December 2018 Global Traveler

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December 2018

ANTARCTICA p. 102 ANTALYA p. 104 ATHENS p. 96 CHICAGO p. 90 HAIKOU p. 92 HELSINKI p. 94 MEXICO CITY p. 82 PARK CITY p. 88

CELEBRATING

XV!

Announcing the winners of the 15th annual GT Tested Reader Survey awards. p. 40

letter from the editor ®

EDITORIAL Editor in Chief KIMBERLY KROL kim.krol@globaltravelerusa.com

ALL THAT GLITTERS EMERALDS, DIAMONDS AND RUBIES, OH MY! While that’s not typically how that refrain goes, it is this month as we celebrate the 15th annual GT Tested Reader Survey awards. I cannot believe it’s been 15 years, and in honor of crystal’s place as the commemorative marker of a 15th anniversary, we’ve given this year’s announcement a sparkling theme of gemstones, crystals and everything symbolizing success and luxury — a fitting theme for this year’s roster of winners. You likely noticed the GT Tested Reader Survey awards ballot included in the January–September issues, and with more than 20,000 responses, it’s likely you also voted for your favorite airlines, hotels, travel providers, airports and credit cards. Keep reading to find out if your favorites won.

We’re not just celebrating those winners, though.

SUNNY SIDE: This issue also includes more about the 2018 Airline Kimberly Krol in Los Angeles of the Year and Hotel of the Year. Who do you think PHOTO: © KIMBERLY KROL they are? You’ll also find out which GT Tested Reader Survey award winners achieved Quint Status, which marks a company’s fifth consecutive win for a specific award. This year, in honor of No. 15, we introduce the Crystal Status award winners as well. Four companies celebrate 15 consecutive wins — quite a monumental feat and a testament to the quality of their products.

We’re in the throes of the holiday travel season, giving us all even more to celebrate. Whether you have travel planned or you’re throwing together a last-minute trip, it’s a busy time of year around the globe. Pack your holiday cheer and a positive attitude as you embark on those last trips of 2018.

The GT team takes to the skies shortly to celebrate all these award winners at a gala in Los Angeles this month. We return once again to The Peninsula Beverly Hills. My picture this month is from our time in L.A. last year for the event, and we’re hoping for similar sunny skies this year.

Of course, it’s not all about the awards in this issue. We also take you around the globe to Doha; Mexico City; Park City, Utah; Chicago; Haikou, Hainan; Helsinki; Athens; and Antalya. And in case you thought I was kidding about all around the globe, we even go to the ends of the Earth. Check out Kristy Alpert’s report from Antarctica on page 102.

We’ll see you next month for the first issue of 2019. Until then, safe travels, happy holidays and a hearty congratulations to all our winners!

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 Assistant Editor ERICH J. MARTIN erich.martin@globaltravelerusa.com Digital Content Producer DEBRA BOKUR debra.bokur@globaltravelerusa.com News Editor ALLIE MOORE allie.moore@globaltravelerusa.com Editor at Large HOLLY RIDDLE holly.riddle@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

WRITERS

KRISTY ALPERT MARGARET BACKENHEIMER J.D. BROWN MARK CHESNUT EUNICE FRIED MARY B. GALLAGHER JACK GUY ALLIE MOORE

KRISTY ALPERT SUSAN BARNES ARI BEDNARSKY DEBRA BOKUR ILONA KAUREMSZKY SHARON KING HOGE TIM LEFFEL RICHARD NEWTON BRANDON SCHULTZ

ete bios, For compl a.com travelerus al ob gl visit

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

ack Kick b ent in anci h turf, Turkis sun, to e m ho nd and a s , ea s nights. starry e about or m n ar Le page on a ly ta An .

4 10

ADVISORY BOARD Chairman MICHAEL DONAHUE, COO MICHAEL KIELY, President CARLOS CAPPUCCIO, Executive Vice President GARY OSWALD, 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 GENERAL COUNSEL THOMAS F. GOLDMAN

KIMBERLY KROL, EDITOR IN CHIEF

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letter from the publisher ® ®

FABULOUS XV I FIND IT AMAZING we are celebrating the 15th annual GT Tested Reader Survey awards with the December issue. We look forward to the gala evening at The Peninsula Beverly Hills where we will honor the best the industry offers, all from your selections!

As I compose this letter, I am preparing for a trip to Cairo and Dubai. It has been many years since I visited Egypt’s lovely city, and I anticipate revisiting the pyramids and all the sites Cairo offers. I have always found the Egyptian people kind and willing to showcase their country to new and frequent visitors alike.

Dr. Zahi Hawass, a renowned Egyptologist, introduced me to Walid El Batouty, who will provide a personal tour between our meetings with the Egyptian Tourist Office in Cairo. We are flying EgyptAir, and I will report on its business class in an upcoming GT Tested review. We’re staying at the lovely Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at The First Residence.

From Cairo, we wing off to Dubai, landing at an ungodly hour of the morning.

MIGHTY FORTRESS: Francis X. Gallagher at Dover Castle in England: In Dubai, we’re booked at The Address Boulevard, with meetings scheduled all over PHOTO: © FRANCIS X. GALLAGHER the city. I really look forward to seeing The Address Downtown, just reopened after completing renovations necessitated by the New Year’s Eve fire of 2016. I am sure it returns even better than its former glory, which was quite spectacular. As you recall, readers voted this property Best Individual Hotel in the World for many years in our survey.

I usually stop on the way back from Los Angeles to check on our rental property in Cape San Blas, Florida. As you are aware, the devastating hurricane Michael came into the Panhandle as a Category 5 and decimated the area, along with Panama City Beach and Mexico Beach. Our place needs substantial repairs, but others lost everything. Please remember them in your year-end giving.

Raise a glass to this year’s GT Tested award winners, and we will see what new destinations 2019 brings!

ADVERTISING Publisher/CEO FRANCIS X. GALLAGHER tel 267 364 5811 ext 200 | fran.gallagher@globaltravelerusa.com Senior Vice President RICHARD T. EVANS tel 267 364 5811 ext 203 | dick.evans@globaltravelerusa.com Executive Vice President, Associate Publisher CARLY ALLEN tel 267 495 6287 | carly.allen@globaltravelerusa.com Director of Sales MARIE EDWARDS tel 610 742 4783 | marie.edwards@globaltravelerusa.com Account Executive STEPHANIE MAKOWSKI tel 267 364 5811 ext. 211 | stephanie.makowski@globaltravelerusa.com Account Executive CHRISTOPHER SAGER tel 267 364 5811 ext. 204 | chris.sager@globaltravelerusa.com Advertising Coordinator ANDREW RISCH tel 267 364 5811 ext 201 | andrew.risch@globaltravelerusa.com Sales Planner YASSER OGANDO tel 267 884 1650 | yasser.ogando@globaltravelerusa.com Intern AUDREY LEE intern@globaltravelerusa.com REPRESENTATIVES Dubai MOHAMMED S tel 971 4 242 4579 | cell 971 50 456 6450 mohammed.s@skyscalemedia.com Egypt CARMEN DOYLE AND HASSAN SHEHAB tel 61 0 403866188 carmen.doyle@afrozinternational.com hassan.shehab@afrozinternational.com France and The Netherlands JEREMY PRADERIO-REGIE tel 09 54 20 09 50 | cell 06 07 96 54 15 j.praderio@pema-group.com Germany MICHAELA JUSTI tel 49 26 26 925 01 12 | cell 49 171 20 29 502 justi@mediasalescompany.de Hong Kong, Thailand, Singapore, Australia JEREMY ORRITT tel 852 23752311 | cell 852 91886157 jeremy@omjmedia.com India VIMAL ANAND tel 91 124 493 2020 | cell 91 98100 71000 vimal@gmnindia.com Japan HIDETADA KOCHI, MEDIAHOUSE INC. tel 81 3 3222 7811 | cell 81 3 90 8774 9800 kochi@mediahs.com Mexico CARLOS ALBERTO FRIAS tel 52 55 5254-4490 afrias@fgasociados.mx South Korea JEFF HWANG tel 82 31 702 7782 | cell 82 10 3498 9117 gng@gngcom.co.kr

FRANCIS X. GALLAGHER, PUBLISHER AND CEO

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Discover Hiroshima

Venture outside of Tokyo to discover the wonders of Hiroshima.

A SHORT FLIGHT FROM THE BUSTLING mega-metropolis of Tokyo brings travelers to Hiroshima and the city of Onomichi, the port town known for its world-famous cycling course. Let this four-day itinerary guide you from Tokyo to Hiroshima and back.

DAY TWO: TOKYO AND HIROSHIMA The flight from Tokyo to Hiroshima is short, approximately one hour and twenty minutes. When you arrive in Hiroshima, it is time to ride the waves with Miyajima Sea Kayak tours. Guests take a sea kayak to visit and view the World Heritage site, Itsukushima Shrine. The tour is perfect for beginners, as the guide offers safety guidelines and fully equipped kayak rentals.

Approximately 1 h 20 min. by airplane HIROSHIMA

TOKYO

Onomichi

DAY ONE: TOKYO Begin your first day in Tokyo with a visit to the Kimono Gallery in Ginza at the heart of Tokyo. The staff at the gallery provides free fittings for men and women. Guests can rent kimonos and tour the surrounding area, including the imperial palace, Tokyo Station, Tsukiji and the Kabuki-za. Once you finish sightseeing, return your kimono and get ready for a night tour on the Sky Bus Tokyo.

Spend your evening on the Odaiba Night Course on the Sky Bus Tokyo.

The two-story, open-deck bus takes guests to see Tokyo Tower lit against the night sky. The approximately two-hour itinerary, after passing Rainbow Bridge, includes a stop at Aqua City in Odaiba, giving guests the chance to eat and take a commemorative photo.

The Kimono Gallery

SKY BUS TOKYO (Odaiba Night Course)

DAY THREE: HIROSHIMA Today, visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. The large park was erected at the center of the atomic blast that struck Hiroshima at the end of World War II in hopes of sending a message of enduring world peace. The park features a number of points of interest, including a museum presenting Hiroshima as it existed at the time of the bombing and memorials for the victims of the bomb. The Hiroshima Peace Bell, recognized as one of Japan’s top 100 soundscapes, can be found here.

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

DAY FOUR: HIROSHIMA AND TOKYO Start your morning with a trip to Onomichi, a coastal city on the island of Honshu. The city is recognizable as the calm backdrop to a number of novels and movies. The hilly ambiance of the town features many traditional temples to explore. In addition, Onomichi is known as a “cat town” as well, assuring visitors will run into cats no matter where they go. Visitors can follow the cat trail, featuring stones with drawings of cats before bidding Onomichi goodbye.

Guide to Chugoku, Shikoku and Tokyo: chushikokuandtokyo.org

contents

December 2018 40

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FEATURES 34 To the Top Global Traveler announces the 2018 Airline of the Year and Hotel of the Year.

40 Best and Brightest Global Traveler toasts the winners of the 2018 GT Tested Reader Survey awards.

62 Enduring Excellence Global Traveler introduces the Quint Status inductees for 2018.

66 Crystal Clear Global Traveler honors the inaugural Crystal Status winners.

70 15 Years of Celebration A snapshot of past GT Tested Reader Survey awards galas

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76 Our Year in Travel Global Traveler’s staffers explored the world in 2018.

78 Capital of Culture Doha boasts world-class facilities for all manner of events.

92 After 5: Haikou Head to Haikou for after-work recreation.

ON THE COVER globaltravelerusa.com | $4.99

December 2018

BUSINESS DESTINATIONS ANTARCTICA p. 102 ANTALYA p. 104 ATHENS p. 96 CHICAGO p. 90 HAIKOU p. 92 HELSINKI p. 94 MEXICO CITY p. 82 PARK CITY p. 88

82 Destination One: Mexico City Mexico City rallies with dynamic changes and innovation.

88 Stateside: Park City Park City abounds with year-round activities, on and off the mountain.

90 9–5: Chicago Chicago serves up diverse culture and cuisine for entertaining clients.

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CELEBRATING

XV!

Announcing the winners of the 15th annual GT Tested Reader Survey awards. p. 40

COVER PHOTO: © HAMSTERMAN DREAMSTIME.COM

PHOTOS: © LATAM, © THE PENINSULA BEVERLY HILLS, © LETLOOSE78 - DREAMSTIME.COM, © SOUTH AFRICAN AIRWAYS

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LIFESTYLE

CONNECTIONS

LEISURE DESTINATIONS

20 22 24 25 28 30 32 107 112

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94 Neighborhoods: Helsinki Get a glimpse of Helsinki’s heritage through its sacred architecture.

Chefs Wealth Technology Wine & Spirits Spas Cruising Tours LGBTQ+ Health

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Mail Call News Reviews One on One Grupo Posadas Airport Update Past & Present

96 Friends & Family: Athens Follow in the path of classical poets amid the towering relics of Athens.

102 Bucket List: Antarctica Journey to Antarctica for the thrill of a lifetime.

104 Kicking Back: Antalya Bask in the Mediterranean paradise of the Turkish Riviera.

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FX E X P R E S S

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 ©2018 FXExpress Publications, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part of text, photographs or illustrations without permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited.

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mail call OCTOBER Q&A WITH FRANCIS X. GALLAGHER, PUBLISHER & CEO

Q&A WITH ERICH MARTIN, ASSISTANT EDITOR

When I recall my fondest travel memories, I invariably think back to times I traveled as a young child. Trips for vacation, to visit family and for recreation made up summers and long weekends. Even though I traveled to other countries and continents, these memories are the ones I cherish the most.

In our October 2018 issue, Francis X. Gallagher discussed business and leisure trips, including whether travelers take them on a solo basis or include family and friends. He posed this question: Are you more likely to combine trips when traveling domestically or internationally?

My darling husband, aka Captain America, and I just arrived at the Chicago airport en route to Rome.

He is a pilot for American Airlines, and the company gifted a pair of return tickets to all employees to travel anywhere in the world as a bonus for a profitable 2016. We decided to use them as part of our seventh-year wedding anniversary gift/trip. This trip includes a cruise with Regent Seven Seas’ Voyager from Rome to Monte Carlo with stops in Florence, Cinque Terre, Corsica, Palma de Mallorca, Barcelona and Marseille! Then we will take the train to Nice, pick up a rental car at the airport and drive through the south of France, back to Barcelona and home to Palm Beach.

I am taking the time to write you as we wait in the Admirals Club for our 5 p.m. flight to Rome because I am a fine art photographer who specializes in the conceptual photograph ... massive, large-scale, 66-inch by 96-inch works. This trip and previous trips included my camera equipment to shoot specific locations for new pieces of art. So, yes! We do combine

Which travel memories do you cherish the most? Do you hold on to sentimental family trips more than extravagant travel?

Email us: letters@globaltravelerusa.com

business with leisure trips, mostly for my advantage.

on the road, you have to make time for fun along the way, or you will forget to take a vacation!

KASHA MCKEE, via email

went to press, the eatery closed.

Other great dining options in the area include Nerano, Prospect Gourmand, Granville and CITIZEN.

RUSSELL ANDREWS, via email I did want to respond to the query about mixing leisure and business travel. I always try to build in an extra day when traveling on business, as there is something inspiring nearly everywhere, or at least within a couple of hours’ drive: museum, beach, historic site or even just a really great walk downtown or run along a scenic river. It’s all “me time” and really refreshes the brain and the soul. Many surprises are out there if you look — it’s worth it.

My wife and I have mixed business with leisure trips for some time now. It seems easier than it used to be to extend a business trip by a few days, making it a long weekend to relax or discover things to do while on business. It can be as easy as finding a nice place to go to dinner and see a show on a night off, or making time in the morning to get out and enjoy the beach before meetings that night.

Even on vacations I’m checking emails and making calls.

SUE CASTORINO, via email ALEX WHITMER, via email We managed to blend business and leisure trips, both international and domestic. When you are self-employed and your partner works remotely and is constantly

CORRECTION CORNER In our October 2018 issue’s Stateside article, we mentioned Bouchon’s Beverly Hills outpost; since the issue

SQUIRRELING AROUND In our Oct. 16 eFlyer USA newsletter, we covered the emotional support squirrel and the two-hour flight delay in Florida. According to reports, the passenger cleared her pet ahead of time with Frontier Airlines but neglected to disclose the fact her support animal was actually a squirrel, causing the woman and support animal to be escorted from the plane. This got a lot of readers talking.

Not only should the woman have been kicked off the flight, she should be charged for the cost of the delay.

MICHAEL GREEN, via email

CONTACT GT Do you have a story to share? Thoughts on a recent GT article? Email us: letters@globaltravelerusa.com or write to Letters to the Editor, 310 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.

DECEMBER 2018

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Globility

THE SOURCE FOR LUxURY BUSINESS TRAV

ABU DHABI

I don’t think any animals should be allowed in the cabin unless they’re sedated for the trip. They should, instead, be kept in the baggage compartment. If necessary, a small area of same should be blocked off, pressurized and heated, with the additional cost borne by the pet’s owner. Air travel is already annoying enough without having to hear and smell animals.

MARK GELLER, via email Yes, she should have been removed! I, for one, would not enjoy sitting beside a rodent, no matter how clean. There is no “right” to travel. It is a luxury for those who can afford it and are physically and mentally able.

ROBERT HOENES, via email Yes, absolutely — I don’t want to fly with an animal that has not been certified rabies-free, even if it is an “emotional support animal.”

This passenger had to know the rules about support animals have been tightening and she might face just this situation. Not telling Frontier the support animal was a squirrel suggests to me she knew there could be a problem.

BRUCE H. FRANK, Indianapolis, Indiana I think the idea of support animals has gotten absolutely ridiculous, and people are using those excuses for bringing along their pets.

I must say, a squirrel takes the prize. I would refuse to sit next to a squirrel on a plane.

I look forward to staying at one.

BILL WAHLER, via email

TEL AVIV

Torrontés Tango

FAMILY BUSINESS MEETS ROMANCE IN THE WHITE CITY

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

I

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 andoffering soul ain is clean, crisp and refreshing, 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 BY mouth.

BECCA HENSLEY Cook Islands. 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. 

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.

CONNECT WITH GT

SIMON BELL, via email

have a computer or smartphone, you

SECURITY BREACH In our Oct. 30 issue of eFlyer Asia, we discussed the recent security breach of Cathay Pacific, leaving 9.4 million passengers’ personal information compromised. As one of the largest airline hacks in history, many travelers are concerned about giving away personal information so readily.

You know this kind of thing can happen traveling both internationally and even domestically, but it’s incredibly disheartening to hear on such a large scale. Even if only bits and pieces of travelers’ information were stolen and compromised, it’s still difficult to hear when you know you have to give up that kind of information in order to travel.

MARK ROBBINS, via email

JESSICA LEWIS, via email

DECEMBER 2018

fine vines

It’s nice to know there are more affordable options coming up in popular cities. The cost of travel seems to be going up and up, between airlines tacking on fees for bags and rising drink prices, so it’s a little encouraging to know more affordable stays are available.

THAT’S OUR MOTTO …

globaltravelerusa.com

IMMORTALIZED BY PAINTERS AND POETS ALIKE ISLANDS

Art of Healing

IGNA SMITH, via email

10

HANGZHOU

kicking back | COOK

These airlines need to be more careful.

We take so much care in protecting ourselves and our property and put our trust in them to see us through, and then things like this happen.

In our Oct. 30 eFlyer USA newsletter, we discussed the new Hilton brand hotel with affordability in mind, Motto. The new hotel will focus on bringing micro-hotels to prime urban destinations in cities and neighborhoods. The properties will feature large areas of flexible space and efficient rooms. The

A HALF-CENTURY OF BUILDING CASTLES IN THE SAND

properties will make split payments easier than ever for guests. Readers seem on board.

It’s no wonder these airlines go out of business or have to raise prices to cover costs … they are so careless, why would anyone fly them?

REBECCA LAWSON, via email

ICELAND

ADVENTURE AWAITS IN THE LAND OF FIRE AND ICE

May 2011 | Global Traveler | 35

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anywhere your business takes you, right on your iPho globaltravelerusa.com 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 newsletters.

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 hiking in Shenandoah National Park to viewing Art on theMart in Chicago.

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Available at the Ap

news United Introduces New 787-10 Dreamliners

Beginning Jan. 7, 2019, United’s new Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner aircraft will embark on select transcontinental routes, making United the first North American airline to fly a “-10” model of the Boeing 787.

The new planes will offer seating for 199 passengers in basic economy, 54 passengers in premium economy (which will have slightly more legroom than economy), 21 passengers in the Premium Plus seats that slightly recline and 44 passengers in the fully reclining business-class seats, for a total of 318 passengers.

As Boeing’s biggest 787, the aircraft will travel between Los Angeles (LAX) and Newark (EWR), eventually expanding to two of the 12 total daily round-trip flights between the two coasts.

Of United’s three “Premium” routes, two will employ the new aircraft: The Boeing 787-10 will also debut on the Newark–San Francisco (SFO) route beginning Feb. 14, but there is no indication as to whether the aircraft will be added to the third route between Boston (BOS) and San Francisco.

WHAT’S NEW AT HERTZ Global Traveler sat down with Jodi Allen, executive vice president and chief marketing officer, Hertz, at this year’s Global Business Travel Association convention to learn what’s new with the car rental giant.

Fleet investments continue to deliver features consumers want, including back-up cameras in 90 percent of the fleet (with the goal to reach 100 percent in 2019) and fewer compact cars. More SUVs, minivans and premium cars join the fleet, and renters can expect to see more cars enabled with Bluetooth technology and Apple Play.

In August, Topgolf and Hertz announced an exclusive partnership enabling customers of both brands access to entertainment and travel experiences. Hertz joined Hendrick Motorsports as a primary sponsor of William Byron, a NASCAR Rookie of the Year contender. More recently, Hertz partnered with SkyTeam, allowing frequent flyers of the alliance’s 20 member airlines a variety of car rental benefits and the ability to earn miles toward air travel when renting from Hertz.

united.com

hertz.com

PHOTOS: © HERTZ, © UNITED, © SANGA PARK - DREAMSTIME.COM

FAA Legislation Requires Minimum Seat Sizes

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Recent legislation passed by the United States Senate would require airlines to regulate seat sizes as well as impose other regulations on passengers in the future.

As part of the Seat Egress in Air Travel Act, the Federal Aviation Administration must propose minimum measurements for the width of airplane seats and the amount of space between seats. Currently, most airlines are equipped with as little as 29 inches between each row, a number passengers’ rights advocates hope will increase.

The new bill was missing a few other original stipulations that would benefit travelers, including privatizing air traffic control and decreasing the amount of add-on fees imposed by airlines.

With approval from both the House of Representatives and the Senate, the bill is on its way to the President’s desk. faa.gov

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news

Budget Airline Primera Air Out of Business

Although Primera Air recently announced summer 2019 flight itineraries, the Latvia-based budget airline officially ended service Oct. 1, with a complementary announcement on its website one day later.

Shortly after the announcement, the budget, no-frills European carrier suddenly canceled confirmed flights scheduled for departure on Oct. 1, including flights between London (STN), Washington (IAD), Paris (CDG), Toronto (YYZ) and Newark (EWR) airports.

Primera entered the budget airline scene with a handful of European routes before expanding overseas to the United States for as little as $149 for a one-way flight.

Traveling between the United States and Europe can be as easy as booking a ticket on a major airline from one big city (like New York) to another (like London). But for travelers who want to extend their trip beyond the oft-visited cities and explore less-traveled parts of Europe, continuing this journey can be difficult.

To facilitate this multistop flight process, European budget airline easyJet partnered with Virgin Atlantic as part of its program, Worldwide by easyJet. The feature allows travelers to book all flights as part of one itinerary on easyJet’s website, an itinerary that includes a stopover of at least two hours and 30 minutes.

Worldwide by easyJet travelers can enjoy benefits such as rebooking if the first flight arrives late and the connection is missed, a seamless bag transfer from one airline to the other, and a fast-track option through security.

Virgin Atlantic is the latest airline to join the Worldwide by easyJet program, originally launched in September 2017, and is in good company with Norwegian, Thomas Cook and La Compagnie, with plans to link with Singapore Airlines in the future. easyjet.com

Viking River Cruises Eyes Mississippi River

America’s longest river is undergoing a tourism renaissance, and Europe’s Viking River Cruises took notice. With Americans’ newfound interest in exploring up, down and surrounding the Mississippi River, Viking sees an oppor-

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tunity to bring its successful European river cruises across the pond.

Viking’s new plans would initially involve a seven-day itinerary to start in St. Louis, Missouri, and travel north to St. Paul, Minnesota. Passengers would stop in Burlington, Davenport and Dubuque, Iowa.

Viking’s other ideas for Mississippi River-based itineraries include departures from New Orleans with journeys north along the Mississippi River. vikingrivercruises.com

virginatlantic.com

JetBlue to Add Basic Economy Seats

Beginning in late 2019, JetBlue will join other domestic and international carriers by adding a Basic Economy class of seats to its aircraft.

The differentiating drawbacks of a basic economy ticket with JetBlue include more challenging ticket changes and cancellation policies, as well as having to board the plane at the end of the line.

JetBlue executives assure loyal customers they will still be able to enjoy seatback entertainment, live TV and free WiFi on board. All passengers also will be able to bring one personal item and one carry-on bag, per person. jetblue.com

PHOTOS: © BJORNFORENIUS - DREAMSTIME.COM, © VIKING RIVER CRUISES, © GILLES BIZET - DREAMSTIME.COM

Virgin Atlantic and easyJet Improve U.S.–Europe Transit

deals & rewards Marriott’s MegaBonus Season is Back

Well-known among Marriott Rewards members, MegaBonus season returned with the chance for ambitious members to earn up to 124,000 bonus points.

