Bicycle Tours Focused on Deaf Cyclists Planned for Maine Coast

Innovative Initiative Will Provide Outdoor Experiences to Niche Group

Portland, Maine – This summer, a Maine company will begin offering something unusual, if not unique, among outdoor vacations nationally. The company will host bicycling trips guided by people who are both fluent in sign language and have first-hand knowledge of the coast.

Summer Feet, which provides supported bike trips in New England and overseas, will provide two nationally certified sign-language interpreters for each trip. In 2010, those trips will be to:

Acadia National Park and other spectacularly beautiful areas near Bar Harbor, Maine, from Aug. 27-29.
Camden, Maine, and neighboring communities that have been identified by various publications as some of the most-scenic and fun-to-visit locations in the country, during the weekend of Sept. 24-26.

“The communications barrier will be eliminated entirely,” said Alyssa Gagnon, a nationally certified interpreter in American Sign Language who has been involved in the New England bike scene for 11 years and working in Deaf services for a decade. “All of the information about the places we’re visiting and the bicycling advice offered will be direct from us, and not have to pass through a third-person interpreter.”

Summer Feet has built a reputation for excellence during a decade of offering assisted trips, where the company takes care of logistics for participants. Summer Feet arranges for great accommodations and food, as well as once-in-a-lifetime activities such as sunset cruises on a schooner along the Maine coast. The company also provides van support during the day, so that travelers don’t have to worry about transporting their luggage or fixing their bicycle if something breaks.

This support frees participants to fully experience the stunning scenery of New Zealand, Nova Scotia, Quebec, Prince Edward Island and various locations in Maine. Bicyclists can get to know one another, and unwind from the demands of daily life, without worrying about the details.

“On just about every trip, we tailor the tour in some way to meet the needs of individuals,” said Norman Patry, founder of Summer Feet. “Sometimes, it’s something small, like meeting dietary needs. Other times, we provide help that’s more-involved, like working with a blind person on a tandem bike or, someone who requires special equipment to make the trip possible or enjoyable.”

“This summer, we’re going to go a step beyond those efforts to offer something you just don’t find in the industry,” Patry said. “There aren’t many options for deaf people to experience outdoor activities with guidance from people who are both expert bicyclists and fluent in sign language.”

One reason that outdoor trips such as this one are so unusual is that there is a small population of people who are qualified guides and also fluent in sign language, said Gagnon, who will be spending her fourth season as a Summer Feet guide this summer. There just aren’t as many options for people with communications barriers to fully experience the outdoors.
This fact, coupled with the expertise of Summer Feet guides, provides the company with a unique opportunity to serve a largely untapped segment of the market: people with disabilities who are interested in outdoor travel vacations.

On the first trip, participants will tour the dramatic, rocky coast of Schoodic Peninsula, across the bay from Bar Harbor, and explore both the Carriage Roads and Park Loop Road in Acadia National Park. A wine-and-cheese reception, lobster dinner and lodging in the elegant Harborside Hotel will complement the bicycling.

The second weekend takes participants to the Camden Hills area, where mountains meet the sea. Participants will cycle what Yankee Magazine called “The Prettiest Six Miles in Maine,” experiencing pristine Islesboro and exploring the one-of-a-kind Rockland area. A Sunset Sail of Penobscot Bay on a classic wooden schooner and fine dining in Camden also add to the appeal.

“Deaf people are just like anyone else,” said Gagnon. “They want to have a wonderful vacation, without complications. These weekends will allow deaf people to blend in and experience the beauty of Maine in the same way that other bicyclists do.”

Based in Portland, Maine, Summer Feet offers travelers assisted bicycle tours and the most-authentic experiences available of beautiful locations in Maine, Canada and New Zealand. Summer Feet has a decade of experience in providing van support, knowledgeable guides and logistics for memorable bicycle vacations. More information is available at www.summerfeet.net, via email to info@summerfeet.net, or by phone at 866-857-9544.

Dengue Fever: Fastest Growing Vector Borne Disease?

WorldNomads.com‘s roving medical expert Dr. Erik McLaughlin MD discusses Dengue Fever, its symptoms and the preventative measures travelers can take when visiting at risk areas.

What is Dengue Fever?

A recent article on Medical News Today discussed Dengue Fever as the fastest growing vector borne disease in the world.  Dengue is a viral illness that is spread by the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes.  This illness, once confined to SE Asia has now become more common in Latin America, Asia, Africa, North America and even Australia.  Dengue, nicknamed “breakbone fever” due to the wracking muscle cramping it causes, has no specific treatment and carries a case fatality rate of 40-50% if left untreated and progresses to the dreaded Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF).

