Showing posts with label Cuba. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Cuba. Show all posts

Wednesday, February 1, 2017

Not so #WordlessWednesday Photo Tour of The New York Times #Travel Show! @NYTTravelShow #NYTTravelShow

I had no idea when I walked into the Media Day for The New York Times Travel Show this year what a mess there would be at the Airports later that weekend. (And let's not even discuss the weekend schedule into the city on public transpo, thanks MTA! NOT!)

After what was an amazing weekend of  'exploring the world in one place' and connecting with my tribe of fellow travelers, 'wanderlusters' and writers - Editor friends would have trouble getting home, when Airlines experienced computer problems, and our new President issued a Travel Ban that caused chaos.

It took me a few days to figure out how to approach sharing my recap of the show. Should I stay silent about what is going on around the world? Just focus on the exhibitors? Tidbits from the Panels and Learning Sessions from Media Day only?

There are fundamental things in life that have the ability to 'transport' you:

(1) Reading
(2) Music
(3) Education

and last but certainly not least

(4) TRAVEL

Travel at its best expands our horizons, shows us just how much we have in common - it makes the world that much 'bigger'.

And that is exactly what The New York Travel Show achieved for me, here are some photo highlights:


Above: All-Inclusive Travel Panel at The New York Times Travel Show - the all-inclusive travel market is facing a ton of competition - including cruising, improvements are being made but travel buyers still need to research and evaluate a prospective all-inclusive carefully to be sure you are getting the most bang for your buck based on the way YOU travel. When you travel, do you sleep in late most days? Then an all-inclusive that includes breakfast is probably not a necessary expense for you. Do you hate buffets? Make sure your all-inclusive includes more than a buffet dining option.


Above: Focus on Cruising Panel at The New York Times Travel Show -  Norwegian Cruises let us know that the Norwegian Sky is going to Cuba with an overnight in Havana



Above: Focus on Cruising Panel at The New York Times Travel Show - Celebrity Cruises will boast 61 overnight calls in Europe in 2017


Above: Focus on Cruising Panel at The New York Times Travel Show - MSC Cruises focus on wellness powered by Technogym definitely caught my eye, if I can get away but still focus on 'staying centered' that is my idea of vacation nirvana! I have never taken a cruise before, but MSC has definitely got me tempted. Ascending Butterfly has always taken a 'Mind, Body, and Soul' approach to wellness and wellbeing and this is certainly right up my alley!

VIDEO - While I did take photos I thought sharing this video I shot at the Mexico Tourism Exhibitor Booth of a live Mariachi Band would be way more fun!



Below: The Media Day was sponsored by the Costa Rica Tourism Board, they hosted a really nice networking break:


Above: Costa Rican Coffee, an assortment of chocolate, and dried fruit to take home and some delicious empanadas to nibble on between sessions was a great break in between panels during Media Day. Learning is hungry business!


Above: It snowed yesterday here in New York City, I actually wish I was on a beach 'wasting away in Margaritaville' right about now! #LicensetoChill

Below: But it was the Giant Flip Flop that drew visitor's to the booth!




Above: The India Tourism Board caught my eye especially after the special screening of Lion starring SAG nominee Dev Patel that I got to attend earlier in the month (I will share a full review on the movie soon) and I couldn't help but nab a close up of the eye catching elephant statues.




ABOVE: Indonesia also had a super eye catching booth!


Above: At the Indonesia Tourism Booth they offered the chance to customize a bookmark with your name in Javanese Characters which as an avid reader I thought was awesome and I definitely took advantage of this, it will be a very treasured bookmark!


Above: The interactive mailbox at Live the Language definitely caught my eye, I would love to learn a new language abroad! Yes Please!

Cultural Performances:


Above: 2017 New York Times Travel Show  - The New York Korean Performing Arts Center drum and dance in celebration of the Lunar New Year. Asia Stage Cultural Performance.


Above: Korean Martial Arts Group takes Asia Stage at The New York Times Travel Show (I have studied several forms of Martial Arts, seeing this was a great reminder I need to get back into it!)


Above: Cultural Dance Performance - The New York Times Travel Show 2017

Above: What is a tradeshow without a fun cocktail reception right? ManAboutWorld hosted a cocktail reception sponsored by the Tourism Boards of both Florida and Arizona, and they definitely get cool swag mentions for the McClendon's Select Organic Red Grapefruit Soaps! Not to mention the Tequila Glasses for the Margaritas were super cute too! LGBT travel was the focus of this party which I hopes become an annual one for the show.

