Sunday, February 7, 2016

Family Vacation Planning

It seems like every family wants to have a grand vacation, and many have great ideas, but the costs and logistics get in the way. Whether your family consists of you and a spouse, or a multi-generation family reunion, we have resources that will save you time, and can save you money.
We would love to partner with you in preparing your next family vacation. Routing, lodging options, activities, tours, and excursions, as well as flights, and cruises are just a few of the ways we can make travel easier for you.

In fact, we have some tours packages already available. Are these on your short list of places to visit?

Grand Canyon of Yellowstone
Yellowstone National Park - Explore Yellowstone National Park on this 5-day EXPERIENCE that includes some quality time in Salt Lake City! Spend a day discovering all Salt Lake City has to offer. Take a scenic drive from Salt Lake to Yellowstone and enjoy the mountainous countryside along the way. Once you arrive in Yellowstone, you’ll explore all its beauty and get a chance to snap pictures of some of the world’s most majestic sights, like Firehole Canyon, Isa Lake on the Continental Divide, and of course, Old Faithful. The Yellowstone Experience blends the beauty of nature along with time in the big city of Salt Lake! From $459 per person.

Glacier National Park - Enjoy the “Land of the Shining Mountains” and experience endless outdoor activities. Glacier National Park has more than a million acres of pristine forests, mountains and lakes. Roam the land where Native Americans lived centuries ago. Hike the breathtaking valleys carved by glaciers. If you love the outdoors, you simply must experience Glacier National Park for yourself. Packages start at $1369 per person.

New York City
New York City - Have you ever wanted to get a true New York City experience? Our New York City Family Adventure is just what your family needs to discover all of New York’s top attractions! Enjoy your stay in a beautiful Times Square hotel, putting your family right in the heart of all of the NYC action. Use your hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour to hit the top New York stops such as the Empire State Building, Central Park, Fifth Avenue, and the Statue of Liberty. Your three-day family adventure will give you a full “Big Apple” experience.  From $489 per person.

Mount Rushmore - Enjoy a 4-day trip to Mount Rushmore National Park, Crazy Horse Memorial, and the Badlands National Park. An included rental car will allow you to travel throughout South Dakota to experience the beauty of this region. From $449 per person.

Rocky Mountain National Park - Feel like you’re on top of the world! Rocky Mountain National Park has 415 square miles that encompass and protect the mountain environments. You can enjoy Trail Ridge Road, including many overlooks to take in the alpine worlds. With over 300 miles of hiking trails, wildlife, and fun filled days with starry nights, The Rockies are on top. From $209 per person

Fort at #4 - New Hampshire
American Heritage - From the historic streets and neighborhoods of Boston to the gleaming monuments of the nation's capital, your trip is full of things to see and do. Walk in the footsteps of Paul Revere, John Adams and other Patriots of the Revolutionary Era as walk the famous Freedom Trail, stroll through Boston Common, or visit any number of sites and attractions in Boston. Take in spectacular views of Manhattan from the Empire State building or cruise out to the Statue of Liberty in New York. See the place where the US Constitution, our nation's founding document was brought to life in Philadelphia. Visit any number of fascinating museums or impressive monuments in Washington DC. Your American Heritage tour will be an unforgettable experience! From $1949 per person

New England
New England Fall Foliage - Calling all leaf peepers! You won't want to miss this journey through two of New England's most beloved cities: Boston and Portland. Explore Boston on a hop-on/hop-off sightseeing tour. Relive history as you follow the Battle Train through Historic Lexington, Concord, and Cambridge. See New England's magnificent fall colors on a Gray Line Fall Foliage Tour. Discover Portland, “New England's Best Kept Secret,” on a Land and Sea Discovery expedition. This fall foliage excursion through New England's Boston and Portland is the perfect way to spend 6 days during this colorful season. From $1249 per person.

Don’t see the destination you are interested? We have thousands of additional itineraries, destinations, and resources to help you create the finest vacation for your money. Send us an email with details, and let us work our magic!







