Canadian World Traveller / Summer 2016 Issue

Egypt Section Rick Steves’ Europe Cruise News Evian
C A N A D I A N
W O R L D
Traveller
J i a n g x i
The Amazing
Province
Summer/Fall 2016
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Come With Us & See The World!

Welcome to
Canadian World Traveller
In this issue, we start our worldwide tour in
the amazing province of Jiangxi, China, just
in time for the very colourful Rapeseed
bloom before we explore the fabled Chinese
‘Maritime Silk Road’. While in Asia, we also visit
the ever exciting city of Tokyo and then head off
to relax in two wonderful hotels in Thailand.
In Europe, we follow Rick Steves to Munich and
discover this great city and its local customs. We
then head off to the charming French Alps town
of Evian and the classy city of Lyon to start a
cruise with the wonderful Viking Cruises on the
Rhone River. We finish our European tour with
another fabulous cruise with the Crystal Line,
visiting some marvellous Mediterranean cities
in France and Italy. Close by, we head off to
explore the beautiful, intriguing and mysterious
land of Egypt before jetting off to the New
World.
In the Caribbean, we find out all there is to see
and do in these beautiful tropical islands. In the
American west, we visit the picturesque national
parks in Utah and Colorado, and the always
exciting Las Vegas before heading to see the
migratory birds in rural Nebraska and the
quaint city of Hot Springs, Arkansas. Finally we
head to the southern shores of the ever popular
beach communities in Florida, and we will even
take some time to investigate the everglades.
Happy Travels!
Published by
Canadian World
Traveller
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TMR (Montreal) , Qc Canada H4P 1J3
Tel.: (514) 738-8232
www.canadianworldtraveller.com
Email: info@canadianworldtraveller.com
Publisher Michael Morcos
Editor-in-chief Greg James
Contributing Editor David J. Cox
Graphic Artist Al Cheong
Advertising Leo Santini
Marketing Tania Tassone
Distribution Royce Dillon
Contributors: Natalie Ayotte, David J. Cox,
Susan Campbell, Jessica Percy-Campbell,
Camille Fodi, Ilona Kauremszky,
Steve Gillick, Mathieu Morcos, Ron Paquet,
Johanna Read, Dwain Richardson
Jennifer Merrick, & Rick Steves.
Front Cover Photo by Michael Morcos:
Jiangxi, China
Disclaimer: Canadian World Traveller has made every
effort to verify that the information provided in this publication
is as accurate as possible. However, we accept
no responsibility for any loss, injury, or inconvenience
sustained by anyone resulting from the information contained
herein nor for any information provided by our
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Canadian World Traveller
C o n t e n t s
Hot Springs, Arkansas
58
Jiangxi, China
8
Tokyo
14
Rick Steves’ Europe 16
Tropical Tidbits 40
Cruise
Section
43
Viking
River Cruise
48
Destination
China
60
Stay & Play
Around The World 68
Utah
20
Superyachts & River Cruising 50
Florida 74
Egypt
22
Crystal Cruise
52
Nebraska 76

8
Amazing
Jiangxi
China
Article & Photography by Michael Morcos

9
Canadian World Traveller Summer/Fall 2016

10
Located in the southeast of China,
Jiangxi province spans the banks of the
Yangtze river in the north into hillier
areas in the south. For the world traveller,
this is a perfect place to visit in China, as
most foreigners in China visit other, better
known provinces. During our visit, this ‘road
less travelled’ offered us less of the crowds
that are found in the other popular Chinese
destinations.
Here we visited ancient villages, climbed
mountains, feasted on wonderful cuisine,
partook in tea ceremonies and witnessed the
once-a-year blooming of the very colorful
rapeseed flower fields.
Located to the northeast of Shangrao City,
Mount Sanqingshan was added to
UNESCO's World Heritage List on July 6th,
2008. Considered a “treasure of the world",
this would prove to be an amazing place to
visit on our first day.
The views from the top of the mountain are
breathtaking, but to experience them, the trip
up the mountain is long, but not overwhelming.
We had to take a gondola to get part of the
way up, a ride that provided lovely panoramic
views, and that was followed by hours of
climbing.
Even though the hiking was on paved steps
and paths, and was easy for just about anyone
to accomplish, the long walk made our
thighs burn with effort and pain. Luckily, we
had lunch at a wonderful restaurant. Here we
were treated to a spicy douchi (fermented
black beans) and tofu (beancurd) stir fry
which offered us a delicious and relaxing
break from the first trail we did, and gave us
energy for the second longer, though less
demanding, trail that afternoon.
All around was pure nature, a good thing
since China is so populated and land is so
over used. An amazing place and great
photo ops all round!
We spent an entire day exploring the Mount
San Qing Shan National Park. Marked by the
concentration of fantastically shaped pillars
and peaks - 48 granite peaks and 89 granite
pillars, many of which resemble human or
animal silhouettes – the magnificence of this
most unique park makes it a must visit for
any serious traveler!
The natural beauty of the almost 2 kilometerhigh
Mount Huaiyu is further enhanced by
the combination of granite features with the
vegetation and the particular meteorological
conditions which make for an ever-changing
and impressive landscape.
Famous as a cultural and ecological tourist
county, Wu Yuan County has several nicknames,
including “the Hometown of Books”,
“the Hometown of Tea”, and even “the most
picturesque village of China”! Many routes
are available for travellers to explore.
Eastward are some attractive and protected
ancient villages of the Ming and Qing
Dynasties placed among a lovely pastoral
landscape.
Covered with forests, the northern route features
Dazhang Mountain and the Wolong
Valley, scenic and tourist friendly. The valley
is home to over 4,000 different species and
also houses more than 150 highly endangered
giant pandas
The west route contains an ecologically protected
area and is one of the largest wild
mandarin duck habitats in the world. We had
great timing, as the rapeseed plants were in
full bloom and would prove to be another
highlight of this trip.
Endless fields of amazing yellow coloured
flowers, which, on a sunny day, were an
incredible site that made me want to sit there
all day and soak in the beauty. It was yet
another great photo back drop.
Right in the middle of this part of the province
was the small, ancient village of Yan, where
time stands still and the locals are warm and
welcoming. Picture-perfect, it offers visitors a
glimpse of rural china. We walked through
small alleyways and saw the locals going
about their day. Some were cleaning, others
preparing meals and enjoying the quiet life.
A moment of peace and tranquility for a busy
traveller!

Wangkou Village is surrounded by rivers
and mountains on three sides, and features
ancient residences that have stood for more
than 1,000 years. Within its borders are the
famous ancient Yu Family Ancestral Hall, and
many other attractive scenic spots like Yijing
Hall and Maode Hall which are essential
parts of this village.
We again got lucky, as we witnessed a wedding
with our guide who explained the proceedings.
The ancestral temple serves a
major symbolic function and during the wedding
rites, the bride and groom worship at
the groom's ancestral shrine, bowing 4 times.
The first is for Heaven and Earth, second bow
for the ancestors, a third bow to parents and
the fourth bow to their new spouse.
In ancient times, this village was an important
trading post where thousands of merchants
would share their treasures. The village
is careful to preserve this history, and
when you visit the village, you can sense the
ages through the ancient halls, merchants’
residences and bookstores that fill the streets.
One memorable trip was a tour of the Gu
Yan Factory (an ancient kiln) in Jingdezhen,
where they have been making ‘China’
(ceramics) for centuries, still crafted today as
it was hundreds of years ago. The factory is
a very popular place, and it was interesting
to watch the workers at different stations
crafting such artistic items, from the raw clay
to the finished painted pieces, glazing and
firing. Everything from plates to elaborate
vases are made and offered for sale here.
Many westerners have come to the factory to
find out how they were so good at porcelain,
and later brought these techniques to Europe
to start new industries there. Also known as
the “World Capital of Porcelaine”, this large
complex contains many buildings in a natural
setting. Near the end of the tour, we
were treated to a music show were all the
instruments were made of ceramics - bells,
flutes, violins...astounding and unique to say
the least!
To end this wonderful day we visited the
Ceramics Museum housed in a brand new
modern building. There were priceless pieces
that dated back centuries from the Dynasty
emperors themselves!
Another fine day, another majestic area. The
Poyang National Wetland Park contains
Poyang Lake, the largest freshwater lake in
China, as well as Poyang Lake wetland,
which is the largest wetland in Asia, and
serves as a breeding ground for over 50
kinds of rare birds. We were treated to a boat
tour of the massive park and got to see white
cranes and swans and an enormous diversity
of plants and other animals. In 2011, it
became one of China's first state-level wetland
parks and is a clear example of China's
fishing and farming lake culture.
After that, we switched gear and visited
Nanchang, the capital city. Some estimates
state that this area was populated as much
as 50,000 years ago!
There is so much to do in this massive city of
5 million, including the Star of Nanchang,
which was the world's tallest Ferris wheel
from 2006-2008, Tengwang Pavilion, a towering
pavilion dating back to the year 653
(one of "the Four Great Towers of China"), the
People’s Park ( the largest park in downtown
Nanchang), Bayi Square and Memorial,
commemorates the 1927 uprising, which led
to the formation of modern China in 1949.
Our visit also included the Sheng Jin Tower, a
major attraction here. The building has been
built and rebuilt many times, as fire had
destroyed previous builds. This multi-level
pagoda right by the river offers a lesson in
Chinese history, a good walk and an amazing
view!
In contrast to all these landmarks was the
ultra-modern mall with many upscale brand
name designer shops in side –not expected
at all, and quite amazing in itself!
All the way through this trip we had fabulous
meals with choices for many different vegetarian
and meat plates and always eaten
around traditional round tables where there
is no head to the table.
www.tourismchina.org
11
Canadian World Traveller Summer/Fall 2016

14
Photo: Go Tokyo
Keeping Pace with Tokyo
Article & Photography by Steve Gillick
Tetsuro Koyano’s great-grandfather
was a renowned sword master. Five
years ago Koyano decided to turn
emotion and passion into reality and accomplishment,
by starting a collection of historic
Samurai armour, helmets, guns and swords.
In 2015 he opened the Samurai Museum in
the Shinjuku district of Tokyo to allow visitors
to get up close and personal with the world of
the samurai, and for the action-oriented, the
opportunity to practice stances, glares, threats
and thrusts (using wooden swords) alongside
the resident sword master.
It’s a pretty thrilling museum but only one of
many Tokyo activities that respond to the
needs of today’s traveller to realize value in
every vacation experience as well as to get
involved in, and connect with the destination,
to better understand what makes it tick.
In the Monzen Nakacho area of Tokyo we
headed to Orihara, a stand-up sake bar on a
busy side street. The plastic milk crates piled
on top of each other and topped with a
square of wood laminate serve as tables outside
the entrance, while inside the bar lies a
treasure trove of up to 150 different sakes
(depending on the season).
Takeshi Hashimoto the manager, explained
that the bar features the products of small

sake producers throughout the country to
show not only the diversity of the brews but
also the creative talents of sake brewers.
Patrons can sample and quaff to their heart’s
content as they seek sakes that best match
their mood and their palate.
Not too far away in the Shimbashi area, a
building full of small eateries and stand-up
sake bars features Shinshu Osake Mura. This
bar specializes in sakes from the Nagano
region but to stay in touch with the latest
trends, it has recently become a magnet for
craft beer aficionados who enjoy the refreshing
complexity of flavours that craft beers
have to offer. In fact while we were in the
bar, several tourists dropped by to purchase
bottles as gifts and souvenirs.
And with taste in mind, we attended a Bento
Making class with True Japan Tour, to learn
about the allure of the ubiquitous ‘bento’ box.
‘Bento’ means ‘convenience’ and usually
refers to a lunch box, divided into sections,
each containing a different food item. They
are sold in food courts, convenience stores,
bus terminals, train stations and airports, with
each type of box featuring different food
combinations.
Under the tutelage of Miss Sayoko Noma and
Miss Naoka Eguchi, our goal was to fill each
of the six sections of our bento box with a different
tasty treat. We started off making a
Japanese omelet in a square frying pan, and
continued with a dish of pumpkin and okra
boiled in dashi broth. This was followed by
chicken tsekouneh: minced chicken, gently
fried and glazed with sugar, soy sauce and
cooking sake. Another dish consisted of
deep-fried marinated chicken strips, and then
a touch of colour was added to the meal with
delicately-arranged green beans (edamame)
and cherry tomatoes. We made Onigiri as an
addition to the Bento meal, consisting of rice
balls wrapped in Nori (seaweed); one with
flaked salmon inside and one with kelp. And
then finally for the last dish, we turned apple
quarters into ‘rabbit-ear apples’ with the
“ears” standing up on the rabbit’s head; a
sure lunch winner for kids (and adults too!)
But in Tokyo, refined tastes come in all shapes
and sizes as we discovered later in the afternoon
when we took our seats in the
Taiwanese Pineapple Cake Shop in the
Omote Sando area to taste the delicate sweet
dessert. We were not in the shop due to
hunger, but because we were on an architectural
discovery tour of the Omote Sando
neighborhood with our City of Tokyo guide
Miss Akiko Enoki.
The building in which the shop is located is
referred to as “Sunny Hills” and was designed
by Kenzo Kuma, one of Japan’s most celebrated
architects. Sunny Hills stands out with
its striking wooden construction amidst a fairly
ordinary-looking residential neighbourhood.
Kuma’s trademark is the melding of
nature with modern construction, and the
nearby Nezu Museum, with its wall of bamboo
trees is one example, while the new
Stadium that Kuma is designing for Tokyo’s
2020 Olympics and referred to as the “habitable
forest” is another attempt to use architecture
to showcase the harmony between
man and nature.
A few streets over we saw another Olympic
connection in the Prada Building, designed by
Herzog and de Meuron who also designed
Beijing’s Bird Nest Stadium for the 2008
games. Our guide pointed out other important
buildings in the area that showcased the
work of architectural luminaries such as Jun
Mitsui, Tadao Ando and Tyo Ito (the latter
designed Tod’s Building on the main strip, to
mimic the zelkova trees that line the streets of
the Omote Sando district). And other architectural
wonders are spread throughout the
city including the Cocoon Building and
Metropolitan Building in Shinjuku, the Audi
Forum, known as the Blue Iceberg in Shibuya
and the iconic Tokyo Sky Tree in Sumida.
In fact, Tokyo’s neighbourhoods are a source
of adventure and discovery on their own.
One can get off at just about any subway station
and, armed with curiosity and a camera,
discover picturesque streets, small specialty
shops, unique Izakayas and bars, and the
neighbourhood ambiance. We found this to
be true on the narrow streets of Shimo
Kitazawa, in the old shops along the main
street of Ningyocho, and in Monzen Nakacho
where we had dinner at Uosan, an inexpensive,
extremely popular (line-ups begin at
4:00 pm) seafood restaurant. In Kappabashi,
where you can purchase just about anything
that relates to kitchens and culinary preparation,
you can also find Wasuke, a small
Izakaya with a friendly atmosphere and excellent
food.
Getting actively involved in a destination
inevitably involves the arts, and Tokyo has a
wealth of excellent theatres and museums,
from the Kabuki Theatre in Ginza to the Edo-
Tokyo Museum in Ryogoku and on to traditional
and contemporary art galleries spread
throughout the city. One of the more interesting
was a visit to the Mori Art Museum in
Rappongi Hills where the featured exhibit was
Takashi Murakami’s masterpiece, the 500
Arhats.
In Buddhism the word ‘arhat’ refers to a person
who is far advanced on the path to
Enlightenment. After the 2011 tsunami and
earthquake that devastated the Tohoku
region, Murakami wanted to do something to
help people recover from the despair. His
response was a 100 metre long painting,
divided into four panels, that portrayed the
500 Arhats and emphasized 500 ways of
healing human suffering, as was done in the
old days, through stories, legends, mythology,
spiritual beliefs and even humour.
The successful blending of the old and the
new in art, architecture, cuisine, museums
and neighbourhoods is the hallmark of a
dynamic city. Keeping pace with the everevolving
city of Tokyo is a pleasurable challenge
and a boon for travellers who are
searching for new, exciting and meaningful
discoveries and experiences.
www.gotokyo.org
15
Canadian World Traveller Summer/Fall 2016

16
Munich at its Best:
Small-Town Charm and Free-Flowing Beer
by Rick Steves
New Town Hall, with its beloved glockenspiel--only
100 years old--that recreates a
royal wedding from the 16th century.
Nearby, you can experience small-town
Munich at the Viktualienmarkt, long a
favorite with locals for fresh produce and
friendly service. While this expensive real
estate could have been overrun by fast food
places, Munich keeps the rent low so these
old-time shops can carry on.
The oldest church in town, St. Peter’s, a few
steps from Marienplatz, is part of the soul of
the city (according to a popular song,
“Munich is not Munich without St. Peter’s”).
And wherever you walk, you’ll see the twin
onion domes of the Frauenkirche, the city’s
iconic church. Along with much of Munich,
the church was badly damaged in World
War II, then lovingly rebuilt and gloriously
restored.
After the war, people who lived in
Germany's heavily bombed cities debated
how they'd rebuild. Should they reconstruct
the old towns, or bulldoze and start over
from scratch? Frankfurt voted to go modern
(and is today nicknamed "Germany's
Manhattan"), but the people of Munich
rebuilt their old town center.
City leaders took care to preserve Munich’s
original street plan and recreate the
medieval steeples, Neo-Gothic facades,
and Neoclassical buildings. They blocked
off the city center to cars, built the peoplefriendly
U-Bahn (subway) system, and
opened up Europe’s first pedestrian-only
zone--which let’s you stroll peacefully right
through the old center. Only now, more
than 70 years after the last bombs fell, are
the restorations finally wrapped up.
Despite its population of 1.4 million,
Munich (or “München,” as
it’s called in German) feels
small. This big-city elegance is possible, in
part, because of its determination to be
pedestrian- and bike-friendly, and because
of a law that no building can be taller than
its church spires. There’s ongoing debate
about changing this policy, but there are
still no skyscrapers in downtown Munich.
Walking through Munich, you’ll understand
why it is consistently voted one of
The twin green domes of Munich’s Frauenkirche
overlook the city’s bustling main square, Marienplatz.
Photo: Pat O’Connor, Rick Steves' Europe
Germany’s most livable cities--safe, clean,
cultured, a university town, built on a people
scale, and close to the beauties of
nature. Though it’s the capital of Bavaria
and a major metropolis, Munich’s low-key
atmosphere has led Germans to dub it
“Millionendorf”--the “village of a million
people.”
Dawdling in the sunlit main square called
Marienplatz (“Mary’s Square”), I love to
take in the ornate facades of the gray,
pointy Old Town Hall and the Neo-Gothic
As Germany's beer capital, Munich offers
classic beer halls complete with cheap
food, noisy fun, oompah music, and rivers
of beer. While the boisterous and belching
Bavarian atmosphere can be extremely
touristy, everybody's having a great time.
Connoisseurs have their favorite brews--
and to get it, they simply go to the beer hall
that serves it.
When I was in Munich recently, my local
guide, Georg, took me to his favorite beer
hall, Der Pschorr. At some beer gardens,
they have a big wooden keg out on display,
but actually draw the beer from huge stainless-steel
dispensers. At Der Pschorr, every
few minutes you hear a “whop” as they tap
a classic old wooden keg. Hearing this,
every German there knows they're in for a
good fresh mug.

