January/February 2021 Global Traveler by Global Traveler

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January/February 2021

CARTAGENA p. 58 COOK ISLANDS p. 64 FLORENCE p. 48 KENTUCKY p. 68 LIMA p. 62 LUCERNE p. 60 NEW DELHI p. 56 NEW ZEALAND p. 70 SAN ANTONIO p. 54

TROPICAL ALLURE Indulge in the seductive splendor of the Tahitian Islands. p. 72

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR ®

New Year, New Hope

new year brings with it a new set of hope, optimism and positivity. It can be hard not to scoff and say, “We felt this way at this time last year,” especially after all the drama 2020 threw us. As we approach the one-year mark of the shutdown, it’s remarkable at times to realize how last year feels like both yesterday and a lifetime away at the same time. Leaving 2020 in the past, how are you looking to 2021? With skeptical eyes and trepidation, or with cautious optimism and hope for a busy year of travel ahead? We spent the last year and early part of 2021 adapting, and with being able to adapt and change successfully also comes Looking Ahead: an immense sense of pride. My photo this Behind the mask is a hopeful Kimberly. month is a behind-the-scenes glimpse from PHOTO: © KIMBERLY KROL INLANDER a mid-November day, filming our virtual 2020 awards event. When the video went live Dec. 14 (it’s still available on our YouTube channel), I was overcome with pride at the end product. It was truly a global celebration with cooperation from clients around the world. From Yardley, Pennsylvania, we coordinated a worldwide effort of collecting materials, ordering assets, shipping awards, recording clips, marketing the event and much more — all safely with protocols in mind. No matter what 2020 threw our way, we here at Global Traveler, Trazee Travel and WhereverFamily persevered. I’m honored to work with this extraordinary group of people, and this is the mood I’m carrying into 2021. So welcome to our first issue of this new year. It’s crazy to say it, but I’m approaching the one-year mark of my last flight — something I hope to change ASAP. Similar to past years, 2020 business travel started in Chicago, one of my favorite cities in the world, with an early February trip. With one case of coronavirus reported in Illinois at the time, the virus was making news, but there still wasn’t much of a hint as to what was to come. This past year didn’t stop Chicago from improving its two airports, O’Hare International Airport and Midway International Airport. And so, let’s start this year at the gateway where I start most years. Turn to page 78 for more on the two hubs. As we plan 2021 travel, providers around the world continue to enhance safety protocols and pivot to reframe travel in this age. Learn more on the industry’s status as a whole on page 38, and delve deeper with United Airlines on page 42. With the vaccine rollout underway and safety and health at the forefront, we hope 2021 travels can take us to all the farthest-flung corners of the globe. We start the year in Greenland; Florence, Italy; San Antonio, Texas; New Delhi, India; Cartagena, Colombia; Lucerne, Switzerland; Lima, Peru; the Cook Islands; Kentucky; New Zealand; and Tahiti. Next month we recap our awards event and look ahead to the Olympics. Until then, Happy New Year!

EDITORIAL Editor In Chief Kimberly Krol Inlander kim.krol@globaltravelerusa.com Vice President/Digital Director Katie Skrzek katie.skrzek@globaltravelerusa.com Senior Editor Janice Hecht jan.hecht@globaltravelerusa.com Associate Editor/Copy Editor Patricia Vanikiotis patty.vanikiotis@globaltravelerusa.com Associate Editor Angelique Platas angelique.platas@globaltravelerusa.com Social Media & Editorial Coordinator Mary Melnick mary.melnick@globaltravelerusa.com

ART Art Director Tracey Cullen tracey.cullen@globaltravelerusa.com Staff Photographer Christopher P. Ottaunick christopher@globaltravelerusa.com Special Events Video Editor Vance Piccin

COLUMNISTS Margaret Backenheimer Debra Bokur J.D. Brown Mark Chesnut Eunice Fried Jack Guy

WRITERS Kristy Alpert Susan Barnes Ron Bernthal Debra Bokur Becca Hensley Stephen Jermanok Eugenia Lazaris Irvina Lew Allie Moore Richard Newton Brandon Schultz

For complete bios visit globaltravelerusa.com

CIRCULATION Specialists John Wroblewski, Louie Atsaves Managers Jayhawk Evans, Mark P. Ford, Teresa Jackson, Anthony “Scraps” Dimera Circulation Director Michele Shannon Circulation Manager Anna Pudzianowski Research Consultant Sharon Sterne

ADVISORY BOARD Chairman Michael Donahue COO Michael Kiely President Carlos Cappuccio Deputy Vice President Aviation Edward Jefferson Deputy Vice President Accommodations Stephen Doherty Deputy Director Destinations Wayne Tallman Vice President Special Events/Photography Christopher Ottaunick Secretary Mark Lane Research Director Frank LoVerme Director of Technology Bob Hancock Director of Digital Advancement Jared Torgan Vice President of Corporate Giving Jim Bolger

GENERAL COUNSEL Thomas F. Goldman CONTACT US General Inquiries/Issue Requests/Reprints info@globaltravelerusa.com Subscriptions tel 818 286 3134 | gbtcs@magserv.com Public Relations kim.krol@globaltravelerusa.com Letters to the Editor letters@globaltravelerusa.com

Kimberly Krol Inlander Editor in Chief

As of publication, the destinations and venues mentioned in this issue were planning to reopen or are currently operating, but many may have restrictions or limitations in place to address current public health concerns. Always check in advance to confirm current requirements and restrictions.

Global Traveler is published monthly by FXExpress Publications, Inc., 309 Floral Vale Blvd., Yardley, PA 19067. The U.S. subscription rate is $42 for one year, $79.95 for two years, $121.95 for three years. Postmaster: Please send changes of address to Global Traveler, 309 Floral Vale Blvd., Yardley, PA 19067

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LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER ®

The World Awaits

hope you all had the opportunity to watch the FXExpress Publications combined awards show, The Greatest Show on Earth! We presented the winners of the GT Tested Reader Survey awards, the Wines on the Wing airline Play Time: Francis enjoying a fun golf outing at Nags Head Golf Links, North Carolina wine competition, the Leisure Lifestyle Awards, The Trazees PHOTO: © FRANCIS X. GALLAGHER and the Wherever Awards. You can view the ceremony by visiting globaltravelerusa.com, trazeetravel.com or whereverfamily.com; it is housed in a sponsored content post and hosted on YouTube. When this issue hits, I will be enjoying our annual Valentine’s Day dinner at Ocean Boulevard Bistro and Martini Bar in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. I’m hoping it won’t be too cold; one Valentine’s Day the temperature dipped below 14 degrees and the water pipes froze solid. Like many, I spent January working remotely (in Florida), and I am certainly ready to get back in the swing of things as vaccines continue to deploy across the country and the world. It has been a challenging year, but we are ready to dive right back into travel — there is so much pent-up demand. Travel has changed dramatically and will continue to be different from before, but it surely will be significantly better. For now, I have a lot of trips to replan: golf in Kiawah Island, a European riverboat cruise, business trips to Asia and more of the regular trips around the country for results-oriented, face-to-face meetings. Nothing ever replaces them. Zoom to Teams, remote meetings will not stand the test of time, as there is nothing better than breaking bread with your clients and seeing them in person. I would like to “Zoom shame” those of you who do not turn on your cameras! After all the time I spend getting ready for a video conference, it turns into just a conference call. Many of the Zooms could have been telephone calls, but we all seem wrapped up in Zooming. Let’s hope these sessions diminish as we begin to meet in person. After 9/11, videoconferencing replaced business trips, but only for a short while. The truth is, once one of your competitors gets out in front of you with your clients — face to face — and takes them away from you (which will happen), you need to get out there and see them in the flesh. Check out Martin Zimmerman’s Los Angeles Times article from Sept. 11, 2006, on the decline of videoconferencing — maybe this time is different, maybe not. Here’s to a reduction in videoconferencing and an increase in vaccines!

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48 features

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January/February 2021

The Long Haul The travel industry navigates through the landscape of a global pandemic.

CARTAGENA p. 58 COOK ISLANDS p. 64 FLORENCE p. 48 KENTUCKY p. 68 LIMA p. 62 LUCERNE p. 60 NEW DELHI p. 56 NEW ZEALAND p. 70 SAN ANTONIO p. 54

TROPICAL ALLURE

Back to the Skies United Airlines leads the way to the safe rebound of air travel.

Indulge in the seductive splendor of the Tahitian Islands. p. 72

COVER PHOTO: BORA BORA PHOTO: © ALEXANDER SHALAMOV | DREAMSTIME.COM

globaltravelerusa.com JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

business destinations 48

Destination One: Florence Florence forges a creative path to recovery and sustainability.

Stateside: San Antonio Set your sights on San Antonio’s art, culture and green spaces.

MICE: New Delhi India’s capital city stands ready to accommodate the needs of industry and innovation.

9–5: Cartagena Cartagena sets the stage for the return of travel.

After 5: Lucerne Stroll the magical medieval city of Lucerne.

PHOTO: © SERGEY NOVIKOV | DREAMSTIME.COM

January/February 2021

CONTENTS

CMY

TO SEOUL AND BEYOND Be connected. To Seoul, Asia, and beyond with Asiana Airlines. Your connection to the world.

Reservations • 1-800-2ASIANA • flyasiana.com

CONTENTS

in every issue 10 14 16 22

26 28 29 30 32 34 36 76 78 80 82

Mail Call News Reviews One on One Uniworld Boutique River Cruises One on One Relais & Châteaux Technology Wine & Spirits Wealth Spas Golf Chefs Cruising LGBTQ+ Airport Update Medical Tourism Preview

January/February 2021

leisure destinations 62

Neighborhoods: Lima Seaside districts attract surfers, art lovers and gourmands.

Friends & Family: Cook Islands Escape to the unspoiled beauty of the Cook Islands.

68 70

Bucket List: New Zealand Jump into adventure in Queenstown, New Zealand.

Kicking Back: Tahiti Indulge in the seductive splendor of the Tahitian Islands.

EXPRESS

P U B L I C AT I O N S , I N C .

Global Traveler and Globility are registered trademarks of Global Traveler magazine and of its parent company, FXExpress Publications, Inc. Global Traveler is not affiliated with any commercial interests within the travel industry. The opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher, nor can the publisher accept responsibility for errors or omissions. The magazine cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited articles, photographs or other material. AAM member 04-0361-2. AAM audited circulation 111,517. ISSN 1551-7187 ©2021 FXExpress Publications, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part of text, photographs or illustrations without permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited.

globaltravelerusa.com JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

PHOTO: © SAIKIT LEUNG | DREAMSTIME.COM

Tours: Kentucky Tour and taste the state’s best bourbon.

WHERE YOU WANT TO BE

For more information, contac t your preferre d Tour Op erator, 1 . 8 8 8 . 74 1 . 5 6 0 0 o r P A R A D I S U S . C O M

MAIL CALL

Q&A WITH HALEY FOGARTY, ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE I think I speak for most when I say I was disappointed to have so many travel plans rearranged or canceled in 2020. So, for the new year, I am making it a resolution to travel enough for 2020 and 2021 combined! What travel plans are you looking forward to? Tell us. Email us at letters@globaltravelerusa.com

In our December issue, social media and editorial coordinator Mary Melnick discussed the GT Tested Reader Survey awards and brand loyalty, which inspired the question: What are your favorite travel brands, and which favorite destination do you find yourself visiting over and over? A few readers responded. My wife and I are loyal to American Airlines and are both Hilton Honors members. We travel for work, and syncing up to the same rewards programs made our personal travel life easier and affordable. MARK KIRKPATRICK, VIA EMAIL I’m a Southwest Airlines supporter. I’ve had a card for years and received so many benefits, including incredibly affordable rates. LISA WILKS, VIA EMAIL I’m a recent Away luggage loyalist, and I’m always suggesting any piece for anyone looking for a gift. My partner gave me a carry-on bag from Away a few years ago, and I’ve added to my collection ever since. Highly recommend. JACK COLEMAN, VIA EMAIL We are a family of United Airlines members. My husband and I have been long-time United travelers and always fly with United whenever we can on family trips as well. Now our kids travel for work and vacations, also opting for United when they can. ANITA TILMAN, VIA EMAIL

globaltravelerusa.com JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

SPEAKING OF BRAND LOYALTY … In our December 2020 Awards Issue, we announced the winners of the GT Tested Reader Survey, and a reader wrote in with thoughts on the winners. I can’t say I agree with many of the winners this year. Yes, 2020 was a hard year for travel, but many of the companies listed did next to nothing to make travelers’ lives easier when canceling trips or rebooking. Several of my friends are just now getting refunds, if anything at all. Most companies I dealt with just wanted to reschedule, which I wasn’t comfortable doing back in April, not knowing when travel would reopen. Not impressed — some of these industry giants need to do better.

CONTACT GT DO YOU HAVE A STORY TO SHARE? THOUGHTS ON A RECENT GT ARTICLE?

MIKE RAWLINGS, VIA EMAIL

MEANWHILE, IN THE COMMENTS In our Dec. 24, 2020, daily content on globaltraveler usa.com, we discussed United’s industry-leading approach to pandemic safety measures, including teaming with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in collecting customer contact information on domestic and international flights. This article inspired a couple of readers to comment on our various social media channels with thoughts. One example: United also packs its planes 100 percent full, while Delta does not — just saying. @WANDERTHISWAY, TRAVEL BLOGGER, VIA INSTAGRAM

Email: letters@globaltravelerusa.com Write: Letters to the Editor 309 Floral Vale Blvd. Yardley, PA 19067 Letters must be written exclusively to Global Traveler and must include your full name, mailing address and contact phone number. Letters become the property of Global Traveler. We cannot respond to every letter. Global Traveler reserves the right to edit letters to the editor for length and clarity. The opinions expressed in Mail Call are not necessarily those of Global Traveler, and Global Traveler cannot accept responsibility for errors or omissions.

PHOTO: © HALEY FOGARTY

Q&A WITH MARY MELNICK, SOCIAL MEDIA AND EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

W E LC O M E

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MAIL CALL

ALL ABOUT ASIANA In our Nov. 18, 2020, issue of eFlyerUSA, we covered the acquisition of Asiana Airlines by competitor Korean Air. The majority ownership deal, to the tune of $1.6 billion, will give Korean Air a strong hold over the Asian travel market and will eventually phase out the Asiana Airlines brand. A few avid travelers and readers wrote in with thoughts. We traveled frequently on Asiana Airlines and have been thoroughly impressed with its service, reliability, food and accommodation to all of our needs. We hope its excellent service will continue once it becomes part of Korean Air.

We look forward to once again traveling on Asiana or Korean Air once they have combined their service. JULIE GARDINIER, VIA EMAIL I’m an Asian traveler who looks for good deals when traveling, as well as safety. With this acquisition, would Asiana’s fares go up?

SIMON BLAIR, VIA EMAIL

MARINA C., LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA

I don’t know when I will fly to Asia again, but I’m sad to see Asiana Airlines may no longer be a brand when I get there!

As an avid flyer of Asiana Airlines and novice to Korean Air, I’m pretty apprehensive about this deal. I’d hate to see one of my favorite airlines change beyond recognition.

We are extremely satisfied customers. We only traveled business/first class; therefore, I cannot comment about the economy service.

www.globaltravelerusa.com | $3.50

May 2011

GT is more than just a magazine. If you have a computer or smartphone, you can connect with GT. ABU DHABI

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fine vines

TEL AVIV

Torrontés Tango

FAMILY BUSINESS MEETS ROMANCE IN THE WHITE CITY

Argentina’s signature white will have all your senses dancing.

n an attempt to describe Torrontés, Argentina’s signature white wine, some have compared it to Pinot Grigio, Viognier, even Riesling. But none come close. Made from the grape of the same name, Torrontés is like no other. It begins with an aroma that conjures up a bouquet of flowers (the honeyed, perfumed Muscat of Alexandria is one of its ancestors), hinting that a sweet wine will follow. But no, Torrontés goes toward dry and fruity with a tangy and spicy edge. It is the perfect aperitif and equally right with shellfish, Niçoise salad, chicken, other whitemeat dishes, lightly flavored cheese and many Asian foods. As Americans discover this intriguing wine, they will also discover that, with a myriad of choices, even the most attractive Torrontés usually costs under $20. And what are the most attractive Torrontés? Among two dozen that I’ve recently tasted, these are my favorites. Xavier Flouret Flaca 2008 ($18) is one of the most elegant Torrontés, with a delicate floral nose that hints of apricot and peach; a dry, Powered by round, well-structured body; a fruit-filled taste and vibrant acidity; and a long, delicious finish. Its Muscat ancestor comes to the fore in Lo Tengo 2009’s ($11.50) vivid, flowery aroma. It goes on to be a clearly focused, intensely flavored, bright and satisfying wine. IN THE COOK ISLANDS, on Rarotonga, I’m walking along a dusty path, edged There is a suggestion of by a plethora of plants and trees. Fat papayas hang from their umbrella-like sweet mint and an evocation trees; bananas, still green on the stem, invite; and mangos, ripe and ready, have of orange and peach in Finca fallen from their roost. Blossoming bushes waft a perfume, butterflies circle halos La Linda 2009’s ($11) aroma, around my head, and a stream gurgles nearby. A mother sow and her family of followed by a relatively full body cartoonish piglets join me on the road. Not one but 10 roosters crow in competing symphonies — though early morning is long past. The sea lies nearby, but and excellent balance. Altogether a here, hiking inland, surrounded by steep hills and much vegetation, I feel like the pleasing, inviting wine. only person left on Earth. Finca El Origen Reserva 2009 ($12) Luckily, I’m not. I share this walk with one of the Cook Islands’ most Ease body, mind and soul in is clean, crisp and refreshing, offering a famous residents, a larger-than-life figure known as Uncle Pa, once a world typical Torrontés floral flavor with pear the natural goodness of the surfing champion. Though an octogenarian, he wears long dreadlocks, treks and peach overtones and a gentle reminder shirtless and sports a colorful sarong. With rippling muscles and the physique of citrus fruits in the A particularly of a 30-year-old man, he belies aging and serves as the metaphorical poster Cook Islands. BY mouth. BECCA HENSLEY harmonious wine. child for his role as this island nation’s most famous healer. An herbalist or The delightful Pascual Toso 2009 ($15) kahuna, he learned from his grandmother about the power of the plants that BEACHSIDE BLISS:herbal notes grow on these less-traveled islands. Intuitive, fearless, with a foot in both the combines keen fruit flavors, Spa treatment on the beach at and a fresh lemony acidity with a trace of past and the modern world, Uncle Pa has helped thousands of people regain Aitutaki Lagoon their health over the years. As we walk, he picks leaves, flowers, berries and honey and floral tones. PHOTO: © STEVE ALLEN | DREAMSTIME.COM Following its aroma of fresh flowers and ripefruit. He tells me how he makes elixirs or poultices from them; he lets me taste fruit, Colomé 2009 ($15) is a graceful wine with notes reminiscent of grapefruit. 72citric globaltravelerusa.com JUNE 2017 The pale-shaded Dominio del Plata’s Crios 2009 ($13.50) has a lilac-scented aroma with peach overtones followed by a dry, tangy taste. 

Art of Healing

www.globaltravelerusa.com

INFO TO GO

A variety of international airlines fly to Rarotonga International Airport on the Cook Islands’ main island. In December 2016 Air New Zealand began weekly non-stop flights on its comfortable Boeing 777-200 aircraft, which offers a new premium-economy option, from Los Angeles (LAX), making the trek from the United States easier than ever.

Visit our website to access past and present articles, reports, guides, hot travel links and deals and video interviews, as well as forms for subscribing to the magazine and our eFlyer newsletter.

WHAT’S HAPPENING ON GT BLOGS? Updated daily, our blogs offer readers an inside look at the lives and travels of the GT staff. Last month we featured blogs about everything from exploring New River Gorge National Park in West Virginia to horseback riding in Aurora, Colorado.

globaltravelerusa.com/blog

ADVENTURE AWAITS IN THE LAND OF FIRE AND ICE

May 2011 | Global Traveler | 35

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kicking back | COOK

I fly Korean Air quite a bit for work, so I’m pleased to hear it will acquire Asiana Airlines and add to the network. It was already pretty expansive and hit all the hubs I needed, but I do wonder if this move to eliminate the competition will cause prices to rise.

FLY WITH CONFIDENCE For the Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA), there is no higher priority than the safety and well-being of the traveling public and its airport community in Chicago. Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Hare and Midway International Airports, which are operated by the CDA, are committed to providing travelers with safe and efficient facilities, while offering best-in-class services and amenities. The CDA continues to work closely with federal, state, and local agencies to ensure travelers are healthy, comfortable and safe. Chicagoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s airports are ready to make your essential travel possible. For more information on what we are doing, visit flychicago.com/covid

/fly2ohare /fly2midway

@flyohare @flymidway

@fly2ohare @fly2midway

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NEWS, DEALS AND REWARDS

MMGY Global released the latest findings of its Travel Intentions Pulse Survey and Travel Safety Barometer to find out how Americans feel about travel amid news of effective vaccines and a rise in COVID-19 cases. The majority of the 1,200 American leisure and business travelers agree the most important consideration for future travel plans is the availability of an effective vaccine. According to the survey, 50 percent would receive the vaccine as soon as it’s available to them, with 40 percent waiting a few months and 9 percent stating they will not get the vaccine. Thirty-one percent say the opinions of family and friends are important when deciding future travel plans, a number which rose from 25 percent in October 2020. However, the number of respondents likely to take a domestic leisure trip during the next six months remained steady at 41 percent. Those likely to take an international trip in the next six months rose from 21 percent to 25. When it comes to business travel, the number of respondents likely to take a domestic business trip increased to 38 percent from 34. One in five are likely to attend a conference or convention, with one in four likely to attend an off-site business meeting. Lodging responses remain mostly unchanged since July: 39 percent say they are likely to stay in a hotel/resort in the next six months, and 32 percent say they are likely to stay in a vacation home/rental in the same timeframe.

Marriott International identified health protocol options for meeting professionals attending group meetings at select Marriott-branded hotels in the United States. The protocols enhance the initiatives already in place with the Connect with Confidence program, recently launched to empower meeting professionals to identify and tailor solutions to best satisfy the needs of their group. The optional health protocols include self-administered COVID19 tests taken by guests before arrival or COVID-19 testing administered by a third-party provider on site. Daily temperature checks to enter the event area can be arranged, as can daily and/or pre-arrival health screening questions via a dedicated mobile application. The new optional health protocols for meetings and events at Gaylord Hotels and Resorts began January 2021. Properties in Florida, Tennessee, Texas and Colorado are applicable. The protocols are expected to then roll out at certain other U.S. Marriottbranded hotels. The Connect with Confidence program, launched in August, offers digital content and best practices for meeting professionals to plan future events. In November a global series of hybrid virtual and in-person events was held in Virginia to showcase Marriott’s reimagined processes and meeting spaces. Marriott also has a Global Cleanliness Council and a Commitment to Clean, launched earlier this year.

