Travel Agent Musings

By Mark Haughey

A couple of years ago,  I was on a Destination Familiarization trip with my then-girlfriend Megan.  I took the opportunity to propose to her, and to my surprise she said yes!  It was a night I will never forget.

A month after arriving back home, we found out we were going to have a baby.  This was not the plan, but now I am blessed with a beautiful daughter who makes me as happy as her mother has for the last 6 years.

Our wedding had to wait.

However, in the summer of 2012, Megan and I were both in the wedding party for our good friends Jenn and Eric.  While this was a great honour, we found that it involved a lot of work.

We had to plan a Jack and Jill, Bachelor and Bachelorette parties, and wedding showers, all while trying to look after a newborn baby.

This experience convinced Megan and I to have a destination wedding, which we are currently in the process of planning.

Destination weddings save a lot of hassle. No Jack and Jill, no cake tasting, no venue choosing, and no deciding who makes the cut and who doesn’t.  If people could afford the time and money, they could come.

Our first task was to decide which destination and which resort to get married at.  This was fairly easy for us.  We decided to go back to the Ocean Blue in Punta Cana; the same resort where we were engaged. We were familiar with the resort, so we could answer our guest’s questions fairly easily.

Ocean Blue, Punta Cana

After we decided where our wedding would take place, we had to get in touch with the wedding coordinator on site.

If I can recommend anything to people planning a destination wedding, it is this: HAVE PATIENCE WHEN DEALING WITH THE WEDDING COORDINATOR.  You have to keep in mind these people receive hundreds of emails a day from brides (and I am sure a few grooms too) making inquiries and kicking tires.

If you email the coordinator, give them 2 days to respond. If you speak Spanish or know somebody that can translate your emails to Spanish, this will be a great help. We found there was a lot of miscommunication with our coordinator about the package we wanted and the day we needed to book.

Once we sorted through that, and had confirmation from the coordinator that the judge was available for that day, we sent down our deposit.

The first order of business was choosing our wedding party.  This is like a fantasy draft: your best man is your first round pick, and then you fill out the rest of your roster.

My Brother is my best man and then I have 3 really close friends to round out my team.  This needs to be coordinated with your fiancée; you don’t necessarily have to have the same number of bridesmaids and groomsmen, but you don’t want her to have 6 to your 2.

We both have 4, but we each have people in our wedding party that might not be able to make it.  This is okay with us, and if you’re planning a destination wedding this has to be okay with you too.

After picking my wedding party, I thought my work was complete.  Little did I know I would still have to advise Megan what colour dresses I think the bridesmaids should wear.  This always seems to happen when I am watching sports.  Megan gets bored, pulls out the laptop, and asks me which one of 30 options I like best.

(Note to grooms, you cannot get away with saying “whichever one you like best sweetie.” You actually have to pick one or two you like. Don’t pick the first two you see. Try to mix it up so she thinks you’re actually looking.)

I still haven’t decided what I’m going to wear. In fact, I’m hoping Megan picks this for me.  All I know is I am not wearing a tuxedo on a beach in the Dominican Republic. When my brother got married in Cuba it was very casual.  He got to wear khaki pants and a white shirt. I don’t want to be quite that casual, but I don’t want to overdo it either.

We are still at the beginning stages of our wedding in terms of planning. Even so, we filled our group of 36 in less than a month.  Now we have the task of telling the latecomers that they’ll probably have to pay a much higher system rate.

That being said, I would take this stress over the stress that comes with a traditional wedding any day.

Our wedding date is November 20, 2013; sometime after that I will write a blog on how smoothly everything went, and how perfect everything was!

The Wedding Coordinator?

By Robbie Woods

Capital: Ulaanbaatar

Population: 2,791,272

Language: Khalkha Mongol

HISTORY

Little history was recorded by early inhabitants of the area, who were largely nomadic and therefore illiterate. The earliest written references to the people of modern-day Mongolia can be found in ancient Chinese documents; it was out of fear of these so-called “barbarians” that the Chinese constructed the Great Wall.