I asked if they sell half-liters. Georg said,
"This is a ‘Biergarten,’ not a kindergarten!"
He ordered us each the standard full Mass,
or liter glass (about a quart, nearly what
we'd call “ein pitcher”--but it’s meant for
one person). Waitresses carry armloads of
these heavy mugs seemingly with ease.
While we enjoyed our time at Der Pschorr,
first-time visitors shouldn’t miss the
Hofbräuhaus, a place that really lives up to
the name “beer hall.” Although it’s
grotesquely touristy, it’s a Munich must. The
smoke-stained ceiling, repaired and
repainted after WWII bomb damage, is an
evocative mesh of 1950s German mod--
Bavarian colors, chestnuts, food, drink, and
musical themes.
There are plenty of other intoxicating
Munich beer halls. Spatenhaus is the
opera-goers’ beer hall, serving more elegant
food in a traditional setting on the
square facing the opera and palace. The
trendy Andechser am Dom, at the rear of
the Frauenkirche, serves Andechs beer--my
favorite--and great food to appreciative
regulars. Nürnberger Bratwurst Glöckl am
Dom, just across from Andechser am Dom,
is popular with tourists for its delightful little
sausages. Dine outside under the trees or in
the dark, medieval, cozy interior--patrolled
by wenches and spiked with antlers.
The partying gets turned up a notch every
fall, when the city celebrates Oktoberfest.
The festival lasts just over two weeks (Sept.
17–Oct. 3 in 2016), starting on the third
Saturday in September and usually ending
on the first Sunday in October (but never
before Oct. 3--the day Germany celebrates
its reunification).
Oktoberfest kicks things off with an opening
parade of almost 8,000 participants.
Every night, it fills 32 beer tents with more
than 100,000 people. A million gallons of
beer later, they roast the last ox.
The Theresienwiese fairground (south of the
main train station), known as the Wies’n,
erupts in a frenzy of rides, dancing, and
strangers strolling arm-in-arm down rows
of picnic tables, while the beer god stirs
tons of brew, pretzels, and wurst in a bubbling
cauldron of fun. The triple-loop roller
coaster must be the wildest on earth (best
before the beer-drinking).
Munich is so into its beer culture that it even
has a Beer and Oktoberfest Museum, which
tells the origins of the city’s Oktoberfest celebration.
While it may be a museum, the
exhibit comes with a malty bias and seems
designed to make two points: beer is truly a
people’s drink, and you’ll get the very best
here in Munich.
Wandering through the legions of
17
happy, companionable drinkers in
the beer halls and enjoying the
relaxed, small-town atmosphere of the
Marienplatz, I mused that Munich is about
as gemütlich as it gets. Gemütlich is a
unique word for Bavaria's special coziness
and its knack for savoring the moment. You
can feel it anytime you spend an evening
clinking frothy mugs with new friends, or
wandering the atmospheric lanes of this city
that respects its past while looking energetically
into the future.
© 2016 Rick Steves' Europe. All rights reserved.
Rick Steves (www.ricksteves.com) writes
European travel guidebooks and hosts travel
shows on public television and public radio.
Email him at rick@ricksteves.com.
Canadian World Traveller Summer/Fall 2016

18
Good to Go!
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Canadian World Traveller Summer/Fall 2016

20
Take a Hike to Celebrate
US National Parks’
100th Year Anniversary!
If you want to worry less and feel good,
take a hike.
Studies have proven that simply taking a
walk in nature produces brain waves similar
to those that occur in meditation and
significantly reduces stress, boosts immune
function and improves memory and mental
ability.
There are many places to lace up your
boots, but to celebrate America’s National
Parks’ 100th birthday, I’d like to share with
you a couple of phenomenal hikes I recently
had the pleasure of doing at two of the
United States’ most iconic natural wonders-
-The Grand Canyon and Zion National
Park.
South Kaibab Trail at the
Grand Canyon (South Rim)
Photo: Zion National Park
I have to admit that my first impression of
the famous canyon wasn’t as grand as I
thought it would be. Walking along the rim
on the evening we arrived, there were so
many people. Yes, it was gorgeous, dramatic
and certainly a sight, but it didn’t take
my breath away. I wasn’t filled with the awe
I thought I would be. Perhaps it was just too
vast, the multi-colored rocks too faded
from the distance. Or maybe my expectations
were just too high. Luckily, my first
impression wasn’t my last.
Early the next morning, taking the shuttle
bus from the visitors’ center, we set off on a
hike on the South Kaibab Trail. As we
descended into the canyon, the awe that
had been missing the evening before
began to fill me. After an hour’s hike, we
reached Cedar Ridge Point, and ventured
onto the pick rock that jetted out into the
canyon. For a while, we sat completely
alone, just us and the canyon that grew
more magnificent by the second. The colors
of the layered rock formations changed
continuously, sparkling in the sun, revealing
a glimpse of its millions of years of geological
history. Here the Grand Canyon
exceeded all of my highest expectations.
Back at the top of the South Kaibab
Trailhead, we walked part of the Rim Trail,
a 12-mile accessible path that runs from
this trailhead to Hermits Rest. This section
of the trail was also virtually empty; and
once again I was filled with wonder and
glad we took time to explore a bit instead
of just passing through.
Article & Photography by Jennifer Merrick
If you go: We stayed at the Best Western
Premier Grand Squire Inn in the Grand

Canyon Village, approximately 7.5 miles
from the park’s entrance. Helpful staff and
ultra-comfortable beds made it an ideal
base for our hiking trip. We also loved the
vintage photos of early tourists exploring
the canyon in the rooms and hallways.
Accommodations inside the park include
the historic El Tovar and Bright Angel
Lodges. For the true adventurer, there is
Phantom Lodge that lies at the bottom of
the canyon. Reservations are necessary and
can be made up to 13 months in advance.
The Narrows at
Zion National Park
Unlike the Grand Canyon, I knew very little
about Zion National Park in Southern Utah.
But as I planned our Grand Canyon road
trip, I came across stunning photos of this
wilderness area and knew it was somewhere
we had to include in our road trip.
Zion was named when Nephi Johnson, the
first permanent European- American settler,
declared, “A man can worship God among
these great cathedrals as well as in any
man-made church – this is Zion.” Its heavenly
landscape does look like it’s been
carved from above with its fiery red and
orange sandstone cliffs and canyons.
Warning: It’s very hard to keep your eyes
on the road as you drive through it.
Hiking in the 229 square mile national
park can range from easy paved trails like
the Lower Emerald Pool Trail to the challenging
Angel Landing, where you’ll have
to navigate steep switchbacks and vertigo
inducing cliffs to reach the summit and the
reward of a jaw-dropping vista of Zion
Canyon.
We decided to do one of the parks most
famous hikes, The Narrows, an excursion
that’s different than most as the trail is a
river. With cold water that can be up to
waist-high deep and varying currents, it’s
essential to prepare for this hike.
Fortunately, there are several outfitters in
the nearby town of Springdale that can set
you up for a Narrows hike. We visited the
Zion Outfitter, just outside the park’s
entrance, and came out wearing a bib dry
suit that looked like rubber overalls, neoprene
socks and water shoes and holding a
wooden walking stick. Among the other visitors
wearing shorts and a t-shirts, I felt
somewhat conspicuous as I boarded the
park shuttlebus to the Temple of Sinawava,
our point of departure and last stop of the
shuttle. “They’re doing The Narrows hike,”
I heard one woman whisper to her friend.
“That’ll be the day,” I heard the friend whisper
back. Although she could have said,
“I’d like to do that one day”. I was a little
worried about what I was getting myself
into.
The hike began with the Riverside Walk, a
paved trail that follows the Virgin River. But
instead of turning back at the end of the
trail, we stepped into the water and proceeded
from there. Because of the currents
and varying depths, we’d often wait for
others to cross before we tried to traverse a
particular stretch. Other hikers did the
same and at one point, where the water
seemed particularly fast, another couple
stopped. We all looked at each other with
the unspoken question hanging in the air:
“Who’s going first?” It didn’t matter in the
end, since not far behind us were a group
of young college students who crossed
effortlessly. I tried to follow their lead, but
my knuckles were white from gripping the
walking stick so tightly.
It was well worth the effort, however, for the
incredible soaring views. The deep orange
cliffs towered above us at heights of up to
200 feet and the width could taper to 20
feet at spots. I felt completely dwarfed by
the grandeur of it all. We trekked for about
two hours before turning back, but more
ambitious and athletic hikers could go as
far as Big Springs (a five-hour hike) without
a permit.
However the hike was enough time for me
to forget any problems at home, work or
what’s on the nine o’clock news. Enough
time to appreciate just how incredible these
National Parks are. And to know that I need
to spend more time hiking.
If you go: We stayed at the Best Western
Red Hills in Kanab. Once again it was a
comfortable base for our South Utah excursions,
and the helpful staff gave us excellent
recommendations for dining and hiking
within town. The town of Kanab is an
ideal hub for exploring as it’s in easy driving
distance of some of America’s most
scenic wonders including Lake Powell,
Bryce Canyon National Park, Grand
Staircase/Escalante National Monument
and, of course, Zion National Park.
www.grandcanyonsquire.com
www.grandcanyonlodges.com
www.visitarizona.com
www.visitsouthernutah.com
21
Photo: Tom Till - Zion National Park
Canadian World Traveller Summer/Fall 2016

22
Temple of Ramses II, Abu Simbel

23
Destination
Egypt
At the Crossroads of History, Culture & Civilizations
by Dwain Richardson
Join us as in these eight-pages as we explore this
most beautiful, intriguing and mysteries corner of the world.
Canadian World Traveller Summer/Fall 2016

24
King Tutankhamun's Mask

Egypt has been steeped into history
for the longest time. Because
there has been a lot of interest in
Egypt’s history, historians coined the term
“Egyptology,” which is the study of
pharaonic Egypt. Egyptology spanned the
period between c. 4500 BCE and CE 641.
How did Egyptology begin? Scholars going
with Napoleon Bonaparte’s invasion of
Egypt published the Description de l’Égypte
(1809–1828); this publication made huge
quantities of source materials about
ancient Egypt available for Europeans.
Did you know that written Egyptian documents
dated to c. 3150 BCE? This was the
first time that pharaohs developed the
hieroglyphic script in Upper Egypt. These
scripts provided the source material for
Egyptological study.
Following the Arab conquest, only the
Copts kept the ancient language alive (written
in Greek characters). Coptic texts taken
Egypt during the Renaissance awakened
interest in the Egyptian language. German
Jesuit Athanasius Kircher published a
Coptic grammar in 1643; European travellers
returned to Egypt with antiquities and
stories of wondrous ruins. What’s more,
Egyptology became an academic discipline
in France, England, and Germany.
American museums opened Egyptian collections
in the late nineteenth and early
twentieth centuries. The University of
Pennsylvania, the Metropolitan Museum of
Art, and the Brooklyn Museum are some of
music collections that have done a lot of
work in Egypt.
On the geographical front, Egypt has two
coastlines on the Mediterranean and Red
Sea. It borders Libya to the west, the Gaza
Strip and Israel to the east, and Sudan to
the south.
Egypt has an area of 1,001,449 square
kilometres. The longest straight-line distance
from north to south is 1,024 kilometres,
and the straight-line distance from
east to west is 1,240 kilometres long. The
country’s maritime boundaries measure
more than 2,900 kilometres of coastline
along the Mediterranean Sea, the Gulf of
Suez, the Gulf of Aqaba, and the Red Sea.
Most of the country is made of desert.
Thirty-five thousand square kilometres
(3.5%) of the total land area is cultivated
and permanently settled. Most of Egypt is
located within the desert zone that runs east
from Africa’s Atlantic Coast and connects
with southwestern Asia.
Four leading geological regions are present
in Egypt: Nile Valley and Nile Delta,
Western Desert (also known as Libyan
Desert), Eastern Desert (an extension from
the Nile Valley until the Red Sea Coast),
and Sinai Peninsula. Of the geological
regions, the Nile Valley and Nile Delta are
the most significant areas, though they
cover only 5.5% of the country’s total area.
Cairo
While you’re in the country’s capital, be
sure to visit the following attractions:
Great Pyramid of Giza
This is the oldest and largest of three pyramids
in the Giza complex. It borders El
Giza. The Great Pyramid is one of the
Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and is
the only structure that has remained intact
over the years. The Great Pyramid has
three chambers. The lowest chamber was
cut into the bedrock, which served as the
chamber’s foundation and was left unfinished.
The Queen’s and King’s Chamber
are the second layer of this structure. Lastly,
the upper layer is made of buildings that
used to include two mortuary temples to
honour Khufu, Egypt’s second pharaoh of
the fourth dynasty, three smaller pyramids
for Khufu’s wives, a “satellite” pyramid, a
raised causeway to join the two temples,
and small mastaba tombs. (Mastaba
means “house for eternity” or “eternal
house.”)
Great Sphinx of Giza
This is a national symbol for ancient and
modern Egypt. The sphinx is carved from
the Giza plateau’s bedrock. If you look at it
carefully, you’ll see that it looks like a lion’s
body. The head looks like that of a king or
god. The sphinx symbolizes wisdom and
strength. Visitors would be pleased to note
that the sphinx has been recently restored.
You can find the Great Sphinx at the Nile
River’s west tip, located near Cairo. While
visiting, let yourself be amazed by the many
temples that surround the sphinx. Some of
these temples contain multiple sphinxes.
Egyptian Museum of Antiquities
This is Egypt’s largest museum. It opened in
1902. Visitors will be greeted with 107
halls, huge statues (on the ground floor
level), small statues, jewels, Tutankhamon
treasures, and mummies (all on the upper
level). Interested in photos? The Egyptian
Museum of Antiquities has dedicated a section
to photography. And if you like books,
periodicals, and other written material,
you’ll be able to visit the library. Lastly, the
museum dedicates seven sections to treasures
and monuments in chronological
order. See Tutankhamon’s treasures in the
first section. All pre-dynasty and Old
Kingdom monuments are found in the second
section. The third section presents the
first intermediate period and Middle
Kingdom monuments. In the fourth, check
out the Modern Kingdom monuments. In
the fifth section, find all the late period
monuments (including those of the Greek
and Roman periods). Find coins and
papyrus in the sixth section, and sarcophagi
and scrabs in the last section.
Mosque of Muhammad Ali
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You can see this Ottoman mosque from a
mile away. It was built in the nineteenth
century and in honour of Tusun Pasha,
Muhammad Ali’s oldest son, who passed
away in 1816. Architect Yusuf Bushnak
completed the structure in 1848. The
mosque and citadel are some of many
attractions and landmarks in Cairo. Step
inside the mosque and you’ll see that its
architecture is typical of Turkish style. The
mosque has a main dome surrounded by
four small and semicircular domes. The
minarets are cylindrical and have two balconies
and conical caps (you’ll see these on
the mosque’s western side). The mosque is
made primarily of limestone. The lower
storey and forecourt, however, are made of
alabaster. The mosque’s western entrance
leads to the open courtyard. The courtyard
is surrounded by rounded arcades with
small domes. You will notice a marbled
fountain in the middle of the courtyard,
Canadian World Traveller Summer/Fall 2016

26
built by Ismail Pasha in 1828. One last
detail about the courtyard: Note an iron
clock on the western wall, presented to
Muhammad Ali by King Louis Philippe
(France).
The Hanging Church
(St. Virgin Mary’s Coptic Orthodox Church)
This is one of Egypt’s oldest churches. The
history of this particular church dates back
to the third century A.D. Why is this attraction
known as the Hanging Church? It is situated
above a Babylon Fortress gatehouse,
and its nave is suspended over a passage.
Unlike most churches that may have as
many as ten steps, the Hanging Church has
twenty-nine. Be prepared for a long hike
up! Once you enter the church, be prepared
to see 110 icons. Of these icons, the
oldest dates back to the eighth century. The
others, however, hail from the eighteenth
century. The iconostases within the church
are made of ebony and ivory, just like the
main altar. The icons depict a number of
religious personalities, including the Virgin
Mary, the Twelve Apostles, and St. John the
Baptist.
Khan el-Khalili
Care to do some shopping during your stay
in Cairo? You’d want to stop by Khan el-
Khalili. This bazaar district is the city’s main
attraction for residents and tourists alike.
The bazaar, which was first a mausoleum,
used to be the heart of Cairo’s economic
activity; sultans would build businesses
nearby. Today, most Egyptians run businesses
here. Take advantage of buying
local products (souvenirs, antiques, jewellery).
But there’s more: take a sip of coffee
or shisha at one of the many coffeehouses
along the strip. If you’re feeling
hunger pangs, many restaurants are at
your fingertips. If you prefer to buy foods,
you’ll come across many food vendors
throughout the market.
Sinai Peninsula
Ras Muhammed National Park
This is the most famous park in the country
known for scuba diving. As you dive below
the crystal waters of the Red Sea, you’ll see
many coral reefs and various species. The
sea walls are breathtaking, too. Ras
Muhammed National Park became a protected
area in 1983. Divers, please note:
You cannot dive anywhere you please. You
need to dive in selected areas only. Another
important tip: Visitors must vacate the
premises by sunset. The best places for
scuba diving? Shark and Yolanda Reefs.

