AdventureLink Names Senior YAHOO! Executive Jeff Dossett as CEO
May 29, 2009
LOS ANGELES (May 29, 2009) – AdventureLink, Inc., the world’s largest online source for booking adventure travel, today named former Yahoo! Inc. Senior Vice President Jeff Dossett as Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Dossett will be responsible for building global recognition for AdventureLink as the preeminent online marketplace for booking adventure travel.
In February 2009, AdventureLink launched the world’s first online booking system for adventure travel developed in conjunction with its partner, VAX VacationAccess. The AdventureLink system opens up booking capability for adventure travel opportunities worldwide providing easy access and distribution to over 70,000 leisure travel agents across North America.
Mr. Dossett joins AdventureLink from Yahoo! Inc. where he served as Senior Vice President, Audience Experiences, North America Region. Prior to joining Yahoo!, Mr. Dossett was the Executive Producer & General Manager of MSN in the United States. He also served as CEO of Carpoint and General Manager of MSN HomeAdvisor.
In announcing Dossett as CEO, AdventureLink Chairman and Founder Kelly Tompkins states, “I love the fact that Jeff is a risk taker and an accomplished mountain climber, having summited Everest twice. But more than that, as an executive, he has demonstrated tremendous leadership both at Microsoft and most recently, Yahoo!”
Samit Varma of Anthem Venture Partners, explains, “We have been working to get Jeff on board for several months, and we’re thrilled to have him. He’s a perfect fit for AdventureLink. He brings not only a distinguished professional track record but also a personal passion for adventure travel.”
Mr. Dossett, a passionate adventurist, states, “I’m thrilled to join the AdventureLink team. It’s truly a unique opportunity to combine my personal passion for adventure travel with my desire to help build the world’s largest, most effective, online global distribution and reservation system for adventure travel. My ultimate goal is to help make it easier for consumers to discover, book, and experience life – changing adventure travel using AdventureLink’s technology.”
Richard Bangs, co-founder of Mountain Travel*Sobek and host of the PBS series, “Adventures with Purpose,” was instrumental in the choice of Dossett for CEO. Bangs, who serves on AdventureLink’s board of directors, has followed the company since it started three years ago.
“AdventureLink has created a unique model in developing the world’s first global marketplace for adventure travel,” states Mr. Bangs. “Over the years, I’ve seen AdventureLink grow by leaps and bounds due to its ability to develop unique technology as well as its ability to build strategic relationships within the travel industry. When Kelly Tompkins invited me to join the board, I knew Jeff would be a great partner in helping Kelly realize his dream in making adventure travel accessible to everyone. Jeff’s passion as an adventure traveler and his executive experience with online media make for a perfect match in taking AdventureLink to new heights.”
About AdventureLink
AdventureLink is the largest online source for travel professionals and consumers to book adventure travel with over 60,000 trips offered by over 1,800 tour operators worldwide. AdventureLink is venture funded by Anthem Venture Partners, The Mailroom Fund, and Allegis Capital. For more information, go to: www.adventurelink.com.
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Wiser World Travel, LLC
May 26, 2009
Wiser World Travel, LLC represents respected tour operators who not only meet travelers’ needs with superior tours and itineraries around the world, but who demonstrate commitment to responsible travel and sustainability. WWT is unique in acting as a travel liaison between travelers and tour operators who provide itineraries with sustainable components, who support local people and host communities, who give back. We do not promote any particular tour operator, tour, itinerary, or accommodation, and offer wide choice and diversity to individual travelers and groups. There is no charge to travelers for our service. Our orientation is very personal and customer focused.
Why Wiser World Travel?
- Choice and diversity of tours around the globe, basic to luxury, from a consortium of respected tour operators who have a commitment to responsible tourism.
- Focus on ethical travel provided by network operators, striving to reduce negative impacts of tourism while creating long term benefits to the environment, local people, and cultures.
- Matching travelers with the best sustainable travel options specific to their wants and needs, eliminating the need for travelers to spend their valuable time researching.
Mission
Wiser World Travel is committed to increasing awareness and encouraging actions regarding responsible travel that results in a healthier, sustainable world. Together with travelers and travel providers, we act in ways that support local people, communities, cultures, and environments. WWT matches travelers with the best sustainable options to meet their needs−with all the fun, enjoyment, and discovery that go along with travel.
Geographic Reach/Primary Markets
Because of the number and diversity of tour operators within the Wiser World network, the geographic reach available is vast. Although adventure travel is a common denominator among most of the operators, travel options abound, including but not limited to ecotours, cultural and/or volunteer experiences, biking, etc. Likewise, because of our partnerships with tour operators and the choice available through WWT, markets vary, from baby boomers seeking soft adventure travel to students seeking service-learning experiences, to the hard core adventurist!
