TRAVEL+FOOD

MOTHER’S DAY ADVENTURES

Leave a reply

Sure, any mom would be happy with flowers and a nice dinner, but some moms deserve a bit more this year. People are switching it up and taking their mothers on an unforgettable trip-of-a-lifetime – an ecotourism adventure.

While ecotourism – travel intended to support conservation efforts while enjoying nature – has been around since the 1970s, the resurgence comes with 21st-century buzzwords of “sustainability” and “green living.”

Oceanic Society, America’s oldest non-profit organization dedicated to ocean conservation remains at the forefront of the trend, and is hosting an exclusive ecotourism trip to Trinidad where travelers can explore the island’s beaches and experience the amazing mother leatherback turtle at one of the world’s most important nesting sites. The trip is timed to coincide with the peak of the turtle’s nesting season and Mother’s Day.

This fun and educational trip could create a one in a lifetime bonding opportunity for any mother and child. The expedition is from May 11 – 15, 2019 and is $3,600 per person. For more information about the trip to Trinidad, click here.

Soneva Fushi on Maldivian Island

Leave a reply

SONEVA FUSHI UNVEILS NEW VILLA FEATURING THE TALLEST POINT ON ITS MALDIVIAN ISLAND

Soneva, the world-leading luxury resort operator, has just unveiled its newest villa at Soneva Fushi, a 20,000-square-foot five-bedroom villa, located on the sunrise side of this private island resort in the Baa Atoll of the Maldives. Villa 37’s main highlight is its 36-foot-tall viewing tower that features a dining table called the Moonlight Table. This viewing tower is now the tallest point on the island and the ideal spot from which to take in panoramic views, sunrises, sunsets and stargazing. The maximum occupancy for this villa is ten adults, or eight adults and four children. This villa is very different from Soneva Fushi’s other villas in terms of its design and architecture, and has set the benchmark for all new and renovated villas at Soneva Fushi.

The master bedroom features a dressing room with a daybed, indoor and outdoor showers, and an outdoor bathtub. The support pillars in the open-plan dining, kitchen and living areas were constructed from upside-down tree trunks, with the roots branching out across the ceiling. The lights above the bar are suspended from the ceiling on gnarled vines. The kitchen comes with its own wine fridge, minibar and a fully stocked pantry. The living room features a curved daybed lined with wooden fish. The villa also features a library, sauna, steam room, pool table and foosball table. There’s a 3,700-square-foot pool that wraps around the entire front of the villa, which includes a 270-square-foot children’s pool and a water slide.

Villa 37 is also the latest addition to the Soneva Villa Ownership program, allowing returning guests to own a Soneva villa. Soneva made history by being the first and still the sole developer to offer luxury homes to foreigners in the Maldives. The villas become part of the resorts’ accommodation pool when owners are not in residence, earning them a strong cash yield, with capital prices appreciating by approximately 9% per year. Other benefits of being an owner include 20% savings on food and beverage, as well as on all flight transfers to/from Malé. The villa is also fully maintained by the resort, which includes repairing and replacing furniture, fixtures, lighting, gardening and cleaning. Each private residence at Soneva Fushi is designed to meet its owner’s specific requirements, while remaining true to the brand mission of “intelligent luxury.”

For more information about Soneva, visit www.soneva.com.

ABOUT SONEVA FUSHI
In 1995, award-winning luxury resort Soneva Fushi set the standard for all desert island barefoot luxury hideaways in the Maldives. Located in the Baa Atoll, a pristine UNESCO Biosphere Reserve coral reef, Soneva Fushi pairs Robinson Crusoe fantasy with intelligent luxury. Sixty-one private villas with their own stretch of beach are hidden among dense foliage within touching distance of a pristine coral reef. Intuitive service is provided by Mr./Ms. Friday butlers. Highlights include the open-air Cinema Paradiso, counting Saturn’s rings in the high-tech Observatory, the homemade chocolate and ice cream rooms, five hundred wines to choose from, six different restaurants and countless destination dining options. In November 2015, Soneva have launched a floating villa concept, Soneva in Aqua, a treasure trove children’s Den and a multi-purpose facility encompasses a glass gallery, boutique and studio where guests can learn the art of glass blowing. If the experiences are magical, the philosophy is simple: No news, no shoes. No pretensions either.

Austin Adventures: Family Appreciation Month

Leave a reply

Through hard work and dedication to the details, Austin Adventures has grown to be the #1 Family Adventure company in the country. For over 35 years they have been taking families to the national parks of the West as well as special places around the globe. As a two-generation, owned and operated active travel company, family travel is in their DNA.

For the second year in a row, Austin Adventures is dedicating the entire month of March to “Family Appreciation,” with special incentives and giveaways, plus an interactive child & parent “Take a National Park Vacation” webinar that all ages will want to attend.

“Between work, school, athletic and social schedules, planning and scheduling a family vacation has never been more challenging, often to the point of missing the opportunity all together to create lasting bonds and memories within the family,” explains Dan Austin, company president and founder. “Austin Adventures is fully committed to helping anyway we can. Our goal is to take the stress out of vacation planning and then deliver an experience second-to-none.”

On Tuesday, Mar 12, 2019 at 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM EDT Austin Adventures invites kids and parents to a live webinar focused on helping families (especially the kids) with their vacation planning. Anyone considering a small group vacation tour now or in the future is encouraged to attend. For information and to register click here.

