Paradise Found by Linda Carlson, CTA, Travel Advocate, Travel Café As winter ice begins to melt, you’re probably just like me…dusting off your sandals and looking for somewhere warm to kick off the season. Since Linda’s return from Fiji, everyone here wants to take advantage of her research and spend some time in the South Pacific. And if you are looking for something equally as exotic, take a look at the Africa story on page 6. Our partner Austin Lehman Adventures has great options to see that magnificent, mysterious continent. If you’re planning a party soon, or just feel like treating yourself to a taste of Europe, our guest chefs Laurent and Patricia Zirotti (formerly of Enzo’s in Billings) share a wonderful appetizer that you have to try – and best of all, it’s simple to put together. Enjoy! Happy Spring Travels, INSIDE Page 2 XPLOR Club Page 3 Goat Cheese Mozzarella in Olive Oil Page 4 Experience Napa Valley Page 6 Exotic Africa Page 7 Worry-Free Travel Springtime in the Rockies… L ast November I was fortunate to fly to Fiji to join up with about 25 other travel agents from the western United States to explore a few dozen properties. Even though this was truly a business trip, I was in awe of the extraordinarily lush and beautiful scenery – it is beyond explanation. But the fact that Fiji has the palm-lined beaches and coral reefs like many other parts of the South Pacific, it is definitely the people of the islands, rather than the scenery, that make it memorable. eir friendliness to visitors is expressed routinely with a pleasant “bula” (welcome). Aſter a 10-hour flight from Los Angeles to Nadi (pronounced NAN-dee), we toured the western and southern coasts of the main island of Viti Levu, viewing most of the properties on our list. But a real treat during our stay was to board one of the Blue Lagoon cruise ships that tour the Mananuca Islands. ey dropped us off at the island of Tokoriki where we experienced what I call a true paradise overnight stay. We toured several of the other small island resorts by speedboat for the next two day – phenomenal to say the least. With my newfound travel knowledge of Fiji , I can recommend the ideal vacation; spend a few nights on the main island and then either take a Blue Lagoon cruise in and around the Mamanuca Islands or spend many a night on an island resort. Transportation to the islands can be by boat, seaplane or helicopter. Accommodations in Fiji are varied from the luxury to the quaint. Activities include snorkeling, diving, windsurfing, hiking, ocean kayaking and surfing. Add in the fascinating culture, including fire walking, and you’ll really feel like you’re a half a world away. A trip to Fiji would be an ideal experience for all ages: singles, couples, honeymooners and families. www.travelcafeonline.com Spring 2008 Established 1999 Compliments of Travel Café TRAVEL NEWS Fresh Brewed Horsing around in Fiji
Transcript
Paradise Found by Linda Carlson, CTA, Travel Advocate, Travel Café
As winter ice begins to melt, you’re probably just
like me…dusting off your sandals and looking for
somewhere warm to kick off the season. Since
Linda’s return from Fiji, everyone here wants to take
advantage of her research and spend some time in
the South Pacifi c. And if you are looking for something
equally as exotic, take a look at the Africa story on
page 6. Our partner Austin Lehman Adventures has
great options to see that magnifi cent, mysterious
continent. If you’re planning a party soon, or just feel
like treating yourself to a taste of Europe, our guest
chefs Laurent and Patricia Zirotti (formerly of Enzo’s in
Billings) share a wonderful appetizer that you have to
try – and best of all, it’s simple to put together. Enjoy!
Happy Spring Travels,
INSIDE
Page 2XPLOR Club
Page 3Goat Cheese Mozzarella in Olive Oil
Page 4Experience Napa Valley
Page 6Exotic Africa
Page 7Worry-Free Travel
Springtime in the Rockies…
Last November I was fortunate to � y to Fiji to join up with about 25 other travel agents from the western United States to explore a few dozen properties. Even though this was
truly a business trip, I was in awe of the extraordinarily lush and beautiful scenery – it is beyond explanation. But the fact that Fiji has the palm-lined beaches and coral reefs like many other parts of the South Paci� c, it is de� nitely the people of the islands, rather than the scenery, that make it memorable. � eir friendliness to visitors is expressed routinely with a pleasant “bula” (welcome).
