The world’s best luxury rail journeys
When it comes to exploring the world by train, the choice seems never-ending. For many it’s the destination that makes all the difference, be it the Rockies of Canada or Australia’s far-flung outback. But, it’s also the train itself that truly makes the journey truly unforgettable, whether you’re drawn to the glamour of travel’s Golden Age or prefer something more cutting-edge. Here, we take a look at five of the world’s best rail experiences that showcase both 21 st -century innovations and opulent tradition.
Belmond Andean Explorer
Peru as a destination simply begs to be travelled, and the Belmond Andean Explorer – a luxury train with a beautifully contemporary design – makes a visit more tempting than ever. Its interiors are the brainchild of Inge Moor of The Gallery in London, showcased in ivory Alpaca tones, Andean slate greys and knitted textures inspired by the region’s handicrafts, with private cabins that feature oversized headboards and ultra-chic furnishings.
The Andean backdrop influences much more than just the décor, though, with local flavours presented through indulgent menus, taken as the mountain scenery speeds past. The train’s signature journey takes travellers from ancient capital Cusco to UNESCO-listed Arequipa, navigating the Andes’ highest plains in between. It’s a truly luxurious way to experience the country, not least the colonial splendours of Cusco, the ancient landscapes of the Sacred Valley and that world wonder – Machu Picchu.
Maharajas’ Express
Few destinations are as enchanting as India. From Agra’s Mughal-empire icons to the royal heritage of Rajasthan, embodied in forts and fairy-tale palaces, its splendours are endless. Accordingly, India’s most iconic rail experience – the Maharajas’ Express – is unapologetically opulent. Guests can expect discrete service from private butlers, gourmet dining and a plethora of excursions that show off the country’s unique traditions, with everything from sundowners in the deserts of Bikaner to champagne breakfasts on offer.
Choose from four-day dashes or in-depth adventures that take in both the north and south – the most popular being in the grand state of Rajasthan. Sightseeing tours will see you explore everything from marbled palaces and sandstone forts to vibrant markets that buzz with rickshaws, camels and bustling traders.
The Ghan
From ancient Uluru to the world-wonder Great Barrier Reef, Australia is home to countless icons, many of them thousands of miles apart. It came as no surprise, then, when a luxury train was introduced to do the hard work – in the form of the Ghan. Traversing through miles of remote, ochre outback, it follows the old camel-train route through the heart of Australia’s Northern Territory, taking in off-the-beaten track destinations, otherwise unreachable.
Once on board, guests are treated to private cabins with curated bathroom amenities alongside all-inclusive indulgences that include fine wines and three five-course meals a day. There’s even the chance to upgrade to a spacious berth adorned with ottoman seating and a plush double bed. It’s all a wonderfully luxurious contrast to the vast wilderness outside, whether that’s the tropical vistas and white-sand beaches of Darwin, the south’s dramatic Flinders Ranges or the vast desert landscapes of the Red Centre.
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
The very essence of the phrase ‘Golden Age of Travel’, its name echoes with intrigue, decadence and old-word charm. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, each train carriage painstakingly restored to its former 1920s glory, truly takes guests back to a bygone era as it journeys to the likes of Istanbul’s vibrant bazaars, the romantic streets of Paris and Venice’s storied treasures.
Mosaicked lavatories add to the Art-Deco aesthetic and restaurant cars shine with sparkling crystal and dark-wood panels – the setting for dishes such as Brittany lobster and Mont St Michel saltmarsh lamb served alongside sommelier-chosen wines. Come evening, sip on cocktails and vintage champagne, the twinkling of the baby grand in the opulent Bar Car your accompaniment.
The Rocky Mountaineer, Canada
When it comes to natural worlds, Canada is up there with the best. It’s unsurprising, then, that the country’s most famous mountain range, the Rockies, is embodied in a luxury rail journey. The Rocky Mountaineer truly puts the spectacular backdrop first, skirting rivers otherwise unreachable, pausing at giant emblematic lakes and speeding over tumbling valleys as it heads deep among the snow-topped Rockies.
Panoramic dome windows and viewing platforms bring it all to life alongside onboard hosts who provide stories and information along the way, with gourmet meals, complimentary snacks and alcoholic drinks all included. The GoldLeaf service’s split-level carriages and separate dining car are an extra special option. And, as a non-sleeper train, there’s even more time to explore. Canada’s national-park greats, Banff and Jasper, are understandably the front-runners, where thunderous waterfalls, gargantuan glaciers and craggy canyons provide ultra-scenic backdrops for excursions such as hikes, gondola trips and even helicopter rides.
By Dave Warne from www.theluxuryholidaycompany.com
Don’t go anywhere without these expert tips for buying travel insurance
There’s no shortage of expert tips for buying travel insurance online. But where’s a pro when you really need one?
That’s what Mike Mehta wanted to know when he contacted me recently. “Is travel insurance worth buying?” he asked. “Do you have any recommendations for reasonably priced travel insurance providers?”
And then I remembered a recent conversation I had with Zubair Jeewanjee, who runs the California travel insurance technology company G1G Travel. Even though travel insurance companies offer similar products, he says, “travel insurance is not all the same.”
Elliott Advocacy is underwritten by TravelInsurance.com
TravelInsurance.com makes it fast and easy to compare and buy travel insurance online from top rated providers. Our unbiased comparison engine allows travelers to read reviews, compare pricing and benefits and buy the right policy with a price guarantee, every time. Compare and buy travel insurance now at TravelInsurance.com.
Why you need travel insurance advice
In fact, you can buy travel insurance almost anywhere these days — directly online from a travel insurance company, from a travel agency, even while you’re booking a flight or hotel — but Jeewanjee says travelers are often disappointed when they find out what happens after the sale and they have to file a claim.
“That’s when they discover they’re on their own,” he says.
Americans spend $2.8 billion on travel insurance a year, according to the US Travel Insurance Association, a trade association. “Misspend” may be a more accurate word. By thoughtlessly throwing money at the first travel insurance policy that comes along, they may be signing up for worthless coverage.
With the busy summer travel season just ahead, how do you ensure that you’re buying insurance from a reliable source? I have a list of trusted insurance websites in this recent story. But what should you buy? What do the travel experts say — and what, specifically, should you look for?
What are the expert tips for buying travel insurance?
I asked travel insurance experts for their thoughts on how to buy the best travel insurance. Here’s what they told me:
Make sure you’re not already insured
“One potential mistake people can make when purchasing a travel insurance policy is that you could potentially end up buying a policy that has some duplication of benefits with what you already have,” says Joel Ohman, founder of InsuranceProviders.com, an insurance site. He advises you to review the benefits you already have with any of your other current insurance policies, credit cards, and membership programs. Actually, any legitimate agent will tell you to check your other policies before buying another one. Otherwise, you could buy too much insurance.
Look for a guarantee
That’s Jeewanjee’s advice. For example, G1G offers a service guarantee that promises its policies will meet a high standard. Its quality assurance process includes an analysis of a company’s BBB report, customer reviews, claims payout ratio, reinsurers credit history, and other benchmarks. “We help our customers throughout the whole process of purchasing a travel insurance plan from start to finish, and what we do makes the process easy,” he says.
Make sure it’s real insurance
It isn’t always, says Shylar Bredewold, CEO of Odyssean Travel, an online travel agency. “I’ve seen some very decent cruise protection plans,” he says. “But these should not be confused with insurance and often come with disclaimers stating that they are indeed distinct from a coverage policy.” Bredewold says the difference between “protection” and “insurance” has been a hot topic in the insurance industry lately. (Technically, “protection” isn’t an insurance product.) “Travel professionals continue to be vigilant in what they recommend to clients, even when we trust the supplier,” he adds.
Read the paperwork carefully
That’s what Justin Tysdal recommends. First, always read the benefits and then the “exclusions and limitations” in the policy. “Although something might first appear to be covered in the policy, there could be an exclusion that eliminates the coverage,” explains Tysdal, CEO of Seven Corners, a travel insurance company. “Coverage may show in the schedule of benefits, but it may be eliminated based on a Travel Advisory that [the State Department issues] for a level 3 or 4. Most advisories at level 3 or 4 will exclude certain benefits from coverage.” Tysdal also recommends checking on the company offering the policy. Make sure it’s underwritten by a reputable insurance company with an “excellent” rating with A.M. Best, an agency that rates insurance companies based on financial stability.
Timing is everything
“One of the most important factors when buying travel insurance that many first-time purchasers don’t understand is around the timing of the purchase,” says Christine Buggy, vice president of marketing at Travelex Insurance. “Purchase a travel protection plan as soon as you’ve made your initial trip deposit to ensure you have coverage.” Buggy says if you have a pre-existing medical condition, many travel insurance companies may waive the exclusion for pre-existing conditions. You just have to buy travel insurance within a designated time frame — usually within 21 days of your initial trip deposit.
Travel agents offer expert tips for buying travel insurance
I also asked travel agents for their travel insurance advice. And here’s where things got interesting. Remember Jeewanjee’s comment about travel insurance not being the same? If there’s a common thread in the agents’ travel insurance advice, it echoes what he says. You have to look closely.
“It’s pretty easy to compare policies based on the amount of the benefits,” says Laura Patterson, a travel advisor for Brownell Travel, a Virtuoso member agency. “But there’s more to it than the dollar figure.”
For example, consider the baggage delay coverage on two competing plans. One provides reimbursement for personal articles and expenses for a baggage delay of 12 hours or longer. The other plan doesn’t reimburse you unless it’s a 24-hour delay.
“This is significant if you arrive, but your luggage doesn’t,” she says. Suppose you’re attending a wedding. On a plan with coverage kicking in after a 12-hour delay, you’ll have time to shop for a suitable outfit, and peace of mind knowing that reasonable expenses will be reimbursed up to the benefit amount.
“But if the coverage is not in force until 24 hours after arrival, and the bags remain missing, the ceremony could very well be over before coverage is in effect, and you’ll end up paying for that purchase of new clothing necessary for the big event,” she says.
Deanna Maccario, the Asia program director with Audley Travel, a travel agency, says she also looks for coverage plan that offers primary, rather than secondary, coverage.
“This means that, in the case of a claim needing to be made, the client would not need to get declined by their primary insurance provider back home before having the option of submitting a claim to their travel insurance provider,” she explains. “With primary coverage, they can immediately apply to the travel insurance provider which exponentially speeds up the claims process.”
Advocating for every customer
There’s something Maccario and Patterson have in common. If one of their clients’ claims goes sideways, they’re there to help. (And believe me, claims do go sideways, a fact I discover almost every day on my nonprofit consumer advocacy site). Their expert travel insurance advice is: Buy it from someone you trust — not just the right travel insurance company, but the right agent.
How do you find good travel insurance companies? Well, let’s just say the good ones have a reputation. Typing in the name of the company and “reviews” into your favorite search engine will show you which ones to do business with, and which ones to avoid.
By Christopher Elliott, founder of Elliott Advocacy
Are next gen Supersonic jets facing overland noise rules?
At an innovation panel held on the first day of the Paris Air Show, FAA Acting Administrator Dan Elwell announced a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) that modifies and clarifies the existing regulatory procedures to obtain FAA approval to test supersonic aircraft. This NPRM is described by the FAA as “a first, necessary milestone toward the reintroducing civil supersonic flight.”
The FAA’s aim is to support the various supersonic aircraft (SST) currently under development in the U.S., all of which are coming up against overland noise rules that precede the launch of the Concorde, and which were instrumental in preventing overland flights of Concorde aircraft. While the new NPRM that Elwell announced on Monday suggests that those noise rules will stay on the books for regular commercial SST operations, it aims to make flight testing the aircraft easier and support rapid development.
“The U.S. Department of Transportation and the FAA are committed toward the safe and environmentally-sound research and development of supersonic aircraft,” Elwell told attendees at Le Bourget. “We are confident in the next generation of aviation pioneers who want to open new opportunities for business, economic, and aviation growth.”
But can a relaunch of commercial supersonic flight be “environmentally-sound”? And should it be a priority even as subsonic flight comes under greater scrutiny for its environmental impact? The company responsible for developing the Concorde believes that aeronautical innovation is better invested in other areas.
During Airbus Innovation Days, held in May 2019 at the company’s facilities in Toulouse, Grazia Vittadini, Chief Technology Officer at Airbus, addressed this question directly, saying:
“Who built the last business supersonic aircraft? You are on the site where this happened. We do have the history. We do have the heritage. We do have the skills and competency. Let’s not forget defense, space and military aircraft-the Tornados and the Eurofighters are part of Airbus. We have it, if we wanted to go there. The question we ask ourselves is how is this possibly compatible with the environmental sustainability targets which we are committed to? Not just because it is the flavor of the year, but because we deeply believe that is the direction we need to take. As of today, we cannot reconcile skills and competencies that we have in-house with products where market interest needs to be confirmed and with no reconciliation with the environmental sustainability targets which animate us in all we do, and in all the technologies that we develop.”
Instead, Airbus is investing its innovative capabilities on addressing the environmental backlash against commercial aviation, including the exploration and development of hybrid electric propulsion systems that will support commercial flights and noise reduction in all aircraft operations.
Airbus is not alone in questioning the viability of supersonic transport on environmental grounds. The International Council On Clean Transportation, a think tank dedicated to studying the environmental impact of civil aviation, published a detailed report last year which warned that supersonic commercial flights were incompatible with environmental targets for civil aviation.
