Spend Spring Break with CroisiEurope; Book by Nov 30 for 5% Discount

In 2020, take the kids on an alternative spring break that will bring classroom learning to life. Discover art and history or wildlife and nature on board a CroisiEurope cruise.

In 2020, take the kids on an alternative spring break that will bring classroom learning to life. Discover art and history or wildlife and nature on board a CroisiEurope cruise. From the historical seaside cities of Rochefort and La Rochelle in France’s Aquitaine Region to Africa’s diverse flora and fauna, there’s a new adventure for every type of traveler waiting to be discovered.

Travelers who book a 2020 cruise before November 30, 2019 can receive a discount of up to 5% off per person, per trip with the special code: EARBOOUS.

Cruises include all excursions, activities, meals and drinks served on board.

Information and bookings at www.croisieuroperivercruises.com, 800-768-7232.

Newly Renovated Dromoland Castle Brings Modern Luxury to 16th Century Ireland Living this Winter

Set on 450 acres of parkland, Dromoland Castle dates back to 16th century Ireland when it was home of the O’Brien family, whose lineage dates back 1,000 years to Brian Boru, one of the last High Kings of Ireland. Converted to a hotel in the 1960s and fresh off a $20 million renovation and restoration, Dromoland Castle exhibits the best of its regal Irish heritage.

As frosty days turn to long nights, there’s no need to escape the cold. Put the winter doldrums aside and embrace the best that the season has to offer, Downton Abbey-style, at Ireland’s Dromoland Castle. Think: Cozy spaces. Evenings spent by the fire. Brisk walks through the countryside. Days idle by, with opportunities to enjoy falconry or horseback riding. Warm up with afternoon tea or a signature spa treatment. Nights are for indulging in an artful take on traditional Irish ingredients at The Earl of Thomond Restaurant before retiring to the cocktail bar for a tarot-card inspired libation or a glass of Irish whiskey. Then, it’s off to the stately guest rooms for a restful night before beginning another day as a royal.

If Ireland’s temperate climate isn’t enough to lure travelers from the States – though it’s chilly, the daily low rarely dips below freezing – Dromoland Castle in County Clare has a number of winter specials on offer. Stay two nights and receive a special rate that includes a five-course Table d’Hote Dinner in the Earl of Thomond Restaurant. The two-night package starts at $700 based on double occupancy. Or, gather your gal pals for a special wine weekend from February 21–22. The getaway includes a six-course meal that showcases the best of the Co. Clare culinary scene, paired with six different wines. Rates start at $881 for the two-night package. 

Set on 450 acres of parkland with 97 rooms and suites, Dromoland Castle dates back to the 16th century when it was home of the O’Brien family, whose lineage dates back 1,000 years to Brian Boru, one of the last High Kings of Ireland. Converted to a hotel in the 1960s and fresh off a $20 million renovation and restoration, Dromoland Castle exhibits the best of its regal Irish heritage.

Central to Dromoland Castle’s appeal is its location. Just 15 minutes from Shannon Airport, Dromoland sits at the gateway to the Wild Atlantic Way – the 1,553-mile route along Ireland’s west coast. Dotted with small fishing villages, the trail passes vivid seascapes, with plenty of opportunities to stop to enjoy a local catch. The Cliffs of Moher, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is just an hour’s drive from the Castle. And the limestone, lunar-like landscape of the Burren National Park is only 45 minutes away.

Though surrounded by Ireland’s famously dramatic landscapes, Dromoland Castle is just an hour away from Galway, which will be the European Capital of Culture in 2020. The arts abound, as the city has been designated a UNESCO City of Film, and it has a vibrant musical, theater and literature scene. Dublin, home to the newly opened Museum of Literature Ireland, is 2.5 hours east.

Families: Multigenerational families have the perfect venue at Dromoland, which features something for each age group – tennis lessons, bespoke golf clinics, horse and buggy rides, archery, garden tours, falconry, bubble baths on demand, and even a genealogy expert to help trace any Irish familial roots.

Golf: No one does greens better than Ireland. With its 18-hole parkland course, Dromoland offers expert lessons at its School of Golf, as well as a newly renovated driving range that feature “power tees,” eliminating the need for bending down to replace a tee each time.

Dromoland is perfectly suited to enjoy Ireland’s famed links courses  – Lahinch, Ballybunion and Tralee –­ as well as the new Adare Manor, which will host the Ryder Cup in 2026. Stay at Dromoland and transfer between the courses via helicopter – which the Castle can arrange – or simply take advantage of Dromoland’s ability to book a tee time.

