First Bald Eagle of 2008-2009 Season Sighted on Lake Buchanan
The first bald eagle of the 2008-2009 eagle season was sighted by passengers and crew aboard the Vanishing Texas River Cruise on Saturday September 20th. As the flagship, the Texas Eagle, was returning from its evening dinner cruise, the majestic bird, the symbol of America, soared across the bow of the cruise vessel. Captain Shawn Devaney, senior captain of the cruise business, explains that this sighting marks the beginning of the migration of these birds of prey. Full migration should be in place by mid-November at which time passengers on the Vanishing Texas River Cruise can reasonably expect to view these incredible birds from the decks of the passenger cruise boat Texas Eagle on Lake Buchanan and the Colorado River.
The cruise has some exciting programs in the works. “Freedom Flights is a program that we are very excited about this year,” explains Captain Shawn. The Vanishing Texas River Cruise has teamed with Last Chance Forever which is an organization that rehabilitates birds of prey. On the third Saturday of every month, the rehabilitators will come aboard the Texas Eagle with different types of birds ready for release back into the wild. This is a unique opportunity for passengers to meet the folks that perform this wonderful work and get close up views of eagles, hawks, and other raptors used for educational purposes. The highlight is to see the rehabilitated raptor returned to the wild for a fresh new start.
Also new for this year, the Vanishing Texas River Cruise will invite local wineries onboard the Texas eagle so passengers can sample and learn more about the local wineries in the Hill Country area.
With the ongoing drought and receding water levels on the Colorado River and Lake Buchanan, we have a unique opportunity to view the reappearance of the settlement of the community of Bluffton which was submerged with the completion of Buchanan Dam in 1932. The Vanishing Texas River Cruise Company with its knowledgeable tour guides will make stops at old Bluffton to give passengers the chance to view and learn more about this unique area. Be sure to take the cruise for this unique opportunity before the rains return the old town to dark abyss under the waters of Lake Buchanan.
For more information, contact Vanishing Texas River Cruise at 800-4River4 or www.vtrc.com.
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TEXAS HISTORICAL COMMISSION TRAVEL GUIDES OFFER VACATIONERS AFFORDABLE ALTERNATIVES
AUSTIN, Texas –– Rising fuel prices may cause some Texans to rethink upcoming travel plans, but as Texas Tourism Week (May 10–18) approaches, the Texas Historical Commission (THC) would like to remind everyone that historic and cultural wonders are around every corner of the Lone Star State. Travelers can learn more about heritage tourism and design their own itineraries through the THC’s Texas Heritage Trails Program (THTP).
The THTP provides helpful resources for those looking to get out and explore Texas history. The award-winning regional tourism initiative increases visitation at cultural and heritage sites in regions across the state and revitalizes local economies through tourism development and marketing. A key component of the THTP is a series of heritage travel guides designed to enhance visitors’ experiences at local attractions.
“Our travel guides are unique in their focus on regional destinations relevant to Texas heritage and culture. As we all feel the pinch on our pocketbooks this summer, the THC encourages vacationers to discover the historical treasures right here in our great state,” said Janie Headrick, state coordinator of the THTP. “This diverse state offers a variety of historical experiences and the THC captures some of those best kept secrets in our brochures, allowing everyone to share in the excitement of Texas tourism.”
The program currently offers eight heritage travel guides –– Texas Brazos, Texas Forest, Texas Forts, Texas Independence, Texas Lakes, Texas Mountain, Texas Plains and Texas Tropical Trail Regions. Each heritage guide gives travelers a valuable opportunity to personally experience what makes this state extraordinary, while providing maps and historical information related to specific regions.
The THTP’s 10 regional web sites offer another option to plot your vacation. Travelers are increasingly turning to the Internet as a travel resource. These web sites allow travelers to not only find information, but also build custom itineraries to fit their travel needs. The sites’ user-friendly “itinerary builders” were specifically designed for the THTP. All 10 sites are connected through the itinerary builder, so users can easily move between all regional sites.
To visit the 10 regional web sites go to http://www.thc.state.tx.us/heritagetourism/htdefault.shtml. There you will find a map showing the 10 heritage regions. You can click on an individual region to visit each regional web site.
The THC also offers a series of thematic brochures –– Texas in the Civil War, Texas in World War II, The Chisholm Trail and Los Caminos Del Rio.
Gov. Rick Perry proclaimed May 10–18 Texas Tourism Week in conjunction with National Tourism Week. For free heritage travel guides, please call 866/276-6219 or visit www.thc.state.tx.us to download copies. For additional information on Texas travel events and vacation destinations, visit www.TravelTex.com, or for a free Texas State Travel Guide, call 1-800-8888-TEX.
The Texas Historical Commission is the state agency for historic preservation. The agency administers a variety of programs to preserve the archeological, historical and cultural resources of Texas.
www.thc.state.tx.us
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Ways To Save Money When Traveling In Today's Economy
The cost to go on vacation seems to be doing nothing but rising these days. Set against a landscape of rising oil prices and the weakened state of the American dollar, travelers all too frequently have to reach for their already burdened wallets.
"While it's true that many people are concerned about the economy, we find that this economic climate has a tremendous upside for today's traveler, as there are phenomenal trips offered at great values," said William Sutherland, Vice President, Travel, AAA Southern New England.
"We're seeing more robust and interesting packages offered with many 'extras' thrown in that are not only appealing to consumers, but also enable them to get significant return on investment for their travel dollars. It's important for today's travelers to know what to look for, how to shop for and how to be prepared for booking a trip that suits their travel and budget needs," he added.
