Hello from Journeywoman: BIG THANKS TO ALL OUR READERS FOR A GREAT START TO 2010 -- By using Journeywoman as your primary travel planning resource and by recommending us to other travelling women around the world, you've made January 2010 our most successful month to date. Five hundred and thirty-five new members joined our JW Network bringing our international readership to 68,638. At the JW website we registered 120,711 visits and these visitors read a whopping 350,052 pages. Readers Digest published five of our winter travel tips, Frommer's 'London 2010 Guide' lists Journeywoman as the site to go to for 'real-life' women's travel information and 'Myself' (a German Conde Nast publication) devoted a full blurb to Journeywoman in their Travel News Section. Add to that the most important measure of our success which again relates directly to all of you -- who never cease to say thank-you for each newsletter, who take the time to send us all your juicy tips and who are unfailingly kind to other women in the JW Network when they need your helpful travel advice. Ladies, we salute you; we thank you! DON'T BE A SKIMMER BE A CLICKER -- Sure you can skim through this newsletter in five minutes. However, if you really want to reap the benefits of our Journeywoman Network's combined knowledge you'll set some quiet time aside, read through to the end, and click on all the links that interest you. You'll be amazed at where they might lead. Who knows? It could be the beginning of an exceptional journey. ARE YOU AN AMAZING RACE JUNKIE? -- Do you watch this TV program and wish you could compete? Well, wish no more. Competitours is now offering their own exciting team travel competition for ordinary travellers who want a fun, but not breakneck-paced European trip. You can expect a daily series of surprise challenges and a chance at $9000 in cash or travel spree credits. Don't worry. There's no climbing mountains, eating worms or being sleep deprived. It's brains, creativity and spontaneity that will get you over the finish line first. Teams are composed of two people, no matter their age or relationship. Each secret itinerary is 9 days. Costs range from $2675 and includes international airfare, lodging and Eurail Pass and grand prize eligibility. P.S. This part is extra cool -- Competitours is so sure that they can deliver on this new venture that participants' credit cards are not charged until after their return. To find out more check out: www.competitours.com TORONTO'S DELTA CHELSEA IS OUR JUICY HOTEL OF THE MONTH -- We're absolutely delighted to welcome the Delta Chelsea Hotel to our Journeywoman Network. This biz-friendly and family-friendly hotel is the largest in Canada and the flagship of the entire Delta Hotels brand. You've got to love it's central location -- right downtown in the hustle bustle heart of the city. Guests are within walking distance of major shopping areas like the Eaton Center (over 285 shops), Winners (for great discount shopping) and world-class theatres both live and on the screen. The Delta Chelsea is a full service urban resort, with rooms to suit everyone plus five restaurants and lounges to satisfy every JourneyWoman's taste. Kids up to 17 are free when staying with parents and kiddies under six eat free. Adults have their own recreational and pool area separate from the kiddies and 'everybody' is talking about the hotel's 130 ft. 'Corkscrew' -- downtown Toronto's only indoor slide. Click here to visit their site and learn all about their juicy specials. JOURNEYWOMAN WANT ADS -- If you can help either of these two women with their travel problem please send your advice directly to them. Thanks very much. (1) I'M LOOKING FOR CHRISTINE A HERMAIL.NET MEXICO MENTOR -- writes Ann in Hamilton, Canada -- I had a helpful mentor through HERmail.net whose name is Christine. She's in the U.S. Peace Corps and lives in Mexico. My old computer died and with it Christine's e-mail and other information that she has given me over time. If you include this notice in your newsletter perhaps