Train Service to Machu Picchu to be Re-Opened
March 12, 2010
Railroad to Machu Picchu. Photo taken before the rains.
Peru Rail, Peru’s Southern Train routes service operator, has informed Apumayo Expediciones that Ferrocarril Trans Andino SA (FTSA) has announced that the railroad from Piscaycucho (Km.82) to Machu Picchu Town (Aguas Calientes) will be reopened next Monday 29th of March, if the weather conditions remain as stable as they have been until now.
Though FTSA announced a few weeks ago that this portion of the railroad to Machu Picchu was going to be reopened on April the 1st, they have realized that, as they have made extensive progress, this deadline can be re-scheduled to March 29th. This has been a great effort from FTSA engineers, who have worked over-hours to reopen Machu Picchu at the soonest.
Peru Rail is developing an Operational Plan to reestablish their train services, based on operational safety parameters which will be announced in the following days
Apumayo Expediciones stands out the efforts made by FTSA engineers and workers, which allow giving back hope to thousands of travelers that are anxious to Visit Peru’s Icon Attraction.
The President Signs the Travel Promotion Act
March 5, 2010
Congressman Farr’s TRIP Act Expected to Boost U.S. Domestic Tourism
March 3, 2010
According to OpenCongress.org, which tracks legislation introduced to the U.S. Congress, Representative Sam Farr (D-California), co-chair of the Congressional Travel and Tourism Caucus, introduced on Feb. 24, 2010, H. R. 4676, the Travel Regional Investment Partnership (TRIP) Act, which will provide US$50 million (over a five year period) in matching grants to destination marketing organizations and their strategic partners.
To direct the Secretary of Commerce (The Honorable Gary Locke, former Governor of Washington State) to establish a competitive grant program to promote domestic regional tourism.
Excerpts follow from the bill as introduced to the U.S. House of Representatives:
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
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(1) The importance of travel and tourism cannot be overstated: travel and tourism employs America.
(2) Approximately 8,300,000 domestic jobs depend on the travel and tourism industry.
(3) The United States travel and tourism industry is worth more than $691,000,000,000 annually in direct spending, of which more than 85 percent is the result of domestic travel. Including indirect spending, such industry tops $1,200,000,000,000 in spending.
(4) The travel and tourism industry accounts for 2.6 percent of GDP, nearly four times that of the automotive industry.
(5) Domestic employment related to the travel and tourism industry cannot be outsourced to other countries.
(6) The current economic downturn has created the most difficult economic environment for the domestic travel and tourism industry since the period following the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.
(7) The travel and tourism industry has contracted by nearly $130,000,000,000 in 2009 alone. The domestic tourism economy has fallen by nearly 4.5 percent during 2009, twice the rate of the overall economy of the United States.
(8) Domestic spending on travel and tourism has been in decline since the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2008, while employment in the travel and tourism industry has been falling since the second quarter of such year.
(9) Public-private partnerships have been underutilized in the promotion of travel and tourism and are a dynamic tool in creating new domestic tourism markets and promoting domestic regional tourism growth.
Congress finds the following:
SEC. 3. DOMESTIC REGIONAL TOURISM GRANT PROGRAM.
(a) Establishment by Secretary of Commerce- The Secretary of Commerce shall establish a competitive grant program, administered by the Office of Travel and Tourism Industries, to promote domestic regional tourism growth and new domestic tourism market creation.
(b) Range of Grant Monetary Amounts- No grant shall be less than $100,000 or more than $1,000,000.
(c) Grantee Eligibility Requirements
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(A) A Convention and Visitors Bureau.
(B) A partnership between a State or local government and a local tourism entities.
(A) SUBMISSION- An eligible entity seeking a grant under this section shall submit to the Secretary an application at such time, in such form, and with such information and assurances as the Secretary may require.
(1) ELIGIBLE ENTITIES- The following entities are eligible for a grant under this section for the purposes of promoting domestic regional tourism growth and new domestic tourism market creation:
(1) NON-FEDERAL FUNDS- As a condition of receipt of a grant under this section, the grant recipient shall provide, either directly or through donations from public or private entities, non-Federal matching funds, in cash or in-kind, in an amount equal to the amount of the grant.
(2) SPECIAL RULE FOR IN-KIND DONATIONS- Of the amount of non-Federal matching funds required under paragraph (1), not more than 25 percent shall be provided through in-kind contributions.
(e) Reports- Not later than 6 months after the end of each fiscal year in which grants were awarded by the Secretary under this section, the Secretary shall submit a report to Congress on–
(f) Definitions- In this section:
(1) SECRETARY- The term ‘Secretary’ means the Secretary of Commerce.