Thursday, February 4, 2016

The Zika Virus and Travel - What you need to Know!


History

The Zika Virus was first discovered by Yellow Fever researchers from an infected research monkey in the Zika Forest of Uganda, in the late 1940's. 

In the early 1950's researchers discovered that the virus was infecting humans, and most people tested who were age 40 or older had immunity to the disease, probably from earlier infections of the Zika Virus. Those tested lived throughout Africa, Asia, and India. Researchers indicate that these populations also seem to have developed some levels of immunity, and are less affected. Some will never show symptoms of having been infected.

From its discovery, until 2007, humans tested, showed evidence of the disease, but actual confirmed cases of the Zika Virus were rare.

In 2007, islanders in Micronesia experienced the first epidemic outbreak of Zika, Since then epidemics have occurred in Polynesia, Cook Islands, Easter Island, and New Caledonia.

Despite the irresponsible rhetoric of fear mongerers, and conspiracy theorists, it is not a man-made disease intended for use by clandestine organizations bent on dominating the world.

Present

In 2015, the virus spread to Brazil, probably from foreign visitors attending the World's Cup. There, the virus quickly spread across South and Central America, Caribbean Islands, and Mexico. 

It has reached pandemic levels in those regions, and will likely continue to spread due to the amount of world travelers visiting these popular destinations. People living in these regions have no history with the disease, no immunities within the population, and thus greater possibility for it to spread.

Due to risks affecting travelers, the Centers for Disease Control in the US, and its foreign counterparts, have issued travel advisories, so the public can be informed of the risks, range of possible infection, symptoms, and prevention methods.



How to Avoid the Disease

The Zika Virus is transmitted almost exclusively through the Aedes genus of mosquitoes.* Unfortunately, this type of mosquito is found around the world. If its a temperate, warm, moist, climate, its highly likely that the mosquito lives in the region. (*sexual transmission has occurred, but is extremely rare, and limited in scope and probability. Safe Sex practices, while infected, nearly completely eliminate the risk of transmission)

No vaccines currently exist. While it may take until 2018 to have them fully developed, it may be longer still, due to government hurdles, before the vaccine would become available to the public.

Expecting mothers and those planning to become pregnant are strongly advised to take every precaution against infection, as the mother can transmit the virus to the infant, causing severe birth defects, abnormal delivery, and perhaps other complications to the child, including death. In fact some Central American countries are advising women against pregnancy, until a viable vaccine is available.

To lessen the probability of acquiring the virus, the most simple option would be to limit the frequency of travel to the affected areas.  This option is neither ideal for tourism or business, and frankly, not necessary.

The Best approach is to limit the risk of bites from mosquitoes, through reducing exposure, and applying repellents.

The Centers for Disease Control recommends the following:

  • Products with one of the following active ingredients can also help prevent mosquito bites. Higher percentages of active ingredient provide longer protection.
    • DEET
    • Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin. Products containing picaridin include Cutter Advanced, Skin So Soft Bug Guard Plus, and Autan [outside the US])
    • Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or PMD (Products containing OLE include Repel and Off! Botanicals)
    • IR3535 (Products containing IR3535 include Skin So Soft Bug Guard Plus Expedition and SkinSmart)
  • Always follow product directions and reapply as directed.
    • If you are also using sunscreen, apply sunscreen first and insect repellent second.
    • Follow package directions when applying repellent on children. Avoid applying repellent to their hands, eyes, and mouth.
  • Consider using permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). You can buy pre-treated clothing and gear or treat them yourself.
    • Treated clothing remains protective after multiple washings. See the product information to find out how long the protection will last.
    • If treating items yourself, follow the product instructions carefully.
    • Do not use permethrin directly on skin.

What other steps should I take to prevent bug bites?




  • Prevent mosquito bites.
    • Cover exposed skin by wearing long sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
    • Stay and sleep in screened or air-conditioned rooms.
    • Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.



What if I get Sick?

First, the virus is not fatal to most people. You will feel lousy, but you are not likely to need hospitalization.

