Why Stay in a Private Villa?

Travelers often stay in hotels because that’s all they know, but a private villa is far more exclusive and fun than a hotel—for approximately the same price. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a great place to invite your new friends, a villa is the perfect setting.

Private villas are vacation homes that cater to the traveler. Your desires will dictate where you rent your villa, as amenities and locations vary. Do your research before renting a villa so that your choice will give you all the extras you expect.  

Here are just a few advantages of a private villa:

• All the comforts of home. Villas are nicely appointed, with gourmet kitchens, spacious dining rooms, inviting living rooms, and opulent bedrooms and baths. If desired, you can rent exercise or office equipment. You’ll feel right at home among the luxury.
• Romantic outdoor touches. Breezy gazebos, lush grounds, fragrant gardens, and refreshing swimming pools add to the elegant romance of a private villa.
• Space. Even the most luxurious suite can’t compare to the sheer indulgence of a villa.
• Privacy and freedom. Cook and eat anything at any time, or have your meals delivered. Do as you please when you please. Be quiet, or be loud—it’s up to you. You won’t have the intrusion of hotel staff or other guests. It’s just you and your party.
• Personal staff to look after every need. Chefs, butlers, drivers, and maids cater to every whim. If you’re looking for spa treatments or massages, professionals come to you, and trainers and exercise instructors are available upon request. Certified babysitters or nannies take care of the younger ones while you play or relax.
• Extra services. Villa managers and staff can arrange entertainment and activities for their guests. Be sure to ask about local tours and events as well as any unusual excursions or off-the-beaten-path areas you’d like to explore. Villa managers are happy to recommend restaurants, shopping, and charters.

Private villas are an excellent choice for those looking for a fuller, richer vacation experience, or those seeking a private, relaxing trip. A villa is the ideal combination of the comforts of home and the luxury of the finest five-star hotel. Renting a private villa is the first step to creating a customized vacation that truly nourishes your heart and soul.  

All images courtesy of Villas of Distinction

Rome’s Most Fascinating Architectural Masterpieces

Italian architecture is some of the most brilliant and beautiful in the world. From the Greeks and Etruscans through Neoclassicism to the modern day, the architecture of Italy is diverse, captivating, and full of masterpieces. In this installment of our series on Italian architecture, we explore two of the most popular tourist sites: the breathtaking Sistine Chapel and the imposing Colosseum.

Sistine Chapel

The Sistine Chapel is the main chapel of the Apostolic Palace, the Pope’s residence in Vatican City. When a pope dies, the College of Cardinals meets here to determine the new pope. In addition to its architecture, the Chapel is revered for the artwork on its walls and ceiling, painted by some of the greatest artists of the Renaissance including Michelangelo and Botticelli.

Pope Sixtus IV commissioned the Chapel in the 15^th Century, hence its name. It was completed centuries later, and its architecture is a combination of Medieval and Renaissance. Like other churches built during the same era, the exterior of the rectangular brick Sistine Chapel lacks decoration or ornate architecture. It has no exterior doorways, as its entrance is inside the palace.

The Chapel shares the same measurements as the Temple of Solomon in the Old Testament: 134 feet long by 44 feet wide. The vaulted ceiling is 68 feet high, and the side walls have six centered, arched windows in addition to two windows at either end. Around each window are frescoes, and above the ceiling is a third story with accommodations for guards.

As in other churches of the time, the ceiling vault is not angular as we’re used to in our homes; travertine crossribs flatten and divide it into separate gridlike areas. In the center, Michelangelo painted scenes from the Book of Genesis, such as the Creation of Adam and The Great Flood. The ceiling is a fascinating blend of Michelangelo’s Genesis paintings and depictions of Ignudi, prophets, and ancestors of Christ, as well as circular shields and medallions and stone rams’ heads.

