Brownell Travel Journal

Brownell Travel raises $150,000 for tornado relief

2012-01-31T13:13:00.000-06:00

See below from the Birmingham News to learn how Brownell celebrated our 125th Anniversary by giving back to Alabama - our favorite destination!

Birmingham's Brownell Travel has donated more than $150,000 to ongoing relief efforts in the wake of the deadly April 2011 tornadoes.

A destroyed home is shown in Argo, Ala., Friday, May 6, 2011.
Clean up and recovery continues in the Walker County town
in the aftermath of the April 27 tornado outbreak.
(Photo Credit: The Birmingham News/Mark Almond)

The gift, made to mark the firm's 125th anniversary, will benefit Jefferson, Walker, Tuscaloosa and Marshall counties through the Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham.

The Brownell Tornado Recovery Fund -- World Travel for Relief -- at the Community Foundation is the result of a partnership of travel companies and clients. Sponsor companies from six continents donated travel packages that were auctioned as part of a fundraising effort by Brownell.

"We've been helping clients discover more about our world through travel for 125 years, but Alabama is the destination we call home," Brownell Travel President Troy Haas said in a prepared statement. "Thanks to our luxury travel partners from all over the world and the generous response of the successful bidders, we can help the Community Foundation bridge the gaps and help people rebuild their homes and their communities."

Sponsors that donated travel packages included Abercrombie & Kent, Four Seasons, Ritz-Carlton, Orient-Express, Seabourn Cruises, St. Regis Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and United Travel Service of Turkey.

Why You Need a Travel Agent: Part Two

2012-01-30T08:00:00.000-06:00

Part 2 of “Why You Need A Travel Agent,” from veteran travel writer, Larry Olmsted. In Part 1, Olmsted affirmed the value of an experienced, well-connected advisor. In Part 2, he makes the case that it is shortsighted and even foolish to book travel without an advisor, even if you are an experienced, internet do-it-your-selfer.

http://www.forbes.com/sites/larryolmsted/2012/01/22/why-you-need-a-travel-agent-part-2/

Why You Need a Travel Agent: Part One

2012-01-24T10:59:00.000-06:00

Why does one of the world’s most renowned travel journalists use a travel advisor? Because he knows enough to know it’s the only way to go! Veteran travel journalist, Larry Olmsted, has been exploring the world for more than 20 years as a contributing editor and columnist for The Washington Post, Forbes, and USA Today. In this 2-part series, he shares one of the most compelling arguments for using a travel advisor, versus booking on your own. Dig in!

http://www.forbes.com/sites/larryolmsted/2012/01/20/why-you-need-a-travel-agent-part-1/2/

Navigator of the Seas, a Royal Carribean Cruise

2011-11-21T10:09:00.002-06:00

June Griffith is a leisure travel consultant from Brownell Travel's Mobile office. She recently took a cruise aboard the Navigator of the Seas, a Royal Caribbean Cruise Ship . You can see photos of her fabulous adventure below.

Angel with Cross
This is one of the 10 angels on the Ponte Sant'Angelo in Rome

Malta

Our guide Zachary from Sea Soung Tours at the ruins in Ephesus

Pool deck Navigator of the Seas

Taormina, Sicily

The Library at Ephesus

Carlisle Bay & Curtain Bluff, Antigua

2011-11-18T10:03:00.000-06:00

Martha Rhodes, leisure travel advisor for Brownell Travel, recently visited Carlisle Bay and Curtain Bluff in Antigua. You can read her account of both fabulous hotels below.

Carlisle Bay, Antigua | November 4-5, 2011

Carlisle Bay is a small, casually elegant resort on the south shore of Antigua that sits on its own beautiful bay. You step out of the main open-air restaurant pavilion right onto the sand, and the ocean is just a couple steps beyond. The style is modern, minimalist European with platform beds and simple clean lines softened by the lush, tropical landscaping and bougainvillea winding up through the balconies.

Carlisle Bay Antigua

One side of the property is devoted to families. Two bedroom suites feature either ground-floor terrace or 2nd floor balcony options. Each suite has a master bedroom and a second bedroom with two twin beds for children. All suites are right on the sand—a fabulous and convenient choice for families with young children.

On the other side of the main pavilion are the ocean suites, just across a bit of grass lawn from the sand. Ocean suites feature one main room with a sea-facing king bed, a lowered seating area in front and a terrace or balcony with a table and double day bed. In addition to these rooms, there are four spacious 3-BR suites with small kitchens, a great set-up for extended families.

Carlisle Bay Ocean Suite

There are two restaurants on the property. Indigo is in a large open air pavilion with amazing ocean views and table seating as well as inviting gathering spots accented with orchids. A large bar serves as the lobby and lounge. Adjacent to the bar is an indoor Asian restaurant with many delicious and healthy options.

Outside this lobby pavilion is a lagoon-like pool area with beautiful gray-blue water. There are lounge chairs as well as table seating by the pool. In the early evening a kid’s buffet meal is served here, great for parents to feed their kids early and take advantage of the complimentary nanny service for their own dinner. A romantic dinner can be served at the end of the dock if booked in advance.

Carlisle Bay Pool Area

Curtain Bluff, Antigua | Nov. 5 -6, 2011

Curtain Bluff, founded by the Hulford family and recently celebrating its 50th Anniversary, is a resort unlike any other with a very loyal guest base who return year after year. It is an all-inclusive resort with a country club atmosphere; all activities are yours to use without limits.

Curtain Bluff Antigua

I became acquainted with the Hulford family on my flight to Antigua and they took great care of me and invited me to their table for the 50th Anniversary dinner. Lady Chelle Hulford and her daughters and son-in-law could not have been more gracious and welcoming. I think every guest must feel like they are visiting dear friends each time they visit—they become quite fond of the staff members and fellow guests who tend to return at the same time each year.

All suites face the Atlantic Beach, set along the bluff. Some are ground floor with beach walkout; others are 2nd floor with balconies. Bedrooms are open-air, but also are able to be closed and air-conditioned.

Curtain Bluff Suite

A highlight of the property is the world-class spa facility—a very appealing zen-like, far-eastern design, with the most beautiful relaxation terrace high on the bluff looking out over the ocean and an infinity edge hot tub for pre- or post-treatment.

The swimming beach is nice and has many water sports, including motorized ones. There is a nice sailboat available for charters, and water taxis to activities on the island. At the beach is a large open pavilion where lunch is served each day, alongside a bar for cocktails. The pool sits back behind the beach, surrounded by tropical foliage with a lovely view of the ocean through the trees.

Curtain Bluff Swimming Beach

This resort is definitely about the people, with a mutual caring between the oft-returning guests and the long-time staff members.

Sicily with IC Bellagio

2011-11-14T10:11:00.002-06:00

Bowden Sarrett, leisure travel advisor and VP of Brownell Travel, recently visited Sicily with IC Bellagio. See her photos below for exciting highlights of her trip. ...

A side alley off the main street of Taormina in Sicily

Amazing Antipasti

Amphitheater adjacent to Grand Hotel Timeo

Another of the amphitheater adjacent to Grand Hotel Timeo

Bikini women decorated floors for area of privilege for concubines within interior and private part of palace

Drivers in Sicily definitely looked the part

Junior Suite at Grand Hotel Timeo in Taormina
My room was gorgeous and had a huge balcony overlooking the Ionian Sea

Grand Hotel Timeo - An Orient Express Virtuoso partner property in Taormina, Italy

View from my room in Taormina

Hotel San Domenico in Taormina
Used to be a monastery, beautiful gardens, Virtuoso Property

Madonna Della Rocca
I ran up to the top of the mountain one morning to this little church built into the rock above Taormina

My room at Verdura Resort-SouthWest coast of Sicily

The Seaside restaurant and beach at Verdura

Light lunch in Sicily at Grand Hotel Timeo

Two amazing pastas

Third course

Villa Romana Casale
This World Heritage Site Dates from late 3rd century AD
Incredible floors of well preserved mosaics

A PATH LESS TRAVELED . . .

2011-11-09T14:39:00.005-06:00

Brownell Leisure Travel Advisors Alyssa Schulke and Cathy Dorton have arranged a fascinating 10 day trip aboard the Orion II into the wonders of Borneo. You can read all about this special trip and see fabulous photos below.

10 NIGHT CAMP LEAKEY TOUR - FACES IN THE FOREST
Bali to Singapore: 24 August 2012

Experience unforgettable natural wonders as we visit the renowned home of Dr. Birute Galdikas and the famed Camp Leakey onboard the luxury expedition ship Orion II. A myriad of exciting destinations await you as we voyage along the southern and western coastlines of Borneo.

From isolated tropical islands to diverse National Parks, our itinerary will showcase some of Borneo’s undiscovered jewels. We will be joined by Dr. Galdikas onboard Orion II and at the landmark Camp Leakey in Tanjung Puting National Park, allowing us the opportunity to view the rehabilitation of the ex-captive orangutans.

Camp Leakey was established in 1971 by Dr. Biruté Galdikas and former spouse Rod Brindamour. It was named after the legendary paleo-anthropologist, Louis Leakey, who was both mentor and an inspiration to Dr. Galdikas as well as Drs. Jane Goodall and Dian Fossey. Originally consisting of just two huts, Camp Leakey is now an assemblage of permanent wooden structures designed to provide a base for scientists, staff, students, and Park Rangers.

Tanjung Puting is one of the great wonders of Borneo and is a wildlife mecca. We also visit Gunung Palung and Bako National Parks to examine, first hand, the complexity of ecosystems that once covered the entire Island. They now provide a refuge for Borneo’s 15,000 species of plants, 222 species of mammals, 420 resident birds, and numerous other reptile, amphibian and fish species.

For more information on this fabulous trip visit http://www.brownelltravel.com/ or email us at info@brownelltravel.com.

Easy Breezy Bermuda

2011-11-01T14:51:00.000-05:00

Katherine Gould is an luxury travel consultant for Sterling Brownell. Below you will read about her recent trip to Bermuda. You can read more about Katherine and her adventures on her blog kgouldtravel.

Pink sandy beaches? Check. Golf and tennis? Check. World class hotels? Check. Excellent shopping and dining? Check. Rich history and culture to discover? Check. Ideal weather most of the year? Check. I’m referring to Bermuda, an island paradise located approximately 650 miles east of North Carolina in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean.

Exploring one of the many stunning beaches on Bermuda with my husband

My first impression of the island was “Wow, it’s so quick and easy to get here!” By mid-afternoon, I was on the beach with a cocktail in hand. My second impression of the island was its beauty. I’ve never seen a destination so clean and beautiful, and the friendliness of the Bermudians is the icing on the cake.

Beauty can be found around every corner!

My first stop was Rosewood’s newest addition to their Caribbean portfolio, Tucker’s Point. This hotel embodies elegance and opulence, but it’s not fussy in any way. Families would be very comfortable bringing their children here and couples seeking a romantic experience can rest assured that the property will provide them with plenty of privacy.

Elegance at Tucker's Point: Spa relaxation area

Guest room at Tucker's Point

The main hotel is located on a bluff overlooking Castle Harbour, and all of the rooms offer dramatic views of the water. The interior design was old-world, warm, and very elegant. Activities are spread out across a large piece of land, so even when the hotel is full , it never feels crowded.

Exterior view of Tucker's Point

One of several, inviting common areas at Tucker's Point

Guests can spend their time at one of two different pools close to the main hotel, a separate beach club and pool area, the tennis courts, the golf course, or sight-seeing around the island. Tucker’s Point Golf Club, which is situated on over 200 gorgeous acres, is a big draw for the hotel, as are the four clay tennis courts and team of professionals to help you better either game.

The grounds of Tucker's Point

Beachfront at Tucker's Point

For guests seeking relaxation and pampering, the spa at Tucker’s Point is the perfect spot to unwind. It boasts eight treatment rooms and some of the prettiest common areas I’ve seen in a spa anywhere in the world. A full range of services is offered, and the therapists are well-trained professionals who will ensure your experience is a memorable one.

Relaxation pool at Tucker's Point spa

Dining at Rosewood Tucker’s Point did not disappoint, and the quality of the food and ambiance at the different restaurants was fantastic!

Dining room at The Point

With Levon, one of the head doormen at Tucker's Point

A few days later, I moved to The Reefs, a well-known, family-owned hotel on the other side of the island. I loved it the minute I arrived. This hotel embodies a Bermudian charm that’s difficult to describe without seeing it with your own eyes. The setting is dramatic, which adds to the atmosphere and didn’t allow me to put down my camera for very long. There were too many possible photo opportunities everywhere I looked!

Beach perfection at The Reefs

The Reefs has been in business since the 1940s, and the Dodwell family works hard to keep the hotel up to date with modern amenities, but also stay true to their original goal of providing guests with a traditional Bermudian experience. The view from the balcony of my Jr. Suite couldn’t be beat!

Jr. Suite balcony view

Guest room at The Reefs

There are a number of dining options on property, and each restaurant served up delicious food in a memorable setting. I was partial to Coconuts, a romantic restaurant situated right above the beach. It was where my husband and I chose to celebrate our wedding anniversary, and I couldn’t have imagined a lovelier setting for a special occasion.

Oceanfront dining at Coconuts

The Reefs “dine around ” program is a big draw for the repeat guests who return year after year. Guests have the option to dine at Pompano Beach Club or Cambridge Beaches. It’s a great way to see other parts of the island and enjoy a diverse dining experience during your vacation. Also worth mentioning is the hotel’s brand new spa - a lovely space with eight treatment rooms and sweeping ocean views from the relaxation area.

One of many beautiful evenings guests can enjoy at The Reefs

When we weren’t enjoying these two amazing hotels, my husband and I spent our time exploring Bermuda’s varied activities and sites. There are beautiful beaches to discover, historic towns to walk through, some serious shopping to be done in Hamilton, and much, much more. I’ve already made a list of what I want to see and do when I return - this “Jewel of the Atlantic” is calling me back.

The Tahoe Ten: Why Brownell Loves Ritz Carlton Lake Tahoe

2011-10-06T11:51:00.000-05:00

Recently, several members of the Brownell crew vacationed at the Ritz Carlton Lake Tahoe. Margaret Williams, Gay Gillen, David Ourisman, Suzette Mack, Sam McClure, Alyssa Schulke, Haisley Smith, Beth Flowers and Bowden Sarrett have compiled these top ten lists to descibe their experience. Enjoy!

The Ritz Carlton Lake Tahoe

TOP 10 REASONS BROWNELL LOVES RITZ CARLTON TAHOE

1. Loads of activities that don’t require driving or renting a car.

2. True ski-in, ski-out.

3. Great terrain for beginners and makes intermediate skiers feel like they can conquer the mountain!

4. Delectable dining options on property and off for many different tastes and budgets.

5. Superb accommodations for families. We believe the 1-bedroom suite is the best-in-class in luxury ski resorts in the US.

6. Sean White might be there! One-of-its kind ski school and Olympian Sean White’s home mountain.

7. The beautiful pool is open and warm year round. There is also an adults only (18+) pool.

8. Club-level has superb food, service, presentation and views. Time-saver, money-saver and sometimes a life-saver!

9. Complimentary gondola to Northstar village. Teens will love it and parents can feel confident about letting them explore on their own.

10. Spectacular spa. Where else can you soak in a $40,000 copper tub?

The Tahoe Ten

Cultural Advisor: Clifford Nae'ole outlines a perfect day in Maui

2011-10-05T11:52:00.000-05:00

Begin a rejuvenating day in Maui at The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua. The naturalists from Jean-Michel Cousteau's Ambassadors of the Environment Center will welcome you to the lush forests of the Maunalei Arboretum. The experience allows you to understand these fragile ecosystems and help with their sustainability.

The Ritz Carlton, Kapalua

Once your appetite has been worked up, a seven-minute walk to the Honolua General Store offers an eclectic array of local cuisine. The plate lunches combine the foods and seasonings of the pineapple-plantation cultures; it's not rare to have a taste of Japan, the Philippines, Hawaii, Korea and Portugal on a single plate.

The Honolua General Store

A fifteen-minute drive to historic Lahaina Town is a shopper's dream. Walking along Front Street allows you to soak up the energy of what was once a whaling town and the first center of government for the ancient chiefs of Hawaii. Picnic benches along the waterfront are the perfect place to savor your favorite flavor of shaved ice. The music and dance of "Ulalena" at the Maui Myth and Magic Theater tops off the Lahaina Town experience.

Lahaina Town

Top 5 Tips: Planning Family Travel

2011-09-15T14:14:00.000-05:00

Susette Mack, a Brownell Leisure Travel Advisor, was featured in this article about planning family travel. Read below for handy tips!

Families are looking ahead to planning holiday trips now, but as savvy multigenerational specialists know, no family trip is one-size-fits-all. Take a look at these Top 5 Tips that will impress your clients who want to book trips the whole family will enjoy.

Suzette Mack, Family Treks, San Jose, CA

• Really understand what families need depending on their children's ages. Many parents are savvy researchers; they know exactly what's out there and what they want, so you need to have done your homework. For example, you can't just say "Hotel ABC has a kids' program." The parents want to know if the kids will just be doing simple arts and crafts, or if they will be doing educational and cultural activities.

Cheryl Plonski, director of marketing, Hotel Plaza Athenee, New York, NY

• Offer a variety of options for various age groups. Know your audience and what type of experience they are looking for. Always add a touch of personalization and be sure to do a post trip follow up and keep detailed record of the highlights or any challenges that can be improved upon for future visits.

Kathy Stewart, director of public relations, Butterfield & Robinson, Toronto, Canada

• Figure out who the planner in the family is and work with them to make the planning process as easy as possible. Coordinating an extended family is full of politics and conflicting needs, and establishing these needs up front takes away the surprises later. Having a great agent to work with takes the pressure off the organizer and gives them someone they trust to work with and understand their needs.

