Uncategorized

New! Romance for Two, Northern Lights and Glamping Holiday in Swedish Lapland

What could be more romantic than a winter overnight glamping exclusively for two underneath the Northern Lights in Swedish Lapland

(Luleå, SWEDEN) A tempting combination of romance and adventure is offered this winter in Off the Map Travel’s new “Sleep beneath the Stars” program in Swedish Lapland. With this new itinerary, two guests stay all alone at a NEW remote glamping site to experience the Lapland wilderness, perfect for spotting the Northern Lights.

The exclusive holiday is for two people only and includes a private sky-searching experience, a private dinner at the two-person Aurora Hideaway restaurant on skis, private snowmobiling and snowshoeing, and sleeping in a yurt on the edge of the frozen Bothnian Sea at your own private glamping site. 

Guests are encouraged to rekindle both their romance and their sense of adventure as they experience the winter in Swedish Lapland as a couple. The program begins with check-in at the Pine Bay Lodge, a homey red cottage-style lodge on the Luleå archipelago in Northern Sweden. A guided astronomy experience for two sets the tone combining a search for the Northern Lights with an exploration of the myriad constellations in the area’s strikingly dark skies.

The following day, a snowmobiling tour for two travels through snowy forests surrounding the archipelago followed by an al fresco lunch with Swedish and Lappish specialties like reindeer and arctic char. 

The program moves to a private glamping camp for two where you’ll stay in a luxurious Arctic yurt, kitted out with a wood-burning stove and comfy bed coverings perfect for cozying up to the sounds of complete silence and the smells of fresh air, all while awaiting the Northern Lights.

The evening’s meal is a true highlight. Following a short snowmobile ride into the wilderness you’ll dine in the Aurora Hideaway restaurant on skis, a haven for two people on the frozen sea, where candles and tea lights indoors complement starlight from outside. The restaurant is mobile, allowing relocation for optimal sky viewing and environmental placement.

Your guide will prepare a three-course Lappish meal, cooked outdoors over birch wood.  While you’re waiting, you can strap on a pair of snowshoes for a quick walk to look at the stars. After a post-dinner sauna in the sauna cabin at your glamping campsite, relaxation is ensured as you return to your warm yurt and snuggle into the comfortable bed covered with high-quality linens and reindeer skins.

Daylight arrives slowly with the hushed sounds of the frozen sea to wake you. After breakfast, you’ll transfer back to Pine Bay where you can spend the balance of the day absorbing the beauty of the wilderness setting and trying out some other outdoor activities.

Because the program is arranged for two people only, advance booking is required.

“We’ve created this program for the lovers out there, who are indeed looking for an exclusive program that they can call their own. There’s no light pollution, no noise distractions, and no other participants – it’s, in effect, your own private holiday,” noted Jonny Cooper, founder of Off the Map Travel.

Off the Map Travel’s “Sleep beneath the Stars program is offered from December 15, 2019 through April 15, 2020. While the itinerary can be tailored to each guest, an example five-night, four-day itinerary with Off the Map Travel (www.offthemap.travel) is priced from $2496 USD per person (at the time of this writing). Included are all meals including one dinner in the restaurant on skis, transfers, accommodations at the Pine Bay Lodge and glamping Yurt, snowmobiling, and a stargazing exploration. Flights are additional.  https://www.offthemap.travel/sleep-beneath-the-stars/

Off the Map Travel is a team of travel experts who work with experiences and destinations that allow people to explore hidden wonders of the world. Specializing in soft adventure and viewing of the Northern Lights, Off the Map Travel creates tailor-made itineraries that offer a distinctive vacation based on first-hand experience. Off the Map Travel vacations anticipate travelers’ needs with pre-planning and customization. Each bespoke itinerary is tailored to the ages of participants, creating experiences for families, groups, couples and singles that are comfortable and luxurious, with activity levels appropriate for all participants. www.offthemap.travel

For more information on tailor-made Off the Map Travel itineraries visit www.offthemap.travel; call 1-646-701-0041; email [email protected] or join in the conversation on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube or Pinterest

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Uncategorized

Moab Guided Day Trip Activities Soar with Increased Tourism, Technology

Jeep rentals, private Hummer tours are among the activities that can be booked through Moab Adventure Center.

MOAB, UT– The population of America’s red rock playground, Moab Utah, in winter hovers at just over 5,000 residents. Spring through fall, however, is a different story.
 
There are some 2.4 million guests visiting the region when temperatures are most inviting. They come to witness the spectacles of Arches and Canyonlands National Parks and to immerse themselves in the air, land and water adventures that have put Moab squarely on the tourist map.
 
The go-to hub for many visitors is the Moab Adventure Center that in 2019 is experiencing a nearly 25 percent uptick in advance reservations for day or half-day adventures. Moab Adventure Center can make arrangements for everything there is to do here, from hot air ballooning and overland Hummer safaris to flightseeing, canyoneering and river rafting.
 
“We’ve been experiencing growth ever since we opened our doors nearly two decades ago,” said Brandon Lake, CMO. One strategy that has paid off is an ongoing collaboration with RESMARK Systems that services local and far-flung vendors in the recreation industry with tour booking software that provide state-of-art reservation and sales technology. As a result, Moab Adventure Center today may well be one of the most tech-astute companies in the country.
 