Dengue fever is a flavavirus that is classified into 4 different strains, named Dengue 1, 2, 3 and 4.  All four different strains can be present in the same geographic area, at the same time.  Once a person is infected with a specific strain of Dengue, they are believed to be immune to that strain for life.  The problem occurs when a person who has been previously infected with one strain acquires a second and different strain.  This infection by a second strain increases the likelihood that a person will acquire Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF) characterized by uncontrolled bleeding from the gums, intestinal tract, skin rash and fevers.  The increased risk of progression to DHF with each subsequent infection is exactly one of the reasons why producing a successful vaccine has been so difficult.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms of Dengue fever can be as mild as a slight fever, head and muscle aches, rash and nausea/vomiting.  Often times, the first case of Dengue gets undiagnosed by a person who believes they simply have a “bad cold” and then go on to make a full recovery.

This has now made their body a candidate for DHF should they become infected a second or even third time.

Who is at risk?

The World Health Organization estimates that there are roughly 50 million Dengue infections per year and 2.5 billion people live in areas at risk for Dengue infection.  This is 2/5 of the world’s population.  In 1970 there were only 9 countries with Dengue fever and at present there are 100 countries that contain Dengue.  With the Aedes Mosquito acting as the vector or carrying agent for Dengue, one can clearly see the explosive growth the mosquito species has had, as well.

Researchers are attempting to link increased global temperatures and rainfall with the increased Dengue activity.  The idea that warmer weather leads to increased mosquitoes and mosquito breeding grounds is nothing new, especially combined with standing water which allows the mosquitoes to have an ideal breeding ground.

How can I prevent Dengue Fever?

Prevention of Dengue fever by travelers centers around several key points.   First, knowledge that one is traveling in a potential Dengue area should raise alert and prompt the traveler to be cautious.  Second, prevention of mosquito bites should become a way of life.  Using DEET sprays, permethrin treated clothing, bed nets and long sleeves and pants are vital steps to help keep mosquitoes away from your skin.  Lastly, be cautious of areas with standing water such as upturned canisters, flower pots, tires that may contain water and lakes or large puddles.  Public Health campaigns center on the destruction of these standing water breeding grounds, trying to eliminate of at least decrease the Aedes mosquito population.

Travelers headed to areas with Dengue activity should travel prepared to do what they can to prevent mosquito bites.  Caution should also be used when looking at the time of year traveling occurs, especially during rainy seasons.  Dengue should not be going away any time soon and savvy travelers need to be aware of it and start getting used to taking proper precautions.

Read more stories from WorldNomads.com to help keep you travelling safely. WorldNomads.com – an essential part of every adventurous traveller’s journey.

Travel Scams 2.0: The Evolution of Deceit

You’ve most likely been warned about pickpockets, drink spiking, and conniving tuk-tuk drivers. However, new and increasingly more creative scams seem to keep popping up on the backpacker trails everywhere. We’ve highlighted some of the latest scammer tricks and trends, and how to handle them safely while they are happening.

The Bogus Doctor Scam

Relatives of overseas travellers are being contacted by bogus doctors and hospital staff claiming their family member has been injured and asking for money to be sent for medical treatment. In this new scam, relatives are contacted by phone, email or SMS text messages and given contact details of where to send the money that will pay for the treatment of their supposedly injured loved one. In reality, no one is in hospital, the details are their personal accounts – and if you panic and act on their request, you will be out a large sum of money.

How to avoid this scam – You should share your insurance policy details with friends or family before leaving. If they can’t get through to you, then at least they can get through to the emergency assistance number and they can contact the person who is claiming someone is injured.

How to stay safe when it’s happening – If you are the friend or relative of a traveler and receive such a call, it’s advised to hang up and call the hospital or doctor back – but only through a publicly advertised number such as the yellow pages or other reputable directories. Do not use the contact details the potential scammer has sent you or the organization’s contact details given by the person requesting the information. Again, contact your travel insurance emergency assistance team to help, that’s why they’re there !

The Gems Scam

Gem scams are the most prolific and website forums are littered with stories of travellers who thought they were buying rare, ‘illegally smuggled’ Burmese gems at a fraction of the cost. Soon they find out that their polished gems are polished glass and worthless and the shop they bought from, was not an official government gem store and is no longer there. Worst still are those travellers that choose to pay up front on the belief that the ‘precious gems’ will be sent home, but alas nothing arrives in the mail. This is particularly prevalent in Thailand.

How to avoid this scam – As a rule of thumb, if the price appears to be too good to be true, it probably is! Thai people may sometimes be poor by Western standards but they are not stupid (that goes for market traders everywhere). You’ll be interested to know that there are no jewelery or gem shops that are owned, operated, or sponsored by the government in Thailand.

How to stay safe when it’s happening – As with the tailor scam, you’re unlikely to be at risk from a personal safety viewpoint. Golden rule, do not, under any circumstance agree to follow a street vendor to a gem store that’s ‘just around the corner’, you may well end up being mugged in a back alley!

