Riverboat Cruises vs. Ocean Cruises: Which is for You?

When it comes to taking a cruise, you have a decision to make. Do you want to cruise the river, or the ocean?

Both types of cruising offer the ultimate in relaxation, onboard activities, and offshore excursions. No matter which you choose, you’ll see the world and experience new cultures and people. However, river and ocean cruising differ in several ways:

• River cruising offers a more intimate setting than ocean cruising. You’ll cruise the river on a smaller ship, and you’ll receive more personalized service than ocean cruisers.
• Unlike ocean ships, most cabins on a river cruise ship have a window view. The cabins tend to be more spacious as well, but not always.
• On the ocean, typical activities include a shipboard casino, several boutiques, and Vegas-style shows. Typically, river cruising ships do not have onboard casinos, and their onboard activities tend to focus on discovering the region and its culture. You’re more likely to enjoy lectures, cooking classes, and wine tasting.

• River cruise ships pass by large cities, medium-sized towns, and small burgs. They dock close to city centers for easy access to shore and ship. You’ll have more opportunity to get to know the locals and see authentic culture. Ocean cruise ships dock in coastal cities, which are often tourist-oriented areas, and you may not have as much exposure to the locals.
• On the ocean, you might sail for hours or days without seeing land. River cruising is a constant vista of spectacular scenery such as majestic castles and charming villages.
• On shore, river cruise entertainment, excursions, and dining are locally owned and staffed, so your experiences will be culturally authentic. Ocean cruises tend to offer popular, well-known shore excursions that many others have experienced.

While both river and ocean cruising involve relaxation, superb service, sumptuous food, and water, the differences between the two are significant and could be a consideration as you plan your cruise.

Have you ever been on a river cruise, ocean cruise, or both? 

Uncover the Secrets to Cooking Authentic Italian Cuisine from Fabio Bongianni

Imagine discovering the secrets to creating authentic Italian cuisine from a legendary cooking mentor who expands beyond traditional cooking techniques and takes you inside Roman lifestyle and culture.

Fabio Bongianni provides food lovers with a completely unique experience that goes above and beyond other traditional cooking classes found throughout Italy. Specifically, Fabio’s classes are highly personalized, bringing clients into his home and learning about their specific interests and preferences in order to create a class that is customized to their needs.

With Fabio’s private cooking classes you’ll travel inside his home to discover the traditional Roman lifestyle, authentic Italian cooking techniques, cultural heritage, and remarkable culinary delights—all while sipping on wine from Italy’s most prestigious wine regions.

I recently had the honor of interviewing Fabio on his personalized cooking classes, Fabiolous Cooking Day, and I am pleased to share his answers with you.

See the interview, below:

Your cooking classes are highly personal, taking place in your homes in Rome and Mazzano Romano. Why did you decide to host your classes at your homes and how do you think this setting affects the experiences participants have?

I want to give an experience other than a typical cooking lesson. To share my house, my kitchen, my culinary experiences on a friend level. Clients have often been pleasantly surprised by the personal factor. 

What do you think differentiates your cooking classes from others found throughout Italy and Europe?

My personalized attention and bringing the clients into my life. Not just a cooking lesson but an experience to draw upon. 

What does a typical culinary class with you consist of?

3 kind of dough—water and flour; egg and flour; potato and flour

Sauce techniques

1 meat dish

Regional recipes

Cooking techniques: I do this in order for my clients to expand upon the lesson for a lifetime.

What cuisine do you primarily focus on? Do the various seasons have any influence on the dishes you prepare with participants?

Pasta—again the 3 different types of dough. 

Yes, the season has an influence. But I never prepare a lesson beforehand. I discuss the client’s likes / dislikes and then we choose ingredients based upon what is in season.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

Owning restaurant is a job, and the cooking lessons are my passion.  Every day is a new experience.