Thomson Safaris wins 2009 Tanzania Conservation Award
May 25, 2009
Honored for community-based initiatives at Enashiva Nature Refuge
Arusha, Tanzania — The Tanzania Tourist Board has honored Thomson Safaris (www.thomsonsafaris.com) with the 2009 Tanzania Conservation Award.
The award specifically recognizes the company’s efforts in establishing and supporting the Enashiva Nature Refuge, a community-based conservation project east of the Serengeti.
On May 19, Enashiva’s project manager, Daniel Yamat, received the award on behalf of Thomson Safaris at a ceremony in Cairo, Egypt, which was attended by Tanzania’s minister of tourism, Shamsa Mwangunga, among other distinguished guests.
“Thomson Safaris is humbled to receive this honor,” said Yamat. “We owe our deepest gratitude to the Tanzania Tourist Board, the government, and, most of all, the Maasai communities around Enashiva that have helped make conservation successful. The award really belongs to them.”
Since conservation efforts began at Enashiva, wildlife populations have more the doubled in the area and sightings of endangered species such as wild dog have increased dramatically. Rare woodland habitats that support endangered tree species are also being restored.
Yamat, who is of Maasai heritage, collaborates with a liaison committee of Maasai elders and leaders who assist in guiding Enashiva’s principles and work with local communities on conservation efforts and community projects. In 2008, select projects included the development of a borehole and water well, support for a women’s entrepreneur group, and the donation of a maize-grinding machine. Yamat noted several projects that are in the planning stages for 2009.
“As tourists come to Enashiva, we hope more opportunities will open up,” said Yamat. “Wildlife and communities do not have to be in conflict with each other. They can both win.”
The Conservation Award marks the third honor Thomson Safaris has received from the Tanzania Tourist Board. In 2005, Thomson received the Humanitarian of the Year Award, and they were named Tour Operator of the Year in 2001. More recent recognitions include being named among the Best Adventure Travel Companies on Earth by National Geographic Adventure in 2008 and 2009. Thomson Safaris was also a finalist for the 2008 Condé Nast World Savers Award, which recognized the company’s efforts in supporting education initiatives in Tanzania.
Thomson works closely with Friends of Tanzanian Schools (www.fotzs.org), a non-profit organization that has funded education projects at more than 12 schools that educate approximately 11,000 children annually. Earlier in 2009, FOTZS funded and facilitated the construction of teachers’ housing at Robanda Primary School, which has also received more than 3,000 donated textbooks from the organization. More than 40% of Thomson Safaris travelers visit schools in Tanzania and provide most of FOTZS’ funding through donations.
Adventure Travel Pioneer Richard Bangs Films “Quest for the Viking Spirit” Using the Most Authentic of Transports – A Hurtigruten Cruise Ship
May 22, 2009
New York, NY, May 2009 — For anyone who has ever thought of exploring Norway and its multitudes of grand fjords, quaint villages and historic sites – Richard Bangs’ recently released documentary, “Adventures with Purpose: Quest for the Viking Spirit,” offers a wonderful peek at the country’s incredible diversity, stunning scenery and historic culture. In a near perfect distillation of Norway’s Viking heritage, Richard Bangs, renowned as the father of modern adventure travel, delves deeply into the country’s historic roots, while choosing one of the most authentic of Norwegian modes of travel – aboard a ship. And not just any ship — but the vessels that have served the many towns and villages along Norway’s west coast for more than 100 years – a Hurtigruten ship. Bangs sets out to discover how Norway transitioned from a history that included terrifying raids and a somewhat violent predilection into its modern reputation as a progressive nation standing for peace and conflict resolution. He and his production team visited cities and villages steeped in history, including Alta, Bergen, Fram, Kirkenes, Tromso and Trondheim, showcasing Norway in all its beauty while following the paths taken by centuries of Norwegians.
Bangs’ journey begins in Oslo, where the story of Viking history begins and where many Hurtigruten guests start their journeys. One of the highlights of his visit to the city is the Fram Museum, celebrating the most famous of polar vessels, the Fram, built in 1892 , and used by Norwegian explorer Fridtjof Nansen on a three-year expedition around Greenland and by Roald Amundsen on his South Pole Expedition in 1909-11.
The documentary then depicts the path of the sea-loving Vikings, sailing through the Lofoten Islands, first populated 6,000 years ago by inhabitants surviving on fishing and hunting. Stunning footage shows off the ancient sights of several cities: in Trondheim, the Nidaros Cathedral, whose high alter stands on the spot where it is believed St. Olav lay secretly buried for a year following the Battle of Stiklestad in 1030; in Bergen, the city’s old harbor front, known as Bryggen, which was once dominated by the Hanseatic League and served as a major trade center; and Alta, with its World Heritage site rock carvings dating back from 4200 BC to 500 BC. Other highlights on Bangs’ journey include visits to Lofotr, where he sails aboard a Viking long ship replica; Kirkenes, situated on Norway’s Barents Sea in close proximity to the Russian border; Tromso, boasting the world’s most northerly university; Sognefjord, Norway’s largest fjord; and Flam, an arm of the fjord surrounded by steep mountainsides, roaring waterfalls and yawning valleys.
