Thanksgiving Abroad
Traveling to be with family on Thanksgiving can be expensive – but not if you spend Turkey Day abroad. Thanksgiving is a great time to travel outside the U.S. and save – and we've rounded up four packages that will let you take the whole gang along with you. Sure, you might have to substitute tacos for turkey, but you'll never forget the holiday you spent in Mexico, Paris, Rome, or Vietnam. Prices start at just $509 for a five-night jaunt – so skip the clogged highways and Aunt Betty's mincemeat pie and enjoy a Thanksgiving holiday abroad.
I LOVE AMSTERDAM
Not to Miss in Amsterdam:
• A stroll through the Red Light District
• Checking out the menu at one of the city's famous "coffeeshops"
• Renting a bike and riding around like a local
• Shopping the Nine Streets
• The Van Gogh museum
• Touring the cramped rooms that inspired The Diary of Anne Frank
• Taking a photo by the Skinny Bridge
• Touring the Heineken Experience
If you know anything about Amsterdam, you know it's progressive. But spend a day walking the 17th-century European capital that Rembrandt called home and you'll know that life is good here – and tolerance is the key to that happiness. Locals, made up of at least 170 different nationalities, have each brought their cultures and cuisines with them forming a true cosmopolitan melting pot, where world-class museums, luxury hotels, churches, and schools share the same streets as red-light windows and "coffeeshops," a euphemism for cafes selling cannabis. Isn't that cozy, or should we say, gezellig, like a true Amsterdam native?
The city has a split personality – stately capital rich with culture and full-blown party town – but Amsterdam pulls it off. Despite the often-gloomy weather, the city can please just about everyone with its artsy nature, rich history, and romantic canals (the city claims more than Venice) or its velvet-roped clubs, sanctioned prostitution, and drug acceptance. And talk about tolerant – the Dutch are even happy to speak English with you. It may only take a day or two before you decide to hop on a bicycle and take up their lifestyle.
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With about 200 museums and art galleries, 28 parks, over 10,000 shops and markets, and some 1,500 bars and cafés to cover, there's no way to really know Amsterdam in just a short trip. But its compact center and walkability do allow you to feel like you've seen most of it. With just three days, pack in two or three of the major museums, such as the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh museum, and the Anne Frank House; take a canal cruise; stop into the Concertgebouw for a free music performance; stroll the Jordaan neighborhood; and shop the Nine Streets. With five days, you can take the time to rent a bike and dig a little deeper, maybe tour the Heineken Experience, see Rembrandt's house, visit the FOAM museum, the Stedelijk Museum CS, or the Tropenmuseum, linger in either the Vondelpark or De Hortus botanical gardens, and check out the Albert Cuypmarkt. With seven days, you'll want to venture a little further outside Amsterdam proper, maybe to Haarlem or the Eastern Docklands, spend time antiquing in the Spiegelkwartier, or catch an art-house flick at Culture Park Westergasfabriek.
Traveling to be with family on Thanksgiving can be expensive – but not if you spend Turkey Day abroad. Thanksgiving is a great time to travel outside the U.S. and save – and we've rounded up four packages that will let you take the whole gang along with you. Sure, you might have to substitute tacos for turkey, but you'll never forget the holiday you spent in Mexico, Paris, Rome, or Vietnam. Prices start at just $509 for a five-night jaunt – so skip the clogged highways and Aunt Betty's mincemeat pie and enjoy a Thanksgiving holiday abroad.
Exotic train journeys around the world now start from $972
Ride the rails on routes in India, Russia, China, South Africa & Oz
Book by: ASAP Travel by: Various through spring 2007
The Deal
It's not often that the journey is as spectacular as the destination, but when you're riding some of the world's greatest rails, you're in for an experience. We've reviewed top cabins on some of the globe's most legendary trains to get you on the tracks from China to Russia; traveling like a Maharaja on India's Palace on Wheels; seeing South Africa from a five-star Blue Train; or crossing Australia from ocean to ocean. Rates start at only $972 for a three-day Aussie fling and go up to $2510 for an epic 21-day Trans-Mongolian journey.