_______

mmgyglobal.com

marriott.com

Half of American Travelers Plan to Get COVID-19 Vaccine

Philadelphia Flower Show Outdoors This Summer The world-famous Philadelphia Flower Show will be reimagined in 2021. The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society announced the show, typically held in March at the convention center, will be held June 5–13 at Franklin Delano Roosevelt Park in South Philadelphia. The move to an outdoor venue for the first time in the Philadelphia Flower Show’s history will allow for new, creative expression and horticultural displays as well as allow for social distancing. The expanded show will cover 15 acres and will showcase both new features as well as cherished elements of the show. The new themed experience will take place within three distinct “districts,” featuring plants, design and gardening. Philadelphia’s FDR Park was built to the design of the Olmsted Brothers in the early 20th century. Attendees must reserve a date and time for all tickets purchased; tickets went on sale in January, and early purchase is recommended. _______ phsonline.org

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Marriott Announces COVID-19 Testing, Optional Protocols for Groups

Koala Determines Top 10 U.S. Ski Resorts Koala, an online marketplace that connects travelers with timeshare owners, recently analyzed more than 450 U.S. ski resorts on factors including annual snowfall, length of runs, cost of an adult ski pass and review ratings to determine the top 10 U.S. ski resorts to enjoy this winter. According to the Koala research, the top 10 are Park City, Utah Vail, Colorado Winter Park Resort, Colorado Breckenridge, Colorado Big Sky Resort, Nevada Jackson Hole, Wyoming Snowmass, Colorado Telluride, Colorado Keystone, Colorado Mt. Baker, Washington The research further found Park City is not only the No. 1-ranked ski resort but also the largest, with 820,010 feet of runs and 39 ski lifts. Lost Trail Powder Mountain in Montana is the cheapest of the top 100 resorts, with a day pass at $46. The most expensive, Vail, is about $219 for a day pass. Vail is, however, the best-reviewed ski resort in America, with factors such as variety of runs, slope preparation and après-ski offerings considered. Photogenic vistas are also a factor for Americans when selecting a resort, with Park City mentioned in the highest number of Instagram posts at 1.1 million. Thus Park City is the most Instagram-worthy skiing destination in the United States. The snowiest ski resort is Jackson Hole, Wyoming, where more than 450 inches of snow fell in the 2019/2020 ski season.

Give a Gift, Get a Gift with AmaWaterways AmaWaterways launched an all-new Referral Savings Offer. Through March 31, past guests can direct friends and family to book their first AmaWaterways cruise with a travel advisor using a personal referral code. When a personal contact books, the past guest earns up to $500 in savings on their next river cruise. When using the referral code, the recipient also enjoys $100 off their first river cruise. Past guests can refer an unlimited number of friends and family, accruing stateroom savings for future trips. Up to $300 of the savings can be applied to seven- or 10-night sailings, or $500 toward 11- and 14-night voyages. _______ amawaterways.com

_______

PHOTOS: © ILJA MAŠÍK | DREAMSTIME.COM, © TOM SAMWORTH | DREAMSTIME.COM, © AMAWATERWAYS

go-koala.com

Delta Air Lines Chooses Viasat’s In-Flight Connectivity Delta Air Lines recently finalized a partnership with Viasat and took steps to introduce a Delta-developed WiFi access portal to enhance how travelers interact with WiFi. Adding Viasat’s next-generation satellite technology, Ka-Band, will allow the airline to modernize the connection. The new technology is expected on board in summer 2021 for more than 300 mainline narrow-body aircraft. The Ka-Band satellite-powered technology includes faster, more consistent connections and an ability to stream all types of entertainment and content to any internet-ready device, gate to gate. The outfitted aircraft will be compatible with Viasat’s fleet of satellites — first-generation spacecraft and partner satellites; second-generation spacecraft ViaSat-2; and the forthcoming ViaSat-3 class of satellites, expecting to offer global coverage with nearly eight times more capacity than the current fleet.

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_______ delta.com viasat.com

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CONRAD WASHINGTON DC ARRIVAL/CHECK-IN: We drove from Philadelphia to Washington, D.C., without a hitch in early October. In communication with the Conrad staff, I was directed to the CityCenter Garage, where I could park and recharge my car. It was right around the corner and convenient; from the garage it is a short walk to the front of the hotel. Check-in took place on the ground floor versus the lobby to reduce touch points during COVID-19. The staff politely greeted us and gave us our keys; I was in room 1027. From the ground floor we took the elevator to the lobby level and transferred to the elevator bank to the rooms. GUEST QUARTERS: The first thing I noticed was the Hilton CleanStay seal on the door; this provided confirmation and comfort that the room had been cleaned and sanitized using Lysol products and following the CleanStay protocol. It also ensured no one else had been in the room after the cleaning. My large junior suite included a large TV in the sitting room and one on the opposing wall facing the king-sized bed. The desk offered an option to look out the large window or watch either TV while working. There was a small sofa so you could relax and unwind and a single upholstered chair with an ottoman — all modern, cleanly designed furniture. The large bathroom had a double sink and lots of towels. The counter held a display of Mandarin Tea bath amenities which I enjoyed; I don’t bring my own and rely on the hotel’s supply. The shower was huge, with a sleek, all-glass front; top-to-bottom marble walls; and a terrific showerhead.

globaltravelerusa.com JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

Great location and within walking distance to many of the treasures of D.C.; The White House is only blocks away.

-------------------------Masterful specialty cocktails are served with The Botanist Gin infusing method.

For dinner, we stepped out to Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse as recommended by my friend Michael Irving of Charlie Palmer’s Steakhouse. Kyle Gaffney, general manager, took great care of us. REVIEWED BY Francis X. Gallagher

CONRAD WASHINGTON DC 950 New York Ave. N.W. Washington, DC 20001 tel 202 844 5900 hilton.com

PHOTOS: © FRANCIS X. GALLAGHER

SERVICES/AMENITIES: While at the property we received a tour with Laura Schofield, general manager. Laura took us through the property restaurants and meeting space, which was quite spectacular. Due to COVID-19, many of the restaurants were not open, but we could eat at a main grab-and-go service in the Estuary Bar or order a drink in the evening. At the time, the bars and restaurants were not open every night, but they created a rather unique Hidden Terrace where guests enjoy a special menu outside, off the lobby. Summit the Roof Top at the Conrad has unique views of the city’s monuments. We also met with Danny Hughes, president of Hilton, for a “One on One” interview (see the December 2020 issue). All meetings were socially distant and with masks.

TOP TAKEAWAYS:

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BUDGET RENT A CAR TAMPA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

PHOTOS: © FRANCIS X. GALLAGHER

PICK-UP: I flew into Tampa International Airport for a trip to Sarasota as a birthday celebration. Nearly everyone altered travel plans due to COVID; I was supposed to travel to Europe for a Uniworld river cruise, but it’s been delayed until next year. Picking up a car at Tampa is simple. You take the train to the main terminal and switch to an elevated train to the rental car center. Everything is well-marked, but people still get completely confused. I had rented a pickup truck as I planned to do a little work around the house — what else can one do these days? Pick-up was swift, and I ended up with a silver Toyota Tacoma, which fit the bill. DRIVING: I have a 2016 Tacoma at home, so I understand and like this truck. It drives more like a truck, so on long rides it can be a little uncomfortable. Oddly, it had SiriusXM, but it was not functioning; I learned later via an email I could upgrade to get the service for a fee. No thanks! Needing to pick up some 12-foot-long lumber at Lowe’s, I found this vehicle was perfect. The newer Tacomas have a small center back window that opens electronically (mine is manual) — great for sliding long pieces of wood through. Lumber versus a luxury river cruise — interesting! I was surprised by the condition of the truck, with lots of bumper scratches, so I took a few pictures for my own protection when returning the vehicle. No one said a word. Oddly, at check-in I was asked if I wanted to prepay the fuel, and I declined. I have never found this option makes sense, as you always seem to pay more. The clerk was not thrilled with the response and told me it was the same rate as outside, but I still declined and she gave me a face. Even the Budget website offers three refilling options, and the best is “self.” RETURN: Returning is simple at Tampa, and now that I have completed this process so many times, I know exactly where the gas station is to top off the vehicle.

TOP TAKEAWAYS: Tampa has better rental service and more employees working than Sarasota. Make sure you use the membership self-service programs or you may encounter long lines.

-------------------------Select the toll option to avoid added fees, or simply use the cash lines. BUDGET RENT A CAR budget.com

REVIEWED BY: Francis X. Gallagher

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021 globaltravelerusa.com

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HYATT PLACE FLORENCE / DOWNTOWN

GUEST QUARTERS: The room was a mini suite with a built-in sofa and two queen-sized beds — yes, the dogs got one of them. A large TV hung on the opposing wall, with cabinets flanking the walls around. The large bathroom had a single sink and a big

globaltravelerusa.com JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

shower. Shampoo and conditioner were provided, along with larger bars of hand soap. The water pressure in the shower was inadequate, but there were plenty of towels. SERVICES/AMENITIES: Starving from the drive, I did have a burger at the lobby bar served in a grab-and-go style, but you could sit at the bar. The French fries were superior and the burger was room temperature, but I was hungry so I ate it. We took the pups around Florence, which seems to have a lot of nice restaurants. As it was just before the holidays, there were many festive decorations and an impressive light show right next to our hotel. Speaking to some locals, we learned Florence experienced a resurgence and redevelopment of the downtown area in 2010. Prior to that, they said, “You would not have been caught dead downtown.” I can tell you it is a charming, walkable town, and I was sorry I had so little time to discover the shops and restaurants. On the pet-friendly aspect, we were surprised we did not receive any welcome package of something for the dogs, as they did ask for their names when I made the reservation. I also found the pet relief area too far and too small. Parking was across the street in a secure lot behind the police department. REVIEWED BY: Francis X. Gallagher

TOP TAKEAWAYS: During the Civil War, Florence was a major railway hub for the Confederacy and the home of the Florence Stockade, which held 18,000 Union soldiers in terrible conditions.

-------------------------Ella was dying to hit the pool, but I think that was also against regulations. HYATT PLACE FLORENCE / DOWNTOWN 100 E. Evans St. Florence, SC 29506 tel 843 519 9900 hyatt.com

PHOTOS: © HYATT PLACE FLORENCE, SC, © FRANCIS X. GALLAGHER

ARRIVAL/CHECK-IN: Florence, South Carolina, is wellknown to travelers driving from the Northeast to Florida as the halfway point off of I-95. After researching, it looked like this property had a good track record for those traveling with pets, so I called and spoke with Hyatt reservations to book and secure the details. The fee for the two dogs traveling with us, Ella and Beau, was $75 for both. On the receipt, the charge was referred to as a Pet Cleaning Fee. When I made the reservation, I received a discounted World of Hyatt member rate. They did tell me the dogs were not allowed in the restaurants, and I said that was sad as Beau likes to pony up to the bar. The reservationist thought that was funny. After nearly 10 hours of driving, we arrived at the hotel and parked temporarily on the side to check in. I took Ella and Beau in for check-in while my wife waited in the car. We were offered room 310, close to the elevators, and I had to sign a waiver stating I was responsible for the pets and their actions. I asked where the pet relief area was and was told it was beyond the pool. These guys needed a break! We went to the room after parking the car and then took a bellman’s trolley to get our luggage and supplies. The lot is about a half a block away.

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KIMPTON CARDINAL HOTEL ARRIVAL/CHECK-IN: We arrived at Kimpton Cardinal Hotel just after 5 p.m. on a Friday evening. After a fast, easy check-in, we were offered a drink during their social hour. We decided to go see our rooms first and then come back to enjoy a cocktail in their colorful and eclectic lobby. We took note of a cruiser bike in the lobby with a sign saying they are available for guests to ride around WinstonSalem. We already loved this hotel!

PHOTOS: © KIMPTON CARDINAL HOTEL

GUEST QUARTERS: I was traveling with a friend and her son, so we enjoyed the convenience of a suite with an adjacent room. The spacious King Suite featured a separate seating area with a pullout sofa bed and a large armoire that acted as the closet, housing two robes and a yoga mat in case we wanted a nice in-room yoga session. A spacious bathroom with spa shower and soaking tub featured luxury bath amenities by Atelier Bloem. One thing that sets the Kimpton Cardinal apart from other hotels is its attention to details. Thought is put into every single surface. The bathroom featured subtle gray wallpaper with cardinals and flowers and tile floors that looked like hardwood in a herringbone pattern. The wall with the showerhead had textured gray tiles, while the side with the soaking tub had smooth marble and the floor had small white and gray octagon tiles. In the bedroom a nightstand sat on one side of the bed, and on the other a table was suspended by ropes and metal clips from the ceiling. Over the headboard, made up of two complementary fabrics along with leather accents, hung a display of deer antlers with a bouquet of white flowers in the center. And the accent pillow on the bed was covered in bugs. No, not real bugs — cute, artsy, watercolor-style insects to tie into the subtle nature theme. SERVICES/AMENITIES: After dinner in walkable downtown Winston-Salem, home to many unique restaurants and boutique stores, we came back to explore the hotel more. We followed signs to the fitness room in the basement, but along the way we saw a sign for the Recreation Room. Our interest piqued, we walked through the door into an enormous space housing just about every game you could think of. Past a grouping of stadium seats in front of a wall of TVs where you could watch every sport imaginable, a metal walkway led to steps down to the fun. But for kids, the two-story spiral slide provides a much more fun way to get down to the bottom floor. Once on the lower level, we found

TOP TAKEAWAYS: Overnight valet parking is the most convenient option at the property, but a parking garage right behind the hotel offers free parking on weekends.

-------------------------The hotel has a distinctive collection of venues throughout 6,375 square feet of meeting space. Two ballrooms host gatherings of up to 245 attendees. Smaller meeting rooms are ideal for executive board meetings.

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a pool table, foosball, ping-pong, shuffleboard, card game tables, a large wall-mounted Scrabble game, a basketball court and a two-lane bowling alley! Traveling with two teenagers, this was definitely a lifesaver. Instead of spending the evening with their heads buried in their cellphones, they enjoyed a night of bowling, basketball and a slew of other games. I am surprised they ever left to go up to the rooms to sleep. The on-site restaurant, Katharine Brasserie & Bar, with a menu boasting a blend of traditional brasserie fare and Southern cooking, was open for dine-in or take-out. The bar was, to say the least, impressive! There was also a nicely lit outdoor patio with heaters for those wishing to dine alfresco. I just can’t say enough great things about this hotel. I know the next time we head out to western North Carolina, we’ll be sure to make a stop in Winston-Salem and shoot some hoops or knock down some pins at the Kimpton Cardinal.

The hotel is in the historic R.J. Reynolds building, built in 1929. It was the architectural inspiration for New York City’s Empire State Building. KIMPTON CARDINAL HOTEL 401 N. Main St. Winston-Salem, NC 27101 tel 336 724 1009 thecardinalhotel.com

REVIEWED BY: Tracey Cullen

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021 globaltravelerusa.com

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MEADOWBROOK INN ARRIVAL/CHECK-IN: We arrived at the Meadowbrook Inn around 2 p.m., before check-in time, but I checked at the desk to see if our room happened to be ready ahead of schedule. It wasn’t quite ready yet, but they offered to give me a call when it was all set. So we decided to take a short drive up the Blue Ridge Parkway to Grandfather Mountain for a nice, scenic hike on this beautiful fall day. During our hike I did receive a call stating our room was ready at 3 p.m. We took our time and enjoyed our hike and the beautiful views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, one of the major chains of the Appalachian Mountains. Proximity to these amazing hiking trails is definitely a major draw for this hotel. When we got back to the hotel, check-in was swift, and after passing through the quaint and cozy lobby furnished with chairs and a fireplace, we headed to our room. GUEST QUARTERS: Our room had sliding glass doors that opened up to the first-floor terrace featuring a fire table — a great place to relax with a glass of wine on a chilly evening. We could also hear the relaxing sounds of a babbling brook with a small waterfall and a duck pond. The room offered two double beds, a chair, desk and a television. WiFi is complimentary. The bathroom had a combination tub and shower with nice stone tiles. The next morning I took a shower and discovered the bathroom lacked a hairdryer, which I found odd. But if I had more thoroughly read the COVID-19 info sheet given at check-in, I would have seen hairdryers and irons are available upon request at the front desk. But we were in a hurry to get going, so I just left with damp hair. Lesson learned for next time — read the new COVID19 rules carefully!

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The hotel has a new rooftop apiary which features two hives of Italian hybrid honey bees. The wildflower honey is harvested in partnership with Bee Kind Family Farm and used by the executive chef in signature dishes for banquets and events.

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During the summer, an heirloom vegetable and herb garden is planted near the duck pond.

needs. The hotel was within walking distance of downtown Blowing Rock, home to many restaurants and quaint boutique stores. This, and the proximity to outdoor activities such as hiking, zip-lining or skiing, make Meadowbrook a great place to stay in this mountainous area of western North Carolina. REVIEWED BY: Tracey Cullen

MEADOWBROOK INN 711 Main St. Blowing Rock, NC 28605 tel 828 295 4300 meadowbrook-inn.com

PHOTOS: ©MEADOWBROOK INN

SERVICES/AMENITIES: Due to COVID-19, some amenities were altered during our stay, but even with the restrictions, the property has tried to make amenities available as best it can. The pool and fitness room were not generally open, but you could make a reservation to use them. Breakfast was offered as a take-out box instead of a buffet. Instead of the welcome reception on Fridays and Saturdays, beer and wine by the bottle were available for purchase and could be enjoyed on the terrace. One thing I found remarkable about Meadowbrook Inn was the number of meeting spaces. It offers 10,000 square feet of conference, meeting and event space distributed across multiple locations on the property. The event spaces range from a gazebo outside, perfect for an intimate wedding, to the outdoor spaces on the Patio or the Terrace, to the large Four Seasons Ballroom, which can accommodate up to 350 people. These spaces, paired with five other meeting rooms, make this property flexible for many different

TOP TAKEAWAYS:

2021 Leisure Lifestyle Awards Ballot Please write in your personal favorites, based on your own experience, on the line next to each of the following categories.

Best Beaches ___________________________________________________________________________

Best River Cruise Line __________________________________________________________________

Best Historical Attractions, Domestic __________________________________________________

Best Cruise Line Entertainment _______________________________________________________

Best Historical Attractions, International _______________________________________________

Best Cruise Line Dining ________________________________________________________________

Best Adventure Destination, Domestic_________________________________________________

Best Cruise Line Spa ____________________________________________________________________

Best Adventure Destination, International _____________________________________________

Best Cruise Ship Excursions ___________________________________________________________

Best Leisure Destination in the United States _________________________________________

Best Cruise Line Rewards Program ___________________________________________________

Best Leisure Destination in Europe_____________________________________________________

Best Cruise Port ________________________________________________________________________

Best Leisure Destination in Africa ______________________________________________________

Best Luxury Leisure Hotel Group in the World _______________________________________

Best Leisure Destination in Asia________________________________________________________

Best Hotel Chain Resorts ______________________________________________________________

Best Leisure Destination in Latin/South America______________________________________

Best Pet-Friendly Hotel ________________________________________________________________

Best Leisure Destination in Mexico_____________________________________________________

Best Family Resort Chain in the World ________________________________________________

Best Leisure Destination for Groups (Four or More)___________________________________

Best All-Inclusive Resort_________________________________________________________________

Best Weekend Destination in North America__________________________________________

Best Tour Operator_____________________________________________________________________

Best Weekend Destination in the World_______________________________________________

Best Airport for Layovers_______________________________________________________________

Best North American Ski Destination___________________________________________________

Best Airport Recreation_________________________________________________________________

Best International Ski Destination______________________________________________________

Best Stopover Program_________________________________________________________________

Best Caribbean Island _________________________________________________________________

Best Leisure Airline ____________________________________________________________________

Best Island in Europe __________________________________________________________________

Best Airline Onboard Entertainment___________________________________________________

Best Island Pacific Rim _________________________________________________________________

Best Airline Onboard Menu_____________________________________________________________

Best Family Cruise Line ________________________________________________________________

Best Premium-Economy Class ________________________________________________________

Best Luxury Cruise Line ________________________________________________________________

Best Pet-Friendly Airline ________________________________________________________________

Best Value Cruise Line__________________________________________________________________

Best Luxury Vehicle ____________________________________________________________________

Best Cruise Line Suites _________________________________________________________________

Best Car Rental _________________________________________________________________________

Best Adventure Cruise Line ____________________________________________________________

Favorite Luxury Watch Brand __________________________________________________________

Best Small-Ship Cruise Line ____________________________________________________________

Best Destination Jewelrey Brand _______________________________________________________

Best Large-Ship Cruise Line ___________________________________________________________

Favorite Liquor Brand___________________________________________________________________

PLEASE MAIL THE COMPLETED SURVEY TO Kevin Ryan, Citrin Cooperman & Company, LLP, 1800 JFK Blvd., 20th Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19103 | Or fax to 215 545 4810 Or vote online at globaltravelerusa.com/leisureballot Name Street Address City

State

ZIP Code

Home Phone

ONE ON ONE

Ellen Bettridge CEO, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises What is your favorite aspect of the job? I truly love every aspect of bringing the Uniworld experience to life, and so the answer is leadership … setting a standard and achieving something I’m proud to be part of. What’s the biggest business risk you’ve ever taken? The biggest risk and best decision of my professional career was leaving the comfort of a job I loved to take on a new role as the creator of experience. At Uniworld, the biggest risk was the introduction of a new brand, U by Uniworld, the first river cruise dedicated to a new generation of active travelers — bringing a new way to experience the world to people who may not imagine river cruising is for them. Who is someone you admire professionally in the travel industry? I admire Brett Tollman as a boss, travel visionary and human being. As CEO of The Travel Corp., he continues to build upon a century of travel experience, helping us not only navigate this perilous time but also prepare for the future. He is a fearless leader, committed to sustainability and the power of travel to transform.

Name: Ellen Bettridge Title: CEO Company, city: Uniworld Boutique River Cruises; Los Angeles, California First job: I was a travel agent, fulfilling my dream to combine work with personal passion. Where to next: As soon as Italy opens to Americans, I will step aboard our reimagined S.S. La Venezia to rediscover one of my favorite destinations.