Coliseum

Located in the center of Rome, the Coliseum, or Colosseum, was originally the Flavian Amphitheater. Built between 70 and 80 AD, it was the largest coliseum built during the Roman Empire. Used for contests between gladiators, executions, animal hunts, and theatrical plays, the Coliseum was a gathering place for residents of ancient Rome and is still one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions. Ravaged by fire and earthquakes, the Coliseum stands today in a partially damaged state.

The Coliseum’s elliptical shape is similar to two Roman theaters back to back and is 615 feet long and 510 feet wide, with an outer wall of 157 feet in height. The outer wall has sustained extensive damage from earthquakes, but the intact area of the wall has three stories of travertine stone archways with a fourth-story attic. Each lower floor’s architectural style is different: the first floor is Doric, the second is Ionic, and the third is Corinthian.

Main entrance arches were located on the four sides of the building, and the remaining arches were numbered, much like a sports stadium today. The number of arches also made it possible to quickly fill and evacuate the 87,000 seats. Seats were tiered, as was Roman society at the time. Like our arenas, box seats at the north and south ends provided the best views and were reserved for the emperor. Seats at the same level and directly above and below were for senators, nobles, and the wealthy, respectively. The uppermost seats were for the poor.

The Coliseum also featured a complex underground tunnel and cage area known as the hypogeum. This area held animals, gladiators, and prisoners in preparation for the day’s entertainment and raised them to the surface with some form of hydraulic lift.  

As you stand in the Sistine Chapel or among the ruins of the Coliseum, you feel the magic of Michelangelo and the brutality and beauty of the Roman Empire. No matter which you choose to visit, you’ll walk away with vivid memories and the feeling that you’ve been part of history, even for just a moment.

Who is ready for a Roman Holiday?

Three Sporting Events to Put on Your Travel List: The Kentucky Derby, the Masters Tournament, and Wimbledon

Some sporting events are in a class by themselves, and are once-in-a-lifetime vacation destinations. Three of those events, full of tradition and history, are the Kentucky Derby, the Masters Tournament of golf, and the renowned tennis tournament Wimbledon. Any of these events is an unforgettable trip that belongs on your bucket list.

The Kentucky Derby

Courtesy of horizon-co.com

Known as “The Greatest Two Minutes in Sports,” the Kentucky Derby is the opening race in the United States Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing, and takes place May 7, 2011 at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. The other two jewels in the Triple Crown are the Preakness Stakes in Baltimore, Maryland, on May 21, 2011, and the Belmont Stakes in Elmont, New York, on June 11, 2011.

The Kentucky Derby is also called “The Run for the Roses” because the winning horse is covered with a blanket of 564 roses, which fans can watch being made on Derby Eve. Since 1875, the Derby has thrilled audiences with not only the athleticism of the horses and jockeys, but also with its rich traditions. From the fancy hats the women wear to the mint julep, the traditional drink of the Derby, to the playing of “My Old Kentucky Home” when the horses step onto the track, the 136-year-old history of the Derby is evident throughout the weekend.

For a heaping helping of southern charm, go to the Churchill Downs infield and join tens of thousands of spectators connecting with new friends and hoping to see a horse or jockey. Some have compared it to the streets of New Orleans during Mardi Gras. Keep an eye out for celebrities, who love a good horse race and party as much as the next person.

For special Derby accommodations, contact me as soon as possible.

The Masters Tournament

Courtesy of horizon-co.com

The first of the four major golf championships played each year, the Masters takes place April 4–10, 2011 at the exclusive Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Georgia. Golf aficionados will love the opportunity to watch the best of the best tee off and pit their talents against their peers. The atmosphere is one of tense excitement, and the city of Augusta comes alive during Masters Week.

Like the Kentucky Derby, the Masters is steeped in tradition. Besides the well-known green jacket and gold medal awarded to the winner, traditions include giving crystal ware to players who achieve daily lowest scores, holes-in-one, or eagles. Masters champions automatically receive invitations to play in the other three major tournaments for five years, as well as a lifetime invitation to the Masters.

As tickets for the Masters can be difficult to find, you need to apply for practice round tickets approximately a year in advance. I can help you with applications and accommodations for 2012, including lodging with local residents in their homes. 