Christine will see it and contact me via papagallo_81@sympatico.ca. I'd appreciate that. (2) I'M LOOKING FOR A GOOD SEAMSTRESS IN BALI -- writes Elaine in Vancouver, Canada -- Ladies I need your help. I am travelling to Bali in April; it's not my first visit. Try as I may I cannot find any information on-line regarding having batik duvet covers with matching bedding made in Bali. There must be tons of seamstresses who do this but I would like to go to someone reliable and not too costly. Anybody have any personal experience on where to start? It would be much appreciated. Please write me at: hallidaypower@yahoo.ca A JOURNEYWOMAN'S MINI GUIDE TO TEL AVIV, ISRAEL -- Journeywoman recently spent five days in Tel Aviv. A local friend and I used part of our time prowling different neighbourhoods looking for fun places for JourneyWomen to shop and 'nosh' (eat). Each juicy spot we chose is appropriate for a solo visit or with a pal. Here's a sample of what to expect in the article. EDITOR'S NOTE: Want to know more about Tel Aviv food markets, artisan markets, the fabulous new Port area, coffee shops, woman-friendly bookshops and where to find great fresh mint tea? Read Shopping and Noshing in Tel Aviv. AND NOW IT'S TIME TO DREAM ABOUT FAR AWAY PLACES -- This month sixteen members of our JW Network of classified advertisers have submitted selections that are deliciously tempting. Click, browse, ask tour operators and product managers questions. They enjoy answering and it ensures that you find the woman-friendly holiday and products that are perfect for you. This is Step #1 to making your travel dreams a sweet reality. Ah-h-h-h-h... EDITOR'S NOTE: Please share. If you have a girlfriend who might be interested in any of these travel opportunities please forward this newsletter to her. Just use the 'Send to a colleague' button at the top of this newsletter. That's what our Journeywoman brand of networking is all about. IT TAKES TWO TO TANGO -- While travelling solo can be magical, we all know, it takes TWO to tango. Tour Chilean vineyards, frolic beneath warm Agua Caliente or tap into the rhythms of the south. Get up to 15% OFF Latin American adventures when you book with a friend. The more friends you bring, the greater the discount! Website: http://intrepidtravel.com/theamericas/homepage LIVE LIFE WITH PASSION -- Culinary experiences and secular retreats await you in stunning Algarve, Portugal. Choose from deeply reflective personal growth retreats or discovery based in food, wine, farmer’s markets, sightseeing in mountain villages, stunning beaches, castles and seaside towns. 4* oceanfront accommodation. Concierge services included. Orientation seminars. Small groups. Friendly, knowledgeable facilitator. Spring/Autumn 2010 dates filling fast. www.algarveexperiences.com or 1.800.913.2203 $200 OFF ON COOKING AND FOOD SAMPLING IN TUSCANY AND PROVENCE -- Enjoy the authentic culture of Italy or France trough food: cook with an Italian mama or a French chef, shop on the markets, taste chocolate and wine while enjoying new girlfriends. These 2 breathtaking excursions will take you the countryside among the beautiful hills of vineyards and olive-groves, feeling the medieval atmosphere of the small towns. www.frenchescapade.com, 1 888 483 5713 LONDON SIGHTSEEING FOR WOMEN MADE EASY! -- Why not have an expert plan your sightseeing for you? Just tell me where your interests lie and I'll do the rest. Step-by-step directions to get you safely from your hotel to all the places in London you've dreamt about. Visit www.connieslondonplanner.com or call Connie Maderi (315) 378-1841. PAINTING HOLIDAY ON MAGICAL LAKE COMO (ITALY) -- For anyone who has the desire to paint. All materials provided. Just bring your creative urge. Learn the authentic French Impressionist method from American expert, Jerry Fresia Phd. Grand villa studio on prime lakeside location. Al fresco dining with breathtaking views & fabulous vegetarian food. Small groups. Check for promos. Website: www.fresia.com GUTSY WOMEN TRAVEL -- has guaranteed