6 minute read
We Asked the Experts
Three pros share the top experiences in their destinations, from strolling along the Dominican Republic’s pristine beaches and tasting the culinary treasures of Portugal to touring temples beyond Angkor Wat in Cambodia.
By Andrew Elkin
Explore Cambodia’s Ancient and Modern Gems
Jim Selkin, Trails of Indochina’s business and creative advisor, reveals the immersive experiences that define an epic visit.
What makes Cambodia an extraordinary place to visit?
Despite its turbulent past, especially over the last 75 years, Cambodia is a growing, vibrant country with an energetic, young population. Most people know the famed Angkor Wat, near Siem Reap — the former Theravada Buddhist temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest religious complex in the world. We take visitors beyond the guided experience there with trained scholars who give them greater insight into the art, history and customs of the temple complexes.
What’s been one of your favorite experiences there?
On one of my first trips to the country, our chief guide took me out to the countryside to visit her aunt’s farm. I learned how they harvest water mimosa plants and pick lotus seed nuts to be used as flavorings and herbal medicines. Touring the local markets gave me a view of daily, rural life, but the highlight was stopping at a horse-drawn cart and having my first taste of Cambodian ice cream. The fresh flavors of mango and mint-chocolate — with bits of real mint leaves — awakened my taste buds.
Which destinations should visitors be sure to see?
Of course, Siem Reap is the most visited and noteworthy. But seeing some of this city’s surrounding areas opens new vistas, such as the gem of Banteay Srei — a temple complex cut from pinkish-hued stone. Its name translates to Citadel of Women, as it is believed to have been built by women. If you visit between September and March, the water level is high enough for you to cruise through the narrow stretch of river connecting the Mekong River with Tonlé Sap, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia.
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Jim Selkin
Trails of Indochina
A travel industry professional for more than 40 years, including a stint as photographer for Air France, Selkin’s current role allows him to share his passion for Southeast Asia through photography and by training travel advisors on Trails of Indochina’s tours and experiences.
Discover Natural Beauty and Culinary Delights in Portugal
Danilo Cerqueira, founder and CEO of TempoVip, on crafting a memorable itinerary that touches every part of Portugal.
Which of Portugal’s many regions and islands is your favorite to visit?
I love nature, but I also love comfort — so my heart is torn between Alentejo, in the southcentral mainland, and Madeira Island. These places are perfect for those who want to reconnect with nature and get away from the crowds in five-star luxury accommodations. There’s also the Algarve region in Portugal’s south, with one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world, and the natural beauty of the Azores is so stunning that it will appeal to any nature enthusiast.
What part of Portugal is both extraordinary and underrated?
Food is integral to Portuguese culture and there are endless opportunities to indulge in the cuisine, from cooking classes with a countess in the Douro Valley, to dining in local houses in Porto, to salt-tasting in the Algarve and visiting an oyster farm on one of the islands. One standout experience I recommend is Xávega Art, where you can participate in the traditional Portuguese art of xávega fishing, followed by a hands-on cooking class using the day’s catch.
What should visitors be sure to seek out in Portugal’s major cities, Porto and Lisbon?
These cities have a charm that captures your heart — every step you take reveals little cafés and narrow streets that seem to have frozen in time. In Lisbon, traditional shops like Livraria Bertrand in Chiado, one of the oldest bookstores in the world, and Luvaria Ulisses, a historic leather-glove shop, are part of modern life. And in Porto, we take visitors for a sunset dinner on one of the arches of Arrábida Bridge, where you can see evening set in over the entire city.
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Danilo Cerqueira
TempoVip
Cerqueira got his start in travel with the tourism board of Salvador da Bahia, Brazil, in 1993. He founded TempoVip in the early 2000s to deliver immersive Portuguese experiences to visitors and help them connect with the distinct qualities of each region.
Find the Beat (and Untouched Beaches) in the Dominican Republic
Sofia Espinal, international sales manager for Bonvidó, shares the diverse destinations and spirited events you can’t miss in this Caribbean country.
What surprises first-time visitors to the Dominican Republic?
There’s so much more than all-inclusive resorts here: We’ve got lush rainforests, stunning beaches, the Caribbean’s highest peak (Pico Duarte) as well as its lowest point (Lago Enriquillo). Adventure-seekers can hike to waterfalls, zip-line through jungles, surf along the north coast or explore the vibrant underwater world while snorkeling or diving along coral reefs. Tobacco, coffee, rum, bachata and merengue music, along with a rich, multicultural history all help define the Dominican identity — not to mention the spirit, warmth and hospitality of our people.
If you had to pick just one place to show off the best of the Dominican Republic, where would it be?
Every region has its charm, but the Samaná Peninsula in the northeast stands out as one of the most enchanting destinations. Its breathtaking landscapes, pristine beaches — Bonvidó’s tour of three virgin beaches in Samaná brings guests to some of the world’s most incredible coastlines — and vibrant yet laid-back atmosphere combine for an unforgettable experience. I also adore the cuisine here, particularly dishes featuring coconut. Pescado al coco (fish in coconut milk) is a personal favorite.
What’s one experience visitors won’t find anywhere else?
Beloved band Grupo Bonyé performs every Sunday at the Ruinas del Monasterio de San Francisco in the Colonial Zone of Santo Domingo, and locals and visitors gather to enjoy the live music and dance under the stars. The event is a celebration of the rich heritage of Dominican music and projects the joy that characterizes the Dominican people, with songs and dances that include merengue, bachata and salsa.
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Sofia Espinal
Bonvidó
Since joining Bonvidó in 2023, Espinal, who spent years representing luxury properties in the Dominican Republic, works alongside partner travel advisors to showcase the country’s unforgettable experiences and one-of-a-kind accommodations.
Contact your Ensemble travel advisor to learn more about these exclusive experiences.
