Posts tagged Travel
TRAVEL GUIDE: Great Lakes of North America
Apr 3rd
I’ve been to Hell and back and if I get the chance, I may well go back again. The states of Michigan, (where Hell is), Illinois and Ohio kind of blend into each other and it’s where I discovered the pleasures of the Great Lakes of North America.
The Great Lakes represent the largest expanse of fresh water in the world with a unique and diverse landscape. This region is the size of continental Europe and covers eight states.
This was possibly one of the best holidays I’ve ever had. My adventure break in the Great Lakes brought a whole new meaning to the term ‘swinging sixties’ with yours truly literally suspended from a rope, zip-lining high above the trees and loving every screaming moment of it. Driving ATV, or all terrain vehicles, was another adrenaline rush, maybe only surpassed by doing a flip over in a tiny four-man plane as the sun set deep in the sky.
After that, horse-riding on a ranch in Brighton, Michigan seemed almost chilled!
A Great Lakes break is not just for the young and agile, although the others in the group definitely qualified. And it’s a holiday that can easily be combined with a stay in New York or Toronto (only hours away by car).
The main attraction in Hell is the General Store set up by Vietnam vet John Colone. It sells souvenir T-shirts, the usual shot glasses, fridge magnets etc, and also does wedding catering. Half an hour’s drive brought us to the Brighton recreational stables run by one Helluva handsome rancher and his wife. My dilemma there was how to climb on board the majestic mare I’d been allocated because she was blonde like me, but I needn’t have worried as we all had to use the bales of hay provided to mount.
The uncharacteristically fine late October weather made for a leisurely hack through the forest, followed by a hayride through the pumpkin fields at Mayhews in a surrey. We spent our first week under the leadership of young Joe Vargo from Columbus who quite rightly suspected we’d be ravenous when we arrived and brought us to his local diner. You couldn’t make it up.
From an eatery that probably hadn’t changed since the 1960s, it was on the road again and onwards to our first sleep stop at the Glenlaurel, a Scottish Country Inn. Nestled in 140 heavily wooded acres, Glenlaurel is in the process of creating a replica links style golf course with eight holes as built in the British Isles over 400 years ago.
I began to feel nervous as we set off for the magnificent Hocking Hills the following morning for a canopy tour, described as ‘the region’s most adventurous way to soar over autumn’s colourful vista’.The new higher, faster, longer Super Zip takes visitors right over the Hocking River and we also flew over caves, rock cliffs, waterfalls and some of the tallest and prettiest trees.
Nature lover meets thrill seeker just about describes it. Rappelling back down to earth, was the most breath-taking experience of all. Hocking Hills also offers hot air ballooning or a fabulous scenic tour, which we took with veteran pilot and flight instructor Harry Sowers in his Cessna, soaring over several local counties at sunset. Meeting Harry was just as thrilling as the ride itself.
An afternoon hike to Old Man’s Cave, one of the park’s most popular attractions was made all the more enjoyable by our guide, naturalist Pat Quakenbush who talked us through the history of Hocking Hills where early man first inhabited the caves over 7000 years ago. We later hooked up with Trent Walters from ATV World.
At first, I have to admit, I tried to cry off when I realised not only the speed these vehicles can do, but the terrain we were about to cover. But before long, the newly formed adrenaline junkie was back and careering over rows of huge tyres, uphill and deep descents through heavily forested woods with deers and other wildlife popping out for a peep.
Next day, after breakfast on the run, we moved on to Lake Erie Shores and Islands and caught the Miller Ferry to Put-In Bay.
Choice lobster and succulent seafood made lunch at the Boardwalk a very welcome affair before we took a tram ride round the little island on a super sunny day.
We stayed at Sawmill Creek Resort for our visit to Cedar Point Amusement Park in Sandusky, Ohio. Cedar Point is one of the most popular family destinations in the world, with 75 rides including some of the fastest and longest you’ll ever experience. (I chickened out!).
