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THE 2012 "LIFE AFTER 50" TRAVEL PLANNER

Jan 16, 2012, 6:36 p.m.

Compiled by Ed Boitano

ALASKA HERITAGE TOURS customizes your Alaska getaway with magnificent day cruises and relaxing lodge experiences with all the comforts of home. Cruise through Kenai Fjords National Park, home to whales, puffins and sea lions. Try geocaching at Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge, with panoramic views of Mt. McKinley. Enjoy picturesque views of a glacier river valley from Seward Windsong Lodge, on the edge of Kenai Fjords National Park. Go salmon fishing at Kenai Fjords Wilderness Lodge. Take advantage of non-stop flights and low airfares available from Long Beach and LAX to Anchorage through Alaska Airlines and Jet Blue. (877) 258-6877 or www.AlaskaHeritageTours.com/life

ALASKA RAILROAD covers 500 miles of Alaska's most stunning scenery. The fabulous rail experience includes premium GoldStar Service to Seward and Denali, comfortable seating in Adventure Class, and knowledgeable tour guides. The railroad has transported passengers through Alaska for close to a century. Open year-round, the Alaska Railroad's adventure packages and day trips include the finest accommodations and sightseeing tours along the railbelt. (800) 544-0552 or www.AlaskaRailroad.com

ALASKA TOUR & TRAVEL is the largest custom vacation packaging company in Alaska. Since 1995 we have helped more than 100,000 visitors plan their Alaska vacations - each trip customized to meet their individual needs. Alaska Tour and Travel represents top Alaska tourism suppliers offering lodging choices and popular day trip operators. We also offer fully escorted vacation packages for those who want to travel though Alaska with an experienced local guide. (800) 208-0200 or www.AlaskaTravel.com

ALASKA WILDLAND ADVENTURES Small group eco-adventures in Alaska's protected wild lands since 1977. Paddle a sea kayak under the midnight sun. Watch for calving glaciers. Join a guided walk to explore glacial moraine or group canoe paddle in search of local wildlife. Raft a turquoise river. Seek out bears, moose, otters and more. Spend evenings enjoying the subtle luxuries of delicious meals, private cabins and authentic Alaskan ambiance: (800) 334-8730 or www.akwildland.com/slmwb

THE BEACHCOMBER MOTEL ON THE BEACH is nestled on the dramatic Mendocino Coast with direct access to the beach and the ten-mile Coastal Trail. With the Pacific Ocean at its frontyard, guests enjoy spectacular views from every suite and room with rates that fit every budget and occasion. Amenities include spas, fireplaces, kitchens, Wi-Fi, observation deck and complimentary continental breakfast. The Redwoods, world-famous Glass Beach and Pacific Star Winery are just a short drive away. (800) 400-SURF (7873) or www.TheBeachcomberMotel.com

BIG BEAR COZY CABINS We boast the lowest vacation rental prices in Big Bear Lake, CA. Come take advantage this season of our great deals. Experience customer service that will always leave you satisfied. Just let us know exactly what you have in mind for your perfect vacation and we will cater to your every request. Our cabins have fully-equipped kitchens so you can enjoy cozy, private meals. Most homes are located near the slopes, Big Bear Lake and golf course and all of Big Bear’s attractions. (909) 866-9685 or www.BigBearCozyCabins.net

BIG SUR LODGE is located in ancient groves of redwood and oak trees in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, Big Sur. Guests are invited to step back in time to an earlier, more peaceful era. Our 61 cottage-style guest rooms, each with its own deck or porch, are located on a hillside, within walking distance of our restaurant, gift shop, and grocery store. (800) 424-4787 or www.BigSurLodge.com

CAMBRIA PINES LODGE offers 152 rooms and suites on 25 acres of Monterey pine forest and landscaped gardens. This unique property features a restaurant as well as outdoor heated pool and spa, Sojourn Day Spa, and nightly lounge entertainment. Only 10 minutes from Hearst Castle. Close to elephant seal rookery, shops, and more than 100 wineries and tasting rooms. (800) 966-6490 or www.cambriapineslodge.com

