December 11, 2011 / in Incentive Travel Articles, Incentive Travel Companies After the wise decision has been made to create an employee incentive travel program for your business, the next step is to find and research a potential incentive travel company to partner with. The best way to develop your businesses program is to outsource the job, allowing for incentive travel experts to complete the significant task. The benefits an incentive travel company can bring to your business are vast, but it is vital to work with a good-quality agency, one that is a cut above all the rest. Finding an incentive travel company that will satisfy all of your needs, and more, is fundamental to the success of your incentive travel program. A good incentive travel company should take all of the worry and planning out of creating an incentive travel program for your business. Search for an incentive partner who will take the time to understand your company’s goals and expectations, thus tailoring a unique program to fit your requests. A clear comprehension of the dynamics of your employees, their age range, and their travel preferences is important for an incentive travel company to seek out. Companies who inquire about that sort of information provide the indication that they are truly interested in creating an incentive program exclusively designed for your company. After consulting with a top-rate company of this sort, they will design a program proposal for your approval. All travel details such as hotel accommodations, airline tickets, entertainment choices, and meals are arranged by your travel partner and only have to be approved by you before being implemented. They will do their best to make your program truly special, while staying within the proposed budget and are able to do so because of their industry connections and knowledge. Experienced incentive companies have the ability and contacts to negotiate the best possible rate on airfare, lodging, and entertainment. Experience . One of the most important qualities of an excellent incentive travel company. It is highly important to choose a company that has a substantial amount of incentive travel experience. Those in the industry know that each and every program is different. Experience in both planning and executing multiple trips is virtually the only way to become a pro in the industry. This provides for the opportunity to create lasting relationships with hotel and airline suppliers. Also, knowing and working with suppliers over a long time ensures the best quality of service and participation. It is also helpful to look for a travel partner who specializes solely in incentive travel, therefore spending all of their time working in that specific trade. As you can see, it is very important to choose the right Incentive Travel Company to partner with. Our company specializes in incentive travel and more than covers all of the above mentioned criteria of a successful incentive travel company. We take the time to plan each and every trip with precision and accuracy, making us a superior incentive travel partner.

January 17, 2012 / in Featured Destinations An Incentive Travel Solutions favorite! A collection of seven unique islands which are “100% European,” the Canary Islands are positioned off the coast of Spain. Traveling to the Canary Islands is easy and very affordable from many European cities. Visiting multiple islands during a singular trip is a popular choice. A brief description of the seven islands is included below. El Hierro Most well known for its spectacular diving environment, El Hierro has some of the most transparent waters in the world. Divers from all over the world come to El Hierro each year to photograph one of best ocean scenes in the world. Located in a small corner of the Atlantic Ocean, this island is a truly magnificent island awaiting discovery. The smallest of the Canary Islands, El Hierro has historically been over looked by tourists traveling to the area, which suits those who love to travel there just fine, as they would like to see this trend continue. La Gomera One word can be used to describe the island of La Gomera: Nature. Rich and bountiful nature encompasses the whole region of land and is home to a variety of species that are elsewhere extinct. Those who love hiking will be in paradise here due to the vast array of spectacular landscapes ranging from impressive mountains, green valley’s covered with palm trees, and serene streams. The beaches consist of black sand enveloped by crystal blue waters which only enhances the notion that nature can be found at its purest state on the island. Gran Canaria Often described as a “mini continent,” Gran Canaria has much to offer in the way of exciting city life and quieter vacationing options on the Western half of the island which has been deemed a Biosphere Reserve. The capitol, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria has a variety of shopping, dining and night club options. Concert halls as well as a very popular concert venue can be found to entertain the music buffs travelling to the Canaries. The countryside offers peace and quiet with contrasting landscapes of black volcanic rock formations and an abundance of green vegetation. Lanzarote Also a Biosphere Reserve, Lanzarote is home to a National Park, 12 natural protected areas and a Marine Reserve. The highlight of the island, though, is its volcanic landscapes. Seemingly impossible formations feed the senses and are especially delightful to both sound and sight. It is a special treat to witness how a volcanic land influences the inhabitation of native peoples and the brilliant enveloping silence of the island. La Palma Unsurprisingly, La Palma’s nicknamed “La isla bonita,” or the pretty island. Upon embarking on the island it is clear as to why. Covered in lush green with many underlaying colors from flora and extraordinary lava flows, the complementary colors are exotic to say the least. Having one of the most remarkable skies in the world, it is home to some of the best astrophysics observatories in the Northern Hemisphere. Fuerteventura Miles and miles of white sand beaches line the coast of Fuerteventura, surrounded by beautiful aqua blue ocean waters. Wave and wind surfing are extremely popular here, as the winds are strong and warm. Discover Sacred Mountain, which is considered by the native people as a place of magical significance. Tenerife An unforgettable stay awaits those who venture to this unique island. Offering everything from theme parks, museums, cultural events, two World Heritage Sites, a National Park, and 42 natural protected areas, there are exciting activities for everyone.