A� er a 10-hour � ight from Los Angeles to Nadi (pronounced NAN-dee), we toured the western and southern coasts of the main island of Viti Levu, viewing most of the properties on our list. But a real treat during our stay was to board one of the Blue Lagoon cruise ships that tour the Mananuca Islands. � ey dropped us o� at the island of Tokoriki where we experienced what I call a true paradise overnight stay. We toured several of the other small island resorts by speedboat for the next two day – phenomenal to say the least.
With my newfound travel knowledge of Fiji , I can recommend the ideal vacation; spend a few nights on the main island and then either take a Blue Lagoon cruise in and around the Mamanuca Islands or spend many a night on an island resort. Transportation to the islands can be by boat, seaplane or helicopter. Accommodations in Fiji are varied from the luxury to the quaint. Activities include snorkeling, diving, windsur� ng, hiking, ocean kayaking and sur� ng. Add in the fascinating culture, including � re walking, and you’ll really feel like you’re a half a world away. A trip to Fiji would be an ideal experience for all ages: singles, couples, honeymooners and families.
www.travelcafeonline.com
Spring 2008 Established 1999 Compliments of Travel Café
TRAVELNEWSFresh Brewed
Horsing around in Fiji
2 FRESH BREWED TRAVEL NEWS / SPRING 2008 COMPLIMENTS OF TRAVEL CAFÉ
Join XPLORTravel Café’s New Travel Club
Travel Café’s XPLOR club, your direct line to travel ideas and savings, gives you all these great bene� ts for $35 annual membership fee:
Waiving your � rst booking fee ($40) ■
when you book a trip through Travel Café
$1.00 o� one specialty co� ee drink a ■
month (for 12 months) at Travel Café
A birthday gi� ■
Subscription to ■ Fresh Brewed Travel News
Special invitations to local outings and ■
events
Quarterly travel events ■
Earn XPLOR rewards/discounts for ■
referring others to the club
XPLOR membership card ■
To learn more about the club, call any one of our Travel Advocates.
406.259.0999 | www.travelcafeonline.com
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More about XPLOR Rewards
Coming soon this spring you will be able to earn and redeem XPLOR rewards. For packaged vacations (air and hotel) you will be able to earn between 100 and 300 points or more. For instance, a cruise that costs $999 will earn you 100 points, and one costing over $3,000 will earn you 300. Points will be redeemed online for Travel Gi� Cards, to waive booking fees, and other travel accessories. Watch your email for the launch date.
General Registries: Ask us about Retirement Travel Accounts/Registries and how to set up a college student to travel home for the holidays or a much deserved graduation trip.
Honeymoon Registries: Although honeymooners appreciate wa� e irons and table settings, there’s nothing more exciting than starting a new life together with an all expenses paid trip to paradise.
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Honeymoon Registries: Although honeymooners
Women and Wine of the World
Join us on June 19th for our next event, “From Napa to Sonoma — California’s Best!”
Limited seating, unlimited fun. Call Travel Cafe and ask for Amanda to reserve your space. $7.00
General Registries: Ask us about Retirement
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couple
anywhere they want
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Memories made here
Learn more at www.travelcafeonline.comclick: vacations/registry
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BOOK YOUR VACATION TODAY! CALL 406.259.0999 FRESH BREWED TRAVEL NEWS / SPRING 2008 3
Patricia and LaurentPatricia and Laurent Zirotti met at the Hotel Management School in Nice. � ey traveled to the United States where they lived in San Francisco and Billings.� ey then moved back to the Riviera, where they had two sons.
Laurent was deputy general manager at the Hotel Majestic in Cannes and Patricia worked as a special events coordinator for the consulting company Accenture. � ey decided to move to Billings in order to open Enzo Mediterranean Bistro. A� er 10 years of operating Enzo, they have decided to go on a new adventure and open a restaurant of their own.