CHENAY BAY BEACH RESORT - ST. CROIX, USVI Overlooking the Caribbean, Chenay Bay Beach Resort. Ocean view or garden view West Indian-style cottages, with front porches. Amenities - infinity edge pool, tennis courts, water sports, direct beach access. Full bar/wine list and varied menu at the beachfront bar/grill, Mahi’s. Relax in open air, beachfront environment; enjoy the sights and sounds of the sea. (866) 357-2970 or www.ChenayBay.com

CLIPPERSHIP MOTORHOMES, INC. was founded in 1982 and has remained a family owned and operated business ever since. Our goal is to provide affordable and flexible Alaskan RV vacations and to help our clients create their own dream vacation. Whether your Alaskan vacation involves independent activities such as wildlife tours, glacier tours, fishing trips, or organized tours; Clippership Motorhomes can help make your Alaskan vacation dreams come true. (800) 421-3456 or www.ClipperShipRV.com

COACHMAN'S INN Carmel-by-the-Sea is one of the most unique and beautiful cities in America. When considering the perfect place to stay in Carmel-by-the-Sea, think of the Coachman's Inn. We offer all the charm and ambiance of an inn with all of the amenities of a hotel - all tucked away right in downtown Carmel. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, Keurig in-room coffee makers, an outdoor jetted tub and sauna, and high definition satellite tv's. Step out your guest room door to visit over 100 art and photo galleries, unique shops and over 60 great restaurants and cafes. (800) 336-6421 or www.CoachmansInn.com.

COLORADO TRAILS RANCH What you need is a week unwinding and exploring the wonders of our first class guest ranch. Colorado Trails Ranch is not far from Durango, in lovely Southwest Colorado. Set in the spectacular panoramas of the San Juan Mountains, our dude ranch resort has been the scene of thousands of once in a lifetime experiences for singles, groups and entire families. There isn’t one difficult activity in our perfectly personalized programs. The food is delicious, the comfort is wonderful and you’ll feel like a well cared member of the family. (800) 323-3833 or www.ColoradoTrails.com

DOLPHIN BAY HOTEL Looking for a hotel on the Big Island of Hawaii? Experience the Aloha that the resort hotels lack. Just a short walk from downtown Hilo, Dolphin Bay Hotel offers comfortable accommodations at a reasonable price. We cater to people who want to see the real Hawaii. We offer four types of units, each with a fully equipped kitchen, a bath/ shower, cable color TV and table fans. Stay at the hotel “rated the nicest small hotel in the Hilo area.” (877) 935-1466 or www.DolphinBayHotel.com

THE DRIFTWOOD LODGE is located in downtown Juneau, Alaska just moments away from all the attractions. Guests can choose from 63 modern rooms and suites in four different floor plans, complete with exterior entries, private baths, direct dial telephones, coffee makers, Wi-Fi and TVs with 46-channel cable service. A free courtesy shuttle service is provided to the airport and ferry. Family owned and operated for over 30-years, the family and staff are dedicated to providing guests with comfortable lodgings, great service and willing to go the extra step to make your visit to the capital of Alaska a great experience. (800) 544-2239 or www.DriftwoodAlaska.com

THE KANTISHNA ROADHOUSE is an eco-friendly lodge located in the heart of Alaska's majestic Denali National Park & Preserve. Experience the magnificent landscape and wildlife of Denali and learn firsthand the history and culture of the area. Overnight packages include private bus transport, cozy cabin, meals, guided hiking opportunities and a variety of interpretive activities including a dog sled presentation, gold panning, and more. Call us at (800) 942-7420 or www.KantishnaRoadhouse.com.

KAUA’I VACATION RENTALS FROM AHH ALOHA Kauai Condos, Princeville Condos and Poipu Condos provides Kauai information and reservations for our large inventory of Kauai vacation rentals including condos, vacation homes, cottages, honeymoon suites, beach houses, bungalows and beach resorts. Our Kauai condo rentals and other Kauai vacation rentals are affordable, offer stunning views, and make a great home base for exploring Kauai adventures. It will make your vacation something to remember for a lifetime! (866) 92-ALOHA or www.Kauai-Vacations-ahh.com

KETCHIKAN RESERVATION SERVICE All of our outfitted vacation rentals provide comfortable, home-style accommodations with kitchenettes or full kitchens making them the right choice for travelers, families and fishermen. Enjoy a relaxing and affordable place to stay while visiting Ketchikan. Sportfishing and car rentals can be arranged. Visit our web page for detailed information, online availability, photos and pricing at www.Ketchikan-Lodging.com or call toll free at (800) 987-5337.