For an even deeper look into a Fabiolous Cooking Day, watch the video below: 

About Fabio:

Fabio Bongianni, born and raised in Rome, attended law school before realizing his true passion was cooking. At this realization he began working in the “dolce vita” Sans Souci restaurant before taking his dream a step further in Paris at the Ritz Escoffier cooking school. After one year of culinary study, Fabio traveled back to Rome and started his own, highly successful restaurant, the T-Bone Station. He then opened That’s Amore restaurant before discovering that he really wanted to teach cooking classes.

Today, Fabio opens his home in the countryside of Mazzano Romano to travelers seeking a personalized, authentic cooking experience. 

Wine Tasting in Sonoma

For a spectacular getaway full of luxury and wine, look no further than the famed Sonoma Wine Country in California. Its award-winning wineries feature the best vintages California has to offer, and you’ll find plenty to do and see in between tastings. We can arrange private tours of wineries, and you’ll find yourself viewing the majestic beauty of wine country from a stretch limousine.

Where to go:

• Benziger Family Winery: This family owned and operated winery offers an unusual tram tour of the vineyard and gives you spectacular views of the area.
• Del Dotto’s Cinghiale Vineyard: Located on the sprawling Sonoma coast overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the Cinghiale Vineyard is celebrated for its exceptional Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines.Cave-aged wines are richer and bolder than other wines, and you’ll enter the cave and taste it right out of the barrel.
• Stonestreet: Known for their remarkable Cabernet Sauvignons, Stonestreet is a must visit for bold wine-enthusiasts. For the ultimate wine tasting experience, book a custom tasting tour where you can try wines based on your specific preferences, as well as tour the breathtaking Alexander Mountain Estate.

Courtesy of Avalon Luxury Inn

Where to stay: 

• The Inn at the Tides: Overlooking Bodega Bay’s harbor, this secluded hotel features luxurious lodges and spectacular natural views. Championship golf, deep-sea fishing, and whale watching are only a short drive away.
• Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn: With its mineral hot springs, golf course, luxurious spa, and Michelin-starred restaurant, this lavish hotel completes the extravagant Sonoma winery experience.
• Avalon Luxury Inn: Enjoy a gourmet three-course breakfast by the fireplace, or take an invigorating stroll through the redwoods before you embark on your next vineyard tour. This luxury bed-and-breakfast features a charming creek, balconies, hot tubs, and an exercise room.

What to do:

• Soar over Sonoma in a hot-air balloon.
• Shop in the boutiques in towns such as Graton or Sebastopol.
• View the wineries from the air in a biplane.
• Tour Annadel State Park on horseback or by mountain bike, stopping for an intimate picnic deep in the redwoods.
• Enjoy gourmet lunches with top chefs in renowned Sonoma restaurants.
• Play a round of golf at Bodega Harbor.

Where to eat:

• The Girl and the Fig features French-inspired cuisine such as the bistro plat du jour, grass-fed steak tartare, and pastis scented steamed mussels and frites.
• La Salette’s Portuguese cuisine features the pork tenderloin recheado and the Brazilian national dish feijoada completa, made with stewed beef, pork, smoked sausage, and black beans.
• Depot Hotel Restaurant features Mediterranean fare such as carnaroli risotto, roasted Petaluma chicken, and Sonoma duck confit.

Throughout the Sonoma Wine Country, you’ll find plenty of activities, over 200 wineries, and dozens of fine restaurants featuring any type of cuisine you can imagine. In fact, the only limit to what you can do in Sonoma is your own imagination.

Would you love to book a private wine tour?

A Look at Portugal's Charming Southern Countryside

Portugal is a country of classic beauty, and its countryside is colorful and spectacular. This post will touch on some of the regions along the south of Portugal, with scenery and wildlife you won’t want to miss.