• The villa concept doesn’t seem to be going away. For an extended family – the chance to have a common area to hang out and the option for a private chef or a kitchen to grab a glass of milk is a great option. There is an increasing demand for athletic and cultural activities to be offered and coordinated while at the villa or hotel, beyond a simple stay. Telling clients about exciting experiences beyond a week at the beach will inspire them to create once-in-a-lifetime experiences for their families.

Annette Kishon-Pines, director of sales for the America, Orient-Express, New York, NY

• Consider less traditional lodging and transportation for large family groups. One example is our Afloat in France program. It's a fantastic option for traveling families as the barges can be run in tandem for larger groups.

Riviera Maya - Oh My!

2011-09-06T13:59:00.000-05:00

Debbie Fairvalley is a leisure travel advisor for Sterling Brownell. Read below to learn all about her recent trip to the Riviera Maya.
I had the pleasure of heading south of the border to the Riviera Maya last month and I was blown away by the quality of the accommodations, the beauty of the beaches, the impeccable service and the fabulous gourmet offerings for “foodies” of all types.

We began our 8 night trip at a new all-inclusive 5 star gem called Grand Velas. I knew I would love this property because I had already gotten such positive feedback from clients! This over the top suite resort truly has something for everyone! Located in the middle of Riviera Maya, this huge resort features 7 gourmet ala carte restaurants, each one specializing in a different international cuisine. We had the pleasure of dining in Piaf (celebrating Bastille Day) and it was as good as many of the 5 star Michelin restaurants of Paris! Add the attention to detail and the fabulously French surroundings and this restaurant is a must see.

My room was a Grand Class Ocean front suite and was easiliy as large as an entire floor in our home! You can sleep 4 in this grand suite and still have enough room to spread out! A private terrace, a plunge pool, and a bathroom suite with a tub that can accommodate 2 with full Jacuzzi jets and separate rain shower? Yes, please! I loved the clean lines of the white tile, soothing colors of the fabrics and the contemporary feel of the entire room. If the Grand class isn’t your cup of tea (but I can’t imagine why it wouldn’t be!), there are two others to choose from as well. The Spa class suites are the same size with a design focused on more of a Zen garden feel. The Ambassador Class suites are located on the oceanfront, surrounding the massive family pool area. These suites offer a bit more activity during the day and are perfect for families. Some even feature a nice walk out patio and green space for children.

We left the spacious and gracious Riviera Maya for a quick day trip back to Cancun. First stop along the strip of beach that resembles Miami Beach’s Miracle Mile is Le Blanc. This hip urban resort is perfect for the jet setting vacationer who wants a quick getaway at a spa resort with terrific nightlife. I imagine the elegant lobby bar gets quite active on a weekend night! The focus at Le Blanc is on YOU! How would you like your butler to unpack your bags? What scent would you like in the room? Would you like your bath drawn with a certain oil or aroma? And if this isn’t enough spoiling you can head downstairs to the spa for a soothing massage or water therapy. Even though this is located on the busy beach of Cancun I felt relaxed at the huge infinity pool where you can be as close or as removed from the action as you want to be. With its youthful vibe, Le Blanc would be a perfect honeymoon spot for a young couple or even a great girlfriend getaway.

Next stop was the Ritz Carlton Cancun –it never disappoints in its familiar traditional luxury brand! Ritz clients will feel quite at home in this beachfront property –the elegant lobby, restaurants, and public spaces feature the fabulous Ritz signature flower arrangements, leaded crystal, rich woods, and tapestries. The Club Floor offers some of the finest food service I have ever experienced. Five mini meals are presented daily from breakfast to after dinner dessert –I wanted to stay put for the entire day just to see what was being set up next! Ritz Carlton also boasts the one of a kind Viking Cooking School headed by Chef Rory Dunaway. Chef Rory teaches skills in grilling, Mexican food preparation, tequila tasting, and hosts a chef’s table every Wednesday night in which you can come cook a little, drink a lot, and have a fabulous dinner. You don’t have to be staying at the hotel for this one –just make sure you make your reservations in advance (and tell him I sent you – I was his star tequila taster).

We head back to the luxury of Riviera Maya and The Rosewood Mayakoba. Mayakoba is an area of the Maya that is lush with mangroves and canals of water that separate the different properties in this area. You are actually transported through these canals to you accommodations by boat. It is quite the romantic arrival! Each private villa has water views, a plunge pool and outdoor tub/shower area that is completely hidden from other villas – romance is key at Rosewood Mayakoba! The beauty of the property is experienced both day and night. While the majority of the villas are located in the mangroves, the beachfront villas offer a similar privacy – but are focused on the beach views. The beachfront café is a wonderful place to enjoy a sunset dinner.

All 3 resorts within Riviera Mayakoba share a wonderful Greg Norman Championship designed golf course called El Camaleon. I had the pleasure of joining Alfredo Renteria, Rosewood’s Resort Manager for a round at El Camaleon. All I can say is I am glad I had a local helping guide my game….the course has many surprises for the first time player – including a rather large cenote (a Mexican underground spring that is believed to be a sacred water hole). If you ball heads down here, LEAVE IT!

We arrived at Maroma as the sun was beginning to set and what a glorious time to make our entrance. I was escorted to my beachfront villa with exquisite views of the beautiful white sands and the turquoise waters. Complete with a plunge pool, lazy hanging hammock, separate massage room on the ocean, a nice work out area, a family room that could host a nice cocktail gathering, lovely master bedroom with mosquito netting on the king sized bed, and a his & hers bathroom this suite would keep any couple happy. Honeymooners would swoon over this place; it’s so romantic, so authentic, so friendly, and so relaxing! I picture heaven to look much like Maroma…

We also made a quick lunch stop at Royal Hideaway Playacar. This was my favorite beach of any of the Riviera Maya properties. Acres of new sugary sand and beautiful blue aquamarine sea definitely make this one of the World’s 10 BEST BEACHES. And the good news is the rooms are fabulous too! The new rooms feature a Tommy Bahama feel with rich dark wood furniture and cool khaki upholstery. The baths are redone with nice amenities and cool marble fixtures. This is a traditional resort in the middle of Riviera Maya. My generation will feel quite at home here…

The perfect ending to this weeklong journey is a spa getaway at Banyon Tree Mayakoba. The resort is set up around a massive central building that houses the spa, restaurants, bars and public spaces. Individual villas winding their way around the water, mangroves and beachfront and are accessible by boat, bike or golf cart. Magic awaits in these wonderful villas! My first sight is a huge plunge pool that wraps around my villa surrounded by complete privacy behind walls and vegetation. A Japanese tea house provides afternoon shade. Once inside my villa I am greeted by high ceilings and glass walls that open onto the pool area. The low Oriental style bed welcomes you with lush pillows and inviting lighting. The bathroom also opens onto an outdoor soaking tub where candles are lit at night to add to the romantic ambiance. This is THE place for spa services. The predominately Thai staff understands how to create the perfect spa environment – beginning with ginger tea, escorting you to your own private villa for your service, a fabulous foot bath, and a massage that is perhaps the best I have had anywhere – what a way to end my stay in Riviera Maya!

Adventures in Greece and Turkey

2011-09-01T15:19:00.004-05:00

Bowden Sarrett, leisure travel advisor recently visited Greece and Turkey. Nurdan's United Travel provided fabulous guides for Bowden and her mother while in Turkey. See her photos below for exciting highlights of her trip.

Punto is a fabulous rug/carpet store in Istanbul where Nurdan's guide Esin (pictured) took us for a lesson about how they are made, an afternoon tea, and a visit with the owner Metin who has a picture of our own Alabama Senator Shelby on his wall--- just another satisfied customer!

This town is becoming a very popular seaside resort---and you can see why when you look at the pretty water, harbor, and beach. There are restaurants all along the beach.

With protesters below in Constitution Square and this view above it was hard to decide which way to look as we had dinner on the last night of our trip!

How did they get those stones from twelve miles away in the 5th century BC? How did they know to build the columns at an angle so that from a distance they would appear straight? Mules, slaves, pulleys... Walking is a challenge but the view from the top makes it an accomplishment we had to achieve!

Five o'clock in the evening was a wonderful time to visit as the crowds and heat both were diminished.

Lunch at Vedema in Santorini
Jody Foster was there with children just a week or two before we toured this beautiful family friendly Virtuoso property. It's in a small village surrounded by vineyards sitting up high with sea views too. For a 45 rooms hotel its amenities are amazing with spa, wine cellar, gourmet restaurant, and nice sized pool.

The pool area of the Four Seasons Bosphorus---looking out over the waterway that separates Europe from Asia.

You may take the cable car, ride a donkey, or walk in the path and the poop of the donkey to get to the top. Each way is odoriferous!!!

The pier for ships is right near the center of this town with amazing old thick fortress walls. There are lots of cobblestones so wear your “walking shoes” and be ready to dive in to many small shops eager for your tourist dollars---or Turkish lira!

Our wonderful guide Eti from Nurdan’s United Travel took us for a typical Greek meal after we toured Ephesus. We started with a footlong pita bread with butter and goat cheese and a cold local beer. This was followed by salad with the most incredible pomegranate vinegar. Then we had fritters made of bulgar and stuffed with meat. Then we had this huge plate of kebabs---for LUNCH!!! We didn’t stop there though because Eti ordered bachlava--but we wrapped it up and took it back to the ship to enjoy later, when we could find room in our stomachs!!!

Look at the artwork that decorated these homes inhabited during Jesus’ time. The city had hot and cold running water, luxury shops, and marble streets for chariots!

The building in the distance with the columns was the library. We were there early in the day and still there were hordes which our guide said was nothing compared to a big crowd normally there.

If you need a coffee This gentle Turk is happy to help you out. Wandering the gardens of Topkapi Palaca in Istanbul he offers refreshments—and great photo ops!

The view from our room of the pool and outdoor dining and banquet areas with the Bosphorus beyond.

Dining outdoors at the Four Seasons Bosphorus with Nurdan!

At the entrance of the restaraunt with Nurdan. Pick your own fresh fish for supper!

Butterflied fresh shrimp with fried calamari

A second course of seafood with Nurdan

Lunch, poolside at The Four Seasons Bosphorus in Istanbul, Turkey

The view of the pool and outdoor dining and banquet areas with the Bosphorus beyond from our room at The Four Seasons Bosphorus

Travel Mart at the Bellagio, Las Vegas

2011-08-25T12:57:00.001-05:00

Katherine Gould is a luxury travel consultant for Sterling Brownell. She recently attended Travel Mart at the Bellagio Hotel in Las Vegas. Read below to learn about her experience.

Each year, Virtuoso holds the conference of all travel industry conferences in Las Vegas. It’s called Travel Mart, and to say it’s an unforgettable experience is an understatement. Over 3000 people attended this year’s event, which brings together Virtuoso suppliers and consultants from all over the world for an action-packed five days.

Travel Mart is very important for Virtuoso travel consultants like me because it’s the ultimate opportunity to refresh my knowledge of the world’s best luxury properties and tour operators, learn about new ones, and network, network, network. For four days, I sat at a table with other Brownell consultants and listened to the four minute updates each Virtuoso supplier was alloted to spend with us. By the time it was done, over 300 of the best travel contacts in the business had visited my table and met with me personally. It was an overwhelming and meaningful few days!

Bellagio has hosted Travel Mart for the past several years, and it’s one of several Virtuoso properties in the Las Vegas area. The property lived up to its reputation and my expectations. This hotel has it all: location, beautiful common areas, a fantastic casino, many great shops and restaurants, excellent service, and comfortable rooms. It’s going through a major room overhaul as well, and the updated decor is decidedly chic and luxurious. The Virtuoso amenities at Bellagio include an upgrade to a Pool View room (12th floor or higher), two $20.00 breakfast vouchers per room per day, and one voucher redeemable for the guest’s choice of either four Spa Facility Passes valued at $116.00 or an $85.00 Olives Lunch Credit (one voucher per room, per stay).

Here are the other Virtuoso properties in Las Vegas, all of which come with their own set of complimentary amenities when you book your stay through me: ARIA Resort & Casino, Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas, Mandarin Oriental Las Vegas, SKYLOFTS at MGM Grand, The SIGNATURE at MGM Grand, and Wynn Las Vegas.

Venice Simplon Orient Express: Trip of a Lifetime!

2011-08-18T15:03:00.000-05:00

Laura Clark is a leisure travel advisor for Brownell. Read below for her account of a recent trip aboard Orient Express’ Venice Simplon.

After a delightful evening at The Londra Palace in Venice where we enjoyed a fabulous room with a balcony overlooking the Grand Canal, my mother and I boarded the Venice Simplon Orient Express.

The train was absolutely fabulous. It is truly a step back in time –to when everything was done to perfection. The trains are original cars that were made in the 1920s. We had two cabins which opened in the middle to form a suite. We each had our own double seat and sink. The toilets are on either end of the car. It was quite a warm day in Venice when we departed, so the windows were open and the small fans created a nice quiet breeze. We sipped sparkling wine as we took off and made a toast to a wonderful week on the Orient Express.

The VSOE staff is the very best in service –our hostess, Val Ottofaro of Orient Express, was a dream! The dining car was just outstanding. The French chef on the train is magnificent. There was a set menu each day (which you could keep as a souvenir) yet you could request other items if you prefer.

As we settled in after a delicious lunch, we watched the Italian country side go by as we made our way to Krakow, Poland. Having cocktails in the bar car while the piano player played in the background was like a step back into the Roaring 20s. Most of the men were in the recommended black tie and a majority of ladies had long gowns on.

Our suite was converted to two lower beds, with fine linens and mints on our pillow. After a wonderful night sleep, we awoke to the sights of Poland –wildflowers and long leaf pines were everywhere! Breakfast was served by our steward, Pietro when we awoke- fresh fruit, croissants, and French bread made right on the train! Our morning is spent at leisure as we made new friends and enjoy the landscape.

We arrived in Krakow and were welcomed by a group of singers and dancers. After the entertainment, we boarded horse drawn buggies for a tour of Krakow Old Town and Jewish Quarter. The city is lovely –a beautiful town on the river loaded with churches and castles! We spent the night in the Sheraton Krakow, a very nice hotel in a great location where our luggage was already waiting. We enjoyed an evening stroll along the cobblestone streets and dined in an authentic Polish restaurant –flavored vodkas, wild boar, rabbit and scampi – delicious!

The following morning started with an incredible breakfast buffet with made to order eggs. Afterward was a delightful stroll around town, shopping, and a sightseeing trip to the churches and the castle. The market in Krakow has been going since medieval days. Our evening was spent in the Salt Mine. After a tight elevator ride down the shaft, the sights below were incredible – the mine is no longer a working mine but a wonderful tourist attraction. After a wonderful small group tour, we rounded a corner to be serenaded by a 15 piece orchestra. Dinner was a 6 course meal eaten while being entertained by a duet on the harp and violin. The following morning, after a leisurely gondola ride, we boarded the train just in time for dinner and departure to our next destination.

The next day we arrived in Dresden just before lunch and were received by a duet of horn players. We took a walking tour of old Dresden with our other train travelers and had a fabulous lunch buffet at our new home for the next two nights: The Taschenbergpalais Kempinski. Dresden is a lovely town. It was completely destroyed in World War II yet the buildings have been built back in the same style as before. The Opera House is something to behold as well. The most impressive were the collections –the art and jewelry were beautiful but the porcelain collection took my breath away. The evening was on our own and we joined Val and group for a delicious German dinner.

The next afternoon we met our train companions for a wonderful river boat cruise. The band, champagne and canapés were an added highlight of our VSOE experience. After a walk through a lovely area, we had a private organ concert in a lovely small church. Dinner followed at a nearby castle; a lovely evening with new friends.

We were thrilled to arrive back to our train for one last hurrah. Afternoon tea in our suite was followed by a tour of the train kitchen. Our final evening was a true celebration of a great vacation. The food was well beyond everyone’s expectations.

What a wonderful trip! Thank you Orient Express and Brownell.

Beautiful Bermuda: June 9-12, 2011

2011-08-16T13:20:00.000-05:00

Debbie Fairvalley is a leisure travel advisor for Sterling Brownell. You can read about her summer trip to Bermuda below.

Having not stepped foot on the pink sands of Bermuda since 1993, I was in for a real surprise when I revisited this beautiful island destination. I had forgotten how beautiful the beaches are, how pristine blue the water is, how wonderful the golf courses are, and just how fantastic this piece of paradise really is.

We arrived after a short two hour flight from Atlanta in a very English friendly airport and within 10 minutes we were in our private transfer headed for our posh “estate” at Elbow Beach! The new beachfront suites are lovely, with breathtaking views of the grassy lawn and wide white sand beach. The view of the lighted beach at night and the feeling of sand on your toes – helps you unwind and appreciate where you are!

We arrived at the Fairmont Southampton and were met with the grandeur of days gone by. Driving up the tree lined drive-past the par 3 golf course-gives you a sense of the glory days of Bermuda. We heard the Beach Club calling our name below and headed down for a sunset stroll. The sand all around the Fairmont’s Beach Club is the color of a pink flamingo – and actually glows in the orange of the sunset. Breathtaking! There is a wonderful antique trolley that takes guests from the Beach Club to the resort (hiking down is actually kind of fun-but I definitely appreciated the trolley for the return trip)! The hotel has a very traditional charm that is felt both in the public spaces as well as the rooms. The harbor view shows a bustling yachting lifestyle that Bermuda is famous for. I enjoyed cocktails on my deck while watching the hoisting of the sails.

The Royal Naval Dockyard has been restored to its historic significance and now houses many shops and eateries. My favorite part was watching the glass blowing masters at work - now I understand why some of the pieces are so expensive! However if you want to experience a bit more privacy and old world charm, then you must visit Cambridge Beaches. This resort/spa has been around in Bermuda for quite a while and has a very strong repeat clientele because of their attention to details and service.