January 17, 2012 / in Incentive Travel Articles The value of incentive travel has served many years to encourage and motivate workers to do their very best. In regards to businesses, the lure of incentive travel has captured the interest of many employees, customers, sales people and clients in various fields. For years business owners have enticed employees with the prospect of incentive trip invitations based upon their level of commitment and performance within the company. Recent studies have found that the use of such programs has indeed boosted the overall success of companies, including, of course, an increase in revenue. Employees who work hard are normally doing so as a result of some sort of incentive. When the incentive is a trip to a wonderful destination, employees will perform outstandingly well in order to win that trip. As an incentive trip stands to award employees for their hard work, the recognition employees receive by merely winning the trip is an incentive in itself. Also, many companies hold award ceremonies in order to personally recognize their achievements. The result of such a ceremony will likely continue to lure employees into giving their best so that they can be recognized by their superiors more often. The feeling of accomplishment will last long after the trip is over and will encourage employees to continue in their efforts to win the next available trip as will pictures and memories. Life enrichment is also exceedingly valuable to participants. Travel offers cultural experiences which broadens horizons and introduces the customs of other people and places. Group incentive travel, the primary method most offered by employers, can educate, build team spirit, improve morale, and increase the productivity of top performers. Another important aspect an incentive trip offers is providing quality time for management and winners to network and become better acquainted with one another. Employees often love to spend time one on one with their employers; a truly personal experience which creates relationships outside of the workplace. This often motivates employees to work hard in the workplace in order to “look good” to the employer, just as students tend to do in school. Corporate budgets for incentive travel can be big or small and there are plenty of destinations to accommodate both. Many companies start out by allocating a small amount to their initial trip, often choosing a domestic destination, in order to see the benefits on offer. Travel awards have indefinable value to workers that can drastically surpass their actual cost. Travel in itself is valued higher than its actual cost which is a plus in and of its self. If and when the benefits become apparent and are rewarding, and revenue is increased, budgets often increase as well. More desirable destinations are chosen with a variety of activity options offered which further entice employees. Programs should always be rewarding, and never exhausting. Even to budgets.

