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PADI®

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For water enthusiasts and adventurers looking to expand their horizons this summer, diving with PADI® (Professional Association of Diving Instructors®), the world’s largest dive training organization, offers exhilarating experiences, scenic underwater landscapes, and up-close views of magnificent sea life. Fortunately for those of us that are lucky enough to call California home, there are a number of incredible dive sites that are a short drive or boat ride away:

1. Catalina Island (California, USA): Lots of sea life here! Aside from the expansive kelp forest, divers will find horn sharks, sea urchins, spiny lobsters, sea cucumbers, seals and more. The fish are used to divers, and will often swim right up to them.

2. La Jolla Cove (San Diego, California, USA): An easily accessible shore dive just north of San Diego, the entry is from a sandy beach and you’ll immediately pass some interesting rocky reefs on your way out to the kelp beds. Keep an eye out for playful sea lions and leopard sharks.

3. Monterey Bay (Monterey, California, USA): Many choose to shore dive here, with great opportunities to swim with sea lions at the San Carlos Beach breakwater, and towering kelp forests at Lovers Point. But don’t miss the chance to explore iconic spots such as The Pinnacles, where two rock pinnacles just 100 feet from the sea floor, surrounded by dense, fish-filled kelp forests.

4. Channel Islands National Park (California, USA): Just a short boat trip from the mainland, the beautiful rocky shorelines are home to sea lions, sea birds, whales and dolphins. Giant kelp forests underpin the islands’ marine ecosystems, and cold and nutrient-rich currents support a staggering variety of marine life.

Venturing out a bit farther, here are a few other must-see dive sites around the world.

5. The Sea of Cortez (La Paz, Mexico): This amazing destination was once baptized by Jacques Cousteau as “The Aquarium of the World,” as it has over 800 species of marine life who call it home, including the famous gray whales. This is also one of the premier dive sites in the world for schooling hammerhead sharks, which range from between six to hundreds travelling in a clockwise direction.

6. Queensland (Australia): Queensland has a reputation as a haven for divers – and for good reason. With the world’s largest coral reef system and dozens of renowned wreck sites located along its coast, there is truly no other dive destination on the planet like Queensland. The Great Barrier Reef in the north is comprised of 2,900 coral reefs, 600 continental islands, 300 coral cays and an abundance of diverse marine wildlife encounters that should be on every diver’s list of places to explore.

7. Koh Tao (Thailand): With a great island vibe, tons of activities to do and easy diving, Koh Tao, Thailand is an incredibly fun place to visit on vacation. This idyllic island is a tropical paradise with white sand beaches fringed with palm trees, rugged cliffs and stunning sunsets. Koh Tao’s underwater scenery is just as spectacular with coral encrusted rock pinnacles, vibrant reef, great shipwrecks and the opportunity to see passing pelagics including whale sharks and spotted eagle rays.

As Airline Satisfaction Climbs to Record Highs, Line Blurs Between Low-Cost and Traditional Carriers, J.D. Power Finds

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Alaska Airlines Ranks Highest among Traditional Carriers for 12th Consecutive Year; JetBlue Airways and Southwest Airlines Tie for Highest Rank among Low-Cost Carriers

Is this the golden age of air travel? According to the J.D. Power 2019 North America Airline Satisfaction Study, ^SM a combination of newer planes, better ticket value and improved customer touchpoints have driven overall satisfaction with airlines to its highest point in history, up 11 points (on a 1,000-point scale) from last year’s record-setting performance. The surge is driven by significant improvements among traditional carriers, while satisfaction slowed with low-cost carriers.

“Airlines continue to deliver on the operational side of air travel,” said Michael Taylor, Travel Intelligence Lead at J.D. Power. “New technology investments have dramatically improved the reservation and check-in process. Fleets are newer and travelers generally feel that they are getting great value for their money. These improvements have been most profound in the traditional carrier segment, where customer satisfaction has climbed considerably.

“While low-cost carriers have historically had the highest levels of customer satisfaction in our study, due to a strong sense of value for money among customers, that line is starting to blur as traditional carriers improve their services and operations,” Taylor added. “The one area where both traditional and low-cost carriers can still improve, however, is in in-flight services. It continues to be the lowest-ranked factor in the study, as many airlines still struggle with in-flight entertainment, connectivity, in-seat power, and food service.”

Following are some of the key findings of the 2019 study:

Record-high customer satisfaction: Overall satisfaction with airlines increases 11 points to 773, continuing an eight-year trend of satisfaction improvement.

Improvement is driven by traditional carriers: This year’s significant gains in customer satisfaction are driven by the traditional carriers, whose segment satisfaction score improves 22 points from 2018. The low-cost segment—while still having higher overall satisfaction than the traditional carrier segment—declines 6 points from 2018, thus driving a segment convergence in satisfaction.