During this promotional period, Marriott Rewards members can earn 2,000 bonus points when they stay at participating properties for a minimum of two nights, and 1,000 bonus points for each new Marriott brand in which members book a stay, out of Marriott’s 29 total brands.

Members must register for the promotion on Marriott’s website before Jan. 7, 2019, and book stays between now and Jan. 31, 2019. marriott.com

Earn Double Points with Hyatt at MGM Properties

World of Hyatt members who stay at select MGM properties can earn two times the normal number of base points toward their membership account.

To participate in this promotion, World of Hyatt members must register on world.hyatt.com and book a stay at any participating MGM properties in Las Vegas, such as Bellagio, Excalibur, Luxor, Mandalay Bay, MGM Grand, The Mirage, New York-New York or Park MGM Las Vegas, among others.

Members must register before Dec. 29 to be eligible to earn double points as part of this deal. world.hyatt.com

With low fares; big city access; and new, comfortable planes, Norwegian Air continues to take over the world of budget airlines. Its next expansion involves heading south to economically challenged Argentina.

Norwegian hopes its affordable airfare will be welcomed in the South American country where the peso has struggled. Its first in-country routes debuted Oct. 16 and connect Buenos Aires (AEP) with Cordoba (COR) for as low as 699 pesos (about $18) and Buenos Aires with Bariloche (BRC) for 999 pesos, or approximately $25.

In entering this market, Norwegian will be in direct competition with LATAM Airlines and Aerolineas Argentinas.

American Express’ new Gold Card (formerly the Premier Rewards Gold Card) comes with heaps of benefits, including a 50,000-point welcome bonus. Card members who sign up for the card before Jan. 9, 2019, can earn up to 50,000 bonus points when they spend $2,000 on select purchases during the first three months of membership.

Additional sign-up bonuses include a 20 percent statement credit for restaurant purchases within the first three months of membership.

After these introductory offers, regular card benefits include four times the membership points at supermarkets and restaurants in the United States, a dining credit of $120 at select U.S. restaurants, a $100 airline fee credit and three times the points for direct airline bookings or flights booked through amextravel.com.

The new rose gold AmEx card comes with an annual fee of $250.

norwegian.com

americanexpress.com

Norwegian Flights Within Argentina as Low as $18 PHOTOS: © BELLAGIO, © PABLO CARIDAD - DREAMSTIME.COM, © AMERICAN EXPRESS

New American Express Gold Card Benefits

DECEMBER 2018

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DELAMAR WEST HARTFORD Reviewed by Tom Goldman

Guest Quarters: The hotel, opened September 2017 in the commercial center of West Hartford, is one of three boutique luxury properties operated by the same company. The public spaces display artwork from the pulp fiction collection of the New Britain Museum of American Art — worth a perusal. Public areas also feature designer furniture and a custom-designed, glass-topped baby grand player piano in the reception seating area.

The suite opened into a foyer with a clothes closet stocked with an umbrella matching the ones available at the hotel entrance as well as a wet bar, refrigerator, Nespresso machine with bottled water and a well-stocked minibar. A separate living room provided a large area suitable for business meetings with table and side chairs, a large sofa and a delightful easy chair and ottoman. The bathroom off the living room provided direct guest access, allowing the bedroom door to be closed to provide privacy and a business-suitable appearance.

The bathroom contained a free-standing modern bathtub and a large, separate, glass-enclosed shower.

The bedroom featured a king-sized bed facing a largescreen TV over a shelf with TV controller, informational books and writing material. A Tivoli radio, with instructions for use, topped a side table. The side table also provided multiple outlets for charging electronics. Traditional turndown

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included large chocolate squares and bottled water. Slippers and the use of luxurious bathrobes completed the bedroom amenities. The only negative was the lack of a clock in the bedroom.

Services/Amenities: In-house amenities included evening snacks for takeaway on a hall buffet table including M&M’s, fruit chips and cashews. The free breakfast was a delight with fresh-baked pastries including different flavors of mini muffins, rugelach and chocolate croissants; frequently replenished fresh-cut fruit; perfectly prepared scrambled eggs unlike the usual hotel buffet variety; bacon; and potatoes.

The hotel features a full-service restaurant, Artisan, packed the two nights I was there. Local contacts said it enjoys a positive reputation. The hotel location is in the center of an upscale area near Blue Back Square with many restaurants including chains, coffee houses and casual dining establishments. A brief walk at night highlighted the resurgence of the area with large numbers of people on the streets and at the dining and entertainment facilities surrounding the hotel.

The hotel has a well-equipped 24-hour gym with treadmills, Peloton bikes and weights, and provides free individual-use earbuds as well as a separate full-service spa on the second floor. With 114 rooms and suites, it also offers more than 5,000 square feet of private event space.

TOP TAKEAWAYS:

◆ Until the Delmar opened, the nearest quality hotel to West Hartford was in downtown Hartford or 15–20 minutes west of the town center in adjoining towns of Farmington or Avon. The convenience for those staying or working in West Hartford is a major plus. ◆ Unlike other farther-out standalone hotels, the Delamar offers walkable access to many restaurants and even a Whole Foods Market across the street. ◆ The hotel provides free limo service within five miles, and Uber and Lyft service is readily available for longer trips to the train station and to Bradley International Airport, 20 minutes away.

Delamar West Hartford 1 Memorial Road West Hartford, CT 06107 tel 860 937 2500 delamar.com

PHOTO: © THOMAS GOLDMAN

Arrival/Check-In: I arrived at the Hartford, Connecticut, train station on a journey that began in Trenton, New Jersey, on an electric-powered Amtrak bound for Boston. The trip required a cross-platform train change in New Haven to the diesel-powered trains that operate north to Springfield, Massachusetts, and beyond. It was nice to complete the trip on the train instead of the buses that replaced the train while the line was refurbished and new stations were built along the route in Meriden, Wallingford, and Berlin, Connecticut.

The return trip on the Amtrak Vermonter provided through service without a train change, only a quick change to an electric-powered locomotive.

The 15-minute ride to the hotel in West Hartford brought me to the circular drive around the entrance’s bubbling water fountain. The hotel car valet immediately greeted me, and the doorperson opened the door before I could reach for the handle, offering a friendly welcome. I learned this was the typical customer service approach by everyone on the staff, who went out of their way to offer help, bottled water and directions. Check-in took place at a small reception desk by the main entrance. The friendly clerk offered information on the free WiFi access available throughout the property and the time and location of the free breakfast and the 24-hour coffee and hot chocolate machine in the lobby area. Within five minutes I was in my suite.

GT tested

LOEWS BOSTON HOTEL Reviewed by Stephanie Makowski

TOP TAKEAWAYS:

PHOTOS: © LOEWS BOSTON HOTEL

Arrival/Check-In: Conveniently located near Copley Square, the Loews Boston Hotel is a landmark and staple of the neighborhood. I was in the city for meetings with clients and had taken an Uber mid-afternoon to the corner of Stuart and Berkley streets. I was instantly enamored with the grand limestone building before me. The lower level glowed as delicate strings of bulb lights softened the appearance of what once was the Boston Police Headquarters. The doorman greeted me and escorted me through the lobby to the front desk. The entrance was contemporary with classic, crowd-pleasing touches such as white marble and deep wood. The check-in staff was polite and informed me of the delicious restaurant below, appropriately named Precinct Kitchen + Bar. Guest Quarters: I made my way upstairs to my suite overlooking Berkley Street. Upon entry, I found the neutral tones of the room calming. Framed modern art hung on the walls, and the room itself was spacious and inviting.

The furniture offered everything a traveler needs for leisure and business, including a large desk and a quaint reading area in the corner of the room near the window.

The bed, outfitted with extremely soft sheets, provided the comfort I crave when resting away from home. Hardly

any noise came up from the street, and the room had ample windows to provide enough light to kick-start the day. (Don’t worry: Room-darkening drapes let you retreat into a peaceful slumber.) The spacious bathroom boasted a heated towel rack and stellar bath products. All in all, the suite was roomy yet inviting.

Services/Amenities: The Loews Boston has the capacity and the facilities to host all of life’s moments. Precinct Kitchen + Bar proved the perfect spot to dine and enjoy a cocktail after a long day; I also recommend it as an ideal spot for dinner meetings, especially during the warmer seasons; the outdoor patio that rests below street level is ideal. The hotel features a business center for catching up on work, a common area with books to read and a 24/7 complimentary coffee and tea area called the Apothecary.

The hotel accommodates meetings and special events in a host of meeting rooms of various sizes. Winding down after a long day, I found a charming postcard on my nightstand for remembering my New England stay, and I enjoyed a blissful sleep in my turned-down bedding.

◆ The hotel mixes the historical charm of the city of Boston with modern design elements fit for any style, in a location just a quick cab ride from Boston’s Logan Airport. ◆ The Bellhop Bar is a chic pop-up bar offering guests the opportunity to enjoy a cocktail served out of a vintage steamer trunk stocked with elegant glassware. It provides a lovely chance to pause and relax. ◆ Comfy bathrobes and slippers are a welcome treat when you wind down in your room. ◆ Be sure to watch the segment airing on guestroom televisions featuring a history lesson about the building’s significance.

Loews Hotel Boston 154 Berkeley St. Boston, MA 02116 tel 617 266 7200 loewshotels.com

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THE ROYAL HAWAIIAN, A LUXURY COLLECTION RESORT Reviewed by Carly Allen Arrival/Check-In: Nestled among giant trees, the front of The Royal Hawaiian truly takes you back to the glamour of Old Hollywood, with arched doorways, thick carpets and dark woods framed by the famous royal pink walls. They say the likes of Cary Grant and Shirley Temple sought refuge here from Los Angeles.

The sprawling open-air lobby looks out into a garden and green space where families lounge while sipping coffee or tea on the checkered marbled patio.

After a 10-minute wait, we got to the front of the line and learned we were staying in the Mailani Tower, which has its own check-in desk down the winding but beautiful breezeway. There we experienced an easy check-in with brief descriptions of the lounge areas exclusive for tower guests offering coffee, teas and sunset cocktails.

Guest Quarters: Our high-floor premier ocean room was simply appointed with a comfortable kingsized bed between bedside tables with unique sea glass lamps. A wet bar offered plenty of complimentary bottled water and coffee. Calming modern seascape art hung on the walls of the room, and a comfy chaise longue with a reading lamp was tucked away in the corner. The bathroom had great lighting with green and blue sea glass framing a backlit mirror. A shower/tub combo offered Malie Organics Spa products that smelled fresh and sweet.

The T3 hair dryer also worked great. The pink-and-white-striped bathrobe I practically lived in was, by far, my favorite amenity!

The balcony was a true delight for me, with its full ocean view and people-watching along Waikiki Beach. The lanai held a table for two and a nice-sized pink wicker couch for sunbathing and relaxing.

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◆ The glamorous architecture and setting make this the most interesting property on the island. ◆ Sitting right on Waikiki Beach, The Royal Hawaiian is centrally located to shopping and dining. ◆ In-room amenities like Malie Organics products and plush bathrobes were meant for guests to relax.

quickly, but I suggest taking advantage of the beach for a day of relaxing between days packed with sightseeing.

My most memorable time on the property was sitting on the rocking chairs outside the historic wing lobby during sunset, gently rocking and listening to the waves and children playing. It was lovely.

The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort 2259 Kalakaua Ave. Honolulu, HI 96815 tel 808 923 7311 marriott.com

PHOTOS: © THE ROYAL HAWAIIAN, © CARLY ALLEN

Services/Amenities: The property has several restaurants for guests, but I recommend you first experience the famed Mai Tai Bar sitting right off the beach. The open-air setting with large pink umbrellas provides views of the oceanfront as you sip on a Royal Mai Tai, which packs quite a punch. For breakfast, I suggest Surf Lanai, sharing the same large patio as the bar and offering upscale dining options and popular buffets along with fresh, locally sourced juices.

For a more intimate experience, try Azure for dinner with its crystal and candlelight just steps from the beach. Its fresh fish is a must-try.

For a relaxing day on the beach, you need to rent a pink chaise longue and umbrella set from The Royal Hawaiian with direct bar and food service from the Mai Tai Bar. There are only about a dozen or so seats, so schedule in advance. The fee is a hefty $40 a day. A third party also rents lounge sets right on the water for $50, offering better views but no direct food service. Both options fill up

TOP TAKEAWAYS:

GT tested

AMERICAN AIRLINES | FIRST CLASS

PHILADELPHIA (PHL) TO MIAMI (MIA) TO BOGOTÁ (BOG)

Reviewed by Angelique Platas

On the Ground: As one of American Airlines’ hubs and my own home base, flying AA through Philadelphia International Airport is my ideal situation — especially for an early-morning international flight. Breezing through an empty TSA checkpoint, I sat at my gate in the near-ghost town of Terminal C. The Airbus A321 arrived, and I soon boarded for my nearly three-hour flight to Miami, en route to Bogotá, Colombia.

PHOTOS: © TONY BOSSE - DREAMSTIME.COM

Pre-Flight: As the American Airlines Airbus A321 is used primarily for U.S. domestic routes, the first-class cabin featured just 16 reclining seats in a 2-2 configuration, with the remaining 165 seats in economy class. The first-class section was cozy, comfortably quiet and perfect for a quick flight. The friendly and attentive flight attendants came through asking if they could hang my jacket and get me anything to drink. As it was 5:10 a.m., at this point I opted for an easy water and coffee combo and looked out over the Philadelphia lights as we took off.

In-Flight: A flight attendant came back around, dispersing Bose headphones and taking breakfast orders. With a choice of oatmeal or an omelet, I opted for a generous helping of mixed nuts to snack on instead. I played around with my seat for a bit, seeing how far back I could lie, bending my headrest and enjoying the ample

legroom in front. I fumbled around with the headphones, trying to get them into the port to watch a movie on the built-in, touch-screen television, but either the headphones or my early-morning brain didn’t work, so I stuck with my own personal pair.

We landed in Miami alongside a truly stunning sunrise. I quickly hopped on an Airbus A319 narrow-body jet to Bogotá, with just eight reclining seats in a 2-2 configuration. On board, attendants offered passengers a lunch of chicken or mozzarella-stuffed jalapeño peppers over Spanish rice. My choice, the jalapeños, arrived soon with some shrimp cocktail, a small salad and a large (crumbly) cookie. After I made a mess of the cookie, the observant and thoughtful flight attendant discretely brought over a few napkins and another coffee.

All of the AA crew and attendants I encountered on my flights were exceptionally kind and attentive, but I was especially impressed on my return flight from Bogotá. The service was fantastic as our flight attendant eased from Spanish to perfect English, from guest to guest, referring to everyone by name. Two individuals on my flight — one seated in first and one in economy — seemed to know the flight attendant, as they greeted each other excitedly. They could easily have been frequent flyers, as this flight attendant was just that good.

TOP TAKEAWAYS: ◆ AA service was personalized, warm and attentive without being overbearing. ◆ It’s always fun to see a non-pasta vegetarian option!

American Airlines aa.com

DECEMBER 2018

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one on one

RAFAEL LIZARRAGA Chief Commercial Officer, Grupo Posadas ABOUT YOUR BRAND What can premium travelers expect from a stay at a Grupo Posadas hotel? The Grupo Posadas brands include Live Aqua, Fiesta Americana, Grand Fiesta Americana, Fiesta Inn, Gamma Hotels, One Hoteles and The Explorean by Fiesta Americana. Each brand caters to a different type of traveler, but across the board, our focus is on providing memorable experiences for our guests. We offer personalized service and warm, Mexican hospitality.

What amenities do your brands offer family travelers? Families can find kids clubs in both our resorts and big-city hotels. Our experiences for families are not always traditional.

For example, we have an aquapark at Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancún and will have one at Grand Fiesta Americana Punta Cana Los Corales when it opens.

Name: Rafael Lizarraga Title: Chief commercial officer Company, city: Grupo Posadas; Mexico City, Mexico Number of employees: 18,200 Recent project: We expanded outside of Mexico, opening two new Fiesta Americana hotels in Cuba.

First job: I started in reservations with Grupo Posadas 24 years ago.

Little-known fact about you: When possible, I like to cook, but I hate to wash the dishes.

AS A TRAVELER Favorite travel memory or story: Four years ago, I went on an African safari on the Serengeti, and also to Victoria Falls and Cape Town. It was just amazing.

One travel tip you cannot live without: I always bring a book. I enjoy reading, and the flight is a good time to disconnect with a good book.

Best advice for business travelers: Always double-check everything. It helps you feel assured and confident as you begin your business trip.

PHOTO: © POSADAS

YOUR BUSINESS What innovations/initiatives do you foresee in the industry over the next years? More brands will

become global and/or multifocused — for example, the recent pairing between Delta Air Lines and Aeromexico. Companies will acquire or create the distribution processes and businesses needed to sell their products.

Best career advice you’ve received: It was from my parents as I started my career; they reminded me to be patient and to build my career at the same company.

What advice would you give someone starting out in the field? Listening is key. Each client is different, so tailor your product to fit.

What can travelers expect from the hotel group in 2019? We will continue to expand outside of Mexico, with a goal to have 300 hotels by 2020, opening 180 properties in that time.

In 2018 10–15 hotels opened, with 30–35 more each year in 2019 and 2020. Of course, we will also still grow in Mexico; our nonMexico focus is on the Caribbean.

In Latin America we look to grow with high-tech, city hotels. We’re also the first Mexican chain to enter Cuba.

We will also launch new brands; IOH will boast freestyle hotels with three different kinds of rooms: Relax, Business and Entertainment. In Riviera Maya, DEVOSSION will be an adults-only lifestyle resort.

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9–5 | CAPE TOWN

GT Members Section Captivating Cape Town

passed through in 2016 — its busiest year yet.

Arranging a car service in advance proves the best way to get into town. Services like Centurion Tours and Citi Hopper greet you at the terminal and run about 270–360 South African rand ($20–27), depending on the number of passengers in the vehicle.

Uber is also thriving in Cape Town, so consider hailing a ride with the app if your smartphone works in South Africa. The Uber X service costs R146–189 ($11–15), while the more luxurious Uber Black should cost about R249–324 ($18–25).

The 20- to 30-minute ride (depending on traffic) along the highway takes you past some of South Africa’s infamous townships. Although the center of Cape Town is home to fewer than 435,000, the metro area boasts a population of more than 3.7 million.

Many live in these makeshift towns consisting of informal housing, a remnant from the days of apartheid, prohibiting non-whites from living in the city center.

Cape Town, though, is quickly moving on from those unfortunate days. As you approach the downtown area, you’ll immediately recognize the faces of Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu currently installed on the façade of the Civic Centre. On a clear day, you’ll also spot the flat-topped Table Mountain in the background.

Suitable hotels are scattered around the Central Business District and along the waterfront, but the 12-story Townhouse Hotel offers an excellent option for business travelers with its downtown location near City Hall and South Africa’s Houses of Parliament. It boasts seven meeting rooms that accommodate up to 425 people, with its largest holding 300.

While your hotel likely includes full breakfast, you might want to organize a morning meeting offsite. Taxis don’t roam Cape Town’s streets, however, so use Uber or ask the concierge to arrange transportation for you. Hemelhuijs, a chic café by Chef Jacques

he new GT app is This cultural crossroads provides endless opportunities for entertaining clients. BY MEREDITH BETHUNE

JOHANNESBURG MAY HAVE THE REPUTATION as South Africa’s business capital, but Cape Town still offers plenty to those traveling for work. The Mother City, as it is commonly known, with its spectacular waterfront setting crowned by the famous Table Mountain, hosts conferences that attract visitors from around the world.

You’ll likely arrive at Cape Town International Airport, the second-busiest in South Africa and the thirdbusiest on the entire continent. Located just 12 miles from the city center, it experienced tremendous growth since opening in 1954. More than 10 million passengers

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chefs

MAINE ATTRACTION Chef Matthew Padilla’s fresh, local cuisine lures guests to The White Barn Restaurant.

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WHICH DESTINATIONS INSPIRED YOU, AND HOW HAS THAT INSPIRATION TRANSLATED INTO YOUR CULINARY CONCEPTS? I’m lucky to have traveled a lot. From every place I take inspiration. My favorite places have been Mexico, Copenhagen and Bologna.

A great friend of mine took me on a road trip through his home country of Mexico. I don’t think I could’ve experienced a place like that so intimately if it weren’t for having a true guide. We ate barbacoa right out of a pit dug in the ground, a traditional Oaxacan meal in a lady’s home cooked only over open flame and a comal. The list goes on of crazy food experiences.

When I travel, I less often use the actual recipes but instead try to incorporate the techniques and ingredients.

WHAT ONE PERSON MOST INFLUENCED YOUR COOKING STYLE? Ron Siegel: His relationship with farmers — and anyone, for that matter — really shines through in his cooking. He cooks seasonal and simple. I learned how to focus on showcasing the product, rather than manipulating it, from him. I also learned how to treat others and manage myself in a kitchen from observing him, which shines through in my food.

WHOM DO YOU CONSIDER TO BE YOUR CULINARY HERO? I would have to say Thomas Keller. I grew up isolated from the world of cooking. I wasn’t exposed to cuisine like what I cook now. In culinary school I’d go to the Tattered Cover bookstore in Denver. I’d read cookbooks since I couldn’t afford to buy them. I read The French Laundry Cookbook from cover to cover in one sitting, blown away. So much of the food was beyond my knowledge. Now there are hundreds of books like it, but I think it was one of the first American cookbooks to be more than just recipes, but a story.

The story stuck with me, and I had this thirst to achieve and cook on a level like that. The empire and culture he built after nearly giving up cooking is inspirational.

WHAT DO YOU THINK THE NEXT BIG TREND ON THE FOOD SCENE WILL BE? The rise of healthy, fast, casual restaurants will continue. Americans love eating on the go, and the demise of unhealthy fast food is already starting.

Quick-service restaurants that make affordable, delicious, healthy and Instagram-worthy food are already popular. A lot of trends come and go, but these style establishments will be here to stay and shape the food world for a while.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FOOD CITY? This is a tough one. I love Copenhagen and Paris. I’ve dined extensively in both, but I’d say San Francisco is the best place for food. It is underrated, maybe less so in the past couple of years. The ingredients are the best in the country, and the restaurants and talent are incredible.

GRACE WHITE BARN INN & SPA 37 Beach Ave. Kennebunk, ME 04043 tel 207 967 2321 gracehotels.com

PHOTOS: © GRACE WHITE BARN INN & SPA

AS EXECUTIVE CHEF AT Grace White Barn Inn & Spa, Matthew Padilla aims to entice guests to return for more with seasonal cooking and exquisite food while also preserving the beloved, traditional dishes The White Barn Restaurant has become famous for. Known for his love of local ingredients and seasonal flavors, Padilla looks forward to sourcing the freshest ingredients, including fish and seafood straight from the docks in Kennebunk.

Comprising two restored barns from the 1820s, The White Barn Restaurant is the perfect choice for a gourmet retreat or special occasion.

Menus change weekly, and Padilla also adds a truffle tasting menu.

Padilla is up for the challenge of preserving the restaurant’s legacy; his training began at Johnson & Wales Culinary School in Denver, followed by stints at multiple restaurants in Tucson, a two-month stretch at Noma in Copenhagen and time working in top restaurants in San Francisco before joining the Relais & Châteaux family.

BY KIMBERLY KROL

CONNECTING THE WORLD TO CHICAGO AND CHICAGO TO THE WORLD

Chicago’s airports offer more than 260 nonstop destinations worldwide.

VISIT www.flychicago.com

@fly2ohare @fly2midway

@flyohare @flymidway

/fly2ohare /fly2midway

/flychicago

wealth

UPS AND DOWNS

PHOTO: © AUDIOHEAD - DREAMSTIME.COM

Market declines remind us to invest according to our own timeline and needs.

“WHAT GOES UP …” We can all finish that sentence. We have just encountered — and perhaps will continue to encounter — a decline in the stock market. No prognosticator knows exactly how much of a decline there will be, what stocks will be affected more than others and how long the decline will last. We just know it is inevitable. We also know no one knows the right time to get in and out of the market. Timing it is extremely difficult.

Over a long period, the stock market has shown it is a good place to be — for the long term. History tells us losses of 5 to 9.99 percent for the Standard and Poor’s 500 stock index are more frequent than you might think but don’t normally become major long-term declines. Since World War II, the index experienced 56 losses of the magnitude

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mentioned above, with an average decline of 7 percent. Those downturns lasted approximately one month. In these situations, the market regained its losses in about 45 days.

Losses of 10 percent or more occurred 22 times, and the average loss was 13.8 percent.

In these instances it took considerably longer to regain losses; the average was 264 days.

While that is a long time for investors to look at their screens and sweat out how long it will take to get their accounts back up to their high point, in the long-term investment cycle it is just a blip.

Each decline or correction, based upon the amount of loss, has its own root problems. The issues for 2018 include tariffs, slowing global growth and the Federal Reserve raising interest rates. The question is: Can the stock market overcome these issues

as it has overcome other issues through the years?

Trying not to panic is easier said than done but is the right way to approach things. Your investments should follow your philosophy and your timeline. If you are risk averse, don’t look for high-flying stocks that offer high reward but also high risk. If you are not looking at a long timeline for your investments, be sure you invest accordingly.

Those investments should probably be more conservative and not subject to higher ups and downs.

