Crested Butte Launches the Snowcat Driving Experience

Crested Butte, CO, March 7, 2009 – Crested Butte Mountain Resort (CBMR), in conjunction with Prinoth, launches the Snowcat Driving Experience. Beginning March 7th, 2009, participants learn the basics of driving snowcats, grooming, pushing snow, and experience one of the best ski resort jobs on a closed course. The school incorporates initial classroom time for safety and operational instruction then students get out on the course to maximize the driving time.

We take everyone on a full tour of the machine, says Chris Corliss, CBMR’s Mountain Operations Manager. We do a complete walk around, discuss the parts and functions, then get going with live drive time. It’s a totally different experience and a ton of fun, too. Our instructors are the real folks on the mountain doing real work, so its not a watered-down version for people who do this.

The Snowcat Driving Experience is one-on-one instruction in a fully-functional Prinoth 275 Snowcat as used in Crested Butte’s grooming operations. Classes will run twice daily at 10am and 2pm four days a week (Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday) for the rest of the ski season. Group bookings are available by request.

Cost for the program is $275 and includes transportation from the Lodge at Mountaineer Square, some classroom time, and an hour of actual snowcat drive time. Family and friends are welcome to observe from our on-site tent (please mention at time of booking). Drivers must have a valid drivers license and be over 18 years old.

To book your Snowcat Driving Experience in Crested Butte, call 970-349-4554 or visit the Adventure Center.

Crested Butte has been named as Skiing Magazine’s #1 Best Steeps, #8 Best Trees, #10 Best Powder, and Outside Magazine’s Top Places To Live Now, Sunset Magazine’s # 3 Top Dream Towns, SKI Magazine’s #20 Readers Survey Top Resort, and SkiNet’s # 3 Top Ski Town. Crested Butte was also named one of America’s Best Small Ski Towns by Travel + Leisure Magazine and Conde Nast Traveler’s #13 Reader’s Poll Top Resort and most recently, Crested Butte Mountain Resort was named Top 10 Family Ski Resorts by ShermansTravel on MSNBC.

For more information about Crested Butte’s lodging, conference, meeting facilities, and special packages, call Crested Butte Vacations, (800) 600-2803 or visit the website at www.skicb.com. For information on ski area real estate opportunities call (970) 349-4999 or (877) 805-6109 or visit the website at www.cbliving.com.

Getting Back to Basics with Boundless Journeys

STOWE, Vt―Award-winning adventure tour company Boundless Journeys is renowned for creative, well-planned small group adventures to some of the world’s most exotic and exciting destinations. A collection of special, one-time departures for 2009 reflect a “Back-to-Basics” attitude – offering Boundless Journeys’ signature, award-winning travel at a value-oriented price. At a time when many tour operators are scaling back offerings or deeply discounting their usual trips, Boundless Journeys has taken a different approach, as company President, Matt Holmes explains: “This collection of trips reflects a very appropriate feeling that our travelers seem to have these days – they still want to travel, see the world, and have meaningful experiences along the way, but they are a little less concerned about thread count and wifi-access at each hotel. It’s a perfect time to focus on the core of what our trips have always been about: exciting, active itineraries, memorable cultural encounters, and authentic experiences every day.”

Find out more about these remarkable journeys at remarkable prices by calling 1-800-941-8010 or by visiting the Boundless Journeys web site, www.boundlessjourneys.com:

• Ireland: Western Islands Special Departure – Guests will escape to the Ireland of their imagination – complete with windswept isles, charming villages, and endless hiking options. August 25-September 1, 2009; 8 days; $2,995 per person

• Spain: Andalucia & the Alpujarras – Guests will be entranced by the glories of Moorish architecture, the simplicity of the unspoiled white villages of southern Spain, and the grandeur of the Alpujarra mountains. October 19-25, 2009; 7 days; from $3,195 per person

• Vermont: Peak Foliage Special Departure – Guests will discover two quintessential aspects of New England life – small towns and vibrant fall pastoral landscapes on this walking and hiking exploration of Boundless Journeys’ home state. October 11-15, 2009; 5 days; $1,895 per person

What to expect
Boundless Journeys’ “Back-to-Basics” small group tours get off the beaten tourist track to make the most of our active itineraries, cultural encounters, and signature authentic experiences at the best possible price. Accompanied by Boundless Journeys’ veteran local guides, you’ll travel comfortably (i.e. mostly private transportation and all accommodations with private baths) and meet local people every day.