Genghis Khan.

However, the various Mongol and Turkic clans who shared the steppes were usually too busy fighting each other to pose any threat to the Chinese Dynasties.

That changed in 1206, when a great warrior named Temujin united the people of Mongolia under one banner. He was known thereafter as Genghis Khan (“the universal leader”).

In his lifetime, Genghis Khan conquered the Xia and Jin dynasties in what is today modern China, capturing Beijing in the process. He then marched West, subsuming the Kara-Kitan Khanate and the Khwarezmian Empire.

At the time of his death, the Mongolian Empire controlled much of Asia, from the Sea of Japan in the East to the Caspian Sea in the West.

After the Great Khan’s death, Mongolian influence expanded even further. At its height, the Empire included more than 100 million people and was the largest the world had ever seen.

However, its glory was short-lived. The Empire, vast as it was, began to splinter and finally collapsed in 1294.

Still, its founder Genghis Khan is remembered as one of the greatest conquerers the world has ever known.

Apart from his skill on the battlefield, Genghis Khan also encouraged the creation of a Mongol written language. And although he could indeed be cruel, he also promoted religious tolerance, trade, and the arts.

Many Mongolians still think of Genghis Khan as the father of their nation.

ATTRACTIONS

If you want to experience modern architecture, night life, or an urban setting, Mongolia probably isn’t for you.

However, if you’re looking for wilderness, you’ll certainly find no lack of it here.

Averaging only 1.7 people per square kilometer, Mongolia is the least densely populated country on Earth. Almost half of Mongolians live in the Capital, Ulaanbaatar.

Because Mongolia is so large and sparsely populated, it can be difficult to find quick and effective means of transportation. Tourism therefore tends to cluster in specific areas.

Some of the most popular destinations are in the Orkhon Valley, west of the capital.

In this region there are plenty of natural parks and wildlife reserves, hot springs, and the ruins of Genghis Khan’s old capital Karakorum.

For travellers on a more spiritual journey, the Orkhon valley also feautures stunning Buddhist temples.

If you enjoy horseback riding, you can also arrange riding tours to visit the reindeer herders of Khovsgol. This is an authentic, if difficult, way to see “real Mongolia”, traditionally characterized by nomadic lifestyles.

The chance to experience this unique way of life is a big part of Mongolia’s appeal to travellers.

FUN FACTS

Mongolia is said to experience about 250 sunny days a year.

Although it has less than 3 million human residents, the livestock population of Mongolia is nearly 60 million.

By Robbie Woods

On the 3rd week of our virtual world tour, and by popular request, we will pay a visit to the ancient and beautiful Kingdom of Cambodia.

Before we dive in, a bit of house-keeping.

If you’ve been to the country in question, please comment and share a little bit of your experience. I can do all the research in the world, but nothing compares to actually being there!

CAMBODIA

Capital: Phnom Penh

Population: 14,494,293

Language: Khmer

HISTORY

In its early history, this area was the site of numerous Indian satellite kingdoms.

After these collapsed, the mighty Khmer Empire rose from the ashes around 800 AD. Starting in modern-day Cambodia, it grew to include parts of Thailand, Malaysia, Burma, Laos and Vietnam. At its height, the Khmer was the most powerful empire in Southeast Asia.

Unfortunately, it fell apart in the 1400s, leading to 4 centuries of what is called “the dark ages of Cambodia.”

In 1863, Cambodia became a French protectorate. It remained so until its independence in 1953.

Since then, the country has faced incalculable hardships, resulting both from external forces and internal instability.

Although many Cambodians still struggle with poverty and lack of infrastructure, the situation has been improving since 1993.

At the same time, Cambodia’s rich history and natural beauty are making it an increasingly popular tourist destination.

ATTRACTIONS

It’s so iconic you’ve likely already thought of it, but I can’t ignore it, can I?!

