Hello again friends,
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Here are some highlights of this month's issue:
- New day and date for Travel Bowl "Sundaes"
- Cranberries to Chrysanthemums - fall colors of Maine
- An East Africa Safari is so much more than animals - although you will see thousands
- Time is running out
- Gertie's hot for gals to make new year travel resolutions
- More than 100 gnomes collected around the world spark travel memories
- More ....
Until next month,
Larry
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Mele Kalikimaka!
Hawaiian, along with English, is an official language of our 50th State. Although spoken exclusively by only about 2,000 Hawaii inhabitants, it is regularly intermixed with English by all Islanders especially when conveying special thoughts or greetings.
Such is Mele Kalikimake which is Merry Christmas in the Hawaiian language. One regularly hears and sees this greeting when in the Islands during the Holidays. Some of us may be old enough to remember when Bing Crosby and also The Andrew Sisters popularized this greeting via their voices in a radio air waves song sensation.
So friends, from all of our team, please have a Mele Kalikimaka!
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New Day & Date - You Talked - We Listened!
After revealing the date of our upcoming Travel Bowl "Sundaes" event as Sunday February 4 it was brought to our attention that for many of our travel clients living considerable driving distances from Great Bend Saturday is a much more convenient day.
The new day is Saturday. However, we are negotiating venue site and date that will allow us to serve you best. Watch your email for your personal invitation and specific details that you will receive shortly after the first of the year.
Along with making and renewing travel friendships, having the opportunity to capture special incentives win travel prizes, and enjoying ice cream "sundaes" 2025 travel opportunities will be unveiled for the first time.
No mistake above - we are talking 2025 in addition to 2024. We are currently in contract negotiations to obtain prime destinations and dates for 2025. People are reserving earlier than ever to avoid "sold out" situations making early planning absolutely necessary.
Consider the following email directed to our team recently substantiating demand is great and that for preferred quality travel experiences 2025 is "now." It is from our personal contact with Collette, a major worldwide travel supplier with programs to all seven continents.
Special note: the virtual meeting referred to was held earlier today, December 21.
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Hi PGA team,
I hope all is well. I am getting in touch with all of my top producers to set up an appointment to discuss block orders you would like for 2025 (emphasis supplied). I know we are just hitting 2024, but the way inventory is flying off the shelves, I want to be sure to get your orders in place for 2025 so you have what you need before it is gone (emphasis supplied).
I am open the week of December 18th if you would like to set up a virtual meeting so we can get the ball rolling. I have some great ideas I would be happy to provide as well.
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Cranberries To Chrysanthemums - With A Lot More Fall Colors In Between!
When one thinks about New England fall foliage the variegated colors of the reds, purples, oranges, yellows, and greens of the abundant tree-covered landscapes come to mind! But, there are many more autumn colors everywhere.
Our granddaddy of personally escorted and value-added fall group experiences is "LEAVES, LIGHTHOUSES & LOBSTERS: Maine In The Fall - the Name Says It All." For more than a quarter century we have taken hundreds of travelers (some have joined us more than once, some doing it three different times, others four times to see and learn about the "real" Maine with "behind the scenes" experiences that are many times with personal friends and traditional "Mainers" like four-time Maine State Farm Bureau President Bob Hammond and his family.
Bob is the patriarch of the Hammond family who owns and operates Lynch Hill Farms producing cranberries, blue berries, cultivated shiitake mushrooms, and balsam holiday wreaths and centerpieces, all of which are shipped nationwide. The family also serves as major suppliers to the grocery chains throughout New England.
It is through these personal up close encounters that one learns the "fall colors of Maine" are abundant in the trees of Maine (like the third photo from the top at the left) but that fall colors are also abundant in harvested cranberries (wet harvest is shown in top photo - sometimes it is a dry harvest where the fruit is gathered with a miniature-type hand-operated combine apparatus).
A surprise to most are the red leaves forming a natural carpet on the rolling hills of Maine shown in the second photo from the top. Maine's blueberries do not grow on cultivated bushes. Instead, they grow wild spreading out over great distances - a single ground-hugging wild blueberry vine can cover as much as an acre of ground. In the fall after harvest the leaves of these vines that are not much taller than eight inches turn a bright red adding their foliage to the fall colors of Maine.
And, then there are things in Maine, like the Somesville Bridge, which add colors to autumn with strategically-placed plantings like the chrysanthemums shown in the bottom photo.
Lest we forget, in the same vein, there are also abundant hands on lighthouse and lobster experiences awaiting those who join us.
A four-page detailed brochure opens when you click on the following link:
Three reasons you are best served when you reserve now:
- Spaces are limited
- There is a 100% Reservation Deposit Refund Guarantee
- Travel protection is included
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Our Kenya & Tanzania African Safari Is So Much More Than Just Wild Animals!
Kenya and Tanzania combine to create veritable Garden of Eden for the wild animals of East Africa. They roam freely over thousands of square miles in constant pursuit of their life cycle, more so than any other place on earth.
