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Wayne Lundin, Manager, Client Services

 SONORA RESORT Canada

www.sonoraresort.com

Situated on a beautiful British Columbia island, Sonora Resort is a recent addition to the Virtuoso family of preferred hotels and resorts.  Wayne Lundin, Manager of Client Services visited Stellar Travel to give us an insider’s view of this luxury wilderness resort.

88 rooms and suites are available for vacation or business retreats.  A four-bedroom villa accommodates families or groups with totally private decks and a hot tub under the stars.   Guest rooms have sumptuous bedding, fireplaces and a seamless harmony with the outdoor surroundings.  Originally designed as an exclusive Chinook fishing resort, more activities have been added including a spa and wellness center, kayaking, fly-fishing, Grizzly bear watching stations (situated a few miles away), whale-watching and eco-tours.

This Relais & Chateaux resort is all-inclusive with meals and beverages included in the rates starting at $400+ per night per person.   Access from Seattle is via Kenmore Air to dockside Sonora Island (with one stop in Nanaimo to clear customs) or by 50-minute private helicopter from Vancouver, B.C.   For more information and reservations including extra and exclusive Virtuoso amenities contact sheryl@stellartravel.com – 425.747.1900 ext. 222

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A magazine article in February 11, 2010 The Economist described what travel agents have known the past few months: Cruise lines are doing better than other segments of the travel industry, like hotels, resorts and airlines.  The cruise industry has been aggressively pricing and marketing their products to the recession economy and cruise customers are buying.

Approximately 20% of Americans have been on a cruise, so the market is vast.  Cruise lines are attracting younger cruisers with the median age dropping from 53 in 2002 to 46 in 2008.  Cruise lines appeal to budget-conscious travelers by offering “all-inclusive” fares, even though on the mass-market ships, many amenities like alcohol and shore excursions cost extra.  Some of the most popular choices for Stellar Travel clients are the premium to luxury cruise lines offering 2-for-1 all-inclusive fares (including alcoholic beverages and shore excursions), free or discounted airfare and stateroom upgrades.  Some cruise lines are boasting that they are sold out or nearly sold for the first half of 2010.

13.4 million people cruised in 2009, up from 12.6 million in 2007 according to the Cruise Lines International Association.  But the discounts have eaten into earnings.  At Carnival Corporation, the biggest cruise line, revenues were 10% lower in 2009 than 2008.  With growing capacity and 12 new vessels to be launched this year, the firms may not be able to raise prices to previous levels until 2011 or beyond.

Stellar Travel Tip: There are many differences between cruise lines, ships, staterooms and amenities.  Let the cruise experts at Stellar Travel assist you with the best itineraries and cruise choices!

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First person $6,595 – Second person FREE!  Visit the last refuge – Botswana – for 9 days.

One of the finest game experiences in Africa, Botswana has become legendary for safari connoisseurs.

The pristine and well-managed wildlife reserves, along with the small and intimate nature of the camp sites, promise visitors a highly personalized and active game viewing adventure.  The camps are comfortable in a 5-star style, uniquely African.

This incredible offer is available with a Stellar Travel-preferred and well-established Africa tour partner and includes:

• 2 nights The Westcliff Hotel (including breakfast)

• 6 nights on safari in three different Orient Express camps: Khwai River Lodge, Eagle Island Camp, Savute Elephant Camp.

• Helicopter ride over the Okavango Delta

• Bush plane transfers between camps

• All meals, drinks, laundry while on safari; private transfers.

Land cost based on travel November-December 2009.  Price based on double occupancy, and is subject to availability.  October dates available at $8,500 first person, second person free.  Airfare to Johannesburg and onward to Maun is additional.

Contact Rita at Stellar Travel for experienced and professional assistance to Africa!  rita@stellartravel.com 425.747.1900

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The health care reform initiative is hitting major roadblocks; unemployment remains a growing concern. The wave of popularity that ushered Barack Obama into office is showing signs of weakening; his approval numbers are just over 50%. So what’s the President to do?

Take a Vacation.  As August wound to a close, Obama stated that his mission was to play golf and spend time with his wife and young daughters, if only for a few days. Regardless of how you feel about the President, taking a vacation should be nonpartisan. We all need to take a break, and the President is sending a strong message – make time for yourself.