There’s the top thrill Dragster at 420 feet tall, the Maverick that launches through a 400feet tunnel and the Magnum, if you fancy taking off at 72mph before you even tackle the 200 feet rollercoaster.
A visit to a local farm market and winery seemed a sedate option next day and Quarry Hill had some fine wines on sale.
Regardless of the weather, which was fine for us, you can surf and swim at the Kalahari Resort in Sandusky 365 days a year.
America’s largest indoor waterpark offers accommodation, an animal reserve, a spa and much more besides. What a way to start a visit to a new city.
Lexi, our next guide in Cleveland, escorted us on the Great Lakes Brewing Company tour in the city’s West Side. It’s the state’s first microbrewery.
Slept well at the Downtown Crowne Plaza Hotel before an early start for perch fishing on Lake Erie. All on board a charter boat with bait, tackle, licences and rods provided.
I’d never ever gone fishing before but beginner’s luck saw me thrilled, yet again, to catch three enormous yellow perch out in the depths.
From Positively Cleveland it was onwards again, to Pure Michigan for our first meeting with new guide, the truly delightful Barbs Barden.
Dinner outdoors with Barbs and Dave Lorenz was gargantuan and gorgeous and we got an insight into how very different the people from the Mid-West are from their East and West Coast compatriots.
Over the next couple of days we enjoyed our trip to Hell, riding in Brighton and another first for me, when we had a golf lesson with the pro at Huron Meadows Golf & Country Club. Well, you can’t be good at everything!
I showed real skill at driving the golf cart across the hiking trails and cross-country ski trails , however, until I thought I was back in an ATV and tumbled the thing.
Because of the enormous variety of trees, Michigan’s Upper Peninsula rates among the best ‘fall foliage’ in America and is a spectacularly beautiful sight with great sunsets. A guided tour aboard the Island Queen across one of the country’s largest man-made lakes displayed Kensington Metropark in all its autumn glory before we were captivated by the tranquillity of a well-stocked Butterfly House.
And how better to complete the adventure trip of a lifetime, than by a final Zip Line, Highropes Adventure Course and tour through the Howell nature Centre. There’s only one word to cover this Great Lakes trip — awesome.
- For further information on the Great Lakes of North America visit greatlakesnorthamerica.co.uk or call 08456 020 574
From www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk
Diethelm Travel bring world’s biggest corporate golf tournament to Asia
Jan 28th
The world’s biggest corporate golf challenge; Bringing the world of business together.
The world’s biggest corporate golf tournament has arrived in Asia with the launch of the World Corporate Golf Challenge Asia series. Part of an international network of amateur corporate golf tournaments, Diethelm Travel have secured the rights to the World Corporate Golf Challenge Asia (WCGC Asia) from global rights holder, Madrid-based OM Premium.
Speaking at the signing, David Pettigrew, Director of Golf, Diethelm Travel, said “We’re very excited about launching the World Corporate Golf Challenge Asia. It’s a unique concept where corporate two-player teams compete against other amateur corporate teams, with the winning team of each national final going on an all-expenses-paid-trip to the World Finals where they have a chance to become World Champions.”
An annual event, the World Corporate Golf Challenge attracts over 60,000 executives playing in 15,000 teams from more than 25 countries. Since it started in 1993, more than one million golfers have competed in the World Corporate Golf Challenge for the chance to represent their country.
Diethelm Travel securing the Asian rights for the World Corporate Golf Challenge.
From left: John Watson, CEO, Diethelm Travel Group; Jose Guerra, Chairman, OM Premium; David Pettigrew, Director of Golf, Diethelm Travel.
Diethelm Travel have chosen Thailand to be the first World Corporate Golf Challenge Asia event. The 2010/2011 Thailand Finals will take place on 17th March at the only Greg Norman course in Thailand, the Thana City Golf & Sports Club, just outside Bangkok.