Is it for you?
Like Boundless Journeys’ regularly scheduled tours, these “Back-to-Basics” trips are for those that prefer to travel with a spirit of spontaneity and a flexible attitude, and want to be active in areas that few other travelers see. These tours are designed to deliver the same exceptional experiences that our guests have become accustomed to, while incorporating elements that offer a tremendous value.

You should know…

• While Back-to-Basics accommodation choices reflect the local flavor and always offer private baths, they may lack some of the extensive amenities that are found on a typical Boundless Journeys adventure. For these trips, Boundless Journeys has focused on location, service, and charm, but not necessarily every 4- or 5-star convenience.

• The meals that included are of the same high standard Boundless Journeys always has on their tours, typically offering a full selection of a la carte menu items. They are memorable experiences that will add to your enjoyment and understanding of your chosen destination. However, fewer meals are included on these trips to allow you to venture out on your own, and keep your expenses within your budget.

Spending Money on Travel Memories Has More Positive Impact on Happiness Than Material Possessions

BILLINGS, MT, Feb. 23, 2009 – You’re torn. A new Armani Collezioni three-button suit from Neiman Marcus retails for $1,695, but you could spend the same amount on a 5-day guided hiking adventure to the Grand Canyon.

Money’s tight, but how you spend what you’ve got can impact how satisfied you become over time. Recent studies show that the satisfaction that comes from stamping experiences into memory outweighs and lasts longer than making purchases.

“It’s a no brainer. Memorable experiences are exactly what Austin-Lehman Adventures (ALA) is all about,” says Dan Austin, ALA’s co-founder and Director. “Our own experiences tell us that travel and the fond memories you bank in your mind is one investment that always appreciates over time.”

So in the spirit of a study by Ryan Howell, assistant professor of psychology at San Francisco State University, “Experiences make us happier than possessions” which aired recently on CNN.com: http://www.cnn.com/2009/HEALTH/02/10/happiness.possessions/index.html, Austin lays out some real-life, and current purchase vs. experiences comparisons.

Will it be…
• Armani at $1,695 or ALA’s Havasupai: a Grand Canyon Oasis Adventure (http://www.austinlehman.com/trips/havasupai__a_grand_canyon_oasis_adventure/53.php) at $1,698 that showcases iconic waterfalls and the Native American village of Supai, the most remote village in the country where the U.S. mail still arrives by packhorse?
• A pre-owned Men’s Rolex Oyster Perpetual “Airking” Watch from TheFinestWatches.com at $2,395 or ALA’s week-long Costa Rica Volcanoes and Jungle Multisport Adventure (http://www.austinlehman.com/trips/costa_rica___volcanoes___jungles_multisport/23.php) at $2,398 that includes navigating class IV rapids, hiking, biking and boating deep into the heart of Costa Rica’s untouched wilderness?
• A Sharp LC – 65″ LCD Widescreen TV from Radioshack.com at $3,499 or ALA’s 8 day & 7 night France – La Loire: Castles to Coteaux Cycling Adventure (http://www.austinlehman.com/trips/france___la_loire__castles_to_coteaux/65.php) at $3,498 that retraces the footsteps of Catherine de Medici, Leonardo da Vinci and Joan of Arc while cycling through villages and vineyards along the Loire, Indre and Cher rivers?

Austin adds, “The joy of buying a new car or home entertainment center will fade over time. The satisfaction and benefits of a great vacation keep you coming back for more. That’s why our rate of return business is one of the highest in the industry!”

In the worldwide arena of adventure travel companies, National Geographic Adventure magazine recently singled out Austin-Lehman Adventures (ALA), for its highest accolade as one of the “Best Adventure Travel Companies on Earth.”

Austin says he tips his hat to the ALA team that consistently delivers the ALA service promise to its discerning clientele. ALA takes pride in its extensive staff and guide training programs and boasts one of the most generous (1:6) guide to guest ratios in the business.