Working hard is a laudable American tradition, but so too is working long hours. According to the World Tourism Organization, Americans take the fewest vacation days of any nation in its report – just 13 paid days. Compare that to 42 days for Italian, 37 for French, 35 for German, and 25 for both Korean and Japanese workers.

Enough is enough. Working diligently and deliberately is a must; working through exhaustion is folly. Here are five reasons why you need to take a break.

1. Break from the routine. As much as you enjoy work, there are aspects that become routinized. The positive aspect of routine is that it sets patterns for getting things done in order and on time. The downside of routine is that it leads to staleness and sterility. Getting out of the work routine is vital to maintaining a healthy outlook on work. It can freshen your attitude.

2. Reconnect with family. Work is only one part of your day. For most executives, the most neglected part is time with spouse and children. Road trips play havoc with family life. Setting aside time to be present with loved ones is not only good for them, it’s good for you.

3. Get in touch with self. Kick back and think about where you are in life and what you want to accomplish. Ask yourself what is fulfilling about your job and use the answers to consider making changes. No matter how good things are, we can always make improvements. Also, use the time to think about how you can do more for your direct reports, perhaps starting with giving them more responsibilities.

4. Let your mind ruminate. The pace of work can be unrelenting. So many senior executives tell me that the only time they can think is on an airplane. Use the vacation as your long plane ride without the cramped seating and stuffy air.

5. Smell the roses. Make certain that your vacation isn’t so packed with activities that you don’t have time to sit and reflect.

Of course senior leaders, such as our President, really never get away. For example, while on vacation, the President re-appointed Ben Bernanke as Chairman of the Federal Reserve and delivered a eulogy for Senator Ted Kennedy. Leaders are only a phone call away from an emergency, but by taking a break they demonstrate that a change of scenery is in order. It breaks up the work routine and allows the executive a change of pace.

The challenges facing you seldom disappear with time. But coming back to them after an absence allows you to face them with a renewed sense of vigor and purpose. Time spent away from the office may also have given you an opportunity to think of new approaches, or reconfirm your intended strategies.

August 31, 2009, John Baldoni, Harvard Business at Work

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One of our Maui insiders offers the following tips to help enhance your Hawaii vacation experience:

Guri Guri….like sherbet or sorbet but with milky taste. So ono licious and cheap. Tasaka’s Guri Guri behind Longs Drugs in Maui Mall in Kahului..Only place you can get it in Hawaii!

Nakalele Point and blow hole- just past mile marker 38..this blow hole can jet water up to 100 feet in the air if the surf is right. It’s just a short hike down from the road. Be VERY careful and don’t get too close to the blow hole. Can be dangerous!…But pretty impressive!

Napili Kai Beach Resort..small intimate “Hawaiian” resort..spectacular beach!!!…now 50% off ocean view studios for travel for the balance of August. Unbelievable!! Package it with some of the best airfares of the season and take a long weekend getaway before the end of the summer!

Cheap Local Eats …Sam Satos and Frans Island Grill..both in Wailuku..good local plate lunches..Try Fran’s awesome loco moco…rice with hamburger patty on the top then with fried egg on top of that..then smothered with brown gravy..OMG.. the nitrates!!  For a little extra kick..add some chili pepper water!

Beginning and intermediate snorkeling -none better than at mile marker 14 on the way from Kahului Airport to Lahaina. You’ll be sharing it with quite a few other snorkelers, but easy access right off the road. Very calm and safe snorkeling. Great for the keikis!!!

Kaanapali Alii…score some great rates at this luxury beachfront resort this fall while they undergo the addition of a second pool and spa plus a brand new state of the art fitness center. Killer construction rates and you get access to the pools at the Westin,Marriott and Sheraton!  Significant upgrades for just $30-$45 per night!!

C. Kim

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Tradewinds dead, humidty high, waves higher.   I have been to Kona four times and have never seen waves like this trip. As soon as we turned the corner into town we could see  enormous white explosions as the waves exploded on the rocks.  A high surf advisory is in effect through Friday.

Today went to snorkel at famous Kahalu’u Beach Park near Keahou Bay.  But after renting our gear we read the pamphlet and the Hawaiian department in charge of the marine parks has requested that no one enter because too much human use is harming the ecosystem and the reef is dying.   We decided that we did not want to add to this so we kept driving.

