SPRING / SUMMER 2016
Ready, Jet,Go! WHY WE’RE
FIRED UP ABOUT ICELAND
ALSO
A SWELL CORPORATE
RETREAT
BOREAL BLISS
JOLLY OLD . . . JOLLY NEW
Dear Traveler: It’s been a time of transition for us since our founder Fred Poe’s death in November, but one thing hasn’t changed—our commitment to realizing your travel dreams. Fred’s legacy lives on—in our love of all things travel and in our genuine wish to share that passion with others.
“TOP (FILL IN THE BLANK)” LISTS about must-see destinations abound, but here at Poe we like
to do things a bit differently. Instead of the ubiquitous (and, let’s be honest, boring) “trips of a lifetime” we offer Fred’s final picks for an off-the-beaten-path bucket list. Fortunately, in the great adventure that was Fred’s life, he managed to check off every one and more.
15 GREAT DESTINATIONS YOU MAY NOT HAVE THOUGHT OF (and which Poe Travel can help you actualize!)
IN THIS ISSUE: PAGE 13 A swell corporate retreat
In this issue, you’ll discover our latest loves—why we’re all atwitter about Iceland and other far-flung locales and why now is the time to visit England and Ireland. We’ll also share some of the exciting adventures we’ve planned for Poe clients as of late. And, finally, we offer a salute to our National Parks which we hope will inspire you to jump in a tricked-out airstream and visit one this year—whether it be the swampy woods of Congaree or the ocher ravines of the Grand Canyon.
So, in the words of Fred, please go away!
PAGE 8 Boreal bliss
Margaret Kemp & Ellison Poe PICTURED Richard Briscoe, Tina and Ellison at Birkhill Castle.
FEATURE Fired up about Iceland PAGE 22 Jolly old . . . jolly new COVER SKETCH by Poe Traveler
PLEA GO A SE WAY !
Kent Blochberger
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Punta del Este, Uruguay sparkling beaches and high sophistication in January or February
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Australia’s greatest surprise in a nation with the highest percentage of urbanites:
Perth
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Luang Prabang, Laos
arguably Asia’s most beguiling big town plus a fabulous climate
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Evocations of Austria and Slovenia in Chile’s Lake District:
Puerto Montt
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Europe’s very worthy second cities:
Graz, Gothenburg, Hamburg, Antwerp and Cork
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Atlantic Canada’s most interesting and the Americas oldest city:
St John’s
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As sybaritic as Charleston but with fewer tourists and lower mark ups:
Savannah
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The West’s hidden treasures:
the Arches National Park of Utah
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The greatest train ride in the world:
South Africa’s Rovos Rail
A perfect natural harbor and evocations of Katherine Mansfield:
Reminders of Tsarist Russia plus azure Lake Baikal:
Irkutsk, Siberia
Wellington, New Zealand
The big woods sounds of silence on a hidden lake:
Quinalt, Washington
The most beautiful island chain on earth:
the Marquesas of Gauguin
Possibly the finest Roman mosaics on earth plus the best baklava:
Gaziantep, Eastern Turkey
The epicenter of the best contemporary painting in all of Africa:
Accra
THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF POE TRAVEL
LODGING WE LOVE
LODGING
WE LOVE
POLITE LUXURY Velaa Private Island, Maldives On Noonu Atoll, a 45-minute seaplane ride north of the capital Malé, this resort has the white-sand beaches and crystalline waters shared by other Maldivian resorts, and so much more besides. In addition to the expected gym and an excellent spa, leisure facilities include squash and tennis courts, a climbing wall and even a golf academy with 170 metres of lush greens and a swing studio designed by Jose Maria Olazabal. Impressive diving and snorkelling sites are nearby, and the resort’s watersports facilities are among the best in the country. Velaa’s interior designer Petr Kolár uses the phrase “polite luxury” to describe the resort’s aesthetic; rather than goldplated bathrooms and Swarovski-studded chandeliers, the resort’s most impressive accoutrements are designed to be nearly imperceptible. Paving stones that don’t absorb heat have been imported from Jordan; master European craftsmen developed the villa interiors; wood panelling was sourced in Borneo. Those subtle touches combine to create a setting that functions fluidly and works intuitively. Now that’s attention to detail!
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THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF POE TRAVEL
LODGING WE LOVE
GIVE IT A REST The BodyHoliday
THE SPA WITH SOUL . . . Rancho la Puerta Renew your mind, body, and spirit on a journey to true wellness. At Rancho La Puerta, a fabulous and fabuloso fitness and spa retreat near San Diego, California, you escape from life’s stress and distractions on a healthy vacation that empowers your true self. The Ranch encourages integrative wellness for women and men of all ages and fitness levels through exciting, energetic fitness options, delicious organic cuisine, and pure fun and relaxation—all in a tranquil setting in the shadow of Baja California’s mystical Mt. Kuchumaa. Founded in 1940, Rancho La Puerta started the modern fitness revolution, and they’re still on the cutting edge of fitness vacations today. Poe’s Murry Newbern recently returned from there and says, “It was like a fantastic adult summer camp. I met so many interesting women from all over the country. The food is great, and there are so many fitness classes to choose from!”