The Gambling Scam

A traveller is approached on the street by a friendly local who invites you for a drink at their house. After a nice meal a friend or relative arrives and lets them know of a card game happening later that day with some inside tips on how they can cheat and make some easy cash. The ‘mark’ turns up for the game, is allowed to win a few hands but then starts losing and is bankrolled by that friendly person they met on the street, who cooked them such a lovely meal. You see where this is going?

Suddenly the new-found friend is not so friendly and wants that money back and now. Generally under the threat of violence, the ‘mark’ ends up cashing their travellers cheques or clearing out their ATM.

How to avoid this scam – Just be cautious when accepting the warm hospitality that locals may display that you’re not being coerced into something other than a terrific meal. Trust your instincts if you’re not comfortable. Better to risk offending than your personal safety.

How to stay safe when it’s happening – of all of the scams this is the one that has the most amounts of reported threats of violence. If you do find yourself stuck in this situation, and I hope not after reading this, comply with your attacker. If you’re essentially being robbed at knifepoint, the safest course of action is to hand over the money. Personal safety has to come first.

The Tailor Scam

A classic scam involving promises of the finest Kashmir suits, made to perfectly fit, paid in advance. Two days later your clothes arrive at your hotel and low and behold the material does not seem to be the finest Kashmir and the fit is suitable for an 8-year old. Not to worry, the tailor comes to your hotel to measure for adjustments and tells you the dodgy material is just being used to get the fit right. Promises of delivery are made, ensuring that you’ll have them before your flight leaves. Sure enough 30 minutes before you have to get on a plane, they arrive. The same ill-fitting, poor material rags you saw the day before. Too late to chase them down, home you go with what’s now a pretty worthless outfit.

How to avoid this scam – This is a tough scam to avoid, given the relatively hit & miss results travellers have experienced when getting tailored suits, particularly throughout Asia. One suggestion is to bring your own material and research online for those tailors who are well regarded by other travellers.

How to stay safe when it’s happening – You’re generally not going to be at risk from a personal safety viewpoint when it comes to this scam, aside from the rogue tailors pin when measuring up. Our advice to best avoid this particular problem is to only use a tailor who has a shop or factory and to arrange fittings there.

For more information and tips on popular scams check out:

Travel Scams 101

Scams – the advanced course

Read more stories from WorldNomads.com to help keep you travelling safely. WorldNomads.com provides travel insurance and travel safety services to residents over 150 countries. Find out why WorldNomads.com is an essential part of every adventurous traveler’s journey.

If Travelers Are Where Disaster Strikes: Survival Tips from WorldNomads.com

Immediately following the tragedy in Haiti, WorldNomads.com, the travel services company that’s helping travelers stay safe and stress-free on the road, posted information on their Travel Safety Hub on how travelers can safeguard their own health and safety in an earthquake / disaster affected area.

If you have access to a working phone or the internet:

- Make contact with family, friends & your local embassy and let them know that you’re safe.

If you are injured or become ill

- Contact your travel insurance 24-hour medical assistance service as soon as possible, they’ll guide you through what to do next. Follow their advice to the letter.

- If you’re not covered under a travel insurance policy, seek attention at the nearest medical clinic or ask for directions to your nearest embassy.

Beware of the environment:

- Avoid downed power lines and disaster-caused hazards. Use battery-powered flashlights and lanterns, rather than candles, gas lanterns or torches. Following a disaster there may be rapidly moving water that can also carry infections. Disasters resulting in massive structural damage can also result in exposure to chemical or biologic contaminants (i.e asbestos).

- Do not return to your hotel / accommodations, or any building, if they are in any way damaged as aftershocks could cause a collapse.

- Move to the nearest open area (oval, park) away from damaged buildings, trees or roads where powerlines may have fallen.

Keeping Safe:

- Disease can spread very quickly post disaster, so ensure you protect against injuries and infections by wearing sturdy footwear. Tetanus is a potential health threat for cuts and grazes.

- Frequent hand washing helps keep germs at bay. (If a traveler becomes unwell within six weeks of returning home and has fever, rash, respiratory illness or any other unusual symptoms, advise a physician of having just returned from a disaster-affected region.)

- Drink only bottled, boiled or disinfected water. For more information refer to the CDC website (http://www.cdc.gov/).

- In the event of diarrhea, replace lost fluids with clean drinking water or oral rehydration solutions.

- Keep close tabs on personal belongings, passport and money.

Getting out:

- Follow all advice from either your medical assistance service and/or local emergency service team and authorities to move to safe zones or transport to take you to the airport for evacuation.

Chris Noble, General Manager of WorldNomads.com says “Being caught in the middle of a natural disaster is both terrifying and confronting, but it’s also the one situation where you need to remain as calm as possible. Help those around you if able, take every pre-caution to avoid placing yourself at further risk and follow all directions from emergency services”.