(2) LOCAL TOURIST ENTITY- The term ‘local tourist entity’ means any public or private sector business engaged in tourism-related activities.
(g) Authorization of Appropriations- There is authorized to be appropriated $10,000,000 for each of the first 5 fiscal years that begin after the date of enactment of this section for grants under this section, and such amounts appropriated shall remain available until expended.
******
Editor’s Note: Track details at http://www.opencongress.org and track H.R. 4676 – The newly introduced (Feb. 24, 2010, in the U.S. House of Representatives) legislation follows in the footsteps of another bill, the Travel Promotion Act, as reported by CNN. Preliminarily, the ATTA views these two legislative concepts promising for the adventure tourism industry, especially if these efforts contribute also to economically depressed, yet culturally and environmentally rich areas in the rural United States.
Despite Economic Downturn, Americans and Foreign Visitors Flocked to U.S. National Parks in 2009
March 3, 2010
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Ten million more Americans and foreign tourists visited the nation’s national parks last year than in 2008, a 3.9 percent increase that marked the fifth busiest year ever for the National Park System, Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar announced today.
“People both here and abroad know that our national parks are America’s best idea, even during an economic downturn,” Salazar said. “Our national parks are treasures that tell the story of our country and celebrate its beauty and culture, and they provide vacation bargains for families living on a tight budget. They offer priceless opportunities to inspire adults and children alike with our wonderful natural, cultural and historic heritage.”
“In an increasingly sedentary society, our parks give parents a place to connect their children with nature and learn to appreciate the good feelings that come from healthy green exercise,” he said.
More than 285 million people visited national parks and other units of the National Park System during 2009, up from just under 275 million in 2008. This fell just short of the all-time visitation record of 287.2 million in 1987.
Possible reasons for the increase in visitation include three weekends last summer when the Park Service waived entrance fees, the visits by President Obama and his family to Yellowstone and the Grand Canyon, the publicity generated by Ken Burns’ documentary on the history of the national parks, a decline in gasoline prices, and the continued strong exchange rate the Euro enjoys against the dollar.
Salazar highlighted the benefits national parks provide to our economy. A study released today revealed that the National Park System supports more than 223,000 jobs and nearly $14 billion in economic activity across the country.
Great Smoky Mountain National Park continued its reign as the most-visited national park in 2009, attracting 9.4 million visitors, while the Blue Ridge Parkway was the most visited unit of the system with nearly 16 million visitors.
The top 10 most visited national parks were:
* Great Smoky Mountains National Park, 9,491,437 visitors
* Grand Canyon National Park, 4,348,068
* Yosemite National Park, 3,737,472
* Yellowstone National Park, 3,295,187
* Olympic National Park, 3,276,459
* Rocky Mountain National Park, 2,822,325
* Zion National Park, 2,735,402
* Cuyahoga Valley National Park, 2,589,288
* Grand Teton National Park, 2,580,081
* Acadia National Park, 2,227,698
(Source: Feb. 23, 2010 – http://www.doi.gov/news/)
March 11th and Earlier Reports & Updates from ATTA Members in Chile
March 3, 2010
Update – March 11 - According to multiple international media outlets, Chile has been rocked by a series of major aftershocks, including the latest, a 7.2 magnitude jolt according to the U.S. Geological Survey. The ATTA will attempt to connect with its members in the country and will report updates from within the country as reports arrive.
March 9 – From Trekking Chile:
Hi Paula,
It would be a big help if you promote our foundation work and needs here in the center of the earthquake. Everything is in three languages at http://www.trekkingchile.com/DE/stiftung-projekte-long.php?id=190 It’s a lousy english I know.
We wanted to join the ITB but we have a lot to do at home.
Best regards and thanks writing us,
Franz Schubert, Trekking Chile
March 9 – From COCHA Destination Management Division:
Subject: Daily Report
Dear friends and partners,
Continuing with the updated report of the situation in Chile, as of today Tuesday 9, 2010 we would like to inform the following:
* Santiago Airport: we remind you that chek-in process, international police, Customs and luggage claim are being held in big tents specially installed. For departing flights, the authorities recommend to arrived to Santiago Airport 3 hours before an international flight and 2 hours for a domestic flight. The process, as expected, is slower than the usual, therefore, it is recommended to bring a bottle of water.
* Flights:
o LAN: On saturday 65% of flights were operating. LAN has informed that flights to all destinations have been resumed, however not with the same frequency yet. Due to the large amount to rescheduled flights, LAN is requiring to reconfirm at www.lan.com all flights departing or arriving in prior to March 21st. They hope to be able to return to operating 100% of their flights shortly.
o Please remember to confirm status and schedule of the flight directly with the airline.