The seminar will be hosted by Kasey Austin, Outside Magazine 2014 Family Guide of the Year. Making a cameo appearance will be Dan Austin, company visionary and travel industry legend. Together, The Austin Family has set the bar for family adventure travel for decades, so much so, they are often referred to as “the First Family of Adventure Travel.”

During this informal and informative webinar focused on the younger generation, Kasey will offer tips and insights on planning and visiting America’s National Parks along with other popular family destinations.

As an incentive to register and attend, every family that participates will receive a coupon worth $250 off their next Austin Adventures family vacation. Plus, all participating kids (age 6-12) whose parents end up booking a 2019 family national park adventure will receive a logo-embossed backpack (on Day 1 of the trip) packed full of swag (logo water bottle, trip journal, field guide, hacky sack, stickers and more).

“I had so much fun sharing my passion for our National Parks last year, I couldn’t wait to do it all again this year. Sharing the parks with the next generation of adventurer really is my passion. I am looking forward to sharing what we know and have learned from our 35+ years of taking families deep into our national parks,” said Kasey Austin.

“Dan and I will draw from our own experiences and help families with real time information that can assist them in making the most of a park vacation, whether with us or on their own. There will be a follow-up email survey as well as ample time for questions and answers.”

The webinar will help Austin Adventures kick-off their second annual “Family Appreciation” Month. Dedicated to celebrating and encouraging family vacations worldwide, this observance comes on the heels of the company’s 2nd wildly successful “Alumni Appreciation” month held in December, 2018. Throughout the month there will be dedicated e-newsletters and blogs on family travel, special incentives, travel agent promotions and for extended families, an offer of a free trip for one guest in groups of ten or more booked.

To assist in vacation planning, Austin Adventures also offers a free Insider’s Guide to Planning the Perfect Family Adventure. See: http://www.austinadventures.com/free-family-travel-guide/.

Austin Adventures has led the field when it comes to family adventures (twice being acknowledged by Travel + Leisure Magazine as the #1 Tour and Family Tour Operator in the World). For 2019, there are over 40 family adventures planned across the globe. Here is a sampling of some of the more popular National Park itineraries on the current Austin Adventures roster. All adult rates are per person, double occupancy.

Grand Canyon National Park: 6-days/5-nights from $2,998; children from $2,398.

Alaska- Kenai Fjords National Park: 6 days/5 nights from $3,698; children from $3,328.

Bryce & Zion National Parks: 6 days/5 nights from $2,798; children from $2,518.

Yellowstone National Park: 6 days/5 nights from $2,898; children from $2,318.

Grand Teton National Park: 6 days/5 nights from $3,298; children from $2,968.

Yosemite National Park: 6 days/5 nights from $3,698; children from $2,958.

Glacier National Park: 6 days/5 nights from $3,298; children from $2,638.

South Dakota – Black Hills (Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Monuments / Wind Cave NP): 6 days/5 nights from $2,898; children from $2,318.

Banff to Jasper National Parks 6 days/5 nights from $3,098; children from $2,478.

About Austin Adventures
Based in Billings, Montana, Austin Adventures has spent over 35 years building an international reputation as a top provider of luxury, small group, multi-sport tours for adults and families to the world’s most captivating destinations. They have been acknowledged twice by Travel + Leisure Magazine with the prestigious World’s Best Awards along with other national media accolades and distinctions. Austin Adventures has perfected the art of creating itineraries featuring exceptional regional dining, distinctive accommodations, incredible guides and exhilarating activities, all while keeping all-inclusive rates and services the norm. In addition to scheduled group departures on all seven continents, Austin Adventures has developed a reputation as the leader in customized trip planning and execution, all backed by the industry’s best money-back satisfaction guarantee.

AdventureSmith Explorations

Leave a reply

AdventureSmith Explorations Announces $1,200 Savings On a Selection of 2019 Alaska Small Ship Cruises

The small ship cruise expert, AdventureSmith Explorations, announces last-minute savings of up to $1,200 (per couple or $600 per person) on select departures of 2019 cruise vacations in Alaska. “An expanded inventory of small ships, more itineraries and a longer season all benefit

our clients who are interested in Alaska this year,” says Todd Smith, founder/president. “‘It’s very rare to see special offers this great so late in the Alaska booking season.”

To take advantage of specials that apply to specific departures and cabin categories, reservations must be made by April 19, 2019.

Savings up to $1,200 per couple come with select 2019 departures of the following itineraries:

* Alaska’s Glacier Country

an eight-day cruise navigating some of Alaska’s most impressive glaciers and wildlife viewing. Savings come with departures aboard the 90-guest S.S. Legacy April 26; May 10, 17, 24 and 31; June 7, 14, 21 and 28; July 5, 12, 19 and 26; Aug. 2 and 9; and aboard the 88-guest Safari Endeavor Sept. 1 and 8; and a special fitness and yoga-themed departure aboard the S.S. Legacy May 3.

* Alaska’s Glaciers & Whales

an eight-day cruise from aboard the 88-guest Safari Endeavour. Savings are applied to May 26, June 9 and 23, July 7 and 21, and Aug. 4 and 18 departures. Suites on this ship include balconies; activities options include stand-up paddle boarding and kayaking.

* Whales, Wildlife & Glaciers

is a diverse eight-day cruise exploring the many inlets and wildlife of Alaska aboard the 88-guest Safari Endeavor with savings on June 2, 16 and 30, July 14 and 28, and August 11 and 25 departures.