Recently, Moab Adventure Center adapted Resmark Systems’ TrueConnect platform, resulting in a nearly 120 percent surge in reservations from third-party, off-site bookings. These are other subcontractors and companies using the RESMARK platform and who, through TrueConnect, can now access real-time inventory for all of Moab Adventure Center’s offerings.
 
“TrueConnect is helping many local businesses in the tourist sector provide, through Moab Adventure Center, products that represent the best possible adventure experience for guests to the Moab area,” Lake said.
 
Lake points to other factors that have led to the robust sales they have seen in the first half of 2019: the local and state tourism boards’ aggressive marketing; increased lodging capacity with additions of new accommodations including popular hotel brands such as Marriott, Hyatt and Hilton; and not to be overlooked, America’s continued love affair with its national parks. All have added incrementally to this surge.
 
Among the most dramatic booking increases over last year are: 

Other popular day activities include jeep rentals, visiting the new Dinosaur Park and standup paddle boarding.
 
“Moab Adventure Center’s digital activities menu provides options for the most active to slower-paced members of a family or group,” added Lake.
 
While some tour booking applications feature a marketplace that connects suppliers and resellers, or even their own exclusive marketplace, RESMARK’s TrueConnect takes this to a whole new level. Central to RESMARK’s core architecture, TrueConnect allows tour resellers to create their own network, tailoring their tour mix perfectly to their target customers within their unique region. It’s like becoming the Amazon of travel for any given part of the world. You can even customize tour marketing details and pricing via each distribution channel. This results in more tour sales, both self-operated and subcontracted through partners.
 
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. For information and reservations please call (435) 259-7019 or (866) 904-1163. The center also has a 2,000-square-foot retail space selling adventure related gear, clothing, maps and souvenirs.

 
Follow Moab Adventure Center:
On Facebook:           http://www.facebook.com/MoabAdventureCenter
On Twitter:                 https://twitter.com/MoabAdventure
On You Tube:            http://www.youtube.com/user/moabadventurecenter
On Pinterest:             https://www.pinterest.com/moabadventure/
On Instagram:           https://www.instagram.com/moabadventurecenter/
Website:                    http://www.moabadventurecenter.com/

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Active Travel, bike trips, camping trips, cycling trips, Historic Places, New York State tourism, Responsible Travel

Parks & Trails NY Gets Set for 21st Annual Cycle the Erie Tour; Advocates for Trails Across NY

Parks & Trails NY is hosting the 21st annual Cycle the Erie ride, along the 360-mile scenic and historic Erie Canalway © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

By Karen Rubin, Travel Features Syndicate, goingplacesfarandnear.com

One of the best bike tours on the planet is in our own backyard: the annual Parks & Trails NY Cycle the Erie Canal ride, eight-days, 400-miles and 400 years of history, from Buffalo to Albany, a fully supported biking and camping trip (you can even hire Comfy Campers to set up your tent).

The ride raises money and awareness for advocacy for new trail development and this year’s ride will highlight new trails that take the riders off the roadway – this year, cyclists will ride a new stretch west of Lockport in the town of Pendleton and a gorgeous new trail between Amsterdam and Pattersonville (so you no longer bike on the highway).  Some 550 riders are expected  this year, its 21st annual Cycle the Erie ride, taking place , July 7-14; Parks & Trails NY is still accepting registrations ($925/adult, 6-17 $545, 5-and under $280, ptny.org)

The organization’s key focus now is to build upon the state’s plan for 750-miles of off-road recreational trails – the 360-mile long Erie Canalway, plus Empire State Trail, north-south mixed-use, off-road trail system that will fully connect New York City to Canada.

The plans are already in place for the Empire State Trail to be completed by the end of 2020. In 2019, PTNY launched Trails Across New York Campaign, to build off the momentum of the Empire State Trail’s planned completion in 2020 and support ways to turn the statewide trail system into a true network, connecting local trails with the main spine of the Empire State Trail, including Long Island, “and cementing New York’s position as the nation’s leader in multi-use trails.”

Legislation is currently pending in the NYS Assembly (A. 5035B) (S.4416B has already passed the NYS Senate) would create a statewide multi-use trails plan. This important bill would direct the state to come up with a blueprint for future trails development, helping to turn our local trails across the state into a unified network of trails with major spines and connecting routes, ensuring all parts of the state have access to quality outdoor active recreation on trails.

The Senate version has already passed; the Assembly version is in Ways & Means, which directs the State Parks department to strategize and prioritize filling in the trail gaps. Though it was considered possible for the Assembly to pass its version by the June 19th close of session, if it languishes to the next session, progress will not be lost. Parks & Trails was urging people to contact their state legislator to ask them to cosponsor the legislation and to make sure that the legislation is brought up for a vote before the legislature adjourns for the year.

“Trails Across New York envisions a future in which all New Yorkers will be located only minutes from a trail and ideally will be able to access that trail easily and safely by walking or bicycling. Throughout the state, trails, bicycle boulevards, and Complete Streets will be acknowledged as essential and mainstream elements of community infrastructure, much as utility lines and sidewalks are thought of today.”

PTNY notes that New York State’s trail-rich and trail-friendly reputation will attract visitors from across the nation and abroad to experience the historic communities and varied and beautiful landscapes accessible through the state’s trail network.