These declines are always a good reminder to take the time to rebalance your portfolio annually. This will ensure your investments are allocated in the manner you and your investment advisor prefer. It is worth the effort.

technology

ONE OF A KIND Find unique features in the latest devices for work and play. BY JACK GUY

POLAR VANTAGE V If you are serious about fitness, a smartwatch from Polar is one of the best ways to keep track of your performance. The brand always targeted serious athletes — sometimes at the expense of aesthetics — but the Vantage V combines performance with good looks and wearability. The 1.2-inch circular case is streamlined but still has room for the latest Precision Prime optical heartrate monitoring technology, an altitude sensor and even a running power sensor. The Vantage V also ships with Training Load Pro technology, which estimates the intensity of your workout, as well as Recovery Pro, which tells you when your body is ready to hit the road again. $499. polar.com

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SAMSUNG GALAXY TAB S4 The first Android 2-in-1 tablet to offer tablet and laptop functionality to rival the iPad Pro 10.5, the Samsung packs in some great features.

To begin, the 10.5-inch HDR OLED display looks great. The 4GB of RAM can handle complex tasks, and the 64GB microSD storage is expandable for those who work with a lot of data. The price includes an S Pen controller, and DeX connectivity allows you to open multiple tabs at once, just like on a laptop. From $649. samsung.com

PHOTOS: © KINESIS, © APPLE, © POLAR, © SAMSUNG

KINESIS ADVANTAGE2 ERGONOMIC KEYBOARD A market leader in the field, Kinesis has made ergonomic keyboards for more than a quarter of a century. Anyone who spends a lot of time typing will appreciate the concave keys that reduce finger extension and the vertical columns of keys Kinesis claims best suit the natural motion of your fingers. While it doesn’t come cheap, the Advantage2 makes a great purchase for those worried about the effects of muscle tension and fatigue when typing for extended periods. $349. kinesis-ergo.com

APPLE IPHONE XS AND XS MAX The latest iteration of Apple’s iconic smartphone might look similar to its predecessor, but you’ll find some important upgrades under the hood. Alongside an A12 Bionic chipset, up to 512GB internal storage and an improved camera, the device also boasts improved stereo speakers, an IP68 water- and dust-resistance rating and a dual SIM option that will suit international travelers.

Choose from the 5.8-inch iPhone XS or the 6.5-inch iPhone XS Max, both available in gold, silver or space gray. From $999. apple.com

wine & spirits

SIMPLY DIVINE

PHOTO: © BEE D’VINE

Savor the smooth, fragrant honey wine from Bee D’Vine.

“DON’T CALL IT MEAD,” Ayele Solomon said. “It’s honey wine, the world’s oldest fermented drink.”

And honey wine is what the conservationist-turnedwinemaker labels the drink he makes in California. Ayele Solomon was born in Ethiopia, where honey wine, or t’ej, as it is called there, has been a national drink for more than 2,000 years. He came to the United States when he was 12, and since completing his master’s degree, worked in environmental and rural development.

Now in his 40s, he is devoted to making the goldenshaded drink of his native land in Sonoma County.

Named Bee D’Vine, the label reads “honey wine.”

Unlike grapes that ripen in the fall, honey is harvested in April. Ayele ferments in the purest way, using simply honey, water and yeast; after fermentation, he ages his honey wines for 10 to 15 months in wine barrels. Some meads, on the other hand, add fruit and herbs to their honey fermentation, and many contain higher alcohol than Bee D’Vine’s 12.5 percent.

Bee D’Vine is made in two styles: brut and demi-sec.

BY EUNICE FRIED

Tasting Bee D’Vine Brut recently, I found it quite dry despite its honey base, with a light aroma of vanilla emanating from its time in oak. It also presents tones of almond and is overall fragrant and brilliantly clear with a velvety smooth texture.

Bee D’Vine Demi Sec, Ayele’s sweeter honey wine, exudes a floral perfume; a hint of almond; full, fetching body; and as its name implies, is semisweet. A wellbalanced wine, its aroma and taste clearly echo its honey base and linger on in its finish.

Bee D’Vine honey wines come in two sizes. The 375 ml bottle costs $25. The 750 ml sells for $40.

Ayele is not the only American making wine from honey. Estimates suggest 120 others are doing the same thing. The major difference between them? The others call themselves meadists. Many ferment honey with other additions and label the products as mead, an Old English word.

True honey wine is just that, wine made solely of honey — as is Bee D’Vine.

go es a i r m tu sto u c Cen the as s w t i wed y l new ey for hon k rin to d day h c t e ea firs win e h t , ing oon dur m r o ge; th, ria r mon a m eir h t ord of ew h t s, thu on.’ o m ey ‘hon

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Work and Play in Italy Once business concludes, a world of wonder awaits in many of Italy’s incredible cities.

ONCE THE FINAL MEETING WRAPS and the last contract is signed and sealed with a handshake, what’s next? Do you catch a flight back home or do you take advantage of the destination? If your next business trip is to Italy, we suggest adding a few more days to explore the country’s most amazing hot spots. Make time for more than a mouthwatering Italian meal in these three cities.

WHEN IN TRENTO After business is finished stay in Trento and go back in time with a visit to the old villages of Vigo di Fasso, Rango and Mezzano. Searching for something more modern? Be mesmerized by Muse Science Museum’s unique architecture.

Stretch your legs with a hike or a ski run in the stunning Dolomites; take in the beauty of Trento’s 16th-century Piazza Duomo and relax with a glass of some of the region’s famous wines, Teroldego, Lagrein, Muller Thurgau.

WHEN IN BOLOGNA All done with business in Bologna? Then it’s time for some fun in Emilia Romagna. Take a Ferrari or Ducati around the hills outside Modena. Or go on a foodie tour and savor Prosciutto, Culatello, Parmigiano Reggiano and balsamic vinegar. Take in a Verdi opera in the Teatro Regio in Parma. Walk along the city walls and gardens in Ferrara. Unwind in medieval Bologna, a city rich in art, culture and world-class gastronomy before heading back to the United States.

WHEN IN ROME Business and pleasure … that’s Rome. At the end of a day of business meetings, the Eternal City awaits you in all its glory. Visit Maxxi; jog in Villa Borghese Gardens; enjoy spaghetti alla carbonara in Testaccio; people watch with a spritz in Piazza Navona; and take in the view from the Belvedere at the Colosseum. If time allows, go out to the Old Appian Way, Hadrian’s Villa in Tivoli.

For more information, visit www.italia.it

Piazza Duomo in Trento

Langhe, Piedmont Courtesy of Shutterstock

Emilia Romagna

Villa Borghese Gardens

spas

NEW BEGINNINGS Refresh and renew at Zaitania Spa at Grand Hyatt Bogotá. BY ANGELIQUE PLATAS

TAKE A DIP: Spa pool

PHOTO: © GRAND HYATT BOGOTÁ

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IT WAS AN EXPERIENCE IN FIRSTS during my recent trip to Bogotá, Colombia: First trip to Colombia, first time in South America, first stay at a Grand Hyatt hotel and first Swedish massage. Not to mention, all at the largest spa facility in Colombia, South America and the Caribbean — the Zaitania Spa in the Grand Hyatt Bogotá.

After already spending a couple of days in the hotel exploring the fitness facility on my own and joining a tour with the general manager, I was familiar with the Zaitania Spa before my appointment. With 11 treatment rooms (three designed for couples) offering a wide variety of therapies, massages and facials; the neighboring near-Olympic-sized pool and several smaller therapy pools inviting guests for a dip before or after a treatment; and high-end makeup and lotions for purchase, it’s no wonder the brand-new spa extends through the entire third floor of the hotel.

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The spa is a world of its own — so much so, locals can purchase a membership to the spa and use their own entrance and cubby in the locker room, completely separate from hotel guests.

Most guests enjoying a spa or therapy treatment head to Zaitania early to find a locker, put on a robe and slippers and make their way to the pool area before their appointment.

Knowing I would appreciate my spa treatment 100 times more after finishing some work in my hotel room, I skipped the pre-spa pool experience.

Once I made my way to the spa for my massage appointment, I strolled around testing aromatherapy lotions as I waited for my masseur. His name was Oscar, and he greeted me with an impressively firm handshake — what I considered a good sign for my Swedish massage. He escorted me to my room, showed me where everything was, including small shorts and a top to wear during the treatment, before he disappeared so I could

change and hop onto the table.

After a few days of walking all over Bogotá, I was looking forward to my 50-minute massage — a nice timeframe for my post-work, pre-dinner schedule. Oscar came back about 10 minutes later and put on some soothing music.

Not knowing what to expect and wondering what made the massage “Swedish,” I knew it was show time as aromatherapy scents of tangerine and vanilla filled the room. I couldn’t tell if it was the oil used for the massage or just a fragrance, but it was incredibly soothing and refreshing at the same time.

As the massage began, I could feel the tension in my shoulders and back beginning to ease. The foot-to-leg massage was a great way to begin. My masseur focused on one side first, then the other, and I thought I was going to fall asleep by the time he worked on my back and arms. Normally, I like a tougher massage with alternating pressure — something along the lines of deep tissue — but this was somewhere in between. The parts that needed deep-tissue attention, like my shoulders, received a tougher touch, but not so much on my legs and arms, where the pressure was lighter.

One unique aspect I’d never experienced before: My masseur pulled my arm behind my back with my elbow at a 90-degree angle and pulled my arm and shoulder side to side, about five times, one arm at a time.

I assume it was to further loosen the muscles, but I have to admit I didn’t really feel a difference in tension. I did, however, notice the effect on my neck as he began stretching it back and forth.

Back to my shoulders and behind my neck — I guess I was super-tense — and then a head massage. Signaling the treatment was almost concluded, it was time to roll over and spend the last few minutes with a towel over my face while receiving a light massage on my arms and front of my legs.

Now a bit more alert — I was nearing sleep a few times — I could hear the music winding down and sense the entire experience coming to an end. Oscar grabbed his music, thanked me and left so I could change. I wondered why I said, “You’re welcome!” instead of thanking him, but I’ll blame it on the language barrier and my post-massage brain.

SOOTHING SPACES:

Spa reception (above) and treatment room (left) PHOTOS: © GRAND HYATT BOGOTÁ

Once ready to change, I noticed one whole wall in the room was a floor-to-ceiling window, covered by blackout curtains. I wondered what the experience would have been like with the curtains open and all the sunlight of Bogotá streaming in.

The bathroom was beautiful in a simple but luxurious way.

So beautiful, in fact, the steam shower tempted me before I headed back up to my room to change for dinner. The marble touches and light, subdued colors were equally calming and uplifting. I thought again about the big, beautiful pool and how I would have to find time to get in there the next day.

DECEMBER 2018

Zaitania Spa Grand Hyatt Bogotá Calle 24A, 57–60 Bogotá, Colombia 111321 tel 57 1 6541300 hyatt.com

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cruising

CELEBRATIONS AT SEA For the perfect winter holiday, just add water.

FEW HOLIDAY CELEBRATIONS are more lavish and exhilarating than those held on special cruises, especially when it’s cold at home. Fortunately, many cruise lines offer seasonal galas in the winter, especially in the Caribbean during the Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas and New Year’s holidays. While it’s too late to book such a cruise this winter, plenty of notable holiday cruises will make it easy to shake off the chills in 2019.

Princess Cruises, for example, ensures a white Christmas in warm waters by providing a snowfall every day in December on its ships in the Caribbean, courtesy of a snowmaking machine in the Atrium. Carols, parades, eggnog, a “gingerbread challenge,” virtual yule logs in every cabin and a special Mass add to the festive atmosphere, as Santa Claus comes aboard on Christmas Day bearing gifts for the children.

It’s snowing on other cruise ships in December as well, including those of Disney Cruise Line, all aglitter with stockings hung, carolers afoot, gingerbread houses aglow, a three-deck Christmas tree alight and Santa’s Winter Wonderland Ball in full swing. The snow spreads to Disney’s private Caribbean island, Castaway Cay, where the tram transforms into Santa’s sleigh and cartoon characters join in the flakey frolic. Meanwhile, on Celebrity Cruises, the snow machine is just one of many seasonal treats in a lineup featuring elves, choirs, carnivals, parades, “reindeer games” and Santa himself on deck.

Christmas also moves full steam ahead on Azamara Club

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BY J.D. BROWN AND MARGARET BACKENHEIMER

Cruises (with holiday buffets, cookies, carols by the crew and a Christmas Day show), on Holland America Line (renowned for Santa’s late-night milk and cookies), on Regent Seven Seas (hosting a European Christmas market on Christmas Eve and a traditional American feast on Christmas Day), on Silversea Cruises (with master chefs in costume and holiday shows in the lounge) and on Windstar Cruises (the whole ship enwrapped in blinking lights, wreaths and Christmas trees as the crew churns out the carols).

Thanksgiving is another cold-weather holiday that engenders warm-water cruising with traditional dinners (and in the case of Celebrity Cruises, a turkey pardoning by the captain). Celebrity Cruises also puts on a New Year’s celebration to cap the winter holiday season, getting out the clackers, streamers and party hats; hosting a Champagne toast; and performing a balloon drop to mark the transition. And nearly all the best cruise lines celebrate Hanukkah (Dec. 22–30, 2019) during the grand holiday season, too, with menorahs, latkes and onboard rabbis.

All in all, winter is the most tempting time to undertake a mitten-free holiday cruise. Next time around, leave the snow shovel at home and instead try a warm-weather, fully catered holiday at sea.

HOLIDAY CHEER:

Princess Cruises' snow in the Atrium (left), gingerbread house making (top right) and Santa relaxing on deck (bottom) PHOTOS: © PRINCESS CRUISES

uises ay cr Holid the mong are a sive expen most ost and m ar, so popul r as fa book as ahead ble. possi

tours

’TIS THE SEASON Celebrate Germany’s Christmas markets with Kensington Tours. BY KRISTY ALPERT

WHEN THE COMFORTING AROMAS of spiced glühwein (mulled wine); roasted chestnuts; and delicious, fresh gingerbread begin to scent the air throughout Germany, it can only mean one thing: The season of Christmas markets has finally arrived.

Christmas markets are a time-honored tradition throughout Germany where, for the four weeks of Advent leading up to Christmas, villages small and large gather to join in celebrating the yuletide spirit. Records of early winter markets in Germany can be traced back as early as 1310, but most experts agree the first true Christmas market began in 1434 as Dresden’s town square filled with tradesmen and villagers selling their wares, homemade decorations and gifts at the Striezelmarkt.

Over the years, the markets became known as Christkindlmarkt (“Christ child market” in English) — in honor of Martin Luther’s suggestion children should receive presents from the Christ child — and continued to be a place for buying and selling handmade presents and tasty treats in a joyful environment with singing carolers, jingling bells and twinkling lights. Today, many of the markets maintain the enchanting traditions and fairy-tale atmosphere that made these gatherings so iconic throughout the years.

Navigating a larger German Christkindlmarkt can get a bit confusing without a guide familiar with each market, already knowing the best markets and vendors in a sea of more than 300 stalls and hundreds of markets. That’s where Kensington Tours comes in. This custom tour operator specializes in tailor-made journeys, with more than 10 years of experience guiding guests around Germany’s best Christmas markets. Its nine-day Christmas Markets of Germany tour offers a private guided experience for visitors looking for an in-depth, self-paced, personal journey through one of Germany’s most treasured traditions.

“We marry the traditional Christmas markets experience with a completely tailor-made and privately guided experience through Berlin, Munich, Nuremberg and Dresden,” explains Kathleen Doheny, vice president of marketing, Kensington Tours. “Our private tours give an authentic, local introduction to the distinctive history and culture of each destination. Our clients are given an insider’s perspective and guidance to the best of the Christmas markets and are guided to seek out the hidden gems and favorite stalls and stores of in-the-know-locals.”

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HOLIDAY SHOPPING: The Dresden Striezelmarkt (above), and gingerbread cookies at Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt (left) PHOTOS: © JOHNNYDEVIL - DREAMSTIME.COM, © AMZPHOTO DREAMSTIME.COM

Although Kensington Tours lists a suggested itinerary on the website, each trip is bespoke, with the destination specialist taking time to understand each client’s unique needs. The tour can take on a culinary focus, a historical focus or an art or music focus if desired.

Whatever the chosen theme, guests are sure to go home with full suitcases, full bellies and hearts full with fond memories of being part of a centuries-old tradition.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Third Consecutive Year as Winner of the GT Tested Reader Survey Award for Best Credit Card Special Events INSIDE ACCESS FROM CHASE brings once-in-a-lifetime experiences to select Chase Cardmembers. These Cardmembers have the opportunity to purchase specially curated events, including celebrity meet and greets, private culinary and cultural events, and behind-the-scenes views of the sports, music, and fashion worlds.

Enjoy this glimpse of Cardmember experiences, or visit InsideAccess.com to view current offers.

MARTHA STEWART WINE & FOOD EXPERIENCE IN LOS ANGELES PRESENTED BY USA TODAY! During the Martha Stewart Wine & Food Experience, Inside Access from Chase guests had the opportunity to meet Martha at a private session, and enjoy VIP entry to the Grand Tasting and the Inside Access VIP Lounge.

This savory culinary showcase included Martha Stewart’s newest products, interactive classes, seminars, and exclusive local samplings from the best restaurants in town. Inside Access from Chase is pleased to sponsor this event, taking place at Los Angeles Center Studios.

ICONIC THANKSGIVING DAY PARADE IN NEW YORK CITY!

Photo by Fadil Berisha

During a holiday-inspired breakfast, Cardmembers viewed the 92nd annual Thanksgiving Day Parade from floor-to-ceiling windows nine floors up at Robert Restaurant in the Museum of Arts & Design. Inside Access from Chase guests of all ages enjoyed panoramic views of the colorful floats, balloons and marching bands, along with family-friendly crafts and activities.

CHEF SARAH GRUENEBERG DEMONSTRATION & DINNER AT MONTEVERDE IN CHICAGO! Chef Sarah Grueneberg, 2017 James Beard Award winner for Best Chef Great Lakes, hosted Inside Access from Chase guests for a private evening in Chicago at Monteverde Restaurant & Pastificio.

During the cocktail and hors d’oeuvres reception, Chef Grueneberg hosted a pasta-making demonstration from the pastificio, elevated behind the bar where the team makes fresh pasta daily.

Then all were seated for a four-course, wine-paired dinner. The specially curated menu blended the traditions of Italian culture and cooking with influences from Grueneberg’s upbringing in Texas and trips around the world.

Photo by Galdones Photography

Visit InsideAccess.com for current offers.

feature

To the Top Global Traveler announces the 2018 Airline of the Year and Hotel of the Year. BY ANGELIQUE PLATAS TOP HONORS:

Rosewood Sanya suite (top), and Delta Air Lines' Airbus A350-900 (bottom left) and Boeing 777 Delta One Suites (bottom right) PHOTOS: © ROSEWOOD HOTELS & RESORTS, © DELTA AIR LINES

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FOR THE EIGHTH CONSECUTIVE year, Global Traveler honors the best of the best in naming 2018’s Airline of the Year and Hotel of the Year.

In today’s fast-paced world of ondemand services, instant gratification and

DECEMBER 2018

customizable everything, keeping up with the Joneses is no longer enough to stay on top; it’s a way to maintain. For those who want to pull ahead of the competition, in any industry, companies need a “wow” factor, something that leaves a lasting impression — especially in an industry where excellence has become an expectation. Delta Air Lines and Rosewood Hotels and Resorts easily exceed that expectation — so much so, they’ve earned top honors as GT’s 2018 Airline and Hotel of the Year.

To award the prestigious honor, Global Traveler’s staff submitted nominations, and Advisory Board members chose the winners through a series of factors based on a culmination of diverse experiences and thorough research. Weighing the wide range of nominees’ financial data, loading and boarding times, safety records, current standing, onboard menus and overall image as a brand, earning this award is no small feat.

In some instances, it’s how a brand responds to adversity, innovates when others get comfortable, moves the industry standard forward and leaves a positive community impact — all while consistently delivering a top product. Sound like a travel company you know?

DELTA AIR LINES AIRLINE OF THE YEAR 2018

Born out of industrial progress, rural opportunity and necessity, Delta Air Lines began in 1924 as an aerial crop-dusting operation, Huff Daland Dusters, Incorporated.

Founded on humble beginnings in Macon, Georgia, and focused primarily on agricultural business until the late 1920s, the top airline we know today once had only the Huff-Daland Duster to its name — one of the first bona fide crop dusters in the industry.

Collett E. Woolman purchased the company in 1928, moved its headquarters, renamed it Delta Air Service and launched the first flight between Jackson, Mississippi, and Dallas, Texas, carrying just five passengers and one pilot. Going beyond the rural fields of Georgia and with four founders, Delta Air Service was well on its way to becoming a full-fledged airline. As Delta experienced rapid growth, the company established a new headquarters in Atlanta in 1941, where the main hub remains today.

While business continued to grow and technology advanced, Delta experienced a series of transitions, including airline mergers and acquisitions, leading to a new name: Delta Air Lines. After a few years of adding routes and building its reputation, Delta replaced its traditional propeller planes with jets in the 1960s, added international routes to Europe in the 1970s and, finally, cross-Pacific routes in the 1980s.

Delta made headlines in late 2005 after filing for reorganization Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code but managed to come out the other side in 2007 — arguably better positioned to produce and compete in the industry than before. In April 2008 Delta Air Lines merged with Northwest Airlines. And produce it did, now boasting eight hubs across the country and around the world. Atlanta remains the largest in the operation, with that hub alone seeing 1,000 daily departures to 225 destinations.

Today Delta Air Lines serves more than 180 million customers each year, serving 304 destinations in 52 countries on six continents, including alliance partner flights, while employing more than 80,000 dedicated staff worldwide. With an aircraft fleet of more than 800, the founding member of the SkyTeam global alliance and its worldwide partners fly more than 15,000 flights daily.

This year alone, Delta not only receives GT’s Airline of the Year honor but also ranks among Fortune’s Top 50 Most Admired Companies for the seventh time and as No.1 in Business Travel News’s annual Airline Survey.

Delta experienced a lot of changes and forward momentum this year while maintaining the standard of business customers expect. Initiatives include working diligently on infrastructure upgrades to ease travel for passengers nationwide, elevating quality of travel for passengers with terminal renovations at LaGuardia Airport, and focusing on pet comfort and safety through Delta Cargo. It continues to work on security training to eradicate human trafficking, prepping to build Delta Sky Way in Los Angeles (LAX) and removing one-time-use plastic items

from Delta Air Lines completely. All this, and earning honors for customer experience — the sky seems to be the limit.

One aspect of Delta’s operations as prevalent as its products, services and business: the people. Delta’s staff and corporate community essentially represent the heartbeat of the business.

The culture surrounding Delta’s every move is deeply connected to the people behind the operation, from dedication to military veterans, community involvement and green initiatives to even the new uniforms. In collaboration with esteemed designer Zac Posen, new uniforms rolled out this year keep employees in mind — literally — basing functionality and style on feedback from them.

Weaving through the ups and downs and innovating along the way clearly paid off for Delta. From a modest start to one of the top airlines in the business, history tells us Delta’s future glows as brightly as its trophy case.

DECEMBER 2018

PERSONAL SERVICE:

Delta Air Lines' Boeing 777 Delta One Suites (top) and wine service (bottom)

PHOTOS: © DELTA AIR LINES

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ROSEWOOD HOTELS & RESORTS HOTEL OF THE YEAR 2018

One of the world’s leading luxury hotel companies, Rosewood Hotel Group boasts four diverse brands, each with a distinct personality and purpose. Of all the brands — Rosewood Hotels & Resorts; Penta Hotels; New World Hotels & Resorts; and the newest, KHOS — Rosewood Hotels & Resorts sits at the helm of ultra-luxury and comfort.

The esteemed Rosewood collection came about in 1979, steadily rising through the ranks in the luxury travel industry. In keeping with the brand’s tagline, “A Sense of Place,” each residential-style hotel exudes just that — place.

Guests enjoy incredibly luxurious stays inspired by the destination’s rich history, culture and geographic landscape. Each space strives to immerse guests in the most

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comfortable, high-end and luxe version of the locale.

In order to really shine in such a saturated industry as luxury accommodations, a brand needs an impressive team with impeccable attention to detail, and Rosewood has such a team. While consisting of industry veterans, all in tune with above-and-beyond hospitality practices, Rosewood earns its place among the best of the best.

This year Rosewood announced hotel openings in dynamic, exciting locales, meeting the needs of travelers worldwide. With tourists interested more in authentic experiences, the new Rosewood Laung Praban in Laos seeks to immerse guests in the culture. The first luxury tent encampment arrived this spring, allowing guests to explore local Laotian culture — including the UNESCO Heritage site Luang Praband. The luxury property will also serve as the first philanthropic hospitality school to the brand.

New properties in Bermuda and Nassau, Bahamas, also emerged, bringing upscale health and wellness treat-

SERENE STAYS: Rosewood Baha Mar king room (top left) and Lagoon Pool (top right), Rosewood Beijing entrance (bottom left), and Rosewood Bermuda lobby PHOTOS: © ROSEWOOD HOTELS & RESORTS

WE PROUDLY GO THE EXTRA MILE SO THAT YOU CAN, TOO.

We are honored to be named Global Traveler’s 2018 Airline of the Year thanks to our 80,000 employees worldwide.

LEADER IN LUXURY:

Courtyard at the Hotel de Crillon, A Rosewood Hotel (top left); the Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi façade (top right); Las Ventanas al Paraiso, A Rosewood Resort exterior reception (bottom left); and a Rosewood Puebla suite PHOTOS:© ROSEWOOD HOTELS & RESORTS

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ments to each luxury spa, as well as high-end stays to California, China and Thailand.

While new and renovated properties kept Rosewood Hotels & Resorts busy this year, that didn’t slow down the brand’s green initiative and environmental pledge: to value the planet’s resources and demonstrate environmental sensitivity.

