Travel in France: Provence Villas

Catherine Whitworth is a luxury travel advisor for Sterling Brownell. She is a specialist in France travel and has just returned from Provence. Read on for a quick snapshot of her experiences.


I recently had the privilege of traveling in France, and visiting incredible villas throughout Provence.
I visited 26 villas which are a part of Kevin Abell's handpicked group of villas in the South of France. The company is " A Season Away" which offers 3 weeks to 3 month rentals in Italy, France and New Zealand. His main goal is to make you feel like a local, not a tourist.


A Season Away uses local Villa hosts to give clients an insider track and act as a gentle guiding hand by introducing them to local shopkeepers, taking them to lunch, and providing them with valuable insider information for the best the region has to offer. We had a private France wine tour in a vineyard (one of Paul McCartney's favorites), and among other things, visited truffle and olive oil sources. They provide a customized regional guide for their clients.


The villas were selected for appeal and comfort. They were beautiful, just what you imagine you would have for a villa in the South of France, or Italy. Most are already taken for the 2009 summer season. So take a look at 2010 as soon as possible.

My experience was incredible and I really enjoyed seeing all of these magnificent properties in Provence. Travel in France will never be the same!

Catherine Whitworth is a luxury travel advisor for Sterling Brownell. She is a specialist in France travel. Contact Catherine to learn more about travel experiences throughout France.

Amazing Australia Experience

Catherine Whitworth is an independent travel advisor for Sterling Brownell. She has recently spent time in Australia. Here are a few quick insights into her amazing experience!

I had the privilege of visiting 2 very interesting destinations recently, Australia, and Villas in Provence, France. I will write more about France soon. Here is a brief highlight of my amazing time traveling through Australia.

In Australia we began in the North. In Darwin, we had a private behind the scenes visit to Paspaley Pearls, the leading supplier of top rated South Ses Pearls. The pearls were beautiful!
We visited the remote Kimberly coast in close proximity to where the film Australia was filmed. We visited the Barossa and Clare Valley- a leading culinary and wine region. We stayed at a new 5 star hotel on Kangaroo Island called South Ocean Lodge and it is indeed a 5 star especially the spa. We saw kangaroos, wallabies, kualas, amazing birds, crocodiles,manatees, goannas, dingoe, buffalo, seals, and not one snake. We shot skeet, rode ATV's on a sheep ranch, found beautiful seashells on deserted beaches, flew in helicopters, hiked to see aboriginal rock art on remote cliffs, coursed over swamplands, ran our hands in boxes of valuable south sea pearls, saw rings on Saturn with an astronomer from the Parkes Observatory, sailed in Sydney Harbor, fished Barramundi, and sampled some of the finest wines and food I have ever seen.

We ended in Sydney. What a beautiful city! (I am including all links below to the places we stayed.) My greatest impression of Australia was the people. To a person, they were funny, happy, delighted to see us, laid back, easy, and everything was "no worries". I was struck by the feeling of warmth and safety I felt everywhere we went.

Australia is only 12 hours from San Fransisco. I had no idea it was that close- about the same time from Rome to Atlanta. This country has so much to offer beyond the excitements of Sydney, Melbourne, the Great Barrier Reef and Ayers Rock. Its beauty, richness, and friendliness are truly impressive. It a destination with amazing diversity, and I cannot wait to go back.

Check out some of the places we stayed! They were all incredible.
http://www.bulloriver.com/
http://www.farawaybay.com.au/

http://www.angorichinastation.com/

http://www.thelouise.com.au/

http://www.southernoceanlodge.com.au/

http://www.burrawangwest.com.au/

To contact Catherine, click here. Visit our site for more information about travel in Australia!

Checklist for Packing for an African Safari

Haisley Smith and 5 other Brownell travel advisors have recently returned from an African safari! Haisley shares below her great advice for the perfect checklist for packing for an African safari.

