EZTravelpad

Intercontinental Thalasso Resort & Spa - Bora Bora in French Polynesia - A Review

Intercontinental Thalasso Resort & Spa in Bora Bora is Phenomenal

 

Welcome....

 

The Intercontinental Resort & Thalasso Spa is located on a motu (small islet) just off the main island of Bora Bora in The Society Islands of French Polynesia - or in short- The South Pacific. Actually the name of the spa is The Deep Ocean Spa so check out that link....

As the name implies, this resort is all about the spa. From the moment you step foot into the reception area you immediately notice soothing mood music - relaxing - totally. The decor, layout and furnishings are all designed to be in harmony with the spa nature of the resort....

Initially I wondered, what is a Thalasso spa? As they say everyday is a school day, so if YOU don't know - here goes....

A Thalasso spa specializes in Thalassotherapy (derived from the Greek word ‘thalassa’ which means ‘sea’). The spa uses the beneficial aspects of the marine environment- the climate, sea water, seaweed and algae, mud and sand—all for therapeutic purposes. This spa even uses the seawater for air conditioning!

Sea water is sucked from a depth of 3500 feet (trust me- it's cool down there) and circulated amongst the buildings on property for cooling purposes. The water is available from this fountain in the spa and guests are encouraged to take a daily sip - maybe 1/2 oz or less for better health. I did, and it's not bad...

 

 

Like nearly every resort in French Polynesia the bulk of the buildings are bungalows. All guest rooms are in bungalows at this Intercontinental resort, as are the massage therapy rooms which are located in the overwater bungalows pictured below.  Guests can enjoy a soothing massage while relaxing as they watch fish swimming in the reef immediately below the massage tables - Clear viewing windows in the floors allow an up close experience and are a fixture of most overwater bungalows in the area, another part of the experience of French Polynesia...

 

 

Had a long flight and feeling like your ankles are swollen from the lack of mobility combined with the warmth and humidity of the climate? This may be just the ticket- a Deep Chiller Walk pool. The pool of cool water is approx 25 feet in length and designed to  allow you to walk back and forth in shallow cool water while being pounded by current...nice!

 

Tying the Knot

Considering French Polynesia as a destination for your wedding? There may exist a more romantic view than this, but if there is I am unaware of it. Imagine exchanging your vows in front of a huge plate glass window featuring Mt Otemanu as a backdrop - and standing on a clear floor with the reefs below..... this is the wedding chapel that dreams are made of.

A memory that will never, ever fade

 Yes, I have an inside shot of the view, but trust me- it just doesn't do it justice. Maybe a more professional photographer can- check this link

 

So yes, the spa is amazing - the wedding chapel is to die for - but what about the accommodations? How are the bungalows? Are they nice? How are the views? See for youself at their website. Suffice to say that the huge picture windows that are located at the foot of the King-sized beds in the bedrooms of the bungalows will afford a view like no other - provided that you know what to ask for.....

 

So is the Intercontinental Resort & Thalasso Spa the top resort in Bora Bora? Probably not for everyone. Some might opt for a larger resort - others may choose somewhere a bit more family friendly....but if you are a spa enthusiast who supports Green initiatives and you want to totally relax during your escape in paradise then this may be the best resort for you in all of French Polynesia.....

Can you book it thru some online "discount" source?

Sure- but why would you when the voice of experience is waiting for you - "Your friends....in the travel business" are here to help - Consider EZTravelpad - your source for unbiased advise and best price.

Vacationing in Cozumel- Park Royal and Eco Divers is a Great Combination!

When planning your vacation to Cozumel here are a couple of Great Options

Cozumel is for divers. With an excellent barrier reef just moments away from your hotel room, Cozumel has long been a mecca for diving afficianados, and with good reason. There are many scuba diving companies to choose from, but my pick is Eco Divers, located in downtown San Miguel.

Just get in touch with Jorge and let him know that Scott from EZTravelpad sent you. Not only will you receive fantastic personal service, but you'll also experience getting to the reef quickly on the fastest scuba boat on the island! But don't expect to dive with a dozen others, this is for just a handful of diving friends....trust me, then you'll trust them - they're great!