If within 2 weeks from returning abroad, you begin to feel joint, muscle, or eye pain, develop a fever or rash; you need to be seen by a doctor. Be sure to tell them that you have recently traveled. They will be better prepared to make sure you are treated properly, and recover as quickly as possible.



Why all the Fuss?

It may seem like a small matter, if the disease isn't likely to be life-threatening. You might be inclined to think that after all the precautions, if I do get sick, I'll just "suck it up" like the last bout with the flu, and then I'll be fine.

The challenge is, while you are ill, you can transmit the disease to others via mosquitoes. That mosquito can carry the disease for up to 21 days, infecting others, who then also have it transmitted to other vectors. This is exactly how a few (or one) foreign travelers caused the Zika pandemic in the Western Hemisphere.

The danger is that infants are at tremendous risk. As the disease spreads among the Western Hemisphere, newborns are increasingly born with defects tied to the Zika virus.  In some affected areas, up to 1% of children are born with microencephaly; a condition of  a small brain and skull that causes intellectual disabilities, development delays, and can cause death.

Certainly you would want to reduce or limit the spread of this disease, especially if you could prevent it from coming to the United States and Canada. Its not currently north of Puerto Rico and Mexico. Vigilance among the traveling public will go far in reducing or eliminating an epidemic in the US.

Here is a graphic that shows the probable range of the mosquitoes capable of spreading the disease in the United States.



For further information, check with your  Healthcare Provider, and review information as it is updated at the Centers for Disease Control - Zika Website.



Monday, March 2, 2015

Travel ID Changes - What you need to know!


Are you aware that recent federal laws have changed what documents are acceptable for identification?


If you are like most travelers, probably not!  Sure, you might know that a passport is now required for all international flights, and at a minimum the Enhanced Drivers License is required for Sea and Land crossings to Canada, Mexico, and Caribbean countries.

However, many of you use a drivers license as proof of your identification just about everywhere, including  while traveling. Are you aware that for a number of states, your drivers license is currently not accepted as identification in many federal facilities, and in the near future WILL NOT be accepted for use in travel aboard commercial aircraft! It could also prevent one from touring the White House, a Dam, Nuclear facility, or other locations requiring ID clearance.

How did this happen?


Following the events of 9/11, the Federal Government put into place tiered identification policies, which restricted what types of identification could be used to access facilities that needed high security or if exploited, were a risk to the public. As part of that effort, the government began the process to require all states to issue driver licenses that had to meet 31 specifications for security. 

Called REAL ID,  these drivers licenses would be accepted by the federal government for access to facilities, and those that were not up to the Real ID standard, would be excluded in phases. In 2016, non-compliant drivers licenses will be excluded as  a form of identification when boarding commercial aircraft. For some, this includes Enhanced Drivers Licenses from the affected states!

Whom does this apply?


Currently, the following states/territories DO NOT have licenses that meet the federal standard: 
 Non-Compliant


  • Am.Samoa
  • Arizona 
  • Idaho** 
  • Louisiana 
  • Maine
  • Minnesota+
  • New Hampshire**
  • New York+
+ Federal officials may continue to accept Enhanced Driver’s Licenses from these states.
** Has an expired extension and will be subject to enforcement beginning January 19, 2015

The following states/territories have licences that do not meet the federal standard, but have received an extension. If they do not comply within the extension, they too will be excluded:
Potential Non-Compliant
  • Alaska*
  • Arkansas*
  • California*
  • Guam*
  • Illinois*
  • Kentucky*
  • Mass.*
  • Michigan*
  • Missouri*
  • Montana*
  • New Jersey*
  • New Mexico*
  • N. Carolina*
  • N. Dakota*
  • N. Marianas*
  • Oklahoma*
  • Oregon*
  • Pennsylvania*
  • Puerto Rico*
  • Rhode Island*
  • S. Carolina*
  • Texas*
  • Virginia*
  • Virgin Islands*
  • Washington*
(source - Dept of Homeland Security)

A study of why some states are not compliant, is largely a state's rights defense, or a privacy issue. However, until the states either work it out with the federal govt, or choose to comply, the traveler is still at the mercy of the government in terms of travel.