Trails offer a wide range of benefits, including stimulating local economies, PTNY notes. The Erie Canalway Trail alone has an estimated annual impact of more than $250 million, and has created close to 3,500 jobs. New York’s outdoor recreation economy annually generates $41.8 billion in consumer spending and supports 313,000 jobs.

See Cycle the Erie series on goingplacesfarandnear.com:

Cycle the Erie: 400 Miles & 400 Years of History Flow By on Canalway Bike Tour Across New York State

Cycle the Erie, Day 1: In Lockport, See Erie Canal Engineering Marvel, ‘Flight of Five’, Cruise Thru Double Locks, and Go Underground to Fathom Rise of Industrial Revolution

Cycle the Erie, Day 2-3: A Sequence of Charming Canaltowns, Pastoral Landscapes, Punctuated by City Birthed by ‘Mother of Cities’

Cycle the Erie, Day 4: Seneca Falls to Syracuse, Crossing Halfway Mark of 400-Mile Biketour

Cycle the Erie, Day 5: Deep Dive into The Erie Canal: ‘Mother of Cities’, Empire Builder, Wonder of the World

Cycle the Erie: At Fort Stanwix, Rome, Time Travel Back to America’s Colonial, Native American Past

Cycle the Erie, Days 6-7: Erie Canal Spurs Rise of America as Global Industrial Power

Cycle the Erie, Days 7-8: Schoharie Crossing, Mabee Farm, Cohoes Falls to Finish Line in Albany of 400-Mile BikeTour

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experiential travel, Historic Places, Museums & Exhibits

‘Revolutionary Summer’ Brings American Revolution to Life at New-York Historical Society

Mural of General George Washington in front of his headquarters tent is on view at the Museum of the American Revolution, Philadelphia where the only original tent can be seen. The museum is lending a replica to the New-York Historical Society for its “Revolutionary Summer.” © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

New York, NY – The New-York Historical Society, the oldest museum in New York, celebrates Revolutionary Summer. The festivities kick off on July 4, with Free Admission for kids 17 and under. A Museum-wide exploration of Revolutionary War times, Revolutionary Summer presents outdoor events every weekend featuring characters from the era; 18th-century art and artifacts; a diorama of the Continental Army; and a host of programs for all ages, including trivia nights, a DJ evening, and a Revolutionary Drag Tea Party. On select weekends, visitors can explore a replica of George Washington’s Headquarters Tent at an outdoor Continental Army encampment, meet Living Historians portraying soldiers and spies, and learn about the many facets of camp life during the War for Independence.

“We’re so excited to welcome visitors to New-York Historical this summer with a full line-up of fun ways to experience the Revolutionary era,” said Dr. Louise Mirrer, president and CEO of the New-York Historical Society. “Revolutionary Summer celebrates the outstanding, revolutionary times that ignited the birth of our country with everything from a scavenger hunt to the chance to meet George Washington.”

The centerpiece of Revolutionary Summer is a replica of George Washington’s Headquarters Tent, on display in New-York Historical’s outdoor courtyard on select weekends.

George Washington’s Headquarters Tent
July 4–7 | July 26–28 | August 16–18 | August 23–25 | September 13–15
The centerpiece of Revolutionary Summer is a replica of George Washington’s Headquarters Tent, on display in New-York Historical’s outdoor courtyard on select weekends. The original Tent is on display at the Museum of the American Revolution (MoAR) in Philadelphia. Often called the “first Oval Office,” the Headquarters Tent was where Washington and his most trusted staff plotted the strategy that ultimately won the Revolutionary War. On loan from MoAR, this painstakingly detailed, hand-sewn replica—made of custom woven linen and wool fabrics—was created as part of a collaboration between MoAR and Colonial Williamsburg. The Tent is staffed by MoAR educators, who lead visitors on an immersive tour through history.

On View
A host of special installations and artifacts are on view at New-York Historical as part of Revolutionary Summer. One of the highlights is a recently discovered watercolor painting of the 1782 Continental Army encampment at Verplanck’s Point, New York—the only known eyewitness image of Washington’s Headquarters Tent during the Revolutionary War—on loan from MoAR. Other highlights include a camp cot used by Washington at Valley Forge during the winter of 1777; John Trumbull’s iconic painting of Washington that he gave to Martha Washington in 1790; and a pipe tomahawk gifted by Washington to Seneca Chief Sagoyewatha. Also on display is a diorama depicting the Verplanck’s Point encampment and the Hudson River shoreline, providing visitors with a 360-degree view of the scope and scale of Washington’s forces.

Revolutionary Summer also showcases historic documents from the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History, including an original 1823 William J. Stone facsimile of the Declaration of Independence; a broadside from King George III announcing the armistice and officially ending the war; and a letter by Martha Washington detailing domestic life in the aftermath of the Revolution.

Independence Day Celebration: Celebrate the Fourth of July exploring George Washington’s encampment! Enter his Headquarters Tent, meet the man himself, and experience where the future first president strategized, dined, and slept while MoAR staff describe his daily life. Also on tap: singalongs with the Hudson River Ramblers; fife and drum corps music; a one-woman play about Deborah Sampson, the woman who disguised her gender to enlist in the Continental Army; family-friendly food for purchase; and Living Historians portraying soldiers from the Continental Army, as well as John Adams, who’ll read the Declaration of Independence. Free Admission for kids age 17 and under.

Living History Weekends: Outdoor Continental Army Encampment: Every weekend, visitors of all ages can explore a recreation of the Continental Army’s encampment in New-York Historical’s courtyard, located on 76th Street, around the corner from Central Park West. Free with Museum Admission.