Goat Cheese Mozzarella in Olive Oil Appetizers SERVES 8
1 3/4 pound of goat milk yogurt ■
1/2 teaspoon salt ■
2 teaspoons crushed dried chiles ■
1 tablespoon of chopped fresh rosemary ■
1 tablespoon of chopped fresh thyme ■
10 garlic cloves roasted ■
1 1/4 cups of olive oil ■
Sterilize a 12-inch-square cheesecloth by steeping it in boiling water. Drain and lay over a large plate. Mix the yogurt with the salt and pour into the center of the cheesecloth. Bring up the sides of the cheesecloth and tie � rmly with string. Hang the bag with a bowl underneath to catch the whey. Leave it 3 days until � rm. Combine the chilies and herbs. Form little balls of cheese with your hands. Place cheese into a jar, sprinkle with chopped herbs, chiles and garlic. Pour the olive oil over it. Store in cooler for up to 3 weeks. Serve with toasted bread.
Travel Café’s rechargeable Gi� Cards work for a cup of French roast, croissant sandwiches, or a visit to the French Riviera. Drop by and pick up one for a friend...and don’t forget about yourself. Travel Café | 313 North 28th | Billings, MT 59101
STARTING IN 2008 TRAVEL CAFÉ WILL FEATURE A SPECIALTY DRINK EVERY MONTH:
April 2008Strawberries and CreamFlavors: strawberry & toasted marshmallow� is delicious drink will calm, relax, and tow you away to a European destination.
May 2008Rocky Road Mocha Flavors: toasted marshmallow, macadamia nut and chocolateAn old favorite that always brings you comfort.
June 2008Jungle MochaFlavors: toasted marshmallow, macadamia nut and chocolateA taste of the rainforest.
When you drop by the Café for breakfast, lunch, or a snack, bring in this coupon to receive $1 OFF all specialty drinks.
Laurent and Patricia Zirotti
The Gift That KeepsOn GivingThe Gift That Keeps
Patricia and Laurent
In � e Café
SAVE AT THE CAFÉ
4 FRESH BREWED TRAVEL NEWS / SPRING 2008 COMPLIMENTS OF TRAVEL CAFÉ BOOK YOUR VACATION TODAY! CALL 406.259.0999 FRESH BREWED TRAVEL NEWS / SPRING 2008 5
Note: Part one will share some of the wine regions in the valley and some great overnight stay options, while part two shares more winery districts and destinations. Part three will introduce you to the family friendly side of visiting Napa.
California’s Napa Valley may be the most famous
wine region in the country. And although you could drive through it in a few hours, you could also spend
days and even weeks getting to know this diverse collection of small regions within the valley called subappelations, or AVAs (American Viticultural Areas). Each has its own distinctive personality and charm. Just as Gevrey-Chambertin in Burgundy produces Pinot Noirs more powerful than those of neighboring Chambolle-Musigny, Napa’s Spring Mountain District creates Cabernets that are denser and more structured than those made just next door in St. Helena.
CarnerosWhile most of the valley has a warm climate, ideal for Cabernet, the cool, breezy climate of Carneros is better suited to Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Longtime Carneros names Saintsbury, Acacia and Carneros Creek are making better wines than ever, newer entrants like Robert Sinskey are producing Pinots that are pure and re� ned…and longtime Carneros sparkling-wine producer Domaine Chandon has a delicious new Pinot, Ramal Road Reserve. As for Chardonnay, one star vineyard is Hyde, a source of top-notch fruit for Patz & Hall and David Ramey, among others.
Diamond Mountain� e dramatic terrain of Diamond Mountain District is steep and rocky. � e soils are mostly volcanic, with the climate in� uenced by ocean breezes and fog, resulting in large temperature swings between day and night, helping to preserve the acidity of the grapes. Diamond Mountain District is best known
Beautiful Belize Wine and Food Lovers Unite!
