Fiji: The Happiest Place On Earth

We all know that the U.S. guarantees the pursuit of happiness, but if you’re interested in seeing what it looks like after the pursuit, you might want to book a ticket to Fiji.  A 2014 WIN/Gallup International poll of countries found that Fiji’s people are the happiest on Earth, with 93 percent of Fijians answering they were either “happy” or “very happy.”

Whether it’s the pristine beaches, vibrant culture or just something in the  water, Fiji is getting it right.

What makes Fiji unique — and its people so distinctly happy?
Vitamin-D Deficient? Fiji Isn’t.

Almost half of adult Americans  suffer from vitamin D deficiency.  Lower levels of that vitamin, which the body synthesizes from direct sunlight, are connected to increased risk of depression.

If your winter seems never-ending, the sun-soaked beaches and jungles of Fiji will make you jealous.  Nestled in warm equatorial waters, the Fijian islands receive more than 11 hours of tropical sun… in December.  Fiji’s people apparently soak it in: a study of 511 Fijian women found that they have more vitamin D than geographically analogous India. That may partially explain why Fijians always seem to be friendly and smiling.
Fiji Certainly Knows The Power Of Water.

Scientists recently dove into the study of water and happiness and discovered that a person’s proximity to blue matters. A 2013  British study found that individuals living near a coast were healthier (regardless of their income),  and also that a move closer to the beach “significantly improved” well-being.

Not surprisingly, native Fijians’ link to the water runs deep. Fiji’s society promotes stewardship of the environment, and islands and villages, such as Beqa, take the lead in protecting local species — even feared species like bull sharks. And it probably doesn’t hurt that Fiji’s warm waters are home to world-class diving, sailing, fishing and surfing.

Did We Mention Fijians Love To Dance?

They call it meke, and it’s a family of traditional Fijian dances involving vibrant costumes, dramatic storytelling and, occasionally, terrorizing opposing rugby players.  Read about any visitor’s trip to Fiji and you’ll see ecstatic references to the Fijian love for song and dance, from elaborate resort shows to impromptu village serenades. As early as the 1890s, European visitors noted that, “so great is the love of the Melanesians for song that they sing at their field-work or when rowing or walking about.”

Fijians’ love for music might not just be a (happy) byproduct of their joie de vivre; it might also be the cause. A 2012 study found that enrollment in dance class reduced self-reported stress among depressed and anxious teenagers. And the brain actually releases dopamine, the chemical that makes us feel great, when we listen to music. So, go on, listen to this Fijian song and try to feel grumpy. We dare you.

Fiji Gets Fresh

Run a quick image search for Fiji’s Nadi Market and prepare to be astounded by the burst of color: the fiery reds of peppers, the royal purples of eggplant, and the earthy browns of the  coconuts.  Fiji isn’t just a tropical paradise, it’s a foodie paradise.  Situated squarely in the South Pacific, Fiji’s staple foods developed around fresh local vegetables, roots and, of course, seafood. But Fijians also serve up a slew of curries, a legacy of the nation’s large Indian minority.

Food makes us happy. No, that’s not just us saying it: We have the backing of science! Fiji’s food, in particular, is primed to build happiness. Seafood swims with omega-3 fatty acids, which are proven to reduce the risk of depression. Curcumin, a basic component of curry, actually builds new brain cells and boosts feel-good chemicals. And research shows that diets of fish, vegetables and oils elevate mood. But who are we kidding? We would eat Fijian food solely based on how delicious it looks.

Kava, Anyone?

Swing by any village in Fiji, and you’ll inevitably be invited to sit down for a bowl of kava. The traditional drink, brewed from a species of pepper plant, is enjoyed by almost everyone in the country. The kava ceremony is a central part of Fijian culture, and etiquette demands that visitors give an offering of kava to a village chief upon their arrival.

But kava’s power is far more than ceremonial.  Kava is a “moderately effective treatment” for anxiety disorder.  Studies show that kava works on the brain in a manner similar to anti-anxiety drugs.

