Must See Alaska Cities

NOME:

There is no place like Nome! It was the off-season; however, so much to do from going out on the Bering Sea (frozen) with two local fishermen to check their pots, to a helicopter ride over the city of Nome to look for polar bears.

The only way to get to Nome is by plane, boat, or dogsled. Nome is the “end” of the Iditarod Sled Dog Race.

GIRDWOOD:

A great place for lovers of Mother Nature, 40 miles south of Anchorage. You must stay at the Alyeska Resort. At any time there is plenty to do—lots of outdoor activities. It’s a great place for anyone who likes to stay busy. Best place to eat is at Seven Glaciers restaurant on the mountain top. You have to purchase a tram ride pass to get to the restaurant. However, you can use this on your meal pass!

Another good restaurant is Jack Sprat. Nice family atmosphere and they use fresh foods daily for their meals. At the resort we went to “moose meadows” and went dog mushing. It was about 20-25 degrees and this is too warm for the dogs.

Girdwood has an airport. This is where you want to take a helicopter ride if the weather allows it. We were to go out over the Chugach Mountain Range; however, weather was not great so we went to Seven Mile Glacier and landed and got out to walk around on a glacier.

SEWARD:

This is a port city. The Alaska Sealife Center is a must-see for all ages. It is worth the extra money to go “behind the scenes” for the Puffin Encounter. You will be able to feed the puffins—they come right to you and take the food out of your hand.

You’ll also want to take a tour with Kenai Fords Catamaran and Cruise out on Resurrection Bay.

Anchorage, Alaska

Alaska Zoo is a must for all ages. However, it does involve a lot of walking on gravel and flat land up and down. You will get very close to the animals. Our group was able to get behind the scenes and up closer to polar bears, and were even able to touch a wolf.

Museum – has a lot of hands-on

Native Heritage Center – I really did learn a lot on the different types of homes. At the last home we went into, there was a surprise party given by Alaska TIA and Anchorage CVB members.

Must-see in Anchorage:

Alaska Zoo

Anchorage Museum

Alaska Native Heritage Center

Eat:

Ristorante Orso

Kinley’s restaurant and wine & beer (can do groups)

Hotel – Captain Cook

TSA Statement on New Security Measures for International Flights to the U.S.

article courtesy of the Transportation Security Administration

Today, the Transportation Security Administration issued new security directives to all United States and international air carriers with inbound flights to the U.S. effective January 4, 2010.

The new directive includes long-term, sustainable security measures developed in consultation with law enforcement officials and our domestic and international partners.

Because effective aviation security must begin beyond our borders, and as a result of extraordinary cooperation from our global aviation partners, TSA is mandating that every individual flying into the U.S. from anywhere in the world traveling from or through nations that are state sponsors of terrorism or other countries of interest will be required to go through enhanced screening. The directive also increases the use of enhanced screening technologies and mandates threat-based and random screening for passengers on U.S. bound international flights.

TSA Guidance for Passengers on Heightened Security Measures in Place Following Dec. 25 Incident

Article courtesy of the Transportation Security Administration website.

On Dec. 25, 2009, an individual on board Northwest Airlines Flight 253 set off a device and was subdued by passengers and crew. TSA wishes to acknowledge the heroic efforts of those individuals.

As a result of this incident, TSA has worked with airline and law enforcement authorities, as well as federal, state, local, and international partners to put additional security measures in place to ensure aviation security remains strong. Passengers traveling domestically and internationally to U.S. destinations may notice additional screening measures.

The American people should continue their planned holiday travel. TSA encourages passengers to remain observant and aware of their surroundings and report any suspicious behavior or activity to law enforcement officials.

Read a statement about the incident from Department of Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano.

Q: What additional security measures is TSA taking domestically?
A: TSA has a layered approach to security that allows us to surge resources as needed on a daily basis. We have the ability to quickly implement additional screening measures including explosive detection canine teams, law enforcement officers, gate screening, behavior detection and other measures both seen and unseen. Passengers should not expect to see the same thing at every airport.

Q: What additional security measures are being taken for international flights to U.S. destinations?
A: TSA issued a directive for additional security measures to be implemented for last point of departure international flights to the United States. Passengers flying into the United States from abroad can expect to see additional security measures at international airports such as increased gate screening including pat-downs and bag searches. During flight, passengers will be asked to follow flight crew instructions, such as stowing personal items, turning off electronic equipment and remaining seated during certain portions of the flight.

Q: Do passengers need to do anything differently to prepare for checkpoint security procedures? Has anything changed in terms of what passengers can bring in their carry-on or checked bags?
A: At this time, security checkpoint requirements for passengers departing U.S. airports remain the same. Passengers do not need to do anything differently, but they may notice additional security measures at the airport.

Q: Should passengers plan to arrive at airports earlier than normal?
A: Passengers traveling within the United States should give themselves extra time to check in and proceed through the security checkpoint before their flight, especially during the busy holiday travel season. TSA advises that passengers traveling on international flights to U.S. destinations allow extra time for security and arrive an additional hour earlier.

