined by The Azaleas at No. 44. The courses are the creation of Fazio and Pate and spread out over more than 14,000 pristine acres in Philadelphia, MS. For more information on these courses and all other spectacular golf offerings in Mississippi, visit http://www.visitmississippi.org/sitepages/golf or call toll-free 1-866-801-8551. About Mississippi Golf Attractions contributing to Mississippi’s growing popularity as the preferred golf-and-travel destination include:
Keywords: Gay Travelers Magazine, Mississippi Golf, Mississippi, golf, Mississippi Gulf Resort Classic, Seven Downtown Disney® Resort Area Hotels In The Walt Disney World® Resort In Florida Offering Enticing “Escape From The Cold” Rates . . . Special Rates Provide A Great Way To Escape To The Sunshine State And To Take In Events Such As The Epcot® International Flower & Garden Festival LAKE BUENA VISTA, FL (January 2015) – Looking for a cure for the winter blues? You should consider taking advantage of the special “Escape From The Cold” rates that are being offered by the seven Downtown Disney® Resort Area Hotels in Central Florida. Available February 1-March 31, 2015, the special rates are a great way to escape to the Sunshine State, experience such special events as the Epcot® International Flower & Garden Festival, and to take in the many new offerings in the Walt Disney World® Resort including the recently expanded New Fantasyland at Magic Kingdom® Park. In addition to the hotels having an ideal location with an easy walk to more than 75 themed and immersive shopping, dining and entertainment venues at the Downtown Disney® area, these seven Official Walt Disney World® Hotels also provide complimentary shuttle transportation every 30 minutes to all four Walt Disney World® Theme Parks, two Water Parks, and to the Downtown Disney® area. As a bonus, guests at these hotels also receive the “Downtown Disney Deals” booklet that features exclusive discounts and specials from over 30 merchants on Downtown Disney® area dining, entertainment and shopping. The Downtown Disney® Resort Area Hotels’ “Escape From The Cold” rates are: · B Resort & Spa – rates from $149 per room, per night · Best Western Lake Buena Vista Resort Hotel – rates from $89 per room, per night · Buena Vista Palace Hotel & Spa – rates from $93 per room, per night · DoubleTree Suites by Hilton – rates from $159 per suite, per night · Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista – rates from $89 per room, per night · Holiday Inn Orlando – Lake Buena Vista – rates from $99 per room, per night · Wyndham Lake Buena Vista Resort – rates from $97 per room, per night. Among the many coupons featured in the “Downtown Disney Deals” booklet are discounts at Rainforest Café®, T-Rex CaféTM, Wolfgang Puck® Express, Steve Baker Caricatures, The LEGO® Store, Planet Hollywood®, House of Blues® Restaurant, La NoubaTM by Cirque du Soleil®, Splitsville Luxury LanesTM, Bongo’s Cuban CaféTM, and Ghirardelli® Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop. Taking advantage of the special rates also will enable you to enjoy such other benefits of staying at one of the seven Downtown Disney® Resort Area Hotels as: · Disney tickets available to purchase at each hotel · Advance tee times and discounts at all Walt Disney World® golf courses · Disney Merchandise store located in each hotel · The ability to book advance dining and dinner show reservations for all restaurants across the Walt Disney World® Resort. For more information on the “Escape From The Cold” rates or to make a reservation, visitDowntownDisneyHotels.com , specifically downtowndisneyhotels.com/escape-the-cold (or bit.ly/1yEMnc7 ). Rates are based on availability and some blackout dates may apply. The rates do not include the Resort Services Fee or daily parking fee (if applicable), taxes or gratuities. The offer is not valid with any other special offers, promotions, existing reservations, or for groups. Special events at the Walt Disney World® Resort include: · The Walt Disney World Pro Soccer Classic – February 1-March 1, 2015 at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex · 22nd Epcot® International Flower & Garden Festival – March 4-May 17, 2015 at Epcot® · Garden Rocks Concert Series – select nights from March 6-May 17, 2015 at Epcot® · Atlanta Braves Spring Training – March 4-April 4, 2015 at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. In addition you also could take in such new offerings in the Walt Disney World® Resort as New Fantasyland, which is the largest expansion in the history of Magic Kingdom® Park. It offers more immersive enchantment and interactive experiences, and features two new themed areas: Enchanted Forest and Storybook Circus. Enchanted Forest attractions and experiences include Under The Sea – Journey of the Little Mermaid; Be Our Guest Restaurant;Enchanted Tales with Belle; Ariel’s Grotto; Gaston’s Tavern; and the crowning jewel of New Fantasyland Seven Dwarfs Mine Train. Storybook Circus