By vowing to conduct business in a sustainable, thoughtful and eco-friendly way, Rosewood Hotels & Resorts proves its mantra “Embrace A Sense of Place” is more than aspiration by respecting the natural habitats, history, ecological settings and diverse communities each resort inhabits. By revering the land, people and local way of life, Rosewood puts sustainability first and promotes education, appreciation and thoughtful ways to enjoy different areas of the world.

Part of the brand’s daily proactive business model revolves around preserving clean air and water through its housekeeping,

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transportation and amenities, managing waste and recyclables according to a strict sustainable system — all while conserving energy and reducing waste. In leading by example, Rosewood properties effectively educate guests and the competition about efficient practices by promoting a better way of life for all.

Guests have the opportunity to enjoy natural and organic food, beverages and energy-efficient appliances.

While all the peace, love and happiness may be a bonus to the brand’s work ethic, the ultra-luxury stays don’t hurt, either.

With a consistent level of eminence running through Rosewood Hotels & Resorts’ long line of properties, guests expect a certain quality of service, pushing Rosewood to constantly maintain, improve and impress.

Between its refined elegance, natural appreciation and focus on pristine hospitality, it’s easy to see how Rosewood Hotels & Resorts rose to the top of GT’s list, earning it Hotel of the Year.

feature

SIGNIEL SEOUL

Best Luxury Hotel in Asia PHOTO: © SIGNIEL SEOUL

Best and Brightest Global Traveler toasts the winners of the 2018 GT Tested Reader Survey awards. BY KIMBERLY KROL BREAK OUT THE CRYSTAL — it’s time for a celebration! This year, 2018, marks the 15th anniversary of our GT Tested Reader Survey awards, and this year’s winners shine as brightly as the most rare gemstones. Join us on the following pages as we unveil the shimmering jewels of the travel industry in our 15th annual survey.

The traditional gift for a 15th anniversary is crystal, to represent a clear, sparkling commitment. All of the winners in this year’s survey know a thing or two about that, as each commits daily to providing an exceptional experience to travelers around the globe.

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There’s a plethora of crystals designed to assist travelers on their way. Malachite provides protection for travel by airplane and can assist in overcoming fears of flying. While a touch of added protection can’t hurt, you can be confident you’re in the best hands with these award-winning airlines. You might, however, still need some moonstone to overcome that jet lag.

We kick off the winning airline list with Singapore Airlines, celebrating its fourth consecutive win as Best Overall Airline in the World. The airline launched service from Singapore (SIN) to Los Angeles (LAX) and Newark (EWR) this year, bringing North American travelers a premium service they crave. While that flight is served by an Airbus A350, another in the Airbus family receives honors this year, with Airbus A380 picking up the Best Aircraft Type title. There must be citrine —

BRUSSELS AIRLINES

Best Trans-Atlantic Airline PHOTO: © BRUSSELS AIRLINES

SINGAPORE AIRLINES

Best Overall Airline in the World PHOTO: © SINGAPORE AIRLINES

LOTTE HOTEL SEOUL Best MICE Hotel and Best Hotel in South Korea PHOTO: © LOTTE HOTEL SEOUL

TURKISH AIRLINES

Best Airport Staff/Gate Agents and Best Airline for Business Class PHOTO: © TURKISH AIRLINES

the crystal of success and luck — in Toulouse.

Domestically, American Airlines takes home a bevy of awards, earning nods this year as Best Airline Website, second consecutive year, for aa.com; another two-time honor as Fastest-Growing Airline, Trans-Pacific; a third win as Best Airline for Domestic First Class; Best Airline in North America; and Best Airline App. Its AAdvantage frequent-flyer program earned Best FrequentFlyer Customer Service, and its alliance, oneworld, is Best Airline Alliance for the ninth consecutive year. If turquoise is the crystal of abundance, American Airlines represents the turquoise of this survey.

One place you can expect a calm flight experience — and, of course, you can bring along agates to improve your odds — is in the premium cabins of airlines worldwide. Might we suggest Korean Air, Best Airline for International First Class, and Turkish Airlines, Best Airline for Business Class, for the second consecutive year? The European carrier also flies home with accolades for its Turkish Airlines Corporate Club, Best Corporate Program for Business Travelers, and Best Airport Staff/Gate Agents, two times running. Maintaining its commitment to traveler safety and security, EL AL Israel Airlines wins Best Airline for Security for the 12th consecutive year.

Asiana Airlines should probably receive an emerald — given its powers of communication — and not a crystal for this honor, as it celebrates its 15th consecutive win for Best Airline for Onboard Service and Best Airline for Flight Attendants.

Maybe it’s the lodestone, which attracts good fortune, but we’re guessing it’s just this airline’s premium product and service that landed it on this list for the first time … and as a double winner: Hong Kong Airlines was named Best Flight Attendant Uniforms and Best Airline for New Service Launch, with its San Francisco (SFO) to Hong Kong (HKG) flight. Another airline with its name on the winning roster two times is Alitalia, nine-time Best Airline Cuisine winner and first-time Best Business-Class Seat Design honoree. Air France tops the list for Best First-Class Seat Design for the first time.

Zebra stone helps in connecting to Mother Earth, but so do these airlines, winning recognition for services and products connecting all parts of the world.

LATAM Airlines Group takes home its fifth consecutive win as Best Airline to South America, while Aeromexico is named Best Airline in Mexico for the ninth year in a row. Qantas is Best Airline to Australia and New Zealand, and Air Tahiti Nui wins for Best Airline in the South Pacific. Look to TAP Air Portugal,

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AWARD WINNERS 2018

AMERICAN AIRLINES

Fastest-Growing Airline, Trans-Pacific; Best Airline for Domestic First Class; Best Airline in North America; and Best Airline App PHOTO: © AMERICAN AIRLINES

Best Overall Airline in the World 1. Singapore Airlines 2. United Airlines 3. Asiana Airlines 4. Swiss International Air Lines 5. Delta Air Lines 6. Qatar Airways 7. British Airways 8. Emirates 9. Lufthansa 10. Korean Air

ALITALIA

Best Airline Cuisine and Best Business-Class Seat Design

PHOTO: © ALITALIA

Best Airline Alliance 1.

2.

3.

oneworld Star Alliance SkyTeam

Best Aircraft Type 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

Airbus A380 Boeing 787 Airbus A350 Boeing 777 Boeing 747 Boeing 737 Airbus A340 Boeing 767 Airbus A330

Best Airline Website

aa.com delta.com 3. united.com 4. jetblue.com 5. southwest.com 6. britishairways.com 7. alaskaair.com 8. hongkongairlines.com 9. qatarairways.com 10. china-airlines.com 1.

2.

Fastest-Growing Airline, Trans-Pacific

American Airlines Hong Kong Airlines 3. Japan Airlines 4. China Southern Airlines 5. Hainan Airlines 6. All Nippon Airways 7. United Airlines 8. China Airlines 9. Xiamen Airlines 10. China Eastern Airlines 1.

2.

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AMSTERDAM AIRPORT SCHIPHOL Best Airport in Europe

PHOTO: © AMSTERDAM AIRPORT SCHIPHOL

LOT Polish Airlines and Brussels Airlines for your next European flight — they win Best Airline in Europe (for the eighth consecutive time), Best Airline in Eastern Europe (second year in a row) and Best Trans-Atlantic Airline, respectively. Kudos to South African Airways for its 15th consecutive nod as Best Airline in Africa; Hainan Airlines also impresses with its sixth consecutive win as Best Airline in China. Five-time Best Airline in Central/South Asia & India winner is Air India. Japan Airlines wins two awards: Best Airline to Japan and Best Trans-Pacific Airline, both for the second consecutive year. Emirates earns the Best Airline in the Middle East nod, and EVA Air wins as Best Airline in North Asia.

Rounding out the airline category, United Airlines reigns supreme 15 times over with its win as Best Overall Frequent-Flyer Program. The airline also picks up the Best Frequent-Flyer Bonus Program award for the sixth consecutive year. Other frequent-flyer standouts include Alaska Airlines’ Mileage Plan – MVP Gold for Best Frequent-Flyer

DECEMBER 2018

Elite-Level Program, and Air Canada Aeroplan as Best Frequent-Flyer Award Redemption.

Leave the calcite, known to reduce stress, at home, because when you travel through these award-winning airports, there’s no need to worry. Travelers’ needs are handled with ease. For the third year, Singapore Changi Airport is Best Overall Airport in the World, while in North America, Chicago O’Hare International Airport tops the charts as Best Airport in North America for the 15th year in a row.

Singapore Changi also earns accolades as Best Duty-Free Shopping in Asia, two years running.

Black tourmaline, another traveler’s crystal, protects from crazy energy, which could be necessary in the frenzy of an airport. Grab some topaz to find balance, or book your flights through these top regional airports: Incheon International Airport, two-time Best Airport in Asia; Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, Best Airport in Africa and Best Duty-Free Shopping in Africa; Amsterdam

Best Airline for Business Class

Turkish Airlines United Airlines 3. Singapore Airlines 4. China Airlines 5. Qatar Airways 6. Delta Air Lines 7. Asiana Airlines 8. Alitalia 9. Lufthansa 10. Hong Kong Airlines 1.

2.

Best Airline for International First Class

Korean Air Swiss International Air Lines 3. Emirates 4. Asiana Airlines 5. Qatar Airways 6. Singapore Airlines 7. Etihad Airways 8. Lufthansa 9. Cathay Pacific Airways 10. Air France 1.

DUBAI DUTY FREE

Best Duty-Free Shopping in the World and Best Duty-Free Shopping in the Middle East PHOTO: © ANTONELLA865 - DREAMSTIME.COM

AIRBUS 380

Best Aircraft Type PHOTO: © AIRBUS

2.

Best Airline for Domestic First Class 1.

2.

3.

4.

American Airlines United Airlines Delta Air Lines Alaska Airlines

Best Airline for Onboard Service

Asiana Airlines Singapore Airlines 3. Swiss International Air Lines 4. Korean Air 5. LATAM Airlines Group 6. Hong Kong Airlines 7. Qatar Airways 8. South African Airways 9. Turkish Airlines 10. Emirates 1.

2.

Airport Schiphol, Best Airport in Europe and two-time Best Airport Shopping and Best Duty-Free Shopping in Europe; Hamad International Airport, Best Airport in the Middle East for the second consecutive year; and Bogotá’s El Dorado International Airport, Best Airport in South America.

If yellow jasper, the traveler’s assistant stone, keeps us grounded, we hope it is in these, the final award-winning airports on this year’s list: Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, the five-time Best Airport Dining winner; Ontario International Airport in Ontario, California, Fastest-Growing U.S. Airport; and Dubai International Airport’s Dubai Duty Free, 12-time Best Duty-Free Shopping in the World and two-time Best Duty-Free Shopping in the Middle East.

Grab your opal, the stone for inspiration, and prepare for inspiring stays at these award-winning hotels and brands. The Ritz-Carlton rounds up a collection of tro-

phies this year, including Best International Hotel Chain and Best Domestic Hotel Chain, both for the fourth consecutive year.

As the last few years saw the merger of Marriott and Starwood, a large assortment of this year’s hotel winners are part of the Marriott International family. No barnacle crystals needed here, as this group clearly doesn’t have any issues to work through — they’ve found the winning way. Aside from The Ritz-Carlton nods mentioned above, other Marriott winning brands include Aloft Hotels, Best Lifestyle Hotel, upsetting long-time winner Andaz; Le Méridien Seoul, Best New Luxury Hotel in Asia; Marriott Rewards Platinum Elite, Best Frequent-Stay Elite-Level Program; Marriott Rewards, Best FrequentStay Bonus Program and Best Frequent-Stay Customer Service, Americas; and St. Regis Hotels & Resorts, Best European Hotel Chain for the third consecutive year.

There’s no need for obsidian to ward off negativity; a

Best Airline for Flight Attendants

Asiana Airlines Hong Kong Airlines 3. Lufthansa 4. Singapore Airlines 5. Emirates 6. Etihad Airways 7. LATAM Airlines Group 8. Qatar Airways 9. Korean Air 10. South African Airways 1.

2.

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Best Flight Attendant Uniforms

Hong Kong Airlines Air France 3. Delta Air Lines 4. Emirates 5. Asiana Airlines 6. Singapore Airlines 7. Korean Air 8. Etihad Airways 9. China Airlines 10. Qatar Airways 1.

2.

Best Airline Cuisine

Alitalia Swiss International Air Lines 3. Qatar Airways 4. Air France 5. Brussels Airlines 6. Lufthansa 7. Turkish Airlines 8. Etihad Airways 9. Singapore Airlines 10. Asiana Airlines 1.

2.

Best Airline for Security 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

EL AL Israel Airlines Swiss International Air Lines British Airways Lufthansa United Airlines Austrian Airlines

Best First-Class Seat Design

Air France Singapore Airlines 3. Qantas 4. Asiana Airlines 5. Qatar Airways 6. Cathay Pacific Airways 7. British Airways 8. Emirates 9. Korean Air 10. Etihad Airways 1.

2.

Best Business-Class Seat Design

Alitalia Singapore Airlines 3. China Airlines 4. LATAM Airlines Group 5. Swiss International Air Lines 6. Turkish Airlines 7. Hong Kong Airlines 8. Qantas 9. Asiana Airlines 10. Cathay Pacific Airways 1.

2.

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AIR FRANCE

Best First-Class Seat Design PHOTO: © AIR FRANCE

stay at any of these winners will bring nothing but positive vibes. This year, Grand Hyatt Grand Club shines with hospitality as Best Hotel Club Floor. Lotte Hotels pulls off a hat trick: Lotte Hotel Seoul, Best MICE Hotel, fourth consecutive year, and Best Hotel in South Korea, seven years in a row; and SIGNIEL Seoul, Best Luxury Hotel in Asia. Another Asian hotel brand, The Peninsula Hotels, earned two honors, a first-time win as Best Hotel Website, and an eighth win as Best Hotel in the United States for The Peninsula Beverly Hills. A testament to Asian hospitality standards, Mandarin Oriental, Taipei wins Best Hotel in Asia, two years running; and Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts is Best Hotel Chain in Asia.

Let’s take a journey around the globe to visit some of the other best hotel winners. In Europe, the prestigious title of Best Hotel in Europe goes to Belmond Hotel Cipriani, Venice. In the Middle East, Jumeirah International tops the charts as both Best Hotel in the Middle East, Burj Al Arab Jumeirah for the second year, and for the brand overall as Best Hotel Chain in the Middle East. For the second year, InterContinental Hotels and Resorts takes home the award for Best Hotel Chain in Latin America, while eight-time winner Fiesta Americana earns Best Hotel Chain in Mexico.

Reap the rewards of all your travel with IHG Rewards Club, earning its 14th consecutive nod as Best Hotel Rewards Program in the World; Hilton Honors snags accolades as Best Frequent-Stay Award Redemption.

Alongside your sugar crystals, these award-winning providers and destinations will help you find the beauty in any place. A unique experience awaits those using Volvo’s Overseas Delivery Program, three-time winner of Best Overseas Delivery Program. In keeping with the automotive theme, Hertz is Best Rental Car Company for the fifth

DECEMBER 2018

consecutive year.

Looking to destinations, Kenya grabs the No. 1 spot, besting long-time favorite Ireland, to claim Best Tourism Destination, while perennial favorite Seoul nabs its fourth title as Best MICE City.

Boingo Wireless, celebrating its eighth consecutive win as Best WiFi Service, keeps you connected anywhere around the world, aiding in connecting to Hotel Tonight, Best Hotel App, and Lyft, Best Ride Share. And, of course, we’d be remiss to neglect the elements — and no, I don’t mean your crystals — that travel with you on most of the journey. With Briggs & Riley, a nine-time Best Luggage Brand, there’s no need for a ruby; the luggage will bring you happiness, as you can fit an incredible amount of clothing into a carry-on, sacrificing nothing for your journey. It will even fit your Sony Digital Noise-Cancelling Headphones MDR1000XM2 Wireless, Best NoiseCancelling Headset.

The right travel credit card is like amethyst, a protective stone for travelers, keeping your wallet safe and ensuring the user earns rewards and points for future travel. Take it from our readers when considering your next credit card or purchase and opt for these award winners. Celebrating two seven-time wins, the United MileagePlus Club Card from Chase earns Best Overall Credit Card and Best Credit Card Rewards Program status. The recently re-launched United Explorer Card from Chase takes home its sixth consecutive win as Best Frequent-Flyer Affinity Credit Card Redemptions. Inside Access from Chase is a threetime winner of Best Credit Card Special Events.

Other winning cards from Chase Bank include Marriott Rewards Card from Chase, seven-time Best Frequent-Stay Affinity Credit Card and two-time Best Frequent-Stay Affinity Credit Card Benefits. Best Small

Best Airline for New Service Launch

Hong Kong Airlines (SFO to HGK) American Airlines (DFW to KEF) 3. Aer Lingus (PHL to DUB) 4. Lufthansa (SJC to FRA) 5. American Airlines (PHL to BUD) 6. Norwegian (ORD to LGW) 7. British Airways (LHR to BNA) 8. United Airlines (EWR to OPO) 9. American Airlines (ORD to VCE) 10. LOT Polish Airlines (JFK to BUD) 1.

2.

Best Corporate Program for Business Travelers

Turkish Airlines Corporate Club American Express Platinum Card 3. American Airlines Business Extra 4. United PerksPlus 5. Delta SkyBonus 6. Lufthansa PartnerPlus 7. Air France SkyBlue 8. British Airways One Business 9. Korean Air KAL BIZ 10. Air Canada Corporate Rewards 1.

2.

HAINAN AIRLINES Best Airline in China

PHOTO: © HAINAN AIRLINES

THE VOTING PROCESS

Best Overall Frequent-Flyer Program 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

United MileagePlus American Airlines AAdvantage Delta Air Lines SkyMiles Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan Lufthansa Miles & More JetBlue TrueBlue Southwest Rapid Rewards British Airways Executive Club Air Canada Aeroplan

Best Frequent-Flyer Elite-Level Program 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

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Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan MVP Gold Hawaiian Airlines HawaiianMiles - Pualani Platinum Membership American Airlines AAdvantage Executive Platinum United MileagePlus Premier Executive 1K Delta Air Lines SkyMiles Diamond Medallion JetBlue TrueBlue Frontier Airlines EarlyReturns Summit Level Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred

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TURKISH AIRLINES CORPORATE CLUB

Best Corporate Program for Business Travelers PHOTO: © TURKISH AIRLINES

Business Credit Card goes to Chase Ink Cash Business Preferred Credit Card.

Rounding out the hotel affinity credit card winners we have Hilton Honors Card from American Express, Best Frequent-Stay Affinity Credit Card Promotions, three years running; and IHG Rewards Club Select Visa, Best Frequent-Stay Affinity Credit Card Redemptions.

Take flight with these cards in your wallet: Alaska Airlines Visa Signature Card from Bank of America, Best Frequent-Flyer Affinity Credit Card for seven consecutive years; and Citi / AAdvantage Platinum Select World Elite MasterCard, five-time Best Frequent-Flyer Affinity Credit Card Promotions and first-time Best Frequent-Flyer Affinity Credit Card Benefits. Or, perhaps, set sail with this one: Princess Cruises Visa Signature Card from Barclays, Best Cruise Line Affinity Credit Card.

Travel is tanzanite: magic. Travel is onyx: stabilizing. Travel is a nebula stone, promoting amazing memories. Travel inspires unconditional love, like rose quartz. Travel is coral, or nature. It brings wealth and happiness, like gold. Whatever element you may seek, it’s likely travel delivers. And the award-winning companies featured on this year’s list of 2018 GT Tested Reader Survey award winners help bring those promises to life. Let’s raise our crystal glasses to this year’s esteemed winners. Congratulations!

Open-ended ballots ran in subscriber copies of Global Traveler and online at globaltraveler usa.com/survey from Jan. 1 to Sept. 30, 2018.

Ballots were distributed via direct mail and email during the same period.

Ballots returned with less than 50 percent of the fields completed were disqualified. More than 20,000 qualified ballots were returned during the voting period. Employees of FXExpress Publications, Inc., and affiliated members of the travel industry were not allowed to participate.

Best Airline in the South Pacific 1.

LOT POLISH AIRLINES

Best Airline in Eastern Europe

2.

PHOTO: © LOT POLISH AIRLINES

3.

4.

5.

Air Tahiti Nui Fiji Airways Qantas Virgin Australia Air New Zealand

Best Airline in Europe

TAP Air Portugal Swiss International Air Lines 3. Austrian Airlines 4. Brussels Airlines 5. Lufthansa 6. Virgin Atlantic Airways 7. British Airways 8. Iberia 9. Aer Lingus 10. Alitalia 1.

2.

Best Airline in Eastern Europe 1.

8. Hawaiian Airlines Hawaiian Miles 9. LATAM Fidelidade

2.

Best Airline in North America

6.

American Airlines United Airlines Alaska Airlines Delta Air Lines JetBlue Air Canada Frontier Airlines Porter Airlines Southwest Airlines

7.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

SOUTH AFRICAN AIRWAYS

8.

Best Airline in Africa

9.

PHOTO: © SOUTH AFRICAN AIRWAYS

Best Airline to South America Best Frequent-Flyer Bonus Program

United MileagePlus American Airlines AAdvantage 3. Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan 4. Delta Air Lines SkyMiles 5. LATAM Fidelidade 6. LifeMiles (Avianca TACA) 7. Hawaiian Airlines HawaiianMiles 8. Air Canada Aeroplan 9. Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards 10. Frontier Early Returns 1.

2.

Best Frequent-Flyer Award Redemption 1.

2.

3.

Air Canada Aeroplan American Airlines AAdvantage Delta SkyMiles

Hawaiian Airlines Hawaiian Miles 5. LifeMiles (Avianca TACA) 6. Southwest Airlines Rapid Returns 7. LATAM Fidelidade 8. United MileagePlus 9. Frontier Early Returns 4.

Best Frequent-Flyer Customer Service 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

American Airlines AAdvantage LifeMiles (Avianca TACA) Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan United MileagePlus Delta Air Lines SkyMiles LATAM Pass Air Canada Aeroplan

1.

2.

3.

LATAM Airlines Group Avianca Aerolineas Argentinas

Best Airline in Mexico 1.

2.

3.

4.

Aeromexico Interjet VivaAerobus Volaris

Best Airline to Australia and New Zealand 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Qantas Air New Zealand Virgin Australia Air Tahiti Nui Fiji Airways

3.

4.

5.

8.

LOT Polish Airlines Aeroflot S7 Airlines Transaero Wizzair Adria Airways Croatia Airlines Tarom Romanian Airlines

Best Airline in Africa

South African Airways Ethiopian Airlines 3. Kenya Airways 4. Air Seychelles 5. Air Namibia 6. Air Mauritius 7. Royal Air Maroc 8. TAAG Angola Airlines 9. Mango 10. Kulula 1.

2.

Best Airline in the Middle East

Emirates Qatar Airways 3. Egyptair 4. Saudi Arabian Airlines 5. EL AL Israel Airlines 6. Royal Jordanian 7. Middle East Airlines 8. Gulf Air 9. Royal Air Maroc 10. Etihad Airways 1.

2.

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Best Airline in North Asia (excluding China) 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

EVA Air Korean Air Asiana Airlines China Airlines Japan Airlines Cathay Pacific Airways Dragonair All Nippon Airways

Best Airline in China

Hainan Airlines China Southern Airlines 3. Air China 4. Shenzhen Airlines 5. China Eastern Airlines 6. Juneyao Airlines 7. Shandong Airlines 8. Spring Airlines 9. Sichuan Airlines 10. Tianjin Airlines 1.

2.

Best Airline in Central/South Asia & India 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

Air India SpiceJet Indigo SriLankan Airlines Mihin Lanka Jet Airways Air Astana Biman Bangladesh Airlines PIA

2.

3.

4.

5.

Japan Airlines American Airlines United Airlines All Nippon Airways Delta Air Lines

Best Trans-Atlantic Airline

Brussels Airlines 2. American Airlines 3. United Airlines 4. TAP Air Portugal 5. Swiss International Air Lines 6. Air France 7. Lufthansa 8. Delta Air Lines 9. British Airways 10. Austrian Airlines 1.

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Best Overall Airport in the World and Best Duty-Free Shopping in Asia PHOTO: © CHANGI AIRPORT GROUP

Best Trans-Pacific Airline 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

Japan Airlines Singapore Airlines China Southern Airlines Asiana Airlines Korean Air Hong Kong Airlines United Airlines China Eastern Airlines Delta Air Lines

Best Overall Airport in the World

Singapore Changi Airport 2. Incheon International Airport 3. Hamad International Airport 4. Munich Airport 5. Shanghai International Airport 6. Amsterdam Airport Schiphol 7. Frankfurt am Main Airport 8. Beijing Capital International Airport 9. Hong Kong International Airport 10. Tokyo International Airport/

Haneda Airport 1.

Best Airline to Japan 1.

SINGAPORE CHANGI AIRPORT

Best Airport in North America 1. Chicago O’Hare International Airport 2. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta

International Airport 3. Denver International Airport 4. Miami International Airport

DECEMBER 2018

5. San Francisco International Airport 6. Bush Intercontinental

Airport Houston 7. Portland International Airport 8. Pittsburgh International Airport 9. Dallas/Fort Worth

International Airport 10. Newark Liberty International Airport Best Airport in Asia 11.

