MORAL COMPASS: Great Places to Go Where the Going Does Good

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Global Scavenger Hunt, Importance of Tourism, Research expeditions, travel philanthropy, Uncategorized

GreatEscape Adventures Uses Foundation to Facilitate Great Escape from Poverty Caused by Pandemic

December 12, 2020 MoralCompass

Vietnam countryside on the 2019 Global Scavenger Hunt. The around-the-world mystery tour awakens travelers to culture, heritage and needs of people around the world and helps support projects to alleviate poverty and need. The Great Escape Foundation this year is focusing its philanthropy on addressing the hunger and displacement needs of millions of pandemic affected families. © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

The Global Scavenger Hunt, which has been organized by William and Pamela Chalmers of GreatEscape Adventures for over 15 years, was put on hold this year because of the coronavirus pandemic. Hopefully the Chalmers will bring it back as soon as possible. It was a trip-of-a-lifetime for me when I took part in the 15^th annual around-the-world mystery tour in 2019. The trips are designed to instill an understanding of similarities and differences among cultures and people around the world, but also are designed to support projects through their GreatEscape Foundation.

Because of the pandemic, GreatEscape Foundation 2021 focus “is pivoting temporarily from our usual goals of building schools and assisting families with interest free micro-loans. Our plea this year is different,” they write.

“Instead, we find ourselves reflecting that while we have been overwhelmed with concerns about our own very personal existential anxieties, that the plight of world’s poorest has been forgotten. Our world has gotten smaller. Sadly, the erosion of decades of progress made against the beachhead of poverty has been significant. Growing legions of the world’s poorest are falling behind again and suffering awfully, in part because we have been so preoccupied in helping ourselves. But we cannot abandon helping others.

“Extraordinary times require extraordinary actions. This year, 100% of the funds raised will be immediately directed to address the hunger and displacement needs of millions of pandemic affected families.”

Chalmers created the Global Scavenger Hunt not just to promote the benefits of international travel to cultivate Global Citizens, and all the benefits of travel – from providing economic foundation to sustain places of history, heritage and culture that might otherwise be abandoned, provide jobs and improve the living standards for communities and societies, and promote an exchange of understanding and ideas just as Marco Polo did centuries ago, where we are also encouraged to engage in voluntourism projects along the way – but serves to support The Global Scavenger Hunt’s cause-related, charitable purposes. The annual event raises funds for GreatEscape Foundation’s twin goals: building co-ed elementary schools in low & middle income nations, and distributing interest-free no-fee micro-loans to budding global entrepreneurs (mostly mothers).

“Both our methods of helping others help themselves are designed to facilitate their great escape from the cycle of poverty—one person at a time! Happily, we have improved the lives of thousands: building a dozen schools, a mid-wife training facility, and funding thousands of mothers wanting to make a better life for their families,” Chalmers writes.

Make donations online at GlobalScavengerHunt.com/greatescape-foundation.

GreatEscape Adventures, 310-281-7809, GlobalScavengerHunt.com.

See: Global Scavenger Hunt: In the Scramble to Be Crowned ‘World’s Best Travelers’

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health and wellness travel, Outdoors Travel, Uncategorized

Rails to Trails Conservancy Hosts Facebook Live Event ‘Staying Safe Outside During Winter and COVID-19’, Nov. 23

November 22, 2020 MoralCompass

As we head into a winter with a surge in COVID-19 infections and increased restrictions across the country, experts agree that getting outdoors remains a low-risk way to stay fit—both physically and mentally. Join Rails-to-Trails Conservancy experts on Monday, Nov. 23, 1:30 pm (Eastern) on Facebook Live to hear how you can safely get outdoors to stay active this winter.

Nationwide, trail use is up by more than 60% as people venture outside for exercise, solace, self-care and to create their own special and unique moments. And with proper preparation, trails and the outdoors can continue to be a free and safe resource through the winter months.

Rails-to-Trails Conservancy board members Dr. Rose Gowen and Dr. Jim Sallis; and Vasu Sojitra, a professional athlete and diversity, equity, and inclusion strategist will discuss ways to safely get outside this winter—whether you live in a place that has extreme weather or you’re struggling with the shorter days. They will share safety and preparation tips and remind us all about the physical and mental health benefits that trails and the outdoors provide during these challenging times.

