Ciclismo Classico Announces Sardinia Culinary Tour with Celebrated Chef

Sardinia is often described as “almost a continent”, due to its geographic diversity and rich history dating back 5,000 years. Very few places are as magnificently unspoiled and undiscovered as this vast island, the second largest in the Mediterranean.

With Chef Jody Adams, a James Beard Award winner and the creative visionary behind two of Massachusetts’ most loved restaurants: Rialto and TRADE as a host, Ciclismo Classico guests will spend seven days this coming summer experiencing Sardinia’s matchless regional cuisine and wines, while biking 300+ km across the gorgeous island.

For more information on this Sardinia culinary tour, call 1.800.866.7314 or visit CiclismoClassico.com.

“Food is sacred in Sardinia and the link that connects the locals to the land,” said Ciclismo Classico founder Lauren Hefferon. “Chef Adams will help guests discover this connection and delight their palates with handmade pastas, Seada cake, Montiferru, local cheeses, cured meats and regional wines.”

The tour begins in Tresnuraghes and then across the very center of the island through areas still untouched by tourism. From here, riders will discover the stunning coast in Cabras with its lagoons and flamingos, and explore the long sandy beaches of the Sinis peninsula. Visits to old mining towns, the ancient Phoenician and Roman cities of Tharros and Nora, and the winding coastal road to Pula highlight this epic cycling tour.

“We’ll discover the archaeological site of Barumini, explore Montiferru pastures and olive oil groves, and pedal along the twisting coastal road of south Sardinia and its beaches,” said Hefferon.

The Sardinia culinary tour includes several informal cooking demonstrations with Chef Adams where guests can participate in the action and learn a few tips from the master chef herself. A cheese-making demonstration with real local shepherds, and a special dinner prepared by Adams at Villa Asfodeli also highlight this culinary adventure.

Known as much for her warmth and unshakeable work ethic as for her culinary skills, Adams has chartered an illustrious and adventurous career that has seen her competing on BRAVO’s Top Chef Masters and raising millions of dollars for causes dear to her heart: most notably Partners in Health, Share Our Strength, and The Greater Boston Food Bank. She has biked in the 192-mile Pan Mass Challenge the past three years raising more than $250,000 with her Team Rialto-TRADE for The Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a vodka enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

Backyard Travel Release New Tour - A Taste of Cambodia

The delightful Cambodian culinary tour begins in Siem Reap, famous home to some of the world’s most spectacular temples. Travelers will work up an appetite with investigations of the historic sites led by an expert local Backyard Travel guide.

As well as Angkor Wat, while in Siem Reap, travelers can explore Ta Prohm temple and Angkor Thom as well as pay visit to some of the exotic local markets that sell a range of deep-fried insects amongst other unusual delights. There’s also the chance for travelers to enjoy the unique ‘Cooks in Tuk Tuks’ class to discover the secrets of how to make some of the local delicacies.

From Siem Reap the customizable nine-day, eight-night tour moves to Phnom Penh where travelers can discover the local must-see attractions while taking guided walks through colorful local markets to sample exotic fruits and other unusual foods.

Travelers will dine in restaurants that pride themselves on resurrecting authentic Khmer cuisine as well as modern-style eateries and hard-to-find restaurants off the regular trails.

The gastronomic adventures continue with one night in Kampot, the next stop on the culture and cuisine tour of Cambodia. While in the charming riverside town, travelers can take a 90-minute sunset cruise past fishing villages and a walking tour to absorb the aura of the laid-back town.

The Cambodia tour climaxes in Kep, a resort town on the coastline which offers picturesque beaches and divine fresh seafood. Travelers will spend the last two nights of their tour soaking up the peaceful ambience, spending their days doing as little or much as they please while they enjoy beachfront paradise.

“We’re excited to add a new ‘Taste of’ tour to our culinary trip series, and especially happy to feature Cambodia,” said Backyard Travel’s General Manager Maeve Nolan. “We hope this new tour will open traveler’s eyes to the Cambodia’s exciting emerging culinary scene while also allowing them the opportunity to see the country’s most iconic sites and attractions.”

