ECUADOR SITUATION BACK TO NORMAL

ECUADOR SITUATION UPDATE

We are very pleased to report that the situation in Ecuador is stable now and back to normal, all commercial and banking activities are taking place –only schools are closed for today. Airports are open and flights have resumed. It is a beautiful sunny morning.

Services in the Galapagos Islands and on the mainland will operate from today on without any problem, since security is guaranteed in all the country.

great deals on galapagos cruises

It just doesn't get any better than a seven night Galapagos Cruise, except when you buy one and get the companion fare at 50% on select cruises. On top of all that, your flight to the Galapagos and entrance fee are paid, making it an additional savings of over $500 a person!

Take a cruise on the first class M/Y Grace, 16 passenger, or M/V Evolution, 32 passenger, and experience the intimate attentions of your natural guide and crew. Stops on the islands will allow viewing of exotic birds and creatures. A blue footed Booby might cross your path while performing its bizzare mating dance or snorkel with sea lions as they play near the beaches. You will be amazed by the wonder of the Galapagos Islands.





Contact a trip consultant at Lost World Adventures for more details and a personalized itinerary. 800.999.0558
http://www.lostworld.com/

M/V Eclipse - Best Galapagos yacht

Dear all,

We are pleased to share the news that the M/V Eclipse is featured in the Readers' Poll of top Small Ship Cruises in the February issue of Conde Nast Traveler.

In the survey, the M/V Eclipse was the only adventure ship with two perfect scores, for Shore Excursions and Itineraries/Schedules. It also scored a near perfect rating for Crew and Service.

We believe that the ratings show that the MV Eclipse continues to be the best adventure ship in the Galápagos.

For itinerary details, ship description and 2010 rates, please call Lost World Adventures. 800-999-0558

Cartagena & Bogota - '31 Places to go in 2010'

The world continues to notice Colombia as a recommended destination. In its latest edition, The New York Times listed Cartagena de Indias and Bogota among its “31 places to go in 2010”. Affordability, beauty, diversity, and close location are only a few characteristics of why Colombia is an untapped destination to visit.

If you have already been in Colombia, we invite to share your unforgettable experience by login into the New York Times and recommend the “Latin America’s next affordable hot spot”.

Go to the following webpage to comment:
http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/travel/2010-places-to-go.html#/25/

Colombia’s tourism industry has grown exponentially during the last few years. In 2009, tourism grew by 10.4% (according to the UNWTO) while tourism worldwide decreased by 4%. International hotel chains such as Hilton, Radisson, Holiday inn, and Sofitel are now present while airline carriers continue increasing flights. Jet Blue, Spirit, Delta, Continental, Avianca, and American Airlines offer daily non-stop flights from the USA to Colombia’s main cities. The cruise industry has also reassured its confidence on Colombia’s ports of call. In 2010, the country expects to welcome over 350,000 passengers aboard of the prestigious vessels of Royal Caribbean, Pullmantur, Princes Cruises, Holland America Line, Norwegian cruise Line among many others.

If you would like to learn more about Colombia’s exotic destinations, download this latest electronic magazine here: http://www.colombia.travel/es/turista-internacional/multimedia/revista-digital-wwwcolombiatravel

ANTHONY'S KEY - Buy 1, Get 2nd Half-off

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND
For over 40 years, Anthony’s Key Resort has dedicated itself to improving the experience of our valued guests so we are pleased to re-offer our popular special "Buy One - Get Second Half Off in 2010". So here’s a second chance to get a second half off! Join us at Anthony's Key Resort and bring a friend!

For Travel: January 2 2010- January 1 2011 Promotion ENDS June 25, 2010

Call Lost World Adventures package descriptions and 2010 rates. 800-999-0558

Experience the Chilean Bicentennial with explora!

Discover the culture, history and natural beauty of Chile, found throughout this long and slender land. Chile stretches 2,690 mi (4.329 km) from its northern border to its southern tip, which makes Chile’s nature very diverse with enchanting landscapes, among them explora’ main destinations in Atacama, Easter Island and Patagonia. Discover two or more of our destinations and enjoy the beauty of Chile and its most remote places with a unique program, created just for the Bicentennial.

