DRIFT Travel Fall 2017

T R AV E L

O F T E N . L I V E

W E L L

T R A V E L

M A G A Z I N E

30 Page Exclusive!

THE POWDER REPORT OUR TOP SKI [and après ski] LOCATIONS WORLDWIDE

LONDON CALLING

TEN DAYS OF TEA & THEATRICS FOR TWO

A PHOTOGRAPHIC JOURNEY AN AMERICAN ROAD TRIP STORY

PLANES, TRAINS & DOG SLEDS FIVE FABULOUS WAYS TO EXPERIENCE ALASKA

ON THE WHISKEY TRAIL

LIQUID TOURISM IN SCOTLAND & IRELAND

FALL 2017

COME ALONG ON THE JOURNEY at DRIFTTRAVEL.COM

The Ultimate America’s Cup Experience Fierce competition. Contagious excitement. Timeless tradition. It all ties together at the America’s Cup. As an official charter yacht supplier of the 35th America’s Cup in Bermuda, The Moorings welcomes you aboard this summer for a one of a kind spectator experience on your own all-inclusive Crewed Sail catamaran with expert captain and gourmet chef.

Reserve your yacht today to claim the best view for the biggest sailing event of the year.

U N F O R G E T TA B L E M O M E N T S

on the water

Call 800.669.6529 or visit moorings.com/americas-cup

Aruba awaits your arrival

$599 5-NIGHTS IN ARUBA

Inclusive all taxes & Servive charges

Travel till December 15’ 2017

Promo Code: DRIFT

And take advantage of this limited offer!

Your Adult-Only Boutique hotel choice

THE ADULTS ONLY

BOUTIQUE HOTEL

LOCATED ON PALM BEACH, ARUBA www.brickellbayaruba.com l Located on Palm Beach in Aruba

Deluxe Rooms & Free WiFi

Best beach area in Aruba

Added value rooms

Brickell Bay Beach Club & Spa boutique hotel is a privately owned Boutique hotel, located on the beautiful island of Aruba, in the midst of the prestigious strip of Palm Beach offering guest white sand beaches and surrounded by over 35 top rated restaurants. The hotel offers newly renovated Superior and Deluxe rooms and suites. Guests enjoy free WiFi, nightly turn-down service with fresh ice bucket reell, fresh towels and chocolates, with luxury bathroom amenities and all the added value room features you will come to expect from a premier boutique ho hotel.

Brickell Bay Beach Club & Spa is the only “Adults Only” boutique hotel on Palm Beach, providing guests with added value facilities and service, and with friendly and helpful staff catering to all your needs during your stay in Aruba.

J.E. IRAUSQUIN BOULEVARD #370, PALM BEACH ARUBA, DUTCH CARIBBEAN ISLANDS

tel. +(297) 586-0900 fax. +(297) 586-4957

LIMITED OFFER ONLY

Added value facilities

Added value hotel facilities

PACKAGE INCLUSIVE OF: 5-Night Accommodation / 2-Personal Inclusive Continental-Plus Breakfast Welcoming cocktail on arrival. $40 Casino Match-play voucher. $50 Hotel - Food & Beverage credit Complimentary bottled water in rooms.

Added value amenities and services.

VISIT: www.brickellbayaruba.com

TOLL-FREE RESERVATION

1-800-324-6965

INSIDE this issue TRAIL 16 WHISKEY Liquid tourism in the U.K.

A GLANCE 10 AT Tromsø, Norway.

12 ALASKA Five ways to see the magic.

T R A V E L

O F T E N . L I V E

W E L L

T R AV E L

M A G A Z I N E

30 Page Exclusive!

THE POWDER REPORT OUR TOP SKI [and après ski] LOCATIONS WORLDWIDE

LONDON CALLING

TEN DAYS OF TEA & THEATRICS FOR TWO

POWDER REPORT 20 THE Where you must ski this year.

ROAD TRIP 52AAMERICAN photographic journey.

EDITOR 82 TRAVELLING A continental road trip to Napa.

CALLING 68 LONDON Tea and theatre travels.

ALL DAY 86 ROSE Best spots to enjoy this pink trend.

GEAR 74 TRAVEL New products for ultimate comfort.

IN STYLE 90 CARRY-ON The perfect weekender luggage.

A PHOTOGRAPHIC JOURNEY AN AMERICAN ROAD TRIP STORY

PLANES, TRAINS & DOG SLEDS FIVE FABULOUS WAYS TO EXPERIENCE ALASKA

COLOMBIA 76 BOGOTÁ, Emeralds and culinary delights.

ON THE WHISKEY TRAIL

LIQUID TOURISM IN SCOTLAND & IRELAND

FALL 2017

COME ALONG ON THE JOURNEY at DRIFTTRAVEL.COM

FALL 2017 Get ready for one heck of a travel adventure. The fall issue of DRIFT brings you amazing ski destinations, and worldly travel inspiration from more than 30 countries. Come along on the journey!

4 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM

92 #WHERETONEXT 2018 tropical getaway guide.

TOP 7

SKI

a travel note from the

EDITOR I have never been so excited for ski season and not because I am addicted to skiing. I like to ski but admittedly, it is not my daydreaming passion like it is for so many of our travel readers - maybe you? It’s for those readers that the DRIFT team has compiled our first ever 30-page Powder Report that includes our recommendations for seven exceptional ski regions, including mountain conditions and location amenities, on and off the slopes.

Did your favorite ski town make our list?

DESTINATIONS

WORLDWIDE

20

In addition to seven worldly winter destinations, this issue of DRIFT travel magazine takes you around the globe to share travel experiences in London, Napa Valley, Bogotá, Tromsø, New York, and Provence. Plus, make sure you check out this issue’s A Photographic Journey, with inspiring American Road Trip photography by Laina McWhorter.

Fall means different things to different travelers. This issue is packed with travel ideas for every type of adventurer. Turn the page, get inspired and come along on the journey!

Travel often and live well,

Tracey Drake Editor-In-Chief | Creative Director

Oh, the places I've been!

36

WHISTLER VILLAGE, CANADA

Getting ready for ski season has been a big topic of conversation at DRIFT and I took an exciting trip to Whistler, B.C. and stayed at the most magical boutique hotel.

I cannot wait to share Nita Lake Lodge with you!

82

NAPA VALLEY, CALIFORNIA

email: editor@DRIFTtravel.com instagram: @TraceyDrakeEditor

82 6 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM

FOLLOW @TraceyDrakeEditor on Instagram & Twitter or search hashtag #TheTravellingEditor

When you combine a fine car with fine wine, you know it’s going to be a great road trip! And so it went behind the wheel of a 2017 Lincoln Continental and a journey to Napa Valley’s Calistoga Ranch.

The Hidden Gem of the Med found at Avaton

Avaton Luxury Villas Resort is a stylish and contemporary beachfront escape overlooking the sparkling turquoise waters of Komitsa Bay in Athos Peninsula, Halkidiki, Greece.

Avaton consists of an exclusive collection of 16 villas, providing an unique lifestyle experience.

Most of the villas include private pools, leading down to lush Mediterranean gardens and a pristine beach.

Your personal butler and chef, upon request, and an exclusive mini bar and wine list add to the unique savor pleasure.

Sensational massage treatments, private transfer with helicopter and limousine and memorable cruises along the nearby islands and breathtaking coastline, complete the ultimate seaside sophistication experience.

For more info please visit: www.avaton.com

PUBLISHER GLOSSY MEDIA EDITOR-IN-CHIEF | CREATIVE DIRECTOR TRACEY DRAKE PRODUCTION/EDITORIAL FRANK BURES, JANE CROSS, ELIZABETH DEAN, TRACEY DRAKE, STEVE DRAKE, PETER MANDEL, LAINA MCWHORTER, SHEILA MAY, TLELL NAKARO, JOSIE SALDAT,TODD TALBOT, SYLVIA TENNANT, RUSS WALSH, SARAH ZAJAC

CREATIVE | PHOTOGRAPHY ADOBE STOCK, CALISTOGA RANCH RESORT, DEER VALLEY SKI RESORT, STEVE DRAKE, ENTREE DESTINATIONS, FEATUREWELL, LAINA MCWHORTER, LINCOLN MOTORS, PARK CITY, PAUL MORRISON, NITA LAKE LODGE, PAN PACIFIC HOTELS, JOSIE SALDAT, SHUTTERSTOCK, WHISTLER TOURISM, VISIT BRITAIN, WORLD LUXURY SPA AWARDS, WORLD LUXURY RESTAURANT AWARDS SALES & DISTRIBUTION DIRECTOR STEVE DRAKE ADVERTISING & PUBLISHING RIGHTS INQUIRIES sales@DRIFTtravel.com | www.DRIFTtravel.com Published by: Glossy Media All rights reserved. No part of DRIFT magazine may be copied or reproduced without permission. © COPYRIGHT DRIFT TRAVEL MAGAZINE GLOSSY MEDIA 2015-2017

every single day, more than

8 MILLION PEOPLE get on an airplane & travel

every single issue, more than

4.5 MILLION TRAVELERS could be reading your brand message

TRAVEL MAGAZINE BRING YOUR BRAND ALONG ON THE TRAVEL JOURNEY...

DRIFTtravel.com sales@DRIFTtravel.com

AT A G L A N C E :

Tromsø, Norway

10 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM

THE ARCTIC’S GATE KEEPER BY: ELIZABETH DEAN

C

limbing towards the top of the world, into the cool clutches of the Arctic Circle is the Norwegian city of Tromsø. The quaint town stirs memories of beautiful hand drawn books that were the wonder of childhood, where pages were filled with charming jewel toned houses, white washed terrain and puffing chimneys. Isolated and enchanting, the cool climate is no hindrance to the adventurous soul who seeks the Tromsø night sky and the utter brilliance of its Aurora Borealis.