Both reefs are mountain-like peaks rising
from a sandy sea bed spread out below the
surface. You can also scuba dive at Satellite
Reef if the sea current isn’t too strong.
27
St. Catherine’s Monastery
Its official name is Sacred Monastery of the
God-Trodden Mount Sinai, and is located
at the foot of Mount Sinai. It is part of the
Church of Sinai, which is a member of the
wider Eastern Orthodox Church. Like other
churches in the country, St. Catherine’s
Monastery teems with iconic art, particularly
mosaics. Most of the art is in the form of
hot wax painting. In addition to mosaics,
visitors will find several liturgical objects,
chalices and reliquaries, and church buildings.
A few other points of note: The
monastery has the oldest operating library.
St. Catherine City, located around the
monastery, is a small town with hotels and
swimming pools. The monastery is a
UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Sharm-el-Sheikh
This is a city located on Sinai Peninsula’s
southern tip and along the Red Sea coastal
strip. This is the economic hub for the country’s
southern governorate, and includes
cities such as Dahab and Nuweiba. You’ll
find St. Catherine’s Monastery and Mount
Sinai nearby. Most importantly, Sharm-el-
Sheikh is a holiday resort for tourists.
Watersport and scientific tourism enthusiasts
will appreciate this southern city a
great deal: it is possible to do snorkelling
and scuba diving, and those interested in
species will be happy to note that there are
250 various coral reefs and one thousand
types of fish. And let’s not forget the
resorts: Aqua Blu Sharm Resort is one of
many resorts tourists can choose from for
accommodation and meals. For the curious,
Aqua Blu is a four-star hotel resort.
Nile River
Many boating companies offer cruises
along the Nile River. Some companies of
note are Avalon Waterways, Emerald
Waterways, and Memphis Tours. Visit the
company websites for information on fares
and booking.
Luxor
Located in Upper Egypt and often characterized
as “the world’s greatest open-air
museum” (characterized as such because
the temple complex ruins in Luxor and
Karnak are in the modern city). Temples
and museums grace Luxor’s east bank.
Temples also make up the many attractions
Canadian World Traveller Summer/Fall 2016

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in the west bank. In addition, you’ll find two
valleys of note—Valley of the Kings and
Queens—Tombs of the Nobles, Deir el-
Medina (workers’ village), and Malkata
(palace for Amenophis III, ninth pharaoh of
the eighteenth dynasty).
Valley of the Kings
This is the place where people constructed
tombs for pharaohs and powerful nobles
for five hundred years (sixteenth to eleventh
century B.C.). Visitors can find this valley on
the Nile’s west bank. The valley is divided
in two: East Valley and West Valley (most
tombs are in the eastern zone).
Unfortunately, most tombs are not open to
the public, and the tombs that are open
may sometimes close whenever restoration
work must be done. Only one tomb is
accessible to the public in the West Valley.
Visitors must have a ticket in hand to see
the site. Guides will show you around the
tomb, but they cannot talk while visiting
inside. Sorry, camera lovers: photography
is no longer permitted inside the tomb’s
walls.
Karnak Temple Complex
Come see a mix of temples, chapels,
pylons, and other buildings at this complex.
Construction began during the Middle
Kingdom period and continued into the
Ptolemaic period. Did you know that
Karnak is a common name in popular culture?
It’s been the feature location for a
number of movie scenes in Transformers:
Revenge of the Fallen and The Mummy
Returns. Agatha Christie’s Death on the
Nile takes place aboard the S.S. Karnak
steamship. And a number of music groups,
including the British symphonic metal band
Bal-Sagoth, make mention of Karnak in
songs like “Unfettering the Hoary Sentinels
of Karnak.” This is a UNESCO World
Heritage Site.
Aswan
This is another southern city in Egypt. What
makes Aswan special? It teems with tourists
year-round. In fact, Aswan is an ideal winter
destination for many, since the Nile
River offers breathtaking views. The river
flows through granite rocks, round emerald
islands covered in palm groves, and tropical
plants. And like most Egyptian destinations,
Aswan does not fall short of sites or
monuments. Interested in visiting the Agha
Khan Monastery? Sail across to the Philae
Temple. If you want to see more attractions,
why not take a trip to St. Simeon’s
Monastery? Another feature of this city is
culture. Take a bite into local fish produce

at a restaurant while listening to Nubian
music. Want to spice up your food? Stop by
at a local market and purchase local
spices. Up for a tattoo? You can get a
henna (flowering plant) tattoo while you’re
here. If you want to take a bit of Aswan with
you as you return home, be sure to buy
souvenirs and African handmade goods at
the Aswan Bazaar. Finally, if you ever have
arthritis or any type of pain during your
stay, you can bury your body aches in the
city’s sand. Aswan also has a number of
sites for people to relax and rejuvenate.
Abu Simbel Temples
These are two massive rock temples located
in Abu Simbel, a village in Nubia, near
the Sudan border. You can find the temples
on the western bank of Lake Nasser, 230
kilometres southwest of Aswan. To avoid
being submerged by Lake Nasser, the temples
were relocated in 1968. This is a
UNESCO World Heritage Site; the complex
is coined the “Nubian Mountains,” since
they run from Abu Simbel to Philae, near
Aswan. Two temples await visitors upon
their arrival. The Great Temple is the
largest. When you arrive at the entrance,
you will see a bas-relief representing two
images of the king worshipping Ra
Harakhti, a falcon head. Step inside the
temple and take a look at the layout. It is
triangular in shape, as are most ancient
temples in Egypt. The hypostyle hall is characterized
by pillars representing Ramses
linked to Osiris, the underworld god. This
indicates the pharaoh’s everlasting nature.
You’ll also see colossal statues; some of
them bear a white crown of Upper Egypt,
and others wear a double crown of Upper
and Lower Egypt. A pillared hall follows the
hypostyle hall. The pillared hall features
various scenes of royalty and victories in
past wars. The Small Temple is known for
its statues of a king and his queen. Here’s
one particularity with the Small Temple:
scenes with the queen playing instruments
adorn the walls. (The instrument in question
is the sinistrum.) Pillars and bas-reliefs
depict various scenes with pharaohs,
queens, gods, and goddesses.
The Western Desert
Siwa Oasis
This is an Egyptian oasis sandwiched
between the Qattara Depression and the
Egyptian Land Sea in the Libyan Desert. It is
one of the country’s most isolated settlements
with a population of 23,000.
Agriculture is the main industry in the oasis,
though tourism has become a runner-up in
recent times.
With respect to culture, Berber inhabitants
in the oasis were talented in creating
basketry, pottery, silverwork, and
embroidery crafts. Dress styles were
also of major significance, especially bridal
silver and silver ornaments/beads women
wore at events. As roads and television
services made headway in the Siwa Oasis,
all silver ornaments were eventually
replaced by gold ornaments.
Like most parts of Egypt, the Siwa Oasis
has its share of festivals. The Sihaya Festival
is by far the leading festival in the area. It
honours Saint Sidi Sulayman, the town’s
traditional patron. What happens during
this festivity? The local men assemble on a
mountain to eat, sing songs of thanks to
God, and make peace with one another.
The women remain in the village and celebrate
by singing, dancing, and playing
drums.
Here’s a brief list of sights you might want
to check out as you visit the Siwa Oasis.
Mud-brick houses in Shali, an old town
Desert sand dunes south of Siwa
Siwa salt lake
Temple of the Oracle of the Amun
www.egypt.travel
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Canadian World Traveller Summer/Fall 2016

30
Around The World
(in 12 pages)
Travel Back in Time with these
Luxury Historic Train Rides
Rocky Mountaineer
Happy Birthday Natchez, Mississippi
One of the oldest cities in America, in 2016 Natchez will celebrate its
Tricentennial Anniversary, recognizing 300 years of heritage shaped by
people of African, French, British and Spanish descent. The anniversary
will be celebrated throughout the year with a wide range of events,
major conferences, special “birthday” events, unique festivals, historical
reenactments, musical tributes and more.
In addition to holding the title of “Bed and Breakfast Capital of the
South,” Natchez is a pedestrian-friendly cultural hub home to more
than 40 authentic antebellum homes and Victorian buildings, art galleries,
live music, authentic southern cuisine (it’s the “Biscuit Capital of
the World!”) and a full calendar of events and festivals.
www.visitnatchez.org
Rich in history and scenic beauty, luxury train travel has become
one of the finest and most enjoyable ways to discover the majestic
splendour any country has to offer. From one-of-a-kind excursions
and world-class cuisines to unimaginable sunset hues and
playful wildlife, travellers receive an unforgettable experience
only train travel can provide. With so many amazing train journeys
to be taken, we wanted to share some of the world’s most
historic routes.
Indian Pacific, Great Southern Rail, Australia
Stepping aboard the mighty Indian Pacific, you’ll feel a great
sense of anticipation as this unforgettable Australian adventure
begins to unfold. A journey across the longest stretch of straight
railway track in the world, guests will travel through history on a
route that saw its first passenger back in 1917.
First Passage to the West, Rocky Mountaineer, Canada
China Tourism Introduces New Brand Logo
China National Tourism Administration (CNTA) has made
“Beautiful China” the tag line of its tourism and introduced a
new global brand logo. With an overall look as a stamp, the
new logo integrates modern messaging with the ancient
Chinese art form of calligraphy. The hieroglyph in the background
means “travel” in ancient Chinese language, which
shows a flag guiding a couple around. The blue color represents the sky, delivering China
tourism’s concepts - vitality, harmony and green travel. The red color gives tribute to the Chinese
civilization that has been going on for thousands of years. Illustrating an international vision, the
“Beautiful China” logo represents China’s promising and welcoming tourism industry.
This legendary route along the Canadian Pacific track is famous
for uniting the country and connecting British Columbia to
Canada more than 125 years ago. The only passenger rail service
to travel this historic route, guest will transverse the
Continental Divide, while experiencing the majestic Rocky
Mountains.
Trans-Siberian Express, Golden Eagle, Russia
Undoubtedly one of the world’s greatest railway journeys, the
Trans-Siberian Railway runs like a steel ribbon across Russia,
connecting east and west from Moscow to Vladivostok. Having
had its inaugural run exactly 100 years ago, there is no better
time to experience this historic trip.
Cape Town Journey, Rovos Rail, South Africa
Rediscover the old pioneering trail of the Great Karoo on this
1,600 km journey throughout the spectacular mountain ranges
and scenic winelands of the Cape.
Canadian World Traveller Summer/Fall 2016

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G Adventures Introduces New Active Adventures
www.gadventures.com
Cultural trekking in Bhutan, a first-ofits-kind
multisport trip in Japan,
cycling through rice fields in China,
and rafting and cycling in Patagonia,
Argentina, are all new experiences in store
for travellers with the launch of G
Adventures’ 2016 Active brochure.
In addition, the small group adventure
operator, which is the largest on the Inca
Trail, has experienced an increase in
demand for the Lares Trek as an alternative
option to the Inca Trail in Peru, and is now
offering the Lares Trek on all of its trips taking
travellers to Machu Picchu.
Each new Active trip includes a mixture of
different activities and often uses camping
as its main accommodation option to get
travellers up close to nature.
New trips for 2016 include:
Bhutan Trekking
Where else but the happiest country in the
world can travellers trek the Himalayas
smiling all the way? This 11-day cultural
trekking trip has travellers visiting some of
the most gorgeous temples and monasteries
in the world. Here they will trek the
sacred mountain passes of the celebrated
Druk Path, ascend to the profound
Taktshang Monastery (Tiger's Nest), and
explore the unique beauty of the city of
Paro.
Japan Hike, Bike & Kayak
This first-of-its-kind active trip has travellers
hiking along the UNESCO-listed
Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route where
Kyoto's ancient emperors once prayed to
deities in the trees and rocks. Next cycle
across stunning islands following the
world’s largest series of suspension
bridges, known as the Shimanami Kaido.
Finally travellers will kayak around the
Bay of Miyajima to see its main attraction,
the floating Itsukushima Shrine.
Cycle China
Enjoy five days of cycling through the back
roads and countryside of China, stopping
to marvel at scenery that has captured the
minds of poets and painters for centuries.
This varied active trip will also have travellers
hiking along the hills and terraces of
China’s rural regions as well as experiencing
the iconic Great Wall of China,
historic Tiananmen Square, and the
sprawling Forbidden City.
Patagonia Multisport
This varied active trip sees travellers
trekking in Torres del Paine National Park,
cycling out to Laguna Sofia, kayaking
alongside the Grey Glacier, and cycling
among the peaks of Patagonia.
Lares Trek gains popularity as
Inca Trail alternative
G Adventures is also now offering the
three-day Lares trek beginning outside
Cuzco, Peru to travellers who may be looking
for an alternative way to reach Machu
Picchu. The Lares Trek has fewer ascents
and descents, but is at a higher altitude,
and is often described as the less discovered
route.
“The scenery, which is as awe-inspiring as
its famous counterpart, takes travellers off
the beaten path and much closer to the
indigenous Quechua people,” says Denise
Harper, Director of Sales, Canada, G
Adventures.
“Starting in Ollantaytambo trekkers make
their way through the Lares valley on an
undulating path that rises higher than the
Inca Trail. The Lares Trek also offers opportunities
for insight into rural Andean life as
the trail itself passes through very remote
mountain communities.”
Travellers on the Lares Trek will visit a number
of G Adventures for Good projects
along the way, including a communityowned
campsite featuring composting toilets,
solar showers, and a solid-waste management
system, which is the first of its kind
in Peru.
Canadian World Traveller Summer/Fall 2016

34
Refreshing in Evian-les-bains
Article & Photography by Michael Morcos
Evian-les-Bains, also known as just
Evian, is most famous for the curative
property of the waters and the
bottled water it exports around the world.
But the area offers more than a drink, as it
is filled with enough history, luxury and
Haut-couture to captivate any world traveller.
Modern facilities are placed side by
side with hundred year-old buildings, creating
a wonderful mix to enjoy.
Any visit would be incomplete without tasting
Evian water from the source!
We drank from a fountain in the city. The
water comes from the Alps and is said to filter
naturally through the mountain rocks
and soil for over 15 years. Evian water is
processed at a nearby factory and gets all its
water from one of the many natural sources.
Not far away we could see the mountain
used for the iconic Evian water logo label!
Evian has also built its reputation on the
healing properties of their springs. Created
in December 1859, the Cachat mineral
waters SA (Société Anonyme des Eaux
Minérales de Cachat) began the transformation
of this small town into a spa-center.
Nowadays, the spas in town are filled with
top of the line equipment, and a new health
center for therapeutic message and cleansing
of the body.
Due to these spas and Evian’s location, the
town has become a hotspot for the rich and
famous, as witnessed by the stylish boutiques,
restaurants, wine shops and the
Evian town hall, which is a marvellous stone
building that rivals any in Paris! The Palais
Lumiere Evian is another grand old building
that once served as a spa, but has now been
turned into a museum. Aside from the spas
and waters, there is also a full casino where
the rich come to play in luxury cars and
amazing yachts anchored in the port!
On top of everything, there is also good outdoor
fun, including downhill skiing, swimming
and hiking. Once you are tired out,
enjoy a lovely trip on an old clog train that
starts at the bottom of the town and takes
people to almost the highest point in town. It
is offered for free and is a wonderful way to
take in the view of the entire city and its lake.
There is also a short (all electric) boat ride
which tours a reclaimed natural water garden
built on a lot that was once the property
of a wealthy Parisian banker. The garden
is a true example of how nature can take
care of itself when left alone. If you are
lucky, you can also enjoy a Farmer’s market
and feast on fabulous wines, sausages and
French fromages!
This small and charming town sits on the
shores of Lac Geneva (the French call it Lac
Leman). Evian is situated in a perfect spot in
Europe, as it is across the lake from
Lausanne, Switzerland, home of the
Olympic committee (IOC), and has a ferry
crossing that operates all day between the
two countries. Another short trip and visitors
can find their way to Geneva as well!
www.en.evian-tourisme.com
Canadian World Traveller Summer/Fall 2016

36
Las Vegas
The famous Las Vegas Strip is probably
the last place you’d expect to find an
eco-park but then again, when it
comes to this city you never know what to
expect. So on a recent visit I wasn’t all that
surprised to find a brand new green oasis, I
was however surprised at the gigantic sculpture
that punctuates it!
The Park Vegas
The US $100 million development is simply
called “The Park Vegas” and was built solely
by MGM Resorts International, It’s secreted
away between New York-New York and the
Monte Carlo right on the Strip. It was built
with locally sourced stones and is full of desert
blooms, waterwalls and nature surrounded
resting areas. Shade is provided by 16 giant
sculptures inspired by the desert cactus flower.
There are also half-a-dozen brand new eateries
there with al fresco options. It has a very
European café culture atmosphere, and that’s
exactly what Jim Murren, Chairman and CEO
of MGM Resorts International had envisioned.
On opening day last April 4th, 2016, he
enlightened the media about its design. He
said, “One common theme I’ve often noticed
in my travels is that all those great cities have
Canadian World Traveller Summer/Fall 2016
An Unexpected Place to Park
by Susan Campbell
Photo by Barry Toranto
gathering places, piazzas, parks, plazas…
I’ve long thought, in my 18 years here, that
Las Vegas could use such a place.”
But the true enchantment there happens at
night.
Beautiful Bliss Dancer
That’s when they light up the gigantic cactus
flower sculptures and you get the most
impressive view of “Bliss Dancer”- a 40 ft. tall
sculpture of a naked woman that punctuates
the park without apology. Though she is hard
to miss by day- 7,500 pounds of mesh steel
shimmering in the sun- after dark she totally
unavoidable as that’s when the sculpture continually
changes colors illuminated by 3,000
led lights. And she was built with a message.
Created by artist Marco Cochrane he dedicated
it to his childhood female friend who had
been sexually assaulted when she was young.
He wanted to create something larger than
life that empowers women and celebrates
their right to express themselves freely. The
idea behind her lack of clothes is to de-objectify
the female form and view the true spirit
shining through. I would say he has succeeded.
The grand unveiling was very emotional,
especially since his muse and actual model
for the artwork Deja Solis was there for it. She
is now an entertainer and surprised the crowd
with a touching song as they lit up the statue
for the very first time.
New T-Mobile Arena
The new park is also designed to accommodate
the expected overflow of visitors and
locals alike who will be attending events at the
brand new 20,000 seat T-Mobile Arena- a
joint venture between MGM Resorts
International and the Anschutz Entertainment
Group. It’s a fabulous modern space – almost
a work of art of its own- absolutely stunning
like a huge magenta spaceship. The arena
opened on April 6th, 2016 with a concert
from well-known local band The Killers and
Vegas icon Wayne Newton. And directly
across the street from The Park is a brand new
5,000-seat theater under construction at
Monte Carlo slated to open later this year.
This entire non-gambling focused development
seems to signal a new direction for the
city already most famous for its world-class
casinos.
www.mgmresorts.com
www.theparkvegas.com
www.t-mobilearena.com
Photo by Francis and Francis Photo by Francis and Francis