Weddings: All of Dromoland Castle can be rented out for royally lavish weddings. Among the Irish touches: The bride can make her entrance via horse and carriage; bagpipers can create fanfare as the guests arrive; tents or even glass pavilions can be erected on-site; step dancers can perform; and fireworks over the golf course will end the evening with a pop!

Dromoland Castle, Newmarket-On-Fergus, Co. Clare, Ireland, Tel: +353 61 368144, USA: 800-346-7007, Email: [email protected],  https://www.dromoland.ie/vacation-ireland/.

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Belmond’s Venice Simplon-Orient-Express Launches 1920s “The Party” in 2020

Belmond’s new two-night package, “The Party” begins at the Belmond Hotel Cipriani in Venice before boarding the iconic Venice Simplon-Orient-Express for a jazzy jaunt to London.

Belmond’s iconic Venice Simplon-Orient-Express will put the roar from the 1920s into the 2020s with the launch of “The Party” – a new two-night package that transports guests across Europe and back in time. Held from March 27–29, 2020, the festivities kick off at Belmond Hotel Cipriani in Venice with a speakeasy party to rival any Jay Gatsby could have thrown. The following day, guests will board the train to be whisked off to London for a jazzy jaunt that will evoke the Golden Age of glamour.

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express will wind through Italy, Austria, Switzerland and France, passing the snowy Alps and glassy lakes. Clad in flapper dresses and spats, guests will bring history to life on board the train’s 17 carriages, all of which are from the 1920s. As “The Party” roars along the rails, surprise entertainment and impromptu performances will unfold both on and off the train.

Prices for “The Party” start at £3,760 (approximately $4,845) per person, which includes a one-night stay at Belmond Hotel Cipriani in a Garden View Room, the celebratory party, a stay in a twin cabin on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, and all drinks, table d’hote meals and entertainment aboard the train.

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express travels throughout Europe from March to November, and the train embarks on the iconic journey to Istanbul once a year. The 2020 season sees the addition of three new Grand Suites on the train – each with 24-hour butler service, free flowing champagne and a private en-suite bathroom – named for the cities that inspired the design: Vienna, Budapest and Prague.

The event is being curated in partnership with Private Drama Events. Private Drama Events is a leading UK creator of luxury experiences and collective of storytellers (www.privatedramaevents.com @privatedramaevents).

Belmond Ltd., part of the world’s leading luxury group LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton, has been a pioneer of luxury travel for more than 40 years, building a passion for authentic escapes into a portfolio of one-of-a-kind experiences in some of the world’s most inspiring and enriching destinations. 

Since the acquisition of the iconic Hotel Cipriani in Venice in 1976, Belmond has continued to push industry boundaries, taking discerning global travellers on surprising and unforgettable journeys spanning land, water, adventure and relaxation, with international acclaim. The portfolio of 46 properties extends across 24 countries, encompassing three luxury safari lodges, two river cruises, seven luxury trains (including the iconic Venice Simplon-Orient-Express) and the legendary ‘21’ restaurant in New York. From historic city landmarks like Belmond Cadogan Hotel and Belmond Copacabana Palace to hidden retreats at Belmond Cap Juluca and Belmond La Résidence d’Angkor, each incomparable property has its own timeless story to tell, yet the hallmarks of the brand thread through them all: heritage, craftsmanship and a reputation for genuine, unscripted service in an unrivalled location, creating exceptional experiences that stir the soul. www.belmond.com

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Animal Lover? Golfer? Art Aficionado? Movie Buff? Give the Gift of Getting Away

Gift your adventure seeker the gift of a visit to India with andBeyond to explore the mountainous region of Ladakh and search for snow leopards

Stuck for a special gift for your animal-lover lover? Your art aficionado? Music buff or theater devotee? How about a snow leopard expedition for your adventure seeker? Think about giving the uniquely personal gift that keeps giving: the gift of a travel experience. The holidays is a time of wish fulfillment, so what better gift that tapping into that bucket list. Here are some ideas for the gift of getting away, no matter the time of year:

For the Animal-Lover

Winner: andBeyond Pangolin Adventure

Pangolins are mini (and adorable) dinosaur-like mammals. While not commonly known in the U.S., these native African anteaters are covered in keratin scales, which are highly valuable to poachers, making them the most trafficked mammal in the world. The species used to roam freely in the province of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, but have been locally extinct for decades. andBeyond Phinda Private Game Reserve has committed to reintroducing the species to the area, and there are already three thriving in their new environment. Conservation-minded travelers can have the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get up close and personal with these elusive creatures with andBeyond’s Pangolin Conservation Experience and assist in replacing tags and monitoring behavior. Rates from $3,504 per group (up to six people).