most of their remaining women-centered departures for 2010 and many are close to capacity. Destinations range from Budapest & Prague, China, Egypt, France, Greece, India, Italy, Morocco and North America. Go to www.gutsywomentravel.com for more info or call (866) 464 8879. Email info@gutsywomentravel.com to tell us about your 2011 destination wish list! LUXURY IN TUSCANY? -- It's yours on our Town & Country trip! Experience two sides of Tuscany - the culture of Florence and tranquility of the Maremma. Spa treatments, private sailing trip, cooking class in an Alain Ducasse kitchen are just some of the adventures that await you... join us! May 15 23, 2010. For details on the trip see our website: www.liveit-italy.com or contact Ashley: ashley@liveit-italy.com, 860-729-1185 ADVENTURE AWAITS -- Active Journeys now offers a selection of specialty tours along with our standard hiking, biking and kayaking adventures. We’ve expanded both our women-only Girlfriend Getaway destinations, and our unique brand of Floating Adventures. Our Premium Program has been launched for those seeking extra comfort on the road, and our fully escorted Featured Departures have grown to six exotic international destinations. Contact: 1-800-597-5594 Email: info@activejourneys.com Website: www.activejourneys.com PHOTOGRAPH NEW ORLEANS -- Join Momenta for a special trip to New Orleans to photograph positive stories of recovery and hope five years after Hurricane Katrina. This special experience teaches you photography and gives back to organizations trying to rebuild their communities. To learn more about this workshop and get an itinerary, email info@momentaworkshops.com or visit our website at: http://bit.ly/NOLA01. HER LUXURY BODY, MIND & SPIRIT RETREAT -- An extraordinary and awe-inspiring sanctuary located north of Toronto, Canada with a focus on healthy living where one can renew a commitment to their life and to wellbeing. Rediscover the essential harmony between mind, body and spirit while being personally guided by our caring staff. Comprehensive wellness programs (2 to 21 nights) include full days of yoga, Pilates, hiking, educational talks, healthy eating and cooking classes, massage, meditation, detox body cleanses and so much more. Visit: grailsprings.com Inquiries: reservations@grailsprings.com or call: 877-553-5772 ONE-OF-A-KIND VOLUNTEER TRIPS INTO ESHOWE, SOUTH AFRICA -- Help refurbish a Zulu school, tutor children, teach rural women marketable skills. We have teamed up with a remarkable local family offering exclusive volunteer projects for groups, individuals, or families who really want to make a difference as they travel. Call today about this extraordinary opportunity: 415-387-1335 or visit our Website: http://theculturalexplorer.com/ Email: pat@theculturalexplorer.com UPSCALE WOMEN'S EUROPEAN TOURS -- Fall in love with Italy and France on one of Well Arranged Travel’s small group tours. Our unique tours offer something for everyone, whether you yearn to learn the art of French cooking, explore hidden Tuscan vineyards, or simply bask under the Mediterranean sun. We also offer custom vacations, museum and walking tours, day trips, and more. Visit www.wellarrangedtravel.com. DOCUMENT LOSS, THEFT OR DAMAGE -- Be prepared like other journey women when you travel. AccessMyID.com is your backup! In case of an incident occurring, there is a simple and immediate remedy. You can upload and securely store vital travel documents, Personal and Medical Profiles online. Stored documents provide indisputable Consulate or bank ID. AccessMyId.com is safer, more secure and more organized than storing docs in your email. Website: https://www.accessmyid.com/ KNIT SILK PAJAMAS GREAT FOR TRAVELLING! -- Kim Allan Silk 70% knit silk / 30% cotton Lounge pajamas are the perfect traveling companion. Easy-care ultra comfortable long pants and matching camisole or sleep shirt, this is one outfit you can wear to bed or sneak out for coffee and look great. Available in a range of colours, sizes, and styles. Kim Allan Silk has been