Gift of Travel that Gives Back: Travcoa Offers Series of African ‘Hand-to-Hand’ Itineraries that Give Back to Community

From education to cultural awareness and preservation, travel enriches the lives of everyone it touches. This holiday season, Travcoa, the world leader in luxury travel, is presenting a series of African itineraries that belong to the ‘Hand-to-Hand’ portfolio – journeys which showcase the abundance of African hospitality while contributing to communities throughout each journey.

“Our Africa ‘Hand-to-Hand’ journeys contribute to social enterprise-supported projects that fund education, health, self-reliance, and conservation initiatives,” stated Jerre Fuqua. “These trips are ideal for couples and families interested in sharing a meaningful experience as a holiday gift this year.”

Each of the finely-crafted journeys to Africa feature world-class accommodations and support organizations that contribute to community building projects:

Grandeur of Zimbabwe & South Africa Independent Journey – 18 days from $18,995 per person
In Zimbabwe, Singita Pamushana supports the Malilangwe Trust, an organization that feeds 19,000 children per day in adjoining villages. In South Africa, guests visit the inspiring Uthando Project in the townships of Cape Town, and participate in an interactive tour on a range of topics, including the environment and the care and protection of children, women and the elderly.

Travcoa makes a contribution to Uthando’s projects on behalf of each guest. Also, Singita Sabi Sand sponsors the “Growing to Read” program, which enhances early education efforts, and Singita Lebombo supports the School of Cooking, an organization that develops culinary skills in communities bordering Kruger National Park.

Pure Kenya Independent Journey – 11 days from $5,695 per person
This journey visits the Kalama Wildlife Conservancy where guests stay at Saruni Samburu. The lodge uses all guest revenue to cover operating costs of the conservancy and fund community projects. Guests also visit the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife and the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, which rescues orphan elephants and rhinos and reintroduces them to the wild. Travcoa adopts an elephant in each guests’ name.

Grand Safari: Kenya & Tanzania Escorted Journey – 15 days from $10,990 per person
During this journey, guests stay at Governors Camp in the Masai Mara Game Reserve. The camp built the region’s first Bio-Gas Project to help the Maasai people conserve the woodlands, rather than use resources for cooking fuel. Travcoa provides a contribution to this project on behalf of each guest. This journey also visits the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife, the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, as well as the Amboseli Elephant Research Project.

For more information on Travcoa’s Africa ‘Hand-to-Hand’ journeys, to request a brochure, or to make a reservation, please contact a travel agent or a Travcoa Journey Consultant at 1-800-992-2003, email info@travcoa.com or visit www.travcoa.com.

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Travcoa’s Arctic Itinerary Shines with Northern Lights, the ICEHOTEL and Old World Charm

Travcoa, a leader in luxury travel, invites travelers to celebrate this magic with an enchanting arctic adventure to the snow-covered terrain of Finland and Sweden.

Departing March 7, 2013, guests on Travcoa’s 15-day Lapland’s Magical Northern Lights & Reindeer Safari Escorted Journey will explore the cities of Helsinki and Stockholm; cross the Arctic Circle; cruise on a powerful icebreaker; and travel by dogsled, snowmobile, and reindeer-pulled sleigh through pristine wintry wilderness.

Highlights of the trip include viewing the Northern Lights, a stay in Sweden’s remarkable ICEHOTEL, and participation in the colorful traditions of the annual St. Maria’s Day celebrations.

“This journey showcases the breathtakingly beautiful aspects of northern Sweden and Finland that few travelers ever see,” stated Jerre Fuqua, President of Travcoa. “Guests will not only witness the most spectacular Northern Lights in 11 years as the auroral activity cycle peaks, but will also be able to discover the old-world charm of historic cities, people, and culture of this intriguing northern region.”

The St. Maria’s Day celebrations in Hetta, Finland bring travelers and Scandinavia’s indigenous herders, the Sámi, together for a day of traditional dance, local delicacies and reindeer racing. Throughout the journey, guests will enjoy the finest accommodations, including the world-renowned ICEHOTEL located in a small Swedish village just north of the Arctic Circle.

Lapland’s Magical Northern Lights & Reindeer Safari Escorted Journey is priced from $14,390 per person and is limited to a maximum of 18 guests.

For more information, to request a brochure, or to make a reservation, contact your travel agent or a Travcoa Journey Consultant at 1-800-992-2003, email info@travcoa.com or visit www.travcoa.com.

About Travcoa:
Travcoa has been leading luxury adventures and in-depth explorations of the world’s most interesting destinations since 1954. The company offers three types of travel experiences around the globe: small-group Escorted Journeys with comprehensive itineraries guided by professional Travel Directors; pre-designed and priced Independent Journeys for guests who prefer private travel on a date of their choice; and Tailor-Made Journeys crafted to individual guest specifications.