For more information about Backyard Travel, visit BackyardTravel.com

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a vodka enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

Travel Channel Show Bikinis and Boardwalks Wraps Up Filming in Cozumel Mexico

The wildly popular Travel Channel Show "Bikinis & Boardwalks" has completed its filming in Cozumel and will be preparing an episode about the Mexican Caribbean island to air in Summer of 2014. Cozumel plays host to almost 4 million cruise ship and extended stay travelers each year and attracts its share of bikini-wearing Spring Breakers as well.

Michael Sorensen, Associate Producer with Indigo Films brought his film and production crew to Cozumel during a time that would coincide with the Cozumel Ironman race since it has an international appeal of its own that would compliment the theme of the show.

Before and after the Ironman competition, filming took place all over the island including in bars, restaurants and on beaches as well as aboard dive and snorkel boats. Interviews were filmed with local business owners as well as travelers visiting Cozumel who happened to be on scene at the time of filming.

CozumelInsider.com received initial contact from Mr. Sorensen as he found the travel destination guide online and was very impressed with the details, knowledge and information that the website has been providing for over 10 years about Cozumel.

Cozumelinsider.com assisted in providing recommendations for places to film, things to do, provided contact to the local businesses that will be featured in the film and also assisted in recruiting cast members for the show. IslaMar Vacation Villas was also selected by Mr. Sorensen to host the film crew during their stay in Cozumel.

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a vodka enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

The Amazing Spider-Man 2 Spins Into IMAX 3D Theatres Worldwide

IMAX Corporation and Sony Pictures Entertainment today announced that The Amazing Spider-Man 2, the highly anticipated next chapter in the story of Peter Parker, will be digitally re-mastered into the immersive IMAX 3D format and released in IMAX theatres. The Amazing Spider-Man 2 will be released in theaters internationally beginning April 16, 2014, and domestically on May 2, 2014.

"After the enormous worldwide success of The Amazing Spider-Man, we're looking forward to partnering again with Marc Webb, Avi Arad, and Matt Tolmach, and our friends at Sony Pictures to offer IMAX fans around the world an opportunity to experience this highly anticipated film in the immersive IMAX 3D format," said Greg Foster, CEO of IMAX Entertainment and Senior Executive Vice President, IMAX Corp.

The IMAX release of The Amazing Spider-Man 2 will be digitally re-mastered into the image and sound quality of The IMAX 3D Experience with proprietary IMAX DMR (Digital Re-mastering) technology. The crystal-clear images, coupled with IMAX's customized theatre geometry and powerful digital audio, create a unique environment that will make audiences feel as if they are in the movie.

Audiences can learn more about The Amazing Spider-Man 2 by visiting the film's official Facebook page at
Facebook.com/amazingspiderman2movie.

We've always known that Spider-Man's most important battle has been within himself: the struggle between the ordinary obligations of Peter Parker and the extraordinary responsibilities of Spider-Man. But in The Amazing Spider-Man 2, Peter Parker finds that a greater conflict lies ahead.

It's great to be Spider-Man (Andrew Garfield). For Peter Parker, there's no feeling quite like swinging between skyscrapers, embracing being the hero, and spending time with Gwen (Emma Stone). But being Spider-Man comes at a price: only Spider-Man can protect his fellow New Yorkers from the formidable villains that threaten the city.

With the emergence of Electro (Jamie Foxx), Peter must confront a foe far more powerful than he. And as his old friend, Harry Osborn (Dane DeHaan), returns, Peter comes to realize that all of his enemies have one thing in common: OsCorp. Directed by Marc Webb. Screen Story and Screenplay by Alex Kurtzman & Roberto Orci & Jeff Pinkner. Based on the Marvel Comic Book by Stan Lee and Steve Ditko. Produced by Avi Arad and Matt Tolmach.

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a vodka enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

Crow Canyon Archaeological Center Announces Adriatic Crossroads Trip

The sea lanes of the Adriatic have been crossed and recrossed for millennia—notably during the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman empires and the Venetian Republic. The archaeology, art, and architecture of the Adriatic coast reveal a complex, often contentious, history. Next year, the Crow Canyon Archaeological Center invites travelers to join scholar Dr. Don McGuire in an exploration of this cultural crossroads in a two-part trip: Adriatic Crossroads.