Pilots reveal safety fears over Boeing’s fleet of Dreamliners
Airline pilots have voiced fears over the safety of a fleet of Boeing aircraft after a crucial fire-fighting system has been found to have the potential to malfunction.
Boeing has issued an alert to airlines using its flagship B787 Dreamliner, warning that the switch used to extinguish an engine fire has failed in a “small number” of instances. The switch also severs the fuel supply and the hydraulic fluid to prevent flames spreading.
UK airlines Tui, British Airways and Virgin Atlantic operate more than 60 Dreamliners between them. The US regulator, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), has decided not to ground the fleet, despite admitting a “risk to the flying public”.
Pilots, however, claim that the safety of passengers and crew is being compromised. “If there was an engine fire on a transatlantic flight and the aircraft had one of the defective fire switches, then we would have to fly with a burning wing for up to three hours before we could safely land,” a pilot with a British airline told the Observer.
In its alert to airlines, Boeing warns that long-term heating can cause the fire switch to stick in the locked position so it can’t be used to release the two fire extinguishers in each engine.
The FAA has issued an airworthiness directive, mandatory instructions to air operators, announcing that the problem is “likely to exist or develop in other products of the same design” and that “the potential exists for an airline fire to be uncontrollable”. However, it stopped short of grounding the aircraft and instead ordered airlines to check the switch every 30 days.
The FAA was criticised for declining to ground Boeing’s fleet of 737 Max aircraft in March after a software malfunction was suspected of causing two fatal crashes. It changed its stance after regulators in other countries banned the aircraft from flying while the accidents were investigated.
Launched in 2011, the Dreamliner fleet was designed to revolutionise air travel with fuel-efficient technology and a longer flight range.
The $200m (£160m) aircraft were grounded in 2013 following a series of fires caused by leaking batteries. In 2017 the FAA ordered the company to improve its quality control after metal shavings were found among electrical wiring, causing a fire hazard.
This year Boeing increased production of the Dreamliner from 12 to 14 a month and announced that it would be replacing up to 900 quality control inspectors with smart technology. Critics claim that the speed of production is compromising safety.
Will Boeing launch it’s new 797 at the Paris air Show?
We may get the first glimpse of the Boeing 797 at the upcoming Paris Air Show. But, until then, we can only speculate on how Boeing will approach the current aviation market, and how they will deal with competition.
Engine manufacturer Rolls Royce is predicting 4,000-5,000 Boeing 797s will be ordered over the next 20 years. But what aircraft will the 797 be competing against, and will this competition be able to beat Boeing to the punch?
The Boeing 797, also dubbed the ‘New Midsized Aeroplane’, fills a hole in the Boeing aircraft lineup. Currently, Boeing does not sell an aircraft that carries up to 250-270 passengers and is designed for short haul travel. The Boeing 797 would be bigger than the Boeing 737 MAX 10 but smaller than the long haul Boeing 787-8.
The Boeing 767 is the closest jet to what the 797 will become. It is twin-aisled, carrying 210-300 passengers with a range of 5,500-6,500 nmi. Boeing produced and sold over 1,200 of these aircraft and they are still in use all over the world. However, it’s an older design made for a time when flights were much more expensive. Designed in the 1980s and improved in the 1990s, fuel was cheap and building materials were heavy. With lighter and more fuel efficient planes available, the Boeing 767 is just not an economical option on the market.
Airlines are looking for an aircraft that is suited for high capacity short-haul routes. Routes between large and close cities such as Melbourne and Sydney (the most passengers per year) or Chicago and New York could benefit from the 797. With its twin aisles, it will be able to board and disembark passengers much faster than the single aisle aircraft currently used on these routes, such as the Boeing 737 or Airbus A320.
The 797 has the advantages of being a new design and incorporating the latest technological innovations from both the Dreamliner and the Boeing 777x, which will be flying later this year. These include a composite structure to make it lighter and a myriad of improved passenger comforts.
Here they are side by side, with the Boeing 797 in the middle:
Aircraft Passengers Range Cost
A321neo 180-220 4,000 nmi US$129.5 million
A321XLR 180-230 4,700 nmi US$130 million??
737 MAX 10 185-200 3,000 nmi US$134.9M
797 228-275 5,000 nmi US$130-140M??
787-8 242 7,355 nm US$239.0M
Currently, the role of the 797 is fulfilled by Airbus A320s and Boeing 737s. The Airbus A320 has the world’s fastest growing sales of any aircraft and is widely used. But both of these aircraft are smaller (fitting in around 100-230 passengers) and lack the advantages of a newer twin-aisled design. Boeing has said that the 737 could perform much of the work, but a further stretch is nearly impossible.
The Airbus A321neo is the biggest and most advanced version of the Airbus A320 family. It is the closest design to the upcoming Boeing 797. Airbus just launched the new A321XLR, a long-range version at the Paris Air show. The A321 can only carry around 180 to 230 passengers (exit limit 250) and only has a range of 4-5,000 nmi. This would always make it the lesser option when compared to the 797. But Airbus isn’t worried, knowing that it will reap plenty of orders that might go to a 797 .
The Boeing 787-8 seems to tick all the boxes for the Boeing 797. It is twin-aisled, economical, carries 242 passengers in a two-class configuration 7,300 nmi. But this is overkill for some airlines. As we have mentioned before, a bigger plane means more tickets to sell. More tickets to sell means it is harder to make a profit. Plus Boeing would not want to cannibalize sales of their own aircraft and thus will differentiate the 797 from the 787 family. It is unlikely that they would market it as an option.
The last aircraft on this list is the actual aircraft Airbus is officially touting to beat the 797. specifically the A330-800, which has only sold eight units in the world. The A330-800 can carry 257 passengers (3 class configuration) or up to 400 in an all-economy cattle box. It has a range of 8,150 nmi and would place it perfectly within the scope of what Boeing is trying to achieve. The only problem is cost. The Airbus A330-800 is expensive to buy ($259.9 million) and run.
The best California theme parks
California is renowned for its theme parks, amongst other things. Above all, they offer a variety of ways to have fun – only limited by your time, your energy and, adrenalin. Providing everything from castles, characters, thrill rides and incredible places which help us learn about the world around us. And history too, the Louff Carousel from 1911 is a national monument. And the world’s oldest Park, Knotts Berry Farm, dates back to the 1940s. These parks are seriously tried and tested places to have fun!
Southern California – SAN DIEGO COUNTY
Legoland California, Legoland Water Park, Sea Life Aquarium (Carlsbad)
- This is an excellent place for younger children, with some rides geared for youngsters as young as age 2
- Older kids, and adults will enjoy Land of Adventure which twists through temple ruins, and Pirate Reef with water cannons and water slides. (The area is also accessible via Legoland’s adjacent water park.)
- Look for remarkable recreations of classic Star Wars scenes and Miniland USA, all built out of Lego plastic building blocks.
- Sea Life Aquarium, the nearby sister facility, is home to over 4,000 underwater creatures,m including sharks, rays, fish, crabs and even octopuses, living in 41 exhibits. The aquarium has hands-on touch pools, offers educational talks, feeding demonstrations and a walk-through aquarium. In addition, it is a Conservation Partner of the Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch program.
San Diego Zoo (San Diego) and San Diego Zoo Safari Park (Escondido)
- San Diego Zoo hosts one of the world’s greatest collections of exotic animals. The Zoo can be found in the city’s Balboa Park.
- There are over 4,000 rare and endangered animals, found in naturalised settings, including giant panda bears and koalas.
- Special experiences include behind-the-scenes tours and expert talks, as well as web cams tracking activities of panda cubs.
- San Diego Zoo Safari Park offers a chance to see a wide array of spectacular animals roaming in expansive enclosures, especially from African plains.
- Open-air tram tours offer uninhibited viewing and photo opportunities. Special experiences include guided Segway tours and a soaring zip-line ride.
ORANGE COUNTY
Disneyland Resort (Anaheim)
- Mickey and friends have been welcoming visitors to this ultimate theme park since 1955. Two distinct parks: the original Disneyland Park (featuring eight themed “lands” including Frontierland and Tomorrowland) and Disney’s California Adventure Park.
- California Adventure Park is home to Route 66-themed Cars Land with rides and attractions inspired by the Cars movies from Disney/Pixar Studios.
- Nightly World of Color shows feature a spectacle of water and light with scenes from Disney films projected onto computer-programmed dancing fountains high in the night sky. Splash alert in the front rows…
- Familiar Disney characters appear in shows and parades and are found at various locations for autographs and photo opportunities.
- Consider joining a behind-the-scenes tour, kid-favourite character breakfast or other special experiences.
- Adjacent Downtown Disney offers top shopping, sit-down dining and outdoor entertainment.
Knott’s Berry Farm (Buena Park)
- Built on a former berry farm, this park has been charming children—and grownups—since 1940.
- Park debuted with Ghost Town, designed to entertain diners as they queued up for the farm’s popular chicken dinners which are still available there, as are slices of the park’s signature boysenberry pie.
- Six ride-filled areas, including Camp Snoopy based on Charles Schulz’s beloved Peanuts comic strip.
- Try Supreme Scream – only for the brave who want to defy gravity and experience 3 seconds of weightlesness. Be trasported straight UP to a record breaking 252 feet at speeds of 50mph on this open-air ride, before power-blasting straight back DOWN – in three seconds flat
- Big kids and adults enjoy thrill rides, giant coasters and classic water rides.
- California Boardwalk fun zone offers games, amusements and quick food offerings.
Universal Studios, Hollywood
- Visit The Wizarding Wolrd of Harry Potter, enjoy some amazing rides and make your way through Hogwarts school of witchcraft and wizadry.
- Take the world famous Studio Tour. This offers a real behind-the scenes look at movie making secrets. Enjoy the largest street movie set ever built in Hollywood history. You can also experience the world’s largest 3D experience at King Kong 360 3-D (scary stuff)
- Visit the Simpson’s in Springfield and take the ever so real Simpson’s simulated roller coaster ride – hang on tight.
- Enjoy a special effects show where real Hollywood stuntment and modern technology re-create scenes from your favourite movies.
- I recommend buying the VIP experience to gain full access with no queuing.
LOS ANGELES COUNTY
Six Flags Magic Mountain & Hurricane Harbor (Valencia)
- Billed as an ultimate adrenalin-rush park with coasters and thrill rides aimed at pushing the limits, especially for teens and young adults.
- Expansive 260-acre Magic Mountain features more than 100 rides and attractions, including 16 roller coasters like the White-Knuckle X2 and Superman: Escape from Krypton, the world’s first ride to reach 100 miles per hour.
- Little ones enjoy rides and attractions in cartoon-themed Bugs Bunny World.
- Nearby Hurricane Harbor water park, open summer and autumn, offers a wide array of water-based rides and attractions, including the tallest fully enclosed speed slides in Southern California. It also has a 1,300-foot river, a wave pool, an interactive lagoon and a kids’ play area.
Theme parks & attractions in Northern California
BAY AREA
Six Flags Discovery Kingdom (Vallejo)
- Theme park with a wild-animal twist, with shows and exhibits featuring tigers, sea lions, walruses, giraffes, sharks, penguins and orcas.
- Gravity-defying roller coasters and thrill rides, like Superman Ultimate Flight and Medusa, make this park a winner for teens and young adults.
- 134-acre bay-front location.
California’s Great America (Santa Clara)
- Debuting in 2013, Gold Striker, the tallest, fastest wooden coaster in Northern California.
- Special celebrations, like Peanuts Party in the Plaza, keep kids entertained.
- Boomerang Bay waterpark cools things off in summer.
- At Planet Snoopy, kids romp in a world based on Charles Schulz’s Peanuts characters.
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk (Santa Cruz)
- Pristinely maintained, century-old waterfront boardwalk and play land.
- First welcomed visitors in 1907.
- Spectacular setting on northern edge of Monterey Bay.
- Giant Dipper, a classic wooden coaster with sky-scraping climbs and nerve-jangling descents carried its first set of screaming riders in 1924.
- Beautiful 1911 Looff carousel is a registered National Historic Landmark.
- Live bands perform on Fridays in summer (free).
So, there you have it, California’s theme parks truly offer something for everyone.
If you’re interested in an original holiday experience, I have a lot more first-hand knowledge of California and a passion for travelling to share with you.
By Kim Robertson from www.yourwaytoluxury.com
Great new spots for food lovers in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
The Myrtle Beach area received several new accolades in 2018 including being ranked by Google as the “Third Most Searched Travel Destination in the World”, one of the Travel Channel’s “Best East Coast Beaches” and a “Top 10 Beach Town with the Highest Quality of Life” by Coastal Living, but did you know that the resort has an ever-evolving food scene? Here are great places to look out for on your next visit.
Barefoot Landing new restaurant district
A new restaurant district has opened in the Barefoot Landing shopping and entertainment complex in North Myrtle Beach. The district is called Dockside Village and features waterfront dining along the Intracoastal Waterway as well as new outdoor attractions and live music. It is anchored by Lulu’s restaurant, owned by musician Jimmy Buffet’s sister, Lucy. The restaurant offers live nightly music, a large sandy beach area, and a ropes climbing course, arcade and other activities in the 20,000 square-foot-space. Additional new restaurants include Taco Mundo Kitchen Y Cantina (Mexican) and Blueberry’s Grill (creative breakfast and lunch fare).
