Macy’s Travel
What’s Inside!
by
Welcome............................................. 2
Traveling Together.......................... 2
Macy’s Own Tours........................... 2
Mexican Riviera Cruising............. 3
Family Winter Getaways............... 4
Darwin’s Enchanted Islands........ 5
Say “I Do” to a
Destination Wedding.................... 5
winter
vacation planner
We Are Travelers.............................. 6
Paradise by the Sea........................ 6
Ask the Expert.................................. 7
2010
Come to Our Travel Events.......... 8
We’ve Been There Have You? .......................................... 8
PRSRT STD
U.S. POSTAGE
MACY’S TRAVEL
700 Nicollet Mall
Minneapolis, MN 55402
by
PAID
MINNEAPOLIS MN
PERMIT #3844
Welcome to the
Macy’s Travel
2010 Winter
Vacation Planner
After a wonderful summer
and with these crisp autumn days,
we all know that it is time to think
forward about our next vacation. There is certainly something about
living in the Midwest that keeps our
focus sharp on the need for a winter
getaway to revive our spirits and give
us the ‘lift’ we need to get through
the cold winter months!
The travel climate has certainly
changed since last year! We have
seen a resurgence in the kind of travel
that shows we have shifted our focus
back to ‘quality’ of life rather than
‘quantity’. And what says quality more
than travel? Do your children recall
what gifts they received for Christmas
last year? Or do they remember that
unique family experience where you
had the opportunity to share your
dreams and ideas as a family? I know
my family will always remember
one magical night in Rome that left
us with shared memories to last a
lifetime! In our business, we call
this ‘return on life’—those special
experiences that you will always
treasure!
Did you know that 4 million
people will celebrate their 50th
birthday this year, and another 2
million will celebrate their 60th? What better reason to plan a trip
than to celebrate the milestones
of life with family and friends and
to capture those special moments
together that will create fond
memories.
Our travel experts have
an average of 20 years travel
experience. You can trust us to find
the best options, save you money
and recommend carefully planned
travel arrangements so you get the
most out of your trip. Call us now and
we will let you know about the best
values, choices and secret insights
for your next trip!
Sincerely,
Sue Kerby
President,
Macy’s Travel
Macy’s Own
Tours 2011
You are invited to journey with us to
legendary places around the world.
• COSTA RICA................................January
Sponsored by the Minnesota State
Horticultural Society
• ITALY................................................. March
• IRELAND, WALES
& ENGLAND................................... March
Traveling Together
The questions and answers on why group
travel is affordable and fun.
Q: Why Group Travel?
A: Traveling in a group with like-minded friends, family or an organization allows
you to save money and to share in creating a lifetime memory. Let’s face it, you
have more fun!
Q: How does Macy’s Group Travel work?
A: We have our own selection of escorted Macy’s Own Tours or we can customize
a trip based on your group interests. Our experts know where to go and what to
do and we have the insight you would never find on an Internet search or in a
book. Because of our U.S. and global connections, you are given tried and true
experiences in hotels, transportation, tours—we will even share with you our
secrets for off-the-beaten-path places that should not be missed. Traveling in a
group also makes it more affordable. Many group programs offer free trips if a
certain number of people participate in the tour. Q: What is a Macy’s Own Tour?
A: Each year, our experts select, create and offer to the public a collection of
journeys that deliver amazing travel memories. These trips include history,
culture, nature and cuisine within a multitude of destination interests. Anyone
can join these journeys.
Q: What is your most popular Macy’s Own Tour?
A: The Macy’s Own Christmas Market Tour has always been a favorite. The trip is
often called a fairytale experience, visiting ancient, charming Bavarian villages,
each with traditions of holiday cuisine and crafts including the famous mulled
wines (Gluehwein). We’ll be escorting our 15th annual tour in 2011. Also
growing in popularity are our Exclusively for Women tours. Our next excursion
is set for Boston. We will see all the wonderful sites of Boston but the unique,
female camaraderie is part of what makes the trip so special. Q: Where can I find the details?
A : L e a r n m o r e a b o u t g r o u p t r a v e l a n d M a c y ’s O w n To u r s a t.
www.macystravel.com under the heading Groups.