Don’t miss the city’s stunning Arctic Cathedral, reminiscent of a fantastical ice tepee. Fondly nicknamed “The Gateway to the Arctic”, Tromsø is one of the world’s best places to view the natural phenomenon of the Northern Lights, with planned excursions available. Winter sporting activities, cross country skiing and off-piste skiing are local favorites, or take a cable car to the top of Storsteinen Mountain and experience the region from above.

There is an abundance of local shops, numerous festivals, cultural events and an unstoppable nightlife.

TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 11

12 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM

ALASKA 5 WAYS TO EXPERIENCE

THE LAST FRONTIER BY: TLELL NAKARKO

The Last Frontier can be discovered through a variety of mediums, but the best ways are those which take you behind the scenes to experience this great land as the locals do. Alaska is majestic, impressive and unforgettable – and your experiences will be epic. As recommended by Entrée Destinations, experts in curating bespoke experiences for adventurous travelers, here are the top five ways (and places) to get a taste of this diverse and striking state.

ALASKA BY RAIL Denali National Park Traveling either by Anchorage or Fairbanks, this scenic journey to Alaska’s tallest peak will provide glimpses of stunning backcountry otherwise unseen. Cross the rushing rapids of the Knik River, admire the Chugach Mountain range or take a pit stop in the historic town of Talkeetna.

TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 13

14 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM

ALASKA ON FOOT Anchorage

ALASKA BY AIR Wrangell St. Elias National Park

The largest city in Alaska is best discovered on foot, where you can take in the history from a local expert. Despite the fact that it’s a bustling metropolis, Anchorage is home to approximately 250 black bears who can be found roaming the trails and parks within the city.

You may just meet a moose – in the city center, they’re a surprisingly common sight!

The largest National Park in America, Wrangell St. Elias is the same size as Yellowstone, Yosemite, and the country of Switzerland combined! The only way to appreciate the sheer vastness is to take it in by air. Soar over volcanoes, spot bears and caribou and land on untouched beaches, glaciers and meadows – all in the same day.

ALASKA BY SEA Kenai Fjords National Park

ALASKA BY DOG SLED Juneau Icefields

Nearly forty glaciers flow from

Imagine whizzing across an icefield, led by a team of happy Alaskan huskies. Touching down by helicopter, you’ll meet the dogs and professional musher where you’ll learn about the “Last Great Race on Earth”, the 1150 mile-long Iditarod. Cuddle with the new pups-in-training, and then hop on your sled for the ride of your life!

the Harding Icefield, one of the Kenai Fjords’ central features.

Break through icebergs and admire calving glaciers right in front of you. Whether you’re in a large ship or a small kayak, the best vantage point is from the water where you can paddle alongside sea lions, humpbacks and killer whales.

Learn more about exploring Alaska: www.entreedestinations.com

TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 15

BY: PETER MANDEL

Shots of courage .

Lightning in a bot tle .

Bot toms up .

W

hiskey has its own liquid poetry. Sip it and you talk, or sing. My Scottish cousins can be almost eloquent about the drink itself. It is, they say, an education. As richly cultural as wine.

This started me thinking. If wine has terroir - the special traditions, soils, sunny hillsides that end up affecting its taste on your tongue, what about alcohol that’s distilled from grain? Would it matter if it came from sacks of barley that had matured in Indiana? Or did Scotland and Ireland (supposedly the birthplace of the drink, with records dating back to 1405) have something no one else could claim?

I began to map out a trip to those distillery-dotted countries to try and find out. But since I am a whiskey amateur, not an aficionado, I’d want to get a fullfledged vacation out of my route. It wouldn’t be a string of cellar tastings. I wanted plates of potatoes and meat pies in pubs, philosophical walks by the sea, and whatever local quirks I could find.

Landing in Dublin, I am met by morning, and by rain.

I head directly to the first distillery on my list. This one belongs to Jameson and it’s a replica of how its Bow Street warehouse might have looked when Irish whiskey was made back in the 1780s, when the company was founded.

16 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM

Unlike scotches, which are double distilled, Irish whiskies are distilled three times for smoothness and I’m especially eager to see what Jameson has to show visitors since it’s currently North America’s most requested brand. One of the things it has are mannequins like you might see in a museum. Replica workers stack up barrels.

Realistic cats glare at tourists, guarding the grain.

One of the best parts for me is learning a little about the label’s master barrel-makers, or coopers. I pore over a list

of cooper nicknames. ‘Duck-Egg’ Byrne was an admired craftsman here. ‘Snowball’ Mills another. Not to mention the legendary ‘Nizzler’ Brannigan. None of them seem to be on duty at the moment. But, well, I can tell. These are men I would have liked to drink with.

I catch a bus the next morning for County Cork to check out Jameson’s Midleton distillery, about 160 miles southwest. It’s been drizzling throughout the night and there’s so much green in the landscape that even treeTRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 17

trunks seem tinged with it. This could be moss, I think.

Or it could be jet lag.

By the time we arrive, I’m more than ready for a dram.

It turns out I am not disappointed. Along with other samples, I enjoy some sips of 12-year-old Midleton Distillery Reserve which eases down as if it were a rare and gentle sherry. According to the guide who’s pouring, Irish whiskey is not just a popular drink at the moment.

“It’s on fire. It’s a lighter taste,” he tells us, than scotches.

“Easier drinking. A gateway, you might say, for the ladies.”

On to Kilbeggan in County Westmeath which, I’ve read, dates back to the mid-1700s. It’s one of two distilleries in Ireland that bill themselves as the ‘oldest in the world.’

Here I find some tastes of the history I’ve been craving.

There’s a water wheel from the 19th century that creaks and splashes as it turns, and I’m delighted that a good chunk of the original machinery is still in place.

I get to talking with a shy-looking person who is listening intently throughout my tour. Turns out he is a spy: Willie McCarter, the distillery’s executive director. “Do you live anywhere near Boston?” he asks. When I say yes, his face spreads out into a Santa Claus smile. “I miss it,” he tells me wistfully. “I was at MIT years ago. Spent much of my 18 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM

time there at a pub called The Plough & Stars.”

Remembering pints of my own at The Plough, I do a tour and tasting at the last Irish distillery on my list, Bushmills, which has a list of regulations for us lucky visitors: no mobile phones, no pictures and no food allowed. But, should we require them, ‘ear protectors are available on request.’ Bushmills, we discover, scoffs at Kilbeggan’s lineage, bragging that its own roots go back even farther, to 1608.

I don’t have hopes of sorting this battle out, and back on the road, I check out signs for a tuber-themed amusement park called ‘Taytoland’ (might be fun if I had more time) and try some Rowntree’s Randoms candy to clear my palate.

For my scotch whiskey tastings, I head for Islay (pronounced ‘Eye-lah’), the southernmost island in Scotland’s Inner Hebrides, which is only about 25 miles north of the Irish coast. Sometimes called The Queen of the Hebrides, Islay is known for its strong peaty flavors.

Scotches distilled here tend to be single malts, as opposed to the blends I’ve mostly encountered in Ireland.

Instead of flying or boarding a ferry, I chip in for a share of a charter boat with some other Americans I’ve met.

What we get is something called the Kintyre Express - a ‘Storm Force’ - brand rigid inflatable speedboat. In minutes, we are shooting spray and ricocheting off the tops of whitecaps. This may be the Irish Sea, but in the glinting sunlight, it says Scotland, Scotland, Scotland: It is as blue as a loch.

My first Scottish distillery feels more convoluted than what I’ve seen so far. A study in shiny brass and scoured copper, Laphroaig is almost steampunk with its valves and pipes and dials. If Willie Wonka owned a distillery instead of a chocolate factory this would be it.

My tastes here are on the strong side. I feel like I’m swallowing liquid oysters that have been smoked over an open fire. But the label’s freshly whitewashed buildings and waterfront views make me linger long into the evening before heading to town.

Islay is a place of gorse and green. Bumps and ripples of land are neatly carpeted, and along the island’s sandy edge, flocks of sheep and clumps of cattle come very close to the sea. At the Bowmore distillery, the tour guide lets us climb up to the kiln that’s used for drying barley and pad around on the beach-like dunes of grain. One ingenious man flops down to wave his arms and make a barley angel - something everyone has to try.

The Ardbeg distillery in the village of Port Ellen is even more of a surprise. There’s a SPECIAL — TODAY ONLY! at the on-site café: ‘The Islay Lamb and Haggis Burger.’ It’s topped with cheddar and, according to the sign, with an ‘Ardbeg-infused 10-year-old special sauce.’

Just as I’m thinking of ordering one, my tour group is joined

by Hamish Torrie, one of the company’s top managers. He’s sporting a pair of pea-green tartan slacks and is eager to tell us about a test tube full of Ardbeg that at this very moment, is being ‘aged in space.’

Say what?

“It’s an experiment, you see,” explains Torrie. “A bit of whiskey, a sliver of barrel-wood. Shot that off to the International Space Station.”

“But why?” inserts a visitor.

“Science!” says Torrie. “We wanted to see how Ardbeg ages in zero gravity.”

“What will happen?” interrupts someone else.

“To be honest,” says Torrie. “We have absolutely no idea.”

I’m down to my trip’s last dregs. One more tasting to do — at Lagavulin — and it is a good one. Maybe it is the coziness of carpet, the plates of marmalade and jam, a pre-drink bite of a scone. But the whiskies here turn out to be my favorites of all, including a 16-year-old single malt that seems a perfect blend of Irish easiness and Scottish strength of character: something distinctive in the nose and, slowly, sunset-to-gloaming, sliding down.