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Travcoa introduces new ‘Ancient Mysteries’ journey combining Easter Island and Machu Picchu with $1000 savings if booked before Oct. 31.

Travcoa, a world leader in luxury travel, announces the introduction of a new “Ancient Mysteries & Sacred Sites: Easter Island & Machu Picchu” Independent Journey, which explores two fascinating UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The itinerary features Easter Island’s newest luxury resort, the Hangaroa Eco Village & Spa as well as three luxury Orient Express hotels in Peru. In celebration of this intriguing 12-day journey, Travcoa is offering savings of $1000 per person for travel before October 31, 2012.

“Together, Easter Island and Machu Picchu encompass the mystery, power and natural splendor of two sophisticated, ancient societies,” stated Jerre Fuqua, President of Travcoa. “Our local expert guides, flexible travel dates, and luxury accommodations provide guests an extraordinary travel experience to these remote destinations for a truly unique encounter with the past.”

Travcoa’s guests will spend three days accompanied by a resident archeologist unraveling the mysteries behind the massive moai stone sculptures that are found throughout remote Easter Island. Highlights include up-close encounters with the massive moai statues; Aju Tongariki, the largest of the ahu stone platforms; Rano Raraku, a volcanic crater which served as a quarry for the island’s stone sculptures; and Rano Kau, an extinct volcano that houses a freshwater lake.

Next they will spend eight days exploring Peru including Lima, the capital city, the mountainous city of Cusco, the Urubamba Valley, also known as the ‘Sacred Valley of the Incas,’ and finally, the famed citadel of Machu Picchu. Here guests will enjoy a privately-guided tour of the ruins and a tranquil evening at the exclusive Sanctuary Lodge, the only accommodation at the site. After day visitors have departed, the guests will have the privilege of enjoying the sunset and sunrise at Machu Picchu without the crowds.

From North America, the journey departs every Saturday, connects in Lima, Peru and arrives at Easter Island early Sunday morning. Land is priced from $6,995 USD per person based on double occupancy, and special airfares are available. Exclusive to Travcoa guests: travel before October 31, 2012 and save $1,000 per person.

For more information on the Ancient Mysteries & Sacred Sites: Easter Island & Machu Picchu Independent Journey, travelers can join Travcoa’s upcoming webinar about South America taking place on Wednesday, July 18, 2012 at 11:00 AM PT. To register, visit www.travcoa.com/travel-agents.

For additional details or to request a brochure, call a travel agent or a Travcoa Journey Consultant at 1-800-992-2003, email info@travcoa.com or visit www.travcoa.com.

Travcoa has been leading luxury adventures and in-depth explorations of the world’s most interesting destinations since 1954. The company offers three types of travel experiences around the globe: small-group Escorted Journeys with comprehensive itineraries guided by professional Travel Directors; pre-designed and priced Independent Journeys for travelers who prefer private travel on a date of their choice; and Tailor-Made Journeys crafted to individual traveler specifications.

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Victoria Cruises, Travcoa Offer Exclusive ‘Legendary China’ Journey on Yangtze River

Cruising aboard Victoria Cruises affords a spectacular view of centuries-old pagodas and temples nestled along the mist-shrouded Yangtze River.

Victoria Cruises (www.victoriacruises.com) and Travcoa (www.travcoa.com) partner to offer an exclusive 12-night Legendary China itinerary, which includes stays in Beijing, Xian and Shanghai, in addition to two other itineraries featuring Yangtze River cruises throughout 2012.

The extensive Legendary China journey includes a luxurious three-night cruise with Executive Deck accommodations aboard the five-star Victoria Jenna, the newest and largest ship in the Victoria Cruises’ fleet. The trip also includes nine nights in five-star deluxe hotels throughout China. Also included are airport transfers, three a la carte meals per day, captivating sightseeing with an experienced English-speaking guide and TRAVCOA travel director plus the TravcoAssist Travel Protection Plan, including emergency medical evacuation insurance coverage for injury or illness, and 24-hour Worldwide Live Travel Assistance through Travel Guard Assistance.

The Executive Deck program on Victoria Cruises’ ships features a variety of services, including enhanced ship placement, access to exclusive VIP areas, complimentary beverages including morning coffee and tea service, exclusive shore excursions for groups of six or more, enhanced dining privileges, exclusive happy hour and complimentary Wi-Fi Internet access in the Executive Lounge and lobby areas, with computers available for passenger use.