•SCOTLAND......................................... May
•GREAT BRITAIN ................................ May
RHS Chelsea Flower Show –
Sponsored by the Minnesota State
Horticultural Society
•
RHODE ISLAND............................... June
Historic Estates and Gardens,
Sponsored by the Minnesota
Landscape Arboretum
•NAPA VALLEY.............................. August
California Wine Country Farm to
Fork, Sponsored by the Minnesota
Landscape Arboretum
• BOSTON................................ September
Exclusively for Women
•SOUTH AFRICA .................. September
Wines and Gardens, Sponsored by
the Minnesota State Horticultural
Society
• MAINE......................................... October Coastal Fall Foliage, Sponsored by
.the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum
•EUROPEAN CHRISTMAS MARKETS................................December
Visit www.macystravel.com/
groups or contact our group
travel experts at 800-533-0324.
E-Travel Specials
Visit www.macystravel.com for weekly travel specials and to sign up for e-specials.
The best travel values — all at the click of a mouse.
pg 2 | Call the experts – Macy’s Travel MN 866-337-9183 MI 800-203-0359 Nationwide 800-316-6166 www.macystravel.com
and water activities. Perfect for family
vacations or a couple’s getaway, the
Mexican Riviera has something to offer
for nearly everyone. Whether your idea
of adventure is sea kayaking, exploring a
colonial city or discovering the joys of a
siesta on a white-sand beach, a Mexican
cruise vacation has it all. Mexican Riviera Cruising
INDULGE IN THE ULTIMATE MEXICAN FIESTA
Sun, sand and surf—what more could
you ask for? A Mexican Riviera cruise is
filled with rich culture, scenic vistas, and,
most definitely, fun in the sun. In Mexico,
the word is vivid. Colorful people, vibrant
cityscapes, and rich traditions make this
warm getaway a spectacular place to
enjoy relaxing scenery and invigorating
culture.
their daredevil flying feats. The cobbled
streets of Puerto Vallarta’s Malecón are
ideal for a relaxing stroll. And the deepwater lagoons, coconut groves and laidback attitude of Zihuatanejo provide
a delightful taste of Old Mexico. Don’t
forget Mazatlán’s long, sandy beaches or
the chance to spot humpback and gray
whales off Cabo San Lucas.
There is so much to do and see on the Throughout Mexico, you’ll discover
Riviera. The La Quebrada cliff divers historic sites, shop for local treasures,
of Acapulco will leave you amazed at. and enjoy an endless array of beach
The Mexican Riviera is truly a yearround destination. Temperatures remain
balmy, in the 70’s and 80’s, most of the
year. August and September can be on
the hot side, with temperatures in the
90’s coupled with humidity that can be
a little unpleasant. Some cruise lines
offer year-round voyages, although the
majority sail from September through
May. You’ll find cruise itineraries ranging
from three to 14 nights, with some of the
longer journeys including the Panama
Canal. Mexican Riviera cruises generally
depart from southern California and can
easily be combined with an extended
stay in that area.
do the same for you! Leave all the trip
details to us—all you’ll need to do is
buy the sunscreen and pack your bags. Hasta luego!
USE A
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✔ Best Se
We’ve arranged countless cruises to
the Mexican Riviera and would love to.
Sailing to the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Tropics, Alaska, South America & more.
1. 2-for-1 Fares on most voyages PLUS additional savings
of up to $1,000 per person on select voyages.
2. FREE Air from 22 U.S. gateway cities on ALL voyages.
Princess Cruises® allows you to
escape completely from your daily
routine and responsibilities by
providing a relaxing retreat from
which to explore the world.
3. FREE Business Class Air on European voyages for guests
sailing in suite category C and above.
4. FREE Unlimited Shore Excursions on ALL voyages.
5. A true, ALL-INCLUSIVE luxury product. FREE beverages
including fine wines, beer and premium spirits. All
open-seating dining at NO ADDITIONAL charge.
USE A
FOR:
s
es & Value
· Best Pric tise
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· Best Exp e
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6. All staff gratuities INCLUDED.
7. Butler service EXPANDED to include suite category C
on all ships.
8. NEWLY REFURBISHED fleet featuring the most talked
about restaurant at sea, the iconic steakhouse Prime 7,
at NO ADDITIONAL charge.
9. ALL suites, minimum size 301 sq. ft., ALL with WALK-IN
closets. Plus, the highest percentage of balconies of ANY
cruise line — 97%.
Contact the cruise experts at
Macy’s Travel, 800-316-6166
©2010 Princess Cruises. Ships of Bermudan and British Registry
10. World-renowned Canyon Ranch SpaClub® with speciallydesigned menu selections available in Compass Rose,
The Pool Grill and Room Service.
800-316-6166
Call the experts – Macy’s Travel MN 866-337-9183 MI 800-203-0359 Nationwide 800-316-6166 www.macystravel.com | pg 3
Family Winter Getaways – MAKE SOME MEMORIES!
