The document highlights Palm Springs, California as an indulgent winter getaway destination known for its luxurious spa treatments, golf courses, shopping, dining and nightlife options across relaxing resort towns surrounded by mountains and sunshine. It describes the variety of accommodations available from historic inns to luxury resorts to fit any budget. Activities mentioned include golf, shopping, dining ala carte, soaking in hot springs, visiting art galleries and date gardens, and enjoying balmy summer nights under the stars.

1. FALL2009
FREE
Unforgettable
Fiji
Reasons you should
cruise
the Caribbean
bRITISH COLUmbIA &
THE 2010 WINTER GAmES
MORE INSIDE
SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL
TIPS ON TRAVELLING WITH CHILDREN
CONTESTS, GAMES, BLOGS & MUCH MORE
10
OUR
WINTER
TOP
HOLIDAy
IDEAS

2. We go out of our way for you.
At Flight Centre, we go out of our way to find you the perfect trip at a great price.
And with the passion and experience of over 8,000 consultants and support staff in nine
countries around the world, it’s no surprise that we stand behind the holiday you book.
In fact, when you book a holiday with us and it doesn’t end up being the holiday you
expected, simply let us know and we will give you a $100 voucher† for use towards
your next booking with Flight Centre.
† The Perfect Holiday Promise applies to bookings made at Flight Centre shops within Canada. A $100 voucher for future travel will be provided to customers who experience an unwanted deviation from their paid itiner-
ary. For full details visit www.flightcentre.ca or speak to a Flight Centre consultant.

3. President’s Message CONTENTS
FIjI 6
Welcome to the inaugural edition of Footprints Magazine. This new quarterly format Escaping to Paradise
is replacing our monthly captain’s catalogue and is designed to showcase all that
Flight centre has to offer both in terms of our extensive product range as well as the PalM SPRINgS 11
added value of our knowledgeable team. The desert oasis
Footprints is deliberately focused on providing you with the kind of destination with a cosmopolitan twist
information that will inspire you to discover all that the world has to offer from
luxurious overseas vacations to off the beaten track adventures. TOP 10 14
Ideas for your
at Flight centre, our philosophy is simple: we are passionate, well-travelled people Winter Holidays this year!
© Fiji Tourism board 6
providing unbeatable service and individualized travel experiences to you. We have
been making travel arrangements for customers since we opened our first store in
SUSTaINablE TOURISM 16
Sydney, australia in 1982. More than twenty-five years later, we are one of the What it is and how you can
world’s largest and most successful independent travel retailers with 1,500 stores worldwide. do your part
Flight centre’s relationships with the world’s best airlines, hotels, tour operators and travel providers, combined with our local expertise, ensure we
are the most competitive and experienced travel retailer in canada. We will go out of our way to find you the perfect trip and with the passion and haNDS ON 18
experience of more than 700 International Travel consultants across the country, it’s no surprise that we stand behind the holiday you book with Our approach to
our Perfect holiday Promise. When you book a holiday with us and it doesn’t end up being the holiday you expected, simply let us know and we corporate responsibility
will give you a $100 voucher † for use towards your next booking with Flight centre.
23 cRUISES 23
We hope you enjoy Footprints and remember, your only limitation is your imagination.
Reasons to cruise
the Caribbean this winter
bRITISh cOlUMbIa 24
& the 2010 Winter Games
Greg Dixon
President, Flight centre North america
SkI bc 28
†Conditions apply. See page 40 or contact your Flight Centre consultant for full details. A guide to this Winter’s ski
& snowboard season
28
MIaMI 31
Sunny, Sizzling & Sultry
Editorial Director alex biafora Footprints magazine is a quarterly publication of Flight Centre
Canada (“the publisher”) and is distributed FREE OF CHARGE
Art Director cambie Pearson through our Flight Centre retail travel locations across Canada.
The magazine provides information to our clients and potential
blOgS 32
Editor allison Wallace clients on travel destinations, tips, and products from third party Tips & Trips from the experts
sponsors and advertisers. The information is provided on an “as is”
basis with all faults and without any warranty of any kind, expressed
marketing alex biafora & Eric Sakawsky or implied. The publisher cannot be held responsible for the use of
unsolicited photographs and/or articles. The publisher, its parent/ jaPaN 34
Web Design Reuben Watson principles, sponsors and/or advertisers, are not liable in any event
for any and all actions, costs, damages (known and unknown), It’s closer than you think
Printed by horseshoe Press expenses, claims, and liabilities whatsoever, at law or in equity.