A Secret Trick To Achieve Happiness: Be Around Fijians

The biggest lesson to learn from Fiji’s happiness is this: The good life stems from meaningful interaction with other people.  Fiji’s community ties are remarkably strong. Life centers around an extended family unit and a chieftain. 87%percent of the country’s land is owned by the community and administered by a land trust. Moreover, Fijians embrace traditions of the past.

Ready to book your vitamin D Vacation to Fiji? Contact a Travel Team Agent at 1-800-788-0829 for more information or to book your Fiji vacation!

Destination wedding statistics & why you should have a destination wedding

More and more couples are having destination weddings these days. Imagine sharing your special day in an exotic location, overlooking the beach, with your closest family and friends. Maybe it is just you and your partner, you can plan big or small. The great thing about destination weddings is that they are truly limited to your imagination and budget. Read these statistics and tips below:

ENGAGEMENT STATISTICS

• 99 percent of grooms do the proposing.
• 6 percent of proposals occur in December.
• The average American engagement lasts 14 months.
• The average diamond engagement ring is $6,348.
• 3 out of 4 couples live together before getting married.

WEDDING STATISTICS

• The median age for remarriage is 34 for brides and 37 for grooms.
• $29,858 is the average amount spent on a traditional American wedding.
• Destination Weddings are typically thousands of dollars less than non-destination weddings.
• One-third of those getting married have been married previously.
• Who pays for the wedding? In 19% of cases, it’s the brides’ parents. Nearly one-third –; 32% of brides and grooms — pay for it themselves. And 15% of couples share the cost with both sets of parents contributing.
• The average amount spent on wedding bands for the couple is $1,575.
• The average amount spent on a bridal gown is $1,281.
• Queen Victoria, who married Prince Albert in 1840, popularized the white wedding gown.
• Tuxedoes are typically purchased 5-6 months after the wedding gown.
• Bridesmaids’ gowns are generally purchased 3-4 months in advance.

DESTINATION WEDDING STATISTICS

• 24 percent of marriages are destination weddings.
• The average age of a destination bride today is 33, compared to the U.S. average of 28.
• Couples who had an international destination wedding said a special, fun or exotic locale was their top consideration
• More guests are turning destination weddings into vacations
• 9 out of 10 couples say weather is a key factor in selecting a destination.
• On average, the honeymoon is booked 4 months before the wedding.
• Most popular luxury honeymoon destinations: Europe, Caribbean, Hawaii, South Pacific.
• More and more couples are satisfied with their destination weddings. Their top ratings go to are location, accommodations and atmosphere.

If you’re looking to plan your own destination wedding,  the Travel Team can plan the perfect destination wedding to Fiji, Tahiti, Hawaii, Mexico, Caribbean & more locations!

Contact a Dedicated Destination Wedding Specialist at 1-800-788-0829 ext. 225 to speak to Tracy; or 1-800-788-0829 ext. 227 to speak to Dale. Travel Team vacations are perfectly planned and at the lowest rates!

Like us on Facebook

Explore Australia’s Larget City, the Outback and Coastline

Get to know three of Australia’s east coast cities as you travel from Melbourne in the south to Cairns in the north before ending in the spectacular harbor city of Sydney.

Choose your own activities to make your vacation exactly your style.  This twelve night air-inclusive with Virgin Australia getaway offers you four nights in each city, with plenty of time to explore and fill your days with must-do experiences.

Melbourne is a food lover’s paradise. Take the time to awaken your senses as you stroll through the Queen Victoria Markets, maybe dine aboard the famous Colonial Tramcar Restaurant or take a walk down Lygon Street and discover the many restaurant flavors. Melbourne is also home to many hidden laneways and secret alleys that house intimate bars and eclectic venues – be sure to explore these unique areas, you never know what you will find. While in Melbourne you will enjoy entry to the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel for awesome views across Melbourne.