Cambodia is home to the world-renowned Angkor Archaeological Park.

The park, which is some 400 square kilometres, includes the remains of the ancient Khmer capital. Perhaps the most famous structure preserved there is the Hindu temple of Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world.

A registered World Heritage Site, Angkor stands as a reminder of the accomplishments of the Khmer Empire.

Angkor Wat, roughly translated means "city of temples."

Cambodia also has one of Southeast Asia’s up-and-coming resort towns. Since 1993, Sihanoukville has been something of a poster child for an ascendant tourism industry.

But despite growth and modernization, much of “real Cambodia” still remains.

For the more adventurous traveller, there are always backpacks to pack and cheap accomodations to rent.

There are also smaller, less visited cities, like Kampong Cham, that offer a more laid-back look at the county and its people.

FUN FACTS
The ancient Khmer ruins in Angkor Park represent the largest pre-industrial city on Earth.

Most Cambodian men serve as Buddhist monks for a short time. (Cambodia is 96% Buddhist.)

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By Robbie Woods

Welcome to week 2 of our 50-week jorney around the world.

This week, we visit Australia, the world’s 6th largest country, and home of the legendary “Outback”.

AUSTRALIA

Capital: Canberra

Population: 22,681,261

Language: English

Map of Australia. New Zealand somehow snuck in...

HISTORY

Australia has been continuously inhabited for more than 40,000 years. It is thought to have first been settled by peoples from Southeast Asia, who came to the island by land bridges.

Over time, these peoples built complex hunter-gatherer societies, and developed more than 250 languages.

Australia was colonized by the British in the late 1700s, a process which led to severe declines in indigenous populations, primarily as a result of disease.

Although Australia was the site of several British penal colonies, the vast majority of settlers were free people who came willingly.

The Australian colonies became independent from the United Kingdom in 1901.

Uluru, wonder of the natural world.

ATTRACTIONS

Australia isn’t just a country; it’s a whole continent. So it’s hard to pin down just one or two must-see destinations.

From geographical wonders like Uluru to architectural achievements like the Sydney Opera House, Australia runs the gamut.

This difficulty is enhanced by the contrasting realities of the county: while Australia’s geography is mostly wilderness, its population is densely concentrated along the Eastern shore. Contrary to the Crocodile Dundee stereotype, Australia actually has one of the most urban populations in the world.

It does, however, offer particularly rich rewards to outdoorsy types.

The Great Barrier Reef.

Millions of years of isolation have given Australia some of the world’s most exotic and fascinating ecosystems. Kangaroos, platypuses, emus, wombats… the list goes on.

If marine biology is more your scene, then you will find world-class diving in Australia; the Great Barrier Reef lies just off the coast of Queensland.

FUN FACTS

More than 25% of Australians were born in other countries.

Although by no means a staple, kangaroo meat is widely available for human consumption.

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Australian PM Julia Gillard, who I have the weirdest crush on.

By Robbie Woods

I’d like to think we’re beginning a journey together, right here, right now.

Over the next 50 weeks, Travel Agent Musings is going to profile 50 different countries. Every Wednesday, we’ll be visitng a new destination. Of each, we will ask: what makes this place unique?

Some of our ports-of-call will be familiar; others unheard of. Some may even beckon you to make a real-life pilgramage. All will be beautiful in their own way.

On the internet, they say a journey of 1000 gigabytes begins with a single key stroke. So let’s get going!

In order to choose our point of departure, I used the time-honoured method of throwing a dart at a map. The first 7 tries, I hit the ocean. But on the 8th, I hit…

BOLIVIA

Capital: Sucre

Population: 10,389,913

Language: Spanish; 37 native languages

HISTORY

Bolivia gained its independence from Spain in 1825.

It took its name from Simón Bolívar, the Venezuelan soldier and politician who fought for the independence of South American countries from their colonial masters.