The following 2008 Wine & Food Festival schedule of events will demonstrate the wonderful offerings the week provides:
• The Guest Chef Dinner will kick off our week of festivitiesin May at the Rex Restaurant. Patrick Hurd, proprietor, and Thomas Donohoe, chef, from Rainbow Ranch in Big Sky, Montana will join executive chef David Maplethorpe of the Rex to provide our guests with the perfect beginning to the week of festivities with a wonderfully unique menu accompanied by superb wines. This event is always an evening to remember.
• Four cooking schools will be held in private homes throughout the week. Chefs joining us this year are Matt Wallop from Oliver’s Bar and Grill in Sheridan, Wyoming; Marcella Tartarka from Beyond Basil Catering and Art Beyond the Pallette in Billings, Montana; Amy Smith from the Grand Hotel in Big Timber, Montana; and Laurent Zirotti, restaurant consultant for The Granary and Travel Café in Billings, Montana.
• The 5th Course, presented by executive chef Jim Dodge, director of specialty culinary programs at the Bon Appétit Management Company in Palo Alto, California, will pair desserts and chocolate with select wines, and will be held on the campus of MSU Billings.
• For food enthusiasts, chef Garry Waldie from the Scottsdale Culinary Institute will join us for two classes – fi rst, a Food Network style demonstration cooking class and, second, a hands-on school for a small group of
culinary students. This is truly a one-of-a-kind experience and will be a culinary enthusiast’s dream day.
• Well-known Japanese culinary writer for Gourmet magazine and the New York Times’ Elizabeth Andoh will fl y in from Tokyo to present a luncheon seminar on Japanese food and culture.
• Our two featured wine masters in 2008, Dave Lattin of Kuletto Estates Winery and Linda Trotta from Gundlach Bundschu Winery, will not only preside over our events, but will present a Masters Wine Class during which they will share their expertise and in-depth knowledge with guests.
• Our two fi nal events are held in the big tent on the campus of MSU Billings. On Friday, over 800 guests will enjoy a wonderful evening of wine and food tasting featuring over 100 wines and microbrews and foods from area restaurants and caterers. In addition, a fantastic silent auction will be featured.
• The week’s Saturday fi nale is a black tie evening of wine,
food and fun. A champagne reception starts the evening and will be followed by an elegant gourmet dinner for 350 guests, live and silent auctions.
Tickets for the events will go on sale April 14, 2008. For
complete schedule and additional information, please
check our website at www.winefoodfestival.com, or
contact us at 406-657-2244 or toll- free at 1-888-430-6782.
Bordered to the north by Mexico and the west and south by Guatemala, Belize is only 2 hours from U.S. hubs such as
Houston, Dallas and Miami. � is small Central American country rarely makes headlines, but its adoring fans know that no other place on earth can o� er you the range of adventure. On the mainland you can explore Mayan temples, go wildlife trekking, cave tubing or zip-lining through the rainforest. Belize can also boast the longest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere. � e numerous cayes (pronounced keys) or unspoiled islands, surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, create the ultimate marine paradise. � e largest of those unspoiled islands is Ambergris Caye, a� ectionately referred to as La Isla Bonita, “beautiful island,” from the song by Madonna. In it, she longs to be back in San Pedro, the place of her dreams. San Pedro is the only community on the island. It was founded as a � shing village over 150 years ago, and has since become a popular tourist destination that o� ers a laid-back experience, spiced with adventure. � ere are only a few paved roads and most people navigate the island by foot, bicycle or golf cart. One of those paved roads, Coconut Drive, will lead you right to the Banana Beach Resort. Imagine arriving in a landscaped courtyard of fountains and tropical � ora, Caribbean music intermixed with the island breeze and the white sands of the beach just feet away. Within the resort is the El Divino Restaurant and Martini Lounge featuring both outdoor seating and indoor air-conditioned split level dining. � ey serve breakfast starting at 6:30 a.m., and o� er delicious meals, appetizers and feasts late into the night. � ere are two pools, the smaller one fed by a wall fountain
and the larger one facing the breezeway that leads out to the beach. All rooms, private balcony rooms, courtyard suites, oceanfront suites, have air-conditioning, oversized bathrooms, cool ceramic tile under your bare feet, Belizean rattan furniture, and a sta� that is ready to make your stay the best experience you’ve had away from home.