Tech investments in reservation and check-in systems pay off: The reservation and check-in experiences are the most satisfying portions of the airline experience, driven by investments in digital check-in technologies, self-service kiosks and a concerted effort among airlines to improve the efficiency of the pre-flight process.

In-flight service remains a stumbling block: In-flight services, such as seatback entertainment, food service, and Wi-Fi continue to be the lowest-ranked part of the air traveler experience. Specific in-flight amenities that have the greatest positive effect on customer satisfaction are fresh food, seatback games and seatback live television.

Study Rankings

Among traditional carriers, Alaska Airlines ranks highest for the 12th consecutive year, with a score of 801. Delta Air Lines (788) ranks second and American Airlines (764) ranks third.

Among low-cost carriers, JetBlue Airways (817) and Southwest Airlines (817) rank highest in a tie. For Southwest, this is the third consecutive year at the top of the J.D. Power ranking.

Among Canada-based airlines, Air Canada (729) saw its customer satisfaction score declined 5 points from 2018. WestJet (758) saw its score increase 11 points but remains below the low-cost carrier average.

The North America Airline Satisfaction Study, now in its 15^th year, measures passenger satisfaction with airline carriers in North America based on performance in seven factors (in order of importance): cost and fees; in-flight services; aircraft; boarding/deplaning/baggage; flight crew; check-in; and reservation. The study measures passenger satisfaction among both business and leisure travelers and is based on responses from 5,966 passengers who flew on a major North American airline between March 2018 and March 2019. The study was fielded from April 2018 through March 2019.

For more information about the North America Airline Satisfaction Study, visit http://www.jdpower.com/business/resource/jd-power-north-america-airline-satisfaction-study.

Join the conversation on social media using #AirlineStudy and follow J.D. Power on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

J.D. Power is a global leader in consumer insights, advisory services, and data and analytics. These capabilities enable J.D. Power to help its clients drive customer satisfaction, growth, and profitability. Established in 1968, J.D. Power has offices serving North America, South America, Asia Pacific, and Europe.

New Summer Experiences at Toscana Resort Castelfalfi in Tuscany

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Toscana Resort astelfalfi, one of Europe’s finest eco-sustainable retreats in the heart of Tuscany, is pleased to announce its summer calendar of engaging events and immersive experiences. Including a new spa collaboration with LAJATICA featuring a range of innovative wine-based treatments; the second edition of OltreColle, a food, crafts and music festival; and an art exhibition showcasing works from the region’s own acclaimed sculptor Franco Mauro Franchi, the resort further demonstrates its connection to the landscape and resident community through the following exciting roster of activities.

NEW SPA COLLABORATION WITH LAJATICA FEATURES GRAPE-BASED TREATMENTS

Housed in Il Castelfalfi, the resort’s five-star hotel, La Spa extends a range of soothing treatments made from local, organic ingredients and provides an idyllic place to find calm, in keeping with the hotel’s dedication to holistic wellbeing. An 11,000 square-foot rejuvenating sanitarium, La Spa boasts a wide range of spiritual treatments and nature-inspired beauty rituals, indoor and outdoor pools, Finnish and bio saunas, sensory showers and relaxation areas. From this month, the spa is collaborating with Bocelli Wines to offer guests an organic, grape-based range of facial and body treatments, furthering the resort’s ongoing efforts to lead Italy’s green movement from within the hospitality industry. Created locally in Tuscany, the LAJATICA vinotherapy products are made entirely from the by-products of wine produced at the Bocelli family vineyards and blended with Tuscan plants and essential oils. Helping to reduce the signs of aging, boost circulation, and promote brighter skin, these products can be enjoyed by guests during indulging treatments on the property or by purchasing to use at home.

CASTELFALFI CELEBRATES RICH TUSCAN CULTURE WITH SECOND ANNUAL OLTRECOLLE FESTIVAL

After a successful first edition, the second OltreColle festival is scheduled to take place in Castelfalfi from June 29 – 30, 2019. The two-day festival will feature live acoustic, jazz and blues concerts, contemporary and street art installations, theater performances, colorful parades, vintage flea markets, and Italian street food – all overlooking the Tuscan countryside. A collective exhibition of artists, musicians, and sculptors from all over Tuscany, OltreColle extends the opportunity for guests to mix and mingle with dozens of unique Italian artisans and purveyors over the course of the weekend. Access to the festival is complimentary for hotel guests and Castelfalfi property owners.