WorldNomads.com products and services include global travel insurance protecting residents from over 150 countries with high value medical and evacuation coverage, 24-hour emergency assistance and coverage for a large range of adventure activities; language guides and travel blogs plus a stream of travel safety information to ensure all World Nomads stay informed, educated and safe when traveling.

WorldNomads.com clients may also donate to a range of community development projects when purchasing travel insurance through the company’s Footprints Charity program http://footprints.worldnomads.com/.

Collectively, The Footprints Network has raised over $800,000, from over 310,000 donations, which has funded 53 projects across the globe through partner organizations such as Oxfam, Save the Children and Water Aid.

Read more stories from WorldNomads.com to help keep you travelling safely. WorldNomads.com provides travel insurance and travel safety services to residents over 150 countries. Find out why WorldNomads.com is an essential part of every adventurous traveler’s journey.

Hurtigruten Pumps up its Roster of Theme Cruise Vacations – Music, Celebrations, Cuisine, History, Scenic Vistas and Birds Lead the Charge

New York, NY – As a growing number of travelers seek to return home with lifetime memories, built from experiential vacations, Hurtigruten has responded to their passengers’ interests with an expanded roster of even more fascinating Theme Voyages possibilities for 2010. All of which take place aboard the company’s fleet of modern vessels as they make their way along Norway’s spectacular fjord-filled, 1,250-mile west coast, on 6- to 12-day sailings between the cosmopolitan city of Bergen and the Arctic town of Kirkenes — a route named the “world’s most beautiful voyage” by Lonely Planet’s “Bluelist.” Theme Voyages fares range from $1,205 to $8,042 per person, double.

Theme Voyages combine music, history, the culinary arts, national celebrations and traditional arts and crafts spiked with informative talks and activities. Start the New Year in the Arctic on the North Cape with the “Celebrations in the Arctic.” The “Rhythm and Fabric of Life” is a fusion of music, crafts, dance and folk culture. “Hall of the Mountain King,” aboard the MS Trollfjord, explores the life and music of Edvard Grieg, while the “Special Norwegian Fjords” sails out of Dover, England, crossing the North Sea, and explores some of the world’s most scenic fjords on Norway’s fairytale western coast. Passengers on “Lords of the Fjords” learn of the historic tales and adventures of the Vikings. “Tastes and Sounds of the Fjords” treats guests to musical performances from chorals to jazz and cooking classes and wine tastings, and “Norway’s Big Day Out” puts them shoulder to shoulder with locals decked out in their national costumes in independence day processions. Follow in the footsteps of Norway’s most famous polar heroes — Fridtjof Nansen and Roald Amundsen — and their voyages on “The Ice Breaker.” Arrive in time to follow millions of rare migrating birds returning to the Arctic on the “Birds of the Nordic Coast.”

• “Celebrations in the Arctic” brings in the New Year as no one else can – with the countdown held on the North Cape, Europe’s most northern point. Expect dancing, fireworks and a midnight toast. 12 days sailing departs Dec. 27, 2010 with fares from $2,190 to $6,662.
• “The Rhythm & Fabric of Life” showcases the deep-rooted traditions of the Norwegian culture, mixing music, crafts, dance and folk culture. Guests enjoy learning to folk dance and see how traditional instruments are made – departing April 11 & Sept. 23. Fares for the seven-day journey range from $1,697 to $4,981.
• “Lords of the Fjords” is a step back in time to when the Vikings ruled the waters and land. Onboard experts, including documentary filmmaker Klaus Kiesewetter, provide talks and entertainment, immersing the passenger in the Viking history and culture. Departing Apr. 7 and 14, fares for the seven-day journey range from $1,697 to $4,981.
• “Special Norwegian Fjords” visits 12 of Norway’s most spectacular fjords to the land of fairytales and trolls, of cozy villages clinging to dramatic landscapes, and fortresses and castles on the way from the White Cliffs of Dover in Kent, U.K., across the North Sea to Stavanger, the oil capital of Norway. Fares for the 10-day journey, departing April 9, range from $1,568 to $4,703.
• “Tastes & Sounds of the Fjords” is a series of choir, jazz and classical concerts, cooking lessons and wine tastings, combined to create a unique culinary experience – while in the midst of the majestic beauty of the fjords. Departing Apr. 15 and Sept 16, fares for the six-day immersion range from $2,097 to $4,676.
• “Norway’s Big Day Out” is just what it sounds like – a celebration of Norway’s Constitution Day (May 17). Children’s parades and festivities take play across the nation and guests learn about the country’s history from experts. Six May 2010 departures of 12 days are offered at fares from $2,374 to $8,042.
• “Hall of the Mountain King” explores the life of Edvard Grieg. Performances by pianist Rune Alver and talks by lecturer Eilif B. Lotveit bring to life Norway’s renowned composer – with daily recitals and daily lectures. Departures are Oct. 10 & 16; fares for the seven-day musical feast are $1,697 to $4,981.
• “The Ice-Breakers” – Fridtjof Nansen and Roald Amundsen were two of Norway’s greatest explorers. And guests will learn more about them from famous lecturer Arne Kertelhein as the ship follows some their Norway routes, departing Oct. 11 & 18. Fares for the seven-day itinerary are $1,697 to $4,981.
• “Birds of the Nordic Coast” takes place as millions of migrating birds return to the Arctic for nesting – a true ornithological event with lectures and stellar bird-watching opportunities: species such as puffins, kittiwakes, guillemots, razorbills, cormorants, Arctic skuas, northern fulmars, Northern gannets, and sea eagles are numerous in this area. Fans depart May 20 for six days with fares ranging from $1,306 to $4,423.