To assist you in making your vacation an adventure, Banana Beach has the Monkey Business Travel Shoppe. � e girls in the travel shop can help you plan and book each day’s activities from snorkeling the barrier reef and horseback riding on the mainland to arranging your massage a� er a day of hiking. And, if there is a day that you just want to hang around the pool or walk along the beach, the resort is just far enough from San Pedro to o� er real tranquility, yet minutes away if you want to go shopping for Belizean art, Guatemalan textiles or just that perfect tropical drink at one of the palapa bars. To make this exotic location even more enticing, you can rest easy knowing that the o� cial language is English and the monetary system is compatible with U.S. currency.
- Susan Bruner for Travel Café
Experience the Napa Valley: Part One of Three
for its big, structured Cabernets, exempli� ed by the enormously concentrated wines of Diamond Creek Vineyards. � e Davies family of the Schramsberg sparkling-wine empire released its � rst Cabernet in 2004 here under the J. Davies label. Dyer Vineyard turns out a full-bodied Cabernet with a hint of chocolate, while
Von Strasser produces a notable Bordeaux-style blend called Sori Bricco that displays impressive minerality. When staying in Napa, the options are endless. If you are looking for total luxury, try the Auberge du Soleil in Rutherford for quiet indulgence and romance. Fireplaces, whirlpool tubs, and private balconies overlooking the
valley give you that honeymoon feel, and chef Richard Reddington’s fare is pure heaven. � is option is quite pricey, but worth every penny. A little easier on the pocketbook, but still incredibly comfortable, the Cottage Grove Inn in Calistoga o� ers a homey, romantic cluster of cottages, beautiful � replace rooms, and indoor and outdoor hot tubs. Calistoga has wonderful spa and hot springs opportunities a� er a day of tasting.
Look for more wonderful Napa wine regions to visit in next month’s installment.
Cheers!
Wine and food enthusiasts will travel from near and
far to attend the 16th annual Montana State University
Billings Foundation Wine & Food Festival the week
of May 12-17, 2008. The weeklong festival provides
the opportunity to dine on gourmet dinners, attend
cooking schools and wine seminars and enjoy the
beautifully decorated party tent while tasting hundreds
of wines and delicious foods. This premier fundraising
event provides scholarship assistance for deserving
Montana State University Billings students.
is only 2 hours from U.S. hubs such as Houston, Dallas and Miami. � is small Central American country rarely makes headlines, but its adoring fans know that no other place on earth can o� er you the range of adventure. On the mainland you can explore Mayan temples, go wildlife trekking, cave tubing or zip-lining through the
Belize can also boast the longest barrier reef in and the larger one facing the breezeway that leads
Note: Part one will share some of the wine regions in the valley and some great overnight stay options, while part two shares more winery districts and destinations. Part three will introduce you to the family friendly side of visiting Napa.
Cwine region in the country. And although you could drive through it in a few hours, you could also spend Von Strasser produces a
notable Bordeaux-style blend called Sori Bricco that displays impressive minerality. When staying in Napa, the options are endless. If you are looking for total luxury, try the Auberge du Soleil in Rutherford for quiet indulgence and romance. Fireplaces, whirlpool tubs, and private balconies overlooking the
Enjoying food and wine under the big tent2007 Friday night wine tasting
Romantic lunch at the Cottage Grove Inn, Calistoga
Wine celler in NapaSunny Vineyards of Napa Valley
Wine tasting in Napa Valley
Sunset from Banana Beach
Kayaking by Morpho Falls
White sandy beaches of Belize
Havest time in Napa Valley
6 FRESH BREWED TRAVEL NEWS / SPRING 2008 COMPLIMENTS OF TRAVEL CAFÉ
Experience South Africa’s wide variety of natural assets � rsthand, the way the locals do on this 11-day African safari.