38
Eight Places To Visit Before They Change Forever
by Contiki Tours
Before you know it, some the world’s most
beautiful and unique destinations could be
unrecognizable. Climate change, plastic pollution
and overpopulation are having devastating
effects on our planet. Earth Month,
which celebrated its 46th anniversary this year,
is a global initiative that aims to drive awareness
around environmental issues.
In support of Earth Month 2016, youth travel
specialist Contiki is hoping to raise awareness
of global environmental issues by highlighting
some traveller bucket list destinations we are
in danger of losing forever. Leading up to next
year’s Earth Day celebrations, Contiki has
compiled eight traveller favourite destinations
Canadians need to see before they disappear.
Venice
Venice is one of our favourite island paradises,
but it’s no secret that the city is sinking, and
it has been for centuries. High tides, rising sea
levels due to climate change and boat traffic
are three of the main reasons why the buildings
are eroding and slowly being claimed by
rising water levels. The effect is a few millimetres
a year which may not seem like a lot, but
look ahead a few decades and it’s more than
a bit concerning. With floods becoming more
frequent efforts are being made to control the
water levels going forward. And no, stilt walking
for all is not a realistic option.
The Taj Mahal
Canadian World Traveller Summer/Fall 2016
Not only are fees to visit this marble-ous
palace increasing in an effort to limit tourists,
but it’s moving towards not looking so marble-ous
at all. Pollution is causing the Taj
Mahal to turn from white to yellow, and something
tells us as time goes on, the white marvel
won’t really have the same postcard worthy
affect that draws visitors from all over the
globe. Groundwater levels and general tourist
traffic have also been creating some structural
damage to the palace which has led to whispers
of public access being restricted in the
near future.
The Maldives
Who hasn’t dreamt of their honeymoon taking
place amongst the sapphire-blue seas of the
spectacular Maldives? Well you better find
your future husband or wife quick smart
because the beautiful island nation could be
completely engulfed by water within the next
100 years. The chain of islands is considered
the lowest-lying country on earth making it
vulnerable to rising sea levels. The risk has
become some real that the Maldivian government
has actually purchased land in other
countries for citizens who face displacement!
Amazon
Spanning nine nations and making up more
than 50% of the remaining rainforest in the
world, the Amazon is seen as one of the top
places to travel for wildlife and tree lovers –
but for how much longer? Climate change –
drought, wild fires and greenhouse gas emissions
– as well as deforestation are causing an
alarming loss of forest cover that have many
wondering how long it will be until it’s
destroyed completely.
Cuba is known as a cultural gem in the
Caribbean, but this is all expected to change
now the US travel ban has been lifted. Tourism
numbers have been manageable without the
addition of American visitors for years, so now
Cuba
many are worried about how the impending
influx of tourists will affect the cultural integrity
of the island.
Whether it’s solely climate change or climate
change combined with cyclical change in the
area, melting ice on this fascinating continent
is a big problem. Not only is this an issue for
glacier enthusiasts and wildlife that call the
Antarctic home, but the resulting rising water
levels put many coastal cities and islands
worldwide at risk of flooding.
The Dead Sea
The literal death of the Dead Sea is something
that has started to cause major alarm. The
evaporation of the water combined with the
declining water flow from the Jordan River into
the sea (due to irrigation use) means seriously
decreasing water levels. This loss of water has
caused a sinkhole problem that also makes
the surrounding area risky for lakeside strolls.
Great Barrier Reef
Ever wanted to dive with Nemo and Dori in the
stunning Great Barrier Reef? Well, you could
be running out of time as rising ocean temperatures
and an influx of pollution may mean
this natural wonder is destroyed within the next
100 years.
www.contiki.com
Antarctica
Tourism Australia Darren Jew

40
Tropical Tidbits
by Sue C Travel
Award-winning travel journalist Sue Campbell is based in Montreal but makes it her business to be on
top of everything cool, hot, and new under the sun throughout the Caribbean and Latin America.
Canadian World Traveller welcomes her as a new regular columnist. Follow her on Ttwitter @suectravel.
Summer is Prime Time for
Caribbean Travel!
Now that we Canadians are finally getting
our fair share of warm weather during our
criminally short summer, one might think
that it’s not the time to head to tropical
climes. But there are some very good reasons
to do so.
For one, top resorts in paradisiacal locations
typically cut their rates to the bone
during low season, sometimes throwing in
extra nights or kids-stay-free packages and
even going so far as to offer airfare credits,
too! Another good reason is the parties!
Some islands have their biggest blowouts
during this time of year like Anguilla’s
August Summer Festival and Barbados’
Crop Over. You haven’t really experienced
authentic Caribbean until you’ve learned to
“jump up” with the locals!
But one of my favourite reasons for heading
south during the summer is to experience
sea turtles in the wild! Summer is sea
turtle nesting time on beaches throughout
the Caribbean and Mexico. This is when
the female turtles return to the beach where
they were born to lay their eggs, and many
resorts have sea turtle protection and conservation
programs to protect them that visitors
can participate in. Witnessing hatchings
and helping baby sea turtles reach the
sea in release programs when they need
protection are truly magical experiences
that should be on everyone’s bucket list.
Dominican Republic Targets More
Adventurous Travellers
Canadians love to travel to the Dominican
Republic to escape winter due to the excellent
deals and affordable all-inclusive
packages, but today’s savvy traveller also
wants to explore beyond the resort and discover
the surrounding communities and
landscapes. And according to Dominican
Tourism authorities the government is out to
help make that easier.
I learned about these plans at the recent
2016 Dominican Annual Tourism Exchange
(DATE), the country’s official and biggest
trade show for media and the travel industry.
Strategies include new roads throughout
the country connecting the lesser known
interior regions and new activities focusing
on nature explorations to get visitors off the
beaches and into more active adventures.
Tour operators will be offering more activities
such as river rafting, mountain biking,
zip-lining, paragliding, rappelling and hiking.
Also planned is increased air access to
lesser-known tourism destinations like
Puerta Plata and Samaná. Plus, resorts like
the new Sunscape Puerto Plata are offering
excellent opening deals and packages with
direct flights from Canada by Air Transat.
Visit: www.godominicanrepublic.com
Photo: Jamal Gumbs Anguilla
Photo: Turtugaruba
Photo: Dominican Republic Tourism
Photo: Dominican Republic Tourism

New Sunscape Puerto Plata is Alluring
and Affordable
I had the opportunity to attend the
Sunscape Puerto Plata’s opening in the
Dominican Republic last March, and I was
very impressed. It’s a lovely family friendly
and very affordable all-inclusive resort on
picturesque Playa Dorado beach. They also
offer an adult-only section and pool, which
adds to its allure for those seeking a more
serene escape. It’s not a new complex, but
it has been beautifully refurbished to
enhance the grand colonial style charm
and it also crests an inviting Robert Jones
Trent designed 18-hole golf course.Though
none of the 585 rooms are oceanfront
since a protected mangrove forest separates
the resort from the sea, it’s a very
short walk to the beach and the trek
through the ancient trees is well worth it.
They also have an excellent kid’s club and
they were putting the finishing touches on a
their new Spa by Pevonia which will be
comprehensive and luxurious when complete.
www.sunscaperesorts.com/puerto-plata .
Canadian Connections in the
Caribbean
Photo: Sunscape Puerto Plata
I’m always seeking out fellow countrymen
(and women) who have decided to start a
new life in spots where snow is a foreign
concept. If you are visiting these destinations
seek out these ex-pat Canadians
doing great things in their new island
homes.
Ontarian Bryan Horne works with the
unique 4-person submersible called
Curasub at the Curacao Sea Aquarium
complex (founded by ex-pat Canadian
Photo: Substation Curacao
Adrian “Dutch” Schrier) where visitors can
go 1,000 ft. below to witness magnificent
marine life without even getting wet! It’s a
bucket-list experience. They’ve also used it
for marine life research and have discovered
new species of fish! In St. Maarten,
Olivier Auvrey from Montreal runs the popular
snorkel excursions called Rhino Riders,
or if you check-into the St. Kitts Marriott,
look for General Manager Jacques Hamou
also from Montreal.
On Anguilla, the founder of the Arijah
Foundation’s Blossom Centre- a school for
the island’s children with special needs is
Renuka Harrigan from Ontario. And the
centre is always happy to welcome visitors
seeking to volunteer while on holiday.
Expat Canadians are also really embedded
into the culinary scene throughout the
Caribbean. Chef Tim Tibbetts and his sommelier
wife Rebecca - both from Canadaare
making big waves on the fusion front at
their trendy award-winning restaurant
Flying Fish in Freeport, Bahamas. And if
you visit Grand Turk by cruise, walk right on
by the too touristy Margaritaville to find
Jack’s Beach Bar for authentic island BBQ
and superb hand crafted cocktails made by
Janet Batchelor from Quebec’s eastern
townships.
Photo:Flying Fish
On “Provo” (Turks and Caicos’
Providenciales) it seems you can’t throw a
seashell without hitting an expat “canuck”.
There are SO many of them they even have
their own hockey league! (Though they
skate on roller blades due to lack of ice.)
The gorgeous new dining room off Grace
Bay beach at The Somerset is run by
acclaimed Canadian chef Brad Townsend,
and the owner the famous Da Conch Shack
Photo: Cuba’s Cookin'
is Torontonian John Macdonald. And
41
if you’re on Aruba, visit Cuba’s
Cookin’ for a surprisingly authentic
taste of Old Havana on “One Happy
Island”, and say hi to owner Douglass
Markus originally from Montreal.
A New Nature Focused Panama Stay
Secrets Playa Bonita Panama Photo: Jessica Percy Campbell
Last January I’d been invited to be a
keynote speaker at the annual Latin
American Travel Writer’s conference in
Panama City, Panama. It was a great event
in the heart of the bustling, cosmopolitan
city, and my adult daughter who also writes
travel as the “Vegan Vacationista” had
joined me. But once it was over, we were in
dire need of some beach time and downtime
in nature. Fortunately, the new upscale
Secrets Playa Bonita Panama Resort & Spa
had just opened nearby so it was a natural
choice to check out.
All 310 rooms are oceanfront overlooking
a gorgeous water circuit with a seaside
infinity pool and a peaceful protected bay
ideal for kayaking. And the surrounding
rainforest and mountain beside it are alive
with tropical wildlife including adorable little
monkeys and ever-smiling sloths! Like
all Secrets resorts they are adult-only allinclusive
offering an Unlimited-Luxury®
experience that includes gourmet food, top
spirits, no-reservation dining and 24/7
room service. They also have a luxurious
full-service spa. It was just the kind of pampering
we needed for a few days before
retuning home, but we will certainly return
for a longer stay another time.
Visit: www.secretsresorts.com/playa-bonita
Canadian World Traveller Summer/Fall 2016

Atlantic Arctic Indian Pacific Southern Ocean
C A N A D I A N
Traveller
W O R L D
C RUISING
Cruise News - page 44
SECTION
Viking River Cruise, Lyon to Avignon - page 48
Superyachts & River Cruising - page 50
Italian Treasures on the Crystal Symphony - page 52
The Rise of the River Cruises - page 54
Eight Reasons to River Cruise - page 56
Photo: Crystal Esprit superyacht.
Adriatic Aegean Mediterranean Caribbean Baltic Black South-China Sea
Danube Main Mekong Moselle Nile Rhine Rhône Saône Seine Yangtze
Come With Us & Sail The World!

44
AmaWaterways Avalon Azamara Carnival Celebrit
C r u i s e N e w s
Discover the Caribbean like never before on the S/V Mandalay
The S/V Mandalay sails weekly, boarding in Grenada on Sunday and returning
on Saturday. Aside from weekly cruises to and from Grenada, the S/V
Mandalay offers special cruises taking in different Caribbean Islands, such as
St. Lucia and St. Maarten throughout the year!
The S/V Mandalay is also available for private
charter. The Captain can arrange a
personalized itinerary to meet your charter
needs including stops in the Grenadines,
which may include, Grenada, Carriacou,
Union Island, Mayreau, Tobago Cays,
Bequia, St. Vincent and possibly some
other stops along the way!
www.sailwindjammer.com
Rainforest Cruises
Launches Luxurious
Amazon Riverboat
Rainforest Cruises has launched
their new 43-passenger Amazon
Discovery riverboat with five-star
features including luxurious
accommodations, gourmet dining
and a spa. With just 22-
suites, the boat offers an intimate
and personalized experience
with floor-to-ceiling windows for
taking in jungle views.
The craft is small enough to travel deep into the tributaries of the Amazon on four and
seven-day cruises and activities include expeditions to spot pink river dolphins, jungle
walks, Peruvian cooking classes, and nightly local entertainment.
www.rainforestcruises.com
Redesigned Victoria Jenna Launches on China’s Yangtze
Victoria Cruises is celebrating the inaugural voyage of its newest build, the Victoria
Jenna, after its first major renovation since its launch in late 2009. The six-year-old
ship benefits from a complete redesign featuring motifs of modern elegance and a
brand new appearance intended to bring the vessel up to speed with the rest of
Victoria Cruises' five-star fleet.
www.victoriacruises.com
Exploring extreme parts of the world
while enjoying a five-star service unique
to the Polar regions is the concept created
by PONANT that has become its hallmark.
From November to January 2018,
PONANT has 11 outstanding cruises on
offer, including two unusual routes seeking
out wildlife not found anywhere else
in the world in their natural habitat.
Aboard Le Boréal, Le Soléal and Le
Lyrial, with luxurious 122 to 132 staterooms
and suites under the French flag,
all with the international Green Ship
label and designed specifically for polar
cruises, passengers have access to strictly
protected locations only accessible to
small capacity ships.
The emphasis here is on total flexibility;
with zodiac outings taking passengers as
close as it is possible to be to the wildlife,
with time to linger in iconic sites, make a
detour to admire the acrobatics of a
humpback whale, or land on a beach to
greet a vast colony of penguins.
These cruises offer unique moments
enlightened by the expertise of
renowned South Pole specialists, who
share their passion and expertise on
polar lands they have been roaming for
years.
New | Beyond the Polar Circle
Ushuaia to Ushuaia
New | Antarctica to Africa
Ushuaia to Cape Town
www.ponant.com
Royal-Caribbean Seabourn SeaDream Silvers

y Costa Crystal Cunard Disney Holland America
45
2017 Expedition Season
Adventure Canada Announces 2017
Expedition Season in Most Beautiful
Catalogue to Date
Just in time for the summer sailing season, Adventure Canada
is proud to announce the launch of a new brochure, highlighting
expeditions to the Canadian Arctic, East Coast and
Greenland, headlined by the company’s fabled Northwest
Passage departures. Chock-full of superb images from a talented
roster of award-winning photographers, the Expeditions
2016 & 2017 brochure is the leading Arctic and Maritime
expedition company’s most beautiful yet.
To embrace Canada’s 150th Anniversary in 2017, Adventure
Canada has created a sailing season which celebrates its specialty:
Canada’s most remote, pristine, and wild places.
Building on the impending 2016 season, the 198-passenger Ocean Endeavour will once again start its summer journey in Quebec
City in 2017. The season begins with the Mighty Saint Lawrence voyage, one of National Geographic Traveller’s 50 Trips of a
Lifetime. Next is the Sable Island expedition, the only travel itinerary featuring the mysterious 42-kilometre sand island off the coast
of Nova Scotia. The Ocean Endeavour will then circumnavigate Newfoundland before sailing north up the coast of Labrador to
Greenland. Explorations of the Inuit hamlets of Baffin Island and coastal Greenland follow, as with sailing to Nunavut’s northernmost
National Parks and wildlife havens—all hallmarks of Adventure Canada’s programming. The season finishes with two sailings
of the company’s Canadian Signature Experience, The Northwest Passage.
Viking Announces
10 New Ocean Cruise Itineraries
With the newly christened Viking Sea now part of its growing
ocean fleet, Viking Ocean Cruises® announced the addition of
10 new itineraries to its offerings for 2017 and 2018 sailings.
Adding more than 30 ports of call to Viking’s portfolio, the new
itineraries will explore destinations throughout Europe, the
Americas and the Caribbean, including Cuba.
Viking’s new ocean itineraries will bring guests to more iconic
destinations around the world, providing rich cultural experiences
with each port of call. With sailings from Bergen,
London, New York, Puerto Rico, Venice and more, guests can
choose itineraries ranging from eight-day to 22-day multicountry
sailings.
Also recently announced, Viking’s fourth ship, Viking Sun, will
set sail on its maiden voyage in December 2017 for the company’s
first-ever world cruise, spanning 141-days and visiting
five continents, 35 countries and 66 ports. Sailing from Miami
to London, this epic Viking journey will explore the world’s legendary
cities, ports and will allow guests to immerse themselves
in the rich cultures around the world.
www.vikingoceancruises.com
www.adventurecanada.com
New 2017-2018 Itineraries
Trade Routes of the Middle Ages – Bergen to Barcelona
Venice, the Adriatic and Greece – Venice to Athens
South America and the Caribbean – San Juan to San Juan
New York, Bermuda and the Western Indies – New York to San
Juan
Cities of the Western Mediterranean – Barcelona to Rome
Central American Shores and Cuba – Miami to Miami
Caribbean to the Amazon – San Juan to San Juan
Southern Mediterranean Discovery – Rome to Barcelona
British Isles Explorer – Bergen to London
Italian Sojourn – Rome to Venice
MSC Norwegian Oceania Paul Gauguin Ponant Princess Regent
ea Star-Clippers Uniworld Viking Windstar