Broadway at the Beach new food spots
A few new epicurean spots have opened or are planning to open at Broadway at the Beach in Myrtle Beach. Recent openings include the Doughnuttery, an innovative, family-owned doughnut shop and Tipsy Scoop, an alcohol infused ice cream and sorbet shop. New restaurants coming this summer include Bar Louie and MELT. Bar Louie, the nation’s hottest Gastrobar, is dedicated to revolutionizing the guest dining experience and serves shareable, chef-inspired grub, craft cocktails and local beers. MELT will be a lunch, dinner and late-night spot to eat featuring an industrial style feel and a brick oven focal point to welcome people in. The menu consists of handcrafted grilled sandwiches and wood-fired pizza with every recipe used, unique to their own.
Carolina Food Tours
A new food tour option is available in the Myrtle Beach area. Corina Whitehead, owner of Carolina Food Tours has opened new food tour locations in Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach and Conway. The guided food tours last between two and a half to three hours and include three to four restaurant stops along with historical background of the area. Tours are currently offered in Murrells Inlet, Georgetown and Pawley’s Island. Prices range from $70 to $100 a person.
Crepe Creation Café expansion
Crepe Creation Café, located in the Market Common district of Myrtle Beach recently expanded adding a full bar and new menu items. A new daily happy hour has been added as well as new breakfast items including eggs, omelets and French entrées.
Lucy Buffet’s Lulu’s to open a Sky Trail ropes course
Lucy Buffet’s Lulu’s restaurant located inside Barefoot Landing in North Myrtle Beach opened a new Sky Trail Ropes Course to the complex in February 2019. The tropical-themed 48-feet tall Sky Trail is named LuLu’s Mountain of Youth. With its splashy color scheme of hot pink, turquoise and yellow, it’s sure to catch the eye of diners. It includes 26 elements to challenge children and adults. Among them are lily pad stepping stones and a tippy version of ‘walk the plank’.
Ms. Margaret’s Soul Food
Located in historic Conway, Ms. Margaret’s Soul Food Restaurant and catering recently opened, serving up traditional southern and Gullah dishes native to the African-American history of the region. The restaurant offers daily lunch and dinner specials serving regional favourites like chicken bog and staples like fried chicken and flounder. All of the ingredients are fresh and sweet tea is included in the meal price.
Reynolds by the Ocean
A new music-themed restaurant has opened at the former location of The Library restaurant in downtown Myrtle Beach. P. Reynolds by the Ocean features live jazz music and Cajun French style cuisine. Owner Patrice Reynolds, who is also a musician and playwright, hosts an open jazz night where local musicians can sign up to play. Other nights are filled with local and out-of-state recording artists. The venue has 61 seats and can be changed to theater-style seating or restaurant seating.
Sea Captain’s House new outside bar
The iconic Sea Captain’s House restaurant in Myrtle Beach is expanding with a brand new outdoor bar. The area is currently being constructed in the shape of a ship deck with the bar in the middle. The sails and masts are part of the bar. It will overlook the ocean. It is expected to be completed by Summer 2019.
Sweet & Sour Asian Kitchen
In early 2019, local restaurateur Greg Pranzo opened Sweet & Sour Asian Kitchen in the Grande Dunes Marketplace in Myrtle Beach. The restaurant will feature an eclectic blend of Asian cuisines with many options served on shareable plates. It will also include unique cocktails, rice and noodle combinations plus classic signature sushi rolls.
Tidal Creek Brewhouse
A new brewery is planned to open in the Market Common district of Myrtle Beach in the fall of 2019 named Tidal Creek Brewhouse. It will be owned by Myrtle Beach entrepreneur, Michael Grossman who has been in the beer brewing industry for over 23 years. Myrtle Beach currently has three brew pubs and one production brewery.
Twelve 33 Distillery
The Myrtle Beach area’s first craft distillery opened in Little River in May 2019. Named Twelve 33 after the end of prohibition in the U.S. in December 1933, the distillery opened in a former beachwear store location and is now full with an infusion room for spirits and a hidden speakeasy. The owners are a husband and wife couple originally from California that decided the Myrtle Beach area would be the best location to open. They are currently making vodka, rye whiskey, bourbon whiskey and rum.
La Vinotinto Venezuela Restaurant
A new South American restaurant has opened in downtown Myrtle Beach named La Vinotinto. The restaurant offers dishes from Venezuela and Columbia and plans to also offer dishes from Peru. Classic dishes include Pabellon Criolla; a shredded beef, rice and beans dish, and Reina Pepiada; bread filled with chicken and avocado.
Uncommon Chocolatier
A new local chocolate shop has opened in the Market Common district of Myrtle Beach. Uncommon Chocolatier specializes in made-from-scratch, gourmet fudge and other specialty chocolates. Using only fresh ingredients, they have over 100 flavors of fudge available from gluten-free to sugar-free to vegan.
Wicked Tuna second location
Wicked Tuna, which is a restaurant in Murrells Inlet, the seafood capital of South Carolina, is opening a second location in the heart of Myrtle Beach. The restaurant is going to take over the top two floors of the three-story 2nd Avenue Pier. The owners have signed a 20-year lease on the building and is projected to open by June 2019. This location will be open from morning through the night with a breakfast menu, live music and creative cocktail selection. The owners own two fishing boats and contract with seven others to provide fresh seafood for diners.
Exploring NZ with ways to enhance your holiday
New Zealand is a land of such astounding beauty; one never has to drive too far to feast your eyes on something breath-taking and amazing. The contrasts between the massive mountain ranges and the broad, empty beaches, the forests, the waterfalls, the crystal-clear lakes, and indigenous fauna and flora are unique and fascinating beyond words. There is an immersive cultural mix which combined with a host of activities could fill more than lifetime.
There are endless trails, hikes, Maori carvings, movie sets, glow worm caves, golf courses and natural mineral spas that you can access in a multitude of ways; you could fly, walk, drive or ride. There are over 500 wineries to visit, with a delicious selection of red and white wine blends that could have you quaffing wine for days on end.
New Zealand also has a very dedicated coffee culture, where cafes are the epicentre of the social hour. Over the last couple of decades, New Zealand has undergone a coffee revolution as many Kiwis have become connoisseurs of the of the black beverage, the modern-day elixir of life. Coffee has become a fine art in the highly competitive cafe scene.
Once you have indulged and gotten to grips with both coffee and wine, it’s time to start exploring the culinary delights that abound. You need to plan to partake of a traditional Māori meal cooked in an underground pit called a Hāngi, or feast on Kina and crayfish pulled fresh from the sea or enjoy fish and chips on the beach with an ice-cold L&P. You will need to savour a Hokey Pokey ice-cream eaten freshly served in a sweet-biscuit cone as you wander along the beachfront.
Loads of must dos, but ‘how to’?
The challenge of choice
Whether you are traveling as a couple, a family or a group of friends why not take the stress out of putting together the “ultimate” itinerary by getting someone to do the hard work for you? Engaging a trustworthy private guide could be the key to unlocking your dream holiday. Finding that perfect someone to introduce you to all the cultural nuances, different foods, trips and experiences may provide the solution to your holiday planning.
A personalized tour created for your group with someone in the country you plan to visit could provide new ideas, insights and possibilities of what to visit and where to explore. They could help you plan according to your preferences; just the right amount of adventure and relaxation, which venues would suit your food preferences and which hotels would best suit your needs.
While it may not the ideal solution for everyone, maybe now is the time to consider the benefits that having your own private guide brings to the table.
Access to hidden gems
It’s hard not to fall in love with travel, and if New Zealand is on your list then you’re making the right decision! Both the country and its people know how to charm visitors with the right amount of friendliness and mind-blowing scenery. Obviously, a bit of planning will make a trip here so much easier. But you don’t know what you don’t know, right? So, what to plan, where to visit and which activities are best suited is the big question.
A good guide is not just a chauffeur but should be a real story teller. They should be your personal key to the best spots in the country… to insights and stories, history and traditions. Having someone guide and drive you delivers a completely stress-free solution to navigating not only the best roads but also the best routes to your destinations without the hassle of maps, route planners and trying to accurately estimate arrival times.
Unlocking your dream holiday
Your own local travel guide is also an amazing resource; it’s like having a friend on the journey to advise, share local knowledge, and take you down the path less traveled. Many monuments and traditional sites that may be closed to the general public are often open for a private guide who is entrusted with bringing visitors. These places may not have the resources to service visitors on-site and as a result, they are keen to give this privilege to a known travel guide.
Your guide becomes your host, someone who can connect you with local people and take care of all the logistical worries, planning for bad weather or rearranging where necessary, making everything about your personal preferences.
Engaging with a guide can improve traveling through any country, certainly not only New Zealand. When considering destinations in Europe, the Far East or Asia the day to day organisation can be daunting for an international tourist in a foreign country. A local guide who is able to communicate with the local people removes roadblocks and makes it an adventure rather than a challenge.
4. A question of value
There is a misconception that a private guided tour is too expensive. But one could argue that there is more value to engage a personal tour guide to plan your perfect holiday in a place that they know well, rather than spending your own precious time doing it.
The cost-benefit ratio works really well for families and friends traveling together. The endless hours spent trawling through sites to find the finest-fit agenda, with matching hotels, car rentals and entry tickets to sites or activities can consume more time and energy than you have readily available.
A private guide can save you money by knowing which tourist traps to avoid and by taking you to locations that are only known to locals, saving both time, money and effort by eliminating the sites that are not of core interest to the group as a whole.
Creating connections, sharing moments
Choosing your travel guide is so important to make the most of your next international holiday, but it is just one decision that you have to make versus the hundreds you’d face if you were to plan your entire holiday alone. Making the decision to choose a tour guide is the best time you can invest in your holiday. Authentic knowledge of all things local is perhaps the most important advantage.
A guide takes all the stress out of holidays, leaving the fun in every moment, from the time you touch down as a stranger at the airport to the moment you say farewell to your new friend and fly home with a pocket full of memories.
By Veronika Vermeulen, Director of Aroha New Zealand Tours Ltd.
Best locations for VIP jetsetters
You don’t have to visit L.A for Hollywood glamour; there are plenty of other destinations where the world’s fashionable elite convene to experience luxury at its finest along with superb and discreet service where your every need is catered for. Here are the top seven destinations by blogger Diana Cherry for the jet setting elite:
St Tropez
This glamorous playground has been attracting the likes of international socialites and jet-setters following Bridget Bardo’s visit in the 1950s to this quaint fishing village. Similar to Cannes, St Tropez is the place to ‘see and be seen’. Home in the summer to many super yachts and of course glistening tans, St Tropez draws in the A-list crowds who enjoy watching the action from afar from the bay, venturing ashore to enjoy the casinos and high end restaurants, or the beach clubs along the Bay of Pampelonne including the legendary Club 55 for lunch and of course, Rosé Piscine.
Cannes
Home to the star studded international film festival, there is plenty to adore about this south of France destination. Whilst most of the action is along La Croisette, the question will be which new fashionable pop up bar will be the best place to be ‘seen’, and Cannes is the place where connections count. Your hotel concierge will be an invaluable source of information as to which are the best places to visit and will organise access.
Monaco
The high profile F1 Grand Prix shines the world’s spotlight on this stylish location, when yachts of the rich and famous line up along the Mediterranean coast of this French microstate. However year round its glitzy casinos evokes the suaveness and sophistication of a Bond movie and the exclusive VIP nightclubs and trendy restaurants are where you’ll find the elite set enjoying their time.
New York
As one of the world’s favourite destinations, what’s not to love about this iconic and magnificent city which is a premier destination for international jet setters. Whilst there is a great selection of VIP hotel suites providing the luxury of good sizes and great views of the city, a private travel agent will have connections with the best realtors in the city with the finest private properties only available ‘off market’. Whilst revered for its designer shopping there has been a considerable shift as the city becomes a celebrated foodie destination. The city’s food scene in constantly changing with its fashionable pop up restaurants so be sure to ask your knowledgeable private travel agent which are the up and coming places to visit.
Ibiza
During the summer visitors flock to hear the best DJs in the world play their sets over the much celebrated season. However away from the party scene this elegant island attracts a loyal following to the beautiful chilled atmosphere of island life. One of the more popular destinations for luxury villas, these properties provide the privacy for large groups who want to shun the limelight and simply kick back and relax within a stunning destination. A villa concierge will prove invaluable during your stay from gaining access to the best VIP villa parties, organising transport across the island often a driver during your stay, to providing up to date information and access to the best DJs, clubs and of course access to the legendary opening and closing parties of the season.
Caribbean
Beautiful sandy white beaches and clear turquoise waters are synonymous with the Caribbean which provides the breathtaking backdrop from which to enjoy superb quality luxury hotels, exclusive yachts or even private islands with the highest of service standards. Each island provides a difference experience and islands such as Anguilla not only attracts the rich and famous but also provide a low key and chilled atmosphere for guests to enjoy their privacy – all the while having their every need catered for – and melt away into the delights of island life.
Los Cabos
Located on the southern tip of Mexico sits the stunning Los Cabos where the exclusive and luxurious resorts nestle on the immaculate beaches and provide a playboy’s (or playgirl’s) paradise for surfing, parasailing and scuba diving. Home to world-class fishing and championship golf, this is destination for the more adventurous jet-setter looking to maximise their time during that long weekend getaway.