Sucre, the capital city.

Bolivia’s early history was punctuated by intrigues and coups, but the political situation has stabilized considerably since the 1980s.

Although the country still faces many challenges (particularly poverty) Bolivia is now a democracy.

Bolivia, as seen from outer space.

ATTRACTIONS

Do you like mountains? Bolivia has mountains. Many, many mountains.

It is not uncommon for visitors to experience altitude sickness, as much of the country is between 1,500 and 4,000 metres above sea level.

Bolivia is home to Lake Titicaca – the largest lake in South America, and one of the highest in the world. At its surface, it is 3,812 m above sea level.

It is also the home of the Death Road, which is about as harrowing as it sounds.

The death road is a popular mountain biking route from La Paz (4,500 m) down to Coroico (1,200 m)

Originally, this winding 60 km mounatin road was no wider than 3 m, feautured 600 m drop-offs, and had no guard rails. There have since been “improvements”.

The journey offers stunning views, and a glimpse into Bolivia’s biodiversity, but it comes at a cost. At least 18 riders have died making this journey since 1998.

In spite of, or perhaps because of, the danger, the Death Road is a very popular destination for cyclists.

The infamous Death Road.

But if danger isn’t exactly your middle name, there is still much to discover in Bolivia off the beaten path.

FUN FACTS

Make sure to bring sun screen: at these elevations, the sun’s UV rays can be up to 20 times as powerful as at sea level.

Bolivia is the only country in the Americas where the majority of people (68%) self-identify as indigenous.

By Robbie Woods

Do you want to embrace your inner mermaid? American submariner L. Bruce Jones wants to give you the chance.

For more than 6 years, he’s been pushing a big idea: an underwater hotel.

Now, his dream is finally coming true.

I hope you like seafood.

The facility includes 25 suites, a gym, a bar, a library, and a restaurant. There’s even a wedding chapel, for those who want to tie the knot nautically.

As for location, Jones has purchased a small, privately-owned island in the northeast of Fiji. You will arrive on the island first, then take a special elevator down into your room in the lagoon.

There you will be greeted by a rich and beautiful underwater ecosystem. You’ll even be able to explore the reef in personal a submarine provided by the resort.

Of course, the entire resort is one big submarine. Only stationary, and far more comfortable.

And no need to worry about safety: each compartment can be sealed off in the event of an emergency, or raised to the surface if it needs repair.

Now THAT'S what I call a water bed.

But if you prefer to stay on dry land, Jones plans to build additional accomodations on the island, along with restaurants, and even a golf course.

I know what you’re thinking: “sign me up!”

Hold your horses; it’s still under construction.

And if you ever want to visit, you should probably start saving now; a week here will cost you $15,000 per person.

Or if you really want to go big, you can  book the entire resort for $3,000,000.

Did I mention this place was exorbitantly expensive?

Yeah…

I don't have a pun for this caption.

By John Woods

I live in Barrie Ontario.  For the most part, Barrie is a bedroom community for the Greater Toronto Area. Five days a week, much of the city’s population leaves early in the morning.  It’s not unusual for people to be gone for 12 or 13 hours.

Several smart retailers have caught on to this anomaly and have positioned themselves to cater specifically to commuters.  They’re clever, and they’re reaping the benefits of their ingenuity.

Take my situation for example.  I have a puppy (Murphy) who would be house-bound for extended periods of time if it were not for “Bark Avenue”.

This is Murphy. (Well, he's bigger now!)

Bark Avenue is a small business that offers daycare for dogs.  You drop them off in the morning and pick them up in the evening.  They spend the day playing with other dogs of similar activity levels under the supervision of trained staff.  They have toys, a pool, climbers, and lots of space to run freely. All this for about $25 per day.

Murphy loves puppy daycare.  As we approach the facility, he starts to get excited; when I open the door of the car, it’s a mad dash to get inside and see his friends.  At the end of the day, he comes home well-exercised and exhausted.