No portion of this magazine can be reproduced in any form, or
EDITORIAL
by any means, unless with the prior written permission from the
publisher and from the contributor of a specific article, photograph
bUSINESS TRavEl 37
34 11
or advertisement. Any violation of copyright or unauthorized usage Commodity vs Productivity
Fiji Fiji Tourism board of any content, materials, graphics, trademarks, service marks, or
format of this magazine will be aggressively pursued by the publisher.
Palm Springs Palm Springs Tourism board All trademarks or service marks (registered or unregistered)
contained in this magazine are the sole property of their respective cONTESTS & gaMES 38
Sustainable Tourism Intrepid Travel owners, including but not limited to the publisher.
Printed on Enova gloss text, made with 30% post-consumer
Publisher: The Flight Shops, Inc. DbA Flight Centre, FCm Travel
recycled fibre. by using this paper the following resources have british Columbia bc Tourism board Solutions, FC Associates, and GOGO Worldwide Vacations
been saved:
• 106 trees miami Miami Tourism board Vancouver Head Office
1133 melville Street, Suite 600, Room H
• 48,488 gallons of water saved Vancouver bC V6E 4E5
Japan japan National Tourism Office
• 2,944 lbs of solid waste not generated
Toronto Head Office
• 34 million BTUs energy not consumed For advertising and/or distributing opportunities, 1 Dundas Street West, Suite 200
• 10,068 lbs of greenhouse gas emissions prevented please email footprints.magazine@flightcentre.ca Toronto, ON m5G 1Z3 31
4 FOOTPRINTS 1 866 541 2111 FlIghTcENTRE.ca/FOOTPRINTS FOOTPRINTS 5

4. Unforgettable Fiji
In a world of over 333 islands with almost every conceivable activity to choose from, it is without wonder
why canadian travellers make Fiji their top destination of choice for a vacation away. Fiji has been rated
among the top 15 affordable countries for travellers during the current recession in the US financial
market, according to the website Forbes.com.
Whether travellers are seeking to delve into adventure on a white
water rafting excursion, rekindling romance on an exotic private one
island resort or immersing themselves in a dynamic culture, there is
something for everyone.
as tourist destination of choice, Fiji offers something for everyone
and travellers are keen to visit the pristine Pacific Island destination.
according to Tourism Fiji, the national tourist board for the Fiji Islands,
Fiji’s popularity keeps on increasing – last year 17,755 canadians visited
Fiji, an increase of 4% compared to 2007.
“Fiji is one of the many places that has suddenly become more
affordable to canadian travellers,” according to Tourism Fiji americas
Regional Director Ili Matatolu. a recent 20% devaluation of the Fiji
dollar coupled with a 40% gain by the canadian dollar means that
caD$100 currently buys Fj$179 on the ground. Matatolu added
“The code share arrangement between alaska airlines and air Pacific
also makes air connections easier for our canadian friends to fly to Fiji.
We hope that canadians will take advantage of this in addition to the
extremely favourable exchange rates and fantastic deals available from
the country’s industry partners.”
here’s why canadian travellers will want to make Fiji their destination
of choice:
Unforgettable Fiji
Miles of white sandy beaches, lush landscapes, cascading waterfalls
and the only sand dunes in the South Pacific make up the Fiji Islands,
a quintessential Pacific Island nation with glistening emerald isles offering
a treasure trove of activities for seasoned and first-time travellers.
The islands are sprinkled over an area of ocean 2,800 km northeast © Fiji Tourism board
of Sydney, australia and 1,850 km north of auckland, New Zealand.
Just Say “bula”
“bula” is a term that Fijians use to welcomes visitors to resorts, local
Miles of white sandy beaches, lush landscapes, villages and public places. The word is infectious. Nowhere on earth will
travellers discover as friendly a people. The Fijians’ genuine warmth and
cascading waterfalls and the only sand dunes in the friendliness turn every day into a lasting vacation memory.
