Who says you can’t see dolphins in Ireland?!

Posted on May 14, 2013 by Collette Peck

He’s one of Ireland’s most famous residents, and visitors and locals alike can’t get enough of him.  No, he’s not Ireland’s beloved Saint Patrick or U2’s front man, Bono. Nor is he one of their hunky Hollywood actors, Colin Farrell or Michael Fassbender.

Fungie, people… is a dolphin.

But he’s not just any dolphin. He’s practically part of the family. Since 1983, this friendly dolphin has engaged and entertained visitors and locals alike, at his home off the coast of Dingle, a picturesque harbor town in County Kerry.  In fact, he’s so adored by the locals they even built a statue in his honor.

Fungie saying hello!

The best way to see Fungie is to take a boat tour and watch him splash about in the sea. So regular are Fungie’s appearances that you won’t be charged if he doesn’t show. Continue reading →

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Delving into Dubai, UAE

Posted on May 9, 2013 by Rosie Holliday
Rosie in Dubai

Rosie in Dubai, with the Burj Al Arab in the the background

I had the great opportunity to go to India for two weeks this March. The country is fascinating, frustrating, colorful, intense and full of great wealth and great poverty. It was a complete assault on the senses! I totally enjoyed it and was going to write about it (because besides the Taj Mahal, I did get to see tigers in Ranthambore National Park, making me one of the lucky few to do so and a great highlight for me). But when I told people where I had been and that I had two nights and one day in Dubai on the way back, across the board the reaction was, “Wow, India sounds great but how was Dubai?”

So this article is on Dubai, which was also fascinating and offered a teeny glimpse into the Arab culture. It has been rated by Interpol as one of the safest cities in the world, and people of more than 200 nationalities live there harmoniously. It is one of the seven Emirates that make up the Islamic country of United Arab Emirates and is the most liberal, modern and fast-moving of the seven. Sheikh Mohammed Zayed was instrumental in bringing Dubai into the UAE in 1971 to further stabilize its currency and strength, but his main purpose was for peace. Four other Emirates had already joined Abu Dhabi, and one more joined in 1972. His name is everywhere, and the Sheikh Zayed Road goes all the way to Abu Dhabi and on to Europe.

Most of Dubai’s revenues are generated from trade and manufacturing. Recently, financial services have also contributed to the Emirate’s economy. And contrary to popular belief, oil, energy and gas revenues make up less than 10 percent of Dubai’s gross revenues. Oh, and how would you like to live somewhere that gives you free health care and education, is tax-free and offers you a $20,000 bonus to get married!? Continue reading →

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Destination Review: My Tahitian Bliss

Posted on May 2, 2013 by Merri Lou Martin

I just returned from a most amazing trip to Tahiti. This was my first time to Tahiti and I hope not my last!  I can’t even express what an incredibly beautiful place it is. It is truly a paradise. I was with seven other travel advisors from around the US and one from Canada.  We visited four islands: Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora and Taha’a. In the six days we were there we toured 13 resorts, giving us a very good perspective on the variety of accommodations available in Tahiti.

We had the opportunity to go on a shark and ray feeding excursion.  I must say it was cool to see the sharks swimming around the boat, but I wasn’t too keen on the idea of getting in the water with them!  After some amount of peer pressure, I ventured into the water to touch a stingray but stayed clear of the sharks.

Our last day there we sailed on the Iti Iti Cruise, which is a catamaran with four sleeping cabins and a kitchen.  That was a magnificent way to end our trip.  For four hours we sailed along the pristine lush tropical island (or Motu as they call it) of Raiatea – Taha’a.  I truly felt that I was in heaven.  I found a quiet little corner to lay and soak it all in,  the warm tropical breeze caressing my skin, the picturesque scenery passing by ever so slowly as I mentally photographed the beauty of it all and the tranquil sound of the ocean waves lulled me into a happy oblivion.

You can charter the catamaran for a day or up to a week.  It would be a great way to enjoy the islands with family or friends.

A visit to the Islands of Tahiti will refresh your mind, inspire your soul and ravish your heart.

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Multi-generational cruising: Get on board!

Posted on May 1, 2013 by Collette Peck

multi-gen1Talk about a family trip to remember!

The 2013 Virtuoso Luxe Report found that family and multi-generational travel are the year’s biggest travel trend, with river and luxury cruises taking the next two spots. The report also found that spending time and reconnecting with loved ones were among the top reasons motivating travel. Not surprisingly, Virtuosos have seen a lot of crossover in these trends, with more clients booking multi-generational cruises over the past three years.

Cruising lends itself well to families with a range of ages and interests. It’s the convenience of being able to travel together, of only having to unpack once, and experiencing a variety of destinations together as a family.  Especially if there are little ones involved. When it’s time for their nap or bed time, the stateroom is only steps away – and everyone else can stay put and finish their activity. Continue reading →

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Santa Barbara’s Top Attractions

Posted on April 30, 2013 by Collette Peck

Santa Barbara1. Discover Lotusland
The garden created by Polish opera singer Ganna Walska is a truly extraordinary realm. Her labor of love over 43 years, it is a succession of contrasting “green rooms” and clusters of unusual plants. Topiary, dramatic displays of cycads and cacti, a Japanese pool, an open-air theater  a beach set with giant shells…wonderful surprises appear at every turn. Private guided tours (visitor numbers are strictly limited) are available, reservations required.

2. Hit the Urban Wine Trail
Downtown Santa Barbara is best explored as part of the Urban Wine Trail. Start off with a tasting at centrally located Grassini Family Vineyard, and add in cultural sights, shops and cafes nearby. Then head towards the Funk Zone where warehouses such as Santa Barbara and Carr Wineries gather. Raise your glass to vintages from vineyards just out of town.

