If you’re like me, always on the lookout for last minute travel savings, this 30% off deal in Chilean Patagonia might be just the ticket for an October adventure.
Why go:
With high season officially beginning in November, the month of October is an ideal time to travel to Patagonia in order to avoid the crowds, but take advantage of the improving weather.
Trip highlights include hiking along the world famous W Route in Torres del Paine National Park, witnessing the birth of icebergs as they calve away from the Grey Glacier, encountering guanacos, pink flamingos, and condors in their natural habitat, and sleeping in tented domes at a luxury eco-camp.
photo courtesy BikeHike Adventures.
The Offer:
All October 2013 departures for BikeHike Adventures’ On the Trail of Chile’s Patagonia are discounted to $1,799 USD, a savings of up to 30%. The 7-day itinerary offers travelers the chance to hike the famous W Route in Chile’s Torres del Paine National Park. Highlights include the Grey Glacier, the French Valley, the Italian Valley, and the Torres del Paine themselves. Accommodations are in an Eco-Camp with comfortable dome tents that have solar showers and flush toilets as well as in cozy mountain refuges.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Explore Four Islands by Yacht with Un-Cruise Adventures.
My husband and I have sailed with Un-Cruise Adventures (formerly American Safari Cruises) in Alaska and Baja California and we are huge fans of their laid-back style of luxury adventure. With the addition of this new Hawaiian Island itinerary and early-booking savings (read on), I’m very tempted to set sail again. What about you?
What’s New:
Moloka’i takes center stage as the start or end point of Un-Cruise Adventures’ new Hawaii itinerary. A quieter, less-visited island, exclusive cultural activities are included for guests on Moloka’i with the vessel spending an evening at dock to allow for a full day of activities and cultural immersion.
“Moloka’i is like stepping back in time to the Hawaii of yesteryear,” said Dan Blanchard, CEO and principal for Un-Cruise Adventures. “It’s incredibly scenic and values its culture and heritage which we’re proud to be able to share with our guests.”
From November 2013 to April 2014, Un-Cruise Adventures’ 36-guest yacht Safari Explorer explores the Hawaiian islands on a new itinerary sailing one-way between Moloka’i and Hawaii, the Big Island or reverse. Weeklong Luxury Adventure cruises in Hawaii include activities and tours while exploring four islands—Moloka’i, Lana’i, Maui and Hawaii, the Big Island.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Finally! Savings for Solo Travelers…
Anyone who enjoys traveling alone, or has little choice but to do so, knows that the decision often carries a costly penalty—the dreaded ‘single supplement’, a hefty fee that hotels and travel providers add to trip rates for solo travelers.
I travel solo a lot and know that single supplements, or lack thereof, can make or break my vacation choices. So, I was thrilled to find this Spring getaway at Vancouver Islands’ Long Beach Lodge Resort offering 40% off savings for solo travelers.
The deal: From now until May 31, 2013, Long Beach Lodge Resort, in Tofino, British Columbia, is offering solo travelers 40% off room rates in the Lodge. “Solo Rates” start at $119 Cdn per night plus taxes.
The place: Famous for its iconic Great Room, where guests are welcome to relax and enjoy the incredible views, Long Beach Lodge Resort is home to one of the best surfing beaches in the area. Having celebrated its 10th anniversary in 2012, Long Beach Lodge Resort is set right on the ocean in Cox Bay, Tofino, BC, and provides beautifully appointed accommodations in a private, wild Pacific West Coast setting. The resort offers 41 lodge rooms, 20 two-bedroom cottages and a full service dining room, the Surf Club and Adventure Centre, fitness room, outdoor hot tub, as well as meeting space and instant beach access. For more information, visit www.longbeachlodgeresort.com.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Highlights of this extraordinary adventure include three nights in the Selous Game Reserve- the largest reserve in Africa - and a stay at the luxury Serena Mivumo Lodge overlooking Steiglers Gorge, with game activities during the day including sundowners along the mighty Ruaha and Rufiji Rivers- where explorer’s caravans were likely to have once camped for the evening.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
ESCAPE WINTER CHILL WITH GREEN SEASON BOTSWANA SAFARI
Save up to 30% on this 6-night Green Season safari, with rates starting at $3,400 per person including accommodations, domestic flights, meals, game drives and more
Extraordinary Journeys Africa, specialists in luxury bespoke safaris to Africa, is offering an opportunity to trade in the winter chill for an escape to Botswana from November 2012 to March 2013.
During this 6-night safari, visitors will experience breath-taking green landscapes, thousands of animals in the wild caring for their newborn young and millions of birds migrating. With about an hour of rain each day, this “green season” typically attracts fewer tourists, which means a more intimate experience and warm temperatures all at rates that are 30% lower than their peak.
