Monday, June 9, 2008

Pembrook Newsletter

Updated on May 29, 2012
TRIPS PLANNED… 2012 - 2014

Kathy Didier
PO Box C, Woodstock, NH 03293
603-726-3553
Please note that my email address is now: kathydidiertravels@yahoo.com
Welcome,

Whether it be a weekend in the White Mountains of New Hampshire or travel to a more distant location, I hope that you will consider joining the excursions offered below. Listed first are the weekend trips in NH. Scroll down farther and you can read about the more distant trips that I and my co-leaders have planned.

Botswana - Azores - Ireland
- India – Morocco - Italy – Amsterdam, Brussels, Luxembourg - Vietnam - Cambodia - Nicaragua - Russia - Estonia - Lithuania - Latvia - Portugal

This is a sampling of trips being offered. Read descriptions below. If you have interest in any of the trips, ask to be put on an information list. As soon as trip plans are completed, you will be among the first to receive information. Many of these trips fill quickly.
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Join us for hikes during all seasons of the year. We also enjoy holiday celebrations such as New Years, Presidents, Memorial Day - Independence Day - Labor Day - Columbus Day Weekends. We are in an excellent area for summer sports - hiking, biking, canoeing and kayaking. In the winter, there are opportunities for skiing and snowshoeing all around us.
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Pembrook, my lodge in Woodstock, NH, is available for weekend and weeklong rentals. Sleeps from two to twenty. I and others continue to enjoy leading trips out of the house. Consider renting Pembrook’s Big House or Little House with friends and family. The Big House sleeps fourteen and the Little House six. Cannot beat the area for outdoor recreation. Check out description at http://pembrookvacationrentals.blogspot.com/

OR consider purchasing Pembrook.  Price just reduced to $229,000.  This is a bargain for two houses on two acres of land in the White Mountains.   
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Thank you..... Kathy Didier
The first trips listed are at Pembrook in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. Further down, we have listed trips which take place outside of New England.
TRIPS BASED AT PEMBROOK in Woodstock, NH