48
Perfection with
Viking River Cruises
Photo: Viking River Cruises
Article & Photography by Michael Morcos & Natalie Ayotte
AAs a Canadian World Traveller,
spring has become a favorite time
for travelling abroad, particularly
the month of May! Most Canadians are
itching for some new adventures after a
long winter, and travelling to Europe is
often a top choice. Our plans this year
were to travel to France, and with so many
great French destinations to choose from,
we finally decided on the regions of Rhone-
Alps and Provence. For us, there is no better
way to experience some of the best there
is than on a Rhone river cruise.
River cruising has become the new way of
travelling for many North Americans, and
savvy travellers know what they want. A
new destination each morning without having
to look for hotels, pack and unpack luggage,
drive through unknown roads, find
parking… Viking has taken all the guess
work and hassles out. It is truly a perfect
way to travel, so much so that the only thing
to do is remember what time the boat
leaves. Even the pick up at the airport is
seamless, offering a taste of the fun, relaxation
and memorable trip to come.
It is no wonder that Viking River Cruises
leads the way with more than 50% of all
river cruises, they have many of the most
modern ships and have now moved into
ocean cruising as well.
What to expect on a Viking cruise
If you have high expectations, don’t worry,
they will be met!
The ship cabins are well thought out and
are decorated to make your journey a
relaxing experience. Viking cabins are
organised to maximise space and include
all amenities you would expect from a high
end cruise company, including a bottle of
chilled bubbly waiting for you as a welcome
gift. It’s easy to fall in love on the spot.
Interacting with the crew is a great experience
in itself. Our crew was courteous,
helpful, fun and funny, and by the end of
the trip we felt like friends! On top of their
friendliness, the crew were experts at keeping
things tidy and passengers happy.
As you can imagine, cruising through
France offers some great gastronomic
experiences! On this cruise, we were treat-
Photo: Viking River Cruises

ed with themed meals based on the regions
we traveled through. For example, in Lyon it
was a Rhone-Alps meal which offered
Bresse poultry and many varieties of
cheese, including Tomme de Savoie, Bleu
de Bresse and Reblochon. Even better? We
were treated to the wines of the region,
including the very famous Beaujolais, Côtes
du Rhône and Savoy. As we moved closer to
Provence, the palate became lighter with
salads, melons, fresh fish and delicious
breads coupled with the Grenache, Cinsaut
and Mourvèdre, and Cabernet Sauvignon
wines from the region. The meals can be
enjoyed in two different places, the main
dining room and the Aquavit on the upper
deck. The Aquavit can be open-air when
the weather is good and closed with large
glass window doors when it became cold or
windy. There is also a Lounge that offers
pre-meal cocktails and nightly entertainment
for passengers who wish to relax to
some soothing sounds in a quiet venue.
As with most cruises, there is a daily briefing.
In 15 or so minutes, the cruise program
director presents the following day’s
activities, tours and what to expect from the
cruise and the port of call. One of the main
reasons to go on a river cruise is the
Guided and Optional tours. All tours are
included in the price of the trip for everyone
and they are very well organized with professional
local guides and brand new
buses. Most tours are a half day long and
in the morning, returning to the ship for
lunch. All the tours are worth it, as they are
the best way to see a destination in a short
amount of time. For those who want to take
a break from visiting and touring, the onboard
activities include cooking lessons,
shopping with the chef and French language
courses.
Day one
The first day of your cruise was all about
getting settled in and it usually takes a good
day for all passengers to board the ship.
Depending on your arrival time, you can
enjoy a light lunch buffet before you decide
what you wish to do for the rest of the day.
You can join a guided walking tour of
Lyon’s city center, lounge on deck while
enjoying a cocktail, or catch up on some
rest from jet lag – it’s really up to you!
There is no need to rush and discover Lyon
immediately, as you will have a full day for
visiting this marvelous city.
Touring Lyon with Viking
The worldly city of Lyon is a great place to
start a cruise. There is a mix of cosmopolitan
and small town feel just a few blocks
apart. Lyon is France’s third largest city and
straddles the Rhône and Saône Rivers and
includes a narrow peninsula island called
the Presqu'ile. As you visit the old city of
Lyon, you will see many reminders of its
Roman origins, including the Famous
Roman Theatre on top of Fourvière Hill,
founded in 43 BC by the Romans.
Over the centuries, Lyon has enjoyed economic
prosperity, including being one of
the most active printing centres in Europe in
the 15th century and then the silk manufacturing
capital of Europe in the 17th century.
You can visit many boutiques that still produce
exceptional silk products.
Included in your Viking city tour is a drive by
the many outdoor painted walls, such as
the « Fresque des Lyonnais ». These are
murals that depict all the famous people
from Lyon, from antiquity with Emperor
Claudius, through modern times with figures
including Paul Bocuse and the Lumière
family, known for having shot the first moving
picture and responsible for Lyons world
famous lumière festival.
The tour closes with a walk in the old city.
Visitors enjoy the little hidden Traboules
(passageways made for merchants in
medieval times) and the choice of world
renowned Bouchon restaurants, known for
serving traditional Lyonnaise cuisine of
sausages, duck pâté and roast pork. You
will not go hungry in Lyon, which is known
as France’s gastronomic capital!
In the afternoon you can choose from two
49
optional tours. There is a Lyon cooking
workshop where you can learn the secrets
to making fine pastries by a French pastry
Chef, or choose a tour to the timeless Town
of Pérouges, a medieval stone village located
some 30km northeast of Lyon as we did.
Perched on a small hill, Pérouges enjoys an
outstanding view overlooking the French
Alps. Founded around 1167 by a Gallic
colony, Pérouges was a craftsmen commune,
particularly farmers and linen
weavers. Complete with cobble stone
streets, you can’t help but be transported
back though time. Pérouges is also where
the famous three musketeers’ movie was
filmed.
There is plenty worth exploring in and
around Lyon that it needs more time or a
second visit. Places of interest include the
heritage-laden Musée des Beaux Arts,
Quartier Saint-Jean and Quartier Saint-
Georges the old town, the beautiful architecture
and monumental town squares of
the Presqu'ile District and the Basilique
Notre-Dame de Fourviere,
The Rhone
With so much to see and do in seven days,
it would be best to leave the wonderful
Viking destinations beyond Lyon to a second
article in our next issue. The fabulous
locations of Macon, Vienne, Tournon,
Viviers, Arles and Avignon will just have to
wait!
www.vikingrivercruises.com
Canadian World Traveller Summer/Fall 2016

50
Superyachts & River Cruising
By: Tully Luxury Travel
Crystal Cruises megayacht - Artist Concept
Superyachts Are Here to Stay (And
Why It’s Your Turn)
From cool and unlikely concept yachts to
tabloid-worthy celebrity yachts, we’re fascinated
with these worlds on water. And yet,
you no longer have to be rich and famous
to enjoy one. Whether it's a boutique yachting
experience that catches your eye, or
extreme adventure that you're after, the latest
launches prove there's something for
everyone.
“Some people won’t go on a sailboat
because of the movement. And some don’t
want to be around too many people on a
cruise,” says Mary Jean Tully, Founder &
CEO of Tully Luxury Travel, of the appeal of
yachting. Fortunately, a new crop of ships
offer guests fresh ways to see the world,
Esprit Marina
opening up a new era for yachts—in which
bigger is better, and adventure is more
extreme. With Crystal Cruises' new superyachts,
more people can now enjoy the
pleasures of an intimate sailing experience
on the high seas in high style—and to more
remote destinations than ever before.
R&R more your speed? Sit back and enjoy
a drink with friends and unbeatable views
aboard Crystal Esprit's superyacht.
Launched in December 2015, the 62-guest
ship boasts its own mini spa and casino, as
well as six-star dining and suites outfitted
with king size beds, spacious closets and
double vanity sinks. Such plush environs
are certainly an ideal way to see dreamy
hot spots like the Seychelles islands and
Adriatic coast.
Thirsting for more adventure?
In March, Crystal Cruises announced what
promises to be the largest megayacht the
world has ever seen: an expedition ship
that can cruise the Arctic just as well as it
can more tropical destinations.
Debuting in August 2018, Crystal Endeavor
measures 600 feet (183 meters) long and
includes 100 guest suites. It will also have a
full-service spa, yoga, Pilates, salon and
wellness centre; an infinity pool; six dining
options and a 200-seat theatre. At 400
square-feet-plus (including balcony), suites
are spacious, but there are two Owner
Suites each boasting a whopping 3,122
square feet (1,615ft2 interior and 1,507ft2
balcony) should you feel the need to spread
out a little more. Oh, and there’s butler
service for all, in addition to one-to-one
crew-to-guest ratio.
But it’s the toys that truly make this ship a
gem. Whether you’re looking to enjoy
water sports or discover remote islands,
Crystal Endeavor has everything you could
ask for to experience adventure at sea—
from zodiacs, jet skis, wave runners and
SEABOBs to helicopters and its very own 7-
person submarines.
As the first purpose-built Polar Code compliant
yacht in the world, the Endeavor is
also uniquely built for global expedition
cruising and comes with exciting itineraries
to the Arctic and Antarctic. “Everyone is
looking for a wild, extraordinary experience,
and the Endeavor is so 21st century,
so different,” says Mary Jean. “It has a helicopter
and an icebreaker—it’s an expedition
ship. It’s totally unique.”
Be it easy cruising or extreme adventure,
your superyacht experience is sure to be a
trip to remember.

Explore Europe’s Ancient Highways
51
Lyon, France
See UNESCO World Heritage Sites
by River Cruise
There’s something particularly romantic
about taking a river cruise. The feeling is
something akin to what explorers and
tradesmen must have felt as they pulled up
to various ports, discovering new places
and visiting old friends.
As the saying goes, what’s old is new
again, with river cruises booming and
more options than ever to explore these
historic waterways. Whether it’s gently sailing
past vineyards and castles that appeals
to you, or the chance to see multiple cities
in a single itinerary without having to pack
and unpack, river cruises offer a scenic and
relaxing trip along the route of your
dreams.
“River cruising is a comfortable and easy
way to travel to many of Europe’s most
notable towns—some that would be impossible
to reach by ocean travel,” says Lore
Doick, a Travel Designer with Tully Luxury
Travel. “In many cases, you’re docked right
in town, walking distance to restaurants,
cafes and museums. You don’t have to
worry about renting a car, finding your
hotel or looking for a nice place to have
dinner. It’s all taken care of for you—the
hardest thing is picking an itinerary!”
Uniworld’s SS Maria-Theresa
Since rivers were the highways that connected
Europe long ago, cruising on these
legendary waterways gives travellers the
unique opportunity to explore many of the
towns and landmarks—including UNESCO
designated sites—nestled along the shore.
And while some of the tours in the past may
have been limited in amenities, the recently
unveiled Crystal River Cruises fleet promises
to take river cruising to new heights
with its six-star service, superior dining,
spacious suites, expertly curated itineraries
and fascinating shore excursions.
Visit Must-See UNESCO Sites
The first Crystal River Cruise, Crystal
Mozart, debuts this July and offers guests
the chance to get up close and personal
with not one but two UNESCO sites. On the
tour, experience Austria’s picturesque
Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage
site featuring terraced vineyards, ancient
ruins and that’s also home to the magnificent
Schallaburg Castle.
As a special bonus for 2016 and 2017
trips, Crystal Mozart will also offer guests
the chance to experience the Belvedere
Palace in Vienna, one of Europe’s most
stunning baroque landmarks and a
UNESCO World Heritage site. The evening
promises unparalleled private access to the
Palace’s impressive collections of art,
including Gustav Klimt’s The Kiss. The
event also includes a concert of Viennese
compositions in the legendary Marble Hall,
where the Austrian State Treaty was signed
in 1955, re-establishing Austria as a sovereign
state following World War II.
Other stops on the itinerary include wine
tastings in Dürnstein, tours of Salzburg—
Mozart’s birthplace—and the imperial
splendours of Budapest, as you cruise the
Danube. The roundtrip Vienna itinerary
allows guests to spend more time in this
spectacular city, with the opportunity to
extend their stay before or after the cruise.
Experience the Future of River Cruising
In 2017, Crystal launches its Crystal Bach
river cruise, which visits the Upper Middle
Rhine Valley, another UNESCO site,
notable for its breathtaking Rhine Gorge
and iconic Lorelei Rock. Cruise the Rhine
and Moselle rivers exploring the cities and
villages of Belgium, Germany, the
Netherlands and Switzerland along the
way.
Crystal Mozart Suite
Three other all-inclusive, butler-serviced
river cruises are slated for 2017, including
Crystal Debussy, which takes guests on a
tour of the best of Paris, Seine River and
Normandy. Wine aficionados will want to
book with Crystal Ravel, which explores the
wine region of Bordeaux. On Crystal
Mahler, cruise the Danube and Rhine rivers
as you visit the Netherlands, Germany,
Austria, Slovakia and Hungary.
From breathtaking scenery to UNESCOdesignated
historical sites, Crystal’s river
cruises promise a memorable voyage of
refined elegance.
Established in 1987, Tully Luxury Travel has longstanding
relationships with the finest travel and tourism
suppliers, and we offer world-class customer service
through our three divisions: Cruise Professionals,
African Dreams and Private Travel Designers.
Why Contact a Cruise Professional?
· Exclusive Amenities offered on ALL sailings
· VIP access to sites often closed to the general public
· Condé Nast Traveler “World’s Top Travel Specialist”
since 1999
· Crystal Cruises’ largest-producing agency worldwide,
2000-2015
Find out which is the best itinerary for you and receive
exclusive amenities when you book with a Cruise
Professional by Tully Luxury Travel.
Call today at 1-844-308-5114.
www.tullyluxurytravel.com
Crystal River
Cruises Yacht
Artist Concept
Canadian World Traveller Summer/Fall 2016

52
Italian Treasures on the
Crystal Symphony
Photo: Crystal Cruises
Article by Ilona Kauremszky, Photography by Stephen Smith/mycompasstv
Iam on the Crystal Symphony luxury
cruise liner in search of Italian treasures
as we cruise past a myriad of coves and
inlets along Italy’s west coast.
Earlier in the day, my beau Stephen and I
were whisked from the palatial setting of
Rome’s historic Hotel Eden to Civitavecchia,
the departure port city for our seven-day
cruise.
We chose this fine 51,000-ton gal for a few
reasons. Back in 2006 Crystal Cruises completed
a US$23-million overhaul to the
922-passenger vessel which was the shipping
company’s most extensive interior
refurbishment to date. We also were interested
in discovering the allure of the Italian
Riviera made famous by Roman emperors,
European princes and Hollywood jet setters.
Still, the other reasons were the guest-space
ratio for guaranteed sheer seclusion and
the great guest to staff ratio for pampering
and finer details.
Upon arrival Victor, our personal butler,
escorted us to our penthouse suite.
Complete with balcony, lounge chairs and
uber chic interiors, the suite had a “serenity
now” ambiance propelled by a bucket of
the finest, chilled GH Mumm Cordon
Rouge Champagne. There amid crystal
light fixtures, crisp Egyptian cotton sheets,
honeyed inlaid wooden cabinetry, and cool
sage and rich burgundy accents, I knew we
had arrived to our home away from home.
It was the perfect introduction for our prowl
to explore the playground of the rich and
famous. “Please know I am here for anything
you wish,” replied our white-gloved
butler who turned in his tuxedo tails and
disappeared.
The cruise had only just begun.
A typical Crystal Symphony voyage takes
about 6-18 days but we were on a shorter
one-week version, perfect for brief escapes.
At the Gala Welcome reception we were
ushered into the stylish Starlight Club for
Photo: Crystal Cruises

medleys, hors d’oeuvres and flutes of
champagne as guests donned tuxedos,
pearls and sky-high Manolo Blahniks.
Darwin, our server, mysteriously knew my
name. And so it went for the rest of our
journey.
We dined in the Crystal Dining Room amid
Riedel crystal and fine Villeroy and Boch
china. I enjoyed the chef’s suggestion of
sautéed jumbo shrimp, northern crab soup
with brie cheese, followed by broiled fresh
Norwegian salmon fillets, a homage to our
Norwegian captain. As we dined we sailed
past the isle of Corsica, Napoleon’s birthplace
to the Ligurian Sea.
Our first stop was the picturesque seaside
village of Portofino. Weathered buildings in
sunflower, peach and pale blue hues
enveloped the brightly bobbing fishing
boats or gozzi. The Romans named this
coastal sanctuary Portus Delphini, “the Port
of the Dolphins.” These days it is an exclusive
stomping ground for wealthy and aristocratic
Italians. Shore excursions are
available but we ventured on our own to
tour the town and its neighbouring city,
Santa Margherita. We hiked the promontory
laden with canopies of aromatic jasmine
and ascended the cobbled stone steps to
visit the Castello Brown, a medieval castle
overlooking the harbour then finished our
tour with a gelato at the lighthouse.
Life along the Italian Riviera is pure La
dolce vita from the cuisine to the spectacular
scenery to the azure blue Mediterranean
Sea. The piazzas are filled with sun-glassed
patrons of Prada sipping cappuccinos.
Their only burden was lugging shopping
bags from Pucci, Gucci and Ferragamo. It’s
a cocktail of elegant social life and
supreme privacy behind luxe villas that
cling to the cliff tops.
The Symphony then sailed effortlessly to our
next stop Monaco where fairytales really do
come true. The world’s second smallest
kingdom after the Vatican was made
famous by starlet Grace Kelley who stole
Prince Rainier’s heart in 1955 on a visit to
Cannes during the premier of the Hitchcock
classic, To Catch A Thief. With the Cannes
Film Festival in full swing and the Monte
Carlo Grand Prix a few days away we chose
to avoid the crowds and took a group shore
excursion along the famous Cote D’Azur to
Nice, France.
Considered the capital and queen of the
Riviera, Nice sits on a stage surrounded by
a natural amphitheatre of mountains that
reign over the Baie des Anges (Bay of
Angels). Lavish hotels and a casino erected
during the Belle Epoque period make Nice
a constant rival to Monaco. You can still see
vestiges of the old days along the famous
Promenade Anglais that skirts the famous
pebble beachfront.
Matisse’s studio was here and overlooked
the frenzied street market in the old city.
There’s a caricature statue of Miles Davis
outside the exclusive Hotel Negresco. Bono,
Elton John, Tina Turner and Bill Gates all
have heavenly pads between Monte Carlo
and this exclusive seaside resort town.
After a lunch of wine and cheese samplers
in the historic old Jewish quarter we
returned to the ship. At night, passengers
reminisced and romanticized about the next
day’s stop in Livorno, a popular cruise port
for visits to Florence, San Gimignano, Pisa
and other Italian hillside villages.
Later that evening, snuggling in matching
Frette bathrobes and sipping a robust
Merlot from Napa Valley we cued Under
The Tuscan Sun, a complimentary DVD
rental from the ship’s library to prep us for
the upcoming sights. But really we were
counting down the hours to see our friends
the next day in Florence.
Over a simple penne pomodoro and white
wine from Santa Margherita, our Florentine
friends Amy and Duilio described their
thrilling adventure done a week before to
see the island of Capri and Pompeii. In
Capri, the couple traipsed through the
imperial villa of Tiberius, the ruin a silhouette
against the blue sky that continues to
53
dominate the island’s skyline. Duilio
explained few passersby visit this stretch of
Via Tiberius which starts in the Piazzetta
and meanders up the terraced gardens and
whitewashed villas passing million-dollar
estates named, “Serenity” “Calm” and
“Paradise.”
“You could spend all day roaming the ruins
of Pompeii,” they suggested and recounted
how the ancient port city in its hey days contained
mammoth-sized buildings of forums,
amphitheatres, a gladiator court and a stadium.
Uncertain of our own plans, Stephen and I
high-tailed it back to our ship, contemplating
our visit to our final coastal city,
Sorrento, which hugs the dramatic Amalfi
coast. We were to spend two days there so
there were boundless opportunities to
explore the area. “I’ve heard so much
about Sorrento,” I murmured leafing
through my Rough Guide and Lonely Planet
guidebooks.
But come early next morning, a copy of the
daily newsletter “Reflections” made its way
to our doorstep. The sightseeing dilemma
was solved. “Hey, we’ve got a chance to
visit the Isle of Capri and Pompeii,” I raved
about our good luck as both destinations
were outlined, making this dream now possible.
We both smiled broadly and knew there
were more Italian treasures yet to discover.
www.crystalcruises.com
Photo: Crystal Cruises
Canadian World Traveller Summer/Fall 2016