a favourite of many Journeywomen for the past seven years! Please put Journeywoman in the comment box to receive special pricing of $49 for pants, regular cost is $70. Order at www.kimallansilk.com or call toll free: 1-800-709-5366. CULTURE THROUGH CUISINE IN ISRAEL -- Join us for 9 fabulous days - hands on Middle Eastern cooking classes, cultural and historical tours to the ancient cities of Jerusalem, Akko, Nazareth and Tiberias and visits to artisanal cheese and olive oil producers, bakers and wineries. Small groups, comfortable accommodations, great food and company. www.mediterranean-kitchens.com, email - info@mediterranean-kitchens.com ROME & FLORENCE -- March is SOLD OUT! Join our Girlfriends Getaway in the fall. September in Italy is heavenly - don't miss 8 days of art, culture, cooking and wine. Group limited to 8 women, hotels in the heart of each city. For details on the trip see our website: www.liveit-italy.com or contact Ashley: ashley@liveit-italy.com, 860-729-1185 YOUR BASE FOR THE WINTER OLYMPICS VANCOUVER BC? -- Consider my loved, safe, secure, 2 bedroom apartment. Ideally located (at Stanley Park/English Bay and ½ block from stores, cafes, restaurants, public transit), stylish, full of art and books, and completely equipped. Photos at http://arts.alegria.ca/nicola/. $300 nightly. Excellent for 2-3. Google “Capers Vancouver” to see neighbourhood. Contact vancouverhome2010@hailmail.net or phone 1-604-323-8950. STILL HAVEN'T FOUND THE PRODUCT THAT MAKES YOUR JOURNEYWOMAN HEART SING? -- Check out our classified section with 26 separate categories to help you pinpoint exactly what you need. P.S. Look for some of the juicy new 'colorful graphic ads’ from JW supporters like IntrepidTravel, Gutsy Women Travel and Grail Springs Health Spa. Happy browsing everybody! EDITOR'S NOTE: There are
only a few classified spots available for our March newsletter and as
usual we'll be operating on a first-come basis. Big thanks to tour operators
in our Journeywoman Network for being in touch as early as possible. SAVVY WOMEN TRAVELLERS STAY SAFE -- Everyone knows that, when travelling, a woman must be extra vigilant in terms of safety and security. Starting with a funny article called, An American Feminista in Italy we've compiled a must-read Journeywoman collection of articles for females on the go. Click here. READY FOR THIS MONTH'S TOP TWELVE JOURNEYWOMAN TRAVEL TIPS? -- As usual, your many female-friendly bits of advice from all over the world continue to inform, inspire and amuse. This time, from wonderful travelling women across the U.S. and Canada to those in Switzerland, Australia, and Thailand what follows are this issue's top twelve travelling tips. Enjoy, everybody. ANY TRAVEL ADVICE TO SHARE WITH US? -- If you have something juicy to contribute to our JW Network please send your advice to: editor@journeywoman.com. Chances are you'll find your own tip right here in our 2010 newsletters to come. CARRY A GOLFBALL IN YOUR SUITCASE -- writes Pam in Boulder, USA -- I always pack one in my luggage. Think that's strange? Well, think again. A golf ball is heavy so if I need to plug the sink, it will do that, no matter what the drain size is. If I have a stiff muscle or a back spasm that impairs my mobility, I put the ball under a towel and lay down and roll around on it until the muscle relaxes or the stiffness is gone. If it is not possible to lay down on the ball, I just put it between me and a wall and do the same thing. Voila, instant therapeutic massage. I REALLY LIKE THIS INDIAN RESTAURANT IN LONDON -- writes Barbara in Bern, Switzerland -- If you love Indian food and are willing to spend the extra British Pound, The Bombay Brasserie is the place to go. It is fine dining at its best. The tastes are divine and the preparation like art. I love sitting in the conservatory or having a pre-dinner drink in the bar where you can watch people come and go. The Bombay Brasserie’s clientele is mostly Indian, which I think is a very good sign. It’s located on Courtfield Road just behind Gloucester