The number one question our travelers ask in advance of their trip to Africa isn’t, “Will I see a lion,” or “Is it safe to travel to Africa?” It’s, “What should I pack?!?!?!” The African Travel Specialists of Brownell have developed this checklist for packing for an African Safari of 10-17 days.

Start with a soft-sided suitcase that you don’t mind getting dusty. Most East Africa safari touring companies ask that your suitcase not exceed 30lbs, due to weight requirements for in-country flights, but this can vary.

UNDERGARMENTS or “Smalls” – 4 to 6 pairs
The staffs of most camps and lodges will not launder your underthings, even on the most luxurious and best African safaris, so be sure to pack enough for 4-6 days. Almost all camps and lodges provide a basin and washing powder for you to wash your own.

PANTS 2-3 Pair
We recommend quick-dry pants that can be unzipped into shorts. It’s often cool when you start out on your morning game drive, but temperatures can heat up quickly. You may also want to pack a pair of blue jeans, especially if your travel plans include a safari by horseback.
SHORTS 1-2 Pair
If you invest in a pair of “convertible” pants that zip off into shorts, you may not need to pack any shorts.

TOPS 3-6
A mix of sleeveless shirts, t-shirts and quick-dry, vented long-sleeve shirts will prepare you for all conditions. The quick-dry sleeveless shirts are great for cool morning game drives and for keeping the sun off your arms and back in the afternoons. Sleeveless shirts and T-shirts are perfect for staying cool in the late afternoon and evenings. Mix and match and you won’t have to repeat an ensemble the entire duration of your African safari!
SHOES 1-2 Pair
Sturdy walking or hiking shoes are key. We recommend Chaco, Keen and The North Face. You may also want to pack a small, light pair of sandals for dinner in the evenings.

ACCESSORIES
Women may want to pack a light scarf or two to protect their neck and shoulders from sun, and to dress up evening dinner wear. Leave jewelry, perfume, and your hand bag at home, but DO bring a small backpack or camera bag to pack your essentials (sunscreen, camera equipment, chapstick and cash) for game drives and excursions.

ETC
Leave the high-tech gadgets (blackberry’s, iPhones, gameboys, kindles, etc) at home – or at least in your suitcase until the plane ride home! Who wants to be distracted by electronics, when you have much better, and much more beautiful distractions waiting for you around every turn. Plus, electricity is a precious commodity in the camps and lodges. Many run on solar power, or generators that are switched off during the day and overnight.

Visit Haisley's profile. Learn more about travel in Africa. See our checklist for packing for an African Safari on our website!

Luggage Language

by Clayton Trotter

Ok – we’ve all been there. You’ve spent months planning the perfect vacation and everything is in order. Dog at vet – check; Lights on – check; bags packed – check.

You’re at the airport, made it through security and have even been upgraded to first class. The flight was on time and so far your trip could not be any better. You head to baggage claim to grab your bag and continue on your perfect vacation. You get to the luggage carousel and watch as suitcase after suitcase passes you by. Before you know it, there are no more bags are on the carousel and dread flows over you – “Did the airline lose my bag?”

Well I’m here to tell you it happens a lot and it has happened to me – twice in the last year. It’s the worst feeling possible when you are going on vacation, accompanied by the horrible thoughts that pop into your head – “Will I ever see those brand new Prada shoes I just bought?” “Where did my luggage end up?” “What if someone else has my bag and sees all my sexy underwear?” Since I’ve had the privilege of losing my luggage twice, I’m sharing my reasons for opting to carry-on my luggage rather than checking it. And if you are one of those people that MUST check your luggage, then I will give you some tips on what to carry-on in case your luggage gets lost.

Top Reasons to Carry-On:
1. It won’t get lost. Everything for your trip is in your tiny suitcase right above your head. It’s not going anywhere unless the suitcase handle is wrapped up in your hand. So now you won’t be standing at the luggage carousel with that blank look on your face thinking “what happened to my luggage?"