Book an epic Trans-Mongolian trip for $2510
If you want to take in three great nations and traverse a quarter of the globe in 21 days, we found the perfect train trip. Gap Adventures offers a Trans-Mongolian package that starts at $2510 for an epic journey through China, Mongolia and Russia. Pick between the westbound jaunt from Beijing to St. Petersburg or vice versa, both available for departures through May 2007. The price includes eight nights on a train, six nights in hotels, one homestay in a Siberian village, and one night in a Mongolian tent camp. You will journey through grassy steppes of Mongolia, Siberia’s taiga forests, the imposing Ural Mountains, and Russia’s majestic cities. On this escorted adventure, guided tours include a visit to Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City in Beijing; the Great Wall; Ulaan Baatar’s Winter Palace and Gandan Monastery; and Moscow’s Kremlin. Only seven meals are covered, so do set aside an additional $350 for the rest; also excluded is a local charge of $300 payable in cash upon arrival. Note that this trip doesn’t provide luxury lodgings so make sure you pack an open mind and your sense of adventure.
Travel like a Maharaja on India’s Palace on Wheels from $2065
If you want to journey in style, you can’t beat India’s legendary Palace on Wheels train holiday. On this seven-night escapade through the state of Rajasthan, you’ll be treated to royal service and travel like the Maharajas of the yesteryear. Lodging is in one of the 14 deluxe saloons with elegant furniture, en-suite bathrooms and a full spectrum of plush trimmings. Onboard are two restaurants and a bar, plus personal attendants to ensure you're fittingly pampered. This four-star sojourn costs $2065 for September 2006 and April 2007 departures, and goes up to $2695 between October 2006 and March 2007. The rate covers full catering aboard the train (morning tea, breakfast, lunch, evening tea, and dinner); sightseeing tours in deluxe coaches; entrance fees for monuments; cultural entertainment in the scenic cities of Jaipur and Jaisalmer; plus boat, elephant, camel, and rickshaw rides. The itinerary takes in stunning natural scenery; dazzling cityscapes; colorful markets; historic forts; and the world-famous Taj Mahal in Agra.
Scenic five-star trip on South Africa’s Blue Train from $1205
To see stunning South African landscapes pass by while savoring exquisite meals on a five-star train ride, book a journey on the famed Blue Train. On its 27-hour passage of 994 miles, this trip offers some of the most diverse and awe-inspiring panoramas on the African subcontinent. On the southbound trip between Pretoria and Cape Town, the train calls at the diamond town of Kimberley where guests can explore the Diamond Museum and the world’s largest manmade hole. On the northbound foray from Cape Town to Pretoria, the train stops at the historic town of Matjiesfontein. Rates start at $1205 in low season (November 16–December 31) and go up to $1486 in high season (September 1–November 15). That includes accommodation in a lavish suite with sumptuous linens, marble tiles, gold bathroom fittings, and general opulence. Also covered are all meals, high tea, drinks (including fine South African wines) and off-the-train excursions.
ARE YOU READY FOR THIS GREAT ADVENTURE?
Please find here some of the best vacation packages we have found during the last month.
Fall is our favorite time to visit the Renaissance treasures of 
Florence, as the city clears of summer mobs, mild weather prevails, and prices drop to affordable levels. The four great-value deals we've found will certainly help you enjoy the best of this Tuscan gem for less come autumn, since September and October escapes now start from just $560, including hotel stays, air, and other freebies, like car rental – that will have you whizzing around the scenic Tuscan countryside. Book today – and enjoy Italian dolce vita and world-class art this fall.
Fantastic Florence fling this fall from just $989
For savings of $350 off summer prices, don’t miss the Gate1Travel special we found. Good to go between September 7 and October 27, the five-day package in question has a price that’s as irresistible as the destination. The Florence fling starts at just $989, with stellar inclusions, like air from New York; a four-night hotel stay at no-frills but perfectly adequate Delle Nazioni right behind the train station; and daily breakfast. Well-priced hotel upgrades are available, too. Case in point: September jaunts at Grand Hotel Cavour cost $1199 (the price goes down by $20 for October trips), at this four-star property that Frommer’s describes as “an address of some refinement in Dante's old neighborhood, and about as central as you can get.” Even one of the most extravagant hotel stays in Florence is affordable with this air-inclusive four-nighter: just $1679 at Grand Hotel Villa Medici where regular rates run over $500/night.
Rome and Florence city combo from just $560
If you’d prefer to take in Rome and Florence in one fell swoop, we recommend the European Destinations package from $560 for late-fall departures. This terrific price includes the international flight across the big pond and back; a two-night hotel stay in each of the two Italian beauties; daily breakfast; and a train ticket between the destinations. Lodging included is at your choice of over 100 hotels spanning all categories, from simple no-trimmings spots to plush oases of luxury. Note that this package price reflects midweek departures from New York between late September and late October. You can fly from multiple getaways for a wee bit extra. For example, from Miami, pay just $621; from Houston, the price is $780; from Los Angeles, the package costs $905. Note that this price is only valid for sojourns at budget-style hotels; the package cost will naturally rise if you decide to live it up at upscale properties.