What Can You Do?


Until this matter gets resolved, your best option is to secure a Passport. Issued by the State Department, it will provide acceptable identification for all air travel, and will be accepted as identification at all federal facilities that allow public access. Valid for 10 years, not only will it make your domestic and international travel much simpler, but it can be used for employment as your sole ID - no longer bringing in multiple forms of ID for that new job.

Securing a passport is fairly simple. Visit the Passport Wizard from the State Dept's website.Once complete, deliver your application to one of these official locations.

What Else can you do?


Always protect any travel investment with insurance. Your can read more about your options, or even insure direct online.



Need a passport in a hurry? Visit the passport page at East-West Global Travel, and select our RUSH MY PASSPORT option.



Saturday, February 28, 2015

East-West Global Travel certified as Hong Kong Specialists!



We are honored to have become the most recent Hong Kong Travel Specialists serving the Gilbert, Mesa, and the entire Metro Phoenix area. With this new expertise, we are prepared to provide you the finest travel experience that Hong Kong can offer.

Certainly, you may be asking , "Why should I visit Hong Kong?" Its our hope that the following information will inspire you to visit Hong Kong - Asia's World City! We are ready to answer your indepth questions, and arrange your travel.



Basic Information:

Hong Kong consists of three main areas with the beautiful Victoria Harbor at the heart of the city. Hong Kong Island lies to the south of the harbor, while the Kowloon Peninsula forms its northern shores. The New Territories expands further north from Kowloon to Mainland China, plus the Lantau Island and over 260 outlying islands, totalling a size of more than 1,100 square kilometers (about 425 square miles).

There are more than seven million people in Hong Kong. Over 90% of the population is of Chinese descent. The international community includes people of many nationalities.

Hong Kong has a sub-tropical climate with distinct seasons and corresponding celebrations.

Entry Regulations

In general, all visitors to Hong Kong must have a passport that is valid for at least one month after the period of their intended stay in Hong Kong. At East-West Global, we strongly recommend 6 months. All potential visitors are strongly advised to check with their Chinese embassy and consulate, or the Hong Kong Immigration Department, for full details of passport and visa requirements, and East-West Global can assist with these services.

  • Visas: US Passport Holders DO NOT require a visa for stays of up to 90 days.  Visitors are required to have adequate funds to cover their stay without working, and to hold an onward or return ticket (unless in transit to Mainland China or Macau). 
  • 144-hour Convenient Visa to Guangdong Province: Foreign nationals in Hong Kong can visit Guangdong province for a maximum of 144 hours (six days) via entry ports in Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Zhuhai, Foshan, Dongguan, Zhongshan, Jiangmen, Zhaoqing, Huizhou and Shantou* using the 144-hour Convenient Visa.

Monetary Exchange:


Travelers who intend to stay in Hong Kong for more than a few days should pick up an Octopuscard. This is an extremely versatile stored-value electronic card that can be used for most public transport, as well as purchases in convenience stores, fast food shops, supermarkets, cake shops, vending machines, and more.

Lodging:

Hong Kong offers many choices in hotels, including historic and world-famous venues, major international chains, and local brands
Hong Kong's guesthouses provide clean and comfortable budget accommodation, with air-conditioning and individual washrooms.
Price-conscious travelers can find a room from Hong Kong Youth Hostels Association. Most are located in the New Territories near to scenic areas or close to hiking trails and marine parks.

East-West Global Travel is prepared to provide you web resources dedicated to travel consumers, who wish to discover Hong Kong. this free resource contains a lot of comprehensive information and a wide range of useful tools available to help visitors like you, plan a memorable trip to Asia’s World City.

Travelers who work through a savvy agency,  such as East-West Global Travel, should plan to visit Hong Kong during one of its grand seasonal events!