Take the opportunity to get out of the city and explore some of the spectacular regions outside Melbourne. Take one of the world’s best drives through down the scenic Great Ocean Road past seaside towns and coastal landscapes including the Twelve Apostles. Enjoy the good life in the Yarra Valley as you sip your way through cellar doors and vineyards tasting the array of produce, food and wine on offer.

Cairns is your next stop, gateway to the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest. You could dive into your own adventure; tour the Reef in a semi-submersible, fly overhead in a helicopter, don flippers and a mask and jump right in, or soak up the sun and the views aboard a sailing boat. Maybe explore the Daintree Rainforest by foot, vehicle or flying fox – each offering a different perspective of the oldest living rainforest on earth.

The harbor city of Sydney is next, filled with opportunities to discover the best vantage point for that iconic photo to take home and frame. Walk the ground of the Royal Botanic Gardens that hug the harbor foreshore, take a tour under the sails of the spectacular Sydney Opera House, scale the heights of the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge and take in the surrounding views, or maybe grab a surfboard and take a lesson at one of Australia’s most famous beaches.

Whatever your style, there’s nothing like Australia.

Pricing & Departures

Prices are per person based on double occupancy; Subject to availability and foreign exchange rates; All airline fees, taxes and fuel surcharges are included; Call for other travel dates.

Or, call 1.800.788.0829 to speak with one of our travel experts.

Notes:

• All airline taxes, fuel surcharges & fees are included
• Prices in US dollars unless otherwise noted
• We have limited space on this package and it is subject to availability and prior sale
• All package prices are per person based on double occupancy unless otherwise noted
• Prices reflect cash discount
• Due to constantly changing policies to baggage restrictions, please check with your airline directly for latest updates and restrictions
• Information, including prices are subject to change without notice
• Restrictions and change and/or cancel penalties apply
• UBI-600-307-872-WA

Sydney to Cairns to Melbourne

Begin in Melbourne; a city combining cool elegance, glorious architecture and artistic endeavors with a distinctly delicious Australian flavor, Melbourne is Australia’s cultural capital. Its magic can also be experienced in its fine restaurants, myriad festivals, and international sporting events. From Melbourne, journey to the Great Barrier Reef, where you can opt to snorkel with the world’s most exotic fish! The Reef is home to 400 types of coral, 1,500 species of fish and 4,000 types of mollusk!

Continue to Sydney, where the laid-back outdoor lifestyle and physical allure make it one of the world’s easiest and most pleasant cities to visit. All of Sydney’s attributes lie within easy reach of the city center – Sydney’s harbour is its natural playground, the dominant factor in so much of what the city has to offer. The city has a wide-ranging cultural life, dynamic food scene and vibrant cityscape of outstanding contemporary and colonial architecture. Iconic beaches and five major national parks deliver unforgettable experiences!

Pricing & Departures

Pricing is per person, based on double occupancy; Prices are subject to availability; All taxes are included; Call for other travel dates.

Or, call 1.800.788.0829 to speak with one of our travel experts.

Notes:

• All airline taxes, fuel surcharges & fees are included
• Prices in US dollars unless otherwise noted
• We have limited space on this package and it is subject to availability and prior sale
• All package prices are per person based on double occupancy unless otherwise noted
• Prices reflect cash discount
• Due to constantly changing policies to baggage restrictions, please check with your airline directly for latest updates and restrictions
• Information, including prices are subject to change without notice
• Restrictions and change and/or cancel penalties apply
• UBI-600-307-872-WA

Australia and Fiji in 12 days

Set out on an adventure that brings together the epic highlights of Australia with the tropical paradise that is Fiji. Explore the Great Barrier Reef. Visit Hartley’s Croc Farm and see crocodiles in their natural habitat. Delve into another way of life at the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Centre. Come to know the exciting city of Sydney during your included city tour, harbour dinner cruise and fascinating guided tour Sydney Opera House. You will also have a full day to explore the city on your own. Discover Nadi’s scenic hinterland and visit the Garden of the Sleeping Giant begun by famedHollywood actor Raymond Burr. On this trip you even have the chance to meet a few of the local koalas. Finally, complete your trip with three nights in beautiful Fiji.