2. You’ll pack lightly. By carrying-on you won’t pack as much stuff in your suitcase. So those 8 pairs of shoes you thought you needed for that 4 day trip – not going to happen. Now I know some of you are thinking: “What about all my purses that I MUST pack to go with all my shoes? Will all that fit into a carry-on?” In a word – NO.

3. To follow up with #2 – you can take two carry-on bags. I know for most women the other carry-on is a purse. But as I have learned, you can pack a rolling suitcase with all your clothes, shoes, under garments and more, then put your make-up, books and a purse in an over-the-shoulder bag to put underneath your seat. It’s easily accessible and everything you will need for your trip stays right there with you.

However, if you are the type of traveler who has to pack the 7 pairs of shoes, 4 purses and 8 different outfits because you need options – then I have some tips on what to take in your carry-on, just in case your luggage gets lost.

Toiletries – always take your make-up and toiletry items in your carry-on. There’s nothing worse than being away from home and not having your make-up or at least a toothbrush. Shampoo, conditioner, lotion and other bathroom items can be purchased while on vacation, but I would rather not spend my first day on vacation scouring the Wal-Mart aisles in Mexico looking for the exact shampoo and conditioner I use to keep my hair from drying out.Extra underwear – now I know what some of you are thinking “What the??” but I promise it is the best idea. If you lose your luggage, you can wear what you have on for a few days (that is if you don’t spill ketchup on your white pants while devouring that Wendy’s airport hamburger) and still feel clean because you have fresh panties.

Wear nice clothes on the airplane. I know most people want to be comfortable on an airplane, but those yoga pants people sport around in does not cut if you have a meeting or a date in your final destination. I suggest wearing NICE pants, shirt and comfortable shoes that you can slip on and off. This way if your luggage is lost at least you will look cute for the next few days.

Need a refresher on what is and isn't allowed in your carry-on? Or wondering how much they are going to charge for that second bag full of shoes you just have to check? Visit our website for a list of all the luggage policies and guidelines for each airline: http://www.brownelltravel.com/luggagepolicies.html.

Clayton Trotter is a leisure sales and marketing assistant for Brownell Travel. Feel free to contact her by clicking here. Learn more about Brownell and how we can help with any travel needs by visiting our website: www.brownelltravel.com.

"Catered Tots:" Our Top Picks for Kid-Friendly Luxury Resorts

by Haisley Smith

The Brownell travel advisors put their heads together on this one to suggest the top resorts for family travel! These resorts cater to kids and mom and dad for an all-round excellent family experience. For more info, contact Haisley Smith or any of our family travel advisors.

Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman
Far and away our number one choice for families. The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman worked with sea legend Jean-Michel Cousteau to create a truly mind-blowing children’s program. Kids ages 4 to 18 can explore the natural jungle gym of mangroves via pontoon boats and dive 100 feet below the ocean’s surface in the properties submarine to get a close look at sea life. The resort has also launched a videography project so kids can film their adventures and the sea life they encounter while snorkeling. All the programs are superbly supervised by hip and engaging staff, but the experience is so spectacular parents often tag along.

Rio Mar Beach Resort & Spa
Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico is often the most overlooked and underrated island in the Caribbean. There are activities and adventures galore for children and a kids club that allows the parents plenty of time for relaxation and rejuvenation. The “Iguana Club” at the Rio Mar Beach Resort & Spa has everything from half-day to full-day to “parent’s evening out,” options. Not just babysitting – the club has fascinating programs for kids ages 4-12 including iguana feedings, Jibaro arts & crafts, and a cookie-making fiesta. Rio Mar Beach Resort & Spa is also just steps from El Yunque Natural Forrest – the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. Forest System. Guests can take eco-walks through the trails and discover hundreds of species of wildlife.