Road tube station on the Piccadilly line. Website: http://www.bombaybrasserielondon.com/ EDITOR'S NOTE: Here's some more good ideas for dining in London submitted by Journeywoman readers. HER WASHINGTON D.C. INSIDER SECRET -- writes Bonnie in Virginia, USA -- Most JourneyWomen may know about Washington's famous Cherry Blossoms in April. However, few know about the annual Georgetown House and Garden Tour sponsored by St. John's Episcopal Church which takes place every year on the final Saturday of April. The tour includes a booklet chock full of information on all the houses (including a map) and a bounteous Parish Tea (cold drinks, sweets and tea sandwiches) in Blake Hall back at the church, Past years' tours have included houses lived in by JFK, famous socialites, Charles Darwin and other historic figures. Cost for the day's outing is $50 per person if purchased by April 16 ($55 afterward). April in DC is idyllic anyway, and this walking tour makes it even more so. For more information, visit the website: www.georgetownhousetour.com EDITOR'S NOTE: Here's another 50 Things to See and Do in Washington DC. Simply click here. A WOMAN-FRIENDLY HOTEL IN VANCOUVER, CANADA -- writes Tannis in Vancouver, Canada -- Check out the Orchid Floor of the Georgian Court Hotel and you'll find 18 rooms dedicated exclusively to female travelers. One of their goals is to help you to travel light especially now that getting through airports can be such a hassle. Every female guest on this floor receives (at no extra cost) the following perks -- use of a flat iron, curling iron, ladies-only emergency kits, and upgraded Aveda amenities. Guests will also find a yoga mat; additional satin-padded and skirt hangers; as well as a lap desk plus In Style and Holts magazines in every room. I think the hotel has a second reason for what they're doing. It's to make sure that you have enough room in your suitcase for the extra shopping you'll be doing in Vancouver. Website: http://www.georgiancourt.com/ Have fun ladies! CHECK OUT OUR LIBRARY IN BANGKOK -- writes Waree in Bangkok, Thailand -- You probably already know about the Jim Thompson House Museum, located next to Siam Square and the MBK Shopping Center in Bangkok. However do you know about the William Warren Library and Art Gallery (also run by the Jim Thompson Foundation) located almost right next door? It’s a great place to study or just browse for information on Asian arts, textiles and lots more—all for free! We love your website and hope that your Journeywoman readers will come by to visit. To see our website click here. P.S. I'm the woman in the photos you see on that page. EDITOR'S NOTE: Heading to Bangkok? The information in this interesting woman-centered article will take you off the well-worn tourist trail. DRESSING UP IN INDONESIA -- writes Robin in Wellington, New Zealand -- You can really have fun dressing up in Indonesia. Silk wrap skirts and long, fitted or loose silk tunics with three-quarter sleeve plus a matching scarf will ensure you are comfortable in the heat. These outfits will take you from day to evening. They clean and dry quickly. During the day subtle makeup will be easiest, but in the evening you can go full on glamour, sparkle with pretend diamonds or other costume jewels from your own country. In Indonesia think feminine, elegant and glamorous. WHAT TO WEAR IN BELGIUM -- writes Véronique in Brussels, Belgium -- I'm a Belgian; I live here so I know it well. Belgium is a very modern country; you can wear just about everything here, just keep it decent. Don't go running around half naked, but wear appropriate shorts, short skirts, tops and nobody will look surprised or trouble you. Actually we generally miss the weather to go running around in summer clothes. So, if you come to Belgium (even during the summer) always bring something for rain, for sun, for cold, for every type of weather. You can only be sure it won't freeze during summer, and it won't be hot during winter, but for the rest, every type of weather is possible at any time.