Combine 2 or 3 explora destinations from June to September -
Travelers who combine two or more explora destinations, with a minimum of 4 nights in Patagonia and 3 nights in Atacama or Rapa Nui, will receive a special rate of 600 USD per person per night when travelling between June 1stand September 30th, 2010.
Choose the explora destination that you prefer during the month of September

For September only, we are offering a unique rate of 600 USD per person per night, with a 4 night minimum in any explora destination, with no need to combine destinations.

Chile update - earthquake damage

Although thousands of Chileans were devastated by the earthquake of February 27th, most parts of Chile frequented by tourists were not affected. Here are updates on specific areas:

Santiago Airport
Santiago International Airport has established 100% of its regular operations with a daily flow of around 24.000 passengers. Shortly after the earthquake, Santiago International Airport’s main building was inspected by two different teams of structural engineers, both of which concluded that no relevant structural damage could be found. Supporting infrastructure for National and International arrivals and departures was made operational within 48 hours of the earthquake. By Tuesday, March 9th, the international arrivals section of the main building was operational, adding to the International Departures section which was working 96 hours from the time of the earthquake. Today the airport is completely operational for passengers, with shops, restaurants and other services all fully functional.

Santiago, Valparaiso & Vina del Mar
All Santiago hotels are functioning normally, as are hotels in Valparaiso and Vina del Mar. San Cristobal Hill is open. Santa Lucia Hill is closed until further notice. The Fronck Museum in Vina del Mar has been closed until further notice. Most funiculars in Valparaiso are operational.

Vineyards
Wineries in Casablanca and the San Antonio Valley, such as Casas del Bosque, Indomita, Matetic, Casa Marin, are operation normally.
Wineries in the Colchagua Valley – Casa Silva, Lapostolle, Santa Helena, Hacienda Araucano, Laura Hartwing, Montgras – are operating normally. Some hotels, such as Santa Cruz and Lapostolle Residence were damaged and are being repaired.

Patagonia, Lakes & Volcano districts, Easter Island, Atacama Desert
No areas were affected by the earthquake. All roads, hotels and services are fully-operational.

MACHU PICCHU REOPENS

As announced by Peru's National Institute of Culture (INC), the major tourist attraction Machu Picchu and its famous Inca Trail reopened on April 1st, after being closed for two months due to unprecedented severe flooding caused by torrential rains that damaged railway tracks between Cuzco, Ollantaytambo and the Inca citadel. Since then, crews have been working hard to restore the vital rail access and rebuild sections that were completely destroyed. Fortunately, the UNESCO World Heritage site remained intact despite this natural disaster. During the rebuilding, a limited train service operated between the Piscacucho, provisional station located 50 minutes from Ollantaytambo, and the town of Machu Picchu (Aguas Calientes). It was necessary to transfer passengers by road from Cuzco or Urubamba to Piscacucho. We will keep you posted on further developments about the other train services to Machu Picchu.

CHAA CREEK SUMMER CAMP

Eco Kids Rainforest Adventure
Chaa Creek Summer Camp
July 18 -24, 2010
Looking for a special event for you and your 7-15 year old this summer?
Chaa Creek is offering a week long summer camp program to educate children about biodiversity, natural resource conservation, the ancient Maya, traditional healing, and the three "R's" Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle.

The program aims to instill memorable values that will have an impact on the way children conduct their lives, their relationship with our fragile Earth, and the sustainable development of our future.
Some of our guided educational activities include:
Hiking to ancient Maya sites where we will perform archaeological excavations,Horseback Riding through Jungle Trails while studying the medicinal flora within our 365-acre private reserve, Song writing and talent show sessions, Hands-on sustainable organic farming techniques, and Supervised water activities at Chaa Creek's new swimming pool.
6 Nights/7 Days all inclusive
Chaa Creek Nature Reserve

US$815 per child at the Macal River Camp
US$1206 per parent at The Lodge at Chaa Creek
Children's Summer Camp includes lodging at the Macal River Camp, all meals plus snacks three times a day, daily scheduling of educational events, arts & craft materials and t-shirt, Camp Counselors 24/7, and guided tours with our licensed naturalist guides.
Parents' rate includes airport transfers, lodge accommodation (next door to camp), all meals, and onsite activities.