Voted “favorite spa in the Caribbean” by SpaFinder, St. Lucia’s The BodyHoliday is the ultimate body-mind-spirit escape. At this adults-only resort on picturesque Cariblue Beach— where daily treatments are included in the rates—you can customize your own “body holiday” online even before you leave home. Once there, indulge in aromatherapy, a dozen different types of massage, Ayurvedic treatments, wraps, yoga, and personal-trainer services at the splendid, Alhambra-style Wellness Centre complete with reflecting pool. Otherwise, enjoy the beach, scuba diving, golf (next door at the St. Lucia Golf Resort & Country Club; no greens fees for resort guests), and other sports. Professional instruction and a personal trainer are all included in the rates. Rooms have marble floors and king-size four-poster or twin beds. The food is excellent at Cariblue (the main dining room), the Clubhouse casual buffet restaurant, the Deli, and top-of-the-line Tao. Enjoy nightly entertainment at the beachside lounge or in the Piano Bar. Special rates are available for single guests.
FUN FACT: The BodyHoliday is now harvesting from its new organic garden: cucumbers, tomatoes, pumpkin, squash, melons, bananas, plantains and fresh herbs. The onsite garden reduces the distance produce travels from farm to BodyHoliday table and will also source the resort’s ITAL restaurant (coming soon), based on the Rastafarian diet and concept that food should always be natural, pure and from the earth.
NAMA-STAY HERE Ananda in the Himalayas A Shangri-la for spa-goers, yet more than a simple wellness retreat, Ananda’s high-end Himalayan hideaway merits its hype (regularly ranking among the world’s best destination spas). Nestled in the foothills of the mighty mountain range, Ananda offers spellbinding views of verdant virgin forests, the meandering Ganges River, and the ashram and meditation haven of Rishikesh (put in the international spotlight when The Beatles studied there in the ‘60s). Set on the grounds of a working maharaja’s palace, this peaceful spot has long beckoned travelers, seekers in search of ancient wisdom, and Ananda answers this call as a luxury ashram of sorts, where visitors are rewarded with a holistic approach to soothing the mind, energizing the body, and invigorating the spirit. Experienced spa therapists and masters of yoga and ancient Indian philosophies are on hand, in a region credited as being a fountainhead for the traditions of Ayurveda, yoga, and meditation.
Meticulously manicured grounds provide a haven for roaming peacocks and mischievous monkeys. Daily wellness programming includes yoga and Vedanta classes, guided meditation, and a rotating roster of specialty workshops, hosted by visiting masters and on-staff teachers and therapists. Half-day hikes to the nearby Kunjapuri Temple and excursions to the ancient spiritual centers of Rishikesh and Haridwar (don’t miss the daily sunset aarti ceremony on the Ganges), or to the Rajaji National Park (home to wild elephants, tigers, and more) can easily be arranged. A few days spent on this Himalayan perch, and you’ll feel on top of the world in more ways than one—all, conveniently set just an hour’s flight (or four-hour train ride) from Delhi. Satellite TV, complimentary Wi-Fi, white-cotton Kurta pajamas included. Enlightenment not guaranteed, but highly likely.
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CLIENT Q & A
BOREAL BLISS
The Erwins
Blachford Lake Lodge Situated on Blachford Lake in the Northwest Territories of Canada, this remote lodge is accessible only by scheduled bush plane flights—and it’s well worth the journey. These Poe travelers enjoyed seeing the Northern Lights and more on a recent girls’ trip to the far North:
in Southeast Asia
“Our Northern adventure was an absolutely fabulous experience. The lodge is in the middle of nowhere and yet warm, cozy, and comfortable. And its situation on a lake (frozen of course) was spectacular. The guests who were flown in on a ski plane were an international mix of Hong Kong, UK, Japan, and Texas—about 14 guests. Seeing the Aurora is wonderful as well as the spectacular array of stars. And seeing both together on the last night was a real treat. It was a fabulous trip!”
THAILAND, LAOS, CAMBODIA, AND VIETNAM
Erwins atop elephants in Chiang Rai.
—Brenda Hogan “Our accommodations were very comfortable, and the lodge had that welcoming atmosphere you hope to have when you are at the top of the world. The guests and staff (most were volunteers) were from the four corners of the earth which made this experience one of my most special.” —Cherry Light “What an amazing experience staying at Blachford Lodge in NW Canada (170 mi from the Arctic Circle). Expansive starry night skies, curtains of moving light from the Aurora Borealis, wonderful staff and accommodations, and sharing this with wonderful new friends who were fellow seekers of this adventure—spectacular!” —Kathy Johnson
FUN FACT: In 2011, Blachford Lake Lodge hosted Their Royal Highnesses, Prince William and Catherine, Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, as part of their Royal Tour of Canada.
Terri Erwin and son Clayton recently returned from an enchanting trip through Southeast Asia and here share highlights. POE: You covered a lot of ground; what was your overall impression of Southeast Asia?
POE: Did you experience a particularly moving moment you will treasure forever?
TE: Clayton and I found that each country we visited was
TE: We had two moving moments. The first one was giving
very intriguing and magical. All of the cities we visited were beautiful with the colorful food and flower markets and floating markets. There were so many exotic flowers, fruits, and vegetables to see. All of the activity along the Mekong River was fascinating. The mix of different types of architecture was also very interesting. Each day was an adventure for us with many exciting things to see and experience.
