MORAL COMPASS: Great Places to Go Where the Going Does Good

Going Places @ longislandpress.com

travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate/

instagram.com/bigbackpacktraveler/

‘Like’ us on facebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures

X: @TravelFeatures

Threads: @news_and_photo_features

Bluesky: @newsphotosfeatures.bsky.social

European travel, international travel

American Travelers Expect to be Less Welcomed When Traveling Abroad in 2025

March 6, 2025 MoralCompass

*Americans in Paris. Americans may flock around the globe to take advantage of the strong dollar in 2025 but they may not receive a warm welcome © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

(Lebanon, N.H.) – While there may be a surge of Americans traveling abroad to take advantage of the strong dollar, they may not receive the warmest welcome.

The majority of the world’s most experienced travelers expect Americans will be less welcome and perceived more negatively while traveling internationally in 2025 due to recent international policy proposals introduced by the U.S., according to the results of a Global Rescue Snap Survey conducted following President Trump’s address to Congress.

Seven out of ten (72%) surveyed travelers said they expected Americans will be perceived more negatively and less welcome when traveling abroad. Nearly a fifth (16%) reported there would be no difference in how Americans are perceived, 9% didn’t know and 3% said Americans will be perceived more positively.

“The data is clear—travelers are expecting a shift in how they are received abroad,” said Dan Richards, CEO of The Global Rescue Companies and a U.S. Travel and Tourism Advisory Board member at the U.S. Department of Commerce. “This doesn’t mean Americans should cancel their travel plans, but they should be aware of their surroundings, practice cultural sensitivity, and take proactive steps to mitigate potential risks.”

International travel veteran Harding Bush, a former Navy SEAL and associate director of security operations for Global Rescue, advised it’s important to remember that locals may have strong opinions about international policies, but they often distinguish between a country’s government and its citizens. “They know it’s not you that is making the decisions and policies. Be a gracious guest and don’t discuss politics,” he said.

American international travelers can take several measures, all of which are recommended during any international trips, to travel safely and confidently despite growing concerns about their perception overseas. “Americans traveling abroad should be aware there could be an increase in political demonstrations and should obtain security advisory services to keep them informed of anti-American protests,” Bush said.

Maintain a Low Profile: Avoid displaying overt symbols of American nationality, such as clothing with political slogans or nationalistic imagery. Blending in with local customs and attire can help minimize unwanted attention.
- Stay Informed: Travelers should research the political and social climate of their destination before departure. Understanding local attitudes toward the U.S. can help visitors navigate conversations and interactions more smoothly.
- Practice Cultural Awareness: Demonstrating respect for local customs, traditions, and social norms is essential. Learning basic greetings and etiquette in the local language can go a long way in fostering goodwill.
- Use Smart Travel Practices: Keep a low profile in public spaces, avoid discussing sensitive political topics, and be aware of your digital footprint on social media, as online expressions can sometimes lead to confrontations in person.
- Leverage Professional Travel Security Resources: For those visiting high-risk areas or facing increased concerns, working with security professionals and travel risk management firms like Global Rescue can provide invaluable guidance and support.

Despite the concerns highlighted by the survey, Richards emphasized that most international travel remains safe when travelers take the right precautions. “Being prepared and situationally aware is key. By exercising good judgment and respecting local norms, Americans can continue to enjoy safe and enriching travel experiences around the world,” Richards said.

For more travel features, visit:

Going Places @ longislandpress.com

travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate/

instagram.com/bigbackpacktraveler/

‘Like’ us on facebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures

X: @TravelFeatures

Threads: @news_and_photo_features

Bluesky: @newsphotosfeatures.bsky.social

Arts and Entertainment, arts festivals, Cultural Travel, European travel, Uncategorized

Bad RagARTz, Europe’s Largest Open-Air Art Exhibition, Opens in Bad Ragaz, Switzerland

May 4, 2024 MoralCompass

Bad RagARTz Exhibition, taking place May 4 – October 30, 2024, in Bad Ragaz and Vaduz, Switzerland, known as the Swiss Triennial of Sculpture, returns for the ninth edition as Europe’s largest open-air art exhibition featuring the works of 80 artists from around the globe.