In Part I of the trip (June 26–July 5, 2014), Crow Canyon will lead an exploration of the cultural riches of northern Italy, from Ravenna to Venice to Udine. A highlight of the trip is a visit to the archaeological site of Aquileia, one of the most complete ancient Roman cities of the Mediterranean.

Part II (through July 14, 2014) begins in northern Italy, and then passes through Slovenia into Croatia, exploring the Dalmatian Coast down to Dubrovnik. Archaeological highlights in Croatia include Bribirska Glavica, a site that preserves thousands of years of history, and spectacular Roman ruins in Pula and Split. (You may sign up for either part, or combine the two trips.)

Along the way, travelers will enjoy some of the finest scenery, food, and hospitality in the Mediterranean.

Dr. Don McGuire, a noted scholar of classical civilizations, archaeology, and Mediterranean history, will lead the trip. Dr. McGuire is an adjunct associate professor at the University at Buffalo, State University of New York. He has a Ph.D. from Cornell University and has led scholarly tours through Turkey, Greece, and Italy.

For more information or to sign up for the trip, e-mail travel@crowcanyon.org; call 800.422.8975, ext. 136; or register online.

About the Crow Canyon Archaeological Center

The not-for-profit Crow Canyon Archaeological Center, located near Cortez, Colo., conducts long-term, multidisciplinary research into the ancestral Pueblo Indians of the southwestern United States and provides experiential education programs for adults, teens, and children. For nearly 30 years, Crow Canyon has also offered domestic and international culture and archaeology tours.

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a vodka enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

Daniela de Jesus Is The New Face Of Maybelline New York

Maybelline New York announces that Mexican beauty Daniela de Jesus, has been signed to the brand as a spokeswoman. Daniela joins a notable group of spokeswomen, which includes Christy Turlington, Julia Stegner, Erin Wasson, Kemp Muhl, Shu-Pei Qin, Emily DiDonato, Jessica White, Charlotte Free, and Frida Gustavsson.

"Maybelline New York is delighted to have Daniela with us, representing the positive spirit, cosmopolitan energy, and fashion edge of the brand," says Damien Bertrand, Global Brand President of Maybelline New York. "I have always looked to Maybelline New York for inventive, trendsetting makeup," says Daniela. "I am honored and proud to work with a brand that is loved by women all over the world," she adds.

Born in La Paz, Mexico, Daniela was discovered and signed to Major Model Management in 2005 after participating in her country's national beauty pageant, Nuestra Belleza Mexico. Since then, Daniela has walked the runway for Jean Paul Gaultier, Giambattista Valli, Vivienne Westwood, Marchesa, Mara Hoffman, Betsey Johnson, and Alexandre Vauthier, among others. She has been featured in advertising campaigns for Emporio Armani, Victoria's Secret, Ralph Lauren Fragrances, and Guess.

Daniela made her Maybelline New York debut in print and television advertising campaigns in late 2013.

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a vodka enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

Top Dog Events of 2014

America's leading pet friendly travel website BringFido.com today announced its selections for the Top Dog Events of 2014. The company's dog events calendar features the largest assortment of pet friendly events, parades, festivals, competitions and fundraisers in the United States. Pet charities and event organizers can add activities to the calendar, which is searchable via the website and through BringFido.com's pet-friendly travel app. The app is available for free download in the Apple iTunes App Store.

This year's Top Dog Events include:

• Methow Valley Doggie Dash - 2/16 in Winthrop, WA
• Winter Festival K9 Keg Pull: 2/23 in Sandpoint, ID
• Walk for the Animals: 3/1 in Fort Lauderdale, FL
• Running With The Hounds: 3/1 in Charleston, SC
• K9 Fun Run & Walk: 3/23 in Houston, TX
• Pet Palooza: 4/5 in Charlotte, NC
• DogFest: 4/26 in San Francisco, CA
• Indy Mutt Strut: 4/26 in Indianapolis, IN
• Furry Scurry: 5/3 in Denver, CO
• Brewers Memorial Ale Fest: 5/16-17 in Newport, OR
• Mighty Texas Dog Walk: 5/17 in Austin, TX
• Milwaukee Pug Fest: 5/18 in Milwaukee, WI
• Dog Bowl: 5/24-25 in Frankenmuth, MI
• Olympia Pet Parade: 8/16 in Olympia, WA
• Canine Fun Day & Greyhound Reunion: 8/16-17 in Cleveland, OH
• Bark in the Park: 9/20 in San Jose, CA

"Over the past few years, we've noticed an upward trend in both the quality and quantity of dog events being organized around the country," says Melissa Halliburton, founder and president of BringFido.com. "Year after year, the best events seem to get bigger and better. Both dogs and humans love interacting with other pet families, and most of the festivities benefit local humane societies or pet rescue groups."