INAUGURAL ART EXHIBITION OPENS UP THE CELLARS OF CASTELFALFI CASTLE

Paying homage to the rich history of Castelfalfi, guests of Toscana Resort Castelfalfi can now experience a new GEA art exhibition over the summer months curated by Alberto Bartalini. A celebration of life and rebirth, the exhibit embodies the renaissance of Toscana Resort Castelfalfi through the work of Italian sculptor Franco Mauro Franchi and will run through January 6, 2020. Dotted across various locales, part of the exhibition will be displayed within the cellars of Castelfalfi Castle, a space that has been hidden to the public for decades. Originally used as prison cells at the turn of the nineteenth century, the vaults gradually transitioned their purpose over the years, to become wine cellars and then a backdrop for the classic children’s film Pinocchio by Roberto Benigni. A hugely significant piece in the history of Castelfalfi, the official unveiling of the Castle Cellars is a noteworthy event for the estate. Now, for the first time ever, guests and the local community can experience the cellars first-hand.

Visitors looking to experience this summer’s guest programming can take advantage of the Castelfalfi You & Me offer, which includes two nights of accommodations at Il Castelfalfi – TUI BLUE SELECTION, a member of the Preferred Hotels & Resorts L.V.X. Collection; one dinner for two at La Via del Sale; and one spa treatment for two at La Spa, starting at US$952 for two persons, for two nights. To book, please visit www.castelfalfi.com. For more information on news and events, sign up for the Toscana Resort Castelfalfi newsletter at www.castelfalfi.com/en/newsletter.

About Toscana Resort Castelfalfi:

Situated in the heart of the medieval village of Castelfalfi, Toscana Resort Castelfalfi – a member of the Preferred Hotels & Resorts L.V.X. Collection – sits amidst 2,700 acres of protected vineyards, olive groves, lakes, and a wildlife reserve. Since its launch in 2007 by TUI Group, one of the world’s leading tourism companies, the resort is committed to providing an authentic and luxurious Tuscan experience that promotes eco-sustainability and supports the local community through luxury hospitality and organic wine and olive oil production. Comprising luxury apartments, villas, and farmhouses to purchase and rent, Hotel Il Castelfalfi – TUI BLUE SELECTION, Hotel La Tabaccaia, the region’s largest championship golf course, a deluxe spa, restaurants, and bars, Toscana Resort Castelfalfi welcomes travelers and those seeking real estate opportunities to explore, experience, and dwell in its spectacular natural setting.

Ignacia Guest House Has New Additions

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Consistently ranked among the world’s top places to visit, Mexico City is a global capital welcoming more than 12.5 million visitors each year with its renowned cuisine, vibrant culture, rich history, unique neighborhoods and modern-day travel offerings. A sprawling metropolis bursting with a vibrant personality blending old and new, there are over a dozen distinct neighborhoods or “colonias” each with their own character and charm.

An essential part of the city’s cultural and gastronomic life, the adjacent Roma and Condesa neighborhoods are home to Mexico City’s trendy creative class. The area overflows with diverse dining options and alluring nightlife possibilities, as well as varying architectural styles and bold design. A century ago, when La Romita was a wealthy town of grand mansions, no one would have guessed that by the turn of the millennium, it would home to Mexico City’s hipsters. These days, its neoclassic, beaux arts and art nouveau-style buildings, squares and tree-lined boulevards abound with restaurants, galleries, bars, foodies, artists, eclectic bed and breakfasts and more. In September 2017 an earthquake impacted Roma and Condesa, Mexico City’s most beloved colonias. After, local artists, architects, designers, chefs and residents have worked to restore and revitalize the area, making them more compelling destinations than ever before.

With the recent buzz from this year’s Academy Award winner for Best Director, Alfonso Cuaron’s love story to his hometown of Colonia Roma hit center stage in the internationally acclaimed movie, Roma. Located just a few blocks from the house where Roma was filmed, Ignacia Guest House is an exclusive bed and breakfast with five suites blending history, Mexican artisan tradition and contemporary design. Opening its doors in February 2017, the name is derived from the housekeeper who looked after this 1913 casona for over 70 years, Ignacia.

To celebrate the recent two-year anniversary of its opening, Ignacia Guest House collaborated with prominent illustrator Hilda Palafox, known as “Poni” to design the guest house’s commemorative anniversary tote bags. Born and raised in Mexico City, Poni is a world-renowned designer, illustrator and muralist whose creative work includes murals, illustrations, drawings and ceramics. She studied at the National Institute of Fine Arts and has illustrated for magazines, singers and several national and international brands. Passionate about the female form, Poni uses illustrations and ceramic works to create a variety of womanly characters in her own unique style. Despite being commissioned for murals by Amnesty International, her most famous work is a doodle which pays homage to Mexican activist and feminist Elvia Carrillo Puerto which was featured on Google’s search homepage in 2017. These beautiful signature tote bags designed exclusively for Ignacia Guest House by Poni can be purchased for $25USD at the front desk. In other news, Ignacia Guest House now offers luxurious robes for all guests to adorn during their stay and a new summer mezcal cocktail to be enjoyed during their daily complimentary cocktail hour in the garden.