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June 22-24, 2012 (AMC) Gentle Hiking in the White Mtns. . Enjoy gently paced hikes in Franconia and/or Crawford Notches, under six miles each day, less than 1500’ elev. gain. Always a good group……providing a good time. $150 covers 2 nights lodging, 2 breakfasts, and one dinner. Kathy Didier kathydidiertravels@yahoo.com 603-726-3553 and Marilyn Pomerantz marilyn@firstmark.com 603-726-3144 and Cliff Teixeira cliff@outsidene.com
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August 3-5, 2012 (AMC) GENTLE HIKING AND SUMMER THEATER WEEKEND IN THE WHITES. Five mile hike to scenic overlook or pond in Whites at an easy going pace followed by a refreshing, optional swim in Mirror Lake. In the evening we will enjoy dinner at local restaurant and Professional Summer Theater to see the musical production “The Wedding Singer” On Sunday, we will hike another WMNF trail. $190 covers cost of lodging , theater ticket, two breakfasts and restaurant dinner. Limited space. Register early with Kathy Didier, 603-726-3553 kathydidiertravels@yahoo.com and Fran Scullin hikerfran@cox.net
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August 24-26, 2012 (AMC) GENTLE HIKING AND SUMMER THEATER WEEKEND IN THE WHITES. Five mile hike to scenic overlook or pond in Whites at an easy going pace followed by a refreshing, optional swim in Mirror Lake. In the evening we will enjoy dinner at local restaurant and Professional Summer Theater to see the musical production “ Dirty Rotten Scoundrels” On Sunday, we will hike another WMNF trail. $190 covers cost of lodging , theater ticket, two breakfasts and restaurant dinner. Limited space. Register early with Kathy Didier, 603-726-3553 kathydidiertravels@yahoo.com and Marilyn Pomerantz, marilyn@firstmark.com
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August 24-26, 2012 (AMC) GENTLE HIKING AND SUMMER THEATER WEEKEND IN THE WHITES.   Five mile hike to scenic overlook or pond in Whites at an easy going pace followed by a refreshing, optional swim in Mirror Lake.  In the evening we will enjoy dinner at local restaurant and Professional Summer Theater  to see the musical production “ Dirty Rotten Scoundrels”       On Sunday, we will hike another WMNF trail.   $190 covers cost of lodging , theater ticket, two breakfasts and restaurant dinner. Limited space.  Register early with Kathy Didier, 603-726-3553 kathydidiertravels@yahoo.com      and  Marilyn Pomerantz, marilyn@firstmark.com  
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August 31 – September 3 (AMC) Labor Day Weekend in the White Mtns.    Enjoy the last days of summer.  Great hiking weather.  Four leaders offer choice of two hikes each day…4000’ers and an easier hike with under 1500’ elev gain.  $250 for 3 nights, 3 breakfasts, 2 dinners .   Reg. with Kathy Didier  kathydidiertravels@yahoo.com      603-726-3553     Nancy Dimeo,  Bob Dimeo, bndimeo@gmail.com 978-649-6255, Anna Panszczyk annatp13@verizon.net  and Cliff Teixeira cliff@outsidene.com
Sept. 28 – 30, 2012. (AMC) Gentle Hiking & Leaf Peeping in the White Mountains. Perfect time to enjoy  hiking and viewing fall foliage in NH. Crisp air, vibrant colors, delicious food and great company. Trail conditions dictate the hikes which will be 5-6 miles at an easy pace. Stay at Pembrook . $150 covers 2 nights lodging, 2 breakfasts, HH, Sat. dinner. Reg.with Kathy Didier, kathydidiertravels@yahoo.com  603-726-3553  or Marilyn Pomerantz marilyn@firstmark.com  
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October 5-8, 2012  (AMC) Columbus Day Hiking Weekend in the Whites.  Foliage at its best.  Something for everybody.  Four leaders offer choice of two hikes  each day…. 4000’ers and easier scenic hikes.  $250 for 3 nights, 3 breakfasts, 2 dinners .   Reg. with Kathy Didier  kathydidiertravels@yahoo.com      603-726-3553     Nancy Dimeo,  Bob Dimeo,  bndimeo@gmail.com  978-649-6255 , Anna Panszczyk  annatp13@verizon.net
October 26 – 28, 2012 – (AMC) Gentle Hiking in the White Mtns.   Join us for a weekend of gentle hiking, fall foliage and no bugs!  Hike 5-6 miles, less than 1500’ elev. gain each day.  Stay at Pembrook.  $150 covers 2 nights lodging, 2 breakfasts and Saturday night dinner and happy hour.  . Reg.with Kathy Didier, kathydidiertravels@yahoo.com  603-726-3553  or Marilyn Pomerantz marilyn@firstmark.com  
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November 9-11, 2012 (AMC) Veterans Day Hiking in the White Mountains.  Bring your favorite Veteran for this Easy Hiking weekend. Veterans pay ½ price.   Scenic hikes will be less than six miles with elevation gain under 1000’.  Enjoy the friendly camaraderie and good food.   Co-leading will be Navy Veteran Steve Pressley.  $150 covers lodging, 2 breakfasts, Saturday dinner. Reg with Kathy Didier (son and ex-husband are vets), 603-726-3553  kathydidiertravels@yahoo.com  and Marilyn Pomerantz (married to a vet) marilyn@firstmark.com
Nov 23 – 25, 2012 (AMC) After Thanksgiving Hikes in the White Mtns.  Easy hiking at low elevations.   .  Enjoy the exercise, camaraderie, and good food after celebrating the holiday. Great time of year to hike…..no bugs!!  Some years, we are able to X-C Ski.  Downhill Ski areas will be open.  Stay at Pembrook   $150 covers 2 nts lodging, 2 brkfsts, Sat. dinner and happy hour. Reg. with Kathy Didier, kathydidiertravels@yahoo.com  603-726-3553  and Marilyn Pomerantz marilyn@firstmark.com

 
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2012 - 2013 EXTENDED TRIPS AND ADVENTURES
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August 31 – September 10, 2012   AZORES  (Adventurebug) Join us on this discovery of the Azore´s highlights as we walk the historic pathways and peer into the age old culture that connects people to both the mountain and the sea.  This walking discovery tour will be led by Matt Butler from Adventurebug, Spàin and his local specialist guides    Kathy Didier kathydidiertravels@yahoo.com      Trip is Waitlisted

October 6-15, 2012 -   Amsterdam, Luxembourg and Brussels  (GoAhead Tours)    See itinerary :  http://kathydidier3.grouptoursite.com    Our tour  takes us through Western Europe’s scenic and cultural gems.  Embrace the 17th century homes of Amsterdam as we tour this city through its intricate canal networks.  Enjoy the world-class food and wine of Luxembourg, as well as its numerous scenic gardens.  We end our 10 day tour in the enchanting Brussels where we will be surrounded by the beautiful rolling countryside of Belgium, and will discover masterpieces in Gothic architecture.  Contact Kathy Didier, 603-726-3553 kathydidiertravels@yahoo.com        .