Austin-Lehman Adventures manages all of the arrangements for its selected destinations that include iconic regions of North, Central and South America as well as southern Africa and in spring 2009, cycling holidays in Europe. Small groups are limited to 12 guests (18 on family departures). Rates include first-class accommodations, most meals and beverages, expert guides, park entry fees, multisport activities such as hiking, biking, rafting, horseback riding and more, ground transportation, luggage service and unlimited memories.

For a copy of the 2009 catalog as well as information on ALA’s 66 unique itineraries for active adult and family travel, please call toll-free 1.800.575.1540, or e-mail info@austinlehman.com. To review current trips, schedules and itineraries you can log onto its website: http://www.austinlehman.com.

For more information and photos on Austin-Lehman Adventures please contact:

Sara Widness / 802-234-6704 / sara@widnesspr.com
or
Dave Wiggins / 303-554-8821 / d.wiggins@comcast.net

CRUISE WEST ANNOUNCES A CHILLING NEW DESTINATION FOR 2010 – ANTARCTICA

Seattle, WA – Continuing to add exciting new destinations to its global offerings, exploration cruise line Cruise West (http://www.cruisewest.com) is pleased to announce that it is adding an exclusive, 19-night Antarctica expedition to its product line-up for 2010.

On board the 114-guest, all-suite Corinthian II, a very select group of guests will have the opportunity to explore the very best that the most remote continent on earth has to offer. Ports of calls and sites include the Falkland, South Georgia and Orkney Islands as well as the Antarctic Peninsula and the myriad of islands that dot its shore.

“Cruise West is making a conscientious effort to keep itinerary offerings fresh and intriguing, said President and CEO Dietmar R. Wertanzl. “We are seeking out destinations that complement our core products, create excitement for repeat guests and appeal to new guests – so introducing Antarctica was a natural progression. The Corinthian II is a sister ship to our Spirit of Oceanus, so we know our repeat guests will feel right at home.”

Diversity – in cultures, landscape and temperatures – will be one of the hallmarks of this maiden voyage as guests begin their adventure in luxury at the Palacio Duhau Park Hyatt Hotel in Buenos Aires before departing for the quaint, southernmost city in South America, Ushuaia. After boarding the Corinthian II, guests will gain fascinating insight on the flora, fauna, history and geology via presentations by an expert staff of eight naturalists. In the tradition of Cruise West’s up-close, casual and personal style, guests will have extraordinary opportunities to view Rockhopper penguins in the remote British outpost of the Falkland Islands; thousands of King penguins and nesting grounds of wandering albatross in South Georgia, while simultaneously admiring the water-loving larger species of whales, fur seals, elephant seals and the icebergs and glaciers that surround them.

Antarctica, owned by no country but managed under a 46-country scientific treaty, is the fifth largest continent on the planet while remaining the least populated. Its exotic remoteness combined with legendary stories of exploration and adventure spur on the fantasies of armchair travelers and documentary-watchers all over the globe; for 114 Cruise West guests, the fantasy has now become an attainable reality.

Cruise West’s 19-night maiden voyage to Antarctica will depart February 7, 2010. Prices start at $13,899 (US dollars); save $1,000/person, based on double occupancy, by booking and paying in full by May 1, 2009. Travel Agents are encouraged to participate in Cruise West’s live online training programs. To view upcoming training classes visit http://www.cruisewestagents.com/training. The first Antarctica training will be held on March 5 at 6:00 p.m. PST/9:00 p.m. EST.

More information about advance reservations for this itinerary – as well as Cruise West’s other itineraries to destinations as diverse as Alaska, Panama and Costa Rica, Mexico’s Sea of Cortes, Japan, Vietnam, the Galapagos, the Pacific Northwest or the romantic rivers of Europe – can be found online at www.cruisewest.com or by calling 1-800-689-1783.

