Get ready for the 1st Annual Atlanta Smooth Jazz Festival!!

September 27 - 28 2008 - Considered the Empire City of the South, Atlanta will be the host of the Smooth Jazz universe for two days in the twilight of summer. The Atlanta Smooth Jazz Festival ignites a two-day jazz celebration that will feature some of the top Smooth Jazz talent in the world such as Bass Man Wayman Tisdale and smooth Jazz native son Boney James.

Join other Smooth Jazz Aficionado’s at Mable House Barnes Amphitheater September 27th and 28th as the smooth sounds permeate through the Peachtree lined city as this all national recording artist line up performs some of the greatest music Smooth Jazz has to offer. VIP Packages are available which include: Reserved front tables for 4 people located directly in front of and adjacent to the stage,       VIP Lunch and Dinner on Saturday and Sunday, Unlimited water, tea, and soft drinks Saturday and Sunday, 5 Complimentary alcoholic drinks per day (Beer and Wine) (Saturday and Sunday), Venue: Mablehouse Barnes Amphitheater, 5329 Floyd Road, Mableton, GA 30126, phone: 404-249-6400, Hours of Operation: Doors open at 12:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday (rain or shine).  Artist line-up subject to change.

Two Days, Ten Acts… One Great Festival… The Atlanta Smooth Jazz Festival…

Escape To….. Living It Up In Belize!! The ABC of vacation luxury and exciting adventures - Part 1

Booking a vacation can often become the most stressful part of the trip, especially when you and your travel mate have differing ideas of what makes a good getaway. You like spelunking and tracking giant lizards, they like frou frou accommodations and foot massages… Why isn’t there a place that can cater to both travel personalities? There is — Belize. And creating a unique and incredible getaway that encompasses the best of luxury and the most exciting of adventures is as easy as reciting your ABC’s.

Letter  A … Stands for: Ambergris Caye - A stretch of island so small and delicate that locals get around in golf carts, Ambergris Caye is the perfect spot for those who are on the hunt for the kind of relaxation that only comes with powdery white sand and crystal clear aqua water. With a collection of incredible hotels and fantastic restaurants, even the most discerning traveler will leave with a smile on their face.  Letter B… Stands For: Breadfruit - It’s like a potato, only better. The breadfruit comes in season toward the fall and features a deliciously starchy texture that’s unlike anything you’ve ever tasted. Have Sharon at Hamanasi fry some up for you, and make sure you get a side of garlic sauce for dipping.  Letter C Stands For… Cave Tubing -Deep in the jungles of Belize lies one of the most fabulous experiences you’ll have on your trip. Part exhilarating and part relaxing — and yes, I realize that’s an oxy moron — cave tubing is an adventure unlike any other. Grab an inner tube and prepare to go for a bit of a hike before you slip into the lazy river waters, which gently guide you through spacious caves featuring gorgeous rock work and even a surprise or two.
Letter D… Stands For: Dolphin Experience - Located just a short boat ride away from the Radisson in Belize City, Hugh Parkey’s Dolphin Experience is truly one of a kind. Learn the ins and outs of dolphin life with a knowledgeable guide before getting in the water with a skilled trainer, who shows you all the clever tricks a dolphin can do. Plus, you’ll even get to cradle one and get a porpoise kiss captured on camera for the ultimate souvenir!
Letter E… Stands For: Elvi’s Kitchen - This little Ambergris Caye eatery has been owned and operated by Ms. Elvi since 1974, and has survived many a hurricane to continue to bring patrons some of the best seafood on the island. The coconut shrimp starter isn’t the deep-fried concoction you’re used to — instead, expect fresh and juicy shrimp in rich coconut milk. Chase it with Elvi’s Scallops grilled with garlic butter, and you’re halfway to heaven. Sandy floors and a thatched roof complete your island dining experience.  Letter F… Stands For: Fruit - Belize features some of the freshest produce around, meaning everywhere you eat will offer freshly squeezed juices — try a watermelon lime blend — and chunks of mango, pineapple and watermelon for breakfast. Yum!  Letter G… Stands For: Grand Colony - If luxury is your aim, this is the spot for you. Grand Colony at Ambergris Caye’s Banyan Bay feature top of the line two and three-bedroom condos with rich hardwood floors, fully functional granite and stainless steel kitchens, big screen TVs and Jacuzzi tubs, not to mention master bedrooms with a bed the size of a football field. Most of the units overlook the sea, making your balcony the perfect spot for a nightcap.  Letter H… Stands For: Hamanasi - Combining the best of the jungle and beach atmospheres, Hamanasi will definitely make you feel like you’re on vacation. You have the option of choosing a beach-facing room or the incredibly unique tree houses for $375 a night in high season. The tree houses are set back from the hubbub, making it perfect for those on a honeymoon — especially because there aren’t any phones, alarm clocks or televisions to distract you!
Letter I… Stands For: Internet - If you find it hard to leave your corporate life behind, some hotels offer Internet for your convenience… but do you really want to log on to a net meeting when you could be soaking up the sun?  Letter J… Stands For: Jaguar Paw - Deep in the jungle lies Jaguar Paw, a unique 16-room escape from the everyday that offers you the opportunity to get up close and personal with nature. Booking a room at Jaguar Paw means you’re at ground zero for cave tubing, within a short distance of the incredible Belize Zoo, and close to Mayan sites like Xunantunich. And if you’re really up for an adrenaline-fused adventure, try repelling, rock climbing or take a jungle walk.  Letter K… Stands For: Kneading - What’s a proper vacation without a spa treatment? Make sure you book some time at Matachica’s Jade Spa, where skilled massage therapists know exactly what to do to melt your cares away. Sign up for the 90-minute Therapeutic to really get rid of that stress.  Letter L… Stands For: Lobster - It’s fresh, it’s plentiful, it’s delicious. Have it as much as possible while you’re there. If you’re a serious lobster fan, visit Belize Jun. 14-21 for their annual lobster-fest. During this week-long celebration of the beginning of lobster season, watch local fishermen compete to see who brings in the most catch! The best part? Local restaurants cook up lobster feasts more ways than you could possibly imagine! Yum.  For more information on the direction, structure, and progress of the tourism industry in Belize please visit the Belize Tourism Board’s tourism information site at : www.belizetourism.org BELIZE TOURISM BOARD
P.O. Box 32564 Regent Street, Belize City, Belize, Tel: 011-501-227-2420, Fax: 011-501-227-2423
Toll free: 1-800-624-0686, Email: info@travelbelize.org, Website: http://www.travelbelize.org

