Thanks for stopping by! Hope you’ll return often.

Happy travels,

Lisa

The same can-do spirit and public-private partnerships that delivered the Colts from Baltimore in 1984 and won hosting rights for this year’s Super Bowl have transformed a once-sleepy city center into a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly district filled with office towers, shops, eateries, bars, museums, theaters and historic churches.

The city nicknamed the Crossroads of America has turned out such cultural icons as writer Kurt Vonnegut, comedian David Letterman and the Indianapolis 500. it boasts one of the world’s largest children’s museums, an infamous shrimp cocktail, and jazz and blues at a legendary venue with roots in the Underground Railroad.

Although the weather in the first week of February can be unpredictable, as apt to produce highs in the 60s as 6-inch snowfalls, tourism officials are confident the city has something to offer everyone descending on Indy to see the New England Patriots play the New York Giants today at Lucas Oil Stadium.

Associated Press

For more information visit:

* indianapolissuperbowl.com

* visitindy.com

* indydt.com

Here’s the release:

North American Travel Journalists Association
150 S. Arroyo Parkway, 1st Floor
Pasadena, California 91105
www.natja.org

CONTACT: Yani Leon
yani@natja.org
626.376.9754

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 1, 2012

LISA CODIANNE FOWLER WINS TRAVEL MEDIA COMPETITION

PASADENA, CA– The North American Travel Journalists Association (NATJA) yesterday announced that Lisa Codianne Fowler won two BRONZE awards in the 2011 Annual NATJA Awards Competition. One was in the Travel Journalism Website category for her website, www.travelwithlisaonline.com, placing her third just behind Travel.USAToday.com (Gold) and its parent site, PerceptiveTravel.com (Silver). Codianne Fowler’s other bronze award was in the Cultural, Educational, Self-Improvement Travel category for her story, “Riviera Maya and All That Jazz” featured in TravelWorld International Magazine.

This awards competition, now in its 20^th year, honors the “best of the best” in travel writing, photography and promotion that cover all aspects of the travel industry worldwide.

NATJA Awards recognize excellence in travel writing, photojournalism, social media, multimedia platforms, advertising, marketing and public relations for the travel and tourism industry. This year, NATJA received more than 500 submissions from all over the world.

“We are extremely pleased with this year’s entries; they were outstanding, both in quality of work and range of coverage,” said Helen Hernandez, CEO of the organization. “The number of entries is the largest we have ever received and the level of creativity and professionalism is reflective of the vibrancy of the travel journalists’ community. I also believe this year’s entry pool is an indication of the overall economic recovery and its positive effect on the travel industry.”

NATJA is the second largest travel media association in North America. Members include travel media professionals, convention and visitors bureaus, social media, hotels and attractions, and other travel marketing agencies. Members are provided with professional development workshops, peer-to-peer evaluation, web tools and networking opportunities. NATJA also publishes TravelWorld International Magazine (www.travelworldmagazine.com).

For more information about NATJA or a complete list of 2011 award winners, visit www.natja.org.

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At Gaylord Palms’ “Shrek the Halls” 2011 Christmas Event

Puss ‘n Boots and me…. we’re buds! My hubby treated me to a weekend of revelry at Gaylord Palms resort in Kissimmee, FL for my birthday in December. The resort, normally a feast for the senses any time of year, was awash in Christmas magic, blanketed in twinkling lights, colorful wreaths, ongoing seasonal music and spectacular holiday shows. This year’s theme is “Shrek the Halls” … a tribute to the loveable cast of characters from the movie, “Shrek.”

From now through January 2^nd guests and visitors can partake in some pretty cool happenings, including ICE!, the legendary annual exhibit of ice sculptures that, this year, features Shrek and friends.

The fact that the festivities are geared toward kids added to the appeal, since my husband, Patrick, and I – though 50-plus – definitely qualify.

Patrick reserved a great package deal, which included, among many other perks, tickets to ICE! as well as to the “Shrek Feast” character breakfast buffet. After having checked in on Saturday and receiving royal treatment as a birthday girl (surprise complimentary room-to-suite  and dining upgrades), Sunday morning found us at Villa del Flora for a sumptuous meal while characters milled about, including the giant ogre himself.

We hugged and took photos with Shrek and his beautiful pre-dusk Fiona, a vision in Cameron Diaz chic. But the cat’s meow was meeting Puss ‘n Boots, the movie character voice-acted by Antonio Banderas. Keep in mind that these larger-than-life cuddly creatures are not permitted to make a sound, much less speak during public appearances.