BAD RAGAZ, SWITZERLAND – Grand Resort Bad Ragaz announced the return of the highly anticipated Bad RagARTz Exhibition, taking place May 4 – October 30, 2024, in Bad Ragaz and Vaduz. Bad RagARTz, also known as the Swiss Triennial of Sculpture, returns for the ninth edition as Europe’s largest open-air art exhibition featuring the works of 80 artists from around the globe.

“We look forward to welcoming guests to experience our beautiful resort once again during the 2024 edition of Bad RagARTz,” says Milos Colovic, General Manager of Grand Resort Bad Ragaz. “Snow-capped mountain views, the ornate architecture of our three renowned hotels, and the lush greenery surrounding the resort creates the perfect backdrop to showcase this year’s collection of sculptures. Our guests’ experience is also enhanced by the culinary artistry showcased across Bad Ragaz through the collective six Michelin stars. We are thrilled to support this prestigious gathering of artists.”

Under the theme “Present,” Bad RagARTz aims to remove barriers and bring art directly to the public, inviting visitors of all ages to experience the works of these international artists. From the spacious parks of Bad Ragaz to the streets and squares of Vaduz just a 15-minute drive away, the exhibition offers an immersive cultural experience free of charge. Guided tours led by experienced professionals provide in-depth insights into the artworks, enhancing the visitor experience. Special tours tailored for children and teenagers aim to make art education playful and engaging, fostering a love for creativity and expression from a young age.

The 2024 edition highlights a special piece this year, Brick House by Artist Simone Leigh. The 16-foot-tall sculpture is a bronze bust of a Black woman, which was originally showcased on New York’s High Line. Leigh was the first Black woman to represent the United States at the 2022 Venice Biennale, where she was awarded the “Best Sculpture Award” and the prestigious “Golden Lion” award. The sculpture was previously showcased on The High Line in New York City and can now be found on permanent display in the Grand Resort Bad Ragaz park. The exhibition also features works by acclaimed artists such as Daniel Spoerri, Gottfried Honegger, and Schang Hutter who are known for their iconic work in sculpture and design. Furthermore the exhibition shines a spotlight on young artists through the “Laboratory of Young Art,” offering financial support and a platform for emerging talents.

In addition to the outdoor exhibition, the Festival of Small Sculpture will take place in the historic Bad Pfafers near the renowned Tamina George. This offers visitors the opportunity to engage with smaller-scale artworks by the exhibiting artists. The festival, accompanied by literary, musical, and philosophical events, promises a vibrant celebration of art and culture.

Grand Resort Bad Ragaz, nestled in the idyllic Alpine foothills of Eastern Switzerland, features 67pieces by 38 artists across its 120-acre grounds. Boasting two five-star hotels and a boutique hotel, the resort offers luxurious accommodations and world-class amenities, including an unparalleled thermal spa experience with multiple bathhouses. To book a stay at Grand Resort Bad Ragaz during Bad RagARTz, please visit the resort website: https://www.resortragaz.ch/en/.

For more information on the Bad Ragartz 2024 exhibition, visit https://badragartz.ch/en.

Grand Resort Bad Ragaz is located on the Alpine foothills in Eastern Switzerland. The property has two five-star hotels, Grand Hotel Quellenhof & Spa Suites and Grand Hotel Hof Ragaz, along with the boutique hotel Palais Bad Ragaz, offering 247 rooms and suites with styles ranging from historical to ultramodern. With six Michelin stars and a range of culinary offerings, as well as world-class spa and wellness facilities, Grand Resort Bad Ragaz provides guests with a luxurious retreat in the heart of Switzerland.

For more information about Grand Resort Bad Ragaz, visit https://www.resortragaz.ch/en/.

For more travel features, visit:

Going Places @ theisland360.com/travel

travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate/

instagram.com/bigbackpacktraveler/

‘Like’ us on facebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures

Twitter: @TravelFeatures

cruises, Cultural Travel, European travel, festivals & events, River Cruising, Uncategorized

Tauck Quadruples River Cruises Featuring Floriade Horticultural Expo for 2022

April 10, 2021 MoralCompass

The Netherlands’ Once-Every-Decade Festival Drew 2,000,000 Visitors in 2012

Tauck Tours’ MS Andorinha. Ten years after Tauck saw exceptional bookings for its European river cruises featuring the Floriade International Horticultural Expo, the Connecticut-based company is preparing to capture even stronger anticipated demand for the 2022 iteration of the Netherlands’ once-every-decade festival.