Architecture and Design

Ignacia Guest House has been internationally acclaimed for its interior design, architecture and restoration. Led by Fermin Espinosa and Gerardo Salinas of Mexico City-based Factor Eficiencia, with the design firm Estudio de Interiorismo A-G, Ignacia Guest House was developed based on a concept from the design and communications firm, Fuckin’Fitz & Co. The concept reflected the personality and background of Ignacia, from the chromatic color palette and gardens inspired by the forests of Guerrero (Ignacia’s home state) to the privacy of each space. The historic building joins public spaces, including the lobby, reception, library, dining room, and kitchen, directly to the master suite, La Habitación Negra. In a completely new building, the other four suites, La Azul, La Verde, La Rosa and La Amarilla, are arranged one on top of the other on the central patio with individual balconies or terraces. Each has a unique color scheme, and rooms have their own specific ambience that works in harmony with the complex. The interior furniture blends traditional, past and contemporary, including designs by Eileen Grey, Eero Saarinen, Serge Mouille, Sean Dix, and James Tan. The spaces complement each other with examples of contemporary design by A-G, Bo Concept, PECA, and Jonathan Adler. All common spaces boast works from master artisan potter José Cervantes of San Agustín Oapan, Guerrero.

History

Ignacia was born around 1914 in Guerrero and arrived in Mexico City in the late 1920s to work in the estate house. She first helped with the cleaning, then began caring for the children, eventually becoming the head housekeeper until the year 2000, at which time she moved with the family that she worked for so many years to an apartment in the south part of the city. For 70 years, she dedicated her devotion to the house, and became part of it. Her imprint is still alive in the building; as a character of Pita Amor, Ignacia enjoyed the house as her own and in the end, practically it was – she knew every last corner and administered to it with rigorous discipline. She planted two orange trees in the garden that she crossed thousands of times.

Cuisine

The cooks at Ignacia Guest House hit the pantry bright and early to prepare each day’s breakfast selection and source all ingredients at traditional neighborhood markets. They prepare everything—salsas, condiments—from scratch. Artisanal breads, delicious fruits and juices one can only find in Mexico complement cooked-to-order entrees ranging from seasoned eggs, regional charcuteries, tamales and chilaquiles to lesser-discovered tastes guests will remember long after their travel ends. The cooks offer vegetarian and vegan options for all their breakfast dishes and can accommodate guest’s dietary restrictions. Guests can enjoy the complimentary cocktail hour at Ignacia’s garden, under the two orange trees, between 5pm and 7pm daily. Each day, the chef prepares a different cocktail for guests, made with mezcal from Oaxaca, gin, tequila or other liquors. Ignacia’s signature cocktail is made with grapefruit, sparkling water, mezcal and a hint of Ancho Reyes, a liquor made from the ancho chile. The decoration of the glass has a special touch – chefs add worm salt frosting on one side of the glass along with fresh grapefruit. Celebrating the onset of summer, their newest drink is a mango and mezcal cocktail made with mango and pomelo juices, Eureka lemon, mezcal, Ancho Reyes liquor, mint and rosemary syrup, ginger ale and ice.

Sustainability

Ignacia Guest House is committed to preserving our environment. Solar panels produce most of the electrical energy consumed on property, preventing 3.8 tons of CO2 from entering the atmosphere each year (the equivalent of planting 85 trees per year). The solar panels reduce fossil fuel consumption up to 60% in bathrooms and the kitchen. The ingredients used to prepare food and beverages (fruits, vegetables, legumes, coffee, eggs, dairy, tortillas, bread) come from small local producers, which guarantees their freshness and quality, as well as fair trade (supporting the local community). In-suite toiletries are provided by Loredana, a Mexican company that specializes in natural, organic products free of parabens, sulfates and EDTA, which are all environmentally friendly and made free of animal cruelty. Water bottles are provided courtesy of Casa del Agua, a Mexican company that triple-filters water using evaporation and condensation, which provides the highest purification standard (100%) in the market. Additionally, water is harmonized with intention, through a process of flow forms, light and, music. Only glass bottles are used, so the property does not contribute to plastic waste. The cleaning products used are sourced from Corpo Citrik, a Mexican company that manufactures all its products with biodegradable citric extracts, without chemicals, abrasives or irritants, Kosher certified and as low foam to promote saving water saving.