So, we’re dining on smoked salmon with capers and onions, spinach quiche, fresh fruit, assorted omelets  and an array of cheeses and meats – forgoing the waffles, pancakes and pastries – while sipping bloody Mary’s and Mimosas along with freshly brewed coffee. Lo and behold, Puss ‘n Boots appears at our table.

I don’t know if it’s because I’ve been on a “cat” kick lately (that’s another story) or if I got swept up in the sheer magic of the moment, but not only did I hug the huge cat-masked Banderas look-alike, but I scratched his fuzzy tummy to see if he would purr. His big body went wild, right leg shaking in a frenzied motion that cracked up the crowd. Then we snuggled cheek-to-cheek for my photo op, when I whispered to him that his whiskers were indeed tickling my face.

That did it. He tried to stifle his unauthorized audible laughter… snorting, snickering… obviously moved by the unexpected sentiment from this perennial child… and remained available for my amusement throughout our meal. Hey Puss, not trying to “rat” you out, but rather expressing appreciation for one of the highlights of our visit!

Among others, of course, was ICE! – a colorful 20,000 square-foot display of Shrek characters and Christmas-themed figures sculpted from two million pounds of ice. Don’t miss the 30-foot ice slide… despite all the health warnings, it’s tame enough for me… and all the other kids. Pack gloves and be prepared to wear a resort-issued quilted parka as the exhibition area is maintained at a frosty nine degrees. A refreshing break from tropical temps and a great reminder of why we choose to chill out in Florida, any time of year.

Written by Lisa Codianne Fowler for and courtesy of Getaway Plus

New consumer protections for airline passengers take effect

New consumer protections for airline passengers established by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) went into effect this month, making flying more convenient and hassle-free for air travelers nationwide.

The new consumer protections, finalized earlier this year, include requirements that airlines refund baggage fees if bags are lost, increase compensation provided to passengers bumped from oversold flights, and provide passengers greater protections from lengthy tarmac delays.

As Kate Hanni of FlyersRights.org said, “It’s huge. If you’re flying, you’re 400% better off than you were before.”

Here are some of the common-sense ways we’re looking out for passengers under these new protections:

• If you are involuntarily bumped from an oversold flight, the new rules double the amount of money you are eligible for as compensation.
• DOT’s successful ban on lengthy tarmac delays will now cover the international flights of foreign airlines at U.S. airports, and domestic flights at small-hub and non-hub airports.
• If your bag is lost, you are entitled to a refund of any fee for carrying that bag. Airlines are already required to compensate passengers for reasonable expenses for loss, damage or delay in the carriage of passenger baggage.
• Airlines must prominently disclose all optional fees on their websites, including but not limited to fees for baggage, meals, canceling or changing reservations, or advanced or upgraded seating.

Additional measures under the new rule will take effect January 24, 2012, including:

• Requiring all taxes and fees to be included in advertised fares.
• Banning post-purchase price increases.
• Allowing passengers to hold a reservation without payment, or to cancel it without penalty, for 24 hours after the reservation is made, if the reservation is made one week or more prior to a flight’s departure date.
• Requiring disclosure of baggage fees when passengers book a flight.
• Requiring that the same baggage allowances and fees apply throughout a passenger’s journey.
• Requiring disclosure of baggage fee information on e-ticket confirmations.
• Requiring prompt notification of delays of over 30 minutes, as well as cancellations and diversions.

The Department of Transportation’s new passenger protections will help ensure that air travelers receive the respect they deserve before, during and after their flight.

Written by Lisa Codianne Fowler; reprinted from blog.getawayplus.com (c) 2011.

Beatles Tribute Cruise 2012 will be sailing from Ft Lauderdale on February 4, 2012 aboard the world’s largest cruise ship, Royal Caribbean’s OASIS of the SEAS for seven nights featuring exciting ports of call, Falmouth; Jamaica; Cozumel, Mexico and the exotic private island of Labadee. This FABulous cruise coincides with the 48^th Anniversary of the Beatles first U.S. Television appearance on the Ed Sullivan Show and Super Bowl XLVI and will celebrate the band with an all-star cast of entertainers and musicians.

Beatles Tribute Cruise 2012 Entertainment:

Laurence “L J” Juber: a two-time Grammy award-winning finger-style acoustic guitarist, also known for his electric work as lead guitarist in Paul McCartney’s Wings. Juber has released 16 critically acclaimed solo albums which feature his celebrated arrangements of popular tunes and genre-crossing compositions.  Guests will enjoy L J’s acoustic guitar concerts from the ship’s intimate stages; he will offer private guitar lessons and a Beatles Guitar Workshop.