POE: This region is known for its food. Did you have a favorite meal? TE: I enjoyed all of the local foods. Some of my favorite
dishes were the Pad Thai, steamed noodles and vegetables, sticky rice and all of the fruits such as mango, papaya, pineapple, etc. All of the coconut dishes were also good and the coconut juice and milk.
Poe has long cherished its partnership with the Arkansas Arts Center so it is with great excitement that we announce an Arts Center trip to England and Scotland in late 2017. Details to follow.
POE: Be honest—how scared were you on that elephant? TE: Clayton and I thoroughly enjoyed our elephant riding experience. We were not scared at all but fascinated by the whole experience. It was fun and interesting to learn how to shout out or give the commands to the elephants for them to kneel, move forward, stop, walk right or left, etc. The Mahouts who walked along with us were also so interesting to visit with. We also enjoyed bathing the elephants in the river and feeding them. Riding the elephants was one of our favorite adventures and we would certainly do it again!
alms (food) to over 200 monks in Luang Prabang, Lao at 6:00 in the morning. The monks walked single file down a long street, and the local residents and tourists stood on the sidewalk and placed food in their alms containers. It was a very solemn and moving experience. It was interesting to learn about the monks’ history and to learn about their dayto-day activities and lives. The second moving moment was visiting Angkor Wat in Siem Reap, Cambodia, and watching the sunrise. It looked magical to see the sunlight on the temples. It was fascinating to see Angkor Wat and to visit all the five towers. The reflection of Angkor Wat in the water surrounding it was also very beautiful.
POE: What temple made the greatest impression on you? TE: All of the temples we visited were interesting with the different styles of architecture. My two favorites were the Reclining Buddha in Bangkok because of the size and magnitude of it and Banteay Srei in Siem Reap because of the beautiful pink sandstone and the intricate carvings on the structure.
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Cruise News KIDS CRUISE, TOO!
GIVE CREDIT WHERE CREDIT IS DUE
Traditionally seen as a holiday for the more mature set, river cruising is fast becoming popular with families—and Tauck’s family river cruises are uniquely crafted for all generations.
Join ThinkNurse and Poe Travel for the Tenth Annual Continuing Education Nursing Cruise
Tauck Bridges has been designing and guiding family river cruises for over seven years—all-inclusive family vacations with exciting shore excursions, onboard activities, and exclusive experiences. (Among the features that make Tauck’s vessels amenable to families are suites with pull-out sofas that allow for three or four people in one stateroom.)
April 21-29, 2017 Cruise with Poe’s Teresa Grace on Carnival’s Freedom while you earn your annual CE credits and write the trip off on your taxes! Visit Montego Bay, Grand Cayman Island, and Cozumel. Prices for this cruise and conference are based on double occupancy (bring your spouse, significant other, or friend) and start at $945p/p. Includes one night stay in Galveston, seven-night cruise, port charges, government fees, and taxes. A $250 non-refundable per-person deposit is required to secure your reservations. Please ask about our Cruise LayAway Plan.
Sure, river cruising has long been a way to get away from kids and enjoy the company of other sophisticated adults, but river cruising also offers an easy, flexible way to travel with kids. In addition to being great fun, it’s also a great opportunity for kids to learn about the history and culture of the places they visit.
2017 ITINERARIES FAMILY FUN ALONG THE SEINE: Paris to Normandy
A CHIC, CIVILIZED RETREAT IN GEORGETOWN Rosewood Debuts in Washington, D.C. The Rosewood Washington, D.C. stands along the C&O Canal just steps from Georgetown’s plethora of shops and restaurants. This charming, boutique-style hotel caters to Washington’s visiting elite: The hotel assigns personal assistants to each guest in order to provide round-the-clock service, and the guests-only living room acts as a quiet place to relax or enjoy a drink. The elegant décor is winning fans; the guest rooms and suites are all outfitted with hardwood floors, Pratesi linens, and spacious bathrooms with deepsoaking tubs. While here, visitors will have access to the rooftop infinity pool and fitness center. And the in-house Grill Room impresses diners with prime cuts of steak and fresh seafood. All parties agree, the Rosewood D.C. gets top billing.
Cruise to the cruise with us on the bus and skip the airline fuss! Call Teresa Grace for details.
NEW!
Explore Northern France—two nights in Paris plus Versailles, Rouen, Monet’s Gardens, D-Day beaches, and more.
BON VOYAGE! France Family River Cruise
CRUISE NEWS
NEW
Investigate the picturesque towns along the River Rhône; meet real French cowboys in La Camargue; and spend two nights in Paris.
CASTLES ON THE RHINE: Family Riverboat Adventure Cruise through Switzerland, France, Germany and the Netherlands passing castles and vineyards; go on the world’s steepest cogwheel train ride.
BLUE DANUBE: Family Riverboat Adventure Selected as one of the “10 Best River Cruises” by Fodor’s Travel! Sail from Hungary through Slovakia and Austria to Germany; make strüdel; bicycle by the river; learn to waltz; and much more.