attractions include: The Barnstormer featuring the Great Goofini; Dumbo The Flying Elephant®; Casey Jr Splash ‘N’ Soak Station; Pete’s Silly Sideshow; and Fantasyland Station. Other new offerings in the Walt Disney World® Resort include: the new Move It! Shake It! Dance & Play It! Street Party at Magic Kingdom® Park, with new music, new characters, and more audience interaction; a newCanadian Lumberjack Show at the Canada pavilion at Epcot®; For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration at Disney’s Hollywood Studios®; the display of the original golden coach from Disney’s new live-action feature “Cinderella,” at Disney’s Hollywood Studios® (from February 1-April 11, 2015); the opening of Exposition Park at Downtown Disney® West Side, the permanent home of four Disney-owned food trucks; and the opening in November 2014 of a new five-level parking garage with 4,000 spaces at the Downtown Disney® area. What’s more, in 2015 the Downtown Disney® area will evolve in to Disney Springs® – adding new shopping, dining and entertainment venues for your enjoyment. This one-of-a-kind destination will overflow with sights, sounds and flavors that come together in a beautiful outdoor environment with a charming waterfront setting. An experience only made possible by the imagination of Disney, this vibrant destination will offer a mix of unique (non-Disney) retail, distinct Disney shopping and incomparable dining offerings. Set amid beautiful open-air promenades and meandering springs, Disney Springs will double the number of shopping, dining and entertainment venues, and will be complete in 2016. Additionally, guests purchasing tickets to the Walt Disney World® Theme Parks in advance are now able to reserve access to some of your favorite Walt Disney World® experiences before you even leave home, with the DisneyFastPass+ service – at no extra charge. With valid park admission and online registration, you will be able to choose from more than double the previous number of experiences and skip the standby queue at the attractions that you selected in advance, and – for the first time ever – Fastpass+ service includes select Character Greetings, shows, parades and fireworks. You also have the ability to make changes anytime so that you can lock-in some of your must-do attractions and entertainment experiences, and relax and enjoy the moment with your family. “The weather is absolutely beautiful, and the special events at the Walt Disney World® Resort are outstanding, which makes it a wonderful time to visit,” said Doug Smith, chairperson of the Downtown Disney Resort Area Hotels’ marketing committee. Downtown Disney® Resort Area Hotels (DowntownDisneyHotels.com) is a consortium of seven Official Walt Disney World® Hotels that includes: the stylish B Resort & Spa, opened in June 2014 with 394 newly renovated guest rooms and suites, the full-service B Indulged® by AVEDA Spa, and American Q signature restaurant; the 18-story, 325-room Best Western Lake Buena Vista Resort Hotel, overlooking Lake Buena Vista and the Walt Disney World® Resort, and offering two restaurants, lounge, and wireless internet; Buena Vista Palace Hotel & Spa, offering 1,014 guest rooms and suites, three pools, tennis, basketball and sand volleyball courts, five restaurants/lounges and a full-service spa; the luxurious and spacious 229-suite Doubletree Suites by Hilton, the only all-suite resort hotel in the Downtown Disney® Resort Area; Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista, walking distance to Downtown Disney® and the only Downtown Disney® Area Resort offering Extended Theme Park Hours; the Holiday Inn Orlando – Lake Buena Vista, the only Holiday Inn located in the Walt Disney World® Resort Area and featuring elegant rooms with modern Florida décor; and Wyndham Lake Buena Vista Resort, featuring 626 guest rooms (which each feature a refrigerator), the Oasis Aquatic Playground with two pools and interactive water features, and six dining options. With nearly 30 food and beverage outlets and restaurants, more than 3,600 rooms and an array of amenities, the Downtown Disney® Resort Area Hotels offer a rate, space and menu to please every guest. Located in the heart of the Downtown Disney® area, these properties are within walking distance of exceptional shopping, dining and entertainment venues. For reservations, or more information, visit DowntownDisneyHotels.com . COLD WATER WARMS HEARTS AT THE LAKE OF THE OZARKS POLAR PLUNGE Lake of the Ozarks, Mo. - Going for a swim in Central Missouri's beautiful Lake of the Ozarks is a common occurrence. Doing it in February is less common. Nevertheless, brave souls with warm hearts will "take the plunge" for Special Olympics at the Polar Plunge on Feb. 28. 