Jorge Guazzini P
Managing Director
Destination Management Division COCHA
March 9 – From Fantastico Sur Expeditions:
****************************************************************************
March 5 – From COCHA Destination Management Division
CONNIE AVALOS
Product Manager
Destination Management Division
Direct Line: 56 2 464 1363
Fax Number: 56 2 464 2270
cavalos@cocha.com
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March 5 – From Remota
March 5 – From Indomita – Big Foot
Hi Paula, thanks for your email and thinking of us. We are all fine here in Puerto Natales (Sergio included). Thankfully we were not affected by the earthquake. The worst hit areas were Concepcion and the central region like Santiago and all the Chilean people are coming together now to donate what they can to help the people that need it.
Since the earthquake has happened we have had a number of trip cancellations, mainly due to the fact that Santiago airport was closed and people were unable to get down to the South so tourism here has slowed down. One thing that would help is to get the message out that things are getting back to normal and we are operating as normal as we are nowhere near the earthquake zone.
Many thanks
Kerri
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March 5 – From Antarctic Dream:
Subject: Antarctic Dream in Up and Running…
“First of all we would like to thank you deeply for your concern.
The major earthquake that we experienced on Saturday at 03.34 am has not impacted our families and friends.
Our employees or operations are located far away from the epicenter of the quake in Ushuaia we are functioning as normally.
We are now coming to the end of our Antarctic season on march 10, 2010. Looking forward to start our Arctic Season 2010.
We are a strong country with a strong soul we will rise from this unfortunate situation.
Chile is full of courage to step up!!
Best Regards,
Sabrina Plaza Garnica
Product & Marketing”
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March 4 – From Cascada Expediciones & EcoCamp Patagonia
Hola Paula,
Many thanks for your email, words and good vibes towards us!
Nobody on the office suffered a great loss, just minor and sort of “cosmetic” issues in some houses. Compared to some towns and cities in the near south we were really lucky!
Thanks for your offer! The best you can do for us right now is to spread the word that besides the earthquake and tsunami in some places in Chile the rest is working almost as usual, in some places not even an earthquake was sensed (like in Patagonia or Atacama)
If you can send the document we’re preparing will be great (I’m saying preparing because we still need to work on the design issue… but for the moment it will do the job I think)
I’m also writing down the URL of the situation with regards our company: http://www.cascada.travel/index.php
All the Best
Daniel Sanhueza Lira.
Communications Manager
Cascada Expediciones & EcoCamp Patagonia
Details provided:
Earthquake in Chile: 75% of Chilean Territory Untouched
Wed March 3rd 2010.
“Chile is well-prepared”
Catherine Bragg, UN Assistant Secretary-General and Deputy Emergency Relief
Tue March 2nd 2010.
“Chile’s natural jewels in Patagonia and Atacama without a scratch”
Rodrigo Mata, Destination Manager at a local outfitter company.
Tue March 2nd 2010.
On Feb 27th 2010, 03:34 hrs local time, the central zone of Chile was hit by a strong 8.8-Richter-level earthquake originated near Cauquenes Province in the Chilean 7th Region. Major zones affected are located in the 6th, 7th, 8th regions and very few points of Valparaiso and the Metropolitan Area of Santiago. The 14th, 10th, 11th and 12th regions which comprise what is commonly known as the Chilean Patagonia, and the 15th, 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th regions which comprise what is commonly known as Atacama and Norte Grande, all these embracing 75% of Chilean territory unaffected by the earthquake waves.
The entire operations and touristic services in the Chilean Patagonia, Torres del Paine NP, the Lake District, Atacama Desert, San Pedro de Atacama and the Altiplano are totally normal and safe. Santiago City is working as usual and recovering the few places affected by the quake, including Santiago’s International Airport, which is the only point of real interruption at the moment. The airport by Tue March 2nd was working at 20% of its capacity while recovering works are going on. The Chilean National Aeronautical Authority expects that by March’s second week the airport recovers the most of its normal capacity.
We encourage all world travelers coming to Chile in the next weeks with travel plans including little or non-affected zones like Santiago, Valparaiso, Atacama, Altiplano, Patagonia and the Lake District to be confident about their plans. As soon as Santiago’s International Airport recovers its normal capacity there is no objective reason to delay visiting Chile’s marvelous places. Moreover, when keeping ongoing the travel plans for Chile, travelers will be contributing with the country overall economy which indirectly helps relieve suffering in those specific zones affected by the earthquake.
