-- T. Jackson, Mississauga
A: Polynesia is not generally regarded as a budget destination but this year you may find a great deal. Tahiti Tourism has a North American office (tahiti-tourisme.com or toll-free 1-800-365-4949). From their homepage, look for links to Tahiti travel deals and Tahiti Specialist Locator for a list of travel agents in your area who specialize in Tahiti vacations. Your travel agent may also have the latest info on island deals.
And here's a long shot to explore: French Polynesia has an online video contest called "Invest In Your Love." The prize is a dream trip to French Polynesia. Videos can be submitted to investinyourlove.com and should showcase why the entrant needs an escape to the legendary islands. See the website for full details.
"We want to see everything from romantic and heartwarming -- to fun and offbeat," says Al Keahi, managing director for Tahiti Tourism North America. "Show us why you deserve a vacation to the islands of Tahiti. If you have been to Tahiti before, share your favourite experiences and memories. Be original, be creative and most of all have fun with the videos."
Tahiti Tourism will handle all travel arrangements, including flights with Air Tahiti Nui, inter-island transportation, six nights' deluxe accommodations for two, daily breakfast and dinner.
Q: This swine flu outbreak is really troublesome. I'm scheduled to take a trip to the Caribbean (not Mexico) next month but am now reconsidering. What should I do?
-- G. Gupta, Richmond Hill
A: I can only tell you of my own recent experience. I just returned from Cuba, where airport staff were wearing masks. I encountered no issues with H1N1. I followed the advice of health officials, including:
- Wash your hands frequently or use hand sanitizers or disinfectant wipes especially when leaving public places where you have touched door handles, elevator buttons or handrails.
- Listen to local health advisories.
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue away after use.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.
The Public Health Agency of Canada has updates at 1-800-454-8302 or at phac-aspc.gc.ca/alert-alerte/swine_200904-eng.php.