WILTON, CT – Ten years after Tauck saw exceptional bookings for its European river cruises featuring the Floriade International Horticultural Expo, the Connecticut-based company is preparing to capture even stronger anticipated demand for the 2022 iteration of the Netherlands’ once-every-decade festival. Where Tauck offered just a single itinerary that visited Floriade in 2012, it will feature the festival next year on a total of four different river cruises.

According to Tauck CEO Dan Mahar, the basis for the company’s bullish enthusiasm is two-fold. “Our excitement is rooted in both our past experience with Floriade, and in the really incredible plans we’ve seen for the 2022 expo,” said Mahar. “Our guests’ interest in attending Floriade is such that we essentially – and rather quickly – sold out our entire inventory in 2012,” he explained. Mahar also noted that the 2012 edition of Floriade drew more than 2,000,000 total visitors, or some four times the attendance at the 2010 performances of the Oberammergau Passion Play, another popular, once-every-decade cultural event featured on Tauck river cruises.

Next year’s Floriade, explained Mahar, will be far more than a simple flower show. The expo’s theme is “Growing Green Cities,” and it will showcase elements ranging from green architecture and environmentally-friendly food production to renewable energy and healthy living. The expo will be situated on 148 acres of land in the city of Almere that was raised and reclaimed from the sea, and following the festival’s conclusion late next year, its various buildings and facilities will collectively function as an enduring, environmentally-friendly urban center. “An apt comparison for the 2022 Floriade and its forward-looking emphasis on the cities of tomorrow would be Walt Disney’s vision for EPCOT,” said Mahar, noting how closely the EPCOT acronym (Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow) aligns with Floriade’s “Growing Green Cities” focus.

The Floriade expo will have more than enough to satisfy those with strong horticultural interests, including landscapes, gardens and greenhouses highlighting a vast collection of flowers, trees, shrubs, plants and crops from more than 40 countries. The festival will also feature live entertainment, themed cultural programs and exhibits, a host of international pavilions, a range of restaurants, food trucks and specialty tastings, and a diverse campus connected by gondolas, trains, bridges and walkways.

EARLY ADMISSION AND A PRIVATE SMALL-GROUP TOUR

Tauck guests will enjoy a full day at Floriade, highlighted by early-access admission one hour before the expo opens to the general public, and a 90-minute, small-group guided tour of key attractions hosted by a Floriade expert. Each guest will also receive a Tauck-issued, 25-euro Floriade credit card allowing them to enjoy lunch in their choice of dining venues, or purchase mementos of their visit if they prefer.

Tauck has also secured docking privileges in nearby Huizen, a short ten-minute drive from the Floriade grounds. For guests’ convenience and flexibility, private round-trip shuttles will be provided between the riverboat and the expo campus. The visit to Floriade, including expo admission, shuttle transportation, and the Floriade credit card, is included in Tauck’s cruise pricing, as are all other shore excursions, all gratuities, all onboard wine and spirits, airport transfers, luggage handling and more. The four Tauck river cruises featuring a visit to the Floriade expo include two 15-day itineraries, “Amsterdam to Budapest by Riverboat” and “The Rhine and Moselle,” along with two eight-day trips, “Belgium & Holland in Spring” and the new-for-2021 itinerary “Cruising the Dutch Waterways.”

LESSONS FROM THE OBERAMMERGAU PASSION PLAY

Information on Tauck’s four 2022 river cruises featuring Floriade has recently been posted on the company’s website, and can also be downloaded in an eight-page e-brochure. As Tauck begins to ramp up its promotional efforts for Floriade, CEO Mahar is urging those interested to make their plans quickly. “For most travelers, attending something like Floriade or the Oberammergau Passion Play is a true once-in-a-lifetime experience, and because they’re only available once every ten years, the opportunities to attend are really quite limited,” said Mahar. “Understandably, that creates a real sense of urgency among our guests that prompts them to act fast. With the Oberammergau Passion Play, we were 90% sold out before we started to actively promote it, and we’re fully expecting our Floriade trips to generate that same kind of response.”