Algarve

Located in the southernmost region of Portugal, Algarve is one of the most popular tourist areas and hosts thousands every year. The region was populated as far back as the Neolithic era, and ancient towns such as Lagos still show the ancient architecture and Roman ruins. The hills and valleys of this coastal region fascinate travelers, and the Ria Formosa lagoon features limestone caves and an excellent point for bird watching.

 

Courtesy of vilavitaparc.com

The region is famous for its pristine beaches, golf courses, men’s and women’s football, and high-end spas. The climate is mild, and the people are welcoming. Accommodations range from luxury resorts to village guesthouses, often owned by former British and German citizens who have relocated to Portugal. 

The Algarve is noted for its pottery and ceramics, and opportunities abound to browse working pottery shops.

Vicentina Coast

Courtesy of Jovoboro

For lush fields of flowers, steep cliffs, and peaceful beaches that take your breath away, journey to the Vicentina Coast. Hike a steep hill to visit a 10^th Century Moorish castle and enjoy the panoramic view of the town of Aljezur. Cape St. Vincent boasts one of the most powerful and oldest lighthouses in Europe. In Sagres, you’ll see where Prince Henry the Navigator began his sea adventures and marvel at the 40-yard-wide wind compass.

Located along the southwestern coast, Vicentina Coast Natural Park features Phoenician, Roman, and Arabic ruins nestled among sand dunes, small islands, and magnificent rock structures. The coastline here is a major bird migration corridor, especially for birds of prey. Those who visit the park see vibrantly colored sunsets, and the water is a pure sky blue.

Alentejo

This south-central region of Portugal lies along the Tagus River, and its name translates to “Across the Tagus.” Its countryside varies, from vast plains to rolling hills. A sparsely populated area, Alentejo features rural livestock areas in the north, with farming communities in the south. This area is peaceful and charming, with medieval villages and friendly people. This is your place to get away from it all.

Courtesy of vilavitaparc.com 

Herdade dos Grous is an estate of vineyards and cork oak forests in Alentejo. Its winery creates high-class, award-winning red wines, and a visit to the estate will enthrall you with its vast expanse. Fine restaurants, wine tours, and hot air balloons await you at Herdade dos Grous. For the adventurous, a high-ropes course sits above an artificial lake, beckoning you to explore your own limits.

A trip to the south of Portugal is the perfect getaway for anyone who loves nature. The views, the sea air, and the sounds of nature will charm you—and you might not want to come home.

Top Ski Lodges in the World

If thoughts of powdery white snow, hot chocolate, creamy soup, and maybe an après-ski cocktail have already crossed your mind, then perhaps you’re subconsciously craving a wintery getaway. Whether you are looking to go abroad or stay close to home, I’d like to introduce you to some of the best ski lodges in the world.

Topnotch Resort & Spa: Stowe, Vermont

Topnotch Resort & Spa boasts a classic east coast charm with a modern twist that is truly top notch. With some of the best skiing east of the Rocky Mountains, this resort is a picturesque destination for winter sports enthusiasts. Situated in a scenic wooded area in Stowe, the Topnotch Resort & Spa offers world-class luxury, nearby skiing opportunities at the Stowe Mountain Resort, and pampering. Whether you want to ski the slopes or cross-country ski the groomed trails, Topnotch is the best starting point.

From local flavors to country décor, Topnotch prides itself on being a resort that captures the beauty of Vermont. The décor inside the resort is a blend of mountain rustic, true New England charm, and modern simplicity. Look outside the windows for amazing views of the lush Green Mountains, as far as you can see.

Topnotch Resort is a recreational haven year-round. In the winter, enjoy skiing and snowboarding at the nearby Mt. Mansfield, skating, sledding, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, sleigh rides, dog sledding, and more. In summer months, enjoy hiking, biking, birding, kayaking, fishing, and scenic drives. After a day of recreational fun, relax in the comfort of your room, enjoy a trip to the spa, soothe sore muscles in the pool and hot tub, or dine in elegance.