* Alaska’s Inside Passage & San Juans Cruise

spends 15 days along the iconic passage between Seattle and Juneau, visiting two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Glacier Bay National Park and Olympic National Park aboard the 88-guest Safari Endeavor, with applicable savings on May 12 and Sept. 15; and aboard the 90-guest S.S.

Legacy on Aug. 16.

The following eight-day itineraries are aboard one of three Wilderness small ships that carry from 60 to 76 guests depending on the vessel. A $600 per-couple savings comes with specific 2019 departures of:

* Northern Passages & Glacier Bay

explores backcountry wilderness between Sitka and Juneau on the Wilderness Discoverer with savings applicable on May 4 and 18 and on Wilderness Explorer Apr. 27 and July 20.

* Alaska Fjords & Glaciers

that discovers glaciers, fjord cliffs, deep valleys and whales, the Tlingit culture and Tongass National Forest, with savings on the Wilderness Adventurer April 6, on Wilderness Discoverer June 29 and July 6, and Wilderness Explorer July 6 and 13.

* Glacier Bay National Park Adventure Cruise

that brings guests to tidewater glaciers, whales, puffins and old-growth forest is aboard the Wilderness Adventurer with savings on April 27 and June 8 departures.

Because of the high demand for Alaska cruises, the company is already taking reservations for 2020 programs. To help clients select small ships and/or itineraries that best fits their interests, Smith’s team have prepared 6 Insider Tips to Travel Alaska in the Best Way.

For details on all of AdventureSmith Explorations’ small ship cruises, itineraries, availability and for 2019-2020 reservations, please call 866-575-2875 toll-free or visit the company website.

About AdventureSmith Explorations – Think Outside the Boat!

Founded in 2003, AdventureSmith Explorations is based in Truckee, CA, near the northern shore of Lake Tahoe. A recognized leader in small ship cruising, in 2012 owner Todd Smith first joined the ranks of Condé Nast Traveler’s prestigious world’s Top Travel Specialists list as the

leading expert on small ship expeditions.

Follow AdventureSmith Explorations

Diamond Valley Lake Super Bloom

Leave a reply

Biggest Super Bloom in Over a Decade Expected at Diamond Valley Lake Wildflower Trail Opens March 2

On the heels of record rains, officials at Diamond Valley Lake anticipate the biggest super bloom in over a decade in the coming weeks. The most jaw-dropping views will be from the Wildflower Trail, which opens March 2 and is accessible from the Diamond Valley Lake Marina.

“This is the payoff from all that rain,” said Kelly Lam, director of marketing for Basecamp Hospitality, which operates concessions at Diamond Valley Marina, Lake Hemet and 20+ parks across the western U.S. “We’re already starting to see flowers, and by mid to late March we anticipate this super boom to be way better than it has been in over 10 years. The lake is higher than I’ve ever seen it, too, and the fish are thriving, so it’s a great time to plan a trip out here.”

The seasonal Wildflower Trail, located in the Southwestern Riverside County Multi-Species Reserve protected area, and open Wednesdays through Sundays, will soon burst with color, from red Indian Paintbrush flowers and yellow Tidy Tips sunflowers to deep pink Red Maids, orange California poppies, blue arroyo lupines, purple Canterbury bells and white Forget-Me-Nots. The flowers should last through April along the hillsides of the lake trail, a 1.3-mile loop that is considered easy to moderate.

Basecamp recently made improvements to the lake for visitors to enjoy, including new, permanent marina restrooms and may soon include longer hours for approved activities in early mornings and evenings. Entry fees into the marina are $10 per car, and trail access costs $3 per person—and includes a map of the wildflowers and wildflower guide. You can also view the flowers by renting one of the bass or pontoon boats, for fishing or relaxing, at the marina. Get started at the Diamond Valley Lake Visitor Center, home to the bones of Max, the largest and most complete adult mastodon to be uncovered in the western United States. So many mastodons were found here that the area is known as “the valley of the mastodons.”

The visitor center is open weekends from 10 am to 4 pm and also features information on what it took to build three dams the size of those at Diamond Valley Lake, including videos and photos of the astoundingly large equipment used on the project.

Bernardus Lodge & Spa 2019

Leave a reply

IT’S PLATINUM POWER AS BERNARDUS LODGE & SPA CELEBRATES ITS 20th ANNIVERSARY WITH A FULL LINE UP OF CULINARY EVENTS & ADVENTURES

Cash In on Chef Garden Walks, a Salute to Heirloom Tomatoes, Estate Lavender, Grape Stomp and 5th Annual Pure Decadence Dinner Curated by Chef Cal Stamenov

Marking Bernardus Lodge & Spa’s 20th anniversary, the 2019 culinary events line-up is certain to be a showstopper with estate lavender, heirloom tomato and white truffle celebrations on tap. Dive into an afternoon grape stomp, chef-led tour of the apiary and organic gardens or ever-popular Pure Decadence repast (December 12) showcasing showcasing the world’s top culinary gems from black truffle martinis to Maine lobster and a sinful slide into Wagyu beef paired with foraged Big Sur chanterelle mushrooms. Reservations: 831.658.3595; www.bernarduslodge.com.

EAT + PLAY

Tucked into 28 fragrant acres of lavender, olive orchards and vineyards with sweeping Santa Lucia Mountain views, Bernardus Lodge & Spa savors the seasons with an enviable larder of on-property organic gardens paired with a back pocket of foragers, farmers and fishermen answering Chef Cal’s call. Just 10 miles inland from the Pacific, the lodge features 73 luxurious guestrooms, including the 2016 debut of 14 exclusive new guest suites and villas, award-winning Lucia Restaurant & Bar, butler services, complimentary Mercedes-Benz convertibles, expansive 5,300 sq., ft., Spa at Bernardus and three-to-one staff ratio.