Runner-Up: Nayara’s Sloth Sanctuary

Ever wonder what it would be like to sleep all day? And all night? Of course you have. Humans are naturally lazy. But not as lazy as sloths. The slowest mammal on earth loves to hang around in Cecropia trees. Spot them in the wild at the new Nayara Tented Camp in Costa Rica, which opens December 20. As a part of Nayara’s commitment to reforestation, the acres surrounding the resort are being replanted with thousands of trees, including the Cecropia trees, so that the sloths can continue to thrive. Take a slow, leisurely stroll around the property to see these fabulous animals in in-action. Rates start from $1,200 per night.

For the Art Aficionado

Winner: La Reserve Paris

Mona-who? Been there, done that. The latest must-see at the Louvre celebrates much more than the Instagram overloaded Mona Lisa. Open through February 24, the Leonardo da Vinci exhibition honors the 500th anniversary of the Renaissance man’s death. Though almost sold out, guests of La Réserve Paris can skip the line by booking the Leonardo da Vinci package, including two VIP fast-track tickets to the exhibition and da Vinci inspired cocktails at Le Bar. Package rates start at $1,330.

Runner-Up: Belmond La Residencia

It’s P-art-y time in Mallorca! Deia, the hillside village on the island’s northwest coast, is an artsy town welcoming painters, sculptors and writers for inspiration. Among Mallorca’s most famous former residents is Joan Miró, and Belmond La Residencia is home to the largest exhibition of his paintings in a hotel anywhere in the world. Thirty-three of his original artworks will be on display in Café Miró, the hotel’s bistro, until September 2020. The hotel lawn is also one of Spain’s largest outdoor sculpture gardens, and it features Tete (1975), a Miró bronze head. After taking in the art, enjoy Belmond La Residencia’s “Tea with Miró,” which is inspired by the artist’s signature use of bold colors and abstract line drawings. The tea is served on an exclusive tea set made of La Cartujade Sevilla porcelain with a design based on Miró’s 1952 work, Sans titre. The setwill be available for purchase in the on-site boutique. Rates start at $470 per night.

Fore! The Golfer

Winner: Belmond Royal Scotsman

Hit the links with Belmond Royal Scotsman as the train travels through the heart of the Highlands from tee time to tee time. Golf enthusiasts can customize the two- to seven-night journeys by adding rounds at Scotland’s renowned courses such as Gleneagles, Royal Donorch Golf Club, Castle Stuart Golf Links and Kingbarns Golf Links. A veritable ‘country house on wheels,’ the Royal Scotsman will also make stops at local distilleries including Strathisla Distillery, the oldest working distillery in the Scottish Highlands. Journeys start at $3,158 per person for the two-night Taste of the Highlands itinerary.

Runner-Up: Dromoland

Enjoy a golf experience fit for a king at Ireland’s Dromoland Castle. Set on a 450-acre estate, the 15-century castle’s parkland course is the perfect place to hone golf skills. Take a lesson at The Academy, the on-site golf school helmed by a resident PGA pro. What’s more, Dromoland can coordinate private transfers and tee times at Ireland’s famed links courses, including nearby Lahinch, Ballybunion, Tralee and the new Adare Manor. Rates start at $355 per night. 

For the Adventure Seeker

Winner: andBeyond Snow Leopard Expedition

Known as ‘Little Tibet’ or the ‘Roof of the World’, the mountainous region of Ladakh is situated on the northern border of India and is home to the snow-capped Himalayas, cobalt lakes and an abundance of wildlife, including the elusive snow leopard. The species, listed as ‘vulnerable’ and rare to find, lives in this high-altitude cold desert environment and can be seen during winter months. Conservation-minded, experiential safari outfitter andBeyond offers travelers the opportunity to explore this wilderness with the region’s most experienced guides, offering the rare opportunity to meet a snow leopard, if luck strikes. The 12-day Snow Leopard Expedition sets off in small group set-departures in January, February and March 2020. Rates start from $6,891 per person, including a $200 donation to the Snow Leopard Conservancy.

Runner-Up: Ponant Emblematic Antarctica Cruise

Journey to the ends of the earth, but make it luxury. Swap icicles in your eyelashes for a champagne toast on an Antarctic iceberg with Ponant, the leader in polar cruising. Each trip to the southernmost continent challenges adventure seekers with the trip through the Drake Passage – the 600-mile stretch of ocean between South America and the Antarctic peninsula that boasts some of the roughest seas in the world. Keep an ear out as the captain will often stop and redirect the ship to point out passing whales, Gentoo and Adelie penguins, and crabeater seals. Once in Antarctica, expedition guides and naturalists will lead daily Zodiac excursions with visits to research stations and former whaling stations. Rates start from $13,310 per person for the 11-day / 10-night Emblematic Antarctica journey.