Speakers:
• Rose Gowen, M.D., Brownsville, Texas, City Commissioner
• Jim Sallis, Ph.D., Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Family Medicine and Public Health at the University of California, San Diego
• Vasu Sojitra Professional Athlete and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Strategist

Learn more about using trails during COVID-19: railstotrails.org/covid19.

Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, 866-202-9788, www.railstotrails.org

Active Travel, Skiing, Snowboarding, Snow Sports, Uncategorized

Alta Ski Area, IKON Pass Partner, To Open Nov. 23; Capacity Managed Through Parking; Pre-Purchase Day Tickets at 20% Off

November 18, 2020 MoralCompass

Skiing resumes at Alta Ski Area, Utah, a partner in IKON ski pass and the Mountain Collective, on November 23 © Dave E. Leiberman/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Alta Ski Area in Utah, a partner with the IKON ski pass program as well as the Mountain Collective, is set to open for the 2021-21 ski season on Monday, November 23.

“With our season cut short last year, we can all get back to doing what we love most—skiing. The snow dances have worked, delivering 57″ of snow with more on the way. Check our Lift and Terrain Status page for projected terrain openings as we kick off our 83rd winter.

“Skiing will look different this year. Be patient. Be kind. We’re all in this together. Explore Alta’s thoughtful COVID-19 response.”

Alta, a skiers-only area, is offering Off-Peak and Peak pricing this winter. Day tickets can be purchased daily at any ticket window. Pre-purchased tickets can be bought at alta.com, with savings up to 20% off the ticket window price. Tickets FAQ’s.

Road and Parking: Skier capacity will be managed daily through available parking on a first-come, first-served basis. Mountain capacity will be based on weather, snowpack, available terrain and our indoor facilities’ capacity. Know before you go. Alta’s newly created parking forecast provides skiers the necessary road and parking updates ahead of a busy winter. Learn More.

Grab-And-Go Food Options: Located in the Wildcat and Albion Parking lot will be grab-and-go breakfast and lunch options. Eat in your car to practice social distancing while refueling for skiing.

Restaurants: The two-year expansion of the mid-mountain Alf’s Restaurant is complete. Additions include a new Alta Ski Shop and coffee shop serving waffles. All day lodges, Alf’s Restaurant, Watson’s Shelter and the Albion Day Lodge, will be limited to 50% indoor capacity. Collins Grill will remain closed for the 2020-21 season. Skiers are asked to limit their time in restaurants to 30 minutes or shorter. Dining options at Alta.

Alf Engen Ski School: The Alf Engen Ski School will start the season offering private lessons only. Reservations are suggested. Contact the Alf Engen Ski School at 801.799.2271 for information.

Alta Ski Shops: The Alta Ski Shop is open daily at the Albion Day Lodge. Skiers can rent skis, pick up Alta-branded gear, or demo performance skis at the Albion Day Lodge. Ski rentals at the Wildcat Ski Shop are available with reservations by 2 pm the day before only.

Town of Alta: Part of the uniqueness of the Town of Alta and Alta Ski Area is Alta’s historic lodges that significantly contribute to Alta’s character and uniqueness. In a typical winter, these lodges offer a vibrant Après scene after a day skiing powder. This year, due to COVID-19, only lodge guests are permitted in these world-renowned watering holes. The Shallow Shaft Restaurant will not open for the season.

Alta’s Sunnyside At 3 Program: Alta is proud to keep its Sunnyside At 3 program running. Between 3-4:30 pm, skiers can access beginner lifts with no blackout days with the purchase of a season adult or child Sunnyside At 3 card online for $59.

Continued Partnerships: Alta is excited to continue partner pass offerings with the IKON Pass and the Mountain Collective Pass. With 547″ snowfall average and 542″ last season, join us this Monday as we kick off the 2020-21 ski season.

Since 1938, this marks Alta Ski Area’s 83rd winter in operation. Originally a mining town, Alta was the first ski area in Utah to install a lift. Alta is a skiers-only mountain with majestic scenery, diverse terrain and a renowned snowfall average of 547″. There is a spirit to Alta we call #AltaMagic. Come for the skiing. Stay for the skiing

Visit alta.com for more information.

See: Alta, Utah: If You Can See It, You Can Ski It!