Hurtigruten offers similar journeys of exploration – in much more comfortable vessels than those used by the Vikings. Seven-day northbound journeys, six-day southbound sailings or 12-day roundtrip voyages are offered daily, year round at cruise-only fares starting at $705 to $2,014 per person, double. Travelers can combine their cruises with land stays by opting for Independent and Escorted Vacation packages, ranging from 11 to 18 days, adding such cities as Oslo, St. Petersburg and Copenhagen. These packages are priced from $2,795 to $14,269 and include air, hotels, meals, etc.
Host and co-executive producer Richard Bangs has spent 30 years as an explorer and communicator, and has led first descents on 35 of the world’s rivers, including the Yangtze in China and the Zambezi in Southern Africa. “Adventures with a Purpose – Quest for the Viking Spirit,” began airing in early May and is slated to continue to be shown by PBS stations, PBS-HD and Create Network in the top 50 major TV markets including NY, Boston, LA, Chicago, Atlanta, DC, Dallas and San Francisco, as well as hundreds of medium and smaller markets. Viewers should check their local listings. It can also be ordered from Small World Productions at www.AdventuresWithPurupse.TV or by calling (800) 866-7425. DVDs included the one-hour documentary and more than two hours of value-added footage. Cost is $24.95 plus shipping.
Hurtigruten is a world leader in expedition cruising, sailing to the most remote of destinations including Antarctica, Greenland and the Arctic’s Spitsbergen. For more information about the cruises, pre- and post-cruise explorations and optional excursions, brochures and reservations can be obtained from Hurtigruten Inc., (800) 323-7436 or (212) 319-1300; fax (212) 319-1390; for brochures (800) 582-0835, 24 hours a day; www.hurtigruten.us.
Cruise West Offers Epic Year-Long Global Adventure
May 22, 2009
Ground-breaking Journey Will Visit 242 Ports, 59 Countries on 24 Voyages
Seattle, WA – Marco Polo; Odysseus; Leif Eriksson; Christopher Columbus; James Cook; Ferdinand Magellan — history’s great sea explorers have inspired an epic global voyage destined to become the most memorable cruise of a lifetime.
These legendary adventurers whose travels shaped much of the known and the new world set the theme for Cruise West’s Voyages of the Great Explorers — a 335-day circumnavigation of the world. Departing Singapore on March 6, 2010, Cruise West’s flagship, the 120-guest, all-suite Spirit of Oceanus will sail westward, following the sun, to return to Singapore on February 3, 2011.
“The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.” St. Augustine’s words will come to life on the worldwide itinerary of the Voyages of the Great Explorers. Following the major routes inspired by history’s great ocean explorers, this new world voyage is a collection of 24 individual voyages within six themed “chapters” comprising one awe inspiring “book” that reflects the exploits of the legendary seafarers. Each distinct voyage, ranging from nine to 18 nights, will offer historical insights into the sea commanders who first made history along the same routes.
Drawing from its 63 years of tour and cruise experience, Cruise West promises one-of-a-kind voyages that will appeal to the history buff as well as the bold seafarer; traveling to places and sites that many people have only dreamed to venture.
“No other cruise line – big or small — offers a journey as long or as varied as Voyages of the Great Explorers,” said Richard West, managing director and chairman of Cruise West who will host the inaugural departure from Singapore. “A true explorer knows that smaller is better. These voyages are designed to visit remarkable destinations; waterways and sites during the best time of the year, and only a small exploration ship can access many of these destinations. Our guests also appreciate the casual but gracious environment that the Spirit of Oceanus provides.”
The Voyages of the Great Explorers includes visits to 242 ports of call in 59 countries and 85 UNESCO World Heritage sites while crossing 14 seas and oceans, transiting three canals — Port Suez/Port Said (Suez Canal transit); Corinth Canal/ Corinth (Mycenae/Nafplion); and the Colon/ Panama Canal – as well as a voyage tied to The Famed Edinburgh Military Tattoo, Scotland’s colorful military musical spectacular..
Further exploration by Zodiacs and included “Ultimate Explorer “ experiences will bring guests even closer to spectacular natural and historical wonders. A hallmark of the Cruise West experience is engaging and thought-provoking presentations aboard every sailing. These cruises will boast renowned guest lecturers, local experts and onboard Exploration Leaders who will expand upon the significance of the cultural and historical highlights as well as the explorers who left their mark.
