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The Real Answers from Pamela Hurley-Moser
Hurley Travel
PRESIDENT & CEO WITH A PASSION FOR TRAVEL
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Top 12 Destinations For 2009 - Where would you like to go?
Everyone always asks us where are the best places to go on a winter vacation. So we polled our vacation travel consultants and asked them their favorite places to experience.
#1 Australia, Sydney & Blue Mountains
Australia is a great place to visit from the Outback to the wine regions, to the Great Barrier Reef and the sophisticated cities. Everyone speaks English albeit with a bit of “Strine,” the locals are warm and friendly towards Americans and if you make the journey you won't regret it. If you visit Sydney we recommend the Sydney Australia Park Hyatt Hotel for its great value. Located on the water's edge overlooking the Sydney Opera House, our Virtuoso amenity is a continental breakfast and early check in and late check out. This low-rise hotel is across the bay from "all the action" in the historic Rocks district and therefore feels less hectic and more relaxed, but still only a 10-minute walk from the central business, cultural and shopping districts of Sydney.
A short two-hour drive from Sydney and a must-see are the Blue Mountains, which are as awe inspiring as our Grand Canyon. Lilianfels is a fabulous Orient Express Hotel in the Jamison Valley overlooking the Blue Mountains and the Three Sisters (World Heritage Listed Blue Mountains National Park). With its posh decor and amenities it is located in a quaint little town of Katoomba, with the town center a 20-minute walk away and the hotel has a great restaurant on-site with wonderful local cuisine.
Travel Expert: Brenda Cadman, CTA - bcadman@travelexperts.com
#2 Barbados, Bridgetown
Barbados is the authentic Caribbean - safe, great beaches, nightlife, friendly and the only Caribbean island to offer a Zagat guide for dining. It is one of only a few Caribbean Islands that can accommodate surfers as well as sunbathers, divers and snorkelers. The Crane offers spectacular villa style suites with full kitchens, washers and dryer, luxury furnishings, and sweeping ocean views. Some suites offer private plunge pools. Sandy Lane is the luxury resort place to stay for golfers with casual elegance. A favorite spot to kick back and maybe do a little people watching at the Monkey Bar. This resort has a wonderful children's program and golfer Tiger Woods was married at this resort!
Travel Expert: Beth Skypeck - bskypeck@travelexperts.com
#3 Belize, Ambergirs Caye
Belize offers an array of activities and blend of cultures with a close flight around 6 hours from the Northeast. You can get the diversity of the beach area as well as the jungle, dramatic ruins and a sense of adventure. English is widely spoken and the locals are friendly so it is easy to get around. We recommend the Belize Legacy on Ambergirs Caye, which is an all suite property so it's great for families. It is located on Ambergris Caye, which has a great barrier reef with crystal clear waters and white sand offering spectacular snorkeling and diving. They have a wonderful restaurant and it is a 30-minute ferry ride to the downtown area of San Pedro.
Travel Expert: Kathy Walsh - kwalsh@travelexperts.com
#4 Cayman Islands, Grand Cayman
Nestled in the calm, turquoise waters of the western Caribbean, lies the peaceful British Overseas Territory known as the Cayman Islands. Consisting of three islands just 480 miles south of Miami, Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac, and Little Cayman remain a little piece of paradise. Villas of the Galleon is situated in the midst of sugar white 7 Mile Beach and provides the perfect haven for those yearning for a tropical island with a wonderful beach, and a similar feel to home. The Villas of the Galleon are for people seeking quiet, laid back condo accommodations on the beach. Easy walking distance to town where you'll find fine restaurants, duty free shops and more.
Travel Expert: Michelle Ferris - mferris@travelexperts.com
#5 Costa Rica, Manuel Antonio
Costa Rica is full of adventure and diversity. You can have a view of an active volcano outside of your window or relax in the hot springs, zip line through the jungle canopy, hike over suspended bridges, go whitewater rafting or just relax on a beach. Si Como No is one of our favorite hotels in the Manuel Antonio area. It's an eco-friendly resort located on 6 1/2 acres of rainforest overlooking the ocean. All rooms have either a jungle or ocean view. It gives you that true Costa Rican feel.
Travel Expert: Kathy Walsh - kwalsh@travelexperts.com
#6 Galapagos Islands, Evolution
On the Equator in the Pacific Ocean, the Galapagos Islands are home to some of the most interesting and accessible wildlife anywhere including giant tortoises, comical blue-footed boobies, sea lions, penguins, and iguanas to name just a few. We recommend a10-day cruise with International Expeditions aboard the 32-guest Evolution. She is the ideal ship for a tour to the Galapagos Islands, with spacious cabins, terrific amenities and great food. Their highly qualified naturalist Galapagos guides are authorities on the wildlife of the Galapagos Islands, and are a pleasure to travel with. They will see that you get the most of your Galapagos cruise experience. And right now you can receive free airfare from your hometown to Guayaquil, Ecuador - up to $900 per person - on January 2 or February 6, 2009, Galapagos Voyages!