George Washington’s Spies, Bodyguards, and Agents | July 6 & 7
Your top-secret mission: Enter George Washington’s encampment, meet with him and his spies, and decode your own message.

Join the Continental Army | July 13 & 14 | August 31 & September 1 | September 7 & 8
The Continental Army wants you! Explore their encampment tents and displays of 18th-century weaponry, participate in drills, and interact with all of the tools and equipment of a common soldier.

Everyday Life in Camp | July 20 & 21
Join the 3rd New Jersey Regiment to experience how soldiers and their families spent time in camp when they weren’t marching to war. Meet the women who helped prepare for military campaigns, play with 18th-century toys and games, and witness how soldiers passed the time.

Field Music on the March | July 27 & 28             
March along to Revolutionary War field music performed by the drum and fife musicians of Hearts of Oak and the New Jersey Field Music Group. 

Deborah Sampson, Fighting Woman | August 3 & 4
Meet Deborah Sampson—the woman who disguised her gender to enlist in the Continental Army—and members of her regiment, the 7th Massachusetts. Join Deborah for military drills and explore the inner workings of her regiment, from muskets to tents and knapsacks to ground cloths. 

Fighting on Horseback | August 10 & 11
Saddle up! Get an up close look at the special equipment, weapons, and techniques used by cavalry in the Continental Army and meet the 2nd Continental Light Dragoons and the 4th Legion.

George Washington’s Encampment | August 17 & 18 | August 24 & 25
Enter George Washington’s Headquarters Tent and experience what life was like during the war—from meals to down time to battle preparations. 

Metalsmithing in George Washington’s Encampment | September 14 & 15
Learn all about the crucial craft of metalsmithing as you tour George Washington’s encampment. Examine the smith’s tools and take a turn at shaping a bowl or a button.

What the History?

This millennial-focused series of fun events and programs explores fascinating Revolutionary topics while drinking and mingling!

Revolutionary Trivia Night! |Friday, July 12, 8 pm | Friday, August 23, 8 pm | $20 ($18 Members)
Do you know what George Washington’s favorite breakfast beverage was? If you do (or even if you don’t), bring your friends for a fun night of trivia courtesy of the fact fanatics at Trivia, AD! Ages 21 and up. Wine included with ticket.

Revolutionary Drag Tea Party | Sunday, July 14, 3 pm | $25, includes Museum Admission
Dress to impress in your best period-inspired drag and play Revolutionary War-era games, enjoy snacks and cocktails, and compete in categories like Most Revolutionary Outfit. Ages 21 and up. Drinks and snacks included with ticket.

Trans Identity and the Incredible Story of Deborah Sampson, Female Revolutionary War Hero | Wednesday, July 24, 6:30 pm | $20 ($18 Members)
Explore the extraordinary, true story of Revolutionary War hero Deborah Sampson with Alex Myers, as he discusses his novel Revolutionary. Ages 21 and up. Wine included with ticket.

Nerdy Thursdays: Revolution Night | Thursday, August 8, 6:30 pm | Free with RSVP
Swing by the Museum for this signature event from the Black Gotham Experience that brings together a DJ, gallery talks, cocktails, and a brilliant group of nerdy people. RSVP at blackgotham.com

Watson Adventures: Revolutionary Trail Scavenger Hunt | Friday, August 16, 6 pm | Free with Pay-as-you-wish Admission
Explore the Museum’s Revolutionary Trail and solve a series of puzzles involving objects on display, led by Watson Adventures. Game lasts 45 minutes. Smartphone is needed to play.

For additional information about Revolutionary Summer and its related programs, visit nyhistory.org/revsummer. 

Lead support for Revolutionary Summer provided by the Achelis and Bodman Foundation. Additional support provided by Richard Brown and Mary Jo Otsea. Support for the MoAR’s participation in Revolutionary Summer is generously provided by William and Candace Raveis. Exhibitions at New-York Historical are made possible by Dr. Agnes Hsu-Tang and Oscar Tang, the Saunders Trust for American History, the Seymour Neuman Endowed Fund, the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the City Council, and the New York State Council on the Arts, with the support of Governor Andrew Cuomo and the New York State Legislature. WNET is the media sponsor.The New-York Historical Society, one of America’s preeminent culturalinstitutions, is dedicated to fostering research and presenting history and art exhibitions and public programs that reveal the dynamism of history and its influence on the world of today. Founded in 1804, New-York Historical has a mission to explore the richly layered history of New York City and State and the country, and to serve as a national forum for the discussion of issues surrounding the making and meaning of history.

The Museum of the American Revolution explores the dramatic, surprising story of the American Revolution through its unmatched collection of Revolutionary-era weapons, personal items, documents, and works of art. Immersive galleries, powerful theater experiences, and interactive digital elements bring to life the diverse array of people that created a new nation against incredible odds. Visitors gain a deeper appreciation for how this nation came to be and feel inspired to consider their role in the ongoing promise of the American Revolution. Located just steps away from Independence Hall, the Museum serves as a portal to the region’s many Revolutionary sites, sparking interest, providing context, and encouraging exploration. The Museum is a private, non-profit, and non-partisan organization. For more information, visit www.AmRevMuseum.org or call 877.740.1776.