Contact: Jerrol Golden

Cruise West

jerrolg@cruisewest.com
206-733-5692/206-354-5202

CRUISE WEST ROLLS OUT ‘SPIRIT OF DISTINCTION’

~Introducing Compass Enrichment Program, Palate Wine & Food Program and Explorer Class Cabins ~

Seattle, WA – Cruise West
(www.cruisewest.com), one of the world’s leading providers of small-ship exploration cruises to the most fascinating destinations on earth, is revitalizing the overall guest experience this spring with several significant enhancements collectively called ‘Spirit Of Distinction.’ ‘Compass,’ a more robust enrichment program guided by a world class Board of Advisors, will be introduced for the enjoyment of all guests. The launch of ‘Palate’ Wine & Food Program will include an updated, award-winning wine list with food pairings and United States Sommelier Association certification for onboard servers. Several vessels will also offer the option to dine “alfresco,” and all sailings will enjoy new menu items. The well-appointed new Explorer Class cabin category, replete with upscale, eco-friendly amenities, will be added to three of the lines’ nine ships.

“We chose the name Spirit Of Distinction in keeping with the tradition of our ships’ names and to distinguish Cruise West from other lines. While exploration cruising continues to be our core focus and what we are known for, we are striving for continuous improvement by adding more value for our discerning guests,” remarked President and CEO Dietmar Wertanzl.

Designed to enhance the overall guest experience through meaningful and topical presentations, the renewed onboard enrichment program, Compass, will be introduced on all Cruise West itineraries. Four tenants comprise the points of Compass: science, culture, history and immersion. The Board of Advisors that will guide the new program includes world-renowned Oceanographer Dr. Don Walsh and noted Naturalist Brent Nixon. In addition, leading experts in diverse fields will serve as guest lecturers to complement the on-board Exploration Leaders’ provided narratives. Enrichment doesn’t end onboard. Guests will have additional opportunities to be immersed into the natural environment through an increased number of zodiac excursions on select itineraries.

A hallmark of the Cruise West experience is engaging and thought-provoking presentations aboard every sailing. The Exploration Academy, a component of Compass, will serve as an enhanced training program for Cruise West Exploration Leaders, further developing their knowledge base and skills. Tools include an e-based Enrichment Program of power point presentation modules that cover such diverse subjects as the culture, history, wildlife and geology of region(s) visited.

Guest won’t whine about the wine list or refreshed menu items! Following the theme of exploration, Cruise West introduces Palate, designed to help diners discover the synergy between wine and food. All Cruise West ships will feature a delectable culinary experience through distinctive food and wine pairings with menu selections that highlight the cuisine of the Pacific Northwest. A tempting wine list featuring bottles selected by Chairman Dick West will include wines from Wine Spectator’s “Top 100 Wines of the World” and Seattle Wine Awards 2008 “Gold Medal Winners.” Additionally, in affiliation with the United States Sommelier Association, onboard servers will participate in a certificate course to ensure service delivery is up to the highest standards.

Lastly, guests will have a choice of three distinct dining options at lunchtime. Alfresco dining will be offered on the Spirit of Oceanus, Spirit of Yorktown, Spirit of Endeavour and Spirit of ’98, weather permitting, in addition to regularly scheduled lunch in the Dining Room and Light Fare luncheon served in the Lounge. Menu items will include fresh grilled favorites, salads, and a carving or taco bar.

The new Explorer Class cabins, formerly AAA cabins, are intended for guests accustomed to a higher level of creature comforts. The “eco-friendly” amenities, a natural extension of the company’s motto of good environmental stewardship, include ultra soft Bamboo (a sustainable resource), fiber linens and towels, cotton waffle weave bathrobes, water conserving Speakman “Easy Jet” adjustable stream showerheads, and hypoallergenic down duvets. In addition to special amenities, guests traveling on Alaska itineraries will receive a copy of the book Mr. Alaska, written by Cruise West’s founder Chuck West. Explorer Class cabins will be rolled out in spring 2009 onboard the 96-guest Spirit of ’98, 102-guest Spirit of Endeavour, and the 138-guest Spirit of Yorktown.

For more information about Cruise West itineraries or to book a cruise for your client, visit www.cruisewest.com or call 1-800-689-1783.

More information about Cruise West itineraries to Alaska, Columbia & Snake Rivers, Panama & Costa Rica, Mexico’s Sea of Cortes, Japan, Vietnam, the Galapagos, the Pacific Northwest or the romantic rivers of Europe can be found online at www.cruisewest.com or by calling 1-800-689-1783.

Contact: Jerrol Golden

Cruise West

jerrolg@cruisewest.com

206-733-5692/206-354-5202