PLEASE, CLICK HERE TO FIND MORE ABOUT THIS WONDERFUL OPPORTUNITY. There are still two more deals for you to consider...
$155/day+: Luxury CURAÇAO 4-nighter at top-rated landmark hotel w/air
Set in Willemstad
A restored Dutch Colonial village within Curaçao's pastel capital of Willemstad, this hotel is 200 m (219 yds) from Queen Emma Bridge, which spans the channel dividing the city. Amenities include a full-service spa, two courtyard pools, three restaurants, and more. Willemstad's shopping district is close by, and shuttle service is available to a private beach. PLEASE CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT MORE
European Christmas Market Tours
Munich, Prague, Vienna, Salzburg, Berlin, Nuremberg
$852+: 7-night PARIS & VENICE combo package with airfare, 3-nt hotel per city, train tix, breakfast daily & more
Paris 
assaults the senses, demanding to be seen, heard, touched, tasted and smelled. Gaze impressive monuments and savor its gourmet pastiche of cheese, chocolate, wine and seafood. Paris is a city of vast perspectives and intimate streets, of formal espaces verts (green open spaces) and of quiet squares. Paris is relatively small as capitals go, with distances between many of its major sights and museums invariably walkable. You'll still find classic sights as well as trendy new projects. And don't forget the parks, gardens, and squares; the Champs-Elysées and other grand boulevards; the river Seine and its quays.
With sumptuous palaces and romantic waterways, Venice
is straight out of an 18th-century Canaletto masterpiece. No matter how many times you have seen it in movies or TV commercials, the real thing is more surreal and dreamlike than you ever imagined. Its landmarks, the Basilica di San Marco and the Palazzo Ducale are exotic mélanges of Byzantine, Gothic, and Renaissance styles. It is full of secrets, ineffably romantic, and - at times - given over entirely to pleasure. You must walk everywhere in Venice and where you cannot walk, you go by water.
INTERESTED? PLEASE CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT MORE
Another fall foliage season is just around the corner, which means the season's annual color-rich palette is sure to draw visitors to the Great Smokies, New England, and Canada to enjoy the show. Devoted leaf peepers will pay less for the pleasure this year, thanks to the bounty of autumn specials we've found with discounts as golden as the leaves. Hotels in Maine and the Great Smoky Mountains start from just $87/night, while Canada and New England cruises are reduced by as much as 36%, with prices as low as $699.
Catch early fall foliage at rustic Maine lodge from $87/nt
Maine’s bold fall colors come in early so if you simply can’t wait to see the multicolored foliage, we recommend a late September stay at rustic Rideout’s Lakeside Lodge. This family-operated spot sits on scenic East Grand Lake near the border with Canada and comes with 20 spacious and comfortable cabins, each with lake vistas from their screened-in porches. A full spectrum of activities is on offer here, from kayaking and fishing for smallmouth bass and landlocked salmon, to hiking and wildlife-viewing. The last week of September is the peak of Maine’s leef-peeping season, with particularly vivid colors contrasted against the aquamarine lake water, moss-covered granite boulders, and sandy beaches. From September 11 through 30, rates start at $87/night per person, based on double occupancy and a three-night minimum stay. The rate includes lodging; three home-cooked meals per day; daily maid service; and complimentary use of kayaks, canoes and paddleboats. Good family rates, too.
Head to the Smokies for a gaudy leaf show from $95/nt
For an offbeat fall foliage holiday this year, we suggest a visit to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. October is the best time for catching the leaves change their hues, as sugar maple, scarlet oak, sweetgum, red maple and dogwood explode with vibrant colors. If you want to catch this spectacular show, book a sojourn at Mountain Harbor Inn in Tennessee, top-rated for its elegant suites; top-notch service; and prime location on Douglas Lake with views of the Great Smoky Mountains. Regular nightly rates here start at $169 but the inn offers a stellar first-time guest special that saves you a serious chunk of cash. Case in point: book one of the $169 suites and you’ll pay just $95/night. The more upscale units normally priced at $189/night cost a mere $119 for new visitors. Another perk are the complimentary extras included in these rates, such as a romantic sunset cruise, a bountiful breakfast buffet and a candlelight dessert! But don’t wait to book your suite or you may have to skip the legendary Great Smokies’ fall foliage.