Incheon International Airport

12. Singapore Changi Airport 13. Taipei Taoyuan International Airport 14. Tokyo International Airport/

Haneda Airport 15. Osaka Kansai International Airport 16. Hong Kong International Airport 17. Kuala Lumpur International Airport 18. Mumbai Chhatrapati Shivaji

International Airport 19. Tokyo Narita International Airport 20. Beijing Capital International Airport

Best Airport in Africa

Addis Ababa Bole International Airport 2. Cape Town International Airport 3. King Shaka International

Airport Durban 4. Murtala Muhammed

International Airport Lagos 5. Port Elizabeth International Airport 6. O.R. Tambo International

Airport Johannesburg 7. Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam

Mauritius International Airport 8. Cairo International Airport 9. Seychelles International Airport 1.

Best Airport in Europe

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol Vienna International Airport 3. Zürich Kloten International Airport 4. Frankfurt am Main Airport 5. Munich Airport 6. Brussels Zaventem Airport 7. Helsinki-Vantaa Airport 8. London Heathrow Airport 9. Copenhagen Airport 10. Hamburg Airport 1.

2.

thank you for voting us number one The oneworld® member airlines thank readers of Global Traveler for honoring us with ‘Best Airline Alliance’ for the ninth consecutive year.

13 airlines. More than 1,000 destinations. 150-plus countries.

Learn more at oneworld.com

the world’s leading airlines working as one.

American Airlines British Airways Cathay Pacific Finnair Iberia Japan Airlines LATAM Malaysia Airlines Qantas Qatar Airways Royal Jordanian S7 Airlines SriLankan Airlines

Best Duty-Free Shopping in Asia Best Airport in the Middle East

2.

PHOTO: © HAMAD INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Miami International Airport

Best Airport in the Middle East

Best Airport Staff/Gate Agents

9.

Hamad International Airport 2. Dubai International Airport 3. Bahrain International Airport 4. Abu Dhabi International Airport 5. Prince Mohammad bin

Abdulaziz International

Airport Medina 6. Muscat International Airport 7. King Khalid International

Airport Riyadh 8. King Fahd International

Airport Damman 9. Al Maktoum Dubai World Central

1.

Turkish Airlines 2. EVA Air 3. Lufthansa 4. Singapore Airlines 5. Qatar Airways 6. Delta Air Lines 7. Asiana Airlines 8. United Airlines 9. Emirates 10. Etihad Airways

10. Zürich Kloten International

1.

Best Airport in South America

Bogotá El Dorado International Airport 2. Jorge Chávez International Airport 3. Quito International Airport 4. José Joaquín de Olmedo

Guayaquil International Airport 5. São Paulo-Guarulhos

International Airport 6. Ministro Pistarini Buenos

Aires International Airport 7. Comodoro Arturo Merino

Benítez Santiago International Airport 8. Rio de Janeiro International Airport 9. Simón Bolívar Caracas

International Airport 1.

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Singapore Changi Airport Incheon International Airport 3. Taipei Taoyuan International Airport 4. Tokyo International Airport/

Haneda Airport 5. Osaka Kansai International Airport 6. Mumbai Chhatrapati Shivaji

International Airport 7. Kuala Lumpur International Airport 8. Tokyo Narita International Airport 9. Hong Kong International Airport 10. Beijing Capital International Airport 1.

HAMAD INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Best Airport Dining

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport 2. Singapore Changi Airport 3. Hamad International Airport 4. Brussels Airport 5. Amsterdam Airport Schiphol 6. London Heathrow Airport 7. Vienna Airport 8. Los Angeles International Airport 9. Seattle-Tacoma International Airport 10. Frankfurt am Main Airport 1.

Best Airport Shopping

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol Dubai International Airport 3. Incheon International Airport 4. Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport 5. Hamad International Airport 6. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta

International Airport 7. London Heathrow Airport 8. Hong Kong International Airport 1.

2.

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Airport Fastest-Growing U.S. Airport

Best Duty-Free Shopping in Africa

Addis Ababa Bole International Airport 2. Seychelles International Airport 3. King Shaka International

Airport Durban 4. Murtala Muhammed

International Airport Lagos 5. Port Elizabeth International Airport 6. O.R. Tambo International

Airport Johannesburg 7. Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolan

Mauritius International Airport 8. Cairo International Airport 9. Cape Town International Airport 1.

1.

Best Duty-Free Shopping in the World

Best Duty-Free Shopping in Europe

Ontario International Airport,

Ontario, California 2. Louis Armstrong New Orleans

International Airport 3. Seattle-Tacoma International Airport 4. Dallas Love Field Airport 5. Los Angeles International Airport 6. Austin-Bergstrom

International Airport 7. Nashville International Airport 8. Portland International Airport 9. William P. Hobby Airport, Houston 10. Oakland International Airport

Dubai Duty Free 2. Hamad International Airport 3. Incheon International Airport 4. Amsterdam Airport Schiphol 5. Frankfurt am Main Airport 6. Singapore Changi Airport 7. Abu Dhabi International Airport 8. Hong Kong International Airport 9. Vancouver International Airport 10. London Heathrow Airport 1.

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol London Heathrow Airport 3. Munich Airport 4. Leonardo da Vinci Fiumincino Rome 5. Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport 6. Frankfurt am Main Airport 7. Zürich Kloten International Airport 8. Helsinki-Vantaa Airport 9. Brussels Zaventem Airport 10. Vienna International Airport 1.

2.

Best Duty-Free Shopping in the Middle East

Dubai Duty Free Hamad International Airport 3. Bahrain Duty Free 4. Muscat International Airport 5. Amman Queen Alia

International Airport Jordan 6. Abu Dhabi International Airport 7. King Khalid International

Airport Riyadh 8. Al Maktoum Dubai World Central 1.

2.

Best International Hotel Chain

The Ritz-Carlton 2. InterContinental Hotels & Resorts 3. Westin Hotels & Resorts 4. Conrad Hotels & Resorts 5. Hilton Hotels & Resorts 6. The Peninsula Hotels 7. Marriott Hotels 8. Four Seasons 9. Park Hyatt 10. Waldorf Astoria 1.

The Ritz-Carlton JW Marriott 3. Waldorf Astoria 4. Park Hyatt 5. Hilton Hotels 6. InterContinental Hotels & Resorts 7. Westin Hotels & Resorts 8. Sheraton Hotels & Resorts 9. Four Seasons 10. W Hotels 1.

2.

Best Lifestyle Hotel 2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

Aloft Hotels Andaz W Hotels Vida Hotels + Resorts Element Hotels Moxy Affinia Hotels Hotel Indigo Kimpton Hotels + Restaurants

Best MICE Hotel 1.

2.

3.

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Lotte Hotel Seoul Grand Hyatt Hong Kong Hyatt Regency Century Plaza, Los Angeles

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5.

Best Hotel Club Floor 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

Grand Hyatt Grand Club The Ritz-Carlton Club Level The Peninsula Hotels JW Marriott Hotels & Resorts Westin Hotels & Resorts Hilton Hotels Marriott Hotels & Resorts Sheraton Hotels & Resorts Renaissance Hotels

Best Hotel Website 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

Best Domestic Hotel Chain

1.

Aspen Meadows Resort Hilton London Metropole 6. Sheraton Ankara Hotel &

Convention Center 7. Hotel Adlon Kempinski, Berlin 8. Kempinski Hotel Wuxi 9. Four Seasons Hong Kong 10. The Gleneagles 4.

8.

9.

peninsula.com ritzcarlton.com intercontinental.com marriott.com hilton.com loews.com shangri-la.com mandarinoriental.com hyatt.com

Best New Luxury Hotel in Asia

Le Méridien Seoul Park Hyatt, Bangkok 3. Murray Hong Kong 4. COMO Una Canggu, Bali, Indonesia 5. Six Senses Fiji 6. Taj Exotica Resort & Spa,

Andaman Islands 7. Morpheus, Macau 8. Mandarin Oriental, Qianmen 9. Six Senses Bhutan 1.

2.

Best Luxury Hotel in Asia

SIGNIEL Seoul Mandarin Oriental, Taipei 3. Le Méridien Seoul 4. The Peninsula Hong Kong 5. The Peninsula Shanghai 6. The Mulia, Bali 7. Four Seasons Bali at Sayan, Indonesia 8. The Upper House, Hong Kong 9. Sofitel Legend Metropole, Hanoi 10. Four Seasons Seoul 1.

2.

DECEMBER 2018

LE MÉRIDIEN SEOUL

Best New Luxury Hotel in Asia PHOTO: © LE MÉRIDIEN SEOUL

Best Hotel Rewards Program in the World

InterContinental Hotels Group IHG Rewards Club 2. Marriott Rewards 3. Hilton Honors 4. Le Club AccorHotels 5. World of Hyatt 6. Radisson Rewards 7. Loews Hotel YouFirst 8. Leading Hotels of the World

Leaders Club 9. Fairmont President’s Club 10. Shangri-La Hotels Golden Circle 1.

Best Frequent-Stay Elite-Level Program 1. Marriott Rewards Platinum Elite 2. Hilton Honors Diamond 3. World of Hyatt Platinum 4. Fairmont President’s Club Platinum 5. InterContinental Hotels Group

IHG Rewards Club Platinum Elite 6. Wyndham Rewards ByRequest 7. The Ritz-Carlton Rewards 8. Sol Meliá MAS Rewards 9. Choice Privileges Platinum Best Frequent-Stay Bonus Program 1.

2.

3.

Marriott Rewards Hilton Honors InterContinental Hotels Group IHG Rewards Club

World of Hyatt Club Carlson 6. The Ritz-Carlton Rewards 7. Wyndham Rewards 8. Omni Select Guest 9. Sol Meliá MAS Rewards 10. Fairmont President’s Club 4.

5.

Best Frequent-Stay Award Redemption

Hilton Honors World of Hyatt 3. InterContinental Hotels Group

IHG Rewards Club 4. Marriott Rewards 5. The Ritz-Carlton Rewards 6. Sol Meliá MAS Rewards 7. Club Carlson 8. Wyndham Rewards 9. Omni Select Guest 10. Fairmont President’s Club 1.

2.

Best Frequent-Stay Customer Service, Americas

Marriott Rewards The Ritz-Carlton Rewards 3. Le Club AccorHotels 4. InterContinental Hotels Group

IHG Rewards Club 5. Sol Meliá MAS Rewards 6. World of Hyatt 7. Hilton Honors 8. Club Carlson 9. Kimpton InTouch 10. Fairmont President’s Club 1.

2.

GET THE CARD

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American Airlines reserves the right to change the AAdvantage® program and its terms and conditions at any time without notice, and to end the AAdvantage® program with six months notice. American Airlines is not responsible for products or services offered by other participating companies. For complete AAdvantage® program details, visit aa.com/aadvantage. American Airlines, AAdvantage and the Flight Symbol logo are trademarks of American Airlines, Inc. Citibank is not responsible for products or services offered by other companies. Cardmember benefits are subject to change. ©2018 Citibank, N.A. Citi, Citibank, Citi with Arc Design and Platinum Select are registered service marks of Citigroup Inc. Mastercard and the Mastercard Brand Mark are registered trademarks of Mastercard International Incorporated.

The Ritz-Carlton Riu Hotels & Resorts 10. Caesar Park Hotels 8.

THE PENINSULA BEVERLY HILLS Best Hotel in the United States PHOTO: © PENINSULA BEVERLY HILLS

9.

Best Hotel Chain in Mexico

Fiesta Americana Sheraton Hotels 3. W Hotels 4. Westin Hotels 5. InterContinental Hotels & Resorts 6. Barceló Hotels & Resorts 7. Riu Hotels & Resorts 1.

2.

Best Hotel Chain in the Middle East

Jumeirah International The Ritz-Carlton 3. The Address Hotels + Resorts 4. InterContinental Hotels & Resorts 5. Marriott International 6. Four Seasons 7. Kempinski Hotels 8. W Hotels 9. Raffles Hotels 10. Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts 1.

2.

Best Hotel in the United States

7.

The Peninsula Beverly Hills 2. The Peninsula Chicago 3. The Waldorf Astoria Chicago 4. Montage Beverly Hills 5. InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown 6. Mandarin Oriental, New York 7. Mansion on Turtle Creek, Dallas 8. Four Seasons Hotel

Washington, D.C. 9. The Langham, Chicago 10. The Ritz-Carlton Georgetown

8.

1.

Best Hotel in Asia

Mandarin Oriental, Taipei 2. SIGNIEL Seoul 3. The Peninsula Bangkok 4. Four Seasons Seoul 5. The Peninsula Hong Kong 6. The Peninsula Shanghai 7. The Mulia, Bali 8. Four Seasons Bali at Sayan, Indonesia 9. The Upper House, Hong Kong 10. Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi 1.

Best Hotel in South Korea

6.

Lotte Hotel Seoul The Plaza Seoul SIGNIEL Seoul Grand Hyatt Seoul The Shilla, Seoul Four Seasons Seoul

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1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

9.

InterContinental Seoul The Ritz-Carlton, Seoul The Westin Chosun

Best Hotel in the Middle East

Burj Al Arab Jumeirah 2. Jumeirah at Etihad Towers Hotel 3. One&Only Royal Mirage 4. Four Seasons Resort Dubai at

Jumeirah Beach 5. The St. Regis Dubai 6. Four Seasons Bahrain Bay 7. Al Maha Resort & Spa 8. The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort 9. Emirates Palace Hotel 10. The Palace Downtown Dubai 1.

Best Hotel in Europe

Belmond Hotel Cipriani, Venice Le Meurice Paris 3. Hotel de Russie Rome 4. Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten

Kempinski, Munich 5. Four Seasons Hotel Gresham

Place, Budapest 6. Four Seasons Hotel Ritz, Lisbon 7. Merrion Hotel Dublin .

8. Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul

at the Bosphorus 9. Park Hyatt Paris-Vendome 10. Le Bristol Paris 1.

2.

DECEMBER 2018

Best European Hotel Chain

St. Regis Hotels & Resorts Kempinski Hotels 3. The Ritz-Carlton 4. The Luxury Collection 5. Westin Hotels & Resorts 6. W Hotels 7. Marriott Hotels 8. InterContinental Hotels & Resorts 9. Hilton Hotels & Resorts 10. Conrad Hotels & Resorts 1.

2.

Best Hotel Chain in Asia

Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts Grand Hyatt 3. The Peninsula Hotels 4. Mandarin Oriental 5. Park Hyatt 6. Oberoi Hotels & Resorts 7. Four Seasons 8. Taj Hotels, Resorts & Palaces 9. Conrad Hotels & Resorts 10. Langham Hotels 1.

2.

Best Hotel Chain in Latin America 1. InterContinental Hotels & Resorts 2. Westin Hotels & Resorts 3. Sheraton Hotels & Resorts 4. Sol Meliá Hotels 5. Barceló Hotels & Resorts 6. Fiesta Americana 7. Accor Hospitality

Best Overseas Delivery Program 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Volvo Porsche BMW Audi Mercedes-Benz

Best Car Rental Company

Hertz Sixt 3. Avis 4. Budget 5. Enterprise 6. Alamo 7. National Car Rental 8. Dollar 9. Thrifty 10. Payless 1.

2.

Best Tourism Destination

Kenya Mexico 3. Ireland 4. South Africa 5. India 6. Australia 7. Israel 8. Hong Kong 9. Brazil 10. Spain 1.

2.

Thank you for taking us to new heights.

Your votes have made us Best Overall Airport in the World. It’s your warm presence and patronage that motivate us to continue to deliver our very best.

Thank you for giving us yet another reason to smile every day.

Rethink travel at changiairport.com

Departure Hall Terminal 3

Best Hotel App

Hotel Tonight 2. Hilton Hotels 3. Hyatt Hotels 4. Marriott Hotels 5. Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts 6. Four Seasons 7. InterContinental Hotels & Resorts 8. Fairmont Hotels & Resorts 9. The Ritz-Carlton 1.

Best Airline App

American Airlines Alaska Airlines 3. United Airlines 4. Asiana Airlines 5. Singapore Airlines 6. Emirates 7. Lufthansa 8. Swiss International Air Lines 9. Delta Air Lines 10. Qatar Airways 1.

2.

AMERICAN AIRLINES Best Airline App

Best Overall Credit Card

PHOTO: © AMERICAN AIRLINES

United MileagePlus Club Card from Chase 2. Delta SkyMiles Gold Card from

American Express 3. American Express Platinum Card 4. American Express Blue Card 5. Chase Ink Card 6. United Explorer Card from Chase 7. Citi / AAdvantage Platinum

Select World Elite MasterCard 8. Alaska Airlines Visa Signature

Card from Bank of America 9. Escape Card from Discover 10. Plum Card from American

Express Open 1.

Best MICE City

5.

Seoul 2. Dubai 3. Singapore 4. London 5. Hong Kong 6. Madrid 7. Abu Dhabi 8. San Francisco 9. Sydney 10. Paris

6.

1.

7.

8.

Best Luggage Brand

Briggs & Riley Travelpro 3. Tumi 4. Hartman 5. Samsonite 6. Delsey 7. Swiss Army 8. Rimowa 9. Victorinox 10. Louis Vuitton 1.

2.

Best WiFi Service 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Boingo Wireless AT&T Wireless Verizon Wireless iPass U.S. Mobile GoGo Inflight

Best Ride Share

Lyft 2. Uber 3. Curb 4. Juno 5. Via 6. Summon 7. Bridj 8. Way2Ride 9. Arro 10. Flywheel 1.

Best Noise-Cancelling Headset

Sony Digital Noise-Cancelling

Headphones MDR1000XM2 Wireless 2. SonAKG N60NC Wireless 3. Bowers and Wilkins PX Wireless 4. Bose QuietComfort 35

Wireless Headphones 1.

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Sennheiser HD 4.50 BTNC Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 Sennheiser PXC 550 Samsung Level On Pro Wireless Headphones

DECEMBER 2018

Best Small-Business Credit Card

Chase Ink Cash Business Preferred Credit Card 2. American Express Business Platinum 3. The Ritz-Carlton Rewards

Credit Card from J.P. Morgan 4. Capital One Spark Miles for Business 5. American Express Business

Platinum Card from Open 6. Delta SkyMiles Platinum

Business Credit Card from

American Express 7. American Express Starwood

Preferred Guest Business Card 1.

Best Credit Card Special Events 1.

2.

3.

Inside Access from Chase Citi Private Pass Chase Sapphire

Best Credit Card Rewards Program

United MileagePlus Club Card from Chase 2. Marriott Rewards Card

from Chase 3. Membership Rewards

Program from American Express 4. Capital One Venture Rewards 5. Delta SkyMiles by American Express 6. United Explorer Card from Chase 7. Chase Sapphire 8. Miles by Discover 9. Chase Sapphire Preferred Card 10. The Ritz-Carlton Rewards

Card from Chase 1.

UNITED MILEAGEPLUS CLUB CARD FROM CHASE

Best Overall Credit Card and Best Credit Card Rewards Program PHOTO: © UNITED MILEAGEPLUS CLUB CARD FROM CHASE

Best Frequent-Stay Affinity Credit Card 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

7.

Marriott Rewards Card from Chase American Express Starwood Preferred Guest Card IHG Rewards Club Select Visa World of Hyatt Card The Ritz-Carlton Rewards Credit Card from J.P. Morgan Hilton Honors Card from American Express American Express Starwood Preferred Guest Luxury Card Choice Privileges Visa Signature US Bank FlexPerks Travel Rewards Visa Card

Best Frequent-Stay Affinity Credit Card Promotions 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Hilton Honors Card from American Express IHG Rewards Club Select Visa The Ritz-Carlton Rewards Credit Card from J.P. Morgan Marriott Rewards Card from Chase American Express Starwood Preferred Guest Card World of Hyatt Credit Card

8.

Choice Privileges Visa Signature American Express Starwood Preferred Guest Luxury Card

Best Frequent-Stay Affinity Credit Card Benefits 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

Marriott Rewards Card from Chase IHG Rewards Club Select Visa Hilton Honors Card from American Express World of Hyatt Credit Card American Express Starwood Preferred Guest Card Choice Privileges Visa Signature American Express Starwood Preferred Guest Luxury Card

Best Frequent-Stay Affinity Credit Card Redemptions 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

IHG Rewards Club Select Visa The Ritz-Carlton Rewards Credit Card from J.P. Morgan Marriott Rewards Card from Chase World of Hyatt Card American Express Starwood Preferred Guest Card

American Express Starwood Preferred Guest Luxury Card 7. Hilton Honors Card American Express 8. Choice Privileges Visa Signature 6.

Best Frequent-Flyer Affinity Credit Card

Alaska Airlines Visa Signature Card from Bank of America 2. Citi / AAdvantage Platinum Select

World Elite MasterCard 3. Delta SkyMiles Card from American Express 4. United MileagePlus Club Card from Chase 5. British Airways Visa Signature Card 6. United Explorer Card from Chase 7. Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards

Credit Card 8. JetBlue American Express Card 9. Lufthansa Miles & More Card 1.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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Your Overseas Delivery (OSD) experience begins when you order your new Volvo. Most OSD vehicles receive a discount of 2–4% off base US MSRP and no OSD customer pays a destination charge — ever! In addition to the cost savings, certain colors and single options are exclusive to OSD vehicles.

Once you’ve ordered your dream Volvo, Overseas Delivery customers receive an order confirmation package.

Next, contact our Corporate Travel Concierge who will help you plan and make suggestions for your once-in-alifetime vacation.

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Best Frequent-Flyer Affinity Credit Card Promotions 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

Citi / AAdvantage Platinum Select World Elite MasterCard United Explorer Card from Chase Alaska Airlines Visa Signature Card from Bank of America JetBlue American Express Card British Airways Visa Signature Card United MileagePlus Club Card from Chase Delta SkyMiles by American Express Lufthansa Miles & More Card Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards Credit Card

British Airways Visa Signature Card United MileagePlus Club Card from Chase 8. Lufthansa Miles & More Card 9. JetBlue American Express Card 10. Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards Card 6.

7.

Citi / AAdvantage Platinum Select World Elite MasterCard 2. Delta SkyMiles Credit Card from American Express 3. Alaska Airlines Visa Signature Card from

Bank of America 4. United Explorer Card from Chase 5. Aeromexico Club Premier La Tarjeta from ODS_GLOBAL_TRAVLER_2018_UPDATED_BLEEDS.pdf 1

American Express

Bank of America Citi / AAdvantage Platinum Select World

Elite MasterCard 4. United MileagePlus Club Card from Chase 5. Delta SkyMiles Credit Card from American Express 6. British Airways Visa Signature Card 7. JetBlue American Express Card 8. Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards Card Best Cruise Line Affinity Credit Card

Best Frequent-Flyer Affinity Credit Card Benefits 1.

3.

UNITED EXPLORER CARD FROM CHASE

Best Frequent-Flyer Affinity Credit Card Redemptions PHOTO: © UNITED EXPLORER CARD FROM CHASE

Best Frequent-Flyer Affinity Credit Card

1. Princess Cruises Visa Signature Card from Barclays 2. Royal Caribbean Visa Credit Card from

Bank of America 3. Norwegian Cruise Line MasterCard from

Bank of America 4. Celebrity Cruises Visa Signature Card 5. Carnival World MasterCard Barclaycard 6. Disney Premier Visa

Redemptions 1.

United Explorer Card from Chase 8:01 AM Alaska Airlines Visa Signature Card from

11/20/18

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YOUR EXPERIENCE BEGINS IN EUROPE VOLVO OVERSEAS DELIVERY Best Overseas Delivery Program

2016/2017/2018

Personalize the Volvo of your choice and receive two round-trip plane tickets and a hotel stay in Volvo’s hometown of Gothenburg, Sweden. Named Best Overseas Delivery Program three years in a row, this extraordinary journey is included in the price of your Volvo. Pick up your car from the country that inspired its design and set off on an unforgettable adventure. The land of Volvo, and beyond, is yours to explore.

For more information visit your local Volvo dealer or call (800) 631-1667 VolvoCars.com/US/MyBagsArePacked

Wines on the Wing 2018

WINES ON THE WING WINNERS LIST Best International First-Class Wines on the Wing 1.

2.

3.

4.

All Nippon Airways British Airways American Airlines United Airlines

2.

3.

2.

3.

4.

5.

2.

3.

4.

5.

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All Nippon Airways American Airlines British Airways

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

EL AL Israel Airlines British Airways All Nippon Airways American Airlines British Airways

2.

3.

4.

5.

1.

2.

3.

Aeroflot British Airways British Airways Delta Air Lines Brussels Airlines

2.

3.

4.

5.

United Airlines Brussels Airlines Alitalia Alitalia American Airlines

oneworld SkyTeam Star Alliance

Best North American Wines on the Wing 1.

2.

3.

4.

American Airlines Delta Air Lines United Airlines JetBlue

Best North American Sparkling Wine 1.

2.

3.

JetBlue Delta Air Lines/United Airlines (TIE) American Airlines

Best North American White Wine 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Best International Business-Class Red Wine 1.

DECEMBER 2018

American Airlines Aeroflot All Nippon Airways United Airlines Brussels Airlines

Best Airline Alliance Wines on the Wing

Best International Business-Class White Wine 1.

American Airlines All Nippon Airways United Airlines United Airlines EL AL Israel Airlines

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3.

Delta Air Lines United Airlines All Nippon Airways Brussels Airlines British Airways

Best International Business-Class Champagne

Best International First-Class Red Wine 1.

2.

5.

Best International First-Class White Wine 1.

1.

4.

Best International First-Class Champagne 1.

Best International Business-Class Wines on the Wing

PHOTO: © CHRISTOPHER P. OTTAUNICK

The results of Global Traveler’s annual Wines on the Wing Airline Wine Competition were first released in our August 2018 issue. A number of airlines submitted samples of their in-flight wine and sparkling selections. Professional wine experts presided as judges over the annual competition. Glittering like emeralds, here are this year’s airlines serving the best wines in the sky. Best International First-Class Wines on the Wing award winner is All Nippon Airways. The carrier also won Best International First-Class Champagne. Delta Air Lines earned accolades for Best International Business-Class Wines on the Wing. In the first-class category, the winners were EL AL Israel Airlines, Best International FirstClass White Wine; and American Airlines, Best International First-Class Red Wine.