MY TAKE:

The New York Times Travel Show does a great job of improving it's Media Day each year, I am there now as Press, but many moons ago I worked for an Airline (that is still very much in business) in the Caribbean Sales Division where I sold directly to the Agencies that sold to the end consumer. I will always have a strong interest in the 'business' side of travel and where it's headed, the technology that is always changing and adapting to suit the needs of the tech savvy traveler and finding unique travel ideas, products and experiences.

It also activates a fresh case of 'wanderlust-itis' - that won't go away until I board a plane again!

Readers Sound Off: What destination(s) is top on your travel bucket list this year?

·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙

FTC Disclosure: I was granted Press Access to the New York Times Travel Show for Editorial Consideration and all thoughts and opinions are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

Things that lure Ascending Butterfly out of her butterfly cocoon of fabulosity: Electronics/Technology (yes I am a Gadget Geek first!), Fashion, Jewelry, Bubbly/Spirits, Foodie/Restaurants, Photography and Travel. And remember Ascending Butterfly does NOT have children, please do not pitch her toys (at least not those that are intended for children).

Unless it's charity related, If a campaign doesn't pay, this butterfly won't want to play.

Smile if you got this far, twirl around twice and sing Mariah Carey's Butterfly. Still here? Now go make someone happy today.

Friday, June 17, 2011

{CLOSED} Put a Spring in Dads (or your) step with Joya Shoes - 5 Winners - Ends 06/24

˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙
This giveaway is now CLOSED. Thanks so much to our wonderful sponsor Joya Shoes! We look forward to working with you again! The winners have been notified and upon confirmation, follower names will be posted both here and on our homepage. Remember: There are great giveaways active on the upper right hand side of the page!
˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙

Ascending Butterfly's Annual Dads N Grads Buying Guide Giveaway, brought to you by:


They say the way to a man's heart is through is his stomach, and while that may be true, I say the way to anyone's heart is via their feet! Yes, their Feet! Painful shoes and foot pain can shut down the fun quick, and I mean QUICK. Most people turn into cranky monsters when their feet hurt, myself included. I have even stopped and bought new shoes when shoes I'm wearing are hurting my feet.

Most men HATE to shop, hence an underwear draw filled with underwear that are older than their children, and shoes that have seen better days in their closets!

This Father's Day Weekend, let's have a 'Shoe-tervention' and vow to get Dad's comfortable, stylish footwear that will improve their posture, and put an overall 'Spring' in Dad's steps!


Joya 'Cuba' Mens Shoe

Joya - the world's softest shoe

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Experience effortless walking - Joya uses futuristic internationally patented Sole Technology that delivers a sensation while walking that has really never before been encountered. You are given the emotional experience of walking effortlessly on a concrete planet. It's not about sculpting and toning a chiseled physique. It's not about being the "cure-all" shoe for orthopedic pain.

It's simply about making walking a joyful and effortless experience.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - They have a great selection for both men and women! (aren't the Cuba shoes above for men super sharp?)


Joya Womens Marilyn Shoe


I had the chance to try out the Joya Womens Marilyn Shoe, I am still breaking these in as I have a SUPER high instep, but they do feel like I'm walking on a cloud! I normally have the most trouble with my arches, and my arches are not barking with these. What I love is that much like my favorite shoes from Ryn, the Joya shoe also dramatically improves my posture! Despite the fact that they consider themselves more of a 'soft shoe' than a 'rocker' shoe, they do seem to offer me the same benefits I love from my Rocker Shoes, improved posture, and less joint stress as I walk.

My Take

Joya is a 'sister' company of sorts to our friends at Ryn, who have been featured several times on Ascending Butterfly and for very good reason! (See our Slip Into Summer 2010 Review as well as our NEW YEAR, NEW YOU! Giveaway - Remember these are both now closed, I just wanted you to refer to the reviews to see why I love them so much!) Ryn footwear has played a very strong part of several Lifestyle Changes I have made that have resulted in the loss of 26 pounds so far! I don't know about you, but I love spending money when it yields results I can truly see AND feel!

I honestly didn't think I'd ever 'cheat' on Ryn shoes, until I found Joya that is! ;-)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - WIN IT! - Ascending Butterfly and our new friends at Joya have a very special surprise for 5 lucky winners! FIVE winners will win a pair of Joya Shoes for their Dad, or to keep for themself (as there are both mens and womens styles)!

