While the coronavirus pandemic may have us cooped up at home, it doesn’t mean that we have to forgo our vacations to distant lands. With the help of technology, you can now take a leisurely journey through the Swiss countryside, explore the Andes in Peru or see the cherry blossoms in Japan by way of virtual train rides. You can even travel the real Hogwarts Express through Scotland! All aboard for these adventures: Bernina Express, Switzerland. This is by far one of the best virtual train rides available. This two-hour virtual trip takes you from St. Moritz in the Alps to Tirano, Italy on the Mediterranean coast via the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as Rhaetian Railway in the Albula / Bernina Landscapes, which links two historic rail lines through remote areas of the Alps. You be travelling through the highest railway crossing on the highest adhesion railway in Europe. Pike’s Peak, Colorado. From the heights of the Alps to North America’s highest train, this quick ride up to Pike’s Peak provides a 360-degree view of your trip to 14,115 ft on Manitou Springs' world famous Cog Railway. It’s a short trip, but well worth the watch. North West Coast Line – Chester, England to Holyhead, Wales. This virtual journey takes you along the north coast of Wales, and provides a wonderful commentary on what you are seeing as you travel through the countryside. Amtrak’s Southwest Chief – Chicago to Los Angeles. Once considered the “Train of the Stars”, this narrated journey takes you from farmland to the prairie, through the Rockies and the southwest until reaching it’s final stop in Los Angeles. Jacobite Steam Train – Highlands, Scotland. If you are a Harry Potter fan, this virtual train ride is right up your alley! The West Highland Line is the exact trip featured in the films. While it’s not Hogwart’s Express, it is a pretty ride through the Highlands of Scotland – and you’ll catch one or two familiar scenes from the movies. Ferrocarril Centro Andino, Peru. This 4-part series takes you on a scenic ride from the port of Callao up to the Galera railway station in the Andes. You’ll see beautiful vistas of the countryside and many points of interest along the way. Flåm Railway, Norway. Considered one of the most scenic journeys in the world, the Flåm Railway in Norway travels from the end of Aurlandsfjord, a tributary of the Sognefjord, up to the high mountains at Myrdal station. Along the way, you’ll pass waterfalls, deep ravines, snow-capped mountains, and high-altitude farms, all while watching the weather shift from sun to rain. Venice to London on the Simplon Orient Express. One of the most romanticized trips is aboard the Orient Express. While the original Orient Express doesn’t exist anymore, there is a joint venture that operates as the Simplon Orient Express. They have restored the carriages from the original trains, and operate from Venice to London and other lines through Europe. This video takes you on a tour of the cars as well as narrates the 3-day journey from Venice to London – giving you a small taste of what it must have been to travel on this opulent train.
We hope these “trips” take you to places that you have wanted to visit. When you are ready for your next in-person trip, give Luxury Destinations Concierge a call at (805) 236-4437. We’ll help you plan an unforgettable trip!
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As we all continue to combat the coronavirus pandemic by staying home and implementing social distancing procedures when we do venture out, many are looking forward to taking a vacation – escaping to somewhere fun, surrounded by people, and making happy memories after months cooped up. The question is, what will that vacation look like and how does the travel industry have to change in order to accommodate the “new normal”?