Founded in 1925, Tauck Tours is a world leader in upscale guided travel, with more than 150 river cruises, small ship ocean cruises, land tours and safaris to 70+ countries and all seven continents. In each of the last 23 years, Tauck has been honored in Travel + Leisure magazine’s annual “World’s Best Awards” celebrating the very best in luxury cruises, tours, hotels and more.

For more information, contact your local travel professional, call Tauck at 800 468 2825, or visit www.tauck.com.

For more travel features, visit:

www.huffingtonpost.com/author/karen-rubin

travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate/

‘Like’ us on facebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures

Twitter: @TravelFeatures

Best in Travel, European travel

Portugal Scores Big Wins as ‘World’s Leading Destination’ at World Travel Awards

January 31, 2020 MoralCompass

Pena Palace, Sintra, Portugal, just one of the historic attractions that resulted in Portugal being named “World’s Leading Destination” for the third year in a row at the 2019 World Travel Awards © Dave E. Leiberman/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Portugal, named “World’s Leading Destination” for the third consecutive year at the World Travel Awards, welcomed more than one million US visitors in 2019, an annual record achieved in just 10 months, following five years of double-digit growth.

Turismo de Portugal also won the title of World’s Leading Tourism Board for the third time, and Lisbon named World’s Leading City Break Destination 2019. Madeira Island was crowned “Best Island Destination in the World” for the fifth time in a row.

Tourismo de Portugal (the Portuguese National Tourism Board) released figures that showed the destination experienced an average monthly increase of 20.9%, and 22% growth in stays for 2019 with two months remaining in the year.

The growth in tourism is the result of a concerted 2027 Tourism Strategy to position Portugal as a destination to “visit, invest in, live, study and organize major events. Our aim will always be to capture more and better tourism, aligning economic growth with the ever-present concern for Portugal’s environmental and social sustainability.”

Increases in visits from Newark, Boston, New York and Miami align with improved air service on TAP Air Portugal (now a private company led by Jet Blue founder David Neeleman, SATA Air Azores, United Airlines, Delta Airlines and American Airlines.

TAP has growth its non-stop route map, adding services to and from Chicago, San Francisco and Washington DC, to the New York, Newark, Boston and Miami routes.

In total, Portugal won 12 awards in the grand final of the World Travel Awards, in addition to World’s Leading Destination 2019, World’s Leading Tourist Board, World’s Leading Island Destination (Madeira Islands) and World’s Leading City Break Destination (Lisbon).

Also: World’s Leading Adventure Tourist Attraction 2019 (Passadicos do Paiva – Arouca UNESCO Global Geopark); World’s Leading Conservation Company (Parques de Sintra-Monte de Lua); World’s Leading Golf & Villa Resort (Dunas Douradas Beach Club); World’s Leading Classic Hotel (Olissippo Lapa Palace Hotel); and World’s Leading Boutique Hotel Operator (Amazing Evolution Management).

TAP Air Portugal won awards as World’s Leading Airline to Africa, World’s Leading Airline to South America; and World’s Leading Inflight Magazine (Up Magazine).

American tourists are responding to Portugal as a European gem. The country has eight centuries of history with marvelous castles and architecture,and is a haven for foodies, with fantastic cuisine, the biggest exclusive fishing zone in Europe (making seafood fresh and affordable. Pop music lovers come for local music festivals.

More information at www.visitportugal.com.

European travel

USTOA Tour Operators Offer Immersive Off-Season Itineraries to Portugal

November 1, 2019 MoralCompass

Picturesque Porto, Portugal, on the Douro River. With an annual average of 3,000 hours of sunshine, this southern European country has idyllic scenery and outdoor opportunities year-round and USTOA member tour operators offer immersive itineraries. © *Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

NEW YORK –Portugal beckons travelers to its historic, cobblestone villages and pristine beaches in the fall and winter, when temperatures are mild and airfare is offered at value prices. With an annual average of 3,000 hours of sunshine, this southern European country offers idyllic scenery and outdoor opportunities year-round.

When comedian Harrison Greenbaum visits Lisbon, Portugal in the travel video series “Recalculating” he ventures off to the local coastal community of Trafaria to take a cooking lesson with a group of grandmas, meet a sea captain at the beach, and even learn a few new dance moves. Tour operators of the United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA) create immersive, fulfilling experiences for destinations like Portugal throughout the year.