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March 4 – From – LAN – for more crisis updates, visit: http://www.lan.com/about_us/noticias/index_contingencia-en-us.html
Santiago, March 3rd, 2010, latest update done at 23:55 (EST)
Reviewed at 10:00 (EST), no changes have been made since last update.
LAN Airlines – Chile Earthquake Information for Passengers
As of Tuesday, March 2nd, LAN Airlines has been authorized to reinstate restricted operations of inbound and outbound domestic and international flights from Arturo Merino Benitez International Airport in Santiago, Chile, given the damage sustained by the airport. Despite the fact that we are operating out of temporary, makeshift facilities provided by LAN, we have been able to operate 45% of the inbound and outbound flights at Santiago, improving upon the 30% we had operated in previous days. Click here to read more.
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March 4 – From Tourism Chile:
TURISMO CHILE UPDATE NUMBER 2
ON CHILE’S TOURISM INFRASTRUCTURE FOLLOWING SATURDAY’S EARTHQUAKE
SANTIAGO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT REPORTS DOMESTIC AND INTERNATIONAL
FLIGHT OPERATIONS GRADUALLY RESUMING
March 2, 2010 – Following the magnitude 8.8 quake that hit central Chile in the early morning
hours of Saturday February 27, 2010, Santiago International Airport suffered structural damage to
the passenger terminal. No damage was reported to the runways and taxiways. All incoming
and departing flight operations were suspended until authorities evaluated the situation in order
to guarantee maximum safety for passengers. Turismo Chile would like to communicate the
latest update regarding operations at Santiago International Airport provided by the airport
authority, SCL Aeropuerto de Santiago, on March 2, 2010 following a meeting with Chile’s
National Civil Aviation Authority and airlines operating at the airport.
Flight operations will resume in two phases:
Phase 1 – March 2 to 5, 2010 – Domestic flights will gradually resume operations with a limited
schedule between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. and international flights also with a limited schedule will be
operating between 8.pm and 8 a.m. A temporary makeshift terminal has been set up in tents in
order to process departing passengers. All arriving international flights during this period will
stopover in another Chilean city prior to landing in Santiago in order for passengers to clear
Chilean customs and immigration formalities.
Phase 2 – March 5th onward – Domestic and international flights will be operating 24 hours. All
domestic flight arrivals and departures will be operating out of a makeshift terminal set up in
tents located to the east of the airport’s old terminal. International flight departures will move to
the domestic flights sector of the current terminal. International arriving passengers will clear
Chilean customs and immigration formalities in a makeshift facility set up in tents to the west of
the current terminal.
All passengers should contact their airline for updated information on flight schedules and
changes.
US and Canadian tour operators and media requiring additional information or assistance can
contact Turismo Chile at ofitur@embassyofchile.org
**********************************************************************
March 4 – From Hacienda Los Lingues-Chile (edited for clarity)
Santiago, Chile, March 2, 2010
Dear Sirs:
Hacienda Los Lingues is not in condition to receive passengers due to the arthquake in Chile that happened the last Saturday. For this reason, lamentably, we will be unable to realize reservations of housing until further notice.
All these reservations that have been realized for the next months, we will not able to consider until further notice.
We will be in contact with you, as soon as possible.
My best personal regards,
Germán Claro Lyon
General Manager
Hacienda Los Lingues-Chile
Phone: 56-2-4310510 //
E.mail: informaciones@loslingues.com
www.loslingues.com
**********************************************************************************
March 3 – From: Hotel Antumalal, Pucon Chile
“Dear Paula (Mendes,
We have received many calls & letters from our friends & customers, thank you for your care & concern.
Revealing images are showing the world the dimensions of the earthquake, and public systems are slowly being reestablished. Our phone system is normal and the airports are now opening.
This is a big disaster for our little country!
In Pucon the jolt was strong – we were up all night – however, there is no damage. Our main concern was the volcano, yet it appears completely still and vigilant of our unrest. Antumalal is a fortress built on rock , wise man : Don Guillermo …. The hotel´s 60 anniversary will be October 2010.!!
We resisted the quake of 1960 – and today once again, we are blessed with no damage. Our family & staff are doing well. Warm summer days continue & our guests are enjoying our flower´s late blooming as the park is alive with color.
We ask for your prayers for those less fortunate: we do hurt for them – as we contemplate the paradise around us.
Thank you again, for your concern and we hope to see you soon in the near future.