Pricing for this adventure is $3,400 per person for a 6-night stay in Botswana for travel between November 10, 2012 and March 20, 2013*. To receive a quote for dates between December 20, 2012 and January 10, 2013, please contact Extraordinary Journeys.
A 50% discount is available for children 6 to 14 sharing a family room with parents, making this a great option for a family trip over the upcoming holiday and February school breaks.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
King Pacific Lodge, a floating luxury wilderness lodge located on the central coast of British Columbia deep in the Great Bear Rainforest, wants Canadians to make themselves at home this summer. And with half price lodging for the month of June 2012 for Canadian guests, a visit to the eco-friendly seventeen room lodge just got a whole lot more inviting.
King Pacific Lodge, A Rosewood Resort, is offering the experience of a lifetime. During the month of June 2012, Canadians will pay 50% less for a visit to King Pacific Lodge, or $5,100 CAD, for a fully inclusive seven-night stay.
The fully inclusive package features:
• Scenic round-trip chartered flights from Vancouver to the lodge
• Champagne welcome reception and orientation
• Gourmet meals featuring British Columbia’s finest organic and seasonal ingredients
• All beverages including award-winning British Columbia wines
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
For years, Antarctica - the “blue continent” at the bottom of the world - has topped my travel wish list.
With ten departures, and savings up to $8,200, these Antarctic cruise deals from Quark Expeditions, the leader in Polar adventures, might be just the ticket to getting there in 2012.
Save up to 40% on this 12-day Antarctic adventure that begins and ends in Ushuaia, Argentina. Like adventurers of old, the voyage crosses the Drake Passage to explore the breathtaking Antarctic Peninsula and the mysterious South Shetland Islands. Passengers meet up with at least four different species of penguin, countless seals and “big ice” in all its Antarctic splendour.There’s also a full slate of adventure activities, including kayaking, camping, mountaineering and cross-country skiing. February 10-21, 2012, from $6,354 per person.
Quark Expeditions (888) 892 0334.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Tis’ the season for a winter adventure. Hit the slopes and save with these package deals from resorts in some of North America’s top ski destinations.
1. Sign up for the The Best of Winter in Four Days Flat package at Moonlight Basin in Big Sky, Montana, and get three nights lodging, two days of resort skiing, one day of self-guided snowshoeing with free snowshoe rentals, a day of dog sledding, and a round of happy hour drinks, for up to four people. Offering a vast amount of terrain and an escape from long lift lines, this ski resort in Montana’s Rocky Mountains combines luxury with affordable rates and features an exceptional spa, dining options & a variety of lodging, along with the Biggest Skiing in America.
2. At the Four Seasons Resort Jackson Hole in Wyoming, their five-day and five-night skiing/snowboarding Ultimate Untracked Trio includes resort skiing at Jackson Hole Mountain, snowcat skiing, back-country skiing, and heli-skiing. The luxurious ski-in/ski-out resort in Wyoming’s Teton Mountains features world-class dining, full-service spa retreat, unforgettable service & signature amenities, along with incredible access to epic ski terrain & winter adventures.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
FRENCH COUNTRY WATERWAYS OFFERS UP TO 40% SAVINGS ON SELECT HARVEST SEASON DEPARTURES
Oct. 9 and Oct 23 Sailings Take in the Upper Loire Valley and Central Burgundy – Special Prices Starting at $3,847
French Country Waterways, luxury hotel barge cruise operator, has announced special pricing on two of its popular itineraries – the Upper Loire Valley and Central Burgundy. The six-night, October 9 and 23, 2011 sailings are priced at $4,547 and $4,687 (suites) per person, double, aboard the eight-passenger deluxe barge Princess, and $3,847 on the 12-passenger, all-suite Horizon II, respectively. This amounts to savings of 40% off the Horizon II’s regular season fare of $6,495 when combining the 30% special with the $1,000 per person seasonal discount, and 30% off Princess’s fares of $6,495/$6,695. Other October special savings dates are also available.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Go eyeball-to-eyeball with the Galapagos marine iguana; witness the feeding frenzy of blue-footed boobies and snorkel with playful sea lion pups…the Galapagos Islands are an amazing adventure.
Check out these Galapagos cruise discounts of up to 30% with Expedition Trips, specialists in small-ship expeditions.
Galapagos Cruise - National Geographic Endeavour - 10 Days
Highlights: 96-passenger expedition ship with excellent naturalist guides and educational program, kayaks, and glass-bottom boat.
Guayaquil, Ecuador and Return - 10 Days
Aboard the National Geographic Endeavour
5/20/2011
Save 30% per person (up to $2,640 off)
Galapagos Cruise - La Pinta - 8 Days
Highlights: Comfortable, bright and modern ship with great guides and ample onboard amenities including pool, sauna, and Jacuzzi.