Here’s a collection of itineraries for travelers looking to book a trip to Portugal in 2020:

Jewels of Portugal – Homeric Tours’ offers a five-day trip through Lisbon with tours of Sintra’s palaces and castles, a day at the Historic Centre of Évora, and visits to Jeronimo’s Monastery, Belem Tower, and more. Departures are available between January and October 2020, starting at $1,165 per person.

Portugal In Depth – Globus’ 11-day trip stops in Lisbon, Porto, Algarve, Tomar, Viseu, and Évora for exposure to the best of Portugal’s inland communities and coastal cities. Highlights include a visit to the Church of São Francisco in Porto, an olive oil tasting in Belmonte, and a stop at the 700-year-old University of Coimbra. Departures are available between April 2020 and October 2020, starting at $1,979 per person.

Treasures of Portugal – smarTours brings guests to a collection of historic landmarks in Portugal with visits to the medieval village of Marvão, the Cathedral of Évora, the Belém Riverside District in Lisbon, and the University of Coimbra. Departures are available between April and October 2020, starting at $2,199 per person including airfare.

Portugal & The Douro River Valley – YMT Vacations offers a seven-night cruise down the Douro River and a five-night land tour stretching from Lisbon to Porto. Guests will enjoy a port wine tasting in the Douro Valley’s wine region, a walk through the streets of Sintra and Óbidos, and a visit to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fátima. Departure is available October 10, 2020, starting at $3,199 per person.

Into the Heart of Portugal – Scenic Tours USA Inc.’s 11-day luxury river cruise is hosted by a National Geographic expert and photographer. Activities include a festive flamenco performance in Salamanca, Spain, birdwatching in Porto’s wetlands, and practicing landscape photography in the Douro Valley vineyards. Departures are available between September 22 and October 2, 2020, starting at $7,395 per person.

Other episodes of Recalculating take place in Whistler in British Colombia, New York’s Coney Island, Philadelphia, Mexico City and Slovenia. Watch them all by visiting https://ustoa.com/recalculating

Find all Portugal itineraries by USTOA tour operators here.

Representing nearly $19 billion in revenue, the member companies of U.S. Tour Operators Association provide tours, packages and custom arrangements that allow 9.8 million travelers annually access, insider knowledge, peace-of-mind, value and freedom to enjoy destinations and experiences across the entire globe. Each member company has met the travel industry’s highest standards, including participation in the USTOA’s Travelers Assistance Program, which protects consumer payments up to $1 million if the company goes out of business. As a voice for the tour operator industry for more than 40 years, USTOA also provides education and assistance for consumers and travel agents.

For more information on USTOA, visit www.ustoa.com, call 212-599-6599, or email [email protected].

For more travel features, visit:

travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate/

www.huffingtonpost.com/author/karen-rubin

instagram.com/going_places_far_and_near/

‘Like’ us on facebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures

Twitter: @TravelFeatures

Cultural Travel, European travel, Gift of Travel, Holiday travel, international travel

Gift of Travel: Insight Vacations’ Offers Special Discounts to Europe, Eastern Mediterranean, Egypt and Morocco Thru Nov. 8

October 11, 2019 MoralCompass

*Sistine Chapel, Vatican (c) Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

For those looking to get their holiday gifts early this year, you can give the gift of travel this season with Insight Vacations’ air offers to Europe and beyond.

Delight your loved ones with wine under the Tuscan sun, a cruise over the turquoise-blue waters of Greece or even a private tour of the magnificent architecture of ancient Egypt. When they travel with Insight Vacations, they won’t just see a destination, they’ll meet it, feel it and taste it. Insight Vacations creates the opportunity to experience countries in depth with deliciously authentic dining, immersive experiences with locals and hand-picked, luxurious hotels— located in the heart of the destination. Our passionate Travel Directors will be with you every step of the way providing a seamless, magical and unforgettable experience.

From now until Nov. 8, you can save 10% on Insight’s immersive vacations to Europe plus $300 off economy air per couple.

Insight Vacations is offering 10% off trips with its popular Early Payment Discount on trips to Europe for those who book and pay in full by December 18, 2019. In addition, past guests and Club Bon Voyage Members can save up to 5%.

By choosing flights with American Airlines, British Airways, Finnair and Iberia, you can save $150 off per person on Economy, $200 off per person on Premium Economy or $300 off per person on Business Class on departures to Europe, the Eastern Mediterranean, Egypt and Morocco from Oct. 1, 2019 to May 31, 2020, and Sept. 1, 2020 to Nov. 15, 2020.