Wimbledon

Courtesy of horizon-co.com

The most prestigious tennis tournament in the world, Wimbledon presents a perfect opportunity to take a trip to London. Held in late June through early July, Wimbledon is the only one of the four Grand Slam tournaments played on grass, tennis’ original surface.

Wimbledon is located in the London borough of Merton, and the tournament takes place at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club. The exciting events include gentlemen’s and ladies’ singles and doubles, plus a mixed doubles competition. The winners and runners-up receive silver trophies and plates, beautiful art in themselves. 

The traditions of Wimbledon include snacks of strawberries and cream, a dress code for competitors (all white), and ball boys and ball girls from local schools who keep games running smoothly. At one time, players were required to bow or curtsy to any member of the Royal Family seated in the Royal Box, but now deference is required only for the Queen or Prince of Wales.

If you want to travel to Wimbledon, you need to get your tickets and book your trip now. You’ll want to visit the Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum, with over 15,000 pieces of lawn tennis history, and take a guided tour of the grounds.

No matter which sport you enjoy, these eminent tournaments are thrilling and fascinating events you’ll never forget. Which one will you travel to first and why?

Cultural Enlightenment in Vietnam and Cambodia: Cruise the Mekong

Have you ever thought of cruising the Mekong River in Vietnam?

Did the name “Vietnam” cause you to pause?

Many people don’t have Vietnam or Cambodia on their vacation lists because of the past and common misconceptions of what both countries are like. The truth is that Vietnam and Cambodia are just as safe as any other place, and are an amazing travel experience. River cruising is becoming especially popular there—in fact, river cruise providers are launching more and more ships because they have a tremendous response from travelers.

Following are just a few cultural and scenic highlights from a typical river cruise from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City along the Mekong River. Imagine yourself among the rich culture and breathtaking beauty as you cruise from the hustle and bustle of Vietnam to the serenity of Cambodia.

Siem Reap

Siem Reap is the entryway to Angkor, one of the most important archeological sites in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While in Angkor, don’t miss one of the most significant and majestic 12^th century Khmer temples, Angkor Wat. The temple ruins are fascinating, and you’ll be mesmerized by their intricate stone carvings. Phnom Kulen National Park is considered the birthplace of the Khmer Empire, and you’ll see more carvings, as well as spectacular waterfalls and meandering streams.

Hanoi

You’ll love the intimate charm where old meets new in this thousand-year-old city. The Temple of Literature is a classic example of Vietnamese architecture with its maze of stunning courtyards. Visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology and discover the cultural heritage of Vietnam’s 50+ ethnic groups. If you choose, you can tour the infamous “Hanoi Hilton,” where American POWs were held during the Vietnam War, and the Ho Chi Minh Memorial, dedicated to Vietnam’s most famous leader.

Hanoi’s old town area is best explored via a passenger bicycle known as cyclo. Here you will see and feel the city’s French influence in stately mansions and lush landscaping. You’ll be fascinated by the endless market stalls, offering everything from the finest silk to stark gravestones.

Ho Chi Minh City

Enjoy French colonial architecture at its finest in the historic center of the capital formerly known as Saigon. As you walk along Dong Khoi Street, you’ll see the historic city hall, the regal Notre-Dame Basilica and the magnificent Emperor Jade Pagoda. Discover the Vietnamese point of view on the war with a visit to the War Remnants Museum, but be prepared for a plain, somewhat blunt portrayal of the events.

Phnom Penh

Take a cyclo and explore Cambodia’s capital in style. Taking their inspiration from ancient Khmer architecture, the French built the stunning Royal Palace with the Silver Pagoda. An excursion to the Tuol Sleng detention center is a sobering yet captivating experience. Tuol Sleng is the former high school in which thousands of victims of the vicious Khmer Rouge regime died.

Share this post with your friends.