See also: Philadelphia’s New Museum Immerses You into Drama of America’s Revolutionary War

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Endangered Places, Historic Places, Historic Preservation, Uncategorized

National Trust Issues Appeal to Help Save America’s 11 Most Endangered Historic Places for 2019

National Mall Tidal Basin, Washington, D.C. is on the National Trust for Historic Preservation list of America’s 11 Most Endangered Historic Places for 2019 © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

By National Trust for Historic Preservation

Each year, the National Trust for Historic Preservation puts out an emergency call to protect the most endangered historic places. This year’s list of America’s 11 Most Endangered Historic Places sheds light on important examples of our nation’s heritage that are at risk of destruction or irreparable damage. Over 300 places have been listed in its 32-year history, and in that time, fewer than 5 percent of listed sites have been lost.

The 2019 list includes a diverse mix of historic places across America that face a range of challenges and threats, from climate change to inappropriate development to neglect and disuse.

Find out what you can do to support these irreplaceable sites:

Tenth Street Historic District, Dallas, Texas

ADD YOUR NAME

Primarily settled by formerly enslaved people after the Civil War, Dallas’ Tenth Street Historic District includes a collection of buildings dating from the late 19th to early 20th century. A 2010 change to a local ordinance allowed the city to obtain demolition permits for houses less than 3,000 square feet without Landmark Commission review, which is substantially increasing the rate of demolition. To date, at least 70 of the district’s 260 homes have been demolished.

To challenge this local law, a local preservation group filed a lawsuit against the City of Dallas. Add your name to our petition telling the City of Dallas to amend or repeal this unjust city ordinance.

Nashville’s Music Row, Nashville, Tennessee

ADD YOUR NAME

Nashville’s Music Row is a world-class musical mecca that harbors more than 200 music-related businesses, making it unlike any other place in the world. Out of its modest homes and large commercial buildings has emerged an unmatched canon of music recordings across a wide variety of musical styles, which has delighted music fans for generations.

Despite its critical role in the identity, economy, and culture of internationally renowned “Music City,” Music Row is on pace to becoming a thing of the past. Since 2013, 50 buildings—the majority serving music-related functions—have been demolished to make way for new development. With a new plan to guide Music Row’s future under development, now is an important time to urge Nashville lawmakers to preserve and protect this epicenter of America’s musical heritage.

James R. Thompson Center, Chicago, Illinois

ADD YOUR NAME

The James R. Thompson Center is Chicago’s best example of grand-scale Postmodern architecture. But Governor J.B. Pritzker recently signed legislation allowing for sale of the building within two years to help fill a state budget gap. Without preservation protections, the Thompson Center could be demolished. Add your name to our list urging Governor Pritzker to require retention and reuse of the Thompson Center when the building is sold.

Industrial Trust Company Building, Providence, Rhode Island

An iconic part of the Providence skyline, the 1928 Industrial Trust Company Building is under threat due to deterioration and deferred maintenance after six years of vacancy. While this site is located within a qualified “Opportunity Zone” (an area eligible for capital gains tax incentive benefits), there is no redevelopment plan for the so-called Superman Building, and its future is in question. Read More.

Ancestral Places of Southeast Utah, Southeast Utah

SEND A LETTER

Archaeologists believe this area to be one of the country’s most culturally rich but unprotected landscapes open to oil and gas extraction. In the last two years, the Bureau of Land Management dramatically escalated leasing activity in the region, despite concerns from the National Trust, affected tribes, and our regional partners. Send a letter to the Department of the Interior urging them to recognize the cultural significance of these lands.

The Excelsior Club, Charlotte, North Carolina

Listed in the Green Book, the Excelsior Club was a leading private African American social club in the Southeast, hosting artists like Nat King Cole and Louis Armstrong during its heyday. The Art Moderne building needs significant investment. The property is currently listed for sale for $1.5 million, but even if a buyer is found, a reuse plan and significant investments are necessary to ensure a strong future. Read more.

National Mall Tidal Basin, Washington, D.C.

ADD YOUR NAME

This iconic cultural landscape comprises some of our nation’s most renowned monuments and famed cherry blossom trees. It’s estimated that as much as $500 million is needed to upgrade and maintain one of the most popular and visited sites in the National Park System. Join our three-year campaign to ensure the Tidal Basin is preserved for future generations.

Hacienda Los Torres, Lares, Puerto Rico

SIGN THE PETITION

Hacienda Los Torres—built in 1846 during the height of Puerto Rico’s coffee industry by Jose Maria Torres—is one of the last historic coffee plantation houses on the island and one of the oldest remaining structures in Puerto Rico. It’s also associated with the “Grito de Lares” revolt and the Spanish-American War.

Long-term deterioration and the effects of multiple hurricanes, including Hurricane Maria in 2017, threaten this historic site. Support saving Hacienda Los Torres.

Willert Park Courts, Buffalo, New York

ADD YOUR NAME

This complex, a unique example of early Modernism with bas-reliefs depicting scenes of everyday life, was New York State’s first housing project constructed specifically for African Americans. Today, the site is vacant and many of its structures are open to the elements. The Buffalo Municipal Housing Authority has proposed demolishing the complex to construct replacement housing.

Ask the Buffalo Municipal Housing Authority to preserve and redevelop rather than demolish this important site.