South Pacific make up the Fiji Islands. Fiji’s historic blend of Melanesian, Polynesian, European, Indian and
chinese cultures provide rich opportunities for cultural tourism, savoury
dining and diverse shopping. For ultimate adventure, one-of-a-kind land
excursions and a multitude of ocean sports, from exceptional diving,
snorkelling, kayaking and cruising on The blue lagoon and captain cook
© Fiji Tourism board © Fiji Tourism board
make for an unparalleled vacation.
© Fiji Tourism board 1 866 541 2111 FlIghTcENTRE.ca/FOOTPRINTS FOOTPRINTS 7

5. continued from page 7
Diverse Customs & Culture
Everything in Fiji begins with kava (Fiji’s ceremonial drink). Dating back
before history was recorded, the kava ceremony was an example of
thrill me.
the deep culture that made the Fiji experience unique. kava, known as
Yaqona, is a tranquilizing non-alcoholic drink that numbs the tongue
and lips. It is made from the waka (dried root) of the pepper plant.
The kava ceremony is performed with the utmost gravity to mark
births, marriages, deaths, official visits and the installation of a new chief.
A Diver’s Paradise
World-class dive sites teeming with brilliant soft corals and an
abundance of sea creatures make vanua levu, Fiji’s second largest
island, one of the best undersea experiences on earth. The island’s © Fiji Tourism board
marine majesty boasts vibrant undersea walls, coral heads, seemingly
bottomless drop-offs (a favourite of jean-Michel cousteau) and velvety From Affordable to Luxury Accommodations
rainforests that have inspired both americans and australians to open
Fiji’s mainland resorts are just as alluring as its five-star one island
resorts along its pristine shores.
resorts. The coral coast on Fiji’s largest island vitu levu features
A Haven For Romance modern hotels of all sizes with lagoon pools, lush gardens, beach
For those seeking true romance, look no further than Fiji. From restaurants, first-rate accommodations and a multitude of activities to
private picnics on deserted islands to candlelit dinners for two on the please everyone from honeymooners to meeting goers. Denarau Island
beach under a canopy of stars, couples discover the very definition and the Nadi region are home to some of the world’s widely recognized
of ‘honeymoon’. guests choose from Western-style weddings and resorts including well known North american brands including hilton,
ceremonies at sunset to the more traditional Fijian-style ceremony with Radisson, Westin and Intercontinental.
the bride dressed in the traditional tapa cloth, followed by an elaborate Talk to your Flight centre consultant today and see how affordable a
lovo (traditional Fijian feast). holiday to Fiji can be.
Simply Privileges Royal Club
the best ADDED-VALUE FEATURES EXCLUSIVE TO
AIR CANADA VACATIONS PASSENGERS
AT OCCIDENTAL GRAND HOTELS & RESORTS,
AVAILABLE TO CUSTOMERS IN CANADA,
ONLY WITH AIR CANADA VACATIONS
• FREE advance seat selection
• Private check-in/checkout
• Exclusive/early check-in and
late checkout • Personal concierge service
• Extra reservations at à la • Exclusive dining room When people think of Fiji, they think: river rafting, shark diving, jetboating, surfing, zip-lining,
carte restaurants “The friendliest people in the world” or they think: windsurfing, jet-skiing or water skiing, and either
• Exclusive beach and/or pool areas
• Room close to beach or “One of the top 5 romantic destinations in the world” or highlands or rainforest trekking, sea or river kayaking,
• Preferred seating at all à la carte
in preferred location
restaurants “The spa capital of the South Pacific” or for divers, mountain biking, horseback-riding, sky diving and para-
• Discounts on spa treatments
Occidental Grand Aruba, Occidental “One of the top 10 dive destinations in the world” and sailing. And for the sport-fisherman there’s “popper”
• Concierge service Grand Cozumel, Occidental Grand
35 resorts from Bahia Principe Papagayo, Occidental Grand Punta “The soft coral capital of the world”! casting, line fishing and deep sea fishing!