As we tourists complete our work with rows of glasses, we’re told to blurt out impressions of what is on the tongue.

“Berries!” says a man.

“I rather think it’s raisins,” corrects his friend.

I’d like to shout my own impressions, but it would not go well. I realize that my tastes are strange.

They’re mixed up with the names of coopers.

With a mill wheel. With grain angels. And with nighttime rain.

“Ireland!” I might yell.

Everyone would turn. And I would have to try, with my final sips, to explain.

TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 19

ANNUAL POWDER REPORT

20 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM

TOP 7

SKI

DESTINATIONS

WORLDWIDE

Ski season is finally here!

For those in search of the best ski and snowboarding activities on the planet, this is DRIFT magazine’s first ever guide and our top 7 picks for best ski regions. From Canada and the United States, to France and Italy, we have compiled a 30-page report with at-a-glance powder conditions for each of our top seven including mountain statistics and après ski info - as well as in-depth features on two of our favorites - Whistler, B.C. and Park City, Utah.

Turn the page and get ready for an unforgettable ski season...

TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 21

Elevation Base - 200m Peak - 1054m Runs 35 18% beginner

35% intermediate

26% advanced

21% expert Longest run

3.5 km

Lift system 12 2 high speed six pack chair 1 high speed quad chair 9 surface Terrain parks

2

Average Annual Snowfall 230cm

NORWAY 22 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM

Touted as the best skiing in Norway and some of the best on the planet, Kvitfjell Ski Resort offers slopes for beginners, experts and families. Kvitfjell is situated 45 minutes north of Lillehammer, and offers excellent snow conditions. This is a ski enthusiast’s paradise. Peace, quiet and groomed runs allow enthusiasts to perfect their sport without the queues or masses of tourists. The snow arrives in October and stays to late April, and Kvitfjell offer skiing and snowboarding for all skill levels.

Kvitfjell is a place for quiet après ski enjoyment and family relaxation, and is a destination that is free of junk food and deep fried foods.

HOME OF THE 1994 OLYMPIC WINTER GAMES, LILLEHAMMER IS THE IDEAL HOLIDAY DESTINATION FOR TRAVELERS IN SEARCH OF AMAZING ADVENTURE IN THE GREAT OUTDOORS.

Lillehammer

KVITFJELL

TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 23

Elevation Base - 1350m Peak - 2738m Runs 99

23% beginner

35% intermediate

32% advanced

10% expert Longest run

9 km

Lift system 52 10 gondolas 11 high speed six pack chair 4 high speed quad chair 3 triple chair 25 surface Terrain parks

1

Average Annual Snowfall 800cm

FRANCE 24 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM

Courchevel, boasting the highest number of skilled and multilingual instructors in Europe, is a snowy playground for skiers of all ages and abilities. There are many non-ski activities also including the popular toboggan run from La Croisette to Courchevel Village on a 1.5 kilometer run.

New for Courchevel for the 2017-2018 season is an exciting 3000 meter toboggan run with a 450 meter vertical descent, four tunnels and LeMans style straight aways! Also new this season is the 1650 Moriond Gondola which will get skiers up the mountain faster in modern bubble comfort - and additional snow making equipment will ensure the mountain can handle the increased traffic.

Les Trois VallĂŠes ski REGION IN FRANCE, WHICH INCLUDES COURCHEVEL, is the biggest interconnected ski area ON THE PLANET.

Les Trois VallĂŠes

COURCHEVEL

TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 25

Ski Trip Essentials Before you head out onto the slopes this season, take a look around. Is it time to update or upgrade your tools and toys? If you’re game, check out DRIFT magazine’s top 5 must have ski and snowboard products for 2018.

SPORTUBE SERIES 3 EXPANDABLE SKI/SN OWBOARD TRAVEL C ASE The perfect hard body, ultra padded and TSA approved locking case is the only one to travel with!

Expandable from 42”-72” so it will hold 2 snowboards with boots and bindings or one snowboard and one pair or skis or 3 pairs of adult skis with poles, or 2 adult/2 kids skis with poles. It protects your gear and saves you time, money and peace of mind at the airport!

sportube.com

26 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM

KOMPERDELL FATSO C ARBON VARIO POLES Ideally designed for powder, the ingenious grip has been extended to 43cm to assist in ski maneuvers. Straps have a quick release mechanism and the poles are ultra lightweight ready to handle any mountain.

komperdell.com

GOPRO HERO5 BL AC K This is nothing like your HERO4. The new HERO5 takes action shots to a whole new stratosphere with handsfree voice control, advanced video stabilization, and a 2� touch display for easy playback and editing right on the device. No need to leave the slopes to capture, edit and view awesome video.

gopro.com

HES TRA ALPINE PRO ERGO GRIP IN CLINE GLOVES A short, supple and close-fitting ski glove with durable Army leather in the palm and cowhide on the back of the hand.

Built with Ergo Grip construction providing great grip and dexterity.

hestragloves.com

GARMIN FENIX 5 WATC H Touted as the best ski/snowboard watch on the market, it is definitely our pick! The Fenix 5 watch from Garmin has an automatic run counter with auto pause while you are on your way back up the mountain. This intelligent watch also records your speed, distance and vertical drop data. Invest in the optional fabric strap that let’s you wear the watch over your jacket cuff.

garmin.com

TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 27

Elevation Base - 2474m Peak - 3526m Runs 195

18% beginner

29% intermediate

28% advanced

25% expert 6.4 km

Longest run

Lift system 31 2 gondola 3 high speed six pack chair 14 high speed quad chair 1 quad chair 2 triple chair Terrain parks

4

Average Annual Snowfall 897cm

USA 28 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM

When Vail started running lifts in 1962, opening 7 legendary back bowls and Blue Sky Basin were still just blueprints and a dream.

Decades later, Vail continues to push the limits on improving lifts, gondolas, on-mountain facilities, events, and helping to foster a dynamic town experience. At the base of the mountain, Vail village is timeless and vibrant with an excellent culinary and great shopping.

Known for that light and fluffy Colorado powder, Vail also boasts the most groomed terrain on the planet. From the front side to the back bowls, there is intermediate-friendly terrain off of every lift, while experts can challenge themselves on iconic runs and glades.

New this year, Vail replaced Sun Up Express lift (#9) with a 4-passenger chair.

with 5,200 acres, vail is one of the largest ski resorts in the world and HAS BEEN a FAVORITE vacation destination for winter sport enthusiasts for more than 50 years.

Vail

VAIL SKI RESORT

TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 29

Elevation Base - 1500m Peak - 3330m Runs 37

0% beginner

36% intermediate

37% advanced

27% expert Longest run

15 km

Lift system 39 total 12 gondolas 4 high speed quad chair 9 quad chair 13 surface Terrain parks

1

Average Annual Snowfall 841cm

SWITZERLAND 30 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM

Situated in the south-western part of Switzerland, Verbier is bordered by France to the west and Italy to the south. During the winter, Verbier becomes a skiers paradise.

Verbier forms part of the ‘Four Valleys’ ski area - the four valleys being Verbier, Thyon, Veysonnaz and Nendaz.

Home of the Xtreme Verbier - the final stop on the Freeride World Tour. The most prestigious extreme skiing and snowboarding contest is held in Verbier on the famous Bec des Rosses mountain every March.

Verbier boasts some of the best après ski nightlife in the Swiss Alps. Casbah Club and Club Taratata play techno music, for a younger crowd while The Farm Club in the Hotel Nevai caters to a more sophisticated clientele.

Verbier, one of Europe’s largest ski regions, is a chalet-style WINTER village that sits atop a sunwashed plateau with views of majestic mountain peaks.

Valais Canton

VERBIER

TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 31

Elevation Base - 2050m Peak - 3480m Runs 78

0% beginner

18% intermediate

65% advanced

13% expert Longest run

20 km

Lift system 19 4 gondola 2 high speed six pack chair 4 quad chair 1 triple chair 1 double chair 3 surface Terrain parks

1

Average Annual 250 cm Snowfall

ITALY 32 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM

With access to Europe’s highest lifts, and proud holder of the best snow record in Italy, Breuil-Cervinia is one of the world’s leading resorts, that links with Valtournenche, and Zermatt in Switzerland. Best for beginner and intermediate skiers, but with access to Zermatt’s more challenging slopes, the ski area as whole is hugely varied with lots to offer all levels. Heliskiing is available as well access to ‘IndianPark’ the popular snow park that is 400 meters long and 100 meters wide.

One of Italy’s more lively après ski resorts, the atmosphere is particularly vibrant on the weekends. There are many shops, restaurants and other outdoor activities at Cervinia to keep the non-skier busy.

Originally a mountaineering spot, high-altitude, Breuil-Cervinia is now a welcoming village of contrasting architectural styles, EXCEPTIONAL VISTAS AND easy access to the slopes.

Aosta Valley

CERVINIA

TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 33

Elevation Base - 675m Peak - 2284m Runs 200

18 – beginner

55 – intermediate

22 – advanced

5 – expert Longest run

11 km

Lift system 37 4 gondola 1 high speed six pack chair 13 high speed quad chair 4 triple chair 15 surface Terrain parks

5

Average Annual Snowfall - 1,170 cm

CANADA 34 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM

Located just two hours north of Vancouver in British Columbia’s Canada’s coastal mountains, Whistler takes winter adventure to places never imagined with two mountains - Whistler and Blackcomb. With the most skiable terrain in North America, Whistler Blackcomb spans 8,171 acres, with varied terrain and a record breaking Peak 2 Peak Gondola. With an award winning ski school, designated family zones, enchanted Tree Fort and Magic Castle, and thrilling Coca-Cola Tube Park, this is a destination for all ages and abilities.