With the hectic schedules most families
keep these days and with many kids
growing up with two working parents,
quality time with your children is often
hard to come by. One of the best ways
to reconnect with your child is through
travel, exploring the world together! Here are some of our top choices for
winter family excursions—where you’re
sure to make some wonderful memories:
from scenic nature hikes to the exhibits
and programs at Honolulu’s area
museums to Oahu’s historical sites such
as Pearl Harbor and ‘Iolani Palace, the
official residence of King Kalākaua and
Queen Lili’uokalani. And the beaches
aren’t too bad here, either!
Orlando, Florida – Theme park capital
of the world and home to dozens of great
places to stay. Your kids can even play on
sandy beaches in land-locked Orlando
Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the as many resorts have “beach pools”.
Seas – These new Royal Caribbean ships And don’t miss the newest attraction,
really do have it all for families! Kids . “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter”.
and teens enjoy the run of the ship in at Universal Orlando, where Harry Potter
Royal Caribbean’s Adventure Ocean really does come to life!
program. With special activities, areas Ski Vacations – Virtually all ski resorts
and events designed specifically for welcome families and offer kids’
children and teens, during all times of programs and ski and snowboard
the day and evening, family cruising has schools. Many have special features such
never been easier or more enjoyable. as childcare centers, nurseries, and “cool”
Parents can go “off duty” and enjoy their programs for teens. When selecting a
own activities onboard while knowing ski resort for your family, here are a few
the kids are having fun in secure tips: Scan a trail map to view the variety
surroundings.
of slopes and select a destination that
Oahu, Hawaii – Kids of every age love fits everyone’s experience level. If you
the island of Oahu! Activities abound, need a ski school, find out about rates,
instructor quality, and class sizes. Pick a
location with shops, a museum, or other
non-ski activities. Skiing can be the focus
of the vacation but doesn’t have to be
the only activity. Some of our favorites
ski resorts for families include Steamboat
Springs, CO; Big Sky, MT; Whistler, British
Columbia; and Killington, VT. Of course, this is just a small sample of
the nearly endless destinations families
can enjoy together. Schedule a visit
with a Macy’s Travel vacation specialist
and let us help you select the perfect
getaway for your family!
pg 4 | Call the experts – Macy’s Travel MN 866-337-9183 MI 800-203-0359 Nationwide 800-316-6166 www.macystravel.com
Darwin’s Enchanted Islands
Great things come in small packages—a popular saying and one of the best
ways to describe what the Galapagos Islands have to offer. This group of volcanic
islands has for centuries captured the interest of people throughout the world. Important from a scientific viewpoint, these islands were instrumental in Darwin’s
Theory of Evolution. Over five million years old, today the Galapagos is one of
the perfect places to see nature in action. Often referred to as the ‘laboratory of
evolution’, these tiny islands are playing an enormous role in helping us to better
understand our planet. The Galapagos, off the coast of Ecuador, is a nature haven and a must-visit
destination for those interested in a wildlife adventure vacation. Indeed, these
islands are the perfect place to see nature at its best. Animals roam free and
unafraid, giving visitors plenty of opportunity to capture incredible photos.
Perfect for both families and the eco-traveler, these small islands are home to
some of the most endangered animals on the planet. On a Galapagos vacation,
catch a glimpse of the gracefully swimming marine iguanas, the only equatorial
penguins, the famous Darwin finches, the flightless cormorant and the waved
albatross, all of which call this home.
Visitors to the Galapagos quickly become accustomed to being surprised. Nothing quite compares to the joy of observing animals in the wild or the sense
of wonder felt while spending time with animals that don’t run or fly away when
humans approach. You can scuba dive with sharks, snorkel with sea lions, watch
the almost comical boobies and walk with giant tortoises—magical moments
that will live in one’s mind for a lifetime. The islands lie directly on the Equator, so you can expect it to be warm for most
of the year. The hottest season is December to April with average temperatures
ranging from 70º F to 84º F and this is also the rainy season. Seas are generally
calm and water temperatures warm making it perfect for snorkeling. May to
November is considered the cool season,
but even then, temperatures range from a
pleasant 68º F to 82º F. The Galapagos are easy to visit, even for just
a quick week away. And for travelers who
genuinely love nature, this is a not-to-bemissed destination! Planning a trip to the Galapagos may
seem daunting, but it won’t be with the
professional assistance of Macy’s Travel.
Say “I Do” to a
Destination
Wedding!