February 6, 2012 / in Featured Destinations Prague with a population of over two million people is the largest city in the Czech Republic. The city provides immense culture, art, adventure, entertainment, and even a little romance to visitors. An oceanic climate delivers wildly warm summers; however, winters are typically chilly. April through December is the best time to see the numerous wonders offered by the city. Prague, existing for over one-thousand years, serves as an economic as well as political center to the European continent. Roman Emperors, the Habsburg Monarchy, and the Austro-Hungarian Empire make up the cities historical story. At the end of World War I, the city became the official capital of Czechoslovakia. Prague is also home to several cultural attractions that remain standing from the twentieth century. The city holds museums, galleries, theatres, and historical exhibits. While history and culture are two major drawing factors for visitors, many other modern attractions may be visited while touring the area as well. Prague Castle Previously occupied by Roman Emperors, Prague Castle is now the residing office area for Czech Republic government officials. As the home to the Czech Crown Jewels, this structure remains as one of the largest existing castles throughout the world. This historical structure spans the length of approximately five-hundred seventy meters with a width of one-hundred thirty meters. The St Vitus Cathedral, Romanesque Basilica of St. George, defense towers, museums, and summer festivals complete the castle experience. Old Town Square Old Town Square displays the medieval settlement atmosphere once common to the Prague region. It is an older portion of the city actually separated from outside areas by a semi-circular moat that connects to the Vltava at both sides. Streets now cover the moat area which was dismantled during the fourteenth century by Charles IV after the founding of New Town. Multiple fascinations exist within this very popular tourist attraction portion of Prague including the ever so famous Charles Bridge. Lennon Wall Named after the famous musician John Lennon, the sight holds its own sentimental value to any fan of the Beatles. It was originally built as a simple wall in Prague but was soon transformed into a graffiti tribute to the musician in the 1980’s with various pictures and lyrics being added to its once empty canvas. New graffiti is continuously added making it a changing work of art. This historical trademark has now become a symbol of youth representing the idea of peace through individual artwork. Modern Attractions Shopping, dining, nightlife, and entertainment are just as much a part of the atmosphere supplied by this destination. The Czech Republic region supplies a memorable shopping experience visitors will have difficulty finding anywhere else. Street artists, jewelry, mementos, crystal glass, and numerous store fronts complete the shopping experience. After a day of shopping, visitors can take time out for a magical performance at one of many theatres existing through this historical city. Restaurants supply exceptional menus full of seasoned pork, cabbage dishes, dumplings, and rich sauces. Prague offers an abundance of things to do to anyone desiring a breathtaking destination with an immense cultural background.

February 6, 2012 / in Featured Destinations Sydney, Australia is a tourist location known for vast culture, romance, culinary delights, stunning beach scenery, and unique adventures. This one of a kind destination can be found on the south-coast of the continent by the Tasman Sea. Sydney, also referred to as the Harbour City, is one of the largest as well as oldest Australian cities in existence. The location promises some of the most beautiful sights in the world in addition to a deep history, culture, food, nature, and fashion. Visitors get to enjoy the sandy beaches provided by miles of coastline. Attractions such as the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge may be admired by individuals vacationing in this region of the Australian continent. Natural surroundings supply the perfect atmosphere for needed fun and relaxation individuals need when taking a vacation. Area Climate October through April is the best time to visit Sydney with the summers delivering a warm climate. Winters in the area are mild as well due to the cities close ocean proximity. Extreme temperatures may be experienced throughout the year at locations further inland. January is the warmest part of the year with average temperatures being approximately eighty-six degrees Fahrenheit. Winter temperatures remain mild and hardly ever reach below forty degrees. The provided climate offers a warm environment during most times of the year with a natural sun-kissed appeal. The city has a relaxed atmosphere that is more in tune with nature than what might be found when visiting other travel destinations. Local Districts The Rocks is a diverse area consisting of the first colonial village and the Harbour Bridge. Visitors wanting to have the chance of viewing vast entertainment should consider seeing Darling Harbour. Residing near the Central Business District, this area includes restaurants, aquariums, museums, and boardwalks easily accessible by foot. City South includes areas such as Central Station in a market atmosphere with little café’s and shops. Those who love a busy nightlife or a trip to the coffee shop in the morning can achieve both in the City East district of Sydney. The western portion houses fish markets, a casino, and numerous other places to explore. Each offers a unique experience that keeps visitors entertained throughout the duration of their trip. Top Attractions The Sydney Harbour Bridge is an iconic visitor attraction spanning from The Rocks district to the northern portion of the city where individuals are allowed to cycle or walk across the bridge. Olympic Park, once the location for the 2000 games, has since become a park with many sporting facilities. The Sydney Opera House is a highly famous structure in the city centre offering amazing musical shows to visitors. Plant lovers can visit the Royal Botanic Gardens to see over seven-thousand species of herbal life. Visitors may also grab a bite to eat while enjoying Sydney Tower, one of the largest structures in the city. Historical sites, museums, galleries, wildlife, and a natural harbor deliver a vast array of experiences. It is a location of wonder and culture everyone should visit at least once in a lifetime.