Excursions are an important feature of Hurtigruten cruises, so the company has developed dozens of high-quality options for their guests to get off the ship and enjoy the local scene and sights – from visits to Geirangerfjord, a World Heritage site, and stunning views of the fjord, mountains and the “Seven Sisters” waterfall, to a sailing adventure that transports guests through Norway’s second largest glacier, Svartisen, where sea eagles spread their wings, to witnessing the world’s most powerful tidal currents and mountains dating back more than 250 million years.
Sailing aboard Hurtigruten ships means large, comfortable lounges with panoramic windows and wonderful views from large outdoor decks; open seating for meals; fresh seasonal ingredients, plenty of incredible seafood and a comprehensive wine list; multilingual tour directors; comfortable cabins – from the smaller inside accommodations to the large outside suites with private balconies; and a friendly and well-informed crew, ready to offer assistance and learned suggestions.
Hurtigruten is a world leader in expedition cruising, sailing to the most remote of destinations including Antarctica, Greenland and the Arctic’s Spitsbergen as well as year round along Norway’s coast. Additional information on all of these adventures, as well as brochures and reservations, can be obtained from travel agents or Hurtigruten’s visitor-friendly web site, www.hurtigruten.us; or by phone: (800) 323-7436; fax (888)-524-2145; for brochures (800) 582-0835, 24 hours a day.

Isla Carmen Circumnavigation – Jewel of Loreto Bay National Park

Loreto, Baja California, Mexico — Cliffs of red-hued basalt rising sharply out of the sea and the bold outlines of towering cacti provide the backdrop for paddling sea kayaks 60 miles on this little known, classic 10-day circumnavigation of Baja California’s Isla Carmen, the largest island in Loreto Bay National Marine Park in the Gulf of California. The company runs this trip only once a year in April, when winds are typically calm.

“Although tour groups visit the southern tip of Carmen, the rest of the island remains mostly wild and untouched,” says Sea Kayak Adventures president Terry Prichard. “Plus, the marine life blows people away – over 280 species of reef fishes, as well as scores of dolphins, sea lions, and five of the big whale species ply the surrounding waters. We are the only company to offer this tour.” You can be among the few to paddle along Carmen’s rocky cliffs through crystal-clear water, coves with sandy beaches, reefs, and sea caves (including Cueva Blanca, where kayakers can explore the cave’s deepest recesses). Adds Prichard “one third of the world’s whale species call the Gulf of California (also known as Sea of Cortez) home, according to whale experts”.

The islands of Baja’s Sea of Cortez have been called “Mexico’s Galapagos” with their volcanic ash layers, fabulous rock formations, crystal waters, and teeming wildlife.

Here you’ll snorkel with brilliant king angelfish and lobster, watch plunge-diving blue-footed booties, and search for 90-ton blue whales – the world’s largest animal. Pause midway at Salinas Bay to visit an abandoned 19th century salt mine and coral chapel. Afterwards, swim with dolphins in the bay’s 72-degree water. You will paddle about five to six hours per day, broken up by lunch and rest stops. A two-day paddle rounding the island’s remote north shore leads to Balandra Bay, where you can hike an arroyo into the island’s desert interior past saguaro-like cardon cactus and wild figs in the company of desert iguanas and big-horned sheep. From your tented camps in sheltered coves, watch vermillion skies as they illuminate the banded layers of the Sierra de la Giganta range, the plume of a whale lingering in the still air, and leaping manta rays flopping back into the glassy water as guides dish out margaritas and tasty chili rellenos.

When to go: April 20-May 1, 2010. Difficulty: Moderate. The super value price of $1695 USD per person (or shorter 7-day version for $1195) includes two nights in Loreto; all meals; all camping and kayaking equipment; naturalist guides; taxes and airport arrival transfer. Airfare is not included. SKA is carbon neutral, fiscally solid and responsible and donates a portion of your trip cost to wildlife conservation groups in Baja. Outfitter: Sea Kayak Adventures, 800-616-1943, www.seakayakadventures.com

Celebrate Jane Goodall’s 50-year legacy

Harvard primatologist and professional photographer to lead historic adventure

Arusha, Tanzania– Two renowned Gombe Stream alumni will lead a historic adventure in 2010 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of when Jane Goodall first began studying chimpanzees in western Tanzania.