Steele Luxury Travel -Mykonos Details Now Available! Announcing 3 New Steele Luxury Travel Destinations!

 November 6 - November 13, 2008 - Buenos Aires is one of South America’s most vibrant cities immersed with style and European spice. Roam through the cobblestone streets, visit art galleries, learn the romantic Tango or dine at a classic Argentinean steakhouse. Each land package includes daily breakfast for two, roundtrip Mercedes Benz airport transfers in the US, airport transfers in destination city, as well as taxes and fees.  Steele Travelers may also add on optional excursions to personalize their land itinerary. Land Only: From $2,350 (Axel) & From $3,200 (Faena) per person, based on double occupancy. Including Business Class Airfare: From $6,200 per person, based on double occupancy.

AIRLINE SELECTION: - LAN Airlines Premium Business Class, TAM Airlines Business Class,

HOTEL SELECTION: Spend six luxurious nights at one of the following hotels: Faena Hotel + Universe is housed in a transformed historic grain building featuring ultra-luxurious rooms and suites. Blending the past with the present, the hotel is located on the waterfront of the new Puerto Madero neighborhood of Buenos Aires, offering immediate access to the city center. Inspired by Alan Faena and designed by Philippe Starck, guest accommodations show the decadence and romance of the Belle Epoque while providing a modern feeling and luxurious comfort. Faena Hotel + Universe is located in the El Porteno Building, Puerto Madero Este, in the heart of downtown Buenos Aires – a few steps from Costanera Sur. The hotel is close to the financial center, the government house and to San Telmo – the oldest neighborhood in Buenos Aires famous for its typical architecture, antique stores and Tango houses.   Axel Hotel Buenos Aires Marketed as the first five-star gay hotel in Latin America (but also “heterofriendly”), this hotel confirmed what many gay travelers already knew: the Argentine capital is becoming South America’s next party capital. Situated in the bohemian-chic neighborhood of San Telmo, the 48-room hotel features Eames furnishings, a gymnasium and a poolside bar.