Chapters of the Voyage of the Great Explorers
1. Marco Polo – Ancient Trade Routes of the Mystic East, March 6 – May 5, 2010. Four enticing voyages recall the ancient trade routes from Southeast Asia to the Mediterranean Sea. Departing Singapore, the itineraries include visits to Thailand and Burma before exploring the Indian sub-continent and Sri Lanka. Then it’s on to historic Iran, United Arab Emirates, Oman, Jordan and Egypt, before concluding in Alexandria.
2. Odysseus and the Phoenicians – Mediterranean Odyssey, May 5 – July 20, 2010. In this realm of ancient mariners, six voyages explore sun-drenched islands where gods and goddesses once meddled in the affairs of mortals. The voyages begin in Alexandria and sail on to mythic destinations in Greece and Turkey while guests savor the cultural richness and sensory pleasures of Tunis, Algeria, Italy, Sicily, Malta, Spain and Portugal before arriving in Honfleur, France.
3. Leif Eriksson – The Viking Sagas, July 20 – September 8, 2010. Inspired by the heroic exploits of the Vikings, three voyages combine towering glaciers, capital cities, and leisurely days at sea between two continents. Departing Honfleur, France, these itineraries explore Ireland, the Orkney Islands and Scandinavia as well as the enchanting cities of Tallinn, St. Petersburg, London and Edinburgh. Then it’s across the Atlantic with stops at Iceland, Greenland and the Faroe Islands before ending in St. John’s, Halifax.
4. Christopher Columbus – The New World, September 8 – October 25, 2010. Five memorable voyages bring the New World into a new perspective. Depart St. John’s, Halifax and cruise along the Atlantic coastline, island hop in the Caribbean and transit the Panama Canal. With the ease offered on a small ship, explore the tropical rainforests of Panama and Costa Rica before disembarking in Guayaquil, Ecuador. Extensions are available to the Galapagos Islands and Machu Picchu.
5. James Cook – Idylls of the South Pacific, October 25, 2010 – January 19, 2011. Cruise the South Pacific from Guayaquil to Darwin, in waters Captain Cook once charted. These five voyages feature remote islands with pristine beaches, fabulous snorkeling and fascinating local cultures in Easter Island, Polynesia, New Guinea, the Cook Islands, New Zealand and Australia, ending in Darwin.
6. Ferdinand Magellan – In Search of the Spice Islands, January 19 – February 3, 2011. The final chapter of the Voyages of the Great Explorers departs from Darwin bound for the port where the journey began in Singapore. Along the way explore intriguing cultures throughout Indonesia that combine Hindu, Islamic, Western and indigenous influences and wildlife ranging from the extraordinarily beautiful to the wonderfully bizarre.
Cruise West explorers can purchase individual voyages, sets of multiple voyages or the full circumnavigation. Prices per voyage start at $4,995 (US dollars) and include a hotel night pre-cruise. For maximum savings book and pay in full by July 15, 2009 and save up to 35 percent. Book more than one voyage and save an additional five percent. Book the entire voyage starting at $233,995 and Cruise West will include first class airfare.
More information about these voyages can be found online at www.cruisewest.com or by calling 1- 800-296-8307 or a travel professional.
The Spirit of Oceanus
Cruise West’s all-suite Spirit of Oceanus is the line’s most spacious and luxurious ship. It offers gracious comfort for 120 select guests. Each suite offers spacious closets, a large marble bathroom, sitting area and television. Two lounges, an outside bistro and an open-seating dining room provide a casual atmosphere for socializing. Seven suite categories are offered onboard, including 14 suites with private balconies and one elegantly appointed and spacious Owner’s Suite located on the ship’s Sun Deck.
About Cruise West
Cruise West believes that small is beautiful. Small-ship exploration cruising allows up-close and personal experiences unmatched by the traditional larger cruise lines. For more than 63 years Cruise West has provided authentic travel experiences where the destination is the focus. Nine small ships with guest capacities ranging from 78-138 explore remote and distinctive destinations throughout the globe. A robust onboard enrichment program further enhances the guest experience through topical guest lecturers, additional exploration by zodiac and included excursions at every port. Cruise West is the recipient of Porthole Magazine 2008 Readers Choice Award for Best Expedition Cruise Line.
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First Ascent Team Summits Everest, Including ATTA Advisory Board Emeritus Member Viesturs
May 22, 2009
Viesturs and Whittaker Return Eddie Bauer to the Top of the World
SEATTLE, WA – On the morning of May 19, two legendary mountaineers on the First Ascent “Return to Everest” expedition reached the highest point on Earth. Ed Viesturs and Peter Whittaker stood on the summit with members of their production crew before descending to High Camp at 26,000 feet. Forced to spend an extra 24 hours in the “death zone” while waiting for high winds and whiteout conditions to improve, the team began their final summit push around 11:00 p.m. on the evening of May 18. Their successful summit comes 46 years and 18 days after Whittaker’s uncle, Jim, became the first American to do so, on May 1, 1963.