Spotlight on Luxury Travel Provider: The Augustine, Prague

As a part of our Spotlight on Luxury Travel Providers series, we were honored to interview Jodi Masterson, Director of Sales and Marketing for The Augustine, Prague.

The Augustine, Prague, is an exceptional hotel comprised of an elegant ambiance, 5-star amenities, superior concierge services, a remarkable spa, and a lavish décor inspired by 1930s Czech cubism and contemporary art.

Comprised of seven buildings with historical and cultural significance, The Augustine, Prague transports visitors back in time to a place where rich heritage comes to life around every corner. Each room offers a stunning view of the Prague Castle, Malá Strana, The St. Thomas Church, or the serine monastery courtyards, providing visitors with a holistic look at Prague’s most charming elements.

In this interview, Jodi paints a wonderful picture of what it’s like to stay at The Augustine in beautiful Prague.

See below for the interview:

1. How does the location of The Augustine play a role in the experience travelers have while visiting?

Location is vital. The Augustine is centrally located in the heart of Prague and very close to the Charles Bridge, Prague Castle and the Old Town Square, making the hotel an ideal choice for travelers.

2. What makes The Augustine completely unique from other hotels in Prague?

The Augustine is a development of seven historical buildings and is the quintessence of Prague’s history, character, and beauty. All of the rooms feature a range of decorative accessories inspired by early 20^th-century Czech cubism, many of which are reproductions from Czech design specialist Modernista, including timber chairs by Pavel Janak and chaise-lounges in some of the larger rooms by Adolf Loos. The hotel also boasts fantastic outdoor spaces creating resort feel while still being in the middle of a capital city.

3. The hotel was constructed using various historical buildings, significant works of art, and the ultimate vision of luxury. Describe the type of ambiance visitors witness when they step into the hotel. How does this ambiance play a significant role in their vacation?

As described above, while being very centrally located, the hotel’s location offers a calm oasis once our guests enter the hotel. All of the staff members are geared to service our guests’ every wish, ensuring they have the most memorable experience while they are staying at the hotel. In addition, the hotel is adjacent to a working monastery, so if anyone wants to seek solace, they are able to sit in the Monastery Gardens and speak to one of the six monks for spiritual guidance.

4. The Augustine is comprised of 101 luxury rooms and is known for superior service. Many visitors might fear that their personal needs and preferences won’t be catered to while staying at an accommodation with 101 rooms. How does the hotel ensure that visitors have a personalized experience?

The Rocco Forte Collection philosophy is to never have a hotel which has too many rooms, so we are always able to give our guests the highest levels of service they expect when staying in our hotels. We have the right number of staff with the right levels of international experience, so they are able to give a personal experience. We have a system where we can profile our guests’ needs and expectations so we can deliver to them, especially if they have stayed in one Rocco Forte hotel previously. We can detail their likes and dislikes so when they arrive we know exactly what they are looking for—this is very important for the guests experience.

5. Is there anything else you’d like to add?

There are many unique features your guests can experience while staying at The Augustine, including sampling the St. Thomas Beer, which the monks used to brew for hundreds of years, and since the hotel is adjacent to a working Monastery, we are able to organize private guided tours of the Monastery, which culminates at their library with books that date back to the 13^th-century. The Monastery is NOT open to the general public and is only available to The Augustine guests and offers a truly unique experience while staying at the hotel.

About The Augustine, Prague:

“Centrally located in the heart of Prague between Prague Castle and The Charles Bridge, in the picturesque Malá Strana district, The Augustine is the quintessence of Prague’s history, character and beauty. Adjacent to the beautiful Wallenstein Garden, the hotel is within easy reach of the city’s many colourful tourist attractions, making it a natural choice for business and leisure travellers. The Augustine is also in close proximity to Prague’s commercial district; Prague’s Ruzyne International Airport is a 30-minute drive away.”

Contact me for more information on planning your trip to Prague.

Barcelona’s Architectural Inspirations

When people think of the architecture of Barcelona, they think of the intricate and highly individual style of Antoni Gaudí. While Gaudí’s influence is prominently showcased throughout the city, other architects have made their mark as well.

