The Americas

On Hawaii's Big Island, you can experience the desert-like lava plains along the Kona coast, climb its tallest mountain (Mauna Kea), hike through green rainforest or over black lava rock and the rainiest city in America, Hilo. From easy to extreme, there are many ways to enjoy everything this little corner of the Pacific has to offer.

The best time for whale watching is from November to May. Humpback whales travel to Pacific waters to give birth and care for their young before the long swim home to Alaska. During that time, you can easily spot them from the shore. Watch for a spout, like a plume of smoke over the ocean. This "whale exhale" will hold its shape for a few seconds, unlike a puff of sea spray made by wind. It's a grand show from shore, but the best place to see it is onboard a boat. Providers know how to get where the whales are safely watched, careful not to break the 100' perimeter and invade their "space." Many boats have a hydrophone they lower underwater to let you listen to the whale song. The boats offer refreshments, restrooms and good company.

Other activities include a submarine ride, kite surfing, a dinner cruise, and swimming with the dolphins. One of the best dolphin encounter programs is in the lagoons of Hilton Waikoloa Village or you can meet the dolphins in their own neighbourhood. The better Ocean activity providers do it all. They offer seasonal whale watch excursions, plus scenic sunset sails, snorkel cruises, private fishing charters and much more. Kayaks are a good way to explore out-of-the-way waters with a guide. There are even see-through kayaks for a totally new perspective. From sport-fishing and parasailing, to boogie boarding and scuba there is plenty to fill the daylight hours.

For an off beat experience, why not take an inflatable kayak tour down old sugar cane water flumes? There are week-long custom "camps" that are tailor-made for your family gathering, including dolphin swims, a cookout and accommodation.

Hawaii's Big Island is alive with history. On the west side, experience Pu'uhonua O Honaunau, a restored three centuries old Hawaiian village, complete with thatched huts, hand-carved tiki deities, a temple and a sense of awe. You can tour an historic coffee plantation or a major ethno-botanical garden, call on a royal residence, visit the first official Christian church in the Islands or see the home of Hawaiian paniolo (cowboys) in Waimea town. Or you can gaze into space on a Mauna Kea summit astronomy trek. In east-side museums, discover the power of a tsunami or take a virtual undersea voyage, check out a macadamia nut factory, missionary manor house, and an orchid farm.

A not-to-be-missed experience is a visit to an active volcano. Today, Hawaii Volcanos National Park (HVNP) is the country's 13th National Park and the state's premier visitor attraction. It was created to preserve the region's unique volcanic features, its early human history and the plant and animal life that is part of this special bioregion. It is located 30 miles southwest of Hilo and 96 miles southeast of Kona. It's open year-round, 24 hours a day. There is also good shopping in Kona, coffee plantation tours, excellent golf on the Kohala Coast, and the quaint town of Hilo, where you'll feel as though you've gone back in time.

A hike down to the current lava flow offers a once in a lifetime chance to view Madame Pele at work up close - her home, Kilauea Volcano, is the world's most active. The current eruption began January 3, 1983 and is the largest and longest eruption in history. There is no indication when she will stop, but believe there is a good chance of her still being active by the time this newsletter reaches you! Across the island there are jagged lava fields, which provide a contrast to the otherwise lush vegetation. Seeing the lava flow glowing at night is an incredible experience.

All of Hawaii's six islands have long, unspoiled stretches of coastline providing a bounty of beaches that have long been a beacon for visitors. Whether it is Kauai, Big Island, Oahu, Molokai , Lanai or Maui there is something unique about each of them.

Kauai

There's more beach per mile of coastline here than on any other Hawaiian Island. Forty-three beaches in total, varying from quiet white-sand lagoons, to calm water bays, to expansive pounding ocean shores.

Big Island

There are 266 miles of coastline and 47 beaches here with diverse sand colors from white to green to rich volcanic black. The waters of Hawaii's Big Island are teeming with brightly coloured tropical fish and make it a popular destination for snorkelling and diving.

Oahu

Oahu has over 125 miles of shoreline. It is known for world-famous Waikiki Beach, and the big-wave North Shore surf beaches, Pipeline and Sunset. But there are several other sandy wonderlands in between. The South Shore coastline is known for its many sheltered beaches ideal for families (however, in the Summer the surf can get unusually high). snorkelling, tide pooling and swimming make great activities for families picnicking along these beaches. The West Shore (Leeward side) also has many fine swimming beaches. This coast is known for offshore fishing spots. Winter months see the largest waves, which reach heights of more than 15 feet. The North Shore is best known for its world-class surfing and huge winter swells. During the winter months, waves reach heights of 25 feet. The East Shore (Windward side) beaches tend to be more lush and tropical. Northeast trade winds keep the coast cool 90 percent of the year, making it a favourite location for windsurfing and sailing enthusiasts.