The common thread between the two expeditions besides the Whittaker name: Eddie Bauer was the outfitter, then and now. First Ascent marks Eddie Bauer’s return to its heritage as America’s original expedition outfitter.
The Return to Everest expedition includes several of the world’s most celebrated mountain guides and has introduced breakthrough video and audio production techniques to make the extreme challenge of climbing Mt. Everest accessible in ways never before possible. The unprecedented, virtually live coverage of the dramatic climb to the top, including the First Ascent blog with daily posts from the climbers, has created an avid online following.
As Viesturs and Whittaker return to Base Camp, the other team members are moving up for their own summit push. Led by another renowned First Ascent guide, Dave Hahn, the second team includes Seth Waterfall, Melissa Arnot and a client. Dave Hahn has more Everest summits than any other non-Sherpa. If successful, this campaign will mark his eleventh summit.
With Whittaker and Viestur’s triumph, Eddie Bauer returns to its roots. In addition to outfitting the 1963 American Mt. Everest Expedition, Eddie Bauer outfitted many other historical first ascents in the 1950s, 1960s, 1970s and 1980s. For the past 18 months, Eddie Bauer has been working with their First Ascent guide team in developing the new First Ascent mountaineering gear. The “Return to Everest” expedition marks the expeditionary launch of the new line.
“This is a milestone for us,” Eddie Bauer President and CEO Neil Fiske says. “It puts us literally back on top of the world. We outfitted some of America’s most famous expeditions. And now with First Ascent and this team of climbers, we’re bridging our past with our future.”
Positioned as “guide built gear,” First Ascent takes a new approach to designing and developing gear. Fiske, along with Peter Whittaker, assembled a “dream team” of world-class mountain guides to lead every step of the development process. “Our goal was simple,” said Whittaker, “build the best gear in the world.” Every component of every First Ascent piece was signed-off on by the First Ascent guide team. Because in their words, “We live in the mountains. Our clothes are our life support.”
Five of the six First Ascent guides are participating in the Return to Everest climb. Those five include:
Ed Viesturs The only American to summit all fourteen 8,000-meter peaks without supplemental oxygen, Ed is recognized the world over as a mountaineering legend. This is his seventh Everest summit.
Peter Whittaker Co-owner of Rainier Mountaineering, Inc. (RMI), the largest guide service in the U.S., Peter has been a professional mountain guide for 25 years. This is his third Everest expedition and his first summit. Peter has said that part of his motivation on this 2009 climb was to restore some balance to the bragging rights at Whittaker family reunions. By mid-June, more than 50 RMI guides around the world (and many of their clients) will be outfitted in First Ascent gear.
Dave Hahn Acknowledged as America’s leading Himalayan guide, Dave has summited Everest more times (10) than any non-Sherpa in history. This year, he’s guiding a client, and many of his blog posts from the mountain outline the strategies for successfully climbing in the Himalaya.
Melissa Arnot This is Melissa’s second Everest expedition. In 2008, she reached the top as part of EVEREST TEAM INSPI(RED) to help raise awareness for the organization (RED) and its work for people in Africa suffering from HIV/AIDS.
Seth Waterfall While this is his first trip to the Himalaya, Seth has guided on Rainier, Kilimanjaro and Denali; and he has multiple first ski descents to his credit. He’ll be assisting Dave in guiding their client up the mountain.
The continuing drama is unfolding daily on the Born Out There blog: blog.firstascent.com. Groundbreaking video, still photography and written personal accounts by the climbers create a stunning, enthralling experience.
Eddie Bauer’s mountaineering history:
To learn more, visit blog.firstascent.com.
For interview requests and more information, contact:
Anita Woo (425) 755-8832
anita.woo@eddiebauer.com
Melanie Dennig (212) 889-1700
melanie@turnerpr.com
About Eddie Bauer
Established in 1920 in Seattle, Eddie Bauer is a specialty retailer that sells casual sportswear and accessories for the active outdoor lifestyle, as well as expedition-class mountaineering gear. The Eddie Bauer brand is a nationally recognized brand that stands for high quality, innovation, style and customer service. Eddie Bauer products are available at approximately 365 stores throughout the United States and Canada, through catalog sales and online at eddiebauer.com.
First Paid Vaction Bill in U.S. History to be Introduced in Congress on May 21st
May 21, 2009
(May 2009) — TAKE BACK YOUR TIME is pleased to announce that Congressman Alan Grayson (D-FL) will introduce the Paid Vacation Act of 2009 at a news conference on the Cannon House Office Building Terrace in Washington DC at 11 a.m., Thursday, May 21, 2009.