3. Take a grey whale and dolphin cruise
Sail along the California coast, past the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary, spotting the playful seals that cling to buoys. You’ll also likely see dolphins leaping in formation, rising from the waves in graceful curves. The humpback and minke whales are more elusive, more numerous on early morning trips. But evening voyages bring a gorgeous sunset that lights up the sea and hills. Which to choose? Continue reading →

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Luxury Hotel Review: Mount Nelson Hotel, Cape Town

Posted on April 27, 2013 by Donna Evans
Entrance to Mount Nelson Hotel

Entrance to Mount Nelson Hotel

Sprawled before Table Mountain in great majesty is the Mount Nelson Hotel in Cape Town, South Africa. With her history and charm she settles nicely among the gardens and beautiful landscape of this urban oasis. The hotel’s history began in 1899 and the famous pink color it was painted after the war is locally known as “Mount Nelson pink”.

I stayed at this property very happily for 7 nights recently.  This stylish and elegant hotel has several types of accommodations, including traditional rooms, suites and garden cottages. There are two outdoor pools, one for the exclusive use of guests in the cottages. The other sits regally outside the area used for breakfast, surrounded by perfectly manicured vegetation. Of course, there is a spa, restaurants, and the service you would expect from any 5 star accommodation with the personal touch including the mention of your name. It possesses all the modern conveniences, such as complimentary wifi, yet still maintains the English charm. Continue reading →

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Luxury Hotel Review: Ulusaba Private Game Reserve

Posted on April 25, 2013 by Donna Evans
My deck at Ulusaba with the bush view beyond.

My deck at Ulusaba with the bush view beyond.

I recently had the privilege of staying at the beautiful private game reserve of Ulusaba in the Sabi Sand area of Kruger National Park. Royal treatment is offered to each guest, no matter which level of the property your room occupies.

Ulusaba has two different lodges on property. The Safari Lodge is built along a dry river bed, which easily offers wildlife viewing throughout the day and night. Whether they are visiting the watering hole just in front of the lodge or wandering through the bush, you will certainly hear and see many varieties of animals throughout your stay. My room was in the elephant wing and provided a tree house style accommodation with 60 square meters of space, including a very large bathroom with tub and an open shower. The huge deck allows for animal spotting and relaxation when you aren’t on a game drive spotting incredible wildlife with excellent guides and trackers. There is also a complimentary mini bar, snacks, coffee and tea making facilities. There is no television, so you are totally taken in by the bush and able to relax and enjoy nature and stellar service. Continue reading →

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The Ritz-Carlton Kapalua: Top 10 Reasons to Book

Posted on April 23, 2013 by Donna Evans

Ritz_KapaluaMaui_00175_920x518Here are my top 10 reasons to book your next Hawaiian vacation at the Ritz-Carlton Kapalua on Maui.

10. Guests are greeted with a warm aloha reception upon arrival amidst the lush flora and given a kukui nut lei.

9. The expansive 10,000 square foot, three-tiered pool, including a children’s pool has inviting cabanas for those who want a little privacy and shade.

8. The Ritz-Carlton Kapalua showcases a destination resort offering 463 guest rooms, including 107 residential suites. The warm-hued wood floors, rich travertine bathrooms, flat screen televisions and Hawaiian artwork complement the guestroom space.

7. Located within the resort is a 22,000 acre natural paradise featuring white sand beaches, two marine sanctuaries, two legendary world class golf courses and some of Maui’s finest dining options.

6. There are two 18 hole championship golf courses – the Bay Course and the Plantation Course (Home to the PGA tour season opening event-the Hyundai Tournament of Champions). Continue reading →

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More than Mardi Gras in New Orleans

Posted on April 18, 2013 by Collette Peck

NewOrleansIf friends ask me what U.S. city I’d like to revisit, I always say New Orleans.  My husband and I were in New Orleans several years ago on Halloween.  This was when all the Anne Rice vampire books were popular.  For the first time in 40 years, there was going to be a full moon on “All Hallows Eve,” so we decided to take a ghost tour starting in famous Jackson Square.  We donned masks and wigs and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves while touring the city’s haunts (pun intended!).  We also ate lots of wonderful food.  Now’s the time to visit (or revisit) this revitalized city and take advantage of some of the wonderful festivals that they host throughout the year, such as:

Oyster Festival June 1-2, 2013
The Oyster Festival educates about the benefits of the Louisiana Gulf oyster, honors and celebrates the restaurateurs and oyster farmers who have solidified the New Orleans French Quarter and celebrates with live music and, of course, oysters!

French Market Creole Tomato Festival June 8-9, 2013
A celebration of the Creole tomato, which is locally grown, this festival features cooking demonstrations by the city’s premier chefs, food booths selling dishes made with Creole tomatoes, plus music and vendors selling the famous tomatoes. Continue reading →

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10 Tips and Tricks for River Cruising

Posted on April 11, 2013 by Collette Peck

european-river-cruiseThinking of going on a river cruise for the first time?  Here’s what I tell my clients about rolling on the river:

1. Don’t forget your bathing suit, even in colder months. After a long bike ride, a soak in the heated pool or jacuzzi feels wonderful.

2. Book well in advance, up to a year.  These cruises are very popular not just with individuals but with corporate and affiliate groups. Booking a group often results in lower deposits and often a shipboard credit.

3. Keep in mind that cabin sizes – even suites – may be smaller than on traditional ocean ships.  The river locks and bridges dictate what size these ships can be.

4. Bring a small backpack and lightweight rain jacket, especially for biking.

5. Leave the cocktail dresses and ties at home – river cruising isn’t formal. Continue reading →

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