2019 EDIBLE ADVENTURES

Exhibition Kitchen Dinner: 3rd Annual Chicken & Brisket

Thursday, March 7, 2019

6:30 pm

$88 per person, plus tax & gratuity

Back by popular demand, this festive event begins with a welcome reception on the Harvest Terrace with live music and Southern inspired specialty cocktails hosted by Lost Spirits. Then step into the Harvest Room Exhibition Kitchen by Sub-Zero and Wolf as Chef Cal takes a spin on comfort food with smoked Wagyu brisket and organic fried chicken showcased in three distinct styles paired with select wines from the award-winning cellar. Seating is limited and reservations are required.

Spring Equinox at The Spa

Wednesday, March 20, 2019

8:30 am – 6:30 pm

Included in service pricing.

Renewal is on tap at the luxurious 5,200 sq., ft., Spa at Bernardus. Choose from an array of seasonal services including massage, bodywork and facials and then extend the spa day with our complimentary Spring Equinox activities including restorative yoga, Bernardus wine tasting and skincare consultation. Note: A minimum 50-minute service must be booked in order to enjoy the spa facilities and Spring Solstice events.

Easter Brunch

Sunday, April 21, 2019

11:00 am – 3:30 pm

Adults $88, Children 5-12 years old $35, plus tax & gratuity

Tap off steam with a Children’s’ Ester Egg Hunt (11:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.) backed with a culinary cornucopia of spring’s best. The traditional grand brunch includes grilled organic vegetables, naturally-raised meats, farmhouse cheeses and sinful fresh fruit tarts, the majority of ingredients culled from chef Cal’s organic on-site gardens.

Mother’s Day Brunch

Sunday, May 12, 2019

11:00 am – 3:30 pm

Adults $88, Children ages 5-12 $35, plus tax & gratuity

Celebrate mom in all her glory with an afternoon at the Lodge, backed with stunning brunch buffet prepared by Chef Cal and his culinary team. Highlights include a sushi and seafood bar, local organic vegetables, naturally-raised meats, farmhouse cheeses and traditional brunch desserts. Accented by a classical harpist, the atmosphere will pamper the entire family with an afternoon of world-class service and cuisine.

Memorial Day Barbeque

Monday, May 27, 2019

12:00 pm – 2:30 pm

Adults $45, Children ages 5-12 $20, plus tax & gratuity

Fire up the barbeque for a day of play in sun-drenched Carmel Valley. Enjoy live music at Lucia Restaurant & Bar paired with a lip smacking barbeque featuring free range chicken, natural Angus beef, smoked Caggiano sausages, country potato salad, organic green salad and the ultimate American sidekick, corn-on-the-cob.

Father’s Day Barbeque, Beer & Bocce

Sunday, June 16, 2019

12:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Adults $45, Children ages 5-12 $20, plus tax & gratuity

Ah, bocce with a bourbon in hand, what more could dad ask. Settle in for an afternoon of family activities served with a side of delicious barbeque. The summer alfresco celebration includes savory free range chicken, natural Angus beef burgers, artisan sausage and plenty of garden greens from chef Cal’s organic garden.

Summer Solstice at The Spa

Friday, June 21, 2019

8:30 am – 6:30 pm

Included in service pricing.

The longest day of the year symbolically fires up passions and heats up hearts to the potential of life that abounds. Choose from our array of new seasonal services including massage, bodywork and facials and extend the spa day with complimentary Summer Solstice activities including Vinyasa Yoga hour, Chakra seminar and poolside “Sip & Glow,” pairing with Bernardus Winery. Note: A minimum 50-minute service must be booked in order to enjoy the spa facilities and Summer Solstice events.

Rose Soiree

Saturday, June 22, 2019

12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.

$75 per person, plus tax & gratuity

It’s rose all day as Bernardus Lodge raises a rosy-hued glass to summer’s favorite buzz. Set in the blossoming Rose Garden, this is the event for flowing dress wear and big brimmed hats. Sip and saunter with a selection of rose wines, canapes, a seafood bar and seasonal fresh desserts.

4th of July

Tuesday, July 4, 2019

12:00 pm – 2:30 pm

Priced off Menu

Embrace America’s independence with live music and Lucia’s Restaurant & Bar’s alfresco setting complete with zenith-of-summer dishes and artisan cocktails inspired by our country’s biggest break up. Sunshine, bocce and a bust-out line up of luncheon treats await.

Chef Cal’s Summer Garden Tour

Every Saturday Memorial Day weekend through August 24 (excludes June 22/July 13)

12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Complimentary to Lodge Guests

Bees, beets and Brussel sprouts, oh my! Join Chef Cal and garden guru Mark Marino for an informative walk through the Lodge’s three-acre organic herb, flower and vegetable gardens – as well as a visit to Bernardus’ resident 180,000 Italian honey bees. This heady experience is certain to pique palates as many of the day’s pick are showcased on Lucia Restaurant’s daily menu.