AN INEXPENSIVE SNACK LUNCH IN AMSTERDAM -- writes Linda in San Francisco, USA -- Fill up on fresh, made to order falafel (also delicious fries) for just a few euros at Maoz in Amsterdam. It has several locations, including one across from the train station. Order at the counter, then customize your falafel at the salad bar with lettuce, tomatoes, marinated carrots, and so on, plus choose from an array of tasty sauces. It's not haute cuisine, but inexpensive, healthy and delicious—a great alternative to mainstream fast food! FOREIGNERS PAY MORE THAN LOCALS TO ENTER INDIA'S TAJ MAHAL -- writes Susan in Toronto, Canada -- We are three Canadians, Indian women just back from a trip to India. Did you know that the Taj Mahal entrance fees are 20.00 Indian Rupees for Indian residents (that equals 45 cents in Canadian dollars) and 750.00 Indian Rupees for non-Indian residents (that equals $16 Canadian dollars for foreigners). We would have all come under the foreigner category of $16, however we upped our Indian accents and played dumb. This will of course only work for those JourneyWomen that are of Indian descent or look like Indians. Work it, ladies! P.S. We'd like to offer our suggestions for suitable tipping in India. The average is Rupees 20 to porters, Rupees 100/day to the driver and Rupees 400 to guides depending on their knowledge and helpfulness. Always tip with your right hand as tipping with the left hand is considered offensive. JAPAN'S NEW ATM MACHINES MAKE IT EASIER TO USE INTERNATIONAL BANK CARDS -- writes Kathryn in Melbourne, Australia -- I recently travelled in Japan and wanted to let Journeywoman members know about developments with ATM's and getting cash. There are now special ATM's located at post offices and 7/11 convenience stores that accept most international bank cards like Maestro and Cirrus. This makes it so much easier to get cash out and (1) not having to worry about carrying large amounts of cash (2) being stranded somewhere and unable to access money. I happily travelled with just my usual bank/ATM card from back home, and a VISA for emergencies, and had no problems. P.S. I have been a long time reader of the Journeywoman Newsletter and it has provided me with heaps of advice over the years. Thank you so much for all of your hard work. EDITOR'S NOTE: Going to Tokyo? Don't leave without reading 20 Tips for Women Travelling to Tokyo. THANK YOU JW FOR POSTING THE NAME OF THIS GUIDE -- writes Cheryl from Oklahoma, USA -- I want to thank you for posting the information about Eloy Gutierrez Cruz, travel guide in Oaxaca. I misplaced his contact information and was able to find it on your site under recommended guides. A colleague and I bring university students (mostly female) to Oaxaca for a study tour most years. Eloy Gutierrez Cruz is excellent, well educated, articulate, and a great person. He is worth his weight in gold. He can be reached at tel: (01-951) 516-8687 or email: go_lanny@yahoo.com.mx. EDITOR'S NOTE: That's great to hear. Anybody else looking for a guide? Check out this section of our website. WARNING TO TRAIN TRAVELERS IN ITALY -- writes Denise in Ottawa, Canada --Train travel in Italy is fast and efficient. It's a wonderful way to get around the country. However, I send this warning to my sister travelers. Be diligent and always have your ticket time-punched through those yellow boxes beside the track your train will travel on. If not, and a ticket inspector sees that your ticket is not time stamped you are fined 40 Euros, payable on the spot. Those inspectors have a job to do and they do it. EDITOR'S NOTE: Pay attention ladies -- The 40 euros you might pay in fines could buy you lots of pizza, red wine and lattes. BE THE FIRST TO KNOW --
Each day Editor Evelyn Hannon sends out juicy woman-centered travel tips
and advice on Twitter. Want to join her group of 5900 'followers'? Simply
sign up at twitter.com (it's free and very easy
to do). You can follow Evelyn at twitter.com/Journeywoman
and then you can retweet her tips and any of her Journeywoman articles
to friends around the world. FINALLY, HAVE YOU PAID YOUR JOURNEYWOMAN DUES FOR 2010? -- Don't worry; we're absolutely not talking about collecting money. What we really want is your travel advice. In exchange for all the travel tips you've read in our newsletters, we ask that you please give back to our JW Network by sharing at least one juicy piece of your own travel know how. Not sure what to write about? We suggest you read the article, 'What Makes a Great Travel Tip?' for some basic ideas. Then send your advice to: editor@journeywoman.com and put 'My 2010 Contribution' in the subject line. That will make us very, very happy. UNTIL OUR NEXT ISSUE -- I wish you fun reading, lots of laughter and safe, wonderful, exciting journeys. You definitely deserve it! --
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