Mount Vernon Arsenal and Searcy Hospital, Mount Vernon, Alabama

ADD YOUR NAME

This arsenal was held by the Confederacy during the Civil War and housed Geronimo and approximately 400 Apache prisoners of war during the 1880s and 1890s. The hospital complex served as a segregated mental health facility for African Americans after 1900. The complex closed in 2012 and is currently vacant and deteriorating. Tell the Alabama Department of Mental Health that you support the site’s preservation and economic revitalization.

Bismarck-Mandan Rail Bridge, Bismarck, North Dakota

ADD YOUR NAME

The Bismarck-Mandan Rail Bridge connects Bismarck and Mandan, North Dakota. Constructed in 1883, it was the first rail bridge built across the upper Missouri River. The iconic bridge has been recognized as an International Site of Conscience for the role it played in opening the western United States to white settlement—and the resulting profound impacts to Native American communities—but it has been proposed for demolition by railway company BNSF.

The Coast Guard is in consultation with BNSF and other parties under Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act. The Coast Guard has proposed a conditional permit that would require BNSF to retain the historic bridge until after an adjacent new bridge is constructed, in order to allow time to identify a preservation solution for the Bismarck-Mandan Rail Bridge. Tell the Coast Guard not to allow demolition of this iconic bridge.

For more information, follow us on Twitter and join the conversation using the hashtag #11Most.

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Economic Benefits of Travel & Tourism, National Parks, Responsible Travel

National Parks Visitor Spending Contributed $40 Billion to US Economy

Yosemite National Park, California. Visitors to the national parks generated a record  $40 billion to the US economy in 2018 and supported  329,000 jobs © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Report Finds 2018 Spending Supported 329,000 jobs in Hotels, Restaurants, Transportation, Recreation

WASHINGTON –  It is so easy just to enjoy our national parks – our national heritage – and not realize that they are also a serious engine of economic activity, indeed a lifeline, for localities and the nation as a whole. As the summer vacation and travel seasons opens, U.S. Secretary of the Interior David Bernhardt announced today that visitor spending in communities near national parks in 2018 resulted in a $40.1 billion benefit to the nation’s economy and supported 329,000 jobs.

According to the annual National Park Service report, 2018 National Park Visitor Spending Effects, more than 318 million visitors spent $20.2 billion in communities within 60 miles of a park in the National Park System. Of the 329,000 jobs supported by visitor spending, more than 268,000 jobs exist in the park gateway communities.

“This report emphasizes the tremendous impact the national parks have on our nation’s economy and underscores the need to fulfill President Trump’s plan to rebuild park infrastructure,” said Secretary Bernhardt. “With 419 sites, and at least one in every state, our national parks continue to provide visitors, both local and destination, with innumerous recreational, inspirational, and world-class experiences.”

“National parks with their iconic natural, cultural and historic landscapes represent the heart and soul of America,” said National Park Service Deputy Director P. Daniel Smith. “They are also a vital part of our nation’s economy, especially for park gateway communities where millions of visitors each year find a place to sleep and eat, hire outfitters and guides and make use of other local services that help drive a vibrant tourism and outdoor recreation industry.”

Economic benefits from visitor spending increased by $2 billion and total output increased by $4.3 billion in comparison to 2017.

As a part of the report, visitor surveys were conducted at 19 parks with the results indicating that people spent more time in the parks, stayed longer in gateway communities and spent more money during their visits.

Visitation varies across the National Park System, from big parks like Blue Ridge Parkway to Grant Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site in Montana. Blue Ridge attracted 14.6 million people who spent more than $1 billion and supported more than 15,900 jobs. Grant Kohrs Ranch drew more than 26,000 visitors who spent more than $1.5 million in the area and supported 25 local jobs.

Lodging expenses account for the largest share of visitor spending totaling nearly $6.8 billion in 2018. Food expenses are the second largest spending area with visitors spending $4 billion in restaurants and bars and another $1.4 billion at grocery and convenience stores.

The peer-reviewed economics report was prepared by economists Catherine Cullinane Thomas and Egan Cornachione of the U.S. Geological Survey and Lynne Koontz of the National Park Service. It includes information by parks and by states on visitor spending, the number of jobs supported by visitor spending and other statistics.

Report authors also produce an interactive tool that enables users to explore visitor spending, jobs, labor income, value added, and output effects by sector for national, state, and local economies. Users can also view annual, trend data.

For more state-by-state information about national parks and how the National Park Service is working with communities, go to http://www.nps.gov/[statename], for example: http://www.nps.gov/virginia.

National Park Visitor Spending Contributions to the U.S. Economy 2012-18

  Visitation: Visitor Spending: Jobs Supported: Local Jobs: Total Output:
2012: 282,765,682 $14.7 billion 242,712 201,040 $26.8 billion
2013: 273,630,895 $14.6 billion 237,599 197,343 $26.5 billion
2014: 292,800,082 $15.7 billion 276,960 235,600 $29.7 billion
2015: 307,247,252 $16.9 billion 295,339 252,030 $32 billion
2016: 330,971,689 $18.4 billion 318,000 271,544 $34.9 billion
2017: 330,882,751 $18.2 billion 306,000 255,900 $35.8 billion
2018: 318,211,833 $20.2 billion 329,000 268,195 $40.1 billion

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international travel, women-only travel

Women Traveling the World Features Ireland Tour

Killarney Castle, Ireland. Women Traveling the World is featuring an Ireland Emerald Island Tour, August 30-September 7, 2019.