Lavender Harvest Celebration

Saturday, July 13, 2019

11:00 am – 2:00 pm

$105 per person, plus tax & gratuity

Tucked throughout the Lodge’s 28-acres of lush olive trees, rosemary and rose gardens lie more than 1,000 lavender plants in full bloom. Provence in Carmel, this event is certain to please anyone who loves the scent of lavender. Glass of rosé in hand, stroll Chef Cal’s abundant organic garden and lavender beds with horticulturist Mark Marino; experience the new informative bee talk and honey tasting and slide into a unique grand lavender inspired buffet lunch with ingredients culled from our garden and vineyard. Space is limited and reservations are required.

Labor Day

Monday, September 2, 2019

12:00 pm – 2:30 pm

Priced off menu

The rustic ranch-chic design of Lucia Restaurant & Bar blends with a sunny Carmel Valley vibe with alfresco seating, warm hospitality, and vineyard views. Enjoy live music, dishes highlighting the start of fall while our cocktail artisans serve up autumn inspired specialty hand-crafted cocktails.

Heirloom Tomato Lunch

Saturday, September 7, 2019

11:00 am – 2:00 pm

$115 per person, plus tax & gratuity

It’s tomato time in Carmel Valley as Chef Cal celebrates the grand fruit in a variety for formats this fall. Sip a Bloody Mary while shucking oysters alongside local farmers Dick and Bonnie Swank of Swank Farms as they guide guests through over multiple varieties of their certified organic heirloom tomatoes. After an alfresco reception, step into Lucia Restaurant for a garden inspired lunch buffet featuring Tomato Ratatouille, Carmel Valley gazpacho, roasted free range Sonoma chicken and natural prime beef. Space is limited and reservations are required.

Autumn Equinox at The Spa

Monday, September 23, 2019

8:30 am – 6:30 pm

Included in service pricing.

From guided hikes to holistic wellness experiences focused on balance, The Spa at Bernardus Lodge rejuvenates the entire being-mind, body and soul. Fall is considered the season of stability, a time in which one restores equilibrium to their life. Choose from our array of relaxation services including massage, bodywork and facials and then extend the spa day with complimentary Autumn Equinox activities including Vinyasa yoga, chakra activation seminar and wine tasting with Bernardus Winery. Note: A minimum 50-minute service must be booked in order to enjoy the spa facilities and Autumn Solstice events.

4th Annual Barbeque & Grape Stomp

Saturday, October 5, 2019

1:00 pm – 3:00 pm

$85 per person, plus tax & gratuity

Pay homage to the Carmel Valley annual grape harvest with a traditional grape stomping and Bernardus Winery barrel tasting backed with savory barbeque oysters, live country music and a family-style barbeque lunch. Celebrate the 2018 vintage firsthand in Ingrid’s Vineyard with winemaker Dean DeKorth and vineyard manager Matt Shea as hosts. Space is limited and reservations are required.

Thanksgiving Day Buffet

Thursday, November 28, 2019

11:00 am – 3:00 pm

Adults $95, Children ages 5-12 $32, plus tax & gratuity; children 5 years and younger are complimentary. Traditional Thanksgiving favorites accented with Chef Cal signature cuisine.

Thanksgiving Dinner

Thursday, November 28, 2019

5:00 pm – 9:00 pm

$135 per person, plus tax & gratuity

An innovative four-course tasting menu combining intimate fireside seating overlooking breathtaking mountain and vineyard views.

Chef Cal’s 5th Annual Pure Decadence Event

Thursday, December 12, 2019

6:30 pm

$350 per person, plus tax & gratuity

Indulgence hits a high note at the annual event that continues to wow palates and literally blow minds. Celebrate the world’s top culinary treasures as the evening kicks off with caviar and a glass of champagne or black truffle martini and behind the scenes stroll into Chef Cal’s award-winning kitchen for savory bites right “off the line.” On tap are winter’s most decadent delights: Italian white truffles, French black truffles, Maine’s lobster, ranch-raised Wagyu beef and locally foraged golden chanterelles. Chef Cal combines these inspiring ingredients with rare wines from around the world to create the ultimate winter menu. The tasting menu exemplifies how luxury ingredients can be preserved, reinterpreted and crafted into sophisticated dishes. Seating is limited and reservations are required.

Winter Solstice at The Spa

Saturday, December 21, 2019

8:30 am – 6:30 pm

Price included in service.

The Winter Solstice is the start of the solar year and a significant time of ritual, reflection and renewal. Choose from the Spa at Bernardus Lodge’s award-winning array of relaxation services including massage, bodywork, facials or salon services and extend the spa day with complimentary Winter Solstice activities including hot chocolate yoga, chakra balancing, wine tasting, fire dancing and starlight swim. Note: A minimum 50-minute service must be booked in order to enjoy the spa facilities and Winter Solstice events.

Christmas Eve Dinner – Tuesday, December 24, 2019, 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Christmas Day Dinner – Wednesday, December 25, 2019. 4:00 pm – 9:00 pm

$145 per person, plus tax & gratuity

An innovative four-course tasting menu celebrating the season with intimate fireside seating overlooking breathtaking mountain and vineyard views.

New Year’s Eve Dinner

Tuesday, December 31, 2019

5:30 pm – 9:30 pm

$195 per person, plus tax & gratuity

Ring in the New Year with a sinful six-course tasting menu showcasing chef Cal’s culinary prowess. Focused on healthy, seasonal fare, the menu reflects on the ultimate pleasure of what exceptional dining does for your soul.

New Year’s Day Brunch with Live Music

Wednesday, January 1, 2019

11:00 am – 2:30 pm

Price off Menu

Enjoy live music with a backdrop of a fresh New Year and sumptuous brunch.