2015 marks the 20th anniversary of the plunge at the Lake. Organizers expect approximately 600 "plungers" and another 1,500 spectators to be on hand for the event at Public Beach #2 in Lake of the Ozarks State Park. Many of the participants don a costume for their plunge, so the event begins with a costume parade at 2 p.m., prior to the 2:30 p.m. plunge. The Polar Plunge makes a great centerpiece for a winter weekend of fun at the Lake of the Ozarks. Lodging facilities offer great winter rates and activities like shopping and golf, if the weather permits, add to the fun. Restaurants and nightspots can help plungers, and their fans, celebrate their success. Special Olympics Missouri's 14 Polar Plunges take place around the state in February to generate funds for the organization's year-round program of sports training and competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. All participants fundraise for the Special Olympics prior to the plunge and prizes are awarded for top fundraisers. These donations help the participating individuals and teams show their pride and dedication to the cause, giving them, as one team puts it, "a reason for freezin'." The Polar Plunge is a project of the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Missouri and is proudly hosted by the Osage Beach Police Department. For more information, visit www.somo.org. With plenty of events and activities, as well as dining and accommodations options, the Lake of the Ozarks is a perfect year-round destination for a vacation or getaway. Find out more by calling the Lake of the Ozarks Convention and Visitor Bureau (CVB) at 1-800-FUN-LAKE or visit the CVB's multiple award-winning website, FunLake.com. Keywords: Gay Travelers Magazine, Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri, Special Olympics Missouri, Polar Plunge, Victoria, B.C. Explore the mysteries of ancient coastal civilizations, search for foraging grizzlies, and snorkel with giant starfish – it’s time to tick off the 2015 travel bucket list with Outer Shores Expeditions, leader in wildlife, wilderness and cultural expeditions throughout Western Canada. Travellers can save up to 20% off small-group, expert-guided expeditions to Pacific Rim National Park, Great Bear Rainforest and Haida Gwaii. Offer is valid on select departures throughout spring and summer and must be booked before March 1st, 2015. Discover Vancouver Island’s West Coast with Expert Archeologist Denis St. Claire – Save 20%An expedition to Barkley Sound and the Broken Group Islands is the ideal adventure for travellers who want to uncover Canada’s ancient cultural and marine mysteries. New this year, Outer Shores welcomes expert archeologist Denis St. Claire aboard two exclusive sailings to Vancouver Island’s West Coast. St. Claire will offer guests an insider perspective on the ancient civilizations who’ve called this region home for over 5000 years. Whether from ashore or onboard, there will be ample opportunity to view wild migrating gray and humpback whales. The expedition wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Pacific Rim National Park’s intertidal zone, a rich habitat that is completely covered by water at high tide and exposed to the air when the tide is out. Guided by marine ecologists, guests search the intertidal zone, spotting unique creatures, like prickly sea urchins, colourful anemones, barncales and bright starfish. The 5-day expedition embarks from Ucluelet, B.C. The 20% discount is valid on April 26 and May 2 departures only. Additional Special Offers
About the schooner Passing Cloud Passing Cloud is a classic, 70’ schooner designed by William James Roué, famous for designing the legendary schooner Bluenose. Built in Victoria, BC, in 1974, Passing Cloud has a rich history on the BC Coast, renowned for her elegant design, exceptional accommodation, robust construction, and remarkable sailing abilities. Designed to sail around the world, Passing Cloud is an ideal vessel for small-group natural and cultural history expeditions throughout the BC Coast. Among her many features are Passing Cloud’s classic West coast wheelhouse, four private staterooms and gorgeous main salon. About Outer Shores Expeditions Outer Shores’ small-ship expeditions provide extraordinary and intimate opportunities for being immersed in the ancient cultures and stunning wildlife of Canada’s Pacific Coast. Guided by a crew of professional mariners and expert naturalists, small groups of 6-8 guests explore the incredible coastline of British Columbia while living and cruising aboard the 70’ classic wooden schooner, Passing Cloud. President and Captain Russell Markel holds a PhD in marine biology and is dedicated to hosting travellers from around the world while fostering stewardship and supporting conservation-based research in the areas where Outer Shores travels. Keywords: Gay Travelers Magazine, Canada, schooner Passing Cloud, Pacific Rim National Park, Great Bear Rainforest, Haida Gwaii, Outer Shores Expeditions, Visit the 'Current Cuba' Mayflower Tours' People to People Travel to Cuba Program Takes You There Now DOWNERS GROVE, Ill. – January 28, 2015 – Mayflower Tours is offering Americans a special and unique Cuban experience where