Archive for February, 2012

CRUISE THE LONGEST RIVER IN ASIA WITH GOWAY

Goway offers an enchanting cruise in the heart of China on the most beautiful stretch of the world’s third longest river and longest river in Asia, the famed Yangtze. Travelers can see both ancient and modern China collide. A typical day on board starts with a morning of Tai-Chi overlooking the mists of the river, and shore excursions to the many stops along the waterway and ending with the glorious sunset and evening cocktails in the ship’s lounge. Shore excursions include Fengdu, known as “City of Ghosts” where the many temples house silent ghost devils, as well as the famous Three Gorges of the Yangtze River and its tributaries.

Goway offers several cruise options both upstream for five days and downstream for four days. The Yangzi Explorer from $1315 CAD is on board the 6-star Orient Royal Cruiseline and sets the standard for luxury. This is the leading ship to course the Yangtze and also one of the few ships to sail it year-round.

The President Cruise line from $535 CAD, has several vessels including the flagship, five-star President Prime renowned for its high quality and elegant first-class service. Goway also offers the three-star President #1 from $425 CAD.

Goway’s 14 day China Odyssey also includes a tour on the Yangtze river, a great value and popular small group journey from $2,674 CAD as well as the 18 day exclusive Holidays of a Lifetime brand, Splendours of China and Tibet from $5814 CAD.

“This is a once in a lifetime travel idea and the only way to check this off from a ‘bucket list’ is to do it in style,” says Stephanie Rowe, Goway’s China Specialist. “I highly suggest clients splurge on the deluxe cruising options and upper deck cabins.”

WORLD YOUTH DAY Rio de Janeiro – July 23-28, 2013

Goway is again taking the lead by providing unique, innovative and interactive pre and post touring packages to World Youth Day in Rio in 2013. Their success with World Youth Day in Australia in 2008 and Madrid in 2011 has made them one of the premier faith-based tour planners in North America. With over 42 years of experience, their team of sales and destination experts will customize your arrangements to suit all budgets and interests for individuals and groups.

World Youth Day (WYD) 2013 will take place in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. After a successful WYD in Madrid in July, 2011, Rio is set to take the stage for the next great gathering of Catholic devotees in a week long immersion of faith and fellowship under the guiding presence of Pope Benedict XV1. While the event itself celebrates the Catholic faith, the invitation to attend extends to all, regardless of religious convictions.

There is no place in the world like magical Rio; a vibrant, modern, cosmopolitan city blessed with a beautiful natural setting, wedged amongst towering hills and the sea, watched from above by the beloved Christ the Redeemer statue atop Corcovado Mountain and surrounded by tropical forests and beaches. It is the perfect setting for a celebration of faith by pilgrims from different cultures from all over the globe.

Latin America has a rich history with Catholicism, and many pilgrims will extend the week of World Youth Day activities into a longer journey of faith and discovery and see more of Brazil or even venture further afield to Argentina, Chile, Peru or Ecuador. Goway has many packages to offer including special pilgrimage tours to Belem and Peru as well as extension ideas to elegant Buenos Aires, Chile’s stunning Lakes District, mystical Machu Picchu as well as cruises to the Galapagos. Whether pilgrims are travelling solo or are organizing a group, Special Events by Goway will handle all the air and land arrangements needed to make their journey a trip of a lifetime.

GOWAY OFFERS DEALS FOR THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS

Goway announces 10% off or a free cabin upgrade to the Galapagos Islands on their most popular vessels the Legend, Coral I and Coral II. This special offer applies to select dates and can be booked in combination with one of Goway’s many Ecuador land options such as the 3 day Quito Stop Over and or the 8 day Colonial Quito and Cuenca.

“The Galapagos are always a popular choice for people when they consider a trip to Latin America and Goway is always looking for ways to make a trip to these magical islands easier. The ongoing awareness of the islands’ fragility, uniqueness and close link to human evolution keeps the Galapagos at the top of the “must-see” list,” states Don Forster, Product & Marketing Manager, Latin America.

Goway’s Cruising Galapagos Islands for 4-8 days from $2588 CAD includes domestic airfare from Quito to Galapagos, all on-board accommodations, most tours, local guides, island transfers and most meals.

The 2012 – 2013 Latin America travel planner features these vessels that sail the Galapagos Islands as well as many other vessel choices and land options into the Galapagos as we as Central and South America travel ideas. To order your copy of the LATIN AMERICA Travel Planner call 1-888-469 2955, email info@goway.com or visit Goway.com/brochure

DISCOVER BOTSWANA ON AN EXTRAORDINARY EXPEDITION

Goway’s 10-day Botswana Explorer Expeditionoffers an exciting camping adventure in Botswana’s wilderness hot spots, including the Okavango Delta, Moremi, Chobe and Savute. The expedition, accompanied by an expert guide, starts in Maun and travels north to Victoria Falls. Travellers camp for eight nights and spend the remaining night at the luxurious Elephant Camp in Victoria Falls.