ITINERARY: Friday November 7th - Arrival to Buenos Aires - Transfer to Faena Hotel in by Mercedes Benz, Arrival to Faena Hotel and Universe - Welcome drink at the Library Lounge, VIP night out at gay venue: Palacio Alsina.  Saturday November 8th: Lunch at Puerto Madero “Gourmet Porteno Restaurant”, 2:00pm Buenos Aires City tour:  This three-hour tour provides an in-depth introduction to the history, architecture, the culture of its people, anecdotes and secrets of Buenos Aires. Visit the lively downtown area, the “aristocratic” northern neighborhoods and the working class southern districts. 9:30pm: Dinner at the trendy Sucre Restaurant, Sunday November 9th - Free day.  Optional visit to the San Telmo Flea Market.  Sunday evening Pool Party @ The Axel Hotel!, Monday November 10th: Dinner & Tango Show at Rojo Tango at the Faena Hotel + Universe Ushered in through a discrete entrance guarded by two immaculate bouncers, the sultry, sexy, and seductive evening setting is set.  Tuesday November 11th:  A day in Estancia La Cinacina: Take a trip to the town of San Antonio de Areco.  Tour the quaint city of Areco and see the work of the most outstanding silversmiths in the River Plate area. The Estancia, located at just about 500 meters from the town, keeps the traditional charm of the Estancias in The Pampas region.  On arrival to La Cinacina, at about 11AM, you will be welcomed with music, “empanadas” (meat stuffed pastries), salami, country-made bread and drinks.  Use your time to take a guided horse back riding tour or carriage ride around the grounds.  At 1 PM, indulge in an authentic Argentinean Barbeque that includes.  During lunch there is a folk music and dance show.  Witness horse shows and experience a real Gaucho’s Party out in the countryside in a pleasant atmosphere of hospitality.  Wednesday November 12th: San Isidro - Delta del Tigre - Delta sailing - Mercado de Frutos (fruit market).  We first visit San Isidro, a traditional residential area known for its beautiful streets and residential mansions dating back to the XVIII century. The next stop is the Tigre River: the very impressive entrance to the Paraná Delta that is made up of scattered islands which we will experience on an hour long motor boat ride. The journey ends with a stop  at the local handcrafts and fruit market (Mercado de Frutos). Thursday 13th:  Evening transfer to airport.  Prices are quoted per person, based on two people participating.  Visit our site for more wonderfull deals: http://www.steeletravel.com/buenos.html

Escape To…. 365 Extraordinary days in OREGON!!

In Oregon, there’s always something to do. You can play world-class golf, cycle along hundreds of miles of designated bike lanes, take road-trips to wine country, hunt for fossils or get lost in the moment of a brilliantly crafted scene of play at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival.  There’s also plenty to see. In addition to pristine public beaches, high-desert country, painted hills and wine-producing valleys, Oregon is home to North America’s deepest river Gorge (Hells Canyon), the country’s deepest lake (Crater Lake) and the world’s second-most-climbed mountain (Mt. Hood), which also happens to host North America’s only year-round ski season.

So pack your bags, grab your clubs and hit the road. You’ve got some exploring to do!

Looking for great trip ideas in Oregon? Here are a few that we suggest… Oregon has more designated scenic byways and tour routes than any other state and we’d like you to check out the following 2-day, 3-day or 4-day suggested itineraries for road trips, day trips, getaways and tours in Oregon. And for even more ideas, read our blog and see what we (the Travel Oregon staff) recommend.

Before You Go: Many of the byways and road trips listed here travel through remote areas where gas stations are few and far between. So “fill’er up” when you have the chance. Since road and weather conditions can be hazardous, especially at higher elevations, we urge you to call for up-to-date information before starting out: 800.977.6368 or 541.889.3999; www.tripcheck.com. For emergencies, call 911.