The Crystal Lodge & Suites: Whistler, British Columbia

Whistler, British Columbia, is known worldwide for its epic ski and snowboard terrain. It is also home to some of the world’s finest lodge accommodations, such as The Crystal Lodge & Suites. The Crystal’s unique location atop the Whistler Village is an ideal and unbeatable location for those who want to ski or those wishing to enjoy the other activities that Whistler has to offer. At this breathtaking lodge, you are just steps from the Whistler and Blackcomb Gondolas and the quaint Whistler Village.

This high-class, eco-friendly lodge offers contemporary comfort and style. From traditional hotel rooms to spacious suites, the accommodations are nothing but luxurious. The lodge also provides a fitness club, sauna, pool, hot tub, salon, and multiple on-site dining options. There is no better way to relax after a day of epic skiing than in the heated outdoor hot tub and pool—continue to enjoy the beauty of the snow while warming up and relaxing.

Perched in its ideal location, The Crystal sets you amidst unique retail stores, high-quality restaurants, and recreational activities. Anything that you desire to do is available at your doorstep in Whistler. The Crystal Lodge & Suites is a great way to experience the skiing, the snow, and the village center in elegant, modern style.

Hôtel de Charme Les Airelles: Courchevel, France

Step straight into a fairy tale, and feel like royalty at the beautiful palace of Hôtel de Charme Les Airelles in Courchevel, France. Nestled in the Jardin Alpin forest, with ski runs gliding straight to the doors of this amazing chalet, the Hôtel de Charme Les Airelles is a desired destination for world-famous skiing and luxury accommodations.

With 51 private and unique, theme-based rooms and suites and amenities that are truly luxurious, it’s no wonder why the Hôtel de Charme Les Airelles is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World. Styled with alpine charm, sculpted wood fixtures and ceilings, wrought-iron art, and fountains, the hotel carries the spirit and authenticity of a grand alpine ski chalet.

Not only is the skiing amazing, the après-ski activities are one of a kind and plentiful. Enjoy the ice rink, snow cave, spa, saunas, indoor and outdoor whirlpools; relax by the fireplace in the library; or just unwind in the luxury of your room.

And for exceptional French cuisine and fine dining, visit the hotel’s refined dining room, where world-renowned chefs create remarkable meals that are authentic to cuisine bourgeoise.

Riffelalp Resort: Zermatt, Switzerland

High above the hustle and bustle of daily life, the Riffelalp Resort is one of the world’s most exciting ski destinations. More than a mile above sea level, this spectacular resort disappears from view as it becomes one with the towering Alps and Klein Matterhorn Mountain.

Ski-in and ski-out capability in the Gornergrat skiing district, breathtaking mountain views, and five-star accommodations and designation, make the Riffelalp Resort a one-of-a-kind ski vacation destination. Although it takes a little while to get there, it’s well worth it. The secluded location will give you ultimate relaxation, fun, and serenity.

From skiing and ice skating, to glacier tours and the highest outdoor pool, you won’t remember the world you left behind.

Where is your favorite ski lodge?

Journey through Historic Peru

Peru is one the most flexible destinations in the world. The variety of activities, sights, and journeys is endless, and your only limit is your imagination. One of your many options is outlined below. Two companies I work with are Aqua Expeditions, which focuses on green, eco-friendly vacations, and the renowned Orient Express.

In fact, I work jointly with both companies to create a seamless vacation in Peru where you can travel from the mountains to the river in one trip. To experience Peru properly, you need to be there for at least two weeks, with three to four of those days on the cruise. 

Starting in Lima, tour the bustling downtown are and take in its majestic architecture and charming town squares. Enjoy the Larco Herrera Museum for an afternoon, and explore the nightlife before retiring to an ocean-view room in a hotel such as the Miraflores Park Hotel.