The camping offers the epitome of classic African style and comfort. Guests enjoy the thrill of sleeping in a comfortable bed adorned in crisp linens with nothing more than a stretch of canvas between themselves and the African bush. The spacious domed tents, each boast private bathrooms and an al fresco hot bucket shower – a first in the mobile safari industry.

Safaris accommodate a maximum of six guests and each is guaranteed a window seat on a spacious 4×4 safari vehicle, ensuring uninterrupted views of the bush as they journey through savanna, woodland, dry forest and floodplains. The expedition’s team is skilled at preparing delicious bush meals cooked on the open fire, and guests are able to relax and interact with fellow travelers.

“There are very few tours that offer three different national parks while enjoying exceptional hospitality and comfort in mobile tented travel,” says Moira Smith, Goway’s General Manager, Africa.

The Botswana Explorer starts from $4,183 CAD. It includes all accommodations, most meals, road transfers during safari, game viewing activities while on safari, Victoria Falls entrance fee, national park entrance fee and more.

GOWAY “PROPOSES” A DREAM HONEYMOON IN THAILAND

Goway offers dream honeymoon and destination wedding ideas in the affordable paradise of Thailand. It is one of the most popular destinations for travellers headed for South East Asia seeking the exotic tropical islands mixed with a unique culture. There is plenty to experience, whether it’s riding an elephant through the forests of Chiang Mai, exploring the many temples and shops in dynamic Bangkok or simply sipping a Mai Thai on a pristine beach and taking complete advantage of what this country has to offer. The plethora of accommodation options, from unique eco-lodges to 5-star distinguished resorts, will suit every couple’s budget.

“Thailand is a place that gives special attention to newly wed couples. Many resorts have exclusive bonuses to honeymooners, such as free massages, spa treatments, private couple’s dinner and flower bouquets,” says Bronwyn Hodge, Goway’s Asia Product Coordinator. “Often we find it’s the groom who chooses the honeymoon destination as the bride takes on planning the wedding… I can only imagine that there must be some fear that exists for men in making the wrong decision for the honeymoon,” added Hodge. It’s not the time to skimp on the budget, so as an agent, don’t be afraid to up sell.”

Experience relaxation in beautiful and tranquil surroundings on Goway’s Thai beach escapes for 7-12 days in Phuket from $289 CAD or Samui from $365 CAD. This package includes accommodations, breakfast daily and transfers.

Couples seeking the full Thailand experience from bustling Bangkok, cultural Chiang Mai and one of the popular beaches should go on Goway’s Classic Thailand with Phuket or Samui from $719 CAD. This includes: three nights in Bangkok, three nights in Chiang Mai, three nights in Phuket or Samui, all accommodations, most meals, all city tours, Thai dinner with classical dancing, floating market, cultural show, visit to hilltribes and all transfers.

Goway can even help arrange beach weddings, special ceremonies and also has an online honeymoon registry.

GET ON THE ROAD WITH GOWAY’S “FREE MOTORHOME OFFER”

Goway Travel, in conjunction with Maui New Zealand Motorhome rentals, has introduced a new special offer for New Zealand. Take your trip on the road with a Motorhome for 14 days and get 7 days free. Goway’s Motorhome special offers a huge savings of over $700 per couple.

New Zealand has a diverse landscape comparable to an entire continent. Within hours of travel you can go from city life to the wilderness, subtropical beaches to alpine glaciers, rainforests to fiords which can all be explored with at least two weeks of travel. This long and narrow country makes for a fantastic road trip with the ocean only 70 miles away at any point. “New Zealand is really a great self-drive destination and this new deal offers great saving for travelers,” states Product Manager for Downunder, Meghan Boyd.

This fantastic offer is valid for travel from 01 May – 08 June, 2012, with air and land inclusive vacations starting from $1999 CAD. This includes round trip Air New Zealand airfare from Vancouver to Auckland, 21 days using a Maui Ultima Motor home with seven free days and save $750 CAD.

In addition to a motor home rental, customized self-drive vacations can also be planned by Goway’s team of “Wizards of Oz”. Goway’s self-drives are the most detailed tours offered in North America, and all include a special “Co-Pilot Kit” which contains a detailed day-by-day itinerary, maps, directions and discounts for travelers.

No Valentine for Women in Japan… But Romance Blossoms in Spring

Japanese have a very unique version of celebrating the romantic Valentine’s Day holiday: only the women give presents (usually chocolate) to men. According to theory, Valentine’s Day became a great opportunity for shy women to show their true feelings. The favour of gift giving is supposed to be returned by men a month later on March 14th, known as “White Day.”

One of the most romantic times to visit Japan is during the famous Cherry Blossom Season, which typically takes place in early April. “The flowers can be seen throughout Japan, although there are various hotspots such as Ueno Park or along the banks of the Sumida river in Tokyo.” Says Shawn Mohan, Goway’s Japan Specialist. “It’s a really popular time to go and the weather in Spring is ideal.”