Annual Events:

Hong Kong has a year-round calendar full of events and happenings celebrating different festivals. This blending of Eastern and Western cultures, tradition and modernity, showcases how this city earned its reputation as the events capital of Asia. At East-West Global Travel, we feel these are some of the best celebrations and festivals worthy of our travelers:

Hong Kong Chinese New Year — It’s the biggest celebration of the year in Hong Kong. Colorful Victoria Harbor, the annual International Chinese New Year Night Parade with amazing performers, festive flower markets packed with people, and more: in Hong Kong, visitors can experience a unique Chinese New Year. fireworks over January to February *

Hong Kong Cultural Celebrations — Visitors can witness four fascinating traditional festivals at once and experience the vibrant living culture of the city. The birthdays of Tin Hau and Tam Kung are celebrated with traditional dragon and lion dances, while for Buddha’s birthday, devotees gather Cheung Chau at the spectacular Cheung Chau Bun Festival. April to May *
to ritually bathe statues at different Buddhist temples across the city. The exciting Bun Scrambling Competition and parades are held on

Hong Kong Summer Fun — This extravaganza brings you a
colourful line-up of cultural festivals, fun-filled expos, themed tours and pop concerts. Partying, shopping, dining, music and entertainment rise to new heights with promotions throughout the summer. June to August

Hong Kong Dragon Boat Carnival — From an ancient Chinese festival to one of the world’s greatest parties! Every year, boats, beers and cheers draw hundreds of thousands of spectators to Victoria Harbour for the Hong Kong Dragon Boat Carnival! June

Hong Kong Halloween Treats — Halloween is widely celebrated around town and no one can escape the festive atmosphere! People dress in make-up and costumes for parties, and enjoy holiday entertainment and activities at shopping malls and attractions. The whole city is full of themed decorations and special menus. Its unique blend of East and West makes Hong Kong an extraordinary Halloween destination. September to October

Great Outdoors Hong Kong — Late fall to early winter is the best time of the year to enjoy the outdoor treasures of Hong Kong. The comfortable weather allows nature lovers to explore the city’s scenic landscape and see its diverse wildlife through a series of guided tours. Famous locations include Hong Kong Global Geopark of China and the city’s longest hiking trail, MacLehose Trail. November to February

Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival — This month-long gourmet extravaganza celebrates the finer things in life, including delectable international wines and cuisines. The event kicks off with a world-famous four-day party and is followed by a series of events and promotions, including street carnivals and dining offers. November

Hong Kong WinterFest — Hong Kong’s unique mix of Western and Eastern culture makes
Christmas here extraordinary. During the holidays, colorful lighting and decorations are everywhere. Visitors can enjoy lively entertainment, seasonal sales and tempting festival menus. The celebration reaches a climax on 31 December with a spectacular pyrotechnics show over Victoria Harbor to welcome the new year. November to January

Perhaps your travel experiences are more suited to the study and appreciation of the arts. Here are the  some of the major recurring art events to look out for when planning trips:

  • Hong Kong Salsa Festival (Feb) 
  • Hong Kong Arts Festival (Feb – Mar) 
  • Entertainment Expo Hong Kong (Mar – Apr) 
  • Hong Kong International Film Festival (Mar – Apr) 
  • Le French May Arts Festival (May) 
  • Chinese Opera Festival (Jun – Jul) 
  • Made in Italy: Quality & Lifestyle (Jun – Jul) 
  • International Arts Carnival (Jul – Aug) 
  • Autumn Thematic Arts Festival (Oct – Nov)

For the Kids:

Hong Kong offers some of the finest family-friendly Theme Parks, all packaged in the best Oriental experience. Asia's World City also offers outstanding natural environment experiences, authentic cultural destinations, and uniquely fascinating experiential opportunties. Here are some of our favorite:


Hong Kong Disneyland — A world of fantasy that families and kids cannot miss! This unforgettable experience begins with a magical journey through seven themed lands – Main Street U.S.A., Fantasyland, Adventureland, Tomorrowland, Toy Story Land, Grizzly Gulch and Mystic Point. There are also exhilarating rides, amazing adventures and fantastic shows, such as Flights of Fantasy Parade, Mickey’s PhilharMagic, the Golden Mickeys, Fantasy Gardens, and many more. Do not forget to look for your favorite characters and catch the fireworks at night. Located at Lantau Island. Visitors can take MTR and switch to the Disneyland Resort Line at Sunny Bay Station.