WHAT THE BILL DOES:
* Requires one week of paid vacation for employees of companies with at least 100 employees. Three years after passage, the bill extends this requirement to companies with at least 50 employees, and requires two weeks for companies with 100 employees.
* Covers workers after one year on the job. Part-timers must work 25 or more hours a week and 1250 hours per year to be covered.
TAKE BACK YOUR TIME Executive Director John de Graaf and board members Bill Doherty and Joe Robinson will join Congressman Grayson and other speakers, including physician Arnold Pallay, economist John Schmitt, and simple living advocate Wanda Urbanska, at the news conference, which is open to the public.
“We hope that if you live in the Washington DC area, you’ll come to the news conference and show your support for this bill,” says de Graaf. “Family vacations are an important source of family bonding and memories,” observes Doherty, a family therapy professor at the University of Minnesota. “Yet a third fewer families take them than a generation ago.” “Vacations have been shown to increase productivity and profitability,” adds Robinson, a business consultant.
Research by economist John Schmitt of the Center for Economic and Policy Research found that the United States is alone among industrial countries in not mandating paid vacation time. More than 147 countries now have paid vacation laws. All European nations require at least four weeks of paid vacation. Dr. Pallay points out that health studies have shown that regular vacations can reduce the rates of heart disease and depression by nearly half. Wanda Urbanska, who travels throughout the US for her PBS series, SIMPLE LIVING WITH WANDA URBANSKA, says she sees a hunger in the country for new, less materialistic values centered around time for family and health.
“This is a very modest bill,” says de Graaf. “But we support it wholeheartedly and congratulate Congressman Grayson for introducing it and helping open a dialogue about why vacations matter, how deprived Americans are when it comes to paid time off, and why we must act now to improve the situation.” He points out that a poll conducted last year by TAKE BACK YOUR TIME found that half of all Americans took less than one week of vacation last year. A quarter of all workers receive no paid vacation time at all and the average is less than two weeks. Meanwhile, the number of U.S. companies that offer paid vacation time has actually dropped in the past year.
The poll found that 69% of American voters would support a paid vacation law, including 75% of women, 83% of voters under 30, and 89% of African-Americans. “Without any question, there is widespread grassroots support for this,” says Robinson, who has been working on the issue for a decade.
TAKE BACK YOUR TIME is seeking endorsements of the Paid Vacation Act of 2009 from private companies, citizen action organizations, and other groups and institutions. Please email your endorsement to: John de Graaf jodg@comcast.net and/or call 206 443-6747 (o); 206 407-5490 (c)
Media inquiries regarding the specifics of the bill and the news conference should be made directly to Congressman Grayson’s press secretary, Todd Jurkowski:
Todd Jurkowski, Press Secretary
Congressman Alan Grayson (Dist. 8, Florida)
todd.jurkowski@mail.house.gov
202.503.5964 (cell)
407.225.2176 (office)
Information about vacation time can be found at: www.right2vacation.org.
A national “Vacation Matters Summit” will be held at Seattle University, August 10-12, 2009. The media is welcome. Contact John de Graaf for more information.
Boulder, Colorado, Based Intrepid Travel Ranked #1 “Best Places to Work”
May 21, 2009
Adventure Travel Company Encourages Employee Eco-Consciousness and Exploration
Boulder, CO – Intrepid Travel (www.intrepidtravel.com) recently (ATN Editor’s Note: on April 9 2009, Intrepid Travel issued this news announcement, but it was not posted immediately – we regret the posting delay) topped the list in Outside magazine’s (www.outsideonline.com) second annual “Best Places to Work” list. Intrepid was ranked No. 1 out of 30 selected companies. The full list and related story is published in the May 2009 issue of Outside magazine.
Intrepid’s Boulder office opened in November 2007 and modeled its employee practices after Intrepid’s head office in Melbourne, Australia. According to Tiffany Richards, President of Intrepid Travel’s Boulder office, “Our company philosophy is very much about promoting responsible travel, getting off the beaten path, helping to support positive change, and having fun along the way. It’s more than what we sell, it’s our lifestyle too. So we’ve implemented programs and policies for our employees that help them maintain a work/life balance that keeps them smiling when they come into the office each day.”
Outside’s “Best Places to Work” list was compiled with the help of the Outdoor Industry Association (outdoorindustry.org) and Best Companies Group (bestcompaniesgroup.com). The year-long selection process began with an outreach effort that identified a wide range of non-profit and for-profit organizations in the United States. Participating companies were then sent confidential employee-satisfaction surveys and employer-questionnaires to collect information about benefits, compensation, policies, job satisfaction, environmental initiatives, and community outreach programs. All of the results were analyzed by Best Companies Group experts, who selected the 30 companies that best enable employees to balance productivity with an active, eco-conscious lifestyle.
