PRIME takes readers across the globe

Whether we're talking about tiny archipelago chains dotting the tropics, or giant swaths of land larger than some New England states, the allure of island travel is the focus of our cover story in this month's magazine. While we don't quite have the editorial budget here at PRIME to pay for first-hand accounts of luxurious travels abroad, we are able to bring you the highlights from the 2010 Boston Globe travel show (see story, click here). Our regular columnists picking up the travel bug for April include Gina Barry of the law firm Bacon & Wilson. This month, she advises readers on getting their legal affairs in order prior to boarding that plane, bus, or ocean-liner. Local travel expert Don Anderson also provides us with some insight into travel tips for the "Boomer" generation, and what trip packages are best tailored to fit their needs. Despite a down economy, travel business has picked up in recent months, according to owner of The Cruise Store. And in our technology section, be sure to check out the latest and greatest ways to book your travel plans online. Internationally known travel expert Arthur Frommer and his daughter Pauline also talked to travel show visitors at the Boston event about new refinements that have made vacationing more comfortable. The veteran travel expert said it's a buyers' market these days when booking travel accomodations. He's dubbed the current recession as an "incredible era of travel opportunities," finding values through travel Web sites. In other news, PRIME recently learned this month that Jean Sheehan, an Easthampton resident who will be turning 100 in June was honored this spring for her generous donation of 48 acres of land off Florence Road in Northampton to a private company in the 1990s. The land she gave is protected by agricultural and conservation restrictions, so the property can remain an unspoiled and picturesque part of the landscape. The fields, forest and stream had been a source of pleasure and joy to her family for many decades before. It was a land where deer and rabbits, pheasants and bears long dwelled, and she called the tract of land "the crowning jewel of my family's life." It was always a peaceful location for hiking with dogs, fishing for trout and watching vivid sunsets across the western hills. Speaking of centennials, I'd also like to recognize the 100th birthday of my own great aunt, who I always called Auntie Anna. She reached that milestone this winter, surrounded by friends and family. She never owned great parcels of land, or priceless artifacts to bequeath, but she has been a matriarch of the Briotta family for a very long time. Her indomitable spirit and enthusiasm for life is beyond material worth. Our family name means "full of spirit and liveliness," and I think she exemplifies those words perfectly. Wishing everyone reading this a long and healthy life, full of peaceful places to reflect and boundless enthusiasm for the road ahead. Sincerely, Mike Briotta, PRIME Editor mikeb@thereminder.com