Ski right up to one of our three slopeside bars for excellent food, drinks, and live music to get you dancing in your ski boots. Back in the village, there is an abundance of nightlife, fine restaurants, shops, spas and activities.

Whistler is one of NORTH AMERICA’S largest ski resorts. Besides skiing and snowboarding, the area offers snowshoeing, toboggan runs and ski jumping at Olympic Park - built for the 2010 Olympic Winter Games.

Whistler

WHISTLER-BLACKCOMB

Photo Credit: Paul Morrison TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 35

BY: TRACEY DRAKE & JOSIE SALDAT

The mountain town of Whistler, British Columbia has become a busy little mecca with a reputation for world-class powder, exceptional dining, fine hotels and unparalleled health, spa and wellness activities. North America’s largest alpine village is located just two hours north of Vancouver. Single travelers, couples or family fun; ski snowboard or nature enthusiast - Whistler Village has it all and those who have been to Canada’s winter wonderland know only too well that one visit is not even close to being enough. Here is why we love it...

IN THE SKY • Peak 2 Peak Gondola – longest and highest lift in the world with best vantage points of British Columbia’s wilderness from the clouds above and valleys below through the glass bottom cab.

• Zipline through forests and across rivers. Try The Sasquatch, North America’s longest zipline.

ON THE SLOPES • Enjoy skiing, boarding or snowmobiling on over 8,100 acres of snow covering the two mountains: Whistler and Blackcomb.

• Blackcomb’s Coca-Cola Tube Park includes 1000 feet of sliding terrain with a conveyor to bring you back to the top so you can do it again!

ON THE GROUND • Stroll through Whistler Village amongst the thousands of colored lights that sparkle at night.

• Skate in the Olympic Plaza – rentals, music and lights add to the effortlessly magical evening!

• Cruise the valley trail, a trail that connects Whistlers lakes, parks, trails and neighborhoods.

• Dog sled across snow covered landscapes – a unique Canadian experience pulled by a team of Arctic bred sled dogs.

• Try Whistler Core, an amazing 5500 sq. ft. indoor rock climbing wall.

• Visit Whistler’s new Audain Art Museum with an extensive B.C. First Nations collection and the largest exhibit of Emily Carr artwork.

• Eat, drink and meet the locals in the dozens of walkable restaurants, bars, galleries and shops to keep you warm and occupied - many with breathtaking views of the mountains. A few of our favorites that you should try this season: 1. Incredible Spanish small plates served at Bar Oso. Atmosphere and village square location are amazing.

2. Uniquely Canadian poutine with caramelized onions at Zogs Dogs (utterly delicious!).

3. Vodka room at Bearfoot Bistro is a must do! At -32C (-25F) the Ketel One Ice Room provides the optimal environment for drinking this complex spirit.

Photo Credit: Paul Morrison TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 37

NITA LAKE LODGE WHISTLER CREEKSIDE

Perched elegantly on a pristine glacier fed lake, Nita Lake Lodge is just a five-minute shuttle (complimentary) ride from the heart of Whistler Village. The massive wood lodge that greets you as you arrive at the property is located a mere 500 meters from the base of Whistler Mountain in the Creekside community. It is quiet, it is thankfully removed from the business of Whistler Village and it is a divine place to relax, recharge and reconnect.

Our lakefront suite was spacious and charming with a fireplace wall that separated the living and sleeping areas. Expansive windows and a balcony overlooking Nita Lake quickly became a favorite spot to convene for drinks and conversation; early morning with coffee and late evening with a great bottle of local wine.

38 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM

The spa bathroom featured a massive soaker tub and a 2-person stone tiled glass shower. I was also impressed that the toiletries provided were L’Occitane, one of my favorite brands.

Dining at Nita Lake Lodge was certainly a treat! Lunch at Fix Café was homemade heaven, with delicious breads and pastries, expertly brewed coffee and one of the best fruit smoothies I have ever had. Dinner at Aura Restaurant was a multi-course sensation, and we reveled in every mouthful.

This is also the type of property that you just want to spend time in the public spaces. Cure Lounge, was recently refurbished with oversize lodge furnishings and it is fabulous. I recommend sampling from their signature cocktail menu.

I recommend trying the Canadian

BY: TRACEY DRAKE

Whiskey Flight and the Don Draper Sour Craft cocktail.

The Spa at Nita Lake Lodge was just what I needed! The relaxation lounge was filled with natural light and comfortable chaises. The rooftop hot tub and eucalyptus steam room were divine, and the treatments were professional and much needed.

Nestled in the snowy mountains, surrounded by B.C.’s naturally wild awesomeness and created to elevate your senses and expectations of what a great destination resort should be, Nita Lake Lodge is the perfect place to vacation in Whistler. It absolutely lives up to its reputation of being exceptional, intimate, authentic.

WHAT I LOVED: • Stunning West Coast architecture.

• Suites overlook magical Nita Lake.

• Unbeatable views of the mountains.

• Away from the hustle of Whistler Village.

• Free shuttle to/from shops, town or slopes.

• World class menu in Aura Restaurant.

• Amazing cocktail menu in Cure Lounge.

TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 39

PAN PACIFIC HOTEL WHISTLER MOUNTAINSIDE

There is something special about finding a hotel that make you feel at home while miles away. Residing in the largest alpine resort in North America, Pan Pacific paves its very own way in catering to visitors as well as locals. Within the pedestrian Whistler Village hub are their two properties – The Village location and Mountainside location (where I stayed), both situated at the bottom of the Whistler Mountain just seconds away from the gondolas – the convenience is undeniably unbeatable! Reflecting the natural beauty of the valley, Pan Pacific brings in elements of familiarity

40 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM

and comfort contributing to an overall “lodge” essence. Wooden attributes and warming décor are consistent throughout the suites.

From the studio to the penthouse, all suites include a small balcony (with a view to die for), living room area and full-size kitchen making it a livable layout for families and travel groups.

Whatever you search for in an alpine escape, Pan Pacific is the perfect home base to explore Whistler. Whether it be relaxing in the saltwater pool, skiing the slopes or strolling the village shopping, it

BY: JOSIE SALDAT

is truly a destination where there is something for everyone. Amidst an iconic Canadian landscape of the mountains and valley, the surroundings provide visitors with the natural playground they search for. Accessibility is at the forefront with their slope-side valet ski storage and complimentary inresort shuttle, making it even easier for guests to zoom in on their passion – the powder!

As a dog owner, I was so glad to see that as a luxury hotel they provide creature comforts for guests and their pets!

Located in the lobby of the Mountainside location, The Duhb Linn Gate Irish Pub brings a warm welcoming atmosphere for global guests. In a pristine location this pub is quite possibly the number one “hot-spot” in the après ski scene. From sautéing in the kitchen to shredding on the slopes, Chef Victor Pulleyblank brings his down-to-earth attitude and use of fresh local ingredients to the varied menu of elevate pub dishes like his infamous Pork Belly – which is acquired locally from Two Rivers, slow cooked with caramelized apple sauce and roasted root veggies and finished off with a touch of maple syrup.

Wake up and sip your coffee overlooking the chairlift in your robe and slippers – the mountains are calling!

Download the free Pan Pacific Mountainside’s APP and search local events and view local restaurants, pubs, fitness clubs and outdoor tour groups.

WHAT I LOVED: • Cozy lodge-style aesthetic • Views of the mountains and valley • 24- hour front desk • Complimentary breakfast • Bike and Ski storage • Closest accommodations to the Whistler Mountain • Knowledgeable and friendly staff • Gym, Sauna and hot tubs

TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 41

Elevation Base - 2002m Peak - 2916m Runs 101

27% beginner

41% intermediate

27% advanced

5% expert 5 km

Longest run

Lift system 24 1 gondola 12 high speed quad chair 1 quad chair 5 triple chair 2 double chair 4 surface Terrain park

0

Average Annual Snowfall 762cm

USA 42 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM

Deer Valley Resort is nestled in the Wasatch Mountains of Utah in the historic mining town of Park City. Deer Valley is consistently ranked #1 in guest service among ski resorts in North America and delivers an unmatched experience.

Deer Valley offers uniformed ski valets, immaculately groomed slopes and on-site child care. The region includes six mountains – Little Baldy Peak, Bald Eagle, Bald, Flagstaff, Empire and Lady Morgan – offering a great snow experience for skiers of all abilities.

Après ski is a big part of the Deer Valley culture - although tailored to more family friendly and less about rowdy nightlife. There are lots of shops as well as non-skier activities, along with an excellent range of award-winning dining options on the slopes and in Park City.

DEER VALLEY IS east of Salt Lake City, Utah - host of the 2002 2002 Olympic WINTER GAMES WHICH is now predominantly a training facility.

In town, Main Street is lined with buildings built during a 19thcentury silver mining boom.

Park City

DEER VALLEY

TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 43

48

HOURS IN...

P AR K C ITY, U T AH BY: STEVE DRAKE I used to love to ski! Then life, kids and work got in the way and my skis sat (pretty much unused) for most of the last decade. So, heading to Park City, Utah on a ski trip left me feeling excited for the adventure

for silver mining, which brought George Hearst (the father of William Randolph Hearst) to Park City. His Ontario Mine, purchased for $30,000, produced more than $50 million in silver in its lifetime.

In more recent times, the city is known for hosting many of the 2002 Winter Olympic Games and of course, is home to the Sundance Film Festival. Park City has diversity to offer visitors.