Focus on Health. The one thing that will be on everyone’s mind as they begin to plan any vacation is their health and the health of those that they will be around. Crowded airplanes and packed cruises may be a thing of the past as we will most likely need to continue with some form of social distancing. You may even need to provide proof of good health when traveling by plane or cruise ship – especially if you are in one of the more vulnerable health groups. Airlines. When non-essential flights return, air travel will be much different than before the pandemic hit. Most airlines will concentrate on high-traffic routes and may even eliminate or severely curtail those flights that weren’t profitable. Most travelers will prefer direct flights to limit exposure, and flight attendants and crews will most likely wear masks and gloves as they interact with their customers. Expect to see a ban on middle-seat occupancy and changes to boarding procedures as airlines practice social distancing as well. Cruises. One of the hardest hit in the travel industry will be cruise lines. As we’ve seen over the past few months, cruises have been hammered with COVID-19 outbreaks, and many struggled (and are still struggling) to find ports where their passengers could disembark. This is on top of the other periodic outbreaks aboard cruise ships that we’ve heard about in the news for years. Cruises tend to get a bad rap as far as health and safety are concerned, but this is much different. There are several hurdles that cruise lines need to overcome in order to bounce back after the pandemic ends – especially trust. Cruise lines are going to have to prove to the public that their ships are not a health risk. Endless buffets will be a thing of the past, with glass protecting food and servers in masks and gloves handing you your selections. Casinos, theaters, swimming pools and even dining rooms will limit the number of passengers allowed in at any given time. Cruise lines will have to make the public aware of what they are doing to keep the ships clean and their procedures to contain onboard illnesses. In fact, most will probably increase their medical staffs and facilities to ensure they can handle medical emergencies. Another issue that cruise ships will need to explore is air circulation. Right now, most cruises rely on recirculated air, thus making it very easy for viruses and other illnesses to spread throughout the ship. We’ll most likely see systems put in place that bring fresh air into common areas and cabins, and an increase in sanitizing procedures. When it comes to handling sick passengers, cruise lines will have to improve their coordination with ports around the world, ensuring that remaining passengers are protected and there is little threat to the port city as they disembark. Hotels and Rentals. In addition to airlines and cruise lines, the hotel industry will have its own challenges. Hotels will need to promote their cleanliness, and will contend with a slow return of leisure, business and group travel. Rentals will have a bit more to overcome as people continue to be concerned about health conditions and cleanliness of those vacation homes. In all cases, expect to find discounted rates as the travel industry tries to rebound. Travel agents, like Luxury Destinations Concierge, will have the most up-to-date information to help you plan your trip, and will be there for you in case your plans change. Give us a call at (805) 236-4437. We’re happy to answer your questions and make your next vacation memorable! As the number of people impacted by the coronavirus continues to grow, and as governments take measures to keep us safe and try to slow the progress of COVID-19, the question that keeps coming up is: What about my vacation and travel plans? Here is what we know about travel for the near future:
The Bottom Line: When all is said and done, what is most important is your health and the health of those around you. If you need to travel or are wondering whether or not to cancel/postpone your travel plans, consider the following questions:
Tahiti, the largest of 118 islands that make up French Polynesia, has always been associated with the exotic – pristine beaches, beautiful blue waters, secluded hide-aways, friendly people, and more. No wonder the likes of painter Paul Gauguin and author James Michener were enchanted with Tahiti and its surrounding islands. It’s time to take a closer look at what makes Tahiti so enticing:
Papeete. While many may pass up staying directly on Tahiti for Bora Bora or even Moorea, don’t miss out on exploring the Tahitian capital of Papeete. Here, take time to visit the Marche de Papeete – the main marketplace – where you can find handicrafts and souvenirs, taste the local food, and just take in the ambience of Tahiti. Don’t miss the Robert Wan Pearl Museum where you can see how black pearls are made. You can also explore the Parc Bougainville and the grounds of the Presidential Palace. The Circle Road. Take an opportunity to explore the Circle Road, which is a 120 km road around the island. During your trip, stop to see the botanical garden and waterfalls at the Grotto de Marea, which rumor has it was one of Gauguin’s favorite swimming spots. A little further along the road is the Gauguin Museum to learn more about