culture, people and education align in a land almost stopped in time. The nine-day, eight-night, all-inclusive People to People Travel to Cuba Program takes travelers on a discovery of Havana and the countryside that showcases the current Cuba and the remarkable people of this intriguing country. So before the current Cuba begins to transform with global brands entering the economy, the savvy traveler knows the time to go to Cuba is now. Those old Chevys, post-WWII Fords, tri-pod cameras, American-built steam engines from the turn of the last century, the Copacabana circa 1959, and the still-life beauty that is Havana will all change once the U.S. completely lifts the travel restrictions to Cuba. In the company of an experienced Mayflower Tours tour manager and the expert local guides who are native to Cuba, travelers will meet and engage with a remarkable cross-section of the Cuban people: cigar-makers, artists, farmers, historians and more on the streets of Havana, Cienfuegos, Santa Clara and other extraordinary towns. The itinerary also includes visits to sites of historical significance, economic importance and natural beauty, where travelers will have meaningful interactions with the people and culture of Cuba. The People to People Travel to Cuba Program with Mayflower Tours begins in February 2015 with many departures already sold out. Availability on the May 3, 10, and 17 departures are priced at $4,199 per person and includes the airfare from Miami to Cuba, most meals, gratuities, round-trip airport transfers, visa fees, quality air-conditioned hotel accommodations and mandatory health insurance. For information or reservations, contact Mayflower Tours at 800-323-7604 x1. Access www.mayflowertours.com/cuba to view the complete itinerary and for more detailed information on the program. Keywords: Gay Travelers Magazine, Cuba, Cuba tour, Mayflower Tours, People to People, BUSCH GARDENS DEBUTS FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL MENU Inaugural Event Tempts Taste Buds with More Than 50 Wines, 50 Craft Brews and Variety of Culinary Delights TAMPA, Fla. (Feb. 2, 2015) – Guests can now explore the Busch Gardens® Food & Wine Festival menu online and prep their palettes for the inaugural spring event debuting on March 7. From comfort classics like bacon mac & cheese to decedent desserts like passion fruit flan, the Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival feeds guests’ appetite for adventure with wild flavors for every taste: Gourmet Lodge: Explore the exotic flavors of Gourmet Lodge, featuring duck confit, venison chili and other exciting dishes. Savory Tavern: Tempt taste buds with the rich flavors of Savory Tavern, including coconut shrimp cigars, braised lamb shank and passion fruit flan. Chef’s Plantation: Pan-seared salmon cakes, a griddled cheese cake sandwich and more await your palette at Chef’s Plantation. Coast to Coast Cookery: Flavors of the land and sea come together at Coast to Coast Cookery, featuring hangar steak, bacon-wrapped prawns and more. Field House Eatery: The Field House Eatery is the Festival’s biggest location, offering pan-seared scallops, roasted pork belly and mango éclairs right on Gwazi Field. Southern Station: Southern Station tantalizes taste buds with shrimp & grits, pan-fried cod and beef short rib. Comfort Kitchen: The Comfort Kitchen fuses classics like bacon mac & cheese with contemporary eats like habanero shrimp salad. Light Fare Canteen: Freshen up your palette at the Light Fare Canteen with scallop ceviche and an heirloom tomato & goat cheese salad. Blazin’ Bistro: Blazin’ Bistro breaks out the grill for fire-braised pork chops and jerk chicken sliders. The Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival runs from noon to 9 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays, March 7 through April 26. Plus, raise your glass to live concerts at 6 p.m. on Gwazi Field. The Festival is included with any pass, Fun Card or daily admission. Food and beverages are available for purchase at an additional fee. For more event information, including detailed menus and a full list of wine, craft brews and cocktails, visit BuschGardens.com. Stay connected and join the conversation by using #corksandcoasters on Busch Gardens’ Facebook page, Twitter and Instagram. Keywords: Gay Travelers Magazine, Busch Gardens, Tampa, Florida, Menu, Food & Wine Festival, What's New in San Diego Spring 2015 Major Attractions On March 5, 2015, LEGOLAND® California Resort will premiere the new LEGO® Star Wars™ Miniland Death Star Model Display. The Death Star LEGO model spans 8-feet across and includes LEGO models of Stormtroopers, a Rebel X-wing fighter pilot and an Imperial Star Ship pilot. Guests can construct their own LEGO spaceships at on-site building stations. LEGO Star Wars™ Miniland Death Star opens just before the park’s annual LEGO Star Wars Days on March 7-8, 2015. In summer 2015,LEGOLAND® California Resort debuts LEGO Friends Heartlake City. The