 Prices are per person, based on double occupancy; Subject to availability; Some taxes & fees are not included.

Or, call 1.800.788.0829 to speak with one of our travel experts.

Notes:

• Land only package.
• Prices in US dollars unless otherwise noted.
• We have limited space on this package and it is subject to availability and prior sale.
• All package prices are per person based on double occupancy unless otherwise noted
• Prices reflect cash discount.
• Due to constantly changing policies to baggage restrictions, please check with your airline directly for latest updates and restrictions.
• Information, including prices are subject to change without notice
• Restrictions and change and/or cancel penalties apply.
• UBI-600-307-872-WA

8 days in south africa

Discover breathtaking scenery, culture and cuisine in Cape town and abundant wildlife and beautiful landscapes in the Pilanesberg Game Reserve. Experience exciting close wildlife encoutners on an open vehicle safari.

Day 1: Depart USA
Fly from the USA to Cape Town, South Africa.

Day 2: Arrival, Cape Town
On arrival in Cape Town you will be met by our company representative, who will escort you to the hotel. The rest of the evening will be at leisure. Overnight in Cape Town.
Stay 4 Nights: Commodore Hotel, Cape Town

Cape Town is one of the most picturesque tourist destinations and also one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Cape Town is situated amidst majestic mountains and is surrounded by pristine white beaches. Often called the ‘cosmopolitan hub of Africa’, it is home to a rich cultural and historical heritage, vibrant restaurants and nightlife and a multitude of activities – from extreme sports to leisurely scenic cruises and world-class shopping.

Day 3: Cape Town
Enjoy a day at leisure in the fascinating city of Cape Town, a city with a diverse range of attractions, sights and activities to offer, it has something for everyone. Time spent in Cape Town will not be forgotten.

Day 4: Cape Town
Today is again at leisure to experience Cape Town’s scenery, culture and cuisine.

We suggest a day tour to the magnificent Winelands. The Cape Winelands region with its classic Cape-Dutch homesteads, scenic mountainous vistas, picturesque towns and fine restaurants is the Cape’s Culinary Capital. You will enjoy the area’s historical charm, culture, architectural heritage and of course visits to wine cellars to taste South Africa’s world class wines. Apart from the fine wine estates visitors may discover a variety of local cheeses, olives and olive oil.

Day 5: Cape Town
Your final day in Cape Town! Time to do some last minute shopping or enjoy another sightseeing tour – time spent in Cape Town will not be forgotten.

Day 6: Cape Town/Pilanesburg
Today you will be transferred from your hotel to Cape Town Airport for your flight to Johannesburg. On arrival at Johannesburg Airport you will be met and transferred by road to Bakubung Bush Lodge.

Optional: For a once-in-a-lifetime experience you can choose to stop en route at the Elephant Sanctuary where you will have be guided through an unforgettable experience with these magnificent creatures. Visitors are able to touch, feed and walk hand-in-trunk with the elephants.

The 4-star Bakubung Bush Lodge is a two-hour drive from Johannesburg and ten minutes from Sun City. This is a place of breath-taking beauty and serenity. Concealed in the rich expanses of the malaria-free Pilanesberg National Park, Bakubung, or “People of the Hippo”, offers everything one would need to get in touch with the bush.
Stay 2 Nights: Bakubung Bush Lodge

Days 7-8: Bakubung Bush Lodge
Spend 2 more days at Bakubung where daily game drives reveal the fascinating world of Africa’s freely roaming wildlife.
The day starts early as dawn breaks over the African bushveld. Enjoy a hot drink and breakfast before you depart in your open safari vehicle with your experienced rangers who will share their extensive knowledge of the bush with you.

After an exhilarating hunt for tracks to see what the animals have been up to during the night, and tracking down wildlife in the bush, you continue your game drive en route back to the lodge.