his time in Tahiti and French Polynesia. If you love to surf, you may want to stop at Tahiti Iti, where the waves rival those in Hawaii. Don’t miss the Arahoho Blowhole, where the force of waves crashing against the rocky shoreline creates a natural geyser-like phenomenon. And if you are a fan of the Mutiny on the Bounty stories, stop by author James Normal Hall’s Home to find out more about his life as an author. The Belvedere. For a spectacular view of Tahiti and its signature mountains, the Belvedere overlook is not to be missed. From this vantage point, you can even see Moorea island! While, you’re there, have lunch at Le Belvedere restaurant (French, of course!). Mount Aorai. If you are looking for a bit of adventure, consider hiking up to the summit of Mount Aorai, the third highest peak in Tahiti. While it’s a challenging and dangerous climb, it is one of the most rewarding. The complete hike is about 11k, but it is recommended that you do it in two stages, staying at one of the refuge huts along the way. Papara Beach – Plage de Taharuu. A visit to Tahiti wouldn’t be complete without a stop at Plage de Taharuu – one of the best black sand beaches on the island! Bora Bora. If you’re looking for paradise, don’t miss visiting neighboring Bora Bora. Whether it’s hiking, bicycling, spending time on the beach or visiting the famous Bloody Mary’s restaurant, Bora Bora is a relaxing distraction that you won’t forget. Moorea. Moorea, the Magical Island, is just that, and needs to be part of your trip to Tahiti. Relax on the beaches, explore the island on foot or by bicycle, tour the juice factory (which makes liquors too!) and drink in the flora and fauna of the region at the tropical gardens near Opunohu Bay. The best way to see Tahiti, Bora Bora, Moorea and the rest of French Polynesia is by cruise ship. Why not see Tahiti in style on a Paul Gauguin Cruise? Let us help you plan your Tahiti trip today. Give us a call at (805) 236-4437. When it comes to planning your honeymoon, don’t settle for the usual trips to Hawaii or the Caribbean. It’s time to think outside the box and plan a trip you will remember for years to come. Whether you plan to stay in the United States or travel abroad there are many options to consider. Here are our favorite choices:
Giraffe Manor, Kenya. If you are in the mood for adventure (and love giraffes), this is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Giraffe Manor is an exclusive boutique hotel, located in the Langata suburb of Nairobi. This stately manor is home to a herd of Rothschild’s giraffes who may peek into your window and say hello. There are numerous activities to enjoy in and around the estate that make this an ideal honeymoon destination. Lake Como, Italy. Lake Como is one of the hottest destinations these days, and it’s no wonder…Situated about an hour north of Mila, this picturesque lake has both the Swiss and Italian Alps for a backdrop. You can spend days exploring the surrounding villages, or just drink in the beauty of the lake and countryside. ICEHOTEL, Sweden. Are you adventurous and planning a fall or winter wedding? Why not think about spending your honeymoon at the ICEHOTEL in Jukkasjarvi, Sweden? The ICEHOTEL is the world’s first and largest ice hotel and everything is made out of ice or snow – including the beds! There are plenty of activities to enjoy – from dog sledding, skiing and feeding reindeer to a Northern Lights Safari (and if you are looking to have a destination wedding, the ICEHOTEL has your covered!). Comporta, Portugal. If you are set on a beachfront honeymoon, consider going off the beaten path to Comporta, Portugal. This seaside village is often referred to as “the Hamptons of Portugal”. Whether it’s lounging on the beach, surfing or enjoying champagne and caviar, Comporta promises a luxurious, relaxing honeymoon. Willamette Valley, Oregon. Want something a little closer to home? Willamette Valley in Oregon may just be the ticket – especially if you are a wine connoisseur. This region produces over 70 types of wine, so get ready for some unique winetasting experiences. The countryside is brimming with romance, from covered bridges to biking and hiking trails, this will start your married life off on the right foot. Luxury Destinations Concierge specializes in helping you identify and create the honeymoon experience you are craving. Give them a call at (805) 236-4437 to start planning your dream vacation today. A destination wedding is a dream come true for many brides. While jetting to a foreign country to marry your true love is exciting, there is a lot to consider to make your big day truly special. Here are 7 things to keep in mind as you start planning:
Destination weddings are a great way to celebrate your big day. Whether your destination is Hawaii, Mexico or some exotic locale, let Luxury Destinations concierge help you with your destination wedding or honeymoon plans. Give us a call at (805) 236-4437. If you have traveled outside the country recently, you are well aware of the long lines and the time it takes to get through Customs each time you fly. Luckily, there are ways to expedite your travel through border crossings, similar to TSA PreCheck for domestic travel. These are Mobile Passport, Global Entry and CLEAR. Here’s a breakdown how each works.