For the Theater Goer

Winner: Chatwal, New York

Do you like your theater with a little side of murder mystery? If so, you’ve come to the right place – The Chatwal, New York. Designed in 1905 by iconic American architect Stanford White – who was famously killed by his mistress’s husband atop Madison Square Garden – The Chatwal was once home to the prestigious Lambs, America’s first professional theatrical club. The Chatwal continues to play homage to its history as the epicenter of Broadway. A dedicated theater concierge can offer access to the most sought-after shows; and guests can enjoy a pre-theater dinner at Geoffrey Zakarian’s The Lambs Club at The Chatwal. Rates start at $595 per night based on double occupancy.

Runner-Up: Westbury

Theater buffs visiting The Westbury in Dublin can explore the history of Ireland’s stage with the complimentary Theatre Walking Tour every Thursday morning. The 90-minute stroll begins in the vibrant Georgian Quarter and brings guests to key sites around the city, including a behind-the-scenes look at the famed Abbey Theatre, which has nurtured the talents of Irish playwrights like William Butler Yeats. The tour also includes a lesson on ancient Irish storytelling at the Setanta Wall, and a look at the drama-inspired artwork within the National Gallery. Rates start at $277 per night.

For the Movie Buff

Winner: GoldenEye

The 25th James Bond movie, which will mark Daniel Craig’s final appearance as 007, is heading back to Jamaica. In celebration of the April 2020 release, movie buffs can retrace the island life of Bond’s creator, Ian Fleming. The author was a former British intelligence officer and discovered Jamaica during a WWII mission in 1942. Four years later, he purchased 15 acres of under-developed tropical land and named it GoldenEye to pay homage to his naval operation that first brought him to the island. He resided at GoldenEye every January and February for more than two decades and wrote a new Bond novel each winter for a total of 14 books. His beachfront bungalow, which is now called The Fleming Villa with five bedrooms, is part of the 52-acre GoldenEye resort. Fleming’s writing desk and sunken garden where he would entertain the likes of Noël Coward and Katherine Hepburn are available for guests to enjoy. Rates start at $6,365 per night.

Runner-Up: Park Hyatt Tokyo

Guests of Park Hyatt Tokyo can channel Bill Murray while sipping on a whisky flight in the hotel’s 52nd floor New York Bar. Famed as the location of Sofia Coppola’s Lost In Translation, the bar’s signature L.I.T cocktail with Japanese sake and peach liqueur can be enjoyed to the soundtrack of live jazz while overlooking the sparkling city skyline. Rates start at $600 per night.

For the Romantic Beach Bum

Winner: Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi

“Love Island” – not just a reality show, but something that could actually be your reality. Give the gift of an ultimate couples’ vacation in the Maldives. When it debuted in July, Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi became the first luxury resort to open near the capital of Malé in the last decade. The journey to tranquility begins with a yacht ride from the airport to the resort. The 122 accommodations include 39 beach villas, each of which features a swimming pool and a private alcove on the beach with an outdoor hammock and two sunbeds. Surround yourself with sand and surf on a nearby sandbar, available for a wine pairing dinner or a yoga class. Rates start at $1,700 per night.

Runner-Up: Belmond Cap Juluca

Set on the white sands of Anguilla’s Maundays Bay, known as one of the most pristine beaches in the Caribbean, each room at Belmond Cap Juluca has its own private slice of sand complete with a dedicated beach butler. Guests of the newly renovated property can soak in the Caribbean sun and sway to live calypso and reggae at the Cap Shack, a laid-back beach bar with a vintage ’80s food truck serving up everything from fish tacos to rum punches and poke bowls. Rates start from $725 per night.

For the #InstagramFamous Friend

Winner: Dalloway Terrace

Off to Europe for the festive season? Why not hit two countries in one – visitors to The Bloomsbury in London will be treated to a Merry Swissmas celebration. The hotel’s heated, al fresco restaurant, Dalloway Terrace, has launched a collaboration with the alpine resort town of Gstaad. Stroll from Regent’s Park into snow-dusted pine garlands and frosty foliage. Gstaad’s Swiss traditions overwhelm the terrace, with bespoke “Scherenschnitte” (Swiss paper cuttings) on display around the restaurant. Guests can warm up with Foxford woolen blankets and warming cocktails like an alpine toddy – a hot toddy with a chamomile twist. Cocktails are delivered to the table with a Retro Viewer that allows guests to gaze upon the picturesque mountains of Gstaad between sips. Afternoon tea starts at $50 per person.

