Trips, tips & deals

hicago Tribune (MCT) - FAMILY ADVENTURES, PERU TO ALASKA

Since 2005, Adventures by Disney has led family trips in locations around the world. Among the 23 itineraries set for 2009 is "Sacred Valleys and Incan Cities," an eight-night Peruvian journey that delves into the ruins of the Sacsayhuaman fortress and rediscovers the once-lost cities of Machu Picchu. A raft trip down the Urubamba River, a tour of the salt pan terraces of Maras and up-close encounters with llamas and alpacas await Indiana Jones wannabes, young and old.

With frequent departures between Feb. 14 and Dec. 29, "Sacred Valleys and Incan Cities" is priced at $2,819-$3,709 for adults and $2,539-$3,339 for children under 12, depending on trip and booking dates. Rates include accommodations, many meals, activities and leadership. International airfare to Lima and some tips are additional.

Adventures by Disney also offers family outings much closer to home, including "Taming the Last Frontier" in Alaska and "Quest for West," a "true Western" experience in Wyoming. (877-728-7282; www.adventuresbydisney.com)

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A CARIBBEAN TASTE OF IRELAND

Fans of Irish music will be treated to 40 hours of entertainment aboard Celebrity Cruise Lines' Summit Jan. 31-Feb. 7.

The "18th Annual Irish Festival Cruise" features Cherish the Ladies, the Black Brothers, Tommy Sands, Johnny McEvoy and other musicians as well as world champion Irish dancers Donny Golden and Dan Stacey.

Opportunities for informal socializing with the performers are always abundant at this annual Irish get-together, we are told.

Sailing round-trip from San Juan, Puerto Rico, the voyage calls at St. Maarten, Dominica, Grenada, Bonaire and Aruba.

Prices start at $1,199 for inside accommodations, $1,579 for an ocean-view cabin and $1,729 for a veranda stateroom.

Extra costs are port taxes, tips, fuel surcharges, shore excursions and airfare between home and San Juan.

The trip is offered by Irish Festival Cruises. (800-441-HARP; www.irishtours.com)

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TRAVERSE CITY EXTENDS FALL

"Leaf season" around Traverse City, Mich., generally folds up by the end of October, but the Traverse City Convention & Visitors Bureau is extending its "Fab Fall Package" from now until Dec. 11. Package rates for two people range from $50 to $150 per night, depending on the property and date chosen, with tax and sometimes resort fees additional.

The package also includes shopping, dining and spa discounts. Valid at 23 properties, "Fab Fall" bookings are available only through the visitors bureau. (800-872-8377; www.visittraversecity.com)

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FALLING IN LOVE IN CALIFORNIA

Legend has it that King Edward first made the acquaintance of Wallis Simpson at a Hotel del Coronado banquet in 1920.

Light Your Virtual Prayer Candle For a Loved One this Christmas

In keeping with such a romantic history, the hotel is offering a " 'Fall' in Love" couples escape that matches two nights' accommodations with $150 in resort credit for spa services, dining or shopping. Rates start at $680 plus tax and a $25 daily resort charge, valid until Nov. 20.

"The Del" is known for its Victorian architecture and signature red turret. It is on 28 oceanfront acres on Coronado Island, which is across the bay from downtown San Diego. (800-HOTEL DEL; www.hoteldel.com).

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Prices generally are per person double occupancy and based on availability.

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