(Courtesy of Virtuoso)
You’ve always dreamed of a beach wedding in the Caribbean or Hawaii. Then
again, maybe you envision celebrating your nuptials on a beach along Italy’s
Amalfi Coast or near a hot springs waterfall in Jordan.
A destination wedding turns your special day into a spectacular one—yet it also
brings certain considerations beyond those of a traditional ceremony. And that’s
where Macy’s Travel comes in. We have the insider knowledge on the best wedding
locales around the world including what legal documentation is necessary. We also
have expert tips for planning the perfect event, such as:
•Give your guests plenty of time to make travel plans—12 months, if possible.
• Make sure a wide array of activities is available so everyone’s happy.
• Consider an all-inclusive resort or cruise so there are no financial surprises
for your guests.
•At the time you book your resort or cruise, reserve spa treatments for
the wedding party.
And, of course, when you book through a Virtuoso agency like Macy’s Travel, there
are always exclusive extras for everyone in your group. So say “I do” to a destination
wedding!
Ask us about our exclusive honeymoon discount!
Call the experts – Macy’s Travel MN 866-337-9183 MI 800-203-0359 Nationwide 800-316-6166 www.macystravel.com | pg 5
Paradise by the Sea – The Dominican Republic
Looking for a great coldweather escape? Tempted by those
brochures with endless beaches and
sparkling sand? Hankering to swing that
golf club again? Then the Dominican
Republic, or as it is affectionately called,
the DR, may be calling your name. The
DR has quietly become the Caribbean’s
largest tourist destination and it’s easy
to see why! one of the hottest spots to tee-off in
the Caribbean, if not the world. Here
golfers will find 19 amazing courses
with oceanfront fairways designed by
legends such as Arnold Palmer, Jack
Nicklaus and Robert Trent Jones, just to
name a few. If a beach chair and a piña
colada is more your style, you won’t be
disappointed either. The 40 miles of
spectacular beaches are a hallmark of
the Dominican Republic, to be sure.
This coastal zone is blessed with a warm,
sunny, subtropical climate and a yearround average temperature of 82º F. Best of all, the Dominican Republic is one
of the few places where you can escape
the tourist hordes and still enjoy worldclass tourism. Plus, the DR offers some of
the best values in the Caribbean.
Most popular for vacations to the DR is
the Punta Cana area with its 20 miles of
pearl-white sand beaches merged with
sapphire-blue waters, creating scenery
surpassed nowhere else. This sparkling
gem in the Caribbean not only offers an
impeccable ambiance, but also luxurious
resorts, fine dining, and a wide variety
Activities abound for travelers to the of activities. Punta Cana features the
DR. This island paradise has become. longest coral reef on the island (about.
.
19 miles long). Divers and snorkelers of.
all experience levels can explore reef
caverns and nearby Catalina and Saona
islands. On the north coast, you’ll find Puerto
Plata. Nicknamed the Amber Coast for
its abundance of amber deposits, this is
the area where Christopher Columbus
first set foot on Dominican soil. The
Puerto Plata area boasts a string of
golden-sand beaches and charming
towns to explore where you’ll discover
wonderful local handicrafts and art.
So if the cool days of fall already have
you dreaming about a tropical escape
this winter, give us a call! There are
some exceptional values available to
the Dominican Republic and Macy’s
Travel can help you find the perfect sunseeker’s getaway. I could see lava rocks glowing as they
tumbled down the hillside. Lori Bruns – Macy’s Travel, Southdale
WE ARE
TRAVELERS
Costa Rica 5
It was fascinating to hear and watch the
volcano eruptions from a close and safe
vantage point. At night from my room,
Machu Picchu 4
When putting destinations on your
must see list, Machu Picchu should
rank at the top. It is one of the most
beautiful and ancient sites in the world
and no picture or description can do it somehow come away a slightly changed
justice. It is one of those rare places that person for having the experience. touches your heart and mind and you. Mary Kelley – Macy’s Travel, Somerset
2 For 1 Cruise Fares
$199 roundtrip airfare
• The Best Value in Luxury Cruising
• The World’s Most Alluring Ports of Call
• Finest Cuisine at Sea
• Country Club Casual and Open Seating Dining
• Exceptional Savings on 2011 Europe Sailings
• Enticing Alaska Itineraries for 2011
Ask us about Oceania’s newest ship – the MARINA!
800-316-6166
Contact Macy’s Travel for Great Savings on Oceania Cruises
pg 6 | Call the experts – Macy’s Travel MN 866-337-9183 MI 800-203-0359 Nationwide 800-316-6166 www.macystravel.com
Ask the
EXPERT
Q. My cell phone won’t work
outside of the United States—do you
have any suggestions?