A LITTLE BIT MORE What actor or actress would play you in a movie of your life? Reese Witherspoon, because she’s smart and independent. Apart from acting, she’s a producer and understands the value of developing a terrific team and empowering them to work toward a larger goal. What would you be doing professionally if you weren’t in your current industry? Chief People Officer of almost any industry. At my essence,

I am a people pleaser and motivator. Extraordinary things can be done when people exceed their own expectations and come together to create something bigger than themselves. Everything we do requires human collaboration and, often, congratulations. I am good at both. What is your favorite book, movie or television show? It’s the holiday season, and in the midst of this pandemic it’s a good time to remember how great and lasting Frank Capra’s It’s a Wonderful Life truly is and to be grateful for the blessings of our lives. What historical figure, dead or alive, would you love to have dinner with? Having tea with Her Royal Highness Queen Elizabeth II would be extraordinary. She has had a prominent seat at the world’s table for more than 75 years and endured; we both love family, tradition, our jobs and our pets.

THE BUSINESS What is your most recent project, and what was the inspiration behind it? We introduced our reimagined S.S. Venezia. The new design led by Uniworld’s artistic directors Toni Tollman and Brian Brennan was inspired by the work of celebrated Italian artist and textile designer Mariano Fortuny, marking the first time designs of the Fortuny company, debuted in 1907, are widely used on a cruise line. Like Uniworld, Fortuny and the company he built prize originality, made possible by artisans deeply committed to their craft. For our guests, this means a setting and style of service wholly immersive in the enduring fascination and magic that is Venice and is born from more than 100 years of experience, a distinguished honor also enjoyed by our parent company, The Travel Corp.

globaltravelerusa.com JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

AS A TRAVELER Tell us about a travel nightmare: My husband, his daughter and I decided to travel around Canada after my sister’s wedding, planning to go to Vancouver then Victoria Island, British Columbia. We mixed up the dates and took a ferry to Victoria Island instead and were stuck there. Our reservation in Victoria Island wasn’t until the next night, and the hotel was fully booked. We ended up crammed into a small motel room. Share a comical travel experience: When my daughters were 3 and 10, I took my family on a work trip to Fort Lauderdale. At a gathering at the bar, I was busy talking with a colleague and my husband was playing pool when my 3-year-old ran for it. She had just been introduced to elevators, so she pressed all the buttons she could reach, which only got her to the fifth of 14 floors. While I frantically searched for her, a woman on the fifth floor called down to report an unattended child calling for her mother. We look back at it as comical, but at the time I was terrified. Thank God she wasn’t taller or we might have lost her for good! What is your preferred method of travel — planes, trains, automobiles, cruise ships — and why? River cruise, of course! No other experience brings you to the heart of a destination as easily and, on Uniworld, with as much style. It is a great way to discover the world. What has been the best example of customer service you’ve experienced during your travels? At the Rubens Hotel in London, the general manager overheard me talking to my daughter about how much we wanted to see Hamilton and arranged for us to see the sold-out show in the fifth row the next night.

PHOTO: © UNIWORLD BOUTIQUE RIVER CRUISES

THE BASICS

2021 Trazees Awards Ballot Please write in your personal favorites, based on your own experience, on the line next to each of the following categories.

AIRLINE BEST

DESTINATION BEST

Favorite International Airline____________________________________________________________

Favorite Country________________________________________________________________________

Favorite Airline Alliance_________________________________________________________________

Favorite Worldwide City_________________________________________________________________

Favorite Aircraft Type___________________________________________________________________

Favorite Honeymoon Destination______________________________________________________

Favorite Airline Website_________________________________________________________________ Favorite Frequent-Flyer Program_______________________________________________________ Favorite Low-Cost Carrier_______________________________________________________________ Favorite Airline in Africa_________________________________________________________________ Favorite Airline in Asia___________________________________________________________________ Favorite Airline in Europe_______________________________________________________________ Favorite Airline in Mexico_______________________________________________________________ Favorite Airline in the Middle East______________________________________________________ Favorite Airline in North America_______________________________________________________ Favorite Airline in South/Central America______________________________________________ Favorite Green Airline___________________________________________________________________ Favorite Airline App_____________________________________________________________________

Favorite Adventure Destination_________________________________________________________ Favorite Foodie City_____________________________________________________________________ Friendliest City___________________________________________________________________________ Favorite Beach Town, Northeast U.S.___________________________________________________ Favorite Beach Town, Mid-Atlantic U.S._________________________________________________ Favorite Beach Town, Mid-Southern U.S._______________________________________________ Favorite Beach Town, Southeast U.S.___________________________________________________ Favorite Beach Town, Florida (East)_____________________________________________________ Favorite Beach Town, Florida (West)____________________________________________________ Favorite Beach Town, Florida (Panhandle)_____________________________________________ Favorite Beach Town, Gulf (Alabama/Louisiana)_______________________________________ Favorite Beach Town, Texas____________________________________________________________

AIRPORT BEST

Favorite Beach Town, Southern California_____________________________________________

Favorite Overall Airport in the World___________________________________________________

Favorite Beach Town, Northern California______________________________________________

Favorite Airport in Africa________________________________________________________________

Favorite Beach Town, Pacific Northwest________________________________________________

Favorite Airport in Asia__________________________________________________________________

Favorite Beach Town, Hawai’ian Islands (Lanai)________________________________________

Favorite Airport in Europe______________________________________________________________ Favorite Airport in North America______________________________________________________ Favorite Airport in the Middle East_____________________________________________________ Favorite Airport in South/Central America_____________________________________________ Favorite Airport Dining__________________________________________________________________ Favorite Airport Shopping______________________________________________________________ Favorite Duty Free Shopping___________________________________________________________ Favorite Duty Free Shopping in Africa__________________________________________________ Favorite Duty Free Shopping in Asia____________________________________________________ Favorite Duty Free Shopping in Europe________________________________________________ Favorite Duty Free Shopping in the Middle East_______________________________________ Favorite Duty Free Shopping in South/Central America_______________________________

Favorite Beach Town, Hawai’ian Islands (Oahu)________________________________________ Favorite Beach Town, Hawai’ian Islands (Big Island)____________________________________ Favorite Beach Town, Hawai’ian Islands (Kauai)________________________________________ Favorite Beach Town, Hawai’ian Islands (Maui)_________________________________________

OTHER BEST Favorite Car Rental Company___________________________________________________________ Favorite Tour Operator_________________________________________________________________ Favorite Luggage Brand_________________________________________________________________ Favorite Credit Card_____________________________________________________________________ Favorite Cruise Line_____________________________________________________________________

HOTEL BEST Favorite Individual Hotel________________________________________________________________ Favorite Hotel Chain____________________________________________________________________ Favorite Lifestyle Hotel Chain___________________________________________________________ Favorite Hotel Website__________________________________________________________________ Favorite Hotel Rewards Program_______________________________________________________ Favorite Hotel Chain in Asia_____________________________________________________________

PLEASE MAIL THE COMPLETED SURVEY TO: Kevin Ryan, Citrin Cooperman & Company, LLP, 1800 JFK Blvd., 20th Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19103 | Or fax to 215 545 4810 Or vote online at trazeetravel.com/trazees-2020-voting

Favorite Hotel Chain in Europe_________________________________________________________ Favorite Hotel Chain in Mexico_________________________________________________________ Favorite Hotel Chain in the Middle East________________________________________________

Name

Favorite Hotel Chain in South/Central America________________________________________

Street Address

Favorite Green Hotel____________________________________________________________________

City

Favorite Hotel App______________________________________________________________________

Home Phone

State

ZIP Code Email

ONE ON ONE

Philippe Gombert President and CEO, Relais & Châteaux

Name: Philippe Gombert Title: President and CEO Company: Relais & Châteaux First job: Lawyer Where to next: Château de la Treyne, our family-owned boutique hotel in France

A LITTLE BIT MORE What actor or actress would play you in a movie of your life? Russell Crowe — that’s what my wife thinks! What would you be doing professionally if you weren’t in your current industry? I would be an architect. Having spent a large part of my life restoring a 14th- and 17th-century castle to adapt it to our times while respecting its soul, I’ve learned to love this craft. I find the teamwork and constant dialogue with craftsmen of great quality inspiring. What is your favorite book, movie or television show? The Crown, a Netflix series which portrays an epoch that is gradually disappearing while depicting the permanence of particularly complex human relationships. What historical figure, dead or alive, would you love to have dinner with? Pharaoh Djoser of the Third Egyptian Dynasty (2600 B.C.). I met JeanPhilippe Lauer, Egyptologist, who dedicated his life to the study of the famous step pyramid of Saqqara, which served as the tomb of this great pharaoh. I hope Djoser’s architect Imhotep would accompany him so I could unravel building secrets that remain imperfectly solved.

globaltravelerusa.com JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

AS A TRAVELER

What is your most recent project, and what was the inspiration behind it? I travel the world to visit Relais & Châteaux members (more than 580 in 60 countries), all renowned and independent hoteliers and chefs with the same passion. I always go behind the scenes, where a chef, with his team, plays his reputation. This inspired a project at my family’s Relais & Châteaux. In our new open kitchen we serve simpler dinners than in our Michelin-starred gourmet restaurant, enabling guests to admire those who work so hard to give us a taste of the best of a terroir thanks to a constantly renewed creative spirit, while tasting dishes prepared in the oldest fireplace of our castle; it is a show we never tire of. Guests will discover beautiful bottles of classified Grands Crus in a cellar we will dig under the kitchen in the rock.

Share a comical travel experience: My family had a wonderful two-week stay discovering Japan, which remains an extraordinary country because it is so different from any other place. On our first train journey from Tokyo station, we were taken aback by signs exclusively in Japanese. Knowing the reputation for punctuality of Japanese trains, I had the idea of f orgetting our destination and concentrating on schedules. After we finally arrived at the right platform, I told my family in front of the perfectly illegible sign that everything was “very clear now” and we all chuckled. This one sentence turned a frustrating situation into a comical one, and we repeat this story every time we talk about our memorable trip to Japan.

What is your favorite aspect of the job? I love to meet our members and discover their exceptional hotels and restaurants where the authenticity of their unique region is sublimated. What’s the biggest business risk you’ve ever taken? As a consequence of the current health crisis, we drastically cut our budget (by almost 50 percent) to relieve our members’ operating costs and thus help them get through the long and difficult period ahead. It is a heartbreak to part with committed and talented staff. But it is my duty to make sure we will be ready to bounce back by keeping all our members on board. Who is someone you admire professionally in the travel industry? I have great admiration for Matthew Upchurch, CEO of Virtuoso, not only for his extensive knowledge of and great passion for our properties but especially for his vision regarding the evolution of the luxury travel market. To better understand the expectations of tomorrow’s guests in order to better satisfy them is part of our common challenges, and Matthew always has a wise and reasonable view which represents a form of reassurance.

What is your preferred method of travel — planes, trains, automobiles, cruise ships — and why? I have had pleasant experiences with all forms of transportation, and I cannot say I prefer one in particular. Each mode of transport corresponds in a different way to a specific need. Obviously, traveling by car or train gives the trip another dimension, allowing one to get to know the country’s culture better. What has been the best example of customer service you’ve experienced during your travels? Just before the health crisis, I visited Relais & Châteaux properties in South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia and Namibia. Apart from the warm welcome I received, I was conquered by the ease with which, despite the borders, I traveled between countries. The guides who shared their passion for the beauty of the African fauna and flora were exceptional. Flying over Victoria Falls; spending two hours in a discovery car admiring two lions wisely asleep, nonchalantly opening one eye then closing it again; chasing a leopard then contemplating him in the tree where he found refuge are memories for a lifetime. The number of people constantly present to take care of us is impressive. It was truly a fully curated Relais & Châteaux experience!

PHOTO: © RELAIS & CHÂTEAUX

THE BASICS

THE BUSINESS

[Hanok(Myeongjae House), Nonsan, Korea]

TECHNOLOGY

Power Tools Give your activities a high-tech boost in the New Year. BY JACK GUY

DPL JOINT WRAP Another great product for the active and newly active, the dpl Joint Wrap uses infrared light to relax muscles, relieve joint pain and increase blood circulation. It’s FDA-cleared and clinically tested, claiming to relieve pain, reduce inflammation and accelerate healing after injuries such as sprains, strains and tendinitis. The wrap will fit around shoulder, elbow, knee and ankle joints and can also be used to relieve stiffness associated with arthritis. $159. revivelighttherapy.com

XIAOMI MI TV LUX Transparent displays might sound like the stuff of science fiction, but the Xiaomi Mi TV Lux brings this technology into your home. The world’s first mass-market transparent TV makes it look as though your favorite shows are being projected onto the air itself. With a 55-inch display that’s just 5.7mm deep, the Mi TV Lux is a remarkable technological feat. It also performs well, with a 120Hz refresh rate and sharp colors, so you’re not just paying for the novelty factor. $7,200. mi.com

NURVV RUN

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DEVIALET GOLD PHANTOM Bluetooth speakers improved by leaps and bounds in terms of sound quality in recent years, but the Gold Phantom takes things to a whole new level. This extraordinary speaker boasts incredible range and a mind-boggling 4,500-watt amplification power — more than enough to fill even the largest rooms in your house. Not only will it wow even the pickiest audiophiles, it’s beautiful enough to become a conversation piece on looks alone. That said, the Gold Phantom measures just 10 by 9.5 inches, so you won’t have to design your room around it. $2,990. devialet.com

PHOTOS: © XIAOMI, © DPL, © NURV, © DEVIALET

Many people who embark on a New Year fitness drive end up developing an injury after throwing themselves into a training program too enthusiastically. NURVV Run helps new runners stick to their regime by collecting data on their running style to provide advice on when to train and how. It uses a special insole sensor that processes data presented in a handy app, which suggests training methods to improve speed as well as avoid injuries. $299. nurvv.com

FOR

ALL THE MOMENTS WE STAND UP

JOE MANGANIELLO Stand Up To Cancer Ambassador

Since 2008, Major League BaseballÂŽ has supported Stand Up To Cancer in its mission to fund groundbreaking research and get treatments to patients faster than ever before. Join us as we stand united to show our support for loved ones affected by cancer.

Visit StandUpToCancer.org/MLB

Photo By ANDREW ECCLES Stand Up To Cancer is a division of the Entertainment Industry Foundation (EIF), a 501(c)(3) charitable organization. Major League Baseball trademarks and copyrights are used with permission of Major League Baseball. Visit MLB.com

PHOTO: © HACOHOB | DREAMSTIME.COM

WINE & SPIRITS

Aging Well Properly store wines that need to rest and mature. BY EUNICE FRIED

globaltravelerusa.com JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

e had such a delicious bottle of wine at the restaurant last evening, I’m thinking of buying a case. The main consideration, though, is where we would store a dozen bottles safely. What conditions does a case of wine require in order to keep those bottles tasting as good as the one we enjoyed yesterday? If you live in a house, the choices for wine storage are usually wide. Check out wine storage structures on the web and you will find seemingly endless possibilities. If you live in a spacious apartment, the choices remain reasonably large. If you live in a small apartment, however, possibilities narrow considerably. Yet with some creativity and ingenuity, you can construct a satisfactory, albeit limitedsized, wine cellar even in a constricted space. The refrigerator? Only for white wines and, then, only for a limited time. Wherever it may be, a good wine cellar requires a quiet, dark place with a cool and reasonably even temperature, ideally about 50–55 degrees Fahrenheit,

relative humidity of about 65 to 70 percent and with little or no traffic. A rarely used closet, for example, would be fine except if that closet is in the kitchen. With the room’s daily changing temperature and traffic, it can be, in fact, one of the less ideal places to store wine. Once you settle on the space, place the wines on their sides so the liquid will reach the cork, keeping it wet and, thus, swollen. A wet cork keeps air out of the bottle — air is an enemy to resting, aging wine. You say that’s not a problem for you because you buy wines with metal closures? Sorry, but those wines are generally not meant to improve with aging. Enjoy them now while you are waiting for your special bottles to mature. And if you can construct the perfect place to store and age your wine, how long will those bottles — particularly great red wines — last? It depends on the wine, of course, but possibly, in some cases, almost as long as we will.

WEALTH

New Rules Is your business eligible for Round 2 of the Paycheck Protection Program? BY KEVIN RYAN

PHOTO: I© 777ERS | DREAMSTIME.COM

THERE’S MORE GOOD NEWS. EVEN IF YOU RECEIVED A PREVIOUS PPP LOAN, YOU ARE NOW ELIGIBLE TO APPLY FOR AND RECEIVE ANOTHER LOAN, REFERRED TO AS A SECOND DRAW LOAN.

ongress finally passed the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 which, in addition to expanded PPP legislation, includes an extension of the Work Opportunity Tax Credit for five years. These credits are for employers who hire and employ certain targeted groups. The employee retention credit has also been extended to July 2021, and businesses which participated in the PPP loan program are now eligible for these additional credits — all in an effort to give employers even more incentives to retain employees. The biggest news in the CAA is an extension of the spring 2020 PPP, allowing another almost $300 billion in forgivable, federally backed loans for businesses negatively impacted by COVID-19. While many things remain the same, this round of PPP contains some differences: Previously, the loans could be up to $10

million; this time the maximum loan amount is $2 million. In the previous legislation, the applicant could have up to 500 employees. This updated PPP round allows applicants to have no more than 300 employees. The biggest difference is, in this round, an applicant must have at least a 25 percent drop in revenues in at least one quarter of 2020 compared to the same quarter of 2019. This percentage is not based on profit but rather on top-line sales. This bill covers additional types of expenses now considered forgivable, such as equipment for sanitation, software that allows for remote working and costs to repair property damage and vandalism due to public disturbances that occurred during 2020 which were not covered by insurance or other compensation. Also included are PPE, the expansion of indoor/outdoor space, and installation

and maintenance of drive-through windows. However, the Economic Injury Disaster Loan advances (usually $1,000–10,000) are no longer subtracted from total PPP forgiveness. There’s more good news. Even if you received a previous PPP loan, you are now eligible to apply for and receive another loan, referred to as a second draw loan. Since the hospitality and restaurant industries have been hit extremely hard during this pandemic, they are eligible for more funding than others. In short, businesses are eligible for 2.5 times monthly payroll costs; the restaurants and other hospitality businesses are eligible for 3.5 times their monthly payroll. Lastly, there has been a lot of back and forth as to whether or not the forgiven loan proceeds become taxable. Congress stated the intent was for the forgiven amount not to become a taxable event. The IRS said the way the law was written, it was considered taxable and, as such, the forgiven loan money spent on expenses was not tax deductible. The recent legislation has resolved these different interpretations, and there is no longer any difference of opinion: The forgiven proceeds are not taxable income and the expenses paid with those proceeds are tax deductible. The comprehensive law is more than 5,000 pages long, so, as always, speak with a trusted financial advisor to make sure you are able to take full advantage of what is available to you.

The content of this article is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional financial advice. Always seek the expertise of a certified financial advisor or other qualified provider with any questions you may have regarding personal finance, investment and money-related issues.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021 globaltravelerusa.com

SPAS

Personal Space

Take time to indulge in well-being at Canyon Ranch Lenox. BY IRVINA LEW

Quiet and Cozy: Canyon Ranch Lenox in winter (top) and library (right) PHOTOS: © CANYON RANCH LENOX

CANYON RANCH LENOX 65 Kemble St. Lenox, MA 01240 tel 413 637 4100 canyonranch.com

ven in “normal” times, folks gravitate to wellness resorts to jumpstart a healthier lifestyle, de-stress and be nurtured. In this COVID-19-era state of elevated anxiety, people seek even more natural beauty and caring hospitality, healthy food, fitness activities and beauty and body treatments. Canyon Ranch Lenox also provides an extensive staff of experts offering a multitude of health, wellness and spiritual well-being modalities that alleviate personal issues. After eight months in an at-home bubble, this risk-averse spa aficionado debated “venturing out.” Yet I was curious to learn how a premier, integrative health and wellness destination handles COVID19 safety protocols. It follows state regulations and guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and its own team of experts led by Richard Carmona, MD, MPH, FACS, and the 17th Surgeon General of the United States. Two factors influenced my decision: trust that these most celebrated life-enhancement properties — which I previously admired in Las Vegas, Lenox and Tucson — merit their 40 years of “Best of ” accolades, and confidence that guests choosing holistic retreats prioritize their personal well-being and diligently accept COVID-19

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protocols. (They do.) I drove from my Long Island home to pristine and perfect Lenox, Massachusetts, via the sparsely populated Bridgeport & Port Jefferson Ferry. Lenox lies a scenic, two-hour drive from Bridgeport (or Boston) and three hours from Manhattan. With my Girl Scout motto “Be prepared” in mind, I packed water, masks, gloves, clear plastic shields, sanitizer, disinfectant wipes and snacks.

Wealthy Bostonians and New Yorkers built 19th-century Gilded Age cottages in these extraordinarily beautiful Berkshire foothills, including one called Bellefontaine, which Canyon Ranch established as its East Coast base in 1989. The 1897 mansion — with its wood-paneled library — replicates the Petit Trianon in Versailles and serves as the centerpiece of the three-structure holistic retreat. The mansion’s upper level houses the Health and Healing Center. The ground floor offers a library; lounges; the casual CR Rebel café; and the gracious, window-walled Canyon Ranch Grill, where many of the dining tables have been removed from each of three airy rooms to provide a sense of space and safety. A six-foot-wide, well-ventilated, temperature-controlled, glass-walled corridor connects the mansion to the 126-room inn and to the 100,000-squarefoot Spa and Sports Facility, where signup sheets are posted for activities including popular, physically distant60 outdoor sports (snowshoeing and cross-country and downhill skiing among them). The vaulted space — with its upper-level running track — houses an extraordinary array of fitness and sports facilities, a boutique, a nail salon, a spa and indoor and outdoor swimming pools. As for its COVID-19 protocols, Canyon Ranch engages guests in pre-arrival correspondence and chats with program advisors. Upon arriving, guests will find temperature checks at the gate; self-parking (the bellman takes luggage and provides transportation to/from the parking lot); and paperwork and a sealed, wrapped pen awaiting at the front desk, where a Plexiglass shield provides protection (other barriers are at the Host Station and Program Advising desk). A sealed entry door indicates room readiness; privacy signs assure no one enters. On site, masks are required for all guests and staff members; activities have fewer participants, usually with advance reservations; and signage illustrates physical distancing.