KING FREDERIK INN is nestled in the Santa Ynez Valley, in the heart of the Danish Village of Solvang. Guests enjoy well-appointed rooms and amenities, and an ideal location for exploring the Village of Solvang’s Danish history and scenic splendor. Local attractions include wineries, historic missions, old western towns, Elverhoj Danish Museum, boutique shopping, golf courses, bicycle tours, Chumash Casino and seasonal festivals. Our pool and Jacuzzi prove the perfect way to unwind after a day of touring. (800) 549-9955 or www.KingFrederik.com

KING SALMONDEAUX LODGE Alaska Fishing and lodging at King Salmondeaux Lodge in Soldotna Alaska, you get the southern hospitality along with the local Alaska fishing knowledge of 35 year Alaskan Resident, Captain Matt Dimmick and his wife Nancy. King Salmondeaux Lodge is committed to providing you the most memorable fishing Alaska trip of your life. From helicopter fly-in fishing, a limousine to pick up your party or a week in a home on a private island in Southeast Alaska, to a tent and bicycle rental, we can accommodate any budget and vision for your Alaskan fishing Vacation. Whether it is a relaxation vacation, trophy fishing or sightseeing we will customize a vacation for any taste. (866) 651-3474 or www.KingSalmondeauxLodge.com

MAMMOTH ESTATES offers deluxe resort condominiums in a beautiful Alpine setting in Mammoth Lakes, California. Located walking distance to Mammoth Village’s events, guests can choose from fully furnished units, ranging from spacious studios to two, three and four condominiums. Every unit features fireplace, fully equipped kitchen, towels and linens, telephone, along with cable TV and VCR or DVD. Amenities include sauna and hot spa. Free Internet service is also available. (800) 228-2884 or www.MammothEstates.com

PEA SOUP ANDERSEN’S INN is situated at the gateway to the beautiful Santa Ynez Valley and the Danish Village of Solvang. We’re located off Highway 101, just minutes from wineries, Sideways’ Wine Tours, dining, shopping, golf, biking, horse farms, apple orchards, and the Chumash Casino. We offer 97 spacious guest rooms, many which overlook the courtyard’s heated pool, Jacuzzi, putting green and barbeque/picnic area. We also offer Free High Speed Internet. For all your travel service needs, please contact us at (800) PEA-SOUP or www.PeaSoupAndersens.com

PISMO COAST VILLAGE RV RESORT Nestled right on the beach, this beautifully landscaped RV resort features 400 full hookup sites, each with complimentary wireless internet access and cable TV, on 26 grassy, tree-lined acres. Guests enjoy General Store, children’s arcade, restaurant, laundromat, heated pool, bicycle rentals and miniature golf course. Bask in the oceanside solitude or use the resort as a base to enjoy wineries, golf or Hearst Castle. Pismo Coast Village RV Resort was awarded the 2007/2008 National RV Park of the Year. (888) RV-BEACH or www.PismoCoastVillage.com

RUBY RANGE ADVENTURE The stunning northern landscapes of Canada’s Yukon and Alaska awaits your arrival, and Ruby Range Adventure has the guides and knowledge to make your journey an experience of a lifetime. Combining close-knit groups on a wide range of guided tours, we can whisk you away in a bus or van along historic highways to gold rush towns of the Yukon and Alaska or guide you down a river by canoe deep into the untamed wilderness. Our specialty is escorted camping and trekking tours, backpacking and hiking vacations. (867) 667-2209 or www.RubyRange.com

RUBY’S INN & RV PARK is the closest accommodations to southern Utah's Bryce Canyon National Park. We offer 368 deluxe guest rooms, restaurants, general store and gallery, conference center, car care, Hertz car rentals, and a RV park and campground. Our guests can enjoy swimming pools and spas, or browse the general store, shops and gallery. We feature year round activities including horseback rides and scenic flights. Ruby's Inn and Bryce Canyon National Park are open all year. (866) 878-9389 or www.RubysInn.com