Where to Stay-

 Park Royal - All-Inclusive close to all the action

 There are many options for lodging in Cozumel, ranging from a couple resorts at $750 per person (double occupancy) for 1 week including air (from Chicago)... to The Presidente Intercontinental Cozumel, which offers a Reef Suite for about $5849 per person for a week in early December

So you can see that accomodations vary widely, and there is something for everyone....

On a recent trip to Cozumel I stopped in at Park Royal, just moments from Puerto Maya (the cruise ship terminal that serves Cozumel).

 

At Park Royal they really know how to make you feel welcome. Not only was there an awesome greeting waiting for us when we pulled up, but the staff just wouldn't take no for an answer when they offered refreshments upon arrival.

This high rise hotel features an impressive palapa that covers an open air lobby steps down to stone pathways. This superior Resort All Inclusive offers beautiful surroundings, upscale accommodations and warm personalized service, offers the best facilities for group and conventions.

 

All 348 rooms have private, glass balconies, and the vast majority have breathtaking ocean views.

 

Facing one of the biggest reefs, guests enjoy a fine selection of restaurants and bars, an exciting kid’s club, a dynamic fitness room and refreshing pools. It is a truly beach front property, to get the beach, one would have to walk through the hotel owned underpass.

 

Park Royal Cozumel is located right in front of Playa Paraiso, which is one of the largest reef barriers existing in Cozumel. Along with its spectacular settings, Park Royal Cozumel is within walking distance to main shopping and entertainment centers, only 5 minutes away from San Miguel downtown and 15 minutes from the airport.

 

Park Royal Cozumel recreates in its decoration and design, the best of two worlds: the mayan and the modern. A number of original sculptures and art work can be found throughout the property, making the place special and unique. The hotel has been built with extreme respect for the natural environment with it's all original palm trees and plants, this is why the hotel main pool is surrounded by beautiful greenery.

The view of Park Royal as seen from Royal Caribbean's Navigator of the Seas

 

Park Royal is located, as you can see, VERY close to the port, so shopping duty free is very convenient, but if you would prefer to make your way into downtown San Miguel it is a short $7 taxi ride - and there you will find shopping galore...plus all of the typical tourist traps like Senor Frog's. Hard Rock, Carlos & Charlies,as well as Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville - but if you want to get off the beaten path and save some money, my pick is Las Boyas. The friendly proprietor is eager and ready to serve....

Las Boyas - Cozumel

plus the establishment offers entertainment in a clean, safe environment - plus it is CHEAP by tourist standards. Our latest trip there included 9 Cervezas plus plenty of botanas (appetizers) and we got out of there for under $20 including tip! Then, there is the added bonus that you can hear each other... it's a local crowd- and is HIGHLY recommended for those wanting to experience the culture - the REAL Cozumel

Back to Park Royal

The beach at Park Royal is small, but comfortable, and a great place to experience the sunset. During the day when cruise ships are in port you could find a few cruisers enjoying their day in Cozumel at this resort on a day pass, but it certainly isn't overcrowded....

 

 Cruise ship passengers enjoying a day at the beach at Park Royal in Cozumel

 

 

 Entertainment venue at Park Royal is open-air

 

View from a balcony at Park Royal - Royal Caribbean's Navigator of the Seas in the background

Rooms at Park Royal are not fancy - this is the typical room - in fact the only room (although a King bed ipo 2 double beds is available) - but other than how high up in the tower you are, this is it, so for the luxury seeker we'll suggest a different spot - that said, the accommodations are clean, of good quality, and perfectly fine - a great value for under $1k pp including air!

Several dining options are available including Mexican & Italian a la carte restaurants, plus a buffet, snacks, and more than a few places to grab a cocktail. In fact, tables in the sports bar feature a chilled center to help keep you drinks cold!

So all in all, a trip to Cozumel staying at Park Royal, diving with Eco Divers and spending an evening at Las Boyas- that's what affordable vacations are made of!

For help putting this together, or other vacation ideas from luxury to budget, ask "Your friends....in the travel business" EZTravelpad - where we have the ideas and the contacts to help make your vacation memorable- after all, that's what it is all about!

Grand Cayman and Stingray City - a MUST see at some point

A stop at Stingray City in Grand Cayman is a stop you will NEVER forget

Vacations are all about making memories, and a memory that is sure to last a lifetime is a stop at Stingray City in Grand Cayman. My memory might not be the best, but I am pretty confident that I will never forget swimming with Stingrays, feeding Stingrays, Kissing a Stingray, and having Stingrays rub up against me like a kitty cat does when she wants fed - pretty amazing!