Best regards,
Rony Pollak
Hotel Antumalal
Pucon Chile
“Simply an Experience”
f: 56 45 441011
www.antumalal.com
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March 3 – From: Tierra Atacama
Hello Paula – thanks for your concern. Personally I am in Europe and travelled before the earthquake, so missed everything. Fortunately my family and friends back in Chile are well and safe. I am attaching our latest press release, as the Atacama was not affected in the slightest, and our offices in Santiago are functioning normally. It’s important to note that whilst the area affected has been devastated and it will require time and a lot of effort before things are back to normal, the rest of Chile, including Patagonia, Atacama and Easter Island are all functioning normally and once Santiago Airport is fully operational (expected early next week) there is no reason NOT to visit chile! We need support to get this message out as the media in general is concentrating specifically on the worst hit area, which is more than 1000 miles from Atacama and Patagonia.
Thank you and best regards!
Fiona Martin
Sales & Marketing Manager
Tierra Atacama
Santiago de Chile, 3rd March 2010
A message from Tierra Atacama:
Dear Friends;
We thank you all for your concern and the messages of support we have received following the unfortunate events which occurred in the south of Chile early on the morning of Saturday 27th February. We are relieved to report that all our employees, families and friends are well. The earthquake was hardly felt in the north of Chile where Tierra Atacama is situated and everything is running absolutely normally.
Our commercial offices in Santiago are operating normally and you can contact us via email or telephone where our team is waiting to assist you.
We would also like to inform you that the DGAC (the Chilean Civil Aviation Authority) has now permitted the partial opening of Santiago airport, starting with a limited national and international service which will increase slowly over the next few days until normal services are resumed.
For the moment we are offering two alternatives for those guests who are unable to travel to Tierra Atacama in the near future. Change the date of the reservation for one in the future, or request a 100% refund. Please let us know if you would like to take one of these options.
If you would like to help Chile recover from this event, the Chilean Red Cross is accepting donations in the following bank account;
Citibank / Account Number : 9941973331 / ABA Code: :021000089 / Address; 153 East 53 Rd. Street 4th floor. NY, NY 10022.
If there is any additional information we can help you with, please do let us know and thank you once again for your support and concern.
Warm Regards
Tierra Atacama Hotel & Spa
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March 3 – From: The Cascada Expediciones and EcoCamp Patagonia Team
Chile´s Earthquake Important Notification
On Feb 27th 2010, 03:34 hrs local time, the central zone of Chile was hit by a strong 8.3-Richter-level earthquake originated near Cauquenes Province in the Chilean 7th Region. Major zones affected are located in the 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th regions and the Metropolitan Area of Santiago. The 10th, 11th and 12th regions which comprise what is commonly known as the Chilean Patagonia, and the 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th regions which comprise what is commonly known as Atacama and Norte Grande were not affected by the earthquake waves.
Having clarified this, we notify that all the operations and touristic services developed by Cascada Expediciones and EcoCamp Patagonia in the Altiplano, Atacama Desert, the Lakes District and Chilean Patagonia, including Torres del Paine NP and San Pedro de Atacama are totally normal and safe. Regarding food, energy and general supplies for the Chilean Patagonia –our main operational zone- have no danger of shortages as these are normally brought from the Argentinean neighbor province of Santa Cruz.
The only point of interruption of our service operational chain is Santiago’s International Airport, which suffered significant damage in the passengers’ transit area having to stop all its operations while recovering works are going on. Recently the Chilean National Aeronautical Authority announced that this airport will start operating again on a partial basis starting from tomorrow Monday March 1st. The same organism stated that apart from this Airport the entire nation’s aeronautical infrastructure is working normally and safely at full capacity.
The entire network of Cascada Expediciones and EcoCamp Patagonia employees and provider partners are working hard to keep our operations as successful, safe and normal as it have been previous to this natural phenomenon and we encourage all our past, current and future travelers to be confident with their travel plans and continue enjoying our services in Chile and Argentina.
For further information or requests please contact your Cascada’s travel consultant. We will keep updating the news as advances go on.
Saludos desde Chile,
The Cascada and EcoCamp Patagonia Team
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March 3 – From: Ski Portillo:
Dear Paula, Thank you very much for your concern. Fortunately, we are all right here and the hotel too. The worst happened down in the south of our country, devastating dear. I’m forwarding you the press release our Marketing Mngr. Constanza Moya has just sent.
“ Dear Partners,
Thanks for your concern and support during this very difficult moments Chile is going through after the earthquake.
We want to share with you the press release we sent about the hotel, lifts and road.
Best regards,
Constanza MoyaMarketing Director | Directora de MarketingSki Portillo-Chilewww.skiportillo.comTel: 56-2-263 0606Toll Free USA: 1-800-829-5325 or from Canada 1-800-514-2579P Ahorre tinta y papel, imprima este mensaje sólo si es necesario.