Revolution- The Beatles Tribute as a long time headliner on Royal Caribbean Revolution brings the music, mannerisms, sounds and authentic Beatle instruments to its fantastic act. Returning Beatles Tribute Cruisers are asked to dress up in their best 60’s style gear when the band plays for a “Beatles DANCE Party” for the special BTC group. According to Greg Piper the leader of Revolution, “We’ve been headliner entertainers for Royal Caribbean for over 10 years – we highly recommend the Oasis – the best cruise ship on the seas.”

Tim Piper: Revolution’s John Lennon created the critically acclaimed “Just Imagine” Lennon solo show about six years ago. This show has played to sold out audiences all over the country and Tim has something extraordinary planned especially for this cruise.

Mark Hudson: an incredibly talented singer, songwriter and Ringo Starr’s former producer. The artist Mark Hudson’s talent, humor and style are readily apparent upon meeting him. As a veteran headliner for the Fest for Beatles Fans, Mark delivers his unique one-man rock band and comedy show to the Beatles Tribute Cruise for several key appearances. Mark will also be offering private songwriting lessons!

Tony Bramwell, Beatle bud and childhood friend of John, Paul, George and Ringo returns to share stories of the Beatles from  before they were big stars and from inside the board room of Apple Corp. Tony was a huge hit on last year’s Beatles Tribute Cruise and he will introduce his latest masterpiece.

Joe Johnson, the host and creator of the nationally syndicated radio show Beatle Brunch, returns as emcee. Joe will entertain with Beatles trivia contests, prize giveaways and a special presentation of the Ed Sullivan Show that aired on February 9, 1964. All the entertainers will be invited to join in to share their special memories of that historic moment in music history.

For more information and reservations visit http://www.BeatlesTributeCruise.com.

Simply Historic

Charleston’s famous Historic District is replete with stately mansions, historic churches, intriguing museums, antique shops, world-renowned restaurants and unbridled grace, history and tradition. Take a horse-drawn carriage ride along cobblestone streets or go on a guided walking tour at dark through Charleston’s most haunted sites. Embark on Charleston’s finest home tours for a taste of what it was like to live in the low country during the Civil War. Referred to as the Holy City, it provided a haven to those who fled religious persecution. Church spires line the cityscape, and represent a myriad of faiths.

Surf’s Up!

Known as “The Edge of America,” Folly Beach is a seven-mile-long barrier reef located just eight miles south of Charleston — the closest beach to the city. Calm and relaxed, Folly Beach is arguably the best beach in South Carolina and one of the most in-demand surfing spots on the East Coast. It’s is a great place to splash in the waves, collect seashells and see the Morris Island Lighthouse. A fishing pier and sun swept views make it one of the last authentically rustic beaches in the area. If you’re a history buff, Folly abounds with Civil War historic and cultural sites. Sullivan’s Island and Isle of Palms are more upscale and boast warm waters and gentle surf… ideal for a relaxing swim.

Southern Comfort

Charleston is known for seriously great Southern dining, with festive dockside oyster roasts, high-end restaurants, outdoor cafés and fresh-from-the-dock seafood. Old-fashioned favorites such as low country boil, she-crab soup and pralines share center stage with New Southern Cuisine; young local chefs are earning raves for imaginative dishes like deep-fried pig ear appetizers and grits with foie gras. Just north of the historic downtown near the College of Charleston, the Upper King area is a bastion of urban cafés and edgy boutiques. At the tip of a peninsula, the city’s historic downtown only covers a small geographic area, but it’s so densely packed with museums, restaurants…See More and bars, you could easily spend a week or more here.

Seeing Stars

Charleston’s too-quaint-to-be-true cobblestone lanes and antebellum mansions almost seem made for the movies. So it’s no surprise that several famous films have been set here; The Notebook, The Legend of Bagger Vance and The Patriot, among many others. The opera Porgy and Bess, about poor African-Americans struggling to exist in 1920’s Charleston, gave the world the song “Summertime”, among many others. Modern-day musicians include pop-folk singers and country rockers. Step out on the town to also discover a variety of jazz bands and classic quartets who play live on any given night in the city’s many fashionable bars, lounges and hotel lobbies.

If you like theater, you’ll love Charleston. In 2010 it was listed as one of the country’s top 10 cities for theater, and one of the top 2 in the South. The most famous of them all is The Dock Street Theatre, America’s first. Home of the Charleston Stage Company, it’s South Carolina’s largest professional theater company, presenting a full season of plays, musicals and theatre-for-youth productions.

Check out Charleston, a beautiful Southern Belle with a trendy twist. It’s just miles away but worlds apart. For more information, call 843-853-8000 or visit www.charlestoncvb.com.