There are many vendors, but the original - Captain Marvin's is certainly one of, if not the best trip you will take to Stingray City. There is so much to be said for going with a small group. While we were there I noticed that while our boat carried 12 passengers, most others carried 30-50, a pretty big difference!

What does that mean for you? More chances to feed the stingrays, more chances to have interaction with the stingrays, and more personal attention from the crew.

Stingray City might have been the most memorable stop, but it wasn;t the only one - there are also chances to snorkel reefs while you are out.

Cayman Turtle Farm and Hell

Feeding and interacting with the stingrays is a stop you will not soon forget, but neither is a stop at the Cayman Turtle Farm - a large facility dedicated to raising endangered Sea Turtles

Learn about different varieties of Sea Turtles, learn about the lives of Sea Turtles, and interact with them at various stages of their lives-

When is the last time you had the opportunity to hold a baby Sea Turtle, not yet 3 weeks old?

Of course, no trip to Grand Cayman is complete with a trip to Hell

A trip to Hell is a popular stop while in Grand Cayman- famous for their postcards, and for their unique rock formation just behind the Hell post office

So how can you go to Hell while you are in Grand Cayman? It's easy- get with EZTravelpad.

OK, that didn't really sound right - what I mean is that you can book your excursions while you are on board, and a trip to Hell, Cayman Turtle Farm & Stingray City are things that you can arrange, but why not get with EZTravelpad BEFORE you embark on your cruise - plan ahead so that while you are on-board you can enjoy every minute knowing that your vacation is already arranged, plus you will likely save a few dollars vs. booking on the cruise ship!

Other Things to do in Grand Cayman

Of course, you can enjoy yourself on Grand Cayman without going to one of the aforementioned attractions (although I HIGHLY recommend Stingray City) - for many a trip to an island would not be complete without a trip to Margaritaville, and Grand Cayman is no exception.

No self-respecting Parrothead would pass up a chance to hang at Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville, even if just for an hour or so....

waterslide into the pool after a few margaritas!

Or just shop, eat, or take a taxi to hang out at the world famous 7 Mile Beach - beautiful!

Lastly, you can dive. Grand Cayman is one of the best spots for scuba diving in the Caribbean. Basically Grand Cayman is a flat topped mountain poking just several feet above the Caribbean - just a short trip into the surf takes you to "The Wall" - a straight drop of a couple thousand feet, so the diving is both varied and amazing!

So one more time, you can do it yourself, or you can enlist the help (FREE help) of a travel professional at EZTravelpad - there is a reason that we are "Your friends....in the travel business"

Eat, Pray, Love - More than another movie opening today

Eat, Pray, Love

Eat, Pray, Love is a new movie starring Julia Roberts that opens in many theaters today, Aug 13.

It is the story of one woman's search for - Everything.  Adapted from a 2006 memoir by American author Elizabeth Gilbert, the story of self-discovery is set across the globe in amazing destinations such as Italy, India and Indodesia.

Eat, Pray, Love sets the stage for Bali (an island in Indonesia)to be the next tourist Hot Spot.

Ubud, Bali – is the place where the author learns how to balance earthly treasures with spirituality and discovers the meaning of love. Ubud is a spiritual place hidden in the mountainous region of Bali, often referred to as Bali’s cultural capital, where the countryside remains unspoiled, with lush rice paddies and coconut trees and it offers rich cultural experiences. A true hidden paradise at exceptional value for money.

Recently EZTravelpad featured 4 Tours to immerse yourself in Bali's History and Culture

In addition, we also posted Top 5 Bali Holiday information tips for a Great Getaway

Here is a sample of what EZTravelpad could help with- at rates that are VERY competitive

• 4 nights Nusa Dua, The Grand Bali
• 4 nights Ubud, Alila Hotel
• Travel like the local on your full day Eco Cycling tour through towns, villages to rice fields with a invitation to a traditional house compound and temple included
• Full day tour to the Elephant Safari Park and enjoy an Elephant Safari through the Jungle
• Roundtrip Transfers Private Car Transfers Hotel/Airport
• Breakfast daily

You can see the world on your own- it's a great way to go...

Or

See the world with the help of a pro who can guide you, and help avoid mistakes, maybe even save you some money.