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THE BAZAAR IS BACK! MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR OUR
3RD TRAVEL BAZAAR
FEBRUARY 3–4, 2017 AT THE CAPITAL HOTEL
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CLIENT Q & A
SOLD
OUT
CRYSTAL ANNOUNCES HISTORIC NORTHWEST PASSAGE EXPEDITION VOYAGE Crystal’s inaugural 2016 Northwest Passage voyage sails this August from Anchorage to New York, and it is SOLD OUT! But don’t despair. Crystal Serenity’s 2017 Northwest Passage Explorer will follow the same route, journeying from Seward, Alaska, to New York on a 32-day journey curated for the world’s most curious adventurers. Exceptional wildlife sightings, stunning displays of nature, and rare experiences carefully designed to reveal remote cultures in the most authentic and engaging manner are the defining aspects of this life-enhancing voyage. Joined by a 14-member team of dedicated professionals, the Captain and his expanded team of navigation experts will incorporate unplanned expedition days when favorable weather conditions allow, as well as exciting Arctic adventures ranging from Zodiac landings and kayaking in protected bays to trekking the tundra with an experienced guide.
A NEW WAY TO EXPERIENCE THE WORLD! LUXURY JOURNEYS BY PRIVATE AIR Wings Over the World Featuring journeys to Indochina, India, and China
INDOCHINA 16 days, November 7-22, 2016 INDIA 15 days, December 5-19, 2016 CHINA 12 days April 20-May 1, 2017 These itineraries all feature private charter flights between destinations allowing you the convenience of visiting remote places with less time spent getting there. Enjoy hassle-free flight departure and arrivals, flying from one destination to the next on board an exclusively chartered plane with a dedicated flight crew and no more than 16 guests. Many new itineraries available for 2017! (The price tag of these trips will surprise you—in a good way!)
Aye Aye, Captain! Greg Hatcher literally wrote the book on customer service, so when he took his family and staff on a Caribbean retreat aboard a chartered SeaDream yacht, he expected the best—and wasn’t disappointed. POE: Knowing how much you value customer service, did you find that the level of service onboard the SeaDream ship was up to your standards? GREG HATCHER: I wrote the book 55 Steps to Outrageous Service, and let me tell you SeaDream truly delivered Outrageous Service . . . The Best Service I have ever seen or received!
POE: Is there a favorite moment/meal/activity from the trip you’d like to share? GH: We all had a blast at karaoke. The staff joined in, and we all had a great time.
POE: We know you’re very athletic and active; was there enough to keep you busy and engaged? GH: Yes. We kayaked one day, worked out at the gym everyday, got a massage, rode the jet skis and jumped on the trampoline. There were plenty of excursions and opportunities.
POE: Was it a bonding experience for you and your colleagues?
GH: It made our staff closer than ever and let the employees get to know the boss better—or should I say the Captain better. Ha. The trip was over the top. My daughter has already booked another trip on the SeaDream in May.
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EXPERIENCES
EXPERIENCES GALLIVANTING & GALAVANTA-ING AROUND COLOMBIA Soaring Andean summits, unspoiled Caribbean coast, enigmatic Amazon jungle, cryptic archaeological ruins and cobbled colonial communities. Colombia boasts all of South America’s allure, and more.
BEAR WITNESS Entrée Canada offers a unique experience with possibly the bravest guide in the country. Simply known as the “Bear Whisperer,” Phil Timpany (pictured here) has 22 years experience guiding travelers through the underbelly of remote northern BC and the Yukon. Guests of Phil go the distance (literally!) for these intimate viewings, traveling by helicopter from Atlin, B.C. 30 minutes to a wilderness camp. It’s worth the journey—you can actually observe mother bears tending to playful cubs, fishing for salmon, or slowly wandering nearby. A longtime wildlife enthusiast, Phil is also a conservationist who advocates for peaceful co-existence between grizzlies and humans and for habitat protection. Entrée Canada offers a large collection of bear viewing expeditions starting in June through the end of October.
Warning: Expect close encounters—Phil gets you as close as possible to these beautiful creatures providing spectacular photographic opportunities.
Galavanta is an on-the-ground agency specializing in experiential luxury travel to Colombia. They design private tailor-made holidays, honeymoons, and unique adventures. Yachting in the Islas del Rosario? Yes, please. Whipping up chivece with one of Cartagena’s renowned chefs at a colonial house within the old city walls? Sí! Witness a flood of clouds rise from the lush mountain range surrounding secluded Casa Galavanta, a private property located in the heart of Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta? Sign us up!
SMART ITINERARIES FOR SAVVY TRAVELERS Zegrahm Expeditions ANTARCTICA, SOUTH GEORGIA & THE FALKLAND ISLANDS January 5, 2017 22 Days, Ocean Diamond Following in Sir Ernest Shackleton’s footsteps, explore the White Continent’s rugged landscape, meeting vast penguin colonies in South Georgia and the South Orkney Islands, greeting albatross in the Falkland Islands, and enjoying every long moment of daylight in the austral summer. Book with us and receive a complimentary cabin upgrade! Other clever Zegrahm itineraries: Melanesia, Sub-Antarctic Islands of New Zealand, Vietnam Culture and Cuisine, Japan & Philippines, Kimberley and Alaska.