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Active Travel, camping-glamping, National Parks, Uncategorized

Don’t Wait Beyond Dec 15 to Book High-Demand 2021 National Park RV Vacation, Tracks & Trails Warns

November 13, 2020 MoralCompass

Tracks & Trails, which organizes packaged RV vacations in national parks, features a ranger-guided hike to see granite portraits of Washington, Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Lincoln on its eight-night Mount Rushmore, Black Hills & Devils Tower itinerary out of Denver. © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

GRAND JUNCTION, CO – The clock is ticking, with just over a month left to book a summer 2021 national park RV vacation with Tracks & Trails.

This company, which specializes in packaged RV vacations to national parks in the Western US and Canada, has set Dec. 15, 2020, as the cut-off date for new 2021 bookings.

Dan Wulfman, Tracks & Trails Founder and President, explains that this early booking deadline ensures that his team is able to secure the motorhomes and campgrounds necessary to create their signature self-drive itineraries that showcase the natural wonders of the parks.

“The idea,” says Wulfman, “is to locate your personal cabin on wheels as close as possible to all of the beauty and activities a particular park offers. You experience privacy and comfort in a fully-equipped, self-contained unit in the inspiring wilderness of our national parks.”

One example of a Tracks & Trails itinerary is the eight-night Mount Rushmore, Black Hills & Devils Tower itinerary out of Denver, which offers an optional add-on of two nights at Badlands National Park. This trip is available from May 1 to September 23, 2021, and the base trip price for up to 4 people starts at $5,250.

Highlights of this itinerary include:

A ranger-guided hike to see granite portraits of Washington, Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Lincoln.
A nightly lighting ceremony at Mount Rushmore.
From Bears Lodge, viewing the 2,367-foot monolith known as Devils Tower that is a sacred site of worship for many Native Americans.
Exploring vast cave systems at Wind Cave and Jewel Cave in the Black Hills.
The remains of mammoths from the Ice Age where a simulated paleontology dig is hosted.
Wagon wheel tracks embedded on the original Oregon Trail.
Fort Laramie & Fort Fetterman which display the history of the Wild West.
Wild horses, bison, and begging burros.
A mock shoot-out at noon in the legendary town of Deadwood.

Why a December 15 deadline for booking next year’s vacation?

Wulfman notes that the pandemic is turning millions of non-campers into newbie RVers, and the trend is exploding. The RV Industry Association found that 20% of US residents surveyed are more interested in RV travel than in flying, tent camping, cruises, or rental stays amid coronavirus concerns.

For those savvy enough to lock in their dates for 2021 now with Tracks & Trails, the traveler’s work is done. The company’s team of expert planners handles all the arrangements that make it so challenging to organize a worry-free 9 to 14-day, multi-destination RV trip on your own. Travelers work with their T&T Trip Wizard to select one of the 20 carefully-crafted itineraries, decide on the fully equipped RV rental that will be best for them, and pick optional excursions that suit their tastes. The company takes care of the rest: reserving prime campsites, booking guided excursions with trusted outfitters, preparing personalized, comprehensive documentation that ensures things go smoothly on the road, and arranging first-night accommodations before the RV adventure begins.

Even before the pandemic, reservations were recommended at least 60 days in advance, because less lead time drastically reduced availability of specific RVs, campgrounds and excursions. Booking in the fall for a trip the following summer was recommended before but COVID-19 and a pent up desire to vacation (but safely, with self-distancing and the isolation an RV can provide), have caused demand for RV vacations and park campsites to be at an all time high in 2021 and beyond.

Tracks & Trails created the concept of packaged national park RV vacations in 1996, providing personalized, self-drive RV trips to active couples and families from across the U.S. They help people spend quality time together outdoors while exploring North America’s most iconic National Parks and other natural wonders.

For information on availability, pricing, and itineraries for 2021 please visit the website at www.tracks-trails.com, email: [email protected], or call 1-800-247-0970.

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airline travel, Middle East, Uncategorized

Etihad Makes History With First Commercial Passenger Flight from GCC Nation to Israel

October 19, 2020 MoralCompass

Etihad also launches dedicated Hebrew website – a first for an Arab airline

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, will become the first GCC carrier to operate a commercial passenger flight to and from Israel, to bring Israel’s top travel and tourism leaders to the UAE.

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, will become the first GCC carrier to operate a commercial passenger flight to and from Israel, to bring Israel’s top travel and tourism leaders to the UAE.

The historic flight, flown in partnership with the Maman Group, will depart Tel Aviv on 19 October, operated by an Etihad Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft for the three-and-a-half-hour journey from Israel to the UAE. The return journey will depart Abu Dhabi on 21 October.