Insights’ immersive trips to Europe, the Eastern Mediterranean, Egypt include:

Best of Italy (11 days): Showcasing Italy’s grandest attractions, this remarkable journey takes guests to historic landmarks with a local expert such as the Vatican Museum, the Bramante Staircase, the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica. In Tuscany, guests experience a guided visit through the house of the Italian Renaissance diplomat and writer, Niccolò Machiavelli, with a special opening of his private office where he wrote “The Prince.” Afterwards, guests taste wines made from vineyards surrounding the home. They’ll also visit the Italian garden for a view of Florence’s iconic domed cathedral and explore the historic cellar connected to one of the oldest restaurants in Italy by a secret tunnel. On Giudecca Island, guests will admire the age-old skill of glassblowing by skilled artisans at an arts center, and in Venice they will ride on a gondola while being serenaded through the historic canals under starry skies. Travelers also take a private cruise to the Isle of sun-kissed Capri to enjoy breathtaking views of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Wonders of Egypt (9 days): Guests begin this spectacular journey by visiting the Egyptian Museum in Cairo and viewing the treasures of Tutankhamun with Insight’s professionally trained Egyptologist. They experience the splendor of the Great Pyramids and venture inside one of the inner chambers before gazing upon the mythical Great Sphinx. Clients then take a scenic flight to Luxor, where they explore the massive temple complex of Karnak before boarding their cruise ship then visiting the Temple of Luxor, a UNESCO World Heritage site. On the west bank of the Nile they’ll explore the Temple of Hatshepsut and the Valley of the Kings, home to the magnificent tombs of Egypt’s pharaohs, and visit a working bakery to watch local artisans making authentic Egyptian bread. The following evening clients experience a traditional Egyptian dinner and galabeya party, and on the final day they see the imposing Aswan High Dam, the Unfinished Obelisk, and the majestic Temple of Isis. The trip ends with a ride in a traditional Nile felucca, where clients learn about the art of sailing this ancient craft from a local sailor.

For more information, contact Insight Vacations at 800-582-8380 or visit www.insightvacations.com.

For more travel features, visit:

www.huffingtonpost.com/author/karen-rubin

travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate/

‘Like’ us on facebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures

Twitter: @TravelFeatures

Active Travel, European travel, hiking

Trekking Hellas Offers 8-Day Hiking Tour to Greek Islands of Andros, Tinos

March 17, 2019 MoralCompass

*Hellas Hiking is offering an eight-day hiking tour of the Greek islands of Andros and Tinos*

Trekking Hellas is offering an 8 day/7 night hiking tour to the Andros and Tinos Islands in Greece.

During the tour, guests explore magnificent paths and trails with breathtaking views. Discover traditional Greek villages, local craftsmen and the unique Cycladic architecture and history. Enjoy sandy beaches and beautiful sunsets.

The Cyclades is a group of islands scattered over the deep blue waters of the Aegean Sea, cooled in the summer by the ‘Meltemi’ wind. One of the most ancient European civilizations was born and prospered here: the Cycladic civilization (3000-1000 BC). Although some of the Cycladic Islands are famous to the tourist crowds and the international jet set, there are a few that are still left to be discovered, from travelers that are seeking authentic vacation experiences: Andros and Tinos are among them.

Andros is the most northerly island of the Cyclades and the second largest after Naxos. Thanks to its water springs it’s irrigated with plentiful running water and thus verdant with a large numbers of olive trees, pines and fruit trees. Tinos, just one mile away, famous for its characteristic dovecotes, is full of picturesque villages and windmills. Tinos is today exactly what Delos Island was to believers in ancient times. Twice a year, on March 25th and August 15th, pilgrims inundate the island to visit the famous church of Virgin Mary (in Greek: Panagia).

The tour is available throughout the year; the cost is 785€/pp on self guided more.

Rate Includes: 8 days /7 nights accommodation in double rooms in selected accommodations with breakfast Lunch box on self guided mode during the hiking days. All ferry tickets from/to Athens and from Andros to Tinos Return transfers from ports to hotels. All necessary transfers for the hikes Self Guided Service: welcome briefing, gpx files, maps and booklet, emergency phone support.