In either case- See The World!!

Shooting Wildlife and African Natives (through a lens) with Top Professionals

Reason # 643 to use a Travel Consultant-

It's not WHAT I know, it's WHO I know!!

I have friends that operate a specialized tour agency near Charlotte, North Carolina called Hills of Africa.

They specialize in travel and tours to Africa, and do a tremendous job. The following is a brief "snapshot" of a trip they are putting together. If you would like to get involved, please contact me ASAP

• Do you want to learn how to make the most of their digital camera while photographing some of the best subjects in the world—the people, land, and wildlife of Africa?
• Have you dreamed of having your own portfolio of stunning African photographs decorating your home or office?
• Are you passionate about nature and wildlife?
• Do you think it would be cool to have your own fabulous headshot, taken in Africa by one of the best headshot photographers in the world, Peter Hurley?

If you answered “Yes” to any of the above, then you must contact EZTravelpad immediately to learn more information regarding a tremendous opportunity to see Africa through the lens of a top US tour operator that specializes in Africa and is putting together this trip of a lifetime with top photographers.

This 12-day journey will take place in September 2010 and take you through Southern Africa, where you will capture the people, the land, and the wildlife through the lens of a camera, under Peter Hurley and David West’s watchful instruction and coaching.

You will enjoy guided tours through spectacular Cape Town, wine tastings in some of the world’s oldest and best wine estates, visits to local community projects helping to revive townships, tours to one of the Seven Wonders of the World—Victoria Falls—and the magic of a Zimbabwe safari tour at the peak of game-viewing season.

As if that isn’t enough, travel with expert guides and two professional photographers who will teach you everything you need to know to take professional-quality photos.

Then, for the cherry on top...when you return from the journey, you will have the opportunity to submit up to three of your best photographs to be included in a collection that will become a coffee-table book. The proceeds from the sale of this book will go to the Hills of Africa Foundation, which promotes sustainable, responsible tourism and its benefits to the people, land, and wildlife of Africa.

Act quickly.  they are currently offering a generous early bird discount which expires on April 24, 2010.  Don’t miss out on this amazing experience!!!!!

Happy New Year- And Some Interesting Thoughts on Giving Back

Happy New Year!

It is January 1, 2010 Time to begin a plan of attack- the first day (and for some the last day) of sticking to those New Year's resolutions. For some, giving back will be part of the equation. I recently ran across this and thought today would be a good day to share it-

I've been reading "The 4-Hour Workweek" by Tim Ferris. It's a good read, some interesting points, especially for anyone who wants to find the secret of breaking out of the dull 9-5 x 40 hour routine. 

Here's a passage I thought was worth a reprint-

Service for the Right Reasons:

To Save the Whales, or Kill Them and Feed the Children?

One would expect me to mention service in this chapter, and here it is, the twist a bit different.

Service to me is simple: doing something that improves life besides you own. This is not the same as philanthropy. Philanthropy is the altruistic concern for the well-being of mankind-human life. Human ife has long been focused on the exclusion of the environment and the rest of the food chain, hence our current race to imminent extinction. Serves us right. The world does not exist solely for the betterment and multiplication of mankind.

Before I start chaining myself to trees and saving the dart frogs, though, I should take my own advice. Do not become a cause snob.

How can you help starving children in Africa when there are starving children in Los Angeles? How can you save the whales when homeless people are freezing to death? How does doing research on coral destruction help those people who need help now?

Children, please. Everything out there needs help, so don't get baited into "my cause can beat up your cause" arguments with no right answer. There are no qualitative or quantitative comparisons that make sense. The truth is this: Those thousands of lives you save could contribute to a famine that kills millions, or that one bush in Bolivia that you protect could hold the cure for cancer. The downstream effects are unknown. Do your best and hope for the best. If you're improving the world - however you define that - consider your job well done.

Service isn't limited to saving lives or the environment either. it can also improve life. If you are a musician and put a smile on the face of thousands or millions, I view that as a service. If you are a mentor and change the life of one child for the better, the world had been improved. Improving the quality of life in the world is in no way inferior to adding more lives.

Service is an attitude.

Find the cause or vehicle that interests you most and make no apologies.

Thanks Tim Ferris- I really liked that, and absolutely agree.