Gastronomy for an inspired afternoon tea in Hong Kong
Throughout history, afternoon tea has always been linked with fashion. In a Victorian tea room where an underwhelming costume would be condemned by the fancy wallpaper and chandeliers, the British nobles dressed lavishly to make a statement of their financial and cultural accomplishment. Nowadays, a tea set carries affinity to haute couture for its visual refinement. Lobby Lounge at Conrad Hong Kong launches a promotion that pushes the fashion envelope.
Its latest afternoon tea set not only looks good, but also entices the nose Prolific for its classy footwear and leather goods, the empire of Salvatore Ferragamo has grown to producing an array of luxury ready-to-wear and beauty items. The brand’s fragrance collection Signorina is a new favourite among the stylish crowd. It features three distinctive scents that highlight the multiple facets of a sophisticated modern woman, which also inspire the culinary team at Conrad Hong Kong to create various delicacies in the new afternoon tea set.
Devised by Chef Luca de Berardinis from Nicholini’s, the savoury selections exude the rich gastronomic traditions of Florence, the birthplace of Salvatore Ferragamo. Pappa al Pomodoro with burrata cheese – a classic bread and tomato soup – boasts intense tomato flavours and colours that resonate with the brand’s aesthetics, while the seasonal fungus reigns supreme in sautéed porcini mushroom crostini.
Among the sandwiches, the combination of the smoky unctuous eel with the velvety foie gras is as unpredictably mysterious as the Signorina Misteriosa. Signorina Misteriosa, starring as the highlight of the collection, cascades chic silky nuances of orange blossom intertwining with the opulent sensuality of tuberose. The combination of red tuna carpaccio and guacamole evokes the vivacious feminine sensations of Signorina Eau de Toilette with an exceptionally fresh floral and fruity scent. Casting a feminine seductive note, Signorina Eleganza inspires Chef Luca to pair Italian ham with the “diamond of the kitchen” where you will be thoroughly seduced with the black truffle. The marinated salmon and salmon roe sandwiches reminiscent of the pink Signorina Eau de Parfum that accords of flowering jasmine and roses.
Fans of good-looking confections will have more to look forward to in the sweets section. The Madagascar vanilla mousse is an immediate standout. It is made photo-worthy carrying a Vara Bow, one of the most iconic Ferragamo motifs on the round-toe shoes. Beyond the smooth texture, it also bears hints of the citrusy Singorina Misterosa. Other special creations include Eleganza tart with grapefruit, pear and almond, as well as lychee and rose financier. To complete the aromatic extravaganza, each patron will receive a Salvatore Ferragamo “For Him & Her” Fragrance Miniature Gift Set+ at the end of the afternoon tea journey.
The Salvatore Ferragamo Fragrance inspired afternoon tea set will be served in limited time from 15 December to 19 February between Mondays and Fridays. It is priced at HK$238* per guest with a serving of tea or coffee. 10 inspired creations would be also feature in the weekend Salvatore Ferragamo afternoon tea buffet, priced at HK$258* per guest.
Inflight food, taste buds react differently at higher altitudes
Taste buds react differently at higher altitudes, so when designing an in-flight menu, careful consideration must be paid to each and every ingredient that goes into a dish, along with the understanding that standard kitchen equipment like gas stoves and broilers have no place on an airplane.
Singapore Airlines puts experience first. Any chef hired by the carrier must have achieved the rank of executive sous chef or higher, possessing 10 years of experience on the ground before they are educated in the ways of air-food preparation. The chefs are then schooled in both in-flight catering and quality mass production before working with the airline’s impressive roster of International Culinary Panel chefs to develop dishes to be enjoyed during a flight. These chefs aren’t the ones preparing the meals on a day-to-day basis, however – that job falls to the airline caterers.
Chefs train in a special simulator that mimics the conditions in the air.
LSG Sky Chefs is the biggest airline catering company in the world, serving 213 airports with a staff of over 2,000 global culinary professionals. With so many employees, education becomes the cornerstone for the company’s success. Joerg Tuettelmann, vice-president of culinary excellence, helms the Global Culinary Leadership Team that oversees and implements all training at the company. He explains that training is based on three levels: “Enhancing our own expertise by learning from external expert organizations, sharing know-how and best practices around developed standards, applying those practices on the job and localizing them to meet the different requirements at each location.” That means that some chefs may train in a specialized simulator that mimics the conditions in the air while other chefs in various regions receive elite certifications and additional training from groups like the American Culinary Federation and the Culinary Institute of America.
To further emphasize the training process, LSG Sky Chefs recently introduced their new Culinary Excellence Strategy, which will keep the company at the forefront of the airline catering industry for years to come – even when they eventually expand their altitudinal reach to Mars.
Cathay Pacific’s new long-haul business dining concept
Cathay Pacific has unveiled plans to roll out a new dining concept for long-haul business class passengers, that will see both the meals served and the way in which they are offered get an overhaul.
The airline unveiled the new concept at a media briefing in Toulouse, France ahead of the delivery flight of its first Airbus A350-1000 aircraft on Tuesday. Business Traveller Asia-Pacific is in Toulouse for the delivery ceremony and will be accompanying the delivery flight.
Under the new concept, passengers will have greater flexibility in choosing the number of courses they will be served during their meals. Passengers will be served plated meals from an a la carte menu and will have the option of up to three appetiser choices and up to six main course options, but can opt to have fewer courses if they wish, including smaller “supper plates”.
The dishes themselves are set to be “lighter and healthier”. Sample menus have not yet been unveiled, though the airline has been exploring a number of dishes that so far have included roast lamb rack with mint sauce, rice in a lobster soup, noodle dishes, and char siu barbecued pork.
Meanwhile, the airline is also doing away with its current breakfast offering and will be introducing a new “room service” style concept. This will entail passengers being given a room service breakfast card on which they can tick their meal choice. This can include either a full meal or an “express” breakfast of bread, pastries and coffee.
This system will notably enable cabin crew to serve breakfast closer to landing, meaning passengers will be able to get in a bit more sleep. Typically, Cathay Pacific requires passengers to wake up about 120 minutes before their flight lands in order to be offered breakfast, however with the new offering this can be delayed by between 30 to 40 minutes.
“We listened to our customers and what they were telling us was they wanted four different things from business class dining: better quality food, more interaction with our crew, a better personalization programme, and more control over how they want to eat their food,” said Kinto Chan, director of corporate affairs for Cathay Pacific.
However, Chan noted the new service will differ from a typical dine-on-demand service.
“There’s still structure, so we will also encourage our customers to eat immediately after take-off. But because the menu has been made in such a varied manner, you can actually order something mid-flight when you wake up and you can decide when you want to eat.”
Unfortunately, online pre-ordering is currently not available under the new dining offering, though this could be introduced at a later stage.
The new concept – currently without an official name but referred to as the “New Business Proposition” – is set to begin rolling out in July this year on select routes, with full rollout expected to be completed gradually over the next 12 months.
The full schedule for the rollout is as follows:
| Roll out month | Ports |
| Jul-18 | ORD |
| Aug-18 | LGW |
| Sep-18 | FRA, MAN, I |
| Oct-18 | AMS, CDG, JNB |
| Nov-18 | MAD, BRU, BCN |
| Dec-18 | LHR |
| Jan-19 | BOS, EWR |
| Feb-19 | AKL, SYD, DUB, MXP, FCO |
| Mar-19 | LAX, SFO, TLV |
| Apr-19 | JFK, YVR, YYZ |
| May-19 | CNS, BNE, ADL, MEL, PER |
| Jun-19 | DXB, BAH, MLE, ZRH |
As for economy, Cathay Pacific is currently working on a revamp of its menus but has yet to confirm details or a roll-out date.
“We are working very hard and there will be changes we will be announcing very soon,” Chan added. “It is ongoing, but it will definitely be a revamp to the proposition we are offering in our economy class cabin.”
Discover the mysterious and magical land of Myanmar
This new year we can’t think of anywhere we would rather escape to than the mysterious and magical land of Myanmar, with its serene atmosphere and wealth of experiences on offer: from floating high above the temple plains of Bagan in a hot air balloon for the most striking of views over this iconic landscape, to drifting peacefully along the iridescent Inle Lake, and enjoying rustic tropical island life at the hottest new luxury hotel, Wa Ale Island Resort.
Yangon
For the perfect itinerary, we recommend beginning your adventure in the ex-British capital of Yangon. Not only will you gain a sense of place amid the flurry of everyday life here, as you pass crimson-robed monks and the steaming cuisine of street stalls, but you will also get the chance to explore wonderful architectural sites and local markets bursting with local produce. From crumbling colonial buildings to gleaming Buddhist pagodas, the buildings do not disappoint – the most impressive of all being the sacred Shwedagon Pagoda, especially at sunset when it shines like liquid gold. Also, worth visiting here is the gigantic Reclining Buddha (Chaukhtatgyi Paya) and Bogyoke Market, where Burmese antiques are showcased in eclectic market stalls, as well as Mingalar Market, home to rich colourful fabrics and a lively atmosphere. After shopping, you will be hard-pressed to resist refuelling on sizzling street food as you breathe in the air of fragrant aromas. We recommend staying at The Governor’s Residence, the hottest postcode in the city, for the most luxurious stay.
Bagan
Of course, no trip to Myanmar would be complete without visiting one of the most extraordinary archaeological sites in the world: historic Bagan and its romantic temple-dotted landscape. It is bound to captivate your imagination at first glance – for the most memorable experience, we recommend admiring the thousands of ancient crumbling ruins, pagodas and stupas by hot-air balloon, for floating high above the atmospheric plains captures the scale of this wonderous and dramatic site to full effect. Overlooking the sweeping landscape from a bird’s eye view also affords you a panoramic vista that stretches right out to the horizon, where the mystical land meets the banks of the Irrawaddy river. Step inside the cool of the pagodas and stupas to find statues of the Buddha as well as intricate frescoes and carvings that envelop you in spiritual calm. The finest place to stay in this city is the Thiripyitsaya Sanctuary Resort, with its tranquil pool and luxurious amenities.
Inle Lake
The idyllic Inle Lake is a crystalline calm body of water that guarantees a truly mesmerising sight at any time of day. For the most staggering views, we recommend visiting at either the crack of dawn or in the evening, when the golden sun casts its glow over the vast mirror-still body of water as far as the eye can see. As you glide through the soothing riverways by private boat, you will find floating local markets and tribal villages dotted around, as well as the odd fisherman going about their daily work. Originally part of the Intha (meaning “sons of the lakes”) community, these fishermen are a sight to behold in themselves as they masterfully balance on one leg while casting out their beautiful nets retaining traditional techniques. Those who visit this scenic spot in mid to late November can witness the unique and joyful Tazaungdaing Light Festival, which sees myriad different sized balloons made from bamboo and Shan paper take to the skies and a spectacle of fireworks under the cover of darkness. We recommend enjoying a stay at the beautiful Inle Princess Resort here, as it provides the ideal retreat in this peaceful setting.
Wa Ale
To end your trip on a high, you need look no further than Burma’s hottest new property, Wa Ale Island Resort, where you can spend your final nights blissfully relaxed in an exclusive tropical island setting. Heralded as the hottest opening in the country in the last year, Wa Ale is the first exclusive property to be found on the previously untouched Mergui Archipelago and claims a prime position surrounded by nothing by aquamarine water, pristine white sandy beaches, majestic rock formations and lush vegetation. You are bound to feel at one with nature here, for this eco property blends seamlessly into its rugged surroundings and its rustic-style yet luxurious accommodation sits either right upon the beach or tucked under a leafy canopy of treetops. To add to this, the activities and excursions offered here all embrace the tropical environment with open arms as they range from snorkelling and diving among the archipelago’s exotic marine life to kayaking through the mangrove jungles among beautiful birdlife – just heaven for adventurers.
By James Jayasundera from www.ampersandtravel.com
Discover the beautiful Atacama Desert
The Atacama Desert in Chile is the driest in the world, some parts of it have never seen rain. It is the oldest in the world at 150M years and the highest in the world – we visited some parts at 4,600 metres. It is also simply huge at 1,500 sq km and has many varied landscapes from salt flats and deep canyons to moonscapes and sand dunes – we visited the lot!
Our town was San Pedro de Atacama, 30km from the Bolivian border and just over the mountains from Argentina.
Every view we had, and there are some stunning ones, has the backdrop of snow capped mountains, the highest at 6,739 metres.
A visit to Valle de la Luna
The Valle de la Luna is aptly name, it’s like nothing on earth I’ve ever seen. Mountain slopes glittering with what look like diamonds, it’s actually gypsum, volcanic rock alongside sand dunes hundreds of feet high with valleys of white salt and a backdrop of mountains with gleaming white snow – quite breathtaking.
It is dry and arid so virtually nothing grows but still there are flocks of screaming green parrots flying above us as we walk the ridge looking down a sheer drop off our narrow path to the salt flats below. A little intimidating but far too spectacular to be worried about the vertical drop either side.
It was on the platform at the end of the ridge while we were taking a well deserved rest, that Marcella our guide told us the story of the “sweetest death” and the sacred mountain Llullaillaco, pronounced Ju-jay-jaco. We sat on the peak marvelling at Llullaillaco, the second highest active volcano in the world at 6,700 metres towering above the horizon between the border of Chile and Argentina, as she began her captivating story.