The program also now includes a welcome fruit basket, complimentary laundry (up to four items per day), shoe shine service, complimentary diet soda and wine and beer with dinner, nightly turn down service, and reserved seating for evening entertainment (must be pre-reserved with cruise director).

“This itinerary encompasses the greatest wonders of China, all while staying in upscale accommodations,” said Larry Greenman, manager of public relations and customer service for Victoria Cruises. “Unsurpassed luxury, a hassle-free experience and peace of mind are what people expect from Travcoa and Victoria Cruises – and our exclusive ‘Legendary China’ program delivers.”

The deluxe 12-night Legendary China itinerary includes the following escorted sightseeing experiences:

Beijing

An excursion to the extraordinary 2,000-year-old Great Wall of China, one of the most spectacular structures ever built by man.

A visit to Tiananmen Square and nearby Forbidden City, an impressive architectural masterpiece, with special access to the Chong Hua Palace.

Explore the hutongs – narrow streets of “Old China” – by rickshaw.

A visit to the fabled Summer Palace, resort of the Empress Dowager.

A special Peking Duck dinner.

A visit to the home of a local family for a cup of tea.

Xi’an

See the extraordinary life-sized Terry Cotta Army, along with their horses and chariots entombed with the Emperor.

A trip to the Shaanxi Historical Museum to learn about Xi’an’s buried past.

A visit to the Wild Goose Pagoda.

Yangtze River

Explore the streets and museums of Chongqing before boarding the five-star Victoria Jenna cruise ship.

A spectacular view of centuries-old pagodas and temples nestled along the mist-shrouded Yangtze River.

Many onboard activities including a host of nightly entertainment options.

An excursion to the impressive Three Gorges Dam Site in Sandouping, an extraordinary feat of engineering and major highlight of the river cruise.

An incredible sailing experience through the Shennong Stream – one of the Yangtze’s scenic tributaries.

Shanghai

A visit to the classical Yu Yuan Gardens in Shanghai’s Old Town.

Explore the extraordinary collection of ancient Chinese art at the Shanghai Museum.

A spectacular dinner followed by a dazzling Acrobatics Show.

The deluxe Legendary China itinerary is priced from $5,475 per person, based on double occupancy, with departures scheduled throughout 2012. International airfare is not included. To travel with Travcoa, call your travel agent, or a Travcoa Journey Consultant at 1.800.992.2003, email info@travcoa.com or visit www.travcoa.com.

Travcoa

For more than a half-century, Travcoa has ensured that guests travel in the utmost comfort and style to the most exceptional places in the world. A leading luxury tour operator since 1954, Travcoa is renowned for crafting unique journeys that feature meaningful cultural encounters without sacrificing sophistication, style or luxury. Your journey is enriched through the people you meet and the epicurean delights, events and places experienced along the way.

Travcoa offers three styles of luxury travel experiences: discover worldwide destinations in a small-group averaging 12 like-minded guests with an Escorted Journeys; travel privately on a pre-set itinerary for two people, or as many as you wish with an Independent Journey; or have one of our Custom Journey Planners handcraft a Tailor-Made Journey to your exacting specifications. Each style includes private transportation, superior accommodations, expert local guides, privileged access to local treasures and natural wonders, and either the company of one of our renowned Travcoa Travel Directors or on-call assistance from TravcoAssist throughout your journey.

Whichever way you prefer to travel, Travcoa pledges the highest level of personal service with unparalleled attention to detail and value.

To travel with Travcoa, call your travel agent, or a Travcoa Journey Consultant at 1.800.992.2003, email info@travcoa.com or visit www.travcoa.com.

Victoria Cruises

Based in New York, Victoria Cruises established new standards of excellence for sailing China’s Yangtze River when its first ship edged out of port in 1994. Since that time, Victoria Cruises has achieved tremendous success by introducing the majesty of the Yangtze River to travelers worldwide. A true pioneer and innovator, Victoria Cruises delivers an unrivaled and unsurpassed Yangtze River experience. An American-managed company, Victoria Cruises operates the largest fleet of vessels with the coveted five-star rating from the China National Tourism Administration. Victoria Cruises offers a variety of itineraries varying from four to nine days including Grand Yangtze Discovery, Three Gorges Highlights, and Three Gorges Explorer.

Victoria Cruises has earned numerous awards and recognitions over the years and has most recently received the 2011 TravelAge West WAVE Award Editor’s Pick for Best River Cruise Line as well as Best New River Cruise Ship in 2010 with the launch of the luxurious Victoria Jenna.Travel Weekly also recently selected the Victoria Jenna as a Silver Award Winner for the Magellan Awards’ River Cruise Ship category.