BACKSTORY

Perennially recognized by discerning readers of Travel + Leisure’s “World’s Best Resorts” and Conde Nast Traveler’s “Top Resorts” and as well as a Wine Spectator award recipient (2001-2017), this Forbes Travel Guide Four Star property has long set the gold standard for wine country vacationing. Reopened after a full resort renovation in 2015, Bernardus Lodge & Spa is set on 28 pristine Carmel Valley acres awash with vineyards and lavender and boasts 73 luxurious guestrooms, suites & villas, the signature Spa at Bernardus Lodge, award-winning Lucia Restaurant & Bar, a junior Olympic size swimming pool, a hilltop adults-only infinity Jacuzzi, an alfresco croquet and bocce court, two tennis courts and 4,300 sq. ft. of meeting space. Woodside Hotel Group an operator of a portfolio of distinguished independent luxury properties throughout Northern California, is the management company for the property, which is located on the Monterey Peninsula, 120 mi./193 km, south of San Francisco and 330 mi./531 km., north of Los Angeles. For information, contact Bernardus Lodge & Spa at 831-658-3400.

Holiday River Expeditions

Leave a reply

Holiday River Expeditions Notes Positive Outlook For a Stellar River Rafting Season Thanks to an Exemplary Snow Pack

Forget crystal balls. The snow says it all.

For over half a century Holiday River Expeditions has looked to the mountains to forecast upcoming rafting seasons. Winter snows turn into spring runoff. Thus far, a stormy and snow-packed winter in the Rockies predicts a robust 2019 rafting season in the mountain and desert southwest.

“We’re expecting to have a lot of fun in 2019, thanks to Mother Nature and year-to-date bookings that are up 10 percent over the same time last year,” said Holiday River Expeditions’ longtime sales manager and spokeswoman Karen Johnson.

Higher river flows mean that guests on all of Holiday’s rafting trips will have more off-river time to hike, enjoy the beach, relax or explore the side canyons from camp and enroute between camps.

“Plus high water gives our guests an Adrenaline-rush and thrill in a carefully secured, calculated manner,” Johnson added.

As of today, snow pack affecting the Colorado River Basin is running 116 percent of the February 27th average, a good sign for the upcoming rafting season on the Colorado, Yampa and Green rivers. Among Holiday River Expeditions’ whitewater rafting trips most affected by high runoff are those on the Yampa River in the heart of Dinosaur National Monument. This undammed, free-flowing river benefits greatly from unfettered spring runoff that also makes its way to Desolation Canyon (on the Green River) and Cataract Canyon (after confluence with the Colorado River).

Other rafting trips influenced by abundant snow pack are those on the Colorado River in both Westwater Canyon and further along in Cataract Canyon cutting through the heart of Canyonlands National Park.

For the best high-water trips see:

One fact, worthy of note, helps set Holiday apart from most other operators on the river. They are the only rafting outfitter that literally goes with the flow exclusively on all trips by running these rivers by oar-power only, without motorized rafts or motorized support.

“Oar-power is the most natural way to experience the river and the absence of motors makes high water trips as exciting as it gets. Rafters experience the rush of wind, a chatty raven or a churning rapid absent the drone and smell of a motorized raft,” said Tim Gaylord, Director of Operations and Holiday guide since 1978.

Even in high water, when other companies call on motorized boats to stay the course, Holiday instead employs triple rigs, usually from late May to early July in Cataract Canyon when water levels get above 25-30,000 CFS and higher. The rigs are three 18-foot rafts lashed side by side to form one larger raft. It is maneuvered by two guides, sweep-style, each using one oar.

“These rafts are incredibly stable and the rigging allows them to flex in many ways. They allow us to continue to use only oar-powered rafts in even the highest water,” noted Gaylord.

See this short video that will help illustrate this technique.

A few other companies continue to use row/paddle rafts and dories in high water; but they support their use with larger motorized rafts for, among others, assistance in moving non-motor rafts downstream in the flatwater sections. Holiday is the only one that does not use a motor at all (except when exiting the Lake Powell section on the last day of the Cataract trip and then it is only introduced by using a tow-boat that motors up from the downstream takeout at Hite Marina.)

For more information, availability, reservations or a copy of the 2019 catalog please call 800-624-6323, Email: Holiday@BikeRaft.com or log onto http://www.bikeraft.com/.

About Holiday River Expeditions

Holiday River Expeditions began in 1966, when Dee Holladay and his wife Sue took the plunge to become river outfitters. Due to its respect for the lands, rivers, guests and employees, the family-owned-and-operated company has grown exponentially. Each of its guides is professionally trained in first aid and river safety, and with 50+ years of experience, the company provides guests the opportunity to explore the nation’s wild lands safely and securely. Holiday River Expeditions has a commitment to protect the environment through education and conservation, and as such, uses oar-powered and paddle rafts exclusively.

Follow Holiday River Expeditions

St. Maarten Heineken Regatta

Leave a reply

Grand Opening of Regatta Village marks start of the countdown to 39th St. Maarten Heineken Regatta

Boats are arriving, teams gathering, serious sailing and race tactics discussed and evening plans for serious fun prepared as the countdown to the start of the 39th St. Maarten Heineken Regatta continues with the Grand Opening of the Regatta Village.