As a travel trade mission, the flight will bring a group of tourism industry leaders, key corporate decision makers, travel agents, and cargo agents, along with media to experience Abu Dhabi and the wider UAE, at the invitation of Etihad Airways and representatives of Abu Dhabi’s tourism industry.

This is the latest development in a growing cooperation between the two nations following the establishment of diplomatic ties, and the signing of the Abraham Accords between the UAE and Israel in Washington D.C. on 15 September. It also follows Israeli national airline El Al’s first symbolic commercial flight between Tel Aviv and Abu Dhabi on 31 August.

“Today’s flight is a historic opportunity for the development of strong partnerships here in the UAE, and in Israel, and Etihad as the national airline, is delighted to be leading the way,” His Excellency Mohamed Mubarak Fadhel Al Mazrouei, Chairman, Etihad Aviation Group, said. “We are just starting to explore the long-term potential of these newly forged relationships, which will be sure to greatly benefit the economies of both nations, particularly in the areas of trade and tourism, and ultimately the people who call this diverse and wonderful region home.”

As an important facilitator of trade, the flights between Tel Aviv and Abu Dhabi will also carry commercial cargo sourced from, and destined for, points across Etihad’s global network, in addition to commercial guests.

Coinciding with the first commercial flight and in celebration of the recent peace accords between the UAE and Israel, Etihad has become the first non-Israeli airline in the Middle East to launch a dedicated website for the Israeli market in Hebrew. Also available in English, the Israeli version of the airline’s official website contains digital content including extensive information on Etihad’s operations, product, services, and network. The site also includes an Abu Dhabi destination guide. The site can be viewed in Hebrew at www.etihad.com/he-il and in English at www.etihad.com/en-il.

As the UAE’s national carrier, Etihad Airways is one of the world’s leading airlines, acclaimed for its unparalleled service, industry leading cabins, and genuine Arabian hospitality.

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Active Travel, Adventure Travel, Conservation, Hotels & Resorts, land preservation, National Parks, Outdoors Travel, Responsible Travel, Uncategorized

Marriott Bonvoy Launches Marketing Partnership with National Park Foundation

October 16, 2020 MoralCompass

Grand Canyon National Park, hiking the South Kaibab Trail. Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International’s travel program, has just formed a marketing partnership with the National Park Foundation, the official nonprofit partner of the National Park Service. The introduction of a dedicated travel planning website makes it simple for members to take advantage of discounted rates for stays at Marriott’s 406 properties located near national parks, as well as the option to redeem points for America the Beautiful – The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Annual Passes and to donate points to the NPF. The website will also provide travel tips and inspiration from Marriott Bonvoy Traveler, offering trip planning guides from local experts. © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

During these extraordinary times, more and more Americans are seeking to escape their homes and spend time in the great outdoors. Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International’s travel program, has just formed a marketing partnership with the National Park Foundation (NPF), the official nonprofit partner of the National Park Service. The introduction of a dedicated travel planning website makes it simple for members to take advantage of discounted rates for stays at Marriott’s 406 properties located near national parks, as well as the option to redeem points for America the Beautiful – The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Annual Passes and to donate points to the NPF. The website will also provide travel tips and inspiration from Marriott Bonvoy Traveler, offering trip planning guides from local experts.

Drive-to vacations and getaways serve as a popular option for Americans looking to embark on local adventures. According to the National Park Foundation, most Americans live within 100 miles of a national park. With 419 national park sites in the United States–and at least one national park in every state–Marriott Bonvoy members can plan a national park road trip earning points for stays at Marriott properties throughout their journey toward free nights for future trips and qualifying nights toward elite status.

“In 1916, legislation creating the National Park Service was enacted. The noble vision behind the act has provided generations of Americans and visitors abroad the gift of experiencing our country’s greatest treasures,” said Brian King, Global Officer, Digital, Distribution, Revenue Strategy & Global Sales, Marriott International. “We are thrilled to offer Marriott Bonvoy members a convenient way to plan road trips and explore historical sites and national wonders with their friends and families with this one-of-a-kind travel partnership. The opportunity to experience breathtaking scenery in pristine wilderness settings while giving back to the National Park Foundation is invaluable and will help preserve parks for future adventure seekers.”