SEASCAPE BEACH RESORT is like having your own beach home with all the amenities of a four-diamond resort. For a spectacular Santa Cruz vacation, enjoy 285 spacious suites and beach villas, fully equipped kitchens or kitchenettes, fireplaces, and private balconies facing the majestic Monterey Bay. Indulge in championship golf, in-suite spa treatments, the popular beach-fires-to-go and discounted tickets to Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. The luxury and comfort of Seascape makes it the popular vacation spot for couples, families and destination weddings. (800) 676-1684 or www.SeascapeResort.com

THE SEAVENTURE RESORT, one of the premier California beachfront hotels, offers luxury accommodations for less. This Pismo Beach Hotel has tastefully appointed rooms, with private balcony and hot tub, to refresh you after a day of enjoying Central Coast outdoor activities. Savor contemporary coastal cuisine along with spectacular 180 degree ocean views at the SeaVenture Restaurant. We also offer a full range of body treatments at our spa. Come join us at the SeaVenture Resort, your romantic Pismo Beach destination. (800) 662-5545 or www.SeaVenture.com

SEWARD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Known as the 'Gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park' Seward is a picturesque town located 126 miles south of Anchorage. Discover our bustling harbor and historic downtown filled with quaint shops and art galleries. Experience trophy sport fishing, glacier and wildlife cruises, sailing, hiking, kayaking, flight seeing and more. A wide range of accommodations, restaurants, RV parks, tent camping, and visitor services are available. (907) 224-8051 or www.Seward.com

SITKA CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU Sitka, Alaska is your Alaskan treasure. Views of island-studded waters, stately spruce forests, jagged mountains and towering volcano surround Alaska's most beautiful seaside town. Experience Sitka’s riches with warm hospitality, ancient Tlingit living culture, Russian heritage, fact-filled museums, hand-carved totems, abundant Alaskan wildlife and plenty of Alaskan adventure. Sitka is the natural place to visit! Call for your free Sitka vacation guide. (907) 747-5940 or www.sitka.org

SUNQUEST VACATIONS Make us your homebase as you explore the majestic Kona Coast on the Big Island of Hawaii. We offer a wide selection of resort condominiums and vacation homes. Choose from budget condominiums to luxurious homes with spectacular views, private pools and Jacuzzis. Visit our new Kohala Zip Line, which is spread over 150 acres of hillside, old growth ironwood and albizia forest. The course consists of 8 ziplines, two bridges and a lanai overlooking a 32' waterfall where you will break for a light lunch. (800) 367-5168 or www.SunQuest-Hawaii.com

INTERNATIONAL

CHAMPION HOLIDAYS Discover the Best of China from $1095 with air inclusive land tours. One of its most popular packages is the Best Cities of China. From Beijing's Great Wall of China and Xi'an's Terra-Cotta Warriors to Suzhou's stunning gardens to Shanghai, this 10-day tour starts from $1095 per person. It includes intra-country ground and air transportation with taxes and fees, four- or five-star hotel stays, nearly all meals, and English-speaking guided tours (entrance fees included). For more information and early-bird specials: (800) 868-7658 or www.China-Discovery.com

CRUISEONE specializes in cruise and land vacations to the world’s most exotic destinations, including Alaska, Antarctica, Belize, Hawaii, Caribbean, Mediterranean and the Mexican Riviera. Programs range from family reunions at sea and honeymoon cruises to river cruising and land vacations. Each independently owned and operated business combines the latest technology with old-fashioned customer service. Contact Joni Notagiacomo. (800) 600-4548 or www.luv2cruz.com

ICELAND SAGA TRAVEL is the travel expert to Iceland, any time of year. We specialize in customizing itineraries with a focus on cultural tours, adventure travel, ecotourism, world-class fly fishing, golf tours, horseback riding, mountain and glacier climbing, jeep excursions and more. From 4-star hotels to farm stays and campgrounds near volcanoes and glaciers, young and old, will enjoy a memorable trip to Iceland. (866) 423-7242 or www.IcelandSagaTravel.com