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EXPERIENCES
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, NATIONAL PARKS! We’re excited to be celebrating North America’s Century-Old National Parks this year, and we’re excited to share with you our four favorite tour operators who can guide you through them in style and with swagger.
EPIC PRIVATE JOURNEYS
NATIONAL PARKS REVEALED NPR curates and operates upscale custom tours in and around 20-plus National Parks of the western USA. Services include: Upscale best-in-class accommodations; Privately guided activities by air, 4-wheel vehicle, raft/kayak, balloon, horseback and foot; Local Experts in geology, wildlife, Native culture, art, photography, history and more; Special access to historical, archaeological and Native American sites; Private SUV and air charter services in/between parks; Arrival, departure, pre and post lodging and touring arrangements. One percent of all National Parks Revealed revenues are donated to youth in National Parks programs.
Okay, not to sound like his mother, but we’re just crazy about Kevin Jackson of Epic, the man responsible for the logistics and operations of all North and South American programs. What a guy! And guide! Sure, he’s easy on the eyes, but that resume, wow . . . Kevin has led many worldwide expeditions, including multiple ascents of Mt Whitney (the highest mountain in the continental United States). Kevin is also an expert on Aspen, Colorado; Anchorage, Alaska; the canyons of Arizona, and Vancouver Island, British Colombia. And he’s a NOLS certified Wilderness First Responder. And he’s ACE Certified in First Aid and CPR . . . All to say Kevin is uniquely qualified to plan a perfect park trip for you. Of Epic’s National Park adventures, Kevin says, “The National Parks trips are all custom and catered to those looking for an intimate and exclusive experience. Epic offers luxury camping, private guiding and unparalleled experiences in and around the US National Parks. Each trip is designed and tailored to the group and planned with seasonality and activity preference in mind.” (Epic currently offers nine different glamping adventures throughout North America.)
ABERCROMBIE & KENT Of course we trust A&K when we send clients to far-flung parts of the globe, but we’re super keen on A&K for domestic travel as well—especially for the National Parks. When you travel with A&K through the National Parks you see the wonders of nature in luxury and style—think of it as an American safari. Join one of their small group journeys or create your own tailor made trip of a lifetime. Chose among Family Alaska, The Southwest, or Family Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons.
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NATURAL HABITAT ADVENTURES & WWF Yellowstone: Ultimate Wolf & Wildlife Safari An Exclusive Winter Wildlife Expedition Deep into Yellowstone & Grand Teton National Parks Let us paint a picture (on velvet, in jewel tones). . . In the pale light of sunrise, you survey the open expanse of Yellowstone’s Lamar Valley, searching for wolves. With expert naturalist guides at your side and spotting scopes at the ready, you see a pack emerge from the forest, energized by the awakening day. In the distance, a large male halts and sniffs the frozen air as you sense the mystical aura of this beast of legend. Winter’s white mantle offers a pristine backdrop against which to search for these elusive wilderness icons, away from summer crowds. The land itself is part of the magic, too, with steaming geysers and trees covered in ice crystals beneath an immaculate blue sky. Discover Yellowstone with Natural Habitat on this rare winter wildlife safari!
A REAL “BUTTE”
PHOTO Trent Bona
“The Butte,” as locals affectionately call it, is one of the more charming ski towns in America—and the perfect destination for families year round. The slopes are steep, the snow is light, the tiny town is a National Historic District, and the locals don’t mind your being there. Ringed by three wilderness areas, Crested Butte, once a remote mining village, is counted among Colorado’s best ski resorts (some say the best). The old town center features beautifully preserved Victorian-era buildings refitted with hip shops and businesses. Two-wheel traffic matches the laid-back, happy vibe. In winter, the scene centers around Mt Crested Butte, the conical ski mountain emerging from the valley floor. But come summer, these rolling hills become the state wildflower capital and many mountain bikers’ fave for sweet alpine singletrack.
WHERE TO STAY:
PHOTO Tom Stillo
Housed in a modern alpine-style building, The Lodge at Mountaineer Square is an upscale resort hotel located in the heart of the Crested Butte Mountain Resort base area—just steps from the ski lifts, hiking and biking as well as shopping, ski area services and restaurants. It’s an excellent “base camp” for your winter ski vacation or summer mountain getaway.
6 NATIONAL PARKS YOU SHOULD VISIT
NPS director Jonathan Jarvis recently named these six lesser-known national parks to consider for a last-minute summer vacation. (source: Condé Nast Traveler) 1
North Cascades National Park, Washington
4 Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas
The North Cascades are one of the most biologically diverse parks in the U.S
2 Wrangell–St. Elias National Park and Preserve, Alaska
Climb the five-mile trail up Guadalupe Peak to the highest point in Texas—at night you’ll see more than 11,000 stars. Just watch out for scorpions!
5 Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
The largest national park, it’s bigger than Switzerland, and feels like you’re coming out of the Ice Age, with bears and wolves dominating the landscape.
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Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve, Idaho Roughly the size of Rhode Island, the miles of black lava and the remote location give Craters a wonderful night sky that attracts amateur astronomers to view the heavens.
The renowned wildflowers—glacier lilies, bear grass— bloom for a very limited season that generally peaks in mid July and August.