Sagrada Familia (Holy or Sacred Family)

The most famous of Gaudí’s works is Sagrada Familia, the almost hypnotically beautiful Catholic church. Construction began in 1882, and the following year, Gaudí became involved. He fused the curvilinear Art Nouveau and stark Gothic styles to create a unique combination of elaborate towers, spires, and façades. The three entrances celebrate the virtues of Hope, Faith, and Love.

Courtesy of barcelonatraveller.info

Shaped like a Latin cross, the interior has five aisles, with roof pillars that resemble branched trees. Stone caricatures tell the story of Christianity inside and out, and as in all his works, Gaudí included elements of nature throughout the building. Known as Gaudí’s unfinished masterpiece, Sagrada Familia is set to be completed around 2026.

Palau del Baró de Quadras

Designed by Josep Puig in 1904, this architectural marvel was built in the Modernist style and houses Casa Asia today. Its main façade combines Gothic and Plateresque styles, and features ornate sculptures of flowers, garlands, and busts by the famed sculptor Eusebi Arnau. Gargoyles appear frequently, and one corner depicts St. George fighting with a dragon. Some visitors have remarked that the façade appears to be made of lace.

Four Gothic style windows adorn the second floor, the third floor has a long row of arches, and the fourth floor’s mansard roof has gables and glazed ceramics to catch interest.

Barcelona Cathedral (Cathedral of Santa Eulalia)

Courtesy of Catedral de Barcelona.org

Constructed from 1298–1448, this Gothic cathedral is the seat of the Archbishop of Barcelona. The cathedral was built over the crypt of the former chapel of St. James, the church of the Viscounts of Barcelona. The ornate roof fascinates visitors because it features not only the typical gargoyles but also a variety of domestic and mythical animals.

The interior is divided into five aisles, with chapels at the outer two aisles. A side chapel is dedicated to Christ of Lepanto and contains an ornate cross from a ship that fought at the Battle of Lepanto. Coats-of-arms of the knights of the Order of the Golden Fleece decorate the choir stalls.

Barcelona Cathedral is dedicated to Eulalia of Barcelona, a young girl who was martyred during the Roman era. She was put into a barrel, which was then stuck with knives and rolled down a street. The cathedral’s crypt holds Eulalia’s body. The cloister houses thirteen white geese to commemorate the fact that Eulalia was 13 years old when she was martyred.

We’ve covered only three of the many architectural treasures of Barcelona. Have you seen any others, and which aspects of the architecture did you enjoy most? 

The Grapes of Spain: Touring the Ribera del Duero Wine Region

With over 250 wineries, the rural Ribera del Duero in central Spain is one of the world’s celebrated wine regions. Specializing in fragrant, robust Tinto Fino red wines, Ribera del Duero lies north of Madrid along the Duero River and is home to the Tempranillo grape.

Unlike the Napa Valley or other temperate wine regions, Ribera del Duero’s weather ranges from harsh winters to warm summers. With these temperature extremes, high altitude, and limestone soil, the region creates red wines as brazen and unique as the land that grows the grapes.

The region has been making wine since the Roman era, but the world did not discover Ribera del Duero until the late 20^th Century. The main wine of the region is the bold, intense Tinto Fino, but Ribera del Duero also produces Cabernet Sauvignon, Garnacha, and Malbec. Winemakers delight in blending their reds, and you can expect any Ribera del Duero wine to have strong fruit flavors and distinct woody notes. To complement these aromatic reds, you’ll find the simple, delicious cuisine you would expect in a rural region, such as rich cheeses, stews, and roast lamb.

When you visit the wineries of Ribera del Duero, you’ll enjoy the architecture and history of the area. The region straddles four historic Spanish provinces: Valladolid, Soria, Segovia, and Burgos, and you’ll see castles, Roman ruins, and medieval churches as you journey through the vineyards and the charming villages that surround them.