Famed primatologist and Harvard professor, Richard Wrangham, and celebrated photographer, Stewart Halperin, have teamed up with Thomson Safaris and the Jane Goodall Institute (JGI) to mark the milestone with the 50th Anniversary Safari and Chimp Trek. The 15-day adventure will take a fortunate group of travelers to the heart of Tanzania’s extraordinary wild places, from tracking chimps in the rainforests of Gombe Stream National Park to following the wildebeest migration across the plains of the Serengeti.

Halperin and Wrangham (see bios below) will enrich the experience beyond measure, as travelers will sharpen their photography skills with a pro and will discover more about animal behavior and evolutionary biology with a famed anthropologist. In fact, the two longtime friends first met as graduate students nearly 40 years ago when they studied chimps at Gombe under the guidance of Jane Goodall. Gombe Stream changed the course of their lives.

“It was mind-boggling and mystical and magical,” recalls Halperin. “And the best part is now we get to go back and share those places and new experiences with travelers.”

Beyond Gombe, travelers will explore a nature reserve exclusive for Thomson guests in the heart of a remote Maasai region, where they will have in-depth cultural interactions and adventurous opportunities not possible in reserves and parks. With Halperin and Wrangham sharing their expertise and fascinating insights, the 50th Anniversary Safari and Chimp Trek offers the very best of Tanzania’s wildlife, cultures, and adventure. Furthermore, significant trip proceeds will help support JGI’s outstanding conservation work.

Promoting and expanding upon Jane Goodall’s 50-year legacy, JGI has long stood at the international forefront of innovative community-based conservation. Each traveler on the 50th Anniversary Safari and Chimp Trek will make a critical contribution to JGI so that the great apes of Africa will thrive for generations to come and communities surrounding conservation areas will be supported.

With only one departure scheduled for September of 2010, this is the kind of adventure that only comes along once in a lifetime.

“Jane has inspired so many amazing people who came to Gombe,” says Halperin. “We were just two characters back then. What better combination to lead a trip like this today? What better way to mark the 50th anniversary of when Jane Goodall first started her work with chimpanzees?”

Contact Thomson Safaris (1-800-235-0289) for more information about the 50th Anniversary Safari and Chimp Trek. Photos available upon request.

Richard Wrangham
Currently the Ruth Moore Professor of Anthropology at Harvard, Richard Wrangham has produced pioneering studies about primates, including discovering that chimpanzees self-medicate. Most recently he published, Catching Fire: How Cooking Made Us Human, which proposes a radical new theory on human evolution and has been listed by the New York Times and the Economist as one of the best books of 2009.

Stewart Halperin
Over the past 40 years, Stewart Halperin has journeyed to more than 80 countries while capturing an eclectic array of extraordinary color images. His collection includes some 120,000 color transparencies of fine art photographic prints and an expanding digital library, which ranges from stunning landscapes in New Zealand to dreamy abstracts in Italy, from wildlife in Key West to dramatic cultural displays in Brazil.

Thomson Safaris
Thomson Safaris offers safari adventures, Kilimanjaro treks, and cultural experiences for both the solo intrepid traveler and the whole family alike. Winning the 2009 Tanzania Conservation Award and the Tour Operator of the Year Award from the Tanzania Tourist Board, Thomson Safaris strives to be a leader in community-based travel and sustainable tourism. In 2008 and 2009, National Geographic Adventure gave Thomson Safaris one of its top ratings for the Best Adventure Travel Companies on Earth. In 2008, Condé Nast recognized the company as a finalist for its World Savers Awards.

Jeremy O’Kasick
jeremy@thomsonsafaris.com
1-617-923-0940

Official 2010 Tour de France Itineraries Announced By Discover France

Scottsdale, AZ—Discover France Adventures, an award winning specialist in journeys to France, recently announced that it is one of only four tour operators worldwide that are officially licensed to sell Tour de France tours in 2010. As officially licensed tour operators for the Tour de France, Discover France Adventures will offer trips that provide cycling enthusiasts with exclusive and elite access to all major Tour de France events.

Guests on Discover France’s VIP Tour de France itineraries will be granted access to the Tour Village before the start of each day’s stage as well as special access to the team and press areas after each stage finishes. This access is usually only reserved for race officials, pro athletes and other VIP’s, but Discover France’s guests will be able to mix and mingle with the pros. In addition, VIP guests will have the opportunity to cycle our along the route of the Tour on the same day as the pro stage and just ahead of the pro riders themselves. Guests will be able to access the final kilometers of the race and ride to the finish line and then access the famous podium for pictures.