KUMUKA WORLDWIDE is one of the longest-running adventure travel companies in the world. Destinations include Antarctica, Arctic cruises, Africa lodge based safaris, Galapagos, China and Southeast Asia, and Latin America, plus other great destinations. Choose from a range of travel styles, from family trips, small group tours, lodge based tours, overland expeditions and more. With over 600 exciting tours, ranging from two- days to 35- weeks, covering 75 countries, spanning seven continents, making use of a wide variety of transport and accommodation styles. (800 517-0867 or www.Kumuka.com

HERZERL TOURS - Vienna: food, wine and art! The Viennese Cuisine, which has now been discovered by the American public, is a result of the pleasure-loving lifestyle of the Viennese people, who love to eat and cook. Spend a week watching famous Viennese chefs at work, and try your hand under their guidance; attend a chocolate workshop, a Viennese apple strudel demo and learn about wine pairing directly from a vintner. Indulge in the Viennese art scene, dine at haute-cuisine Viennese restaurants. Add a concert of Viennese music and you've got the "Taste" tour of a lifetime! The 2012 tour at $2,475.00 per person, land only, is offered in April and November 2012. Contact Susanne at (800) 684-8488 for details; sms@herzerltours.com or www.herzerltours.com

MAYAN PRINCESS HOTEL offers suites right on the beach in downtown San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, Belize – where you can enjoy all the sights and sound of local culture, or just relax on your private sea-side veranda. For the adventure traveler there are diving, snorkeling, fishing, or mainland tours offering cave tubing, Mayan ruins and jungle tours. Guests enjoy beautiful oceanfront suites with kitchenettes, daily maid service, complimentary Continental breakfast, on-site dive center and free shuttle from the airstrip. (501) 226-2778 or www.MayanPrincessHotel.com

MILITARY HISTORICAL TOURS (MHT) has been serving veterans, educators, historians and their families for 25 years. MHT is the premier military battlefield tour company and is the exclusive airplane charter provider to Iwo Jima and Midway Islands, don't hesitate this year. MHT is the Vietnam Battlefield experts and our European Legacy Tours are “bucket list” memory fillers. Tours are limited in size to tailor them for individual requests ensuring a "personal" experience. Our Veteran Tour Leaders provide an "in-depth" perspective. (800) 722-9501 or www.MilTours.com

PACIFIC DELIGHT TOURS - SAVE up to $800 per couple on Luxury China Tours. Book and pay in full by March 31, 2012. Stay in FiveStarPlus® hotels, Executive Suites & Boutique Lifestyle on board Victoria Cruises also includes all intra-China flights, American breakfast daily and most meals, historical sightseeing, entertainment and more. Experience China, Hong Kong, Singapore, Japan, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar, Indonesia, India. For more information: Call (800) 221-7179 or visit www.PacificDelightTours.com

RADISSON FORT GEORGE HOTEL & MARINA Located in the historic Fort George area of Belize City, the Fort George draws adventure travelers to Belize's ancient Mayan Sites, exotic wildlife and spectacular waters for snorkeling and diving. The award - winning resort hotel offers spacious rooms, two swimming pools, fitness centre, full-service marina, 2 restaurants, bars, & cafe on property. The guest services desk can arrange Belize sightseeing tours and diving trips. 501-223-3333 / (800) 333-3333 or www.radisson.com/belizecitybz

SUNBREEZE SUITES & SUNBREEZE HOTEL are a short stroll apart, located downtown and oceanfront in San Pedro, Belize. The properties are the perfect vacation hideaway to experience the pleasures of Ambergris Caye. Enjoy oceanfront suites and partial ocean view rooms just one-half mile from the world-renowned diving and snorkeling on the Belize Barrier Reef. The fresh water pool offers the ideal place to relax after a day of activities. SunBreeze Suites & SunBreeze Hotel are walking distance to restaurants and attractions. (800) 688-0191; www.SunBreezeSuites.com; www.SunBreeze.net