Examples of Marriott properties near national parks include Springhill Suites Springdale Zion National Park in Utah and Courtyard Gatlinburg Downtown and Fairfield Inn & Suites Gatlinburg Downtown near Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee. Members can easily plan their national park getaways by visiting the website. From there, they can access travel-related articles from Marriott Bonvoy Traveler, book their desired property and receive the best member rates which start as low as $99 per night, redeem points for annual park passes and donate up to $500 worth of points to the National Park Foundation. Donations will help NPF in its mission to protect and enhance America’s national parks for current and future generations.

“National parks have something for everyone, and we can all play a role in helping to preserve them,” said Stefanie Mathew, Senior Vice President of Corporate Partnerships at the National Park Foundation. “The National Park Foundation is thankful to Marriott Bonvoy for not only offering members a nearby place to rest their head after a day full of park adventures, but also the support to help ensure these treasured natural and cultural sites are protected now and into the future.”

America’s national parks offer endless opportunities for enjoyment for everyone from first time visitors to experienced park enthusiasts. For the best experience possible, travelers should #RecreateResponsibly and plan ahead by visiting the National Park Service website.

For travelers who are not members of Marriott Bonvoy but want to take advantage of the discounted member rates, Marriott Bonvoy is free and easy to join here.

Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International’s travel program, comprises the company’s portfolio of 30 hotel brands and home rental offering Homes & Villas by Marriott International. Members can earn and redeem points for stays and accelerate the points they earn with co-branded credit cards from JP Morgan Chase and American Express. The program offers exclusive member experiences and destination tours and adventures on Marriott Bonvoy Moments. When members book direct on Marriott.com they receive perks including free and enhanced Wi-Fi and exclusive member-only rates, and on the Marriott app they enjoy mobile check-in and checkout, Mobile Requests and, wherever available, Mobile Key.

Members earn points when staying at any of the more than 7,400 participating hotels globally. They can redeem points toward free nights at Marriott International brands ranging from The Ritz-Carlton, The St. Regis, W Hotels, Marriott Hotels and Westin to Aloft, AC Hotels by Marriott, Courtyard and Residence Inn. In addition, members residing in the U.S. can accelerate the number of points they can earn and enjoy other benefits with co-branded credit cards from JPMorgan Chase and American Express. Members also achieve higher levels of elite status and benefits the more nights they stay at participating hotels. To learn more and enroll in Marriott Bonvoy, visit https://www.marriott.com/loyalty/member-benefits/member.mi.

To enroll for free or for more information about Marriott Bonvoy, visit MarriottBonvoy.com. To download the Marriott app, go here. Travelers can also connect with Marriott Bonvoy on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

The National Park Foundation is the official charity of America’s national parks and nonprofit partner to the National Park Service. Chartered by Congress in 1967, the National Park Foundation raises private funds to help protect more than 84 million acres of national parks through critical conservation and preservation efforts and connect all Americans with their incomparable natural landscapes, vibrant culture, and rich history. Find out more and become a part of the national park community.

To learn more about the National Park Foundation and Marriott Bonvoy marketing partnership visit https://hotel-deals.marriott.com/national-parks/.

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Active Travel, Adventure Travel, National Parks, Outdoors Travel, Uncategorized

Utah’s Moab Adventure Center Extends Healing Adventures in Red Rock Country Through Year’s End

October 16, 2020 MoralCompass

*Moab Adventure Center is continuing to offer its adventures into such extraordinary places as Arches National Park through the end of the year.*

MOAB, UT – The hiss of deflating rafts will soon mingle with sighs of relief this fall in Moab, Utah, America’s red rock playground.

Why sighs of relief?

Because this recreational community that is vested in sharing outdoor recreation with people from around the world is so far emerging from pandemic 2020 intact and highly functioning.

“We (the community) were closed as of March 17 and into the start of our busiest time of year. But we’re bouncing back, slowly at the beginning, but now visitation has started to pick up,” reports Elaine Gizler, Moab Area Travel Council Executive Director. “We had a decent summer.” In early fall the Council began a marketing campaign to woo potential drive-market visitors from a 600-mile radius in Colorado and Utah.

Brandon, Lake, CMO of the Moab Adventure Center, notes that their experience earlier this year mirrors that of the greater Moab community. Activities were shuttered for most of the spring and only resumed once safety protocols were in place in May. But despite a foreshortened season, this company reports a robust outcome. After re-opening its doors early summer, Moab Adventure Center has served over 20,000 avid adventurers on day trips and overnights.

