Destinations

I specialize in modern, unusual, and traditional travels which have currently become the most popular kind of travel for celebrities. It has become popular because hotels are now more than a place to sleep, they are part of the experience. Europe is now a common vacation spot so for those who are looking for something different South America, Africa, and Asia are the new hot spots. And contrary to what you may think about these countries vacations to these exotic areas can be very luxurious.

For vacations South America I suggest Argentina and Chile. Argentina is where the Iguazu Waterfall is found, it is one of the most magnificent natural wonders of the world. This is a great location for those looking for outdoor adventure for one can walk right through the falling water, or take a boat to the mouth of the fall, or explore the National Park that surrounds it. In Chile one can explore any and all kinds of natural landscapes. One of the most stunning views of Chile is from the The Explora Hotel in Patagonia, Chile. This is a remarkable hotel tucked away in a biosphere reserve containing waterfalls, glaciers, forests, and granite pillars all more than 2,000 meters above the Patagonian steppes. Both of these locations will leave you in awe at the natural beauty this world has to offer.

Cambodia and Vietnam are some of the up and coming vacation spots in Asia. The hotels are very chic and modern with the highest quality service. In Cambodia the The FCC Angkor is found in the heart of Siem Reap and overlooks the Siem Reap River. The hotel is also only minutes away from the striking and remarkable Angkor Wat temples. In Vietnam the Six Senses Resort, located on the Ninh Van Bay overlooking the China Sea, is a prefect hideaway when you’re looking to get away from it all. With white sand beaches in front of you and mountains surrounding you, the stress of life will just melt away.

Africa now has some of the top hotels in the world. The Royal Malewane, is for those looking for a place to escape, located deep in the South African bush one is surround by wild splendor. This kind of experience is for the more adventurous traveler who wants to experience Africa in its natural state. In Botswana the Sanctuary Lodges and Camps are a great way to experience Africa. Sanctuary has four locations in Botswana all luxury, all set in the heart of Botswana’s wilderness. If your looking for where luxury meets adventure Africa is just the place.

From guest blogger Jeanne Parrent, Founder of Boom Voyage.

Chase the winter blahs with a visit to Buenos Aires. Posh hotels, wonderful restaurants, the tango, and it’s one place in the world where your dollar can still go farther. Buenos Aires is home to almost half of Argentina’s people. Visitors often describe the city as reminiscent of Paris with its European-style squares, broad streets and lively cafes. There are excellent shopping and great museums by day, and a very active night scene including the city’s famed tango clubs, where you can watch or dance as you fancy.

Of course, one of the best things to do in Buenos Aries is eat. The city is known for its vibrant restaurant scene with more than 3,500 eateries. World-famous Argentine beef is showcased in parrilladas (open fire cooking) and asadors (steak houses). Along with standard steaks are organ meats and sausages, all set off by the traditional chimichurri sauces. Try Cabana Las Lilas for a wonderful and upscale dining experience, but come hungry! While eating here is not cheap, Argentine wines offer excellent value for the price. When you’ve had enough beef, the city also offers lots of ethnic dining options.

This city almost does not sleep. Dining is late by US standards, and dancing and fun go on in the city’s bars and tango clubs until dawn. An excellent and historic tango show is offered at Esquina Carlos Gardel, named for the popularizer of the national dance. Find your own favorite spot to tango among the many clubs in Palermo Viejo.

Where to stay? There are lots of upscale choices, but the undoubted grande dame of the city is the Alvear Palace Hotel, which has reigned undisputed since the 1930s. She has kept up with the times, though, opening a new 8,000 square foot spa last June. There are also excellent Park Hyatt and Four Seasons properties here.

If you want to take in more than just the city of Buenos Aires, consider a visit to one of the many estanchias (guest ranches) within a few hours of the city for a taste of true gaucho life. If you are a nature lover, the Tigre Delta offers islands, beautiful scenery, bird watching, and trails. Finally, take a ferry ride to Uruguay and the city of Colonia (a day trip) or only three hours travel time, but a world away in relaxation, add a stay at the Four Seasons Resort Carmelo in Uruguay. Here you enjoy unmatched privacy, romantic ambience, and a host of activities including spa, golf, horseback riding and pools while you unwind after your urban adventure in Buenos Aires.

While on a recent dive trip in Roatan, Honduras, we took a full day dive excursion to dive the island’s West End. I found my favorite dives of the week to be among the mazes of sand channels, there was always something special to see just over the next little ridge, including our only turtles of the trip. We had seen several smaller turtles over the course of the day’s dives but most were free swimming. I had previously spotted a turtle resting on the reef that I pointed out to a couple of other divers (an action I now regret). They were very new to diving and in their enthusiasm set the poor turtle to flight. Upon spotting my next turtle, I avoided repeating that mistake and was treated to my favorite experience of the trip. I spent an amazing few minutes hanging just feet from a sea turtle who was at the time quite focused on munching away at a tube sponge. It glanced up once in seeming annoyance at my noisy bubbles but decided I was no threat and went back to lunch. Fearing to be left behind, I reluctantly rejoined my dive group, feeling no guilt for having kept this special moment to myself.