Discover Peru
Experience Ancient Mysticism, 
Adventure and Nature.
By Ross J. Elers

WITH ALL THE TRAVEL HYPE ABOUT THE A-B-C of South America (Argentina-Brazil-Chile), Peru has been getting passed over. But travelers looking for an exciting and wildly affordable alternative to vacations crowded with American travelers would do well to explore this western gem of the continent.

Peruvians are perhaps best known for being the direct descendants of the Inca (or Inka) people, but their history dates back through many civilizations spanning over 5,000 years (evidenced by the recently found temples at Corral), making them the third oldest-known people in the history of the world. With that, the country is rich with landmarks that can be visited in and around virtually every one of its cities.

Generally speaking, the country is bracketed into three zones that span from the northern to southern tips. The Western strip inland from the coast is typically desert. The central area is mountainous. And the eastern side is jungle and highlands. The composite landscapes make for adventurous travel, requiring careful packing if all three areas are on the itinerary. The people are quintessentially Latin: warm, proud and festive. Overall, Peruvians are honest salt-of-theearth types—visitors can feel safe and welcome, whether or not they speak Spanish.


Time in Lima is well spent, though the more spectacular sites lay beyond the capital. Huanchaco and Máncora, both in the north, are superb beachside locales. Arequipa, “The White City,” is a brilliant example of early Spanish inspired architecture and is among the world’s most romantic, elegant and stunning cities.

Mid-country, Cusco, the last Inca capital, brings a change of climate and perspective. Throughout the city, European buildings are constructed literally atop the ancient Incan ones, thus Latin and European fuse everywhere. Machu Picchu, the crown jewel of South America, should not be missed. This “Lost City of the Incas” has the impression of a floating citadel.

In the east, Lake Titicaca is the world’s largest high-altitude body of water and is home to the Floating Islands, which host small groups of indigenous tribes you can visit. Puerto Maldonado, practically on the border of Bolivia, is a good place from which to make for the jungle as well as explore the lower Amazon basin.

Budget up to $2,000 per couple for round-trip airfare (most flights are conveniently overnight). The exchange rate will allow you to live like a king for $100US per person per day (including accommodations). For something extraordinary, Inkaterra, Peru’s premier tour operator, offers tours and accommodations that are unmatched anywhere on the planet (inkaterra.com).

Explore Turkey
Romantic and Mysterious, Ancient Traditions Await.
By Ross J. Elers

TURKEY IS THE PLACE WHERE EAST MEETS
West—literally and spiritually. Transcontinental Turkey is bordered by eight countries, but its identity remains unique and the people hold strong to their history (“Türk” means “strong” in Old Turkic). “Doing Europe” is so 20th century—vacationers seeking an opulent experience ought to consider this exotic alternative.

CTC Turkey offers an exclusive eleven-day Istanbul & Turquoise Coast package fit for sultans and bohemians alike. Those feeling less confident about foreign travel will likely appreciate the dedicated guides and well-appointed services.

The first few days are complete with tours of the city’s main sites. Istanbul (FKA Constantinople) is a 7,500-year-old city, details of the varied history abound. The Hippodrome, a coliseum once seating 100,000, is decorated with Egyptian Obelisk, Bronze Serpentine Column and the Column of Constantine and continues to be a symbol of Byzantine greatness. Also on the agenda are The Blue Mosque (dated 1609), 6th century A.D. basilica Hagia Sophia, Grand Bazaar and the Topkapi Palace Museum, which was the seat of the Ottoman Empire between the 15th and 19th centuries and remains a labyrinthine of fantastic buildings. A small cruise on the Bospherus Strait, flanking Europe and Asia, and visits to the Spice Market and small communities surrounding Istanbul round out the stay.

On the fourth day, a guide will chaperone the transfer to Marmaris, where a traditional Turkish yacht gullet, home for the next week, awaits. The itinerary includes the lush and picturesque Ekincik Bay, a terrific port from which to explore the cliff top ancient city of Caunos where tombs were etched into rock. Or continue upriver for luxurious sulpher mud baths. The following day, enjoy vistas of Dalman Bay, be refreshed by a diamond clear swim in Manastir Bay, visit the ruins of one of Cleopatra’s favorite Roman Bath and visit Bedri Rahmi Cove.

The remaining days include sails between Tersane Island, an overnight anchoring at romantic Göcek, one of the Mediterranean’s tawniest sailing spots, swimming and water sports in irresistible Kargi Bay, the Hamptons-like Fethiye where numerous Lycian rock tombs reproduce the facades of ancient buildings in the cliff, the snorkeling paradise of Disibilmez, Kadirga Bay to spend more time swimming, surfing and snorkeling and a final dive into the clear water of outer Marmaris Bay. As the sun sets, the yacht will make fast for Marmaris quay.

The package for one couple is just under $5,000 (certain exclusions apply). Roundtrip airfare between Istanbul and New York is approximately $3,000. Visit ctcturkey.com for more information and become the travel envy of your office.

Summer in Vancouver
An Outdoor Enthusiast's Dream.
By Jake Gosselin

VANCOUVER BOASTS THE UNIQUE STATUS OF having being integrated into a diverse natural setting while offering all the comfort and sophistication of a major metropolitan city. An outdoor enthusiast’s dream come true, Vancouver sits nestled between rainforest and mountains while being surrounded by water on three sides. Its mild climate combined with diverse ecospheres provides an endless opportunity for travelers looking for outdoor fun and adventure.

Kayaking is a particularly popular sport. Whether you’re looking for the gentle relaxation of paddling on calm waters or the adrenaline rush of shooting worldclass white water, a strong outdoor sport infrastructure is in place and ready to help you on your way.

Vancouver summers are hot but still mild enough to lounge in the sand. Beautiful beaches are on the doorstep of Vancouver’s West End with dozens of hotels and outstanding restaurants only steps away. Famous for its fresh fish and sushi bars, seafood lovers will find themselves almost burdened by the culinary options available.

Fishing and boating are a huge attraction. Charter a boat from one of many companies to go salmon fishing or killer whale watching. Scuba diving is also popular. Divers love to take in the spectacular wildlife like wolf eels and large Pacific octopus, which are common to the region.

Not so much a water person? Take advantage of Vancouver’s epic mountains and lush rainforests with some hiking. Try the North Shore’s Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve and its 31 miles of trails or the Baden-Powell Trail which winds through 26 miles of mountainous rainforest. Enjoy the rush of mountain biking through trails of various levels of difficulty on Grouse and Cypress Mountains. Both mountains are mere minutes from the downtown core and offer some of the best biking to be found in the world.

For the truly brave of heart, Vancouver provides nearly unlimited options for rock climbing without ever having to be far from the city. A short drive up the Sea-to-Sky Highway gets you to Western Canada’s most popular climbing destinations. Climbers of all skill levels will find what they need with group and private lessons as well as guided climbing tours available around the region.

Budget around $1,400 per couple for round-trip airfair, expenses and accomodations vary. For more information, visit tourismvancouver.com.