American Airlines also won Best International Business-Class Champagne; Best North American Wines on the Wing; Best North American White Wine; and Best North American Red Wine. Aeroflot was named Best International Business-Class White Wine. United Airlines earned raves as Best International Business-Class Red Wine, and JetBlue rounds out the winners list as Best North American Sparkling Wine. Best Alliance Wines on the Wing went to oneworld. Cheers!

American Airlines American Airlines JetBlue United Airlines Delta Air Lines

Best North American Red Wine 1.

2.

3.

4.

American Airlines Delta Air Lines United Airlines United Airlines

feature

LATAM

Best Airline to South America PHOTO: © LATAM

Enduring Excellence Global Traveler introduces the Quint Status inductees for 2018. BY ERICH MARTIN WHEN IT COMES TO MEASURING the best of the best, there are lots of selected, year over year, by the distinguished and well-traveled readers of this ways to go about it. Competitions can take many forms, but here at magazine.

Global Traveler, we put the question to you, our readers.

We welcome five organizations to Quint Status in 2018: LATAM QUIN Every year, Global Traveler conducts the GT Tested Reader Airlines Group (Best Airline to South America), Air India (Best Survey and celebrates the winners with an awards gala. In the Airline in Central/South Asia & India), Hartsfield-Jackson survey’s 15th year, a few select brands celebrate their naming in International Airport (Best Airport Dining), Hertz (Best Rental each of the previous ceremonies. Every year we recognize the Car Company), and Citi / AAdvantage Platinum Select World best of the best — those brands and companies that go above Elite MasterCard (Best Frequent-Flyer Affinity Credit Card and beyond. And each year we honor a few organizations for Promotions). being at the top of their game for five consecutive years. These Up first is LATAM Airlines Group, gaining Quint Status as are the Quint Status inductees. the Best Airline to South America. The group comprises subsidiarBest Airline in Northies Asia To reach Quint Status, brands must evolve and grow with their all over the continent and offers transportation to 140 destinations in customers. These companies do not reach continued success and admiration 25 countries. The group flies more than 1,200 flights every day, transporting China Airlines through luck or happenstance. This year’s inductees to Quint Status have 67 million Fifth been Consecutive Year passengers each year. Before winning five straight years, LATAM

V

TATUS TS

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DECEMBER 2018

ANNUAL SALE IHG Rewards Club wants to thank Global Traveler readers for voting us Best Frequent Stay Program.

As a special thank you, book now with savings of at least 20%* on thousands of IHG hotels.

• Book now through January 7, 2019 • Stay at participating U.S. hotels between November 4, 2018 and March 31, 2019

www.ihg.com/annualsale

*The Annual Sale promotion is valid only for bookings made from November 1, 2018 through January 7, 2019, using the “IHG Annual Sale” rate. All bookings must be consumed from November 4, 2018 through March 31, 2019 at participating IHG® hotels. The discount is at least 20% off the Best Flexible Rate. Booking must be made at least three (3) days in advance and requires non-refundable, full pre-payment for the entire stay at the time of booking.

Discount varies by hotel and blackout dates apply. Rooms are subject to availability and certain room types may be excluded. Hotel policy varies in regards to the minimum length of stay required and number of guests allowed per room. Not applicable with other discounted rate promotions. Not applicable to group bookings. Hotel-specific early departure fee applies. The Venetian® Las Vegas, the Palazzo® Las Vegas, Kimpton® Hotels & Restaurants and IHG® Army Hotels are excluded from the promotion. Valid on US properties only.

HARTSFIELD-JACKSON ATLANTA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

AIR INDIA

Best Airline in Central/South Asia & India

Best Airport Dining

PHOTO: © MARK RODEL DELA ROSA - DREAMSTIME.COM

PHOTO: © HARTSFIELD JACKSON ATLANTA AIRPORT

HERTZ

Best Car Rental Company PHOTO: © HERTZ

CITI / AADVANTAGE PLATINUM SELECT WORLD ELITE MASTERCARD Best Frequent-Flyer Affinity Credit Card Promotions PHOTO: © AMERICAN AIRLINES

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profile guests, including Charles Lindbergh in 1927.

The fourth company we welcome to Quint Status is Hertz, winning Best Rental Car Company five years running. A relatively new award category, Best Rental Car has only been up for consideration since 2013. National Car Rental took the top prize in the category’s inaugural year, but Hertz zipped to the top of the list and stayed there.

When it comes to landing in a new and unfamiliar city, some people prefer to explore on their own, as opposed to taking public transportation, and require a reliable car rental company. Hertz makes an effort to give back to the communities where it operates through the Hertz Giving program and works toward sustainability with its Living Journey program.

Citi / AAdvantage Platinum Select World Elite MasterCard rounds out this year’s inductees with its win in the Best Frequent-Flyer Affinity Credit Card Promotions category, taking the category since 2013. The card is great for frequent business travelers and features many benefits for cardholders, ranging from free checked bags and preferred boarding status on American Airlines flights to bonus miles and waived foreign transaction fees.

Congratulations to the 2018 Quint Status inductees. In upcoming years, we fully expect these brands to continue evolving and topping the survey. The next stop for the winners? The way we see it, an induction to the GT Tested Reader Survey Awards Hall of Fame in 2023.

V QUIN TATUS TS

won the category six times under the name of LAN Airlines before merging with TAM. Taking a trip to the Eastern Hemisphere brings us to Air India. The airline joins the club after being voted the winner of the Best Airline in Central/South Asia & India. This category entered the survey in 2007, when Jet Airways took the title. Air India earned the title for the first time in 2009 before sweeping 2014–2018 to receive Quint Status. Air India has a rich history dating back to 1932, when the airline provided mail and cargo service under the name Tata Sons.

Throughout those 86 years, the airline grew to one of the biggest on the continent. Air India offers service to 37 international and 69 domestic destinations over four continents.

Moving away from flights and toward the things to do once you arrive at the airport and await your flight, the winner of Best Airport Dining led the pack for five years. In 2018 Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport took the top title for the fifth straight year. Before Atlanta burst onto the scene, Changi Airport dominated the category, winning consecutively 2010–2013. Throughout the entire campus, ATL features 168 eateries. The dining options range from Jamba Juice to Wolfgang Puck Express and everything in between. No matter which concourse and terminal you transit, you will have something great to grab in Atlanta. Atlanta is another winner with a storied history, stretching back to its founding in 1925 as Candler Field. In the intervening years, the airport hosted a number of high-

Best Airline in North Asia LATAM AIRLINES GROUP

China Airlines

Best Airline to South America

Fifth Consecutive AIR INDIA Year

2017

Best Airline in Central/ South Asia & India

HARTSFIELD-JACKSON INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Best Airport Dining

HERTZ Best Rental Car Company

CITI / AADVANTAGE PLATINUM SELECT WORLD ELITE MASTERCARD Best Frequent-Flyer Affinity Credit Card Promotions

Thank you for voting Hertz the Best Rental Car Company in the GT Tested Reader Survey Awards for five straight years. Hertz is honored to receive the Quint Status Award for this achievement.

Š 2018 Hertz System, Inc. All rights reserved.

ASIANA AIRLINES

Best Airline for Onboard Service and Flight Attendants PHOTO: © ASIANA AIRLINES

Crystal Clear Global Traveler honors the inaugural Crystal Status winners. BY KATIE SKRZEK AS GLOBAL TRAVELER CELEBRATES the 15th year of the annual GT Tested Reader Survey awards, we honor those brands representing continued excellence in the industry by holding record-breaking consecutive wins.

Crystal Status winners reflect those brands winning a particular category for 15 consecutive years. In our 15th year of the awards, this elite group marks the first Crystal Status winners.

“Winning Crystal Status in the GT Tested Reader Survey awards reader voting is the ultimate achievement of the best,” said Francis X. Gallagher, publisher and CEO, Global Traveler. “Very few companies can achieve this consistency over a 15-year period.”

Each year, our distinguished readers vote for the best in the world of travel, selecting the top airlines, credit cards, destinations, hotels and travel goods and services

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CHICAGO O'HARE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Best Airport in North America

PHOTO: © CHICAGO DEPARTMENT OF AVIATION

throughout the travel industry. This year, four travel brands went above and beyond, securing their 15th consecutive-year wins.

We introduce the inaugural Crystal Status winners: Asiana Airlines, United MileagePlus, South African Airways and Chicago O’Hare International Airport.

Asiana Airlines has two reasons to celebrate. The Asian carrier won both Best Airline for Onboard Service and Best Airline for Flight Attendants 15 years in a row. The airline was established in 1988 on the principal of providing “maximum safety and customer satisfaction through service.” Asiana’s corporate philosophy is “to provide quick, comfortable service for customers at their desired time and place.” Given this ideology, it should come as no surprise readers voted the airline Best Airline for Onboard Service and Best Airline for Flight Attendants for 15 consecutive years.

The Asiana crew serves customers based on traditional Korean courtesy at every step of the journey. Travelers can expect high-end service like its luxurious First Suite cabin, complete with a full-flat bed and a

ASIANA AIRLINES Best Airline for Onboard Service

ASIANA AIRLINES Best Airline for Flight Attendants

CHICAGO O’HARE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Best Airport in North America

SOUTH AFRICAN AIRWAYS Best Airline in Africa

UNITED MILEAGEPLUS Best Overall Frequent-Flyer Program

SOUTH AFRICAN AIRWAYS Best Airline in Africa

PHOTO: © SOUTH AFRICAN AIRWAYS

UNITED MILEAGEPLUS

Best Overall Frequent-Flyer Program PHOTOS: © UNITED MILEAGEPLUS

two-door seat feature for maximum privacy. The airline provides specialized assistance, including Happy Mom Service for female passengers traveling with an infant from seven days old through 3 years. However you fly with Asiana, you’re in good hands.

Readers voted Chicago O’Hare International Airport the Best Airport in North America for the 15th consecutive year. The airport is one of the busiest in the United States. To keep up with growing air travel demands, O’Hare has expansion plans set to roll out over the next few years. The $8.5 million upgrade includes a new state-of-the-art baggage system, 25 percent more gate capacity, new self-serve checkin technologies and modernizing existing terminals. The airport was recently recognized as the best airport in the country for flight connectivity by OAG, an air travel intelligence company based in the United Kingdom. The excellent connectivity is expected to rise in the years ahead, thanks to the planned expansion.

In May five new gates opened in Terminal 3’s L Concourse, marking the first major gate expansion in 25 years and the first step in the airport’s larger expansion program. Passengers will have more opportunities than ever for smooth connections and flight options. O’Hare is expected to serve about 100 million passengers annually by 2026.

South African Airways was once again voted Best Airline in Africa.

The national carrier of South Africa flies to more than 35 destinations across Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe, the Middle East, North America and South America. The airline’s first flight launched in 1934, and 2019 will mark its 85th year in operation.

In 2018 SAA encountered financial obstacles, with fear of having

to declare bankruptcy. However, the resilient airline is showing strong quarter one performance of this financial year and will not declare bankruptcy. SAA plans to implement initiatives to drive costs down and improve revenue with the goal of breaking even in 2021. In the face of adversity, the airline still boasts an impressive on-time performance ranking and looks to future improvements.

United MileagePlus hangs on to its title of Best Overall FrequentFlyer Program for the 15th consecutive year. The loyalty program allows members to earn miles for daily purchases to use toward dining, experiences, trips and more. Use miles to purchase eGift cards from more than 270 merchants, fly domestic or international with United Airlines and its partners, and book stays at hotels and resorts worldwide. United offers co-branded credit cards to provide travelers with even more benefits and opportunities to earn miles, including the United MileagePlus Club Card from Chase and the United Explorer Card from Chase.

With innovation in mind, the comprehensive program launched new opportunities for members. The free-to-download MileagePlus X app allows users to earn up to five miles for every dollar spent at more than 60,000 retail and restaurant locations throughout the United States.

United offers additional benefits for members with Premier status, including bonus award miles, upgrades, priority travel services, fee waivers and discounts when flying Star Alliance member airlines.

Congratulations to Asiana Airlines, Chicago O’Hare International Airport, South African Airways and United MileagePlus! Who will earn Crystal Status for 2019? Visit globaltravelerusa.com to vote for next year’s winners.

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

A Destination Unto Itself Doha’s Hamad International Airport is full of its own reasons to visit.

TRAVELING ABROAD SHOULD be about more than the final destination. When traveling through Hamad International Airport, travelers are able to indulge in genuine hospitality, world-class dining, luxurious accommodations and entertainment options that rival the most bustling metropolises.

Hospitality is at the core of HIA’s being. Creating an environment conducive to seamless and comfortable travel is on the forefront of the minds behind the airport. Keeping in mind a new type of technical savvy with high expectations and changing needs, HIA looks to revolutionize the way travelers relate to the airport. On your next trip through, arrive early and take in the hospitality and choices available to travelers.

HIA champions the choice of the traveler. Whether browsing Qatar Duty Free, the airport’s shopping center or more than 30 restaurants throughout, it is obvious from the start choice is important to travelers, and the airport seizes upon and caters to that exceptionally.

If you arrived at the airport early and booked a room at the Oryx Airport hotel, you are in for a treat. It offers convenience, comfort and wellness for travelers. Boasting a 5-star wellness center called the Vitality Wellbeing and Fitness Center, the hotel features a gym; a 25-meter, temperature-controlled swimming pool overlooking the airport; and a hydrotherapy tub. An on-the-go spa service means busy travelers will always be able to decompress and relax. When staying

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

at the hotel — whether you have a long transfer time between flights or you arrived early to enjoy the airport’s offerings — you have access to this state-of-the-art facility. If you are not staying at the hotel, you can access the fitness center for a modest charge.

More than 90 retailers have a home in Qatar Duty Free. Products ranging from beauty and skincare to electronics, sports memorabilia, music, liquor, tobacco, jewelry and toys, there is something for every shopper. The wide range of shops features popular brands from all over the world, including Gucci, Hugo Boss, GMT Watches and Harrods.

Whether you are in the market for a new watch or something yummy to eat, there are friendly faces ready to point you in the right direction.

With all of the options and high-quality service available at Qatar Duty Free, it is reason alone to visit HIA. While exploring the 90 shops, travelers are sure to work up an appetite. Luckily, there are more than 30 cafés and restaurants spanning several different cuisines. Dining options include American, Arabic, Italian, European, international and seafood. Quick bites are

available at widely known chains like Starbucks. Family-styled restaurants, including Soprafino, are perfect for those coming through HIA with kids. It is safe to say no matter your taste, there are options to satisfy your appetite, with friendly staff and quality service to make the experience even better.

If all of this shopping, dining and working out leaves you exhausted before your flight, don’t worry. Throughout the airport, a number of men’s and women’s quiet rooms are available for travelers to get a little peace and quiet before, and after, flights. These rooms are perfect for resting, reading or napping before your flight, This array of options and services is just the beginning for HIA. As the airport looks toward the future, hospitality, choice and quality of service, it works toward accommodating more than 50 million passengers every year, with smiling faces the whole way through.

For more information on specific vendors or to see how the staff at HIA will serve you, go to dohahamadairport.com.

15 Years of Celebration A snapshot of past GT Tested Reader Survey awards galas

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Our Year in Travel Global Traveler’s staffers explored the world in 2018.

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mice | DOHA

Capital of Culture Doha boasts world-class facilities for all manner of events.

BY RICHARD NEWTON

DESIGN-DRIVEN:

(Left to right) Qatar National Convention Centre, the Torch Doha at Aspire Zone, and Gandhi's Three Monkeys art installation in Katara Cultural Village PHOTOS: © TYPHOONSKI DREAMSTIME.COM, © TYPHOONSKI - DREAMSTIME .COM, © CARLO ORLANDO PATRIARCA - DREAMSTIME.COM

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THERE IS SOMETHING THEATRICAL about Doha’s Corniche. Curving for almost five miles around Doha Bay, this paved walkway provides pedestrians with a prime view of the lapping Arabian Gulf. Beyond the constant flow of vehicles on the other side, an ever-rising forest of skyscrapers grows. At night it is magical: Qatar’s capital city becomes a constellation of multicolored lights glitteringly reflected on the water.

Doha’s rapid transformation into a modern city has been more cultured, less brash than its regional rival Dubai.

Yet this is a city with unbridled ambition, and the MICE sector is central to its plans.

The biggest event on the horizon — the 2022 FIFA World Cup — precipitated a frenzy of construction work.

The main stadium is currently being completed in a brandnew city, Lusail, 14 miles north of downtown Doha, while

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four other stadiums will be in Doha itself.

Controversially, the World Cup shifted from its traditional June/July time slot to November/December in order to avoid Qatar’s ferocious summer heat. The climate is something MICE planners need to consider. From May to August, temperatures often exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit, with high humidity.

Most of Doha’s venues are designed to keep the hostile climate at bay.

The flagship facility, the Qatar National Convention Centre, turns the sun to its advantage. A vast acreage of rooftop solar panels supplies the Centre with around 12 percent of its energy needs.

Designed by Japanese architect Arata Isozaki, the Convention Centre’s exterior support columns resemble huge, branching trees — a striking contrast to Qatar’s largely treeless desert landscape. This organic structure provides ample column-free interior space subdivided into two large conference halls; a 2,300-seat theater; three other tiered auditoria; 52 meeting rooms; and six VIP lounges.

Although business and media events feature on Doha’s MICE calendar, the city has a particular love of sport and boasts world-class facilities to match.

The Aspire Academy for Sports Excellence at Aspire Zone (aka Doha Sports City) can accommodate events or incentive visits centered on a wide range of sports including soccer, basketball, athletics, cycling and tennis. The Aspire Zone itself is a large complex offering a plethora of MICE services and boasting two 5-star on-site hotels, the Torch Doha and the Al Aziziyah Boutique Hotel (with its oddly Victorian façade).

Doha Golf Club, which hosts the pro-tour Qatar Masters tournament annually, is available for banquets, meetings, team-building events and other corporate functions.

Qatar Racing Club, the city’s main motorsports venue, offers hospitality packages on race days as well as meeting facilities.

Msheireb Enrichment Centre is a floating exhibition space moored close to the Sheraton Hotel on the Corniche. Featuring permanent displays portraying Doha past and future, the Centre doubles as a state-of-the-art conference venue for small groups.

The Katara Cultural Village, a complex largely drawing inspiration from traditional Arabian architecture, features a somewhat incongruous Roman amphitheater proving an outstanding venue for up to 5,000 seated spectators.

Alongside the dedicated events venues, Doha’s many 5-star international hotels all offer MICE facilities. Prestigious chains represented here include Westin, Sheraton, Rotana, Shangri-La, Hilton, Mandarin Oriental, Four Seasons, Kempinski, RitzCarlton and many others.

With the World Cup on its way and a constant roster of major events in the meantime, it would appear Doha’s place on the international stage is secure. However, an ongoing diplomatic dispute with neighboring countries (notably Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates) has had a logistical impact, restricting transport and communications links and affecting imports of food and other essentials. MICE visitors should be aware of the potential for unforeseen disruption.

Despite the rumbling crisis, Doha continues to enjoy a MICE boom, with an annual growth rate of 36 percent over the past five years. Rising above the many competing MICE venues around the world, the city’s success is largely attributable to impeccable stagecraft.

UNIQUE VENUES

With the opening of the National Museum of Qatar this month, Doha gains not only a modern architectural masterpiece but also an outstanding new MICE venue. Designed by superstar architect Jean Nouvel, the building is intended to resemble a desert sand rose, with dozens of interlocking “petals.”

As is so often with prestige projects, the popular gripes during construction were the cost (nearly half a billion dollars) and delays (the opening date is two years behind schedule). But now that it is complete, Doha can celebrate its possession of one of the world’s greatest modern buildings.

Within its 13 acres, the museum features permanent exhibits celebrating Qatar’s history and seafaring heritage. In addition, a 220-seat auditorium and a 70-seat forum are available for MICE events, while other spaces both inside the museum and in its gardens provide spectacular backdrops for meetings and conferences.

per a h t Wi gross ita cap tic es dom t of duc , pro 0 ,60 7 2 he $1 is t t r s ta che Qa i r ld’s und wor y. Aro f ntr cou cent o in per 92 is live tar Qa ha.

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qm.org.qa/en/project/national-museum-qatar

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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

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BUSINESS destinations

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PHOTOS: © VAIL RERSORTS, © KRISTY ALPERT

HAIKOU

LEISURE destinations

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ATHENS

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destination one | MEXICO CITY

A New Momentum Mexico City rallies with dynamic changes and innovation.

BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT: Parque la Mexicana in the Santa Fe district (left), and bikes available to rent in the city (right) PHOTOS: © SURIEL RAMIREZ ZALDIVAR DREAMSTIME.COM, © AGCUESTA DREAMSTIME.COM

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MEXICO CITY HAS SELDOM SEEN the travel press limelight like its North American counterparts of Toronto and Washington, D.C., but the rest of the continent finally seems to be waking up to its wealth of reasons to visit. Despite claiming the largest number of museums in the world and housing great cultural institutions, it took Mexico City a long time to get the respect it deserves — partly because it’s had to overcome so many obstacles

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BY TIM LEFFEL

… the latest, a major earthquake that hit in 2017.

Every time, though, Mexico City bounces back from adversity by taking things up a notch. Despite the setbacks, each year the city gets a bit cleaner, a bit ritzier, a bit more confident in what it has to offer.

Jim Johnston, author of the popular book Mexico City: An Opinionated Guide for the Curious Traveler, says the real turning point came in

COMING AND GOING

U.S. citizens must have a passport valid three months past departure date with two blank pages. No visa is required for visits of less than 180 days. No vaccinations are necessary.

OFFICIAL LANGUAGE Spanish

2015, when a flood of articles about the city’s vibe started showing up in seemingly every travel publication. “Restaurants, bakeries, and shops of all kinds have been opening up, many run by foreigners. This has added an edge of adventure to the city, introducing Mexicans to a wider range of products and services,” he says. “There is a big change in the perception of the city — fear has been replaced by fabulousness. In addition, the infrastructure has improved, the air is cleaner, and public transportation has improved.”

He notes Uber and several bike sharing options make getting around much easier. Plus, Uber’s arrival allows jittery travelers to avoid having to phone a radio taxi company in Spanish to get a pick-up. “Uber and Airbnb have made it easier for visitors to move around the city and get to know a wider swath of neighborhoods,” adds Lydia Carey, Mexico City writer and author of Mexico City Streets: La Roma. In addition, the city now offers many culinary and culture tour options in English, giving foreign visitors a gateway into the local culture they could not easily find a decade ago.

“Mexico City has become the hub for innovation across Latin America,” says José Pablo Toscano, CEO and founder, Jubel, a local travel startup. “Hundreds

LODGING

robust security with high-touch service and a gorgeous courtyard.

LAS ALCOBAS, A LUXURY COLLECTION HOTEL, MEXICO CITY With chic high-tech rooms, some private-elevator suites and two highly acclaimed restaurants, this upscale boutique hotel attracts those looking for exclusivity.

Paseo de la Reforma 500, Colonia Juárez $$$$$

Ave. Presidente Masaryk 390, Polanco $$$$$ FOUR SEASONS MEXICO CITY The capital’s top see-and-be-seen hotel stays on top by combining

THE ST. REGIS MEXICO CITY Gleaming, modern and highdesign, this luxury hotel features some of the most popular dining and drinking spots for business meetings.

Paseo de la Reforma 439, Colonia Cuauhtémoc $$$$

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ON DISPLAY: Graffiti art in La Condesa (top), and Saturday Bazaar in the San Ángel neighborhood (bottom) PHOTOS: © LETLOOSE78 - DREAMSTIME.COM, © KMIRAGAYA - DREAMSTIME.COM

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of millions of dollars are pouring in, and this has made the city much more dynamic and techforward.”

This sprawling metropolis still has its problems, of course, due in part to an ideal Aztec settlement becoming a non-ideal modern city. Montezuma’s

capital was an island in the middle of lakes and marshes. Spanish conquistadors rode in looking like gods on horseback in 1519 and started their march of New Spain domination here. They drained the marshes and dismantled temples to build Catholic cathedrals and government palaces — which started sinking as soon as they were finished. The longneeded airport expansion keeps hitting engineering snags and cost overruns, in part due to the swampy location.

New residents and visitors keep coming, however, and the city now boasts five convention centers, more than 600 hotels and more than 53,000 rooms from budget to boutique to luxury.

Visitors can easily spend a week in the center, though some companies have their headquarters in the far-flung office park suburb of Santa Fe. The air quality continues to improve in the capital as older buses and Volkswagen Beetle taxis fade into the history books. The city’s liberal reputation also led to a thriving arts scene. “Mexico City has always been a liberal oasis,” says Toscano. “This momentum has kept pushing the city towards social reforms.” Being at the forefront of the gay rights and environmental movements brought a young

more authentic cultures integrated here now: Korean, Japanese, Colombian and Venezuelan people moved in, just to name a few. That adds more flavor to the city, with defined neighborhoods that have their own moods and styles.

What is happening with the food scene in this culinary capital, and where is it headed?

In the culinary scene I am pleased to see a lot of original projects with a distinct identity of the person or people behind them. Some great examples are the guys from Masala y Maiz, Sartoria, Rokai group, Amaya and La Docena. Again, this brings increasing diversity to this multicultural city.

