THEME PARKS

CHANGES AT DISNEY

The World Showcase section of Walt Disney World's Epcot theme park is in the midst of some small but noteworthy comings and goings.

On Monday, the resort expects to launch the soft opening of La Cava del Tequila, a 46-seat lounge inside the Mexico pavilion. Disney says the space will chronicle the history of Mexico's most famous export.

It will also sell some 70 varieties of tequila. The drinks will be offered both straight and in margaritas; Mexican appetizers will also be for sale.

But even as one attraction arrives, another is departing. The Tin Toy Stories exhibit in the Japan pavilion has closed.

Considered something of a hidden jewel in Epcot, the oft-overlooked exhibit displayed more than 350 antique Japanese tin toys, a colorful collection that included characters ranging from Mickey Mouse to Godzilla.

Another new dining option recently had a soft opening in Disney: Kouzzina by Cat Cora along Disney's BoardWalk.

Conceived by the celebrity chef, the restaurant features Mediterranean cuisine such as Greek spinach pie, lamb, Greek doughnuts and baklava.

Dinner prices range between $15 and $40 per person. A formal grand opening is scheduled for Sept. 17.

CARIBBEAN

NEW FERRY SERVICE PLANNED

Those seeking a new way to explore the eastern Caribbean islands might soon have another option. A ferry slated to serve Barbados, St. Lucia, Trinidad, Grenada and St. Vincent is expected to start operating daily by late October, according to Grenada-based BEDY Ocean Line. Prices will range from $120 to $140, and some trips will last nearly four hours.

The announcement comes as travelers face pricier airline tickets, increased baggage restrictions and canceled flights by regional carrier LIAT due to wage disputes.

One ferry will be based in St. Vincent and serve Barbados and St. Lucia, while another will operate out of Grenada and serve Trinidad and Barbados, Ross said. Between 260 and 300 seats will be available per ferry. Passengers will be allowed to carry two 60-pound suitcases without charge.

Currently, only a couple of ferries operate between Florida and the Bahamas and among Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the British Virgin Islands.

TRAVEL PLANNING

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC LISTS TOP OUTFITTERS

If you're considering an adventurous trip somewhere but don't have time to plan a complicated itinerary, consider a tour outfitter that matches your interests, whether it's biking, hiking, safari, luxury or family. For the second year, National Geographic Adventure has published a list of top outfitters with a searchable database; go to http://adventure.nationalgeographic.com/adventure/outfitterhome. Many focus on sustainable tourism, and there are a variety of price points for each category.

NATIONAL PARKS

VOLUNTEER FOR NATIONAL PUBLIC LANDS DAY

Some 130,000 volunteers are expected to spend Natinal Public Lands Day, Sept. 26, working in parks, beaches and wildlife reserves to build trails, remove garbage and pull up invasive plants.

Many locations are also offering crafts, kids' activities, barbecues and campouts. The event is a program of the National Environmental Education Foundation.

More information at www.publiclandsday.org.

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