If getting involved in something much bigger than yourself is something you fancy, then check out i-to-i to see what's going on around the world- then get with EZTravelpad for savings on whatever you choose to get involved in.

Make you life better today, by giving back- and Happy New Year!

Beach, Volcano, Banana Plantation, Hot Springs, as seen on Wheel of Fortune!

Wheel of Fortune Prize Available at less than Half Price thru EZTravelpad (plus no taxes to pay!) 

Sometimes while having dinner, my wife and I are prone to watching Wheel of Fortune- 

I really don't know why- 

Anyway, if you have seen Wheel of Fortune before you will know that they have many trips and vacations as prizes

The other night They offered this very trip as a gift, and while I cannot confirm the exact value they indicated, it was definitely over $6000.

I just pulled a typical flight from Chicago to San Jose, Costa Rica. Based on what I found, EZTravelpad could put this itinerary together - including air, for under $3000 ($1500 per person). 

Based on this, I would suggest it is a good idea to let EZTravelpad help with your vacation planning needs!

Dear Traveler, Welcome to a great vacation at an affordable price. Your Caravan Latin America tour includes all meals in Latin America, all activities, all hotels, a great itinerary, all airport transfers, all transportation and excursions. A professional tour director accompanies you for the entire tour. Purified water at meals. Free bottled water on motor coach. Join the smart shoppers and experienced travelers who have chosen Caravan for more than 50 years.

Happy Travels! Caravan Tours

Begins and Ends: San Jose, Costa Rica

Day 1 - San Jose, Costa Rica

Welcome to the "rich coast," friendly land of democracy and rare natural beauty. With naturalist guides, see exotic birds and wildlife, hike in jungle rainforests, view volcanoes, soak in hot springs and cruise through biological reserves. Relax on both the Atlantic and Pacific coasts. Caravan provides transfers from the San Jose airport to your hotel for a two night stay. Rooms are available for check in after 3:00 p.m. Dine at your hotel, then join Caravan for an 6:00 p.m. welcome briefing.D

Day 2 - Poas Volcano, Cloud Forest Hike

This morning enjoy a drive through Costa Rica's famous coffee growing region. Next, weather permitting, visit Poas Volcano. You can safely view inside the dramatic crater from an overlook. Next, hike the Escalonia Cloud Forest Trail, home to epiphytes, orchids, ferns and tropical hummingbirds. Cloud forests are like rainforests, but with less rain and more humidity. Lunch. Visit the National Museum. See ancient mysterious stone spheres. Then, see San Jose's Plaza de la Cultura, Central Park and the National Theatre. Visit the Gold Museum. Enjoy dinner.BLD

Day 3 - Butterfly Garden, Tortuguero Park

Scenic morning drive through Braulio Carrillo Park. Look for cascading waterfalls. Visit a butterfly garden. See a banana plantation. Then, cruise through rivers and canals to the 47,000 acre Tortuguero National Park. Tortuguero is home to more than 300 species of birds. Look for toucans, parrots, kingfishers and the rare green macaw. Enjoy lunch. Next, an afternoon boat excursion into Tortuguero Park. Look for otters, turtles and manatees. Listen to the joyful sounds of the jungle. Enjoy a two night stay at your lodge. Dinner.BLD

Day 4 - Tortuguero Park, Canal Cruise

Cruise this morning with naturalist guides along canals lined by raffia palm, habitat of howler and white-faced monkeys, green iguanas and tropical birds. Look for white and snowy egrets and the amazing nests of the montezuma oropendola. Then, enter the mysterious reflecting waters of Cano Palma wildlife reserve. Next, visit the Green Turtle Research Station. Learn about efforts to protect the turtle's nesting habitat, eggs and young hatchlings. Walk along the Atlantic turtle nesting beaches with a naturalist guide. Next, to Tortuguero village. Meet Costa Rican school children on your visit to a local school (when in session). Return to your lodge for lunch. Free time to enjoy the swimming pool and tropical flower gardens at your lodge. Dinner.BLD

Day 5 - Pineapple Tour, Fortuna

Morning cruise on Tortuguero River. Enjoy lunch. Visit a pineapple plantation. Sample Costa Rica's famous sweet organic pineapples. Next, through scenic countryside to the San Carlos Valley for a two night stay in Fortuna. Dinner.BLD