For more information, visit https://trekking.gr/en/product_en/authentic-cyclades-tour. [email protected], Phone: +30 2103310323, https://trekking.gr/en

For more travel features, visit:

travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate/

www.huffingtonpost.com/author/karen-rubin

instagram.com/going_places_far_and_near/

‘Like’ us on facebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures

Twitter: @TravelFeatures

Active Travel, bike trips, cycling trips, European travel, Uncategorized

Tourissimo and Ride & Seek Announce New Cycling Tour Exploring Italy’s ‘Boot’ – Puglia

March 17, 2019 MoralCompass

*A new cycling tour being offered by Tourissimo and Ride & Seek as part of their PLUS Tours series highlights two UNESCO sites – Alberobello and Matera*

(Turin, Italy) – Situated between the blue waters of the Adriatic Sea and the forests and mountains of Basilicata, Puglia offers a landscape of beguiling views, ancient olive groves, and UNESCO sites. This new cycling tour being offered by Tourissimo and Ride & Seek as part of their PLUS Tours series highlights two of these UNESCO sites – Alberobello and Matera. The former is known for its trulli, whitewashed stone huts with conical roofs, whilst the latter for its cave dwellings built into the calcareous rock. Guests will cycle the road-less-traveled with average daily rides of 40 km, and spend evenings dining on gourmet cuisine and fine wines.

“From the Adriatic Sea to the stones of Matera, this Puglia tour explores the most beautiful riding destinations in Southern Italy,” said Ride & Seek Founder Dylan Reynolds. “We will cycle rolling landscapes carpeted with olive groves, vineyards, whitewashed hill towns, fishing villages, and thousands of trulli.”

The trip starts in Savelletri with fig trees, blooming cacti, and herb gardens offering delightful fragrances. Guests will ride through one of the gems of Puglia: the Valle D’Itria. Its wooded slopes, vineyards, and endless olive groves are punctuated by the coned roofs of trulli.

“While many regions of Italy boast of having the best food in the world, Puglia could claim this title due its simple preparations that allow the true flavors of the food to stand out,” said Beppe Salerno, Co-Founder of Tourissimo. “But the charm of Puglia is rooted in the people themselves. Their hospitality is renowned throughout Italy.”

Tour Highlights:

Touring Matera where the 2016 remake of Ben-Hur was filmed
Discovering the white-washed town of Ostuni and the beaches near the fishing village of Savelletri
Visiting two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Alberobello & Matera
Riding among the orchards and trulli of Valle d’Itria
Attending a demonstration by a master cheese maker
Exploring the Greek Ruins of Egnazia
Lodging in the award-winning Sextantio Hotel

The trip is scheduled for October 10-17, 2019 and starts at $4,195.

For more info, visit https://www.rideandseek.com/tour/puglia-the-best-of-southern-italy/.

For more travel features, visit:

travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate/

www.huffingtonpost.com/author/karen-rubin

instagram.com/going_places_far_and_near/

‘Like’ us on facebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures

Twitter: @TravelFeatures

Active Travel, European travel, Hotels & Resorts, Wellness & Health

Adler Thermae Spa and Resort in Tuscany Redefines Wellness Travel

February 7, 2019 MoralCompass

ADLER Thermae Resort & Spa in Bagno Vignoni, Italy, the groundbreaking five-star hotel fed by the Bagno Vignoni’s thermal waters, takes full advantage of its breathtaking location in the Val d’Orcia, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Bagno Vignoni, Italy – It would be easy for a guest at ADLER Thermae Resort & Spa, the groundbreaking five-star hotel fed by the Bagno Vignoni’s thermal waters, to be tempted to check in for several days and never leave the property. After all, the baths, saunas and pools cover 1,000 square feet of the property, and the spa menu has more than 120 treatments, including carefully customized facials performed with signature ADLER products and massages using techniques such as craniosacral and Ayurveda.

But they would be missing out on one of the most distinctive things about the hotel: Its breathtaking location in the Val d’Orcia, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Adler Thermae offers the perfect home base for exploring the area through half-day excursions led by local guides—which still leave plenty of time to luxuriate at the spa.

Guests who want to immerse themselves in eating, drinking, walking and relaxing—activities that have arguably been perfected in Italy—should look at two packages: “Enjoy Tuscany” and “Explore Tuscany.”