One of the biggest trends in travel right now is boutique hotels and bed and breakfasts that feel like a home-away-from-home. Globetrotters are seeking personalized service that go beyond the usual hotel concierge and find that properties with ten rooms or fewer allow them to really slip into local life with total tranquility and ease. With its unique offering of just five suites, Ignacia Guest House’s guests experience a stay in a chic design-led accommodation that is unlike any other. Whether traveling for pleasure or business, Ignacia Guest House is the perfect basecamp to explore the city. All guests receive exceptional individualized attention from the staff, complimentary Wi-Fi, daily breakfast, daily cocktail hour in the garden from 5pm – 7pm and more amenities. Nightly rates for the suites in double occupancy are: Master Suite Negra ($442.10USD), Standard Suites Amarilla, Verde and Azul ($387.94USD) and Junior Suite Rosa ($318.91USD). For more information, visit www.ignacia.mx or email hola@ignacia.mx.

About Ignacia Guest House

Located in the vibrant Colonia Roma neighborhood, Ignacia Guest House is an exclusive bed and breakfast with just five suites, uniting Mexican artisan tradition, history and contemporary design. The restoration of this 1913 mansion celebrates the personality of Ignacia, the mansion’s housekeeper for more than 70 years. In partnership with the interior design studio A – G, Factor Eficiencia finished restoration of Ignacia Guest House in February 2017. The historic building includes an entrance hall, reception, library, dining room, kitchen and the Black Guest Room (master suite), all along with a common concept of nude color used in the interiors. In a completely new building, the rest of the guest rooms are vertically arranged around a central patio and garden: Blue, Green, Pink and Yellow. With terraces and a harmonious chromatic palette, each guest room creates environments in balance with the entire complex. The cooks at Ignacia Guest House hit the pantry bright and early to prepare each day’s selection and source all ingredients at traditional neighborhood markets and prepare everything—salsas, condiments, everything—from scratch. www.ignacia.mx

2019 Travel Destinations

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Incredible new outdoor adventures, hotels, and cultural experiences abound in the summer season. From Zurich’s perfect blend of nature and urban culture to family-friendly offerings on the Inca Rail to Machu Picchu, these experiences make already wonderful vacations even more special. If you need an excuse to take a once-in-a-lifetime summer vacation this year, read on.

Stay Cool in the Caves of Belize

At the San Ignacio Resort Hotel, expert local guides are on hand to help guests beat the Belize heat in the naturally beautiful and historically fascinating caves of the surrounding area. Many of these cave tours take guests into caverns used by ancient Mayans. The caves of Actun Tunichil Muknal, for one, feature burial chambers, artifacts, and calcified human remains. Che Chem Ha cave is considered to hold the largest collection of Mayan pottery in Belize. Go on a refreshing tube ride through the mesmerizing stalactites, stalagmites, and other rock formations of the Jaguar Paw Cave System, or canoe through Barton Creek Cave, whose crystal clear waters flow from a giant crack in a mountain. Guests can even climb cave waterfalls with rappel ropes and dive into their invigorating cascades. For larger groups and families, San Ignacio Resort Hotel recently opened River and Jungle View Suites, which boast large outdoor living spaces and dining areas perfect for guests to come together and enjoy scenic views of the Macal River, its surrounding rainforest valley, and Belize’s natural jungle setting.

Swiss Culture on Display at Zurich’s Street Parade

On August 10, the streets of Zurich become host to a demonstration of love, peace, freedom, generosity, and tolerance. The purpose of the Street Parade is to generate enthusiasm for electronic music and art, and it has grown into a well-established cultural experience that encourages diversity in music and club life. To add luxury to the experience, travelers should stay at Giardino Atlantis, an urban retreat that offers guests a natural oasis in a bustling city. The Atlantis’ proximity to the activities of Zurich make it an ideal spot for festival-goers, while its location at the foot of the Üetliberg Mountain offers ample opportunity to experience the peaceful, natural beauty of Switzerland. The hotel itself has impressive musical history — Freddie Mercury once gave a private performance on the grand piano at the hotel bar!

New Luxury Lodge Opens in Bolivia

Be among the first to stay in the luxurious, space station-esque Kachi Lodge on Bolivia’s remote and stunning Salar de Uyuni. The geodesic domes of the new lodge, which opened in May 2019, have a minimalist design to highlight the beauty of the stark surrounding landscape and the wide open skies that offer views of the stars unsullied by light pollution. Summer is the dry season on the Salt Flats, allowing guests of Kachi Lodge adventure opportunities such as trekking to the Tunupa Volcano’s crater or mountain biking on the edge of the volcano, hiking among Incahuasi Island’s giant cacti, and watching the sun rise and set from the peak of Kachi Island. For an authentic Bolivian culinary experience, guests come together in a central dome to dine on cuisine from the award-winning Gustu Restaurant and school in La Paz.