The event provides a playing environment where competitors will feel like they are playing in a PGA tournament, whilst at the same time having fun with plenty of opportunity for networking. Up to 72 teams (144 participants) will take part in the Thailand Finals.
The World Corporate Golf Challenge Asia is open to any company or organisation based in the country where the tournament is being held. The World Corporate Golf Challenge is an amateur handicap golf tournament where two players are eligible to represent the entrant. Each regional final consists of an 18 hole stableford competition.
The winner of each country’s final go on an all-expenses-paid-trip to the World Finals which will be held 3 – 8 May 2011 at Simola in South Africa, where they will represent not only their company but also their country.
Diethelm Travel will launch a number of Asian events as part of the World Corporate Golf Challenge for the 2011/2012 series and will expand further into new markets in 2012/2013, having secured licences for events in the following countries: Cambodia; China; Hong Kong; Indonesia; Japan; Laos; North Korea; South Korea; Singapore; Sri Lanka; Taiwan; Philippines; Thailand and Vietnam.
From www.etravelblackboardasia.com
Jason Deegan: My 2010 Travel Awards Part 2 – Great golf resorts
Jan 3rd
Welcome back to my 2010 travel golf awards. Today’s story focuses on golf resorts.
I’ve never been a hotel snob … but this year could turn me into one. I rested my head at two hotels named to Conde Nast’s World’s Best list: The One&Only Palmilla in Mexico (No. 15) and the Hotel Murano (No. 72) in Tacoma, Wash. In my eyes, the remarkable Fairmont Banff Springs in Alberta, Adare Manor in Ireland and West Baden Springs Hotel in French Lick, Ind., are just as impressive in stature. Each of these iconic hotels is like an ‘Eighth wonder of the world’ featuring marvelous architecture and old-world craftsmanship. Pictured above is a frontal view from the Fairmont Banff Springs, remarkably built in 1885.
My wife got to live her lifelong dream by staying at the lux Grand Floridian Resort & Spa at Walt Disney World, while I was playing golf in the land of Mickey Mouse. Sorry, the Days Inn just doesn’t cut it anymore.
Best U.S. Golf Resort: French Lick Resort in Indiana.
It’s too bad French Lick is so hidden in rural Indiana southwest of Bloomington. If this place had a California zip code, it would be compared to Pebble Beach. The contrast between the two courses – the cruel Pete Dye course and the playable Donald Ross course – is stark. With its towering atrium (pictured above), the West Baden Springs hotel is a tribute to the human imagination. The casino in the equally refined French Lick Springs Hotel adds a nightlife component few golf resorts can match. Runners-up: Grand Floridian, Ritz-Carlton Dove Mountain in Marana, Ariz., near Tucson. The Westin La Cantera in San Antonio.
Best International Golf Resort: One&Only Palmilla in Los Cabos, Mexico.
With nearly five staff members per guest, this swanky joint delivers customer service at its best. This intimate resort has real sex appeal for couples, too. The Market restaurant is one of the best in all of Mexico. Runners-up: Doonbeg in Ireland, Fairmont Banff Springs and Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge in Alberta, Cananda. The Fairmont Banff Springs, known as the “Castle in the Rockies” is a sight to behold. The view from my room was a canvas of mountain scenery, a rollicking river in the shadows of towering peaks.
Biggest Surprise U.S. Resort: Grand Geneva Resort, Lake Geneva, Wis.
A multi-million dollar upgrade has added a touch of luxury to a resort known more as a family getaway. It has fun for all ages: from the indoor water park, to two excellent golf courses and the fabulous food at the Geneva Chophouse. Runner-up: The Marriott Battle House Renaissance Mobile Hotel & Spa is another spot that shines after a renovation. Golfers can enjoy the spoils of staying downtown while staying just minutes away from at the 36-hole Magnolia Grove Golf Club, part of the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail. The Westin La Cantera Resort in San Antonio suits all tastes, from romantic getaways to corporate and family outings.