The region’s most famous winery is the Vega Sicilia, which was founded in 1864 and makes the complex aged Unico wine. The small, family-owned Emilio Moro winery has also been making wine for over 100 years. Other exclusive wineries to look out for include Aalto, Hacienda Monasterio, and Viña Sastre. Alejandro Fernández makes the renowned Tinto Pesquero, and the winery at Pingus is said to resemble a pink flying saucer.

Abadia Retuerta is a fascinating confluence of history and contemporary winemaking. The winery was established in 1996, and a spectacular 12^th Century monastery sits on the property. The monastery was founded in 1145 by the daughter of the Lord of Valladolid, and wine tasting takes place in the monks’ dining quarters.

Red wine lovers could not find a more enchanting region, with more multi-dimensional wine, than Ribera del Duero. With its stunning architecture, lovely villages, and hearty cuisine, the region is the perfect getaway for the wine connoisseur.

Have you ever been wine tasting in Spain?

A Unique Travel Guide to Prague

Travelers often overlook Prague, and they’re missing a beautiful city with a fascinating history. This post will highlight just a few of the sights, food, and shopping Prague has to offer.

The Sights

Courtesy of pragueexperience.com

The Dancing House is one of the most unusual buildings you’ll ever see. This 1990s building is made of glass, but its curvy lines make it look like it’s about to collapse on the building next to it.

In the past, the Prague Castle housed offices of Kings of Bohemia, Holy Roman Emperors, and presidents of Czechoslovakia. Today, it serves as the seat of the Head of State of the Czech Republic, and contains several art and history museums. Don’t miss the fascinating ceremonial changing of the guards every hour. A flag ceremony takes place at 12 noon.

Prague’s Old Town Square is a popular meeting place and a showplace of various architectural styles expressed in churches from Tyn Cathedral to St. Nicholas Church. At the center of the square sits a statue of Jan Hus, the religious reformer of the 1400s.  

Novy Svet, or New World, is a section of Prague founded in the mid-14^th Century. Famous residents such as Tycho de Brahe and Johannes Kepler occupied these charming, simple houses. Novy Svet boasts the smallest house in Prague: the interior is said to have barely enough room for a somersault. 

The Theological Library at Strahov Monastery was completed in 1679, and features stucco decoration and paintings from the 1720s on its curved ceiling. The library’s thousands of books include ancient manuscripts such as the Strahov Gospel Book, dating to the 10^th Century.

The Arts

Built in the late 1800s, the National Theatre features opera, ballet, and drama and carries a rich artistic tradition. The Theatre preserves the Czech language and culture in its performances, and serves as a national landmark. The Theatre also presents performances in Italian, German, and French. 

Mozart Mecca was the first opera house in Prague and a favorite of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.  

The Estates Theatre is one of the most breathtaking buildings in Prague. Mozart fans flock to the theatre, as the Mozart opera Don Giovanni debuted there, with Mozart playing piano and conducting the orchestra.

Street artists and performers abound on the 600-year-old Charles Bridge, which connects the Old Town with the Lesser Quarter. The bridge is for pedestrians only, and 30 statues of saints line the walkways.

The Food

The restaurant Svata Klara is in a wine cave next to the castle Troja. Full of antique furniture, Persian carpets, and baroque statues, walking into Svata Klara is just like stepping into the distant past.  The food ranges from cold hors d’oeuvres such as fresh oysters and Beluga caviar to main courses such as deer chops and old Bohemian goose. Wines from around the world complement the meal.  

Located right next to Charles Bridge, Kampa Park Restaurant offers spectacular river views and fresh international cuisine including wild game and grilled octopus. The menu features a variety of vegetables, seafood, and luscious desserts.

The Shopping

Shoppers in Prague often follow a centuries-old tradition and purchase a hand carved king or clown marionette at one of the shops. Czech artisans often create replicas of historic glassware or craft unusual crystal or handpainted artworks such as Easter eggs. For the children, wooden toys include puzzles, mobiles, and pull toys.  