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National Mall and Memorial Parks, Washington, D.C. The Jefferson Memorial is a special place where you can spend some time with our third president.
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EXPERIENCES
JOLLY OLD . . . AND JOLLY NEW The English are known for being reserved. Perhaps that’s why, despite living in one of loveliest countries on Earth, they don’t really shout about it. They should though—especially this year—what with Elizabeth II’s 90th birthday and the 400th anniversary of the birth of William Shakespeare. Here we offer a few English experiences for 2016.
RAISE A TOAST TO HER MAJESTY HM The Queen’s 90th Birthday Tea at The Goring Moments from Buckingham Palace, The Goring is the only hotel to have been granted a Royal Warrant by HM The Queen. So where better to celebrate Her Majesty’s 90th birthday, with a very special afternoon tea created in her honour? The Queen’s 90th Birthday Afternoon Tea is now being served until the end of August to mark this wonderful milestone. Created by The Goring’s award-winning pastry chefs, this limited edition tea includes Her Majesty’s favourite fruit cake, jam-packed with juicy raisins, sultanas and cherries which have been marinated in a heady combination of rum, cognac, and brandy. They’ve even fashioned a Choux Bun in Her Majesty’s image!
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AGENT REPORT
SCHLOSS ELMAU AND BIRKHILL CASTLE
Ellison Alights
“ This blessed plot, this earth, this realm, this England.” William Shakespeare
in Germany and Scotland
IF IT’S GOOD ENOUGH FOR MERKEL . . . Ellison is becoming something of a regular at Schloss Elmau, a fabulous retreat in Krün, Germany, near Munich and the border with Austria. Schloss Elmau’s heavyweight history and politically charged sleepovers date back to the 1950s, but its most recent group party, 2015’s G7 summit, has put this storybook castle back on the map. A cultural retreat, there is a concert hall, spa, and scenery to make your spirits soar. After a half-hour zoom up the motorway from Innsbruck, you turn off and wind your way through instantly relaxing, filmic forest roads and picturesque cuckoo clock villages. Schloss Elmau sits in a stunning valley at the foot of the Bavarian Alps between whitecapped mountains and Heidi-esque meadows. On a return trip there this winter, Ellison and friends enjoyed an impromptu sleigh ride (horses pictured here), through the snowcovered countryside. Sumptuous fur blankets cut the chill (as did the post-ride glühwein and fondue).
A BIRTHDAY BASH TO REMEMBER SADDLE UP
MUCH ADO ABOUT SOMETHING
England offers some of the most unspoilt countryside in the world, with magnificent houses steeped in history and romance. Allow Poe and our friends at Original Travel to arrange an exceptional riding holiday for you where you’ll ride mannerly horses through the picturesque Cotswolds and surrounding counties and across private land and great country estates. The rides can be from 2 to 5 days, spending from 4 to 6 hours in the saddle each day. You will enjoy delicious lunches and candlelit dinners along the way and stay in beautiful country houses that are rarely open to the public.
2016 marks 400 years since the Bard’s death, which makes it the perfect opportunity to visit his hometown of Stratfordupon-Avon. Celebrate the lasting legacy of the world’s greatest playwright; walk in his footsteps and explore the historic market town he called home. Tour his birthplace, visit his grave, and see one of his plays performed by the Royal Shakespeare Company.
Let us plan a Shakespeare-inspired getaway for you!
Ellison recently hosted a house party at beautiful Birkhill Castle in Scotland to celebrate her daughter Jane’s 21st birthday. (All agreed it was definitely one for the books.) Set in glorious countryside right on the coast in north east Fife, this 18thcentury castle is the home of the Earl and Countess of Dundee. Surrounded by lovely gardens on the shores of the river Tay, Birkhill remains primarily a family home and retains that welcoming feel. The evening of the fete, 100 guests dressed in their finest ate, drank, and danced the night away (beneath the festive tent pictured here). There were literally pipers piping, lords a leaping, ladies dancing . . . and a DJ dropping the bass. Call Ellison to discuss having your own house party, reunion, or celebration at Birkhill!
Says Ellison, “I never want to repeat things, but this is a place I’d like to return to every year if I could. It’s very special. I can actually relax there. The setting, the sense of wellness, the music, the beautiful concert hall, the fantastic food. . . It’s a winter wonderland, but is beautiful in all seasons. My room was the prettiest suite I’ve ever been in. From the bed all you see are mountains.”
A special thanks to GM Nikolai Boyd who helps make Schloss Elmau the remarkable place it is.
FUN FACT: When Ellison isn’t in residence, it’s Chancellor Angela Merkel’s room.
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ICELAND WHY WE’RE SO FIRED UP ABOUT ICELAND
I
t’s hard not to use superlatives when talking about Iceland—for natives and for those fortunate enough to visit this magical place. When Sarah Quigley and Jon Olafur Sigurbjornsson of PTI (Private Travel Iceland) paid Poe a recent visit, it quickly became our most lively, animated meeting to date—one that left us all inspired and energized. Why? Because Jon, though a bit reserved in his delivery and demeanor, has an infectious passion for his country and an unparalleled well of knowledge about travel there. He’s the very picture of an Icelander—ruddy cheeked and bearded with a subtle twinkle in his eyes. It’s also quickly apparent that the stereotype of Icelanders as both warm
and industrious is spot on. Jon and his team work hard to craft the perfect trip for clients—uniquely tailored to their interests and abilities. As of late, Iceland has come into the spotlight to show the world what it’s been missing all these years: expansive underground ice caves, towering volcanoes, thermal baths, and landscapes so convincingly lunar that even astronauts once trained there. There is no shortage of beautiful vistas in the country, but the PTI team is (literally) equipped to show you the very best.
