MyNewsletterBuilder | Travel 09 (Preview)

There are a number of options to investigate when you decide to take an eco-vacation. The first place that many people start is with packaged eco-tours or resort spots that cater to the environmentally-minded. These are great, easy ways to ensure that your vacation is fun, ecologically friendly and maybe even educational. All you need to do is an online search and you'll be flooded with options for earth-friendly vacations worldwide.

You can also custom tailor your own eco-vacation. If you need to travel long distances, you can't get around the need for fuel, so consider buying carbon offsets to balance out your actions. Formulate a transportation plan for your final destination, utilizing bicycles, your own two feet, and public transportation as often as possible. Your lodging is the next thing to consider- if you're the outdoorsy sort, you can't get more earth-friendly then a leave-no-trace camp out. If you can't find an eco-friendly hotel and camping isn't an option, make do the best you can - reusing sheets and towels, for example, will cut down on water usage. Consider it your mission to find restaurants that use local and organic produce, dairy, and meat, and give them your business.

Simply seeking out the better option for every aspect of your vacation can turn a trip into an exploration of environmentally-friendly options that you can later recommend to friends and family for their own travels!

Dubai, the desert jewel of the United Arab Emirates that has only recently become a top travel destination, is known for its history as much as it is known for its modern architectural and technological advancements. A bridge between the ancient civilizations that still permeate the desert and the crest of the wave of tomorrow, Dubai is the veritable time machine of the Middle East. Located in one of the wealthiest countries in the world, Dubai has fantastic attractions around every corner. For a taste of two distinct cultures, try these places:

Dubai Museum. The history of Dubai portrayed in a technologically advanced and architecturally brilliant museum. Watch Dubai morph from its earliest existence as a pearling village into its modern metropolitan splendor.

Jumeirah Mosque. One of the few Mosques in the middle east that are open for tourists, it is also one of the most attractive, with an exquisite central dome and two towering minarets.

Burj al-Arab hotel. The only 7-star hotel in existence; only those with reservations are permitted entry beyond the gates. Tours occur only when the hotel is not at full capacity.

Burj Dubai. Already the world's tallest structure and still growing taller every day, this is one landmark you cannot possibly miss seeing. It is over 800m tall (300m taller than the previous record-holder).

As with most metropolitan locations, Dubai offers a variety of amusements suitable for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. Fabulous shopping, fun amusement parks, year-round outdoor activities (even skiing!), exploration, adventure, history, culture, and city splendor – Dubai has it all.

Gone are the days when you go on vacation and leave the four-legged kids at home. Today, pet vacations offer pet menus, gourmet pet treats, pet sitting, unique pet toys, complimentary pet bowls, and pet massages! No longer is there any need to leave your fabulous feline or perky pooch behind. Some cruise lines have Kennel Masters that oversee the various needs and desires of your furry companion. Pet-friendly services and amenities include decadence for your pet, like fresh-baked gourmet biscuits at turn down, comfortable beds and blankets, toys, cat posts and scratchers, and a selection of premium pet foods.

Booking a hotel? There are lots of great resources for determining what hotels within your price range will allow your pet to stay the night. Do some research beforehand, so that your evening consists of comfortably lounging with your pet, and not driving around to different hotels inquiring about their pet services. The Internet is a great resource for finding pet friendly hotels and hospitality services, and many offer memberships that include discounts.

If you are flying and want to take your pet with you, contact the airline ahead of time to determine the cost and where your pet can ride. At times, there are restrictions on certain types of pets to reduce your pet's risk of illness. If your pet is unable to accompany you in the cabin, you might consider the temperament of your companion before sticking them plane-side. Many pets experience a high amount of stress from this experience, and it may cause more problems than it's worth.

No matter where you take your pet, you should check in with their veterinarian before you leave. Your pet might need extra vaccinations, or your vet might have some good travel recommendations specific to your companion. Be sure to take some items from home that your pet is comfortable with, and you should have a memorable vacation.

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In This Issue

Eco Vacations

Dubai: City of Gold

Pet Passports

News from Our Office

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Business Travel Tips

--- Save time by packing everything into one bag. Today, that means condensing your toiletries down into bottles that are smaller than 3.4 ounces and all fit into a one-quart bag. If you are in need of small containers, collect them from hotels and refill them with your own preferred shampoos, conditioners, soaps, etc.

--- Choose luggage that connects so that everything can be stacked and rolled together. The fewer items you have to keep hold of, the better.

--- Planning to work in the airport and on the plane? Make sure that you make any online resources available to yourself so that you can work offline while on the plane.

--- Emergency row exits often have more leg room, so if you're up for the responsibility, take advantage of the extra room to get work done more comfortably.

--- Plan outfits that can cross-coordinate with each other so that you are ready for any occasion.

Unique Beaches of the World

The world is full of beaches. From the stunning rocky cliffs of Scotland to the pristine turquoise waters of Hawaii, there is nearly always a sense of majesty where the ocean washes ashore. We scoured the world to bring you our top 4 unexpectedly fabulous beaches:

Phi Phi Island, Thailand. Phi Phi is an exotic wonderland with no roads, a jungle and amazingly clear waters. Trade your PDA in for a towel and let your mind drift on this striking beach.

Whitehaven, Australia. Queensland, Australia’s crowning beach glory, Whitehaven beach is a stunningly gorgeous white sandy beach with clear turquoise waters, and a breathtaking cove.

Corfu, Greece. Sandy or rocky, take your pick! Corfu has gorgeous soft sandy beaches, as well as a variety of small rocky enclaves – with some of the clearest crystal waters Greece has to offer.

Pheiffer Beach, California. What’s so unexpected about a beach in California? This one is purple, and still relatively quiet in terms of tourist destinations.