We made our way to the family owned Pompano Beach Club for lunch. If you are a fisherman, this is the property for you! The ocean outside this resort is so shallow you can walk almost a quarter mile before you are waist deep in the sea - a very unique experience! The owners are always on property to make sure you are well taken care of and to share wonderful stories.

If it's Friday you must go to the Fairmont Hamilton Princess for their huge outdoor cocktail party! Everyone who is anyone turns out for this gala at the end of their busy work week. It’s fun to see all the men in their shorts and sports jackets enjoying cocktails. The party takes place on the huge open lawn facing the canal so you can watch the sunset as the boats in the harbor head for home. There is great music and a festive atmosphere –with a typical refined Bermuda accent! The hotel is fascinating – it houses a war room used by Winston Churchill in WWII (Bermuda was instrumental in WWII as a spot where mail was intercepted and decoded for the allied effort). There is lots of memorabilia throughout the hotel complete with photos of British royalty –this is definitely the grand dame of Bermuda!

Just across the canal from Hamilton is a wonderful Newstead Belmont Hills Resort & Spa. This newly renovated property has a very contemporary feel in a refined sort of way. Each suite features state of the art bathrooms and amenities and can accommodate up to 3 bedrooms. If you are a yachtsman, you can’t beat the views and the access to the golf club by water taxi! Speaking of golf, there are 7 fabulous courses on this small island! I adored the views from the ocean holes on the famed Port Royal Golf course. I don’t know how the PGA pros that play here are able to focus on their drives!

Tucker’s Point also has one of the most beautiful resorts on the island. This brand new Rosewood Hotel sets the bar for elegance and luxury in Bermuda! From the fabulous well-manicured grounds to the exquisite lounges and restaurants this is a true 5 star resort. Tucker’s Point has everything - tennis, golf, a fabulous spa, a pool that reminds me of the Italian Riviera and a Beach Club that must be raked 50 times a day. Between the beach club and restaurant/pool area you could easily spend a long weekend here and never stay in the same place!

Our final evening was spent watching a wedding take place at The Reefs. Their lovely beach grotto was the setting for the wedding dinner and reminded me of the Greek Isles. The Reefs have just completed the addition of their fabulous 1, 2, & 3 bedroom villas. Each villa has superb ocean views and is larger than many homes in Atlanta – perfect for families or groups traveling together!

A quick trip through the charming town of St. George’s to purchase a reminder of this wonderful trip and we must make our way back to the airport. I loved the shopping in St. George’s –the shops are boutique and original with small cobblestone streets and slight alleyways that make it all the more fun!

If you have never been –or if you haven’t been recently– you MUST put Bermuda back on your radar. The island has the best of British flair with the beauty and charm of island life. Also, NOW is definitely the time to visit Bermuda –the weather is great and the Bermuda tourist board is sponsoring a $400 air credit towards your trip!

Walking With Elephants and Baines' Camp - Okavango Delta

2011-08-15T15:20:00.000-05:00

Alyssa Schulke is an independent travel advisor for Brownell. Below you can read about her experience with Walking with Elephants, what she calls "one of the most amazing experiences she's ever had." You can read more about Alyssa's travels on her blog.

One of the most amazing experiences I have had – not only in Africa, but anywhere – was Walking with Elephants. I was staying in the Okavango Delta in Botswana at a camp about an hour’s drive from the nearest dirt airstrip, and this was one of the optional activities they provided. Right after breakfast on our second day, four of us hopped into a jeep with our guides and headed out into the bush. We drove for about an hour and then stopped in an area which seemed to be near nothing. After a few minutes, three elephants came into view along with their handlers. For the rest of the day, I got to touch, hug, talk to, walk, eat lunch with, and learn all about those three amazing creatures.

Walking with Elephants is an activity sponsored by the Living With Elephants Foundation (LWE). LWE was founded by Doug and Sandi Groves, who were professional animal handlers in the US. They traveled to Africa to film a movie and while there, fell in love with the elephants and learned of some orphans that needed care. From that point on, their organization was born. They have spent the last twelve years in the bush of Africa taking care of their foster elephants, raising awareness of elephants, educating locals, and conducting research. More information can be found here.

I stayed at Baines’ Camp, which is located in the Okavango Delta in Botswana and is a Sanctuary Camp. When we arrived, we were greeted by the entire staff singing songs which was a fantastic touch.
Five thatched roof units on elevated walkways comprised Baines’ Camp. The walls of the units are canvas so as to not be permanent if the camp needs to be moved in the future. There is also a pool area. We had #5 which is a large bedroom with a king bed on wheels with ample mosquito netting that can be rolled out onto the equally large deck at night. Also in the bedroom are two window seats that look out over the water. The bathroom had hammered metal sinks, a walk-in shower with rain showerhead, and wilderness views. I loved showering each morning with the bats that would hang outside the window to get the moisture from the steam.

The lodge here is very small – with a few dining room tables, a lounge with internet, and a fire pit that extends out over the water. The entire space is open-air. Staff eats both breakfast and dinner with you, which was a fun way to get to know each other. The food was good – two choices for dinner entrees, and the breakfasts focused on hot cereals and breads due to the temperature outside.

There was so much water when we were there that our drives and animals were quite limited. We saw a lot of birds, hippos, giraffes, and that was about it. The length of our drives was also shortened because of the water. However, it was an anomaly to have so much water as we had, and I loved the boat rides we took in the evening - the birdlife and sunsets were lovely.

The neighboring camp, Stanley’s, allows children, and Baines’ does not. Baines’ does a lot to cater for couples and honeymooners in particular, such as private dining, private swimming, private sunset boat rides with champagne. One of the nights the pool deck was setup with dinner and candles under the stars, which was gorgeous.

Living With Elephants

Baines' Camp

REGENT SEVEN SEAS, EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN: JUNE 17-30, 2011

2011-08-09T13:44:00.001-05:00

Randie Rosenburg is an independent travel consultant with Brownell. Below you will read about her cruise aboard the Regent Seven Seas Mariner.

Windmill on Crete

Musicians in Safed Israel

St. John’s Bay, Lindos, Rhodes

What can I say about a cruise line whose bathroom amenities include a shower cap with a terry hair tie in the package? Whose sewing kit includes 10 colors of thread in 10 pre-threaded needles? Well, I can say I was impressed with the attention to detail, and that it didn’t stop there.

My husband, David, and I boarded the Regent Seven Seas Mariner in Athens on June 17th. An RSSC representative met us as we alighted from our taxi and guided us through the port authority and onto a motor coach which dispatched us to the ship. It was in the ship’s show lounge that we registered -- a nice and well-organized environment. We were done and on our way to explore in no time.

The 12-night cruise aboard the Seven Seas Mariner was a treat, indeed. Our generously-proportioned stateroom featured a sitting area, curtained from the bed space, with flat screen TV and daily-stocked mini bar, a walk-in closet and a bathroom larger than most on cruise ships. What a great space to come “home” to after a long day’s touring. Sipping cocktails on our verandah, while the sun set behind the mountains of the Turkish coast, was just about perfect.

Our home on Regent’s Mariner

Leaving Antalya, Turkey

I discovered pretty displays of crystallized ginger and dark chocolate straws in a couple of strategic spots near dining venues. These are two of my favorite things (beat raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens any day!), and I got the feeling Regent knew that and made them appear as I waltzed by. There was a most welcoming singer from Moldova with an effortless and beguiling voice. Her smile and songs greeted us on the pool deck and in the various lounges at different times. We were always delighted. Other ways Regent stands apart from main stream cruise lines: prompt room service, nicely presented; easy off and on ship in ports with complimentary bottled water handy; and the fact that every staff member always greets you as you pass by. The dining venues are varied with good service. We sampled every one and enjoyed the food, relaxed ambience and especially the ease of dining whenever and with whomever.

David had tickets to the Bob Dylan concert in Tel Aviv. We were to be docked in Haifa that day with no plan on how to get him to Tel Aviv, 60 miles south. A cute Chilean lady from the Destination Services desk (I’m wracking my brain to recall her name…one of only two crew members from Chile, the other being equally cute, but male) took great interest in David’s scheme and was so very helpful in arranging for a reputable taxi driver in port to drive him there and back. She became a buddy through the cruise, marveling that we often chose separate tours according to our interests, and cheering when we toured together. She helped with last minute switches, too.

I won’t go through our day-to-day since there were 12 days with 10 days of touring. Instead, I’ll just give my impressions of this fascinating area of the Mediterranean which encompasses the birthplace of democracy and monotheistic religions and a big chunk of the Greek, Roman and Ottoman Empires. Helen of Troy, Caesar, Socrates, Abraham, Jesus, Mohammed, Alexander the Great, Marco Polo: hundreds of historical characters, household names, who shaped our modern world lived, loved, exchanged ideas, and disagreed BIG time all over this place. I was overwhelmed with the layers and layers of history. What became evident (again, I must admit) is that my time in the American education system was not academically well-spent. (I’m deleting that last sentence before I send this to Mom!) I am so ready now for a Western Civilization course. But I was SO interested and loved exploring, trying my best to put life and history in perspective.

Library at Ephesus

Inside the Blue Mosque

Bread Man, Antalya

Crete, Rhodes and Cyprus were beautiful and I’d like to visit again with more time to spend. Our four days in Israel were fascinating, sparking my interest in the Middle East, current and past. Turkey (Antalya, Kusadasi/Ephesus & Istanbul) offered color and culture, beautiful beaches and cooling breezes, great food and happy faces. I will definitely return to Turkey to for a more in-depth trip.

Regent Seven Seas proved a wonderful host for our exploration of the Eastern Med. I am so happy to finally have experienced the high standards in cruising that my clients have raved about for years. All the aspects one expects in larger ships: entertainment, spa, multiple dining and lounge venues, opportunities to meet and mingle with fellow passengers; but with more personalized service, more luxury, no crowds, and absolutely NO nickel and diming. Including all beverages, shore excursions and gratuities is such a welcome model from a passenger perspective. Many, many of the passengers I met had sailed before with Regent and were very happy campers.

The time I spent with Regent in June reinforced my already great confidence in the cruise company. I plan to introduce more travelers to Regent Seven Seas. My clients who have sailed have repeated. I hope to be so lucky!

Luxury Travel Advisor: Brownell Travel

2011-08-03T09:36:00.004-05:00

Here is a great article about Brownell written by Meagan Drillinger that was the Luxury Travel Advisor cover story for August 2011.

Troy Haas and Meg North , president and executive vice president, respectively, of Brownell Travel, at their new headquarters in Birmingham, AL.

Today’s face of Brownell Travel would be somewhat unfamiliar to its founder, Walter T. Brownell, who set up the company in 1887. The new headquarters, which opened this year, sits in one of the poshest retail districts of Birmingham, AL, rubbing elbows with Brooks Brothers and Saks Fifth Avenue. Inside, visitors are greeted with a wash of earth tones, clean lines and hi-tech touches that convey an ambiance of Southern-hospitality-meets-SoHo chic. The meeting areas are accented with wall-sized National Geographic maps as well as larger-than-life blowups of exotic destinations and hotels.

“We wanted the new office to collect the excitement and energy of Brownell,” says President Troy Haas. “It’s easy to get wrapped up in the day-to-day and to forget why we do this. It’s important to have beautiful, romantic images of destinations here to remind us.”

The new office was also designed to be a fun space, specifically when suppliers come to meet with clients. Sliding doors give way to a spacious entertaining area with kitchen facilities, so cooking demonstrations for clients, cocktail hours and more are within easy grasp.

Additionally, the new office provides tools for the Brownell team to be as self-sufficient as possible and, according to Haas, “allows us to continue to attract fresh talent to this industry.”

In 2012, Brownell Travel will celebrate its milestone 125th year, and to do it up in style, will host a gala in the beginning of the year for partners and clients. The gala will also kick off a yearlong series of events and offerings for Brownell clients, including a transatlantic crossing, reminiscent of the very first Brownell Tour to Switzerland that began with a sailing aboard the SS Devonia. Brownell hopes to team up with Cunard, whose parent company owned the SS Devonia, to recreate the historical event.

Brownell in 2011

Brownell has come a long way after the first excursion. The company has served more than 75,000 clients in the last 124 years, proving that the travel advisor is still a vital component in planning memorable luxury travel experiences. It’s even expanded beyond its Birmingham headquarters, with offices in Mobile, AL, and Atlanta, GA. The company has sales advisors and independent contractors in 20 states, whose combined forces pull in more than $75 million in sales annually.

Brownell today is headed by Haas and by Executive Vice President Meg North. Haas began his career after graduate school working for the consulting firm Bain and Company. He was on a case team that helped the Official Airlines Guides purchase and integrate Thomas Cook Travel as part of an early online travel venture. “I was struck by both the lack of resources in the industry for providing professional travel planning and the opportunity for a fee-enhanced and more professional business,” says Haas. “I put in the back of my mind that I would like to give that business a try in the future when I found the right opportunity.” That came in 1993 when he was offered the opportunity to buy into Brownell and to become the company’s CEO.

North, meanwhile, got into the business looking for a complete change in direction. “I was 35 years old and divorced. I was just ripe for a change,” she tells Luxury Travel Advisor. “I ended up purchasing a small travel agency, Destinations, which had been started a year and a half before. I bought the agency at 51 percent of stock and negotiated future buyouts so I could buy the whole thing. Ten years later, Troy came a-courting and it was love at first sight.”

Brownell Travel’s Youth Wave (Left to Right): Marianne Gurak, Connie Forrester, Courtney Lankford, Emily Debruge, Caroline Couch, Jordan Parker, Grier Donald, Haisley Smith and Mabry Fiddler.

Haas approached North in October of 1994. In just 12 short weeks, all the legal paperwork was signed and by January 1, 1995, the two companies reopened as one unit. “Meg and I had such a shared vision,” says Haas. Since then, their unified passion and similar mind-set to selling luxury travel, supplemented by a wonderful friendship, has led the two to build a dynamic and engaged travel advisor model.

“Troy and I merged businesses during a time when people were looking to make acquisitions,” says North. “Other companies had come to me to make deals but I was waiting for the cream of the crop. That was Troy, and it has been a great partnership ever since.”

Part of Haas’ and North’s shared vision comes from the love of travel, which is not a unique phenomenon in this industry, but is the No.1 ingredient in building a successful luxury travel agency. “As we merged or joined companies with Brownell, we learned that these partnerships only work if we bring in people who have the vibrancy and passion, and who are excited about what they do,” says North. Brownell Travel merged with Abeta Travel in Mobile in 2001 and Sterling Travel in Atlanta in 2004 to dominate the Southeastern travel market.

When such moves are made, Brownell prefers to keep existing owners in the fold. “Aggregation is not the direction we are going for,” says Haas. “Agency owners who are selling to get out of the business are not the right fit for us. We’ve found that aggregation only works if the owners remain committed and passionate about the business.”

So, what’s the secret to Brownell’s staying power? “We attribute our longevity to three things,” says Haas. “The first is passion for the travel experience. The second is we strongly listen to our clients. We listen to what their dreams are and we work to make them come true. Third, we have a collection of top-notch resources from which to draw.” Brownell Travel is a member of Virtuoso and has access to the consortium’s wealth of luxury suppliers. Brownell Corporate is a sister operation and part of the Tzell Travel Group.

In Africa, 2008: Troy Haas (second from right), with his wife, Ann (to his left) on an African game drive with their children, left to right: Cottrell, Margret and Amelia.

North’s Destinations agency was one of the early members of Allied Percival International (API), the predecessor to Virtuoso. When Destinations and Brownell merged, one of the decisions of the merger was that Brownell become part of Virtuoso.

“Virtuoso is an extraordinary organization and it’s a key component of our model and our success. Both Meg and I have chaired the member advisory board and we are supremely committed to our relationship with Virtuoso,” says Haas.

Maintaining great supplier relationships is also a driving factor. “We are very connected with our top vendor partners, who give our advisors key contacts in the industry,” says North. In addition, Brownell members are on advisory boards of top suppliers, such as Four Seasons, Abercrombie & Kent and Ritz-Carlton.

Brownell receives an impressive number of supplier visits, given that Birmingham is not on the main travel circuit for most vendors. The company’s reputation as being gracious and collaborative with these partners is a big draw for its hosting program (a program offered by Brownell to establish independent contractors who then gain access to Brownell’s vendors and support system). One of the walls in the new office lobby is decked with awards that Brownell has received from vendors, but the one that Haas and North are most proud of is the Virtuoso Hospitality Award, which is voted on exclusively by suppliers.

In The South Pacific : Troy Haas at the St. Regis, Bora Bora.

Part of what makes the team of Haas and North so successful is that it is a true partnership, through and through. “I just look at it like you would any strong friendship,” says North. “We are both committed to what we want to do. We both respect each other so much.” Haas adds, “It is all built on trust.”

This partnership model has carried over to the rest of the business, which is how Brownell was originally operated upon opening. “We believe that advisors work best with assistants,” says North. As a result, the majority of advisors under the Brownell name have assistants with them to handle the minute details in planning luxury travel experiences so that advisors can build relationships with their clients. “This is how Brownell functioned originally. It had destination specialists, each with a support team.”

“If we are going to create great experiences, the advisor has to be emotionally engaged with the client,” says Haas. “It is a creative and emotional process that goes beyond making sure the seats and documents are correct. That’s very much a different part of the brain.”

Finding a Fit

Finding the right client is a major part of Brownell Travel’s success story, because one size does not fit all in this business. “During the 1990s, we dealt with so many people for whom we were not the right choice,” says North. “They were just looking to book a trip, and we have gotten away from that type of transaction-based business.” Brownell’s services cater to the upper premium market—clients seeking travel experiences that go beyond the guidebooks and are culturally immersive. The company also has a meetings and incentives division, with a high level of engagement with the client.

La Dolce Vita: Troy Haas and his wife, Ann, enjoy a cooking class at Villa San Michele in Florence.