It occurs to me that these people have found a niche market created by the configuration of the community.  This is a terrific business model.  The dogs are happy, the dog owners are happy, and the proprietors of the facility are happy.
But it doesn’t stop there.

Bark Avenue can also board Murphy overnight if I go on a business trip or a vacation. The owners have perceptively identified that a high percentage of Barrie residents originate elsewhere, and are therefore likely to travel.

They also have a mini boutique in the lobby. If you want to, you can buy food, treats, brushes, blankets, or collars while you are waiting for your dog to be brought out of the play area.

Finally, Bark Avenue offers a grooming service.  I can have Murphy washed and buffed, his nails trimmed or his ears cleaned for a modest fee.

Great service, great product, great location. No wonder this business is successful.

By Rhonda Stanley

My previous blog talked about ‘the education of travel’ my husband and I have given our children. We’ve had the chance to take them to exotic and exciting destinations, showing them the beauty this planet has to offer.

But not everything is ‘beautiful’.

Recently, our youngest daughters, 18 year old twins, went on a graduation trip with their high school friends. One went to Cuba, the other to the Dominican Republic.

From the moment they arrived at their respective destinations, reality set in. This was not like travelling with mom and dad.

One daughter sent a message upon arrival remarking that there wasn’t a sign with her name on it outside the arrival gate. When she got to the hotel, she gave us a tour of the room via Skype and said, “I miss travelling with my mom and dad!”

The daughter that went to Cuba was noncommittal about the experience. She just said she had a great time because her friends were there, but she didn’t want to go back. Her friends complained of bed bugs. She didn’t have any in her room but I suspect they didn’t either; they were more likely bites from sand flies than bed bugs.

Suffice it to say, neither of my daughters were impressed. Now I understand why so many divorces result in one spouse being sued so the other spouse can maintain the lifestyle they have” become accustomed to”.

The whole purpose of sharing this story is to say that, while we have enriched our children’s lives in many ways, we have also set expectations that aren’t realistic.

Ironically, when we travelled as a family, it was sometimes hard to get the kids to buy in. They felt we weren’t staying at the ‘fun resorts’ because we saw few people their age. But now that they’ve actually seen some of the destinations that young people frequent, they’ve realized the grass was greener.

One of the twins is talking about backpacking through South East Asia or South America. Talk about reality! That may be the just the reality check she needs: staying in youth hostels, riding local transportation, and budgeting her money to ensure she has enough to sustain her throughout her journey. That may be her best ‘education’ yet.

During my years in retail travel, we subscribed to and promoted the ‘Ten Commandments of Travel’

The Ten Commandments of Travel

1. Thou shalt not expect to find things precisely as they are at home, for thou hast left home to find things different.
2. Thou shalt not take anything too seriously, for a carefree mind is the basis for a great vacation.
3. Thou shalt not let other tour members get on thy nerves, for thou art paying good money to enjoy thyself.
4. Thou shalt not worry. The person who worrieth hath little joy and few things are fatal.
5. Thou shalt not judge all the people of a country by one person with whom thou had a problem.
6. Thou shalt in Rome, do somewhat as the Romans do.
7. Thou shalt be on time, for if thou art late thou shalt make thine own way to the next hotel. Thou shalt carry thy passport at all times, for a traveler without a passport is one without a country.
8. Thou shalt learn to say “Thank You” in any language. Verily, it is worth more than gold.
9. Thou shalt acquaint thyself with any currency and thou shalt not be cheated.
10. Thou art welcome in every land. Treat thy hosts with respect and thou shalt be an honored guest.

If we all accepted and abided by these commandments, travel would be so much more enjoyable. Treat it as an experience and an adventure. Who cares what you have and how you live at home. Considering that only 3.5% of the entire world’s population has travelled internationally, my daughters are very fortunate to have experienced so much of what the world has to offer.

Now, they’re going to learn how to rough it!