I arrived in time for lunch and decided to see if I’d be comfortable in the dining room; I felt relaxed because there were a few well-spaced tables, few guests and a waitstaff that takes every precaution, including disinfecting the table and chairs after guests leave (dinner requires timed reservations). After nine months without a facial, mani-pedi or haircut, I booked treatments for the first afternoon. Katie provided the much-appreciated and excellent massage, and a different Katie offered a wonderful, hydrating facial. That night, a knock on the door announced room service, and I discovered a large paper bag perched on a plastic table. The boxed food, if not the presentation, was wonderful. Executive Chef Dan Hardy’s delightful menu elevates familiar dishes and adds a wide variety of Mediterranean and Asian items. I particularly appreciated his healthful preparation of some favored comfort foods: crab cakes, pancakes, turkey pot pie, an eggplant tower with mozzarella cheese, and cookies. I also enjoyed grilled vegetable panini; filet of beef; an apricot-mustard salmon; multicolor beet and orange sitting on a swoosh of yogurt; and an array of quinoa, pearl couscous and bean salads. Having not eaten in a restaurant since Feb. 28, 2020, “dining out” was a particular pleasure. So was the feeling of space, everywhere, because the resort books at 40percent occupancy and I was there mid-week, with even fewer guests. In fact, I was the sole attendee at Kelly Clady’s Chinese Medicine lecture and in a yoga class; one of three at the after-dinner cabaret performance, where a plastic screen separated us from Berkshire native and Broadway pianist/singer Ron Ramsay; we were four participants at Demonstration Chef Maggie O’Mara’s knife skills class; and at Cynthia Geyer, MD’s sessions, one had three attendees and one had five. What I appreciate most about Canyon Ranch were the dozens of options to learn about personal wellness. Plus, it felt safe, everywhere.

Time to Reflect: Yoga at the pool PHOTO: © CANYON RANCH LENOX

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021 globaltravelerusa.com

GOLF

Hole in One!

Playing a memorable Turkey Bowl at Cream Ridge Golf Course. BY FRANCIS X. GALLAGHER

Fall Fairway: Hole 5 PHOTO: © FRANCIS X. GALLAGHER

CREAM RIDGE GOLF COURSE 181 Route 539 Cream Ridge, NJ 08514 | tel 609 208 0050 creamridgegolfcourse.com

ream Ridge Golf Course has been a perfect spot to meet clients and friends from New York and Philadelphia. Just off Route 195, it is close to home and fairly easy to get to. Over the years we played many Turkey Bowl tournaments on Black Friday, awarding a corresponding trophy. This get-together has taken place since 1994, when Antero Palo, formerly of Finnair, took the first trophy. This year, a ringer took the prize: Steve Montgomery of Yardley, Pennsylvania. We had a nice turnout, as it was a beautiful fall day, with some father-and-son combos from the Advisory Board playing. Chris and John Ottaunick, Carlos and Chris Cappuccio, Wayne Tallman and guest, and Jim and Kieran Bolger were among the players, and Steve Montgomery brought his two sons for an intro to the day’s festivities. Cream Ridge has been accommodating with tee times, as the day after Thanksgiving can be busy or desolate, depending on weather. We secured four foursomes for morning tee times and later gathered in the parking lot for a socially distanced celebration with beer and high-end cheeses

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and snacks. Unfortunately, the restaurant was closed, but throughout the pandemic we have found tailgating a great alternative. We played from the white tees — not exceptionally long, but Cream Ridge has some tricky holes, for sure. My group included three players — myself, John Ecklund and John Kelley — and we teed off first, as we were designated to set up the tailgate. HOLE 1 520 yards, par 5 The starting hole at Cream Ridge can be brutal, and depending on the weather — we have played in frigid temperatures with frozen ponds — it can make one say, “What am I doing out here today?” But with fine temperatures there were no excuses this time around on the hole that plays straight and long. I made an error (which I frequently have done over the years) and slammed into the line of pine trees on the left, making the

second-longest hole on the course even longer. Smart play is to drive right center and continue with another perfect 3-wood shot to land you within green-striking distance. This is what the two Johns did, and they walked away with bogeys. I, on the other hand, limped to the green, avoiding the pond on the left side for a double bogey … and a slow start to the Turkey Bowl. HOLE 2 138 yards, par 3 I felt things could not get any worse, so I toyed with which club to use on this short par 3: Should I full swing a pitching wedge, or would I easily feather a 9-iron? I chose the 9; and as the two Johns were still mounting the tee box, I swung and hit, which felt like and looked like a good shot. The ball hit the front right fringe of the green and raced toward the flag. “That’s a good shot,” said John Kelley — and then John Ecklund exclaimed, “Did that go in?” It had, and making Turkey Bowl history, I scored the first hole in one! We were all thrilled and excited, and I was shocked. As it turns out, 60 percent of holes in one are made with a 7-, 8- or 9-iron, and most are with a Titleist ball (I was using a ProV1). HOLE 5 343 yards, par 4 From an elevated tee box you can clearly see this dogleg right. Just below lies another pond, but it should not come into play. Ecklund hit his drive long and slightly left, landing under some tree branches. That did not seem to make a difference, but his shot to the green clipped the right trap. Both Kelley and I positioned our drives a little too right, leaving us a shot to get back in play in front of the green and each securing a bogey. Ecklund made a nice sand shot, landing near the cup and securing a “sandy” par. HOLE 14 362 yards, par 4 Trimming of the trees to the left opened up this hole, where drivers face two tendencies. Often, a magnetic attraction seems to lure a ball as close as possible to the left side and clip a branch, sending the shot out of bounds. In the other scenario, players overcompensate and send the ball too far right, where the hole drops down to the 15th fairway. I did the latter and struggled

to come back, limping along for a double bogey. This hole should not be as difficult as we made it; a nice shot left center would leave you with a mid-iron to the green. HOLE 18 488 yards, par 5 A great finishing hole … and tricky to match. The tee box is set back and positions you over a pond, which makes most players aim too far right. It’s easy to lose a ball on the right side, and the marshy water pokes back into play. Ecklund hit a perfect drive up the center left; my drive was precariously

close to the marsh but safe, and Kelley was only slightly behind Ecklund. I shot first, figuring I had nothing to lose, and nailed a 3-wood to the left side of the fairway, crossing another body of water and carrying the ball to within 8-iron-distance of the green. Ecklund did not have the same challenge, lacking the water to carry, but hit well and also in position “A.” Kelley said, “I did not come to Cream Ridge to lay-up,” and then dumped his ball into the water. Both Ecklund and I landed in regulation on the green and two-putted for par for the 26th annual Turkey Bowl — this one to be forever remembered by a hole in one!

A Grand Day: Francis X. Gallagher with Wayne Tallman and Steve Montgomery showing off their trophy (top), Fran’s hole-in-one ball (bottom left), and proof of the hole in one (bottom right) PHOTOS: © FRANCIS X. GALLAGHER

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021 globaltravelerusa.com

CHEFS

In the Spotlight Award-winning Chef Hugh Acheson shines at the new Hotel Effie Sandestin. BY KIMBERLY KROL INLANDER

WHICH FOOD IS YOUR GUILTY PLEASURE? AND ON THE OPPOSITE END OF THE SPECTRUM, WHAT IS ONE INGREDIENT OR FOOD YOU HATE TO USE? I really love the tongue tacos from a local taqueria in a little Mexican grocery store — fresh tortillas and lots of spicy salsa. As for food I really don’t like to use, I can’t think of any. Testicles are really not my thing, I guess. WHAT DISHES WOULD YOU SERVE AT A PRIVATE DINNER PARTY? I would start with some oysters and then move to a really pretty salad and then an agnolotti pasta. Then, a roasted pheasant. That was what I catered with last night! WHAT WAS THE FIRST MEAL YOU EVER PREPARED ON YOUR OWN? Toast!

globaltravelerusa.com JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

and handcrafted cocktails complement Acheson’s original menu. Guests can gather over libations and small plates at The Lobby Bar. Acheson curated the Sweetbay Coffee marketplace with gourmet selections. The name Hugh Acheson likely sounds familiar: He’s the chef/owner of Five & Ten and Empire State South in Atlanta. He is also the chef/operator of By George in Atlanta’s Candler Hotel, and now also at Hotel Effie. He also founded Seed Life Skills, a living, multimedia curriculum to serve the needs of the modern Family & Consumer Sciences classroom. A five-time James Beard nominee, he’s received many accolades throughout his career, including Food & Wine’s Best New Chef.

WHICH CULINARY TREND WOULD YOU LIKE TO DISAPPEAR? I don’t really know. I like pizza and smoothies and sushi burritos; I just don’t really make them personally. HOTEL EFFIE SANDESTIN 1 Grand Sandestin Blvd. S. Miramar Beach, FL 32550 tel 833 873 3343 hoteleffie.com

PHOTO: © HUGH ACHESON

t’s official: Hotel Effie Sandestin is coming to Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort and the city of Miramar Beach, Florida, on Feb. 1. COVID-19 setbacks delayed the 2020 opening, but now the community welcomes the 250-room hotel with its upscale spa; state-of-the-art fitness center; 20,000 square feet of meeting space; and the only rooftop pool on Florida’s Emerald Coast. And that’s not all Hotel Effie Sandestin offers. Chef Hugh Acheson takes the helm at four on-site eateries — Ovide, Ara Rooftop Pool & Lounge, The Lobby Bar and Sweetbay Coffee. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Ovide showcases the fresh flavors and local seafood of the Gulf Coast. At the stylish rooftop lounge, fine wine

IF YOU COULD DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONAL STYLE IN ONE DISH, WHICH DISH WOULD IT BE AND WHY? Roasted chicken with gravy, greens and Carolina Gold rice — it is the food of the South and tells a story. It is a nourishing story that tastes like home.

2021 GT Tested Reader Survey Awards Ballot Please write in your personal favorites, based on your own experience, on the line next to each of the following categories.

HOTEL BEST AIRLINE BEST

Overall Best Airline in the World_____________________________________________________ Airline Alliance________________________________________________________________________ Aircraft Type _________________________________________________________________________ Airline Website _______________________________________________________________________ Fastest-Growing Airline â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Trans-Pacific______________________________________________ Best Corporate Program for Business Travelers__________________________________ Best Airline for . . . Business Class___________________________________________________________________ International First Class_________________________________________________________ Domestic First Class_____________________________________________________________ Onboard Service ________________________________________________________________ Lounges _________________________________________________________________________ Flight Attendants________________________________________________________________ Flight Attendant Uniforms ______________________________________________________ Airline Cuisine___________________________________________________________________ Security__________________________________________________________________________ First-Class Seat Design_______________________________________________________________ Business-Class Seat Design _________________________________________________________ Best New Airline Service Launch_____________________________________________________ Best Frequent-Flyer Programs Overall Best Frequent-Flyer Program___________________________________________ Elite-Level Program______________________________________________________________ Bonus Promotion_______________________________________________________________ Award Redemption______________________________________________________________ Customer Service _______________________________________________________________

BEST AIRLINE BY LOCATION Best Airline in . . . Africa_____________________________________________________________________________ Australia and New Zealand______________________________________________________ Central/South Asia and India __________________________________________________ China____________________________________________________________________________ Eastern Europe__________________________________________________________________ Europe___________________________________________________________________________ Mexico___________________________________________________________________________ The Middle East _________________________________________________________________ North America___________________________________________________________________ North Asia (excluding China)____________________________________________________ The South Pacific________________________________________________________________ To South America and Central America_____________________________________________ To Japan______________________________________________________________________________ Trans-Atlantic Airline_________________________________________________________________ Trans-Pacific Airline__________________________________________________________________

AIRPORT BEST Overall Best Airport in the World____________________________________________________ Overall Best Duty-Free Shop in the World___________________________________________ Airport Staff/Gate Agents____________________________________________________________ Airport Dining________________________________________________________________________ Airport Shopping ____________________________________________________________________ Fastest-Growing U.S. Airport_________________________________________________________ Duty-Free Shops in . . . Asia______________________________________________________________________________ Africa_____________________________________________________________________________ Europe___________________________________________________________________________ The Middle East_________________________________________________________________ Best Airport in . . . Asia______________________________________________________________________________ Africa_____________________________________________________________________________ Europe___________________________________________________________________________ The Middle East_________________________________________________________________ North America___________________________________________________________________ South America___________________________________________________________________

Best Individual Hotel in the World ________________________________________________ International Hotel Chain__________________________________________________________ Domestic Hotel Chain______________________________________________________________ Lifestyle Hotel______________________________________________________________________ MICE Hotel _________________________________________________________________________ (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, Exhibitions) Hotel Website______________________________________________________________________ Best Frequent-Stay Programs Best Hotel Rewards Program in the World___________________________________ Elite-Level Program____________________________________________________________ Bonus Promotion_____________________________________________________________ Award Redemption____________________________________________________________ Customer Service_____________________________________________________________

HOTEL BEST BY LOCATION Best Hotel in . . . Asia____________________________________________________________________________ Europe_________________________________________________________________________ South Korea___________________________________________________________________ The Middle East_______________________________________________________________ The United States _____________________________________________________________ Best Hotel Chain in . . . Asia____________________________________________________________________________ Europe_________________________________________________________________________ Latin America__________________________________________________________________ Mexico_________________________________________________________________________ The Middle East_______________________________________________________________

OTHER BEST Overseas Delivery Program _______________________________________________________ Rental Car Company_______________________________________________________________ Tourism Destination_______________________________________________________________ MICE City ___________________________________________________________________________ (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, Exhibitions) WiFi Service_________________________________________________________________________ Luggage Brand_____________________________________________________________________ Hotel App___________________________________________________________________________ Airline App__________________________________________________________________________ Best Small- to Mid-Sized Business Program ______________________________________ Credit Cards Best Overall Credit Card___________________________________________________________ Best Small-Business Credit Card __________________________________________________ Best Credit Card Special Events ___________________________________________________ Credit Card Rewards Program_____________________________________________________ Frequent-Stay Affinity Credit Card ________________________________________________ Promotions____________________________________________________________________ Benefits________________________________________________________________________ Redemptions__________________________________________________________________ Frequent-Flyer Affinity Credit Card_________________________________________________ Promotions____________________________________________________________________ Benefits________________________________________________________________________ Redemptions__________________________________________________________________ Best Cruise Line Affinity Credit Card_______________________________________________

PLEASE MAIL THE COMPLETED SURVEY TO: Kevin Ryan, Citrin Cooperman & Company, LLP, 1800 JFK Blvd., 20th Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19103 | Or FAX to 215 545 4810 Or vote online at globaltravelerusa.com/gt-tested-awards-ballot Name Street Address City Home Phone

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CRUISING

Arctic Adventure Cruise amid the remote beauty of Greenland. BY J.D. BROWN AND MARGARET BACKENHEIMER

Polar Expedition: Ponant’s Le Commandant Charcot PHOTO: © PONANT

n terms of cruise destinations, Greenland is the new Iceland, as Greenland is becoming the hottest destination in Arctic cruising. This owes to its remoteness, beauty and peculiarities. Earth’s biggest ice sheet (outside of the South Pole) occupies most of the huge island, leaving just the green fringes for villages and towns, none connected by road or rail. The ice and snow are spectacular year-round, the mountains steep, the glaciers vast, the wildlife (whales, polar bears, musk oxen, reindeer) wide-ranging. Most citizens are Inuit, native migrants from nearby Canada, and many still lead a traditional life, pitted against the extreme elements of the Arctic Circle. The capital, Nuuk, is home to about 18,000 of Greenland’s 56,000 residents. For travelers by sea, Greenland ranks among Earth’s most remote and dazzling polar destinations, and expedition cruise lines, with their small, ice-resistant ships, serve it well. Here the French cruise ship operator Ponant will inaugurate its revolutionary hybrid electric polar expedition vessel, the 270-passenger Le Commandant Charcot, on a May 31–June 14 voyage exploring the “world’s largest fjord” (Scoresby Sound) as well as remote Ittoqqortoormiit, one of the coldest permanently inhabited places on Earth.

globaltravelerusa.com JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

Hurtigruten, a company known for its coastal ferry services in Norway, will make three Greenland sailings as well this summer from Reykjavík, Iceland, to the west coast of Greenland on the 530-passenger MS Fridtjof Nansen. Each cruise calls on Nuuk, home to the National Museum and its four 15th-century Greenlandic mummies. Lindblad Expeditions/National Geographic Cruises scheduled an 18-day Reykjavík roundtrip to Greenland’s stunning Disko Bay, where a maze of icebergs crams the 25-mile-long Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The 148-passenger National Geographic Explorer is particularly well-staffed for Greenland sailing, with an expedition leader, eight naturalists and a National Geographic photographer on board. Quark Expeditions, the first cruise line to serve the North Pole and circumnavigate the Arctic Ocean, offers a new icebreaker for Greenland passengers: the 199-passenger Ultramarine, a vessel with 20 Zodiacs and two of its own helicopters. The helicopters come in handy for September cruises from Iceland that wander the nearly unpopulated shores of northeastern Greenland in search of the northern lights. (The parka provided on these trips is yours to keep.)

GREENLAND’S FIRSTS AND FOREMOSTS SIZE: If size matters, Greenland is the largest (noncontinental) island on the globe. And the world’s largest national park is Northeast Greenland National Park, larger than all but 29 countries. POPULATION: Greenland, the least crowded human-occupied region on Earth, boasts a density of one person per 10 square miles. Nuuk, Greenland, is considered the world’s smallest capital city. ICE: Greenland has more ice than Iceland, with the world’s largest ice sheet (outside of Antarctica). One to two miles deep, the ice sheet contains 100,000 years of climate history and enough frozen water, if melted, to raise global sea levels by 24 feet. MUSK OXEN: Forty percent of the world’s musk oxen reside in Greenland. STAR WARS: Nearly a thousand Americans live at Thule Air Force Base, site of a United States Space Force installation in remote northwest Greenland.

Explore in Luxury: Crystal Cruises’ Crystal Endeavor exterior (top), spa rest area (bottom left) and deluxe suite (bottom right) PHOTOS: © CRYSTAL CRUISES,

Those who want to explore Greenland in full luxury can choose from three expedition-style options. Seabourn will launch a new expedition vessel, the 264-passenger Seabourn Venture, at the end of 2021 to complement a varied slate of Greenland voyages in the summer of 2022. Destinations range from Disko Bay to Scoresby Sound. The new ship carries double sea kayaks and 24 Zodiacs, sufficient to transfer all guests to shore in one swoop. Silversea Cruises’ 254-passenger Silver Cloud “breaks the ice between expedition and luxury” with four fine restaurants, a swimming pool, a beauty salon, all-suite accommodations, butlers galore and all-inclusive fares — nearly everything one expects on a grand, non-expedition ocean cruise. Greenland destinations vary, from Disko

Bay to Prince Christian Sound, a narrow, 66-mile waterway with snowclad mountains, fast-melting glaciers and waterfalls. Crystal Cruises’ 200-passenger Crystal Endeavor offers a third deluxe option, an all-inclusive, all-suite vessel with a spa, salon, sauna, fitness center, two-story solarium, casino, six dining venues, two mud rooms, two helicopters and one seven-person submersible. Greenland destinations in 2022 include a variety of ports on the southeast and southwest coasts during prime viewing (June–September) when the sun almost never sets. From endless days to icebergs to musk oxen to mummies, Greenland proves one strange and wonderous island — and one increasingly on the bucket list of adventurous world travelers.

KAYAK: The word originated in Greenland, where this Inuit “rowboat” dates back thousands of years. GOLF: This land of icebergs and glaciers features two public golf courses. The one in Nuuk offers the world’s only Arctic grass layout, and the other course hosts the annual World Ice Golf Championship. TEMPERATURE: The lowest temperature ever recorded in the Northern Hemisphere was in Greenland in 1991, when the mercury caved to minus 93.3 degrees Fahrenheit.

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FEATURE

The Long Haul The travel industry navigates through the landscape of a global pandemic. BY SUSAN B. BARNES

t is hard to imagine that when we first heard about COVID-19 last year, anyone could have predicted the immense impact the pandemic would have on global economies and industries and the health and well-being of people all around the world. According to the U.S. Travel Association, the national nonprofit organization representing all components of the U.S. travel industry, pre-pandemic the industry generated $2.6 trillion in economic output and supported 15.8 million jobs. Though travel continues to come back, a year later the industry is still unpacking the impact of the stoppage of travel worldwide and its gradual return. In its U.S. Travel Forecast released in November 2020, the U.S. Travel Association noted the total travel spending in the United States in 2019 was $1.13 trillion; the forecast for 2020 was $617 billion. Through 2024, the association projects the figure will climb back to its pre-pandemic figures with $1.1 trillion of total travel spending in the United States. These figures are U.S.-focused, but the impact affects the travel industry worldwide. That is not to say no one is traveling, however. As people learn how to keep themselves and each other safe in their communities and workplaces, they gain confidence to get back

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out into the world, too. Here we take a look at how the industry is navigating travel during the global health crisis, a year later. Keep in mind, however, guidelines around the pandemic are fluid and can change at a momentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s notice. Expert resources to check for updated information and guidelines are the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization. Additionally, take some time to check in with local authorities where you may be traveling, as well as airlines, cruise lines, tour operators and meeting and event planners to learn what guidelines and protocols may be in place. WHEN NEWS OF THE PANDEMIC HIT, flights around the world were grounded for the most part as airlines scrambled to determine how best to keep passengers safe and healthy when they resumed flying. Most major airlines implemented requirements for traveling on board, including wearing masks and/or face coverings for the duration of flights as well as in the airport. Many airlines limited in-flight services to minimize hand-to-hand contact, and until recently, some had modified boarding procedures and blocked aircraft seats to increase distancing between passengers. Delta Air Lines announced it will continue blocking middle seats and limiting onboard capacity across its fleet through March 30, 2021. Seemingly across the board, airlines ensured all of the aircraft in their fleets use HEPA air filters that remove 99.97 percent of airborne

particles, similar to those used in hospitals. They ramped up cleaning procedures as well and commonly include deep-cleaning procedures on each plane, from nose to tail. This includes using an electrostatic disinfectant and antimicrobial spray applied to high-touch surfaces such as seats, seatbelts, armrests, tray tables, overhead bin handles, flight attendant call buttons and onboard lavatories. For more on how your airline is keeping you safe during travel, check the COVID19 section on its website. The airline industry also made adaptations to change fees. Many airlines temporarily suspended change fees through 2020 to help travelers manage travel during the pandemic. Taking a step further, Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines and United Airlines eliminated change fees indefinitely, though travelers should check that policies apply to their fares and itineraries prior to booking. CRUISING HAS CERTAINLY TAKEN a hard hit during the pandemic, with the CDC issuing a No Sail Order in mid-March 2020 that halted the sailing of all cruise ships with a capacity of 250 or more passengers and crew. The No Sail Order remained in effect into the fall, at which time the replacement Conditional Sailing Order allowed a phased-in return to cruising. Unfortunately, the first cruise to sail in the Caribbean under the Conditional Sailing Order in November had passengers test positive for coronavirus while on board the ship. The stoppage of cruising certainly made an impact on the global economy. In December 2019 Cruise Lines International Association, the world’s largest cruise industry trade association, released its “2020 State of the Cruise Industry Outlook.” The report included results of an independent study of the 2018

global economic impact of the cruise industry: more than 1.17 million jobs, $50.25 billion paid in wages and salaries, and a $150 billion total output worldwide. As it continues to navigate the COVID-19 landscape and how to resume passenger sailings, the cruise industry is committed to keeping passengers safe and healthy. “The cruise industry and the CDC have a long track record of working together in the interest of public health, and we look forward to continuing to build upon this legacy to support the resumption of cruising from U.S. ports,” said CLIA president and CEO Kelly Craighead last fall. “With enhanced measures in place and with the continued guidance of leading experts in health and science as well as the CDC, we are confident that a resumption of cruising in the U.S. is possible to support the economic recovery while maintaining a focus on effective and science-based measures to protect public health,” she added. As of press time, several cruise lines worldwide announced extensions of paused operations through May and June 2021.