Brownell’s model urges the advisor and client to engage with one another. It is more than offering quotes and suggesting destinations. In fact, Brownell advisors are instructed to uncover the “why” of travel, first and foremost. Why someone wants to travel unlocks all the answers to how it will be planned and what the trip entails.
North tells us of one particular client—a family of six with three natural children and two adopted children from China. The mother decided to plan a trip back to China to visit the orphanages from where she adopted her children. The “why” was to help reconnect her children with their roots. From there, Brownell was able to arrange age-appropriate activities to do, in addition to tracking down the original orphanages and nurses who took care of her children as infants.
“You have to have relationships with suppliers who understand this emotional connection,” says North. “Whether it’s this story or an anniversary trip, you have to know what experiences will have just enough of everything to bring magic.”

When the right fit is made with a client, Brownell is able to soar. Haas and North told us of one of the most lavish trips they ever put together, which the office lovingly refers to as “My Big Fat Greek Wedding & Honeymoon.” North and her team planned a destination wedding and honeymoon for a client in Greece. The trip kicked off with a Silversea cruise. The wedding party (including family, priest, Rabbi, dressmaker and personal assistants) disembarked in Athens and traveled to Santorini via private helicopter transfer. With the help of its Virtuoso partners in Greece and Spain, North’s team took over a Relais & Château hotel to house the wedding party. On the big day, they arranged for a street to be closed off so the bride, and her 10-foot-long train, could walk to the ceremony through the cobblestone streets. Following the wedding, they charted a private jet and flew the party into Valencia to rejoin the Silversea cruise.

Trust is another key component in the advisor/client relationship. Case in point: En route to India, a Brownell client stopped over in London and called the office when he had an anxiety attack. He was sick and wanted to come home. “I told him I would have someone at his hotel first thing in the morning to take him to the doctor. You can’t file for insurance without a doctor’s report,” North says. “But first, I urged him to hop into bed, order room service, relax, and [told him] he was going to be fine. By 10:30 the next morning he called me saying, ‘I’m just fine! I’m not coming home!’ That is [an example] of what we do day in and day out of our job.”

Brownell Travel’s longevity demonstrates that the need for a quality travel advisor won’t go out of style. In fact, it’s ensuring that travel advisors continue to play a key role in the industry through a mentoring program it launched in 2006 to find and recruit new professional talent. “The main mission behind this program is to find people who share this passion for travel, are outside of the industry and have a fresh take on it,” says Haas.
After discussions within the company, it was decided that Brownell would extend its existing successful hosting program for independent contractors to create a program for new candidates, spearheaded by Rebecca Willson, senior advisor.
The mentoring program follows a 12-month curriculum. Upon acceptance, new mentees visit Birmingham and spend two to four days going over the Brownell handbook—learning about the company, the culture and the rules of the road. From there, prospective agents head home to begin the nitty-gritty work. This involves monthly conference calls, monthly homework assignments on the industry, putting together a one-year marketing plan, vendor trainings and more.
With such an intense curriculum, Brownell is highly selective in choosing who would be the best fit for the program. Haas tells us that there is a less than 3 percent acceptance rate, and since 2006, 12 students have graduated from the program. The exclusivity of the selection process has paid off. Each of the graduates, all without prior experience in selling travel, now averages over $800,000 in sales annually.
These new, youthful faces also help to bring in a new, youthful clientele. “So many agency owners run the business by their own book,” says North. “But what we have got is a love affair. Our advisors are smart, the light is on and they smell the coffee. They come here to work and they are so supportive of each other.

“What I love about what we’re doing is that we are investing in the longevity and future of this business. We hope to be here for another 125 years,” she says.

Summer Island Hopping: St. Thomas, Nevis and St. John

2011-08-02T12:53:00.002-05:00

Katherine Gould is an luxury travel consultant for Sterling Brownell. Below you will read about her summer Caribbean adventure on the Islands of St. Thomas, Nevis and St. John. You can read more about Katherine and her adventures on her blog kgouldtravels.

My summer trip to the Caribbean began with a stop at the Ritz Carlton St. Thomas, which is the island’s nicest hotel option by far. The private estate is set on 30 beautifully manicured acres and offers guests two lovely beaches to enjoy, as well as two beachfront pools. I really liked the feel of this Ritz Carlton property not only because of the pretty setting overlooking Great Bay, but also because of its relative small size (the hotel has 180 rooms and suites). It offers endless activities and amenities for guests, but had a more intimate feeling than some of the larger properties within the Ritz Carlton chain.

Overlooking Great Bay at the Ritz Carlton St. Thomas

If I’ve said it once, I’ll say it again – Ritz Carlton Club Level is worth every penny! For a nominal extra nightly charge, club level guests enjoy gourmet breakfast, lunch, evening hors d’oeuvres and desserts daily at the exclusive lounge, in addition to sodas and alcoholic beverages. I particularly enjoyed spending time at this lounge because it offered outdoor seating overlooking the ocean, as well as a cozy children’s area complete with games and a small table where the younger club guests can dine. My children loved it! The lounge also provided a special seating area for adults only to accommodate couples enjoying a romantic get-away.

View from Sails restaurant at the Ritz Carlton St. Thomas

The rooms and service were predictable for Ritz Carlton and did not disappoint. I found the staff to be friendly and accommodating. Additionally, the décor of the rooms was up-to-date, tasteful and appropriate for an island setting. Dining options are good as well. There are a number of different venues, all with great ambiance, tasty food, and an attentive wait staff. For guests looking to venture off property, the hotel is located just a few minutes from Red Hook, a vibrant harbor area with fun bars and restaurants.

Oceanview Suite at the Ritz Carlton St. Thomas

Resort fees can add up, but the management team at the Ritz Carlton St. Thomas has made it a good value in my opinion considering what’s included. Wireless internet, access to the gym, all water sports (the most extensive offering I’ve seen pretty much anywhere in the Caribbean), tennis, one fitness class per day and much more are covered in the daily charge of $58.00 per room per day.

Family time on St. Thomas

My next visit was to the newly reopened Four Seasons Nevis. While there is a small airport on the island for regional charter flights, most visitors fly to St. Kitts like I did and take the 40 minute boat ride over to Nevis. With massive Mt. Nevis rising dramatically in the background, Nevis feels like a destination from a different time and place, and there’s nowhere in the Caribbean that looks quite like it.

Stunning beauty on the island of Nevis

The Four Seasons Nevis recently reopened in December, and it’s back better than ever. The ferry ride from St. Kitts is quite enjoyable (due to the scenery and rum punch!), and you know you’ve arrived somewhere special when staff members greet you at the dock by name. The layout is lovely: 12 two story guest buildings just steps from the sand blend naturally into the landscape, and the hotel is surrounded by one of the best golf courses in the Caribbean.

Charming accommodations at the Four Seasons Nevis

The spacious and airy rooms boast every luxury a guest could need, and the staff attends to your every whim. Three pools are available for the guests’ use, and each one has a different venue. We stayed closest to the Ocean Pool, which is designed with young families in mind, but there is also the Garden Pool (for adults and older children), and the Reflection Pool (for adults only) so that everyone on property can find a comfortable spot to swim and relax. The Four Seasons works diligently to serve both its couples and families, and I saw a mix of both very much enjoying themselves during my stay.

Deluxe Oceanview room at the Four Seasons Nevis

I can’t say enough good things about the way the Four Seasons treats its younger guests. The staff goes out of its way to make them feel welcome. Miniature bathrobes and slippers, a special child’s menu, colorful straws and utensils in all of the restaurants, a playground, and an amazing kid’s club are just some of the many amenities provided. The Kids for All Seasons program was truly impressive. The facility is incredible, and fun recreational activities are offered daily at no extra charge.

Kids for All Seasons at the Four Seasons Nevis

In addition to world class golf, the Four Seasons Nevis has an excellent tennis program (there are ten courts on property), full service gym, fantastic spa, and delicious dining options. I was partial to Mango, which offers West-Indian dining right on the water, but I truly enjoyed every meal during my stay and found the service to be consistently flawless.

Beachside at Mango

Two flights and two ferries later, we arrived on the stunning island of St. John for a visit to Caneel Bay, one of the Caribbean’s legendary resort destinations. It was founded by Laurence Rockefeller in the 1950s, and the current owners are very loyal to his vision of barefoot elegance in a tranquil setting. Set on 170 pristine acres, the resort boasts seven picture perfect beaches with white sand, clear water, and excellent snorkeling.

Departing Nevis for our next adventure on St. John

Caneel Bay’s website states, “The resort remains purposefully absent of modern glitz and digital distractions.” I couldn’t say it better myself. This hotel is not for lovers of indulgent bathrooms, flat screen tvs, and marble floors. However, the accommodations are plenty luxurious and perfectly suited to a resort that is all about natural beauty and tranquility in a low key setting.

Oceanview room at Caneel Bay

There is truly no other resort like Caneel Bay in the region. The grounds are vast and well maintained, and the scenery is honestly breath-taking. I saw deer and donkeys roaming the property (they steer clear of the guests, so no worries!), and particularly enjoyed riding around in one of the hotel’s open air trams with my family just for the purpose of taking in the views.

Just one of the many beautiful beaches at Caneel Bay

It’s important to choose the right accommodations, as they are very different depending on the location on property. Even when the hotel is fully occupied, guests will never feel that it’s crowded because everything is so spread out. Each beach has its own unique vibe, and repeat guests are quite opinionated about which one is their favorite!

Hawksnest Beach at Caneel Bay

Younger guests will enjoy Turtle Town, a charming kid’s club facility set up in the hillside and loaded with toys and games. A warm staff of ladies runs the program, and my children were instantly comfortable when we took them for the first time. Beach toys are available as well, and my husband and I spent many hours building sand castles on Caneel Beach with our son and daughter.

Beach time at Caneel Bay

Dining options are varied by menu and location on property. My favorite spot was The Equator, an open-air restaurant with great views of St. Thomas in the distance, and couples celebrating a special occasion would particularly enjoy privately dining in the ruins of an old sugar mill on property.

Another glorious day on St. John

The U.S. Virgin Islands are a sailor’s paradise, and no trip to St. John would be complete without a little time on the water. Caneel Bay has relationships with a number of reliable boat owners and tour companies on the island, and guests seeking a boat experience will find no shortage of options. We chose a full day sail and snorkel trip, and it was one of the highlights of our vacation.

Enjoying a sailing and snorkeling trip arranged through Caneel Bay

Brownell has a preferred relationship with all of these properties, and here are the amenities you’ll receive through me:

       Ritz Carlton St. Thomas: daily full breakfast for two guests per room, $100 food & beverage credit,
                                                 room upgrade if available

       Four Seasons Nevis: daily full breakfast for two per room, $100 golf credit, complimentary
                                          high-speed internet access for suite bookings, room upgrade if available

       Caneel Bay: daily full buffet breakfast daily for two per room, a trip for two aboard the resort’s
                             sunset cocktail cruise (which sails Sundays and Thursdays), room upgrade if available

Hawaii: Outrigger

2011-07-13T12:00:00.002-05:00

Gail Rodenhauser is an independent travel advisor with Brownell. See below and check back often for her Classic Vacations Hawaii series, featuring several Hawaiian hotels and her experiences in the tropical paradise.

Outrigger
Condominiums between Kapa’a & Wailua

All of the condominiums at the Outrigger are individually owned and very nice. The Outrigger was built in 2006 and still appears brand new. This is a perfect destination for families or large groups. The pool area is very spacious with two pools –one is a heated saline pool with a small beach and the other has a water-slide for the kids. There is a grill area for cook-outs and a beautiful walkway to the beach.

The condominiums are arranged in categories of Garden View, Partial Mountain View, and Ocean Front. There are 1 bedroom and 2 bedroom units and they are all reasonably priced.

There is a very nice spa on the property, “Spa by the Sea.” It has many treatment rooms, and ranked up there as one of the nicest that we saw.

I would recommend this property for families and clients who are looking for a nice quiet atmosphere. It is a nice place to stay and I know they will enjoy the area.

Hawaii: Ko’A Kea Hotel Resort

2011-07-12T12:00:00.000-05:00

Gail Rodenhauser is an independent travel advisor with Brownell. See below and check back often for her Classic Vacations Hawaii series, featuring several Hawaiian hotels and her experiences in the tropical paradise.

Ko’A Kea Hotel Resort

Poipu Beach

The Ko’A Kea Hotel Resort is a true couples resort. The main building, lobby, and breakfast restaurant are in a contemporary modern style. There are garden rooms, partial ocean, ocean front, and ocean view rooms. The rooms are very nicely decorated, with fine linens that many guests order for their own homes.

The pool area is quite different and quite lovely. It is surrounded by large black volcanic rocks. It is quiet and peaceful and it really is great choice for those who do not want a large resort experience.

Hawaii: Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa

2011-07-11T12:00:00.001-05:00

Gail Rodenhauser is an independent travel advisor with Brownell. See below and check back often for her Classic Vacations Hawaii series, featuring several Hawaiian hotels and her experiences in the tropical paradise.

Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa
Poipu Beach

The Grand Hyatt is located on 50 oceanfront acres and the grounds and buildings are spectacular. There are beautiful open walkways that hold spectacular art and lush grounds that lead to splendid rooms. The Grand Hyatt has fashioned the whole resort in the old Hawaiian style – very elegant. It is the truest of all the hotels that I saw of what I believe a hotel in Hawaii should look like. The rooms are all very nice with elegant plantation style furniture and a private lanai or balcony. The bathrooms are large with a lovely soaking tub.

This enormous resort is a great place for families as well as a great meeting resort; it is a wonderful place for a wedding or a honeymoon; and it is just a lovely spot for a great couple get-away.

There are six restaurants at the resort from the casual poolside dining to Donder’s –a very formal and expensive restaurant. The hotel boasts some type of entertainment nightly from great jazz music to a Hawaiian luau. Once or twice a week the hotel has a four hour spectacle with dancers, singers, jugglers, and an outdoor bar-b-que. In fact, it was the only luau that I saw the entire time I was in Hawaii.

The pools are numerous and are quite lovely. There is a Kid’s Club and the kids really do seem to enjoy this hotel. The meeting rooms at the Grand Hyatt are perfect for all type of meetings – from major corporation events to small business events or open them up for an indoor wedding reception.

The Anara Spa is considered to be one of the best in Hawaii. Using traditional Hawaiian flowers and herbs for wraps and facials, the spa features 70 minute sessions –they book fast so book before you get there!

Directly across from the hotel is a PGA Championship Golf Course. Golfers will love it. There are also 6 tennis courts and walking and biking trails.

I highly recommend this hotel. The staff was very nice and I think it is a perfect recommendation for varies types of travelers.

Hawaii: The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas

2011-07-11T12:00:00.000-05:00

Gail Rodenhauser is an independent travel advisor with Brownell. See below and check back often for her Classic Vacations Hawaii series, featuring several Hawaiian hotels and her experiences in the tropical paradise.

The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas

The Westin Princeville is about a five or ten minute drive from the St. Regis. The property is very well appointed with a lovely lobby and beautiful grounds. All of the units have a kitchen, therefore it is great for families or long term guests.

The Westin’s units fall in three categories – (1) the studio; (2) one-bedroom units; (3) two bedroom units. All have top of the line appliances, granite, very nice furniture, and lovely bedding. The bathrooms have a spa tub and a separate shower.

Around the four pools, you will see grills and lovely seating. One pool is a kid’s pool with fun animal slides and other animals to play on. The Westin Princeville has a great kid’s club. On Wednesday night there is a complimentary movie shown at one of the pools.

This property is a great family property. I can see families staying a couple of weeks here. There is a lot to do in the area, and it is a good place to relax in your own home away from home.

Hawaii: The St. Regis Princeville Resort

2011-07-10T12:00:00.000-05:00

Gail Rodenhauser is an independent travel advisor with Brownell. See below and check back often for her Classic Vacations Hawaii series, featuring several Hawaiian hotels and her experiences in the tropical paradise.

Kauai is a lush, tropical island. It looks like what I think Hawaii should look like. We stopped in the little town of Princeville on the way to the hotel for lunch. The mountains, the water falls, and the landscape make this a true island paradise.

The St. Regis Princeville Resort
Kauai, Hawaii
This is a true luxury jewel. The beauty is astounding. As you enter the massive lobby, you look out on the craggy cliffs of Na Pali with a waterfall that runs down it. Wow!!! You don’t see this in Alabama every day.

The lobby is elegant without being too formal. It has several sitting areas, bars, and an entry fountain. The views from every spot are breathtaking.

My room overlooked the pool area. Again, it was perfectly executed – with top of the line bed and bedding, armoires, large screen TV, and a great bath. The staff is truly 5 star. Room service is there in no time at all. My room was on the second floor – which is down from the lobby – and since the resort is built on the mountainside, the walk-ways and the grounds are lush and tropical.

There are a series of pools, and you can sit in a regular lounger or again get one of the cabanas. The beach is beautiful, but if you go in the water, you must wear swimming shoes. There were some surfers, but most people just lounged and looked at the beauty.

One thing that surprised me at a St. Regis was how many young (20, 30, and early 40’s) there were here. It is a great honeymoon resort, but more than that it is an active resort. Princeville has so many things to do – tubing down the river, horseback riding, zip-lining, waterfall tours, and more. There are also many ecological events that are happening around the island. The hotel has a golf course and 6 tennis courts. This is a true resort.

The hotel has several restaurants. We ate breakfast in the Napali Café and it was a buffet fit for a king. Of course, they served their signature Bloody Mary – the “Aloha Mary.” Their upscale restaurant is the Kauai Grill, a Wolfgang Puck restaurant, and is ranked as one of the best in Hawaii.

Overview: I give it 6 stars out of 5. You will be pampered and you will love it.

Hawaii: The Waikiki Edition

2011-07-09T12:00:00.000-05:00

Gail Rodenhauser is an independent travel advisor with Brownell. See below and check back often for her Classic Vacations Hawaii series, featuring several Hawaiian hotels and her experiences in the tropical paradise.