If you don’t have Prague on your travel radar, I encourage you to consider it. Contact me if you’d like more information on traveling to the Czech Republic.  

Why Hiring a Private Jet Is the Best and Fastest Way to Travel

Oh private jets, how we love thee. Let us count the ways.

It’s fun.

Who hasn’t seen a private jet on TV and thought about how much fun it would be? You could make noise, run around, or simply sit and sip champagne. And you’d always have a window seat.

It’s exclusive.

How many people do you know who have chartered a jet?

It allows you to control your departure time or arrival time.

Commercial flights, especially overseas, tend to depart and arrive at the same times each day. If you need more flexibility in your flight times, a private jet flies according to your time frame.

Less traffic and hassle when you take off—avoid the crowded airport.

You won’t have to find parking and then rush through the airport to your flight. You drive up to the hangar or the runway, get out, and board. It’s that easy.

No-hassle security lines.

Although you still have to go through a security check, traveling via private jet ensures that you receive VIP security checks. This means no hassle from TSA, no waiting in long lines, no stranger going through your luggage, and no worries that you accidentally left your nail file in your bag.

No lost luggage.

You know your bags are with you at all times, and you won’t worry about finding your luggage—or someone else taking it. Plus, you don’t have to carefully plan what you carry on.

Depending on your destination, flying by private jet could save you time and connection hassles.

You won’t have to scramble through the airport, hoping you and your luggage don’t miss your connecting flight. You’ll have less stress because you decide how and when you arrive at your destination. Also, your connection flights have flexibility to fly around areas with bad weather, unlike commercial airliners that would be delayed or canceled due to bad weather in their designated path.

Most private jets are more luxurious than the first-class section of commercial jets.

Known for their comfort, luxury, and amenities, on a private jet you’ll feel pampered and special.

Sometimes you can travel for less.

It doesn’t get much classier than a private jet. If you’re planning to travel first class anyway, why not go that extra step and travel in style the way millionaires do?

Flying commercially is like being on a bus, and taking a private jet is like using a luxury car service.

When you board your private jet, you relax immediately, and it sets the tone for your vacation. Flying commercially can be extremely stressful, and it’s not a relaxing way to start the trip you’ve been looking forward to.

Flying by private jet is romantic, so if you were a honeymooner going somewhere, this could make it even more special.

Your honeymoon will get off to a great start on a private jet. Your new spouse will love it, and you can talk, laugh, and make some romantic memories without worrying about other people.

You can conduct business in private.

A private jet not only impresses clients, but also gives you seclusion to freely discuss sensitive or proprietary information.

What’s the first thing that comes to your mind when you think of traveling by private jet? 

All images courtesy of my preferred partner Sentient Jet

Discover Istanbul, Turkey’s Culinary Sensations—Your Way

Next to accompanying clients on trips, the most magical and exciting aspect of working in travel is planning customized trips. For example, if you’d like to take a culinary trip to Istanbul, Turkey, I can literally plan anything you can think of—thanks to contacts I have there. Don’t be shy in asking for what you want, as I want to design a trip you’ll never forget.

Turkey is a land of exotic beauty, and it’s full of unique architecture and beauty. In addition to visiting popular attractions such as the Hippodrome and Topkapi Palace, you’ll find plenty to do. Browse the 4,000-shop Grand Bazaar, travel by private yacht on the Bosphorus Strait, or go hot air ballooning over Cappadocia. You’ll visit historic villages such as Tire and Zelve, and the white marble city of Ephesus is always a fascinating excursion. Your imagination is your only limit.

Your accommodations will be lavish, and you’ll travel in style in a luxury vehicle with a professional driver. Turkish cuisine is delicious and made from seasonal ingredients. You’ll enjoy delicious meals at Ottoman restaurants as well as fresh-caught seafood complemented by wine from famous vineyards such as Doluca and Gulor.

Culinary and wine experiences you can have on a tour of Turkey include . . .