Runner-Up: Almanac Rooftop

360-degree views of Barcelona, check. Instagrammable décor, check. Craft cocktails, check. Almanac Barcelona’s Azimuth rooftop bar is open year-round, beckoning guests with its coral-hued, cocoon-like lounges and cozy blankets during the mild winter months. The city is known for its gin and tonics, with the clear liquid and fizzy bubbles the perfect accessory for an Instagrammable rooftop view. Almanac’s signature ‘Dealer’s Choice’ cocktail is elevated with dry sherry from Jerez, grapefruit bitters and artisanal tonic water. Rates start from $287 per night.

For the Foodie Focused

Winner: Chuck Williams Culinary Arts Museum in Napa

Give the gift of the CIA. No, not that CIA ­– the Culinary Institute of America at Copia in Napa Valley is the perfect place for travelers to the region to become immersed in the local food culture, with daily cooking classes and tastings from local wineries. Newly opened at the CIA, the Chuck Williams Culinary Art Museum features the 4,000-piece personal culinary collection ­– including rare special cookware, bread baking and culinary tools, appliances, and tableware – of the Williams-Sonoma founder. Admission to the museum is free. Class and tasting pricing varies with rates starting at $30.

Runner-Up: Shou Sugi Ban House

Get a taste for the flavors that put Noma in Copenhagen on the map! Chef Mads Refslund, formerly of the world’s best restaurant, now directs the food and beverage program at wabi sabi-inspired wellness retreat and destination spa Shou Sugi Ban House in the Hamptons. The plant-based menu is inspired by Nordic, Japanese and New England cuisines. Located in Water Mill, New York, adjacent to the Parrish Art Museum, the 13-room property incorporates many forms of wellness in its multi-day retreats, which include spa and healing arts treatments, workshops, meditation and movement. Rates start at $550 per person.  

P.S. Don’t forget the most important carry-on items when traveling: chocolate and a face mask. La Maison du Chocolat’s Bars Unhinged ($14) are the perfect plane-size snack (think mini deconstructed chocolate bars). Guinot’s Newhite Instant Brightening Mask ($77, set of seven) is a travel-size sheet mask that removes those post-flight dark circles and creates a glow in 10 quick minutes.

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GlampingHub Offers Black Friday-Cyber Monday Sale on Unique Outdoor Lodging Around Globe

A glamping stay in Montana for a wedding © Eric Leiberman/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Glamping Hub is offering its 2nd annual Black Friday-Cyber Monday sale. For every gift card purchased on Glamping Hub’s Gift Card Portal, an additional 20% will be added onto the gift card. This deal will be live on the website from 11/28-12/4; gift cards have a one-year validity. (See: Travel Deals Black Friday 2019 / Cyber Monday Deals (https://glampinghub.com/special/black-friday-cyber-monday-travel-deals/).

Glamping Hub is an online booking platform and leading portal for unique outdoor accommodations across the globe. With over 35,000 accommodations in over 120 countries, Glamping Hub’s mission is to connect travelers with nature in order to create authentic experiences in which travelers can stay in the great outdoors without having to sacrifice creature comforts—camping with added luxuries and five-star amenities. 

Glamping Hub is a third-party booking platform and does not own any of the vacation rentals listed on the website. Guests can find over 27 different types of glamping accommodations to choose from on Glamping Hub from safari tents, tree houses, and cabins to tipis, villas, and domes.

There are several defining factors Glamping Hub looks for in an accommodation in order to determine its eligibility for listing. It must have close access to nature, hotel-quality comfort, and offer guests a unique experience. Glamping Hub’s business model is both transactional and highly scalable. For each transaction made through the website, Glamping Hub collects a 4% commission from the hosts and a 6% to 12% service fee from the guest (depending on the size of the booking), resulting in an average of 10% of the total booking that Glamping Hub retains from each transaction.

In the global market, there is an estimated 100,000+ glamping accommodations—with eight units per site and an average of $320 per night stay—creating a $45 billion (and growing) market. And glamping is not just luxury camping, but also ski getaways, wine country stays, safari excursions, surf camps, yoga retreats, and wildlife tours, which increases the outdoor accommodation marked to $200 billion and growing.

Within the vacation rental sector, Glamping Hub is the one of the only platforms that is both transactional and specialized, which is due to a number of factors, including rigorously researched SEO practices, lower rates and costs, organic traction and unique visits, and its marketing tools. In 2016, Glamping Hub received 2.6 million visits, resulting in 12,000 booking requests and $2.1 million in revenue, and by the end of 2018, those figures tripled. 

Glamping Hub is a global team with two offices—one in Sevilla, Spain and the other in Denver, Colorado—with over 100 employees and interns from over 13 different countries. Not only does Glamping Hub shine with 90% of guest reviews with 4-star and 5-star ratings, but Glamping Hub has also been featured in many highly-regarded publications, including The New York Times, the New York Post, Forbes, TIME, NBC, USA Today, Travel and Leisure, Lonely Planet, O Magazine, and more. 