Hong Kong Wetland Park — A world-class ecotourism park where visitors can discover some of Hong Kong’s unique plants and animals. The park is home to an impressive cast of wildlife, including birds, butterflies, amphibians, fish, and more! Visitors can learn about the importance of wetland and wildlife preservation through two areas, Wetland Interactive World and Wetland Reserve. Other features include Stream Walk, Mangrove Boardwalk, Butterfly Garden and three bird hides. Located at Tin Shui Wai, New Territories. A bus runs daily from Admiralty or Sheung Shui to Wetland Park.

Ngong Ping 360, Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery — Ngong Ping 360 is the ideal starting point of a journey to explore Lantau Island. A 25-minute cable car ride from Tung Chung will take visitors straight to the 1.5-hectare Ngong Ping Village, where a wide array of shopping and dining options can be found. The Crystal Cabin’s glass bottom offers an astonishing panoramic view of the beautiful sea and mountainside along the ride. With just a five-minute walk from Ngong Ping Village, travellers can also visit the renowned Po Lin Monastery, Ngong Ping Piazza and Wisdom Path, as well as the Big Buddha, one of the world’s tallest bronze outdoor sitting Buddha statues. A breathtaking sunset view from the mountain makes the perfect conclusion to a day out in Lantau. Located at Lantau Island. The Tung Chung Cable Car Terminal is about a five-minute walk from MTR Tung Chung Station.

Ocean Park Hong Kong — Since its opening in 1977, Ocean Park has offered world-class amusement through its animal exhibits, thrill rides and entertaining shows. This marine-themed park is also dedicated to promoting education and conservation. The park is divided into two areas, The Waterfront and Summit, which are connected by the Cable Car and Ocean Express funicular train. Attractions include Sichuan Treasures’ pandas, Sea Jelly Spectacular and fantastic themed zones like Aqua City, Old Hong Kong and Polar Adventure.

Sky100 Hong Kong Observation Deck — Located on the 100th floor of the International Commerce Centre, Hong Kong’s tallest building, the sky100 Hong Kong Observation Deck is the highest indoor observation deck in the city, offering incredible 360-degree views of Victoria Harbor. A high-speed lift takes only 60 seconds to travel up 100 floors

The Peak — At the highest point of Hong Kong Island, visitors enjoy the most spectacular view available of the whole city and beautiful Victoria Harbor, day or night. To find the perfect spot for these incredible views, try Sky Terrace 428, a large viewing platform at the anvil-shaped The Peak Tower, or the free-entry observation deck at The Peak Galleria. Other vantage points include Lugard Road Lookout, Lions View Point Pavilion and the 3.5-kilometre Peak Circle Walk. Don’t forget to take a ride on the historic Peak Tram: it’s one of the best ways to travel up and down the peak.

Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade and Avenue of Stars — A stroll along Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade leads past the Clock Tower, Hong Kong Cultural Centre, Hong Kong Space Museum and Hong Kong Museum of Art. While enjoying the glamour of Hong Kong’s film industry at the Avenue of Stars, don’t miss the multimedia show, “A Symphony of Lights”, involving more than 40 buildings on both sides of the harbour. Guinness World Records has recognized it officially as the world's largest permanent light and sound show, and it’s held daily at 8 p.m. for free.

Colonial Monuments — Beginning in 1841, Hong Kong lived under British governance. This colonial influence is reflected in the city’s culture as well as its many historical sites of interest. Tourists can learn more about Hong Kong’s past at places like 1881 Heritage, Duddell Street Steps & Gas Lamps, Lui Seng Chun, Murray House, Old Central Police Station Compound, Old Supreme Court Building, Tai O Heritage Hotel (Old Tai O Police Station) and Yau Ma Tei Theatre.