February 13, 2012 / in Press and News By Karen Brost President and Founder of Incentive Travel Solutions, Kevin Devanney, was interviewed by Corporate & Incentive Travel Magazine for their January 2012 edition. (article below) When planning meetings and incentive programs in Europe, it sure helps to know the territory. “About 90 percent of what we do is in Europe,” says Kevin Devanney, president and founder of Incentive Travel Solutions in Charlotte, NC, “so we’re pretty familiar with the market.” Devanney explains how the current financial situation in Europe is impacting meetings and incentives. “The dollar has strengthened in 2011 just slightly, and it’s helped a little bit with business to Europe,” he says. “That’s certainly a positive for us and for Europeans in the incentive travel business. I think Europeans like a strong euro, however it really helps them when the dollar strengthens because they certainly see an uptick in business. The hotels and DMCs all survive primarily off of the U.S. business. “Spain, Italy, England and France are the big four incentive destinations in Europe,” he continues. “Meetings-wise, you can throw Germany into the mix, because there’s so much commerce and business taking place there. If you’re including meetings, Germany raises the bar a little bit. We do a little more in Germany for that fact.” Spain Devanney says that Barcelona was a popular destination for a lot of American companies in 2011. He explains why: “No 1, they have great restaurants over there. The influence of Gaudi on the city of Barcelona (also) has a big impact. You see that through the entire city.” Antoni Gaudi was a celebrated Spanish architect in the late 1800s and early 1900s whose innovative designs continue to capture the interest and imagination of visitors to the city today. A few of Gaudi’s most famous works can be found near the 98-room Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona, which opened in late 2009. The hotel is located on the city’s prestigious Passeig deGràcia in an area filled with fashionable boutiques and restaurants. One of the Barcelona hotels Devanney likes is El Palace, a 125-room luxury property set in the heart of the city. “It’s a five-star property that has some meeting space and is in a fantastic location. It was recently renovated, and it’s a great location for incentives,” he says. The building was constructed in 1919 at the height of the city’s cultural renaissance, and the hotel continues to reflect an air of Old World elegance. England “London is very strong right now,” Devanney comments, citing Prince William and Kate Middleton’s wedding, the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee upcoming in June as well as the 2012 Summer Olympics in London. “In 2012, we’re seeing interest from our clients for all of those reasons,” he says. “It’s not necessarily to go for the event, it’s to be there while the city will be really decked out and highly decorated through the year in anticipation of these events. It’s really a great reason.” “They’re doing a lot of building,” he continues. “But some of the hotels like the Grosvenor House and Claridge’s are still fantastic hotels. There’s a brand new InterContinental and Four Seasons. All of them in Hyde Park have recently renovated, like the Hilton and the Sheraton. That whole area has been going nuts and incentives.” The 420-room Grosvenor House, A JW Marriott Hotel, has been hosting royalty, celebrities and business leaders since 1929. This 19th century icon was recently refurbished and is located on Park Lane. Devanney says: “The ice rink was converted into what is now known as the Great Room,” adding that Marriott calls it the “largest hotel banqueting space in Europe” with nearly 20,000 sf of space. In total, the hotel offers more than 60,000 sf of meeting space including 31 meeting rooms. Claridge’s, which has a heritage dating back to the 1850s, is one of London’s most iconic hotels. Of its 202 guest rooms, 67 are suites. Half of the hotel’s accommodations are decorated in art deco style, while the rest are Victorian. As proof of just how chic this historic hotel is, it features a series of rooms and suites designed by Diane Von Furstenberg. Another hotel near London and Park Lane opened in early 2011. Located in the heart of the city’s prestigious Mayfair area, it features 147 guest rooms, 46 suites, and more than 8,500 sf of meeting space, including the flagship Terre d’Afrique spa and a CHI spa. His company is currently in the process of planning several European based incentives. One, CA, holds an event for 1,200 people in Monaco. “Sometimes people say they do down Switzerland as being too predictable, and they’re usually mistaken,” he says. “This is going to be a fun mix of the summertime in the Alps and the heritage of the Olympic Games. One of the group’s stops will be to see the historic bobsled track that’s never been used for meetings.” Tachner noted that Switzerland also has a heritage of group travel. “It began with Thomas Cook bringing groups to Mt. Switzerland,” noting that even in the Swiss Alps, blending new and old is ideal for a destination. The expansion project calls for the construction of six four- to five-star hotels, including The Chedi Andermatt, a 50-room, five-star property expected to open in time for the 2013 winter season. Europe Is a Top Choice The German Convention Bureau reports that Europe is the most important foreign destination for U.S. planners, and that approximately 50 percent of all foreign events staged by U.S. planners take place in Europe annually. For Devanney’s company, the percentage is much higher. “We will probably have about 90 percent of our incentive based trips going to Europe this year,” he notes. “I think it’s amazing. I think the dollar has strengthened and that seems fine. People are recognizing that it’s not fluctuating that much. It’s just something that we still view now. For companies that really want to raise the bar and continue to raise the bar for their top performers, they understand that Europe is a destination that is worth the increasing cost to keep those top performers motivated and coming back for next year.”