Instead we went north to Kekaha Kai State Park between the airport and the Four Seasons.  Beautiful secluded beach reached by about a 20 minute drive over really rough lava road.    Not many people and the snorkeling is good if not great as the water is rougher.  But did see a sea turtle and usual assortment of fish.  Facilities are limited – basically bathroom is a port – o – potty with a shed built around it and that is it.  However, fun thing is it is directly in the flight path for the airport.  At one point we all stood waste deep in the ocean and watched a 747 landing directly above our heads – pretty surreal and cool thing to see so this spot is worth the trek for those looking for an out-of-the way place with a little bit of adventure but not too much.

As reported by Tim,  a Stellar Travel advisor and Hawaii specialist.

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Enjoy the latest Virtuoso® Travel Catalog — RETURN ON LIFE. Simply click on the catalog image or download here.

There is simply nothing like travel to fuel your passions, offer you the chance to make new discoveries, and create the perfect setting for spending time with family and friends. The good times, lasting memories, and unforgettable moments that come from vacationing add to your Return on Life, and give you the confidence of knowing your investment is well worth it.

With all of today’s incredible deals now is a great time to travel. Call us today!

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The St. Regis Deer Crest Resort

Powder-loving skiers are awaiting the November 1, 2009 debut of St. Regis Deer Crest Resort in Park City, Utah.  Offering ski-in, ski-out access with signature St. Regis “Ski Butler” services, the resort will feature 181 guestrooms with sweeping views of the magnificent Deer Valley.  Salt Lake City airport is 45 minutes away.  Guestroom accommodations feature 40-inch LCD HDTV’s with HD theater sound systems, European linens, high-speed wireless internet access and fireplaces.  Services include 24-hour in room dining, child-care service, nightly turndown and the 14,000 sq. ft. Remede Spa with signature treatments.

While Park City is well-known as an international ski destination, warm-weather activities include hiking, biking, fishing, hot-air balloon rides and events at the Deer Valley summer amphitheater.  Expected to be designated a Virtuoso-preferred hotel, your Stellar Travel vacation advisor will secure complimentary amenities and room upgrades for your reservations.

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One of our Oahu insiders offers the following tips to help enhance your Hawaii vacation experience:

Huli Huli Chicken – local style chicken often sold for fund raisers. Check for ads in the local newspaper this summer.  Normally held in street side parking lots. “huli” means to “turn over” as you turn over the chicken on the grill to keep from burning.  Lots of different recipes, but usually marinated in combo of soy sauce, pineapple, ginger, and brown sugar. Broke da mouth!!!

39th Annual Ukulele Festival -July 19th, Kapiolani Park Bandstand in Kapiolani Park 9:30A-1:30P – FREE!! Food booths, ukulele displays,  ukulele bands and soloists. Take a beach mat  or blanket!! No not from the hotel!!!!

3660 On the Rise- I’m a big fan of Alan Wongs in Honolulu for that special occasion, but here’s another excellent choice if you are looking for a great dining experience just 10 minutes from Waikiki. The Ahi Katsu appetizer is famous and the desserts are killer! Save room. Entree prices run  between mid 20s and mid 30s. Russell Siu’s dishes are remarkable. Validated parking in the back.

Miramar at Waikiki- Just announced 3rd night free for balance of the year plus guaranteed connecting rooms ( at no surcharge) and kids eat free this summer. The only hotel in Waikiki to offer this!! Property is looking great plus you have the most convenient location in Waikiki. Some smoking rooms too, tough to find in Waikiki! (be sure to call Stellar Travel for special rates and amenities).

Kailua Beach park-this is a world class beach just 20-30 minutes from Waikiki. Sandy, not a pebble on it..perfect for families with small children. Pretty flat in the summer, but some nice afternoon breezes also make it an excellent windsurfing spot. This is where the locals go!!  Showers and rest rooms also. Go across the street from Miramar to Food Pantry and pack a picnic. Ease into the sun for the first few days..you can get fried in a hurry!!

C. Kim

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Welcome to ENRICHING PURSUITS, the June Virtuoso® Travel Catalog!

To view, simply click the catalog image or download here.

As you flip through the pages of this unique catalog you will find a collection of distinctly enriching experiences that offer the chance to give back to the culture, environment or nature, making a lasting impact on our world. These are the trips that ignite your passions and feed your curiosity for truly memorable experiences.

Take advantage of today’s tremendous travel deals. As your Virtuoso travel advisor we are here to guide you through the terrific options available. Call us today for details.

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