The Waikiki Edition
Waikiki Beach
This is my favorite of all the Waikiki Beach hotels. It is modern without being sterile. It has won all kind of awards and I thought it was young and delightful. This is the new place to be if you want a city feel, yet value luxury and great service.

The lobby houses the Morimoto Restaurant and Crazybox Nightclub. Each room has a wonderful view, either city or ocean.

The standard room has the best decorations of any of the rooms. In shades of white and gray, it was perfect. Each room has a balcony. There are 26 suites – either 1 or 2 bedroom.

Waikiki Edition has a pool like no other. It is called Sunset Beach –for adults only. This pool is surrounded by sand and guests can purchase a package with unlimited champagne and canapés. At night they show movies around the Sunrise Pool.

This resort really has made an effort to be pro-active with their clientele.

Hawaii: Halekulani

2011-07-08T12:00:00.000-05:00

Gail Rodenhauser is an independent travel advisor with Brownell. See below and check back often for her Classic Vacations Hawaii series, featuring several Hawaiian hotels and her experiences in the tropical paradise.

Halekulani
Waikiki Beach

There is a subtle elegance in the Halekulani. The feeling of the old and the new come together in this hotel. It is a five star hotel in the heart of this large city. The oldest part of the hotel, built in 1917, houses their premier restaurant, Le Mer – one of the top restaurants on the island. Their spa is considered one of the finest – with 7 private spa suites. Connected to the hotel in a separate building is the most hip nightclub in town, House Without a Key.

The rooms are decorated in shades of white. Fresh fruit and chocolate await each guest. The suites are truly beautiful and range from the Premier Suite of 2,365 square feet to the Royal Suite of 4,066 square feet. A true home away from home, if you are used to living like a king.

The Halekulani has beautiful mosaic pools that give the illusion you are at the ocean. If it’s real ocean you crave, the Halekulani has direct beach access to Waikiki Beach.

Hawaii: Waikiki Parc

2011-07-07T12:00:00.000-05:00

Gail Rodenhauser is an independent travel advisor with Brownell. See below and check back often for her Classic Vacations Hawaii series, featuring several Hawaiian hotels and her experiences in the tropical paradise.

Waikiki Parc Hotel

Waikiki Beach

The Waikiki Parc, a 4 star hotel, is a contemporary hotel featuring a unique lobby with artwork by local artists. The Ocean symbol runs throughout the hotel. The hotel offers complimentary parking and a full American breakfast. Originally a coconut grove stood here. The hotel has access to beautiful Waikiki Beach.

The rooms at the Waikiki Parc are ocean view with a contemporary feel. They have nice beds, a quirky Hawaiian design, and a lovely balcony.

The signature restaurant at the Waikiki Parc is Nobu. It is a lovely, elegant restaurant and the appetizers and drinks were as modern as the hotel.

Hawaii: The Royal Hawaiian

2011-07-06T12:00:00.002-05:00

Gail Rodenhauser is an independent travel advisor with Brownell. See below and check back often for her Classic Vacations Hawaii series, featuring several Hawaiian hotels and her experiences in the tropical paradise.

The Royal Hawaiian
Honolulu, Waikiki Beach

This “Pink Palace” is one of the most famous hotels on the island of Oahu. Originally built in 1927, it is under the historic preservation rules. Therefore, there are no balconies in any of the rooms in the hotel except one suite.

The lobby is impressive with a beautiful open air feel which opens onto grounds with enormous trees and lush gardens. These are the grounds that the old Kings and Queens of Hawaii used at one time.

Each of the 529 rooms in the hotel has a hand carved door which is absolutely beautiful. The room categories go from the standard to the Jr. Ocean Suite to the Kahalma Suites. The Tower has one hundred percent ocean front rooms.

All beaches in Hawaii are public – therefore, I found the beaches of Waikiki to be very different than those at the Kahala. The waves were much higher and there were people surfing and sun-bathing. The Royal Hawaiian has a lovely pool area and space for beach chairs, but don’t go expecting a quiet beach area.

Hawaii: Kahala

2011-07-05T15:04:00.003-05:00

I was honored to go with Classic Vacations to Hawaii. Of course, I have sold Hawaii, but I had never been there myself. To me it always seemed that Hawaii was so far away from Alabama. If I want to go to the beach – why not the Gulf Coast or the Caribbean? Well, apparently I was not the only person who feels this way, because Classic wants more people from the East Coast to start selling Hawaii. I know now that Hawaii is a destination that people will love, and they will remember long after they leave. I now know the difference. I look forward to seeing the other islands – Oahu and Kauai are very different – but they each have unique qualities and wonderful people who are proud of them homeland.

Even though you cannot discount the long flight, there are now better flights out there to Oahu. American Airlines has a direct flight from Dallas/Ft. Worth. Since it is only five hours from San Francisco, I might even recommend some of my clients spend a day and night in San Francisco.

We arrived at the Honolulu Airport in the late afternoon. We were met by a limo service, which I think is a must for your client. They gave us a beautiful flower lei and took us to the car for the short ride to the Kahala Hotel and Resort. Honolulu is a big city and has a big city feel. Yet, only fifteen minutes past the hustle and bustle, we rode into a quite, beautiful area.

Kahala Hotel and Resort

The Kahala does have a true Hawaiian feel. In fact, once you pass the busy city you turn into a lovely residential area. You drive through beautiful grounds before you get to the lobby. Their staff graciously meets you with leis and cool towels. The lobby has an open, old world feel. The hotel’s recent renovations have kept many of the original decorations, such as the unique chandeliers, and the entire large lobby is warm and comfortable. This is a hotel that is excellent for a multi-generational family gathering.

My room was a Dolphin View Room on the first floor. This is an enormous room for a non-suite category. Decorated in soft yellows, blues and greens, with mahogany desk, lovely chairs and a 42 inch television, this is a well-thought out, and well-designed room. The bathroom is very large and elegant and the amenities are top notch. When I opened the drapes I noticed that my balcony was right next to the Dolphin pond. It was delightful to sit there and watch the dolphins swim around and do their tricks for the staff.

The next morning we had breakfast in Plumeria Beach Café which is open air and serves a delightful buffet breakfast; the chef came out to greet us and brought a traditional energy drink (made with beets) for us to try. He talked about the restaurants and their healthy, diverse menus. After breakfast, we toured the facility

Touring the grounds I noticed gazebos and areas that are perfect for weddings or other private events. They have a staff especially for weddings, and they will gladly mail their wedding packets to agents who are interested.

The beach at the Kahala was amazing. It lies between two volcanoes, Diamond Head and Coco Volcano, and off shore is a coral reef. This reef and the crescent shape of the area keeps the strong waves from coming in. Therefore, you can go out in the water, and also not be afraid to have your children go out in the water. The beach has comfortable beach chairs, or if you wish you can rent a Beach Cabana, which includes a cooler with water and fruit drinks. The staff is wonderful and very helpful. There are many beach activities and a great staff to help you with canoeing (which I did), snorkeling, and paddle boarding to name a few. The sand is white and it has a true luxury resort feel.

There are a series of pools and swimming pools off the beach which are beautiful and are joined together by wooden walkways and bridges. The Kahala is part of a turtle rescue program, and you can see them in one of the pools there. The most popular pool is the Dolphin pool. There are several hands on programs for adults and children where they get to touch, swim with, and learn about the dolphins.

Overview: This was my favorite hotel in Oahu. I loved the resort feel – even though you are only 15 minutes away from Honolulu, you feel like you are on your own private island.

Azamara Cruise in the Holy Land: May 2011

2011-07-05T13:59:00.001-05:00

Laura Clark is a leisure travel advisor for Brownell. Read below for her account of a 10 day cruise of the Holy Land aboard the Azamara Quest.

I flew into Tel Aviv, direct on Delta from Atlanta and taxied to the Intercontinental David. The hotel had a great lobby and is within walking distance to Jaffa – a nice area to sightsee and have dinner. It is a short drive in a rental to Ariel, where I had a great tour with Avi Zimmerman and met Mayor Nachman. Afterward, two and a half hour drive to the Sea of Galilee to stay at Scots Hotel. Located in Tiberas, the hotel has a great location and a beautiful view from the upper floors. After a delicious breakfast at the hotel, I walked around the waterfront many little shops and restaurants on the waterfront before a driving tour of the Sea of Galilee. Saw many beautiful sights, such as the Mount of the Beatudes, Miracle of the Loaves and Fishes at Tabgha, Capernaum, and more! I highly recommend a boat trip on the Sea of Galilee and a short rip to Nazereth –where the Angel Gabriel visited Mary to tell her she would have a son.

Next, a short drive to Haifa where I boarded the cruise ship Azamara Quest. Azamara is a small yet spacious ship with great rates! The cabin was ocean view and remarkably comfortable for 10 days! Onboard entertainment was spectacular, dinners were delicious, and service was excellent. Two specialty restaurants were located onboard the ship, with a nominal charge. The steak and seafood were both fantastic and most definitely worth the price!

The ship made stops in Jerusalem, Ashdos, Cyprus, Rhodes, Santorini, Kos, Mykonos, and Ephesus. The ship offered guided tours for many of the stops and didn’t set sail until well after dinnertime each night.

In Jerusalem, I took a guided tour of Jerusalem and Bethlehem that included a nice lunch. In Ashdod, I enjoyed half a day of sightseeing – the beach is very pretty and the market is a great place to mingle with the locals. In Cyprus, I toured the ruins – full of beautiful mosaics! – and went to the Church of St. Paul as well as the Coral Bay Beach.

In Rhodes, I had the opportunity to walk around the shops and buy some beautiful linens. I also took a tour to Lindos – what a beautiful view! In Santorini, there is an option of wither a cable car or donkey ride up the hill to town –where there are many beautiful shops and restaurants, as well as beaches and vineyards. Kos featured ruins, the Hippocrotes tree, beautiful beaches, scuba diving, harbor cruise, and a wonderful lunch.

Mykonos was probably the most beautiful of the stops, a little ton where everyone was still asleep when we came off the boat at 9 a.m.! I took a tour of Mykonos Blu, a gorgeous resort on beautiful bay! It would be a wonderful place for a wedding or honeymoon stay.

In Ephesus we took an incredible tour with Sea Song – we had a fabulous van driver and guide! Saw 3000 year old ruins that still have hot and cold running water and a delicious lunch and shopping in the main port of Kusadasi.

The ship returned us to Athens after 10 days of beautiful sights and endless memories!

Paris, Provence, and Nice: May 2011

2011-07-05T13:22:00.001-05:00

Suzette Mack is an independent travel advisor with Sterling Brownell. Keep reading to learn about her visit to Paris, Provence and Nice.

Hotel Millesime in Paris on the Left Bank was amazing! The location was great –a quiet street yet close to lots of restaurants, shopping, nightlife, etc. Our Millesime Suite on the top floor slept four –which was perfect for us– and there were bistro tables & chairs in the courtyard which made it nice to sit outside and read or enjoy a glass of wine.

We booked the La Tete a Tete package which included one day Metro passes, a river cruise, and a one way transfer. The hotel also had Louvre tickets on hand, so it was very convenient to be able to get them in the morning before making the short walk to the museum. I absolutely loved staying on the Left Bank! It's great with kids because there is so much within walking distance. There were lots of restaurants nearby so we didn't have to go far for dinner and every evening we walked down by the river. We only rode the metro once, on the last day. I highly recommend an evening river cruise before you leave–a perfect way to see the lights and enjoy your last night in Paris.

We traveled by TGV from Paris to Avignon, and picked up a rental car. We just followed a map and the road signs. Once you cross the river heading south everything is easy to find. In general signage was very good, and the Michelin map was very useful. I highly recommend getting one for this area.

The Le Mas d'Arvieux in Tarascon, Provence is a beautiful B&B about 30 minutes south of Avignon –an easy drive from the TGV station. It is 3 miles outside Tarascon in a peaceful country setting that great for sightseeing –only 30-40 min to St. Remy, Les Baux, Arles, and a bit further to Pont du Gard. The owners are a very nice couple from England who seemed to always be available to answer questions.

This is a great place for families, because they have both regular rooms and self-catering cottages. In fact it's almost fully booked every summer by returning European families, so you have to plan early. We stayed in the Camarague suite, a spacious room with a king bed, and two twin beds in a loft. There is a recently added communal kitchen and plenty of tables and chairs around the pool. Breakfast is served each morning in the dining room or poolside – weather permitting. The menu includes fresh squeezed juices, cheese, fresh fruit, a selection of croissants, homemade jams, yogurt, and bread. The owners also made their own olive oil which you may purchase to take home.

After 3 nights in Provence, we drove to Nice which took several hours. It was an easy drive though, because it was all highways and there were food & gas pavilions along the way. There are a few tolls though, so keep those coins handy!

We spent our last night in a suite at Suite Novotel Nice Aeroport Arenas, which had a queen bed, day bed and a trundle –perfect for us. This hotel chain is very family friendly and comfortable, and this particular hotel was very hip & modern in style. Located near the airport, it was convenient for flying out, but a bit of a trek for sightseeing or getting something to eat. Instead of driving down the promenade, we decided to stretch our legs with a nice long walk along the waterfront to find a restaurant.

Peru and Machu Picchu: March 2011

2011-07-05T12:27:00.003-05:00

Debbie Fairvalley is a leisure travel advisor for Sterling Brownell. Read below for her exciting rendition of her adventures in Peru and Machu Picchu!

In late March I had the opportunity to visit Peru and Machu Picchu for the first time. I knew I would be awestruck by the beauty and spirituality of Machu Picchu, but had no idea of the impact the other areas and cultures in this lovely land would have on me.

We arrived in Lima at the Hotel Miraflores –a beautiful seaside oasis located amid the Lima shopping district. A visit to Mercado was perfect for finding those handmade curios and souvenirs as well as funky and fun accessories. I brought home 15 belts, 10 pillow covers, and enough table linen to last a lifetime. The prices are definitely right!

The real gem in Lima is the Rafael Larco Herrera Museum, which provides a wonderful education in all the Inka cultures and artifacts, a must see for all first time visitors! Lunch was wonderful at the Café Del Museo –the garden setting and authentic menu makes you want to spend a leisurely afternoon or evening enjoying the alfresco experience. I loved it!

At 11,000+ feet, Cusco is a very tough destination for lots of folks. My recommendation is to head straight to the Sacred Valley (9,000 ft.) and spend a couple of nights here, then ascend into Machu Picchu and Cusco. This helped me avoid altitude sickness and discomfort.

The Sacred Valley is filled with luxury resorts but my top pick is Sol Y Luna –this wonderful find truly provides the ultimate experience in the lush valley of the Incas! A week here would spoil me rotten! From beautiful horse stables and romantic villas to a 5 star restaurant where you may watch the chefs prepare authentic Peruvian cuisine, every detail is well conceived and well delivered.

The 2 hour journey to Machu Picchu via Ollantaytambo and the Vistadome train was filled with sights of the local farms and people of Peru. It was like looking at a postcard to watch the Peruvian women carrying their children, foods and supplies on their backs wearing their traditional clothing. The colors are breathtaking and the smiles warm your heart. If people make the experience then Peru exceeds my expectations!

We arrived in Agua Calientes and were whisked off to our tour bus for the climb to the top of the ruins. Our luggage was taken directly to our hotel –nice touch! We dined on local cuisine at The Sanctuary Lodge and were ready to begin our hike.

My first sight of Machu Picchu was one of amazement and awe. It looks just like the pictures, only grander and more inviting. I wanted to explore every inch of this place and our guide was amazing! Being an Inca man, he recanted stories told by his ancestors with feeling and emotion, as only someone of that culture can do. I saw two rainbows as I left this magical and mystical place –quite fitting I must say. I would not say I left Machu Picchu a better person, but I certainly left with a different perspective on life and the importance of place.

I was lulled to sleep by the sound of river rapids running directly under my patio at the Sumaq Hotel –which offered the best views, sounds, and entertainment in all of Aqua Calientes!

After a fabulous lunch at Inkaterra –another great lodge in Aqua Calientes – we were back on the train for our return trip to Cusco and a tour of this historical city. The buildings, cathedrals, and sights of Cusco are lovely. And of course there is shopping and dining as well. I enjoyed a visit to a silver factory to get a firsthand look at artisans at work and understand the process of making silver jewelry and artifacts. Of course I had to buy a treat to bring home!

The Monasterio Hotel gives an authentic option for staying in Cusco. This hotel boasts a chapel on site, as well as a courtyard which is a delightful place to enjoy afternoon tea or cocktails in a quiet setting amidst the ancient trees and tranquil surroundings located in the heart of this bustling city.

After 2 nights in Cusco –a perfect amount of time to enjoy the fine dining and see the sights of the city– we flew back to Lima to spend one last night dining and dancing under the stars at Hotel Miraflores. I am back on a flight to Miami in the morning and I must say goodbye to this wonderful country and its charming people.

Adios!

Study Tour to Bavaria with German Tourist Board May 18-24, 2011

2011-06-30T10:08:00.005-05:00

post by Randie Rosenberg

Need an antidote for jet lag? Try a brisk walk around a pristine lake in the foothills of the Alps, followed by a hot mud bath.

Ahhhh, the heavy hot goo (“Magic of the Alps”), like a thick chocolate pudding, suspends your body in a wooden tub. A copper coil hose with cold water running through it is placed on your heart to keep you from over-heating. I’ve never felt anything like it, and couldn’t resist squeezing my fingers and toes and slowly moving my arms and legs just to revel in the odd sensation. When my time was up, I was hosed off, dipped in a tub of warm water, then wrapped in sheets and placed on an ergonomic bed with my feet elevated for 15 minutes of silence. I was out like a light.

Welcome to the spa and wellness region of Germany. Visitors come to escape the stress of everyday life, enjoy the outdoors, relive history and indulge in fresh cuisine. In-house physicians and therapists are the norm for spa hotels here.