“We feel so fortunate that our proactive plans, combined with the community efforts throughout Moab have allowed so many people to come and experience the breathtaking backcountry of south central Utah,” mentions Lake. “This summer has been extraordinary. I have never seen people so excited so share outdoor adventures. I believe it has been a healing process for many.”

Going forward into the fall, Moab Adventure Center’s staff is poised to offer small group, guided explorations of Arches National Park and surrounding areas through 2020 and beyond. Effective COVID protocols that have been in place since the spring will continue into the future as needed. While many will squeeze in one more float on the Colorado River before rafting trips wrap up at the end of October, the following adventures continue on through November and some even into December (weather pending).

Arches National Park offers the benefits of comfortable temperatures and often fewer crowds in the later months of fall. Tours run year-round. Other popular autumn tours that can be mixed and matched through November include:

Ultimate Zip Line Adventure is a 2.5-hour outing departing mornings and afternoons. Guests glide over the sandstone fins and gaps above Moab with a series of zip line cables and bridges. The per person rate is $134.
Horseback Afternoon Trail Ride spans 1.5 hours packed with the sights and sounds of the West and surrounded by 2,000-foot towering red rock cliffs enroute to Castle Rock. The per person rate is $100.
Moab Canyoneering Adventure offers morning and afternoon departures spanning five hours for a canyoneering introduction, with two rappels: 90 feet into a hidden chasm, and 120 feet off a giant rock arch, all the while following a winding canyon stream out to the Colorado River. The per person rate is $107.
Moab Rock Climbing also has morning and afternoon departures for a five-hour program that’s perfect for beginning climbers, kids, or gym climbers. The per person rate is $107.

Tried-and-true practices that were instituted for guests and staff when COVID 19 first hit will continue throughout the fall and beyond as needed. These measures include smaller groups, taking temperatures, conducting a questionnaire about health symptoms, requiring that guests and staff wear masks while in an enclosed vehicle and requesting that everyone social distance, among others. See: https://www.moabadventurecenter.com/covid-19

For information and reservations call 435-259-7019 or 866-904-1163 or visit: https://www.moabadventurecenter.com/.

Moab Adventure Center is at the epicenter of nature-themed adventure, promising activities that include rafting, jet boating, stand up paddle boarding, hiking, mountain biking and hot air ballooning. Hummer safaris, rock climbing, canyoneering and horseback riding are popular. Many of these activities are conducted with guides, an arrangement that helps preclude the kind of damage to the land that can happen when uneducated visitors venture into areas where they shouldn’t be. Guides help people understand where they can move through back country with the least impact possible.

Moab Adventure Center is a division of Western River Expeditions (http://www.westernriver.com/) an adventure travel company headquartered in Salt Lake City, with operations and offices in Moab and Fredonia, AZ. The company is the largest single tour provider in Moab, Utah. The Moab Adventure Center is located at 225 South Main St., Moab, UT 84532. The center also has a 2,000-square-foot retail space selling adventure related gear, clothing, maps and souvenirs.

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Conservation, Environmental Activism, Outdoors Travel, Responsible Travel, Uncategorized

Ikon Pass Collaborates with American Forests to Plant 22,500 Trees

October 14, 2020 MoralCompass

Copper Mountain, Colorado one of the iconic mountain destinations in the Ikon Pass network. Ikon Pass, from the Alterra Mountain Company, is joining forces with American Forests for Shred for Sustainability, a program that invites Ikon Pass holders to help create healthy and resilient forests throughout North America. © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

DENVER, CO– Ikon Pass is joining forces with American Forests for Shred for Sustainability, a program that invites Ikon Pass holders to help create healthy and resilient forests throughout North America.

Ikon Pass holders are encouraged to rack up their skier days at Ikon Pass destinations throughout winter 20/21 and watch their stats climb on the Ikon Pass app Leaderboard. In April 2021, the top 10 Ikon Pass holders with the most ski days from the All Season Leaderboards from each North American resort will have the chance to have 50 trees each donated in their name, totaling 22,500 trees planted throughout six forest projects. Potential Shred for Sustainability volunteer planting events will be announced in spring 2021.

“Ikon Pass is proud to collaborate with an organization such as American Forests that shares our commitment to sustainability,” said Erik Forsell, Chief Marketing Officer, Alterra Mountain Company. “We revel in the opportunity to engage the Ikon Pass community in a way that gives back to the mountains we all love.”