Mobile Passport. Mobile Passport is an app that allows US (and Canadian) passport holders to submit their passport information and customs declarations to the US Customs and Border Patrol via your smartphone or tablet before you get off the plane. It allows you to go through an expedited lane, by-passing the long lines. The app is free, and initially all you have to do is create a profile consisting of your name, gender, date of birth and country of citizenship. Each time you re-enter the US, you fill out a “New Trip” section, take a selfie and answer some inspection-related questions. Once completed, you’ll get an electronic receipt with a QR code, which you take to a CBP officer, along with your passport, to finalize your re-entry to the US. That’s it. You can download the app through Google Play or the Apple App stores. Global Entry. Global Entry provides participants expedited entrance at US border crossings for a full five years. Unlike Mobile Passport, Global Entry requires an in-depth background check and in-person interview. Once you “pass” the background check and in-person interview, you get a “Known Traveler Number” and are eligible for expedited security and customs screening and TSA PreCheck when you travel in and out of the US. The cost for the program is $100 and is good for 5 years. Some credit cards, such as Chase Sapphire and American Express Platinum, will provide reimbursement for Global Entry program costs – check with your credit card company for details. To apply for Global Entry you need to visit the Trusted Traveler Program website. CLEAR. CLEAR is an identity verification service that will help speed you through security checkpoints for domestic flights only. Instead of using your Driver’s License or other ID, CLEAR uses biometrics to identify you – either your fingerprints or iris scans. CLEAR Members have their own security lines, where a CLEAR Ambassador will take care of scanning their fingerprint or iris and comparing it to their boarding pass. They are then escorted to the front of the security screening line. CLEAR does cost $179 per year, and currently has special programs with Delta and United that will reduce that cost for their awards program members. In addition, some credit cards (Chase Sapphire, AMEX Platinum, etc.) offer discounts and/or reimbursements for your CLEAR membership fees – check with your credit card company for eligibility. CLEAR is currently available at 30 airports. In addition, they will shortly introduce the CLEAR Pass app, which is similar to Mobile Passport and will help expedite the process through customs when entering the US. Need help determining which program is right for you? Give Luxury Destinations Concierge a call at (805) 236-4437. We’re happy to answer all your questions. If you’re looking for an adventure this year, then Nepal should be at the top of your list. With the breath-taking Himalayas and Mount Everest, beautiful lakes, diverse wildlife and its unique culture, Nepal has a lot to offer. In fact, Nepal’s government has declared this year as Visit Nepal 2020, with festivals and events planned throughout the year. As you make your plans, be sure to indulge in some of these festivities during your journey.