Bad Bayersoien, with its famous mud from highland spruce bogs was our first stop on a whirlwind tour of southeastern Bavaria. The Parkhotel Bayersoien overlooks a small lake at the edge of the village; a pastoral setting where guests enjoy custom-designed health and wellness programs, cooking classes, relaxation and great food. I like the language in their brochure: “…everyone can relax; you just have to invite yourself to do so.” I’m invited!

The physician owners of this establishment have ties to South Africa as evidenced, in part, by the African Lounge restaurant where we enjoyed a multi-course culinary safari with a seemingly endless variety of wines. The highlights for me: hot pumpkin soup and cool papaya soup, ostrich medallions wrapped in bacon served with a ginger pudding, springbok in a coriander chili sauce. We were off to an awesome start!

On our ride to Fuessen the next morning we asked the van driver to stop for photo ops if we should come upon any. How about a Baroque church in the midst of a field? Sure!

Out of nowhere appeared this amazing church

A bit later, as the autobahn veered toward Fuessen, we caught our first scent of dairy land. The healthy aroma of cows would waft on the breeze over the next days in the pastoral beauty of the Allgeau region of Bavaria. Then, eyes left, and there, hanging on the side of the mountain was Neuschwanstein Castle. What a sight. Walt Disney was impressed and so was I!

View of Neuschwanstein Castle from Tegel Mtn. lift

Fuessen’s Roman era and medieval history came to life during a walking tour with a dirndl-clad tour guide. A trading center since the Romans built the route from Venice to Belgium, Fuessen was fought for in many ancient wars, but was unscathed in the 20th century’s two World Wars. Exploring the old walled town, one can well imagine medieval life in this bustling village. And then there is nearby Schwangau, Hohenschwangau, Neuschanstein and all the lore of King Ludwig II. The Bavarians love him and swear he was not crazy…just a dreamer ahead of his time. I believe them.

We inspected two in-town hotels: Hotel Sonne, modern with dramatic themed rooms and period costumes decorating the public areas, friendly staff and convenient location. Hotel Hirsch across the street has a more Bavarian feel with its own beer garden and roof terrace. The spacious rooms here are named for historical figures, each with a different design.

After visiting the monastery St. Mang, which houses the Museum of Fuessen showcasing the history of lute-making, the monk’s library and more, we enjoyed lunch at Restaurant Ritterstub’n. This was my first cheese spaetzel experience and I loved it. Served with pork medallions and a fried apple dessert. As I understand it, spaetzel is made by grating pasta dough into boiling water. When baked (or fried?) with cheese, you get a dish similar to macaroni and cheese. And as with macaroni and cheese, some make it better than others. Order it at Ritterstub’n. It was the best I had on the trip. Others in our group had salmon and raved.

Our hotel for the night was the Hotel am Hopfensee. The Hopfensee is a lake about 5 miles from Fuessen. The name of the town is Hopfen am See. See means lake in German, am means on. Hopfen on the lake. Hotel on Hopfen Lake. I’m beginning to catch on, sort of. This hotel was remodeled at the end of 2010. It is Eurosleek throughout. Rooms are functional, no bathroom amenities except a packet of shower gel and a hairdryer. Nice spa area with a genuine Turkish Bath downstairs. The food, once again, was very good. The restaurant has window walls with full view of the lake. Dinner was sponsored by the Fuessen Tourist Board and was generous in selections and portions. I began to notice that most menus in Bavaria offer three regional fish: salmon, trout and “pike perch”. Not to belabor food, but OMG the dessert! Crispy, dense pancake-like pieces sprinkled with confectioner’s sugar served with a chunky baked apple sauce on the side. Funnel cake meets apple brown Betty? Yumm.

On Saturday we rode the cabin railway (a funicular) up Tegel mountain for panoramic views of castles, foothills and valley. There’s a launch pad for hang gliding and hiking paths.

Hang gliding ramp, Tegel Mountain. No, I didn’t.

The Sommer Hotel, just a 5-minute walk from Fuessen on the edge of the Forggensee, is a family-run resort with friendly, helpful staff. I would recommend this spot for a spa resort experience. They have indoor and outdoor pools, bike rentals (electric and regular), great spa facilities and a big boat to take guests on a lake tour. Just make sure the lake is full. Unlike other lakes in the area, the Forggensee is man-made and shallow at the Fuessen end. It usually fills completely with snow melt and rainfall by early June.

On to Oberstdorf, nestled among the highest peaks of the Allgeau Alps and home to Germany’s longest downhill ski slope. This is a tourist town for skiiers in the winter, hikers in the warmer weather and health and wellness enthusiasts year-round. The treatment area at Schuele’s Health Resort is labyrinthine. Some of what is offered: The Kneipp cure (featuring hot & cold alternating baths), fit & vital cure, healing climate cure, cardio-vascular check-up, massage and beauty treatments and much more.

Hey, Bossy, thanks for the cheese.

We toured the Erdinger Arena where ski jump competitions are held, taking a lift up the slope then an elevator to the spot where the ski jumpers start their flight. It was dizzy-high. Those guys are adrenaline junkies. You cannot see where your body will land. It looks as though you’d jump and land on the village roof tops. Wow!

Dinner at Michelin-rated Maximilian’s Restaurant. This was the very best food and service of the trip. Staff is friendly and speaks English. A sampling: Paprika soup (vaguely cheesy, but light), crème brulee-style foie gras with pearls of port jelly, venison with elderberry dumplings, curd thistle ravioli. Need I say more?

Sunday and we’re off to Oberstaufen, home of the Schroth treatment, a nutrition/exercise program aimed at improving metabolism and circulation. This is a pretty town with an impressive church in the center surrounded by shops and restaurants. Cross country skiing is big in the winter, hiking and biking in the hills in the summer; plenty of options for the exercise piece of the equation. We stayed at the Concordia Wellness & Spa hotel on the edge of town and enjoyed a floral therapeutic bath followed by a full body massage. With an hour to spare before dinner, back in my room I “rested my eyes” for a moment and woke from a dead sleep 45 minutes later. So relaxed.

A bike ride through the hills on Monday afforded some of the sweetest views with cows and goats and mountains beyond. The well-maintained roads and paths were a joy to negotiate with the multi-speed bikes provided by the Hotel Algaeu Sonne.

The Algaeu Sonne is the only 5-star hotel we visited. We sampled the spa treatments had an impressive lunch before heading back to Munich for our last night.

Rhubarb ice cream, tart, sauce and candied strip

I admit I have overlooked Germany as a destination. No more. I will recommend Bavaria to young couples (of any age) looking for the active outdoors, small groups of couples with golf and sightseeing on their list, anyone seeking a spa getaway, food and beer lovers, and history buffs. Come prepared with a few German phrases to get you started as English is not commonplace.

Even the goats wear bells!

Massai

2011-06-27T10:54:00.003-05:00

a series by Catherine Whitworth

A visit to a Massai Village

We paid a visit to a Massai tribal village. They greeted us with a traditional welcome dance which incorporates jumping as high as one can. The men are the warriors and their job is to protect the village and cattle from predators. The women do everything else including BUILDING their houses. The Massai tribe is Christian and the entire village of 60 formed a circle with us and started our visit with a prayer. Very moving. we then proceeded to visit a home and meet the children. The proper greeting when you meet a child is to but your hand on their head. They walk up to you with their head bowed. The grand finale of our visit was an outdoor market., under a giant Acacia tree. The ladies do all the crafts themselves-beautiful beaded work. Each lady laid out a cloth and put her items on it. We walked around a big circle and picked what we wanted, then we go to the shade and negotiate. Needles to say we got some great deals. I have presents for my daughters and friends. Of course I bought a red necklace for one of of my best friends, Jane Kimbrell. I buy her a red necklace every place I go. She is getting quite a collection.

Sunset mountain

Let me backup and say that Vince and Barbara Dooley caught up with the group in Nairobi, so we are a happy group of 7.

Yesterday we went on a morning game drive which ended in delightful bush breakfast. Everything from omelets to fresh fruit on long tables draped with Massai Warrior plaid tablecloths and camping chairs. Lunch was buffet- amazing what they can do in a remote camp kitchen. This camp has a gorgeous organic garden, so all the vegetables and salads can be eaten with no worries. A quick swim, then we went for a LONG walk through a volcanic rock field. Not much fun but great exercise. We ended with a climb up a 1500 foot hill and a surprise bar for “sundowners”, watching the sunset on the right and a pink Killimanjaro on the left. We really earned our gin and tonics. Woody turned into Chas Woods. No, he did not get over served!

Amboseli

2011-06-23T10:49:00.000-05:00

a series by Catherine Whitworth

First day of safari- Amboseli

We had an amazing first game drive when we landed at Amboseli Park. We saw ostrich, wart hog, hippopotamus, giraffe, two lioness, water buffalo, cranes, egrets, eagles, horned bills, and hundreds of elephants in herds. Wake up call this morning was 430A – Yikes! We flew by charter from Nairobi and are staying at Tortilis Camp. The view on the Verandah is of MT. Killimanjaro, lunch was homemade pasta, chicken and rice, baked eggplant, organic salads and dessert was fresh fruit and Apple Crumble. Barbara, Susanne and I are writing on our iPads. Coach Dooley is taking a walk. Nelson is entertaining us with stories. What better entertainment can you ask for!

Cheetah

2011-06-22T10:43:00.000-05:00

a series by Catherine Whitworth

A new friend

Breakfast in the bush

Surprise breakfast

First of several cheetahs

Balloon at Dawn

2011-06-21T10:30:00.006-05:00

a series by Catherine Whitworth

Lappett Landing

We started the day with a balloon ride 5A wakeup call. We were driven to the ballon launch site after coffee and tea. The balloon was such a spectacular sight when it was filled. We got off before sunrise in the most incredible silence. All we heard was the jets of hot air occasionally filling the balloon to give it height. It was a divine experience silently sailing over the treetops, the Mara Plains gliding below. We saw rhino, giraffe, elephants, hippo, impalas, zebra herds. We actually flew over 30 kilometers and upon landing we were treated with a full on Champagne Breakfast.

That was just the beginning of a brilliant game drive.

End of the day on the Mara

2011-06-20T10:26:00.000-05:00

a series by Catherine Whitworth

Leopard sighting

What a day

Brilliant gameday drive

After we finished our heavenly Champagne breakfast on the Plains, we went on a drive. Immediately our driver, Benson, picked up a huge male lion. We tracked him for about 40 minutes because he looked like he was hunting, and there was a huge herd of zebra across the river. He would stand, smell the air and listen to the honking of the zebra herd. Finally he decided he was hot and just dropped down in some long grass. As we drove along we noticed vultures fighting over a kill, and two lappets dropped in. They were a spectacular sight, they land feet first and their wing span is around 6 feet across. we came upmto the river and watched a herd of 600 zebra. We thought we would see a crossing, but there were three huge crocs in the water. We saw one zebra get attacked, but he kicked the croc, and got across safely. Fabulous! On the way back to the lodge, Gavin, our brilliant hawkeye guide spotted a leopard in the bush and we turned around to watch him cross a swamp. Hard to top a day like that.

Dubai

2011-06-17T10:19:00.001-05:00

a series by Catherine Whitworth

On our way to Dubai

I am taking a really fun group to Kenya for Safari, stopping in Dubai on the way. The group is Susanne and Woody Chastain, Nelson and Pam Bowers and we will meet up with Vince and Barbara Dooley in Nairobi.

We are flying Delta’s new business class pod flight. One seat by the window and two in the middle. You are encased in your own pod. The seat goes completely flat so it make this 14 hour flight a little easier to take. Good food, lots of movies. We start with a glass of champagne-yay!

In Dubai, we spend the night at The Address. We are meeting an Athens native, Chris Timberlake who now flies for Emirates Air-I hear he just made Captain! Looking forward to seeing him; his parents are Richard and Hildegard Timberlake. Can’t wait to see Dubai at night! The hotel has a bar in the top of the tower, so the view should be amazing.

Ritz Carlton Dubai and The Address Dubai

We are on our way home, and we routed through Dubai. Coming over, we stayed at the Address which is downtown and close to the airport. The bar is on the top of the building and the view was outstanding. The hotel was fabulous, rooms beautifully done, and breakfast was one of the best we had on the whole trip.

On the return, we decided to stay at the Ritz Carlton in the beach area. True to form, the Ritz lived up to it’s brilliant reputation. The hotel is done in classical Arabian style, the rooms are airy and classically decorated. Beds are amazing. We dropped off right to sleep. We splurged and had lunch at Burj Al Arab the hotel that looks like a sail. Now that hotel is fabulous in an over the top way. Lunch was just incredible. The Al Manturuh was on the 27th floor and you can see one of the Palm residential areas. We also visited the famed Mall and the Ski Slope! I could not believe it! Temperature was 3 degrees. It is enormous! We had to put on boots and ski coats just to go in to the area. Nelson actually skied, and he is really good! The Emirates Mall is Nirvana for any shopper.

Africa Inscribed, up and coming luxury Safari operator

2011-06-16T10:16:00.000-05:00

a series by Catherine Whitworth

A quick word about the company that put together our trip: Africa Inscribed. New on the Luxury Safari scene, AI is gaining a well deserved outstanding reputation. The two owners, Dylan Harriss and Gavin Ford are working night and day to make our Safari Clients happy campers. They constantly travel to camps around Africa. We were most fortunate to have GaviN guide our trip, one of the top guides in all of Africa. His depth of knowledge and charisma made our trip unforgettable. Bravo to AI. I look forward to working with them again very soon. Outstanding job Dylan and Gavin. We all thank you both.

Denali Park-Alaska

2011-06-13T11:43:00.001-05:00

a series by: Margret Propper

June 6. We had a great breakfast of black and blue sourdough pancakes which are made from an original recipe with sourdough starter from the 1920's--again at the Talkeetna roadhouse. We started out on the 2 1/2 hour drive to Denali Park . The weather was spectacular and we stopped at mile marker 135 where we saw Mt McKinley and the entire mountain range in full view from the South viewpoint. An unbelievable sight! On arrival into Denali Park, we boarded the shuttle out to Camp Denali. We spotted lots of wildlife on the way including a family of three grizzlies, lots of Dall sheep, caribou, golden eagles, moose everywhere and a sly fox. We stopped at about 4:00pm for a picnic supper beside a mountain stream. We arrived at Camp Denali at about 8:00pm and checked into our cabin. The cabins are very basic, but also very comfortable and our picture window looked directly at Mt McKinley. There is no electricity in the cabins but we have a propane lantern and a hot plate to heat water as well as a black pot belly wood burning stove so we are very comfortable. Our outhouse is down the hill and and has a half door with a great view of the mountain.

Full View of Mt. McKinley

Dall Sheep in Denali Park

June 7. The guest speaker this week at the Camp is a very well known naturalist and birder; and we go with him for a full day bird spotting hike. He finds and identifies lots of different species of birds and waterfowl ,and at each point the guides set up spotting scopes so we can see the birds up close. We also have fun identifying the many different wildflowers in the area. Lunch is enjoyed at picnic tables beside Wonder Lake.We are always within full view of the mountain so it is a magical day. We return to the Camp in time for a shower in the bath house before dinner. Meals are family style so you have a chance to get to know your fellow travelers and the owners, managers and staff at the Camp. Everyone has interesting stories to tell. After dinner Stan - the guest lecturer has a very interesting talk with slides on the park and the birds and wildlife.The best way to really get a feel for Alaska, the park and it's wildlife is to stay at one of the 5 lodges deep within the park. Each offers various stages of accommodations and Camp Denali is probably the most basic but is also the most rewarding and we really loved the experience.

Enjoying the scenery from our porch in Denali Park

Wildflowers in Denali Park

Pond next our cabin at Camp Denali

June 8. We really hated to leave the Camp but were looking forward to our return trip back to the park entrance and our flight-seeing return trip with Kantishna Air. We were picked up by Matt from Kat Air and taken to their office to check in with good friend, Shakti, who is in the office. These two guys are great fun. We boarded the six passenger plane for the most memorable flight of our lives! Mt McKinley was in full view in all her snow covered glory and we flew around the North and South peaks which are 20,320 feet in height. A sight few people are lucky enough to see. We touch down at the park entrance about 1.5 hours later and were still speechless at what we saw.We spent some time visiting the new Visitor's center at the park entrance and after a great dinner at 229 Park, we checked at McKinley Village for our last night. On the way back to the lodge we spotted a Moose cow with two very small calves- a great end to our last night in the park!

Before board ing the plane for flight around Mt McKinley

June 9. We drove about 5 1/2 hours from the Park entrance to Anchorage to catch our flight home. We saw two caribou on the way, which was a great sendoff! We did stop in Wasilla to visit the Iditarod Sled Dog museum which was very interesting. We still had some time on arrival in Anchorage so we also visited the Alaska Air Museum of Flight that has displays about the History of flight in Alaska and also about the Bush Pilots. Our trip ends with our overnight flight back to Birmingham.

Caribou

This trip - or perhaps a slower version - can be added to a seven day cruise for a complete and wonderful tour of Alaska. It is great to get off the beaten path and see areas that are less visited by most tourists. I can plan this wonderful experience - or a similar one for anyone who is interested in independent travel.

Amalfi Coast-Italy

2011-06-08T12:03:00.001-05:00

a series by: Bowden Sarrett

I have just returned from a trip to the Amalfi Coast in Italy with my daughter, Frances. What an amazing time we had! We stayed in fabulous hotels and were surrounded by gorgeous scenery every where we went!

The view from the top of the hotel Santa Caterina above the city of Amalfi

Lunch on the terrace at the JK Place Hotel in Capri

The view of the Santa Caterina which seems to go forever. The green trellises are lemon trees that grow on arbors like wisteria

The view from the top of the Santa Caterina down to the beach club, restaurant, and fitness center at water level. The elevator goes down through the rocks-- Amazing!