At Glamping Hub, the accommodation is the destination. In August, 2018, Glamping Hub launched it’s first ever, “This is Glamping Hub” video, on the homepage to redefine what is glamping. Travelers choose Glamping Hub because they care about their trips being truly memorable. We’re different to other websites in that all of our accommodations have been handpicked and placed in a targeted collection, and support our four core values: Unique, Experience, To-Gather, and Nature. Glamping Hub’s accommodations are one-of-a-kind and completely submerged in nature, where our guests can disconnect from their daily lives and reconnect with each other for an experience they will never forget. 

Visit glampinghub.com.

Here are more glamping topics:

– Top budget friendly accommodations for 2019 ($100 or less a night) 

– Upcycled glampsites (created from old airplanes, concrete pipes, grain silos, and more)

– Traveling with a purpose: The Breasties x Glamping Hub

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Interest in Glamping – Luxurious Camping – on the Rise

By combining the amenities of a luxury boutique hotel with the atmosphere of a wooded campground, Fireside Resort offers Wyoming’s best glamping experience

Interest in glamping – or, “glamorous camping” – is growing among North American leisure travelers, according to the 2019 North American Glamping Report. The report reveals that 30% of North American travelers have taken a glamping trip over the past two years, and 60% of those travelers represent the millennial or Gen Z generations. An array of glamping destinations have popped up around the world in recent years, offering everything from geodesic domes to Airstream RVs to tiny homes. Here are five glamping options in South America, Africa, Russia and the USA that rival anything on the market:

1. Fireside Resort: By combining the amenities of a luxury boutique hotel with the atmosphere of a wooded campground, Fireside Resort offers Wyoming’s best glamping experience. The lodging options reflect the heritage of the valley’s original homesteader cabins, with cozy fireplaces, full kitchens, private furnished decks, and outdoor fire pits. Situated on wildlife-filled acres where moose, elk, red-tailed hawks, bald eagles and deer roam, Fireside Resort is a mere seven miles from Jackson’s bustling town square.

2. Kachi LodgeOn Adventure Life’s High Deserts of Bolivia & Chile tour, explore the extreme geography of Lake Titicaca, mountains, canyons, lagoons and the largest salt desert in the world, Salar de Uyuni. Upgrade your trip and stay in a Kachi Lodge dome, offering the comfort of a luxury hotel room and authentic, inventive dining on the salt flats at the foot of Tunupa Volcano, at an altitude of 11,800 feet.

3. Ryabaga Camp: The Ponoi River in Russia offers some the world’s best Atlantic salmon fishing. At Ryabaga Camp, guests enjoy their own cabin with queen beds and en suite bathroom with hot water, electricity and internet (email access). Gourmet, chef-prepared meals are served in the “Big Tent,” the camp’s social hub. For a true wilderness location, Ryabaga Camp stands alone with its level of service and accommodations. 

4. Kestrel CampThe American Prairie Reserve in Montana is piecing together what will be the largest nature reserve in the lower 48 states, totaling 3.5 million acres, and restoring habitat and species in the process. APR’s Kestrel Camp offers five yurt-style luxury suites set around a central lounge and dining room serving chef-prepared meals, as well as a safari-style experience with special access to tour the reserve’s ecosystem with personal naturalists.

5. Sossus Under Canvas: On Adventure Life’s Namibia Under Canvas tour, climb the sand dunes of Sossusvlei, explore the coastal city of Swakopmund, marvel at the natural wonders of Damaraland and search for wildlife in Etosha National Park. Return each night to a camp like Sossus Under Canvas, where tents are protected from the elements by natural stone walls and roofs built from recycled oil drums, and furnishings are made of recycled metal and wood. The camp is virtually invisible from any distance has a low environmental footprint.

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Backyard Travel Offers Cambodia With Kids Tour – Adventures In Siem Reap

Backyard Travel, a boutique private tour operator specializing in tours around Asia, introduced a new family-friendly adventure through magical Siem Reap.

Bangkok, Thailand – Backyard Travel, a boutique private tour operator specializing in tours around Asia, introduced a new family-friendly adventure through magical Siem Reap.

The seven-day Cambodia with Kids tour introduces young explorers and their families to the wonders of ancient Khmer civilization, and the bucolic landscapes that surround Siem Reap.

The journey begins at Angkor Wat, where a private tour gives kids a close-up view of its elaborate Hindu carvings and lets them explore its hidden chambers and halls. Angkor expeditions continue with a walking temple trek that loops around Angkor Thom and the iconic Bayon Temple, with stops at the Terrace of the Elephants and the Pool of Ablutions.