54
The Rise of the River Cruises
Sail Iconic Rivers While Visiting Distinctive Corners of the World
Photo: Avalon Waterways
Article by Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) www.cruising.org
How can travelers leisurely explore several
countries and discover multiple
cultures in a matter of days? The
answer is sailing on an iconic river aboard a
river cruise. According to Cruise Lines
International Association's (CLIA) 2016 State
of the Cruise Industry Outlook, the demand
for the river cruise experience is at an all-time
high; as of 2015, there were 169 river CLIA
member cruise ships* on the water.
“These intimate voyages allow passengers to
experience multiple, memorable destinations
in a short amount of time all while travelling
the world’s most famous, historic rivers,” said
Cindy D’Aoust, president and CEO, CLIA. “As
the demand for river cruising grows, there are
now more experiences and destinations than
ever before. In addition to cruising through
Europe on the Rhine or Danube rivers, passengers
can take river cruises through South
America, Asia, Africa and even the U.S., offering
access to some of the most authentic and
treasured travel destinations in the world.”
From Egypt to Asia, following are six iconic
rivers around the world made easily accessible
by river cruising:
The Magic & Mystery of the Nile: One of the
world’s most famous waterways, spanning
more than 4,000 miles, the Nile River offers
unbelievable sights of ancient temples, lush
rainforests and impressive mountains. Avalon
Waterways offers a 9-day river cruise from
Cairo that takes cruisers on a voyage through
5,000 years of history, visiting temples built in
the time of Cleopatra, the famed Sphinx and
the Great Temples of Giza.
The Battles & Beauty of the Mekong:
Stretching through thousands of miles of
authentic Asian rice paddies and fish farms,
the Mekong River’s beautiful deltas have been
site to famous battles, specifically during the
Vietnam War. Now, the peaceful waterways
provide the perfect atmosphere for cruising.
New options in Vietnam and Cambodia
include AmaWaterways’ 15-night Mekong
upstream and downstream itineraries. The
voyage takes cruisers along the fabled
Mekong River for an unforgettable authentic
experience exploring rural villages, floating
markets, and a Buddhist monastery. The itinerary
includes Ho Chi Minh City with additional
stops in Siem Reap, Hanoi and Ha Long
Bay.
The “River Sea” of the Amazon: The longest
river in South America and world’s largest
resource of fresh water, the Amazon offers
thousands of years of tropical history and
beauty. Seabourn offers the chance to blend
the beauty of both river and ocean, including
sailing along the iconic Amazon River with a
15-day Amazon & Caribbean Isles Cruise.
This cruise takes passengers on a luxurious
journey along the Amazon with excursions
into the jungle and beyond.
A Trek through American History on the
Mississippi: The Mississippi River is drenched
in rich American history weaving through 1.2
million square miles and multiple states.
Adventurers on American Cruise Lines sail on
a Mississippi River Cruise paddlewheeler journey
taking them along the famed domestic
waters and through 10 states. Guests experience
the jazz of New Orleans, Frenchinspired
beauty of Natchez, the Gateway Arch
of St. Louis and more.
A Rise Along the Rhine: Known for enchanting
castles and dramatic landscapes, the Rhine
River has been crossed by the likes of Julius
Caesar and George Patton. CroisiEurope’s
Christmas Market Cruise celebrates the holidays
along the Rhine, visiting multiple
Christmas markets in the European capital of
Strasbourg, the “Christmas Cities” of
Nuremberg and Rudesheim which feature the
Christmas Market of Nations. Tauck’s Rhine
and Moselle cruise blends the beauty of two
historic rivers and allows passengers to experience
the Netherlands to Switzerland,
through Germany, France and Luxembourg.
Cruisers can pay tribute to the fallen in the
Battle of the Bulge at the Luxembourg
American Cemetery and Memorial, view
medieval masterpieces like Bernkastel, Trier
and Cochem, and experience an exclusive
dinner at a medieval moated castle in
Germany.
The Gorgeous Ganges: Boasting the highest
population of any river basin in the world and
winding through India and Bangladesh, the
sacred Ganges River is not only gorgeous but
constantly changing. The river is slowly
changing its path, naturally shifting 2.5 kilometers
since 1990 so the river offers a truly
once-in-a-lifetime course. Uniworld Boutique
River Cruise Collection exclusively offers a
chance to sail this fertile and unique waterway
with India’s Golden Triangle & Sacred
Ganges river cruise and tour. Highlights
include Delhi’s Humayun’s Tomb, the Taj
Mahal, the Agra Fort, Jaipur’s City Palace,
Mother Theresa’s home and tomb in Kolkata,
Verdic temple in Mayapur, and Kalna’s
Rajbari Temples.
“River cruising is the ultimate experience
offering an immersive, cultural and pampered
vacation, complete with exceptional
land excursions and vessel amenities,”
D’Aoust continued. “Travelers can sail on storied
waterways and discover new pockets of
the world.”

56
Eight Reasons to River Cruise
River Cruising allow passengers to experience multiple, memorable destinations in a short amount of time all
while travelling the world’s most famous, historic rivers.
Article by Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) www.cruising.org
1. Daily Discoveries—River cruises stop at new ports almost daily
offering passengers an itinerary full of unique destinations to discover.
5. Maximum Return on Experience —River cruises offer a fantastic
return on experience and investment, by allowing the chance to see
multiple destinations under one price tag.
2. Scenic Sailing—While river cruise lines do not spend a full day cruising,
there is typically no shortage of time to take in the beautiful scenery
when passing through scenic stretches such as the Danube's Wachau
Valley and the Rhine's River Gorge.
6. Local Tastes—Travelers get whisked away and drenched in local
cultures with unique excursions and culinary experiences available
only on river cruises, including experiences at historical sites and tasting
masterpieces made with locally sourced ingredients
3. All-Inclusive— Most food, beverages, and often excursions are included
in the overall price, allowing travelers to enjoy a decadent vacation
without the stress of planning every detail and pinching every penny.
7. Love for Luxe—River cruises offer an exclusive, luxurious option for
travelers. A smaller vessel means a more intimate vacation setting with
staff focused on each guest.
4. One-of-a-Kind Experiences—With access to narrow ports and through
shallow waterways, river cruising offers a cruise for travelers who love to
experience new cultures, visit historical sites and relax in cruise luxury
Canadian World Traveller Summer/Fall 2016
8. New Options—River cruising allows travelers to visit more intimate
corners of the world and experience lands previously thought hard to
get to by cruise.

58
Hot Springs, Arkansas
A spa town with a difference
Article & Photography By Johanna Read, TravelEater.net
Iwas so looking forward to this trip. Who
wouldn’t want to go to a town so famed
for its relaxing thermal mineral waters
that it is named Hot Springs? But I was surprised
by how much more Hot Springs has
to offer.
The springs
Both the town and the national park are
named Hot Springs. One side of the town’s
main street is in fact inside the park. Like in
most national parks, you can hike, mountain
bike and enjoy forested trails and wonderful
views. Unusually, you can tour historic
buildings and get a massage too.
The earliest bathers soaked up the soothing
waters under the sky. By the mid 1800s,
bathhouses became the preferred location.
Soon Hot Springs’ bathhouses were grand
edifices rivaling those of European spas.
Today you can visit many of these restored
buildings along Bathhouse Row, and even
“take the waters” in two of them.
Many claim the water from the 47 different
hot springs is healing. Until just a few
decades ago, physicians would recommend
their patients come to treat ailments
from rheumatism to syphilis. It became so
popular that the government eventually
provided a clinic with a free bathhouse, so
that people of any income could follow
their doctor's advice.
As medical science evolved, the popularity
of the baths waned. Today there’s no scientific
evidence of health benefits from the
springs. But I can vouch that lazily soaking
in a pool of hot water (where phones are
not allowed) is an excellent treatment for
our hurried modern way of life.
The spring water is also delicious to drink.
Filling stations line the edges of the national
park welcoming you to fill a jug with Hot
Springs’ perfectly neutral pH7 water, all for
free. Unlike most water from thermal
springs, there is no iron or sulphur. The
water comes out of the ground at about

62°C and doesn’t need treatment to make
it safe to drink. Many believe that drinking
the water is good for you too.
The Quapaw Baths & Spa feature four mineral
pools at varying temperatures. At
Quapaw, you can add on massages, body
treatments and facials, plus visit the steam
cave. The cave feels like a combination of
sauna and steambath. I sat on a cedar
bench in the man-made cave, designed to
gather the heat coming off the underground
springs below. While I didn’t see
clouds of steam, I very quickly felt the moist
therapeutic heat. I ended my 20-minute
session relaxed and well-glistened (a lady
glistens, not sweats, in the South).
Lots to do
After soaking up the waters, drive just out of
town to the Garvan Woodland Gardens. I
strolled through ever-changing gardens
featuring waterfalls and hundreds of thousands
of tulips and daffodils. Kids (and
kids-at-heart) delight in the exploration
cave, crawdad hole and maze. Architecture
fans marvel at the glass walls and angles of
the 6-story Anthony Chapel, designed by
Maurice Jennings and Fay Jones. I was
enchanted by Garvan’s resident peacock.
He loves to show off his full plumage whenever
anyone points a camera at him. You’ll
need a keener eye to spot Garvan’s other
70 bird species.
The Hot Springs area is full of attractions for
a week of family fun. Watch thoroughbred
racing at Oaklawn Park, ride a riverboat,
go mini golfing and regular golfing, play
laser tag, zipline, kayak, spend a day at the
waterslides and the immense roller coasters
at Magic Springs amusement park, visit the
wax museum, and even an alligator farm.
Tour the Gangster Museum to learn all
about infamous mobsters like Al Capone
and Lucky Luciano who used Hot Springs as
a retreat.
Shoppers love the independent shops on
Central Avenue selling art, antiques, vintage
candy, uniquely flavoured popcorn
and housewares. Pop into The Savory
Pantry for artisanal chocolates, bitters,
sauces and jams, and (my favourite)
Lambrecht’s southern pecan toffee.
Food and drink
If you want to stay in a town for any length
of time, you want there to be great food.
Hot Springs does not disappoint.
More than a month after my visit, I’m still
craving the pizza from DeLuca’s Pizzeria.
Chef/owner Anthony Valinoti brought top
pizza techniques from his native Brooklyn.
He uses the best ingredients from Hot
Springs, including the mineral water, for his
classic and creative pies. His pizzas alone
are enough of a reason to visit Hot Springs!
Craft-beer fans love Superior Bathhouse
Brewery and Distillery. In one of the old
buildings on Bathhouse Row, they make
beer on site using the national park’s
spring water. They serve fantastic non-alcoholic
root beer too, as well as lunch and
dinner highlighting seasonal locally-grown
products.
Famous for being Bill Clinton’s favourite
barbeque joint, McClard’s Bar-B-Q serves
7000 pounds of hickory-smoked beef, pork
and chicken weekly, all smothered in their
secret sauce. This place is so popular they
won’t even reserve a table for the Clintons
(though they do get invited into the kitchen
to eat there).
I learned the secret to eating southern pancakes
at The Pancake Shop. The pancakes
fill an entire dinner plate. To ensure my lap
wasn’t covered in syrup, I followed the server’s
instructions to cut a hole in the centre
of the stack before filling it with butter and
warm syrup. Delicious!
There’s live music every night at the Ohio
Club, right on Central Avenue. This historic
club dates to 1905 and is the only original
club still open. During Prohibition, it was
called the Ohio Cigar Store; if you knew the
right password, you were allowed into the
drinking and gambling area hidden behind
the false wall. I spent a Wednesday night
listening to The Hump Day Blues Band. If
past bands were as good, it is no wonder
that the Ohio Club was frequented by
celebrities like Tony Bennett, Sammy Davis
Jr, Babe Ruth, Al Jolson and Mae West.
Where to stay
History-buffs favour The Arlington, a
“grand old hotel”. The hotel has views of
the national park and Bathhouse Row, and
famous guests like Al Capone (who had his
own suite, complete with secret escape
route) and home-town son Bill Clinton in
the presidential suite. The restaurants serve
classic dishes and the lobby bar innovative
cocktails.
If you prefer more modern decor, choose
The Hotel Hot Springs & Spa. Attached to
the convention centre, this 14-story hotel
was completely renovated in 2016. Its
rooms are spacious and come with extras
like a microwave and large mini-fridge.
Breakfast with delicious biscuits and honey
is included in rates.
Lookout Point Lakeside Inn is a boutique
option just outside of town, on Lake
Hamilton. With views of the lake, the
Ouachita Mountains, and garden waterfalls,
you’ll be sure to relax at this B&B.
www.hotsprings.org
59
Johanna Read is a Vancouver-based freelance
writer and photographer specializing
in travel and food. Follow Johanna on
Instagram @TravelEaterJohanna and on
Twitter @TravelEater. All her travel writing is
at www.TravelEater.net.
Canadian World Traveller Summer/Fall 2016

Most of us know China for its
great landscapes, numerous
bodies of water, architecture,
and history. But do we know about the lesser
familiar attractions? Perhaps one of the
lesser familiar attractions is the maritime Silk
Road, located in the country’s southeastern
coastal areas, making connections with
neighbouring countries.
Traditionally, this tourist route was divided
into two: the East China Sea Silk Route
and the South China Sea Silk Route. The
former connected China with Japan and
Korea. This portion of the route, which dates
back to the Zhou Dynasty, was known for its
silkworm, silk reeling, and weaving techniques
— techniques that seeped into Korea
through the Yellow Sea. Silk production was
eventually Korea’s main commodity. This
led to building many ports for exports to
Japan. Moreover, Korea became the centre for
technology. Because of the Haijin policy
under the Qing Dynasty reign, however,
business along the Silk Road declined. This
policy prohibited maritime activities. The latter
portion of the route connected China with
other countries. As its route name specifies,
this route surrounded—and still does
today—the South China Sea. Guangzhou,
Quanzhou, and Ningbo were the main
departure cities when construction workers
built this route. Like the eastern route, the
southern route thrived during five dynasties
(Qin, Han, Sui, Tang, Song) and declined
during two of them (Ming and Qing). The
decline was more noticeable during western
wars, but the route renewed itself in the late
Tang and Song dynasties with the rise of
navigation and shipbuilding technologies. It
connected with Southeast Asia, Malacca, the
Indian Ocean, the Red Sea, and Africa.
What exactly is the Maritime Silk Road? It’s
a Chinese strategic initiative designed to
increase investment and foster collaboration
through the Silk Road (former network of
trade routes that connected Asia to other eastern
and western localities).
The Maritime Silk Road consisted of eight
Chinese provinces: Hebei, Shandong,
Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Guangdong, Guangxi,
Fujian and Hainan as well as two municipal
areas of Tianjin and Shanghai.
Special Eight-Page Section on the Maritime Silk Road
by Dwain Richardson

61
Destination
China
Hebei-The Imperial Summer Villa of Chengde
www.tourismchina.org
Canadian World Traveller Summer/Fall 2016

62
Hebei
This is one of the country’s northernmost
provinces. Hebei means “north of the
river.” Coincidentally, this province is
north of the Yellow River. Surprisingly, this
province is only eighty-eight years old!
The central government founded it in
1928.
Hebei borders on a number of cities,
countries, and geographical terrains
(seas, rivers, plains, grasslands).Its climate
is typical of a monsoon: Winters are
cold and dry, while summers are hot and
humid. For example, temperatures soar
Jiangsu
This province is in the easternmost region
of China, running parallel to the Yangtze
River and bordering the Huanghai Sea.
Nanjing is the province’s capital.
The province’s climate borders on a temperate
and subtropical zone. Winters are
the coldest in January and summers are
the warmest in July. Jiangsu can receive
anywhere from 800 to 1,200 millimetres
of rain—precipitation is the greatest during
summer months.
Local products are plentiful in the Jiangsu
province—and yes, there’s lots of local cuisine
to be had. Fish, chicken, seafood, and
Shanghai
This city, which literally means “above the
sea,” is an international port metropolis
renowned for its economic, financial, cultural,
scientific, and technological industries.
Many cultures converge in this eastern
China city: modern and traditional, oriental
and western. The mix of cultures
isn’t new to Shanghai. Following the
Treaty of Nanking in 1842, inhabitants
from western and eastern Europe flocked
to the port city to open businesses and
build houses and mansions. Like many
other destinations in China, many

etween –16°C and –3°C in January. In
July, temperatures range from 20°C to
27°C. Given the high heat and humidity,
it comes as no surprise that most rain
falls during the summer months.
Attractions
Ming Great Wall: The site runs from Jiayu
Pass in the west to the Shanhai Pass in the
east (the walls measure 8,850 kilometres
in length), and through to Manchuria,
located in northeastern China. The walls
consist of trenches and natural barriers
such as hills and rivers.
Bedaihe Beach Resort: A ten-kilometre
attraction from the Yinjiao Pavilion to the
start of the Daihe River. Let yellow sand
glide over your feet and step into shallow
waters. While you’re having fun on the
beach, let yourself be dazzled by caves,
secluded paths, and winding bridges.
Chengde Mountain Resort: A complex
made of imperial palaces and gardens.
Seventy-two scenic wonders await,
including the “Tower of Mist and Rain.”
Be prepared to see many grasslands,
forested mountains, and valleys among
the many buildings. This resort is on the
UNESCO World Heritage Sites list.
63
liquors are in every locality, and some of
these staples are found in meals, including
pork meat patties and broken bone fish’s
head.
Attractions
Classical Gardens of Suzhou: These nine
eleventh- to nineteenth-century gardens
are on the UNESCO World Heritage Site
list. They recreate miniature natural landscapes
and reflect the importance of natural
beauty. Visitors can find residential
zones among the gardens.
Xiaoling Mausoleum of Ming Dynasty:
One of China’s biggest imperial tombs
located in the easternmost zone of
Nanjing. The mausoleum’s key feature is
the Sacred Way, a long path stretching
1,800 metres. You can see many animal
sculptures like lions and elephants. Visitors
can also see columns carved with dragons.
Scenic sculptures also greet visitors. Like
the gardens in Suzhou, the Xiaoling
Mausoleum of Ming Dynasty is listed on
the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Zhouzhuang Water Town: What makes this
attraction so popular? Look around you
and you’ll see many old buildings and
bridges, crafts, and of course, lots of water.
This water town is an hour and half away
from Shanghai and Suzhou. Tourists
should ideally visit this attraction in the
spring (April/May) and fall
(September/October). While you’re visiting,
you can drop by local shops and marvel
at traditional Chinese culture.
European architectural wonders await
when travellers set foot in this city.
Attractions
The Bund: A well-known waterfront in
Shanghai. Located on the west bank of
Huangpu River, the Bund flows from the
Waibaidu Bridge to Nanpu Bridge (length
of 1,500 metres). You can find twenty-six
architectural sites on the Bund’s westernmost
end. Architectural styles range from
Gothic to Renaissance. If you’re a night
owl, you should stop by the Bund, for
you’ll see colourful lights shining in the
river and flashing on the farthest side of
the river. This attraction was named the
“Shanghai Top Ten Night Light Views” in
2009.
Nanjing Road: Hear ye, hear ye, shoppers
and foodies! Looking for major
brands, new fashions, great foods, open
bars? This is the place to be. You’ll see
many upscale stores such as Tiffany and
Dunhill. Is traditional shopping your cup
of tea? You can still drop by a number of
specialty shops and traditional stores featuring
silk products and embroidery, not
to mention clocks, jade, and wool. If you
prefer evening strolls, why not have a pint
of your favourite beverage and listen to
music by street performers? There’s much
to see and do along this 5.5.-kilometre
route that stretches from the Bund in the
east to Jing’an Temple in the west.
Canadian World Traveller Summer/Fall 2016