February 21, 2012 / in Featured Destinations The city of Florence can be found in central Italy as one of Tuscany’s largest municipalities with a population of more than three-hundred sixty thousand inhabitants. Florence, the capital of Tuscany, is most known for a stunning city centre, monuments, and palaces. Located on the River Arno and embraced with gently rolling hills, this tourist destination is one of many World Heritage Sites. Visitors have the opportunity to explore the Renaissance period along with exquisite Italian museums like the Uffizi Gallery. Works by famous artists such as Michelangelo can be seen in these museums in addition to many monuments throughout the city. An Overview of Florence History Florence history begins long before it became an important focal point of the Renaissance period. Historians have dated the regions founding to approximately 59 B.C. with its start being as a Roman settlement location used to house retired soldiers. It suffered numerous attacks over the Dark Ages time period but grew enough in the twelfth century to become a city state. Over the next two centuries both the Guelph’s and Ghibellines fought to rule the territory. Florence rose as an important European location between the fourteenth and sixteenth centuries when the Medici family attracted contemporary artists and architects to perform work in the city. Florence, Italy is definitely a sight to see for historical or artistic oriented visitors. Of course, these are not the only high points of this stunningly beautiful Tuscan location. Visual Attractions in Florence Florence is a top notch destination often referred to as the “cradle of the Renaissance.” The city offers an abundance of monuments, churches, museums, and nationally recognized landmarks. A very significant landmark known as the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore or Duomo holds a dome originally built by Filippo Brunelleschi. The famous structure consists of a Gothic architectural style with polychrome marble panels decorating the facing of the building. It is Italy’s largest church with the included dome being the most massive brick based design ever built. Visitors can find medieval walls throughout the cities center that have remained in existence since the fourteenth century. Piazza Della Signoria, the Fountain of Neptune, and Palazzo Vecchio serve as additional architectural and artistic drawing points of Florence. What to Do in Florence Florence is a culture filled as well as architectural dream location which offers various experiences year round. While some activities are seasonal, a vast majority of the destination can be explored at all times of the year. The Piazzale Michelangelo allows visitors to see a one of kind view of the area from above. Visitors can also make their way to the top of the Duomo for a different view of the skyline. Boboli Gardens offers its own set of adventures for those who enjoy walking amidst plant life. Wine tasting is a common area activity which can be partaken in during any time of the year. Tuscan oriented foods, some of the best wine in the world, famous artistic creations, and much more may be found in Florence, Italy. Visitors may walk through this enchanted location without having much difficulty finding amazing scenery and plenty to do.

