The Zip Line, V. 2.10, June, 2010 - Year-Round Wonders

Year-Round Wonders 
June brings nearly perfect weather to most of the U.S., but there are plenty of places in the world with balmy breezes and sunshine year-round. Although it’s hard to believe in the middle of a treacherous Midwestern winter, there are a plethora of vacation “hot spots” just waiting to be explored: sunny Southern California, lucky Las Vegas, the beautiful Bahamas ... This issue’s focus is on the eternal year-round travel favorite: Hawaii.

Featured Destination
Maui, Hawaii    
Check weather.com any time of the year before visiting Hawaii, and you’re likely to get the same forecast: sunny and in the mid 80s. This consistently good weather – along with magnificent beaches and dramatic scenery – makes Maui our number one pick as a year-round vacation venue.

Lush Maui’s tropical sun, surf and sports activities have gained the island an international reputation as a paradise on earth. In laid-back Hana on the eastern shore, travel groups can experience what the Hawaiian Islands were like before the advent of T-shirt tourism. Western Maui’s gorgeous “Golf Coast” resorts draw eager beginners and pros while shoppers head for the old whaling town of Lahaina. No matter what the preference, Maui magically weaves a spell over the two million travelers who flock to its shores each year and leave wanting more.
Learn more about Maui.

Hyatt Regency Maui 
At the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa, travelers can experience a classic Hawaiian beach getaway where the rich colors of Hawaii are reflected in glittering pools and manicured lawns and gardens. Panoramic views are endless at this magnificent, sun-drenched oasis that spreads over 40 acres on world-famous Kaanapali Beach. The Hyatt Regency features 806 guest rooms, including 31 suites, spread out among three connecting buildings. Each room boasts a separate sitting area and its own private lanai from which to enjoy breathtaking ocean and mountain views. Accommodations display deluxe standards with quality appointments and endless, top-notch amenities. Learn more about Hyatt Regency Maui. 

Traveler's Night In (#TNI) on Twitter . . . the best 90 minutes you'll spend all week!

Join ZipSetGo's Traveler's Night In (#TNI) every Thurs. from 3:30-5:00 ET!

#TNI is a fast-paced meet-up with travel experts and those who just love travel! Share your ideas and pick up some new strategies on how to make the most of your travel plans and budget!

June 17's topic: Hotels & Hostels. 

Mark your calendar now!

What's the Buzz
Gulf Oil Spill Impacts Tourism
Tourism operators in Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama – from hotel owners to restaurateurs and boat charterers -- have reported cancellations as a result of the oil spill, although some are picking up other business from journalists, officials and cleanup workers who have flocked to the Gulf Coast.

Source: Reuters (5-30-10)

U.S. State Department Issues South Africa Alert
The U.S. State Department has issued a travel alert to U.S citizens living in South Africa or traveling there for the World Cup. "There is a heightened risk that extremist groups will conduct terrorist acts within South Africa in the near future," the department said in an alert Thursday, May 27.

Source: San Francisco Chronicle (5-27-10)

Genoa Considered New Italian Hot Spot     
Located on the Italian Riviera, Genoa has long been seen as a stopping point on the way to more glamorous Italian destinations. A restoration of Genoa's waterfront has helped boost the city's image, and today Genoa is a bustling seaside city with cosmopolitan wine bars and interesting new restaurants.

Source: New York Times (5-30-10)

British Airways Flyers Face Summer of Disruption
With no end to the industrial dispute in sight, Unite, the union representing British Airways cabin crew, threaten to hold another strike ballot.

Source: The Guardian (5-31-10)

Shopping Shuttle 
Aloha! Get in the Hawaiian spirit with these items chosen by the Go-Girls.

Maui Jim Makaha,Tortoise Frame
Best sunglasses I've ever worn!

Volatile Women's Heritage Wedge T-Strap Sandal
CUTE ALERT! Say good-bye to Gladiators and hello to SASSY!

Schwinn Crest Urban Women's Hybrid Schwinn (Jan 1, 2009) Patagonia 
Get around in style - love this bike! 

Badger Sunscreen SPF 30
Don't let sunburn get you down!   

Coby Portable CD Player with AM/FM Radio and iPod Docking Bring the party to the beach! This radio is ipod ready.  

TechnoMarine Women's 109003 Cruise Mini Chronograph Steel Bezel White Watch 
Great sporty watch. 

Deals and Steals

Time is running out for the San Diego Convention & Visitors Bureau’s We’ll Work – You Play Meeting Sweepstakes! If you’re planning a meeting, just send SDCVB an RFP and they’ll get to work finding the perfect spot to host it in San Diego. Plus, you’ll be entered into the sweepstakes where you’ll have a chance to win one great prize.

How do you want to play? Contact Nancy Stachnik, nstachnik@sdcvb.org, at 317-823-9690.

For more information, visit: San Diego Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Event Tips

* Reduce paper; have participants to register online!
* Always take advantage of the linen reuse program at the hotel and encourage participants to do the same.
* Go green and save some money by using water pitchers instead of bottles.

Upcoming Events 

September 12-14, 2010
Orange County Convention Center
Orlando, FL

For more information, click here.

Open Mic
Flying to Hawaii? Check out Sara Beth’s blog about the Kona Airport on the Big Island.

Do you like to be heard? Open Mic is your opportunity to voice your opinion or share your expertise on travel-related topics. To submit an article for Open Mic, send an email to dcondron@zipsetgo.com.