Goway’s Japan In Depth for 8 days from $3099 CAD, is a great way to take in Japan’s highlights and brilliant natural scenery during this festive time. These fragile blossoms are only in bloom for a short period of time, so it’s best to book a trip soon to see Japan in a romantic explosion of pink and white!

25% OFF SELECT GOWAY ANTARCTICA ADVENTURES

Goway’s has announced great savings of 25% off on cruises for select departures on Antarctica’s newest vessel: Ocean Diamond. In celebration of the launch of this new vessel, Goway is offering this special deal for bookings made by April 30th, 2012. The Ocean Diamond features more onboard amenities than any other ship in Antarctica along with an extensive list of adventure options and special inclusions.

Prices for Antarctica cruises range from $3,995 per person for a triple berth, to $29,995 per person for a balcony suite. There are also twenty-four dedicated single cabins starting at $7,995 per person, offering exceptional value to single travelers.

Goway has many Antarctica trip options to choose from, such as the 19 day Falklands, South Georgia and Antarctica: Explorers and Kings which departs on Nov 4 2012 and Dec 27 2012 or the 11 day Antarctic Explorer: The Classic Adventure with more departures from Nov 30, Dec 9, Dec 18, Dec 27, 2012 or Jan 14, Jan 23Feb 1, and Feb 10, 2013.

Goway also offers great city stopovers in Santiago and Buenos Aires as well as excellent extension ideas such as Iguassu Falls, Patagonia, Falkland Islands extensions and Easter Island for any Antarctica trip. For full details on all the amazing Antarctica cruises see our website for more information.

GOWAY DELIVERS ROMANCE IN THE WORLD’S MOST IDYLLIC ISLANDS

IslandsEscapes by Goway offer the World’s Most Idyllic Islands with some packages made especially for couples seeking romance. Some of these packages include:

Fiji, a unique destination with 333 islands, this location has so much to choose from. Goway’s Luxury Heli Combo package with a combination of three nights in the Coral Coast at the Outrigger on the Lagoon Resort and three nights in the Mamanuca Islands on Castaway Island, couples can escape for nine days from $2989 CAD. This also includes roundtrip airfare, six nights accommodation, transfers and three amazing bonuses – a one way free helicopter transfer, free spa treatment and free dolphin safari.

The Maldives, situated in the centre of the Indian Ocean is definitely considered a long haul luxury destination. A land of water, endless blue skies and powder white sands, this is the place travellers dream of. Goway offers an escape here from $1989 CAD. which includes roundtrip airfare, seven nights in the Maldives at Kuredu Island Resort, breakfast and dinner daily and round trip airport/resort sea plane transfers.

The Cook Islands offers beauty and tranquility and is a haven for romantics both young and old. Experience 12 nights from $1789 CAD including roundtrip airfare, 12 nights accommodation in Rarotonga, transfers, breakfasts, guest VIP card, free car or scooter rental or food and beverage credit.

The Islands of Tahiti offers an unforgettable honeymoon experience. Escape for ten nights – including five FREE nights from $3699 CAD. Includes roundtrip airfare, five nights at the Moorea Pearl Resort and Spa in an overwater bungalow and five free nights at the Te Tiare Beach Resort in Huahine, daily breakfast in Moorea, inter-island flights, and all transfers.

Along with these romantic escapes, agents can offer clients their very own personalized on-line Honeymoon Registry through Goway Travel. The registry allows couples to create their own “dream list” ensuring they experience the honeymoon they have always dreamed of. As an added bonus, the registry also gives couples their own wedding website allowing them to tell their story of how they met or the proposal, photos and a special message to all guests.

GOWAY PREDICTS POSITIVE GROWTH IN GROUP TRAVEL

The future is bright and prosperous for long-haul group travel according to Barbara Norton, GroupsOnly by Goway’s General Manager. With an improving economy and the great desire to travel safely, the GroupsOnly Team is seeing a resurgence in group bookings to all their global destinations especially to Africa, Asia and Latin America.

The release of the “pent-up demand” that has been growing in the last 4 years combined with the growth of affluent baby boomers moving into retirement is bringing group travel back to the forefront of travel demands in the marketplace according to Norton. And group travel is an easy sell to this growing demographic … the idea of “no worries” travelling with all arrangements looked after, a sense of extra security and the opportunity to meet new friends are all compelling reasons to focus on group travel.

For agents to make a group planning experience seamless and profitable, the dedicated GroupsOnly Team is at their service to customize a unique, innovative and interactive itinerary to destinations including the South Pacific, China, India, South East Asia, Africa, Latin America, the Middle East and Europe. With competitive pricing, innovative itineraries, assistance with promotions and advertising, assistance with designing flyers and presentation folders, comprehensive documentation and Group Information Kits, GroupsOnly has all the bases covered!

Any agent who wants to grow their group business can contact Barbara Norton via email at Barbara@goway.com or call her at 800 838 0618