Here are some ideas from AAA Travel on dollar-smart ways to travel in today's challenging economy:
Look for travel extras. Today's consumers are not necessarily seeking the least expensive trip, but are looking to get the most for their travel dollar. To accommodate those needs, some travel providers are even offering 'extras' with trips, such as gas cards, extra nights at a hotel, upgrades, etc. Consumers should be on the lookout - and ask for -- those extras.
Be opportunistic. Many times, the best travel opportunities are discovered at the last minute. For consumers to take advantage of those offers, they need to be prepared for them. Passports can take up to six weeks to secure and with today's new passport regulations, it's a good idea to get yours ahead of time. That way, when a good offer comes along you will be able to take full advantage.
Maximize the value of the challenged U.S. dollar. Today's traveler should look for trips that maximize the value of the U.S. dollar. For example, consider going to Europe by cruise ship. With a cruise, costs are paid in advance with US dollars. All onboard meals are included, and the ship is your hotel so you can go from city to city without additional transportation costs.
Buy a package deal. While consumers can put together all of the pieces of a trip online, the best packages are typically developed by experienced travel counselors. These experts leverage their knowledge and connections in the business to compile deals that meet the individual's unique needs. Many packages not only offer savings, but often include extras that heighten the travel experience.
Time your trip right. Peak travel time equates to top-tier prices while flexibility leads to savings. Consumers can take advantage of "shoulder seasons" -- just before and just after peak travel times -- to save money at many desired destinations.
Purchase third party trip insurance. Protect your investment. Know what your insurance includes. Be certain default insurance is part of the plan -- unfortunately, many consumers purchase travel insurance through the vacation provider and aren't covered if that provider goes out of business.
Buy from reputable brands. Another form of "insurance" is to purchase your vacation from a reputable brand. Dependability, consistency and experience are the hallmarks of great brands. Wouldn't you rather know your vacation provider stands behind you before, during and after your vacation?
Find trips that deliver on 'connectedness.' Recent studies show that time is "the new currency" and perhaps even more precious for some than money. That said, today's time-deprived traveler is often looking for trips that deliver on "quality time" and "connectedness" with friends and family. Travel providers offer many interesting trips ideal for family reunions, family vacations or time away with friends that really deliver on this. Explore the offers that offer something for everyone.
For more travel tips, visit www.aaa.com online.
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Vacation Travel Safety Tips from Former NYPD Deputy Chef
“Vacations with friends and family should be an enjoyable and memorable time away. But certain safety precautions should be given priority equal to that of flight arrangements and hotel locations,” says Lawrence Loesch, former NYPD Deputy Chief and Vice President and General Manager for AlliedBarton Security Services, America’s leading physical security services firm. We welcome Hansford County Reporter-Statesman to use the following vacation travel safety tips for Hansford County Reporter-Statesman readers. “Vacationers can face a host of problems from theft and minor personal injury to violence, arrests, and illnesses. We recommend that vacationers use common sense and take safety precautions that can help travelers enjoy a safe and relaxing vacation.” Loesch’s counsel includes:
Physical Safety:
Always stay with people you trust.
Do not go anywhere with a stranger – even during the day.
Carry a cell phone at all times in case of an emergency.
Call home periodically to let family members know you are safe.
Keep your identification with you.
Be aware of local laws regarding alcohol.
Do not drink and drive.
Always lock and bolt your hotel room when you are inside it.
Property Safety:
Always keep your hotel room locked.
Try to leave valuables at home.
Lock any valuables you do take in the hotel safe.
Beware of scam artists or pick pockets.
If your cell phone or credit card is stolen, report it immediately and cancel service.
Do not carry or accept packages from strangers.
Beach Safety:
Always use sun block.
Never swim alone and only swim when lifeguards are present.
Do not consume alcohol when swimming or operating boating equipment.
Take strong current and riptide warnings seriously.
Traveling Out of the Country:
Keep your passport in a secure location.
Bring a photocopy of your passport and keep it in a safe place, in the event something happens to the original.
Be cognizant of laws that may be different than what you are accustomed to.
Know that safety standards may be different and roads and balconies may pose safety risks.
Leave a copy of your itinerary with family or friends at home.
Familiarize yourself with local laws and safety concerns at the State Department website.
Register your travel plans with the State Department through a free online service at www.travelregistration.state.gov. This is important in the event of an emergency.
US Department of State: http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/tips_1232.html
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New Discount, Keepsake Program for Visitors in Springfield, Mo.
Springfield, Mo.—The Springfield, Mo., Convention & Visitors Bureau has a new program that will help visitors save money and create a unique keepsake of their visit.
The Passport to Family Fun is a coupon book with discount offers from 25 retailers, restaurants and attractions. When the booklet is presented at a participating business, the page featuring the business is stamped with a unique symbol. No purchase is required to receive the stamp.
The booklet then becomes a colorful keepsake filled with reminders of a visit to the third-largest city in Missouri.
Participating businesses include Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World, Fantastic Caverns, Springfield Cardinals, Animal Paradise Family Fun Park, Dickerson Park Zoo, Discovery Center, Ted E. Bear’s Toy Factory, Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield, Candy House Gourmet Chocolates and many others.
To receive a free Passport to Family Fun, 2008 Visitors Guide and other vacation planning information, call the Convention & Visitors Bureau at 800-678-8767, request information at www.vacationspringfield.com/passport or visit one of the bureau’s Tourist Information Centers at 3315 E. Battlefield Road, 815 E. St. Louis St. or Springfield-Branson National Airport. A printable version of the Passport also is available on the Web site.
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