new area is based on the LEGO Group’s “Friends” series of toys, which focuses on the lives and personalities of five girls: Mia, Olivia, Andrea, Stephanie and Emma. The new area invites guests to sing along with Andrea at her tour stage, stroll through LEGO horse stables, enjoy a building activity at one of the LEGO brick tables and go for a horseback ride on the carousel in Mia’s family ranch. The LEGO Star Wars ™ Miniland Death Star and the new LEGO® Friends Heartlake City are included in the cost of admission to LEGOLAND California Resort. During March 2015, guests can celebrate the natural world during SeaWorld Wild Days and get up-close with the marine park’s zoological team. During the March 7-8 weekend, animal conservationist and TV personality Jack Hanna and SeaWorld Animal Ambassador Julie Scardina introduce amazing animals; March 14-15 is “Sea Rescue” weekend, with SeaWorld team members from the popular ABC show sharing stories of the rescue, rehabilitation and return to the wild of marine animals; March 21-22 and 28-29 are Generation Nature™ (GenN) weekends, featuring high-energy, fun-filled shows packed with cool animal facts designed to inspire kids to become game changers for nature. Shows will be performed at Mission Bay Theater at SeaWorld. The first four weekends in May 2015, SeaWorld hosts a Craft Beer & Food Festival, featuring craft beer from Stone Brewing Co. and other San Diego breweries, plus international cuisine representing California fusion, Europe, the Caribbean and Pacific Islands. Wine will also be served and local bands will perform throughout the day at Garden Plaza. Admission to Wild Days events and the Beer and Food Fest are included with SeaWorld admission, while beer, food and wine tastings are additional cost. Butterfly Jungle at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park returns March 14–April 12 and features thousands of beautiful butterflies in an aviary that includes birds, lush greenery and flowers. Guests can walk among exotic butterflies of all colors, shapes and sizes, take photos, and learn about the flying creatures. The more than 30 species of butterflies highlighted hail from Africa, Asia, Central, South and North America and include the zebra longwing, orange-barred tiger, Grecian shoemaker, monarch, giant swallowtail and blue morpho. In addition to butterflies, there are 15 exotic bird species that share the aviary. During Butterfly Jungle, the Safari Park offers extended hours, 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Timed tickets with a reserved viewing time are offered to guests during peak hours from 10 a.m.-2:45 p.m.; open viewing is from 8-10 a.m. and 3-5:45 p.m. Butterfly Jungle is included with admission to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. View the complete list of San Diego attraction news. Major Events In 2015, Balboa Park celebrates its 100th anniversary with programs and events that recognize the importance of this cultural icon and heart of San Diego. In celebration, the park received a $1 million grant that will double the reach of the free public wireless internet system, making it one of the largest and fastest free public Wi-Fi spots on the West Coast. The grant includes building new interactive kiosks and smartphone apps to enhance the visitor experience at Balboa Park during its 100th birthday. Other new features include the San Diego Model Railroad Museum’s 2015 Centennial Railroad Garden opening in late April. This open-air model railroad will feature a miniature recreation of Balboa Park as it existed in 1915 and will showcase new technology that will enable visitors to interact with the layout directly by using a smart phone or tablet. On Jan. 1, 2015, for the first time since 1935, Balboa Park's California Tower at the San DiegoMuseum of Man opened for public tours. Visitors can climb 125 steps inside the historic tower, learn its history and other facts about Balboa Park from knowledgeable tour guides, and emerge onto the viewing deck to behold spectacular 360° views of San Diego. Tickets for California Tower tours are timed similar to theater tickets, so visitors are strongly encouraged to purchase tickets in advance. On March 14 and 15, downtown’s recently opened Waterfront Park on San Diego Bay will host the brand new CRSSD Fest, an electronic music festival featuring top acts, including Chromeo, Classixx, DJ Harvey, Empire of the Sun, Flight Facilities, Hot Natured, Odesza, Jamie Jones, Simian Mobile Disco and others. Performers will appear on three stages during this ticketed, paid-admission event for attendees 21 or older. Craft beer, mixed drinks, food and VIP area will be available. View more San Diego major events. New Venues In December 2014, Hornblower Cruises and Events San Diego debuted the refurbished, updated and renamed ship, Lord Hornblower as Admiral Hornblower. The redone ship features a melding of 21st century technology with “Gatsby” era elegance and style. In addition to a