STAY and apprehensive if I could conquer this mountain. In the end there was no reason to worry - it’s a place for every age and every skill level. I had an absolute blast.

Just a short thirty minute drive from the Salt Lake City airport, Park City is a quaint little village with great old west history. Originally famous

44 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM

Deer Valley Resort area offers a wide range of accommodation options, as well as select properties in the surrounding Park City area. We stayed at Black Bear Lodge by Resorts West. This cozy chalet style condo felt right at home in the heart of Silver Lake at Deer Valley Resort. The exposed wood interior, mountain-esque interior design, open plan living and massive log framed bed meant I could kick back and relax after skiing, and most importantly, soothe my aching

muscles in the private hot tub. I really enjoyed the home-style family feel of our lodge accommodation and the gourmet kitchen that was open to the cozy living space.

This is not a ski-in, ski-out location but the lifts were a short walk away.

Personally, I preferred that. It meant peace and quiet outside my condo windows and the opportunity to take in uninterrupted views.

AT A GLANCE DEER VALLEY RESORT

FACTS: • Deer Valley is a ski resort only. Snowboards are carving boards are not permitted.

• Getting to the slopes is a 15-minute walk or 3-minute drive from Main Street.

• Park City Transit but system is free to use and gear friendly.

SKI AREA PERKS: • Limited number of skiers on the mountain at any time.

• Guests can ship their ski equipment to and from the resort via FedEx. • Deer Valley Resort offers complimentary parking at five base area parking lots along with a complimentary shuttle to Snow Park Lodge.

• Skiing or not, there are plenty of other activities to keep you in the winter spirit including dog sledding, horse-drawn sleigh rides, hot air ballooning and more.

• Discounted lodging and lift ticket packages available.

• On-site resort lift ticket sales.

TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 45

EAT

The Zagat Restaurant Guide lists Deer Vally Seafood Buffet as “America’s Top Restaurant” and they were right.

The choice of fresh seafood seems almost endless. Fresh Dungeness crab, mountains of Pacific white shrimp, house-smoked wild Alaskan salmon, freshly shucked West Coast oysters and Hawaiian poke tuna are just the tip of the iceberg.

Blind Dog Sushi (I know sushi is not top of mind when you think skiing) but this place is a must.

The atmosphere is laid back and well suited to the rustic Utah lifestyle. I recommend trying the Hamachi Belly Sashimi Salad.

It has incredible flavors. Also popular is the Lollipop Roll - with tuna, salmon, avocado rolled in cucumber & ponzu. I loved the chalk art on the walls, especially “People who love to eat are always the best people”. True.

SIP

Belly up to the bar at High West Distillery Saloon and enjoy some well crafted spirits. Located on Park Avenue in Park City, and surrounded by other early 1800s silver rush buildings, the High West Distillery’s decor embraces the region’s old west roots.

Start off with a light cocktail, maybe the Whiskey Collins or the Silent Stranger. Both are delicious and made with American Prairie Bourbon. Then move up to a shot of Double Rye. This is the most exciting member of the High West Distillery family. Dubbed as the spiciest rye whiskey in the world, this marriage of two rye whiskies from two different distilleries is perfect for sipping.

TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 47

SEE

The Alf Engen Ski Museum should be on your list of sights to see. You can share in the thrill, excitement and unsurpassed beauty of the 2002 Winter Olympic Games as it comes to life in this state-of-theart museum. Upon entering the museum, you’ll be surrounded by the stunning banner art that decorated buildings in downtown Salt Lake City during the Winter Games. Touch screen displays, videos and a virtual reality ski theater add to the experience. Make sure you check out the display showing the US Olympic Team’s ski fashion from years gone by.

PLAY

Skiing is always great fun but there are so many other winter activities you can do in Park City.

For the snowmobile enthusiast, Summit Meadows Adventures offers beautiful scenic views of the Wasatch Mountains - definitely a bucket worthy experience. They also offer guided snowmobile tours on groomed trails and complimentary transportation to and from Park City. Don’t forget your ski goggles!

One of my favorite moments was reaching for gold with a speedy run down the Comet Bobsled in the Utah Olympic Park. This is the same track used in the 2002 Olympic Winter Games - and man, it is exhilarating! From loading the sled for the journey up the mountain, to climbing into the very tight quarters of the rocket-like frame, our four-person sled was driven by a professional pilot and reached speeds in excess of 100km.

Unforgettable!

48 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM

MUST

After a great morning on the slopes, and proudly surveying that my body was intact and no worse for wear, I was ready for a celebratory break. So I headed over to the Veuve Clicquot yurt at the Montage Hotel for a light lunch and a glass of premium bubbly. Their Après Ski menu features savory gourmet bites including caviar, local cheeses and charcuterie, and (my favorite) decadent white truffle popcorn.

48 HRS

Park City offers small town charm with a history that you can see, feel, taste and experience.

The skiing is world class, the surroundings are truly authentic to their location. If you are a little like me, and your skis are kind of rusty, and you look for quality activities off the slopes, this is the kind of place that you go back to time and time again. My two days spent in Park City were filled with high moments - altitudes, adventures, adrenaline and awesomeness.

TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 49

@DRIFTTRAVEL + FOLLOW

Come along on the journey click here to follow us on

DRIFT travel magazine

When is the last time you saw something for the very first time? DRIFT travels to unforgettable places.

Come along on the journey. Travel Often. Live Well. www.DRIFTtravel.com

@DRIFTtravel

n

also o

Share your travel photos with 4.5 Million readers worldwide

Use hashtag #DRIFTtravel on Instagram

Photographer Notes: Get your kitsch on Route 66! Relics from the past, such as this truck, line the historic highway in Seligman, Arizona, reminding visitors of a time when it accommodated thousands of travelers heading West. The town contains a significant collection of railroad and auto related commercial architecture, offering visitors an understanding of what kinds of commercial establishments were available to motorists. In 1978, the new Interstate 40 opened, bypassing Seligman, and signaled the end of an era for Route 66.

Laina McWhorter is a street photographer, activist, vagabond, mom, wannabe rock star and a really, really big nerd. She has journeyed to the Grand Cayman Islands, Canada, Mexico, Bali and 48 out of 50 of the United States of America with her camera. Laina’s artwork has appeared in a variety of publications and media outlets including HBO’s original TV series Enlightened starring Laura Dern, GSNTV’s hit show Skin Wars, featuring Ru Paul, Hawaii 5-0 on CBS TV. Laina spent more than 5 years shooting women’s roller derby as the staff photographer of the Arizona Roller Derby League, earning herself the derby name, Triggerhappy.

In January 2017, Laina began a solo, cross-country road trip to attend the Women’s March in Washington, D.C. this collection of photos represent Laina’s unique view on everyday America.

Website : lainamcwhorter.com Instagram : @laina_mcwhorter_photography_

TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 53

Photographer Notes: Music and history lovers flocking to the Mississippi Delta region won’t want to miss the rare opportunity to lay their weary bones down at the Shack Up Inn on the Hopson Plantation, just a few miles from the legendary Crossroads, Highways 49 and 61 in Clarksdale. Guests can choose to sleep in a renovated Cotton Gin or a shotgun house, such as the one pictured here, which plays a significant role in the folklore and culture of the south. Superstition holds that ghosts and spirits are attracted to shotgun houses because they may pass straight through them, and many of the homes were built with doors that were misaligned on purpose to keep the traveling spirits out. “The Ritz they ain’t”, but visitors craving history and the blues enjoy all the modern conveniences of today along with the experience of sleeping in an authentic sharecropper’s shack of yesterday.

54 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM

TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 55

56 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM

Photographer Notes : Traveling the back roads in between Highways 49 and 61 in the heart of the Delta, blues lovers can chase the ghosts of music legends on the Mississippi Blues Trail. Be sure not to miss the “Birthplace of the Blues”, pictured here. Dockery Farms is a plantation that was established in 1895 to produce cotton, America’s biggest export at the time. African Americans who worked at Dockery, including blues pioneer Charley Patton, created a culture that inspired the music we know as the blues.

Their ballads strongly influenced the development of popular music all over the world.

THAT MISSISSIPPI SOUND,

THAT DELTA SOUND, IS IN THEM OLD RECORDS.

YOU CAN HEAR IT A LL T H E WAY T H R O U G H .

- MUDDY WATERS -

Photographer Notes : A shop window reflects a colorful mix of Delta characters found in Clarksdale, Mississippi, a small town that claims to be the “crossroads of culture and quirkiness with a heavy dose of the blues”. Visit the hotel that was once a hospital that refused to admit the infamous blues singer Bessie Smith because of the color of her skin contributing to her death, dine at a restaurant co-owned and frequented by Morgan Freeman or visit the Crossroads where folklore claims the legendary blues artist, Robert Johnson sold his soul to the devil in exchange for his talent of playing the guitar.

TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 57

58 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM

Photographer Notes : This railroad track near Greenwood, Mississippi, is one of many in the deep South that helped the more fortunate African Americans escape a life of oppression in the early part of the 20th century.

During the 1950’s-1960’s the Civil Rights movement came to a head in this region following the Brown vs. The Board of Education ruling and lynching of 14-year-old, Emmett Till. A battleground for equality, Greenwood was home to several active Civil Rights organizations who, along with the town’s African American residents, volunteers and activists were arrested in nonviolent protests, subjected to economic retaliation and repeated violence by police and whites.

TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 59

60 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM

Photographer Notes: (ABOVE) An oasis of color known as Graffiti Alley resides in the heart of Baltimore and is the only place in the state of Maryland that offers a legal safe space for artists seeking a canvas where they can express themselves and practice their art without the fear of being locked up.

