Destinations

If you are looking for an incredible Amazonian experience that is relatively easy to reach, I highly recommend Anavilhanas Jungle Lodge just outside of Manaus, Brazil.
 
On the Rio Negro (which joins the Amazon River at Manaus) sits the Anavilhanas Archipelago, the world’s largest fresh water archipelago.  Anavilhanas is host to indigenous species of fish, local crocodiles (Jacaré), freshwater pink dolphins, manatees and hundreds of species of flora and fauna.  Mosquitoes find the naturally high ph of the river disagreeable, so as an added plus - the area is relatively mosquito free!
 
In the midst of the private reserve is the Anavilhanas Jungle Lodge. Approximately 3 hours drive from Manaus, this lodge is truly a class-act and the perfect answer for the guest who wants the Amazon experience without having to give up all modern comfort.  The Lodge is relatively new (just one year old) and the only one of its kind in this protected preserve.
 
Anavilhanas Jungle Lodge is owned and run by a delightful young Brazilian couple who thought of every detail to bring the best combination of nature, beauty and regional flavor to their guests. The local staff are equally wonderful, bringing an additional element of local warmth and friendly, attentive service.
 
Anavilhanas Jungle Lodge offers a variety of packages ranging from 3 – 6 days , for approximately $250 per person per day.  The packages (which include all transfers, meals and tour-guided activities) are an unbelievable value.  Each activity gives the guests the opportunity to learn and experience more about the area than they could ever do on their own. The guides are highly knowledgeable – with a unique depth understanding of the area and its history, and each able to communicate in numerous languages (for example one of the guides spoke fluent Portuguese, English, Italian, French, Spanish and German!) The activities include boating excursions, bird watching, piranha fishing, caiman hunting, nature walks, and swimming with pink dolphins - just to name a few.

 The buffet-style meals (three full meals, daily) feature delicious regional dishes, consisting of local fish, chicken, beef and pork dishes, local fruits, vegetables and freshly baked deserts.  After lunch or dinner, the guests may choose to convene in the open lobby area for conversation, to play pool or some of the table games provided (chess, checkers etc). This area also has a computer, Cable TV and a wonderful collection of books to study more on the Amazonas’ flora and fauna. 

I spent three days at the Anavilhanas Lodge and came away with one of the most memorable experiences of my life. The time went far too quickly – I am already planning my return to this hidden paradise!

January 13 — February 4, 2009, See the world’s coastal rim in 23 days. Explore the earth’s oldest desert, feel the thunderous roar of Iguazú Falls, cruise around the infamous Cape Horn, and navigate admits vast icebergs to reach “the end of the Earth”. This expedition will take you to the most breathtaking sites on the planet all in the comfort of your own VIP jetliner. This is a one in a life time trip that you will always remember.

The journey begins with a flight from Harrod’s private terminal in London’s Luton Airport. You’ll be flying in a VIP 757 Boeing Jetliner newly configured that hosts only 74 guests. You will reach Madeira Island a spectacular national park with the prefect climate, striking scenery, and even its own unique wine. Choose from the many organized activities that TCS Exeditions provides.

Then it’s off to Burkina Faso where you’ll drive to Tiebele here you’ll experience traditional tribal living and wildlife. Reboard the jet for a day trip to explore Bobo Dioulasso the cultural capital of Burkina Faso featuring brilliant man made and natural sites. Ensuite, Walvis Bay Namibia, a dramatic blend of dunes and ocean. Choose from the many wildlife adventures or an expedition to the ancient Namib Desert.

Next stop Cape town located in a stunning natural setting explore the ocean from up above, see the unique habitat of African penguin colonies, visit fascinating African museums, or take a cable car to summit of Table Mountain. Then jet off to Rio de Janeiro, where you’ll stay in the opulent Copacabana Beach hotel and explore the world famous Tijuca Forest and take a cogwheel train to Corcovado. Then to Buenos Aires where you can visit the capitals European-influenced neighborhoods or the native countryside.

Next its off to Ushuaia the world’s southern most city. Here you’ll embark on a three night luxury cruise around Cape Horn, visiting some of the most untouched and rarely seen locations of the world. The cruise is then followed by a visit to Iguazú Falls. This string of 275 waterfalls is nearly two miles wide creating an everlasting rainbow in the water.

The trip ends with a visit to the engineering marvel the Panama Canal and a stay in a rainforest resort. Ride a tram through the rainforest canopy and enjoy a farewell dinner marking the end to this remarkable and extraordinary trip.

Cave Hotels:

Elkep Evi, Cappadocia, Turkey: Ancient caves converted into a beautiful and unique hotel. The suites include private terraces that open to a spectacular view of the Goreme National Park.

Le Prince Noir, les Baux de Provence, France: This French Bed and Breakfast was Roman-area fortress carved out of mountainside. This exclusive lodging is located in one of the most fascinating villages in the south of France.

RainForest:

Safariland Treehouse Resort, India: This Resort consists of four three-houses built from local materials and bamboo all about five meters high. This resort is for the truly adventurous traveler looking for an eco-experience.

Canopy Tower Ecolodge, Panama City, Panama: Built to defend the Panama Canal by the US Air Force this tower is tucked away in the heart of the Soberan­a National Park. Find yourself looking above the tree canopy, great for bird watchers and nature lovers.

Ariau Amazon Towers Hotel, Manaus, Brazil: This hotel is made of four Kilometers of connecting walkways and lodges located deep the Amazon rainforest. Immerse yourself in the beauty of one of the most exceptional wildernesses of the world.