Aboard the sixty foot yacht--We spent the day seeing the towns of Ravello, Menori, Amalfi, Positano, and Capri as well as the Green Grotto, small fishing villages, and riding around the island where Leonardo Di Caprio and Naomi Campbell had a private party last week, and sunning on the deck

We drove through the rocks so famous just off the coast of Capri

Our open air convertible taxi drove us from Capri to the other side of the island Anacapri to see the Capri Palace hotel and the views

Tanzania

2011-06-08T11:20:00.000-05:00

a series by Catherine Whitworth

Best camps are for last and we are on our way to Tanzania to Singita Sabora and Singita Sasakwa. As good as it gets!!! Can’t wait to see them again!

A note about the visa situation: get your visa before coming to Tanzania and be sure to have your Yellow fever shots documented on the yellow card. We flew on by charter, if we had flown in commercially, the visa application line and procedure would have taken a very long time because of the larger line of people. Visas cost $100 cash if you buy upon entry.

Singita Grumeti Camps in Tanzania

As I said, we saved the best for last. Sasakwa is like an English Manor sitting up on the hill overlooking the stunning Grumeti plain. Grumeti borders on the Serengeti. It is a vast plain with unlimited skies and sunsets. When the migration is going on, the plains are completely covered with Wildebeest, zebra, elephants and giraffe. And lots of predators sitting there watching the buffet. Sasakwa has the ultimate stable with about 25 horses in superb condition. Rooms are ultra luxe English cottages with fireplaces, antiques- the works! I could live there, happily. Even better is Singita’s tented Camp Sabora, nearby. Right our of Hemingway’s Africa. The Tents are completely finished with English aniques, Persian rugs, chic mobile safari furniture, crystal, silver and china. I have never seen anything like it. Totally glamorous!

Singita

Flying to Lamu on Kenya’s coast by Safari Link

2011-06-07T11:13:00.002-05:00

a series by Catherine Whitworth

We are back on the charter today- another caravan, flying to the island of Lamu on the Indian ocean. Tonight we are staying at Manda Bay. We will inspect peponi, beach house, and red pepper while we are visiting Lamu.

Lamu

I have always heard that Lamu is a heavenly beach destination. Everything I have heard was confirmed in spades. We arrived in the afternoon and took a boat directly to Manda Bay. Gorgeous coconut palms greeting us on the beach. We dropped our luggage and went immediately to see a special surprise: thousands of Northern Carmine bee- eaters. Thousands and thousands clustered and flying in huge clouds. It was such a spectacular sight. I will never forget it. We then got on a Dhow and had our cocktail cruise. While watching the sundown. Fabulous way to start a beach vacation. Dinner was under the stars, on the beach. The food everywhere we have been has been incredible. This evening we had fresh prawns in our appetizer and red snapper. Lamu is a terrific fishing destination on the Indan Ocean off the coast of Kenya. An easy scheduled charter from many camps. I find that alot of clients like the down time on a beach after Safari. The next morning we went to see several hotels. Garden House, Shella house, Palm House, and the fabulous Beach House. All of these properties are in the city center of Lamu. They have several stories, so lots of steps to go from living room to bedroom, etc. We visited Peponi the delightful family run hotel, Peponi, right on the edge of the city, on the harbor. Across the bay on Manda Island is a spectacular new property called Majlis. Owned by an Italian family, we were hosted by Stefano Moccia, one of the sons. The artwork in the compound was the best I’ve seen in Kenya. Including major American contemporary art. I will happily return and feel very comfortable putting clients there. Rooms were bright, the furnishings and decorative accessories were terrific.

We actually stayed at another former private villa, Red Pepper. Soaring open rattan ceilings, very theatrical. I loved it. Only one room had air-conditioning and we suggested that they put it in all the rooms. The night is very still and weather in Lamu is HOT.

Lewa Downs

2011-06-06T11:11:00.000-05:00

a series by Catherine Whitworth

Lewa Wildlife conservancy is an amazing idea of a small group of people who wanted to preserve and conserve Indigenous animals game in north Kenya. Started by Ian Craig, they have grown to 17 projects protecting wildlife in the Lewa Conservancy. We stayed at Lewa House one of the camps in Lewa Downs. Game sighting is plentiful. Right after landing, on the way to the camp, we saw a pair of white rhino. Specialties of Lewa are reticulated giraffe, Grevey zebra, white rhino, black rhino, hippo, and elephants, which we saw in abundance. We also saw Cheetah, we rode right into the middle of a large group of breeding elephants- yikes! We visited a fabulous 5* camp recommended by Richard Boone of Ol Donyo Waus, called Sirokoi. A really polished, glamourous amazing property. I have attached some pictures. I would happily go back there again.

Lewa house was set on the plains under fever trees. Beautiful setting. During lunch we watched a spectacular display of the area birds, and a mongoose on the prowl – our first kill. Accommodations are more simple, but comfortable. Great for a more moderate budget.

Cheetas

Lewa House:

Alaskan Adventures, Part II

2011-06-06T10:34:00.001-05:00

a series by Margret Propper

May 30. Goodbye to McCarthy today and we flew back to Chitina and picked up our car for the very scenic drive to Valdez. The scenery is spectacular and we stopped to hike to the Worthington Glacier. We also saw lots of beautiful waterfalls and enjoyed the fact that we were the only people on the road. You are surrounded by snow covered mountains and glaciers on all sides. Wildflowers are in bloom everywhere. The town of Valdez does not have much to offer and is best as an overnight stop prior to the ferry ride.

Alone on the Highway to Valdez

Boat Harbor in Valdez

May 31. Early this morning we boarded the ferry to Valdez. You travel through Prince William Sound and again, the scenery is wonderful.We saw a Killer whale, Humpback whale, dolphins, puffins and lots of other sea birds. It is about a 5 hour trip ending in Whittier. We continued to Seward, which is a major cruise ship port. My choice to overnight is the Saltwater Lodge located on the water in Lowell Point. We had a great two bedroom apartment right on the water. We spent the evening watching sea otters playing outside our windows, as well as eagles and hummingbirds abound.

Saltwater Lodge in Seward -owner, Kathleen

June 1. We picked up our friends, Peter and Louise Franck from their Regent cruise and then we drove along the Sterling highway to Homer. We did the must-do things in Homer which included a wine tasting at the Bear Creek Winery where they produce a selection of local wines made from berries and fruits. Of course we had to buy a few bottles of our favorites! Next stop is the famous Salty Dawg Saloon which is a Homer institution and the best place to meet locals. Then on to the best restaurant on the Kenai peninsula--The Homestead. Afterwards we went moose hunting and they were everywhere! We spotted at least ten in a short time and also came upon a flock of Sandhills cranes. What an eventful evening!

Moose Sighting

Wine Tasting

June 2. Today is a very exciting, adventure-packed day! We were picked up at 8 am for the short ride to the remote lodge -Katchemak Bay lodge. The tide was very low this morning so we met our very knowledgable guide, George, for tide pooling. He showed us lots of sea life exposed on the banks. Numerous types of starfish in every shape and size, jelly fish, anemones and lots more. We ended our exploration by picking mussels off the shore, cleaning them with gravel, washing them, and then back to the lodge for a glass of wine on the outdoor deck while the chef prepared and steamed for lunch. About one hour from the water to our mouths--FANTASTIC! Katchemak Bay lodge has great accomodations, a wonderful staff, and great activites. At about 3pm our boat from Tutka Bay arrived and we took the short ride over to our second lodge where we spent the night. The weather is still sunny and wonderful so we decided to take a boat ride in the waters surrounding the lodge to look for puffins and other sea birds and wildlife. The highlight was when we spotted four mountain goats, two of which were babies!

Drinks on the deck at Katchemak Bay lodge

Harvesting mussels from the Bay at Katchemak Bay lodge with lodge manager- George

Rainbow at Tutka Bay lodge

Brown Bear Yearlings

June 3. One of the owners of the lodge, Kirsten Dixon, who is also a well known chef, is at the lodge and we have a nice visit before she catches the boat back to open up their other lodge North of Anchorage called Winterlake Lodge. After our morning hike in an old growth forest, we hit the hot tub, the sauna called the Banya, followed by a one hour massage. The food, service, scenery, and accommodations are excellent and are some of the best in Alaska. We also visit the Widgeon which is an old historic former troop ship that is now being converted into a cooking school where Kirsten will conduct cooking classes. It will be a great experience once finished and we definitely plan to return. After a great dinner of salad picked fresh out of the garden and fresh caught halibut, we sit with the staff for a fun evening with great discussions, songs and lots of wine.We really hate to leave tomorrow!

June 4. We spent most of the day driving from Homer to Anchorage and stayed at the Captain Cook Hotel. This is a wonderful place to see the great Art Galleries with the best gallery being inside the Hotel. We dined on fresh Copper River red salmon at Simon and Seeforts restaurant - one of the best in town with great water views.

June 5. After a great breakfast of Alaskan sourdough pancakes we hit the road agin for the three hour drive to Talkeetna where we checked in at the Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge. Talkeetna is a really cute, small Alaskan town. We ate lunch at an old roadhouse which is supposed to have the best food in town. Afterwards we drove to K2 aviation for a flight seeing trip over and around Mt McKinley. It was snowing on the mountain so we could not land on the glacier, but we did see the peak of the mountain. The scenery was spectacular! The Talkeetna Alaskan lodge is the premier lodging choice in Talkeetna for luxury with wonderful mountain view rooms and great food in the restaurant. It was nice to have our last night of luxury before traveling out tomorrow into the wilderness.

Massai Mara

2011-06-04T11:05:00.002-05:00

a series by Catherine Whitworth

We took a charter to the Massai Mara- safarilink. It was a caravan type of plane and flew so low, we could see the country below beautifully.

In the Mara we stayed at Mara Plains , owned by the same company that has Ol Donyo Waus – Great Plains. We knew we would have lovely tents for accomodations and we were not disappointed. My room was right on the river with hippo below. In the night I thought one was in my room the noise was SO LOUD! the usual plan was a game drive in the early morning before breakfast,so we could get a good view of predators on the hunt. Then quick breakfast back at the camp, later lunch under a huge evergreen, afternoon break and then back in The car for afternoon drive. Dinner is at the camp. We were so fortunate to see several prides of lions. Gavin is a big bidwatcher, so we saw hundreds of special birds all during the drives. One evening we got caught in an enormous thunderstorm on the plains. The light show was just breathtaking. We had to have our sundowners in the jeep with the rain and lightening all around us. Quite fun. In the Mara we visited quite a few camps for inspection: Intrepid Mara, Explorer, Rekoro, and Pirini lion camp. Also Sanctuary Olonana, Bateleur, and Kitchwa Tempo.

Lions

Hippos

Thunder

Birds at Lewa House

Bedroom at Sirokoi

Sirokoi

Massai Warriors Greeting Dance

Horseback riding at Ol Donyo Waus

2011-06-03T11:03:00.000-05:00

a series by Catherine Whitworth

Today we are all going riding. Fingers crossed, I have not been on a horse In 20 years.

I probably will move very gingerly tomorrow, but riding was fun. Ol Donyo works with a riding company called Ride Keyna. They have an incredible stable with all the equipment for riding, so if you are a rider, you don’t have to pack extra. They have three levels of riding, so anyone- even beginners can go on a very nice ride. At the end of the ride, we were surprised with a complete breakfast, set up on the Plains- linen table cloths and all!

The food at this camp is amazing. I am told everything is flown in from Nairobi.

On top of the Copties , Chyulu Hills

Flying to Ol Donyo Waus in the Chyulu hills

2011-06-02T11:01:00.001-05:00

a series by Catherine Whitworth

Day 2, we got up early and flew a charter to the chulyu hills. Our destination camp is the fabulous Ol Donyo Waus. Charters are so much fun,because you can really see the landscape. As we were flying into the grass land g strip, I saw elephants, giraffe, zebra, impala, grant and thompson antelope. My biggest surprise wS that the landscape was so green! The area had just had rains and I have never seen such green. The trees and grasslands were amazing. I am sitting by the pool looking at elephants with a giraffe in the background, drinking from the pond below. Welcome to Africa!

Ol Donyo Waus is one of the five star camps I have been wanting to see, and it met all my expectations. The accommodations are top notch. Beautifully designed, the attention to detail is amazing. They have 10 villas- one is a two bedroom for families. Almost all have plunge pools, all have stunning views of Mt. Killimanjaro when he wants to show himself.

Activities include horseback riding, mountain bike riding, hiking, they offer a trek with with the resident bloodhounds( tracking pouchers)and of course games drives morning and evening. After our afternoon game drive, we had “Sundowners” and watched the sunset on the plains.

Riding in Kenya

Arrived Nairobi. Our guides: Gavin Ford and Dylan Harriss of Africa Inscribed

2011-06-01T10:58:00.000-05:00

a series by Catherine Whitworth

My first kiss- a visit with the Giraffes!

Shopping: I found Anna Trezbinski! Happy happy!!!!

SURPRISES IN PERU…..

2011-05-31T16:30:00.000-05:00

In late March I had the opportunity to visit Peru and Machu Picchu for the first time. It was truly a land of surprises! I was surprised to love the Sacred Valley as much as I love Napa (and that the resorts were just as fabulous) and I was surprised to love the food as much as I did. I knew I would be awe struck by the beauty and spirituality of Machu Picchu, but had no idea of the impact the other areas and cultures in this lovely land would have on me.

We arrived in Lima (pretty much typical Latin America big city – pollution, traffic, congestion, poverty/wealth, etc) AND the smell of a fish processing plant immediately upon departing the airport-Miraflores looked like heaven when we arrived to our seaside hotel. Hotel Miraflores and The Country Club are my favorite city hotels (both have a very ‘resort” feel and provide an oasis in the middle of some nice shopping streets).

But the real “gem” in Lima is the Rafael Larco Herrera Museum…..this is a must see for first time visitors. It provides a wonderful education in all the Inka cultures and the history of the place. Their art/artifact collection is amazing! And it provides a wonderful lunch/dinner venue in it’s Café Del Museo-the garden setting and wonderful authentic menu makes you want to spend a leisurely afternoon or evening enjoying the alfresco experience. I loved it!

Another nice way to spend lunch/dinner is enjoying Huaca Pucllana (these ruins are a short walk/ride from Miraflores) and give you another glimpse into the Inka culture and their building skills. This site also has a wonderful lunch spot frequented by the elite business clientele of Lima. The Pisco sour wasn’t bad either…..

Shopping is best in Miraflores for the upscale designer duds, while the Mercado Indio (Indian Market) was perfect for finding those handmade curios and souveniers. The tapestry items (belts, purses, table runners, sweaters, etc) are funky and very fun. I brought home 15 belts, 10 pillow covers, and enough table linen to last a lifetime. The prices are definitely right!

I was scheduled to fly into Cusco on the first flight of the day (weather sometimes gets worse as the day progresses) however, midflight in our 1 hour trip-I felt a sudden turn and we were headed back to Lima….several hours later we arrived in Cusco.

Cusco, at 11,000+ feet is a very tough destination for lots of folks. My recommendation is to head straight to the Sacred Valley (9,000 ft.) – spend a couple of nights here and then ascend into Machu Picchu and Cusco. This helped me avoid altitude sickness and a miserable couple of days……many were not so lucky!

The Sacred Valley is filled with luxury resorts – but I have a favorite – Sol Y Luna……this wonderful “find” truly provides the ultimate experience in the lush valley of the Incas! A week here would spoil me rotten….From their beautiful horse stables to their 5 star restaurant – every detail is well conceived and well delivered. Their new villas are as romantic as anything I have seen anywhere!

On my next trip, I plan on a trip to the Pisac market with the chef to select our produce and meats and then return to the resort to learn the way the Peruvian chefs prepare their cuisine….

I only lament I was not here long enough, but I have places to go and cultures to explore….so it’s off to Machu Picchu (via Ollantaytambo) and the Vistadome train. This is a 2 hour journey that is filled with sights of the local farms and people of Peru. It looks like a picture postcard to watch the Peruvian women carrying their children, foods, supplies on their backs wearing their traditional clothing-the colors are breathtaking and the smiles warm your heart. If people “make the experience” then Peru exceeds my expectations. They are lovely.]

We arrive in Agua Calientes (the base town for Machu Picchu) and are whisked off to our tour bus for the climb to the top of the ruins. Our luggage is taken directly to our hotel – nice touch! We dine at The Sanctuary Lodge on a bountiful buffet of all kinds of local dishes (food was wonderful) and are ready to begin our hike. It was fun to see all the true hikers (those that have trekked the Inca trail for4 days) arrive at the lodge ready for a shower, warm food, a massage, and COCKTAILS! What an experience that must be….

My first sight of Machu Picchu (on this clear sunny day) was one of amazement and awe. It looks just like the pictures, only more grand and more inviting. I want to explore every inch of this place and our wonderful guide knows how to bring us into his world of Inca culture. Being an Inca man, he recants stories told by his ancestors with feeling and emotion, only someone of that culture can do. Lucho, you are amazing and I will always remember our time at Machu Picchu. If you are looking for a spiritual or cultural journey- then he is your man!

After 10,000 photos from every angle and quiet meditation I see two rainbows as I leave this magical and mystical place-quite fitting I must say. I am not saying I left Machu Picchu a higher “evolved” person, but I certainly left with a different perspective on life and the importance of place.

Machu Picchu did not disappoint.

I was lulled to sleep by the sound of river rapids running directly under my patio at the Sumaq Hotel. This place offered the best views and sounds in all of Aqua Calientes (not to mention the best entertainment).

I was lucky enough to enjoy a birthday celebration of the owner of one of the best pizza restaurants in Aqua Calientes (The Springs) and we danced and drank the local wine well into the wee hours of the morning…..what a treat!

After a fabulous lunch at Inkaterra (another great lodge in Aqua Calientes) we are back on the train for our return trip to Cusco.