The team at BringFido.com updates the event calendar daily. Individuals and rescue groups can submit their events at BringFido.com. It's free to post, and, upon request, BringFido.com will even send organizers some freebies to distribute in their doggie bags.

Founded in 2005, BringFido.com features the world's largest directory of pet friendly hotels, B&Bs, and vacation rentals. Dog lovers can find a host of pet friendly attractions and restaurants with outdoor seating areas. The company, based in South Carolina, can also help customers find pet friendly businesses, such as dog walkers, pet sitters, and veterinarians.

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a vodka enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

The Top 5 Places to Visit in 2014

With 2013 about to end, it is time to prepare one’s travel wish list for 2014. UK-based luxury travel blogger Ana Silva O’Reilly, the Mrs. O behind award winning luxury travel blog Mrs. O Around the World shares with us her top five places to visit in 2014.

The Maldives

These islands, located approximately 12h away from most European airport hubs, are possibly one of the most beautiful places in the world, according to Ana Silva O’Reilly. Having visited the islands in 2013, the blogger is planning a return visit in 2014. ‘I think the word paradise was invented after someone went to the Maldives, stated Ms. O’Reilly, who was also surprised about how affordable the destination was. ‘Package holidays from UK tour operators start from as little as £1500 per person, and that includes flights from London, transfers and meals in a luxury hotel. Most people think the Maldives are not affordable, so it was a very nice surprise’.

Lisbon, Portugal

Possibly one of Europe’s most underrated cities, according to Ana Silva O’Reilly. ‘I know I am biased as it is my hometown and I love it. I have not lived there for almost 5 years and it is always a pleasure to visit. Everyone I have sent there has loved it – and gone back’. The city of the 7 hills offers excellent value for money – and one can stay in 5-star luxury hotels from £100 per night, unheard of in other European capitals.

Palm Springs, California

The California desert keeps reinventing itself and as a destination it makes foodies, golfers, shoppers and sunlovers happy. Ms O’Reilly stated ‘I first went to Palm Springs 8 years ago by mistake, and have been going back ever since’. There have been significant hotel and gourmet restaurant openings, which make the destination much more appealing to travellers in their 30s and 40s.

Madrid, Spain

Madrid must boast half the number of visitors than its better known rival, Barcelona, but the secret must be out. A stunning city which is welcoming tourists with open arms, ‘and very few countries do it as well as Spain. The Madrilenos appreciate good food and a good party, and the city offers interesting museums and incredible shopping opportunities. A win-win’, says Ms. O’Reilly.

Lyon, France

Been to Paris? Of course you have, but what about France’s second largest city, also known as the gastronomic capital of France? Lyon is one of France’s best kept secrets – very pleasant to the eye, the city is bathed by 2 rivers and is very walkable. And you will need to walk of the delicious calories you will be packing on while in town. ‘It could be the ‘salad lyonnaise’ (with bacon lardons and egg) or the crayfish gratin. All with a glass of great red wine, of course’, suggests Ana Silva O’Reilly.

Ana Silva O’Reilly is a 30-something globe trotter who finds her peace and quiet on a long-haul business class flight to somewhere warm. Sand on her colourful toes and salt in her hair on a beach somewhere means happiness to her. With a nice piña colada in hand, of course. On a global quest for shoes, she’s currently operating a strict one-in one-out policy, but never gives up. A city girl at heart, she moved to the quiet English countryside for love, and lives her travel dreams through her award-winning alter-ego and travel blog Mrs. O Around the World. She can also be serious, when she puts her international marketing and social media consulting skills or her MBA at work.

