By Judy Newell
Mexico News
Socorro Island PADI Dive Boat
Socorro Island, located nearly 400 miles off Mexico’s western coast, is known as Mexico’s “little Galapagos.” A 10-night dive adventure on a live-aboard boat with the Professional Association of Dive Instructors (PADI) is a chance to see Socorro’s manta rays, humpback whales, dolphins, and whale sharks.
Your trip aboard the 17-cabin Nautilus Belle Amie commences in Cabo San Lucas. You’ll have multiple dive and snorkel options per day (dive gear included), as well as night outings to admire the sea life in a different light.
The ship welcomes up to 32 guests with cabins ranging from twin staterooms to superior suites. Guests can relax and mingle in the salon and main deck dining area. The ship’s top-level hot tub is the perfect spot to warm up after dives or snorkels.
PADI, the world’s largest dive organization, sets the standard for responsible underwater adventures. It enforces strict rules for marine life interactions, including never touching an animal.
International News
Best of Peru
Discover Peru, a country full of mystery and culture—known for the iconic Lost City of the Incas, Machu Picchu, the beautiful Lake Titicaca, mouth-watering Peruvian cuisine, and the picturesque city of Cusco. This nine-day tour from Lima visits the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Cusco, Lake Titicaca, and returns to Lima.
Tour Highlights:
- Take a spectacular flight over the snow-capped Andes Mountains
- Explore the Sacred Valley and the picturesque town of Cusco
- Visit famous Machu Picchu to discover the Lost City of the Incas
- Learn about the unique man-made Uros Islands on Lake Titicaca
- Admire the colonial architecture of Lima, the beautiful capital of Peru
From US$1,666 (was $2,099); or CAD$2,299 (was $2,897). International flights from U.S. and Canadian gateways are included. Book by May 5, 2023.
Buenos Aires Fast Facts
Here are some pub-quiz-winning Buenos Aires trivia:
- It has the oldest metro system in South America
- It was the first South American city with LGBT rights
- Its Avenida 9 de Julio is the widest street in the world
- There are more bookstores per capita than anywhere else in the world
- Tango originated there
- It’s often called the Paris of South America
- Buenos Aires means «fair winds» although the direct meaning is “good air”
- It has almost 300 theaters—more than any other city worldwide
- Pope Francis was once a bouncer in Buenos Aires
Uber’s Discounted Luxury Rides
Uber is taking steps to promote eco-friendly transportation options by offering a discount on its Comfort Electric rides in honor of Earth Month. With up to 25% off or up to US$10 off two rides, passengers can enjoy a premium electric vehicle experience with brands like Tesla, Polestar, and the Ford Mustang Mach-E.
This promotion aligns with Uber’s commitment to sustainability and its goal of becoming a zero-emissions mobility platform.
Riders simply need to use the promo code «GOELECTRIC» when booking their Comfort Electric ride. The discount applies automatically and can result in significant savings on each ride, making it an attractive option for those who want to go green and save on transportation costs.
The discount applies to rides in cities across the U.S. including popular destinations like San Francisco, Los Angeles, Miami, Seattle, and more. Uber has expanded its Comfort Electric offering to 14 new cities in the country as well as throughout Canada bringing the total number of participating cities to over 40.
Cruise News
HAL Anniversary Sale
In honor of Holland America Line’s 150th anniversary, they are offering passengers up to 45% off fares and US$150 Onboard Credit per person when they book a Summer 2023–Spring 2024 cruise or cruise-tour to Alaska, Europe, or beyond.
You can even secure your spot onboard with a reduced deposit of just US$150 per person. Have the time of your life as you make history with Holland America Line. Hurry, offer ends May 4!
Deal of the Week
Pullman Phuket Panwa Beach Resort
Treat yourself to an all-inclusive tropical escape at Pullman Phuket Panwa Beach Resort, a five-star oasis nestled in a secluded location on the southeastern tip of Phuket.
Overlooking picturesque Makham Bay and the sparkling Andaman Sea, this tropical heaven, backed by the internationally famed Accor brand, is the perfect place for a complete flop-and-drop escape with all you could need for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Spend your days tasting the flavors of Thailand at Tamarind restaurant, sipping coffee at The Junction lounge, or devouring cocktails and club sandwiches at the poolside Edge Beach Club.
Time limited offer. Secure with a 20% deposit. Taxes and fees apply.
Eight nights from US$1,119 per room—valued up to US$2,863. Save up to 61%
Judy Newell, an international travel consultant for over 50 years, heads Perfect Journeys and specializes in unique travel experiences to destinations around the world. She custom designs journeys that are tailored to suit client’s interests, physical abilities, and budgets. Please contact Judy for further information on Travel News topics, Mexico, and international travel. Cell phone 415 111 8765; Vonage 949 300 3682; email at judynewell@perfectjourneys.net. Her office is in Rancho Los Labradores on the highway to Dolores Hidalgo.
Sources: CNT, Indus Travel, Next Stop, The Navigator, Holland America Line, and Luxury Escapes.