Clubs & Resorts, Coconut Bay Cana and Occidental Grand Xcaret
But if you want to have fun and get your Add awesome scenery, flaming sunsets,
Resort & Spa, Paradisus Resorts,
Secrets & Dreams Resorts, Sol adventure adrenaline shot, there are no is- rainforest waterfalls and uncrowded, pris-
Meliá America Hotels & Resorts lands and maybe no place on earth that can tine beaches and your experience will be
and Sol Meliá Cuba so unforgettable you’ll know why the only
Features may vary by resort.
provide it all like Fiji does! You can get your
heart pumping with incredible white water answer to “Thrill Me” is “Fiji Me!”
Call your Flight Centre consultant today!
8 FOOTPRINTS ‘TO OPEN UP ThE WORlD FOR ThOSE WhO WaNT TO SEE’

6. Indulge
without
hesitation
Quarry Sunrise © Palm Springs Tourism board
The Enduring Paradise, Palm Springs
When was the last time you Spa lovers can rejuvenate with the latest the 20 oc and spring and fall temperatures
treatments or soak in natural hot mineral near the 30 oc. Summer days are perfect for
really indulged in a destination? waters, while others can visit the desert morning golf and a stress-free relaxed pace.
For visitors to Palm Springs california, the museums and art galleries, sample a date shake Magical summer nights lure visitors outdoors
legend of relaxation and recreation has never at a local date garden, or spend a day shopping to dine, dance and play under starry,
been more real in this unique Southern in trendy boutiques, air-conditioned malls, balmy skies.
california paradise, surrounded by snow- or outdoors at one of several street fairs. In addition to its luxury accommodations,
capped mountains, manicured golf courses, the Palm Springs Desert Resorts offers
Restaurants vary from formal and elegant to
and endless days of sunshine. hotel rates to fit any budget, from privately
casual or poolside, with cuisine ranging from
The Palm Springs area is actually a collection of French, Mexican and Italian to seafood and owned inns built in years past by hollywood
celebrities and self-contained destination
> Treating yourself to a well-deserved The Deluxe Package includes : * eight distinctively charming desert resort cities:
cathedral city, Desert hot Springs, Indian Wells,
california bistro. vibrant nightlife includes
professional theatre, piano bars, coffeehouse resorts designed to be secluded ‘cities’, to
> Unlimited benefits for emergency medical treatment
vacation? There’s one thing that > Trip Cancellation and Interruption protection
Indio, la Quinta, Palm Desert, Palm Springs
and Rancho Mirage. Its world-class hotel and
jazz and dance clubs. simpler family-style properties with special
programs for kids.
> Baggage and Personal Effects coverage Fine amenities in the
you can’t afford to be without – > Flight and Travel Accident insurance
resort amenities set in a dry and inviting climate
Palm Springs Desert
entertain 3 million visitors each year, including
Resorts add a special
RBC Insurance® Deluxe Package > 24/7 emergency assistance and upfront payment families, newlyweds, seniors and singles. The
touch to every visit.
Magical summer nights lure visitors
of eligible medical expenses when possible area is a Mecca for golf, tennis and sunbathing,
travel insurance. sporting 115-plus golf courses, more than 600
Perfectly manicured outdoors to dine, dance and play under starry,
landscape, public
tennis courts and 30,000 swimming pools.
artwork, colourful
balmy skies.
The recreational opportunities in Palm Springs flower beds and clean
are endless. visitors can travel by jeep, streets create a serene ambiance. Friendly billions Invested
hummer, or on foot through historic Palm poolside service, golf and tennis clinics for
Springs Indian canyons, picnic by a peaceful From early 2007 through 2011, it is projected
players of all levels, relaxing afternoon tea
that there will be the addition of more than
running stream, watch a polo match, or see the and customer-oriented staff help every
$2 billion in new or newly refurbished
valley below – which is part of the colorado visitor feel pampered.
For more information on the RBC Insurance Deluxe Package hospitality product throughout the deser t’s
Desert – from a hot air balloon. There are also
or to purchase, call your travel professional today. Spirits are kept bright with sunshine about eight cities, including hotels, spas, golf courses,
many world-class events such as jazz, arts
350 days a year. Year-round desert dwellers restaurants and other amenities.
and film festivals, the annual golf cart parade,
can attest that low humidity makes even high Some of the new developments include the
and numerous professional tennis and
temperatures comfortable. Winter highs reach
celebrity golf tournaments. $30 million, folk-modern inspired Ace Hotel &
Underwritten by RBC Insurance Company of Canada. In Quebec, certain coverages underwritten by RBC General Insurance Company.