SKI PORTILLO IS UNHURT BY THE CHILEAN EARTHQUAKE
Hotels, Infrastructure, Ski Lifts and Roads are in good condition
Portillo, Chile (March, 2n, 2010) .- Ski Portillo, located approximately 100 miles from Santiago, Chile’s capital city, escaped the recent earthquake with no injuries, and only superficial repairs. Tierra Atacama, sister hotel, located in San Pedro de Atacama, more than 1,000 miles north of the epicenter, is also undamaged.
According to Henry Purcell, owner of Ski Portillo, “We have some superficial cracks and some painting to do, but the roads to Portillo and all of the lifts made it through the earthquake without incident. We are very fortunate to have escaped without any injuries or damages, but we grieve for the people of Concepcion, which is far from Portillo and near the epicenter of the quake and I encourage anyone who wants to help to send their humanitarian support.”
“There should be no impact for travelers to Ski Portillo for the season, which runs from June 19 – Oct. 2, 2010. And for travelers to Tierra Atacama, which is open all year, there should be no problem once the Santiago airport is back to normal probably next week.”
To send aid, Ski Portillo recommends donating to one of two of Chile’s leading charities, or to the international organizations Habitat for Humanity/World Vision or Red Cross:
- Un Techo Para Chile (A Roof for Chile) – Similar to Habitat for Humanity, and will help those who lost their homes to rebuild anew. http://www.untechoparamipais.org/chile/.
- Hogar de Cristo (Home of Christ) – Founded by a priest who recently was named as a saint. It focuses on the less fortunate, and will be helping victims of the earthquake. Hogar de Cristo also accepts and distributes clothing, toys and food. www.hogardecristo.cl
- Habitat for Humanity or World Vision. Send an SMS with the text “CHILE” to either # 20222 or #25383 to donate US$10 to Habitat for Humanity or World Vision.
- Red Cross: www.redcross.com
For more than 60 years, Ski Portillo has seamlessly united the spectacular beauty of the Chilean Andes, the pure joy of skiing and snowboarding, the camaraderie of friends and family, and the resort’s unique brand of hospitality and service, delivering unforgettable vacation experiences where guests create the memories of a lifetime. For more information or to book a Portillo vacation (including air travel), visit www.skiportillo.com or email reservas@skiportillo.com or call toll-free from North America, 1.800.829.5325.
Our best wishes for you and team.
Susana Guzmán
Asistente
Gerencia General
susana@skiportillo.com
Tel. 56 263 0606
Fax. 56 2 263 0595
www.skiportillo.com
Toll Free USA 800 8295325
Toll Free Canada 800 514 2579
****************************************************
March 3 – From: Cascada de las Animas
From: “Joe Willis Jones” <joe@cascada.net>Date: March 3, 2010 9:48:50 AM GMT-08:00To: <paula@adventuretravel.biz>Subject: RE: Checking in after the earthquake
Hi Paula,
Thank you for your email and your concern. In our area of Chile, we experienced virtually no damage from the earthquake and are operating normally. Our biggest issue at the moment is to reassure incoming guests that the earthquake will not impact their visit, and that there is no cause for alarm or reason to cancel their visit.
We have posted a notice on the main page of our website www.cascada.net, to apprise visitors of the situation and the effect of the earthquake on Chile’s tourism industry. If you have a moment, please have a look at it.
As far as what the ATTA can do to help, the organization should do its best to reassure tourists that there is no reason to take Chile off of their schedule. The effect of the earthquake on tourism opportunities and services is minimal, and the revenue generated by tourism will be a significant part of the monies need to help fund the recovery efforts that are necessary to help those Chileans who were affected by the earthquake.
Thanks again,
Joe Willis Jones
Cascada de las Animas
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Editor’s Note – March 3: ATTA waited a few days in the immediate aftermath of the Chilean tragedy to contact our Members there to see if there’s anything the the adventure tourism industry might do to try to assist our friends and colleagues in their time of need. Below you’ll find a couple of responses from Chile from the morning of March 3rd. ATN will continue to publish here updates on the situation, along with appeals from our ATTA Members there.
Tourism Chile Update on Chile’s Tourism Infrastructure Following Saturday’s Earthquake
March 2, 2010
(As of Monday March 1, 2010 – return for updates as they become available) – Chile suffered an 8.8 quake in the early morning hours of Saturday February 27, 2010. The cities closest to the epicenter, including Concepcion, Talcahuano and Temuco as well as a number of small towns along Chile’s central coast were most affected by the quake.