Jan. 18-21, 2013   Craftsbury  MLK Holiday Weekend at Craftsbury Outdoor Center, VT.  Cross
Country Ski or snowshoe out the door at this Northeast Kingdom, Vermont resort.  Wide Groomed Trails for all levels.   Fee covers trail passes, 3 nights lodging (two to a room), all meals Friday dinner through Monday lunch.  Register with Kathy Didier, 603-726-3553 kathydidiertravels@yahoo.com        , Leaders: Nancy DiMeo, Janet Hall, and Anna Panszczyk  Trip is waitlisted
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 January 5-20, 2013 – Southern India. (Adventurebug)
We return to India and continue our discovery of this fascinating land.  Southern India is an unlimited experience of rich and vibrant culture and lush topography. The area that dates historically to some of the oldest tribal settlements in the world, today boasts a refined civilization. The multitude of ancient languages, the various classical dances and rhythmic musical recitals, the vibrant attires, the unforgettable countryside, the spell bounding temples, the serene romanticism of backwaters, the quaint British towns of Nilgiris - all these attributes make this part of India a truly unforgettable experience. This journey takes you to the frivolous temples of Tamilnadu to the tranquil charm of the plantation towns of Kerala and Karnataka – the meandering jungle backwaters of god’s own country Kerala and the rich historical heritage of Karnataka - not to forget the exotic beaches of the Portuguese influenced Goa and the cosmopolitan culture of Bangalore and Chennai.  Expect an inspiring 2 weeks of comfortable, soul satisfying travel on our return trip to this great nation.  Contact Kathy Didier, kathydidiertravels@yahoo.com       603-726-3553 One space open
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April 21 - 29 and  April 29 – May 7, 2013.- Umbria, Italy – Two Separate Trips.    http://umbria2013.blogspot.com    Visit this scenic part of Italy at the most beautiful time of year. Poppies in bloom, cuckoos singing, festivals being celebrated.. Walking and sightseeing through ancient hill towns of Assisi, Spello, Gubbio, Perugia,.    Taste  wines and olive oils.  Cooking class.  Local hiking and tour guides. Private or double occupancy rooms and baths in lovely bed and breakfast.  Gourmet dinners.  $2050 - $2300  covers lodging, most meals, sightseeing, and transportation in Italy. Kathy Didier, kathydidiertravels@yahoo.com  603-726-3553.   
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July 1-12, 2013 – St. Petersburg & the Baltics - The capital cities of the Baltic states are some of Europe’s best-kept secrets. Start your journey in Vilnius, Lithuania, a multicultural city whose historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Continue on to Riga, Latvia, where you’ll find medieval treasures alongside modern skyscrapers. Then, visit the lovingly preserved landmarks of Tallinn, Estonia before exploring St. Petersburg, the city of the czars and Russia’s “window on the west.”  Read:  http://kathydidierbaltics.grouptoursite.com/groups/kathydidierbaltics.aspx  Kathy Didier, 603-726-3553  kathydidiertravels@yahoo.com   
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September 28 – October 9, 2013 – Andalucia to Morocco , A Bridge between Two Continents    $2100
Join “Adventurebug” leader, Matt Butler,  for this colorful discovery tour that starts in Europe and crosses to Africa over the historic Straits of Gibraltar.   Our voyage begins in Malaga, Spain and takes in highlights such as Gibraltar´s upper nature reserve and the striking coastline at Tarifa on the Costa del Luz, one of Europe´s oldest settlement areas.  Following this, our 45 minute crossing of the Straits takes us into the peaceful Kingdom of Morocco.   Our visit to Morocco is primarily in the northern province of Chefchaouen and Tethuan, home to the Rif Mountain range followed by a stay in the colorful medina of Asilah, a former Portuguese enclave on the Atlantic coast.  Expect delightful rural villages, enchanting day walks in National Reserves, coastal rambles, mint tea and tasty tagine dishes cooked in clay pots and more.  Truly a journey for those seeking that balance between gentle day walks, historic and cultural interpretations and an exotic voyage between 2 continents - Yalla!!! Back in Spain, we explore the beauty of  historic Cordoba and Seville. Kathy Didier, kathydidiertravels@yahoo.com      603-726-3553 

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November 16 - 30, 2013 – Vietnam & Cambodia:
http://kathydidiervietnam.grouptoursite.com Treasures of Southeast Asia – Extension in Bangkok , Thailand (Arrive on November 14). (GoAhead Tours) Visit Siem Reap, the gateway to Angkor Wat in Cambodia. Visit the Temples. In Vietnam we explore Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An, Hue, Hanoi, Ha Long Bay...and so much more. There will be an overnight cruise on Ha Long Bay. Read about this trip at http://kathydidiervietnam.grouptoursite.com

February 2014 – Northwestern Costa Rica and NicaraguaOur outstanding Costa Rican guide, Ricardo Bolaños will once again be our guide for this Central American adventure.