Women Traveling the World is offering an Ireland Emerald Island Tour that includes seven days (Aug 30 – Sept 7, 2019) experiencing first-hand this beautiful country known as the Emerald Isle. (Emerald Isle is the poetic name for Ireland due to its green countryside, first referred to in print by William Drennan in his poem “When Erin first rose”).
 
The tour starts in Dublin, a city offering many pubs, live music, historic cathedrals, Trinity College, The Guinness Storehouse, St Stephens Green and so much more. Then, head off to the Wicklow country side and explore the breathtaking mountains and Powerscourt Estate. Traveling to Killarney you will pass through some quaint Irish villages.

You will get to stay in two different Castle Hotels and truly experience Ireland and all its heritage, Celtic history, and natural beauty.

The trip features beautiful landscapes and lush green colors set against the Atlantic Ocean – the cliff sides are worth the visit alone. The shorelines are trimmed by golden sands and rocky cliffs. Inland lakes and rural idylls are varied and tranquil. The Irish are some of friendliest people and enjoy sharing in myths and tales of this magical place. Home, too, of many great music artists such as U2, this is truly a gem worth exploring and taking in local Irish fare and music.
 
Tour Dates: Aug 30 – Sept 7, 2019
Cost: $1841 based on double occupancy (roommates can be provided); single supplement $750
 
Included:
7 nights’ hotel in 4* hotel with taxes
Daily breakfast
5 Dinners Including 1 Irish show
1 lunch
Entrance fees to all sites visited as per itinerary
Tour Leader with 6 or more clients
Private transfers to all included sites and cities visited
Shannon car ferry
Local Tour Guide/Private driver
Arrival transfers in Dublin if traveling on tour dates and at the same times as other travelers. TBA
Departure transfers in Shannon if traveling with the group.
 
More information at https://womentravelingtheworld.com/tour/ireland
 
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Asia/Pacific travel, cruises, expeditionary cruises

Pandaw Builds New Ship for Burma Soft-Adventure River Expeditions

Bagan, the city of temples, in Myanmar © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Pandaw, a small-ship cruising company, has announced the construction of a new 14-cabin K-class ship for Burma. The ultra-shallow twin decked K-class vessel can go where other ships cannot and is perfect for Pandaw’s style of soft adventure river expeditions.

Despite the political situation in Burma and a decline in mainstream routings the demand for small ship expeditions in Burma has actually increased.

“With the recent departure of three K-class vessels to India it has proved necessary to order one more to meet this demand, principally on the Upper Irrawaddy, Chindwin and Delta expeditions into remoter untouristed parts of the country. Many of these are now fully booked for the coming season and a support vessel urgently needed,” the company said.

In the tradition of naming all K-class ships after original Irrawaddy Flotilla vessels, the new build is to be named the KANEE PANDAW, and is being built in Pandaw’s own yard in Mandalay.

These much-loved, safari-style vessels offer outdoor or indoor dining, run-round promenades and ample indoor and outdoor living space. The cabins are slightly smaller than on Pandaw’s larger ships but cleverly designed and very comfortable with roomy bathrooms.

Like all Pandaw’s expedition ships the KANEE will carry mountain bikes and is being aimed at a younger demographic and family travel into these remote reaches.

“We began in Burma 25 years ago and remain attached to the country and its people,” said Pandaw Founder, Paul Strachan.“Since we started the Pandaw Charity in 2008 the company has funded the Pandaw Clinics program providing essential health care to a whole region of the country; to me it is a personal mission to ensure that our business in Burma, despite recent political setbacks, continues to prosper so that we can maintain these funding commitments”

Pandaw enjoys one of the highest repeat rates in the industry and much of the growth in remote river cruising is coming from within the Pandaw community. Two years ago, the company launched its Pandaw Member’s Club and now has over 10,000 members seeking new adventures on the rivers of Asia.

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Adventure Travel, bike trips, Cultural Travel, cycling trips, international travel

Grasshopper Adventures Introduces New Bike & Boat Adventures in Cambodia/Vietnam, India & Thailand

Grasshopper Adventures has introduced a new bike/boat trip to Cambodia/Vietnam © Laini Miranda/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Grasshopper Adventures, a leader in Asia bike tours, launches three bike & boat adventures for 2019 and 2020 on the Mekong in Cambodia/Vietnam, the Brahmaputra in India and the River Kwai in Thailand.

Grasshopper Adventures is partnering up with colonial and intimate river vessels on Asia’s great rivers. Cycling off-the-beaten-path, cruising along storied rivers, meeting villagers at the river banks and enjoying some scenic pedalling mixed with culture and delicious local food.

With these new itineraries unpacking is only needed once. The ships are under private charter to Grasshopper Adventures and are escorted by a Grasshopper tour leader.

Single travelers are welcome. Grasshopper Adventures is matching guest with another same sex single traveler or guest can decide to pay the single supplement for a private cabin.

“With these new, exciting and unique tours we are able to welcome non-cycling partners or friends and will have special activities planned for them each day while the riders are out on the bikes,” Adam Platt-Hepworth, Grasshopper Adventures’ founder, said. “ It’s like having a portable hotel!”