(LEFT) New Orleans, Louisiana is full of amazing street art such as the elusive Banksy’s stencil of a girl with an umbrella. Many believe this piece is a metaphor for the failure of the levees during hurricane Katrina in 2005 whose catastrophic effects on the city can still be seen today.

TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 61

Photographer Notes: The Supai Motel in Seligman, Arizona entices Route 66 travelers to stay for the night with flashy neon lights, a gimmick practiced by many businesses located along the Mother Road to obtain more customers.

62 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM

Photographer Notes: (ABOVE) A soda fountain in Williams, Arizona uses 1950’s memorabilia to give diners an authentic Route 66 experience while enjoying a break from the Mother Road with a burger and shake.

Photographer Notes: (BELOW) A mural celebrating the cult classic film Easy Rider about a twowheeled, cross country road trip adorns the walls of the Aztec Motel on Route 66 in Seligman, Arizona.

TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 63

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA is

a sprawling, diverse country that covers 3.8 million square miles and is home to more than 325 million Americans. From coastal California and the Rockies, to the Midwest, deep South and urban East Coast, the United States is in

Photographer Notes: (ABOVE) An eager contestant gets her amphibious friend ready for the frog jumping competition held at the annual Tom Sawyer Days Festival in Hannibal, Missouri.

(RIGHT) A Boy Scout displays his patriotism during a Veteran’s Day parade in Phoenix, Arizona.

64 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM

the top 20 of the world’s most mega-diverse countries due to its wide range of geography, climates and wildlife. This diversity makes for one of the most epic cross-country road trips.

To plan your American adventure or to learn more about travel to the USA - visittheusa.com.

I t’s i n th os e q u i et l it t l e t o wn s , a t t h e e d g e o f t h e wo r l d , t h a t y o u will fi n d th e s al t of th e e a r t h p e o p l e wh o m a k e y o u f e e l r i g h t a t h o m e.”

AARON LAURITSEN, AUTHOR: 100 DAYS DRIVE: THE GREAT NORTH AMERICAN ROAD TRIP

TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 65

World Luxury Spa & Restaurant Awards 2017 Winners Lagoon Spa Seminyak - Indonesia Global Winner, Best Luxury Destination Spa

Ithaa Undersea Restaurant- Maldives - 2017 - Global Restaurant of the Year Harnn Heritage Spa at Intercontinental Danang Sun Peninsula - Vietnam - 2017 Global Spa of the Year

66 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM

ArmaniSPA at Armani Hotel Milano - Italy Global Winner, Best Luxury Rooftop Spa

Este Fitness & Spa - Bulgaria Global Winner, Best Luxury Fitness Spa

Cavalli Club, Restaurant & Lounge - Dubai Global Winner, Best Restaurant Bar

The Seven Seas Wine Bar & Restaurant - Thailand Global Winner, Best Luxury Scenic Setting

The World Luxury Spa Awards and World Luxury Restaurant Awards are established global organizations providing luxury spas and restaurants with recognition for world-class service excellence provided to guests. Setting the basis for service industry standards around the world, the companies pride themselves on acknowledging luxury spas and restaurants in their relevant categories during the annual voting phase. Votes are garnered through various marketing channels from guests, showcasing yet again the true value of service excellence.

Voting for the 2017 award year saw over 100,000 votes from happy customers around the globe placing their stamp of approval on their establishment of choice. “One of the most favorable ways to award service excellence is by allowing people to have their say, and hearing from the public is a popular manner in which to make a decision on where you will stay, spa or dine. An award of this stature signifies quality, service delivery and much sought after luxury. All of which have made our participants what they are today, winners in the luxury hospitality field.” says Marna Lourens, Executive Manager for the World Luxury Spa Awards. Winning participants receive awards in their respective categories on a country, regional, continent and global basis, purely from guest votes.

The 2017 grand gala celebration, the night which honors these fine establishments, took place on 22 July and was proudly hosted by the exquisite JW Marriott Hotel Hanoi. Nearly 200 participants joined the evening in anticipation of what was to come.

“The most coveted award on the evening is our Global Spa and Global Restaurant of the Year Awards. Each year the task to determine these top establishments begins after voting has closed and we announce to our winners if they have been successful.

We are six senior managers who take weeks to decide, as voting is not the only criteria we look at to bestow this prestigious award. A multitude of factors come in to play; brand, location, overall guest satisfaction from online reviews, services and facilities, design, and even menu offerings whether spa or restaurant. It is important to look at each establishment as an individual as well, some are on an island, some are in cities or in a desert, it is not always possible to compare apples with apples when defining luxury. This year the focus was on unique design with a touch of classy elegance, and we were as such proud to award Global Spa of the Year to Harnn Heritage Spa at InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort, and Global Restaurant of the Year to Ithaa Undersea Restaurant at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island.” says Joanna Evans, Marketing Communications Manager for the World Luxury Awards.

The evening was as glamorous as one would expect from a JW Marriott brand hotel; a delectable 6-course fine dining menu adorned each table throughout the night and was paired with fine wines and champagne from Moët et Chandon. Entertainment included a Dragon Dance, a Vietnamese based string quartet performance by Độc Cầm - Toxic Quartet, and a local Ao Dai Dance, all of which added to the evening’s Asian flair.

“We welcome luxury establishments from around the globe to participate in these exciting awards, to proudly show the world what they have to offer in terms of luxury and service excellence.” says Linda Cooper, Executive Manager for the World Luxury Restaurant Awards.

Host Hotel www.marriott.com

www.luxuryspaawards.com www.luxuryrestaurantawards.com TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 67

68 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM

BY: TODD & REBECCA TALBOT

Few cities in the world are more ‘bucket list’ worthy than London, England. It mixes incredibly rich history with a modern metropolitan vibe. For Rebecca and I, our visit began with a ride courtesy of my old college mate Grant (the impetus for our trip was my 20 year theatre school reunion), from renowned Heathrow airport to London Center- straight into a sea of cars, iconic black cabs and red double-deckers making slow progress along streets lined with TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 69

multi-million pound properties, new-builds juxtaposed with stately brick-stacked buildings from the 1800s, and from the moment we set foot on the old cobblestoned streets behind the Phoenix theatre, our anticipation for a remarkable holiday became a reality.

It was Rebecca’s first time to England and securing tickets to the theatre was the first thing on her list but jet lag was number two, and we took care of that with a nap, at 4:00 in the afternoon.

We stayed at the Antheneum, a boutique hotel which recently underwent a full renovation to keep it current without losing the art deco savoir faire, enhanced by 70 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM

the legendary doormen greeting us outside in full top hat and tails. Even before reaching the lobby, the hotel welcomes guests with a living wall, echoing the tranquility of Green Park just across the street. On the other side of the park proudly resides Buckingham Palace and at the end of Piccadilly in the opposite direction is Piccadilly Circus. We hadn’t even done anything yet and our minds were blown.

Jet lag also gave us no desire to eat dinner at dinner-time, so we skipped it, which meant we were starving when we woke up at 2am.

Room service provided all our favorite comfort foods, we ordered three meals off the menu, ordered a movie on TV, ate, watched the

whole thing and went back to sleep.

It was ridiculous and delectable.

When we planned our stay in London, I had no idea that we would end up seeing a different show every night we were there, but with the world’s greatest live theatre at our doorstep, we couldn’t resist. The TKTS booth resides in Leicester Square, so we visited there almost every day. Our top three of the nine performances we attended were: 1. The Play that Goes Wrong I don’t think I’ve laughed so much at the same joke - ever! I thought I’d stop laughing but they got me every time, ab-forming laughter.

2. The Book of Mormon Also funny but the musical version and dangerously irreverent. Our tickets for this show were acquired by lottery, we tried on three different nights to score tickets but the boys in the show were doing the same thing to get tickets for their friends, apparently, so they had much better odds. We finally got wise and had some buds come along to put their names in the draw as well and ended up with four cheap seats in the front row.

Worth the effort.

3. 42nd Street Spine tingling, old school musical that will leave you singing and dancing in the streets after the show.

We didn’t just go to the theatre though, we saw the sights, we shopped the shops, we ate the food and for that we wore proper walking shoes and loaded up an Oyster card. Good for the tube or the bus, the Oyster card will get you where you want to go, without hailing a cab and with the added benefit of saying, “Let’s take the tube”. Here is our must-do list of sights and bites...

1. Buckingham Palace And this is a word to the locals as well because you live there, and if you haven’t seen it, you absolutely should: go do the walking tour. Strap on those headsets, walk up that grand staircase, through the state rooms and gallery and then go buy yourself a tea cup in the shop at the end. Rebecca can’t stop talking about that superfluously expensive tea cup. *Rebecca note: it was adequately priced for a beautiful turquoise and goldtrimmed, Royal Albert, Queen Victoria’s Jubilee bone china tea cup. Tea cup collectors unite!

2. Fortnum & Mason This was recommended to us from a good friend at home and we gladly pass it along. The Christmas Shop on the top floor (take the stairs, they are an excellent piece of time travel) boasts Holiday cheer year-round and is another good spot for a souvenir if you don’t like tea cups *who doesn’t like tea cups?! And if you get hungry while you browse, head down to the cafeteria for tea and sandwiches, both are on point.

3. Covent Garden Great window (and booth) shopping. It’s a great vibe, a great location, and Rebecca would like you to know that Whittard’s original tea shop is there. Pots of steeping tea can be found at every turn so you can sample before you buy. Yes please!