“These 30 companies share a common belief: that the secret to success in any economy is empowering employees to live balanced lives and remain committed to their communities and the environment,” said Michael Roberts, Executive Editor of Outside. “Our winners know that happy workers are good for the bottom line. So even in the current financial storm, they’re offering on-site fitness classes and massage, reimbursements for gym memberships and ski passes, flexible hours, amazing travel benefits, and opportunities for on-the-clock community service.”
Intrepid’s company perks include free travel for all employees, free public transportation passes for the Denver/Boulder area to encourage the environmentally-friendly use of public transport, paid days off for volunteering, and a generous 4-week paid time off policy. Intrepid also encourages socializing with a monthly pot-luck lunch, on-the-company Friday happy hour and a bring-your-pet-to-work policy.
“Its hard to be grumpy at work when Fido is sitting at the desk next to you,” says Richards.
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ABOUT INTREPID TRAVEL PTY. LTD.
With 20 years of experience, Intrepid Travel is one of the world’s leading small group adventure tour operators. Intrepid Travel takes around 80,000 travelers to over 100 countries worldwide, each and every year. Intrepid trips are designed to go off the beaten track, meet the locals and travel in an unconventional way, joining locals on their transport, in their markets and even in their homes. Intrepid employs close to a thousand employees in nearly 20 countries worldwide.
ABOUT OUTSIDE MAGAZINE
Outside is America’s leading active lifestyle magazine, with over two million readers a month. For more than 30 years, the magazine has covered travel, sports, adventure, health, and fitness, as well as the personalities, the environment, and the style and culture of the world Outside. Along with receiving many other accolades, Outside is the only magazine to win three consecutive National Magazine Awards for General Excellence. Visit the magazine online at www.outsideonline.com.
ABOUT BEST COMPANIES GROUP
Best Companies Group was formed in January of 2004, with the purpose of identifying and recognizing best companies around the country. By using state-of-the art survey and indexing tools, BCG has been able to achieve that purpose on national, state-wide, city, and industry stages. BCG will partner with B-to-B and consumer media and other business or human resource organizations to publicize the opportunity, encourage participation and to recognize those who are good enough to make the lists of “Best Places to Work”. BCG currently manages 25 similar programs around the US and in Canada. For more information and a complete list of “Best Employer” programs, visit www.bestcompaniesgroup.com Best Companies Group is headquartered in Harrisburg, PA.
ABOUT THE OUTDOOR INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION
Founded in 1989, Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) is the premier trade association for companies in the active outdoor recreation business. OIA provides trade services for over 4000 manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, sales representatives and retailers in the outdoor industry. Outdoor Industry Association seeks to ensure a healthy and diverse specialty retail and supply chain based on quality, innovation and service. To this end, OIA works diligently to raise the standards of the industry; increase participation in outdoor recreation to strengthen business markets; provide support services to improve member profitability; represent member interests in the legislative/regulatory process; promote professional training and education; support innovation; and offer cost-saving member benefits.
The Other Iraq Tours
May 20, 2009
“The Other Iraq Tours” specializes in luxury and custom tours to Iraqi Kurdistan; Istanbul, Turkey; Vienna, Austria; and, Amman, Jordan.
Tour companies around the world are always looking for new and exciting destinations to take their clients to. Many adventure travelers have been to the usual – sometimes exotic locations – but few have visited Iraqi Kurdistan – perhaps the most exciting new tour destination in the world. The Other Iraq Tours is currently the only locally based company that specializes in arranging tours to this region. Our four American partners and local staff have more than 35 years of combined experience in Kurdistan and have intimate knowledge of the region including it’s history, archeology, geography, politics and investment potential. Whatever your interest – we custom design tours to meet your need – want to climb a mountain – ski – raft – see the ancient history of Assyria, the Medes (ancestors of the Kurds), visit ancient Jewish cities, 3rd and 4th Century Churches and Monasteries – we have it all. Our company takes care of all the details from hotels to food, transportation, guides and all of the little details that make an adventure successful – all you and your clients have to do is relax and enjoy the journey!
Did you know?
- There are more historical, archeological and religious sites in Iraq than any other country!
- There are more than 80 flights a week to Kurdistan.
- Japan, Korea, Germany, Sweden, Austria and numerous other nations have changed their travel advisories to differentiate between Kurdistan and the rest of Iraq – attesting to the fact that Kurdistan is “The Other Iraq.”
Our service includes all the best airlines (such as Austrian Air), fine hotels and restaurants as well as an experienced tour coordinator to accompany you. Lectures are provided on Kurdish history and Archeological and Historic Sites.
You will see:
- the oldest inhabited city in the world
- ancient caves
- 3rd and 4th Century churches and monasteries
- museums
- ancient cities (such as Amadiya and Koisinjak)
- dramatic landscapes and waterfalls
- and much more….