Molokai

Papohaku Beach, located on the west end is three miles in length and as wide as 100 yards. As it's the second largest in the entire state, you're sure to find plenty of room to spread out your towel and soak in the serenity. You'll find no end of ways you can enjoy the Island's varied coastline. Spend your days sailing, windsurfing, snorkelling, scuba diving, surfing, kayaking, or boogie boarding your way around the Island's many coves, inlets, and wide-open shores.

Lanai

This offers popular water sports including snorkelling, scuba diving, sailing, and deep-sea fishing. One of the island's most prized attractions is glorious Hulopoe Bay, a marine conservation area prized by divers and snorkelers for its vivid tropical reef fish. Here you can spend days splashing in the warm waters, where spinner dolphins are just as likely to frolic. Another unforgettable activity is charting a sailboat to go on a snorkelling or sightseeing adventure to the island's remote and beautiful West coast.

Maui

Some beaches are so small and tucked away you'll need an experienced guide to help you find them, while others - like famous Kaanapali or Wailea - are ranked among the best beaches in the country. And when you've had enough fun in the sand, a world of water activities awaits you. You can enjoy just about any ocean activity imaginable here, including snorkelling, scuba diving, sailing, surfing, windsurfing, boogie boarding, skim boarding, jet-skiing, catamaran cruises, deep sea fishing and charters of every kind.

As you can see, there is surely something for everyone in Hawaii, so contact our specialist consultants for more details. They will be pleased to guide you through your decision making to ensure you have the best possible holiday.

You probably know Key West from Hemingway's writing. You may know Key West for its reputation as a legendary party spot?

You may not think of Key West as a destination for your next luxury getaway. But the island has some surprises for you. From world-class resorts and upscale shopping and dining to colourful local haunts, Key West offers a host of indulgences

Luxury Lodging


Just steps from Duval Street (Key West's legendary main street), and no distance from Mallory Square (home of the island's nightly sunset celebration), lies The Westin Key West Resort & Marina. Although inspired architecturally by the island's signature Conch cottages, the resort offers far more than simple pleasures.

The four-story, 178-room resort features spacious rooms, many with vaulted ceilings and water views, and boasts an AAA Four-Diamond rating. There, you can luxuriate in the Westin's Heavenly Bed, replete with a pillow-top mattress, crisp sheets and plush pillows. An on-site concierge can assist with booking daytrips and water excursions. Or, if you choose, just lie back at the tropical pool, enjoy a margarita on the Sunset Deck bar or indulge in a casually sophisticated meal at the waterfront Bistro 245.

If you're seeking a retreat away from Old Town's hustle and bustle, consider a stay at Sunset Key Guest Cottages, also an AAA Four-Diamond property. These luxury cottages are situated on a 27-acre private island just 500 yards off the coast of Key West. You can access the nation's southernmost city via a launch service running 24 hours each day between the cottages and The Westin Key West Resort. The ride takes only 10 minutes.

On Sunset Key, lush landscaping and private beaches await, along with 37 luxury guest cottages, ranging from one to three bedrooms. Each offers views of either tropical gardens or the Gulf of Mexico, and verandas replete with Adirondack chairs. There's also a pool, personal in-room chef service and grocery-shopping services that allow you to have your cottage stocked before you arrive. A complimentary breakfast basket brimming with fresh-baked muffins arrives at your front door daily. You could really get used to it!

Shopping & Dining in Paradise
Upscale dining in the Key West area begins on Sunset Key, with a meal at the waterfront Latitudes Beach Café. The dinner menu offers a broad array of local seafood dishes, along with fire-seared steaks and fine wines. If you choose to dine in Key West itself, consider meals at such upscale eateries as the Grand Café Key West, La Trattoria or Michael's Restaurant.

Key West of coourse has its luxury stores and boutiques. The Key West Winery doesn't make its selection from grapes, but from such tropical fruits as oranges, Key limes and peaches.

The Real Key West
Perhaps the greatest luxury you can enjoy during your getaway is acquainting yourself with the real Key West and uncovering its secrets. Here's one: Hemingway, they say, drank at Sloppy Joe's. This is nearly true. He did drink at a bar called Sloppy Joe's, but at the time, this bar wasn't in the huge locale on Duval Street it currently inhabits. Rather, in Hemingway's day, the bar sat at 438 Greene Street, an address now home to Captain Tony's Saloon.

For a healthy dose of history and Key West culture, go for an authentic Cuban meal at Pepe's Café, one of the oldest restaurants in Key West. It was established in 1909 and has been drawing locals ever since.

To get to know Key West beyond its drinking and revelry, consider renting a scooter and getting off Duval. You'll discover an amazing architectural mélange: Victoriana on Fleming Street, and Conch architecture and cross-gabled cottages on Angela and Elizabeth streets. In fact, if you are interested in architecture, the entire region surrounding the city's funky, above-ground cemetery is worth a look.

Finally, plan for a farewell dinner at Louie's Backyard. Don't be fooled by the casual name – this restaurant is known as one of the best in the South. Dine in this beautifully restored Classic Revival home on Waddell Street, and then have a drink on the restaurant's unique two-story side porch facing the water. This is luxury in true Key West style.