Newport to the Dunes - In the shelter of Yaquina Head, Newport is home of the Oregon Coast Aquarium and the Hatfield Marine Science Center. Yaquina Head features a 125-year-old lighthouse and two unique intertidal areas, one of which is the nation’s only wheelchair accessible tide pool.
The superb scenery continues through Waldport and Yachats to the Cape Perpetua Scenic Area. Here, you can watch the waves rush in and out of Devil’s Churn or hike on trails high above it. It’s not far to picturesque Heceta Head Lighthouse and Sea Lion Caves, the world’s only mainland viewing area for Steller sea lions.
As the rugged cliffs give way to graceful sand dunes, you’ll arrive in Florence, a city that explodes with wild rhododendrons in spring. Florence is the gateway to the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, a 47-mil sandbox with areas designated for bird watching and dune riding. Honeyman State Park is a popular place to water-ski and camp. As you travel on through the dunes, take a side trip to the Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area at Reedsport.
Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area: With more than 31,000 acres, the Oregon Dunes offers something for everyone. You can camp, arrange a tour, take an exhilarating off-highway vehicle ride, walk along tranquil lakes, forest trails and beaches, and much more.
Additional information can be obtained by calling the Oregon Coast Visitors Association at   1-888-628-2101  or checking out the web at www.VisitTheOregonCoast.com You may also contact the Central Oregon Coast Association at  1-800-767-2064 or check out their web site at www.CoastVisitor.com

1. Day One - From Portland, I-84 is the direct route along the Columbia River. But to really experience the country’s only National Scenic Area, take Exit 17 south through Troutdale and follow the signs to the Historic Columbia River Highway/All-American Road. Before leaving Troutdale, visit the Harlow House Museum and McMenamins Edgefield, both on the National Register of Historic Places. Edgefield is a 25-acre estate that features a hotel, brewery, winery, an assortment of dining options, formal gardens and much more. Then grab some Gorge information at the West Columbia Gorge Chamber of Commerce and pick up some extra film for the sights ahead. Vista House at Crown Point, built in 1918, is a visitor center that commemorates the construction of the Historic Columbia River Highway inside and offers a panoramic view of the Gorge outside. Latourell, Wahkeena and Bridal Veil are among the many waterfalls close to the highway.
Multnomah Falls, which drops 620 feet to the historic Multnomah Falls Lodge, is Oregon’s most popular natural attraction, and for good reason. See salmon make their way upstream through the glass enclosed, underwater fish ladder at the visitor center at Bonneville Dam. Explore Cascade Locks, a town named for the locks that were built in the late 1800s to navigate boats past what were once dangerous rapids. Marine Park, a National Historic Site that includes the old canal and three lock-tender houses, is the starting point for many activities. While in Cascade Locks take a two-hour narrated sternwheeler cruise aboard the Sternwheeler Columbia Gorge. Stay the night in Hood River, a small but exciting community.
Hood River is known as the “Windsurfing Capital of the World.” When strong winds turn the river into a wild, wet roller coaster every “boardhead” for miles around can be found on the Columbia, skimming back and forth across the watery Oregon/Washington borders. Time your visit to the first Friday night of the month (April through December) and you will have a chance to experience the First Friday Art Walk in downtown Hood River. Local restaurants and shops transform themselves into bustling art galleries and welcome you in to see the work of local artists, hear live music, and sample the delicious local faire.

2. Day Two - While in Hood River, visit our wineries for a taste of the local vintages. Explore Saturday Market, open mid-May through mid-October for fresh local faire, music, crafts and art. Experience Oregon agriculture at its finest with a tour of Hood River’s Fruit Loop, a scenic 45 mile drive through acres of winter pear & apple orchards, farms and wineries all within view of the glistening peak of Mt. Hood. Climb aboard the Mt. Hood Railroad for a leisurely train ride through the gorgeous Hood River Valley and enjoy an hour layover in picturesque Parkdale — up close and personal with everyone’s favorite mountain - Mt. Hood. East of Hood River, hikers and bikers can enjoy a four-mile stretch of the Historic Columbia River Highway that is off limits to motor vehicles.

Peak Experience Loop Tour - A special sampling of wineries and galleries around Corvallis.

 For generations, local… A special sampling of wineries and galleries around Corvallis. For generations, local artisans and winemakers have shaped the Corvallis and Benton County lifestyle. A special sampling of these countryside wineries and galleried can be found on the self-guided tour designated as the Peak Experience Local Loop.  As you drive or bicycle the loop, splendid scenery is the backdrop for a variety of activities, from gathering fresh-cut flowers, herbs, organic seeds, fruits, and vegetables to discovering honey, preserves, and baked goods and experiencing fine wine and art—all infused with local flavor. Picnic sites abound, and special annual events are not to be missed.