Sail the shores of New England this late Sept for 36% off
Just imagine gliding through the waters of New England this September, admiring the golden foliage from a ship! Orbitz makes this possible at greatly reduced cost with the special we found! From just $699, you can set sail round-trip from New York on a weeklong voyage aboard Norwegian Dawn. Interior cabins on this September 30 cruise are now on sale at 36% off brochure price! Even balconied staterooms are discounted and affordable at only $1299. This seven-nighter takes in one destination in Canada – Halifax, Nova Scotia – as well as four New England highlights – Martha’s Vineyard, Bar Harbor, Boston, and Newport. CruiseCritic.com describes the ship as “an intriguing blend of the best features of a cruise experience and a land resort” and “whimsically decorated and gorgeous”. It comes as no surprise that units on these September sailings are selling out fast!
Late autumn sea fling aboard Star Princess from $799
Another well-priced fall foliage option is a CruisesOnly deal aboard Star Princess at 34% off standard cost. This seven-night voyage features a similar itinerary to the jaunt above but departs later, on October 21, at the close of the leef-peeping season. On this circuit from New York, the ship calls at the same destinations as above, minus Martha’s Vineyard, and plus Canada’s Saint John in New Brunswick. There’s also a day at sea thrown in, to enjoy the upscale vessel, of which CruiseCritic.com writes, “Star Princess, like its siblings, offers something for virtually every type of cruise traveler.” Rates on this journey now start at $799 for an inside cabin and $898 for oceanview staterooms. Prices go up to $1096 for balconied units and $1495 for suites. If you take into account that rack rates for interior cabins start at a hefty $1215, you’ll see you’re saving a bundle on this one-off odyssey.
You'll fall in love with the celebrated New England Fall Season. Please, click here to get more info about these packages.
Late-Summer/Early-Fall Deals
It's just about time to say farewell to summer but don't put away your flip flops and sun block just yet, there's still time for one last end-of-summer hurrah and we've screened some last-minute bargains to help you do just that. Plus, with autumn on the way, we've found some serious shoulder-season savings that will get you to all your favorite fall spots.
Send off the summer in style with last-minute Labor Day trips from $199, including air and hotel in San Francisco, Vegas, Montreal & more. Or, save 40% off last-minute flights with US fares from $83 RT. You can also spend an autumn weekend in New York City from $406 for air and 3-nt hotel or maintain your tan with 5-day Caribbean getaways from $404 with air to the Bahamas, Jamaiaca, the Dominican Republic, and more. Lastly, Miami, Daytona, and Ft. Lauderdale are also within reach with low Florida fares from $103 RT.
GREAT EUROPEAN CRUISE DEALS
12 Nt Cruise to London with Air and Hotel Included - Ocean View from $1949!
Sail from Ft Lauderdale to London with visits to Cork, Dublin, Cornwall, and Paris on this Value Inclusive Package. Sailing: 4/13/07
14 Nt Scandinavian Cruise - Balcony cabin from $2599 - Add 2 nights in London for only $99!
Visit England, Poland, Lithuania, Sweden, Estonia, Russia (with an overnight in St. Petersburg), Germany, and Denmark. Sailing: 05/19/07
Unique 12 Nt crossing visits England, France, Ireland, Newfoundland and Nova Scotia - Balcony only $1219!
Sail from London to Cape Liberty. Add air and a 2-nt hotel stay in London for only $799! Sailing: 09/15/07
Experience the most spectacular illuminated Central European capitals, with their towering spires, gilded churches and ornate town squares. Join in the magic that only lasts three weeks a year.
8 Day Central Europe Christmas Markets fr. $1039
Experience the Christmas spirit in Berlin, Dresden and Prague with this affordable escorted tour.
8 Day Alpine Christmas Markets fr. $1199
Make your Christmas vacation a tour of the snow-capped Alps with this comprehensive Escorted Tour, including Munich, Nuremberg & Vienna.
Gate 1 Travel has created these fantastic escorted tours that make it easy for the entire family to enjoy the magic of the holiday season! Packages include round-trip flights from the USA, fuel surcharges, 6 nights First Class accommodations, 7 meals and visits to Christmas Markets.
European Christmas Markets are a holiday tradition dating back to the 15th Century. Their medieval roots begin in Central & Eastern Europe, where scents of gingerbread, mulled wine and toasted almonds guide visitors through medieval town squares lined with wooden stalls selling hand crafted Christmas ornaments, toys, candles, wreaths and other holiday treats.