Travel on to Cuzco, and walk the city at your leisure. Cuzco is a marvelous combination of modern architecture and art fused with Inca ruins and museums, such as the Pre-Columbian Art Museum, full of ancient treasures. Some of Cuzco’s hotels, such as the Hotel Monasterio, feature unusual extras such as deluxe oxygen-enriched rooms.

Perhaps you’d like to hop a train to Machu Picchu and tour its regal citadel, or explore the Sanctuary of Machu Picchu. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Sanctuary is considered by many to be one of the foremost archaeological sites in the world, and the Sanctuary Lodge sits next to the ruins.

If you enjoy the ruins at the Sanctuary of Machu Picchu, you would also enjoy Ollantaytambo, which is the last Peruvian town to retain the original Incan architecture. Later, in the Sacred Valley, discover the village of Maras and its renowned salt mine, or venture to the village of Moray, a large grouping of terraced ruins. The town of Chincheros was built over Incan ruins, and its people still practice traditional arts and crafts.

Now it’s time for the Amazon River cruise and excitement around every bend. This four-day cruise will take you along several Amazon tributaries to places only a handful of people have seen. On board, Peruvian cuisine is flavorful, fresh, and unique, especially paired with fine South American wine. Your cabins are spacious and beautifully appointed, with breathtaking river views and attentive staff anticipates your needs.  

The first day, you might cruise the Yanallpa River, a black water stream of the flooded rainforest. You’ll see colorful birds and scampering monkeys during the day, and caimans and fishing bats at night. Bird lovers will see terns, herons, hawks, and horned screamers at Hatum Posa Lake, and if you choose to take a jungle walk, you’ll meet natives who earn their living by growing plants and trees. Venture deeper into the forest to see medicinal herbs and fruit trees.

Your cruise might follow the Pacaya River early one morning to a dolphin feeding area, or you might fish for piranha at Carocurahuayte Lake. Even if you don’t catch piranha, you’re certain to hook into some of the 3,000 species of tropical fish.

As you start on your return trip to Iquitos, your guides might focus on showing you how people live, work, and play along the Amazon in a village like Belen. You’ll enjoy watching the hustle of the food market there and marvel at the number of people who trade there. Finally, spend an afternoon in Iquitos exploring the Manatee Rescue Center or the San Juan Amazonian Indian Market.

No matter which route you take to explore Peru, don’t miss Colca Canyon, a crevice twice as deep as the Grand Canyon—more than two miles at its deepest point.

Which areas of Peru do you look forward to visiting and why?

Think Ahead: Why Wait to Plan Your Next Vacation?

When people plan vacations, they have a natural tendency to put off making decisions and finalizing their itineraries. However, the sooner you book, the better. You have greater flexibility and choice in where you go and what you see on your trip. Following are some benefits to booking as soon as possible.

Extra savings.

When you book early, your travel advisor has time to look for and take advantage of specials and perks during the months before your trip. The savings can be substantial, giving you more to spend during your trip. When you wait, everything costs more.

By booking early, you’ll also have time to plan how much spending money you’ll need.

Select the best rooms or cabins with the best view.

Those who book first get the best. The sooner you can reserve your cruise or your hotel, the better accommodations you’ll have. The longer you wait, the more challenging it is for your travel advisor to book the cruise ship cabins or hotel suites you were looking forward to enjoying.

Ensure your companions can go with you.

Especially if they work, your traveling companions may need months to arrange for time off work, child care, pet care, or house sitting. The more time they have to plan, the more likely they will be able to travel with you, and the more relaxed they will be while you’re traveling.

More time to research and plan what you want to do and see.

If you allow yourself plenty of time to plan that trip through Germany, you’ll have time to read travel books and visit travel websites to get a feel for what you’d like to do and see.

For example, after doing some research on your accommodations months prior to your trip, you might come across a particular castle you wish to stay in for a night during your trip. If you wait until the last minute to do research on accommodations, you may miss out on being able to book your dream stay in this particular castle. Taking the time to research and plan is essential if you want to discover the best tours, guides, and hotels for your personal preferences and book them with ease. If you wait too long, you might miss something you really want to see.