Exclusive Access to the Magic of Bhutan

In the ancient Kingdom of Bhutan summer is the low season for tourism, making it a perfect destination for travelers looking for a less crowded, less expensive trip. From June through August high-altitude flowers are in peak blooming season, lighting the lush forests of Gangtey Valley with color. The Gangtey Lodge offers a luxurious home base for travelers seeking to explore the mysterious and unknown Gangtey Valley, which is considered one of the most beautiful parts of Bhutan. The Kingdom has only been open to tourists since 1974 and takes great care that the landscape and culture remain unspoiled, thus preserving the spiritual, mythical atmosphere that encompasses Bhutan. Gangtey Lodge offers luxurious insight into the relatively unexplored destination with offerings such as traditional hot stone baths, spiritual cleansing rituals, and guides with special knowledge of the area.

See Machu Picchu Like Never Before with Inca Rail

School’s out, and it’s the time of year to make family memories that will last a lifetime. For a vacation guaranteed to entertain and educate, visit the wonders of World Heritage Site Machu Picchu together by way of Inca Rail, the only train service to Machu Picchu that offers en route entertainment programming for kids. The programming on-board the First Class Train, carefully designed to be both fun and informative, offers children coloring books themed around Peruvian culture, cuisine, and landmarks, entertainment kits, a variety of board games and a new gourmet kids menu inspired by Andean organic ingredients and locally-sourced herbs. Inca Rail turns visiting Machu Picchu into an immersive experience filled to the brim with culture, spectacular views of the Peruvian landscape, and fun for the whole family.

Discover Outdoors: Get Out of the City

If the heat of the city is too much this summer, Discover Outdoors has a wide variety of trips planned to take adventurers out into the vast wilderness right outside their doors. Summer is the perfect time to visit some of the farther north destinations on the Discover Outdoors menu of trips, like hiking among the looming peaks and lush river valleys of three national parks in the Canadian Rockies or circling the base of Mount Rainer on the Wonderland trail, which is widely considered one of the most beautiful backpacking trails in the US. The mild temperatures of the summer season make it the most pleasant time to experience these northern locales.

See Alaska from the Side of a Glacier

Experience Tordrillo Mountain Lodge’s new summer activities and the first via ferrata route in Alaska, opening in June. The new hiking and climbing route is located on the edge of the Triumvirate glacier, and will include taut steel cables, two suspension bridges spanning from arrete to arrete, steel rungs, and other components that help climbers ascend 800 vertical feet of rock. In February 2019 the property reopened after a multi-million dollar renovation, and thrill-seeking guests of all abilities can experience endless new summer activities such as helicopter-accessed fat tire mountain biking, world-class salmon fishing, kayaking, canoeing, white water rafting, glacier hiking wake surfing, waterskiing and wildlife viewing.

SUMMER IN ALPS × FREE NIGHT OFFER

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Those looking for a luxury break with a difference this summer should head to the Swiss Alps and take advantage of a free night offer at The Lodge, Sir Richard Branson’s beautiful mountain retreat in Verbier.

With Switzerland fast becoming a ‘must-visit’ destination and no town showcasing the beauty of the country more than Verbier, the spectacular Alpine views and an unrivalled variety of activities during the summer months make it the perfect summer getaway.

Between June and September 2019, The Lodge welcomes individual room bookings and its latest free night offer on stays of four nights or more makes it a must stay this summer.

An outdoor Jacuzzi, stunning mountain views and flowing bubbles await when booking one of the chalet’s nine beautiful bedrooms. Stays at The Lodge are inclusive of all meals and drinks, and the Swiss and International cuisine, prepared by Michelin-trained chefs, is guaranteed to be one of the highlights.

Get to know the area with a gentle hike, or simply soak up some alpine sunshine from a hammock on the picturesque lawn. Those looking to unwind can enjoy a treatment in the capable hands of the resident beauty Relax and unwind with a treatment in the capable hands of our resident beauty therapistRelax and unwind with a treatment in the capable hands of our resident beauty therapisttherapists, or breathe in the mountain air during a refreshing morning yoga session. The buzzing town of Verbier is just a five-minute walk away and offers a wealth of designer boutiques for shopaholics looking for some retail therapy.

The Lodge has an indoor pool, indoor and outdoor Jacuzzis, spa, a steam room, a party room, two bars and an award-winning Head Chef. There are plenty of activities on offer around the area from hiking to canyoning, to mountain biking to paragliding and much more.

Rates start from CHF 940 (approx. $930.00 at today’s exchange rate) per room, per night based on two adults sharing and guests staying four nights or more will be treated to their final night for free.

For bookings please call T: 877 577 8777 (US toll free). Alternatively e-mail enquiriesusa@virginlimitededition.com.