February 22, 2012 / in Featured Destinations People come to see the beautiful shoreline of Guanacaste and to enjoy the locations mild summer days. The province offers some of the best ocean shoreline in this portion of the world along with numerous memorable activities visitors can include as part of their Costa Rica experience. Those visiting this location for the first time will have plenty to do with surfing, horseback riding, and snorkeling being a few of the areas main activities. It is the breathtaking shoreline that attracts several visitors to the Guanacaste province each year for a relaxing or action packed trip. The province can be found in the northwestern portion of Costa Rica along the Pacific Ocean coast. Nicaragua, Alajuela Province, and Puntarenas Province can be found bordering the region. Of all Costa Rican provinces, Guanacaste has the lightest population count making it an ideal location for a fun filled beach vacation. The territory was annexed to Costa Rica between 1824 and 1825 as a decision of local inhabitants. Today Guanacaste is recognized as the capital of this particular province but has since been renamed to Liberia. Guanacaste Geography and Climate Guanacaste Province includes various amounts of natural scenery including an eastern set of foliage covered volcanoes, the ocean, mountains, rivers, and rolling flatlands. Rivers flowing from the mountains create a deposit rich plain that empties into swampy wetlands in the area. Some portions of this destination are heavily forested while others have modernized atmospheres such as the capital city. November through April offers minimal rainfall with consistent heat whereas May to October supplies daily showers along with more moderate temperature spans. Guanacaste is one of the warmer provinces due to the region resting at a higher elevation. Guanacaste Local Economy This particular Costa Rican province has a heritage based upon cattle ranching due to land conditions restricting other types of agricultural economic ventures. The land is ridden by patches of rain forest, trees, and pastures of coarse grass which works better for beef than any other type of animal produced product. Cattle ranching activities have started to decline in the area partly due to natural changes as well as declining beef demands. Sugar cane, cotton, rice, and tourism are other prominent economical products within the territory. Guanacaste Area Activities Boredom is not an option at this unique beach oriented getaway destination because it offers plenty of activities to meet the varying interests of any group. Tours are provided to those visitors who want to experience the city from a local perspective. Surfing is a very popular activity since the beaches provide some of the best opportunities in regards to the sport. Lessons, shops, tours, and rentals are all part of the Guanacaste surfing experience. The Nosara Wildlife Rescue, a facility created to rescue animals for rehabilitation, provides vast information on local wildlife. Hiking, swinging bridges, zip line traveling, fishing, and horseback riding can add increased adventure to when visiting this destination. Visitors may lounge on the beach, receive massages, or enjoy several cultural dishes as well. Whatever the interest, Guanacaste has something to match each individuals idea of a good time with the perks of an incredible setting.

February 22, 2012 / in Featured Destinations Campania, with a population of over five million, is the second most inhabited region in Italy. The destination offers widespread wonders on the southeastern portion of the Italian Peninsula to visitors. This region was originally colonized by the Greeks, but later dominated by the Romans. Cities at this destination are popular for music, archaeology, architecture, and other forms of culture. Greeks inhabited the area until the Second Samnite War when the Romans began taking over the southern portion of Campania. It officially became part of the Roman Republic by the end of fourth century BC. Countless revolutions later, Campania was conquered by Napoleon Bonaparte who instead several kings during this time. The Austrian Empire overtook the created kingdom after the Neapolitan War and reinstated Ferdinand IV to the throne. Naples and Sicily, commonly referred to as the Two Sicilies, joined in 1815. The introduction of a railway system to Naples in 1839 transformed the region into a trading center. Campania History, Culture, and Landscaping Campania is known for immense culture and history, but also visited by many for its delivered beauty. Famous historical figures comprise of Parmenides, Zeno, Aristotic, Virgilius, Giotto, and Augustus. An abundant list of artists, philosophers, and scientists exist for this area during it natural historical progression. Culture has continued to be an active part of the regions development with individuals like Andy Warhol being included in the lineup. Numerous films have been centered on the tourist paradise or on famous individuals from the area. Quite a few popular dishes can be found throughout the country and Naples is specifically noted for the first pizzas. Spaghetti, cheeses, wines, and desserts are other divine creations of Campania. The area offers beautiful landscapes combined with a spring climate making it an ideal location to get away from the busyness of everyday life. Items that attracted Romans long ago can still be seen by visitors making their way through the region today. What to Do in Campania, Italy Tourists have the opportunity to experience area nature, take artistic tours, try out tantalizing food, or view historical sites. Archeological digs regularly assist in the unearthing of Roman monuments that are a must see for those interested in early architecture. Naples is an artistic city offering various theatres, museums, monuments, coffee shops, and eateries. It is a lively location every individual must visit at least once to gain the complete Italian experience. Nature attractions comprise of famous landmarks such as the Positano, Ravello, Capri, and Ischia. The Tyrrhenian Sea is combined with small romantic towns to provide the perfect laid back atmosphere. A nature tour is recommended to see the region and individuals can spend a day at the Punta Campanella Nature Reserve or visit the Emerald Grotto. Additional recommended activities consist of bus tours in Naples, shopping in Sorrento, dining on fine cuisine, visiting the museums, relaxing on the beach, or taking some time to learn about the locations rich history. Campania offers years of culture combined with more modern marvels. It is the perfect destination for an individual to relax, learn, and try something new.