For more information and a free color brochure or promotional DVD, contact Victoria Cruises at 57-08 39^th Avenue, Woodside, NY 11377; phone (800) 348-8084, (212) 818-1680; fax (212) 818-9889. Send e-mail to contact@victoriacruises.com or visit www.victoriacruises.com.

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Travcoa Offers a Family Luxury Safari Featuring the Best of Kenya

Travcoa, the world leader in luxury travel, is offering a custom-crafted multi-family luxury safari to East Africa this summer. The exclusive14-day “Kenya: African Family Adventure” will be led by Travcoa Travel Director and professional photographer, Kymri Wilt. This Escorted Journey highlights the breadth and mystery of Kenya’s unspoiled frontier, and Kymri has personally crafted the itinerary and hand-picked luxury lodges and camps which embody the iconic African safari experience. From superb wildlife viewing to enriching cultural interactions, there is something special for all ages to enjoy – a wonderful way for parents and grandparents to share exceptional and inspiring experiences with their children and/or grandchildren.

“There is no greater gift a family can share than the gift of travel,” stated Jerre Fuqua, President of Travcoa. “It’s rare for a family vacation to engage passions and interests across generations – from grandparents to teenagers. But the mere mention of the word ‘Africa’ piques the curiosity of both young and old.”

Departing July 29, 2012, Travcoa’s “Kenya: African Family Adventure” starts at $11,990 per person. Pricing for children under 16 starts at $9,990. Guests will stay in Kenya’s legendary lodges and tented camps in Nanyuki and discover the world-famous Kenyan National Parks of Meru, Amboseli and Masai Mara. Highlights include visiting the Giraffe Center, the Sweetwater Game Reserve, David Sheldrick’s Elephant Orphanage, a hot air balloon ride over the Masai Mara and interacting with Maasai villagers.

For more information about the “Kenya: African Family Adventure” or to request a brochure please contact Travoca at 1-800-992-2003 or go online at www.travcoa.com.

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Travcoa Develops New Collection of Itineraries Incorporating Philanthropic Initiatives

Travcoa, a world leader in luxury travel, is continuing its support of socially responsible travel by launching a new collection of philanthropic-focused journeys for 2013.

Collaborating with social enterprises and NGOs (non-governmental organizations), the new collection will engage Travcoa guests in outreach programs that support and empower community self-reliance, health, education and the conservation of traditional cultures, wildlife and natural resources. These life-changing experiences will enable Travcoa guests to contribute positively to the destinations they visit, and in turn rewarding them with a source of deep personal fulfillment.

“The benefits of philanthropic-focused travel are multi-faceted,” stated Jerre Fuqua, President of Travcoa. “Many of our guests already contribute to important causes in their daily life and they also want to make a difference in the communities they visit. By traveling with Travcoa, our guests will discover that together they can help support the local economy and impact the lives of the people they meet. Travcoa’s expanded philanthropic efforts will engage and inspire our guests through active and authentic encounters that focus on key issues facing the places we visit. These journeys will provide our guests with an opportunity to ‘give back’ while they travel.”

Travcoa is aligning 2013 product development with suppliers that engage in sustainable initiatives and work respectfully with indigenous communities and conservation-focused organizations. The company’s goal is that by the end of 2013 at least 50 percent of their suppliers be actively involved in socially responsible initiatives, and that an equal percentage of Travcoa itineraries incorporate at least one project visit per journey.

The brand new collection of philanthropic- and Corporate Social Responsibility-focused journeys will go hand-in-hand with projects that Travcoa and its guests currently support:

• The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust in Kenya — Travcoa sponsors an infant elephant on behalf of each guest traveling on the Grand Safari: Kenya & Tanzania Escorted Journey.

• The Gandhi Ashram School in Sikkim — Guests on the Festivals of Bhutan Escorted Journey visit the school, and Travcoa makes a donation to the organization.

• Huilloc Community in the Urubamba Valley — Travcoa makes a donation on behalf of guests who visit the community while traveling on the Hiram Bingham’s Hidden Peru Escorted Journey.

• The Lotus Children’s Center in Mongolia — Guests on the Sands of Time: Mongolia & the Gobi Desert Escorted Journey visit the school, and Travcoa makes a donation to the organization.

Travcoa has been leading luxury adventures and in-depth explorations of the world’s most interesting destinations since 1954. The company offers three types of travel experiences around the globe: small-group Escorted Journeys with comprehensive itineraries guided by professional Travel Directors; pre-designed and priced Independent Journeys for travelers who prefer private travel on a date of their choice; and Tailor-Made Journeys crafted to individual traveler specifications. For information, visit www.travcoa.com/.
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