World’s Best Room Honor

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Capping this year’s Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star Award for Bernardus Lodge & Spa and chef Cal Stamenov’s signature dining venue – Lucia Restaurant & Bar- Carmel Valley’s esteemed hideaway for epicures on escape has again raised the hospitality bar with the Forbes 2019 World’s Best Rooms Award, one of 41 hotel properties in 17 countries and just six on the West Coast. Nearly 1700 worldwide hotels were included in the review process.

Achieving perfect scores on guestroom and bathroom standards related to luxury, guest comfort and convenience, this award underscores Bernardus’ mantra on superseding guest expectations with meticulous attention to design, ergonomics, and elegance. “This is an incredible honor, one that speaks to our philosophy and passion as well as recognizing our hardworking staff,” according to Sean Damery, vice president and general manager of Bernardus Lodge & Spa.

Opened in 1999 and celebrating its platinum anniversary, the 73-room vine-swept lodge has long set the standard for luxury lodging on California’s Central Coast. Tucked on 28 acres of sweeping lavender, grapevines and olive orchards in Carmel Valley, Bernardus Lodge & Spa speaks to today’s experiential traveler with a showcase of guest accoutrements including spacious 525 sq., ft., to 2100 sq., ft., lifestyle accommodations, many featuring vaulted ceilings, double-sided fireplaces, private patios and terraces featuring vineyard or Santa Lucia Mountain views as well as a complimentary wine bar and butler’s pantry. Standout elements include Suite and Villa accommodations featuring alfresco showers and fire pits, hammered copper free-standing soaking tubs and rain showers. Two pools, an adult-only infinity Jacuzzi, tennis, apiary program, croquet, and bocce courts and the sleek 5,300 sq. ft., Spa at Bernardus round out the property.

ABOUT FORBES TRAVEL GUIDE 2019 WORLD’S BEST ROOMS

Forbes Travel Guide’s Verified Lists provide guests with an objective, data-driven source for making informed choices. These Illustrious properties have been thoroughly tested and verified to ensure that the rooms are of the highest quality – not just beautiful, but impeccably functional, luxuriously comfortable and elegantly appointed. Elements of luxury standards reflect detailed attention to the level of sumptuous comfort, as well as luxurious choices and conveniences provided to guests including linens of exceptional quality and style, high-quality amenities and/or technology appropriate to the destination, exception attention to interior design, notable pieces of artwork, high-quality soft goods and bathroom amenities that are exceptionally luxurious. Comfort and convenience standards encompass guestrooms that are well-sound-proofed, extremely fresh upon arrival, generously spacious grooming areas, advanced lighting, and technology that is easy to navigate.

Forbes Travel Guide is the only global rating system for luxury hotels, restaurants, and spas. The anonymous professional inspectors evaluate based on up to 900 objective standards with an emphasis on exceptional service. The only way to receive a Five-Star, Four-Star or Recommended rating is by earning it through Forbes’ independent inspection process. A full list of awards is listed at www.forbestravelguide.com.

HARD ROCK HOTELS: ROCK OM

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Encouraging guests to play hard and purify harder, Hard Rock Hotels has expanded its Sound Body Wellness Program with the launch of Rock Om — an in-room and on-site yoga experience fusing together the ancient art of yoga with the beat of music, available at all 27 hotels worldwide!

This exciting, new and complimentary program allows guests to energize their bodies and souls through the power of music, enjoying the electrifying beats produced by renowned music producer, director, sound ambassador and yogi, DJ Drez, and instructed by his talented singer, songwriter and yogini wife, Marti Nikko, through three videos on the Hard Rock Video On Demand television channel. Additionally, select Hard Rock Hotels offer live, on-site Rock Om classes for those looking to find their Zen in more of a group setting.

As an added bonus, guests can order yoga kits to be delivered to them either prior to arrival, at check-in or during their stay. The yoga kits include a regionally-inspired Yogitoes towel created by Manduka specifically for Hard Rock Hotels, a Manduka PROlite yoga mat and a Manduka Go Play carrier bag — all exclusive to the Rock Om program and available for purchase in the Rock Shop.

The program is designed to deliver a customized yoga experience, allowing guests to refresh, rejuvenate and re-energize the mind, body and spirit through the brand’s biggest differentiator: music. Please CLICK HERE for more information.

Grand Opening: Kachi Lodge in Bolivia

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The Switzerland-based luxury camp experience specialists of Amazing Escapes announce the grand opening of Kachi Lodge, the first luxury dome lodge on the Uyuni Salt Flats of Bolivia. Located at the foot of Tunupa volcano at an altitude of 11,800 ft, Kachi Lodge rises out of Bolivia’s Altiplano like a surreal space station. Intentionally designed to offer stellar views of the world’s largest salt flats and the star-studded sky, the interiors have a minimalist setup that embraces the landscape’s natural setting. Whether an adventure seeker or astrophysicist, guests will be mesmerized by the Kachi Lodge’s 6 luxury bedroom pods and oversized lounge dome set up on the wooden deck above the dazzling surface of the Salar. The individual pods offer guests the comfort of a hotel room with a private bathroom, plush and cozy bedding and stylish interior decoration.

