With winter’s wet, muddy and frozen claws gripping the U.S., it is time for
travelers to look south for warm places to escape the season’s harsh realities.
Of course, while places close to home, like Mexico and the Caribbean, or in the
Western Hemisphere, like Latin America, come easily to mind, there are lands
further afield that also inspire the winter sun seeker. Surprisingly, a few of
these locations, covered both in the Host Review and this month’s articles,
would most likely be overlooked because they are in Southeast Asia, parts of
which were devastated by the great Dec. 26 tsunami.
While the devastation has been substantial, the best help travelers can provide
to assist with the region’s long-term recovery is to visit there. Some places
will take longer than others to be fully operational, but avoiding an entire
region due to fear and lack of information will create a far worse future for
the people affected by the tsunami than Nature’s fury.
Review, research and think about ways your travels dollars can do double duty:
helping rebuild areas effected by this disaster by visiting a South Asian
country’s non-damaged areas, and the increased buying power you enjoy because of
the drop-off in travelers due to the disaster. And don’t forget the emotional
support you’ll give just by showing up.
Specialty:Independently
organized cultural, beach, spa, wildlife and mixed adventure holidays
Why
We Like Them:Utilizing the best in
locally owned properties and restaurants, Adventure Lanka Tours provides great
value and high quality in all of their individualized tours. Suggested
itineraries are just the starting point for creating an independent customized
holiday. Great for small groups or individuals, the company’s focus is showing
the visitors the best Sri Lanka has to offer. Personal attention, responsible
tourism and a dedication to showing and preserving the authentic Sri Lanka, as
well as resiliency and confidence in the wake of disaster, make Adventure Lanka
Tours my choice for Pick of the Month.
Why
We Like Them:Focusing on the cultural, ecological and archaeological
treasures of Latin America, Eco Voyager offers four types of journeys to suit
the needs of most every traveler. Its “Distinctive and Romantic Voyager
collections” include soft activities, while its “Active Voyager
Collection” offers a bit more challenging adventures. The company’s
“Single Voyager” trips are especially geared for the solo traveler.
Whichever journey you choose, Eco Voyager can help you a plan a trip of a
lifetime.
Why
We Like Them: Offering first-class scheduled small-group departures,
Southwind Adventures has been active throughout the region since 1990. Choose
from over 40 tours designed for travelers looking for culture, nature or soft
adventure. The small group size allows travelers to experience the region
in-depth without harming the environment or overrunning the natives. Whatever
your choice of journeys, Southwind Adventures will make the trip a special
experience.
Why
We Like Them: Maldives
Travel Network offers reservations for a number of resorts and live-aboards
throughout the islands. Specializing in custom tour planning, including diving,
surfing and underwater safaris, as well as group and incentive packages, the
company has exclusive arrangements with a number of local providers. Little
known in the U.S., the hundreds of private islands of the Maldives are indeed a
destination worth visiting.
Article: Blue Lagoons are the Maldives Islands’ Heart
Why
We Like Them: A new twist on the African game safari, “A Tent With a
View” offers beachside accommodations within the newly formed Saadani National
Park, Tanzania’s only costal wildlife reserve. Walking safaris, boat safaris
and the traditional game drive enhance the wildlife viewing experience. Nearby
is Saadani Village, a major cultural site that many people believe to be the
ancient trading site of Rhapta, dating back to Ptolemy's Geography and a
major trading post with Zanzibar. You’ll enjoy beachfront views, cultural
explorations and wildlife. all in one fabulous setting – a delightful way to
experience Africa.
Specialty:Romantic, cultural and adventure getaway planner.
Why
We Like Them: Travel planner P. J. Ott has been creating special dreams
for her clients for over 16 years. Specializing in Caribbean and island
holidays, as well as romantic getaways, PJ will beat any deal you’d find for
packages on sites like Expedia with better service and quality. She has
personally inspected most of the resorts she sells. There’s nothing like a
personal touch!
Why
We Like Them: With afabulous staff that knows its destinations and is ready to answer all
questions, the company offers general interest trips for travelers looking for
an overview of Australia or New Zealand. Because it provides the perfect
balance of included meals and attractions, along with free time to explore on
your own, anyone looking for a grand escorted journey should definitely call
Premier Vacations first.
Specialty:Custom designed and small group departures
Why
We Like Them: Featuring fabulous cultural tours, from the Stone Age
cultures of Irian Jayaand
Papua New Guinea, to the outer most islands of Indonesia and in depth wildlife
tours, including the Orangutan’s of Borneo, komodo dragons, as well as bird
watching and fishing, Adventure Indonesia’ trips unveil the magical history of
this ancient land. Definitely not for the closed minded, these trips explore
using local craft and offer a chance to truly experience the islands and their
varied inhabitants in their native settings.
Specialty:Secluded island resort and Ayurveda health center
Why
We Like Them: Located on the beach and surrounded by floating cottages,
this resort is a fabulous way to indulge the senses. A wide selection of
Ayurveda treatments complete the luxury and ensure body, mind and soul are all
tuned up and ready to face the world again. Choice of accommodations only or
with treatments, this secluded area is perfect to relax and revitalize.