“We are thrilled to have the support of Ikon Pass and its pass holders who recognize that taking care of our forests is essential to a healthy environment and high-quality recreation experiences,” said Jad Daley, President and CEO of American Forests. “This commitment of support will help us reforest mountain landscapes beloved by skiers, snowboarders, and other recreationists, from Canada to California, using climate-informed tree planting techniques that will enable these forests to thrive for years to come.”

To participate, Ikon Pass holders must download the Ikon Pass app, create an account and turn on tracking each day on the mountain. The Ieaderboard tracks lifts, trails, distance, hours, vertical feet, max speed, altitude, and difficulty of trails skied themselves and against the entire Ikon Pass community. For official rules, visit www.ikonpass.com/shred-for-sustainability.

The Ikon Pass unlocks adventure with access to 44 iconic winter destinations across the Americas, Europe, Japan, Australia and New Zealand and is a collaboration of industry leaders – Alterra Mountain Company, Aspen Skiing Company, Boyne Resorts, POWDR, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Alta Ski Area, Snowbird, Arapahoe Basin Ski Area, SkiBig3, Revelstoke Mountain Resort, RED Mountain, Taos Ski Valley, Windham Mountain, Zermatt, Thredbo, Mt Buller, Niseko United, Valle Nevado, and NZ Ski. Each demonstrates integrity, character and independence that is reflected in their mountains and guests.

The Ikon Pass is available now at www.ikonpass.com.

The Ikon Pass, from Alterra Mountain Company, gives skiers and riders access to mountain destinations across the Americas, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and Japan. These include Aspen Snowmass, Steamboat, Winter Park, Copper Mountain Resort, Arapahoe Basin Ski Area, and Eldora Mountain Resort in Colorado; Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows, Mammoth Mountain, June Mountain and Big Bear Mountain Resort in California; Jackson Hole Mountain Resort in Wyoming; Big Sky Resort in Montana; Stratton, Sugarbush Resort, and Killington in Vermont; Windham Mountain in New York; Snowshoe in West Virginia; Boyne Highlands and Boyne Mountain in Michigan; Crystal Mountain and The Summit at Snoqualmie in Washington; Mt. Bachelor in Oregon; Tremblant in Quebec and Blue Mountain in Ontario, Canada; SkiBig3 in Alberta, Canada; Revelstoke Mountain Resort, RED Mountain, and Cypress Mountain in British Columbia, Canada; Sunday River and Sugarloaf in Maine; Loon Mountain in New Hampshire; Taos Ski Valley, New Mexico; Deer Valley Resort, Solitude Mountain Resort, Brighton Resort, Alta Ski Area, and Snowbird in Utah; Zermatt in Switzerland; Thredbo and Mt Buller in Australia; Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, Mt Hutt in New Zealand; Niseko United in Japan, and Valle Nevado in Chile. Special offers are available at CMH Heli-Skiing & Summer Adventures, the world’s largest heli-skiing and heli-accessed hiking operation. For more information, visitwww.ikonpass.com.

American Forests has worked longer than any other national nonprofit conservation organization in the United States to conserve and restore the country’s forests. Since its founding in 1875, it has been a pathfinder for the forest conservation movement. In the early 1900s, for example, the organization rallied forest advocates to champion creation of the U.S. Forest Service. In 2018, it won a decade-long campaign persuading Congress to provide stable funding for preventing and fighting forest fires. Now it is focused on building a reforestation movement in America, from cities to large, rural landscapes. “We create healthy and resilient forests, from cities to wilderness, that deliver essential benefits for climate, people, water and wildlife. We advance our mission through forestry innovation, place-based partnerships to plant and restore forests, and movement building.”

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Historic Hotels, Hotels, Hotels & Resorts, Uncategorized

Black Monarch Hotel, One of Most Haunted Hotels, Opens Bela Lugosi-Dracula Themed Room

October 8, 2020 MoralCompass

The Black Monarch Hotel in the historic mining town of Victor, Colorado, are thrilled to reveal its newest room: Bela Lugosi’s Dracula, a hotel room themed around the icon and cult phenomenon. (photo by Cait Falc)

After “one of the U.S.’s most haunted hotels” (The Metro UK) garnered international acclaim for its Victorian gothic aesthetic and serial-killer themed rooms, the owners of the Black Monarch Hotel in the historic mining town of Victor, Colorado, are thrilled to reveal its newest room: Bela Lugosi’s Dracula, a hotel room themed around the icon and cult phenomenon whose unique characterization of Count Dracula forever transformed pop culture’s portrayal of vampires.