boutique-hotel-style Admiral’s Cabin and Pilot House and fiber optic infused bars, Admiral Hornblower offers Wi-Fi throughout the ship. In December 2014, construction was completed on San Diego's North Embarcadero Visionary Plan Phase I , a comprehensive project to enhance the waterfront and create new public open space that welcomes residents and tourists. This $31.1 million joint project of the Port of San Diego, the City of San Diego and Civic San Diego beautifies the waterfront from Navy Pier to B Street Pier. A 105-foot-wide public esplanade provides an inviting place to stroll, iconic public art by internationally acclaimed artist Pae White, a new information center, and a café where local favorite Carnitas Snack Shack is expected to open a new location. View more San Diego new venues news. Hotel Renovations Scripps Inn La Jolla, a 14-room bed and breakfast nestled along beautiful La Jolla shores, recently completed a renovation, including redesigned guest rooms and suites with new flooring, countertops and fixtures, custom furnishings, updated appliances, luxurious linens and unique coastal decor. All rooms offer an ocean view so guests can enjoy spotting the gray whales migrate, while dolphins, seals and sea lions can be seen year round. The rooms are pet friendly and are equipped with state-of-the-art personal kitchenettes. View more San Diego hotel news. Meeting & Convention Hotel News In January 2015, the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego overlooking San Diego Bay completed ameeting space renovation , one of several planned renovations throughout the property that began in 2012. In total, 130,000 sq. ft. of meeting space was remodeled with a “California coastal” color palate, new lighting fixtures, art, architecture and audio visual technology. The Coronado meeting space, Seaport (formally known as Elizabeth Ballroom), Harbor Ballroom, America’s Cup room and the 34,000-sq. ft. Grand Hall are among the renovated areas. The construction included upgrading the Kin Spa to become the chic Marilyn Monroe Spa and turning unfinished concrete storage space on the 32nd floor into an exclusive meetings venue with amazing bay views. In April 2015, Lael’s Restaurant is expected to complete its transformation into the newly renamed Seaview Restaurant. The famed Top of the Hyatt lounge will be undergoing a renovation midyear with plans to reopen for spectacular views of the Big Bay Boom on the 4th of July 2015. View more San Diego meeting hotel news. Restaurants, Breweries and Nightlife Opening February 2015 on Mission Bay, Oceana Coastal Kitchen features chef-driven, California comfort cuisine as well as a modern, ocean-inspired design overhaul of the Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa ’s signature restaurant. Oceana offers entrees including a tarragon shrimp salad sandwich served open-faced on toasted brioche with a Satsuma mandarin salad, as well as lighter fare options including a citrus salmon bowl with butter lettuce, tomato, avocado, and champagne vinaigrette. Alongside oysters on the half shell, an Omakase platter and a chipotle shrimp cocktail with a radish salad are part of the appetizer offerings, and the dinner menu includes hearty and wholesome entrees like the cold-smoked Niman Ranch pork chop with goat cheese grits, spiced apple and almond slaw. Set on Mission Bay, Oceana Coastal Kitchen provides stunning, unobstructed views of the water. In March 2015, Cannonball reopens at Belmont Park with a recently expanded rooftop that includes a new lounge and glass “sushi cube,” offering views of the Mission Beach Boardwalk below. Cannonball’s menu offers Pacific Rim inspired share plates, beach craft cocktails and sake. Signature dishes include fried chicken bao, Korean sauce, spicy aioli, cabbage, peanuts; yellowtail tartare, daikon, trout roe, citrus, wasabi peas, taro root, cilantro pistou; and salmon tataki, tomatillo ponzu and jalapeno. View more San Diego restaurant news. Arts and Museums On view now through April 19 at the Museum of Contemporary Art La Jolla, Laugh-in: Art, Comedy, Performance explores the recent turn toward comedic performance in contemporary art. The exhibition features 20 artists who engage the strategies and themes of stand-up comedy as a means to rethink questions of artistic performance, audience participation and public speech. From March 5–June 28 at the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego, visitors can view Gravity and Grace: Monumental Works by El Anatsui. MCASD’s downtown campus will be filled with 11 metal wall and floor sculptures widely considered to represent the apex of El Anatsui’s career. In addition, a series of drawings illuminates the artist’s process, while wooden wall reliefs reference his extensive work in wood and display fascinating compositional relationships to the large metal pieces. Opening January 30, 2015, at the San Diego Air & Space Museum is an interactive exhibition exploring the world of mathematics titled, 2theXtreme—MathAlive! In this 5,000-sq.