Day 6 - Cano Negro, Hot Springs, Arenal

Head north this morning, passing through sugar cane, teak and orange plantations. Then, cruise on the Rio Frio which runs through the world famous Cano Negro wildlife refuge, home to many migratory birds found nowhere else in Costa Rica. Look for whistling ducks, roseate spoonbills, cormorants, anhingas, blue heron, and northern jacanas. Watch for caimans, crocodiles, spider monkeys and web-footed, water-walking lizards. Lunch. Return to Fortuna. Free time to explore this charming village. Then, enjoy a relaxing soak in the volcanic hot springs. Weather permitting, see nearby Arenal Volcano's softly glowing lava flow. Enjoy dinner. BLD

Day 7 - Hanging Bridges, Guanacaste

This morning enjoy an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the rainforest at the Hanging Bridges, rated one of Costa Rica's top tourist attractions. Hike on six suspension bridges, through lush tropical rainforest canopy. Enjoy views of a waterfall and look for tropical birds. Later, a scenic drive around Lake Arenal. Enjoy lunch. Then, tour a coffee cooperative where thousands of small family farmers process their coffee. Enjoy fresh Costa Rican coffee. Next, enter the Guanacaste province. Drive through the only tropical dry forest in Costa Rica. Stop in Liberia. Then, to Costa Rica's beautiful Pacific Coast for a two night stay. Dinner is at your resort. BLD

Day 8 - Pacific Coast, Guanacaste

This morning drive to the nearby Natural Trail of Hacienda Pinilla. This tropical bird and wildlife sanctuary is home to the playful howler monkey. Lunch. Enjoy a carefree leisurely afternoon. Time to beachcomb or swim the pristine beaches of your resort. Dinner. BLD

Day 9 - Handicrafts, Coffee Plantation

Morning drive through the cattle ranches of Guanacaste. Stop at the Monteverde Cooperative. Sample delicious Monteverde Cheese. Continue en route to the Central Valley, time to shop for colorful handicrafts, including painted oxcarts. Enjoy lunch. Return to San Jose. Farewell dinner. BLD

Day 10 - San Jose

Your tour ends after breakfast this morning at your hotel. Caravan provides transfers throughout the day to the San Jose airport. Thanks for vacationing with Caravan. ¡Hasta la vista! B

Having been to Costa Rica- I can assure you that this will be one unforgettable trip!

Teaching in Thailand, Seeing the World, Living YOUR Life

Experience a new culture, Help a child, Reward YOURSELF by Helping OTHERS

The following is a reprint from a special email I received today from i-to-i "meaningful travel"

Please remember that EZTravelpad can offer a price that is LOWER than what this indicates, so please feel free to click through, look, call them if you like, but come back to EZTravelpad to save even more money!
Email [email protected] or call 574-825-8079 or 919-624-2293
EZTravelpad is proud to offer the products and services of i-to-i, they are a fantastic company offering a superior product that can change YOUR life for the better, while you help others around the world...

Live The Thai Life! See And Work in Thailand With Flexible, Well-Paid and Hassle-Free Jobs - Enrolling Now

Limited spaces - Book today! 120hr + Teach English in Thailand Support Package from $1275 Call us on 800-352-1793

How Does 5 Months Living And Working In Thailand Sound? Announcing our new 'Teach English in Thailand Support Package'! Get your all-important first job and TEFL certification with no hassle and all the support you need during your contract in Thailand. Perfect for anyone who is new to working abroad and would value an easy start and friendly guidance overseas!

Here's what you'll get:

• You can choose from a 5 month or 11 month contract - Starting Oct 2009
• Your first job, expect to get paid a minimum of 27,500 Thai baht per month, that's $8,900 for an 11 month contract- the equivalent salary in the US would be around $38,000 in terms of a standard of living comparison (incredible but true!)
• This income is easily enough for you to see the country and experience the culture independently
• We'll organise EVERYTHING for you with our specially designed support package, starting with a friendly face at the airport!
• Risk Free Guarantee within 7 days - if you're not happy, we'll refund you, plain and simple

Learn more

The support package includes:

• Friendly meet and greet at the airport with transfer to orientation accommodation
• Your first 2 nights accommodation in Bangkok in a great guest house that even has a swimming pool
• Welcome dinner (and breakfast, lunch and dinner on day 2!)
• 3-day orientation including advice on how to get the most out of your students and a Bangkok city tour
• FREE Thai phrasebook - giving you a great headstart
• Mobile phone SIM card and top up - allowing you to call home and make your friends jealous
• On-going personal support throughout your contract
• FREE Thailand Lonely Planet guide
• FREE 20% discount voucher that can be used against any i-to-i travel package - a great way to treat yourself after you've finished teaching
• Full support during the application process
• 120 hour TEFL certification - ensuring you are ready for day 1 in the classroom

Get started here>>

This package will give you vital teaching experience and a fantastic opportunity to start (or continue) your TEFL career. More importantly, you'll get to see Thailand on your terms from the perspective of someone actually living there.