® Registered trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada. Used under licence.
* Subject to policy terms and conditions. Please review policy for complete details.
1 866 541 2111 FlIghTcENTRE.ca/FOOTPRINTS FOOTPRINTS 11

7. continued from page 11
Swim Club; the $70 million 1950s classic Riviera Resort & Spa; Jackalope
Ranch, a new authentic contemporary Southwestern cuisine restaurant;
the new $16 million Spanish-Moroccan style Colony Palms Hotel and
Purple Palm Restaurant; and ‘The Show’, a new $75 million high-tech,
2000-seat headliner showroom at Agua Caliente Casino Resort & Spa.
Other major multi-million dollar additions and renovations have taken
place at Desert Springs, A JW Marriott Resort and Spa; Fantasy Springs
Resort Casino; Hilton Palm Springs Resort; Hyatt Grand Champions Resort,
Villas & Spa; Indian Wells Golf Resort; Miramonte Resort & Spa; Palm
Canyon Resort; Palm Springs International Airport; Rancho Las Palmas
Resort & Spa; Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa; and The Westin
Mission Hills Rancho Mirage.
mid-Century modern Pleasures
ask anyone who knows about architecture: for mid-century modern
style and design, Palm Springs is the place to be. On nearly every street,
you’ll see carefully restored homes, hotels, and commercial properties
designed by masters like albert Frey, Richard Neutra, john lautner,
William cody, E. Stewart Williams, and Palmer & krisel.
Every year, visitors from around the world converge in Palm Springs for Casino © Palm Springs Tourism board
Modernism Week, a nine-day celebration of this vintage architectural
heritage. The nine-day event kicks off with a weekend Modernism
Einstein favoured The Willows Historic Palm Springs Inn, an eight-room
Show & Sale that draws legions of dealers and collectors. During the
Mediterranean villa built in 1924. Many properties, such as the albert
week, visitors can book a spot on a double-decker bus tour and learn
Frey-designed Movie Colony Hotel and the William F. cody-designed
more about the iconic structures and architects that put Palm Springs
Horizon Hotel have been restored to their original grandeur by
modernism on the map. Other Modernism Week highlights include
mid-century modern enthusiasts who have kept a vital link to the
home tours, book signings, films, art shows, and parties.
desert’s past alive and well.
From a historic perspective, it is well known that greats like
Such properties were built between the 1930s and 1950s for the early
albert Einstein greeted the quiet desert sunrise from the hillside
hollywood crowd who considered the desert a convenient playground
of a small inn, as fresh, gentle breezes rustled the palms below,
of seclusion and fun in the sun. The revival of these beloved small hotel
and hollywood’s gable and lombard shared the joy of romance in
properties recently prompted Vanity Fair magazine to declare, “What
their poolside villa. Since the 1930s, the charm and solitude of the
art Deco did for Miami beach in the 1980s, modernism is doing for the
california desert’s secluded inns and small hotels have enchanted
california desert today.” Further, Conde Nast Traveler magazine called
The Amazing World of RIU
those seeking ultimate escape and relaxation. and while visitors from
the desert “the new home of hip, thanks to the rediscovery of
all walks of life continue to come and go, the desert experience
Palm Springs’ architecture and retro crazes now in full swing.”
remains the same.
The challenge for travellers seeking the mid-century modern experience
Stunning properties that cater to every lifestyle and taste – from turn
is deciding just where to stay. a good place to begin is the 1950s RIU’s Newest All-Inclusive Resorts!
of the century inns and modernist hotels to tile-roofed villas and
Frey-designed Orbit In and its ultra-private sister property, The Hideaway;
family-friendly resorts – beckon visitors to enjoy an experience far
the Moroccan-styled korakia Pensione; the 1940s era Mojave Resort; Artist’s Rendering Artist’s Rendering
removed from the realities of today’s world.
or the gable and lombard honeymoon retreat Ingleside Inn.