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a vodka enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

Duesseldorf Fine Arts Festival Begins April 5

Quadriennale Düsseldorf 2014 is a major fine arts festival that connects 13 of the city’s most important art venues for 4 months under the theme “Beyond Tomorrow – How Artists See and Saw the Future,” and makes one of Europe’s art capitals an even bigger destination for art enthusiasts from around the world. Quadriennale Düsseldorf 2014 takes place from April 5 – August 10 and offers diverse exhibits by artists and many glimpses of our future through the artists’ eyes.

“We want to spark visitors’ curiosity about the future and encourage them to envisage what might lie ahead in the years to come,” says Hans-Georg Lohe, Düsseldorf City Counselor and Managing Director of the city’s 2014 Quadriennale and its future-focused theme.

All exhibits adhere to the theme, but each exhibit will focus on different concepts of future foretold by the art on display. To that end, 11 concepts relating to future were given to the curators at the various venues and institutions as elements to connect to all others in the festival’s network. The concepts are: reawakening, earth, transformation/ progress, experiment, utopia, heaven, fire, retreat, light, curiosity. “This is the first time in Germany that so many institutions are joining forces to develop a common leitmotif and to venture a new approach to art mediation,” says Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich, Professor of Art History and Media Philosophy, who developed the festival’s thematic concept in cooperation with the curators.

A sound installation on the opening night was composed for the festival by sound artist Rochus Aust using a new instrument he designed for the occasion, the “Quadraphone.” His composition “Fanfara Futurista” will be played on this instrument from the rooftops of all participating venues simultaneously to welcome the whole city to the festival.

Other highlights include the following exhibits: “Alchemy and Art – The Secret of Transformation,” at Museum Kunstpalast, featuring works by Joseph Beuys, Jan Brueghel d.Ä., Albrecht Dürer, Max Ernst, Rembrandt van Rijn, and Peter Paul Rubens; “Kandinsky, Malevich, Mondrian - The White Abyss of Infinity” at K20 Museum; and “Beneath the Ground. From Kafka to Kippenberger” at the K21 Museum.

For a full program of Quadriennale Düsseldorf 2014, visit quadriennale-duesseldorf.de.

The city’s tourism office is offering hotel and city specials for Quadriennale Düsseldorf 2014. The travel package called “Quadriennale 2014” can be booked right from the tourism office’s website at Duesseldorf-TourismUS.de. Prices start at €89 per night per person based on double-occupancy for a 3-star hotel in the city center and at €119 per person for a 4-5 star hotel. All packages include breakfast, a Düsseldorf Welcome Card (free public transportation within city limits, 1 ticket to Quadriennale Düsseldorf 2014, plus more than 40 free or reduced admissions to city attractions), a city information package, and a MERIAN city guide.

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a vodka enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

A Gentleman's Guide to Love and Murder Moves to Broadway

"A Gentleman's Guide to Love and Murder" is a Hartford Stage original production. Set in Edwardian England, the musical follows the story of Monty Navarro, who grew up in the working and middle class suburb of Clapham, but aspires to a higher standard of living. Monty learns after his mother’s death that he is a member of the noble D’Ysquith family and could become the next Earl of Highhurst. The only problem is that eight other family members are in line before him to inherit the title. Monty decides to remedy the situation by killing them all, one by one. He must also juggle his relationships with two women – his fiancée, who also happens to be his cousin, and his mistress.

The play, which is directed by Darko Tresnjak, features Bryce Pinkham in the role of Monty and Jefferson Mays portraying the roles of all eight doomed members of the D’Ysquith family. Mays also played the D’Ysquith family when the play was performed at Hartford Stage.

The book was written by Robert L. Freedman, and the music was written by Steven Lutvak, who described the play as “Downton Abbey with murder, but funny.” The pair collaborated on the witty lyrics. "Gentleman's Guide" is the first mainstage Hartford Stage musical since the world premiere of "The Gershwin's Fascinating Rhythm" in the 1996-1997 season.

Freedman and Lutvak met in New York University’s Graduate Program for Writing in Theater in 1981. They studied under such well-known names as Leonard Bernstein, Arthur Laurents, Jule Styne, Stephen Sondheim, Betty Comden, Adolph Green, and Jonathan Tunick.