Only 50 spaces available and you must register before 18th Sept 2009 to depart October 2009 - Book today!

Call us on 800-352-1793 or click here to read more>>

Volunteer Tourism with i-to-i .... Meaningful Travel

What is Volunteer Tourism all about ?

Check out this video - it could change your life

Giving Back Can Mean Getting More

It's a basic philosophy - the more you give, the more you receive
Giving of yourself repays you in dividends throughout your life
Givers Gain
You may have already read a bit about i-to-i volunteer tourism.
Clicking this link allows you to search their website for a wide variety of life changing tours starting at only around $450 per week. Costa Rica is not the only destination, but it is one of the easiest and most economical to reach.

Volunteer in Costa Rica

When you volunteer in Costa Rica with i-to-i your time and effort will make a huge difference. You will also gain a deeper understanding of the country by working alongside local people or teaching English. We have a wide range of volunteering in Costa Rica projects including building homes, community development, conservation, sports coaching and teaching English in Costa Rica.

Can you imagine helping this little guy hatch from his egg, then turning him loose into the Caribbean surf?

Do you think that is something you could ever forget?

Ranges of Tours Available

• Wildlife Conservation
• Building Projects
• Environmental conservation
• Community Involvement
• Teach Sports
• Teach English
• Work with Children

Ask yourself, do you want another couple of weeks laying on the beach drinking beer (not that there's anything wrong with that) then dancing 'til dawn
or
Do you want to create a unique memory that will last a lifetime & make a difference is YOUR world ?

Discounts Available

i-to-i has made special arrangements for me to offer an additional discount thru 8-31-09 on any tour they offer. In other words, use your travel agent for better pricing than what is otherwise available!

Galapagos, are you ready for an Adventure? Is Eco-Tourism for YOU?

Galapagos Islands - just the name conjures Eco-tourism

Located at the equator, about 600 miles west of Ecuador, and home to a population of 12,500 human inhabitants, The Galapagos Islands are a World Heritage site that is rigidly protected, and rightly so.

This is the place that is home to the Giant Tortoise, Marine Iguanas, and a rich collection of other endemic species. Because of it's unique collection of species, this is the place where Charles Darwin visited, and perhaps, the inspiration for his theory of natural selection.

There are a number of cruise ships that serve The Galapagos Islands. Many are much smaller and more intimate than anything you have ever considered before- for example-

All cabins are air conditioned with private facilities. Additionally the yacht has ample resting areas, sundeck, library, TV-DVD room, comfortable dinning room, bar and lounge and Jacuzzi.

The yacht visits the most remote and less visited sites in the Galapagos Islands, you will practically have the Islands to yourselves during your 4, 5 or 8-day cruise!

or this

A fleet of three identical 20 passenger luxury yachts:  A seasoned captain, 8 dedicated crewmembers, and 2 experienced English-speaking naturalist guides attend to the details of your Galapagos cruise. Each naturalist takes a group of no more than 10 passengers on all shore excursions and shares extensive insights into the Islands' diverse wildlife. Small wooden boats locally called pangas ferry passengers to shore for Island visits.

If the time has come for you to consider your trip to the Galapagos, or perhaps combining with a trip to Ecuador (with it's rich bio-diversity), Chile (with it's coastal shores approximately 3000 miles in length) or Peru (Machu Picchu), EZTravelpad can steer you in the right direction.
One of our tour companies can be explored at this link.

If you know of someone who is interested in adding to their Bucket List of destinations, and you believe that the Galapagos Islands may be on their list, direct them to this location.
Have them get in touch directly with EZTravelpad.
There may never me a better time to see the world. After all, tomorrow is not guaranteed - today is a gift, that's why they call it the present!