Sik Sik Yuen Wong Tai Sin Temple
Places of Worship — Hong Kong is a melting pot of different cultures and religions, and there are many active places of worship across town for its many faiths. Attractions include Happy Valley Hindu Temple, Jamia Mosque, Khalsa Diwan Sikh Temple, Ohel Leah Synagogue, St Andrew's Church and St John's Cathedral. Of particular religious and historical importance to Hong Kong are Che Kung Temple, Chi Lin Nunnery, Man Mo Temple, Sik Sik Yuen Wong Tai Sin Temple and Tin Hau Temples. There are even modern temples, such as the LDS Hong Kong Temple.
LDS Hong Kong Temple



Museums — Hong Kong has a diverse selection of museums, such as Dr Sun Yat-sen Museum, Hong Kong Heritage Museum, Hong Kong Museum of Art, Hong Kong Museum of Coastal Defence, Hong Kong Museum of History, Hong Kong Science Museum and Hong Kong Space Museum. Tourists who are interested in the art, culture and history of Asia’s World City can buy a MuseumPass for unlimited admission to the seven museums above.

Shopping:

Hong Kong is praised as a shopper’s paradise by many overseas visitors, with unlimited variety and
choices to satisfy even the most selective of shoppers. Whether a visitor is a hardcore bargain hunter or an upscale trendsetter, there’s plenty to choose from in Asia’s World City.

Open-air Markets and Shopping Streets: The South China practice of grouping similar businesses means Hong Kong has an abundance of markets and shopping streets. Goldfish, birds, clothes, electronics and shoes – if it’s worth shopping for, it has a street here. Bargaining is common and adds an entertaining interactive element to deal-hunting.

Outlets: Hong Kong has a number of factory outlets with international and local brands, as well as boutiques selling mid-
priced youth street labels. These outlets abound at Ap Lei Chau and Granville Road in Tsim Sha Tsui. The city’s largest outlet mall is Citygate Outlets in Tung Chung, with more than 80 international brands and year-round discounts of 30 to 70 percent.

Dining:

When travelers visit the culinary capital of Asia, they’ll be amazed by the wide selection of dishes available. With more than 11,000 restaurants at your service, from low-priced meals to luxury menus, finding local flavors, international cuisines or special diets will be a simple delicious journey.

At East-West Global Travel, we have access to a number of resources that we can provide our clients to assist in preparing for a visit to Hong Kong, or enhance the experience once you have arrived.

East-West Global Travel can provide a one-stop portal to you, offering comprehensive information on shopping, dining and accommodation, as well as useful maps and tips to enhance your travel experience in Hong Kong.

In addition to this portal, our clients can take a closer look at Asia’s World City by downloading mobiles apps at the website. These apps cover a wide range of topics such as travel packing, heritage walks, city walks, and local delicacies.

For interested travelers, East-West Global Travel is happy to offer e-Guidebooks on Dim sum, feng shui, history, tea, trams and travel – there’s a guidebook for just about everything in Hong Kong. Our collection of downloadable e-Guidebooks provides useful references for visitors on the go. Here are some highlights:

  • Local Delicacies Guide – A guide to Hong Kong's must-try staples, including congee, rice, noodles – and even rice noodles. 
  • Self-guided Walks – Eight walks along colourful streets, busy markets, and serene temples. Explore Hong Kong on foot! 
  • Living Culture Guide – Whether its feng shui or ancient festivals, explore the traditions, rituals and quirks that keep Asia’s World City ticking. 
We anticipate you have enjoyed learning a little more about Hong Kong, and have added it to your travel bucket list. Please let us know how we can assist you in fulfilling your plans to Hong Kong or any of the world's destinations!