Don't you just ♥ Joya? I know I do!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - How to Win: (1) You must be a PUBLIC follower of Ascending Butterfly to be eligible for this and all giveaways. Indicate in your entry that you follow (if your 'comment name/user id' differs from your profile id, please let me know what name you follow under) and (2)MANDATORY entry-  Provide us with the URL link in a comment below to any other shoe you like (mens or womens), remember to provide the URL link not just the name. You can pick any pair except the Cuba Men or the Marilyn Womens as those were both featured in the review. (3) You must also leave your email address somewhere in your comment. (You can format it this way for security, example: ascendingbutterfly AT mail host DOT com). (If your email is clearly visible in your profile, you can just say so, that's OK!) Please follow the easy 1, 2, 3 steps to winning (or in this case, the A,B,C’s of winning!) This giveaway is open to USA residents who are 18 years of age or older. No PO Boxes. One entry per Household, see Ascending Butterfly Giveaway Rules and Disclosure Policy HERE.

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Please follow directions or you will be disqualified! All comments are moderated, they may not appear on the site right away (comments like "I want this" or "I want to win" will not be entered). You have from Friday, June 17, 2011 until Friday, June 24, 2011 at 03:00 PM (EST) to comment and be entered for a chance to win. You will have 48 hours to confirm if we do not hear from you we will be forced to move on to an alternate. (We only notify winners DIRECTLY via email, so if your profile or your comment does not have an email your entry will not be processed)

EXTRA CREDIT:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Rock the VOTE - it's super easy and a ONE time only, Please vote for me, Tracy Iglesias, (in red jacket)  - http://www.yourbestpose.com/competition/?id=1#6

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - You know how much I love finding us both win/wins right? Here's another one: Visit the Degree Women MotionSENSE App on Facebook and enter GetMoving031 in 'Enter Codes' HERE (you'll get an extra 5 MotionSENSE Miles which you can trade in for great prizes including trips!) Enter, share on your wall, and let me know you entered by linking me to where you shared it on your wall, by the way sharing also buys you extra MotionSENSE miles, win/win right? :)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Blog about this giveaway, linking to this giveaway post. Leave the URL in a comment. (If your blog post contains more than just a pic and link you'll get 5 extra credit entries! Leave five entries.)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - In the spirit of Father's Day Fun share with us your favorite advice that your dad has given you! (and yes, if you were not raised by your dad, you can share with us the best wisdom received by the person who did raise you! Uncles and Grandpas count too!) Or you can share if you are giving these to lucky guy in your life or keeping them for yourself!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Grab our NEW Button and put it on your Blog. Leave the URL where we can see it in a comment (if you have our old one, please swap it out, our URL address has changed!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow @Tracy_Iglesias on Twitter (this is ascendingbutterfly’s editor) and give me your twitter ID in a comment

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow @joya_shoes on Twitter

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow @Ascending1 on Twitter (this is Ascending Butterfly's new account, we will soon be hosting twitter parties which necessitates having a second account so we can make updates throughout the entire party!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ -Tweet this:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ @Ascending1 + @joya_shoes Put a Spring in Dads (or your) step w/ Joya Shoes - 5 Winners - #Giveaway! Ends 06/24 http://tinyurl.com/42k28qx

(Leave a comment with the tweet’s url so you can get a valid entry (click on the time your tweet was sent to get the direct URL and then copy and paste it here). You can Tweet TWICE per DAY. If you Tweet more than that, that entry will be disqualified.)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Digg about this giveaway and leave your digg username in your comment

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Fave this blog on Technorati and leave your Technorati user name in your comment

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow Ascending Butterfly on Facebook HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow Joya Shoes and tell them Ascending Butterfly Sent You (I'm sure they'd love for you to tell them who you'd give this to and why also!) on Facebook HERE (Please post the link to your facebook comment, you can get that link the same way you get your link to your tweets!)

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Every 100th person who "likes" Joya Shoes on Facebook will automatically get a free pair of Joyas of their choice - so "liker" 200, 300, 400 etc - How COOL is that?

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Follow Ascending Butterfly on Networked Blogs HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Join Ascending Butterfly's NEW Community/Real Time Chat, Group HERE

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - One time only, NOT a daily: Vote for Ascending Butterfly on: Fuel My Blog

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Have you entered another active giveaway on Ascending Butterfly? Let me know which one and you’ll get more extra credit!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Have you commented on a non-giveaway entry? Let me know which one here and you’ll get more extra credit!

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Press the button below and join, you get an extra entry for this giveaway and a shot at more great prizes, lets win together! (one time extra credit, will be verified before entry can be accepted)

˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙˙·٠•● Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ ●•●•٠·˙

FTC Disclosure Info for this Giveaway: This is not a paid insertion. This is a non-compensated post and all opinions regarding the product and the sponsor are my own experiences. I was provided product to facilitate the review and giveaway. The sponsors are fulfilling directly to prize winner(s), this in no way influenced my opinion of the products. Once a winner is selected and their information has been forwarded to the sponsor, the responsibility of prize fulfillment rests with the sponsor.