The views over Llullaillaco Mountain
The Incas believed the mountain to be sacred, the home of their gods and a place where annual sacrifices were made, astonishingly the sacrifices were children. The most exceptional children in the tribe, either the most beautiful or the most gifted in their education were the chosen ones. They were selected at a very young age and taken to be educated separately from the others in the tribe, not all made it to the ultimate sacrifice however.
Around 1,500 AD three children were selected from the “school” two girls, aged fifteen and eight and a boy aged six. They were escorted on foot by their families and the Inca elders on the lengthy journey to Llullaillaco. Their job was to keep the children alive on the long trek up to the 6,700M summit, our highest was 4,600M and it was tough at times even for us.
At the end of the journey there must have been all sorts of rituals performed before the children were given hallucinating drugs and alcohol to help them sleep – at 6,700M you don’t wake up. This was known as the “sweetest death”. Can you imagine how the accompanying parents must have felt? Pride perhaps that their children were selected to be sacrificed to the gods and ultimately to become gods themselves, but the devastation any parent would feel in losing a son or daughter.
In 1999 the children’s mummies were discovered on the mountain and are considered to be the best preserved Inca mummies of all time. Quite a story to reflect upon as we made our way back down the Valle de la Luna.
Watching the Flamingos in the desert
Flamingos in the driest desert in the world and at 3,300 meters, how does that work? Well, no one is really sure, but there they were on the salt flats with necks like crooked drainpipes and pink as you like against the clear blue skies and sparkling snow topped mountains, what a picture. We picnicked and watched the sun go down as flocks of flamingos sailed above us, pink necks and legs outstretched silhouetted against the matching sunset, wonderful.
This country has a huge amount of awe inspiring landscapes and scenery, but we weren’t finished yet.
Spotting the seven colours in the Rainbow Valley
We visited the Rainbow Valley, an incredibly stunning natural panorama. The seven colours making up the rainbow of rock we found in the valley included mountains of green crystal, red volcanic rock exploded from the very core of the earth, white volcanic ash slopes, purple ridges and minerals of black, silver and gold. Goodness me what a sight, it moved Helene to tears.
Seeing the El Tatio Geysers at dawn
We waited until our final day to tackle the 4,600 meter high trip to the El Tatio Geysers to ensure we were fully acclimatised. It was up at 5:00 AM to allow us time to see the sunrise.
It was minus ten on the summit, it had been minus fourteen earlier in the week and minus twenty last month, June. It was, as promised, a stunning sunrise over the mountains, with bursts of steam rising from scalding water in the snowy ground into a clear blue and pink sky.
The water at the surface of the geysers is at boiling point, packed full of minerals and some rare bacteria that makes oxygen and can actually create life. In fact, if, or perhaps when, there is Armageddon on planet earth then here is one of only three places around the globe where scientists believe life will begin again, a sobering thought and difficult to believe in this desolate harsh environment.
We had a slow descent out of the unique and recently snow covered landscape, into bright sunshine with not a cloud in the sky. We arrived back to remove layer upon layer of clothing to be replaced by shorts and a tee-shirt, and enjoy a beer around the pool.
And that just about sums up the Atacama Desert, a place of amazing contrast from salt flats to towering volcanic peaks, barren and parched lunar landscapes to warm mountain pools and hillsides that sparkle at you. We loved it.
By David Moore from www.amazon.com/author/davidcmoore
The world’s best luxury hotels
From luxury lodges in the middle of the Serengeti to private-pool beachfront villas, the world is jam-packed full of truly remarkable hotels. And, whether you’re after an exotic Asian getaway or adventurous Latin America retreat, here we’ve rounded up some of the world’s best luxury hotels for truly once-in-a-lifetime experiences, matched only by their just-as spectacular locations.
&Beyond Tengile River Lodge, Sabi Sands Game Reserve, South Africa
Whether taking in the river views from your private pool or spotting the Big Five on expert-led game drives, this brand-new lodge – opened in December 2018 – is a new word in sustainable luxury. With solar power and environmentally-friendly materials throughout, just nine ‘floating’ suites perch on the bend of the Sabi Sands Game Reserve’s river, with stunning forest views, personal lap pools, timber decks and al fresco showers – there’s even in-suite WiFi.
Birdwatching tours, interpretive bush walks and twice-daily game drives under the guidance of the resident rangers are all included, on which you’ll spot everything from lion and leopard to rhino and elephant in the world-famous Kruger Park that shares its unfenced border with Sabi Sands. Then, each day is culminated with an array of indulgent spa treatments before gourmet dining and expertly-mixed cocktails, enjoyed at the fireside outdoor boma.
Alila Villas Uluwatu, Bali, Indonesia
Dramatic, modern, chic – this truly exquisite fusion of 50m cliff-top infinity pools, spectacular panoramic views and ultra-contemporary suites is one of Indonesia’s best. Why not start it all off in style with a helicopter arrival? Then, 24-hour personal butler service is enjoyed alongside complimentary yoga classes on a cliff-edge cabana, a private beach for surfing and creative spa treatments.
‘Journeys by Alila’ also offers chances to visit local fish markets and leading Balinese artists, take cooking classes with the hotel chef and enjoy sunset kecak dances at the nearby temple. Perhaps go beach-hopping from a local fishing boat for snorkelling, sunbathing and picnics before sunset dining back at the hotel with the likes of grilled octopus and roasted king prawns on offer, washed down by world-class wines and the Alila signature – gin mojito cocktails. For an extra-special occasion, opt for the cliff-hanging, open-air cabana for gorgeous ocean views as you dine.
Awasi Patagonia, Chile
A true South American gem, this design-led, Relais & Châteaux offering lies in the heart of Patagonia’s dramatic landscapes and world-beating glaciers. With snow-dusted mountains, remote forests and deep-blue lakes, it all feels stunningly isolated, and is a gorgeous backdrop to the luxury timber villas – of which there are just 14, all privately located with ultra-clear views of the granite spires of Torres del Paine or Lake Sarmiento.
Back inside, modernist and timber designs are reminiscent of Scandi luxury, with personal hot tubs, wood-burning stoves and cosy living rooms. Dining is, as expected, world-class, with local, ultra-fresh and seasonal ingredients served up to your exacting taste in what is truly some of Chile’s best gourmet dining. It’s made all the better with your own personal guide and vehicle to explore at your own pace – head on Torres del Paine hikes, wildlife walks, 4WD park trips and steppe horse rides with the gauchos of the local estancia, and even track pumas with the conservation team of South America’s first puma foundation.
L7 Luxury Lodge, Finnish Lapland, Finland
Luxury and the northern remotes of Lapland may not sound synonymous, but this lodge evades all expectations in its Scandi-luxe, rustic and utterly stylish interiors. Just seven rooms ensure a sense of romantic seclusion, with plush furnishings, timber-clad walls and polished wooden floors looking out onto snow-laden forests. And, those views are made to be explored.
Hire skis and snowshoes for free or hop on a snowmobile for thrilling experiences in the next-door national park – or come summer, hikes through the boreal forests are just as serene. Return to log-cabin cosiness for seasonal gastronomy that’s a true trip highlight, with all-inclusive, multi-course dining based on local ingredients, from open sandwiches to Lappish soups and ultra-fresh smoked salmon, in between indulgent afternoon teas. Just don’t forget to spend some time in the bubbling Jacuzzi and traditional Finnish saunas before whiling evenings by the roaring fire – before stepping out to witness, with the luck, those dazzling Northern Lights.
Longitude 131°, Red Centre, Australia
Burrowed amid the dunes of the Simpson Desert in Australia’s arid Red Centre, this boutique gem is the ultimate in remote luxury, with mighty Uluru a spectacular view from luxury tented cabins adorned with organic linens, bespoke furnishings and complimentary binoculars and maps. For something more rustic, bespoke ‘swag’ roll sleeping mats are offered for slumbering under the stars on your private balcony.
All adventures are included, from camel rides and Harley hires to expertly-guided walks around the base of Uluru; be sure to get up early one day to catch the sun rise before a fresh pastry breakfast at the base of the monolith. Our favourite, though, has to be a helicopter flight, for truly exceptional views. Back at base, relax with a spa treatment, take a dip in the plunge pool or enjoy an aboriginal painting workshop with a local artist. It’s all culminated with champagne sundowners and al fresco dining at private locations for indulgent four-course meals – or go one up and enjoy a private dinner atop a dune or in one of the outdoor dining pods.
Clayoquot Wilderness Resort, British Columbia, Canada
A collection of luxury, safari-style tents among a protected old-growth rainforest, Clayoquot Wilderness Resort lies on the shores of the eponymous Sound and can only be reached via a boat or sea plane ride – a rather charming constraint. Guest cabins perch in the rainforest or by the lake with indoor-outdoor showers, wood stoves and underfloor heating, while indulgences continue at the lakeside spa’s cedar-wood hot tubs and two saunas.
Then, local, gourmet and all-inclusive meals, from seared Clayoquot Salmon to freshly-caught Dungeness crab, are served among log fires and gleaming silver. Guests even toast their final evening with a multi-course, wine-paired tasting menu. It’s all done alongside an array of included adventures, from salmon fishing and kayaking trips to rainforest horse rides and lakeside hikes. That’s not forgetting paddle-boarding and surfing on deserted beaches, trail walks with a First Nations guide and watching for whales, eagles, black bears and even cougar.
Belmond Palacio Nazarenas, Cusco, Peru
A luxe spa, 24-hour butler service and original Inca artwork are just some of the delights that await in one of Peru’s most outstanding and historic properties. Amid Cusco’s colonial splendour, Belmond Palacio Nazarenas, once a convent and palace, is laced with colonial frescoes and gold-framed artwork alongside glass floors, which give a fascinating insight into the Incan foundations on which it was built. Reminders of your location continue in rooms, too, with opulent suites enriched with oxygen to help with the altitude alongside in-room bars where your discrete butlers can even mix pisco sours in a private cocktail class.
If that wasn’t enough, the world’s only fully oxygenated spa and Cusco’s first outdoor swimming pool are a wonderful antidote to chilly evenings – though you’ll want to have spent the day exploring. After Sacred Valley hikes, horse riding and mountain biking among the Incan history, look forward to fuelling up each night at the restaurant, where celebrity chef Virgilio Martinez creates delicacies like grilled alpaca and crackling pork. There’s even chances to head on guided tours of the market or enjoy cooking classes – all washed down with the hotel bar’s extensive pisco tasting menu.
Gora Kadan, Hakone, Japan
Once the hotel choice of Japan’s Imperial family, this ryokan hot-springs inn in the heart of Hakone National Park makes for an unforgettable luxury stay, with ultra-fragrant flowers and the bubbling of the nearby hot springs exuding a feeling of peace you’d be hard-pressed to find anywhere but Japan.
Spend days sinking into an onsen hot tub among the bamboo forest, indulging in a traditional Sitatsu massage – your yukata robe to hand – and wandering the perfectly-manicured gardens. The delights continue in the sleek suites, with tatami mats, private gardens and personal soaking tubs with epic views of snow-capped Mount Fuji. Dining is impressive, too, with chef-curated classic kaiseiki cuisine served in a myriad of indulgent fish and meat courses that can be taken in the serene Kaiseiki Flower Garden.
&Beyond Grumeti Serengeti, Tanzania
In keeping with &Beyond’s luxe reputation, this spectacular offering doesn’t disappoint in what is truly a Serengeti experience with a difference. Sprawling decks and rim-flow swimming pools form a wonderful base from which to watch hippos in the river below as well as many other game who come to drink at the watering hole. On the banks of the famous Grumeti river, you’re also perfectly positioned to experience the annual Great Wildebeest Migration and their heart-racing river crossings.
It continues beyond the camp, too, with twice-daily expert-led game drives in specially adapted 4WD vehicles on which you’ll spot the Big Five alongside cheetah, hyena and more. There’s even the chance to head on a Serengeti balloon flight for an unforgettable view of the sweeping plains dotted with baobab trees and herds of slowly-moving elephant. Back at base, after sundowners on the deck, enjoy fireside dining in the boma with barbecue meats cooked over a traditional jiko, accompanied by the nighttime howls of the African wildlife.
Amansara Angkor, Cambodia
The world-famous Angkor Wat is spectacular enough, and this hotel perfectly matches its splendour as a luxury base from which to explore. With a chic and exclusive vibe, this was once the resident of King Sihanouk, and offers myriad boutique experiences, from sunrise photography over Angkor to spa treatments.
Days are spent pool lounging and enjoying private lunches in a tranquil hideaway alongside complimentary private tours of the Angkor temple complex by remorque – Cambodia’s version of the tuk tuk, as well as traditional wooden house dinners and local chef-led cooking classes. You can even get a blessing at the 12th-century Wat Athvea or head on a helicopter ride to see the lost jungle temples from above. Then, sunset cocktails aboard Amansara’s lake boat on the nearby Tonle Sap are a wonderful prelude to a roof terrace barbecue – or even a private dinner inside one of the temples, accompanied by live musicians and dance performances.
By Dave Warne, Product Director at The Luxury Holiday Company.
The best wedding destinations
You popped the question and your partner said yes. Now it’s time to set the date and pick the right destination for your wedding.