April, 2014 – Two week Safari in Botswana, Africa with our friend and guide, Matt Butler of Adventurebug.  Do not miss this special opportunity.  Contact Kathy Didier to be on the information list.
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September 6-14, 2014 - Portugal
Kathy will join Matt from Adventurebug for a  journey that combines the best of Portugal´s natural, urban and historically rich treasures.  From Lisbon´s enchanting lanes to wonderful coastlines, national parklands and the verdant hilltop forts and majestic castles of medieval times.  This is a special edition of his Portugal tour.  Follow him through vineyards and cork forests, seeking out the wide range of flavors on offer, including a special visit to Porto with a boat journey up the Dauro River, home to the world´s best port and some of the Iberian Peninsula´s most spectacular scenery.  Light daily walks offer insight of historical, natural and cultural features, while authentic rural hotels provide for a comfortable experience. Kathy Didier, kathydidiertravels@yahoo.com 

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Thank you for your interest in my trips. Feel free to get back to me with questions. Kathy

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Potential trips: Would you be interested in a photo workshop in Joshua Tree National Prk with professional photographer/instructor? Or...Sedona, AZ… ...Oaxaca, Mexico…..Spanish Language School in Mexico …. Walking in Tuscany …Let me know what is of interest to you. Thank you. Kathy

Pembrook - White Mountain Vacation Rentals

Set in New Hampshire's White Mountains, Pembrook offers two four season facilities for groups or families sixed 2-20. Ideal for your weekend or vacation getaway. Pembrook is located in a wooded setting with a babbling brook. Just a short walk through the woods takes you to the Pemigewasset River for swimming and canoeing in the summer and cross-country skiing in the winter.

Swim and canoe on the Pemigewasset River, Mirror Lake, Russell Pond, or Echo Lake. Bike scenic river valleys. Hike 4000'+ mountains or enjoylower scenic overlooks. Cross-country ski on backwoods trails or at the outstanding touring centers of Wterville Valley and Bretton Woods REsorts. Downhill ski, telemark, or snowboard at Waterville Valley, Bretton Woods, Cannon Mountain, and Loon Mountain Resort (just five miles away).
  • Hiking, Biking, Skiing, Canoeing, Golfing, Snowmobiling
  • Franconia Notch State Park
  • White Mountain National Forest
  • Downhill and Cross-Country Ski Areas
  • Snowmobile Trails and Corridor
  • Summer Theater and Concerts
  • Antique and Outlet Shopping

Kathy Didier, owner and operator of Pembrook, is familiar with skiing and hiking trails and biking routes in the area. She is more than happy to share this knowledge with her guests.

Pembrook's Big House

This five bedroom house sleeps our to fourteen people. There are three bathrooms (two full, one half bath). The large dining area seats up to twenty guests at two tables. Kitchen is fully equiped for up to twenty. Dishwasher. Two refrigerators.


Five bedrooms, sleep maximum of 14 people
Bedroom 1 - 4 Twin/ Single Bedroom 2 - 4 Twin/ Single Bedroom 3 - 2 Twin/ Single Bedroom 4 - 2 Twin/ Single Bedroom 5 - 2 Twin/ Single Other - 1 Sleep Sofa /Futon While all of the beds are single beds....two single beds can be combined, mattresses turned around to form a king sized bed. Beds come with bottom sheet, pillow and case, comforter, and bedspread. There is a queen sized futon in the living room.

Rate: $375 per night plus 9% NH Room and Meals Tax

Two night minimum. Reduced rates for stays of five or more nights.

Pembrook's Little House

Living room and dining area with cathedral ceiling. Kitchen and one full bathroom. Two bedrooms which sleep up to seven. Bedroom One has three singles. Bedroom Two has two singles and one double. There is a queen sized futon in the living room.

Rates: $175 per night plus 9% NH Room and Meal Tax

Two night minimum. Reduced rates for stays of five or more nights.

Contact: Kathy Didier, PO Box C, Woodstock, NH 03293

603-726-3552 kdidier@suchmail.com

Thursday, June 5, 2008

About Me

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As an AMC Leader, I guide trips in the White Mountains of NH. On my own....I lead adventure vacations all over the world.