PHOTO: © HOTEL CARLOTA

Is Mexico City a good place to do business?

I think it is, which is why in the end I came back to my hometown. I wanted to try to do business that integrated social and sustainable responsibility, and I am just starting to figure out how to do that here. Of course, like every place, you have some negative issues; I would love to see less paperwork to open and run a business, and I wish everything could be more transparent and efficient.

CHECKING IN WITH JOAQUIN CARDOSO Executive Chef, Hotel Carlota

How has Mexico City changed in the past five years?

I came back from Paris five years ago, after working there for 13, so from my recent point of view there are

and dynamic crowd into the business community.

Gentrification came on strong over the past decade in the neighborhoods of Coyoacán, Condesa, Roma and San Ángel. This is not always ideal for local residents facing higher rents, but it makes these walkable sections of the city attractive places to stay or wander around. While most visitors once stuck to a limited corridor between the historic center and wealthy Polanco, every month sees more interesting dining, drinking and shopping spots popping up elsewhere.

“There are more great gourmet food and drink options all the time, with Mexican craft beer and designer cocktails really taking center stage,” says Carey.

“There are several microbreweries now within the city limits you can visit.”

There’s near-unanimous agreement the business

When you want to show off what Mexico City has to offer, where would you take visitors to eat, drink or just have fun?

We’d start with some tacos, like at Los Cocuyos, El Vilsito or El Hidalguense, or perhaps Paramo for some chamorro tacos. Then maybe have some shrimp at La Docena, Contramar or Mi Gusto Es in Narvarte. For a drink, we’d try some mezcal in Bósforo; have some organic Mexican wine at my place, Loup Bar; then go dancing at Foro Normandie or MN Roy. My breakfast choice would be Fonda Margarita, especially the beans and egg omelet.

climate for foreigners is getting better all the time. “The city is better positioned now to cater to all levels of tourism,” says Carey. “The options for design-forward hotels, high-end shopping, luxury real estate and internationally acclaimed art haven’t diminished the excellent street food, bustling markets and ancient history that make Mexico City unique. Investment is spreading out to some of the lesser-known neighborhoods still near the city center, too, like St. Maria de Ribera, San Rafael and Juárez.”

“Recent policies have been very pro-foreign investment, so it’s much easier to come in and take advantage of the many opportunities here,” says Toscano. After keeping a surprisingly low profile for decades with both business travelers and tourists, Mexico City seems finally to be finding its groove.

DINING NICOS This modest lunch-only spot now consistently lists among Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurants (sponsored by S.Pellegrino and Acqua Panna) while still focusing on traditional dishes utilizing local products and seasonality.

Ave. Cuitláhuac 3102, Clavería $$ PASILLO DE HUMO This relaxed Condesa venue features the superb Oaxacan cooking of chef Alam Méndez.

Ave. Nuevo León 107, Hipódromo Condesa $$$ PUJOL Coming off a recent renovation, Mexico’s most renowned restaurant now offers an exquisite design experience as well.

Tennyson 133, Polanco $$$$

JUST THE FACTS

Time zone: GMT -6 Phone code: Country code: 52 City code: 55 Currency: Mexican peso Key industries: Finance, food and beverage products, tourism, textiles, chemicals, furniture, plastics, metals, telecom, pharmaceutical products

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ART AND HISTORY: The stairs of the Palacio Nacional with the famous mural The History of Mexico by Diego Rivera (top), Teotihuacán (bottom left), and exhibit at the National Museum of Anthropology (bottom right) PHOTOS: © DIEGO GRANDI - DREAMSTIME .COM , © BRIANCWEED - DREAMSTIME.COM, © WING TRAVELLING - DREAMSTIME.COM

INFO TO GO

Benito Juárez International Airport lies less than 10 miles from most hotels. The airport is situated in two distinct terminal buildings connected by train. Buy an official taxi ticket before exiting for $9–18, depending on hotel zone. Mexico City’s metro connects to the airport, but luggage is not allowed. Within the city it’s best to take Uber or have the hotel or restaurant call a Sitio radio taxi rather than flagging one down on the street.

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DIVERSIONS

Museums or neighborhoods? Ruins or food tours?

History or modern art? It’s easy to find what gets you excited in this major metropolis.

The most spectacular museum in all of Mexico is the National Museum of Anthropology, containing the greatest collection of pre-Columbian art anywhere. Nearly 20 acres of displays cover every period of history in a dramatic building.

Next to Alameda Park, two adjacent buildings designed by the same architect capture the city’s elegance at the beginning of the 20th century, with a mix of Belle Époque and Art Deco styles. The gilded Palacio Postal at Tacuba 1 is still used as a post office, and the Palacio de Bellas Artes at Avenida Juárez and Lazaro Cardenas houses an opera house and museum.

The huge Plaza de la Constitución in the center of the city is better known as the Zócalo. On one side of it, the Palacio Nacional features a sprawling mural by Diego

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Rivera. On another side sits the propped-up Metropolitan Cathedral, which took 277 years to complete.

A daytrip 31 miles to the northeast is a must to see the spectacular ruins of Teotihuacán, which flourished from the years 100 to 750 and later was re-occupied by the Aztecs.

F I E S T A

A M E R I C A N A

G U A D A L A J A R A

IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR HOTELS IN GUADALAJARA, MEXICO, STAY AT THE BEST HOTEL, FIESTA AMERICANA GUADALAJARA. IDEAL FOR VACATIONS OR BUSINESS TRAVEL. WITH 391 ROOMS, ROOM SERVICE, BAR, RESTAURANT, FITNESS CENTER AND ONE OF THE CITY'S BIGGEST CONVENTION CENTER.

S TAY W I T H U S , S TAY W I T H FI E S TA A M ER I C A N A

FIESTA MERICANA .COM

stateside | PARK CITY

City for All Seasons Park City abounds with year-round activities on and off the mountain. BY SUSAN B. BARNES ON THE SLOPES:

Ski lift over Alpine Lake PHOTO: © VAIL RERSORTS

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PARK CITY, UTAH, HAS LONG BEEN KNOWN as a premier destination with its luxury resorts, fine-dining options, relaxing spas and small-town vibe. And with its close proximity to the international airport, travelers can be on the slopes within an hour of touching down in Salt Lake City in the wintertime.

Not all skiers who visit the mountain are ready to swoosh down the slopes, and that is perfectly fine — everyone is welcome in Park City. In time for the 2018–2019 winter season, the new High Meadow Park at Canyons Village makes its debut.

Designed exclusively for beginning skiers, the park offers a terrific place not only for beginners but also for families to come together to ski, a place where everyone learns and builds skills

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together. Complementing High Meadow Park, a new highspeed, four-passenger lift will take skiers up the mountain faster than before.

One of the most popular spots on the mountain in Park City is Cloud Dine, a ski-in, ski-out restaurant with sweeping views of the Wasatch Range. It comes as no surprise, then, the skiers’ favorite added 200 seats to increase its capacity by more than 60 percent. Another favorite on-mountain dining spot that underwent significant change is the historic MidMountain Lodge. The renovations to the 120-plus-year-old miners’ boarding house pay tribute to its historic nature while at the same time creating an atmosphere of relaxed mountain luxury through its interior design and dining experiences. If a morning of skiing makes you ravenous, dig into the popular Mid-Mountain burger.

In regards to resort renovations, Grand Summit Hotel, A RockResort recently underwent $15 million in renovations when it joined Vail Resorts’ RockResorts portfolio. Renovations included an overhaul of all 212 suites as well as conference and meeting spaces, the café and the spa. In 2019 Waldorf Astoria Park City will undergo renovations of its guestrooms and see

meeting space expansion and a new health club and spa area.

Looking ahead, Canyons Village is developing a set of condos at the base — The Lift and Apex — along with another condo concept, YOTELPAD Park City, and Hotel Ascent, a full-service condo hotel property. In spring 2019, The Lodge at Blue Sky, part of the Auberge Resorts Collection, will open its 46-room property in nearby Wanship.

Aside from renovations and new properties on the horizon, much is changing in Park City.

For one thing, the “shoulder season” continues to shrink.

“We used to turn into a ghost town after Miners’ Day (our version of Labor Day) and not reactivate until Christmas,” says Park City Mayor Andy Beerman. “Our fall season has become much busier, with more restaurants staying open, more activities and more local events.”

Beerman also notes the growth in second homes — and baby boomers retiring to those homes — makes the community feel larger than the 8,000 full-time residents. “One of our growing challenges,” he says, “is how to balance this ongoing vibrancy with the community’s need to recover and enjoy their own town.”

The city is building hundreds of affordable housing units with the belief it will help its struggling middle class, fortify its sense of community and reduce congestion. Beerman says, “We hope to become a model for social equity: a town where all of its residents feel safe, welcome and valued.”

Park City is on track to be one of the first net zero communities as it aggressively moves toward 100 percent renewable energy, an electric fleet, high-efficiency buildings and protecting the soil and forests with conservation purchases.

“This will be part of our identity,” the mayor notes. “We will continue to expand upon our cutting-edge electrified transit fleet and our active transportation efforts (urban trails, e-bikes) until we become a ‘car-optional’ town.”

When asked which activities he recommends to family and friends visiting Park City, he first points out the Utah Olympic Park. “It’s loaded with fun activities for kids and adults,” Beerman says. “A walk up Historic Main Street is a must, and plan plenty of time to visit the local shops, have lunch on a street dining deck and take a stroll through the PC Museum to get a taste of our mining town history. Also, check out the 400-plus miles of gold-level trails (for nonmotorized use).”

UP IN THE AIR:

Cloud Dine (above), and balloon over Grand Summit in summertime (left) PHOTOS: © VAIL RERSORTS

SCENIC DRIVES

In addition, the mayor invites visitors next summer to “check out the new trails on Bonanza Flat, a 1,400-plus-acre alpine meadow recently preserved with a massive regional fundraising campaign. If you don’t see any moose up there, you aren’t looking very hard.”

If you need a break from the slopes, hop in the car and take a drive. From Park City, drive east 16 miles to the town of Kamas, where you will meet up with the Mirror Lake Highway. This scenic drive ascends to 10,687 feet at Bald Mountain Pass and takes you past small lakes, waterfalls, trailheads and perhaps even wildlife as it travels through the Wasatch-Cache National Forest and into the Uinta Mountains.

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9–5 | CHICAGO

On the Menu Chicago serves up diverse culture and cuisine for entertaining clients. BY ARI BENDERSKY STREET ART:

Wicker Park mural by Hebru Brantley PHOTO: © JIM ROBERTS DREAMSTIME.COM

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THE CAPITAL OF AMERICA’S MIDWEST, Chicago is arguably one of the most welcoming, friendly and accessible cities in the world. Dubbed the Windy City both for its political past and for the winds blowing in off expansive Lake Michigan, it offers business visitors a look into its rich history, gorgeous architecture, world-class culture and sports teams and an array of eclectic restaurants serving cuisine from all over the world.

Chicago, the country’s third-largest city, proves a powerhouse of industry. In the late 1800s and early 1900s, the city earned an infamous reputation as a center of organized crime with notorious gangsters like Al Capone, “Bugs” Moran and “Big Jim” Colosimo controlling the streets. Even long after that crime departed, the reputation remained, but thankfully superstars like Michael Jordan and Oprah Winfrey helped to give the city a more positive

DECEMBER 2018

global image, and it has continued to flourish since. These days a new crop of cultural mavens, like muralist Hebru Brantley, artist Theaster Gates, Chance the Rapper and singer Jamila Woods, keep giving back to the city that inspires them. They prove Chicago, while often dubbed the “Second City,” is truly tops when it comes to the arts and creativity, which extends into business.

With companies like United Airlines, Boeing, Walgreen’s and McDonald’s — not to mention top advertising agencies like Leo Burnett and tech hubs like 1871 inside theMART — there’s a diverse cross section of workers. The degree to which the workaday world is formal or relaxed depends on the industry; that extends to business meetings and how people dress. Things seem much more casual in general in the city’s offices, but you’ll definitely find people in suits in banking, finance and law. Among tech, advertising, marketing and the like you will find more denim, sneakers and hip styles. Women in Chicago are held in high regard in business, with many holding top executive positions across several industries.

While the city comprises 77 unique neighborhoods like Bronzeville, Pilsen and Logan Square with residents representing many cultures, ethnicities and backgrounds, most of your business activity will likely center around the downtown area (the Loop, West Loop, River North and South Loop neighborhoods). Transportation to downtown costs about $35 from O’Hare International Airport and $30 from Midway International Airport whether you

take a taxi or ride share service.

If you have a chance to explore those other neighborhoods, you’ll be treated to colorful murals, delicious ethnic food and numerous proud communities that showcase Chicago’s immigrant population. It’s the heart of what makes Chicago beat and which the city proudly embraces.

If you’re coming to town for a large conference, chances are it’ll occur at McCormick Place, Chicago’s largest conference center a bit south of the city center and the sprawling Museum Campus, with Lake Michigan as its backdrop. But many conferences and events are held in hotels like the Hyatt Regency, The Peninsula and the newer Ace in the city’s hip Fulton Market neighborhood. That will give you a chance to see different parts of the city and take in some top restaurants.

Chicago is home to more than 20 Michelin-starred restaurants, including superstar chef Grant Achatz’s 3-Michelin-starred Alinea and the 2-starred Oriole, Smyth and Acadia restaurants. A slew of 1-star spots include Korean-inspired Parachute; Danish-American Elske; and Blackbird, a gorgeous, stark-white spot from renowned chef Paul Kahan at the edge of the city’s Randolph Street restaurant row.

If you or your colleagues fancy yourselves food aficionados, you’ll want to hit that robust restaurant scene in the Fulton Market District. In addition to Blackbird, try Kahan’s Mediterranean wine bar next door, Avec, for its seasonal lunch and dinner menus.

Definitely order the chorizo-stuffed medjool dates, squid ink spaghetti with mussels and Fresno chilies, and whatever whole roasted fish is on the board that night.

Down the street you’ll find one of the city’s toughest spots to get into: Top Chef winner Stephanie Izard’s acclaimed Girl & the Goat. While reservations book up months in advance, you can sometimes get a day-of table or walk in and sit at the bar. It’ll be worth it when you’re enjoying chickpea fritter chaat with carrot hummus; squash blossom crab Rangoon; and the wood oven-roasted crispy pig face, a signature must-have.

If you can’t get into Achatz’s Alinea, his restaurant Next, which changes its concept three times a year to focus on a different cuisine or theme set in a place or time, may have space. If not, pop next door to his more casual spot, Roister, for the decadent, braised, poached and fried whole chicken or the Rohan duck platter served

CHICAGO FARE:

Avec (above) and its chorizo-stuffed medjool dates (left) PHOTOS: © ONE OFF HOSPITALITY

with dirty rice and sausages and accompanied by various mustards.

Afterward, ask if you can get into its experimental cocktail bar, Aviary, for a selection of cocktails the likes of which you’ve never seen before.

While these are just a few options, there’s no shortage of great eateries in that area, but you can venture up to Logan Square to Fat Rice, Giant or Mi Tacoya Antojería to enjoy smaller, more intimate neighborhood spots with deliciously elevated fare. There’s a reason the James Beard Awards are now being held in Chicago through 2021. Chicago is no longer the hog butcher to the world, but it still knows how to host its guests with aplomb.

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after 5 | HAIKOU

Tropical Pleasure Head to Haikou for after-work recreation.

WHILE THERE IS BUSINESS TO BE DONE in Haikou, the capital city of Hainan focuses on pleasure. The island 20 miles off the south coast of China is the country’s designated international tourist destination. Just two years shy of the 2020 goal to create “a worldwide first-class island resort,” it abounds with activities. Once the sun sets (regularly about 6 p.m., year-round), Haikou offers plenty of opportunities for rest and relaxation.

In the Old Quarter downtown near the renewed harbor, streets lined with colonial architecture, storefronts and clubs bustle with activity. The high-rise Wan Guo shopping center hums with restaurants, juice bars and electronics markets. On its eighth floor, the comfortable Wood Bar serves cocktails, beer and wine. A movie theater shows the latest films in English.

At the popular Banqiao Road Seafood Market, wander among buckets of fresh fish, squid and oysters, picking out a morsel to be cooked and served with trimmings at adjacent restaurants. On nearby Haikou Snack Street, stalls in a two-story food court sell local fare — try Wencheng chicken or Dongshan mutton — and its open-air stage features performances of traditional shows.

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BY SHARON KING HOGE

Night spots vary from small local bars with wooden benches where visitors can mingle with the locals to pricier, large international nightclubs with flashy lights, mirrors, loud sound systems and dance floors. Book a dinner or party cruise for views of the city lights from the water.

A departure tax rebate and duty-free take-home allowance of 16,000 yuan, about $2,600, act as shopping inducements. In the MH Outlets Shopping Mall, surrounded by palm trees and set under a segmented, cool glass canopy, upscale shops sell popular take-homes such as pearls, brocades and coconut carvings.

Unique in the country, Hainan provides special internet zones where foreigners can consult Facebook, YouTube, Twitter and some other websites blocked elsewhere. Discretion is recommended, but China is the world’s third-largest LGBTQ+ market, and venues here are relaxed.

To the west of town, nearby resorts offer tee times for night golf in the cool evening air and spas for relaxing soaks in plentiful hot springs. Concierges at the Mission Hills Resort and Shangri-La Hotel can help with bookings.

HEART OF HAIKOU: Old Quarter

PHOTO: © YONGNIAN GUI - DREAMSTIME.COM

Book a e room privat pular for po KTV e. karaok

More time for business.

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neighborhoods | HELSINKI

Moments of Reflection Get a glimpse of Helsinki’s heritage through its sacred architecture. BY BRANDON SCHULTZ AT JUST 101 YEARS OLD, FINLAND is a relatively new nation, being part of the Kingdom of Sweden for the majority of the last millennium. The Russian Empire took control throughout the 19th century until Finland declared independence in 1917, but not before both influences left their indelible marks on Finnish culture and, especially, its capital.

Helsinki, a small capital with a population of just over 600,000, remains Finland’s most diverse region and a trending destination for travelers to the Nordic north. A Scandinavian city by the broadest definition (Finland is not technically a Scandinavian country), Helsinki is far more famous for dynamic architecture than for any religious ethos, but its churches are as visually varied as the rest of the city’s singular structures and provide the perfect architectural itinerary for a chronological crash course in Helsinki heritage.

Helsinki Cathedral (built 1830–1852) carries the most commanding presence in central Helsinki’s Senate Square, standing stoically atop a series of steps so steep and narrow they appear as a sheer cliff face from even a short distance.

While the government palace, the University of Helsinki and the city’s oldest building all lie within this impressive square designed to evoke a miniature St. Petersburg in Neoclassical style, all eyes focus on the cathedral’s five domes,

exactly as designer Carl Ludvig Engel intended.

Not far from here, perched on the hill of Katajanokka Peninsula, Uspenski Cathedral overlooks the city with its Byzantine Revival roofs of green bronze beneath a glittering gold onion dome. It’s no surprise to find a plaque here commemorating Russian Emperor Alexander II, who controlled Finland during its construction.

Western Helsinki offers a more recent contribution to the city’s curio collection of churches, boasting the Temppeliaukio Church, better known as the Rock Church and completed by architect-brothers Timo and Tuomo Suomalainen in 1969. Built directly into rock, the rounded church is capped with a copper dome surrounded entirely by a ring of skylights. The nearly unworked rock walls yield spectacular acoustics, making the Rock Church a popular concert venue.

Finally, no “arch walk” is complete without a moment of peace inside Kamppi Chapel in Narinkka Square. More commonly called the Chapel of Silence, this award-winning 2012 creation offers an ecumenical respite for the weary wanderer in need of a moment of solitude amid Helsinki’s hustle and bustle. Simultaneously relaxing and invigorating, it’s an architectural must-see and an ideal spot to reflect upon all Helsinki’s cultural history offers.

DESIGN:

Helsinki Cathedral (left), Uspenski Cathedral (middle), and the Rock Church and Kamppi Chapel (right) PHOTOS: © BRETT CRITCHLEY - DREAMSTIME.COM, © DAVID HERRAEZ - DREAMSTIME.COM, © SYLVAIN BEAUREGARD - DREAMSTIME.COM, © RYHOR BRUYEU - DREAMSTIME.COM

906 s the 1 s i m ’t r of Don exterio u a e v u e Art No ynagogue. Th S i st k Helsin o almo t e m o l is h wish capita nd’s Je a l n i F all of tion. popula

Sweden

Finland Norway

Helsinki Estonia

Latvia Lithuania Belarus Poland

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Russia

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friends & family | ATHENS

Love Among the Ruins Follow in the path of classical poets amid the towering relics of Athens. BY DEBRA BOKUR ARCHAEOLOGICAL FINDS:

Theatre of Dionysus (left), Temple of Athena Nike (middle), and the Acropolis Museum (right) PHOTOS: © IONUT DAVID - DREAMSTIME.COM, © ALVARO GERMAN VILELA DREAMSTIME.COM, © SALKO3P - DREAMSTIME.COM

ties — ’s oldest ci ld r o w e th f One of ng blend o intoxicati n a g n ti s a recoand bo cluding G l styles in a r tu ec it arch ern — l and Mod eoclassica N , n e a m o R on of mor the locati o ls a is s Athen eaters. ancient th than 140

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WANDERING THE TWISTING STREETS and lanes of Athens, it isn’t difficult for the modern visitor — even while dodging buses — to get a sense of what so enthralled nobleman and Romantic poet Lord Byron about this singular destination, nor why it’s an ideal romantic destination with your favorite cotraveler. Views of the Acropolis floating in sunshine and moonlight above the city and long days spent among the crumbling columns and temples inspired Byron to pen a wealth of love poems and works exploring the concept of beauty.

In some cities, you have to look below the surface clutter to get a true sense of the essence. In Athens, it’s necessary to keep your gaze focused — like Byron’s —

upward, pointed at the Acropolis, positioned like a crown on the head of a seething, wild metropolis. The collection of spaces that make up the Acropolis complex includes the Theatre of Dionysus, multiple sanctuaries and dreamy temples such as the Altar of Athena in the Temple of Athena Nike.

Architecturally interrupted by raids, wars, invasions and periodic indifference, the Temple of Zeus at the center of Athens was built in episodic stages, taking more than 600 years to complete. Today, 16 columns remain, though one lies supine upon the ground, having long ago given up its struggle with either gravity or fate.

Until 2003 the city sidewalks were paved with marble. Most have been replaced with surfaces less slippery during rainy days, while other restoration projects include select areas of the Acropolis, including the columns of the Parthenon and the Temple of Athena Nike.

The Acropolis Museum makes an ideal place to get your bearings through an overview of the site and its various structures while viewing an impressive multitude of artifacts uncovered during excavations and restorations. Constructed above an excavation point, sections of the floor are transparent, providing both a view and context. The permanent exhibition includes the Archaic Acropolis Gallery, where stunning marble sculptures of figures and horses rise from stone plinths and pedestals.

In the third-floor Parthenon Gallery, the local politics of ancient Greece are explained, as are the financial details concerning the building of the statue of Athena Parthenos and the construction of the Parthenon itself. Another gallery is devoted to the massive Propylaia, which served as the entrance to the Acropolis, along with the temple of Athena Nike and the Erechtheion, which acted as a multipurpose temple to Athena and assorted other heroes, goddesses and gods. Easily identifiable by the female figures that serve as columns holding up the roof, the Erechtheion is surrounded by legends. It’s said to be erected upon the site where a battle took place between the god Poseidon and the goddess Athena, fighting over which of them had the right to name the city.

There’s more than just the once-lofty citadel to see, of course. Too often overlooked, the Benaki Museum has a staggering collection of art divided into exhibitions focused on Byzantine, Chinese, Islamic, Coptic and pre-Columbian art. There’s also an extensive library and fascinating displays that include toys and games. The collection of prehistoric, ancient Greek and Roman art offers displays of statuary, jewelry and lovely friezes.

Settling in to its new address within the refurbished FIX Brewery on Syngrou Avenue, The National Museum of Contemporary Art proves well worth a half-day visit. The museum’s collection includes seminal works by Greek and world artists including Emily Jacir, Stephen Antonakos and

LODGING KING GEORGE Part of Marriott’s Luxury Collection, this stately property in city center dates to 1930. Dine at award-winning Tudor Hall Restaurant, or enjoy views of the Acropolis from the Penthouse Suite’s private pool.

3 Vasileos Georgiou A, Syntagma Square $$$$$ THE MARGI This elegant Small Luxury Hotels of the World property is perfectly positioned between the beach and a

pine forest. Rooms offer marina views, and relaxation options include sun beds and cabanas by the lagoon pool.

11 Litous, Vouliagmeri $$$$ PALLAS ATHENA GRECOTEL BOUTIQUE HOTEL Art, design and comfort merge at this luxury property, where top-floor Loft Suites offer views of the city, and brilliant Family Graffiti guestrooms feature original wall art.

65 Athinas and Likourgou $$$

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GREEK GEMS:

Jewelry on display at the Benaki Museum PHOTO: © MILAN GONDA DREAMSTIME.COM

DINING ACROPOLIS MUSEUM RESTAURANT The views of the Acropolis may eclipse whatever you order, but this dining establishment is light years beyond a typical museum attraction restaurant, with regional and local dishes.

15 Dionysiou Areopagitou $$$$ ORIZONTES LYCABETTUS RESTAURANT Mediterranean fare created from Greek recipes is served on the city’s highest point in a romantic setting. Local ingredients include fish from the Aegean and lamb from nearby farms.

1 Aristippou, Lycabettus Hill $$$$ SPONDI Athens’ only double Michelin-starred dining establishment serves up French-inspired dishes in a stunning stone and brick setting.