Inn at Palmetto Bluff
Bluffton, SC
The Inn at Palmetto Bluff is home to two incredible multi-tiered tree houses and more activities than you can shake a fishing pole at. The staff can arrange for family fishing, crabbing, shrimping, kayaking, horseback riding and canoeing. The accommodations at Inn at Palmetto Bluff are suitable (and superb) for families of all sizes. You can reserve 2, 3 and 4-bedroom homes or single rooms in the Inn. Most families find having a kitchen or kitchenette helps save money as well!

The Cloister at Sea Island
Sea Island, Georgia
The Cloisters has long been THE destination for posh tots, but the newly built resort with state-of-the-art children’s center, beach and movie theater, and children’s beach activity are absolutely mind-blowing. As if that’s not enough to keep even the most active toddlers and tweens occupied – the resort offers tailored programs for different age groups. Camp Cloister has directed activities centered around a new theme each day (pirates, frogs, fish, birds) for kids age 3 -12. Club Sea Island is for pre-teens, ages 9-12 ready for a little more adventure such as ocean kayaking. These are just a fraction of the activities The Cloister at Sea Island offers making it the perfect respite for multi-generational families.

Four Seasons Aviara
North San Diego, California
The location, facilities and diverse programs at Four Seasons Aviara make it a great option for families traveling with babies, toddlers, tweens, teenagers and special-needs kids. With just a little advance warning, the resort can arrange for special meals (gluten-free, peanut-free, low-sugar, etc.) and family outings to nearby Lego Land, Sea World or San Diego Zoo. The complimentary “Kids for All Seasons” program takes kids ages 4-12 on an afternoon walk to a wildlife preserve to learn about endangered species and conservation. On the way back, they stop by the life-sized teepee for story-telling and games. Post lunch, the activities continue with kite flying, soccer, frisbee, kickball and scavenger hunts. And the proverbial cherry on top? Room service delivers oven-warm cookies and milk at bedtime.

Hotel San Pietro
Amalfi Coast, Italy
This family-owned, five-star hotel is ideal for family travelers who want more of a resort feel, with easy access to Positano. Unlike other hotels in the area, Hotel San Pietro has a private beach, tennis courts and excursion boat. Families with small children will find Hotel San Pietro a welcome respite from the crowds in Positano. The general manager of the hotel makes every effort to accommodate each of their visiting families with personal touches and family-specific recommendations.

Ready to take the family or want more suggestions? Contact Haisley, or visit our website and click on family travel to see our specialists!

San Francisco-Girls Getaway!

Brittany Bingham is a travel advisor for Sterling Brownell, and has just returned from the perfect girls birthday getaway in San Francisco! Read below about her experiences.

I guess I am in the right business since I love to travel! When any of my friends want to have a weekend getaway, and they call me, I just can’t say no. Well this “weekend” planning started way back when my friend Sarah told me she and Chris, now her fiance, were going to San Francisco and she wanted me to help her, and gave me a list…..

About two days later I got a call, “Chris said no, will you go with me?” I started looking at flights and bought my ticket before she did! We tried to round up a few of the other girls to make this a birthday celebration for Sarah, but had no takers. Come April we were off to Ol’ San Fran.

Day 1: Checked into Hotel Monaco, went to bed.

Day 2: We were up with the birds, literally, and on our way to Alcatraz. Here we took the early bird tour which I highly recommend because even on a Thursday that place is crowded! From there we ventured to Fisherman’s Warf bought some knickknacks and walked down to Scoma’s, for what Sarah called a “white linen” table cloth lunch (which it was) we had mussels, yummy crab risotto, and some lovely wine! Next on the list was Ghirardelli Square, talk about some chocolate. I have never been more excited than when I ordered my Dark Chocolate Espresso mound of joy!! If that wasn’t enough, we kept going down to Beach where we found Buena Vista and their famous Irish coffee. I was pretty pumped about this one because my dad had been there years ago for an Irish coffee himself. I had just one, he said he had a few more than that!!