Others include the general george Patton residence Casa Cody;
the charming Spanish Revival 1920s Andalusian Court; the 1940s
Palm Springs-retro Chase Hotel; the charming and private Calla Lily Inn;
and the 1950s mid-century modern jewel Desert Hills Hotel.
Come Visit Us!
The Palm Springs Desert Resorts is easily accessibly by car, only two Riu Emerald Bay ����� Riu Guanacaste ����� Riu Palace Paradise Island �����+
hours from los angeles and San Diego. Palm Springs International Mazatlán, Mexico Costa Rica Nassau, Bahamas
airport services travellers from anywhere in the world, connecting RIU’s newest Mexican resort (opened May 2009) is an immensely Ablaze with intoxicating colour and high style, Riu Guanacaste arrives Completely renovated and upgraded, Riu Palace Paradise Island opens
many visitors from los angeles International airport or the Ontario satisfying union of RIU quality, tropical beachfront beauty and Mexican October 30, 2009. Set on Matapalo Beach, this much anticipated on November 26, 2009. Among the upgrades are: a sports bar,
International airport. Talk to your Flight centre travel consultant today soul. The Riu Emerald Bay is wrapped in palms on a sweeping beach resort boasts its own casino, an exciting disco, a spa and fitness facility, enhanced pool area and a new Krystal Fusion Gourmet Restaurant.
amid unspoiled countryside, yet near enough to town, golf, fishing and and with family vacation in mind, plenty of watersports and a fantastic All accommodation will be in Junior Suites or Suites, featuring
to plan your memorable holiday to Palm Springs.
culture to make your holiday adventures amazing experiences. children’s area. flat screen TV and electronic in-room safe.
Ask your Flight Centre Travel Consultant about our fabulous specials, free weddings,
Spa © Palm Springs Tourism board
golf bonuses, group offers, 3 to 28-night duration packages and more.
12 FOOTPRINTS ‘TO OPEN UP ThE WORlD FOR ThOSE WhO WaNT TO SEE’ 1 866 541 2111 FlIghTcENTRE.ca/FOOTPRINTS FOOTPRINTS 13

8. 1 Hawai‘i 5 mexico
home to one of the world’s most active volcanoes Mexico is a land of rugged mountains, lush jungles,
and the world’s tallest sea mountain, hawai‘i is known cacti-filled deserts, modern and colonial cities, ancient
by many simply as ‘Paradise.’ The birthplace of surfing ruins and over 9500 km of sun-drenches coastline.
and the hula, it is one of the youngest geological Yet the most notable features of all are the warmth
formations in the world and home to some of the and hospitality of its people, delectable cuisines and
nicest beaches on the planet. but perhaps hawaii’s world-famous diving. When planning your winter
most unique feature is its aloha Spirit: the warmth of holiday, be sure to take the time to consider all that
the people that wonderfully complements the Islands’ Mexico has to offer.
perfect temperatures. Whether you are looking for
something adventurous or relaxing, escape this winter 6 Argentina
10
season to the tropical hawaiian Islands and treat a seductive combination of diverse natural wonders
Hawai‘i
yourself to a holiday that you will never forget. and sophisticated cities, argentina is an enthralling
WINTER
OUR vacation destination. The landscape varies from arid
deserts to snow capped mountains. highlights of
TOP
argentina include the magnificent Iguazu Waterfalls
and the stimulating metropolis of buenos aires that
blends elegant European tradition with the South
hOlIDaY IDEaS
american flair for life. known as the ‘Paris of South
america’, it seduces visitors with its stylish boutiques,
gourmet dining, and exciting non-stop nightlife.
Whether you’re an adventure seeker, wildlife lover,
or tango aficionado, your trip to argentina is one you
2 Caribbean Cruise at the spa, a ski holiday is sure to please even those
Safari, Africa
who don’t necessarily love the white stuff. Some of will always remember.