For further details, contact Lost World Adventures at 800-999-0558.

SERVICE TO MACHU PICCHU TO RESUME APRIL 1

It is now confirmed that trains to Machu Picchu will resume operations on April 1st, 2010. The access will require a 50 minute bus ride from the Sacred Valley (Ollantaytambo Station) up to Piscacucho (Km.82) followed by an 80 minute train ride to Machu Picchu train station (Aguas Calientes). This bus-train combined service will be provided by Peru Rail and Inca Rail. Of course, the bus ride from Cusco city to Piscacucho will take longer.

Angel Falls - one of the 7 Natural Wonders of South America

Angel Falls is found in Venezuela in the Canaima National Park. It is the highest waterfall in the world at 3,212 feet (979 m). The falls has a clear drop of 2,647 feet (807 m) which is so far that the water vaporizes with the wind and becomes mist well before reaching the ground. Angel Falls is also called Kerepakupai meru which means "waterfall of the deepest place."

There is a global campaign to establish the 7 Natural Wonders of South America and Angel Falls is a candidate. You are invited to promote the mountain as one of the 7 Natural Wonders of South America.

Angel Falls – Vote now as one of the 7 Natural Wonders of South America.
http://sevennaturalwonders.org/south-america/angel-falls

Lost World Adventures arranges trips to Canaima National Park that include overnight and full-day trips to the base of Angel Falls. Contact a consultant for details.

2010 Galapagos Diving Season Aboard M/S ALTA

WOLF & DARWIN DIVING TRIPS NOW OPEN ON THE ALTA FOR PEAK SEASON 2010
After an excellent Diving Season in 2009 aboard the ALTA, we are excited to inform you that the Galapagos National Park has again granted a diving permit for the yacht M/S Alta to perform diving expeditions to Wolf & Darwin Islands during peak season in 2010. Call Lost World Adventures for available dates for diving as well as day-by-day itinerary.

If you are interested in diving in 2010, here is your chance to take advantage of this great opportunity! All availability is on a first come, first serve basis. Cruise dates are available for either Full Diving cruises to Wolf & Darwin Islands or as Naturalist bookings or charters.

7 NIGHT / 8 DAY ITINERARY IN DETAIL: 20 DIVES
3 FULL DAYS IN WOLF & DARWIN ISLANDS

For all diving departures there will be 2 dive masters / naturalists onboard the ALTA to take the group out to the dive sites in 2 dinghies. Crew members onboard the vessel during these weeks are trained for diving cruises and there will also be first aid equipment and emergency equipment onboard, specific to diving situations. Please inquire with us for more information.

GEOLOGY EXPEDITIONS TO THE MIDDLE OF THE WORLD

Discover Ecuador’s Andean Volcanoes and the Galápagos Islands

Follow in the steps of the great world explorers… discover the fascinating geology and colossal features of the Andes that left Alexander von Humboldt breathless along the Avenue of the Volcanoes in continental Ecuador, and the young and very active volcanism of the Galapagos Islands, where you will have ample time to examine its most significant geological sites and walk on lava of the most recent eruptions.

Join Dr. Theofilos Toulkeridis as we explore the fascinating land of the Andes and the islands of fire of the Galápagos. By putting together the most comprehensive route, our exclusive geological expedition will focus in understanding the varied forms of volcanism and how the islands' wildlife is influenced in its evolutionary framework by such unique setup.

As we explore the different corners of Galápagos, lectures and one-of-a-kind discussions, complement a voyage to this remote island group in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. Our geology expedition caters to both amateurs and geologists seeking for an in-depth experience of nature’s forces at work. Small groups will be led by our expert field geologist with personalized attention and profound knowledge.

Dr. Toulkeridis’ expertise will be shared in his eye catching lectures and discussions about Ecuador & Galápagos´ geology, right in the Middle of the World. On this trip, apart from traveling along beautiful landscapes, you get to see interesting glacial and geological phenomena and explore the fascinating Galapagos Islands on board Yacht ISABELA II.