Organisers, volunteers, local residents and competitors gathered to witness Race Director Paul Miller formally launch this year’s event, slicing the cork off a bottle of champagne in flamboyant style. Robbie Ferron, one of the founders of the Regatta and a former Commodore of St. Maarten Yacht Club said this year’s event “welcomed in a new era.” He was joined by another former Commodore, Ian Hope Ross, who said, “This year is a highlight for next year’s 40th, and we welcome old friends and new.”

A key event on the Caribbean race schedule, the regatta attracts some of the world’s elite sailors and crews, with fast and furious racing in monohulls, maxis and multihulls with six races held over four days. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, the “Island Time Class” designed for cruisers, offers one race a day, ensuring all the fun of the regatta, without the stress!

Part of the attraction of this regatta is in its variety, both in size of boat, origin and aspirations. Some of the world’s most elite performance race boats, such as Polish-entered Varsovie, a Swan 100S will be racing head to head against Umiko. This stunning Nautor Swan Frers 80 is skippered by yacht broker Bill Titus with a crew that collectively have raced in 150 St. Maarten Heineken Regattas, but this is the first time on Umiko. Bill comments, “I first raced in St. Maarten in 1993. The balance of serious sailing, warm waters and lifestyle draws me back and it is great to see the regatta still appealing to professional and amateur sailors from across the world. It’s about having fun together as a team out on the water in a beautiful yacht.”

Some of the tightest and most competitive racing, says Race Director Paul Miller, will be in the CSA 3 (Performance 40) group with 11 entries; meanwhile the five boats from Poland, including Sailing Poland, the Volvo Ocean 65 formerly known as MAPFRE, will be head to head against I love Poland, a Volvo Open 70. Both these boats demonstrate Poland’s commitment to developing young and promising sailors from Olympic classes into a regular professional Sailing Poland Race Team. “To acquire this boat [Sailing Poland] was a step forward in our mission to become one of the largest sailing organisations in Poland,” said Piotr Zygo, Sailing Poland’s CEO.

At the other end of the scale, the St Maarten Heineken Regatta attracts families and cruising sailors, some of whom are en route to other destinations. Dobro Dani, an Elan 434 owned by Jason and Roberta Bowman, are exactly halfway in their journey from Croatia to Vancouver. “We are really looking forward to the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta, and excited to be racing our boat in the Caribbean,” said Jason. “We’re looking forward to tradewind round the can sailing and have heard rave reviews of the nightly parties and entertainment.”

On shore, the legendary parties at the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta continue to excel this year with festivities continuing long into the night. The Grand Opening saw live music from Remo and the Barbwire Band, with acts during the week including “Queen of Soca” Alison Hinds, Shermanology, Fatman Scoop with the highlight at the final night being The Jacksons, live on stage.

As skipper Trevor Middleton from UK-based Sun Fast 3600 Black Sheep said, “We have never done the regatta before, but the reputation precedes it. It sounds like a good mix of sailing, drinking and parties, what is not to like about that?”

Find out more about the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta, St. Maarten and island life here.

Tickets for the regatta parties can be purchased from the St. Maarten Yacht Club.

Follow St. Maarten Heineken Regatta

About St Maarten Heineken Regatta

Now in its 39th year, the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta is four days of world-class racing starting on 28th February until the 3rd March 2019. Set in the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean, sailing is powered by the cooling northeast trade winds and run by an experienced and friendly race team.

To find out more about the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta, please visit here.

Kyambura Gorge Eco-tourism

Leave a reply

Volcanoes Safaris Launches the Kyambura Gorge Eco-tourism Project in Uganda: Safeguarding the Gorge

Volcanoes Safaris is thrilled to announce the launch of the Kyambura Gorge Eco-tourism Project. The Kyambura Gorge Eco-tourism project has undertaken a series of activities since 2009 to safeguard the Kyambura Gorge ecosystem. The strategic assembling of four adjoining sites next to the Gorge over the last ten years seeks to ensure that the gorge is safeguarded for the long term.

Today, Volcanoes Safaris and Volcanoes Safaris Partnership Trust are the single largest stakeholders in the Gorge ecosystem after the Ugandan Wildlife Authority. Without the intervention of VS and VSPT, the survival of the gorge and chimps would be under severe threat.

The goal of the integrated eco-tourism partnership project is to safeguard this extremely fragile ecosystem through the protection of the land around the gorge and connecting the Kyambura Gorge Lodge with targeted conservation and community activities. This will ensure that one of the most important areas for avian, primate and wildlife biodiversity in Africa is preserved.

Speaking at the launch of the Kyambura Gorge Project, Praveen Moman, Founder, Volcanoes Safaris said, “The Albertine Rift stretches from Murchison Falls to the Virunga volcanoes. It is one the richest areas of biodiversity in the world. It is also one of the most densely populated areas of Africa. The challenges of safeguarding habitats for wildlife, preserving wilderness, creating world class tourism products, maximising revenue from tourism, ensuring communities have a substantial stake, remain enormous. VS and VSPT have been working on the Kyambura Gorge Eco-tourism project for 10 years. The strategic assembling of the four sites that were under severe threat aims to protect the Kyambura gorge ecosystem in perpetuity.” Moman added, “We are also enhancing and expanding our community and conservation activities. We have introduced a series of walks around the Lodge, in the buffer and in the wetland so that guests can experience this magnificent area. Guests will be asked to plant a tree in the buffer zone to appreciate its significance and to encourage them to support the expansion of the buffer; we will also continue our efforts at creating a community conservancy area; and to see how we can link the lost chimps of Kyambura with chimps in another forest. We are proud to make this significant contribution to the future of the Kyambura Gorge system.”