The five different tourism regions promoted by Turismo Chile are reporting the following updates:
Desert – The north of Chile was not affected by the quake and has not reported any damage.
Easter Island – Easter Island, which lies 2,300 miles off the cost of mainland Chile, a 5.5 hour flight from Santiago, was not affected by the quake. Initial tsunami warnings have been lifted and all operations are normal.
Santiago and Central Region – Santiago’s airport suffered structural damage to the passenger terminal, however no damage was reported to the runways and the airport is expected to reopen later this week. Electricity and phone lines have been restored in Santiago and the city’s public transportation including its metro is fully operational. Valparaiso and Viña del Mar have also reported damage. The annual Viña del Mar International Music festival which was underway has been suspended.
Lakes and Volcanoes – The northern part of the Lakes and Volcanoes region, around the city of Concepcion and the Bio Bio River, was most affected by the quake. Authorities are still working on assessing the full damage. Basic essential services including water, electricity and telecommunications are gradually being restored. The southern part of the Lakes and Volcanoes region was not affected by the quake. Operations in popular tourist towns including Pucon, Puerto Varas and Puerto Montt are normal.
Patagonia – The far south of the country was not affected by the quake and has not reported any damage.
Chile is a country with a history of seismic activity. The country’s preparedness, including its strict anti- seismic building codes, the rapid emergency response from the government as well as the help from a number of organizations can be credited for managing the situation and help minimize the damage. The country’s tourism infrastructure has, overall, fared well, reporting little damage.
“Our thoughts and sentiments go out to the families who have lost loved ones,” said Pablo Moll, executive director of Turismo Chile. “Chileans are a resilient people and we are hard at work to get the country back on its feet quickly. We look forward to continuing to welcome travelers and are making every effort to making them feel safe and secure.”
US and Canadian tour operators and media requiring additional information or assistance can contact Turismo Chile at ofitur@embassyofchile.org
World Nomad’s Safety Hub Delivers Advice to Travelers in Chile
March 1, 2010
Chile earthquakes: advice for travelers
Just before dawn on Saturday 27th February, an 8.8-magnitude earthquake struck Chile. The epicenter was situated in the Maule region, 300km south of the capital, Santiago.
So far, over 700 deaths have been recorded with fears that this will rise significantly over the coming days. The Earthquake sent waves of more than two metres crashing into the coastline as well as into outlying pacific islands, sparking Tsunami alerts as far as New Zealand, Australia and Japan.
Chilean government agencies and forces are currently working around the clock to restore electricity, supply emergency medical assistance and assess what other support is required before requesting international aid.
WorldNomads.com offeres travel safety and advice to help those in the affected areas stay informed. Click here for such information and for insights on how your operation/destination can help travelers stay informed in the aftermath of crises.
According to CNN: “Bill for U.S. travel promotion organization headed to president’s desk”
February 26, 2010
(CNN) — A bill that will create a tourism promotion organization for the United States received its final passage in the Senate on Thursday. Read full story.
National Geographic Channel Premieres “Nasca Lines: Buried Secrets”, Sure to Inspire
February 25, 2010
The National Geographic Channel has just premiered a new documentary, Nasca Lines: Buried Secrets, from Edge West Productions, directed by celebrated British documentarian Philip J. Day. This in-depth doc comes at a perfect time, giving an American audience an exciting view of the history and mysteries of Peru beyond Machu Picchu. Nasca Lines: Buried Secrets will certainly inspire its audience to visit Peru to see the lines in-person and to experience the county on the whole. The show premiered in the USA on Sunday, but will be re-airing a number of times over the next few weeks.
- 2/25, 7 PM EST
- 2/25, 10 PM EST
- 2/28, 12 PM EST
- 3/4, 3 PM EST
* Editor’s Note: In 2005, I had the good fortune to visit the Nasca lines from the ground, and from above in the seat of a 6 passenger Cessna, and was simply mesmerized, realizing a childhood dream to visit the mysterious lines drawings on the face of the earth. It’s this very location and that very trip that inspired ATTA efforts to collaborate with Archaeology and the Archaeological Institute of America to co-develop: “A Guide to Best Practices for Archaeological Tourism” (from this site, industry professionals may download the free guidelines. The alert about this documentary arrived from Willy Blackmore’s thoughtful letter below, otherwise, as an individual who does not own a television, I may have missed this one!