1. In to Corvallis - Begin from Corvallis by driving west on U.S. Highway 20 to Philomath. Head south on 13th St., which becomes Fern Road. Turn right onto Grange Hall Road for a visit to the Gathering Together Farm, which offers the finest in locally grown organic produce, including a farm kitchen serving lunch and Sunday brunch.  Also on Grange Hall Road, stroll the elegant and serene Greengable Gardens, established in 1930. This 10-acre collector’s garden is graced by the peaceful sounds of a babbling brook.

2. Frolicking Philomath - Continue west on Grange Hall Road and turn left onto Highway 34. About 10 miles south of Philomath, turn right onto the Marys Peak Road and wind your way almost 10 miles to a viewpoint overlooking the Willamette Valley and Cascade peaks beyond. As the highest point in the Coast Range at 4,097 feet, Marys Peak welcomes over 75,000 visitors a year to her trails. Here you can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, camping, bird watching, and panoramic views.  Continue southwest on Highway 34 to the Thyme Garden Herb Company, an enchanting nursery and herbal display hidden away in the Coast Range. Bring a picnic and enjoy their unique gardens. From Thyme Gardens turn back (north) on Highway 34 to Decker Rd. Travel five miles and turn right onto Bellfountain Rd. to Finley National Wildlife Refuge. This 5,325-acre sanctuary harbors native wet prairie, rare oak savannah, and an old-growth big-leaf maple forest. An interpretive overlook and trail offer glimpses into these habitats and a chance to see songbirds, waterfowl, birds of prey, and deer. Return to Bellfountain Road and travel north to Greenberry Road. Turn right to Tyee Wine Cellars, located on the historic and scenic Buchanan Family Century Farm. Here you can purchase awar5d-winning wines, stroll a 1.5-mile Beaver Pond Loop nature trail, and enjoy a full calendar of wine tastings, dinners, concerts, and other events. Turn left onto Highway 99W to return to Corvallis. Stop in the Pegasus Gallery (just past the Post Office on 2nd St.) for exhibits by local, regional, and national artists. Local restaurants offer a wide choice of menus for a well-deserved dinner. 

Wineries abound in the Corvallis area. All offer complimentary wine tasting. Beginning Memorial Day weekend, you can enjoy tastings at Harris Bridge Vineyard, Springhill Cellars, or Tyee Wine Cellars. Year-round complimentary tastings of locally made fine wines are offered at Sahalie Cellars Wine Bar and Tasting Room or at Pheasant Court Winery’s tasting room, the Wine Vault. Wine is available for sale at all wineries. A complete list of wineries is available at Corvallis Tourism.

Applegate Valley Tour - This 40-mile tour takes you through Grants Pass and the quaint communities of Applegate, Ruch and Murphy. Wine tasting is available at Valley View Winery near Ruch. 

  Jacksonville, known for being a National Landmark City, features over 85 historic buildings and homes.  This route takes you back through the countryside and rejoins Interstate 5 at Central Point (Exit 32).

1. Four Rivers - Experience the rich, artistic cultures of the original Oregonians at nationally acclaimed tribal museums, lively festivals and authentic powwows. Begin in Ontario at the Four Rivers Cultural Center to learn about the Northern Paiutes’ role in this ethnically diverse region.
2. Chief Joseph Days -Then travel north on I-84 to La Grande and northeast on Hwy. 82 to Joseph, once the domain of the Nez Perce Indians. Visit the Wallowa County Museum and take in Chief Joseph Days, a fun-filled weekend in July honoring the great chief.
3. Wild On Pendleton - Return to La Grande and on to Pendleton, home of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation. Here, you’ll find the Wildhorse Casino Resort and Hotel and the Tamastslikt Cultural Institute, which explores 10,000 years of tribal history through the eyes of the Umatilla, Cayuse and Walla Walla Indians. The Pendleton Round-Up in September features a powwow and native dancing.

4. Extend this Tour - To extend this tour to 595 miles and 5 days, visit The Museum at Warm Springs in North Central Oregon to learn about the culture of the Wasco, Paiute and Warm Springs Indians. Farther south in Bend, The High Desert Museum’s By Hand Through Memory exhibit depicts the culture of the Columbia River Plateau Indians. For itinerary planning assistance, contact the Eastern Oregon Visitors Association, or local visitors centers listed in the Visitor Information section.