Q. How long will these measures remain in place?
A: TSA will continuously review these measures to ensure the highest levels of security.

DC Trip Quick Tips

Getting around – whether you fly or drive, if you want to visit more than just the “Mall,” stay at a hotel that has a metro in the near vicinity. That will make getting around DC and the outlying areas easy, more economical, and less stressful.  (The Mall is a long line of Smithsonian Museums)

Plan for the weather – No matter when you go, there will be times when you should be inside where it’s cool, dry, etc. vs. visiting monuments and memorials.  Check the weather forecast before your vacation and be flexible.

Getting the most out of your trip – be strategic when planning your itinerary. I group places that are close together so my fiancé and I aren’t spending a lot of time traveling from one attraction to another.

Best way to see most monuments and memorials – take a hop on/hop off tour. There are three companies that offer these tours in DC and tickets can be purchased at Union Station. One word of caution, don’t stay on the tour bus and complete the whole circuit and then go back to the attraction(s) of your choice. If you do, you’ll waste valuable time. Also, be sure to check on times the tours begin and end operation for the day as those vary depending on the time of year.

Washington DC…not just for politicians or history buffs

On this my fifth, yes folks fifth, trip to DC did I see all I wanted to? Heck no, but that just means I will be planning another vacation to that area in the not too distant future. What is the draw to this area? For me, it has a wealth of history, interesting architecture, museums galore, and it’s very affordable due to the many free attractions. Whether you are a history buff or not, there is something for everyone, including children, so it’s a perfect getaway for couples or families.

This trip my fiancé and I focused on monuments, memorials, and tours of famous buildings. Our first full day in DC saw us taking a hop on/hop off tour using Tourmobile. Why choose that company? I’ve used it before and find the route and amount of buses to be a good combination. Plus, this tour includes transportation to key sites at Arlington Cemetery. You will be surprised at how few sites you can visit in any given day, especially when you travel during “off season,” as was the case for myself. All in all, we were very happy to visit the Lincoln Monument, Korean Memorial, Jefferson Monument, and Arlington Cemetery. The Lincoln and Jefferson monuments have museums in the lower level. Arlington Cemetery was the highlight of our day. We stopped at the grave of President Kennedy and due to the timing of the tour, missed the next Changing of the Guard. This actually turned out to be the best thing that could have happened because we got to see not only the next Changing of the Guard, but also a formal ceremony of the laying of a wreath by a visiting dignitary. The ceremony included attendance by ceremonial units from the uniformed services, including the Army band. It was an honor to have attended. I also got my first up-close look at the secret-service at work.

The next three days of our trip found us taking tours I had scheduled in advance for the U.S. Capitol, White House, and Pentagon. The U.S. Capitol was interesting, however, if you visit be sure to get the first tour time. We had the third or fourth time and there were so many people in the building that it was hard to hear our guide. My fiancé and I were so excited to get tickets to tour the White House. Tours have to be requested through your Congressman months in advance and even then you aren’t guaranteed to get a spot. Was the tour worth it? No. Both of us were very disappointed with the little we got to see and the time that was wasted. Plus, no cameras or purses (yes, ladies no purses) are allowed. There is no place to store these items, so if you bring them you won’t be allowed in. So, what about the Pentagon? It was a sleeper hit with both of us. I requested a tour for myself and my fiancé as a “group” of two through the Pentagon website. The combined many “groups” together, which worked well. If you have trouble walking, you may want to avoid this tour as it’s 1.2 miles. Security is tight with two tour guides for each group, one in front and one in back, at all times. The guide that leads the tour in the front walks backwards while talking the majority of the tour. That feat alone was amazing to witness. I would definitely tour the Pentagon again.

Other tours included the Library of Congress (self-guided) and the Bureau of Engraving and Printing. The Bureau didn’t require timed tickets as it was off-season; however, if you go during busy season, tickets are required. I am so glad my fiancé and I went on this guided tour…big hit. To see the process they go through is amazing. You would be shocked at how much “paper” is printed each year. This is one tour I’d love to take 12-year-old my nephew on. Since we were in the general vicinity, we also went to the Washington Monument. You must get timed tickets in order to go to the observation area. I must say, even on an overcast day, it was so worth it. Be sure to get timed tickets early because even in the off-season they go fast.

Washington DC Slideshow

Philadelphia…my favorite sites

Philly is truly an amazing city to visit. From the people to the sites, this city was a highlight of our vacation. We only had one “official” day here, but what we saw left us wanting to visit again in the not to distant future. Below is a quick list of the sites we did get to see.

  • Independence Visitor Center – Located in the historic district, this should be your first stop if you want to visit Independence Hall. Very interesting exhibits that are free to view.
  • Independence Hall – Interesting and quick tour, well worth the time it takes to get free tickets from the Visitor’s Center. After the tour, we took quite a few gorgeous pictures of the building and park.
  • Liberty Bell Center – This was one of my “must sees” and I’m glad I got to finally see it in person.
  • Rocky Statue and Steps at the Philadelphia Museum of Art – Fun touristy site for movie buffs.
  • Washington Monument – breathing-taking monument located in front of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. It’s well worth your time to view this magnificent monument.
  • LOVE Statue at John F. Kennedy Plaza – My favorite site of Philadelphia. This is where the love-of-my-life proposed. We actually visited this during a quick morning trip into the city before a wedding we were going to attend, so we used metered parking. It was sprinkling when we arrived and knowing how the Parking Authority is, I didn’t want to let the meter run out. Luckily it stopped raining long enough for Michael to propose…the highlight of our trip.

