Archive for the 'Peru' Category

Want to experience the vibrant culture of Peru and the unforgettable beauty of the Galapagos?  Ever dreamed of swimming in pristine blue waters amongst 2,500 unique marine species or hiking cliff side stairways up the century old Inca Trail to discover the lost city of Machu Picchu?  Want to help support a non profit organization that promotes education, health-care, environmental preservation, and community development?  I am certain your answer is yes!  Well, Viventura is now offering the opportunity to do both.

 

During the month of December, Viventura  is giving contestants the chance to win a FREE 15 day trip to Peru and the Galapagos as part of  their annual Christmas Game.  This amazing tour starts in the famous Galapagos islands, where travelers island hop for 4 days before their next adventure to one of the “7 Wonders of the World”: Machu Picchu.  Take the famous Andean train ride through lush mountaintops until you reach the Sacred Valley of the Incas.  There you will find yourself in awe as you wander through 15th century maze-like corridors of temples, workshops, and royal buildings.  It truly is a trip of a lifetime filled with culture, history, and plenty of local interaction.

 

Besides answering fun-filled trivia questions in the hopes of winning a grand prize worth roughly $3000, participants will ultimately be helping and supporting underprivileged communities throughout South America.  For every correct answer submitted, Viventura will donate .25 cents to viSozial.  Since 2002, viSozial has succeeded in completing major campaigns such as: providing dental care and hygiene to both students and parents, constructing 50 toilets throughout the schools and wawawasi community, promoting nutrition to over 200 individuals to eliminate malnutrition, and purchasing musical instruments and financing a music teacher for educational purposes.  ViSozial hopes to achieve in the future: supplying a local nursery with food for one month, providing each student with school uniforms, and organizing a soccer game for 60 students.  This is a great chance to help individuals in need and win big!

 

As a firm believer in sustainable tourism practices, Viventura hopes this contest will not only increase people’s interest in traveling to South America, but inspire people to think of others this holiday season as well.   Viventura focuses on what they know and what they love; South America, tour guides having local knowledge and extensive experience, and receiving the latest news about South America.  Tours are never larger than 9 people, which allows guides to provide individual attention to every traveler.  Above all, with 10 years experience in the European market, Viventura has a reputation of offering memorable locations with exciting activities, exceptional customer service, and tours that support local economies — all at an absolutely amazing value.

 

Register today in 3 easy clicks and help support South American communities in need:

1. Click on the Christmas Page
2. Answer the Question of the Day
3. Submit your email address

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You might not be an adrenaline junkie, but every now and again, we all need an adventure.  Whether you are on your annual vacation or traveling the world; take some time to fit in an activity which you have never tried before and take a step out of the ordinary.  Check out these 5 destinations for an experience you will never forget:

1. South Africa: One of the most beautiful countries in the world, a trip to South Africa promises to be amongst the most memorable trips you will ever have.  For the thrill of a lifetime try white-water rafting down the Orange River or give sand-boarding a go on the sand dunes for something truly exciting.  Check out Cape Town for some local delicacies and if you rent an apartment through citybaseapartments.com, you can try cooking some ostrich steaks and Karoo lamb yourself.  Get closer to the wildlife by learning how to tree-top swing and you will be flying about the jungle with the monkeys before you know it!
2. Norway: An unusual destination, Norway is the mecca of all winter sports.  If you have ever fancied learning to ski, snowboard, toboggan, or even ice-fish, then this is the country to go to.  Rich in beautiful wildlife, a trip here will certainly open your eyes.
3. Peru: Steeped in ancient history, Peru is a wonderful country for learning about a new culture.  Many travelers who visit follow the Inca Trail through the Andes to discover the lost city of Machu Picchu. If you enjoy trekking through natural wonders, then give Peru a try.
4. Australia: How does scuba diving in the Great Barrier Reef sound?  If you love water-sports, take a trip to either Bondi Beach or Surfer’s Paradise, where you can learn to surf, sail, kayak, and snorkel from scratch.  For the best way to see the Sydney Opera House, jump on a jet-boat at Circular Quay and race across the water; just make sure you have not recently eaten!
5. Madagascar: If you have seen the animated film, then you have a pretty good idea about what this island can offer.  A remote, secluded beauty spot surrounded by warm seas and home to species only found on this island; a visit to Madagascar is an adventure in itself.  From mountains to beaches and rainforests to coral reefs, this country truly has it all, and as such, a jungle trek or a safari is highly recommended.  After you have done that, try your hand at hand-gliding or rafting and experience a totally different way of life.

 

Would it not be nice to come home from your trip with more than a few photographs and a bit of sunburn?  Do not be afraid to try something you have never done before, it will make you feel alive and you will come back feeling like you could conquer the world.  If you are taking a trip this year make it an adventure to remember!

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In 2005, after experiencing a miserably boring New Year’s Eve spent at home, I vowed from then on I would travel somewhere exceptionally fabulous for the holiday.  Since it is my favorite day of the year, I feel that it should be celebrated in style!

Here is a look at the places I visited for the last 5 New Year Eve’s:

As you read this, I am currently in Paradise Island, the Bahamas. For 2011, I attended a ball with the theme of Alice and Wonderland and then headed to the streets of Nassau for Junkanoo until sunrise.  I am sending you all big kisses and hugs and hoping that all of your wildest dreams come true in 2011!!!

PS  Where is your favorite place that you have celebrated New Year’s Eve in?  I am always looking for new places!

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