“We are very proud to be working directly with the Lugosi Estate and are excited to highlight Bela Lugosi’s legacy at the Black Monarch,” said owner and designer Adam Zimmerli.

Born in Hungary, Lugosi’s early version of Dracula, which he created on the Broadway stage in 1927, perfected the dark shadowy figure walking among us that now perpetuates vampire lore. The new Black Monarch room will feature a floor to ceiling 15-foot photorealistic mural of Bela Lugosi, as well as licensed Bela Lugosi as Dracula merchandise as decoration, prints of photos from the family archive, and a first-edition copy of the only family-authorized biography of Bela Lugosi as provided by Lynne Lugosi Sparks, Bela Lugosi’s granddaughter and CEO of LUGOSI LLC. The partnership between the Black Monarch and the Lugosi Estate also include plans for a collaborative merch line, and a screening of the 1931 film Dracula hosted by Lugosi Sparks at the Black Monarch in 2021.

Further cementing Bela Lugosi’s place in film history, in 1963, his son, Bela G. Lugosi, brought the landmark case against Universal Studios (Lugosi v Universal) for the unauthorized use of his father’s name and likeness on merchandise. This case paved the way for the California Celebrity Rights Act enacted in 1985, making the right to exploit the name and likeness of a celebrity a property right which survives his or her death. Bela G. Lugosi and the Lugosi Estate continue to protect the commercial use of Bela Lugosi’s name and likeness.

“It is an honor to include the Bela Lugosi Dracula room at the Black Monarch under the official license of LUGOSI LLC,” Zimmerli says.

The Bela Lugosi room is part of an extensive list of renovations at the Black Monarch that include detailed painting of the elaborate exterior in a gothic motif, a 30′ x 50′ exterior mural of Nicola Tesla by nationally-recognized mural artist Chad Bolsinger, an atrium room, a restored antique claw foot bathtub, and more themed rooms. To support this one-of-a-kind project, visit the recently-launched Indiegogo campaign.

The Black Monarch Hotel gained notoriety the moment it opened in May 2019 for its phenomenally dark story: this former brothel, casino and saloon from the Gold Rush era, allegedly haunted, was renovated to reflect its dark history. The building’s gorgeous character from 1899 was preserved while also painted black and gold to reflect an immersive stay in a decadent opium den. The rooms are themed after serial killers like H.H. Holmes and Elizabeth Bathory, and are brimming with taxidermy, naughty Victorian pop-up books, tomes on Satanism and other oddities and curiosities. The Black Monarch has been featured in Travel + Leisure, Lonely Planet, the Daily Mail, the Metro, the Guardian, Refinery29, Inked and more. The hotel recently hosted the Haunted Writer’s Retreat in February of 2020; writers attended horror writing workshops led by Josiah Hesse and Erin K. Barnes, experienced walks to the local cemetery, learned about the wild mining town history, and immersed themselves in literary isolation a la The Shining, all in the dead of winter.

In the late 1800s during the town of Victor’s heyday, what was then called the Monarch Hotel served miners and international travelers as the Gold Rush fueled their indiscretions. It played host to uproarious parties, accumulating a Wild West lore unrivaled in pulp novels.

The Monarch fell to tragedy in 1899 after a great fire, and the hotel was rebuilt. After its transformation, however, something was amiss. Those working the hotel bar reported strange sights that they could not explain: a woman’s silhouette in the window when no one was there, gazing upon Victor’s main street. The sounds of women laughing and men yelling in the middle of the night. Perhaps it was the ghost of the miner whose life was cut short. Perhaps it was the spirits of weary madams or ladies of the night who witnessed the vivid spectrum of humanity within its walls. Perhaps it was just the settling of a beautiful old Victorian building. Guests will ultimately judge for themselves.

With luxe bedding, a full kitchen, a shared bathroom and modern amenities, The Black Monarch Hotel is a delightful blend of unique and comfortable–with a twist. “There’s something for everyone at the Black Monarch, whether you’re looking for a quiet mountain getaway or an unconventional leap into another world.”

The Black Monarch Hotel, 301 Victor Ave,, Victor, CO 80860, blackmonarchhotel.com.

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