We asked travel agents and event planners to give us some destinations that make a great place for people to say, “I do.”
Livermore, California
“Located just an hour from San Francisco, Livermore is an up-and-coming destination wedding getaway,” said Heather Jones of Wente Vineyards in Livermore. “The area has received quite a bit of national press as an emerging hot spot for couples, and I’m confident Livermore will make a name for itself as one of the top spots to marry in 2018.”
Jones said the region boasts picturesque views, delicious restaurants and award-winning wineries.
“Attendees can also take advantage of our championship golf courses and shopping,” she said. “It’s the ideal place to relax after the hustle and bustle of the wedding itself.”
Hawaii
“Boasting rich and diverse scenery, Hawaii is one of the top U.S. destination choices for couples who want a once-in-a-lifetime trip,” said Megan Velez, Destination Weddings Travel Group. “Couples can pick from one of many idyllic backdrops—from rainforests or mountains to volcanic landscapes. The natural beauty is made only better by year-round warmth and sun.”
Couples can enjoy a tropical paradise in a destination wedding-friendly locale while still staying within the U.S.
“There’s no need for passports or dealing with international calling—this is a big relief for busy couples and their attendees,” she said.
New York
In addition to Hawaii, Velez said that some couples opt for new-to-them destinations within the country for a unique experience with less hassle.
“Given the return to chic, refined wedding décor, the elegance of New York City is a big draw for couples in 2018,” she said. “In addition to being home to many notable sites and activities, couples and guests alike will appreciate the ease in traveling. Flights are very accessible, and many may decide to turn it into a road trip.”
Riviera Nayarit, Mexico
Brittany Wahhab, Brand Manager, Weddings by Funjet, said that the once-forgotten Pacific Coast of Mexico is a trending romantic getaway that has travelers flocking from all corners of the globe, including Hollywood A-listers like Gwyneth Paltrow and Matt Damon:
“The 200-mile coastline boasts lush mountain peaks, authentic pueblos, a tantalizing food scene and surfer beach vibes, turning this town into an up-and-coming place for destination weddings and vow renewals.”
Between the Sierra Madre Mountains and the unparalleled sunsets, Wahhab said the exotic destination is filled with gorgeous wedding locations, the best golf courses and the most romantic excursions in Mexico: “This makes Riviera Nayarit attractive to couples looking to marry away or linger on their honeymoon.”
Costa Mujeres, Mexico
“Located just 30 minutes away from Cancun’s International Airport, Costa Mujeres is on the east coast of Mexico where luxury will be redefined by hotels like Grand Palladium Costa Mujeres Resort & Spa (opening in 2018) and RIU Dunamar (opening Dec 2017),” said Wahhab.
Many hotels are cognizant of building their resorts with minimal environmental impact in order to protect the native species, while still maintaining modern design and top-quality services
“This allows couples to embrace and incorporate the natural beauty of Mexico,” said Wahhab, “from the white sandy beaches and crystal blue waters to wild mangroves and ancient Mayan civilization, into their celebrations.”
Costa Rica
“Over the past month, Weddings by Funjet intake specialists have received an increase in inquiries for destination weddings in Costa Rica, and we think this trend will continue into 2018,” said Wahhab.
“The gorgeous Central American nation caters to nature enthusiasts with 800 miles of rich biodiversity and protected reservations and appeals to couples looking for affordability and adventure all in one place. From Costa Rican coffee wedding favors to group excursions exploring natural wonders like Tabacón Hot Springs, the options to make a destination wedding truly unique and memorable are endless in this country.”
With the slogan of Costa Rica being “Pura Vida”, meaning pure or simple life, it’s no wonder that couples are rushing to say their vows in one of the happiest countries in the world.
Great boutique hotels of India
Go beyond the puppet shows and thali feasts of India’s tourist palaces seeking out another gentler and creative India with some of our favourite family-owned boutique properties below. From one of the grandest cities in India, now a faded beauty and nearly unknown, to a celebrity favourite deep in the depths of Rajasthan, India is scattered with lesser-known properties that are infused with stories of valour, vision and rooted in the soil of their setting. This is a journey through hotels created by love – with each one is utterly individual to itself, offering an experience not to be found anywhere else on earth.
Rajbari, West Bengal
A gentle 2.5 hours drive from Kolkata ‘City of Joy’, Rajbari is less a hotel and more of a discovery. Restored after decades of dilapidation by Kolkata resident Ajay Rawla, this early 19th-century merchant’s palace has one of the most breathtaking entrances in all of India. Built on a vast scale, the columned courtyard facade is the perfect expression of the swaggering past of West Bengal, a land of adventuring East India fortune hunters, colourful ‘Nabobs’ – Englishmen who adopted the native ways of life (including ‘Hindoo’ Stuart, a Limerick-born soldier whose vast collection of Bengali antiquities forms the basis of the British Museum’s South Asian collection) – and art patron landowners. Rajbari is a sleeping beauty brought back to life by a man in love. To stay here is to enter a deeply authentic story centred around the magic of West Bengal – sail on a country boat along the Hooghly River before taking part in Sanskrit evening prayers as dusk falls and journey through the local dishes in the candlelit state dining room. 1819 meets 2019 in true period perfection.
Bari Kothi
Few visitors to India even hear of Murshidabad, let alone visit it. But this former capital city once controlled 5% of the world’s GDP. An 18th-century relic coiled around the banks of sacred River Ganges, Murshidabad boasts one of the largest palaces in India, mosques built in a day, glorious architecture and a most intriguing history. One of the prominent communities to settle here were the Sheherwali Jains, who built magnificent homes in the twin-towns of Azimganj and Jiaganj, upriver from Murshidabad.
The boutique property Bari Kothi has been recently lovingly restored by owner Darshan Dudhoria and is a dazzling sight to behold. Set in the town of Azimganj, known as ‘the Varanasi of the East’ on account of its plethora of temples, Bari Kothi is an arresting confection of Greek, Roman, and French architecture. Explore this warren of mosaic floored ballrooms, Burmese teak pillars, Belgian chandeliers, faded portraits and vast stained glass windows before wandering down onto the family ghat stretching into the holy waters. The young married owners are deeply welcoming and a fount of stories about the region – all is done with passion and spirit here. Come and be seduced.
Wild Mahseer, Assam
‘Assam stretches from the sea-line to the snow-line’ reflects the ebullient owner of boutique resort Wild Mahseer, Ranjit Borthakur. Such pride in this wild corner of North-East India, known as ‘the land of the rising sun’, is evident in each area of the charming property, nestled in 22 acres of lush Addabarie Tea Estate. A deep and unswerving commitment to the surrounding environment underpins every part of life here and guests are immersed in the rich rhythm of nature. Set in the Eastern Himalaya Botanic Ark, Wild Mahseer is passionate about showcasing the region’s biodiversity. They arrange unforgettable experiences such as the spring festival of Ali Aye Ligang with the local Mishing community, forest bathing, river safaris along the mighty Brahmaputra and visits to Assam silk weavers as well as astonishing game drives at the famed Kaziranga National Park, home of the Great Indian One Horned Rhino.
Pepper Trail, Kerala
Go deep into the jungle and discover this idyllic corner of North Kerala, nestled among the mountains of the Western Ghats and swimming in heritage, storytelling and tranquility. Third-generation owner Anand Jayan has transformed his 200-acre inheritance into one of the most rewarding small properties in South India through sheer determination and effortless devotion. The surrounding area of Wayanad is one of the most naturally spectacular regions in South India, a hill station with stunning waterfalls, the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary and the Edakkal Caves, boasting rock carvings from 6,000 BC as well as the largest dam in India.
Pepper Trail is a working tea and coffee plantation with houses built almost 40-foot above ground entwined around jackfruit trees. The hand-carved canopied beds are made from the forest, the textiles are locally sourced and each corner sings with joy for the region. Hospitality is personal and gentle, guests are welcomed as honoured friends and with endearing affection. Two suites are set in a 140-year old bungalow, all Kerala planters chairs and pillars, with further villas complete with swimming pools soon to be launched. Seasonal local dishes are served in the Pavilion, high in the foliage and the Peppery Mutton is a delight along with local fruits, bursting with jazzy flavours. Eat being serenaded by flashing birds, the Malabar pied hornbills and rose-ringed parakeets, and know you are in God’s Own Country.
Rawla Narlai
Supermodel Yasmin Le Bon’s favourite Rajasthan retreat, Rawla Narlai, hidden in the mythical Aravalli Hills, is one of those rustic gems that celebrities flock to for a discreet and transporting experience. Follow the long shadow of Elephant Hill and climb the 700 granite steps to watch the setting sun transform the landscape into a burnished orange sea amid the echoes of village life far below. Such moments have the power to harness the heart into a harmony with nature hard to find in the west. Seventeenth-century Rawla Narlai was the favourite hunting lodge of the Maharajas of Jodhpur and an echo of the old royal ways remain untouched by time. Requests to staff are answered with folded hands and a gentle ‘hukum’, the traditional honorific.
The furniture and paintings blend seamlessly with the Rajput architecture and the pool sparkles in the bougainvillea-festooned courtyard. Suites in the original lodge sing with breathtaking frescoes, traditional coloured glass arches and enormous sink-in beds. Comforts are those of an English country house rather than a creaky Indian palace and every whim is taken care of with a touching charm. The famed stepwell dinners are the most romantic in Rajasthan, lit by a thousand terracotta candles and accompanied by folk musicians and peacocks fanning under the moon. The surrounding village is one of the oldest in the country and sports 350 beautifully carved temples to explore including those of the Jain sect. The perfect oasis stop between Jodhpur and Udaipur, Rawla Narlai is a jewel glinting in the desert light.
By James Jayasundera, Founder and Managing Director of Ampersand Travel
Experiences not to miss on the Greek island of Patmos
Patmos is a well kept secret among jet setters in the northern part of the Dodecanese complex, one of the few places that has preserved its medieval settlements since the 12th Century.
Historically is known for pilgrimage with a plethora of Monasteries, most of which are World Heritage sites: the cave of the Apocalypse and the Monastery of Saint John the Theologian.
Over the recent years, the island has attracted the luxury travellers looking for authenticity and luxury lifestyle and blogger Maria Nikolakaki suggests a few of the must do experiences are:
Chora tour
With the companion of tour guide stroll around the narrow cobblestone paths, through the recently renovated mansions and the sea captain’s houses and end up in the crown of Chora, the Monastery of St. John. Continue with visiting the Ecclesiastical School of Patmos and the Apocalypse Cave. At the main square you can visit boutiques, cafés and restaurants before you follow the narrow alleys all the way down to Skala which is the main port and popular meeting place.
Rent a caique for a day
The island offers 63 km of coastline with a plethora of beaches to choose, from sandy and well organized to isolated coves. Rent a small Caique with a local captain for the day and sail to cosmopolitan Kambos, or Lambi which is known for the multicolored pebbles, Meloi which is closer to Skala port or Psilli Ammos known for the sweeping dunes and the tamarisk trees.
Day trip to islets
Rent a rib boat for the day and discover unspoiled small islands with crystal blue waters and fish villages with exquisite local cuisine. The island cluster of Arkoi, Leipsoi and Marathi will surprise you with their beauty and retained authenticity.
Body and mind
Patmos is a spiritual island and you feel the energy the minute you step foot in the port. During the sunset, enjoy a Yoga session in one of the terraces with views of the Monastery and the lights of Skala. Looking around you will be surprised to see how many Yogis find piece all over the island.
Wonderful holiday experiences in Cornwall
Conjure up an image of Cornwall and you’re guaranteed to think of the glorious beaches perfect for picnics, bathing in the warmth of the sunshine and splashing around in the crystal-clear waters. Perhaps you’ve visited a few times before or are still to take that much-desired trip, or maybe you’ve a trip planned for this summertime. Still to decide what you want to do when you arrive? Fear not, we’ve compiled a list of unmissable experiences for your Cornish holiday.
A trip to the Minack Theatre
A magical evening spent at the Minack Theatre is truly one of a kind. With panoramic views of the breathtaking coastline and the unique experience of watching an open-air performance whilst perched on the cliffs, the Minack is not to be missed. Bring a picnic of gourmet local produce from the nearby Polgoon Vineyard and Orchard to snack on throughout the evening.
Find that perfect beach cocktail spot
What better way to finish off a busy day of exploring than by unwinding with a cooling cocktail on the beach? Take your pick from the delightful collection of Cornwall’s beach bars and restaurants for that refreshing drink, from the pretty Porthmeor Beach Café to the bustling Watering Hole in Perranporth and the secluded haven of Lusty Glaze Restaurant.
Visit St Michael’s Mount
Steeped in history and the inspiration for many a storyteller, St Michael’s Mount is a magical place to spend the day exploring. Stroll to the island over the cobbled causeway during low tide or catch a short boat ride if it’s high tide. Explore the gardens and castle and wander through the village to see how the thirty islanders live. Finish the afternoon by stopping off in the local restaurant to enjoy a Cornish cream tea and watch island life go by.
Walk with wildlife
Put on your walking boots and discover the joys of the South West Coast Path, with its varied, but always beautiful, landscape. Test your fitness in one of the more challenging but breath-taking (quite literally!) walks, or opt for an easier and more laid-back stroll, perfect for admiring the countryside, wildlife and snapping a few photographs. And don’t forget to stop off for a well-earned coffee and slice of cake in a local café.