4. Victoria and Albert Museum With multiple museums to choose from, we had trouble making up our minds and went to two (the British War Time Museum gets a mention here, the layout was confusing at times however the time line of the First World War on the bottom floor was thorough and impressive and a must-see) We did not give ourselves enough time at the V and A, first of all, because it’s the world’s largest museum of decorative art and design (over 4 million objects) and second of all because they had a theatre exhibit. Theatre geeks unite!

72 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM

5. La Perla This might have been what was actually on Rebecca’s bucket list but it doesn’t hurt for a couple to go together - comfy couch, drinks and a great view.

6. The Savoy If a throwback rich and ornate piano bar experience is what you are in the mood for, head over to the iconic Savoy for a bevy and a chin wag.

7. The Shard and Tower Bridge The perspective and glam atop the Shard is very cool, then take a late night romantic walk over the iconic Tower Bridge (commonly mistaken for London Bridge because of the song) 8. High Tea We were pleasantly surprised with the atmosphere at the open, airy Palm Court at the Langham but the real reason to go here is the all-you-can-eat sandwiches.

They just keep coming around with the platters until you finally say, no thanks I’m full. Save room for the scones and clotted cream of course but the desserts are nicer to look at than to eat.

When staying at the Athenaeum, excellent food and drink are at your fingertips 24/7. We made sure to experience dinner at Galvin with Michelinstarred London chefs Chris and Jeff Galvin. Nothing like five-star food in an unpretentious atmosphere.

Trying something new, with drinks recommended by the wait-staff, we were pleasantly surprised, but if you’re into a nightcap, the famous Whiskey collection at The Bar is the real deal. It’s a really cool spot to hang out in a swanky grotto-like setting and draw from their famous Whiskey Collection.

We have been talking about going back to London since the day we left. Ten days was not long enough for us (although it was more than enough for our kids to miss us a bunch). Maybe next time we’ll get to see the insides of those churches. London calling… again!

9. Alley Eateries Get lost in the back streets of London. Go find those little gems you will recognize from movies and songs plus small eateries packed with locals, and pubs where people are spilling out onto the sidewalk, where you too can enjoy a pint and a chat.

10. Westminster Abbey and St. Paul’s Cathedral If this is up your alley, make sure you check what time you’re going because I don’t think you can always go inside. We were happy to take a photo with the Abbey, skip the inside and choreograph a dance on the steps of St. Paul’s but skip that tour as well.

TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 73

TRAVEL GEAR HOT NEW TRAVEL PRODUCTS BY: RUSS WALSH

MIGGO PICTAR ONE & ONE PLUS

Take control of your iPhone 6/7/8 camera with a camera grip that features 5 external buttons for unmatched control and ergonomic slip-free grip. With unique features such as manual focus, shutter priority, ISO priority and more.

mymiggo.com

ZENDURE EXTERNAL BATTERY

Backup power is a must for the modern traveler. Make this your permanent travel companion. Available is several sizes (3,350 to 26,800 MAH) with 2nd generation ZEN+ technology, dual-injection molding and ABS/PC composite.

zendure.com

74 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM

MACK’S FLIGHTGUARD AIRPLANE PRESSURE RELIEF EAR PLUGS

Release the pressure and pain from flying. Unique PR3TM design with ceramic filter is laboratory tested and proven to relieve air pressure and reduce noise (Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) – 26 decibels) for a more relaxing flight. With a firm stem and super soft flanges to ensure a comfortable fit.

macksearplugs.com

SONDRE TRAVEL VOYAGE PILLOW

The compact, comfortable and multi-functional travel pillow with built-in band & eye shade.

sondretravel.com

ARDEN COVE FASHIONABLE ANTI-THEFT CROSSBODY

With anti-theft and stylish waterproof material, this bag has the best travel features. Pockets for phones and passports, locking zippers, slash proof, RFID blocking material and a full crossbody strap. Oh, did I mention stylish as well?

ardencove.com

TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 75

76 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM

BOGOTÁ

COLOMBI A

&

ONE HOTEL FOUR DAYS SEVEN EMERALDS

BY: SYLVIA TENNANT

One of South America’s premier cultural destinations, Bogotá has evolved beyond the shadowy history of its scandalous past into an abundant playground of luxury tourist attractions. While the formality of the Colombian capital is still evident in the monumental colonial buildings and free museums scattered throughout the city’s districts, the cordial semblance of order is dwarfed by a passionate liveliness that extends throughout its winding, graffiti-lined streets.

TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 77

Experiencing the best of Bogotá with only four days to spare requires some research. As a sleepdeprived columnist, adjusting to a significantly higher altitude, convenience and comfort are high on my list of hotel priorities.

Fortunately, the NH Collection Bogotá Teleport Royal Hotel, which is a contemporary upscale hotel, is nestled into the beautiful northern section of Bogotá. This is also where the longest continental mountain range in the world, the Andes, meets a vibrant business district and surrounding elegant neighborhoods.

The NH spa treatments, expansive suites, and marble bathrooms were truly impressive.

The heart of the city’s art scene lies within Bogotá’s first official neighborhood, La Candelaria.

This trendy, bohemian district is defined by its old-world charm and historical relevance. Although I only had one day to roam the cobblestone streets, there are a few must see attractions. Start early at the Museo Del Oro, one of South America’s best museums, with a selection of the largest collection of pre-Hispanic gold art in the world. Perfectly preserved relics are exhibited alongside bilingual descriptions that illustrate the many different cultures that once resided here. On Sundays, entrance is complimentary after 3pm.

There is a large artisan market across the street, which I quickly discovered was a mecca for poncho and gift shopping. Bring cash and buy in bulk because the garment quality and prices are incredible. My adventure continued down Calle 11 to the Museo Botero, a free modern art museum that houses an internationally acclaimed 78 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM

collection donated by renowned Colombian artist, Fernando Botero.

The space is stunning and peaceful, with garden-lined fountains and art

by Picasso, Monet, Matisse, Dalí, and Botero himself.

A trip of this nature would not be complete without an in-depth look into the booming culinary scene of this lively cosmopolitan capital.

Within its mountainous landscape, I experienced everything from street food to canapés. Bogotá delivered with both variety and ingenuity.

I had the pleasure of watching Top Chef Spain and Master Chef Colombia judge, Paco Roncero, create a series of plates for the Collection Bogotá Teleport Royal Hotel’s gala. He is the culinary advisor for the hotel group. My inner foodie was at once spoiled and star struck. His scientific flair for molecular gastronomy has earned him a variety of accolades including a two-Michelin star award. When asked where he would choose to have his last meal on earth, he quickly replied, “With Andres Carne del Res”.

Located just beyond the outskirts of Bogotá, the indescribable combination of fine dining and allnight dance club atmosphere was well worth the drive. Upon arrival, guests are treated to a large shot of aguardiente (direct translation: firewater), Colombia’s national alcoholic drink. My initiation was complete. The restaurant itself is a surreal disco town that seats 2000 people, has a 19-page menu, and is 2.76 miles square. I dined on a selection of small plates and Argentinian steak while costumed entertainers roamed the candlelit alleys and neon dance floors between tables.

TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 79

Alternately, if you’re looking to keep the party within the downtown district, the Gaira Café Cumbia House is my recommendation for live music and a coastal inspired menu. Owned by popular Colombian singer, Carlos Vives, the piñata filled multi-level restaurant is impressively designed with a stage that hosts an 11-piece house band.

Although I thoroughly enjoyed shopping for ponchos, I wasn’t leaving Bogotá without an emerald. The eastern portion of the Andes, between Boyaca and Cundinamarca, is where most Colombian emeralds are mined. I found beautiful, high-quality specimens from a mine in Muzo at Don Esteban Joyeros in the Centro Comercial Hacienda Santa Bárbara (conveniently located around the corner from my hotel). The house jeweler had my new ring re-sized within 48 hours, spoke a bit of English, and certified all of his stones.

The overall experience was so lovely that I returned with the entire British press team to show them where to purchase emeralds.

The transformation of Bogotá continues to fascinate those willing to push past its somewhat modest exteriors. The mentality of insurgency is no longer. Crime rates continue to decrease as business development booms. In the past five years, the city’s streets have steadily filled with tourists looking to uncover the cultural gems that lie within this urban jungle.

With a population almost equal to that of New York City, the contagious buzz of Bogotá is certain to satisfy all the senses.

80 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM

TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 81

the editor when was the last time you saw something for the first time?

BY: TRACEY DRAKE

You know - it’s funny. Although I travel a lot, I’d never been drawn to Napa Valley. And although I love luxury cars, I’ve never considered myself a Lincoln kind of girl.

My grandfather drove a Lincoln.

It was this big, black imposing car that seemed to take up two city blocks. So no one was as surprised as me to learn that the 2017 Lincoln Continental is sleek, luxurious and truly sexy. It has enough curves to satisfy my need for a little femininity in my car.

Definitely not my grandpa’s Lincoln.

And so it happened, that over the course of road trip from San Francisco to Calistoga Ranch in Napa Valley, I fell in love with a boutique hotel and a new era of luxury vehicles.

82 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM

A CONTINENTAL ROAD TRIP TO NAPA VALLEY

TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 83

THE FINER POINTS

• Getting Here: From San Francisco International Airport, by way of the Bay Bridge, it took us one hour and fifty minutes in our 2017 Lincoln Continental to reach Calistoga Ranch. It was an easy, scenic drive that set the tone for our 3-day weekend.

• Spa: Nestled in the wooden canyon, The Auberge Spa at Calistoga Ranch is a rejuvenating natural Napa spa sanctuary. Try the Calistoga Cure - a therapeutic body scrub followed by a private outdoor mud bath that ends with a classic massage.

• Dining: World class menus that are inspired by local food and wine.

If you get the chance, have dinner in Calistoga Ranch’s famous Wine Cave - a truly unique dining experience.