It is reported that Tanzania and Kenya are home to around 7 million wild animals comprised of more than 400 different species. You will see more kinds and more numbers of wild animals than you can imagine. Our recent safari estimated seeing, oftentimes up close - within several yards distance, between 25,000 and 30,000.
On our upcoming safari you will observe the life cycle - from birth to death - as the wild animals follow their daily pursuit of food and shelter over many miles of territory.
But, wild animals are only a part of what one sees and experiences. Unusual trees, plants and other vegetation abound. An example is the "Upside Down" Baobab tree so named because its tree limbs look like tree roots. It is also referred to as the "tree of life," as baobabs play a key role in their ecosystem. They help keep soil conditions humid, prevent soil erosion. Their huge trunks store immense amounts of water resulting in food, water, and shelter for various birds, reptiles, and insects.
Amazing vistas like unforgettable sunrises and sunsets add to one's overall experiences.
However, what strikes most people is the close interaction they are able to have with the native population. How they live in small villages comprised of tiny huts and surrounded by intertwined tree branches to form fencing encircling the village will be revealed. One learns that their wealth is often measured in the number of cattle they possess. Even more memorable are the close family ties held together with happy smiles resulting is some of the most happy and satisfied people on earth.
The East African experiences of one of our safaris cannot be explained fully by anyone. They must be observed first hand. However, what we can promise is that you will return home with a better understanding of what really counts in life combined with an appreciation of what you have experienced; all in addition to having seen thousands of wild animals of all types and descriptions.
Important! Only six spaces remain on our upcoming safari experience in October. Clicking the following link opens detailed brochure.
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Time Is Running Out for 2023 - Also Running Out If You Want Quality Travel In 2024!
Special Note: When you click on each of the highlighted tour titles below a detailed four-page brochure will open for your thorough examination. Remember, on all our "FEATURE TRAVEL" departures everything referenced in the brochure is "included" in the one price you pay. Others "do not" practice this approach. Always compare to determine that which is best for you and to know for sure the total costs of your travels.
Only two of our earlier 2024 personally escorted and value-added group "FEATURE TRAVEL" departures "may" have remaining availability. Spaces have been recalled and spaces will be available only if the stars line up right. Doubtful, but we'll try.
They are:
Starting in June and running through the end of the year only the following "FEATURE travel" departures have any remaining availability. Again, some are limited as to remaining space and time availability.
We cannot urge strongly enough for you to not wait to reserve. Contact us today with your questions.
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Gals - It's Time To Make & Keep Those New Year Travel Resolutions!
Gertie here!
More and more of you gals are rewarding yourselves. Recently had a phone call from past traveler living in Eastern Kansas. She wanted to go. Her husband didn't. She then sought out her gal friends to join her. Power to you gals.
2024 is already presenting some sold out situations because of unprecedented travel demands. Contact us quickly and we'll still do our best to make it work. Also, now is the time to be planning 2025 your "Gal Go Aways!"
Consider:
St. Augustine, Florida
- Have an amazing Florida adventure in the historic city of St. Augustine. Visit the Castillo de San Marcos, stroll along St. George Street, and take a scenic boat tour for a unique experience that will this galls' trip special.
- Hilton St. Augustine Historic Bayfron features colorful cottage-style buildings and balconies overlooking Matanzas Bay. Walking disstance to the Historic Disstrict and restaurants.
Scottsdale, Arizona -
- Relax in the Arizona desert oasis of Scottsdale. It's the perfect destintion to pamper yourselves at luxurious spas, explore the Sonoran Desert, and savor southwestern cuisine.
- Consider a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the Sonoran Desert, hiking in Papago Park, enjoying sweet treats at Sugal Bowl Ice Cream Parlor.
- Fairmont Scottsdale Princess is a stunning property with spacious rooms and suites, and larger villas if you want to bring friends. It's one of the best "gals" resorts in Scottsdale. There's a spa, five fabulous restaurants, multiple swimming pools, and seasonal events like Christmas at the Princess that shouldn't be missed during the holiday season.
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Gentle Gnomes Gathered Around The World Serve As Catalyst Of Travel Memories For Karen Zimbelman!
A collection of gnomes now numbering more than 100 started in 2016 with a single gnome purchase at Heidelberg, Germany's famous Christmas Market.
Since that first acquisition Karen Zimbelman of Wichita has grown her family of gnomes with additional purchases in Germany, France, Austria, Norway, Finland, North Pole (aboard Viking Sea cruise ship), Slovakia, Switzerland, Canada and at least 20 states. Today she is placing special emphasis upon adding gnome couples.
The Christmas Season is a special time for Karen to display her continually-growing collections. Her lovely home is a veritable travel treasure trove.
Shown in the photos is a portion of her gnome collection displayed for the Holidays. Close examination of the photos also reveals other memory-creating travel purchases lining the walls of her home. Among them are acquisitions made in Egypt, on an African safari, and more.