Travel Expert: Brenda Cadman - bcadman@travelexperts.com
#7 Greece, Santorini
April is a great time to explore the Greek Isles by taking advantage of the beautiful Mediterranean before the tourists come. The average weather in April is 62 degrees Fahrenheit, delightful for sightseeing and enjoying this beautiful Island. We recommend staying at the Mystique with its eighteen suites and villas in a landscape of more than 2000 square meters, which provides a sensorial experience of Santorini in surroundings of understated elegance. Guests may experience an outdoor infinity-edge pool, the “Aura” Pool Bar, the “Charisma” Gourmet Restaurant and the “Secret” Wine Cave. Slatted wooden decks that lead to the plunge pool surrounded by sun beds allow you the utmost relaxation.
Travel Expert: Pat Wilcock - pwilcock@travelexperts.com
#8 Hawaii, Kauai & Maui-Hana
Bask amidst the sparkling blue waters of the Pacific Ocean in Hawaii. A short 20 minutes flight from Honolulu, Kauai, encompasses roughly 550 square miles and is the oldest and northernmost of the main Hawaiian Islands. Discover paradise at Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa. The lush grounds and infinite amenities of their Four-Diamond hotel present a myriad of options for each guest to create their own personalized retreat. Kayak in the lagoons, indulge in a reviving treatment at ANARA Spa, or simply breathe in the refreshing ocean breezes. Play championship golf or tennis, savor fine dining or delight in an authentic luau.
At the end of the Hana Highway, on the lush eastern coast of Maui, is the legendary Hotel Hana-Maui and Honua Spa, where tranquility is a way of life. The AAA Four Diamond luxury resort has long been known as a favorite Hawaiian vacation retreat for generations of travelers seeking a serene and enchanting escape. The hotel reflects a wonderful blend of Hawaiian heritage and the unspoiled natural beauty that makes Hana such a special place. Located on an acre of landscaped grounds, the intimate spa takes advantage of the spectacular views of Hana Bay. Here, guests can enjoy the ultimate in nurturing with massage, facials, and body treatments. The spa features steam rooms, cold plunge, aquatic therapy pool, lava rock whirlpool, and more.
Travel Experts: Pat Wilcock - pwilcock@travelexperts.com and Brenda Cadman, CTA - bcadman@travelexperts.com
#9 Jamaica, Negril & Mo Bay
Once you go, you know! Jamaica is easy to get to from the Northeast, as there are several non-stop flights in the winter months from Boston or one connection from Portland. It offers great beaches, lots of activities and tours with accommodations from all-inclusive resorts to something for every budget. Royal Plantation and yhe Jamaica Inn are for the person who likes a small, boutique style resort. Half Moon offers villas as well as rooms and suites. The Ritz-Carlton in Mo Bay is a great value with Ritz service and style. Sandals (couples only) and Beaches (#1 rated family resorts) are top-notch, all-inclusive stays. We recommend Moon Dance Villas for exclusive villa stays with a resort feel.
Beaches Negril Jamaica is a wonderful family location for babies to grandparents. Ample activities and dining choices and they are all included and the resort is set on one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean.
Travel Experts: Beth Skypeck - bskypeck@travelexperts.com and Michelle Ferris - mferris@travelexperts.com
#10 Mexico, Mayan Riviera
Stretching from Punta Brava south of Cancun International Airport to Punta Allen just south of Tulum, exists one of the most fascinating destination spots in the world. Tropical beaches, ancient ruins, abundant marine and wildlife abound. The Great Mayan Reef is the largest coral reef in the Western Hemisphere. You can ferry over to Cozumel, or you have the great restaurants, nightlife, and shopping of 5th Avenue in Playa Del Carmen.
Royal Hideaway is one of our favorite resorts. It is a nice upscale boutique resort with six gourmet restaurants, water sports, cooking classes and a cascading infinity pool. The full service spa is magnificent with its indigenous treatments. The rooms are tastefully decorated in a Mexican theme. It is minutes away from the 5th Avenue area and across the street from a wonderful small shopping complex.