-ft. exhibition, guests ride a snowboard in a 3D experience, design (and play) video games, capture a 360-degree self image, jump into a fractal dance party, and even design a custom skateboard. Through nearly 40 unique, interactive experiences, the exhibit takes math from its native form into the applied worlds of design, engineering, technology and science. View more San Diego arts and museums news. Performing Arts The San Diego Opera presents the premiere of Nixon in China by John Adams on March 14, 17, 20 and 22, 2015. Straight from the headlines and live news broadcasts of the day, Nixon in China pays musical witness to President Richard Nixon’s historic trip to Beijing in 1972 and goodwill meetings with China’s Chairman Mao Tse-Tung and Premier Chou En-Lai. From serious political discussions to a toast-filled banquet scene where every toast tries to outdo another, with Chinese dancers and a fantasy scene with Kissinger, Nixon in China explores an heroic gesture by a sitting American President towards a burgeoning world power. From now until March 22, 2015, La Jolla Playhouse partners with the historic Lafayette Hotel in a Without Walls (WoW) production of The Grift. The world-premiere, immersive theatre piece with Film Noir style takes audiences on a participatory journey through the extraordinary rooms and spaces of this expansive, 1940s-era landmark hotel. The Playhouse also announces the centerpiece of its 2015 WoW Festival: Healing Wars, conceived, directed and choreographed by internationally-renowned choreographer Liz Lerman. The show’s run will culminate at the 2015 WoW Festival taking place Oct. 9-11, 2015. Keywords: Gay Travelers Magazine, San Diego, Sea Pines Resort Offers ‘March Free Night’ Special (HILTON HEAD, S.C.) – The Sea Pines Resort – Hilton Head's most celebrated leisure retreat – is offering a “March Free Night” special that provides guests reserving three- to five-night stays a complimentary extra night of lodging from Feb. 28 – March 27. Guests can choose from an array of private lodging options featuring one to four bedrooms, all in proximity to the numerous array of amenities and features of the acclaimed Lowcountry destination. In addition to 54 holes of extraordinary golf, Sea Pines offers 21 clay tennis courts, Eco-Adventures, water sports, fine and casual dining, 14 miles of bike and walking trails, horseback riding and five miles of unspoiled beaches. The value-packed offer starts at $165 per night and includes:
Two recent resort additions now enhance the Sea Pines experience. The Plantation Golf Club is a 23,000-square-foot clubhouse and state-of-the-art golf learning center located at its Heron Point by Pete Dye and Ocean courses. Its Live Oak restaurant showcases Lowcountry-inspired cuisine and locally sourced produce and products complete with panoramic golf views and indoor and outdoor seating options. The Sea Pines Beach Club, with its relaxed, coastal ambience, provides year-round enjoyment, highlighted by a casual beachside restaurant, oceanfront bar, express concessions, retail shop, rooftop bar terrace, and special event space connected by outdoor decks, terraces and covered verandas. No advance deposit is required. When booking the March Free Night package call 866.561.8802 and mention the promotion code MARCH. About The Sea Pines Resort Situated on the southernmost tip of Hilton Head Island, the legendary Lowcountry destination features five miles of unspoiled beaches, 21 clay tennis courts, 14 miles of bike and walking trails, horseback riding, Eco-Adventures, water sports, and the 605-acre Sea Pines Forest Preserve filled with wildflowers, wetlands and more than 130 species of birds. As the first Eco-planned destination in the U.S., The Sea Pines Resort has become the blueprint for numerous beach developments around the country. One of the crown jewels in the world of golf, The Sea Pines Resort is home to Pete Dye’s classic Harbour Town Golf Links (home of the PGA TOUR’s RBC Heritage) Heron Point by Pete Dye, and the Ocean Course. The property has recently gone through extensive redevelopment with its Sea Pines Beach Club and Plantation Golf Club both opening in 2014. The new 26,000-square-foot Harbour Town Golf Links Clubhouse will open in April. Guests may choose from an array of accommodations, including 300 villas, 100 rental homes and the luxurious 60-room Inn at Harbour Town, a AAA Four-Diamond, Forbes Four-Star boutique hotel and Preferred Hotel Group member. The resort’s best-in-class collection of golf courses, amenities, meeting facilities and accommodations makes Sea Pines one of the most sought-after leisure and group destinations in America. For more information, visit https://www.seapines.com/ Keywords: Gay Travelers Magazine, The Sea Pines Resort, Pete Dye’s classic Harbour Town Golf Links, Hilton Head Island, 7 Reasons to Take a Hocking Hills Vacation in 2015 The start of a new year always brings about the