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AGENT REPORT
Good length of time to spend in Iceland:
8 nights in the summer / 5 nights in the winter
CENTRAL & NORTHERN FRANCE
Ann Abroad
Poe’s own Ann McFerran recently returned from a whirlwind tour of France which she deemed both “fantastique” and “formidable”! Upon arrival, she was off to a sweet start . . . Our dear friends at Chocolatine whisked Ann from the airport directly to a bakery tour faster than you can say “pain au chocolat.” She then visited the vibrant, festive farmer’s market, chou-fleurs in full flower. “The farmer’s market had some wonderful jam that I brought home to my family; it’s an old French recipe. I also bought a scarf at the market; they had very nice ones; our guide said she buys hers there,” says Ann.
In the Loire Valley, Ann adored the elegant Domaine des Hauts de Loire, an ivy-clad 19th-century hunting lodge located on 178 forested acres of parkland within the Vallée de la Loire UNESCO world heritage area.
Ann enjoyed her stay at Le Burgundy, a smart boutique hotel located in The Golden Triangle, and spent some treasured time at the Musée d’Orsay. She then traveled to enchanting Honfleur, the picturesque seaside town so loved by the Impressionists. Whilst there she dined in style at the celebrated La Ferme Saint-Siméon.
The tour of the Hospices de Beaune, a former charitable almshouse founded in 1443 as a hospital for the poor, was edifying and sobering—and made everyone grateful that they didn’t live in the Middle Ages. Thankfully, Beaune, in the heart of Burgundy, is one of the best places in the country to eat and drink so Ann’s spirits were soon enough lifted by wine and boeuf Bourguignon.
Ann enjoyed Normandy in all its rugged splendor, particularly the American cemetery and beaches (where she struck a pensive pose). She also visited the famed Bayeux Tapestry, arguably the world’s greatest embroidery (except for that pillow your grandma made you).
They offer Land Rover Experiences, use of snowmobiles and trucks with technology only known to Iceland (and specially crafted for the terrain), white water rafting, kayaking, paragliding, hiking, visiting spectacular waterfalls and geothermal spas, and so much more. The very brave can travel to a very remote location and heliski down the ocean in the midnight sun. (You can even take a schooner to Greenland to the deepest fjord in the world!) PTI can orchestrate any sort of adventure you could dream up—and some you can’t. One client hosted a bachelor party
to end all bachelor parties: a Game of Thrones-inspired adventure that entailed being dropped off in the wilderness in nothing but capes (fashioned by the costume designers of the show), an epic journey, and celebratory feast. So whether your traversing a glittering glacier, getting a front-row seat to the aurora borealis’ curtains of fire, or marveling at the soft, pinkish hue of the midnight sun, PTI is the go-to for all things Iceland.
In Burgundy, the group settled into Le Relais Bernard Loiseau (Côte-d’Or) and experienced castle tours and wine tastings galore. “We also made a very brief stop in Dijon with a tour of a kitchen and the Palais des Ducs,” adds Ann.
Quel voyage!
FAVORITE MEAL
FAVORITE ACTIVITY
Hotel Le Cep (Beaune)
Wine tasting and visiting 2 Michelin Star kitchens
“ We had a twist on beef wellington and escargot — a first for me, and I LOVED it!”
FAVORITE HOTEL Chateau La Cheviere (Honfleur) “It’s walking distance to the quaint town which has lots of shops and, during high season, restaurants with patios. The service was great and the food excellent.”
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AGENT REPORT
IRELAND
Fifty Shades of Green
tea and scones visit. It was an authentic Irish experience. The sheep dog trials were also so much fun!”
experienced all that and more on a recent trip with C.I.E. Tours. Having gotten the lay of the land Nancy is eager to escort you on “The Best of Southern Ireland.” “This is an excellent trip for first-timers because it includes the areas everyone’s heard of and wants to see,” opines O’Brien. “After traveling to Ireland in April, I decided we must go in spring when the baby lambs are being born, and the country is awash in fresh green color!”
Why C.I.E.? Says Nancy, “They have 84 years of experience, are fully inclusive, and you can save hundreds per couple in comparison with other tour operators. Call me and ask about the $550+ Advantage plan—no optional extras means more money in your pocket!”
The Royal Treatment IN SRI LANKA
For a quarter century, Sri Lanka was largely off-limits to tourists because of a civil war. Now, Asia-bound isle-philes are flocking to this tiny island in droves. And with good reason— besides its otherworldly beaches and lush national parks, where you can see leopards and elephants, there’s also an embarrassment of cultural riches: ancient Buddhist temples, 16th-century European forts, and colonial-era tea plantations. Few places have as many Unesco World Heritage Sites (8) packed into such a small area. Buff Blass recently traveled there and reports, “It’s the best trip I’ve ever taken. I learned more about the culture and history than on any other trip. The hospitality was so gracious, really from the heart. I definitely got the royal treatment. I’m ready to return!”