San Cristóbal Island and Return - 8 Days
Aboard the La Pinta
May - June 2011
Save 25% per person (up to $1,850 off).
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
With vacation season on the horizon, travelers hunting for a bargain will find wallet-friendly options in Belize as hotels are slashing prices and boosting inclusive packages for the summer months.
Home to the second largest barrier reef in the world, ancient Maya temples, exotic wildlife and more, Belize provides an unforgettable vacation. And with a fixed exchange rate of BZ$2 to US$1, travelers will naturally save even more on their summer trips.
Below is a list of specific offers that begin in the summer and run through Belize’s low season (October 31) and are tailored to fit a range of travelers - from couples seeking romantic escapes to families in search of safe summer destinations. Travelers can also find a full roster of hot summer deals on Belize’s official travel website, TravelBelize.org.
SUMMER ROMANCE FOR A BARGAIN
Featuring remote islands, mesmerizing waterfalls and affordable luxuries, Belize is the ideal getaway for couples in search of rousing romantic destinations. From seaside star-gazing on the white beaches of Placencia to breathtaking sunsets on the Maya temples of Caracol in the Cayo District, Belize’s awe-inspiring attractions are sure to sizzle any couple’s summer. While the country’s romance website, Belize In Love, features romantic packages offered year-round, below are two summer deals perfect for stirring up a little romance.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
photo courtesy Volcanoes SafarisHaving a close encounter with gorillas in the wild is truly a life-changing, once in a lifetime experience. Staying at one of Volcanoes Safaris’ ecolodges near Africa’s gorilla national parks gives travelers the opportunity to enjoy this awe-inspiring journey at a lower price with these special offers: Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Experience the wonders of the Antarctic with Expedition Trips, specialists in small ship expedition cruises, while taking full advantage of the luxurious all-inclusive lifestyle afforded by the 132-passenger Prince Albert II, a purpose-built expedition ship designed specifically for navigating waters in some of the world’s most remote destinations, including both of earth’s polar regions. This voyage offers passengers uncompromising service including the most spacious suites and comfortable common areas of any expedition ship.
About Expedition Trips: With over 50 years experience, leading and planning expeditions worldwide, Expedition Trips offers exciting adventure travel and cruises on small-ship expeditions to Antarctica, the Galapagos Islands, Alaska and beyond. For more information, call toll-free (877) 412-8527 or visit www.ExpeditionTrips.com.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Located on the western slopes of the Tetons, Grand Targhee Ski Resort is regionally known as the Rocky Mountain’s best kept secret. Their abundance of champagne powder snow, coupled with Teton Springs luxury accommodations, makes this affordable lodging, lift and breakfast package a perfect romantic getaway or family winter vacation.
- Luxury Accommodations in a Deluxe Lodge Room
- Daily Deluxe Continental Breakfast
- 1 Day Lift Ticket at Grand Targhee Resort
No Minimum Stay Required. Upgrades Available. Price based on double occupancy and does not include resort fee, taxes, or gratuities. Based on availability and not valid with any other promotion. 11/25/2010 - 4/17/2011. From $135 per person per night.
All packages can be modified to better suit your needs. Options include additional days of heli-skiing, snow cat skiing, or lift tickets at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Luxury cruise ship operator Paul Gauguin Cruises is offering some exceptional deals on several upcoming sailings in Tahiti, French Polynesia and the South Pacific.
- For 2010 Sailings: Save up to 45% plus FREE or 2-For-1 Airfare from Los Angeles. Savings vary by itinerary for the following sailings: Tahiti & the Society Islands (7 nights), Society Islands & Tuamotus (10 nights), Cook Islands & Society Islands (11 nights), and Marquesas, Tuamotus & Society Islands (14 nights), President’s Cruise - New Zealand, Tonga, Cook & Society Islands (14 nights), Society Islands & Tuamotus Holiday (9 nights).
- Book a suite or stateroom in category B or above by December 15, 2010, to enjoy a FREE overwater villa at the luxurious InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa – a $1,775 value**. This offer to experience the island’s dramatic ambience in lavish accommodations is available on only four sailings, available at http://www.pgcruises.com/free-bungalow.
- Book by November 30, 2010, to receive Guest Privileges Credit of up to $1,000 per couple†. For January through June 2011 departures to the Marquesas, Tuamotus & Society Islands, guests receive Guest Privileges Credit of $500 per person, which can be used for shore excursions, spa treatments, and more. All other January through June 2011 bookings will receive Guest Privileges Credit of $250 per person. Visit http://www.pgcruises.com/guest-privileges for additional details.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Interested in a free, fun-filled trip to explore the Maya temples and snorkel in pristine Belizean waters?
