2012 Top Travel Picks

Whether you are looking for some sun and sand, want to explore ancient and exotic cultures, or experience the adventure of a life time, Virtuoso’s top travel picks for 2012 have something to fit the bill. Virtuoso, the world’s leading luxury travel network, orchestrates vacation dreams by offering a dynamic range of tours and customizable packages from the world’s finest suppliers. As part of the Virtuoso network, Adelman can offer our clients exclusive benefits and other value added amenities available only to customers of Virtuoso members. Check out the top hot destinations for 2012 then contact one of our experienced vacation counselors so we can help you craft your dream getaway.

Brazil: Buzzing from all the preparations for the 2014 World Cup and the 2016 Olympics Games, Brazil is a hot destination right now. Rio de Janeiro offers sun, sand and sport, as well as sophisticated culture and a vibrant night life. Outside all the hustle and bustle of Rio, travelers can experience quiet beaches and lush tropical forests. Now is the perfect time to discover Brazil before the rest of the world does.

Colombia: Once thought of as a haven for drug traffickers, Columbia is emerging as a safe and trendy new tourist destination featuring gleaming beaches, regal coffee plantations and a rich history full of colonial grandeur. No trip to Colombia would be complete without journeying to the Lost City of Tayrona. These fifth-century ruins are every bit the equal to Machu Picchu but without the crowds.

Jordan: With a rich history of biblical proportions and a long track record of peace and stability, Jordan is considered the most compelling destination in the Arabian Peninsula. The country features many fascinating sites rich with historic significance and natural beauty. Arguably the most unforgettable location is the sixth century city of Petra, which is hewn straight into the rosy sandstone cliffs. Petra should also be experienced at night as the pathway is lit by twinkling candles.

Northern Thailand: Unscathed by the severe flooding that affected Bangkok, Northern Thailand remains a very appealing and exotic destination. In addition, the recent drop in prices makes Northern Thailand very affordable. Must-do’s include a trip down the Mekong River and a visit to pre-Angkorian temples at Vat Phou.

Republic of Congo: A safari to the Odzala-Kokoua National Park can provide the adventure of a lifetime. The park features new tent-camps with trekking access to groups of gorillas, some of which are completely wild while others are accustomed to humans. Other surrounding wildlife areas feature some of the most threatened species on the continent.

Tasmania: Once considered to be an isolated backwater, Tasmania has evolved into a chic gateway for adventure travel. Tasmania, while still offering small town English charm, features gallery tours, wine tastings and several new eye-popping lodges such as Saffire Freycinet, a 20-suite glass and steel creation overlooking Oyster Bay. On the wild side, travelers can visit Tasmania’s national parks and witness the nightly march of the fairy penguins.

For more information or for help with any of your vacation travel needs, please give us a call at 800-248-5562.

Tips for avoiding passport delays

Passport delays can be very stressful and can cause major difficulties for the applicant. If a passport application is incomplete or has errant information or inclusions, the Passport Agency will suspend processing. Once a suspend notice has been issued, the passport agency will only continue processing an application when the correct required information has been presented. The following tips can help applicants minimize errors and avoid troublesome delays.

- Verify that all applications and supporting documents are signed in ink.

- Use a complete physical address. Do not use a P.O. Box.

- Include all travel itineraries. If you are not flying or have not yet made specific travel plans, a written statement is required indicating your travel intentions or why you are requesting a passport.

- Verify that any required letters of authorization are complete and signed. Include the required number of copies.

- Use passport style photos. This is one of the most common mistakes. Photos must be 2”x2”, have a white background and show the applicant from the shoulders up looking straight ahead (into the camera.) It is helpful for applicants to wear a dark shirt to contrast with the white background. Applicants should avoid wearing glasses or hats/head coverings unless they are for religious reasons.