Through Karen's love of travel, she has accomplished membership in the following Please Go Away™ Vacations' Travel Achievement Recognition Societies:
- TRAVEL WALL OF FAME - 5 or more personally escorted and value-added group "FEATURE TRAVEL" experiences
- SUPER WORLD TRAVELER - 10 or more personally escorted and value-added "international" group "FEATURE TRAVEL" experiences
- SEVEN CONTINENT CLUB - Achieving all the world's continents.
Congratulations Karen. Thanks for "going away" with us!
Important! We know others of our travelers have similar achievements and travel collections, some even displaying them in special "travel memory" rooms of your homes. We would love to have you share them. Please contact us.
"Travels are memories made and shared,
that are never forgotten!"
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PGAV Kitchen's Recipe Of The Month
American Queen Voyages'
CARAWAY PORK CHOPS WITH BACON-MUSTARD POTATO SALAD
American Queen Voyages’ has just unveiled a new lineup of recipes, created in partnership with America’s Test Kitchen that will tantalize your tastes for exploring America’s rivers.
The new series, "6 Rivers, 6 Recipes," will showcase signature dishes that define the distinct cultures found along the rivers featured on AQV itineraries.
This month's featured recipe draws inspiration from the rich history of the upper Mississippi and German settlers who left an indelible mark on its culinary traditions.
Each recipe has been thoughtfully handpicked by AQV Culinary Ambassador Regina Charboneau (one of the special culinary hosts on our upcoming BEST OF THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST CULINARY & COCKTAILS CRUISE) and America’s Test Kitchen executive editorial director and co-host Bridget Lancaster.
This month's "6 Rivers, 6 Recipes" selection will make a great addition to your Thanksgiving Dinner.
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This Month's Travel Quote!
"Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all.”
– Helen Keller
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This Month's Travel Trivia!
This year's Thanksgiving holiday shattered travel records. There were 2,907,378 people screened Sunday at U.S. airports - the highest number of people to go through security on a single day ever, according to the Transportation Security Administration.
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What Our Travelers Say!
DON MILLER - Emporia, KS
Hi Paula: Linda just received an e-mail indicating approval of the claim with a check to be sent. MANY, MANY thanks for all of your time/efforts to help us. We wish you/yours a most happy holiday season. We look forward to our future travels.
STAN & SUZY WERNER - Olathe, KS
This company goes the extra mile for you. Another saying would be "you get what you pay for". We have traveled many times with them and never have we been disappointed...thank's Paula!!!!
AMBER SCHEIDEMAN - Great Bend, KS
Thank you so much for your help with our trip to St Thomas! Everything went smoothly! We had an amazing time!
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Final Point To Ponder!
Hau'oli Makahiki Hou and Mahalo!
Just as the opening segment of this newsletter was a Merry Christmas greeting expressed in the Hawaiian language so is this final point to ponder expressing more of our wishes for you in the Hawaiian language. The first is Happy New Year. The sincere hope of our entire team is that 2024 will hold only good things for you and yours, or if that challenges arise they will be short lived and easily resolved.
At this time of one year closing down only to soon give birth to a new cycle of twelve months our team also needs to say thank you for your continued travel support and friendship. We are truly blessed with both. You have allowed us to exceed pre-pandemic levels of travel activities and achievements.
We also need to say thank you to the hundreds of new travelers who have chosen to go away with us for the first time during 2024 individually or as a member of one of our select and special personally escorted group experiences. Thank you for placing your trust in us. We look forward to serving you and yours for many years to come.
And, of course, a special thanks to our family of repeat travelers who continue, sometimes through four generations of family, to allow us to serve your travel needs and desires.
Hau'oli Makahiki Hou (Happy New Year) and Mahalo (Thank You)!
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Click on each photo or title to have detailed brochure open!
2024
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The price & name of a travel experience
"do not" make the experience.
What's included makes the experience.
Always compare
and know before reserving!
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Travels are memories made
and shared that
are never forgotten!
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Avoid having to say,
"I Wish We Would Have!"
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If it doesn't take food from your table or shelter
from your head,
why not?
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For good reasons, we
all run out of time
to do all the
things we
want to
do!
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Paula's Monthly
AS YOU LIKE IT
Newsletter
Something for everyone "plus"up-to-the-minute opportunities for free-spirited travelers!
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Cora's Monthly
CORA'S COMMENTS
Newsletter
Something for everyone "plus"up-to-the-minute opportunities for younger travelers including destination weddings
and honeymoons!
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Weekly
THURSDAY TRAVEL
TEA TIMES
Just like a traditional British "Tea" - tempting "mini
bites" of upcoming
opportunities!
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Monthly
TRAVEL TIPS
Suggestions on making your travels easier and more rewarding!
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ARMCHAIR ADVENTURES
Three to four minute videos of your friends and neighbors experiencing one of our
"FEATURE" TRAVELS!
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Periodic
Feature Travel
SNEAK PREVIEWS
Online "peeks" at select upcoming travels!
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