The remainder of your day is free. Spend the afternoon at the lodge, relishing the tranquility of the bush. You may arrange an additional afternoon game drive (own account), or perhaps take the shuttle over to Sun City, a 10-minute drive away.

Day 9: Bakubung Bush Lodge/Johannesburg/Depart
After breakfast you will be transferred by road to Johannesburg Airport to connect with your scheduled South African Airways flight.

Day 10: USA
Arrive back in the USA.

Pricing & Departures

Or, call 1.800.788.0829 to speak with one of our travel experts.

Notes:

• Prices are per person based on double occupancy
• Prices include all taxes
• Limited space is subject to availability and prior sale
• Prices in US dollars unless otherwise noted
• Some taxes are not included
• Prices reflect cash discount
• Due to constantly changing policies to baggage restrictions, please check with your airline directly for latest updates and restrictions
• Information, including prices are subject to change without notice
• Restrictions and change and/or cancel penalties apply
• UBI-600-307-872-WA

explore tasmania & experience the natural beauty of the Island State

Embark this journey through Tasmania and experience the natural beauty of the Island State. Uncover the wonders of Mt. Field National Park, view spectacular Russell Falls and cruise the dark waters of the Gordon River. Explore Cradle Mountain National Park, enjoy views of Bass Strait and visit Cataract Gorge near Launceston – wilderness in the city. Learn about Port Arthur’s convict past, see a Tasmanian Devil and visit historic Richmond.

Pricing & Departures

Additional departure dates available, ask a Travel Team Agent for details.

Or, call 1.800.788.0829 to speak with one of our travel experts.

Notes:

• Land only package, airfare can easily be added
• Prices in US dollars unless otherwise noted
• We have limited space on this package and it is subject to availability and prior sale
• All package prices are per person based on double occupancy unless otherwise noted
• Prices reflect cash discount
• Due to constantly changing policies to baggage restrictions, please check with your airline directly for latest updates and restrictions
• Information, including prices are subject to change without notice
• Restrictions and change and/or cancel penalties apply
• UBI-600-307-872-WA

Melbourne to Sydney via Cairns

Explore the diverse wonder of the land down under. Discover Melbourne’s colourful hidden laneways, experience an immersive Aboriginal Cultural Experience in Cairns, snorkel and cruise on the Great Barrier Reef, cuddle a koala at Cairns Wildlife Dome, sail on Sydney Harbour and toast the sunset on a dinner cruise, venture inside Sydney Opera House on a guided tour, immerse yourself in Aussie surf culture at Bondi Beach.

Pricing & Departures

Prices are per person based on double occupancy; Prices are subject to availability; Airfare is NOT included. Additional departure dates available, ask a Travel Team Agent for details.

Or, call 1.800.788.0829 to speak with one of our travel experts.

Notes:

• Land only package.
• Prices in US dollars unless otherwise noted
• We have limited space on this package and it is subject to availability and prior sale
• All package prices are per person based on double occupancy unless otherwise noted
• Prices reflect cash discount
• Due to constantly changing policies to baggage restrictions, please check with your airline directly for latest updates and restrictions
• Information, including prices are subject to change without notice
• Restrictions and change and/or cancel penalties apply
• UBI-600-307-872-WA

A Beginner’s Guide to Speaking Australian

Although Australia is an English speaking country, arriving into the country with little knowledge of the “Aussie slang” may just get into you into a few awkward situations. Aussies have a tendency to shorten most words in the English vocabulary.

So, whether you are dreaming of visiting Australia, have just arrived or have been in this gigantic island of paradise for a while, there are a few Australian terms that you should know to help you get through day to life. You will soon become accustomed to this. Here are a list of some common terms that should help you get by…

A Cold One – Beer

Arvo – Afternoon

Aussie salute – Wave to scare the flies

Bail – to cancel plans

Barbie – Barbecue

Bathers – Swimsuit

Bea – Beer

Beauty! – Great!