Enjoy the local delicacies
You’re quite simply spoilt for choice for culinary delights in Cornwall. Not only do you have the more traditional options of a pasty or cream tea, but there are also plenty of options for a fine dining experience. Many world-renowned Chefs own restaurants in Cornwall, with delicious and seasonal dishes sourced locally, including Nathan Outlaw in the idyllic Porth Isaac and the social enterprise of Fifteen Cornwall by Jamie Oliver in Watergate Bay. Not to mention, Rick Stein’s Seafood Restaurant and Paul Ainsworth No 6 in Padstow. Finish off the day exploring St Michaels Mount with a visit to Ben’s Cornish Kitchen in Marazion and take an afternoon to experience the wonderful Hidden Hut in Porthcurnick.
Go on a boat trip
Set sail and delight in the salty sea air with a boat trip to the picturesque village of St Mawes from Falmouth, venture across the Camel Estuary from Padstow to the upmarket fishing village of Rock and visit the inspiration for Wind in the Willows with a boat trip along the Fowey River.
Explore the Helford
Spend a day or two exploring the idyllic Helford estuary, with its charming woodland, secluded creeks, and conservation areas filled with an abundance of nature and wildlife. Go on a kayaking adventure or take a cruise down the Helford River, visit the sub-tropical gardens and savor the dreamy scenery and peaceful surroundings.
Find your favorite Cornish beach
With Caribbean blue waters and soft white sand, Porthminster Beach is part of the glittering stretch of St Ives Bay, with views across to Godrevy Lighthouse, the inspiration for Virginia Woolfe’s ‘To The Lighthouse’. Venture to the Lizard to see the spectacular turquoise waters of Kynance Cove, visit England’s most westerly point to set your sights on Sennen Cove, and explore the beautiful Constantine Bay Beach set in an Area on Outstanding Natural Beauty. There are hundreds to choose from!
By Simon Tregoning, Chairman at Classic Cottages. Classic Cottages have an exclusive portfolio of places to stay, handpicked in the best locations from the tip of far west Cornwall across the south of England and over on the Isle of Wight.
Vegan food and luxury hotels in Singapore
Singapore is a destination with an impeccable list of the finest hotels, and a myriad of dining options that truly offer something for everyone. It is a melting pot of styles, culture and cuisine making it one of our favourite locations in Southeast Asia. In recent years a growing number of hotels and restaurants have embraced the popularity of veganism and have added vegan and plant based options for their guests. Here we highlight a selection of these establishments that we ‘tried and tested’ on our last trip to Singapore. We hope you enjoy reading ‘Luxury hotels and vegan food in Singapore’ as much as we enjoyed researching the article!
Six Senses Duxton
When the Top Hotel Brand in the World opens a pair of boutique luxury hotels in Singapore you know you’re in for a treat. Six Senses are known for their unique resorts in breathtaking and natural locations and Six Senses Duxton was the first city centre hotel from this award winning brand. You can expect environmental and eco influences throughout as this is synonymous with the ethos of Six Senses. What may pleasantly surprise you is how they have seamlessly transitioned from luxury beach resorts to luxury city centre hotels.
Six Senses Duxton calls Tanjong Pagar home, this is a Singaporean neighbourhood that is exciting and eclectic with Chinatown at it’s core. The boutique hotel is a row of heritage trading houses that have been sustainably restored under the gifted hand of Anouska Hempel. Guests can expect beautifully crafted rooms and suites with all of the modern touches you would expect from a hotel of this standing. In line with their sustainability policy there are no plastic bottles, no plastic straws and bathroom amenities are provided in planet friendly refillable containers. The feel good factor is the real deal here as every effort is being made to ‘tread lightly’ and respect the environment.
Yellow Pot is the restaurant at Six Senses Duxton which serves ‘authentic and innovative Chinese cuisine’ to guests and non guests alike. Since opening, it has become a favourite with local diners who are drawn to the interesting menu, understated service and relaxed ambiance. Be sure to enjoy the signature drink, Escape to Kaifeng, at Yellow Pot Bar, the antiquarian themed cocktail bar which serves a delightful array of cocktails and fine wines.
The main menu at Yellow Pot has vegan options clearly marked and those include the exquisite ‘Chilled Organic Vine Ripened Tomatoes’. The ripe plum tomatoes are infused with a li hing dressing which is both sweet and salty in equal measures and these are topped with delicate micro herbs and dehydrated tomato skins. These flavour bombs exploded in your mouth and were so very good indeed.
Our meal continued with a crunchy and healthy vegetable dish of ‘Wok Fried Pea Shoots & Beansprouts’. This combination of ingredients that were cooked to perfection left us satisfied and content. No over cooked and under flavoured vegetables at Yellow Pot, just the freshest and crunchiest plant based food that has been prepared with passion.
No Chinese meal would be complete without rice, and our ‘Black Olive Fried Rice with Shitake’ was a great example of this Chinese staple. These olives are nothing like their European namesakes, but an ingredient that is used for seasoning of many Asian dishes offering a saltiness and umami. As you would expect, the rice was perfectly cooked and presented, delivering the savoury climax to our meal at Yellow Pot.
Six Senses Maxwell
Not to be outdone by it’s sister property in the same neighbourhood, Six Senses Maxwell welcomes discerning guests who want something a little different to what many of the luxury hotels in Singapore offer. Again, a design led and sustainable restoration, with interiors by French designer Jacques Garcia, has created a unique and thought provoking boutique hotel that delivers on style and grandeur in equal measures. From the oversized, Himalayan singing bowl which guests are invited to stand within upon check in, to the rooftop lap pool, gym and multiple F&B outlets, including the soon to open Max’s Rooftop bar, there really is something for everyone at Six Senses Maxwell.
Six Senses Brasserie
The menu at Six Senses Brasserie has both vegetarian and vegan options, but upon request the chef was happy to prepare a vegan tasting menu. One of the starters was a ‘Heirloom Beetroot Salad’ which was refreshing and well balanced; the zesty orange, earthy beetroot and walnut snow combined very well and offered a delicious start to our vegan dining experience at Six Senses Maxwell.
Our vegan meal at Six Senses Brasserie ended in style with a superb dessert which exceeded all of our expectations. The ‘Blueberry Crumble’ was a perfect combination of crunchy oats and juicy blueberries that when paired with the homemade, vegan vanilla ice cream created one of the tastiest vegan desserts we’ve had for some time…
Breakfast at Six Senses Maxwell is also served in Six Senses Brasserie and the a la carte menu has a number of vegan options as part of the ‘Health and Wellness’ section. Our favourite (which we ordered every day) was the ‘Avocado Tartine’; a raw flaxseed ‘bagel’ with vine tomatoes, cashew hummus, avocado and topped with coconut ‘bacon’ provided a nutritious and healthy start to our day.
JW Marriott Hotel Singapore South Beach
In stark contrast to the previous boutique properties, but equally as luxurious and vegan friendly, is the stylish and contemporary JW Marriott Hotel Singapore South Beach which is located in the centre of the vibrant downtown district. Guests can choose from more than 600 rooms and suites, two swimming pools and a wide array of restaurants and bars including Akira Back, which serves Japanese fine dining in a modern and memorable setting. Expect service of the highest level at this stylish hotel, and a staff team that are happy to go above and beyond for their guests.
Akira Back
Having loved the appearance of culinary creations from Chef Akira Back, we were excited to experience his plant based dishes in Singapore. The a la carte menu has a number of vegan options, including vegan wine on the extensive wine list. Upon request, we were able to enjoy a multi course vegan tasting menu which combined dishes from the main menu, others which had been adapted and also some delectable surprises.
The vibrant and stunning ‘Bell Pepper Carpaccio’ which was marinated in nanbanzu (a type of vinegar) was the highlight of our meal. Delicate in both taste and texture, these slithers of bell pepper were so, so tasty we would have happily eaten them again and again. If the rest of our meal was anything like these tasty delights we were certainly in for a treat.
The simple sounding, yet divinely delicious ‘Roasted Mushroom’ was packed with flavours and delivered yet again a dish that impressed on many levels. The toasted quinoa presented a crunchy element which complimented the earthy flavours of the mushrooms and gentle spice of the togarashi chilli. Wow.
Another standout dish at Akira Back was ‘Crispy Rice’ which again sounded simple but was far from simple in every way. The bite size cubes of crispy rice and eggplant, topped with a creamy and plant based ponzu aioli were just perfect. The citrus tartness of the ponzu complimented the creamy aioli and left our tastebuds tingling and very contented indeed.
We loved the wide variety of vegan food available in Singapore and the hotels and restaurants in this article were some of the best we experienced. The worldwide demand for plant based food shows no sign of slowing down and as vegans, this makes us very happy indeed!
By Paul Eyers, Founder of Vegan Food Quest.
Best reasons to snorkel the Galapagos Islands
Are you planning to go to the Galapagos Islands soon or is it in your bucket list? If so, we would like to share with you 7 reasons for snorkeling in the Galapagos Islands. What a great experience it is snorkeling the turquoise water of this volcanic archipelago.
Ecuador created the Galapagos Marine Reserve in March 1998 as a way to preserve the South Pacific Ocean surrounding the Islands. It is 590 feet deep and encompasses 2,587 square miles. As one of the most biologically diverse regions in the world, the Galapagos is home to 400 species of fish, of which more than 10% are endemic to the archipelago making the designation as one of the largest protected areas in the world.
The Galapagos marine life is still being researched according to the Charles Darwin Foundation; so, the species count is always growing. Even though new discoveries are being made all the time, the species count is very high when compared to other Pacific Islands.
Snorkeling is an ideal way to connect visitors with the impressive and unique underwater world that is the Galapagos. Whether on a cruise ship or day tour or even a hotel on land, snorkeling is available. Expert naturalist guides assist everyone, so all can participate – from expert swimmers to non-swimmers. Life vests are available to assure the safety of all snorkelers.
Make the most of your visit to the Galapagos Islands and don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of its marine life, unique in the world!
Here are our Top 7 Reasons to Snorkel the Galapagos Islands
1. Watch a marine iguana feeding underwater
One of the characteristics of the Galapagos Islands is the way that wildlife has adapted to the harsh conditions of the archipelago. Charles Darwin studied the wildlife of the Galapagos to develop his Theory of Evolution. Now you can experience it too!
Marine iguanas have adapted to feed underwater by eating the algae and aquatic plants. This is one of the fewest marine species of iguanas worldwide. What fun to watch the iguana eating the algae underwater right in front of your eyes.
This iguana species has very sharp and long claws that help them to grab the rock while they are eating. Then you can watch them sunbathing after being underwater because they can swim deep in the sea very fast and agile while on land they are quiet, sneezing off the excess of salt and moving their head when you approach them.
Watching a marine iguana underwater is something indescribable, and the emotion it evokes in snorkelers is an important reason for snorkeling in the Galapagos archipelago.
2. Swimming with the sea turtles
Many people think the giant tortoise as the symbol for the Galapagos Islands – and, don’t worry, one of the must-dos in many cruises and tours are visiting the breeding centers or farms where giant tortoises are developed. However, very few travelers think about the archipelago as the home of sea turtles.
If you are snorkeling, don´t let the turtles scare you. Watching them underwater in slow motion is surreal. What a thrill to watch them swim nonchalantly in front of you without being disturbed by their swimming partner!
3. Colorful fish, rare sea stars, and corals will blow your mind
The underwater world in the Galapagos is as rich as the land. Many types of fishes and corals blow your mind without a doubt. The minute you strap on your mask and snorkel and put your face in the water, a whole new and colorful world unfolds around you.
Some of the most colorful species that you will see while you are snorkeling are the King Angelfish with its turquoise blue and yellow that change depending on the light. Areas that you can find them are North Seymour and Floreana.
The Parrotfish is another fish that will probably catch your eyes while you are underwater. Some of the types of parrotfish that you may find within the archipelago are the blue-chin parrotfish, the azure parrotfish, the bicolor parrotfish, and the bumphead parrotfish.
There are also a wide variety of sea stars and corals that enhance and beautify the underwater world of the Galapagos Islands, like this chocolate chip sea star because of its black spots covering its pale yellow body.
4. Swim among sharks with no worries
The adrenaline that invades you when you see a shark while you are snorkeling is unique. You won´t recognize at first if its happiness or fear. Being among sharks is just surreal, but a rule of thumb, in this case, is never come to close to them, chase them, or to try to touch them. Even though they are not going to attack you; it’s essential to give them their space.
Which types of sharks you can find in Galapagos? This is probably one of the most common question that shark lovers have.
One of the sharks most wanted to watch is the hammerhead shark, but there is also the Galapagos shark that often reaches 9.8 ft (3 m). This endangered species of shark is known to be very curious, it often approaches boats and divers, but rarely means a danger to humans with the needed protection and care. You are more likely to find the Galapagos shark near to reefs and rocky islets as Kicker Rock.
There is also the white tipped reef shark or Tintorera in Spanish. If you visit Isabela Island, there is a canal that this species uses for resting so you can watch them quietly without snorkeling. However, you can easily find them while you are snorkeling, and don´t worry because they are smaller than their Galapagos cousin species.