Discover France Adventures will offer both “Challenging” and “Moderate” VIP and “Domestique” cycling tours for the 2010 Tour de France:

VIP Trips (includes access to “pros” areas)

• Challenging VIP Alpes Trip – 7 nights trip
• Challenging VIP Pyrenees Trip – 4 or 3 or 7 Night trip options
  These trips will offer the VIP access to the Village, ride on closed roads, travel by deluxe motor coach, accommodation in deluxe hotels and be cared for by professional French/English speaking guides.
• Moderate VIP Cycling Tour – 7 night trip in Provence/Languedoc region
  This trip will offer the VIP access to the Village, ride on closed roads, travel by deluxe motor coach, accommodation in deluxe hotels and be cared for by professional French/English speaking guides. This trip will also incorporate cultural visits, wine & gastronomy, and heritage sites.

Domestique Trips (no access to “pros” areas)

• Challenging Guided Alpes Domestique – 7 Nights
• Challenging Guided Pyrenees Domestique– 7 Nights
• Challenging Alpes + Pyrenees Domestique – last 2 weeks of the Tour de France to the finish in Paris
• Moderate Provence/Languedoc/Bordeaux Wine Country Tour – 7 nights Best of Southern France
• Self Guided Tours with GPS; Alpes – 4 and 7 Night Options; Pyrenees – 4 & 7 Night Options

Groups will vary in size from 16 to 25 persons with a professional guide ratio of 1 per 8. To ensure a place on these exclusive Tour de France tours, pre-book now at http://www.discoverfrance.com/tour-de-france.html or contact Loren Siekman at 480-905-1235. Guests who have pre-booked can cancel without penalty until December. For more information about the Tour de France, visit www.letour.fr .

Discover France
CONTACT: Loren Siekman
TEL: 480-905-1235
E-MAIL: loren@discoverfrance.com
WEB: www.discoverfrance.com/tour-de-france
Click Here for Media Kit

Haiti earthquakes: advice for travelers

CNN.com has reported that officials are fearing more than 100,000 people have died as a result of Tuesday’s earthquake in Haiti.

The 7.0-magnitude earthquake struck shortly before 5 p.m. Tuesday 12th January, centered about 10 miles (15 kilometers) southwest of Port-au-Prince, the U.S. Geological Survey reported. It could be felt strongly in eastern Cuba, more than 200 miles away.

Safety tips if you are in an affected area

If you are injured or Sick?
If you are injured or become ill please seek medical aid and contact your 24-hour Medical Assistance Service.  The traveller should recognize that any functioning hospitals and clinics will be busy caring for people who have been injured and/or who are sick.

If you are in a region with no operating medical facilities please contact your Medical Assistance Service Immediately.

WorldNomads policy holders can find these details on their Certificates of Insurance or see phone numbers at the bottom of this article.

Injuries
The risk of injury is high. Persons who anticipate the need to travel to disaster area should wear sturdy footwear to protect their feet from Injury. Tetanus is a potential health threat for cuts and grazes. Any wound, cut, or animal bites should be immediately cleansed with soap and clean water. Seek rapid medical review should you become injured.

Wash your Hands
Wash your hands often using soap and water to help prevent the spread of disease. Waterless alcohol-based hand rubs may be used when soap and/or water are not available and hands are not visibly soiled.

What can I eat or drink?
Natural disasters can disrupt water supplies and sewage systems. If bottled water is not available, water should be boiled or disinfected. For more information refer to the CDC website

Food should be carefully chosen to reduce the risk of getting gastrointestinal illness. Avoid salads, uncooked vegetables and milk products, such as cheese. Ensure your food is freshly cooked and has not been sitting around. Food’s that has been cooked and is still hot or fruit that has been washed in clean water and then peeled by the traveler personally are safer to eat.

What if I get Diarrhea?
Gastroenteritis outbreaks can occur following a disaster.  Diarrhea may be accompanied by a high fever or passing blood in the diarrhea. Replacing lost fluids by drinking clean water is important or the use of oral rehydration solutions.

Insects
Bites can be prevented through combined use of insect repellent and barrier methods such as wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants when. Insect Repellent containing DEET should be used at all times.
Ensure you have been immunized for Tetanus in the past 5 years.

Safety
Traveller’s should be careful to avoid downed power lines. Battery-powered flashlights and lanterns, rather than candles, gas lanterns, or torches, should be used. Keep your personal belongings especially your passport and money on your person or in a safe place close to you.

Environmental Hazards

Be aware of what is happening around you. Following a disaster there will be rapidly moving water.  Lung infections may occur after inhalation of sea water. Disasters resulting in massive structural damage can also result in exposure to chemical or biologic contaminants (I.E. asbestos).

Environmental things to remember
Both hot and cold extremes in temperature can pose a danger. Heat-related illness, such as heat stroke, can even be fatal. Remember to wear your sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat to protect you from the sun. Evenings can become cold so have a pullover or waterproof jacket available. Keep you fluid intake up with clean water during the day. Try to keep a dry change of clothing handy to change into. This will help in keeping you warm and preventing heat loss.