Friday, December 26, 2014

Martin Luther King Ski Specials in Park City, Utah

East-West Global Travel & Park City, Utah 

Offer 

2015 MLK Holiday Specials








Traditionally sold-out due to the Sundance Film Festival, Park City is thrilled to announce they are now open for skiers and riders during the Martin Luther King, Jr. (MLK) holiday weekend, January 16-19, 2015.

Sundance has pushed back the festival dates to start a week later. For the first time, families, couples and snow lovers will have the opportunity this year to don their ski gear and capitalize on MLK holiday specials in America's favorite and historic ski destination.





Only 35 minutes from Salt Lake City International Airport with 320+ flights arriving daily, Park City is the most accessible ski destination in North America, allowing guests to ski the same day they arrive. Combine this with three of the world's top rated ski resorts – Canyons, Park City Mountain and Deer Valley – and hundreds of lodging, restaurant and shopping options and you have the perfect reason to visit Park City this MLK holiday.
At East-West Global Travel, we are ready to serve you. We have excellent Stay & Ski packages for Park City, and other ski destinations around the world.

Email Us or Click here to inquire about MLK holiday specials on ski, lodging, transportation and dining.

Monday, December 22, 2014

Special Spring Savings at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in Hawaii

With this special offer, the longer you stay, the more you save.
Plus, book early and get an extra $50 Daily Resort Credit when you reserve by 1/8/2015.
 
Inspired by the wonders and traditions of Hawai'i, Aulani has been uniquely designed for families. Ideally located on Ko Olina's beautiful beachfront cove, Aulani offer kids, adults and families Hawaiian vacation experiences with a special magic that only Disney can create. Delightful rooms and spacious villas, renowned Disney service and enchanting entertainment will let dreamers of every age savor their time together in Hawai'i as never before.
Walt Disney Imagineers worked hand in hand with locals to create Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina – a Hawai'i Resort that celebrates Hawaiian culture, history and traditions. From contemporary Hawaiian art and design to myriad recreational activities, entertainment, excursions and more, Aulani immerses Guests in the legends of the islands so you can experience the true enchantment of Hawai'i.
An enormous amount of detail and surprising, hidden magic have been crafted into the resort itself to fully immerse guests of all ages in the legends of the land — from the fantastic lava rock formations that meld with the architecture to themed recreation areas such as the whimsical waterway and menehune trails, and the stunning lobby artwork. Aulani features an 18,000-square-foot spa, a children’s club, wedding lawn and an expansive collection of swimming pools.

SAVE 10% — Plus $50 Daily Resort Credit*

3 Nights from $961 $865 per person, Island Garden View, 3-Day Alamo Compact Car

SAVE 20% — Plus $50 Daily Resort Credit*

4 Nights from $1240 $992 per person, Island Garden View, 4-Day Alamo Compact Car

SAVE 30% — Plus $50 Daily Resort Credit*

5 Nights from $1525 $1068 per person, Island Garden View, 5-Day Alamo Compact Car


Terms & Conditions:

Save 10% offer for stays of three (3) consecutive nights. Save 20% offer for stays of four (4) consecutive nights. Save 30% offer for stays of five (5) or more consecutive nights. All stays must be booked between 11/17/14 and 3/23/15, inclusive, with all nights between 4/6/15 and 6/15/15, inclusive. Resort credit of $50 per room per consecutive night applied to reservations booked between 11/17/14 and 1/8/15 only. The number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited, and room availability may vary by dates of stay. Savings based on the non-discounted price of the same room. Savings excludes Resort fees and taxes. All Resort credits expire at 11:59 pm on departure date. Not valid in combination with any other discounts or offers. Offer excludes suites and 3-bedroom Grand Villas. Limit two (2) rooms per reservation and subject to room occupancy limitations. Additional per-adult charges may apply if more than 2 adults per room. Advance reservations required. Subject to additional restrictions and change without notice.

As to Disney photos, logos, properties: © Disney


Prices are per person based on double occupancy. Rates are based on availability and are subject to change without notice. Seasonal surcharges and blackouts may apply.