64
Zhejiang
This is one of China’s eastern provinces. Its
capital is Hangzhou. Nestled along the East
China Sea, Zhejiang will charm you with its
numerous islands, gardens, and landmarks
such as the five-storey Leifeng Pagoda.
Take a moment to look around you when
you arrive in Zhejiang. You’ll notice that
most areas are hilly, though you will definitely
encounter valleys, plains, and islands
along the province’s coastlines.
The province has four seasons with different
climates: Spring is generally rainy, especially
in March. Summers are long, hot, humid,
and wet. (Heads-up: The typhoon threat is
Fujian
A southeastern province reputed for its
mountainous and coastal cities. Rivers are
plentiful, and are considered important
because they were used as transportation
routes for centuries. Fujian faces Taiwan
(further east). It’s south of Zhejiang, west of
Jiangxi, and north of Guangdong. Its capital
is Fuzhou.
Fujian’s climate is semitropical along the
coastlines (hot in summer, cool in winter).
It’s cool between November and February,
warm from March to May, and hot
between June and October. Like Zhejiang,
a risk of typhoons is great during monsoon
Guangdong
Guangzhou: Gateway to the Silk Road. Of
all the Chinese harbours, Guangzhou was
the largest, and the only one to make connections
to foreign countries. It also had
historical significance: Three voyage routes
originated from Guangzhou. In addition, in
1784, the American vessel Empress of
China sailed to this city, which led to the
first transportation route between the
United States and China, and eventually
giving way to trade.
On the cultural scene, most associate
Guangdong with cuisine and music. This is
considered the birthplace of what westerners
call “Chinese food” (Cantonese food).
Grab the authentic taste of sweet and sour

considerable in late August due to great
accumulations of rain.) In contrast, the fall
is dry, warm, and sunny. With the exception
of the far south, winters are short but cold.
Average temperatures range between 15°C
and 19°C. Depending on the seasons, however,
temperatures vary slightly. For
instance, they hover between 2°C and 8°C
in January and 27°C to 30°C in July.
Attractions
Baoguo Temple: A Buddhist temple, and the
oldest surviving wooden structure. This
attraction houses various exhibitions: statues,
bronzes, Ningbo furniture, carved
stone screens, to name but a few.
Admission: 20 CNY ($3.97 CAD) per person.
Be prepared to pay an extra fee if you
want services by a tour guide.
Yandangshan: Mountains galore! This area
has a northern and southern zone. You will
find the highest peaks in North Yandang.
This is where you’ll find Mount Yandang, an
area known for its vertical rock faces and
pinnacles, mountain slopes and its lush
forests and bamboo groves, and streams
filled with clear water, waterfalls, and caves.
You’ll come across several shrines and temples
as well.
Qiandao Lake: Akin to the Thousand
Islands region located between Kingston
and Cornwall, Ontario (1,078 islands on
the lake and other thousands scattered
about). Bird Island, Snake Island, and
Monkey Island are some of the many
islands you’ll visit. Did you know that
Qiandao Lake is used to produce mineral
water?
65
season (expect between 1,270 and 2,030
millimetres of rain along the coast and in
western mountainous areas). Average temperatures
range from 11°C to 29°C.
Attractions
Sānfāng Qīxian: This architectural site,
located in the downtown core, is a set of
ancient buildings coined “Three Lanes and
Seven Paths.” The site was first built during
the Jin Dynasty (around the twelfth century).
Meander through the white-walled
streets, shop at one of many local stores,
or take a coffee along the canal.
Wŭyí Shān Scenic Area: Enter this area via
Wŭyí Gōng, approximately 200 metres
south of the Wŭyí Mountain Villa. Trails
contained in this area connect with major
sites. Are you up to walking a lot? Stroll
along the 530-metre Great King Peak (via
main entrance), or try walking along the
410-metre Heavenly Tour Peak (enter via
Nine Twists River). If you plan to take the
Great King Peak, walk with appropriate
shoes, for trails may be slippery and wet.
Ānxī Cháyè Dàguānyuán: Would you like a
cup of tea? The mountainous Ānxī County
is known for its Iron Buddha tea. It is characterized
by a thick fragrance and floral
sweetness. This tea farm produces roughly
fifty tea brands from China, Japan, and
Taiwan. While you’re on site, take a free
tour of the small museum and processing
plant.
pork, wonton soup, and dim-sum. The
food is plentiful, delicious, and inexpensive,
and few travellers can leave this city hungry.
Attractions
Mount Danxia: Bring a camera and be
dazzled by plenty scenic, mountainous
sites. You’ll also see a number of temples
scattered about. A river winds through the
mountains, allowing visitors to ride a boat
during their stay. This site is on the 2010
UNESCO World Heritage Site list.
Seven Star Crags: Find most crags around
Star Lake. The lake has five distinct sections,
and has small land and walkway
strips. Like many attractions in China,
there’s no shortage of Buddhist and Taoist
sculptures around the lake. While you’re
here, why not check out the many fantastic
caves?
Chen Clan Ancestral Hall: A magnificently
preserved example of nineteenth-century
architecture. It was the ancestral shrine of a
wealthy family, and now is a museum with
many items and articles, including ivory
sculptures and artistic statues.
Today, visitors can see more than twenty
attractions along the Silk Road. Some of
them include the Temple of God of South
Sea, Huaisheng Mosque, the Temple of
Bright Filial Piety, the Muslim Sage’s Tomb,
Hualin Temple, and Lotus Tower. Like many
countries, the Silk Road is showered with
European architecture, especially when
tourists set foot in Shameen
Canadian World Traveller Summer/Fall 2016

66
Guangxi
An autonomous region in southern China
bordering Vietnam. Its capital is Nanning.
Guangxi’s climate is subtropical, just like
many other localities in the country (long,
hot summers).
Parts of this autonomous region are mountainous,
especially areas in China’s northeast,
north, centre, and southeast sectors.
Guangxi is known for its many rivers that
cut through mountains, forming what we
know as the West River.
Hainan
This is China’s smallest and southernmost
province. Hainan Island is the main island.
Its capital is Haikou. Aside from islands,
Hainan boasts of many rivers and lakes,
including the Wanning and Changhua
Rivers. Unlike other areas of China, natural
rivers are few in number in this southernmost
area.
Hainan’s climate ranges from subtropical to
tropical. Haikou’s climate is subtropical, as
are other areas in northern Hainan. The
farther south you travel, however, the climate
is more tropical (warmer temperatures
are the norm). Winter temperatures range
from 16°C to 21°C; summer temperatures

A few cultural notes:
Guangxi and Guangdong mean “Western
and Eastern Expanse.” Traditionally,
Guangxi has had a close connection with
Cantonese culture and language. These
influences are noticeable in the easternmost
areas of the region.
Three varieties of Chinese are spoken in
Nanning: Southwestern Mandarin, Yue,
and Pinghua.
Attractions
Lijiang River: The eighty-three-kilometre
green river flows from Piled Festoon Hill to
Bilian Peak in Yangzhou. Marvel at the
steep peaks, luxuriant flowers, and green
hills that reflect in the blue water.
Reed Flute Cave: This attraction, located
five kilometres west of Guilin, got its name
from verdant reeds that grew outside the
cave (flutes are made with this type of
reed). Walk inside this water cave and
explore many stalactites, stone pillars, and
rock formations. Don’t expect to see complete
darkness: You’ll be greeted with many
coloured lights as you tour the site.
West Street: This ancient street is found in
the heart of Yangshuo County. It has been
the centre of eastern and western cultures
since the 1980s. Walk along the marbled
streets and enjoy the simple styles and
courtyard-like settings. While you’re here,
have a coffee on a patio, purchase a number
of souvenirs, or take a bite into local
cuisine (the beer fish dish is worth a try).
67
are between 25°C to 29°C. As tourists
would expect, summers are hot. This is particularly
true in northern areas of Hainan.
A few notes about local cuisine:
Dig in on seafood! Chefs prepare many
meals with shrimp, lobster, crab, and other
sea life creatures.
Wenchang chicken: a drier meat with lots of
texture.
Hainan chicken rice: a dish with rice marinated
in chicken soup.
Attractions
Five Officials Temple: Built in honour of the
five Tang (618–907 AD) and Song dynasty
officials (960–1279). This site is southeast
of Haikou. The temple complex has many
buildings, including the Guanjia Hall,
Xuepu Hall, East and West Hall, and the
Ancestral Hall of the Two Fubo Generals.
Yangpu Ancient Salt Field: An archaeological
heritage site in Yantian Village. See
more than one thousand stones that evaporate
seawater to produce salt (stones are cut
on top). Stones are equipped with a thin rim
to contain water.
Yanoda: A rainforest located near Sanya.
The Chinese government has reserved
forty-five square kilometres for the Cultural
Tourist Zone, while the rest of the rainforest
(123 square kilometres) is fully protected.
China’s tourism department has rated this
attraction AAAAA, the highest rating on the
country’s rate scale.
Kaiping Diaolou and Villages, Guangdong
Canadian World Traveller Summer/Fall 2016

68
Luxury Hotels...Grand Resorts...Charming B&B...Opulent Villas...Quaint C
New Boston Hilton Garden Inn
S t a y & P l a y Sweet Dreams Around The World
CVK Park Bosphorus Hotel - Istanbul
Istanbul, historically known as Constantinople, is Turkey’s largest city and the country's
economic, cultural, and historical center straddling the Bosphorus strait that
separates Europe and Asia.
A key to any visit is finding a base of operations, aka, a hotel. The CVK Park
Bosphorus Hotel offers everything a traveller could ask for. With design details that
reflect the majesty of the Turkish palaces that can be found around the city, this fabulous
property also grants guests magnificent views of the Bosphorus straight, the
city and the far side which is the Asian part of Istanbul.
The luxurious nature of the hotel is evident from the moment you set eyes on the
building. Modern lines and architecture on the outside of the building leave visitors
anticipating the best out of this hotel. They will not be disappointed.
Once you pass the elegant entryway, guests are greeted in the grand lobby of the
hotel, with its impressive marble and granite finishings to make your arrival a grand
one. Every step of the way you will find friendly, accommodating staff and a dedication
to service that is second to none. There is no doubt that this hotel deserves to
be among the properties in the ‘Preferred Hotels and Resorts’ group, which represents
a collection of the world's best luxury hotels and resorts in more than 85 countries.
The spacious suites feature separate living spaces, private terraces, and hot
tubs. The washrooms are a dream, with a large stand alone white tub, lots of light
and a wonderful rain shower head. To top it off, the toiletries were high end and
wonderful.
This is the place to see and be seen with guests from all over the world. There are
great restaurants and bars, serving a variety of cuisine, with spicy tastes of Morocco
to the ancient flavours of the Ottoman Empire! Delicious.
On top of the beauty and comfort of our room, the CVK Park Bosporus Hotel is very
well located, just minutes away from Taksim square and the famous Istiklal pedestrian
street where just about anything can be found!
This is not only a street for locals, there is so much to see and do that it is also a
major draw for tourists. Visitors can spend an entire day shopping, eating and being
entertained.
After a hard day of tourist-ing, enjoy some relaxation at the CVK Safira Spa & Fitness
& Wellness Center. A first of its kind in Istanbul, this Spa offers a variety of special
services to its guests including VIP massage rooms, an indoor heated swimming
pool, personal spa areas, baths and hot tubs.
Ideal for Business Stay, or
Explore and Play
by Jessica Percy-Campbell
A stone’s throw from the airport with free
24-hour shuttle service, the new Hilton
Garden Inn Boston Logan Airport provides
a perfect base for visitors coming to explore
the city or do business in downtown Boston.
It’s also an economical choice for families
arriving for weekend trips to take in a Red
Sox game or fun attractions like the New
England Aquarium. It’s 10 minutes downtown
by car and a five-minute walk to the
subway. The fresh, new complex also boasts
a heated indoor pool and a 24-hour fitness
center. It’s ideal for conventions and groups
as well with a 24-hour business center and
large modern meeting facilities. The elegant
décor of the Garden Grille & Bar makes it a
great place to enjoy an early breakfast or
an evening cocktail, and all guests have
access to coin-operated washers and dryers.
There’s also a convenience store on
site. But it’s the front-desk staff at this new
hotel that makes it exceedingly special; they
go above and beyond to make guests feel
at home. They’re also very knowledgeable
about nearby attractions and happy to help
you plan your days out.
hiltongardeninn3.hilton.com
preferredhotels.com/destinations/istanbul/park-bosphorus-hotel
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ountry Inns...Luxary Safari Camps...Ecolodges...Ice...Cave...Treetop... Hotels
69
Zemi Beach Resort, Anguilla
A Shining New Star on
Stunning Shoal Bay
Anguilla is a tiny island in the Eastern
Caribbean, a few miles from St. Maarten
with some of the most beautiful beaches on
the planet.
Being a beach fanatic, I was concerned
when I heard a brand new resort had taken
root on Anguilla’s Shoal Bay, what I consider
to be one of the most glorious strips of
sand in the world. Part of the exceptional
appeal of this little island is that it’s sparsely
developed. There is a handful of five-star
resorts and a smattering of high end villa
rentals, a few mid-level stays and the odd
B&B, but basically it’s a tiny community of
some 15,000 residents living on an arid
rock fringed with surreal aqua waters and
scenic cliffs. As they say, Anguilla rhymes
with vanilla but it’s twice as sweet!
However, upon my arrival to the new Zemi
Beach Resort I could instantly confirm that
any concerns I had about this new development
were unfounded. It’s a glorious addition
to the postcard perfect scene, and
smartly designed to allow its unparalleled
surroundings be the true star.
Outside, their bright white-multi-tiered complex
cascades down the hill and spills fluidly
into the sea via a serene infinity pool with a
glassed in wall- and there is also an adultonly
pool and lounge area on a separate
level. Overall there are 54 beautifully
appointed guest rooms and nine two and
three-bedroom suites- all beachfront with
oversized balconies. And the activities on
that glorious beach include hobie cats and
snorkeling- there is a pair of resident sea
turtles living right out front- and they also
offer weekly mermaid lessons! That’s right!
Zemi is one of the hosts for the new
Mermaid School International where
women, men and even children can learn to
swim with a tail and a monofin! I tried it,
and it was such fun! They also have a wonderful
children’s club with innovative activities
and state-of the-art tennis courts.
For on-site dining there is Stone- an upscale
Asian and Caribbean fusion enclave, and
20 Knots- a more casual indoor/outdoor
beachside eatery with fabulous breakfast
buffets and the a surprise of a brick pizza
oven. Their pizzas were divine with a creative
choice of gourmet toppings like the
local spiny lobster Anguilla is famous for.
And their Rhum Bar is exquisite. A classy
lounge where you can try some the
Caribbean’s best. I especially enjoyed their
rhum education and tasting class. But
beyond the spectacular beach, it’s their
Zemi Thai House Spa that impresses the
most.
Set apart, behind the resort, the focus is on
an authentic 300-year-old Thai rice house
that was rebuilt piece by piece. It is the
nexus of this soothing oasis that features
the island’s only hammam, a meditation
pond amid a tropical garden, many multifunction
treatment rooms, a fresh juice bar
and a wellness boutique. It really is worth a
visit all on its own. Very unique.
And overall, I can’t say enough about their
super warm, friendly and highly efficient
staff. They really know how to do upscale
without the snooty. If you’ve never been to
Anguilla before, I highly recommend your
first stay there should be at Zemi Beach
Resort to discover what barefoot luxury is all
about. Problem is, you might never return!
www.zemibeach.com
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okyo Hong Kong Bali Rome Thailand Monaco Amsterdam Berlin Ibiza Montreal Tanzania Hawaii Rio Madrid Cape Town Beijing Sydney Van

70
S t a y & P l a y Thailand
Articles by Mathieu Morcos & Camille Fodi
The Tongsai Bay, Koh Samui
The heat of the sun as we landed would be a preview of the
warmth we would get from the staff at the Tongsai Bay
Resort. Comfort and pleasure is the name of the game, and
upon arrival at the Koh Samui airport, a staff member was there to
welcome us and chauffeur us to the resort.
The receptionist gave us a tour of the hotel and its amenities along
with a map to find our way. We were informed that we would be
offered an upgrade to a seafront pool villa!
The hotel offers to all their guests a complimentary escort (golf cart)
from the lobby to their rooms or from their rooms to wherever they
wish to go within the resort. It may seem silly, but it is quite appreciated
in the heat, especially considering the resort’s size.
Our seafront villa was simply stunning! Nice cold towels infused
with a lovely fragrance and a refreshing herbal iced tea awaited us.
Stepping into the room, you will immediately notice the very large
balcony, which includes a private pool facing the sea. Alongside the
swimming area, two sun loungers invite guests to sunbathe with a
view.
If you are trying to avoid the sun, the balcony also has a shaded
resting area containing a 4 poster bed with mosquito screens, a
bath tub, dining table and a large pantry which includes a bar with
sink and a fridge. As for the room itself, it is divided in two, where
the bedroom and TV room both offer seafront views.
The resting area and bathrooms were modern and built for two
adults to have enough space to get ready at the same time. Every
detail in the room was thought out and guests will have every need
met. If you’re a picky sleeper, they even have a choice of pillow.
The hotel staff is as friendly as they are helpful. Throughout the
resort the rooms are tidied up twice a day and mid-day snacks,
fresh fruits and ice are complimentary.
We each had the pleasure of a 90 minute Thai massage at the
hotel’s spa. The spa is extremely charming with an entranceway that
makes you feel as if you are stepping into a jungle with its decorative
waterfall and pond. Upon entering, the spa manager explained
their offer in detail, including the extent of the massage, along with
our choices of oils (hot or room temperature) and fragrances (6
choices). The massage itself was delightful and relaxing.
At night, we had dinner at the resort’s restaurant located right on
the beach. The sound of the waves crashing into the shore was
soothing and made the romantic ambiance all that better. To get a
true experience of what the restaurant had to offer, we asked the
manager for his recommendations and he did not disappoint. The
fried calamari and scallops were both excellent choices for appetizers.
As for the main course, the grilled sea bass was meaty, fresh
and very tasty. The Australian steak and chips was cooked to perfection
and can certainly fill even the hungriest of guests. Desert was
a traditional Thai delicacy, sticky mango rice. Turns out it was
mango season, the fruit was tender and sweet, simply delicious!
The Tongsai Bay resort went above and beyond our expectations, it
was definitely one the highlights of our trip in Thailand.
preferredhotels.com/destinations/koh-samui-suratthani/the-tongsai-bay