Sugary beaches, perfect weather, and a colourful
the world’s best skiing and snowboarding can be
laid-back culture make the caribbean the cruising 8 Florida
found in our own canadian backyards, but with so
capital of the world. From a greater variety a favourite among canadians, Florida truly has
and superior quality of cuisine, activities and many ski villages around the world, why not sample
what the rest of the globe has to offer? From the everything you want out of a Winter holiday.
entertainment options, to a large range of exotic From white sandy beaches, theme parks and golf to
destinations and spectacular beaches to visit, a European alps to the american Rockies, you are
shopping, nightlife and tropical weather. Whether you
caribbean cruise allow you to enjoy the style of sure to find a holiday that is right for you!
are 5 years old or 105, Florida truly has something
vacation that suits your preference, whether quiet
and laid back, or active and adventurous.
4 South Pacific for everyone. Take a drive along the Florida keys,
entertain the family at one of Orlando’s many theme
If you’re looking to escape winter this year, even for
parks, shop ‘til you drop in Miami or relax in the sun
3 Ski a little while, why not hop across the globe to re-live
in Fort lauderdale. This winter, be sure to visit the
Ski getaways are the perfect holiday for this winter summer all over again. Whether you go bungee-
‘Sunshine State’.
season. Enjoy the beauty of winter with a vacation jumping in New Zealand, lay on the beaches in Fiji or
that suits any lifestyle and budget. Whether you are indulge in world-class shopping and dining in australia, 9 African Safari Florida Keys
hitting the slopes, curling up with hot cocoa in front of you can be sure the South Pacific will have exactly
If you’re looking for a winter holiday off the beaten
the fireplace in your chalet or enjoying a relaxing day what you are looking for.
path, take a journey to the heart of africa and see
nature at its finest. Wildlife viewing is one of the
biggest attractions of africa. Put on your best
safari suit, grab your camera and track down the
‘big Five’ among the open plains and rolling hills of
bangkok Floating market, Thailand
this marvellous continent.
7 Thailand 10 New york City
Relax on the beach beside the warm, turquoise The hustle and bustle of the shopper-filled streets,
waters of the gulf of Thailand, or enjoy some of the the beauty of ice skating in central Park on a sunny
world’s most fantastic scuba adventures among the day, the elaborate decorations in store windows and,
islands of the andaman Sea. Thailand is one of the of course, the giant christmas tree at The Rockefeller
best, most reasonably priced places for a seaside center are all a part of what makes New York city
vacation. There are hundreds of beaches to choose an amazing place to visit during the holidays.
from. known for its laid-back environment, friendly Meshed with historic architecture, diverse cuisine,
inhabitants, vibrant culture and delicious cuisine, world-famous shopping and broadway shows, it’s no
Thailand is a traveller’s paradise. Take a winter retreat wonder why New York is such a dazzling city.
to this popular destination and see why travellers If you are looking for a christmas to remember,
Sydney Harbor, Australia Times Square, New york
return time and time again. let New York be the ‘apple’ of your eye.
14 FOOTPRINTS ‘TO OPEN UP ThE WORlD FOR ThOSE WhO WaNT TO SEE’ 1 866 541 2111 FlIghTcENTRE.ca/FOOTPRINTS FOOTPRINTS 15

9. accommodation and restaurants. Instead choose local businesses
which will not only provide support to their regional economy, it will testimonials
also provide you with a meaningful experience as you enjoy traditional
cuisines and interact with locals. also, take time to brush up on the local here’s what our customers have to say....
customs before travelling. This will allow you to avoid many negative
situations that can easily be prevented through a little understanding. “I recently booked a business trip with Flight Centre. The service I
Finally, ensure you are respectful of the environment. This includes not received from you was excellent. You answered all my questions, quickly
adding anything new (such as garbage or foreign species) as well as not responded to emails and looked into several flight connections more
taking anything out. as tempting as that pristine seashell on the beach than once. In the past I have booked with other travel agencies, but I
may look, taking it home with you can greatly disrupt local ecosystems. have not received the same level of service that was extended to me by
Flight Centre. The next time I travel, Flight Centre will be my first choice.”