February 24, 2012 / in Featured Destinations Provence, France is a region filled with sensual herb aromas, infinite hillsides, and intriguing harbors. It offers a picturesque landscape many have only seen in books or the paintings of artists such as Van Gogh. Defined by bordering scenery of the Rhone, Mediterranean, northern olive trees, and the Alps, the destination supplies an internal contrasting terrain unlike any other. Individuals can find plummeting gorges complemented by lavender fields and stunning beaches. Located in the southern region of France, the city of Provence was one of the first areas taken over by the Romans on this side of the Alps. Moderate climate conditions combined with an extensive historical background make Provence an interesting place for any individual to travel. History Original settlers consisted of various farming cultures, the Celts, the Greeks, and the Romans. Germans invaded the territory between the fifth and ninth centuries before the Middle Ages. As the Middle Age era surfaced, three dynasties paved the way to what is now modern Provence. Historical takeovers remained prominent through post Middle Ages with the region being incorporated as part of France in approximately 1486. A plague in the 1700’s led to a large diminishing of the population; however, artistic industries such as pottery became prevalent shortly after. The violent French Revolution caused extensive turmoil that was only subsided when Napoleon seized power in the later portion of the seventeenth century. Today, residents enjoy a more peaceful atmosphere where the original beauty that attracted a vast array of rulers has been peacefully preserved. Landscapes Provence is known for its widespread contrasting landscapes with a few specifically increasing the popularity of this travel destination. The Rhone river can be found on the western portion as one of Frances former connections to the Mediterranean. It divides prior to reaching the sea with sections being referred to as the Grand Rhone and the Petit Rhone. The Alps reside northwest of this region to form the border between France and Italy. A series of inlets, referred to as the Calanques, are an ancient cultural remnant considered to be a famous coastal feature of this region. Culture Painters, writers, and film makers have all attempted to portray the beauty this destination has to offer. Louis Brea, a painter during the fifteenth century, created works in several churches of the region. Pierre Paul Puget was a prominent religious and portrait painter a century later. His famous creations can be found in the Louvre, Toulon Cathedral, and the additional structures. Additional artists of the area include Adolphe Monticelli, Vincent Van Gogh, Auguste Renoir, Pablo Picasso, and Claude Monet. Visitors can see numerous works created by these individuals in various museums. Provence, also the site of some of the earliest produced motion pictures, has been home to many modern films. The cuisine of the region consists of a few main ingredients: olive oil, garlic, seafood, lamb, goat, and local fruits. Food is limited due to the locations poor terrain; however, visitors are still able to try several exquisite dishes from local cultures. Modern practices have greatly improved both the food and beverages one can try when visiting.