Words by Lisa Codianne Fowler

Reprinted from What’s Up Ocala Magazine (c) 2011

Flying Penguin? Every now and then you stumble upon something silly in cyberspace that just makes you smile. That was the case with this post on Southwest Airlines’ blog which is populated by posts from employees, customers and just plain fans of the Texas-based company.

Penguin on a Plane: The Story Behind Pete

by Ross Nelson, Guest Blogger for Nuts About Southwest

“Ladies and gentlemen, it’s your lucky day.”

Those seven words, kindly provided by the flight attendant, can either make or break a flight. Are we about to experience copious amounts of turbulence? Is someone famous on board? Is the lavatory door jammed? Will we be receiving an unlimited supply of delicious honey roasted peanuts?

Then came the follow-up, “We have Pete the penguin from SeaWorld on board this Southwest flight, and we would like to take him out so he can stretch his legs and walk down the aisle.”

The following 15 minutes of Southwest Airlines Flight 583 from San Francisco to San Diego confirmed my love for Southwest Airlines, SeaWorld and random acts of animals walking on airplanes. As Pete waddled toward the rear of the aircraft, passing giddy children and business people alike, a SeaWorld representative provided facts and information regarding penguins over the flight PA system. Pete confidently strutted his way down the aisle while periodically poking his head under seats.

“That’s not something you see everyday!” understated the passenger next to me.

“Ha ha, I thought penguins couldn’t fly?!” I heard from the back of the aircraft.

As Pete made his first pass, I decided to begin recording him by placing my laptop on the ground, where I could record a “bird’s eye view,” with the hopes of later sharing this experience with my friends and family. After the curious penguin made his two trips up and down the aisle, he was placed back into his carrier, leaving passengers in a state of “shock and awwwwe.” Pete’s tuxedo tour left a lingering buzz the remainder of the flight–it truly was our lucky day.

I later decided to upload the video onto YouTube. Little did I know, “Penguins on a Plane” had a one-way ticket to viral-town. Within two weeks, Pete became the most popular penguin in the press, waddling his way onto major television networks and acquiring over half a million YouTube views. Thanks, Southwest and SeaWorld, for letting Pete the Penguin march his way into everyone’s hearts!

Southwest services over 100 destinations across the US. Ask your Personal Vacation Specialist about flying Southwest on your next Grand Getaways Vacation.

Posted by Lisa Codianne Fowler for blog.gograndgetaways.com (c) 2011

Hold the phone! Calling from your personal mobile phone while abroad can be very expensive, and sometimes it won’t work at all. We’ve gathered a few tips to help you stay in touch while you’re overseas without breaking the bank — keep these in mind to save your wallet and your sanity.

• Do the Research: First, you’ll need to find out if your personal cell phone works abroad. Some networks’ phones are more compatible with foreign networks than others. If it will work abroad, make sure to ask your provider about roaming charges and data fees, as these can be very high when overseas. Turn off any automatic downloads or services on your phone that may incur fees, and find out if features besides calling — like text or data — work normally, and ask about your options.
• Buy A SIM Card: If you have an unlocked cell phone which can work with other carriers’ networks, you can buy a local SIM card. This removable chip determines a phone’s network and number. You buy minutes for the SIM card and temporarily replace the original card in your phone with the new one (your SIM card is probably hiding behind the phone’s battery.) Be careful not to lose the original — they are very small. Prepaid SIM cards offer a cheap and easy solution to calling in the country you’re staying in.
• Get A Local Phone: If need be, you can buy a new phone to use abroad. Prepaid disposable phones or inexpensive local phones with prepaid SIM cards offer one type of solution. If you’re going to stay for an extended period, you may have to cave and buy a local phone and calling plan. If you’re staying for several months or more, it may be worthwhile. Remember, in some countries texting is cheaper than calling, so find out before you purchase a plan.
• Skype and Internet Calling: Skype and other internet calling services allow you to make calls wherever you have an internet connection. The call quality can vary, but this method is still by far the cheapest. Both pay-as-you-go and monthly plans are available.
• Calling Cards: The classic solution! This may seem like an old-fashioned way to make your calls, but it’s still cheap and convenient. Locally-purchased cards typically offer the best call quality and value.
• Use a Device: Devices like Magic Jack offer another option. This type of device plugs into your computer’s USB port and allows you to make calls over the computer’s Internet connection. Once you’ve paid the monthly fee, your local calls are typically unlimited — for international calls, you’ll likely need to purchase prepaid international minutes.

Keeping these tips in mind should help keep your international calling cheap and painless. Spend less time worrying about your bill, and more time relaxing and enjoying your vacation!

Reprinted from blog.getawayplus.com (c) 2011