Adventures continue outside of Angkor, with a cycling tour through rice-paddy countryside and a trip to the Tonle Sap lake for lunch in a local stilt house. In Banteay Chhmar, families get to experience village life with a homestay, and learn traditional rice farming, fishing and beekeeping.

On return to Siem Reap, families can enjoy some free time to rest or explore, or choose an optional activity such as zip lining, horse riding, or quad-bike riding. The tour ends on an acrobatic note with a performance by Phare, The Cambodia Circus. 

“Siem Reap is a perfect destination for families,” says Backyard Travel General Manager Trystan Trestchenkoff, “It’s got exciting ancient history, hands-on cultural activities and a whole host of experiences that specifically cater to younger travelers. Pair this with Backyard Travel’s years of experience creating dedicated family tours and you’ve got an unforgettable trip for guests of all ages.

For more information about Backyard Travel, www.backyardtravel.com

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Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic Introduce New Alaska Family Offer: Kids Save up to 50%, Free Air for Adults

Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic has announced a new Alaska Family Offer that makes traveling next summer a lot more economical for families.

Named Top Small Ship Cruise Line in Alaska in Cruise Critic’s 2019 Cruisers’ Choice Destination Awards, Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic has announced a new Alaska Family Offer that makes traveling next summer a lot more economical for families.

The special offers include: 

  • Kids Save Up to 50%:  Save on up to two children 22 and under when they travel with two full paying adults on select 2020 Alaska departures: save 50% departing in May and August and save 25% departing in June and July.

Families can choose from a selection of Alaska adventure cruises—ranging from 6 days to epic— that sail among the wildlife-rich islands and channels of Alaska deep into the wildest reaches.  The itineraries go beyond the predictable ports on the new 100-guest National Geographic Quest and Venture, and the 62-guest sister ships National Geographic Sea Lion or Sea Bird.  Hike, kayak, paddleboard, bike, and actively explore. Venture where iconic wildlife gathers—bears, eagles, bubble-netting whales, and more. Witness moving First Nations performances. And sail with a renowned expedition team of naturalists, a Lindblad-National Geographic certified photo instructor, an undersea specialist, and wellness instructor.

Kids and teens can also participate in National Geographic Global Explorers, Lindblad’s exclusive program for families, and the only one of its kind in Alaska.  Developed in conjunction with National Geographic Education, its designed to help kids and their families develop the attitudes, skills and knowledge of an explorer. 

These offers are valid for new bookings only, are subject to availability, not applicable on extensions, and may not be combined with other offers.   Complimentary air is based on economy group flights and must be ticketed by Lindblad Expeditions. In the case that Lindblad’s group flight is not available at time of booking, we reserve the right to issue a credit.  Free Air offer will be combinable with the new Family Offer, but it is limited to the adults.

For reservations or additional information on Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic voyages to some of the most beautiful and fascinating places on Earth, visit www.expeditions.com, call 1-800-EXPEDITION (1-800-397-3348) or contact your travel advisor. Visit FacebookTwitter, InstagramYouTube and Pinterest.

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Special Holiday Offer by African Travel, Inc. Showcases an Authentic, Luxurious Experience in South Africa

Stay at the renowned Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge, famed for its warmth, vibrancy and legendary hospitality. Huge viewing decks are the ideal setting to relax while spotting game, birdwatching, or cooling off in the pools.

For travelers seeking spectacular holiday specials,  travelers who book African Travel, Inc.’s Southern Explorer safari by December 31, 2019– for travel anytime in 2020– will receive $1000 per couple in savings. 

The Southern Explorer adventure is one of African Travel, Inc.’s most popular safaris, 10 days from $9695 per person. Travelers experience the vibrant culture, scenic beauty and natural wonders of Southern Africa. Spectacular Cape Town and Kruger National Park are artfully combined with the majesty of Victoria Falls. 

While in Cape Town, explore the breathtaking scenery of the Cape of Good Hope and the surrounding winelands on privately guided sightseeing tours. Stay at the luxurious Cape Cadogan–a stately double-storied Georgia and Victorian building dating back to the beginning of the 19th century.

Travel to the renowned Krugar Private Reserve and enjoy twice daily game drives in search of Africa’s “Big Five” the leopard, rhino, elephant, buffalo and the mighty lion. Stay at the renowned Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge, famed for its warmth, vibrancy and legendary hospitality. Each of the spacious, air-conditioned thatched suites features en-suite bathrooms with al-fresco glass-fronted indoor showers, affording wonderful views of the bush. Huge viewing decks are the ideal setting to relax while spotting game, birdwatching, or cooling off in the pools.