February 26, 2012 / in Featured Destinations Many individuals do not immediately think of Canada when deciding on a traveling destination. It is a beautiful location often overshadowed by the hype of more popular places to visit. Banff, located in Alberta amidst the Rockies, can be found next to the Trans-Canada Highway. The community, ranking second in elevation, is surrounded by landmasses such as Mount Rundle, vast forests, and rivers. It is a popular destination for travelers wishing to see the countryside of Canada. Incorporated as part of Banff National Park, the town is most known for its mountain views, hot springs, and outdoor activities. Visitors who desire an active environment have a wide array of choices when planning their stay. Hiking, biking, and skiing are all prevalent activities in the area. The subarctic climate of this region creates low winter temperatures and moderate summer heat. Snow is possible throughout the entire year making it easy to experience scenery variances during a short stay. Local Atmosphere Abundant species can be found while walking on the trails or enjoying fun lake activities. Home to grizzlies, black bears, deer, elk, sheep, mountain goats, and numerous additional species, Banff brings one about as close to nature as possible without leaving the comfort of civilization. The national park is the oldest heritage site in the Canadian region with the community receiving the most tourism. Located in the Rocky Mountains, it offers a rugged atmosphere involving lower land masses, glaciers, and the alpine tundra. The bottom of each valley consists of widespread tree routes of spruce being predominant. Rivers curve their way into the valleys through the vast plant life of the area. Banff has remained as a small community tucked into one of the narrow mountain valleys and is intersected by the famous Bow River. The main business portion spans over several small blocks to create a unique market atmosphere. Hot springs can be found to the south of Bow River while the Vermillion Lakes, consisting of marshy ponds chained together, are to the northeast. Things to Do in Banff The mountains are one of the biggest attractions in the area with Mount Rundle, Cascade Mountain, and Mount Norquay being the most notable. Visitors can ski on Norquay or take an adventurous bike ride through the Stoney Squaw section of this range. Banff Gondola can be used by travelers to access to the upper portion of Sulphur Mountain where ascendance can continue to Sanson Peak via a boardwalk. This area is also popular due to the Banff Upper Hot Springs found on Sulphur Mountain. The Minnewanka Lake, an active daytime location, resides only six miles from the community. Visitors take part in mountain biking, fishing, hiking, and various other activities in this park section. Tunnel Mountain, the Banff World Television Festival, and Banff Bike Fest are additional drawing points of the area. Highly rated restaurants include the Bow Valley Grill, The Maple Leaf, and Nourish Vegetarian Bistro. Individuals making their way to this destination must take a minute to experience the natural springs or falls found near this travel destination.

February 29, 2012 / in Featured Destinations Tuscany, Italy is a location known for its extensive collection of worldly art from periods such as the Renaissance. The area holds paintings, sculptures, and stunning architectural creations from some of the most controversial times in our history. Visitors make their way to this destination for fine art as well as the beautiful countryside found in the region. Tuscany, also popular for its cuisine, wine, and offered landscape, allows individuals to tantalize their taste buds or become closer to nature by making their way down mountain paths or enjoying the rolling hills. This location, bordering the Tyrrhenian Sea on the initial portion of the Italian boot, holds the popular areas of Florence, Siena, and Pisa. Its near vicinity to the sea delivers a large variety of scenery including an astonishing coastline sprinkled with multiple small islands. It’s a hilly country where the climate varies based upon the exact physical location. Coastal sections have a milder climate while the interior portion supplies a challenging rainy atmosphere. Visitors making their way further inland can view vast hills, small plains, or the extensive mountain range. Tuscany Area History Early history is much like other regions with Greek cultures being prevalent. True civilization begins with the entrance of the Etruscans in early BC when they created a transport infrastructure used to accomplish both farming and mining. A Roman takeover in the first century BC caused the cities of Lucca, Siena, Florence, and Pisa to be formed. New developments contributed by the Romans include sewage systems, architectural creations, and improvements of existing roadways. Goths took over the western portion after the collapse of Western Roman civilization. The area is a highly desired destination among those who enjoy learning about this time period in history. The Tuscan Arts Destination cultural heritage is immense with examples being present in churches, bastions, galleries, museums, and various villages. Visitors can view a vast array of masterpieces in the key cities of Florence, Siena, and Pisa; however, numerous artistic artifacts are also situated in the smaller communities of Tuscany. Florence is known for watercolor creations in addition to its collection of Renaissance art pieces. Visitors have the opportunity to see several Renaissance architectural creations in this portion of the region. Individuals can find creations by famous painters like Giotto or marvel at the sculpture creations of Donatello or Brunelleschi. Exhibition halls can be found throughout the area with the Uffizi and the Bargello being notable attractions. Music, literature, and food are prevalent cultural items in this portion of Italy as well. What to Do Tuscany Italy Tourists are attracted to the relaxing atmosphere and rich experiences offered by Tuscany. Visitors can rent a bike or take a hike on countless nature trails, spend the day on the coastline, take a wine tour, or sit down at an exquisite eatery. Mild coastline temperatures make it easy to enjoy a beach-oriented day. Anyone wanting to experience the culture or see historical artifacts of the region has countless exhibit choices in Florence and the surrounding cities. Determining what to do first will be the biggest challenge faced by anyone making their way to the beautiful countryside of Tuscany.