Philadelphia Slideshow

Fallingwater…not just for architectural buffs

Fallingwater, located in Pennsylvania, is an amazing house designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in the 1930’s. It is an amazing feat where architecture is melded into nature. The house is built over a waterfall…astounding. Those who are fans of Frank Lloyd Wright, love architecture, or even just nature will enjoy visiting this house and the grounds. During our visit, we enjoyed the guided tour and then ventured out to walk around the grounds.

Some quick tips:

  • Be sure to book your tour early (call to reserve your spot or book online) to ensure you don’t miss out. Even in October, I saw days were sold out.  For those not interested in touring the house, you can still purchase a pass to walk the grounds.
  • Give yourself plenty of time. The small, guided tours take approximately an hour. Afterwards, you are allowed to wander the grounds and take pictures outside. My fiancé and I spent 3 hours here, but if it wouldn’t have been raining we would have spent more time. The scenery is absolutely breathtaking.
  • Be prepared for a lot of walking. There is a short hike to the house. From there, the tour takes you up and down many narrow stairs where you eventually end up on top of a small hill. Then you will need to trek back down or have the guide call a car to come get you for those who have problems walking.

View images from my trip.

Jane Larson, featured as Certified Agent of the month by Maison de la France

Name – Jane Larson, CTA (Manager, Performance Tour Division) – Retired

Company – Witte Travel & Tours (Grand Rapids, Michigan)

What is the primary focus of your business?
Our company has both a Vacation & Group Tour Department. I work in the Group Tour Department. The primary focus of our company is custom designed special interest tours: performance tours (choirs and other music groups), art, religious heritage, and French language. France continues to be one of our top destinations. (I am currently working on the final touches for three groups leaving for France in the next few weeks—two choirs, one from California & one from Canada and a heritage tour for three Catholic Universities).

When did you start the certification program?
I started the Travel Institute’s French Destination Specialist program in spring of 2004 and received the Travel Institute DS France certificate in July 2004. It seemed to take awhile before there was a fam trip that worked out for my schedule. I became a France Certified Agent after participating the Midi-Pyrenées Fam Trip from September 6 – 13, 2008. I think the Maison de la France/FGTO Certified Agent program sets the “gold standard” for European Government Tourist Board specialist/certification programs. I like the combination of taking the course and test and then participation in a fam trip to one region of France. Meeting with people from the local and regional tourist boards plus traveling with other French specialists helped to generate a lot of brainstorming on how we can all help to promote travel to France.

Where and when did you participate in the Fam trip and how have you applied the new information and skills you’ve learned from getting certified?
Upon returning from the September 2008 fam, I was immediately able to use some of my new contacts in the Midi-Pyrenées in the planning for a very specialized tour to this region of France. My client from Chicago (who is French) was thrilled with my suggestions for visits to some “out of the way” places for her tour. As far as other training, for those of us who sell France as a destination, I know many of us would love to have the opportunity for a “French language only” fam for agents who have at least a working knowledge of French. In addition to the focus on particular regions of France, you might consider more emphasis on niche markets (art & architecture, food & wine, religious heritage/pilgrimage, etc.).

How has your certification affected you business?
The France Certified Agent training has definitely had a positive affect on my business. Shortly after returning from the September fam trip (and in part because of being on the Board of our Alliance Française de Grand Rapids), I was interviewed by our local travel editor. Her column is featured in six other Booth papers in Michigan so this was wonderful exposure. With clients from all over the country, having this Certification helps to validate their decision to work with me for their specialized tours to France. (I am currently working on specialized 2010 tours to France for clients from Mississippi, Texas and Illinois).

I have so many wonderful memories and anecdotes from many years of traveling to France (both with and without groups) I could write a book. Here is the one that is probably the most unique:

My husband and I brought a group to Paris over the 1988/1989 New Year’s holiday to celebrate the beginning of the festivities for the French Bicentennial. For the New Year’s Eve party, we had barely sat down with our group when the waiter who was directly behind me, was bumped and spilled an entire tray of kir royal down my pale pink satin dress. After a few moments of shock, I calmly walked to the ladies room and then burst into tears. The French coat check girl came in and said (of course in French): “Don’t cry, don’t cry. Would you like another dress?” Before I could respond, she came back with a strapless blue dress with sparkles all over it. Feeling a bit like Cinderella, I put the dress on and it fit perfectly (to both or our amazement). She gave me a huge smile and said, “Ce sera votre année de bonne chance!” (This will be your year of good luck). She was certainly right. Before the end of 1989, thanks to my brother, I gained a wonderful French sister-in-law and on a British Airways sponsored fam trip to Monaco and Nice, I met Mr. Henk Witte who I now work for.