Contact Lost World Adventures for a detailed day-to-day itinerary.
Departures:
June 13 to 23, 2010
August 22 to Sep 01, 2010
December 5 to 15, 2010

About Doctor Theofilos Toulkeridis, Ph.D. -
“Theo” is a resident of Ecuador since 1999, and full-time professor at the University of San Francisco at Quito (USFQ). He is one of the most reputed geologists living in Ecuador, and Founder and Director of the Center of Geology, Volcanology and Geodynamics. He earned his Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in Geology and Pale¬ontology, with a specialty focus in Isotope Geochemistry from the University of Mainz and the Max Planck Institute of Chemistry in Mainz, Germany. His Ph.D. in Geology and Isotope Geochemistry was completed in 1996, with the same institutions and in collaboration with the Centre for Surface Geochemistry at the French National Centre for Scientific Research in Strasbourg, France. His research in Ecuador is mainly focused upon volcanoes in the Sub-Andean basin, the volcanic Cordilleras of the “Sierra” and the Galapagos Islands.

GALAPAGOS FOR PHOTOGRAPHY ENTHUSIASTS

WITH AWARD-WINNING NATURE PHOTOGRAPHER JONATHAN GREEN
The Galapagos Archipelago not only inspired Charles Darwin’s famous theory, but has been a source of inspiration for countless explorers ever since. Many of its plant and animal species are unique in the world, where animals have no fear of humans and can be photographed at close range –plus the unique illumination of the equatorial sun is great for amazing landscapes.
This is a unique opportunity to see and photograph the Galapagos, both above water and underwater with the guidance and care of experts in the field; a fascinating destination where your hardest decision will be where to point your camera first… Exceptional days in the islands, with rewarding locations within the itinerary, will also include photography workshops, presentations, and the use of modern photo-techniques. In the evenings, indulge in great dinners and cozy accommodations.
As you learn, apply in the field your new techniques in different approaches to landscape and wide angle, macro and portrait photography, using the unique light conditions only found in the Galapagos Islands. Mr. Green will permanently coach guests in both land and underwater photography, and since the walking pace of photographers is different to that of non photography groups, extended time periods will be scheduled for key species and ¨hotspots¨ along the trails.
A major plus will be the added opportunity to photograph Ecuador’s Andean Volcanoes and the city of Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a jewel of Colonial art and architecture. This is photography at its best.
Photo Expeditions Special Departures:
April 4 to 14, 2010
July 11 to 21, 2010

About Nature Photographer Jonathan Green:
Jonathan, a resident of Ecuador, has been studying and photographing the Galapagos Islands, their flora and fauna on land and underwater, for over 20 years. Four times finalist in the Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition. Bronze medalist at Hasselblad World Circuit 2000. Photos published in Time, Time Life, Time for Kids, GEO, BBC Natural History and Royal Geographical Magazines. Photography exhibited at the Natural History Museum of London, Olympia Stadium, London and assorted venues around the world.

MACHU PICCHU: THE EMERGENCY IS OVER…

As rebuilding efforts are currently in place, an estimated date has been announced for a return to normal tourist operations. Perurail has temporarily suspended rail services to Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Caliente) – the town below the citadel. Although many local residents and business owners have been severely affected, with the aid of the Peruvian government and the private sector, work is in progress to rebuild damaged areas. It is estimated that normal tourist operations to Machu Picchu should resume by the beginning of April.

Plans to travel to the affected areas in April should not be disrupted.

The areas of Cuzco and the Sacred Valley have not been affected. There is far more to Cuzco and the Sacred Valley than Machu Picchu. Any plans to visit the area that do not include a visit to Machu Picchu should not be disrupted at all.