Travel Expert: Kathy Walsh - kwalsh@travelexperts.com and Pat Wilcock - pwilcock@travelexperts.com
#11 New Zealand, Queenstown
Surrounded by majestic mountains and nestled on the shores of crystal clear Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown is New Zealand's gem. Whatever you do, whatever your style, Queenstown will feed your imagination, fuel your passions and revitalize your spirit. From bungee jumping to wine trails, jet boating to tramping, dining out to skiing, the tricky part is extending your stay to try and fit everything in. We recommend Sofitel Queenstown Hotel and Spa with its central location in the thriving heart of the city. The hotel features 82 luxury rooms and suites, all with their own private double spa bath and most have private balconies with superb mountain or lake views. A day spa, business lounge, library, conference area, bar and restaurant make sure your every need is covered.
Travel Expert: Brenda Cadman, CTA - bcadman@travelexperts.com
#12 St. Lucia, Castries
Simply beautiful - lush and tropical with one of the only "drive in" volcanos in the world! Rain forest tours, hiking, diving and snorkeling are all available here. This island is a true gem. The Piton Mountains raise right up from the ocean, beautiful waterfalls, and little fishing villages remind many of Hawaii. Sandals resorts (couples only) are a good all-inclusive option here. With more basic to luxury accommodations with sweeping ocean views and private plunge pools all rooms include just about everything. Sandals also offer exchange privileges between the three resorts in St. Lucia.
For the person looking for the more boutique style resort, Anse Chastenant, Jade Mountain and Ladera are truly romantic and unique. Ladera is a resort that travelers dream about - a small, lush, tropical gem that is world acclaimed yet still relatively unknown. Located in southwestern Saint Lucia, Ladera is a paradise like no other to ignite your passions. They have 'open wall' suites inviting one of the world's most breathtaking views into your suite yet each suite offers complete privacy and safety. Every accommodation features its own private plunge pool or villa pool for total relaxation.
Travel Experts: Michelle Ferris - mferris@travelexperts.com and Beth Skypeck - bskypeck@travelexperts.com
October 2008
Question: What inspired you to enter the travel industry and start your own business?
The Real Answer: As a globetrotter my passport has been filled many times pursuing the art of travel. I am passionate about travel, experiencing different cultures and broadening my horizons. So when I was 27 years old I left the security of my job as a travel agency manager and started Hurley Travel Experts. I was inspired because I felt something was lacking in traditional travel agency business models between customer service and a high level of destination expertise. I wanted to offer more than just transportation needs. I wanted to offer experiences and change people's lives for the better. I think travel does that.
Question: Why does someone need a travel agent?
The Real Answer: Whether you're traveling for business or for pleasure, it is important to have a travel advocate to consult with before, during and after your trip. There are so many choices these days and so much information on the Internet, in books, in articles, from friends etc. that travel agents become knowledge navigators to help our clients make the best travel purchase. Our travel professionals have experience and knowledge of the world and not just in terms of geography but also in the vast network of personal relationships around the globe so we can give our clients unparalleled access to the places they visit and make the impossible-possible. Our consultants are also trained using a consultative approach. This requires us to explore, probe, and analyze lifestyle and habits, previous travel destinations and likes and dislikes. The goal is to have a travel product and destination recommended that meet all the needs of the travelers and at the best value.
Question: What does experiential travel mean?
The Real Answer: I often ask my clients and prospects to each write down the top five things that they either want to have more of or do more of and travel is always at the top of the list. In addition I also find people wanting to adopt a healthier lifestyle, have more energy, spend more time with children and grandchildren (especially if they don't live close by), and many want to learn new things and acquire new skills. All of these things incorporate what experiential & lifestyle travel is all about. It is about doing what you love to do or what you dream about doing in an environment that is life enhancing. For example, there are age management resorts that teach you about your specific illness or disease and how to live healthier and feel better. Things like cooking, exercise, breathing and alternative medicine. There are walking, hiking, and biking vacations for every age and fitness level. There are language immersion cruises. There are golf and tennis resorts where you can learn to improve your game. There are historic pilgrimages and archeological explorations across the globe. The possibilities are endless and out of this world.
Question: How did you get to be one of only 47 travel experts in the US designated to book Virgin Galactic Space travel?
The Real Answer: Space tourism represents what I believe to be the last available frontier. So when Virgin Galactic was looking for the best travel consultants in the country to represent them and sell their space flights, I was all over it. Getting involved with space tourism at its infancy was very exciting to me as well as challenging. The process began with an extensive list of questions followed by a comprehensive essay in an effort to prove why they should choose me to represent them. They were looking for leaders in the marketplace who were innovative, inventive and unique. The essay was followed by two phone interviews. Evidently I passed with flying colors as I was the only person chosen in Northern New England, which represents Maine, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts.