By day, soak up the friendship and expertise of our homegrown guides who proudly share with us the wealth of natural beauty, culture and heritage that South Africa has to o� er. Kayak with African penguins, view Southern Right Whales, ride horseback through coastal forests, hike Table Mountain for spectacular views of Cape Town and pedal through rolling wine country. By night, savor South Africa’s � ne regional cuisine and award-winning local wines before calling it a night in the comfort of an exquisite guesthouse or nature based lodge. � is exciting adventure starts in the thriving metropolis of Cape Town and ends in the greater Kruger National Park, where open vehicles and bush walks get you up-close with Africa’s abundant wildlife, including gira� e, zebra, lion, wildebeest, hippo and rhino. In short, there’s no better way to experience the diverse fauna, rich culture and stunning scenery of South Africa than on Austin-Lehman’s Safari & Multisport Adventure.
Distinctive Accommodations11 days / 10 nights in country
Nights 1-4: Cape Cadogan� is boutique hotel boasts a comfortable lounge with an open � replace, a garden and pool area, and a library where you can relax and read or send a note home from a public computer. Bohemian chic is the hallmark, with luxuriously appointed en suite bedrooms decorated with an eclectic mix of contemporary and antique furniture. Breakfast is served in a dining room overlooking the pool and garden.
Nights 5 & 6: Grootbos Garden Lodge, GansbaaiGrootbos Nature Reserve conserves 1,700 hectares of pristine fynbos, the Cape’s unique vegetation, and is home to more than 650 species of indigenous plants. � e classic Garden Lodge is set in a lush indigenous canopy that provides privacy and a feeling of complete submersion in the natural environment. Each suite has its own secluded balcony – perfect for watching the sun set over the ocean or for starting the day in tune with the forest birds. Spacious, � nely appointed bathrooms complete the feeling of utter tranquility.
Nights 7-10: Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve� is jewel of a safari camp boasts all of the features associated with an exceptional safari lodge – beautiful setting, excellent cuisine and abundant wildlife. � is small camp o� ers luxury accommodations, warm and e� ortless hospitality and unparalleled intimacy and seclusion. Each suite has a private viewing deck overlooking the riverbed, and is decorated in contemporary African design, complete with luxury furnishings, a full private bathroom, plus indoor and outdoor showers. Delicious dinners enjoyed outside under so� ly lit trees are a wonderful experience loved by all.
Discover Africa’s hidden gem as you set o� on an up-close encounter through Zambia’s pristine wildlife parks on an 11-day African safari.
Your Zambia adventure begins in the Luangwa Valley – birthplace of the walking safari. Startle your senses with new sights and sounds as you set out on early morning walks with expert guides, eager to reveal the valley’s intricate life cycle that exists unnoticed by most. Enjoy a� ernoon and evening safaris in open vehicles for up-close animal encounters, as well as night drives, for the unique opportunity to watch nocturnal species on the hunt. Fly into Lower Zambezi National Park and stay at a small camp set on the banks of the Lower Zambezi River. Travel by canoe or boat to observe elephants and crocodiles
along the riverbanks and try your hand at catching a tiger � sh, notorious for its � ght. Your Zambia adventure ends with two nights at Victoria Falls – Africa’s adrenaline center – where you can choose from elephant-back safaris, horseback safaris or (for the really adventurous) class � ve white water ra� ing.
Distinctive Accommodations11 days / 10 nights in country
Nights 1 & 2: Puku Ridge Tented Camp
Named for the elusive Puku antelope which never strays far from water, this beautiful camp among the trees overlooks a sweeping expanse of the fertile Kakumbi dambo (valley). Puku Ridge Tented Camp is small and intimate, built unobtrusively close to the wild. Each of the six comfortably furnished safari tents has its own lavish bathroom with the option of taking a shower with the sun on your shoulders.