After graduating, the two went their separate ways. Lutvak found success as a singer/songwriter in New York, performing his creations at venues including Carnegie Hall and the Algonquin. He also wrote the title theme for the film “Mad Hat Ballroom” and wrote several other hit musicals, including “Almost September,” which won eight Bay Area Critics’ Circle Awards and seven Dramalogue Awards, and “Esmeralda,” which was awarded a New American Works Grant from the National Endowment for the Arts.

Freedman traveled to Los Angeles, where he worked on the ABC mini-series “Life with Judy Garland: Me and My Shadows,” for which he was nominated for an Emmy and Writers Guild Award. He won the Writers Guild Award for HBO’s “A Deadly Secret” and was nominated for the award for “Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella.”

The two eventually reconnected and collaborated on “A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder.” The play was developed in part at the 2006 Sundance Institute Theater Lab at the Sundance Resort and had later support through an initiative with the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation. The play is based on the Roy Horniman novel Israel Rank: The Autobiography of a Criminal. The play debuted at Hartford Stage on October, 11, 2012 and was hailed as an immediate success for the local theater.

In addition, Lutvak and Freedman created Campaign of the Century, which was performed at the New York Musical Theatre Festival and the Chicago Humanities Festival. The play won the California Musical Theater Competition from the Beverly Hills Theater Guild.

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a vodka enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

Vine Vera's Gal Gadot To Be Wonder Woman

Gal Gadot, official brand ambassador for Vine Vera Resveratrol Skin Care and Israeli actress and model, has just been cast to play Wonder Woman, one of the lead actresses in Zack Snyder's upcoming Man of Steel sequel. Gadot will be starring opposite Henry Cavil and Ben Affleck as Superman and Batman, respectively.

The excitement in Hollywood for Gadot has been strong, with director Zack Snyder issuing a statement saying, "she has that magical quality that makes her perfect for the role." Initial filming will begin in early 2014, with a release slated for June 2015.

"We are so happy for Gal and extremely proud of her achievements," said CEO of Vine Vera, Adi Oded. "We feel grateful to have such a beautiful and empowering superstar as part of our team and as the face of our brand."

Gadot has been the face of the Vine Vera brand since June 2013, representing the brand in campaigns all around the world. The actress and model made her film debut in 2009's Fast Five, continuing with the Fast and Furious franchise,and other films such as Knight and Day and Date Night. The former Miss Israel served in the Israeli Defense Forces before becoming a model, actress, spokeswoman for Vine Vera and now, Wonder Woman.

ABOUT VINE VERA

Vine Vera is a leading anti-aging skincare line specializing in products derived from Resveratrol, or the chemical commonly found in grape seed. With locations internationally, Vine Vera is one of the strongest up-and-coming luxury skin care brands in the United States and international market. For more information, visit their website at VineVera.com

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a vodka enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

Conde Nast Traveler Announces Kauai as the Second Most-Loved Island in the World

Conde Nast Traveler recently announced the results of its annual Reader’s Choice Awards survey, which asked travelers to rate the world’s best hotels, islands, airlines, and cruise lines. The competition for “Best Island in the World” was particularly fierce; however, Kauai ranked close to the top, taking the number two spot just after Maui.

Paul Juma, who owns and operates Fern Grotto Inn, a collection of vacation rental cottages in Kapaa, Kauai, was not surprised by Kauai’s stellar performance. “We draw guests from all over the world, and even our well-traveled guests consider Kauai to be among the top destinations they've visited,” says Juma, “In fact, first-time visitors always comment on how the island’s natural beauty far surpasses their expectations.”

The survey, which asked readers to rate their favorite islands on the basis of scenery, friendliness, atmosphere, and restaurants, actually showed that Kauai outranked Maui in the first three categories, falling behind only in the dining category.

“Guests don’t come to Kauai for the food,” comments Juma. “But if you know where to look, there are actually some pretty incredible local eateries on the island.” Juma notes that he routinely helps guests at Fern Grotto Inn with restaurant and activity recommendations. His insider’s knowledge is part of what draws travelers to his rentals.

In addition to its high rating for scenery and atmosphere, Kauai scored 93.2 out of 100 for “friendliness,” a number that reflects the island’s strong tourist industry. “You can travel the world, and you won’t find kinder or more hospitable locals,” boasts Juma.