Safety Protocols: Handwashing, mask wearing and hand sanitizer have become the norm. PHOTO: © MARTINMARK | DREAMSTIME.COM

HOTELS AROUND THE WORLD — from boutiques to resorts to global brands — worked hard to open their doors and welcome their guests back, too. For example, last spring Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts collaborated with Johns Hopkins Medicine International on its global health and safety program, Lead With Care. Through the collaboration, Johns Hopkins Medicine experts provide ongoing, real-time guidance on protocols and update as needed. The Lead With Care program focuses on three areas: enhanced cleanliness, height-

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021 globaltravelerusa.com

Get on Board: Airlines continue to require masks. PHOTO: © SERGIOMONTI | DREAMSTIME.COM

ened guest safety and comfort, and empowered employees. Elements of these areas include an appointed Hygiene Officer at each property; hourly cleaning of public areas and rooms disinfected daily with EPA-approved products; and Lead With Care kits placed in each guestroom providing masks, hand sanitizer and sanitization wipes, with additional masks supplied upon request. Additionally, Accor, with Raffles Hotels & Resorts, Fairmont, Sofitel and Pullman, among many others under its umbrella, launched its ALLSAFE label. ALLSAFE represents some of the most stringent cleaning standards and operational procedures in the hospitality industry and is accredited by Bureau Veritas, a world leader in testing, inspections and certification. Accor also partnered with AXA, a global insurance leader, to offer medical support to guests at each of the 5,000 Accor properties worldwide. The Marriott Cleanliness Council comprises in-house and outside experts in food and water safety, hygiene and infection prevention, and hotel operations to redefine the brand’s cleaning and safety standards, consistent in all properties around the world. As COVID-19 vaccines become available worldwide, many hotels and resorts also pivot to serve as vaccination sites and/or offer testing for inbound and outbound travelers. Being a global citizen means considering the impact of travel on the communities you visit, too. In addition to issuing full refunds to anyone who

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wishes to cancel their trips due to health concerns from the pandemic, REI examined its entire trip assortment to ensure operations exceed health and safety guidelines. This examination led to adding new policies to ensure the health and well-being of all travelers. These policies include a pre-trip health assessment for all travelers and guides as well as ongoing health assessments while traveling. On camping trips, tents are assigned for the duration of each trip and cleaned between every departure; guide-prepared meals follow food-handling guidelines and are served by the guides, rather than self-served or family-style. Other guidelines include protecting local communities by closely assessing the risk to every community visited and avoiding traveling to the most vulnerable communities until it is appropriate to do so. “During our pause in travel, we closely examined our operations to ensure that when we restarted our trips, we would be confident we were taking every action possible to ensure that our guests, guides and the communities that we visit would remain healthy,” said Justin Wood, REI senior manager of adventure travel. “As news of vaccines, destinations reopening and other key developments continue to impact customer mindset for planning travel in 2021 and beyond, we’re experiencing a significant increase in customer phone calls, online traffic and bookings. While a return to pre-pandemic travel frequency is presumably a while away, we are very encouraged by the positivity of

those who wish to travel and by the diligence and commitment of our industry partners around the world.” ATTENDING MEETINGS AND EVENTS with colleagues and prospective and existing clients makes up a big part of business travel. The meetings and events industry represents yet another severely impacted by the pandemic, but it is coming back … and safely. One organization leading the charge of returning to meetings and events safely is Associated Luxury Hotels International, a global sales and marketing extension to a portfolio of more than 300 of the world’s most distinguished independent luxury hotels and resorts, cruise lines and destination management companies. Early on in the pandemic, ALHI gathered best practices and insights from industry partners and federal, state and local government organizations with the goal of sharing real data and trends to educate its clients, members and the industry at large to ensure confidence about the industry’s future. In November 2020 ALHI hosted The Path Forward, an event designed to share those best practices and insights with meeting planners and its hotel members. The multicity hybrid event connected participants in person at four live events and virtually around the world; about 1,000 guests attended. “Every company is coming back at a different rate — some are doing small meetings initially, some are not meeting until the end of 2021 — but

when everyone comes back, we want everybody to be educated, prepared and comfortable executing a meeting where health and safety is top priority,” said Katie Bohrer, CMP, vice president, Meeting Design & Experience, ALHI. “As meeting planners, your job is to take care of your attendees; you do that in every format. You tell them what to wear, what the weather’s going to be, what shoes to wear. We do that naturally as planners, and telling them how to protect themselves and the other attendees that are going to be there … it’s another level of planning when you think about meetings and events.” For a start, Bohrer said that for every planned event, ALHI creates a Code of Conduct distributed prior to the event so attendees know what is expected of them at the event and there is a level of buy-in. “Not everyone is ready to travel and meet, and that has to be understood and respected,” said Bohrer. “But for those that are, we feel our work at ALHI is to chart that path forward. We’re trying to show how to do it the right way as people come back and as they’re ready to travel.” Brands including Marriott and Hilton currently offer hybrid meeting options and allow organizers to add safety protocols, like temperature checks and testing, to events. As we continue to navigate travel in the midst of COVID-19, it is important for all of us to remember we need to give each other grace and room to find the paths right for each of us.

Keep It Clean: Hotels upgraded cleaning and disinfection practices. PHOTOS: © SIDELNIKOV | DREAMSTIME.COM

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PHOTO: Â© UNITED AIRLINES

FEATURE: AIRLINE UPDATE

globaltravelerusa.com JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

Back to the Skies United Airlines leads the way to the safe rebound of air travel.

ravelers around the world are hopeful 2021 will be the year they can take to the skies once again for long-awaited trips to dream destinations. In order to stay on top of constant changes in the travel industry, keep passengers safe amid a global pandemic and somehow still eke out a profit, airlines had to be as flexible and nimble as the rest of us, bobbing and weaving through the unpredictable altitude changes and doing everything they can to stay afloat. As one of the country’s big three airlines, United Airlines introduced new regulations for the current and future states of travel to keep customers committed and help restore faith in flying once again while simultaneously still striving to innovate and improve. At the start of the COVID-19 crisis, United outlined a three-pillar plan: build and maintain liquidity, minimize cash burn and variabilize cost structure. AS COVID-19 BEGAN TO SPREAD around the globe, United launched CleanPlus as its new standard of cleanliness and hygiene for passengers and crew. Through a partnership with Clorox, the initiative involves using the cleaning company’s products to disinfect surfaces and areas in the more than 360 global airports where United operates (including check-in kiosks, United Club locations, gates and baggage claims) as well as aircraft, and handing out hand-sanitizing wipes to passengers as they board. United also works in close coordination with

Cleveland Clinic experts who advise the airline on how to enhance cleaning practices as more information about the virus’s spreading capabilities emerges. United became one of the nation’s first airlines to announce it would not allow passengers without face masks to board aircraft, to implement touchless check-in to check luggage and to require travelers to complete an online health assessment before flying. Technological advances that help

BY ALLIE MOORE

On Oct. 15, 2020, United became the first U.S.-based airline to initiate a COVID-19 testing program for passengers. As part of this program, travelers on United’s four San Franciscoto-Hawai’i routes have the option to receive a rapid COVID-19 test at San Francisco International Airport on the day of travel or to receive a test via a drive-through service at United’s San Francisco Maintenance Center between 48 and 72 hours before departure. Those

UNITED BECAME ONE OF THE NATION’S FIRST AIRLINES TO ANNOUNCE IT WOULD NOT ALLOW PASSENGERS WITHOUT FACE MASKS TO BOARD AIRCRAFT, TO IMPLEMENT TOUCHLESS CHECK-IN TO CHECK LUGGAGE AND TO REQUIRE TRAVELERS TO COMPLETE AN ONLINE HEALTH ASSESSMENT BEFORE FLYING. United maintain cleanliness on board include electrostatic sprays that can disinfect an entire cabin, from floor to ceiling; ultraviolet C light wands to disinfect commonly touched surfaces like touch-screen displays; and HEPA filters to circulate air and remove up to 99.9 percent of airborne particles. But United also constantly innovates, testing new sanitation methods with artificial intelligence that can perform temperature screenings and crowd detection, dronedeployed UV sanitation technology and onboard antimicrobial technology to add an extra layer of disinfectant.

who test negative are not required to complete a 14-day quarantine upon arrival in Hawai’i. Both testing options require advance appointments that can be made online. Later in October United participated in the first successful trans-Atlantic trial of a digital health pass called CommonPass, a mobile app that allows travelers from London Heathrow Airport to input their COVID-19 status and share it with United staff while disembarking at Newark Liberty International Airport. The pilot program — introduced by Swiss-based nonprofit The Commons

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WITH A SERIES OF PROMISING protocols in place, United announced the resumption of some of its more popular routes, like its non-stop service between San Francisco (SFO) and Shanghai (PVG), four times per week. As of Oct. 21, 2020, this route no longer requires a stopover in Seoul, South Korea, and instead flies directly on a Boeing 777-300ER aircraft. As the winter season ramped up, United increased and introduced routes from cold U.S. cities to warm destinations in Florida, the Caribbean, Mexico and Latin America, beginning with departures in December. Domestic routes saw more options from Boston (BOS), Cleveland (CLE), Columbus (CMH), Indianapolis (IND), Milwaukee (MKE), New York (LGA) and Pittsburgh (PIT) to Florida, started in early November 2020 and continuing through April 2021. Florida destinations include Fort Lauderdale (FLL), Fort Myers (RSW), Orlando (MCO), Tampa (TPA) and West Palm Beach (PBI). International winter routes include non-stop service from Los Angeles (LAX) to San José, Costa Rica (SJO), and San Pedro Sula, Honduras (SAP); from Denver (DEN) to Belize (BEZ) and SJO; from Washington, D.C. (IAD), to Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic (SDQ); and from Cleveland to Cancún, Mexico (CUN). In January United opened two new routes offering non-stop service from both Los Angeles and San Francisco to Liberia, Costa Rica (LIR).

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In addition to route expansion, United will also expand its presence at all three New York-area airports with a return to John F. Kennedy International Airport. Slow air travel caused by the pandemic freed up slots at JFK, and United saw an opportunity to reclaim some of these Terminal 7 slots after five years away. From JFK United will offer non-stop flights to Los Angeles and San Francisco. The slots have been secured through March but may be extended through spring and summer based on discussions with the Federal Aviation Administration and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. UNITED IS NOT ONLY EXPANDING its routes and destinations but is also improving the services customers use every day. With a new online map search feature at united.com, travelers don’t need to have a destination in mind to find a flight — instead, they can enter more than a dozen preferences like desired dates of travel, home airport, budget and type of destination and view the best flight deals around the country for those specific dates. United’s mobile app has also been enhanced to make onscreen text and graphics more comprehensible for users with visual limitations. Through collaboration with the American Council of the Blind, the app redesign includes increased color contrast and greater space between images. The app also employs integrated technologies like VoiceOver and TalkBack, already available in most smartphones, to convey onscreen information without requiring the user to read text. THE TRAJECTORY OF THE CORONAVIRUS is unknown, as is the future of airline travel; but if United’s safety measures, cross-cooperation with agencies and nonprofits, and continuous adaptation and innovation are any indication of how airlines will get travelers back to the skies, we can all breathe a sigh of relief.

PHOTO: © UNITED AIRLINES

Project and the World Economic Forum — was monitored by both U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Passengers were tested for COVID-19 prior to departure, uploaded their test results to the CommonPass mobile app on their smartphones and scanned a QR code upon arrival in Newark to safely enter the country. This uniform method of communicating passengers’ COVID-19 statuses can solve the problems of doctors’ illegible notes or travel release documents in foreign languages. More recently, United expanded its passenger-testing program to international waters. Nov. 16–Dec. 11, United offered free rapid COVID-19 tests to passengers and crew for the airline’s tri-weekly flights between Newark Liberty and London Heathrow — a route that operated six times per week before the pandemic. Passengers who refused the tests would be moved to different flights to ensure all passengers who tested negative would be placed on a flight with others who also tested negative. The results of this program and customer feedback will be shared with governments in both the United States and the United Kingdom, which United hopes will provide insight and recommendations on how to safely re-open travel networks in a world where COVID-19 doesn’t seem to be going away anytime soon. But encouragingly, United noticed increases in demand when pre-flight testing is possible. In December 2020 United Airlines, with the support of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, announced a program to collect customer contact information for all international and domestic flights. During check-in, United customers will be prompted to voluntarily provide contact information such as an email address, phone numbers and an address where they will be staying once they reach their destination.

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November 2020 May 2011

Globility

THE SOURCE FOR LUxURY BUSINESS TRAVELERS

ABU DHABI

A HALF-CENTURY OF BUILDING CASTLES

WINE & SPIRITS

ANCHORAGE 68 IN THEp.SAND AUSTIN p. 58 COLORADO SPRINGS p. 62 70 EATING ACROSS AMERICA p.BY IMMORTALIZED NASHVILLE p. 48 PAINTERS AND SAN MIGUEL DE ALLENDE p. 61 POETS ALIKE SEATTLE p. 54 SKI DESTINATIONS p. 64 TORONTO p. 56 FAMILY BUSINESS UNDISCOVERED U.S. BEACHES p. 72

Savor the Flavor

HANGZHOU

fine vines

Straight or mixed, enjoy the unique spirit of Svedka vodka. BY EUNICE FRIED

vedka is a Swedish vodka whose quality outpaces its price. First made by Guillaume Cuvelier in Lidköping, Sweden, in 1998, it arrived in the United States in 2007 through its American owner, Constellation Brands, and has since become the vodka of choice for many American drinkers. Taken by its winning combination of taste and cost, they made it one of the top-selling vodka brands in the United States. While Svedka is only 22 years old, Sweden remains one of three countries considered the world’s oldest vodka makers, along with Poland and Russia. Svedka is made of Swedish winter wheat — four pounds needed for every bottle — and distilled five times. Like most vodkas, it is bottled straight as well as in a number of fruit forms. Among them are lemon, cherry, strawberry and peach. Straight Svedka contains 40 percent alcohol, while its flavored variations have 35 percent. And while some brands of vodka cost as much as $40–45 for a 750 ml bottle, Svedka

TEL AVIV

Torrontés Tango Argentina’s signature white will have all your senses dancing.

MEETS ROMANCE IN THE WHITE CITY

To Your Taste: Svedka Vodka, Rosé and Strawberry Guava. Try a Tropical Cooler with 2 parts Svedka Strawberry Guava, 2 parts soda and garnish with fresh sliced strawberries. PHOTOS: © SVEDKA VODKA, © MAKIDOTVN - DREAMSTIME.COM

ICELAND THE NORTH AMERICA ISSUE ADVENTURE AWAITS IN THE LAND OF FIRE AND ICE

May 2011 | Global Traveler | 35

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ranges $15–20. How best to enjoy Svedka? By itself and in as many additions and variations as your imagination allows. To understand it in its natural state, begin with a small taste of Svedka straight. Chill a bottle in the freezer for a couple of hours or more. (It won’t freeze; it has too much alcohol to do that.) Pour a small amount in a chilled glass. Sip, slowly — very slowly — savoring each taste. The purpose is not to get drunk but to consider its flavors and enjoy every drop. For mixing, the possibilities are virtually endless. Pour equal parts of a flavored Svedka and water or soda in a chilled glass and mix well. Garnish with citrus peels. Or combine 1 ounce each of Svedka vodka and rosé Svedka; 2 ounces grapefruit juice; and ½ ounce each of vanilla syrup, lemon juice and hibiscus tea. Shake and strain into a Collins glass filled with ice. Perhaps, best of all, create your own Svedka original. Skål!

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business destinations 48

FLORENCE

SAN ANTONIO

NEW DELHI

CARTAGENA

LUCERNE

leisure destinations

COOK ISLANDS Tropical Beauty: Cook Islands PHOTO: Â© NOBLIGE | DREAMSTIME.COM

LIMA

COOK ISLANDS

KENTUCKY

NEW ZEALAND

TAHITI

DESTINATION ONE | FLORENCE

Rebirth of a City Florence forges a creative path to recovery and sustainability. BY DEBRA BOKUR AND PATRICIA VANIKIOTIS

Historic and Modern: Florence skyline (left), and electric car charging station (right) PHOTOS: © SERGEY NOVIKOV | DREAMSTIME.COM, © NEACSU RAZVAN CHIRNOAGA | DREAMSTIME.COM

he Tuscan capital, Florence, sits amid the second-largest wine-producing region in Italy, surrounded by vineyards brimming with heritage vines and worldcaliber grapes. Pausing beneath the tawny evening sky — a glass of Chianti within reach — while listening to the river lap against the walls that hold it in place as it flows beneath the Ponte Vecchio is a singularly seductive experience. Though wine-based tourism is significant, more than vino keeps Florence afloat. Prior to last year, more than 12 million visitors each year entered the city to drink in the staggered lines

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of terra-cotta roofs and elegant steeples and to immerse themselves in art, culinary offerings, history and culture. The city also enjoys a reputation as a popular location for destination weddings. Expanding train service offers a route between the city and Florence Toscana Airport, and further infrastructure development includes a new terminal and runway — all changes that will increase the city’s overall attraction for foreign investment in MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions). Yet concerns have been growing for years that the city is being loved to death — at the very least to the detriment of its citizens. Efforts have been made over the past several years to address the overcrowding and to prevent the historic city center from becoming too expensive and unlivable for Firenze’s residents. Several streets were

LODGING

DINING

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL FIRENZE Renaissance opulence is alive and well at this palazzo-turnedcity sanctuary, complete with garden, Michelin-starred restaurant and tranquil spa.

LA DIVINA PIZZA If you’re swept with a pizza craving, this small pizzeria specializes in deep-dish, Roman-style pie topped with local ingredients including figs, olives and artisan cheeses.

Borgo Pinti 99 $$$$$ HOTEL LUNGARNO With décor suggestive of a luxury yacht, this plush property on the Arno features 65 rooms and suites and a stunning art collection with more than 450 works.

closed off to cars and buses, reducing the amount of noise and air pollution. The municipality publishes a list of tour operators and guides committed to decentralizing the flow of visitors, diversifying the tourist experience and protecting the work and the lifestyle of its citizens. Hand in hand with efforts to boost sustainable tourism is a wide spectrum of initiatives and programs to bring 21st-century technology and green policies to this historic city. Florence is part of CITyFiED, an EU program which seeks to enhance energy efficiency in cities and provide a high quality of life to their residents, with the ultimate goal of creating near-zero energy districts. In Florence’s Novoli district, a test case, projects include boosting solar energy and thermal storage. LED lighting installations improve road safety and reduce energy consumption, saving the city more than €2 million on its annual electric bill. Additionally, “smart” lampposts serve as environmental and acoustic monitors and provide free WiFi and video surveillance. And throughout the city, drinking fountains offer chilled water, plain or sparkling, to encourage the use of reusable water bottles. In the transportation sector, recently added tramlines helped reduce carbon emissions by an estimated 14,000 tonnes per year, and electric mobility continues to expand with a growing network of EV charging stations. Electric carts, scooters, tricycles and two-person minicars

Borgo San Jacopo 14 $$$$$

Via Borgo Allegri 50R $$ PASTICCERIA NENCIONI You’re in Florence, so have some cake. This pastry shopcafé serves local favorites, including fedora, a sweet orange cake encased in a thin, dark chocolate shell. It’s open for breakfast, too. Via Pietrapiana 24R $

IL SALVIATINO On the edge of the city, this stunning villa’s organic vegetable and herb gardens fuel the kitchen. Room features include sections of exposed stone wall; outside, enjoy spectacular formal gardens and a destination spa complex.

TRATTORIA CAMMILLO Looking for atmosphere? This family-owned old-school gem specializes in classic Tuscan dishes in the Oltrarno neighborhood.

Via del Salviatino 21, Fiesole $$$$

Borgo San Jacopo 57R $$$

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On Two Wheels: Cycling through the streets of Florence proves one of the most popular and ecofriendly ways to get around. PHOTO: © MSCHWING | DREAMSTIME.COM

have been staples in the tourist industry for guided groups or rent-your-own self touring for some time. Florence, the first Italian city to implement a bike-sharing program, in 2008, boasts a network of ever-expanding bike routes. In 2017 it introduced a free-floating, dockless scheme using a mobile phone app and GPS technology, with e-bikes added to the fleet in August 2020. As Italy’s second designated Smart City, Florence uses digital and telecommunications technologies to improve the management and efficiencies of traditional networks and services. This translates to upgraded water and waste disposal facilities, more efficient ways to light and heat buildings, fewer emissions and better resource use. Those technologies also provided solutions to dealing with the crush of tourists, such as developing apps and using data and algorithms to guide tourist flows and allow visitors to skip long queues and discover overlooked gems. The COVID-19 pandemic brought life in this vibrant city to a near standstill for several months, and concerns over the economic impact persist, with losses in exports and tourism estimated to total more than €7 billion. But many local leaders and those whose livelihoods rely on visitors see this as “a golden moment,” as Elaine Ruffalo, a guide and teacher of art history in Florence for nearly 30 years, called it, “that we can reset.” She saw the explosion of mass tourism over the last 10 years and describes how it cut the city off from its reality — its artisans, bakers and craftsmen. By thinking outside the box, she

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believes the teachers and the guides and all those who love the city can “make tourism what it once was, but even better.” Alexandra Lawrence, who has lived in Florence for 20 years and worked as a lecturer in art history and a bespoke guide, described this as “an extraordinary opportunity to start fresh, to start thinking about how we can provide these glimpses into the city and its history and the masterpieces” that are found not only in the well-known spaces. Mayor Dario Nardella also finds inspiration in the Florence of the 14th century, rising from the ashes of the Black Plague of 1348 to give birth to the Renaissance, seeking a similar rebirth in his city today. “The challenge is to embrace this moment as an opportunity … to devise and create a new model of social and economic development for the city.” He envisions the Florence of the future to be “more intelligent, inclusive and greener.” His Rinasce Firenze agenda seeks to bring residents back to the city’s center, creating a more family-friendly city that will be a capital of knowledge. He sees this as an opportunity “to create a new pact of coexistence between the tourism world and the city” to encourage more responsible, sustainable tourism. In a December interview with Helen Farrell of The Florentine magazine, Nardella offered a message of hope: “I remember Muhammad Ali used to say ‘Don’t be afraid of falling down; be afraid of not getting up again.’ Our strength always lies in getting back up again. Let’s be confident that this will be our new Renaissance in many ways.”