Nights 3-5: Kapamba CampRemote, charming and touched with a hint of romance, Kapamba’s four en suite chalets rede� ne the standards for luxury in the bush. Unencumbered by a fourth wall, each chalet is open-fronted, a� ording guests sweeping views
of the Kapamba River. As a turn down service, the camp sta� tucks in every guest each night by drawing closed the beautiful wrought iron gates that span the front of each chalet. � e spider web e� ect of the iron gates o� er guests protection from any unwanted night visitors and serve as a stunning backdrop against the expansive African sky. Kapamba is synonymous with luxury and guests seeking the ultimate in bush indulgence are sure to enjoy the spoils of this intimate camp.
Nights 6-8: Kulefu Tented CampDeep in the game-rich Lower Zambezi National Park, there is a secluded, intimate safari camp settled comfortably in the deep shade of tall, riverine trees; the camp is called Kulefu – “the faraway place.” Profoundly peaceful, eco-friendly and well appointed, the camp overlooks one of the permanent channels of the legendary Zambezi River. Eight spacious tented rooms sit on raised teak decking with twin beds, mosquito nets, en suite facilities (basin, toilet, shower), solar heated water and a private veranda.
Nights 9 & 10: Islands of Siankaba� e Islands of Siankaba is comprised of two densely forested sand islands in the Zambezi River near the Siansimba Rapids. � e lodge is the most classic of forested retreats, with six secluded chalets linked by a footbridge to a haute cuisine restaurant, all on two untouched islands in the mighty Zambezi River between the “Seventh Wonder of the Natural World,” the magni� cent Victoria Falls, and the world famous Chobe National Park.
Join Austin LehmanZambia: Africa’s Hidden Gem
South African Safari Multisport
Join Austin Lehman
Recommended Associates
Leopard in tree outside Krueger National Park in Sabi Sands
Zebras kissing at Ant’s Nest
BOOK YOUR VACATION TODAY! CALL 406.259.0999 FRESH BREWED TRAVEL NEWS / SPRING 2008 7
Taking your electronic equipment to Europe is easy if you’re prepared. First you’ll need to consider the voltage. American appliances run
on 110 volts, while European appliances are 220 volts. (� ese numbers can vary slightly – for example, 120 instead of 110 volts in the U.S.) � ese days, most travel accessories are “dual-voltage,” which means they work on both American and European current. If you see a range of voltages printed on the item or its plug (such as “110–220”), you’re okay in Europe. Some older appliances have a voltage switch marked 110 (U.S.) and 220 (Europe) – switch it to 220 as you pack. A few old, cheap American appliances aren’t equipped to deal with the voltage di� erence at all, and could be damaged or destroyed if plugged directly into a European wall outlet. In these cases, you’ll need to buy a separate, bulky converter (about $20) — which can be more expensive than simply buying a new dual-voltage appliance. With so many dual-voltage gadgets available, I haven’t traveled with a separate converter in years. Still not sure? Ask the salesperson about voltage when you buy the appliance. Travel stores also o� er useful advice on plugs and adapters (such as the Electrical Connection Wizard at www.magellans.com). Once you’ve dealt with the voltage, you’ll have to consider the plug. A small adapter allows American-style plugs (two � at prongs) to � t into British or Irish outlets (which take three rectangular prongs) or continental European outlets (which take two small, round prongs). I bring both continental and British adapters (handy for long layovers in Heathrow Airport). Secure your adapter to your appliance’s plug with electrical or duct tape; otherwise it might stay in the outlet (and get le� behind) when you pull out the plug. Many sockets in Europe are recessed into the wall; your adapter should be small enough so that the prongs seat properly in the socket. Many budget hotel rooms have only one electrical outlet, occupied by the lamp. Hardware stores in Europe sell cheap three-way plug adapters that let you keep the lamp on and your camera battery and MP3 player charged. Well-wired travelers bring reams of personal and travel information – but not a lot of paper. Instead, store these documents on your laptop or handheld computer; save them on a USB � ash drive; or simply park your details and addresses in a � le on your email account for easy access anywhere (though it’s not wise to store sensitive information like credit card numbers or your Social Security number online). As you can see, with a little preparation, there’s no reason to leave anything behind.