The four sites that were under severe threat are: the Southern site on which the Kyambura Gorge Lodge is built; the VSPT HQ site on the Northern side; the wetland site on the East; the three km buffer zone along the gorge to the West.

The Kyambura Gorge Eco-tourism Project is the latest example of the pioneering work undertaken by Volcanoes Safaris (VS) and the Volcanoes Safaris Partnership Trust (VSPT).

Kyambura Wetland – VS has reclaimed this wetland at the beginning of the Gorge from an illegal brickwork operation over the last decade. One of the most significant interventions to protect the Gorge, the wetland is now regenerating rapidly back to its natural state. The rejuvenated wetland now attracts over 200 species of birds and is used to train members of the community in birding and guiding. Guests can participate in a 2-hour guided walk in the wetland. This project has been a key success for the VSPT, particularly regarding its ecosystem conservation.

Kyambura Gorge Buffer – VSPT has worked on purchasing the 3km long buffer along the northern part of the Gorge since 2009. With the purchase completed at the end of 2018, a 3-hour guided walk has been developed and is offered to guests to showcase the buffer created by the project, the scenic views over the Gorge, the Park and Kyambura reserve, and the chance to experience the local homesteads.

Kyambura Conservation Centre – The Kyambura Conservation Centre site based on the northern side of the Gorge at the VSPT centre. The Conservation Centre serves as a Training Centre for Conservation and communities.

Kyambura Community Café – Located at the Conservation Centre, the Kyambura Community Café trains local disadvantaged youth in hospitality.

Kyambura Coffee – The growing and processing of coffee by the community will continue to be a central part of the project. Kyambura coffee from the VSPT cooperative for women will be available for guests to purchase.

Kyambura Community Playground – VSPT has created a community playground to encourage and allow local school children to play games and sports, especially soccer.

Kyambura Gorge Walk – this short walk (45 mins) offer guests the opportunity to experience the unique landscape around the Lodge, between the Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kyambura Gorge and the community.

Volcanoes Safaris is recognized as the leader in great ape tourism. The company received the Travel + Leisure Global Vision (2012) and Condé Nast Traveller World Savers (2013) awards. In 2016 the VSPT Bwindi Bar near Bwindi Lodge won the Pure Community Engagement award for training disadvantaged youths; and Virunga Lodge was recognized as Africa’s most romantic retreat by the World Boutique Awards. In 2017 Volcanoes Safaris lodges have been ranked on Condé Nast Traveller’s list of the best Africa Resorts in their 30th annual Readers’ Choice Awards.

Volcanoes Safaris Founder, Praveen Moman, spoke at TedXBend in March 2018 to share his philosophy that making conservation part of the economic mainstream is the key to saving the great apes of Africa. Watch online here.

For more information, please visit http://volcanoessafaris.com/community/

Click to view the Maps of The Kyambura Gorge Eco-tourism project: Map 1 and Map 2

Dan Hotels Growth

Leave a reply

ISRAEL’S DAN HOTELS EMBARKS ON MAJOR STRATEGIC GROWTH WITH ACQUISITION OF THREE “RIMONIM” PROPERTIES

Israel’s most prestigious hotel group Dan Hotels has acquired three hotels from Israel’s Rimonim Hotel Group, it was announced in Tel Aviv yesterday by Ronen Nissenbaum, Dan Hotels’ president and CEO. The purchase involves the Rimonim Eilat Hotel (formerly the Neptune), the Rimonim Spring Hotel in Nazareth and the boutique-style Ruth Rimonim Hotel in the heart of the ancient town of Safed.

“Part of our decision to acquire these hotels,” Nissenbaum explained, “is that they fill a gap in the Dan Hotel Corporation’s coverage of Israel, particularly with the addition of the properties in Safed and Nazareth, both located in the northern Galilee region.”

Four additional Rimonim properties may be added to the Dan Hotel chain in the coming months: one in the Negev Desert, two in Tiberias on the shore of the Sea of Galilee and one in the Golan Heights.

“Our goal is to strengthen and diversify the Dan brand,” Nissenbaum continued, “so that we are able to offer something for every traveler’s geographic need, profile and budget. For the time being, we will operate the three new hotels as they are – and in the coming months make decisions about renovations, upgrades and possible name changes.”

Dan Hotels has shown double-digit growth in revenue and profits since late 2017, “and the Rimonim acquisition will ensure that growth will accelerate even further in 2019 and 2020,” observed Nissenbaum.

For more information about Dan Hotels, please visit: www.danhotels.com.

ABOUT DAN HOTELS

Dan Hotels Israel is the largest luxury hotel group in the country. The history of the chain dates back to June 1947, when two brothers Yekutiel and Shmuel Federmann, purchased a 21-room guest house called the “Kaete Dan” on the Tel Aviv sea shore. Today, the chain owns thirteen deluxe and superior first-class hotels in prime locations around the country, an international convention center and a hotel training school. The collection includes Jerusalem’s legendary King David Hotel, a member of “Leading Hotels of the World” and considered the most prestigious hotel in Israel. Additional luxury hotels include: Dan Accadia Hotel Herzliya, Dan Caesarea Hotel, Dan Carmel Haifa Hotel and Dan Eilat Hotel. Dan Hotels places an emphasis on hospitality and warm accommodation with the its, “Experience the Best.” Dan Hotels recently expanded overseas with the development and opening of the Den Hotel in Bangalore, India’s capital of high-tech.