FOLLOW @TraceyDrakeEditor on Instagram & Twitter or search hashtag #TheTravellingEditor 84 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM

Calistoga Ranch is a quiet oasis, tucked into the natural beauty of Napa Valley, California. This place - it personifies the word retreat.

Calistoga Ranch is an Auberge Resorts Collection hotel. They proudly boast that this is a place where nature is the primary amenity. They got it right.

The 157-acre property features an enchanting lane way (photo left), majestic rolling hills, ancient forests and a private lake. There are fifty rooms in total, but you rarely see other guests as each of the private lodges is set amidst lush forests.

We stayed in a one-bedroom lodge (shown right) and it was so private and restful. With bedroom and living room in separate buildings, it felt Balinese in design. Our outdoor deck, which featured a fireplace, comfy lounge chairs and a sunken hot tub, nicely bridged the two buildings. Each lodge is enveloped in nature, and the lulling sounds of a rocky stream passed by our bedroom window.

With an outdoor swimming pool, award winning spa, and several dining options, you could stay put and go nowhere at all. I was thrilled that I was able to visit the chicken coop and gather my own farm fresh eggs for my morning breakfast.

Calistoga Ranch is the kind of place where you can truly retreat to reconnect with yourself, your partner and with nature. There are more than 80 vineyards in the Calistoga region, so you are well situated for day trips to as many different wineries as you care to sample.

TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 85

86 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM

ON VACATION: TOP DESTINATIONS TO ENJOY

#RoséAllDay by: Sarah Zajac | Booking.com

I

t’s official, the #RoséAllDay phenomenon has gone global! The pretty, palepink drink has invaded Instagram feeds around the world. Whether, you prefer a traditional 6-ounce pour of the blushing wine or you’re a Frosé lover at heart, it seems the rosé mania is here to stay. It is a high speed boozy trend is no longer just for the ladies or backyard barbecues. A-list celebrity wine makers like Angelia Jolie and Drew Barrymore have helped solidify this wine trend, but savvy wine lovers the world over are buying into it. According to Fortune magazine, “Rosé is reporting sharp sales increases that far out pace the broader $38 billion wine industry. Wine industry experts are lauding the popularity of rosé, saying it is a female-driven movement that has lured more men and found popularity beyond beach-front enclaves like the Hamptons and Miami.”

So where in the world can you enjoy the best rosé wines?

You can make rosé wines from almost any grape

ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD CHICAGO, ILLINOIS The Hampton Social restaurant (pictured left) in Chicago, Illinois has probably the most famous #RoséAllDay Instagram photo opportunity in the world. Inspired by the beach side Hamptons resorts, this stylish restaurant serves seafood dishes and beach-themed cocktails. Look out for the neon pink sign and enjoy the happiest happy hour you could imagine with half priced glasses of Rosé and half priced pizzas Monday to Friday from 4-7 pm.

While you’re in town stay inside the beautifully restored landmark building, the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel and enjoy the popular rooftop restaurant, Cindy’s. With a dedicated

“Rosé All Day” section on the menu, its one of the best places to enjoy a glass in the Windy city while enjoying panoramic view of Millennium Park.

PROVENCE, FRANCE Hard core fans of the pink drink can go straight to the source - Provence. Thanks to its climate and location, generations of expert winemakers have been producing award winning rosé in the region. Chances are if you drink the pink bubbly beverage, you’ve tasted one from here! A wine tour through Provence is a trip for a true Rosé aficionado to show off their knowledge.

Stay in stunning vineyard hotels that produce award winning Provençal Rosé wine such as TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 87

the Hotel Château de Berne (pictured above), a working wine estate in the heart of Provence, France that offers an outdoor swimming pool and restaurant serving food prepared with local and homegrown produce.

LONDON, ENGLAND Rosé is the drink of the moment in London! At Sketch restaurant (picture top right - opposite page) in Mayfair, you can sip on a glass of Rosé in the immersive pink room to match your drink. HOT TIP: When you visit Sketch be sure to check out the famous intergalactic-themed bathroom! Next, visit the Worship Street Whistling Shop,

88 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM

an underground drinking den that was inspired by Victorian gin palaces and feels like you’re walking into a Charles Dickens novel. Along with an extensive cocktail menu and a gin masterclass, this unique bar offers a range of top English sparkling wines which of course includes Rosé!

The latest addition to London’s roster of quirky venues is the highly anticipated hotel, The Ned. Housed in the former Midland Bank this epic hotel holds nine restaurants, a rooftop pool with a fantastic view of St Paul’s Cathedral and a cocktail bar hidden behind an original.

“WHATEVER YOU DO

POUR YOURSELF INTO IT.” - Robert Mondavi -

NEW YORK, NEW YORK If you like Rosé then you’ll love frosé, basically a slushie for adults! Legend has it, the cocktail was invented at Bar Primi in New York.

It’s no wonder the Big Apple is responsible for this breakthrough thanks to its thriving night life scene, world class food and drink standards.

Cool down and enjoy some frosé while taking in a skyline view of its hometown at the Plunge Park Avenue lounge (pictured center right) atop the Gansevoort Park Avenue Hotel. This trendy rooftop pool lounge also serves alcoholic ice pops on its summer cocktail menu.

THE HAMPTONS, NEW YORK Finally, we have the Hamptons, where there seems to be shortage of rosé almost every summer! Known for being the seaside getaway for New York’s elite, it’s here where urbanites let loose at extravagant summer parties, held almost every weekend.

Not surprisingly, rosé, frosé or anything pink and bubbly, is the drink of choice at these exclusive events, which might explain the shortages. To cope with the demand Wölffer Estate, a local winery, opened a rosé drive-thru (pictured right) this summer where you can stop by on your way to the beach to pick up rosé by the case, glass or bottle!

TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 89

CARRY on IN

STYLE

With the cost of checking luggage at the airport, more of us are looking for the best carry-on suitcase or weekender bag. There are some great options on the market, that hold a lot of stuff and still manage to be hip and stylish.

These are our four top quick trip picks!

VICTORIN OX SWISS ARMY

BY: JANE CROSS

Spectra Extra-Capacity Carry-On

The ultimate in light, expandable carry-on luggage. It looks good, rolls effortlessly and holds a lot of clothing. 9.4”x16.5”x21.7” swissarmy.com

LIPAULT PARIS

Lady Plume Wheeled Weekend Bag Sophisticated and chic, this wheeled satchel is made of durable reinforced nylon and offers easy access to the large main compartment. 20”x13.5”x13.5” samsonite.ca

PL ANET TRAVELER

MARKET C ANVAS

SC1 Smart Carry-On

The perfect his or hers weekend bag that is easy to carry, beautiful to look at, and holds a whole lot of stuff! 18”x12”x12” marketcanvasleather.com

A super smart case with intelligent, common sense travel features: robotic biometric lock, global tracker, weighing system, smart battery, 3 USB ports and anti-theft alerts you control with the app. 10.5”x 22.5”x14.2” planettravelerusa.com

The Weekender in Rustic Tobacco

90 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM

Baden-Baden

– the elegant Spa-Resort in the Black Forest

Discover the town inThe360 degrees modern Caracalla Spa Baden-Baden city center

The Museum Frieder Burda

The world’s “most beautiful casino“ Today, the town of Baden-Baden presents itself as a modern spa resort and cultural centre.

Here, all relaxation needs are catered for thanks to the thermal baths with their 2000-year-old history and the magnificent parks and gardens. Besides these, attractions such as Europe’s Located in inopera the house BlackandForest, combines Mediterranean second largest concert Baden-Baden hall – the Festspielhaus, the Kurhaus, the Trinkhalle, flair with the elegance of the Belle Epoque theCulture cosmopolitanism a major city. ofBaden-Baden, with its two thermal baths is an oasis for the theatreand and the Mile traversing theofparks and gardens the Lichtentaler Allee enable Baden-Baden to position itself as a refined international hotspot. spa, beauty and wellness. The town, where everything is in walking distance, is also a paradise for culture Join us on a virtual of our town. Experience Baden-Baden up closeopera and in 360 degreesmany museums and “the world’s most enthusiast.

Thetour Festspielhaus - Germany’s biggest house, with the enclosed virtual reality viewer. Or scan the pictures in this brochure with your mobile beautiful to Marlene Dietrich, located in Baden-Baden. device for ancasino”, impressive,according 360-degree, augmented reality experienceare of the sights – and that’s without using the VR viewer.

1. DOWNLOAD: install the free virtual & augmented reality app on your mobile device.

2. Augmented reality experience using this brochure. SCAN: align the camera with one of the pictures in the brochure and explore the attraction in 360 degrees.

3. Virtual reality experience with the VR viewer. Be a part of the action and visit our attractions in 360 degrees with the enclosed VR viewer. Open the packaging for more information.

Have fun!

DOWNLOAD: Install the free virtual reality & 360°- tour app on your mobile device.

All photographs © Baden-Baden Kur & Tourismus GmbH

For more information: Baden-Baden Visitors & Convention Office www.baden-baden.com/en info@baden-baden.com +49 (0)7221 275 200

#WHERETONEXT

LET’S GET TROPICAL Snow, sleet and cold days are just ahead! Millions of travelers take off during the winter months to somewhere sunny and tropical.

Watch for DRIFT’s exclusive

Tropical Getaway Guide

featuring fab locations worldwide with details on which exceptional hotels, beaches, scuba diving, water adventures, guaranteed weather and doable short trip tropical destinations you should be booking.

Coming to the Holiday 2017 issue of DRIFT magazine.

92 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM

The Case for Better Travel.

www.raden.com