Here are our top must-see stops along your trip to Nepal: Kathmandu. As one of the main stops along the ancient Silk Road between Europe and China and Nepal’s capital, Kathmandu is most likely your first stop on your journey to Nepal. Kathmandu is known for its medieval temples, public squares, monasteries and monuments. While here, visit Swayambhu, the ancient “Monkey Temple”, where you can climb the steps and see the panoramic views of Kathmandu Valley. an ancient temple that is often called the “Monkey Temple”. You’ll also want to take a stroll around the markets at Thamel to do some shopping. And no trip to Kathmandu is complete without visiting Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is one of three royal palaces in the area. Here, you can see home to palaces, temples and courtyards that tell the story of Kathmandu and the surrounding area. Bhaktapur. A sister city to Kathmandu, Bhaktapur closely resembles what it must have looked like during medieval times. In fact, if you want to see Nepali culture and heritage up close, Bhaktapur is the place to do it. Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, you’ll see hundreds of examples of Newari architecture throughout the city. Make sure to stop by the Nyatapola Temple with its 5-tier roof. Climb to the top and look out over Taumadhi Square and the surrounding hillside. Boudhanath Stupa. The Boudhanath Stupa is one of the oldest and largest stupas – or dome-shaped Buddhist shrines – in the world. Built in the 14th century, it has become a beacon for Buddhist belief and the center for Tibetan Buddhism, drawing visitors and pilgrims from all over the world. Mount Everest Base Camp. For the adventurer, no trip to Nepal would be complete without glimpsing Mount Everest. While trekking to the summit may be a stretch, many can hike to its base camp to get a glimpse of the peak. If you want to see Mount Everest but don’t want to hike, consider taking a helicopter tour or even a driving tour up to Nagarkot View Tower or Chandragiri Hill. Both options aren’t quite as close as the base camp, but the early morning tours should give you a clear view of the mountain. Lumbini. A little off the beaten path, but well worth the trip is Lumbini, the birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama, the historic Buddha, known as Buddha Shakyamuni. Visit the Maya Devi Temple (believed to be where Buddha was born), the Lumbini Monastic Site, the Myanmar Golden Temple, and the World Peace Pagoda. And don’t miss the Ashokan Pillar, built in 249 BC by Emperor Ashoka of India to commemorate not only his visit but also the birthplace of Buddha. Chitwan National Park. Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Chitwan National Park is situated at the base of the Himalayas and is home to the single-horned Asiatic rhinoceros as well as the Bengal tiger. You can go on a walking safari through the park, or if you are less adventurous, take a jeep safari to see the unique flora and fauna that the park has to offer. Nepal is the place to visit whether you want an adventure or to indulge in the culture and history of the region, and Luxury Destinations Concierge is ready to help you plan your trip. Give us a call at (805) 236-4437 to get started. Sri Lanka has truly earned its nickname of Pearl of the Indian Ocean. While a little off the beaten path, Sri Lanka offers visitors an opportunity to see exquisite beaches, beautiful forests tea plantations and more, while also enjoying its rich cultural heritage. Its tropical environment makes it a great destination all year long.
Here are our top must-see sights in Sri Lanka: Colombo. Colombo, Sri Lanka’s capital, used to be known as “the garden of the East”. Today, it is usually the first stop on visits to Sri Lanka. Originally a seaport town, Colombo has changed significantly over the years and now is a mix of a bustling, modern city combined with historical sites from ancient times through British, Portuguese and Dutch colonization. Take some time to explore the National Museum to learn about ancient Sri Lanka, and then stroll around the Fort area to see remnants of British and Dutch colonization, including the Old Dutch Hospital and the Old Galle Buck Lighthouse. For a bit of shopping and people-watching, head over to the Pettah district to experience the markets and the Jami-Ul-Alfar Mosque. And if you get tired of walking around, don’t forget to take a Tuk-Tuk ride! Nuwara Eliya and Tea Plantations. Sri Lanka is known for its tea, so no trip is complete without a trip to the tea plantations. And there is no better place to go than Nuwara Eliya, known as the Little England of Sri Lanka. Enjoy the colonial architecture of the post office as you explore the city. Then, head over to the Pedro Tea Estate to participate in the tea tasting ritual, roam the plantation, and see the intricacies of the tea-making process. You can also explore the beautiful Hakgala Botanical Gardens, take a boat out on Gregory Lake or visit the waterfalls at St. Clairs Fall. Galle. About 130 kilometers south of Colombo is the coastal city of Galle. This seaside city is the home of the Galle Dutch Fort, a Unesco World Heritage site. This unique walled fort is surrounded on three sides by ocean. The Dutch East India Company used the fort as a major spice trading port for nearly 200 years. You can explore the fort and still see much of the Dutch influence in the area architecture. While in Galle, visit the beautiful sandy beaches of Unawatuna. Go surfing, relax on the beach, go scuba diving or visit the Japanese Peace Pagoda. Yala National Park. A visit to Sri Lanka wouldn’t be complete without spending time exploring the wildlife reserves. At Yala National Park, take a safari to see buffalo, elephants, monkeys, and, most importantly, the leopards! Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Another Unesco World Heritage site, Sigiriya, or Lion’s Rock is an ancient palace and fortress complex built into the rock formation designed to resemble a lion. It’s a remarkable fete of architecture, featuring extensive networks of fortifications, canals, gardens and fountains. It is one of the best-preserved examples of urban planning, and is not to be missed. Make sure that you take one of the guided tours to understand the full impact of what locals call “The Eighth Wonder of the World”. Anuradhapura. For a bit more history and culture, take a trip to Anuradhapura, one of the most ancient cities in Sri Lanka. Home to the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, a fig tree purported to be the oldest tree planted by a human about 2,300 years ago. It’s the center of the Sinhalese Buddhist civilization, and the monasteries and ruins are well worth the trip. Kandy. Last, but not least, is the city of Kandy. It is the home to the country’s most holy relic – a tooth of Buddha, which can be seen at Sri Dalada Maligawa. If you are their during the time of puja, you may be able to see the golden casket that holds this sacred relic. You also might want to visit the Giragama Tea Plantation, where you can tour the plantation and see a variety of teas in the making – from green tea to Earl Grey. While you are in Kandy, don’t miss a trek up to see Bahiravokanda Vihara, the giant Buddha statue overlooking the city. It’s time to start planning your trip to Sri Lanka. Let Luxury Destinations Concierge take care of all the details. Give them a call at (805) 236-4437 to get started. If you are looking for luxury and an over-the-top vacation experience, then consider Dubai your destination of choice. Located on the southeast coast of the Persian Gulf, Dubai is one of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates, and is the most populous city in the country. It has also become one of the top tourist destinations in the world. Here are some of the must-see sites in this opulent city:
Burj Khalifa. As the tallest building in the world, no trip to Dubai would be complete without a visit to Burj Khalifa. Just to give you some perspective, this 828 meter tall building is three times as tall as the Eiffel Tower and twice as tall as the Empire State Building. It also holds the records for the tallest free-standing building in the world, the highest number of stories in the world, the highest occupied floor in the world, the highest outdoor observation deck in the world, the elevator with the longest travel distance in the world, and the tallest service elevator in the world. It truly is a must-see, particularly for the view from the observation deck. Palm Jumeirah. Another architectural wonder in Dubai is Palm Jumeirah, a man-made island in the shape of a palm tree. It’s home to many luxury resorts and dining opportunities. Located on the island, The Pointe is the retail and entertainment destination in Dubai, with activities for the whole family to enjoy. Dubai’s Desert. Even in the midst of all the opulence and “moderness” of the city, Dubai’s original tourist attraction was its desert. Located 20 minutes outside the city, there is much to do and explore. Take a desert safari with off-road biking, sand surfing, and camel rides. Or visit the Al Marmoom Bedouin Experience to get a first-hand look at the Bedouin culture. Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. If you want to understand the history of Dubai, take a trip to the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood where you’ll discover what Dubai was like in the mid-19th century. This district is a key heritage site, with its traditional towers, winding alley-ways and cultural activities and museums to explore. Don’t miss the Coins Museum which houses rare coins from the British Empire, India and surrounding countries before their independence. Souk Madinat Jumeirah. If you need some retail therapy, head on over to the Souk Madinat Jumeirah, where you’ll get a taste of an authentic Arabian souk – or marketplace – combined with modern technology. You’ll find traditional shops offering souvenirs, sample the local cuisine and more. As is customary – don’t forget to haggle with the vendors to get the best deal! There is so much more to do in Dubai – from the largest indoor amusement park at IMG Worlds of Adventure to the Jumeirah Mosque and the graceful silhouette of the Burj Al Arab – your trip will be unforgettable. Luxury Destinations Concierge is here to help you start planning your Dubai vacation today. Give us a call at (805) 236-4437. |
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