hope of so many possibilities. There are resolutions we all try and keep up with, as best as we can, and some resolutions that we do everything in our power to keep. For some, the latter can be traveling to new places. When most think about traveling to new places, we all think about far off cities that can take so long to get to. Why not try something a little closer first? Consider coming to see us at Inn at Cedar Falls and taking a Hocking Hills vacation this year. Never been to Ohio? Come check out all of the fun things we have in store this year that make perfect activities for a Hocking Hills vacation. Before we get into the festivals of the year, one activity is perfect for a Hocking Hills vacation no matter what time of year it is, exploring Hocking Hills. Close to us at Inn at Cedar Falls is Hocking Hills State Park, a place that contains hours of discovery and entertainment in the form of trails, caves, and much more. One way that some like to discover Hocking Hills is through the air on a canopy tour. One wonderful company, The Hocking Hills Canopy Tours, takes its visitors on a thrilling adventure that starts with a fun mile and a half walk, 10 zip lines, 5 skybridges and rappelling down when you are done. Whether you are zipping through the air or waiting for your turn, you will be educated by your guide about the local plants and trees, animals, and so much more. One great thing about The Hocking Hills Canopy Tours is that you can rent a Go-Pro camera from them for your tour so you can relive the excitement long after you get home from your Hocking Hills vacation. Another reason to plan a Hocking Hills vacation in 2015 is for our amazing festivals and events. We have so many reasons to celebrate here in Ohio. The first event that we host is the Sweetheart Hike at Hocking Hills State Park. This Valentine’s themed hike is always on Valentine’s Day and is from 5 to 7 pm. You and your partner will leisurely stroll to Ash Cave where you will enjoy a fire and some yummy treats. This is a great way to not only show your partner that you care but also a great family activity as well. The next festival is in March and is the Maple Syrup Festival. This attracts a good amount of visitors planning a Hocking Hills vacation. This year’s festival will be March 7th and 8th from 12-4 pm and will meet at the Naturalist Cabin. From there learn all about how tree sap is turned into a great way to adorn pancakes and waffles. There will be tours and guides who can help you with any questions you might have. There will also be maple syrup vendors there so you can take some delicious syrup home. The next few festivals are some that we just love going to and we have many visitors planning their Hocking Hills vacation around these festivals. The first in April and May is the Wild Turkey Festival. Starting April 30th (5-11 pm) and continuing on May 1st and 2nd (11am-11pm), and concluding May 3rd (12-5pm) MacArthur will be flooded with fun. When you go downtown you will see carnival rides, food, music, quilt show and car show that is fun for the whole family. Be sure to grab a spot for the main parade on Saturday at 6pm. The next festival is perfect for those who love a little bit of history with their booze, the New Straitsville Moonshine Festival. While there you can tour a working moonshine distillery, learn a lot of moonshine history, vendors, and lots of moonshine themed food. All of this will be held May 21st-25th. The last festival until summer is one that a lot of people love coming to and centering their Hocking Hills vacation around, the Nelsonville Music Festival. This super fun outdoor concert will be held May 28th-31st at Hocking College. The music typically found at this festival is folk/country with the likes of Merle Haggard, Moon Hooch, My Bubba, and more. Be sure to check out their site to find out who else will be playing and to purchase tickets. The last reason why so many visitors love choosing a Hocking Hills vacation is to stay with us at Inn at Cedar Falls. We have beautiful grounds that are fun to explore in your downtime while on your Hocking Hills vacation. One activity that many visitors love to experience at our inn is our spa. We offer so many spa services that you could spend days at our spa. One of the newest services that we feel will soon be popular is our Spa Samplerwhich allows our guests to receive a massage, facial, and hand or foot treatment. Our guests love our attention to detail that is shown throughout our inn from each of our different lodging options to our restaurant, Kindred Spirits, which has become a favorite not only for guests but locals as well. Ready to plan your first Hocking Hills vacation of the year? Contact our amazing staff today and let us help you craft the perfect Hocking Hills vacation. For more information, visit http://innatcedarfalls.com/ Keywords: Gay Travelers Magazine, Ohio, Hocking Hills, Inn at Cedar Falls, |
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