“Hello – As you well know, the recent flooding in Peru has caused huge amounts of damage to local populations, destroying houses and infrastructure. And in addition to the personal losses of Peruvians affected by the torrential rains, there is the economic damage to communities caused by a loss in tourism due to Machu Picchu’s temporary closure. Peru is, of course, much more than just this one ancient ruin which is so well known throughout the world and the government has been pointing to other cultural treasures found in the country, such as the Nasca Lines, as lesser-known but equally as interesting tourism destinations. The monumental lines etched in the desert have long mystified and fascinated visitors, giving rise to theories of alien influence and lending inspiration to contemporary artists working with nature as a medium.
This Sunday at 10 PM EST, the National Geographic Channel will be premiering a new documentary, Nasca Lines: Buried Secrets, from Edge West Productions, directed by celebrated British documentarian Philip J. Day. This in-depth doc comes at a perfect time, giving an American audience an exciting view of the history and mysteries of Peru beyond Machu Picchu. Nasca Lines: Buried Secrets will certainly inspire its audience to visit Peru to see the lines in-person and to experience the county on the whole.
Would you be interested in writing something about the premiere of the Nasca Lines: Buried Secrets in additional to your coverage of the flooding? If so, please let me know—I can send you a link to the trailer and more information about the documentary and Edge West Productions.
Best,
Willy Blackmore – SocialRadius / Terpin Communications”
News Update – Feb. 25, 2010, In a tragic development, according to CNN today:
“(CNN) — Seven people, mostly tourists, were killed Thursday when a small plane crashed in southern Peru, near the famous Nazca Lines, the official Andina news agency reported, citing Nazca police.” Read more.
Nonprofit Planeterra Mobilizes Community Relief Efforts in Wake of Flooding in Peru
February 9, 2010
Concerned Groups and Individuals Asked to Make Online Donations to Peru Flood Relief and If Traveling to Cusco Bring Essential Items, Clothing and Food
TORONTO – Over 12,000 people have been uprooted and/or severely impacted by the late January rains and flooding in Peru’s Sacred Valley between Cusco and Machu Picchu.
Planeterra has mobilized an onsite team to assess the situation and help with immediate needs of the local people. The nonprofit has established an online help site: Peru Flood Relief where the public can make charitable donations.
One of the communities severely impacted by the flooding is Ccaccaccollo, home to Planeterra’s women’s weaving cooperative, a community travelers visit as part of the organization’s Project Peru voluntourism adventure.
“Because indigenous communities such as Ccaccaccollo maintain a traditional way of life and are dedicated mainly to pastoral and agricultural activities, they are especially vulnerable to heavy rains and flooding,” said Richard G. Edwards, Director of Planeterra.
A company blog describes Ccaccaccollo’s main plaza, an area usually bustling with women demonstrating their craft and selling colorful textiles, as flooded out and empty. Market stalls, usually overflowing with locally produced hats, change purses, shawls and scarves, are instead filled with mud and rocks.
Planeterra has already donated the funds necessary to fuel the equipment required to fix a main road and clear landslides. In addition, the organization is looking at ways tourism dollars might help by reworking itineraries to include some of the most impacted communities in future tour itineraries.
A donation goal of $25,000 has been set of which to date nearly $9,000 has been raised. Through a partnership with Gap Adventures that covers all of Planeterra’s administration costs, 100% of all donations will go directly to those in need.
An appeal has also gone out to anyone now in or planning to visit Cuzco. Donations of blankets, sleeping bags, warm clothes for children & adults, jackets, raincoats, tents & mattresses, dried food (rice, pasta, oatmeal, cans of tuna, sugar, salt, evaporated milk etc) and matches can be dropped off at: Hotel Tupac Yupanqui (Calle 236 San Agustin) in Cusco.
“Planeterra has committed to immediately provide the funds needed to help fix the road and clear the landslide. We will continue to help the recovery effort and are relying on support from our travelers, which will not only benefit Ccaccaccollo but many of the outlying communities as well,” explains Edwards.
In the last week of January, just half way through the rainy season, a 72-hour-period of torrential rains caused entire communities to be evacuated due to massive flooding that washed out roads, collapsed houses and bridges, destroyed crops and temporarily cut off all access to Machu Picchu. The government is doing its best to send supplies to the areas that have been hit the worst; however many communities have still not received outside support, according to Edwards who immediately sent his own staff there to assess damages and determine how Planeterra might help.
Planeterra is a global non-profit dedicated to sustainable community development through travel. Founded in 2003 by Gap Adventures, Planeterra evolved out of a long history of travelers committed to finding ways to give back to the people and places they visit. Planeterra selects the projects and works with them to arrange voluntour travel programs worldwide. For information on Planeterra’s year-round voluntour programs please call 416-260-0999 or go to: http://www.planeterra.org/pages/voluntours/4.php.
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