Mekong Bike & Boat Adventure, from Vietnam to  Cambodia, 9 days / 8 nights (from $4,990 per person sharing)
This epic journey on the Mekong starts at colonial Saigon in Vietnam and finishes at breath-taking Angkor in Cambodia’s Siem Reap. The RV Toum Tiou with its shallow draft can reach river arms inaccessible to other cruise lines. Guests will be cycling through Vietnam’s scenic and busy Mekong delta and exploring Cambodia’s remote and rural corners before reaching the bustling capital Phnom Penh with its colonial and Art Deco architecture. The trip ends in Siem Reap with off-the-beaten-track cycling excursions to the Angkorian temples.

6 nights on board RV Toum Tiou
2 nights at Jaya House River Park, Siem Reap

India: Bike & Boat Brahmaputra, 9 days / 8 nights (from $4,900 per person sharing)

The Brahmaputra, one of the world’s most storied rivers, flows through Assam, India’s most north-eastern region. Guests will start exploring charming and colonial Kolkata before flying to Jorhat to embark the elegant Grand Dame of the river, the RV Charaidew. The polished brass engine room, telegraph and enormous ship’s wheel bear witness to her heritage. We cycle on the world’s largest river island, Majuli and explore rural villages which have not often see foreigners. There will be national parks with plenty of wildlife from rhinos, to elephants and birds – with a bit of luck maybe a tiger spotting.

1 night at the Oberoi Grand, Kolkata
7 nights on the RV Charaidew

Thailand Bike, Boat & Beach, 8 days / 7 nights (from $3,950 per person sharing)

Guests will be cruising the scenic River Kwai and immerse into the history of the infamous Death Railway, built during  WWII. The colonial RV River Kwai will take passengers on a trip back in time. This tour combines cycling Bangkok by night, with a river cruise and the extension to the paradise in Southern Thailand, Koh Yao. Guests can take part on our included cycling, kayaking or hiking activities down south, or enjoy the stunning beach and island resort.
1 night at the Riva Surya Hotel, Bangkok
3 nights on the RV River Kwai
3 nights at Paradise Koh Yao Resort, Island of Koh Yao

For more information, visit https://www.grasshopperadventures.com

Mekong: https://www.grasshopperadventures.com/en/scheduled-tours/mekong-bike-boat-adventure-new-itinerary.html
India: https://www.grasshopperadventures.com/en/scheduled-tours/india-bike-boat-the-brahmaputra.html
Thailand: https://www.grasshopperadventures.com/en/scheduled-tours/thailand-bike-boat-beach.html

Grasshopper Adventures  is approaching its 15-year anniversary. Grasshopper multi day tours across Asia  feature great guides and bikes, off-the-beaten-track itineraries, unique escapes and genuine experiences and fine-tuned details. Grasshopper Adventures operates tours in Bhutan, Cambodia, India, Japan, Laos, Mongolia, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand, Uzbekistan and Vietnam. Choose from scheduled group departures, bike & boat, private tours, family tours or self-guided trips.

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Adventure Travel, bike trips, Cultural Travel, cycling trips, international travel

New Grasshopper Adventures Cycling Tour Explores Back Roads of Rajasthan, India


Grasshopper Adventures is introducing a cycling tour exploring the back roads of Rajasthan, India’s quintessential land of maharajas, majestic forts, lavish palaces and tigers.

(Bangkok, Thailand) — Grasshopper Adventures is introducing a cycling tour exploring the back roads of Rajasthan, India’s quintessential land of maharajas, majestic forts, lavish palaces and tigers. Starting in Delhi and finishing in Udaipur, guests will ride through rural farmlands, deserts, and mountains, while exploring the “Land of Kings”. The eight-day trip starts at $3,300 USD per person double and is scheduled for October 26-November 2, 2019.  

The remnants of a rich and romantic past have earned Rajasthan a place on most travelers’ bucket lists. It is a land of deserts, jungle, camel trains, tigers, jewels, art and vibrant culture. The festivals and cuisine are nothing short of spectacular. It is the must-see state of India, brimming with history and unique attractions.

“We will pedal 230 km through fascinating towns, ancient desert hamlets, and an oasis of Rajasthani forts,” said Grasshopper Adventures CEO Adam Platt-Hepworth. “Rajasthan is one of India’s most captivating states, famed for its historic forts and palaces, desert villages, spice markets, and the warmth of its people. This tour definitely discovers the real Rajasthan.”

The cycling follows predominantly flat, country roads and lanes with little traffic. There is some hill riding, but it is broadly achievable at a moderate level of fitness. A support vehicle is always on hand throughout the entire trip to give guests a lift if they need a break from the riding. Distances covered are between 40 km and 60 km a day. 

“Rather than the popular tourist sites, guests may well find that the highlight of this bike tour is a chance encounter with a pink-turbaned man in the middle of nowhere, or maybe a shared Rajasthani family meal,” said Platt-Hepworth. “That is the beauty of this trip!”

Highlights:

  • Touring the 15th century Mehrangarh fortress
  • Riding through the desert to Rohet
  • Taking a Jeep tour to visit the Bishnoi tribes
  • Visiting a traditional haveli for a tasty lunch
  • Boarding a train for a scenic ride from Khambli Ghat to Phulad
  • Overnighting in the lush, wooded valley of Ranakpur
  • Touring Kumbhalgarh and the world’s second largest man-made wall
  • Exploring Udaipur on a walking tour

For more info, visit https://www.grasshopperadventures.com/en/scheduled-tours/riding-the-real-rajasthan.html

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