The following is an official statement regarding travel to Machu Picchu, Cuzco and the Sacred Valley:

February 3, 2010
Peru’s government announced a 60-day state of emergency in the Cusco department last week as heavy rainfall and mudslides battered the country’s southern Andean region. The storms flooded the Vilcanota River, which blocked the railway between Cusco and Machu Picchu, Peru’s sacred Inca citadel and top tourist attraction. The town of Aguas Caliente has been temporarily isolated. Some bridges have fallen and most crops have been lost. Furthermore, many rural houses built on the river banks or near the river have been inundated and some are a total loss.

British-owned Perurail has temporarily suspended services to Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Caliente) – the town below the citadel - stranding some 2,000 tourists. Peru’s government sent police and military helicopters to evacuate the tourists and local residents.

The main tourist attractions of the Sacred Valley, such as Pisaq, Ollantaytambo, Chinchero, Maras and Moray; areas south of Cuzco: Tipon, Pikillaqta, Andahuaylillas and the citadel of Machu Picchu did not suffer damages. Nevertheless, it will not be possible to access Machu Picchu by train for up to seven weeks. We are confident that by early April all the tourist activity will be reestablished to Machu Picchu.

Minister of Foreign Trade and Tourism, Martín Pérez, said Tuesday that Peru’s top tourist attraction, Machu Picchu, was not damaged following torrential rains, mudslides and floods that washed out roads and railroad tracks leading to the 15th-century sacred Inca citadel. Pérez expects repairs of the railway to be finished in eight weeks (from February 3rd).

“The citadel (of Machu Picchu), which I visited on Saturday (January 30th) after the tourists had been evacuated, was in perfect condition.” said Pérez. “The Inca knew not only how to build the drainage system, the hydraulic system is absolutely amazing. We went on Saturday and it was completely dry. We expect it will take eight weeks to repair the railroad tracks and (Machu Picchu) will be able to receive tourists again,” Pérez told Radio Programas Peru.

M/S ALTA GALAPAGOS 2010 SPECIAL

For all new bookings made on Alta's naturalist cruises by March 1, 2010

All new passengers booked and confirmed on Alta's Naturalist cruises by the dates above will receive their domestic air tickets to the Galapagos Islands, Transit Control Cards and Galapagos Park Entrance Fees at no additional cost. A savings of over $500.
*Note: This offer is for new bookings only and is not retroactive to current bookings

Contact Lost World Adventures for availability, itinerary and ship description

The Cliffs Preserve 2010 Summer Promotion

US$ 799, per person, per night, all-inclusive, based on double occupancy - minimum 3 night stay.
Includes
-Puerto Montt airport transfers
-Accommodations in a Luxury Suite with ocean views, living area, private terrace, walk-in shower, Jacuzzi
-All meals and drinks (Reserve/Grand Reserve wines and rack liquors included - premium wines and liquors not included)
-One day off-property activity: sport or fly fishing, rafting, canopy or cultural heritage excursion to Puerto Varas and/or the small fishing village of Quenuir.
-One Wellness Spa treatment per person
-Sauna, steamroom and wood-fired hot tub
-Wifi access
-Laundry service

Kids from 6 to 12 years old 50% off - Kids under 5 years old free of charge. 
Valid for stays through March 31, 2010
Price subject to change

For reservations or availabilities, please contact Lost World Adventures

Special offer at Remota in Patagonia

This winter take advantage of these special offers and live the Full Patagonian Experience with Remota

With access to trips inside and outside Torres del Parque National Park, Remota is the new top destination in Chilean Patagonia. A place where guests can experience the history, the culture and the sheer expanse of Patagonia.


Remota has two special offers for the coming months of January and February 2010:

Pay 3 nights / Enjoy 4 nights
For the purchase of a 3 nights program REMOTA will invite you for one extra night so you will have a 4 nights program
Published rates of the 4 nights program: US$ 1,980 per person in double room occupancy. With this offer pay only US$ 1,548 and save more than US$ 400 per person!

Pay 4 nights / Enjoy 7 nights
For the purchase of a 4 nights program, REMOTA will invite you for three additional nights so you will have a 7 nights program.
Published rates of the 7 nights program: US$ 2,988 per person in double room occupancy. With this offer pay only US$ 1,980 and save more than US$ 1,000 per person!

These offers are valid for travel during January and February 2010, limited and subject to availability at time of booking.