Don’t worry by this time the “girl” in us came out and we needed to SHOP! We walked until we hit the Union Street Shops. Picked up a few things in the boutiques and headed back to the hotel.

Day 3: I'd like to think that we got up to go for a run since we put on our workout clothes, but in reality we explored Union Square and got some breakfast. After getting changed we headed to the house on the hill, The Ritz Carlton, and talk about the place to be! We were met by Greg, our wonderful sales manager and taken to Club Level. There was some hustle and bustle in this hotel, including the Secret Service, and I don’t think they were there to protect Sarah and me! After a wonderful site inspection through San Francisco’s only 5 Diamond hotel, we were off on our own again. At Sarah’s request, Chinatown. It seems that in 2009 scarves are "in," and where else do you get some but Chinatown-for $5! Next we headed to lunch to get some authentic Chinese, and hit a Rachel Ray $40 a Day spot, not bad and I don’t like Chinese food (but Sarah does!!). After we mapped out the rest of our day we picked up the cable car and headed out. Now this is fun! I had to ride hanging off the side! We hopped off at Lombard St. saw the curviest road around, and walked the steps of Filbert St, the steepest street around.

Then we kept walking trying to find a bus tour…..and kept walking and walking and walking, then we waited and waited and waited (outside a KFC who now serves grilled chicken) and waited. After all that, what could make us feel better than more shopping! We took the bus into Union Square and spent the next 3 hours on a new wardrobe!! On our way back to the Ritz we stopped for some sushi to reboot!

The Ritz Carlton really rolled out the red carpet--no surprise! Brownell is part of a special program, so our clients always get VIP treatment. Waiting for us in our room were rose petals and a chocolate treat for Sarah to celebrate her 26th!! We powdered our noses and went to the Club lounge for a glass, or 2, of champagne. We even saw a few famous faces before we took the town car to Top of the Mark. What a view of the city and as Sarah said 100 times over, “look there’s Alcatraz,” which you could actually see! After a shared bottle of champagne and watching some dancing we headed back for some shut eye.

Day 4: Who doesn’t hate to leave the Ritz, but it was time to go to another world, Haight St. Ahh, the days of hippies; I think I was a flower child in my past life! We walked up and down going in and out of stores and caught a bite to eat (Sarah got fish tacos she had been wanting) before catching the bus. Over the Golden Gate Bridge we went!

Next was Cavallo Point- amazing! This was an old Army base on Ft. Baker that just closed in 1994 and was turned into a lodge at the base of the bridge. WHAT VIEWS! We really wish we had stayed a day longer so that we could have taken a hike or bike ride. After checking into our bay view room, with a fireplace, we found we had missed the bus to Sausalito. Our new friend Ralph became our private tour guide, he drove us up to the top of the cliff to get a breathtaking view of the Golden Gate Bridge--we felt like we could reach out and touch it. Along with this gorgeous scenery we got a bit of a history lesson on the army base! We finally made it to Sausalito, and talk about heavenly, this quaint town sits next to the water and the houses escalate up the hillside. In my little world, this is just perfect! And if you want the BEST sushi around, go to Sushi Ran, it was well worth the wait and the wine! Again we missed the bus and had a driver come pick us up!

Being our last night we found ourselves in Farley’s Bar for some local beers and espresso martini’s. And Sarah wondered why she was wired all night!

Day 5: Up with the birds again for a fabulous breakfast in Cavallo Point’s restaurant, the only Michelin star restaurant in Sausalito. We had our taxi driver take the scenic route to the airport, so we got our ride along the Pacific and caught the little boxes on the hillside before our trip had to end.

Coming from the South and East coast, the West is a different world! But Sarah and I both loved it, the people are great, the food is great, and the sights are incredible!

To learn more about travel to San Francisco, contact Brittany by clicking here! Or contact one of our California travel specialists. To learn more about Sterling Brownell, visit our website at www.sterlingbrownell.com.