COMING AND GOING For visits up to 90 days, U.S. citizens must hold a passport valid for at least six months beyond planned departure date and with two pages for entry stamp.

OFFICIAL LANGUAGE Italian

virtual tours. If there’s one thing Italy has in spades, it’s creativity: That’s what we’ll see more and more of this year. Do you see any “silver linings” to come out of the current situation of restricted travel? We will see a slow but incremental return of quality tourism, of Italy lovers, first and foremost. We will also see digital tools used for tourism purposes to keep Italy lovers connected to experiences here: That’s a whole new industry.

CHECKING IN WITH HELEN FARRELL Editor in chief, The Florentine How long have you lived in Florence, what drew you here initially, and what led you to make your home here? I have lived in Tuscany for 18 years and moved here to work for a publishing company. I never actively made the decision to set up home here. Florence works its magic on you and becomes home, especially once you’ve developed a career and married a local.

PHOTO: © THE FLORENTINE

Prior to the pandemic, what kinds of solutions had been implemented or were being discussed to address the overcrowding and quality of life issues in Florence? Florence was struggling under the weight of its popularity, something we all realized, including the city’s administration. Measures had started to be introduced to encourage quality tourism, such as taxes on daytrippers (especially cruise tourists), but we weren’t really seeing any changes. What kinds of adaptations have tour operators, hotels, restaurants and other businesses heavily reliant on visitors made during this time when travel is restricted? Many tourism-dependent businesses are selling gift vouchers valid for 2021–22. Countless restaurants switched to home deliveries and takeaways. Some tour guides pivoted to successful online experiences. One thing we’re seeing at The Florentine, for example, is how our American readers are making donations to support our journalism and, in turn, we develop articles aimed at Italy lovers in the United States who want to buy from Italian businesses — the campaign’s called To Florence with Love. Many of the museums, such as the Uffizi, now offer

What are some areas or sites you think visitors may not be aware of or activities they might enjoy that aren’t well-known? Active tourism, such as SUP on the Arno and hiking in the hills. Experiences like skydiving over the Duomo. The outdoor sights, like tabernacles and street art. The lesser-known galleries, like Collezione Roberto Casamonti, and the libraries like the Riccardiana and the Biblioteca Nazionale. The suburbs, which is where you find the Florentines going about their daily lives: Gavinana; Campo di Marte; the Cascine with the incredible former tobacco factory, Manifattura Tabacchi, now a vibrant regenerated hub of contemporary culture. Wider Tuscany: the littleknown places, such as the islands and the Lunigiana and the Maremma. What large events, festivals or gatherings (virtual or inperson) are planned for this coming year? Florence commemorates its beloved son and supreme poet on the 700th anniversary of his death in Ravenna. The full line-up of Dante events can be seen online at 700dantefirenze.it. More than 30 cultural institutions joined forces to celebrate Florence’s exiled son with a miscellany of study days, talks and exhibitions. [Also,] 2021 brings a raft of new Florence sustainable experiences. Forty-seven projects received financing from the Florence tourism board. [And] Palazzo Strozzi is gearing up for an all-American art year. From March 20 to July 25 … the major exhibition takes a new look at the history of modern art in the United States between two key moments in U.S. history, the Vietnam War and the attack on the Twin Towers. What would you like our readers to know about Florence? Florence is a contemporary city, famous for its past but with a here-and-now vibrancy and creativity like few places in the world. The Renaissance was a product of the Black Death … we can only imagine what the light and the beauty of this phenomenal city will spark in the years to come after the upheaval of the current world circumstances. What do you see are Florence’s strengths as she moves forward toward life after restrictions are lifted? Resilience. Imagination. Creativity. Genius. This is not the first time Florence has lived through the plague or thrived after devastation (World War II, the 1966 flood). The Renaissance happened here for a reason.

INFO TO GO Both Florence Toscana Airport (FLR), also called Aeroporto di Firenze-Peretola, and Pisa International Airport (PSA), also known as Galileo Galilei International Airport, serve Florence. Florence Airport lies approximately 3.7 miles from city center. An information desk located in the arrivals area is open daily 9 a.m.–7 p.m. A shuttle bus provides direct service to Santa Maria Novella (SMN), the central train station; travel time is roughly 20–25 minutes. Purchase tickets at newsstands in the airport or on board. The T1 tram line also connects the airport to SMN; the 15-minute ride costs €1.5 ($1.80), and tickets may be purchased at machines at the stop. Official white-colored taxis to the city have a fixed rate of €22 (about $27). Travelers should avoid cars bearing signs that say “NCC,” as these are not official taxis. Pisa International Airport is located approximately one hour from Florence city center. Bus shuttles and taxis are available along with a rail link from Pisa Central Station to Florence’s main city terminal. The Pisa Mover shuttle bus transports passengers from the airport to Pisa Central Station for the train to Florence.

JUST THE FACTS Time zone: GMT +1 Phone code: Country code: 39 City code: 55 Currency: Euro Key industries: Tourism, food processing, machinery, chemicals, textiles, clothing, footwear, motor vehicles, iron and steel

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Tasteful Tour: A vineyard in Chianti within the famous landscape ofTuscany (left), wine tasting at Antinori nel Chianti Classico winery (above), and aged Tuscan red wine Brunello di Montalcino (below) PHOTOS: © TOMAS MAREK | DREAMSTIME.COM, © KATUKA218 | DREAMSTIME.COM, © LUIGI BERTELLO | DREAMSTIME.COM

DIVERSIONS Given the spectacular wines produced around Florence, planning a tour and tasting is a wonderful way to gain perspective on the love affair between the city and its regional grapes. The region surrounding Florence is particularly known for grapes that include the Sangiovese used in the production of Chianti and the famed Brunello di Montalcino, and the Prugnolo Gentile that forms the base of Nobile di Montepulciano. Wandering among them is dreamy, but don’t expect a typical California-style vineyard experience. Most vineyards are small-scale, family-run endeavors. Visits with a vinaiolo (winemaker) are more leisurely affairs that often involve traipsing across the hills between rows of vines and casual tastings that typically include a meal with selections that fully showcase the wine’s subtleties. Italy recognizes 154 official Wine Trails, marked with road signs and offering individual websites to help you plan a route for a self-guided tour. A private tour with a sommelier or knowledgeable wine guide is also a good option, as some of the best vineyards are located on smaller roads in rural areas that can be challenging to locate, especially if you have time constraints. Luxury tour operators that can customize a wine-centric expedition include Audley Travel, Charme & Adventure and Le Baccanti.

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STATESIDE | SAN ANTONIO

Rolling on the Riverside Set your sights on San Antonio’s art, culture and green spaces. BY EUGENIA LAZARIS

an Antonio celebrated 300 years of progress in May 2018. With a clear vision following that anniversary year, the Texan city set its sights firmly on 300 more. While commemorating this milestone, the city underwent a major overhaul to prepare for the next phase in its history. Travelers arriving at San Antonio International Airport see some of the latest improvements immediately upon arrival. The newer, 1.8 million-square-foot Consolidated Rental Car Facility, located just steps from the terminals, offers convenient car rental service from 11 companies in one location. The CONRAC welcomes visi-

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tors with an expansive mural by local artists Suzy Gonzales and Michael Menchaca depicting the details of the aviation history of San Antonio. The Henry B. González Convention Center experienced a $325 million overhaul. With an eco-friendly and energy-efficient design, state-of-the-art technology, 70 meeting spaces and one of the biggest ballrooms in the country (54,000 square feet), the HBGCC is ready to host conferences and events of all sizes when that business returns to the city post-pandemic and is prepared to meet the needs of generations to come. In addition to the artwork on display at the

CONRAC and HBGCC, public art flourishes all over the city. A visit to the Witte Museum on the banks of the San Antonio River proves a great way to unwind and enjoy some of the local culture, thanks to a $100 million renovation and expansion project that included numerous artistic, historical and health-related exhibitions. The San Pedro Creek area is developing into a first-rate park. Here visitors and locals will also be able to enjoy public art. With the first half-mile of the revitalization complete, art complements the landscape. The Rain from the Heavens art installation depicts the night of the city’s founding in 1718. Murals throughout

the park highlight the rich culture of San Antonio. Public art installations and murals additionally line the World Heritage Trail in the Mission Reach neighborhood. Hemisfair, the site of the 1968 World’s Fair, is currently in its second of three phases to become the city’s Central Park. An installation, Alas de México (Wings of Mexico) commemorates the tricentennial. A popular spot for Instagram photos, the area also proves family-friendly, with its Yanaguana Garden boasting a water jet section and children’s games with ropes and slides. Nicknamed River City, San Antonio is ideally situated along the San Antonio River and home to River Walk, a winding path of hotels, businesses, shops and eateries along the beautifully landscaped riverbanks. With its centralized location, River Walk offers a convenient way for visitors to get to know the city’s personality by enjoying lunch at a riverside café or by partaking in the local nightlife. Explore the waterway while on the river with GO RIO. The narrated tours take place on a new fleet of eco-friendly, electrically powered boats. Learn more about the importance of the San Antonio River at the newly opened Confluence Park, established to teach about the river’s vitality to the region. The park sits on the pathway connecting

San Antonio Missions UNESCO World Heritage site and functions almost as an outdoor classroom for the region, offering education, ecology, recreation and entertainment. With more than 31 million visitors to San Antonio each year, quality hotel accommodations abound. In May 2020 the River Walk area welcomed Canopy by Hilton San Antonio Riverwalk. Hotel Valencia, also along the picturesque River Walk, debuted a $10 million renovation that pays homage to San Antonio’s Spanish Colonial heritage. Find one of the city’s top culinary and cultural destinations north of downtown at Pearl, a mixeduse space with retail, dining, green space, an amphitheater and the third Culinary Institute of America. A brewery from 1883–2001, Pearl combines culture and modernity, and with the CIA located there, it’s no wonder its culinary outposts shine. Aside from the year-round Pearl Farmers Market, restaurants include Hotel Emma’s Supper; CIA’s Savor; and The Bottling Department, San Antonio’s first food hall. The city’s ongoing improvements embody the essence of San Antonio — a diverse population with a strong sense of history and culture that takes pride in its city. As the seventh-largest city in the nation, San Antonio is perfectly poised for an upsurge in business and tourism.

SCENIC DRIVES To get out of the city for a while, head into Hill Country for breathtaking scenic drives. If you are short on time, drive about an hour and a half north on U.S. Highway 87 to Fredericksburg and take State Road 16 toward Willow City. There you’ll find the 13-mile Willow City Loop on Ranch Road 1323, a two-lane trail through rolling meadows of wildflowers, meandering creeks and rocky cliffs. The loop, open year-round, is best visited in spring or fall. Take this trip on a weekday, as it gets crowded with tourists on the weekends. If you’ve got more time for exploring, head deeper into Hill Country to view the Texas Swiss Alps in Leakey. From Bandera, about 50 miles out of San Antonio on State Road 16, this beautiful drive through verdant mountains and several Hill Country towns can run anywhere from 80 to 130 miles, depending on your route. The best path heads south from Bandera to Hondo, then over to Concan before turning north to Leakey for some of the best vistas. From there turn back to Bandera along Highway 337, and be sure to stop and enjoy the scenery along the way.

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MICE | NEW DELHI

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New Delhi Delivers India’s capital city stands ready to accommodate the needs of industry and innovation. BY EUGENIA LAZARIS

ong known as one of the world’s most exotic tourist destinations, in recent years India has firmly established itself as a leading MICE hub, allowing visitors to experience the country’s melting pot of cultures alongside its burgeoning global presence in the business world. In 2019 the country ranked 52nd on the Global Innovation Index, and as a MICE destination, it ranks 28th globally and seventh in the Asia Pacific region with the International Congress and Convention Association. The capital, New Delhi is well-established as the nation’s top city for meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions, ranking 62nd NEW DELHI’S MEETING globally and 14th within the Asia AND EVENT SPACES Pacific region. REPRESENT A CITY THAT New Delhi’s meeting and event spaces represent a city that not only NOT ONLY HONORS ITS honors its rich cultural heritage but RICH CULTURAL HERITAGE also embraces the ever-changing BUT ALSO EMBRACES THE face of the business world. Globally EVER-CHANGING FACE OF accessible, the city offers visitors the opportunity to experience some of THE BUSINESS WORLD. the best cuisine, shopping, history and UNESCO World Heritage sites India has to offer, making it an ideal location to host conventions, conferences and exhibitions. In addition to the technological and cultural draws, a major attraction for attendees is the opportunity to stay in one of the city’s luxurious 5-star hotels. Properties such as the Oberoi (220 rooms), the Taj Palace (403 rooms) and The Ashok (550 rooms) offer lavish accommodations and provide a peaceful oasis amid the commotion and chaos of the Colors of India: Humayun`s Tomb surrounding city. Each of the city’s 5-star properties offers its (top), and artist’s own impressive MICE spaces, making them ideal choices for renderings of the events that want to capitalize on the indulgent surroundings. India International Convention and A standout is The Leela Ambience Convention Hotel Expo Centre Delhi, located in the city’s Shahdara neighborhood. The (bottom) Leela proudly boasts the 25,000-square-foot Grand Sapphire PHOTOS: © DUANGRAT Room, the nation’s largest pillarless ballroom, which can be ANUTARATANYA | DREAMSTIME.COM, divided into five separate spaces to accommodate various © IICC LTD. types and sizes of events. This property, which offers 70,000 square feet of meeting space and can accommodate up to 6,000 attendees, boasts 480 luxury rooms and suites and sits in close proximity to the city’s premier tourist sites such as Red Fort, Humayun’s Tomb and India Gate. Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi’s most well-known existing conference center, has hosted events such as Non-Allied Movement and Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in the past. This space is ideally located within

Connaught Place, the city’s largest financial, commercial and business zone. The large plenary hall can host more than 1,200 attendees, while the six smaller halls can house anywhere from 65 to 375 attendees for summits and seminars of various sizes. In addition to meeting spaces, it also offers a VIP lounge, an exhibition hall, a media center, a studio, a business center and an office block to accommodate the on-site office needs of traveling business professionals. Pragati Maidan International Exhibition Centre, currently the largest exhibition center in India, is undergoing renovations expected to be completed by May of this year. The updated space will be a state-of-the-art venue ready to compete with the world’s most impressive MICE locations. It will consist of a 7,000-seat plenary hall divisible into smaller spaces; a 3,000-seat amphitheater; 11 exhibition halls; and two auditoriums capable of seating 600 and 900 attendees. As the city continues to embrace its past, it also makes major strides toward cementing its rightful place in the future with new spaces like the India International Convention and Expo Centre. Located about six miles from Indira Gandhi International Airport, the center will house five exhibition halls; a multifacility convention center; a multipurpose arena with a retractable roof and a seating capacity of 20,000; and an auditorium accommodating up to 10,000 attendees. The complex will also include a mixed-use area for office and retail spaces and entertainment facilities and will offer 3,500 hotel rooms. The IICC will provide easy access to public transportation services, with a metro station located on site. Once completed, the IICC is slated to be the largest convention space in South Asia. The infrastructure will implement sustainability measures such as rooftop solar panels, rainwater harvesting and efficient energy consumption practices. The complex will be a no-car zone and will offer eco-friendly, on-site transportation services. It is being developed as a platinumrated building with the Indian Green Building Council. The entire venue was designed to showcase the traditional architecture, symbols and colors of India, making it a true mixture of the nation’s cultural heritage and the city’s growing role in the world of business. With its variety of multiuse spaces, it will be ideal for hosting conventions and conferences, exhibitions, trade shows, cultural events, music and sporting events and much more. The first phase is set for completion by October 2021, and the site should be fully completed by 2024. “With the upcoming world-class convention centers in Delhi, the capital city is poised to be positioned as the MICE capital of India and significantly improve India’s ICCA ranking as a MICE global destination in the near future,” said Madhu Dubey, executive director, India Convention Promotion Bureau.

UNIQUE VENUES Located in the Rajouri Garden neighborhood of Delhi, The Mellow Garden offers rooms decorated in garden décor, with beautiful flowers adorning the walls and hanging from the ceiling of the indoor spaces. With both indoor seating and a rooftop space, the venue can accommodate groups up to 100 for private parties and events. themellowgarden.com Outdoor venues prove a popular way to celebrate in India, and Delhi abounds with them. They incorporate nature to create beautiful spaces for a variety of functions. Manaktala Farm features an outdoor space ideal for catered events such as parties and dinners. Located on three beautifully landscaped acres, the lawn at Manaktala can accommodate up to 1,200 guests. getyourvenue.com/venue Vintage the Farm also employs the Indian tradition of celebrating in beautiful outdoor spaces. With a two-story farmhouse as a backdrop and a sprawling lawn lined with palm trees, this venue can accommodate up to 150 guests on the lawn and up to 200 guests at the poolside area. While commonly used for weddings, the event spaces at Vintage the Farm are perfectly designed for product launches, team building events, cocktail parties and corporate dinners. thevintagehotels.com/ vintage-the-farm

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9–5 | CARTAGENA

Sunny Outlook Cartagena sets the stage for the return of travel. BY STEPHEN JERMANOK

Bright Perspective: View of balconies leading to the stunning cathedral in Cartagena PHOTO: © JESSE KRAFT | DREAMSTIME.COM

ravel to Colombia surged since the signing of the historic Peace Agreement in November 2016, ending a half-century-long conflict. A record 4.4 million visitors came to the country in 2018, up a staggering 300 percent from a decade earlier, when reaching 1 million travelers was a lofty goal. This surge in demand led to better international flight options, which should continue to increase visitor numbers from abroad as long as the country remains stable. However, current COVID-19 travel advisories and restrictions greatly reduced the number of visitors, with fewer international flights to the country remaining in service. While Bogotá remains the business and financial core of Colombia, more meetings now take place in far more picturesque Cartagena, a Spanish colonial city that seems to be built with the traveler in mind. Behind the fortress walls the city boasts narrow streets; large plazas; 17th-century churches; and row after row of charming restaurants, boutique shops and salsa dance clubs. Walking the pedestrian-only streets of the Old Walled City, a UNESCO World Heritage site, compares to strolling the French Quarter of New Orleans. Bougainvillea flows from the terraces of the colorful homes, and under a historic clock

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tower local merchants sell candy produced from tropical fruits such as guava, mango, papaya and coconut. As an added bonus, Cartagena sits on the Caribbean coast and serves as a welcome mat to a long stretch of beach and warm waters for swimming. Within an hour by boat from the city lie the Rosario Islands, home to the country’s only underwater national park. Snorkel or scuba dive and be treated to wonderful coral formations and large schools of neon-colored fish. You also have the option of sea kayaking in the mangroves, even spending a night on an island at the secluded Hotel San Pedro de Majagua. But first you have to get that deal done. Many business meetings take place at Cartagena’s finest hotels. Dress is Caribbean casual; usually men wear a nice shortsleeved collared shirt, slacks and shoes. For women, a colorful sundress is not uncommon. It’s hard to top the location and enviable space of Cartagena’s first luxury resort, Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena, housed in a former convent that dates back to 1621. Enjoy a lunch of healthy and sustainable cuisine under the shade of palms at the outdoor Restaurant Jardín Santa Clara. In Colombia, the most popular nonalcoholic drink at lunch is coconut lemonade, especially thirst-quenching during the humid summer months.

Colorful Cartagena: Aerial panoramic view of Castillogrande and Bocagrande prestigious beach districts (top), street scene (middle), and Plaza de los Coches inside the walled city (bottom) PHOTOS: © RDIACHKIN | DREAMSTIME.COM, © SERGE NOVITSKY | DREAMSTIME.COM , © ULITA | DREAMSTIME.COM

If you’re looking for something a little more intimate, head down the block to El Santísimo. Owner and chef Federico Vega honed his skills at Le Cordon Bleu in France, and the result is French/Colombian fusion fare that tantalizes the tastebuds. Start with crunchy triangles of Camembert cheese, breaded with toasted sesame seeds over a sauce of sautéed uchuvas (Colombian ground-cherries). Then move on to The Lord’s Pardon, large prawns with a mango, ginger and cilantro sauce. For dessert, sample The Envy, a crunchy tulip filled with mango mousse. For meetings later in the day, don’t overlook the more contemporary Bocagrande section of the city right along the beach. Taxis and Ubers are easy to find in Cartagena, and a five-minute drive gets you from Old Town to InterContinental Cartagena de Indias, where you can have your drink poolside overlooking the expanse of beach and ocean. It’s particularly enticing at sunset, when the orange/ reddish orb practically melts into the sea. Closer to town, the boutique Movich Cartagena offers glorious views of the city from its rooftop bar and pool. Don’t be surprised if your contact in Cartagena takes you to Club de Pesca for dinner, a local favorite. Dine alfresco near the illuminated walls of San Sebastian Fort overlooking the city’s bayside. As the name suggests, the large restaurant is known for its local seafood, like fried red snapper or seafood stew doused in fresh coconut milk. Prefer entertainment with your meal? Then take a horse and buggy ride in the old walled city to El Burlador de Sevilla, known for its flamenco dance show and Spanish tapas. Cartagena knows how to throw a party, so don’t expect your day to end with dinner. The salsa dancing at Café Havana starts around 10 p.m. and doesn’t stop until the wee hours of the morning. Couples dance around the bar and small dance floor to talented singers backed by a lively horn section. If you prefer to end the night in relative quietude at one of the majestic outdoor plazas, grab a nightcap at El Barón, a cocktail bar set under the towering San Pedro Claver church. The options for upscale dining and lodging in Cartagena will only improve in coming years, as both Four Seasons and the Viceroy announced the planned debut of new properties. As long as Colombia holds to the tenets of its Peace Agreement, you can expect the number of top-shelf hoteliers and travelers visiting Cartagena to swell.

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AFTER 5 | LUCERNE

Enchanted Evenings Stroll the magical medieval city of Lucerne.