A. In today’s world, it is essential to have
reliable phone service so you can stay
connected with friends and family while
traveling. We have a partnership with a
provider of non-contract, international
mobile phones with service in over 180
countries at very competitive rates. Your
Macy’s Travel counselor can help you
with all the arrangements.
Q. I’ve heard that debit and credit
cards don’t always work in Europe
now. Is this true?
A. Smart cards—usually referred to
as chip-and-PIN cards because of an
embedded computer chip and the
requirement to enter a PIN number
to authorize a transaction instead of
signing for purchases—have become
standard in European countries. So while
you can still generally use your credit/
debit cards in establishments where a
merchant is manually processing the
transaction, you may have difficulty at
ATM machines or other locations using
unmanned transaction terminals.
Q. We plan to take a cruise to
Alaska next summer. How far in
advance do you recommend making
reservations?
A. Today! We are already confirming
reservations for customers traveling to
Alaska next summer. So if you want the
best cabin choices with the best glacier
views on your first choice of travel date
and on your favorite ship, it’s not too
early to let our travel counselors get to
work on your plans.
fie
certain businesses, including shops, may
choose not to accept cash in U.S. Dollars
for any purchase at all. To avoid any
inconvenience, we recommend travelers
plan to make purchases with credit cards
or the local currency, Mexican Pesos.
Q. I have a new smartphone. Are
there any good travel apps?
A. There are many applications for
smartphones that can replace maps,
find restaurants, tell the weather. Google
Q. What are the new USD currency Maps or Zagat to Go can help you locate
nearby restaurants using GPS. Apps like
restrictions in Mexico?
A. It was recently announced that Taxi Magic connect you to local cab
businesses in Mexico will not be companies. MyTSA provides 24/7 access
able to take more than $100 USD in to the most common questions about
cash per transaction. (The number airport security. And many airlines now
of transactions per customer are not offer electronic boarding passes sent to
restricted). Because of the new law,. your smartphone.
Have you tried to research or book travel online recently? Did you know that recent consumer
research shows that fees, surcharges
and other travel restrictions have
been so confusing that the use of
travel agents has risen almost 25% in
the past two years?
Over time, people are learning that
while the Internet may provide you
with abundant options, it cannot
replace the advice and experience
that only a professional travel agent
can offer. Don’t make the mistake
of using the Internet to plan a trip
that needs the expertise of a travel
professional. Macy’s Travel agents
have covered the world. We know
when and where to travel and how
to find the best prices! conf
Call the experts – Macy’s Travel MN 866-337-9183 MI 800-203-0359 Nationwide 800-316-6166 www.macystravel.com | pg 7
Come to Our
Travel Events!
We’ve Been There – Have You?
Beyond the Caribbean
Please join us to explore the
world of cruising beyond
the Caribbean with Royal
Caribbean International. WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2010
Ridgedale Center, 6:30 PM
RSVP to 952.591.6777
Cruise & Vacation Expo!
These are the best travel
shows in town and the best
place to find this season’s
greatest travel values! There will be exclusive
offers, informative seminars,
experts to talk with, enter to
win a trip for two, and more.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2010
SATURDAY, JANUARY 8, 2011
Mall of America, Macy’s Court
10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
(RSVPs not required)
• Local people call this landmark “Uluru”.
• It was discovered on July 19, 1873, by surveyor William Gosse.
• View this at sunset to see a remarkable sight when it briefly glows red.
For the answer, visit: www.macystravel.com/wevebeenthere
We’re members of Virtuoso, Specialists in
the Art of Travel , offering you:
• Exceptional values
• Exclusive extras
• Worldwide expertise
Creating exceptional travel
experiences for over 45 years.
Several convenient locations
to serve you.
MINNESOTA
Minneapolis
St. Paul
Southdale
Rosedale
Ridgedale
Burnsville
Maplewood
St. Cloud Groups
Toll Free
612-375-2884
651-292-5164
952-924-6777
651-639-6777
952-591-6777
952-435-4827
651-773-6777
320-654-4272
612-375-2881
866-337-9183
MICHIGAN
Oakland
Southland
Somerset
Toll Free 248-597-2122
734-374-5220
248-816-4070
800-203-0359
NATIONWIDE
Toll Free 800-316-6166
www.macystravel.com
pg 8 | Call the experts – Macy’s Travel MN 866-337-9183 MI 800-203-0359 Nationwide 800-316-6166 www.macystravel.com