What is happening to me and who do I call?

It is important to remember that the situation you are in can be extremely stressful.

Keeping an item of comfort nearby, such as a family photo, favorite music, or religious material, can often offer comfort in such situations.

Call home and your country’s Consulate or Embassy to let them know where you are, if you are alright and if you need any assistance.

Call your travel insurance company emergency assistance hotline should you need immediate attention (see phone numbers below for WorldNomad’s policy holders)

When you get out of there or get back home

If you become unwell within 6 weeks of returning with fever, rash, respiratory illness or any other unusual symptoms seek medical attention and tell them that you were recently in a Disaster affected region.

Advice for World Nomads Policy Holders

Should you have any concerns or fears, please contact us on the following emergency assistance numbers.

Please have your name, location and phone number ready when you call (and policy number if available)

Australian and New Zealand travellers (Specialty Assist for policies purchased on or after 01 Dec 2009):

Email: operations@specialty-assist.com
Telephone: +44 (0)20 7902 7405

Australian and New Zealand travellers (Mondial Assistance Australia policies purchased prior to Dec 1, 2009):
Email:  medicalnotes@mondial-assistance.com.au
Telephone: +61 7 3305 7499 (While overseas, reverse charges)
Telephone: 1300 729 467 (Within Australia)
Telephone: 0800 630 117 (Within New Zealand)

UK travellers (Specialty Assistance Services):
Email:  assistance@specialty-group.com OR assistance@mstream.co.uk
Telephone: +44 (0) 845 643 2628

Irish travellers (Specialty Assistance Services):
Email:  assistance@mstream.co.uk
Telephone: +44 (0)20 7902 7403

USA travellers (Access America):
Email:  AssistanceGroup@MondialUSA.com
Telephone: +1-877-257-8108 (toll free within US)
Telephone: +1-804-281-5789 (Collect)

Canadian travellers (Mondial Assistance Canada):
Email:  nomad.inquiries@mondial-assistance.ca
Telephone: +1-866-759-2892 toll-free from the U.S., Canada, Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Island or
Telephone: +1-519-342-4947 collect from anywhere else in the world

For all other travellers (ihi Bupa):
Email:  emergency@ihi.com
Telephone: +45 33 15 33 00 (not toll free))

Very Important Note for volunteers.

Please, please only engage in direct travel to Haiti as part of an established charity or organization who can demonstrate that they have proper logistical and security support.

Many good hearted people want to rush in and ‘do something’ in the event of a natural disaster such as the earthquake that has hit Haiti. Although these are very admirable instincts this is often the wrong thing to do.

In the immediate hours and days following a catastrophe aid agencies, governments and international organizations enact pre-arranged disaster plans involving very experienced and specialist staff with full logistical support. Getting together with a group of friends or just jetting to an area like this on your own can create even more problems on the ground for them and it is potentially highly dangerous for you.

What you can do if you are not a part of one of these organizations?

Many agencies have already established disaster relief funds and requests for essential supplies. Although there is a desire in most of us to get hands-on and help, the money and goods collected by these funds will provide important support in the longer term as the people of Haiti affected by this earthquake slowly rebuild their families, homes and businesses.

Read more stories from WorldNomads.com to help keep you travelling safely. WorldNomads.com provides travel insurance and travel safety services to residents over 150 countries. Find out why WorldNomads.com is an essential part of every adventurous traveler’s journey.

Gap Adventures Announces Early Booking Bonus for Spitsbergen Cruises

Toronto – Gap Adventures is offering huge savings to anyone looking for an unforgettable, life-changing journey around the Svalbard archipelago. The adventure tour operator has announced an early booking bonus on its popular, nine-day ‘Spitsbergen -The Realm of the Polar Bear’ cruise. Travellers who book a spot on this memorable polar trip by February 28, 2010, will enjoy a $500 discount on specific cabins.

“This expedition cruise is a fantastic opportunity for lovers of wildlife and pristine landscapes to experience one of the most remote regions of the world in the comfort of our state-of-the-art ship, the M/S Expedition,” Gap Adventures founder Bruce Poon Tip said. “I’m thrilled travellers will be given an opportunity to cruise through Norway’s ice-covered fjords and enjoy the breathtaking scenery on this once in lifetime arctic adventure.”

Led by a team of highly-experienced expedition staff and naturalists, the trip includes spectacular highlights such as Zodiac shore excursions for close encounters with towering glaciers, as well opportunities to experience a remarkable array of wildlife such as polar bears, walruses, whales, rare bird species and more in their natural habitat – perfect for naturalists, bird lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.

The ‘Spitsbergen – Realm of the Polar Bear’ cruise runs from July 14 to August 31, 2010. For more information, visit www.gapadventures.com/marine/spitsbergen-cruise.

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