TRANQUILITY BAY RESORT is nestled on twelve acres on one of the finest beaches in Belize. Located just inside the Belize Barrier Reef, Tranquility Bay is the only resort on Ambergris Caye that is located inside the United Nations World Heritage Site. World class fishing, sailing, snorkeling and diving are just out the front door. Tranquility Bay resort is like a private hideaway for travelers, interested in adventure and romance, while enjoying local culture and environmental wonders without sacrificing a comfy bed, terrific food and a well stocked bar. (888) 843-2293 or www.TranquilityBayResort.com

VALOR TOURS is America’s oldest and most experienced military tour operator. For over 30 years we have led Veterans, their sons and daughters, and history buffs back to the battlefields, airfields and naval bases in the Pacific and Europe. Founded by Bob Reynolds, a WWII pilot, the company's experience and knowledge of significant (and sometimes little-known) wartime destinations has made it a meaningful resource for military organizations, reunion groups and historical societies. Ask about our early booking discount for Life After 50 readers. (800) 842-4504 or www.ValorTours.com

WENDY WU'S TOURS China Experience a land full of the world's oldest traditions, beautiful landscapes and varied cultures with Wendy Wu’s Tours, the largest award-winning tour operator from the U.K. and Australia, now in the US! Wendy Wu's Chinas offer a truly absolutely fully inclusive touring experience for every traveler that explores the wonderful sites within. Our escorted China tours include air, air taxes, fuel, hotels, all meals, admission fees, touring, visa fees and processing. We are sure you will find our fully inclusive tours both exciting and wonderful. (877) 993-6399; www.wendyWutours.com or www.WendyWuConcierge.com

WILDERNESS TRAVEL has been creating dream journeys for over 30 years. With over 150 journeys worldwide, our cultural, wildlife and hiking adventures offer an incredible range of experiences with trips for every interest and ability. From walking trips in Tuscany to thrilling wildlife safaris in Africa and cultural journeys to Machu Picchu, there are many ways to travel with us, all featuring the exceptional quality that has made us a leader in adventure travel. (800) 368-2794 or www.WildernessTravel.com

At YMT VACATIONS, our principal goal has been to provide guests with affordable, full service, and carefree tour and cruise/tour vacation itineraries. You'll enjoy peace of mind, knowing that a knowledgeable and travel-savvy team will handle the details of your vacation accommodations, transportation, and sightseeing activities. We believe that planning your once-in-a-lifetime vacation should as relaxing as being on vacation. www.ymtvacations.com or 1-888-817-9538

RELOCATION

LA LOMA VILLAGE, located in quaint Litchfield Park, Arizona, offers abundant amenities, a wide range of services, and spacious, well appointed casitas and apartments. >From the beautiful pool and spa to the warm and inviting dining room and atrium café, everything at La Loma has been designed with your enjoyment and comfort in mind. In this friendly community, you'll be able to move among various levels of residential options as your health care needs require. (623) 537-7521 or www.sunhealthseniorliving.org

SUN CITY, ARIZONA, the retirement community that started them all offers the BEST VALUE in retirement living. The unincorporated community, northwest of Phoenix offers Low Cost of Living: low taxes • lowest fees. Great Health Care: Banner Boswell Medical Center • Core Institute. Golf Courses: 5-Regulation • 3-Executive • 3-Country Clubs. 7-Recreation Centers: swimming • tennis • bowling • Pickelball • Fitness Centers • 120+ Clubs and Activities. (800) 437-8146 or www.suncityaz.org/life

SUN CITY WEST – Most affordable, beautifully planned, debt-free 55+ community. Homes on 7 golf courses range from affordable duplexes to grand showcases. 4 rec centers with pools, indoor/outdoor walking tracks, fitness centers. Over 100 clubs (arts, crafts, social, sports, hobby), library, theater, continuing education, top-notch medical. LOW TAXES & REC FEES! Call 1-800-482-3796 for VIP pass info. www.suncitywest.org.

SUNRIVER ST. GEORGE is southern Utah’s premier master-planned active adult lifestyle community. Built in an unspoiled, rural location, SunRiver St. George provides a quiet, superbly planned community with occupancy limited to at least one resident 55 or older. >From the golf course layout and community center design to the floor plans of our sensational SunRiver St. George homes, the active adult lifestyle is our central point of focus. SunRiver St. George is "building a lifestyle, not just homes." (888) 688-6556 or www.SunRiver.com

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