The Lodge at Chaa Creek, BelizeThe Lodge at Chaa Creek, Belize’s award-winning luxury eco-lodge in the jungles of Central America is offering all inclusive vacation packages to the lucky winners of its “Rainforest & Reef Vacation Sweepstakes.”
From September 1, 2010, through October 2, 2010, the Lodge at Chaa Creek is inviting interested travelers to submit a 300 word essay, explaining: “Why you want to vacation in Belize at the Lodge at Chaa Creek.” To be eligible, participants must follow the Lodge at Chaa Creek on Twitter or Facebook, and submit the essay via email to marketing@chaacreek.com.
The winning essay will be published anonymously on the Chaa Creek Travel Blog. All other qualified entries will be placed in a drawing and four prizes are to be given away including one complimentary stay ($3,479 value), and one trip each at a 50-percent, 40-percent and 30-percent discount.
For more information about the sweepstakes, visit the Chaa Creek Travel Blog.
Source: Belize Tourism Board (http://www.travelbelize.org/)
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
This Just In:
Cunard’s Queen Victoria Begins Debut Americas Season with Transit Through the Historic Panama Canal in Early 2011 with 11, 15, and 17-day Voyage Savings of up to $1,600*
Coming off the heels of Cunard Line’s historic Royal Rendezvous on 13 January 2011, when all three Queens – Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria and the newly launched Queen Elizabeth – will sail into New York harbour on the same day, Queen Victoria debuts her Americas Season for sailings through the Panama Canal, visiting ports between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, including Aruba, Mexico and Los Angeles. This season’s 11-, 15- and 17-day voyages begin in New York, Fort Lauderdale, Fla., and Los Angeles, respectively, with each voyage making a transit through the famous locks of the Panama Canal. A special offer is available on early bookings for these voyages, with savings of up to $1,600 per balcony stateroom.*
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Visiting the “White Continent” aboard an Antarctica cruise is topping my Bucket List these days. This voyage with Lindblad Expeditions has it all: the impossible beauty of Antarctic ice, over 100,000 king penguins in South Georgia and the Falkland’s human history and amazing albatross colonies.
A National Geographic Photographer is aboard everyNational Geographic Explorervoyage, to offer advice and assistance to photographers of all skill levels. READ MORE
Travelers who book by June 30 can receive up to $3,000 off on select 2010 departures. Plus, complimentary charter airfare (round-trip between Santiago & Ushuaia - a $750 value) is offered on select 2010 departures. Call 1-800-EXPEDITION or email to find out if there are special rates that you may take advantage of. Learn more>>
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Discover the inner reaches of the Hawaiian Islands and Mexico’s Sea of Cortés with exclusive savings from America Safari Cruises.
An American Safari yacht cruise is one of my all-time favorite travel experiences. I’m not alone. Each time my husband and I have sailed with them (4 voyages), a majority of our fellow passengers are repeat guests experiencing their third, fourth, tenth, ASC cruise. Now, thanks to an extended season in Mexico’s Sea of Cortez and inaugural Hawaiian Island sailing, you can experience the magic for less. Charter the 12-passenger Safari Spirit for a family getaway or group of friends by March 12, 2010 and save 25% off the full charter price. Or, sail aboard the 36-passenger Safari Explorer for the inaugural Hawaiian Island season beginning October 26, 2010 and save $500* per person.
American Safari Cruises are designed for active adventurers who want to escape to unknown harbors without sacrificing comfort. Their exclusive itineraries remain “below the radar” because larger vessels simply can’t get you there. The world is certainly vast, but it’s best experienced in small doses — up-close and yacht personal. And unlike most cruise ships, the 36-guest Safari Explorer, 22-guest Safari Quest and 12-guest Safari Spirit cruise during daylight hours only, maximizing your opportunities to truly experience nature.
All-inclusive amenities available on every voyage include:
All-inclusive amenities available on every voyage include:- Gourmet meals - View sample menu (PDF)
- Premium wine, beer and spirits - View sample wine list (PDF)
- Kayaking and shore boat exploring
- Snorkel gear (Mexico and Hawaii)
- Fishing (Alaska)
- Exclusive shore excursions
- Onboard Expedition Leader/Naturalist or wine expert
- Airport transfers
- Port Charges, taxes, fees
- Massages (Safari Explorer )
- Visits with local residents - “talk story”
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Whether you are looking for a bonding experience with family during the holidays or a rewarding gift, Travcoa is offering three luxury Escorted Journeys this December that will bring out the holiday cheer. Special hotel offers in South America and a small-ship cruise expedition around New Zealand make these warm, southern-hemisphere locations the hot spots this holiday season.
Guests who book Travcoa’s “Alluring South America” or “Galapagos and Machu Picchu” Escorted Journeys, embarking on Dec. 16, receive a free luxury hotel night prior to departure in Rio de Janeiro or Quito respectively, or up to $400 per person off the journey price.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".