NANCY SAYS, “I loved the farmhouse
When a country offers you a hundred thousand welcomes or “Cead Mile Failte,” you know it means business. The homeland of Yeats, Joyce, and Wilde, it is easy to understand why Ireland is also known as the land of Saints and Scholars—and, of course, Guinness. Travel to Ireland to experience its stunning natural beauty, the warmth of its people and its rich culture and tradition. Nancy O’Brien
Buff Blass
THE BEST OF SOUTHERN IRELAND HOSTED BY NANCY O’BRIEN 8 DAYS – 7 NIGHTS Dublin to Dublin May 13 - 20, 2017 LAND ONLY RATE: $1,996.00 per person based on double occupancy. $368.00 for single occupancy. Please call Nancy O’Brien about discounted air rates.
POE: First of all, tell us about flying Emirates. Wow, talk about enjoying the journey not just the destination!
BUFF BLASS: Yes, traveling Emirates is a six-star vacation
in and of itself. The champagne, the caviar, the swag bags . . . And then there are the heated marble floors in the shower, and the staff! The flight attendants speak 17 different languages. Jennifer Anniston does not begin to hint at the luxuries and service of Emirates—spa attendant, 24k gold-plated accents finishing the interior designs, cashmere blankets, Russian caviar, Bulgari gifts—lots of them—including Emirates’ own signature perfume, pre-landing tea service in private niche complete with a small waterfall and Dom Perignon and Courvoisier throughout the flight. Between connections in Dubai, guests can enjoy seated à la carte dining and spa services.
POE: What was one of the most memorable moments on your trip?
BB: The most dramatic experience was taking a Eurocopter from the tea country to Galle on the southern coast. The scenery was breath-taking; we flew over lush plantations and
rainforests and made an exciting landing at the Koggala airbase. Another highlight was getting to visit Handunugoda Tea Estate and meet owner Herman Gunaratne. They grow the rarest teas in the world, like Virgin White Tea that is picked by women wearing white gloves. It sounds stuffy, but it’s not. Sampling teas is almost like eating different types of fruit. The guide and that tour . . . I’ve never experienced anything like it.
POE: Did you have a favorite meal?
BB: Lunch with Carminie Samarasinghe; Carminie created and runs a massive elephant plantation where the women of nearby villages are provided employment by making elephant dung paper. Lunch at her home is as casual and inviting as a large midday dinner in Montrose.
POE: What impressed you the most about the country?
BB: The graciousness of the people—from people in outof-the-way villages to museum directors and our guide’s contemporaries, who invited us to spur-of-the-moment private dinners and parties, we were offered friendship and hospitality.
POE: Did you bring back any treasures?
BB: Beautiful silks that can be made into blouses, shirts, and dresses and jewelry with opals and the rarest colored sapphires; they can be designed and delivered to you almost anywhere in Sri Lanka within 48 hours. Other finds included locally-grown spices, Ayurvedic remedies, elephant dung papers, journals and scrapbooks.
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The Crockers at
Rachel & Roshan Gumm attira on their honeymoon, Franz Josef Glacier, NZ.
The Egerton H ouse Hotel in Lo
ndon.
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K O O B H C T E K S “ We had a grea t time and appreciate all P oe Travel’s work which made it so much fun. We were upgraded to a villa with its own pool. It d oesn’t get much better than that. ”
a. in Barcelon Gaudi Park at s rd fo y L The
—Larry Burste in
New York
The Bursteins in
ss and Jud Susan Strau
in Martindale
Saint Martin.
India.
“ Our trip [to India] was fant astic . . . We’re already thinking abou t our next one. The service you provided was outstanding. I was concerned particularly about travel log istics . . . but you made it simple for us . . . . Both of us were so pleased with ou r guides, all of them. . . . There are too many things to mention and that is not really the point. The point is I know we will return, and I hope that Bany an will take care of us again! Thank you for an outstanding trip.”
Keith and Ra Quest, Bri yma Jean Hawkins on Azama tish and N ra orway voy age.
est.
ap Monroe in Bud Nancy and Ark
—Susan & Jud Little Rock
The Healys of Nashville, TN — spring break Las Vegas 20 16!
Peter and Susa n Vaneman at the Kviknes Hotel , Norway.
n The Harrisons with their grandchildre . Italy on a spring break Tauck tour of
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Trivia Fun facts that we learned about Iceland from Jon Olafur Sigurbjornsson of PTI: 1 There are no surnames or family names. (The last name of Icelanders is derived from their father’s first name. In the telephone book everyone is listed by his/her first name.)
5 The Icelandic horse is the only breed in the world who has five gaits, and who has to be free to roam for three months out of the year. (Even the horses have a penchant for the poetic!)
2R oughly 85% of Iceland’s energy is from renewable resources, and well over half of that is geothermal alone.
6 It is home to two of the biggest glaciers in Europe.
3 It contains 2/3 of all the lava in the world.
8 It has the oldest parliament in the world (Vikings).
4 It’s the only place in the world you can descend into a dormant volcano.
7 It’s one of the founding members of NATO.
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