Known for its miles of clean sandy beaches, working artists and annual festivals, Laguna Beach is the perfect California small town getaway for visitors near and far.

Located mid-way between Los Angeles and San Diego, the city of Laguna Beach is a seaside village of 24,000-plus residents that includes hundreds of local working artists and unique gift shops. It is home for people who seek the relative tranquillity of beach accommodation as well as endless cultural opportunities. These include dozens of art and music events throughout the year, as well as an art museum and a live stage theatre.

Four of the well-known summer festivals include the Sawdust Art Festival, Festival of Arts/Pageant of the Masters and Art-A-Fair. These annual festivals together attract hundreds of thousands of visitors from around the world who experience original artwork in many different forms. Scheduled throughout the summer months, unique paintings, sculpture, photography and ceramics are just a few forms of art that visitors can enjoy.

More than two dozen hotels, B & B's, seaside villas and full-service resorts dot the coastline throughout the town. There is accommodation for every taste and style.

When it comes to dining, Laguna Beach has many favourite, long-established restaurants as well as extraordinary choices in many ethnic cuisines. Whether for the trendy or traditional experience, the area has become known as one of the best dining destinations in Southern California.

Laguna Beach is Southern California's premier seaside destination located just 75 minutes south of Los Angeles and along the central coast of Orange County. Laguna Beach is primarily served by Orange County Airport located just 20 minutes away

Peru harbours some of the richest rainforests in the world, and its most southern Amazonian state, Madre de Dios, boasts many biodiversity world records. In Puerto Maldonado, the capital of Madre de Dios, the river Las Piedras is well known for its abundant fauna and has recently been scientifically proven to harbour over double the mammal densities of surrounding rainforest reserves.

In 2002 the Alto Purus Indigenous Reserve was extended to protect the entire upper Las Piedras basin 220 miles from the mouth of the river. The locally owned and comfortable Amazon Rainforest Conservation Centre, ARCC for short, was built in 2002 to protect 17,000 acres of the pristine rainforest surrounding the wildlife-rich Lake Soledad. Tours are based here from where you can follow the naturalist guides on a variety of exciting excursions.

Whilst ARCC offers some of the best rainforest mammal and bird watching in the Amazon Rainforest, mammals can still prove to be difficult to see at times. One can’t expect to see such large or numerous mammals as in Africa due to the low mammal density, the nocturnal habits of the majority of mammal species, and the dense rainforest vegetation.

However during periods when mammals are proving difficult to spot, you will be kept entertained by the incredible diversity of other classes of vertebrates and invertebrates. While the tour’s focus and highlights hope to include threatened species such as Giant River Otters, Black Spider Monkeys and White-lipped Peccaries, you will also have a good chance of seeing many of the plethora of birds, reptiles, plants and insects of this spectacularly-diverse rainforest.

The Province of Quebec is crammed with history and culture. The cosmopolitan city of Montreal has it all - including an underground metro to take you quickly & easily to any corner of the city. In fact Montreal is considered to have the largest underground city in the world. Too cold outside? Just wander around underground in the 33kms of tunnels - great shopping arcades. Don't miss Old Montreal and the Old Port. The buildings date from the 18th & 19th centuries.

Quebec City is the only fortified city in North America. Don't miss the Quartier Petit Champlain and Place-Royale.

The Laurentians is a true 4-season destination with something for everyone. It includes Mont Tremblant which has the largest night skiing complex in the world. But the Laurentians are not just about winter sports. Many people maintain a summer home in the region and it is a very popular destination all year round.
Plan to be there during fall foliage time – no one can resist it once they have had a glimpse!

Interested in visiting Ottawa? Why not base yourself in the Gatineaus. A beautiful part of the country and close to Ottawa.

Most nationalities do not need a visa but check with us first, before travelling.

In winter temperatures fall below freezing throughout Quebec. During the summer humidity is high and temperatures can exceed 30C. In Montreal the average daytime high in January is -5C falling to -12C at night. In August the average high is 26C and low 15C. August has the highest precipitation with February the lowest.
Quebec City follows much the same pattern except that the highest rainfall is in September and generally the city has more precipitation than Montreal.

The reputation of the province of Quebec as a tourist destination is well known. From the Outaouais River to the Rocher Percé and from the USA border to the Arctic, all along the shores of the Majestic St. Lawrence River, the province hides dozens of colourful, picturesque cities and villages.

Between these quiet villages and the bustling cities, the visitor discovers the true meaning of these legendary wide open spaces and that made the reputation of Quebec as an exceptional travel destination. Its numerous national parks hide well-kept treasures that turn out to be magnificent for those who dare reveal them.
People come from everywhere to discover the different regions of Quebec, all unique, all different, and each visit is a renewed occasion to enjoy original pleasures and memorable discoveries.

Whether you are looking for a quiet refugee to relax, a place to do all your favourite outdoor activities, or if you want to participate in one of the famous festivals, you will find here all the activities that will make your stay in Québec unforgettable.