•  Learning Turkish and Ottoman cuisine in a private cooking class.
• Visiting Turkey’s finest vineyards and sampling a variety of wines such as Montepulciano, Papazkarasi, and Gewurtztraminer.
• Enjoying the sights and seafood of Kumkapi Fish Market.
• Discovering exotic ingredients, herbs, and spices with an in-depth tasting tour through the Egyptian Spice Bazaar and the Beyoglu Market.
• Tasting regional cuisine and experiencing the warmth of Turkish hospitality with an invitation into a traditional village home.
• Following the path of the humble olive from the September harvest to premium Aegean olive oil.

Setting up entry to Turkey couldn’t be simpler. An expediter service will pick you up at the gate in Turkey, take care of your visa, escort you through immigration, and then take you to your luggage. No stress, no fuss. 

Contact me today to get started planning your customized trip to Turkey

A Unique Tasting of Wine in Argentina

Known as Los Caminos del Vino—the Wine Roads—the Mendoza area of Argentina boasts over 600 wineries, or bodegas, that produce some of the world’s finest wines. Whether you love Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Semillon, Lambec, or Merlot, you’ll be enchanted by the spectacular views of the Andes Mountains as you tour the wine country.  

Where to taste . . .

Andeluna Cellars

Set against a majestic backdrop of the Andes, Andeluna Cellars has perfected the art of making wine. Italians founded the winery in the 19^th Century, and these wine pioneers brought a passion and romance that you can still taste in their wines today. Melding traditional French grape varieties such as malbec and merlot with state-of-the-art techniques, Andeluna Cellars creates delicious, robust wines you won’t find anywhere else.

 

Courtesy Andeluna Cellars

Bodega Salentein

Much more than just a fine winery, Bodega Salentein is practically its own self-contained village. The Posada Inn and the Killka art gallery sit near the cross-shaped bodega, which is reminiscent of a Jesuit temple. Enjoy Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc in the tasting room, which features a beautiful hand-painted ceiling. The Primus Room is a self-contained winery that produces the Bodega’s exclusive Primus wines, created from only the finest grapes.

Ruca Malén

The legend behind the name Ruca Malén goes back to the Mapuche, whose women used to walk looking down at the ground to avoid the piercing look of one particular god. One day, a woman dared to look up, and she fell in love with him. When he left, he gave her a home, Ruca Malén, and nectar that she could drink and re-experience the joy they shared. This wine pays homage to that legend.

Ruca Malén creates Champagne, Malbec, and Cabernet Sauvignon, and its tasting room features a unique wine blending game: each person creates a different blend of wine to share with the group, who blind tastes the wines and votes for the best one.

Where to stay . . .

Cavas Wine Lodge

Just a few minutes south of Mendoza, this lovely estate sits in a 35-acre vineyard and provides elegant service with lavish comfort. Its spa features wine treatments, a gym with a breathtaking view of the Andes, and a relaxing Jacuzzi. Its restaurant changes the menu every three months to take advantage of the fresh seasonal ingredients. Private wine tasting can be arranged, and you’ll have over 250 wines to choose from. 

Park Hyatt Mendoza

With luxurious, spacious rooms with stunning views the city, the Park Hyatt is the perfect place to relax after a day in the vineyards. You’ll have several restaurants to choose from, and whether you prefer a rejuvenating spa treatment or the excitement of the casino, you’ll love the variety of activities and amenities.

 

Courtesy of MacAllenBrothers

Experience the magic of Salta

For an alternative wine tasting experience comparable to the Mendoza region, try Salta’s Wine Route. It has more diversity in landscapes than Mendoza, and its high-altitude wine is a special treat. Salta’s traditional pubs and picturesque villages are charming, and vineyards like Estancia Colome produce specialty wines like Torrontés that please the most exacting wine connoisseur.  

For a truly luxurious stay in the Salta region, try the House of Jasmines, formerly an elegant estate home with all the amenities you would expect—terraces, horses, and a spa—amid a magnificent view of the Andes and the fragrance of jasmine, of course. 

Which Argentinian wines would you like to try?