71
The Landmark, Bangkok
When arriving at the Landmark Hotel, guests immediately realize
how it got its name. The location is pristine, and this beautiful,
tall building that stands out in the heart of Bangkok,
which is saying something as the city is ripe with magnificent buildings.
The lobby’s cathedral ceiling and marble floors give the impression of
a luxurious Las Vegas hotel, lavish and lush. The receptionist greeted
us and took us to the 31st floor, all the way to the top, where we met
with the hotel’s management. After giving us in depth details about our
stay at the Landmark and all the generous complimentary perks that
came along with it, we headed back down to the 24th floor to see our
room.
Although the Landmark was built almost 30 years ago, most of the
rooms have been recently renovated and our room was simply gorgeous,
from the enormous king size bed to the modernized bathroom,
every detail in the room was carefully chosen for comfort and style.
pool located on the 9th floor. Its privacy makes you almost forget that
you’re in the heart of the country’s capital. After cooling off in the pool,
make sure to visit the sundeck, located a stairway away. A small bar on
the sundeck serves refreshments throughout the day while you enjoy
the lounging in the sun. The fitness room is modern and can help you
feel less guilty about all those pastries you’ve been having at the breakfast
buffet.
At night, we would eagerly visit the 31st floor where you can relish a
view of the city from up on high, while enjoying complimentary drinks
and snacks.
The evening buffet is very diverse and was simply delicious. We were
also given a wonderful token of appreciation, rebates on the hotel’s
steakhouse, bar and spa. Chocolates and the teddy bears that represent
the Landmark’s mascot were left on in our room, simply a kindhearted
gesture.
Every morning, we would receive an English copy of the local
Newspaper outside our door before heading to the breakfast buffet.
The buffet’s variety was broad to say the least. If you wanted Western,
Chinese, Thai or even European choices, it was all there. The buffet
chefs offer to make a fresh omelette with ingredients of your choice, as
well as pancakes and waffles made on the spot, delicious! Fresh fruits,
cold cuts and cheese are also at your disposal. We would enjoy our
daily iced coffee while reading that newspaper.
Further into the day, you might feel the need for some quiet time by the
The staff was supportive, knowledgeable and positive from start to finish,
from helping us find local restaurants and directions for entertainment,
all the way to securing our luggage while we waited for our
transportation.
We got to meet the director of marketing communications who insured
that our stay had met our expectations. It obviously had, as we would
definitely recommend The Landmark and visit again in the future!
preferredhotels.com/destinations/bangkok/the-landmark-bangkok
Canadian World Traveller Summer/Fall 2016

72
S t a y & P l a y in Rhone-Alpes, France
Fourviere Hotel Lyon
Millions of dollars and a beautiful renovation have
reinvented the old Convent of Visitation built in
1854 and turned it into a real gem of a hotel. The
Fouviere is situated down the street from a roman-era
amphi-theatre and the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière,
and its hilltop placement offers wonderful views of the city
and the surroundings help guests feel like they are in the
countryside.
This boutique style hotel takes good care of their guests and
the artistic feel is juxtaposed with the building`s walls of
solid stone. The reception area has a marble alter and frescoes
on the ceiling harkening back to times when the hotel
was still a convent. The renovations have created well-lit
rooms and bathrooms that are extra large.
The hotel offers unique gastronomic experiences to push
your taste buds to the limit. The Restaurant Les Téléphones
serves bistro-style cuisine while overlooking the glorious
courtyard. Guests can also relax with a hot drink at Le Kfe,
a comfortable area where you can read a book, newspaper
or your emails. Another niche is down the hotel’s own “traboule”
passageway to discover Le Bar, where many wines
from France and elsewhere await you. Finally, you can enjoy
authentic Lyonnaise cuisine experience at the Bouchon, the
hotel’s unique restaurant.
www.fourviere-hotel.com/en
Canadian World Traveller Summer/Fall 2016
Annecy Bonlieu Hotel
Amagnificent view of the Alps in the distance, seen best from
the top floors of this new, modern and contemporary hotel,
is just start of guest attractions at the Annecy Bonlieu Hotel.
This property is located in the heart of town and minutes away from
the famous lake and old quarters. It has easy access to all of
Annecy’s cultural and tourist attractions, including historical locals,
the lake and town centre, and the mountains are a short ride away.
With so much to do and see in this beautiful city, the hotel is an ideal
base to sleep, shower and plan daily schedules. As breakfast is
included, a guest’s day can start out perfectly.
www.annecybonlieuhotel.fr/index_uk.php
The Littoral
In the heart of Evian and just metres from the shores of Lake
Geneva, the Littoral-Evian boutique Hotel welcomes visitors to
enjoy its light, airy and comfortable rooms. A welcoming staff,
an Alpine-esque décor and a delicious European continental breakfast
with great cold cuts, many different cheeses, jams, breads and
fresh apple or orange juice. Room prices are reasonable for everything
is offered and there are options for one child or two.
Outside the door, guests are treated to a magnificent view of Lac
Leman while being caressed by the cool breeze on a hot day. Steps
away, guests will find the main pedestrian street, with the city’s casino
and the town hall waiting for the visit.
http://en.hotel-littoral-evian.fr

74
Photo: St. Lucie County Media Relations and Office of Tourism
Vacation Gold on Florida’s Treasure Coast
Article & Photography by Jennifer Merrick
On July 31st, 2015, divers struck
gold when they found 4.5 million
dollars’ worth of Spanish
coins off the coast of Vero Beach, 170 miles
southeast of Orlando. It’s just a fraction of
the loot that was lost when 11 ships laden
with jewelry and precious metals capsized
during a hurricane in 1715, exactly 300
years earlier, on their return to Spain.
Those riches have been washing up on
Florida’s mid-eastern coast ever since, and
it’s why this region, which encompasses St.
Lucie, Indian River and Martin counties, is
known as Florida’s Treasure Coast.
Though we didn’t unearth any gold coins
on our recent trip, we did discover a treasure
trove of vacation gems. Here were
some of our favourites.
Indian River County
“We are now entering Osprey Alley,” said
Captain John, and we were treated to the
sight of several large nests and their feathered
inhabitants. We marvelled at mothers
taking care of their fledglings, fanning
them to keep them cool. These graceful
water birds were just one of many wildlife
sightings on this unforgettable airboat tour
of Blue Cypress Lake. We also spotted alligators,
turtles, eagles, great blue herons
and the adorable two-day-old moorhens.
Lunch was also memorable at Capt.
Hiram’s Resort’s Bahamian-styled Sand
Bar. Surrounded by palm trees, our feet

sunk in the warm white sand, it was the
ideal island ambiance for noshing on
conch fritters and mahi-mahi tacos. The
best part is you can eat as much as you
want because the magic mirror in the
women’s washroom makes you appear
20lbs thinner. “I want to take it home,”
murmured one patron while admiring the
distorted, but oh so flattering view.
Our next boating excursion was straight out
of a James Bond movie on the aptly named
yacht, ‘Moonraker’. Fully equipped with
kitchen, showers, a BBQ and even a hammock,
this 40-foot catamaran sailboat can
be chartered for a couple of hours or an
entire day. We sailed on a sunset cruise, a
picture-perfect introduction to Vero Beach,
a destination often referred to as Florida’s
Hamptons. We capped off this fine evening
at Ocean Grill, a local institution known for
its seafood, ocean view and stately atmosphere.
www.visitindianrivercounty.com
St. Lucie County
“Great weather, horses, and a beach -- it
just doesn’t get any better than that,” said
Allen Hayes, owner of Horseback on the
Beach. He was right. The excursion that
took us along the water’s edge on
Hutchinson Island felt like a scene right out
of a movie with a cool ocean breeze,
turquoise water and the most good-natured
horses imaginable. The beach was virtually
empty except for us and I assumed it was
private. It wasn’t. It’s one of St. Lucie
County’s 21 miles of beach that are more
popular with sea turtles than crowds.
Nature lovers can enjoy 11,000 acres of
parks and preserves, and eco-sites such as
the Manatee Observation Center, Great
Florida Birding Trail and the Oxbow Eco-
Center. Hungry after all that activity? Head
over to the seaside fishing village of Fort
Pierce, where you’ll find several restaurants
that showcase the turquoise water of the
River Lagoon. We stopped in at On the
Edge and found the atmosphere of this
open-air thatched eatery as good as its
fresh seafood.
During our time in St. Lucie, we stayed at
the Club Med Sandpiper, which is a destination
in and of itself with its full roster of
activities that includes everything from flying
trapeze and circus school to more traditional
leisure pursuits of tennis and golf.
This all-inclusive resort is especially known
for its food and entertainment. “Dining is a
focal point for us,” said Ralph Cipollo,
executive chef, and after sampling their
Alaskan salmon with shitake mushrooms,
we wholeheartedly agreed.
www.visitstluciefla.com
www.clubmed.ca
Martin County
“Look down the boardwalk to your left and
up. That’s what a 1000-year-old Cypress
tree looks like,” said Chuck Barrowclough,
our guide at the Barley Barber Swamp. For
a few moments our normally boisterous
group is silent as we took in its majesty.
Adorned with Spanish moss and with vines
wrapped around the silver-barked trunk,
it’s the star attraction of this 400-acre
nature reserve that shelters a diverse ecosystem
and indigenous flora and fauna. We
were thrilled to spot alligators and bald
eagles. But the ancient tree enthralled me
most, and I couldn’t help but think what
stories it would be able to tell if it could.
Remarkably, this worthwhile tour is free
although donations are encouraged to
continue its conservation work.
Though the cypress couldn’t tell its story, we
found someone at our next stop that
regaled us with tales of a Florida of yesterday.
Jonnie Flewelling, innkeeper of the
Seminole Inn, has strong family ties to the
area. Her grandmother was the first post
mistress of Indiantown, and they still retain
post office box number one. Jonnie is a
gifted storyteller and her accounts of the
Seminole natives, early rancher ‘crackers’
and of her inn riveted me. The Seminole
Inn has been welcoming guests since 1926
and has been in the Flewelling family for
40 years. Stays can be as relaxing as rocking
on the wooden chairs on the porch or
as adventurous as hunting for wild hogs.
But what they are best known for is their
country brunch. “We draw people in from
Jacksonville to Miami and often book out,”
says Jonnie. After partaking in their southern
fare of biscuits, meatloaf, collard
greens and the crispy fried chicken, I could
understand why.
“My mother stood over me for 20 years
before she let me make it myself,” said
Jonnie.
These recipes, and more importantly the
stories that permeate every detail of the
Seminole Inn, is a legacy to be proud of,
and are perfect examples of what riches
visitors can find on Florida’s Treasure
Coast.
www.discovermartin.com
If you go: Most visitors fly to either Orlando
or Fort Lauderdale and drive to the
Treasure Coast. Driving distance is 60 to
90 minutes depending on the destination.
We stayed at the Hampton Inn in both Vero
Beach and Stuart and were impressed with
their convenience, service and full breakfasts.
www.visitflorida.com
75
Canadian World Traveller Summer/Fall 2016

76
Nebraska
Plains and Cranes
Article & Photography by Ron Paquet
Placed in the heart of America,
Nebraska has boundless grasslands,
which is used for the major
industries of the state, beef, pork, corn and
soybeans. Farming and ranching engage
most of the some 2 million residents, but
there are many other reasons to visit this
Great Plains state.
As beef farming is a major industry in
Nebraska, all local restaurants serve copious
amounts of beef steak for very reasonable
prices. With so much choice, it’s hard to pick
a favorite, but must highlight Alley Rose in
Kearney, where their 16-ounce prime rib can
be had for a mere $18. The town of about
30,000 is known for the trains that cross
through the downtown area every seven
minutes, for a total of 190 trains over a 24
hour period!
Our trip took us to McCook, in the far western
region of Nebraska to view the Prairie
Chickens. They are difficult to find in the
wild and it is quite a procedure. You have to
climb out of bed before dawn to settle into
one of the blinds, which is basically a horse
trailer with portholes, to view the chickens. It
is quite a ritual, as the males puff themselves
up, strut, fight and dance on the lek (the traditional
display ground) and begin trying to
attract a mate. There is usually only one
female for every 10 or more males, so they
all have to flaunt their best. This show goes
on for a couple of hours and lasts for several
months.
However, the real highlight of Nebraska
tourism is viewing the Sandhill Cranes, which
draws upwards of 30,000 people each year
to reserves like the Crane Trust Sanctuary in
Wood River near Grand Island, and the
Audubon Society's Rowe Sanctuary in
Gibbon near Kearney. Crane season lasts
for six weeks from the beginning of March
until mid April, and the very shallow Platte
river features the largest gathering of
Sandhill Cranes in the world during their
Spring migration from wintering on the Gulf
Coast to their summer time breeding
grounds in Northwestern Canada and
Siberia.
For a mere $35, you can spend three hours
watching over 400,000 cranes as they all

chatter in unison before taking off in great
groups headed for surrounding corn fields.
They spend their days eating corn left from
harvests of fields near the river, building their
strength for the long flight north; at night
they sleep islands in the river perched on one
leg. Before dawn, the murmuring begins and
thousands of Cranes begin filling the skies as
they head off for a day of feeding.. Flash
photography and talking is not permitted in
the blinds (viewing stations) as this will scare
the birds away.
The Audubon Row Sanctuary and the Crane
Trust Sanctuary (both charitable organizations)
offer the best viewing opportunities
with blinds located very near the birds. The
Crane Trust offers overnight packages priced
at $1,000 a night, including a private cottage,
all meals and multiple Crane viewings.
Devoted bird watchers will also enjoy a drive
south from Kearney to the Harlan Reservoir
near Republican City to see the White
Pelicans who are also returning to the state at
this time of year.
Once the bird viewing is over there are
numerous heritage museums dotting the
countryside where you can view early 19th
century history with all its artifacts.
Indigenous peoples lived in the region for
thousands of years before European exploration.
Once European exploration, trade,
and settlement began, both Spain and
France sought to control the region. Artifacts
from the periods are found in small museums
throughout the state, but there are all
sorts of interesting stops.
Kearney hosts a classic car collection of
some 200 vintage and modern cars, including
the 130 cars automobile collectors
Bernie and Janice Taulborg donated to the
museum. It includes a wide range of gangster
and vintage cars, including a one of a
kind 1938 Rolls Royce Wraith Limo, two rare
Locomobiles and three Pierce Arrows. Also
on display are two rare Lincolns from the Full
Classic era, a 1930 Convertible by LeBaron
which is one of only 80 produced and a
1930 Dual Cowl Phaeton, which is one of
only 20 manufactured worldwide. These are
accompanied by similarly rare models from
Packard and Cadillac, Buick and LaSalle.
There are many rare brands, including some
that most of us have never seen before, like
Moon, Gardner, Maxwell, Jewett, Gray and
Metz. Among these you will also find wonderful
models from Studebaker, Hudson,
Mercury and Chrysler.
The collection also showcases exquisite and
over the top 1950’s cruisers, from the huge
tailfins on a 1959 Cadillac to the stylish
overload of an exquisite 1957 Mercury
Turnpike Cruiser and 1958 Studebaker
Golden Hawk, and of course, the timeless
Thunderbird. Their Muscle Car collection
includes several rare Mopar cars made by
Chrysler, a very rare supercharged Shelby
Mustang GT 350 developed by Carl Shelby,
and early Pontiac GTO. Other rare sports
cars are also on display from Ferrari,
Porsche, DeLorean, Lancia, Bricklin, MG and
Triumph. Our 1930 MG Boattail Roadster,
with its wood framed, fabric covered body is
a wonderful look at the origin and history of
the sports car.
A trip through Gothenburg will let you visit a
piece of transportation history by seeing an
original Pony Express way station. They
promised mail delivery to the West within 10
days; however, the service was discontinued
in 1891 after a year due to the introduction
of the transcontinental telegraph!
To obtain a sense of America and how it
grew requires a drive to Pioneer Village in
Minden which includes 28 buildings, showcasing
more than 50,000 objects from the
second quarter of the 19th century. It features
household appliances such as stoves,
refrigerators, washing machines and bathtubs,
the development of lighting, firearms,
money, radios and televisions.
The museum also features the largest collection
of farm tractors and other farm machinery
in the world, more than 350, beginning
with a 1897 steam car. Other historic vehicles
include an ox cart, a prairie schooner, a
stagecoach, horse-drawn street car, electric
trolley, and all varieties of buggies, carriages,
coaches, and carts, along with bicycles
and even airplanes!
Another exciting visit to be had is the Stuhr
Museum in Grand Island, which brings you
back in time to the 1890s. The museum is
home to over 100 buildings devoted to this
time period. You can view a 1901 steam
locomotive, an 1871 coach and a 1912
caboose.
It also features some 200 antique horse
drawn carriages, steam-powered engines,
tractors, threshers and trucks that represent
the birth and evolution of the state's agricultural
heritage. There are sixty 100 year-old
shops, homes, and other structures and a
seven-acre rail yard depicting the history of
steam railroading in Nebraska. A real trip
down memory lane!
Unique to North America is Nabraska`s
Great Platte River Road Archway which spans
high across the I-80, resembling a covered
bridge between two towers. Within its towers
you can revisit 150 years of American history.
Finally, it is worth mentioning some of the
exceptional restaurants throughout the plains
of Nebraska. The Coppermill Steakhouse
and Lounge Restaurant in McCook is worth a
visit to enjoy a great Nebraska steak dinner.
Another incredible dining experience can be
found at the Chances R restaurant, featuring
one of the largest salad bars in Nebraska
with a variety of cold meats and vegetables.
From bird watching to visiting unique museums
and fine dining, Nebraska offers something
for everyone. The annual Sandhill
Crane migration, one of the ten great animal
migrations in the world according to internationally
famed naturalist Jane Goodall, who
comes every year, is the perfect reason to
make the trip.
www.visitnebraska.com
77
Canadian World Traveller Summer/Fall 2016

78
Clear Blue Skies
Lufthansa Airlines
Afavorite of world travellers, Lufthansa is
constantly pushing the limits of comfort,
style and technology.
The aviation giant has been in existence in one
form or another since the early 1900s! Adapting
to changing times, from oil crises to training the
first female pilots, Lufthansa has been a leader at
every level.
Their fleet complies with the highest level of noise
reduction and are at the cutting edge of environmental
technology, and with almost 600 aircraft,
they are in exclusive company with the largest US
aeronautical giants. And though the Lufthansa
Group has 540 subsidiaries in logistics, MRO,
Catering and Other business segments, their
main focus has always been on flying people
around the world in style and elegance.
Visiting Germany has never been easier! With hundreds
of flights from their hubs in scenic Dusseldorf, historyladen
Berlin, the financial centre of Frankfurt and others,
Lufthansa flies throughout the country and beyond.
Lufthansa has been operating in Canada for over 50
years, and whether you want to ride in the visually stunning
first class or comfortable economy, there is space for
everyone. Lufthansa has six from Canada to Germany,
including Montreal-Munich, Toronto-Frankfurt, Toronto-
Munich, Vancouver-Frankfurt , Montreal-Frankfurt and
Vancouver-Munich.
Named “Europe’s Leading Airline” for the fifth time in a
row at the 2015 World Travel Awards, this amazing company
offers one of the best travel experiences available!
www.lufthansa.com
Canadian World Traveller Summer/Fall 2016