Journeywith confidence
Travel Café would like to help you get through
the security checkpoint quickly and have a safe
� ight to your destination. Transportation Security
O� cers will be working around the clock to provide an
e� cient security process. We’re helping you to become an
active partner in your security experience by knowing the
rules and carefully packing your carry-on bags.
Pack smart to get through faster. Keep luggage organized
by layering items; this will increase visibility for the security
o� cers. When approaching the checkpoint, be prepared.
Boarding pass and ID should be ready for inspection, outer
garments and shoes must come o� , any loose metal items
should be placed in your carry-on, and all liquids must come
out of bags. All liquids must be kept in the 3-1-1 format
unless needed for special medical purposes.
Here’s how to simplify your overall security experience:
• Pack an organized carry-on bag using layers – a layer of clothes, then electronic, more clothes, and then any heavier items. � is will help security o� cers see what’s in your bag.Have your boarding pass and ID ready for inspection when you get to the checkpoint.
• Remove your coat and shoes and place them in a bin.• Place any oversized electronics (laptops, full-size video game
consoles, DVD players and video cameras that use cassettes) in a separate bin. iPods and other smaller electronics can stay in your carry-on bag.
• Follow the 3-1-1 rule for liquids and put your one quart baggie separately in the bin.
• When in doubt, leave it out. If you’re not sure about whether you can bring an item through the checkpoint, put it in your checked bag or leave it at home. Go to http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/simpli� y.shtm to see the list of prohibited items.
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� anks from the Sta� of Travel Cafe.
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Travel Café’s rechargeable Gift Cards work for a cup of French
Roast, Croissant Sandwiches, or a visit to the French Riviera. Drop
by and pick up one for a friend...and don’t forget about yourself.
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Give Graduates the Gift of Travel.
Recommended by Travel Café
SAVINGS ARE OFF OF ORIGINAL CONTRACTED RATES/PRICES AND ARE REFLECTED ABOVE. Prices are perperson, land only, based on double occupancy accommodations. Pricing valid for travel 4/6–6/30/08.Effective dates may vary by resort. Travel dates for Wailea Beach Marriott Resort & Spa are between5/1-6/8/08. Surcharges apply for select activities. A 6 night stay is required to receive these promotions.
Rates are subject to change without notice, availability; holiday black-outs, peak period surcharges and other restrictions apply. Up to a $25daily resort or parking fee is additional & payable directly to the specifichotel. GOGO Worldwide Vacations is not responsible for errors oromissions in the content of this ad. CST#2007207-30 ADV#043 SS 1/08
For more information, call TRAVEL CAFÉ at 406-259-0999
Longer stays available. Prices do not include airfare. Ask about special air-inclusive rates from your city.
ALL PACKAGES INCLUDE: Hotel accommodations and taxes • FREE Night• Breakfast for two daily • Lei greeting • On Oahu: Roundtrip transfers, Alohabreakfast briefing (optional), one-day trolley pass, and food n’ fun diningdiscount card • On Kauai & Hawaii’s Big Island: Midsize car from Alamo• On Maui: Aloha breakfast briefing (optional) and a midsize car from Alamo
www.travelcafeonline.com313 North 28th
Billings, MT 59101406.259.0999
7-Day Gulf of Alaska SailingsSapphire Princess – August 23, August 30 & September 6
Choose this preeminent Alaska cruise offering adventures in Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway plus attractions not featured on other cruises – the mighty Gulf of Alaska and pristine Prince William Sound. And by cruising to Whittier, you can complete your dream vacation on land
with a Princess cruisetour.
More itineraries and dates are available!Call Travel Café today!406.259.0999