While people have been travelling for centuries, it is only within the last S.h. – Prince george, bc
few decades that awareness of the need for sustainable tourism has
emerged within the industry. The positive side of this is that the tourism “A few weeks ago I booked a flight at Flight Centre. I just want to
industry has acknowledged this and responded very strongly. Through mention that you were terrific in helping me book. You were able to find
education and the efforts of responsible organizations, travelling has me a great flight, and you answered all of my questions and gave me a
transformed from a selfish act to one in which many destinations are ton of very useful information, such as information on how to get a
able to benefit from the impact of travellers worldwide. This ensures VISA for Brazil. Thank you!”
that these destinations are pristine for future travellers so we can k.c. – Toronto, ON
all continue to enjoy the magic that experiencing new cultures and
countries can bring. “I just want you to know that my boss has nothing but complimentary
things to say about your services, the latest this morning is that you are
machu Picchu, Peru © Intrepid Travel the most efficient agency he knows. I am so glad I was able to refer him
to you. Thank you!”
a bright future
k.l. – vancouver, bc
“I recently booked a trip with Flight Centre. I just wanted to let you know
that you provided me and my partner amazing service. Your staff was
through sustainable tourism friendly, helpful, outgoing and you found us an amazing deal at a top
hotel in Chicago. And just as I write this, your agent just made a follow-
up call with me to ensure that I was all set and had all my questions
answered! I really do appreciate this amazing service! Keep it up!”
The concept of travelling – Sustainable tourism focuses on reducing developed a separate organization called
a.P.v. – Toronto, ON
the impact of tourism through becoming The Intrepid Foundation which supports 10 NgO
visiting foreign cities to informed about and respecting the cultures Partners and around 30 projects in health care, “You guys are great and I will definitely always continue to use
experience new sites, history, and customs of the destination, supporting education, human rights, child welfare and in Flight Centre as your staff is truly wonderful.”
culture and landscapes – local businesses, and seeking businesses that environmental and wildlife protection. Intrepid
k.S. – Oshawa, ON
are environmentally responsible. Through this Travel has also appointed a full-time Responsible
has been around for centuries. there will be little negative impact and support Tourism Director who has been working to “I had planned on booking my vacation myself online, but found the
While this seems magical and romantic, will be provided to the local economy. ensure the company is carbon offset in tours and choices overwhelming. I went into Flight Centre to get some advice, and
the downside is that mass tourism can have business practices by 2010. you were BEYOND phenomenal in helping me figure out my wants
While not all travel companies practice
a very negative impact on the diverse habitats and needs, and you took the time to show me different options. I like
sustainable tourism there are industry leaders, If you’re an avid traveller, you may now be
and indigenous cultures of the places visited. to ask a lot of questions, and you met my enthusiasm and shared your
such as Intrepid Travel, which have built this wondering how you personally can practice
To combat this, there has been a great experiences, which really helped me make my decision. I never felt
into their core values. Intrepid, a company sustainable tourism. Well, in addition to
increase in the practice of sustainable tourism pressured to buy something and I was not forced to spend outside of my
specializing in small group adventure tourism, choosing tours with responsible companies
in recent years. budget. I’ve never been to a travel agency before, but you were super
was founded in 1989 and since its inception such as Intrepid Travel, there are many basic Tegallalang, bali © Intrepid Travel helpful and I genuinely appreciated your input and I will be back to book
has practised
with you again. Kindest thanks.”
responsible travel.
Tours are run with ...choose local businesses which will not only Y.g. – Toronto, ON
an average of
10 passengers,
provide support to their regional economy, “I have recently booked a trip through Flight Centre. I just wanted to
acknowledge your EXCELLENT customer service. When I called, you
allowing the groups it will also provide you with a meaningful were just about to close, and instead of making me call back the next
to get off the
beaten path and
experience as you enjoy traditional cuisines day, you helped me patiently and got me a great rate on my holiday.
I’d like to acknowledge the customer service I’ve received by you, since it
truly experience and interact with locals. has been the best I’ve received in a long time, and it is highly likely that I
different cultures. will recommend you to others. Thanks again!”
Intrepid uses local
M.D. – vancouver, bc
transportation wherever possible and also principles you can keep in mind on your
eats and stays in small-scale, locally-owned journeys. as outlined above, try to avoid have something to say? Submit your comments at
Pad Thai, Thailand © Intrepid Travel Hutongs, China © Intrepid Travel
establishments. Furthermore, they have any international chains when searching for flightcentre.ca/footprints
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