Visitors who’ve booked “Enjoy Tuscany” will have the chance to take a morning cooking class taught by a local home cook (or “mamma”) at Tenuta Sanoner, the hotel’s hilltop winery. After working in the kitchen, they’ll savor their creations during lunch on the terrace overlooking the valley. They’ll also experience a tasting in the wine cellar featuring local varietals, cheeses and meats. Not only will they return home relaxed and full of fabulous food, they’ll have new recipes in their cooking repertoire and everlasting memories of Tuscany.

Another highlight of the package is the Adler Luxury Aetos Ritual treatment, which is designed for couples. A detoxifying peel is followed by a soothing massage using grapeseed oil. Next comes a regenerating bath in mix of the hotel’s thermal mineral waters and local red wine, which is rich in antioxidants. To further engage the senses, the treatment concludes with a glass of sparkling Aetos Rosé and a taste of wine-aged pecorino cheese.

“Enjoy Tuscany”
4 to 7 nights; from €1,021.00 per person
Through 10/31/19
Included:

1 cooking class in the enchanting Tenuta Sanoner, followed by lunch
1 ADLER Luxury Aetos ritual for two: a luxurious wine therapy ritual with a cleansing dermatological peel, relaxing massage, a regenerating bath in thermal water and final tasting of Aetos wine and pecorino cheese.
1 Tasting of wine and typical products in the ADLER cellar

The “Explore Tuscany” offer gives guests the chance to be active with local hikes and walks, which are especially pleasant during spring and autumn. Led by local guides, visitors will climb the rolling Tuscan hills and have the chance to see some of the area’s most famous sites, including the Abbey of Sant’Antimo, the Abbey of Monte Oliveto Maggiore, and the Vitaleta Chapel. Should they prefer to cycle, they’ll have complimentary access to the hotel’s fleet of mountain bikes and electric bikes.

Other excursions might include the classic Renaissance towns of Pienza, with its famous cathedral and Papal residence, and Montepulciano and Montalcino, known for their namesake wines. Finally, gourmands will appreciate the chance to meet some of Tuscany’s renowned artisanal producers, and they’ll be able to taste wine, olive oil, cured meat, saffron, pasta and cheese. Depending on the season, they also will be able to see ingredients like herbs, fruit, vegetables and truffles growing in their natural environment. The perfect partner to a week spent hiking and biking? A €100 spa voucher for each guest, so they can decide which treatment will best soothe their sore muscles.

“Explore Tuscany”
4 to 14 nights; from €854.00 per person (excluding local tastings, which cost approximately €15 to 35 each)
Through 12/20/19
Included:

Up to 5 hiking tours or excursions per week
1 €100 spa voucher per person
Free use of mountain bikes and e-bikes

Adler Thermae Spa and Resort in Tuscany, set between the vineyards of Montepulciano and Montalcino, has redefined the idea of wellness. Its peaceful surroundings in the UNESCO Tuscan site, warm thermal waters and the staff’s fierce dedication have proven to be a magical combination. The spa menu is always improving, capitalizing on the highest quality natural products and state-of-the-art equipment. Treatments address both inner harmony and outer beauty while encouraging deep relaxation. A team of more than 40 staff members and physicians provide individual counseling and treatments for body and soul.

The five-star hotel spa offers not only relaxation and beauty treatments, but also modern western medicine and alternative healing methods. The ADLER MED medical competence center has its own team of doctors from disciplines like general medicine, laboratory medicine, aesthetic medicine, modern Mayr medicine, homeopathy, herbal medicine and nutrition.

The hotel has a total of 90 luxury rooms and suites: The Superior is for two people, while Junior Suites accommodate three to four. The spacious rooms offer a sitting area with tea table, sofa, writing desk and armchair. The decor features rich wood furnishings with warm-toned draperies. Rooms and suites have “Bio air-conditioning” (room temperature and humidity individually adjustable) and private terraces or balconies overlooking the splendid Orcia Valley. The marble bathroom features a separate glass-enclosed shower, toilet and bidet. Hypoallergenic and handicapped-accessible rooms are also available.

For more information: https://www.adler-resorts.com/en/

For more travel features, visit:

travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate/

www.huffingtonpost.com/author/karen-rubin