This time we are ready for the altitude (as much as any flatlander can adjust to 11,000 ft) and we embark on a tour of this historical city. The buildings, cathedrals, and sights of Cusco are lovely. And of course there is shopping and dining as well. I enjoyed a visit to a silver factory to understand the process of making silver jewelery and artifacts plus we got a firsthand look at artisans at work. Of course I had to buy a “bauble” to bring home…”when in Cusco”…..

The Monasterio gives an authentic option for staying in Cusco. This hotel actually boasts a chapel on site. The courtyard with it’s ancient trees and surroundings is a delightful place to enjoy afternoon tea or cocktails in a quiet setting (hard to find in the middle of this bustling city). Inkaterra also has an authentic hotel in it’s La Casona property.

2 nights is perfect in Cusco to enjoy the fine dining and see the sights of the city.

The flight back to Lima was uneventful, albeit the take off was a visual treat because it was a clear morning and we could see forever….

A last night in Lima was spent dining under the stars at Hotel Miraflores and hitting the rooftop disco for a bit of dancing before calling it a night. I am back on a flight to Miami in the morning and I must say “goodbye” to this wonderful country and it’s charming people.

I will return and perhaps add an Amazon adventure to the next trip.

Adios!

Sunrise in the Norfolk Hotel Gardens

2011-05-31T10:55:00.002-05:00

a series by Catherine Whitworth

A day in Nairobi

I stayed last night at the historic Norfolk hotel. It is over 100 years old, but recently renovated by Fairmont hotels. The public spaces remain the same and I really felt like I was in Africa. I love the Veranda and the gardens.

I paid a visit to A&K Kenya to meet all the folks that help me make wonderful Safari experiences. Last year a family from Atlanta came over on Safari and they met the children of the Jacob Loigero school. They were so impressed with the school, they sent with me two HUGE bags of school supplies- one was full of soccer balls. I took them with me today to A&K and they were delighted to get the supplies to the school in the Massai Mara. Such a wonderful gesture from my family and so great of A&K to help.

Shopping Nairobi

My number one mission was to find the atelier of Anna trezbinski. Anna is a fashion designer from Nairobi who does extremely successful trunk shows in the US.. Among her designs are pashminsas that have feathers attached to the ends. They are absolutely stunning, and all the best camps in Africa have her designs I their shops. She used local villagers and does the most Incredible beaded jewelry, clothing with beading, bags, belts etc,etc. After some phone calls, my most resourceful driver, Alex, found her. And it was her birthday! I would love to talk her into visiting Atlanta, and doing a show there with my friend Betty Jo. I felt like I was in AliBabas cave!

I also found some local crafts shops and a wonderful curio shop called African heritage. I am bringing a group in May so I wanted to get some places lined up for them.

Another delightful place I visited in Nairobi was The giraffe center where I was able to feed the giraffes and they gave me A big kiss. Seeing those gentle animals so closely was such a thrill. I highly recommend it

Alaskan Adventures

2011-05-31T10:44:00.002-05:00

by: Margret Propper

May 25. After arriving in Anchorage last night, we were anxious to begin our Alaskan adventure! Today we visited the fantastic new Anchorage museum. The Arctic studies exhibit is the best and a visit to see this museum is a must for anyone who wants to understand the culture of native Alaska and it's history. In the afternoon we drove North through Palmer and onto the Glenn Highway. The weather is fantastic and is warm and sunny. During the scenic drive we are surrounded by snow covered mountains and rivers. This is really a wonderful drive. We arrive at our overnight accommodation which is the Mananuska lodge and are greeted by the delightful owner, Brenda. The lodge is a real find with four wonderful rooms. The rooms all have a fireplace,whirlpool tub and incredible views. Brenda has thought of every comfort for guests with custom made robes and slippers, chocolates and bottled water in the rooms, open bar and a wonderful dinner prepared in her gourmet kitchen! You feel as if you are at a house party with new friends as we were joined by neighbors Bruce and Sheriton who serenaded us with his guitar. The evening ended with a late night walk to the lake and a view of the glacier from the front porch. A perfect day!

Beautiful view from the Mananuska Lodge

Mananuska Glacier

A typical view driving down the Highway

May 26. Another gorgeous day with blue skies and warm temperatures. We reluctantly said goodbye to Brenda and the lodge but our stay was made perfect by seeing a moose in the back yard when we woke up! A delicious breakfast was also included in the room rate. Our next stop was to see Bill with Blue Ice Expeditions. He operates a guide service for walks on the Matanuska glacier and has crampons that you wear to walk right out onto the glacier, making it an easy hike that anyone can easily do. Afterwards we hopped into his 4 seater plane for a flight over the glacier and the surrounding mountains where we saw moose and Dall sheep. On our return to the gravel landing strip we saw two more moose. We hit the road again for Copper Center to visit the Copper River Princess which is absolutely beautiful. We had a late lunch on their terrace overlooking the Wrangell Mountain Range and visited with some of the people on tour Everyone had lots of wildlife sightseeings in Denali Park. We then headed onto the Tok cutoff road to Gakona and our overnight accommodation at the historic Gakona lodge. This historic lodge dates from the early 1920s. We saw a moose cow with two precious babies and a fox on the way!

Moose in the backyard of the Lodge

May 27. We had a great night at the Gakoona lodge in a lovely cabin. After a great breakfast, we visited with our guide friend, Dan Wetzel. As we looked out the window we saw a young cross fox looking back at us. We also had a wonderful visit with the owner, Valori and learned all about the lodge and it's fascinating history. She and Greg are very interesting people and we once again had a wonderful visit and a great Alaskan experience. Our next stop was the Circle F Ranch to see their herd of yaks and help feed the bottle babies. The Fithians are a delightful couple who have a herd of 60 yaks which they are raising to sell for meat, breeding, and also to use for pack animals on overnight trips. After a lunch of yakburgers, we hit the road again for the drive to Chitina and the 30 minute flight to McCarthy was spectacular! We flew over the Wrangell St.Elias mountain ranges and past the Staircase Glacier which is one of the longest glaciers in North America and truly spectacular. What a great beginning to our stay in the area! On arrival we are picked up by the local van and driven the short way to the Kennicott Glacier lodge. The lodge is perfectly situated with views of the mountains and glaciers. We enjoyed the views over a glass of excellent wine while seated on the porch at the front of the lodge. Of course it does not get dark at all which makes it very hard to go in and go to bed. Another day in paradise...

Ready for takeoff to view the Wrangell Mtn Range

May 28. Today we are taking a guided hike through the village and wooded trails to the Root glacier. It is a total hike of 5 miles. Once we reach the face of the glacier we strap on crampons and hike on the glacier for about 2 hours, an unbelievable experience. The crampons make it very easy to hike on the glacier ice. We have lunch while sitting on mats on the glacier ice surrounded by what must be the most wonderful scenery anywhere in the world. This experience was organized with Gaia at St. Elias guides and they offer a variety of activities including ice climbing and camping. Kennicott was founded as a copper mining town and had some of the richest copper mines in the world. The old mine is still here and tours are offered through some of the original mill buildings and cabins.

Walking on the Glacier!

May 29. Today was a full day rafting trip down the Kennicott River into the Chitina River and through the Nizina Canyon. Lots of exciting whitewater and splashes with glacier water. We made a pullout stop on the river for a gourmet lunch. The trip was with Copper Oar and my friend and company owner, Gaia, was our river guide. This is a great day trip.

Kennicott Lodge

Rafting down the Kennicott River

Just landed in Nairobi!

2011-05-27T10:53:00.002-05:00

a series by Catherine Whitworth

Just landed in Kenya. My guides, Gavin Ford one of the top guides in all of Africa and Africa Inscribed chief Dylan Harriss were at the airport to Meet and Greet. So nice to see their smiling faces behind a huge group of greeters They sent an airport employee, Lanette, to the plane. When I deplaned, she was front and center to help with carryon luggage and MOST IMPORTANTLY to get me through the Visa registration. I was in a special line! No problems and NO LINE. You’ve gotta love it! We were off to the fabled Norfolk Hotel, I am checked in and hitting the sack. I brought special luggage from a family in Atlanta for a school in the Massai Mara. I will take that to A&K Kenya tomorrow, check out shops, and find out what the BEST lunch place is in Nairobi.

A ‘grand’ golf weekend at THE GRAND DEL MAR

2011-05-26T13:05:00.000-05:00

by Debbie Fairvalley

A ‘west coast swing’ took me to The Grand Del Mar this past weekend for a travel industry golf tournament. All I can say is “WOW”! WOW to the great golf, WOW to the fabulous accommodations, WOW to the magnificent food and wine, and WOW to the friendly staff and folks at this beautiful gem of a property in the Del Mar canyon…..

From the moment you drive through those majestic gates at the resort you feel as though you have been transported to an estate in the hills of Tuscany. The entire property oozes European charm with views of flowering hillsides in a very natural setting. I am reminded of the old world charm of The Cloister with the benefits of new construction amenities and state of the art details.

Golf is a major focus of the resort (it doesn’t hurt that they are the first Titelist teaching facility in the world). They have a junior golf program that focuses on fitness as a key role in the development of young golfers. This training program will equip our future stars to compete in both Olympic and tour golf. I love their approach to getting kids “fit” for the game!

The teaching staff is experienced, knowledgeable, and most of all quite personable! They are as at home teaching the novice as they are the low handicapper – and make it thoroughly enjoyable for the kids!

After a wonderful round of golf on their pristine course, it was off to the fabulous spa for some well deserved R&R…. The spa would rival any “destination” spas in the country. Treatments are offered in a tranquil setting that makes you want to cocoon in and never leave. Combine this with the fitness facility and Yoga/Pilates classes offered and you can’t miss.

Never mind the “over the top” suites, with fireplaces and flat screens, or the large marble baths fit for a queen – but just being able to enjoy breakfast on my large patio in the morning looking out over the canyon in complete privacy spoiled me to no end….

The Grand Del Mar boasts a 5 star/5 Diamond Michelin chef, Chef Bradley – who presides over Addison – a world renowned restaurant that has won more awards than Hollywood has stars….I experienced a meal that was divine. Each course was paired with an appropriate wine that enhanced the total dining experience. Each course was meticulously prepared-I understand this based on the fastidious appearance of the kitchen! There was a calm sense among the chefs in the kitchen and I was amazed by the fact that you could absolutely “eat off the floor” of this beautiful room without any problem. “Bravo” to Chef Bradley for creating such an atmosphere. I am also amazed at the flavor he can derive from a chantrelle mushroom……

If you are looking for an exceptional experience in North County San Diego, you cannot do better than a weekend getaway at The Grand Del Mar….

Belissimo!

Packing for an East African Safari

2011-05-26T10:53:00.000-05:00

a series by Catherine Whitworth

I am getting ready for a Safari to East Africa and I thought it might be helpful to write about what to pack. What I am suggesting is equally good for Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia, South Africa, Botswana, and Zimbabwe. It is important to take into account the other activities one might choose do do other than game drives such as fishing, horseback riding- Singita Sasakwa, and Ol Donyo Waus among others have that- canoeing, hiking, birdwatching, ATV riding , etc. You might need clothing or equipment dedicated to those activities.

The key is to PACK LIGHTLY! Most charter flights won’t carry over 20KG. Which is 44.9 pounds. I found a canvas duffle with rollers from LL Bean. I can carry it on from the US to Nairobi. Then I packed a Longchamps fold up canvas bag to hold camera equipment when I have to check the duffle. Never check ANYTHING valuable, especially camera equipment or medications. In case your luggage gets lost.

For ladies:

4 short sleeved cotton T shirts

3 easy dry long sleeved khaki shirts

3 pairs long khaki pants- mine have zippers to make into shorts

2 pairs of long pants for night

2 pairs long shorts

One dress for night dining

One skirt for night

A really GOOD pair of binoculars

A good wide brimmed hat with a tie so it won’t blow off.

2 pair of sunglasses

Malarone medication for Mosquitos

A really good mossie spray with DEET

a bathing suit

A sarong for both BS and night

2 bright colored pashminas. I use them instead of the plane blankets.

2 cashmere sweaters for night or cold mornings

1 pair of Silver Tory Burch slippers for night

1 pair of sneakers

1 folding fan

All Chargers for phones and cameras

Universal adapter

Ziploc bags for makeup and hair products

1 all weather jacket

2 cameras one with long lense attachment, one video. Extra cards.

A journal

A fold up bag to use when your carryon has to be checked.

Undergarments

1 nightgown

Medjet medical pack

Visa credit card, iPad, and cash.

What is 1887, you ask!?

2011-05-10T11:23:00.000-05:00

Each year at the Brownell Company Meeting Awards & Recognition Dinner, we announce the current year's 1887 Club Winners. We named the club in an honor of the intrepid travelers who accompanied George G. Brownell on Brownell's very first trans-Atlantic tour in 1887. We recognize the best-of-the-best sales and sales support staff from the year.

The winners not only earn recognition and praise from their peers, but they also take an amazing trip together with the Brownell owners to celebrate their achievements.

Each year Brownell Travel celebrates their top producers with their annual 1887 club trip. This year’s trip began in Mexico City and visited San Miguel de Allende in the Colonial Heartland and ended on the gorgeous shores of the Riviera Maya. Journey Mexico President, Zachary Rabinor, and Director of Operations, Matteo Luthi, recently returned from this special trip with close partners and dear friends at Brownell Travel.

South Beach: We're in Miami!

2011-04-21T09:33:00.000-05:00

Katherine Gould recently spent a long weekend in South Beach to become more familiar with the area and the numerous luxury properties available to the upscale traveler. South Beach is famous around the world for its amazing hotels, restaurants, shopping, and people watching.

Beachfront at The Ritz Carlton South Beach

I began my trip at The Tides, a boutique Virtuoso property best described on the hotel’s website as ”the diva of Ocean Drive.” Guests are greeted by good-looking bellmen dressed in all white and whisked into a beautiful lobby of cream, gold and beige. A complimentary “Signature Drink” was immediately slipped into my hand, and in an instant, I felt like a movie star on vacation.

Lobby at The Tides

My husband and I opted to dine at the hotel’s sidewalk cafe, and the meal was truly incredible. I enjoyed a fantastic mojito and fresh ceviche while watching the diverse crowd of locals and tourists from all over the world meander by. Next up was a lazy afternoon on the beach, which was wider and cleaner than I ever imagined. The water boasts the same turquoise hues of the Caribbean, and despite the large number of people enjoying its beauty, I never felt it was too crowded.

Enjoying the sun and sand of South Beach

There isn't a bad room at the Tides. Each room provides a direct ocean view, and I would call the decor "South Beach chic".

Signature Oceanfront Studio Suite at The Tides

My next stop was the Ritz Carlton South Beach- located literally steps from the best restaurants, shops and clubs in South Beach. In addition to offering the only club level lounge in South Beach, it also has the only beachfront restaurant in town (called The DiLido Beach Club).

Prime setting at The DiLido Beach Club

I cannot say enough good things about Club Level at the Ritz. It is worth every penny! The food presentations run all day long, and the wine, champagne, and spirits flow from lunchtime to bedtime. The club lounge is located on the 10th floor, and wall to wall windows give guests spectacular views of both the beach and Biscayne Bay.

Cocktail hour at the Ritz Carlton Club Lounge

For travelers seeking the familiarity of the Ritz Carlton product and a central location, this hotel is an ideal choice.

Deluxe Lanai Pool View Room at the Ritz Carlton South Beach

The Setai is a 135 room Virtuoso property of pure luxury. Its Asian influenced decor is both serene and sophisticated, and some of the interior details are quite remarkable. The lobby's amazing floor made up entirely of centuries-old brick imported from Shanghai, and the mother of pearl bar couldn’t be a swankier spot to enjoy your favorite martini.

Courtyard at The Setai

The Setai is committed to their room quality. Every one is in immaculate condition, mainly due to the fact that no interior is older than 365 days. The hotel is constantly refurbishing and upgrades every room once a year: a luxury few other properties in the world can afford. Guests have the choice of staying in either the main hotel or the new tower with larger 1, 2 and 3 bedroom suites.

Studio Suite at The Setai

For spa lovers, The Setai offers some of the nicest treatment rooms in South Beach. I especially liked their spa suites, which hold up to four guests at a time and are ideal for a girls’ getaway. After relaxing at the spa, no stay at The Setai would be complete without spending time at one of their three pools. Each one is maintained at a separate temperature, so depending on your mood and the weather, you can choose accordingly!

Spa Suite at The Setai

Katherine also spent her time in South Beach dining at fantastic restaurants and shopping in the wonderful boutiques. The town lived up to every expectation and exceeded it in terms of the friendliness of the people. "When can I go back???"

Four Seasons Nevis

2011-04-05T14:34:00.000-05:00

Last stop: Ellen LeCompte journeys to the island of Nevis.

Beautiful!

buildings have all been beautifully restored and the landscaping along the beach expanded

spa was stunning- very tranquil and private

great tennis and golf facilities

Hotel Saint- Barth Isle de France

2011-04-05T14:28:00.000-05:00

Ellen LeCompte also made time for a trip to Isle de France: look at this amazing property!

The best hotel on St. Barths: Hotel Saint-Barth

A belnd of classic colonial and chic island decor

The rooms are marvelously romantic

Certainly the best beach

Azamara Journey

2011-04-05T13:59:00.001-05:00

Ellen Lecompte had a wonderful trip on Azamara Journey:

The breakfast butler set up on the balcony.

Everyone was overflowing with compliments on everything - the ship itself, the food, the spa, the activities, the crew.

The ship had extraordinary food and wine and elegance and flow- never a wait!

Falconry in Ireland

2011-04-04T14:03:00.001-05:00

Emily Debruge visited Adare Manor on a recent trip to Ireland and participated in the Falconry activity.

We're Moving! Come see us at the Summit!

2011-03-30T14:54:00.000-05:00