Biggest Surprise International Resort: The Delta Lodge at Kananaskis in Alberta, Cananda.
The Fairmont brand – especially Banff Springs and Jasper Park Lodge – dominate the Canadian luxury scene. Yet Delta can compete, from the comfort of the rooms to the dining experiences, including the Seasons Steakhouse at Kananaskis. Pictured is the view from the walking trail around the resort. Runners-up: The Adare Manor Hotel & Golf Resort in Ireland and Jasper Park Lodge in Alberta, Canada.
Best Family Golf Resort in the World: Walt Disney World in Orlando.
Disney has four courses to match four theme parks. That means I can play golf every day while sending the kids off with mom and grandma to those crazy parks. Perfect. While they’re fighting crowds, I’m awash in the calming allure of nature. The real animal kingdom at Disney just might be the Magnolia and Palm golf courses across from the Grand Floridian. I saw deer, turkeys, a bald eagle and tons of other birds.
Best U.S. Family Resort (besides Disney): Kalahari Resort in the Wisconsin Dells.
This amazing, mammoth indoor-outdoor waterpark resort that started the waterpark craze in 2000 owns the nearby 27-hole Trapper’s Turn Golf Club, designed by Andy North. Trapper’s Turn features its own watery thrills, with four holes of the Lakes nine set on 13-acre Mystic Lake. Runners-up: Boyne Mountain Resort and The Homestead Resort in Michigan, Grand Geneva Resort. Both Boyne and Grand Geneva have great indoor water parks as well. Boyne’s Avalanche Bay is one of the largest in the Midwest, but I was more smitten with the wonderful beachfront setting on Deer Lake, which I discovered for the first time this summer.
Best International Family Resort: The Jasper Park Lodge in Alberta, Canada.
The splendor of the Canadian Rockies is on full display. Children can swim and explore. Outdoor activities, from hiking to white-water rafting, abound. The luxury cabins provide privacy for families and plenty of room to roam and relax. Pictured above is the lodge lobby.
Best U.S. Hotel-Golf Course Partnership: Chambers Bay and Hotel Murano in Tacoma.
These two properties are linked only by their lofty standards. They’ve teamed up to form a unique golf package. Guests can stay in downtown Tacoma in an artsy, modern hotel with a glass-blowing motif (pictured above is glass-blown art of a boat hanging in the lobby) and play a links golf masterpiece on the edge of the Puget Sound that will host the 2015 U.S. Open. The two are transforming the way traveling golfers think about the Pacific Northwest. It used to be Bandon Dunes or bust. Not anymore.
Best International Hotel-Golf Course Partnership: Royal County Down and the Slieve Donard Hotel.
The two neighbors in Newcastle, Northern Ireland, both special. All hotel guests need to do is walk out the back door, through the club’s gates and they’re at the most revered links in the world. Following a $20 million renovation (U.S.), the iconic Victorian hotel, owned and operated by Hastings, now features one of the premier resort spas in Europe.
Best U.S. Spa: Ritz-Carlton Dove Mountain.
The theme of the 17,000-foot spa is wood, earth, water and fire. The men’s portion is no afterthought. It’s comfortable enough to spend a couple hours lounging in the outdoor hot tub next to a fireplace or in the glass-enclosed outdoor sauna and steam rooms. Boulders marked with petroglyphs inscribed sometime between 300 B.C. and 1500 A.D. are easily visible at the cozy co-ed outdoor pool and hot tub. Pictured is the pool area at the resort. Runner-up: Castle Rock Health Club & Spa at the Westin La Cantera Resort in San Antonio.
Best International Spa: Palmilla.