BY BECCA HENSLEY

fairy-tale city hemmed in by mountains on one of the area’s most beautiful lakes, Lucerne exemplifies Switzerland in a nutshell. Its stirring medieval old town brims with sgraffitoadorned houses, colorful buildings, a covered bridge and a glistening lake complete with swans — along with a sophisticated, grownup vibe that makes you want to be an insider. Myriad mountain trails, water sports options aplenty, a history including the likes of Goethe and Wagner, and heady museums such as the Rosengart Collection establish Lucerne as a destination in itself. But how to spend your evenings? Most medieval towns had a night watchman, a person mandated with sounding the hours of the night, either calling out the time or trumpeting it on horns or other musical instruments. Immerse in Lucerne’s past with an evening tour led by a bona fide night watchman with GetYourGuide. You’ll start on the Chapel Bridge at the sound of the fire horn, then follow the night watchman on his rounds — learning charming anecdotes all the way.

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Love music? Lucerne’s known for it. Listen to some of the best musicians in the world at the Jean Nouvel-designed KKL, Lucerne’s most famous modern landmark. A concert and conference center touted to offer some of the best acoustics in the world, it features nightly events, from symphonies to speeches. Go in September for the month-long Lucerne Festival to enjoy appearances by high-caliber musicians such as Yo Yo Ma. Lucerne may be small, but in terms of restaurants, bars and clubs, it reigns mighty. Start with a rib-sticking meal at tavern-like Wirsthäus Taube, serving classic Lucerne-style food such as roesti (a potato dish) or meat loaf. Then head out to some of the city’s special places for adult beverages. Try Penthouse Lucerne (a stunning rooftop bar), Art Deco Hotel Montana (with live jazz) or the Shamrock Irish Pub (to mix with expats). Feeling lucky? Spin the roulette wheel at Grand Casino Luzern. LGBTQ+ travelers in Lucerne for the weekend won’t want to miss the spectacular “Frigay” dance party at El Cartel, an über-buzzy club and disco.

I’ve put my wheels on trains, used bike ramps at stations, and slept in quaint B&Bs. Rental outlets, bilingual signs and bike-only trails are ubiquitous. The infrastructure is there, and drivers are used to sharing with two wheelers. A bike tour of Taiwan can be as strenuous or as laidback as you want it to be.

Olympians vie to be King of the Mountains In the highlands, a world-class route awaits hardcore bikers. From the Pacific, through the marble canyon of Taroko Gorge, the brutal yet beautiful KOM ascent climbs to 3,275m (10,745ft) in a mere 105km (65 miles). Among elite riders taking on this challenge in 2015 was Olympic gold medallist Lasse Norman Hansen.

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We w h o l i v e f o r c y c l i n g n e e d t o k n o w Ta i w a n — a m u s t - v i s i t d e s t i n a t i o n f o r a d v e n t u r o u s r i d e r s .

For all ages and abilities

Unforgettable hospitality Taiwan, one of the world’s safest destinations for tourists, is also one of the friendliest. Police greet me warmly when I stop at rural stations to refill my bidon. Countryside folk press tea and yummy Taiwanese fruit on me. And everywhere I hear the phrase locals shout to offer encouragement: jiayou - “go for it!”

Year-round cycling events There’s no bad season for riding in Taiwan, but each year I mark two events in my diary. The Tour de Taiwan (www.tourdetaiwan.org.tw) is held in the first quarter. Come fall, the Taiwan Cycling Festival (http://taiwanbike.tw) encompasses the KOM race and other thrilling events. For complete details of other highlights, biking and non-biking, see http://eng.taiwan.net.tw.

NEIGHBORHOODS | LIMA

Lovely Lima Seaside districts attract surfers, art lovers and gourmands. BY RON BERNTHAL

Street Art: Painting in Barranco, the city`s most romantic and bohemian district and the home and working place of many of Peru`s leading artists, musicians, designers and photographers PHOTO: © SERGIO SIMOES | DREAMSTIME.COM

igh on the cliffs above the Pacific Ocean, where Limeños surf year-round, perches the eclectic district of Barranco. Located 20–25 minutes by taxi from Lima’s historic center, Barranco is known for its artist studios, galleries, street art, a trendy restaurant and bar scene and lovely residential streets. Many of Barranco’s larger houses date from the 1920s, when wealthy Peruvians living in central Lima built summer homes near the breezy coastline. Visitors to Barranco typically stay at one of several excellent hotels or at the equally upscale properties in nearby Miraflores, a larger commercial district a mile up the coast. Barranco, however, offers a slower pace, with quiet, shaded squares often surrounded by colorfully painted colonial-style homes. From both neighborhoods views of the Pacific abound. One of the first activities many visitors undertake is walking across the Puente de Los Suspiros, or Bridge of Sighs — no doubt because legend says if you make a wish and hold your breath across the 100-foot bridge, your wish will come true. Visitors can also view street art and, of course, the exhibits at the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Lima, opened in 2013 with its collection of modern and contemporary Latin American art. Fashionistas will enjoy MATE museum, founded in 2012 by Mario Testino, a native of Lima and one of the most influential fashion and portrait photographers in the world. The museum occupies a beautifully restored, 19th-century mansion filled with floor-to-ceiling portraits: Think Princess Diana, Madonna, Gisele Bündchen, Gwyneth Paltrow, Kate Moss and other famous subjects. The 80M2 Livia Benavides art gallery specializes in Latin American conceptual art. The gallery, opened in 2012, developed critical discourses on contemporary topics, focusing on political, environmental and social issues. Ceviche, a seafood dish made from fresh, raw fish cured in citrus juices and seasoned with spices, salt and onions, is popular in Peru, and both Barranco and Miraflores boast dozens of great cevicherías. At laid-back El Muelle

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in Barranco, locals sit on the shaded, outdoor patio enjoying fresh ceviche. The restaurant Mérito opened in Barranco three years ago, with local design firm Ghezzi Novack renovating an older, two-story building to reveal original walls lined with adobe bricks. Paper lamps soften the interior light, and the large wooden doorway provides an entrance that is hard to miss. Serving local cuisine prepared by Chef Juan Luis Martínez, Mérito exudes a rustic feel that creates a wonderful, subdued Latino atmosphere. Stay in the heart of Barranco at Hotel B, a 20-room, beautifully renovated Belle Époque mansion. This arts-boutique hotel also houses the Lucia de la Puente Gallery, a private collection of Latin American and Peruvian artists. The Hotel B earned South America’s “Leading Design Hotel 2020” in the World Travel Awards. Easily explore Barranco and Miraflores while walking or biking, especially along the clifftop Malecón promenade, always bustling with bikers, skateboarders, joggers and strolling locals. Pause along the way to watch colorful paragliders zipping above the Pacific.

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC TRAVELERâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S BEST TRIPS 2020 - ONLY US CITY

SISTERLY LOVE Harp & Crown

FRIENDS & FAMILY | COOK ISLANDS

South Pacific Paradise Escape to the unspoiled beauty of the Cook Islands. BY EUGENIA LAZARIS

Adventurous Pursuits: (Left to right) Snorkeling in Rarotonga, getting around on Aitutaki, and reaching Tapuaetai by kayak PHOTOS: © RAFAEL BEN ARI | DREAMSTIME.COM, © RAFAEL BEN ARI | DREAMSTIME. COM, © FABIO LAMANNA | DREAMSTIME.COM

odern advancements in travel and tourism leave few places on this planet remote and removed from modern society, but the Cook Islands manage to maintain unique culture and history while preserving stunning natural beauty. Not yet affected by the ravages of overtourism, this Oceania archipelago offers visitors a glimpse into a bygone era when life was less complicated and people focused on family, community and quality of life. Adventurous travelers willing to make the trek to this Polynesian gem will find a stunning world of timeless beauty awaiting them. Deep in the heart of the Pacific Ocean, the Cooks consist of 15 separate islands broken into two groups, southern and northern. The biggest and most commonly visited, Rarotonga, home to the capital of Avarua, makes a solid starting point for your foray into the Cook Islands. Rarotonga itself offers an impressive array of entertainment

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and adventure options, but the smaller islands feature their own natural beauty and fascinating local culture. Rarotonga, the most commercial of the islands, boasts a plentiful selection of boutique resorts, restaurants and modern amenities all while maintaining a relaxed style synonymous throughout the islands. Cultural centers like Te Vara Nui Village are designed to offer guests an opportunity to learn about local history and culture during the day, culminating in a dinner show complete with traditional music and dances after dark. Kayaking, diving and snorkeling are extremely popular in the waters surrounding the islands rife with underwater sea life. More than 70 species of native coral and hundreds of species of colorful reef fish make their home in these waters. Enjoy some of the best snorkeling off Muri Beach on Rarotonga’s southeasternmost point and off Aro’a Beach on the southwest side of the island.

On each of these islands — surrounded by the jewel-toned blues of the Pacific Ocean — lush green vegetation crowds right up to the sandy shores of beaches dotted with traditional thatched huts. Thriving jungles blanket the mountains of the interiors, and the small towns that crop up throughout have a laid-back vibe that captures the essence of the island lifestyle. Low-lying buildings (never taller than the treetops), a smattering of power lines and the occasional bus or car among the more common scooters prove the only clues to modern civilization in this island paradise. Aitutaki, in the northern group of islands, offers a great way to escape the commercialism of Rarotonga. The island boasts pristine beaches, clear blue waters and the oldest church in the Cook Islands. From Aitutaki one can easily visit one of the islands’ most popular attractions, Tapuaetai, or One Foot Island. This little islet, set within the lagoon of Aitutaki, features a stunning beach and some of the most incredible views of the lagoon. From Aitutaki, local

water transport takes you to the smaller island, which owes its name to its resemblance to a large footprint within the crystal-clear waters of the lagoon. The relative safety of the islands proves a strong draw for hikers who can take comfort in the absence of snakes and spiders on the islands. Keep an eye out, however, for plenty of other fauna such as the pet dogs, pigs and chickens that seem to roam the island freely. Geckos also abound, making their presence known not only in the great outdoors but in hotel rooms, where they intrigue visitors by scaling smooth walls and windows and hanging upside-down from ceilings. The islands also host an impressive assortment of wild birds, including the rare kakerori, also known as the Rarotonga monarch. For the best bird-watching, head to the small island of Atiu, northwest of Rarotonga. Also known by its ancient name of Enuamanu, which translates to “Land of the Birds,” this atoll offers a haven for bird enthusiasts who want to observe the beauti-

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Crystal Blue Lagoon Villas Relax in an infinity pool overlooking Muri Lagoon at these luxury villas. Spacious two-story villas offer privacy and seclusion in expertly appointed accommodations.

The Mooring Fish Café Whether you are looking for a fried fish sandwich or a traditional raw fish salad (ika mata), the selection is always fresh and expertly prepared at this walk-up hut.

Muri Beach, Rarotonga $$$$$

Avana Fishing Club, near Muri Beach, Rarotonga $$

Pacific Resort Rarotonga This beachfront boutique resort plays to traditional Polynesian style with beautifully decorated accommodations. Thatched roofs hidden among the shade of palm trees make for a perfect luxury hideaway.

Oceans Restaurant & Bar Enjoy spectacular sunsets at this beachfront bar and restaurant. This resort eatery, open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, offers a cultural dance show on Thursdays.

Muri Beach, Rarotonga $$$$$

Crown Beach Resort & Spa, Beach Road, Arorangi, Rarotonga $$$

Rumours Luxury Villas & Spa Thatched roofs and white sand make this beachfront property with its waterfalls, tropical gardens and private pools an ideal island getaway for romance and luxury. Main Road, Muri Beach, Rarotonga $$$$$

Tamarind House Restaurant & Bar Executive chef Robbie Brown presents a fine-dining experience using fresh, seasonal ingredients in delectable meat, seafood and vegetarian dishes. Pue, Tupapa, Rarotonga $$$$

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INFO TO GO On the large island of Rarotonga, the international airport (RAR) receives daily flights from the New Zealand cities of Auckland (AKL) and Christchurch (CHC) via Air New Zealand. Air Tahiti Nui services Rarotonga with twice-weekly flights from Papeete (PPT), and Air New Zealand offers non-stop flights from both Sydney (SYD) and Los Angeles (LAX). Once you arrive in Rarotonga, it is easy to visit the nation’s other islands, such as Aitutaki, via Air Rarotonga, the official airline of the Cook Islands. Easily get around on the islands by car, bicycle or scooter rental. Public buses run regular routes around the island of Rarotonga, which can be circuited in just a few hours.

ful creatures in their natural tropical jungle habitats and the caves where they dwell. In addition to tours of the island’s bird caves, Atiu offers the opportunity to visit organic coffee plantations and participate in fishing and pig hunting excursions. All 15 islands boast pristine beaches, many secluded and uncrowded. Ranging from rocky shores to long stretches of white sand, the beaches offer plenty of water sports for adventure-seekers. The climate in the Cooks remains moderate throughout the year, with temperatures averaging in the mid-70s; however, a rainy season exists November–March. For this reason travel is optimal April–October, when visitors can best enjoy outdoor activities like hiking or snorkeling. Shopping for local souvenirs is a must when visiting the Cook Islands, particularly the black pearls locally produced in abundance by the black-lip pearl oysters found in the lagoon of the remote northern island of Manihiki, also known as the Island of Pearls. This tiny atoll is home to approximately 300 residents, many involved in the pearl cultivating industry. While you can find local black pearls throughout the islands, the local pearl authority specifically authorizes and accredits certain stores to sell them, such as Paka’s Pearls, Goldmine and Bergman & Sons, all located on Rarotonga. When it comes to the local foodie scene, the Muri Night Market proves the place to be. This cash-only, open-air market offers an ever-changing variety of local vendors serving up fresh calamari, grilled fish and local fruits in tasty and delicious ways, letting

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you sample all the local delicacies in one place. Local dishes are often fried or grilled and take advantage of the tropical fruit and the abundant seafood available year-round. Lucky visitors invited to attend a umukai will be treated to a feast of local delicacies cooked with hot coals buried under the sand. Similar to a Hawai’ian luau, this time-honored tradition offers a glimpse into the true food and cultural heritage of the islands. As for local brews, kava is a customary drink on the islands, along with tumunu, a local beer brewed from oranges. You can find tumunu in small, thatched “pubs” frequented by locals, particularly on the smaller islands such as Atiu. Keep in mind tipping is not customary on the islands. While not unheard of, it contradicts the native custom of returning a gift with a gift. Likewise, bargaining for better deals from local vendors is also not a common practice. From the time you arrive and throughout your visit, friendly locals will warmly greet you with a casual “Kia orana,” which translates to “May you live on” in Cook Islands Māori. While the language is spoken throughout the islands, English is also commonly used by locals, making communication easy for visitors. Whether you’ve got time for several days of exploring or just the evening hours after a long day of work, you’ll find plenty of ways to explore the natural beauty and fascinating local culture and history of the Cook Islands. Using Rarotonga as a base camp and jumpingoff point, you can easily visit the smaller islands and learn about each of their unique personalities.

Feathered Friends: Aitu swiftlet (left); and Kuhl s lorikeet, reintroduced by the Cook Islands Natural Heritage Trust and numerous conservation bodies to the island of Atiu, where it was formerly native PHOTOS: © AGAMI PHOTO AGENCY | DREAMSTIME.COM, © AGAMI PHOTO AGENCY | DREAMSTIME.COM

TOURS | KENTUCKY

Spirit of Kentucky Tour and taste the state’s best bourbon. BY BRANDON SCHULTZ

t’s a myth that bourbon has to be made in Kentucky to carry the name (anywhere in the United States will do), but the area’s natural limestone filtration and generations of experience provide top reasons the state’s distillers remain favorites throughout the industry. And there are a lot of them. In fact, according to the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States, Kentucky produces 95 percent of the world’s bourbon and boasts twice as many barrels of bourbon as people. While you may have heard of the alluring Kentucky Bourbon Trail, it’s important to note this is simply a collection of 38 traditional and craft distilleries across the state that partnered with the Kentucky Distillers’ Association to be included on this well-promoted list. Your own drive will likely look different from others’ even if you remain on the “trail.” With some distilleries spread apart by as many as 70 miles, your itinerary will depend on multiple factors, including how many days you’re devoting to this delicious drive, which distilleries are on your personal list and whether other cultural diversions in the state pique your interest. The Kentucky Bourbon Trail offers popular itinerary suggestions of preplanned routes, but the sky’s the limit if you customize your adventure. If you plan to taste heartily, consider guided tours that keep you from behind the wheel; popular operators like Mint Julep and Central Kentucky Tours offer a range of itinerary lengths and can also include additional areas of interest like horse farm tours in Kentucky Derby country and a range of food tours statewide. With at least 70 distilleries across the state, there’s no reason to limit yourself to those that partnered with the Kentucky Bourbon Trail if you don’t mind plotting your own course or upgrading to a customized private tour with operators. If you’re just stopping in for a day or two, base yourself in Louisville, the heart of bourbon country, where downtown’s Whiskey Row hosts six respected distilleries within walking distance of each other, with plenty more in the immediate vicinity. The city also operates LouLift, a fleet of electric buses offering free transportation on circular routes around Louisville daily, so you’ll never need to worry about driving even if walking isn’t on the agenda.

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Bourbon Country: Maker’s Mark tasting (above), and large copper stills at the Woodford Reserve distillery (left) PHOTOS: © KAREN FOLEY | DREAMSTIME.COM, © ARNE BERULDSEN | DREAMSTIME.COM

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After the holiday season, take a much-needed, relaxing trip to Malta. Head to the link in our bio for a virtual journey to jumpstart your vacation planning.

BUCKET LIST | SKYDIVING NEW ZEALAND

Adrenaline High

Jump into adventure in Queenstown, New Zealand. BY RICHARD NEWTON

Aerial Thrill: (Left to right) Exhilarating freefall, the parachute deploying, and enjoying the view during the slow descent PHOTOS: © SAIKIT LEUNG | DREAMSTIME.COM, © SPEEDFIGHTER17 | DREAMSTIME .COM, © GREATY | DREAMSTIME.COM

rom any angle, but especially from the air, the scenery of New Zealand’s South Island mesmerizes: snow-frosted mountains, deep-green valleys, startlingly blue lakes. In a daydream, in which anything is possible, you might be tempted to open the airplane door and jump directly into the view. This is no daydream. The Cessna took off from a grass airstrip outside Queenstown and spiraled up to an altitude of 15,000 feet. Lake Wakatipu lies placid far below. Things are less placid within the plane. The drone of the engine is drowned out by the mounting beat of your heart.

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At the assigned altitude, your jumpmaster guides you to the open door and you both sit — fixed together by a harness — with your legs hanging out. After what seems like a split-second and also an age, the jumpmaster keels you both out, into freefall. You plummet for about a minute, reaching the terminal velocity of 120 mph. At full speed, you’re falling at 200 feet per second. Lying horizontally with your arms splayed, everything is a blur. Your goggles shudder against the rushing air. Then the jumpmaster pulls the cord and deploys the parachute. Everything slows down. The blur sharpens into focus. Now you’re hanging vertically. Beneath your dangling feet, the environs of Queenstown spread out like a map. Moments ago, you were above the mountains; now they’re rising up around you. Skydiving is a relatively recent human activity. Backpack parachutes activated by a ripcord weren’t invented until 1919, and for several decades after they were the preserve of the military. It wasn’t until the 1970s that civilians began to fling themselves out of airplanes for fun, though it remained a dangerous activity, requiring intensive training. The equipment continued to evolve, becoming simpler to use and more reliable. The invention of tandem skydiving in 1983 opened the sport to novices who could make a jump after no more than 15 minutes of preliminary instruction. Thus, a new tourist industry was born.

Not surprisingly, Queenstown became one of the first places to embrace commercial skydiving. This small city nestled between lake and mountains forged a reputation as the Adrenaline Capital of New Zealand. Just out of town, the Kawaru Gorge Suspension Bridge, 141 feet above the Kawaru River, became the world’s first permanent site for bungee jumping. On the same river and the adjoining Shotover River you can raft or kayak through whitewater rapids or speed perilously through the narrow twists and turns of deep gorges in a jet boat. In winter ( June to August, this being the Southern Hemisphere), the focus moves up onto the high slopes, and Queenstown transforms into a ski resort. Skydiving continues then, when the mountains are at their snowy best, though remember the windchill at altitude is 40 degrees colder than the temperature at ground level. For a preview of what to expect in a skydive, iFly Queenstown, downtown, is an indoor facility in which you can experience the sensation of freefall in a vertical wind tunnel. Each flight lasts about a minute, and you can book up to 10

flights in a session. From there, the inevitable next step up the adrenaline ladder is the real thing. Tandem skydives from up to 15,000 feet are offered by Skydive Southern Alps, operating out of Glenorchy Airfield 40 minutes from Queenstown, and by NZONE, based just south of town. Expect to pay around $275 for a jump, plus $200 for a professional video and photo package. On arrival at NZONE you’re confronted by the slogan, “Embrace the Fear.” It’s one of the anomalies of Queenstown that a place so breathtakingly beautiful forged its reputation on pushing visitors to the brink of terror. As you go through the pre-flight briefing, you inevitably wonder why you’re putting yourself through all of this. Doubts and mounting fear plague you during the flight to altitude, and then, all of a sudden, exhilarating release. The jump itself is over in less than five minutes. The adrenaline high will last into the evening. Queenstown at night buzzes with people similarly buoyant from having overcome various fears during the day. A visit here offers more than a vacation; it’s often a pivotal, life-changing experience.

INFO TO GO Domestic and international flights arrive at Queenstown Airport, located five miles from downtown. The airport has daily connections to the main cities of New Zealand and also to Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane in Australia (especially in winter, as Queenstown is a popular skiing destination). Until 2011 operations were limited to daylight hours, but new runway lights and other navigation equipment now enable night flights.