Something to look forward to!

When you book your travel early, the delicious anticipation starts earlier and lasts longer. You’ll be ready to go and as prepared as you can be to enjoy yourself to the fullest. Contact me today.

Royal Plantation Resort in Ocho Rios Jamaica: Live in the Lap of Luxury

 When it’s that time of year for your annual getaway, you want to be sure that it’s the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. Whether you want a lot of relaxation and a bit of adventure, a lot of adventure and a bit of relaxation, or an equal amount of both, Sandals’ Royal Plantation in Ocho Rios, Jamaica is the place to be.

Upon arrival at the Montego Bay airport, you’ll have time to freshen up and delight in a much needed refreshment and light snack before you are escorted by a Sandals Representative to the Royal Plantation resort. You may choose to take the 90-minute drive to the resort, or a scenic helicopter ride at an additional fee.  

Upon arrival at the resort you’ll be greeted with a refreshing glass of sparkling wine to sip as you check into your luxurious room. Your white-glove-clad butler will then escort you to your room, where he will introduce you to some of the features of the room including the butler phone, which can be used 24 / 7 for any of your specific needs. Whether you’re in need of Internet connection assistance, need fresh towels, or are in the mood for a bottle of chilled champagne, the butlers are highly attentive and assist guests quickly and efficiently.

When you awake to your first morning of Ocho Rios, enjoy a delightful breakfast outside or in the indoor dining area before stepping out onto the pristine beach to enjoy a day of few distractions.

Upon walking onto the beach, the resort’s beach butler will place a lounge chair wherever you desire, at which time, the only thing you have to do is relax. As you lounge on the beach, the beach butler will brush sand off of your feet, mist you with rose water, lay cool cucumber slices on your eyes, and bring you chilling beverages of your choice whenever you desire. You never even have to lift a finger.  

When you need a little break from the beach enjoy off-property activities such as catamaran sailing to Dunn River Falls, hiking the Dunn River Falls, sunset sailing excursions, deep sea fishing, Jamaican bobsledding, swimming with the dolphins, and 4x4 off-road safaris.

As the afternoon approaches, enjoy high tea time on the patio before a night of spectacular evening entertainment on the patio, delectable cuisine, and delicious martinis. Every Friday from 7pm – 8pm enjoy over 100 different types of martinis during Martini Time, or partake in a cigar rolling class. And on Sundays, enjoy exciting wine pairing classes with Jamaica’s renowned wine and culinary connoisseurs.

And, as of October 1, 2010 Royal Plantation will be an all–inclusive resort as all other Sandals properties. Knowing the management team on site, I have no doubt they will provide the same high level of service to each guest.

Royal Plantation in Ocho Rios, Jamaica and Sandals’ Emerald Bay in Exuma, Bahamas are the only Sandals properties that are all-butler service. 

Below is some more information about the resort:

Each of the 74 suites sit atop eight acres of lush gardens and beachfront and are equipped with . . .

·      A luxurious French balcony that overlooks the sprawling beach—the perfect setting for reading in the afternoon or enjoying a pre-dinner cocktail.

·      An iPod / iPhone charging music system and HD television.

·      A spacious bathroom with a separate bathing area.

·      A roomy walk-in closet.

The resort is equipped with . . .

·      Two butlers for each guest and dedicated beach butlers.

·      A fitness area with ice cool towels and water.

·      A spa, which is located next door. The Red Lane Spa is a must when visiting, providing guests with a menu of exclusive services designed to rejuvenate and revitalize the senses.

·      24-hour dining—perfect for when you have late-night cravings or desire an early breakfast.

·      A Champaign and Caviar bar—the only Caribbean resort I know that has one!  

·      Villas in addition to the resort’s 74 suites. Each of the villas comes with its own chef, butler, car, and driver.

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