A golf yoga class – a new program at the resort – before my round at the resort course was followed by the ultimate surprise, a calming foot wash and massage in the intimate yoga garden. There are similar surprises around every corner of the spa’s outdoor courtyard. This spa has golf-specific treatments to heal injury or soothe sore muscles. It also features an excellent fitness center and free daily exercise classes for guests. Runner-up: Doonbeg. While visiting Jasper Park, the resort was just completing its renovated spa. I’m guessing it’s as good as the rest of the resort’s amenities.
Best non-golf activity at a Golf Resort: (tie) Ziplining at Boyne Mountain Resort and hiking at the Ritz-Carlton Dove Mountain. Both are a thrill. The new zip lines at Boyne are just long enough to be scary, but short enough that most kids or tepid adults can handle them. They were a great addition to an already exceptional resort. Spectacular scenery accompanies a hike in a striking boulder-strewn desert canyon setting just outside the doors of the new Ritz outside of Tucson.
Best non-golf activity off-property: Most people would chose the Kananaskis Heli Tour over the Canadian Rockies. That was fun, but I loved white water rafting down the Kananaskis River with Inside Out Experience Outdoor Adventures. Unfortunately they didn’t let us bring cameras on the raft, so here’s a photo of my bird.
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Navy paid Northrop golf outing, air show travel, audit says
Jan 2nd
Northrop Grumman Corp. was paid at least $206,000 by Navy contracts officials for “questionable” travel billings to a golf outing and international air shows, according to an audit by the Pentagon’s inspector general. While Northrop Grumman subsequently reduced its billings by that amount after inquiries by the inspector general, “there is a potential for additional unallowable expenses charged” by the contractor, according to the Dec. 23 audit report.
The billing and payment of travel to a golf outing and to air shows in Paris and Singapore are emblematic of “serious problems with the overall management” of a $1.8 billion contract to develop the Navy’s first high-altitude drone for long-range surveillance, the report said. The development contract is the first part of a potential $19 billion program for 68 aircraft.
Altogether, Navy contracting officials didn’t thoroughly review or validate 39 bills to ensure Northrop Grumman was entitled to $329.3 million in payments so far, and haven’t made sure the contractor has an adequate inventory system to safeguard millions of dollars in government-furnished equipment, according to the audit report.
“As a result, the program is at risk for increased costs, schedule delays and not meeting the needs of the warfighter,” it said.
Tigers Travel to Music City for Mason Rudolph Championship
Sep 23rd
Sept. 23, 2010
Tournament Information 
MEMPHIS, Tenn.– The University of Memphis men’s golf team will travel to Franklin, Tenn. to compete in the 2010 Mason Rudolph Championship hosted by Vanderbilt University Sept. 24-26.
Mason Rudolph, the man who the event is named after, actually has his roots in Tiger nation. Rudolph is a native of nearby Clarksville, Tenn. and actually played his collegiate golf at then Memphis State (now the University of Memphis) before being called into service in 1956. After serving in the military for several years, he returned home and started on the PGA Tour. Rudolph played in the Memphis Open (Now the St. Jude Classic) for 23 years, posting a low finish of 3rd in 1958. In 1950, at the tender age of 16, he became the youngest player to ever compete in the U.S. Open. In 1995, Rudolph was inducted as a charter member into the Tennessee Golf Hall of Fame.
17 teams will be competing at the par-71, 7,100-yard Vanderbilt Legends Club South course: Akron, Arkansas Sate, Belmont, Davidson, Georgia State, Lipscomb, Memphis, Mississippi State, Middle Tennessee, Oklahoma, Ole Miss, South Alabama, South Carolina, UT-Chattanooga, UT-Martin, Vanderbilt, and Western Carolina.
MTSU won last year’s rain-shortened event. The Blue Raiders posted scores of 283-273 and beat out runner-up and 2008 team champion South Carolina in a scorecard playoff. Jonathan Randolph of Ole Miss posted an 11-under-par 36-hole total of 131 to capture medalist honors.
Live scoring will be available throughout the event via www.golfstat.com.
-www.gotigersgo.com-