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KICKING BACK | BORA BORA

Tropical Allure Indulge in the seductive splendor of the Tahitian Islands. BY KRISTY ALPERT

Island Vibes: View from a helicopter of Mount Otemanu (above), and (opposite page, left to right) relaxing in a hammock at The St. Regis Bora Bora, and overwater bungalows at the Four Seasons Bora Bora PHOTOS: © NOBLIGE | DREAMSTIME.COM, © MRCARD3 | DREAMSTIME.COM, © FOUR SEASONS BORA BORA

had just taken off my sandals, stepping onto the white-sand beach for a late-morning walk to a secluded spot I heard about from a front desk clerk, when I glanced down and saw the time on my phone. It had just turned 11 a.m., which meant it was only 7 a.m. back home, the perfect time to call and say good morning to my husband before he left for work. Not quite ready to head back to my room, I decided I’d test the WiFi signal and made the call as I continued walking toward the shoreline. “Good morning from Bora Bora,” I said, half guiltily, as I heard the line connect after just two rings. “Wish you were here!” The conversation continued as I trudged farther and farther away from the canopied loungers and sun beds sunken in the sand. I gripped my phone a little harder as I took my first step into the crystal-clear

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water, letting the salty, still liquid cool my toes and rise higher up my legs as I stepped deeper and deeper into the shallow Pacific Ocean lagoon. Up to my waist in seawater, I ended the call as I finally reached the aim of my morning journey. With one last, “Miss you,” I hung up the phone, placed it in a waterproof bag and collapsed into a private overwater hammock that hung loosely between two poles so the netting barely kissed the water’s surface as I swung slowly. All alone. Not another living soul in sight. Often regarded as a honeymoon destination due to its romantic scenery and private overwater bungalows, Bora Bora’s recent connectivity and increased flight schedules from U.S. hubs make this Polynesian paradise more accessible for solo travelers and business men and women looking to kick back and escape the grueling 9 to 5. The island sits within the French overseas territory of French Polynesia, a country divided into five groups of islands: the Society Islands, the Tuamotu Islands, the Marquesas Islands, the Austral Islands and the Gambier Islands. Only 67 of the country’s 118 islands and atolls are inhabited, with the majority of Tahitians residing within the Society Islands, home to French Polynesia’s most famous islands of Tahiti, Moorea, Tetiaroa and Bora Bora. With a larger-than-life reputation as the Pearl of the

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Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora Little details create the base for the Four Seasons Bora Bora experience, where interiors by local architect Pierre-Jean Picart welcome guests into the bungalows.

Bloody Mary’s Less known for its cuisine than its iconic Polynesian atmosphere, Bloody Mary’s is a must-see while in town, even if just to grab a drink.

Motu Tehotu, Bora Bora $$$$$ Le Méridien Bora Bora Each of the bungalows offers stunning vistas, but the overwater bungalows with Mount Otemanu views earned this resort the reputation of having the best in Bora Bora. Motu Tape, Bora Bora $$$$$ The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort No wonder celebrities frequent this luxury resort. The attention to detail and discreet service pair perfectly with the sumptuous suites. Motu Ome’e, Bora Bora $$$$$

Povai Bay, Bora Bora $$$ Lagoon Restaurant by Jean-Georges Michelin-starred chef JeanGeorges Vongerichten helms this exquisite restaurant where French and Asian influences impart an upscale twist on fresh Polynesian ingredients. The St. Regis Bora Bora, Motu Ome’e, Bora Bora $$$ Le Te Ava The casual-dining restaurant concocts one of the best renditions of Tahiti’s most popular dish, poisson cru: raw tuna and coconut marinated in lime juice, then served in a real coconut shell. Le Méridien Bora Bora, Motu Tape, Bora Bora $$$

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Above and below: Lagoon Restaurant by Jean-Georges at The St. Regis Bora Bora sits over the water and gives guests a unique underwater view at their feet. PHOTOS: © ST. REGIS BORA BORA

INFO TO GO All international flights arrive and depart in Tahiti’s capital city of Papeete. From there, a 50-minute flight puts guests at Bora Bora Airport, where they can either take a car transfer to a resort on the main island or hop in their corresponding resort boat to shuttle via water to their resort’s private motu.

Pacific, Bora Bora consists of a series of smaller islands (motus) and a main island encompassing less than 15 square miles in total. Most of the resorts in Bora Bora reside on their own private motus, a short boat or helicopter ride from Bora Bora’s main port of Vaitape. The main island centers around a dormant volcano that rises dramatically above the lush jungle floor into two peaks, Mount Pahia and the showstopping Mount Otemanu. The most sought-after accommodations within Bora Bora feature views of Mount Otemanu, Bora Bora’s unofficial icon, and no resort offers a better view than Le Méridien Bora Bora. This Marriott-owned resort features overwater bungalows with unobstructed views of Mount Otemanu and direct access to the water from each private outdoor deck. The resort’s casual restaurant, Le Te Ava, allows guests to dine in the sand in the shade of a traditional Polynesian thatched roof as they sample one of the most beautiful renditions of Tahiti’s national dish, poisson cru, a ceviche-like item prepared with raw tuna marinated in lime juice and coconut milk. The resort also hosts the Bora Bora Turtle Center turtle sanctuary within the Ecological Center. Le Méridien offers a daily visit at 10:30 a.m. with a turtle feeding. For a fee, visitors can participate in a Live My Life session, in which they interact with these amazing creatures and participate in the care and healing of the sea turtles alongside the team of biologists. All of the resorts along Bora Bora’s motu lie just a short boat ride from each other, making it easy to hop around with a pre-arranged water taxi or boat transfer to other resorts or even back to Vaitape to explore the small markets that come to life in the early afternoon or go celebrityspotting at the sandy-floored seafood joint, Bloody Mary’s. The oftencrowded restaurant’s low-key vibe attracts famous names like Pierce Brosnan, Jimmy Buffet, Kurt Russell, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and others.

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Visitors looking for fine dining won’t find it at Bloody Mary’s, but they will at the island’s often-regarded-as-best Lagoon Restaurant by Jean-Georges. The restaurant sits over the water at The St. Regis Bora Bora, where this Michelin-starred chef created a menu worthy of his many accolades. Find uravena on the menu. This local fish presents a formidable challenge to most chefs in its preparation, so this is a highly rare dish. The restaurant itself sits on a dock where glass-paneled flooring alone stands between diners and the black-tipped sharks that lurk in the water beneath the restaurant. The St. Regis Bora Bora features large overwater bungalows in the South Pacific, where rooms include private gazebos, glass-paneled floors, private plunge pools and direct access to the water via private ladders. The resort’s accommodations range from garden villas with a private beach to overwater villas and royal overwater villas, as well as the jawdropping royal estate. Guests of the resort split their days between relaxing just off the beach in the resort’s private offshore hammocks and sipping drinks at the swim-up pool bar or heading off the motu for some Tahitian adventures. The resort can arrange everything from full-day scuba diving excursions to Jet Ski tours of the islands, putting guests behind the controls of a state-of-the-art water craft as they zip in and out of the motu and lagoons. True adventure seekers can book half- or full-day tours with Lagoon Service Bora Bora. Coconuts appear throughout Polynesia in everything from gastronomy to health remedies, but no coconut creation is more representative of Tahitian culture than monoi oil. The oils are delicately scented with the petals of a tiare flower and can be found on the spa menu at Iridum Spa at The St. Regis Bora Bora. The oils have a softening effect on both skin and hair and make for a great souvenir to recall time spent taking in the beauty, relaxation and little luxuries of the Tahitian Islands.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Your Home Away From Home Enjoy a true urban haven at Claridge House.

EXPERIENCE A BIG-CITY HOTEL stay that doesn’t feel like your typical urban visit at Chicago’s Claridge House, nestled in the sought-after Gold Coast neighborhood. The hotel’s sophisticated décor and serene residential ambience foster the atmosphere of an oasis amid the hustle and bustle of a busy metropolis. In 2018, the historic property underwent a $9 million renovation, completely redesigning all 165 guestrooms, the lobby, meeting spaces and a fitness center. The transformation into a welcoming, modern retreat still stayed true to the building’s classic architecture and historical significance. Designed in 1923 by a native Chicago architect,

the hotel enjoys a long history in Chicago and its Gold Coast neighborhood home. It began as a residential hotel, and today showcases artwork, sculptures and more from its 90-year history. Claridge House’s quiet residential location is still close to Chicago’s notable landmarks, including Navy Pier, theaters, Magnificent Mile shopping and more. Position yourself in the enviable Gold Coast neighborhood and enjoy Chicago’s many delights. A variety of accommodation types are available, all featuring fast WiFi, a fridge, spa-inspired showers and plush bedding with a pillowtop mattress. Choose from queen, standard king, king deluxe, two double queen, deluxe king feature fireplace or deluxe king suite room types. The on-site fitness center boasts state-of-the-art equipment and free weights, while a second-floor spa offers manicures, pedicures and facials. The lobbylevel Juniper signature restaurant is a sophisticated, but never stuffy, eatery offering everything from juices to tapas, and indoor and outdoor seating. Live music entertains on Thursday evenings and Saturday afternoons. Claridge House, your home away from home, is also the perfect choice to host your next event,

whether a sales meeting, a training seminar, cocktail party or other custom event. The 1,000-square-foot DaVinci Room is named for the artist, and boasts event planning and business services on site, full catering, A/V equipment and technical support and preferred rates for event attendees.

Welcome home to Claridge House! Learn more at claridgehousechicago.com. CLARIDGE HOUSE 1244 N. Dearborn Pkwy Chicago, IL 60610 tel 312 787 4980

LGBTQ+

New Journeys Tour operators launch LGBTQ+ options for 2021. BY MARK CHESNUT

ust like everyone else, LGBTQ+ travelers spent a lot of time at home in 2020. To entice them to travel again, tour operators up the ante with an array of new offerings. Like all travel companies, tour operators that cater to the LGBTQ+ market adopted hygiene protocols designed to protect travelers, staff and the local communities. “You should definitely expect to wear face masks while out in public, and you’ll be offered hand sanitizer every time you enter an establishment,” said Sam Castañeda Holdren, owner, Out in Colombia. The Medellín-based LGBTQ+ tour operator debuted new offers ranging from weekend urban getaways to multiweek journeys around Colombia. “Restaurants might take your temperature when you first arrive, and they often provide a QR code for you to scan with your mobile phone to access the menu. But when you’re out hiking on a mountain trail or relaxing on the island resort, you can feel free to take your mask off and take a breath of fresh air.” Travelers looking to make up for missing out on LGBTQ+ pride celebrations in 2020 may consider a trip with Contiki, which offers a 10-day Pride 2021 tour that celebrates pride in four European countries. The company also offers single-country pride event tours in Amsterdam, Barcelona, Berlin and Madrid. Farther north, Pink Iceland offers a new, women-only tour with Canadian partner Out Adventures and also debuts new destination wedding options, with a focus on elopements for couples who had to shelve plans for larger weddings due to the pandemic. Also debuting new offers is VACAYA, an LGBTQ+ vacation company with 2021 programs such as a Halloween and Day of the Dead celebration in Playa del Carmen, Mexico; an eco-focused trip to Costa Rica; and cruises in Iceland, on the Mississippi River and in the Caribbean. The company also created an initiative called #AdaptToLive that aims to inspire travelers to come together and work through today’s challenges. “Although the pandemic has been challenging, the human spirit won’t remain down for long,” said Patrick Gunn, the company’s co-founder and CMO. “VACAYA expects the 2021–2022 season to come thundering back as people begin to feel comfortable again.”

Getaways: Friends on a VACAYA vacation tour (top), and Cocora Valley tour with Out in Colombia (bottom) PHOTOS: © OUT IN COLOMBIA, © VACAYA

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2021 Trazees Awards Ballot Please write in your personal favorites, based on your own experience, on the line next to each of the following categories.

AIRLINE BEST

DESTINATION BEST

Favorite International Airline____________________________________________________________

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Favorite Airline Alliance_________________________________________________________________

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Favorite Aircraft Type___________________________________________________________________

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AIRPORT BEST

Favorite Beach Town, Southern California_____________________________________________

Favorite Overall Airport in the World___________________________________________________

Favorite Beach Town, Northern California______________________________________________

Favorite Airport in Africa________________________________________________________________

Favorite Beach Town, Pacific Northwest________________________________________________

Favorite Airport in Asia__________________________________________________________________

Favorite Beach Town, Hawai’ian Islands (Lanai)________________________________________

Name

Favorite Hotel Chain in South/Central America________________________________________

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Favorite Green Hotel____________________________________________________________________

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Favorite Hotel App______________________________________________________________________

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AIPORT UPDATE

Fast Forward Chicago’s airports pave the way for a brighter future. BY MARY MELNICK

CHICAGO O’HARE’S LATEST PROJECT, ORD21, EMBODIES CHICAGO’S VISION FOR A MODERN, EFFICIENT AND ACCESSIBLE INTERNATIONAL GATEWAY TO THE WORLD AND CHICAGO.

CHICAGO DEPARTMENT OF AVIATION flychicago.com

hicago’s two major airports, O’Hare International Airport and Chicago Midway International Airport, are at work on expansions to provide a safer, easier way for travelers to fly in and out of the city’s hubs. Chicago O’Hare’s latest project, ORD21, embodies Chicago’s vision for a modern, efficient and accessible international gateway to the world and Chicago. This project is the biggest expansion in the airport’s 60 years of operation. The $8.5 billion project will expand travel options by increasing gate capacity and airline competition, reducing security wait times

globaltravelerusa.com JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

with new security screening checkpoints that integrate the latest technology, improving screening and sorting of passenger baggage by replacing baggage handling systems, and reducing airfield congestion and ground delays by improving aircraft parking positions and capabilities. At 2.2 million square feet, the new Global Terminal will be one of the largest and most cutting-edge terminals in the nation. It will more than double the space of today’s Terminal 2, which will be replaced with an expanded arrivals hall. Terminal 5 will also get an expansion and modernization with the addition of 10 gates, more concessions and more room for airport lounges. The project adds two new satellite concourses to accommodate international and domestic travel. Chicago Midway International Airport, meanwhile, is making procedural changes, with CLEAR implementing its trusted and touchless identity technology and expedited security lanes. CLEAR uses passengers’ unique biometrics, such as eyes, to confirm identity, eliminating the need for traditional identification documents. As the world continues to juggle COVID-19 guidelines and a surge in cases, the touchless travel process minimizes contact between passengers and employees at security checkpoints. The airport also expands through the Midway Modernization Program. To accommodate the increasing number of passengers traveling through MDW, the security checkpoint area requires expansion in order to alleviate traffic congestion and provide a better experience for passengers. The Midway Modernization Program includes a terminal parking garage expansion to create a more aesthetically pleasing area and to provide clearer directional signs to keep people moving. In addition, the concessions development program will give customers more choices for dining, shopping, services and amenities during their time in the airport.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

From the Board Room to the Beach Enjoy a Unique Stay at the New AC Hotel Los Angeles South Bay

OFFERING MILES OF BEACHFRONT, the South Bay of Los Angeles is quintessential Southern California. Tucked into this same region is the small city of El Segundo, a growing business, dining and entertainment destination, and the home to the newest AC Hotel by Marriott®. Just minutes from the coastline and Los Angeles International Airport, AC Hotel Los Angeles South Bay, a new lifestyle property, brings a timeless European design with Spanish roots and a contemporary option for the modern traveler to the region. Bridging the business world with that of SoCal’s signature beach scene, AC Hotel Los Angeles South Bay is an easy access point to all the area has to offer. “We’re in close proximity to a high concentration of Fortune 500 companies and amidst the state’s largest aerospace hub, but also just a short drive from the new Los Angeles Stadium at Hollywood

Park and the sun and fun of the coastline and Manhattan Beach,” Ahmed Elassy, general manager said. “All that, plus great shopping and restaurants right in our backyard. It’s an ideal location for visitors arriving just two miles away at LAX looking to jump right into the destination.” From its sleek decor and scenic rooftop to its state-of-the-art fitness center, tech-friendly and flexible meeting spaces and sensible guestrooms, the AC embodies a sophisticated yet unpretentious style unlike anything in the area. Along with clean, minimalist design the hotel serves European-style breakfast spreads replete with French croissants and Italian coffees. Made for work or play, there’s also an AC Lounge that extends outdoors to provide the perfect setting for a power lunch on the patio, a celebratory handcrafted cocktail with colleagues, or shared happy hour tapas after work.

For garden-inspired cocktails and seasonal bar bites alongside sweeping city views, guests can retreat to Flora, the hotel’s swanky rooftop bar and lounge, where social hour is in full bloom. Designed to feel like a friend’s patio, the rooftop garden oasis is ideal for cocktailing with a side of SoCal sunset, capping off a long flight or celebrating a business deal. Along with a vibrant living wall, Flora is also landscaped with a lush garden alive with an array of edible flowers, herbs and vegetables featured in drinks and dishes on the menu. These lively and verstile spaces combined with a prime location make the hotel a hot spot for company meetings and events. But whether traveling to the South Bay for a boardroom meeting, a beach getaway or a bit of both, AC Hotel Los Angeles South Bay hits the mark. For more information, visit www.marriott.com/laxae.

MEDICAL TOURISM

Heart of the Matter Medical travelers head to India for cardiac procedures. BY DEBRA BOKUR

globaltravelerusa.com JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

o many, India represents a place of ancient wisdom and healing practices. In the nowfamiliar sign of namaste — often used as a salutation in yoga — the hands are held pressed together at the location of the heart chakra, a gesture of respect and honor delivered from the heart. Interestingly, India has become a top destination for medical travelers pursuing cardiac treatments and surgeries to restore the health and integrity of the heart. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention list heart disease as the leading cause of death in the United States (although in December 2020 COVID-19 became the leading cause), with one person dying from cardiovascular disease on an average of every 36 seconds. Heart surgery procedures are among the most expensive medical treatments, and in the United States patients often face a significant wait time for treatments. Both of these factors became drivers in the decision to travel outside of the country for medical care. In a recent ranking of top destinations for specific medical needs published by Patients Without Borders, Mumbai, India, came out ahead for the number of top heart specialists coupled with significant cost savings to patients. The report suggests typical savings range 55–90 percent for a wide variety of sophisticated medical treatments and surgeries. Other major urban centers — including New Delhi, Delhi and Bangalore — are seeing an average annual increase of 30 percent in medical tourists from the United States, Canada and Europe. Destinations for heart procedures include top-rated Fortis Escorts Heart Institute in New Delhi, which features minimal access and robotic surgery, along with specialty clinics treating heart failure and addressing issues related to pacemakers and implanted cardiac devices. The Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, also located in New Delhi, specializes in multiple advanced cardiac procedures including percutaneous transluminal septal myocardial ablation, neonatal heart surgery and valvular heart disease. The hospital’s advanced cardiac team addresses more than 100 procedures daily, including stress echo, echo, TMT and vascular Doppler studies, with 95 percent of surgeries falling into the category of beating heart surgeries — bypass surgeries performed while the patient’s

HEART SURGERY PROCEDURES ARE AMONG THE MOST EXPENSIVE MEDICAL TREATMENTS, AND IN THE UNITED STATES PATIENTS OFTEN FACE A SIGNIFICANT WAIT TIME FOR TREATMENTS. heart is beating. For pediatric patients, Narayana Multispeciality Hospital in Bangalore has a dedicated unit run by one of India’s top specialist surgeons. This hospital also addresses the needs of adult patients and provides advanced treatments in the areas of coronary artery disease, myocardial infarction, angina pectoris and cardiomyopathy. India is filled with fabulous places to visit before heading back home. In Bangalore there’s Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace, Gavi Gangadhareshwara Cave Temple and the ancient Dodda Ganapathi. In Delhi three UNESCO World Heritage sites include the Hayat Baksh Bagh, which translates to Life-Bestowing Gardens — a fitting way to end a health-focused journey.

2021 Wherever Awards Ballot Whereverfamily.com, the trusted travel source for the modern family, has opened voting for the 2021 Wherever Awards. Please write in your personal favorites, based on your own experience, on the line next to each of the following categories.

Best Family-Friendly Domestic Airline_____________________________________________________

Best Family-Friendly International Destination____________________________________________

Best Family-Friendly Airline in North America_____________________________________________

Best Family-Friendly Domestic Destination________________________________________________

Best Family-Friendly International Airline__________________________________________________

Best Family-Friendly Caribbean Island_____________________________________________________

Best Family-Friendly Frequent-Flyer Program_____________________________________________

Best Family-Friendly Beach Town

Best Family-Friendly Hotel Chain__________________________________________________________ Best Family-Friendly Resort Chain_________________________________________________________ Best Family-Friendly Individual Hotel______________________________________________________ Best Family-Friendly Frequent-Stay Program______________________________________________ Best Family-Friendly All-Inclusive Hotel____________________________________________________

Northeast/Mid-Atlantic U.S. (Maine–Maryland)_______________________________________

Southeast U.S. (Virginia–Georgia)_____________________________________________________

Florida (East)___________________________________________________________________________

Florida (West) _________________________________________________________________________

Florida (Panhandle)____________________________________________________________________

Gulf U.S. (Alabama/Louisiana/Mississippi)____________________________________________

Texas__________________________________________________________________________________

West Coast U.S.________________________________________________________________________

Best Family-Friendly Pet Hotel_____________________________________________________________

Hawai’ian Islands______________________________________________________________________

Best Family-Friendly Hotel Kids Club_______________________________________________________

Best Family-Friendly Multigen Destination of the Year____________________________________

Best Family-Friendly Vacation Company___________________________________________________

Best Family-Friendly Amusement Park____________________________________________________

Best Family-Friendly Domestic Tour Company____________________________________________

Best Family-Friendly Waterpark____________________________________________________________

Best Family-Friendly International Tour Company_________________________________________

Best Family-Friendly Rental Car Company_________________________________________________

Best Family-Friendly Cruise Line___________________________________________________________

Best Family-Friendly Travel Provider of the Year__________________________________________

Best Family-Friendly Multigen Cruise Line_________________________________________________

Best Family-Friendly Domestic Airport_____________________________________________________

Best Family-Friendly Cruise Line Kids Club________________________________________________

Best Family-Friendly International Airport_________________________________________________

Best Family-Friendly Credit Card___________________________________________________________

Best Family-Friendly Airport Dining________________________________________________________

Best Family-Friendly Credit Card Rewards Program_______________________________________

Best Family-Friendly Airport Shopping_____________________________________________________

PLEASE MAIL THE COMPLETED SURVEY TO:

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PREVIEW

Wine Tours in Napa Valley Known for its many vineyards and wineries, Napa Valley offers plenty of tour options for appreciating the fine wines and stunning landscape. Travel the valley by limousine, wine trolley or train â&#x20AC;Ś or even combine a wine tasting with an intimate hot-air balloon ride over the vineyards. Learn more when you read Bucket List: Wine Tours in Napa Valley in the March issue. PHOTO: ÂŠ MICHAEL WARWICK | DREAMSTIME.COM

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Live the French way Sofitel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills 8555 Beverly Boulevard, 90048 Los Angeles Visit www.sofitel-los-angeles.com

ÂŠ GrĂŠgoire Le Bacon

CONNECT DISCONNECT

There are many sides to The Islands of Tahiti. Yet they are all connected by Mana. Mana is a life force and spirit that surrounds us. You can see it. Touch it. Taste it. Feel it. And from the moment you arrive, you will understand why we say our Islands are

To discover Mana for yourself, visit Tahiti -Tourisme.com