5. Manta Rays look-like flying fish
Another beautiful marine species is the manta ray. Watching them moving their fins underwater as wings among the deep blue of the ocean or close to the sandy floor is unbelievable. The deep blue and turquoise will frame the manta ray body as a surreal picture that you can photograph in your mind, on a waterproof camera or GoPro.
6. Play with sea lions
One of the most common species that you can find in the Galapagos Islands, not only snorkeling but also inland, maybe sleeping on a bench, are the Sea Lions. These playful but territorial mammals commonly try to play with you underwater. They will come close to you, and they will try to let you catch them as a way of play with you. Nonetheless, remember that you can´t touch or chase them, so just enjoy them while they move around you.
Don´t worry if you won´t see them underwater once you are snorkeling for the first time the Galapagos sea, you will have plenty of opportunities to find them.
7. Rare species that only the western islands can offer you when you are snorkeling
Some of the most iconic wildlife species are the flightless cormorant and the Galapagos penguin. Both of them can be found in the western part of Isabela Island and Santiago Island. Even though you can see them on the rocky and volcanic land of many sites in those areas, the most impressive and unique way to discover them is underwater.
Have you ever imagine watching a bird swimming in front of you or seeing a tiny penguin passing in front of you like a torpedo? If your answer is no, Galapagos can provide that opportunity – with a bit of luck!
The flightless cormorant is the only cormorant species that cannot fly, so they swim to find their dinner. The Galapagos penguin is the second smallest penguin in the world and the only tropical species. Both of these species are unique and rare.
Watching either of them underwater will make your trip 1000% worth it!
By Marcel Perkins from latintrails.com
The best wildlife lodges in Latin America
Latin America’s abundant nature and fascinating wildlife is one of the continent’s most alluring attractions. From the marine life of Belize and the Galapagos, to the diverse fauna in the tropical forests of Ecuador, Peru, Brazil and Costa Rica: wildlife lovers cannot help but be enchanted by the variety of species present in these breath-taking eco-systems. These days, enjoying a remote wildlife experience in Latin America does not have to mean roughing it in a sweaty forest campsite. Here are five of our favourite lodges where you can see the best of what Latin American wildlife has to offer in ultimate luxury.
Cristalino Jungle Lodge, Alta Floresta, Brazil
Ensconced in the southern Amazon rainforest, away from the industry and pollution of the northern tropical city of Manaus, Cristalino Lodge is accessed via a small remote airport called Alta Floresta. This boutique wildlife lodge is perched on the banks of the Cristalino River, an Amazon tributary known for its populations of secretive Amazonian River Otters.
Other wildlife highlights include a variety of primate species and a huge diversity of tropical birds. Guests of Cristalino can enjoy light and airy rooms, designed with local materials and the utmost respect for the local environment. At the end of the day, sip a chic cocktail on the lodge’s floating deck, taking in sublime views of the river and jungle.
Mashpi Lodge, Chocó Andean Forest, Ecuador
Mashpi Lodge’s private reserve tucked away in the wild forests of the Chocó, where the cloud forests meet the tropical rainforests, is privy to a biodiversity seen in few other places on earth. The lodge’s fabulous wildlife observation activities, its crucial conversation projects and its chic accommodations offering the best of modern luxury have earned this green haven the privilege of being one of National Geographic’s Unique Lodges of the World, as well as being widely regarded as one of the finest wildlife lodges not only in South America, but in the whole world.
Slick, modern rooms have floor to ceiling windows, allowing the outside in, and giving guests maximum exposure to the beauty of the region’s nature. Take a ride on the lodge’s ‘Dragonfly’ and glide through the canopy of this exuberant rainforest, enjoying unique access to the species whose treetop lives rarely take them to ground level; hike forest trails with Mashpi’s expert guides, or alternatively enjoy the panoramic views from the lodge with a premium glass of wine in hand.
Caiman Ecological Refuge, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
Without doubt our favourite hotel in the Brazilian Pantanal, Caiman Lodge gives guests one of the best wildlife experiences available in the region, with the best accommodation. This luxurious lodge places environmental responsibility at the core of its operations and runs its own jaguar conservation project, meaning that during the dry season (June-October) guests are given the best chance possible of seeing the majestic jaguar in the wild.
The expansive Pantanal wetlands are one of the best places in South America to see some of the continent’s most unusual large mammals, along with a plethora of endangered and endemic bird species. Caiman’s high-class service in a remote region and devotion to its conservation efforts make it stand out from the competition.
Tambopata Research Center, Tambopata, Peru
So remote that a stopover night is required on the way in, the unique Tambopata Research Center is hidden away in the Tambopata Reserve of the Peruvian Amazon rainforest. Guests travel along the Tambopata river, stopping one night at a sister-lodge of the property, before completing their journey into the property on the second day.
This hidden gem is so remote and unspoiled that it is one of the few Amazonian lodges where jaguars are habitually spotted by guests. The lodge offers chic and characterful accommodations tucked away in the verdant rainforests and guests can enjoy a hugely varied programme of activities during their luxury stay. Far from the hustle and bustle of human civilisation, this lodge offers the most exclusive and engaging wildlife experience in Peru.
Corocora Camp, Yopal, Colombia
Inspired by the luxury safari camps popular on the African continent, Corocora Camp brings this exciting concept to the Eastern Llanos of Colombia. One of Latin America’s up and coming wildlife destinations, the llanos attract wildlife lovers seeking sightings of capybara, giant anteaters, water deer and the rare Orinoco crocodiles.
This exclusive tented camp offers an exciting range of activities designed for guests to experience the best of the region’s wildlife alongside the fascinating and distinctive local culture. During the stay, expertly prepared gourmet meals and unlimited beverages are offered. Enjoy the convivial atmosphere around the open-air fire pit and admire the stunning sunsets over the wetlands to complete this unique experience in one of Colombia’s most remote natural paradises.
By Simon Williams, Director of Humboldt Travel.
Alternative treasures of New York not to miss
While the likes of the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty and the Museum of Modern Art rightly grab the headlines, it’s perhaps in the breaths between highlights that New York really comes to life. Here are our top recommendations for getting the most out of the city’s hidden – and not so hidden – treasures. What are your hidden escapes in New York City?
The High Line
New York’s poster child for regeneration, the High Line is an elevated railroad that fell into disuse before being re-imagined as a garden park. Sweeping through Manhattan’s Lower West Side, it makes for delightful walks that showcase some of the city’s finest river views. Expect art screenings, innovative water features and the chance stop off at open-air cafés and gourmet food trucks.
Afternoon tea at The Plaza
Put simply, The Plaza has been a New York landmark since it opened back in 1890. A grand French-Renaissance dame, it’s hosted the Beatles, featured in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s Great Gatsby and has seen Miles Davis record a live album in its Persian Room. And, you can get a taste of its esteemed history with afternoon tea, tucking into Parisian ham sandwiches, lemon cheesecake and Devonshire scones under a soaring, stained-glass dome.
Aerial tram to Roosevelt Island
For a unique perspective of the city’s famed skyline, take a ride on the aerial tram that links Manhattan with tiny Roosevelt Island. As you rise, you’ll be able to look back at the city’s skyscraper colossi before running right alongside the historic Queensboro Bridge, hopping over the East River in the process. So, for the price of a metro-card swipe, you’ll be treated to views usually reserved for helicopter flights.
The Explorers Club
Tucked away on 70th Street between Central Park and the East River, the Explorers Club is hidden behind an unassuming, but decidedly elegant, Jacobean façade. However, draw back the wrought-iron doors and you’ll enter the hallowed halls that have had a hand in world-first trips to both poles, the summit of Mt. Everest and the deepest point in the ocean. The club’s flag was even flown on the moon. Its headquarters is nearly as impressive, furnished in only the most exotic of curios, from 250,000-year-old woolly mammoth tusks to chairs from Westminster Abbey and a desk that belonged to China’s last empress.
City Hall Station
While Grand Central’s Beaux-Arts spectacular has long wowed the tourist crowds with glittering brass and imposing colonnades, City Hall Station offers a more exclusive glimpse into New York’s railway heritage. This abandoned subway stop remains perfectly preserved from its turn-of-the-century heyday, with sweeping tiles and intricate brickwork illuminated by glittering skylights.
A photography tour
There’s little argument that New York is one of the world’s most photogenic cities. To help you get the most out of it, it’s possible to take a guided tour with a professional photographer. You’ll have your itinerary tailored to your interests, bringing you to both the city’s storied highlights and its off-the-beaten track gems. So, whether it’s the neon icons of Times Square or a secret view of the Brooklyn Bridge, you’ll enjoy a privileged insight into the Big Apple.
Boating in Central Park
While New York’s great green lung is no secret, this is your chance to see it at its idyllic best. Channel your inner romcom star by taking a rowboat out onto the imaginatively named ‘Lake’, joining the heron and egrets to enjoy pretty views of the park’s shaded greenery and frame of historic buildings. What’s more, for just $15 for four people, it’s excellent value. There are even Venetian gondola tours available.
DUMBO
Sorry Disney fans, DUMBO is short for the tongue-tripping neighbourhood known as ‘Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass’. Originally a ferry landing – something remembered by 19th-century industrial buildings – today it’s enjoying a new lease of life as a cultural hotspot, its cobblestone streets host to innovative restaurants, an intriguing flea market and some of New York’s finest art galleries. Don’t also miss out on Jane’s Carousel. Possibly the only $2 you’ll spend in the Big Apple, this 1920s timber merry-go-round enjoys a gorgeous setting right on the waterfront.
Rooftop bars
No trip to New York would be complete without a visit to one of the city’s ultra-fashionable rooftop bars. While there’s plenty to choose from, our pick is the Cantor Roof Garden Bar at the Met Fifth Avenue. After taking in the museum’s 5,000 years worth of artwork, head up to drink in views of Central Park and the Manhattan skyline with a sumptuous menu of cocktails. The chance for a picnic on its artificial grass is a nice touch.
Sunrise at Times Square
Although Times Square may be firmly on the tourist trail, arriving at dawn offers the chance to beat the crowds, leaving you (almost) alone with one of New York’s most famous landmarks. It’s perfect for watching the city wake up and ideal for taking some snaps, with the fabled ‘golden hour’ of photography casting ethereal rays over the square’s icons. Then, make like a local and wake up with a just-baked bagel and freshly roasted coffee.
Who to cruise with to New York City
Several of the world’s leading cruise lines visit New York City, including Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Silversea, Oceania Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Azamara Club Cruises and Celebrity Cruises.
The best reasons to visit Costa Rica
Costa Rica, one of the world’s most biodiverse countries is a popular destination among lovers of wildlife and nature – but that’s not all there is to it. It is expected to be one of the top destinations for travellers in 2019, offering adventure, culture and even some useful insight into living a happy life.
It’s the happiest country in the world
According to The Happy Planet Index Report, published by the New Economics Foundation, Costa Ricans – or Ticos as they like to be known – value something above money: happiness. This is down to their ‘Pura Vida’ philosophy – a phrase which translates as ‘the simple life’ and encapsulates Costa Ricans’ ability to appreciate the little things. Combine this with the abundance of wildlife, lush rainforests and pristine beaches and Costa Rica is a place that is hard to pull yourself away from.
You can try thrilling activities like volcano trekking
As well as zip-lining in Monteverde – where it was invented – white-water rafting and whale watching, one of the most exhilarating experiences to try in Costa Rica is volcano trekking around the Arenal Volcano – the most active volcano in Costa Rica. Hike through old lava flows with a guide and be sure to take in the natural gems of the national park, which is alive with an abundance of wildlife. While you’re at the Arenal Volcano National Park, be sure to snap a photo next to the Cerro Chato Volcano which has a fantastic green-coloured lagoon within a collapsed crater.
It has a plethora of ecosystems
Although it is one of the smallest countries in Central America, Costa Rica has a variety of ecosystems including tropical lowland rainforests, cloud forests and coral reef. Strewn with alluring flowers and other vegetation, the cloud forests in high-altitude places like Monteverde and Bralio Carillo provide water to ecosystems beneath them. There is also highland mountain rainforests, with evergreen trees stretching as far as the eye can see in contrast to the arid Paramo ecosystem in the Talamanca Mountains, where you’ll find lizards, snakes and hardy plants. The ethereal mangrove forests and wetlands are best explored by boat – watch out for caimans, crocodiles and birds of paradise.
The beaches are unique and diverse
Sitting between the Caribbean and the Pacific Ocean, Costa Rica is blessed with pristine beaches, all unique in their own way. One of the most popular beach is Manuel Antonio, which sits shrouded in a blanket of trees in the national park of the same name. The Costa Ballena get its name from its sandbar which is shaped like a whale’s tail and coincidentally, is a major destination for spotting humpback whales from August to October and December to April. For a relaxed, surfing vibe, head to Tamarindo on the northwest coast.
Costa Rica is home to an abundance of wildlife
There are more than 500,000 animal and plant species in Costa Rica, making it one of the most biodiverse countries in the world. With more than thirty national parks, it is easy to encounter the many fascinating species living there, including native ones like tapirs, coatis, ocelots and capuchin moneys – however you don’t see them solely in national parks and reserves but also when walking or driving around in towns and villages. So keep your eyes peeled for a loitering three-toed sloth, awesome rhinoceros beetles and colourful birds like the scarlet macaw.
By Thomas Ryves from www.exsus.com