Billabong – A pond in a dry riverbed

Billy – Teapot (In the Outback on the fire)

Bloody – very. Used to extenuate a point

Booze Bus – Police vehicle used to catch drunk drivers

Brekky – Breakfast

Brolly – Umbrella

C*nt, the “C” word – Used when exchanging pleasantries between close friends or family member. If someone calls you the “C” word in Australia (and you haven’t done anything to make them angry), then breathe a sigh of relief… it means you have entered the mate zone.

Cab – Sav – Cabernet Sauvignon

Cactus – Dead, Broken

Choc A Bloc – Full

Choccy Biccy – Chocolate Biscuit

Chrissie – Christmas

Ciggy – a Cigarette

Clucky – feeling maternal

Cobber – Very good friend

Coppas – Policemen

Crook – Being ill or angry; ‘Don’t go crook on me for getting crook’

Deadset – True

Devo – Devastated

Dunny – Toilet

Esky – an insulated container that keeps things cold (usually beers)

F*ck Me Dead – that’s unfortunate, that surprises me

Fair dinkum – Honestly?

Frothy – Beer

G’day – Hello

Going off – busy, lots of people

Good Onya – Good work

Goon – the best invention ever produced by mankind. Goon is a cheap, boxed wine that will inevitably become an integral part of your Australian backpacking experience.

Hard yakka – Hard work

Heaps – loads, lots, many

Knickers – female underwear

Legless – Someone who is really drunk

Lollies – Sweets

Maccas – McDonalds

No Worries – it’s Ok

Nuddy – Naked

Pash – to kiss

Piece of Piss – easy

Piss Off – go away, get lost

Piss Up – a party, a get together and in Australia – most social occasions

Piss – to urinate

Pissed – Intoxicated, Drunk

Reckon – for sure

Root Rat – someone who enjoys sex (maybe a little too much)

Rooted – Tired

Runners – Trainers, Sneakers

Servo Service Station

Sickie – a sick day off work

Slab – a carton of beers

Snag – Sausage

Stiffy – Erection

Stoked – Happy, Pleased

Straya – Australia

Stubbie – a big Beer

Stuffed -Tired

Swag – Single tent

Tea – Dinner

Thongs – Flip Flops (or Jandals in New Zealand). Do not be alarmed if your new found Australian friend asks you to wear thongs to the beach. They are most likely expressing their concern of the hot sand on your delicate feet.

Tucker – Food

U-IE – to take a U-Turn when driving

Ya – You

Bet you haven’t heard this one, “Put some snags on the barbie” – this is a statement you’ll hear way more often than “Put a shrimp on the barbie“… why? Well because snags, i.e. sausages, exist, whereas in Australia shrimps don’t… they’re known as prawns!

Once you’ve been in Australia for, well, an hour, you’ll notice that nearly every word has an ‘o’ on the end of it. It might equally be helpful to share with you what not to say in Australia, such as “fanny” pack.” Something to keep in mind is that a “fanny” in Australia is not the derrière, but instead..well you get the drift.

Looking to travel to Australia to learn first hand? Then call us at 1-800-788-0829, we are experts at creating dream vacations just perfect for you!

The Travel Team offers the guaranteed lowest rates on Cruises

Europe River Cruises – Up to 50% off!

Explore some of Europe’s most fascinating waterways by boat!

The Travel Team offers the guaranteed lowest rate on cruises – in Europe and the rest of the world.

    On the following River Cruise Lines:                          Cruise These Rivers:

A-Rosa                                 The Danube
Abercrombie and Kent         The Dnieper
AMA Waterways                   The Douro
Avalon                                  The Elbe
Emerald Waterways             The Mosel
Insight                                  The Rhine
Scenic                                  The Rhone
Tauck                                   The Seine
Uniworld                              The Volga
Viking                                  The Bordeax

Save money by talking to a Travel Team River Cruise Agent

Cathy 1-800-788-0829 ext.222

   Camille 1-800-788-0829 ext. 228

Tracy 1-800-788-0829 ext. 225

Wendy 1-800-788-0829 ext 224

Our prices are ALWAYS lower than the cruise line!
ALWAYS!