The next stop is Zimbabwe, where rainforests surround the thundering Victoria Falls. Take a helicopter flight, and be awed by the sheer size and grandeur from above. A stay at The Victoria Falls Hotel, popularly known as “the grand old lady of The Falls,” takes guests back in time to the early 1900s. The Edwardian-style hotel is surrounded by carefully tended tropical gardens, lily ponds and century-old shade trees.

End  the experience  with the golden glow of an African sunset meandering along the Zambezi River on a sundowner dinner cruise (be ready with binoculars to zoom in on the hippos cavorting in the river).

To book a safari, contact your local Travel Advisor, or African Travel, Inc. at (800) 421-8907, or visit www.africantravelinc.com

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New Culinary Themed Cultural Journeys by Luxury Gold

Luxury Gold launches exclusive 2020 Themed Journeys with culinary focus

As the era of food tourism continues to grow, Luxury Gold, the worldwide leader in luxury guided journeys, is launching new and exclusive 2020 Culinary & Cultural Discoveries Themed Journeys. Today’s traveler focuses on the how to eat aspect of their culinary travels and seeks immersive experiences in unique settings. Continuing to lead on this gastronomy trend, Luxury Gold’s new experiences take you on a journey beyond the ordinary to explore distinct destinations that are rich in cultural and culinary delights.

“With our ability to connect to taste makers, we know that one of the best ways to get to know a destination is through its memorable and unique cuisine and the sharing of stories,” said Jon Grutzner, president of Luxury Gold. “Food is no longer a simple pleasure, it exposes culture and traditions, allows for meaningful connections and fosters memories. That’s why we’ve introduced these new Themed Journeys which are in demand and with only one or two 2020 departures. Space is limited, and clients need to book soon.”

You can enjoy these exclusive Exceptional Dining and VIP experiences and relax at luxury hotels while traveling on Luxury Gold’s exclusive Themed Journeys:

Peru Culinary Experience – 8 Days (Departure date October 31, 2020)

Peru has been named the World’s Leading Culinary Destination for 7 years consecutively by the World’s Travel Awards and it’s no wonder as the country holds five of the world’s best restaurants, including Mil by Virgilio Martinez. You’ll have the opportunity to experience this renowned restaurant on this incredible itinerary and experience Peru’s culinary diversity. A journey through the Andes reveals a fresh farm-to-table meal at a working hacienda where guests will learn about the many ingredients that are local to Peru, including over 4,000 varieties of potatoes. You’ll savor the creative combinations thanks to the father of Peru’s gastronomic revolution, Gaston Acurio, as he adds his signature flair at Chicha, during a Celebration Dinner in Cusco. To understand the history and significance of Machu Picchu, you’ll explore alongside a Local Expert and witness one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.Making travel matter with The TreadRight Foundation, clients will also visit the Center for Traditional Textiles of Cusco (CTTC) to meet local artisans including Nilda Callanaupa, a weaver, and bring home the wonderful creations that women in this cooperative make by hand.

Chile & Argentina Wine Experience – 8 Days (Departure date November 7, 2020)

From an electrifying performance of traditional tango in Argentina, to world-class vineyards and wineries, the best Chilean restaurants and vistas from Valparaiso, the UNESCO World Heritage city center, this journey pairs the cuisine, wine and culture of Argentina and Chile perfectly. Expert guides offer an in-depth exploration of the best vineyards in Mendoza, offering you the chance to sample the New World’s best wines. Introducing Chilean ingredients, techniques and products to the world, Rodolfo Guzmán is the mastermind behind Chile’s best restaurant, Borago, and clients experience his innovative dishes while in Santiago. From edible coral mushroom, to venison tartare, duck hearts grilled in duck fat, you can expect to find these unique and typical dishes over dinner.

Culinary & Cultural Greece – 8 Days (Departure dates May 18, 2020 and September 14, 2020)

You’ll immerse yourselves in Athens as though you’re local Athenians. Discover the colorful tastes of Greece by dining seaside at Greece’s first Michelin-rated restaurant located on a boat that is based on land. You’ll learn the art of making the perfect Greek coffee at a local kafenio (Greek café) in Athens before enjoying a VIP Experience in the afternoon, where you’ll meet a world-class Athenian scholar and philosopher in the Ancient Agora to understand how ancient Greek philosophy affects our lives today. You’ll also travel to the island of Delos to enjoy a private guided visit to the birthplace of Apollo and learn about traditional farming methods in Mykonos after visiting a traditional farmstead before indulging in a freshly prepared organic meal.

To book a journey, contact your local travel advisor, call 888-862-5952 or visit www.luxurygold.com.

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