Guests of this otherworldly lodge are invited to dine in a central dome filled with cozy lanterns and oversized hemp cushions that add to the dramatic ambiance. Kachi Lodge takes great pride in delivering authentic and inventive cuisine, partnering with the award-winning Gustu Restaurant and school in La Paz. The team has established strong relationships with its local suppliers and aims to showcase the great potential of the country’s production, culture, and biodiversity.

The staff, which includes a camp leader, a chef and bilingual activity guides, goes above and beyond to satisfy creature comforts and truly create a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Kachi Lodge is passionate about providing guests with new and unusual ways to discover the already popular Uyuni Salt Flats.

The high-tech, all-in-one water system provides running hot and cold water and simultaneously recycles it in a closed loop, minimizing consumption in a system that is virtually self sufficient. Kachi Lodge is a low environmental impact structure and in addition to the water treatment unit working in a closed loop, all of the systems are powered by solar energy only.

Gaston Ugalde, the most well-known contemporary artist in Bolivia, has created unique pieces of art that are installed throughout the Kachi Lodge as well as outdoor art installations on the Salar that are also available for sale. In his work, Ugalde engages the Bolivian landscape, as well as plants and fabrics intrinsic to traditions within Andean culture, and transforms them into contemporary collages, photographs and installations that speak of commerce, politics and spiritual disconnectedness. By combining the history and geography of his country with creative intervention and juxtaposition, he is able to pose universal questions to his audience about their connection to humanity.

Rates start from $1,980 per person based on double occupancy and include a two-night stay, airport transfers, activities, and full board by Gustu. Kachi Lodge is located on Bolivia’s Salar de Uyuni Salt Flats. The closest airport is 60 miles away from the lodge through the flats, and a two-night minimum stay is required.

EDEN ROC MIAMI BEACH

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7 Reasons To Experience Eden Roc Miami Beach

By Patrick T Cooper

Time to getaway! A jaunt to Eden Roc Miami Beach is the perfect prescription for relaxation. Upon arrival Eden Roc’s lobby will thrust you into an oasis of history. The hotels gently restored golden hand rails lead to sweeping views of the circular bar with signature spirits designed to bring your soul to an immediate rest. The eclectic libations and unique art curation will have you feeling the iconic vibes of legends like Nate King Cole, Sammy Davis Jr. and Frank Sinatra. Consider yourself amongst the elite traveler as this destination will envelop you to a cosmopolitan lifestyle. Famed architect Morris Lapidus breathed life into the Miami skyline with the hotels 415 ocean front rooms. Following a complete multi-million dollar restoration the Eden Roc Miami Beach is prepared to welcome you to a new level of hospitality. Allow your skin to absorb the subterranean ocean breezes and your eyes to dissect the elegantly appointed landscape at this Miami haven for global citizens.

Bites

Soaking up the sun can be draining. Who wants a burger? The farm to table cuisine at Malibu Farms is hypnotic. Be sure to order the grass-feed beef burger and Malibu blue nachos your tummy will thank me.

Beach & Spa

With an almost perfect location in the heart of Mid-Beach the Eden Roc is close to South Beach nightlife if you desire dancing and secluded enough for peace of mind. South Beach can be hectic at times so finding a beach chair can be a complete production. Fortunately, the Eden Roc has designated space for all hotel guest making it seamless to soak up the sun rays. Following your sun session follow in my foot steps and dash to the Esencia Wellness Spa. I paired the H2O facial and ocean glow body scrub to restore my skins natural exuberance.

Bed & Balcony

I’ve never slept so well in my life. I must admit I am literally in love with this property. The positioning of the hotel bed looking beyond the balcony toward the Atlantic Ocean was mesmerizing. The gravitational pull of the mattress lead me into siren slumbers. Beyond the bed the suites balcony made for the perfect office backdrop. Creative floods poured as my mind was free and fueled by aesthetically pleasing scenery.

Dinner at Nobu

Dinner fit for a king or queen is an understatement. Nobu is synonymous with great Japanese cuisine. Of course, my elevated Omakase dining experience was obnoxiously insane. Highest of accolades for this moment I was riddled with delightful morsels and you will be too.

Art

Art Lovers prepare to stroll the grounds at Eden Roc Miami Beach. The hotel is filled with color and mediums to inspire and educate you alike. From lobby to suites you can feel the artistic influence of the hotels partnerships with the Brant Foundation and Art Angels.