You will have the opportunity to interact with local residents and experience the culture first hand including a taste of local entertainment. So you think you can dance?
Is it safe to visit and tour the region?
Following are some quotes from our customers and major news outlets.
· Australian 83 years old tour adventurer – Anne Bourne
May 7, 2009
The people of Kurdistan are very kind; everyone here wants to talk to foreigners. What the newspapers and TVs say about Iraq, car bombs and killing every day, it is not what it looks like, Iraqi Kurdistan is very safe.
· Experienced and keen adventurer who has seen nearly 100 countries – Marian Leadbitter
May 7, 2009
When I was told that we are going to Kurdistan, I asked where Kurdistan is. Now I see the Kurds are a big nation without a state.
· Tour Coordinator, Far Horizons Australia – Nick Deacock
May 6, 2009
I’d like to thank you, Harry and of course Balin for looking after the group so well during our visit through Kurdistan. Your personal attention to detail, kind hosting of dinner, and your and Harry’s connections within the KRG went a long way to ensuring the success of the trip.
The group left Erbil impressed with the hospitality and kindness of the people, the fascinating history and above all the incredibly beautiful scenery, particularly around Rawanduz.
· CBN News – George Thomas, “Kurds: Grateful to America”
June 12, 2007
The longer you stay with these people, the more you hear just how grateful the Kurds are to the men and women of United States. Walking down the street in any other part of Iraq could be fatal. Not so in Erbil. Since March 2003, neither a single coalition soldier nor foreigner has died.
· CBS 60 Minutes Special – “Kurdistan: The Other Iraq”
February 18, 2007
Try to imagine a peaceful and stable Iraq where business is booming and Americans are beloved. Now open your eyes as 60 Minutes takes you to a part of Iraq which fits that description: it’s called Kurdistan.
· The Washington Times – Sharon Behn (Erbil, Iraq)
November 30, 2005
…the most remarkable thing about this northern city is that it is quite normal. The situation in Kurdistan, a region of northern Iraq where about 4 million Kurds live, is so detached from the rest of the country that Kurdistan describes itself on the Internet as The Other Iraq.
· Open Source – Christopher Lydon
The people are starting to call Kurdistan “The Other Iraq”. Kurdistan has a shocking degree of stability & prosperity.
Contact us for An Unforgettable Journey!
Travel Alert to Mexico No Longer in Effect
May 19, 2009
Mexico City, May 15, 2009 – The U.S. Department of State’s travel alert to Mexico due to the H1N1 influenza outbreak is no longer in effect. This announcement was made right after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lifted its travel warning against all nonessential travel to Mexico.
The CDC announced that the “warning” was downgraded to a “Travel Health Precaution,” which is directed at those who are at high risk of complications due to any kind of influenza.
Daniel Jernigan, Deputy Director of the CDC’s influenza division, says that there is no evidence that the Influenza A (H1N1) virus is becoming stronger.
“Mexico’s government and tourism authorities are very satisfied with the decision taken by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and consequently, the U.S. Department of State, to lift the H1N1 influenza alert against nonessential travel to Mexico. Our main priority continues to be the safety of our citizens and visitors, and with evidence that the flu appears to be less threatening than originally thought, Mexico is ready to welcome back all of its visitors and offer them the hospitality and services that have always distinguished us,” said Rodolfo Elizondo, Mexico’s Minister of Tourism.
It is important to highlight that, according to the CDC, the increasing number of cases that are being seen in the United States and other countries are not directly associated with travel to Mexico.
Countries such as Argentina, Peru, Ecuador, Uruguay, Italy, Austria, Belgium, United Kingdom and Switzerland have also lifted their advisories against travel to Mexico and have resumed all commercial flights to the country.
Carnival Cruise Lines has also announced that they will resume all scheduled port calls to Mexico once all previously modified trips are completed.
“There is no doubt that the H1N1 has hit our country very hard; specially the tourism sector, an essential part of our economy. Mexico is known for its capacity of coming out of tough situations even stronger, and this will not be the exception. The travel industry -at all levels- is ready to offer its visitors what they come here for: diversity, culture, relaxation, luxury, adventure, world class infrastructure and most importantly, the best service in the world,” added Oscar Fitch, CEO of the Mexico Tourism Board.
For more information on the precautions advised by the CDC and U.S. Department of State, visit their website at www.cdc.gov/travel, and http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/pa/pa_3028.html
About the Mexico Tourism Board
The Mexico Tourism Board (MTB) brings together the resources of federal and state governments, municipalities and private companies to promote Mexico’s tourism attractions and destinations internationally. Created in 1999, the MTB is Mexico’s tourism promotion agency, and its participants include members of both the private and public sectors. The MTB has offices throughout North America, Europe, Japan and Latin America. For more information on destinations and online trip bookings please go to www.visitmexico.com or www.mexico-update.com .
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