Fern Grotto Inn, based in Kapaa, Hawaii, has six vacation rental cottages on the east side of Kauai. Fern Grotto Inn prides itself on providing luxury accommodations for guests who want an authentic Kauai experience.

For more information, call Paul Juma at 808-821-9836 or visit his website: FernGrottoInn.com.

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a vodka enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.

Six Safe Travel Tips from Belize's Chaa Creek

The Lodge at Chaa Creek is offering travellers six easy tips to ensure a safe holiday, provided by the Belizean eco-resort’s Safety and Security Manager, Emil Bradley.

Mr Bradley, a former police and law enforcement professional, said that while the vast majority of vacations result in happy, positive experiences, things can occasionally go awry. By following a few tips, however, travellers can optimise their chances of having a safe, rewarding holiday.

“Chaa Creek promotes responsible travel, which not only entails being sensitive about your effect on nature and the local communities, but looking after yourself as well. When you’re away from home, sometimes different rules apply, but by using the following six easy tips, you maximise your chances of enjoying a safe, hassle-free holiday,” he said, and provided the following guidelines.

1. Do some research. Before leaving home, do a bit of research on the country or countries you will be visiting. Get to know the local customs and culture, as what is considered acceptable in one country may be offensive or even illegal in another. It can be a good idea to write down or memorise some useful phrases if the language is different, and get an idea of the local attitude towards things like tipping and appropriate dressing.

2. Have copies of your important documentation. Making photocopies of your passport and driver’s licence is a good idea, and keep copies with the hotel and with a family member or friend back home.

3. Ensure that your family and friends know your travel arrangements. Just in case of an emergency or other event it can help if someone home knows of your itinerary. Remember that your mobile phone may not work in some places, so leave hotel or resort phone numbers if you have them.

4. Carry different forms of payment (cash, credit and debit cards, travellers cheques etc.) Always carry more than one credit or debit card with you in case your primary one gets lost, stolen, demagnetized or damaged. Also, be sensitive about showing large amounts of cash in public.

5. When you go out for the day or night, let the hotel know, and when you expect to return. This is also a good time to ask them about places you plan to visit, any security issues and other useful information. The front desk people may have some better ideas for you! It’s also a good idea to carry the phone number and address of your hotel in a place separate from your wallet or purse.

6. Avoid flashy dressing and wearing expensive jewellery, and keep track of your personal items. This is true anywhere, and especially when travelling in developing countries or rural areas. Leave your best stuff at home. It helps you blend in and not become a target for unscrupulous people. In Belize, for instance, informal is the norm. You’ll feel more comfortable and become part of the scenery.

“There are of course other considerations, but by following these tips people can avoid the majority of the difficulties we hear about. We want people to enjoy their holidays and have a hassle-free vacation. The point is to not worry, but always be vigilant. Personal safety is a personal responsibility, but with a little attention it doesn’t need to be a big deal,” Mr Bradley said.

Mr Bradley said that all-inclusive Belize vacation packages, like those offered by Chaa Creek, can go a long way in making a holiday absolutely worry free.

“Chaa Creek’s all-inclusive Belize vacation packages are an example of a carefree, affordable way to enjoy a holiday. We’re known as Belize’s ‘destination within a destination’ as we’re situated within a secure 365 acre private nature reserve with miles of maintained trails for horseback and bike riding, hiking, birding, and a range of activities, as well as having the Macal River for canoeing.

“From the time we pick our guests up at the international airport until we drop them back off, they’re looked after by our staff and everything is included in the price of the package. Except for alcoholic drinks, there’s nothing else to pay. No hidden costs or surprises – it’s all taken care of, so issues such as carrying cash or getting lost don’t apply. We consider our guests’ security very seriously, and behind that casually luxurious front you can rest assured that a team of professionals is constantly on the job.

“After all, feeling safe and secure is a big part of any vacation, and like everything at Chaa Creek, our goal is to optimise our guests’ experience to the fullest,” Mr Bradley said.

The Lodge at Chaa Creek is an award winning eco resort set within a 365 acre private nature reserve in Belize.

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Jeffrey Dale Starr is a vodka enthusiast, oil painter, and owner of mobile software company Purple Falcon.