Located a short stroll from the Acropolis and the Panathenian Marble Stadium.

5 Pyrronos $$$$$

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Nikos Kessanlis. Temporary exhibits share the space with a robust schedule of performances, lectures and events.

Close by lies the Museum of Cycladic Art, founded in 1986 from a private collection of Aegean and Cypriot artifacts. You can easily enjoy a visit to the small museum in a few hours, right before you head off to lunch in Syntagma Square. Cafés and numerous historic sites surround this fountained plaza, a destination unto itself. The city’s central square, it deserves a visit in order to just sit in the sunshine with a glass of fragrant ouzo or powerful tsipouro and watch today’s Athenians go about their business among throngs of visitors.

From here, one can easily walk to the Plaka, the Arch of Hadrian, the Theatre of Dionysus and the Temple of Olympian Zeus. What remains of Hadrian’s Library is also just a stroll away. In a long-ago letter to his sister, Byron wrote, “If I am a poet the air of Greece has made me one.” Perhaps he sat upon one of the library’s crumbling walls, ruminating on love and beauty before retiring to his accommodations at the Capuchin monastery at the foot of the Acropolis.

In his 1810 poem “Maid of Athens,” the poet wrote, “Athens holds my heart and soul.” Though he eventually left Athens, Byron remained in Greece, dying in the spring of 1824. Somehow, it isn’t all that difficult to imagine him still wandering through the spaces that served as the inspiration for so many of his best-loved works, his flamboyance casting color and vibrancy among the shadows of the caving stones.

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INFO TO GO

Driving in Athens can be a challenge that detracts from the experience of visiting. With heavy traffic and a parking system that limits downtown access to alternating days based on odd- and evennumbered license plates, skip the rental car and opt for a driver — or brave the public transportation system, which includes trams, metro, buses and a suburban rail line. Though subject to strikes and generally crowded (be alert), the network will get you pretty much anywhere you want to go.

Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos lies 12 miles east of the city, with direct access via Metro Line 3, Aghia Marina/Athens International Airport; and a rail line connecting to Athens Central Railway Station (Larissis Station) and the SKA Rail Center at Acharnes.

KTEL operates an express bus service at the arrivals level between exits 2 and 3 opposite the airport hotel, with four bus routes to city center.

Pick-up is located between exits 4 and 5. Taxis queue outside of the arrivals area between exits 2 and 3. Official taxis are yellow, with fixed fares into the city.

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bucket list | ANTARCTICA

Ultimate Expedition Journey to Antarctica for the thrill of a lifetime. BY KRISTY ALPERT

INTO THE WILD: (Left to right) Zodiac tour of glaciers, a shipwreck, penguins, and an elephant seal PHOTOS: © KAIRI AUN DREAMSTIME.COM, © KRISTY ALPERT

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UNLIKE THE ROOM FULL of eager voyagers surrounding me, waiting to board a ship destined for the seventh continent, I had never once dreamed of stepping foot on Antarctica. As they regaled me with stories of planning the trip in their 40s, making promises to loved ones they would one day send postcards from an Antarctic post office while mustering up the courage to keep their commitment to take part in the polar plunge, I kept silent, unable to admit the continent had never even made it on my bucket list.

Its absence from my list of dream trips wasn’t due to a lack of desire or a fear of traveling into the great unknown but rather because I had long written it off as an unattainable goal. In my millennial mind, traveling to Antarctica was beyond a bucket list. It was the ultimate trip. I had (wrongfully) assumed the trip was reserved for scientists and celebrities, but as I began to research ideas for my 32nd birthday, the trip began to take form in a surprisingly tangible way.

More than 38,478 people visited Antarctica during the austral summer season (which typically runs November through February), according to a 2016 report by the International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators, with expectations that number will grow by at least 5,000 each year. Many visitors arrive at the continent by ship, on voyages planned through cruise operators like Polar Lati-

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tudes or Quark Expeditions, or booked through an adventure tour company that specializes in Antarctic expeditions like Adventure Life. But daytrips by plane have become another option, albeit a slightly pricier one.

Like me, many travelers have a hard time believing a trip to Antarctica is possible, assuming it is too expensive, too far or too risky. In reality, there are many options for budget and duration of this safe journey. Uniquely enough, a high percentage of first-time visitors to Antarctica make up a significant portion of the numbers of guests visiting the continent each year, noting how unintimidating the trip is once it’s been experienced.

“I’ve been to the Antarctic region twice and would definitely return,” says Mary Curry, voyage product director, Adventure Life, and mom of four. “It’s challenging in our modern world to feel like a true explorer, and there’s something very special about seeing a place that is relatively untouched by human hands, and Antarctica still offers this experience. I have yet to see Salisbury Plain on South Georgia Island, a wildlife mecca, with tens of thousands of king penguins, elephant seals and more. Most of us think of Antarctica and larger penguins synonymously. In reality, it’s challenging to see larger penguins in Antarctica proper, so the 60,000 king penguins on the Salisbury Plain are quintessentially Antarctica.”

nt king penguins home, the elusive gia a tic rc ta An of t en entire contin rgia. of penguins call the Plain on South Geo ry bu is al S e th Although thousands on e those in colder climates, lik typically reside only

Only expedition vessels with passenger capacities of less than 500 are permitted to actually dock along the continent to allow passengers off, and I was fortunate to have booked a cabin on board the 118-passenger Polar Latitudes ship, Hebridean Sky, through Adventure Life. I would be able to actually step foot on the continent and experience the wildlife and wild terrain up close.

It took two days to travel by ship from our port in Ushuaia, Argentina (aka “El Fin del Mundo,” or “The End of the World”), through the infamous Drake Passage and finally arrive in the waters of Antarctica. The Drake Passage, feared by many, has been the deterrent for many a traveler contemplating the trip due to its rambunctious reputation as “the Drake Shake” when conditions are poor.

The passage runs between South America and the South Shetland Islands and is notorious as the roughest body of water in the world. On a good day, crossing the passage is like sailing through a large lake, as it was the day we traversed the waters. On a bad day, smart passengers play it safe by wearing prescribed motion-sickness patches or using over-the-counter motion-sickness pills or wristbands.

At first sight of the continent, my heart filled with ex-

citement and disbelief that I had come this far. I somehow still doubted the possibility of Antarctica as a destination I could actually reach, and with two days until my 32nd birthday, I doubted even more I would be able to say I had stepped foot on all seven continents by the age of 31.

The next morning I woke early to board the first wave of Zodiac boats transporting passengers to shore, dressed in every layer I packed and wrapped in a brandnew, cherry-red Helly Hansen parka and rubber boots provided by the cruise operator. We cruised past leopard seals, dodged the lurking bubbles of humpback whales and sloshed alongside glacial ice older than the country I departed.

I’m still unsure if the thud I felt shuddering through my body that morning was from the impact of our Zodiac hitting the shore or from my heart as I finally comprehended the moment that was about to happen. I grabbed the captain’s hand as I placed one foot over the rubber edge of the boat, smiling from ear to ear as my foot hit the snow-capped rocks of the shoreline and heard the captain say the words I never knew I always dreamed of hearing: “Welcome to Antarctica.”

INFO TO GO

Most cruise operators begin the journey to Antarctica from the port in Ushuaia, Argentina; a short flight from Buenos Aires transports guests there in less than four hours on either LATAM or Aerolineas Argentinas. For those visitors who prefer to skip the cruise and simply fly, charter planes depart from Punta Arenas, Chile, on Aerovias DAP. Adventure Life offers an Air Cruise option for guests who want the best of both worlds: flying from Punta Arenas to King George Island, where they then board their expedition vessel to venture further into the great white continent.

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kicking back | ANTALYA

The Turquoise Coast Bask in the Mediterranean paradise of the Turkish Riviera. BY ILONA KAUREMSZKY TURKISH TREASURES:

(Left to right) Golf in Belek; Düden Waterfall; Aspendos amphitheater; and people walking near the Clock Tower, Tekeli Mehmet Pasa Mosque and Yivli Minaret Mosque in Kaleici PHOTOS: © THE MINISTRY OF CULTURE AND TOURISM OF THE REPUBLIC OF TURKEY, © THE MINISTRY OF CULTURE AND TOURISM OF THE REPUBLIC OF TURKEY, © EVGENIY FESENKO DREAMSTIME.COM, © IG0RZH - DREAMSTIME .COM

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BENEATH A STARRY SKY, the golf gods seem to smile upon this group of nighttime golfers steadily keeping their eye on the white dimpled ball on a course lit up like a baseball stadium, smack in the heart of the dreamy Turkish Riviera.

Famous for over-the-top resorts, stunners that exceed 5-star resort expectations, one of the favorite pastimes besides big-time pampering at a hammam spa is to try the area’s biggest pleasure sport: night golf.

“Everyone ought to try it at least once,” says one Turkish insider who dares folks like me, a nongolfer, to give it a swing.

For newbies and seasoned golfers, it’s time to head to those must-try championship greens, of

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which there are plenty. Aim your driver toward Belek, the coastal region known for the country’s top golf courses. The PGA Sultan course in Antalya, southwest Turkey, hosted the likes of Tiger Woods, Rory McIlroy and winner Justin Rose at the 2012 Turkish Airlines World Golf Final. Find other golf resorts like the Antalya Golf Club, Turkey’s first 36-hole golf resort with two 5-star hotels and, yes, Europe’s first nighttime golf course, the Carya Golf Course.

Between the course winds, the undulating sand ridges enveloped by natural pine and the fragrant eucalyptus trees, no wonder golf reigns supreme during the year-round warm Turkish nights. Imagine taking your shot and watching the sun go down.

INFO TO GO

Turkish Airlines operates non-stop service from major U.S. airports to Antalya Airport. Note: U.S. citizens need a tourist visa to enter Turkey. Moving around compact Antalya is easy by foot, but taxis and shared taxis (domus) are available. Rental cars are also easy to find and offer a good alternative for exploring the countryside.

Antalya, revered as Turkey’s mecca of tourism, remains the sought-after holiday spot.

Surrounded by sun, sea and sand, this pleasure playground has been anointed with other lofty monikers like “Paradise on Earth,” the “Pearl of the Mediterranean” and the “Turkish Riviera” … for good reason.

Located on Anatolia’s southwest coast and bordered by the Taurus Mountains, the capital of the budding province of Antalya is the largest Turkish city on the Mediterranean coast, with more than 1 million people. To boot, it is Turkey’s biggest international sea resort. The historic paradise boasted early kings like the city’s Greek founder and king of Pergamon, Attalos II; Roman Emperor Hadrian; and the Seljuk Sultanate, who ruled over an ever-expanding Ottoman Empire.

They all basked in this Mediterranean sunshine.

Today holiday seekers can kick back to the ancient and modern with a healthy dose of outdoor adventure, sightseeing and their

choice of down time.

For antiquities, head to ground zero in the old city center, then prepare to meander off to visit other still-visible pages from your school history books. The Citadel (Kaleici) remains the main attraction, with its 80 rising towers and narrow streets leading to the old port. The Antalya Museum offers a testament to the region with its rare collection of historic artifacts, statues of emperors, marble portraits and relics from the Seljuk and Ottoman periods.

See the groove-shaped Yivli Minaret from the 13th century, and crane your neck skyward by Hadrian’s Gate, an ancient archway of marble and decorated reliefs made to honor the once great Roman emperor Hadrian.

Meanwhile, on the city outskirts in Aspendos, other sightseers aim their cameras at the Aspendos amphitheater, a magnificent structure that arguably outrivals others. The Roman architect Zeno used only top-quality materials. Each June and July the 2,000-yearold theater comes alive as it hosts the annual

LODGING

LA BOUTIQUE HOTEL Set on the cliffs, this adults-only luxury property offers uninterrupted sea and mountain views within a minute’s walk to the beach.

1537 Sokak 16, Eski Lara Yolu $$$$ DELPHIN BE GRAND RESORT This luxury resort boasts hefty superlatives, from the largest hotel in the Antalya Kundu area to the largest water park in the region.

Enjoy unlimited entertainment, kids’ activities and a spa and wellness area, plus

DECEMBER 2018

a huge food and beverage scene.

Güzeloba Mahallesi, Lara Turizm Yolu $$$$$ REGNUM CARYA GOLF & SPA RESORT Host of the G-20 World Summit in November 2015, this all-inclusive luxury resort overlooking the Mediterranean Sea boasts Turkey’s first nighttime golf course but is revered for many other sweet spots.

Kadriye Bölgesi, Üçkum Tepesi Mevkii, Belek $$$$

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HISTORIC DISTRICT:

Kaleici Old Town (top), and Hadrian’s Gate (bottom) PHOTOS: © THE MINISTRY OF CULTURE AND TOURISM OF THE REPUBLIC OF TURKEY, © ELENA ODAREEVA DREAMSTIME.COM

DINING

7 MEHMET The local no-nonsense favorite serves quintessential Turkish fare like meze and mains of kebabs, but it’s the stunning city and bay views from the terrace that leave diners in awe.

Meltem Mahallesi, Ataturk Park $$ CLUB ARMA RESTAURANT ANTALYA With sea views overlooking the marina, this fine-dining restaurant in a restored historic building accentuates “fine” with its linen tabletop settings as well as the outstanding menu of seafood and international cuisine.

Iskele Caddesi 75, Kaleici Yat Limani $$$$ NEJAT BALIK Go for the calamari, the live music and the views at this quaint, terraced seafood restaurant overlooking the sea.

Manavoğlu Park 28, Eski Lara Yolu $$$$

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Aspendos International Opera and Ballet Festival.

Back at the Old City of Kaleici through those crammed alleys, you’ve reached souvenir central. It’s a shopaholic’s dream, but don’t be surprised at hearing many Englishspeaking vendors announce, “You can’t live without it.” Shoppers graze the stalls for popular traditional knickknacks or handcrafted creations like jewelry, ceramics, leather and carpets; here, haggling is fun.

By this time, you might be suffering from antiquities overload, so to help smooth over the history lessons, a spa treatment could be the ticket. This heavenly beach strip is thick with resorts and spas, but for the authentic local experience, the Demirhan Bath specializes in traditional hammams, with his and hers separate baths.

Still, no visitor to Antalya can miss out on experiencing the natural wonders. Daytrippers enjoy the panoramic views of Antalya and the Mediterranean from Kepez Üstü, home to a popular viewing platform where the environs roll out like a green carpet. Hikers head to the Karain Cave, home to early civilization, where a 36-foot-thick layer of cultures seeps from this ancient abandoned rocky abode. Other nature lovers hike to see the cascading waters of the Düden, renowned for ties to Alexander the Great, and the Kurşunlu waterfalls, popular with eco-tourists who want to breathe in the fresh air in this flora-rich playground.

But then there’s the other fanciful spot, nighttime dining by

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only a h —it’s g u o n e ot turf, lya is n Turkish t to Anta n t e i i s c i n v One ack in a nights. u kick b o y s a starry t d n a star d , san sun, sea home to the Kaleici Marina. The waiter brings the freshest calamari, the freshest sea bass. Melodic Turkish tunes from musicians get the evening going. Yes, you’ve kicked back, listed all the things one can do, but despite all the experiences, hitting the fairways for some night golf is something you’ll remember for years to come.

Antalya, the capital of Turkish tourism … yes, indeed.

lgbtq+

Proud History Amsterdam attracts LGBTQ+ visitors with its welcoming attitude. BY MARK CHESNUT IF YOU WANT TO GET A tion. The fact that the city put up HANDLE ON Amsterdam’s this monument tells you something LGBTQ+ scene, just ask Arnold about how they regard gays.”

Plotnick, a retired veterinarian As for nightlife, Plotnick notes a from the United States who loved variety of venues, including bars like the Dutch capital so much when Taboo and dance clubs like Soho he first visited in 1998, he moved and NYX, all on one of the main “gay streets,” Reguliersdwarsstraat. there. “Amsterdam is a long“On Spuistraat is the bar Prik,” he running favorite destination for added, “which is a very popular gays because of the liberal, livelounge, especially in the summer, and-let-live attitude in the city and when the crowd spills out onto the country in general,” he said. “The street.”

Netherlands was the first country ‘The city is so welcoming to Holland’s tourism website to [fully legalize] gay marriage, provides lots of details about gay-friendly and gay life and culture is so ingrained gays that there’s no need to travel to Amsterdam. LGBTQ+-friendly in their society that people really don’t seek out gay-related things in hotels can also be a great source of inforthink twice about it.” mation.

Isabelle Post, manager, the ConPlotnick recommends a number order to feel comfortable.’ servatorium Hotel, an upscale boutique of activities for first-time visitors.

ARNOLD PLOTNICK, AMSTERDAM RESIDENT property in the city’s Museum District, “The city is so welcoming to gays is among the hoteliers knowledgeable that there’s no need to seek out about things to do. “Pride Amsterdam is always a tremendous gay-related things in order to feel comfortable,” he noted. “Just success,” she said of the annual LGBTQ+ pride celebration. visit the attractions that the city is known for — the Anne Frank “A highlight during this event is the extended Pride Walk, with House, the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum, a boat tour 10,000 to 12,000 people marching for those who couldn’t join of the canals and certainly a stroll through the red light district. us. Next year, Pride will be dedicated to the Stonewall 50-year An inspiring site to visit, right near the Anne Frank House, is [anniversary]. Mark your calendars: Pride Amsterdam 2019 will the Homomonument, a monument to anyone who has ever be held from July 27 through Aug. 4, 2019.” been oppressed or persecuted because of their sexual orienta-

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TRUE COLORS:

Amsterdam Pride (top left), pride flag (above), and the Conservatorium Hotel celebrating pride (left) PHOTOS: © ARNOLD PLOTNICK, © CONSERVATORIUM HOTEL

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TAP is launching a new era We received the first of 21 A330neos joining the TAP fleet.

TAP is the first commercial airline in the world to fly the Airbus A330neo, a latest-generation aircraft with significant efficiency improvements, including the new Airspace by Airbus cabin offering the newest and most advanced in-flight experience for a more comfortable flight.

Our goal is to provide our customers with the best service while doubling the number of customers in the next 10 years.

Chicago and Washington D.C. are TAP’s newest routes in North America.

With service starting in June 2019, these two cities are the first to join the New York/JFK, Newark, Boston, Miami, and Toronto gateways in 2019, linking North America to 72 destinations in Europe and Africa.

TAP Air Portugal, innovating since 1945.

Best Airline in Europe

TAP Air Portugal Eighth Consecutive Year

2018

airport update

Bigger and Better Dallas/Fort Worth Airport keeps an eye toward growth and new services. BY ERICH MARTIN

AS THE SAYING GOES, “Everything is bigger in Texas,” and while the wide-open country and farmland inspire freedom, one of the world’s largest airports inspires freedom in a much more concrete way. Access to an airport means access to the world, and Dallas/Fort Worth Airport boasts one of the most robust networks serving the continental United States. From DFW passengers can access every major city in the continental United States with a four-hour flight.

Originally opened in 1974, Dallas/Fort Worth has served north Texas for more than 40 years. In that time the airport grew to be one of the biggest in the country and one of the best ways to access other major U.S. cities. DFW serves 182 domestic destinations and 62 international destinations with 28 passenger airlines. In the airport’s 2017 fiscal year, it ranked fourth in total global flights, registering 655,000 total flight operations. The airport ranked 12th in total passengers, serving 66.3 million last fiscal year.

Dallas/Fort Worth is big not only in the sense it serves a huge — and growing — number of passengers every year. The airport’s physical footprint is Texas-sized as well, coming in at 26.9 square miles — bigger than the island of Manhattan. The airport boasts five terminals, seven runways and 165 gates.

With an eye toward growth, Dallas/Fort Worth continues to look for new ways to evolve, recently signing an agreement with French airport Paris Charles de Gaulle to cooperatively develop cargo shipment strategies, a move with the potential to change

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how goods ship between North America and Europe. The trade strategy agreement comes on the heels of the official opening of two new lounges in DFW’s Terminal D. The American Express Centurion Lounge and The Club DFW both opened for guests in early October.

For many visitors, Dallas/Fort Worth represents the first glimpse of the nation or region they will experience. Artwork adorns the entire airport, including paintings and sculptures indoors, an outdoor sculpture garden and medallions on airport flooring. The airport also hosts tours for guests. To register for a tour, all you need to do is contact the operators and let them know when your party will come through the airport. This tour offers a great way to kill time on a layover or can act as an introduction to the city and region if you are staying.

With a sprawling airport like Dallas/Fort Worth, it would be easy to explore the art tours, shopping and dining options and call it a day, but the airport offers one more widely regarded feature: Founders’ Plaza. Dedicated in 1995, the plaza provides the perfect way to spend some time if you are traveling with family members.

At the end of the day, Dallas/Fort Worth proves an everexpanding marvel of an airport. It has its own police force, zip code and city distinction. In a place so big, it seems easy to feel lost and overwhelmed, but a straightforward floorplan and thousands of employees mean your next stop is just a friendly chat away.

ART ON THE GO: Terminal D floor medallion (left) and art installation (above) PHOTOS: © DALLAS/FORT WORTH AIRPORT

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health

Sick and Tired New research efforts study the causes and treatment of chronic fatigue syndrome.

BY MARY B. GALLAGHER, RN, MSN, CCRN

CHRONIC FATIGUE SYNDROME, or CFS, is a complex chronic disease afflicting 1 million Americans. Also referred to as myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME or ME/CFS), this long-term illness affects many body systems. Individuals with this illness are unable to perform daily activities and may be confined to bed. Women are two to four times more likely than men to be diagnosed with ME/CFS. About one out of 10 people who develop certain infections, such as Epstein-Barr virus and Q-fever, go on to develop ME/CFS. Other infections have been studied, but no one cause has been found. ME/CFS may be triggered by changes in the way a person’s immune system responds to stress or illness. Many people with ME/CFS report experiencing serious mental or physical stress before becoming ill. The way in which cells in the body get energy is different in individuals with ME/CFS than in people without the condition. It is unclear how energy production links to development of the illness.

Anyone can contract the illness. Genetics or environmental factors may play a role in ME/ CFS. While it is most common in people 40–60 years old, this illness affects children, adolescents and adults of all ages. Caucasians are diagnosed more than other races or ethnicities.

Many people with ME/CFS go undiagnosed, especially among minorities.

The most common symptom is severe fatigue that does not get better with rest and is not directly caused by other medical problems.

Other symptoms include problems thinking and concentrating, pain and dizziness. The exact cause of ME/CFS is unknown. Two or more possible causes may work together to trigger an illness. Researchers consider infection, immune system changes, mental

and physical stress, and energy production as possible causes.

The three main symptoms for ME/CFS are profound fatigue, worsening symptoms after physical or mental activity, and sleep problems.

This extreme fatigue is new, lasts at least six months, is not related to unusual or intense activity, is not relieved by sleep or rest, and is severe enough to keep people from participating in certain activities. Post-exertional malaise can occur after physical or mental activity — also known as a crash, relapse or collapse. There is no way to predict what will cause a crash or how long it will take to recover. Recovery can take days, weeks or longer.

People with ME/CFS often experience symptoms of forgetfulness, concentration problems and difficulty following details, a condition called “brain fog.” Also, these individuals experience worsening symptoms when standing or sitting upright — known as orthostatic intolerance. They may feel dizzy, lightheaded or faint when standing or sitting up and may have visual changes or see spots.

Additional symptoms include joint pain, muscle aches, muscle weakness all over, headaches, sore throat, sore lymph nodes in the neck and under the arms, chills and night sweats, allergies, digestive problems and irritable bowel disorder. Those afflicted may experience sensitivity to noise, food, odors and chemicals.

Currently no cure exists for ME/CFS. The goal of treatment is to relieve symptoms.

Treatment includes a combination of sleep management techniques; medications to relieve pain, discomfort, fever, anxiety and depression; and a healthy diet. Some medications can cause reactions or side effects worse than the

original symptoms. Complications may include depression and social isolation.

People with ME/CFS are encouraged to maintain an active social life and pursue mild physical activity. Your health care team can help determine how much you can do and how to slowly increase your activity. Avoid doing too much on days you feel tired. Alternate your time between activity, rest and sleep.

Break big tasks into smaller, more manageable ones. Spread out your more challenging tasks throughout the week.

Relaxation and stress management techniques can help reduce chronic pain and fatigue. Relaxation techniques include biofeedback, deep-breathing exercises, hypnosis, massage therapy, meditation, muscle relaxation and yoga. A therapist may also help you deal with your feelings and the impact of illness on your life. You may benefit from joining an ME/ CFS support group.

Last year, the U.S. National Institutes of Health more than doubled funding for research into the condition. Scientists are working to create a laboratory test to diagnose ME/CFS and researching new drug therapies.

The long-term outlook for individuals with ME/CFS varies. It is hard to predict when symptoms will return. Some people completely recover after six months to a year. About one in four people are so severely disabled they cannot get out of bed or leave their home. Symptoms can come and go in cycles. Even when people feel better, they may experience a relapse triggered by exertion or some unknown cause.

Some individuals never feel as they did before they developed ME/CFS. Studies suggest patients are more likely to get better if they receive extensive rehabilitation.

The content of this article is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

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Purch a se a r a FFL e T IcK e T FO r a ch a N ce TO

Proceeds benefit

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According to the Internal Revenue Code, amounts paid for chances to participate in a raffle do not qualify as a deductible charitable contributions. Taxes on prizes are the responsibility of the winner. LLS did not estimate the value of the prizes; the value has been furnished by the contributors of the items. A Form W-2G will be filed for every person who received $600 or more in gambling winnings. The W-2G will be filed with the IRS and a copy will be mailed to the winner. For each awarded prize over $5,000, LLS will also withhold/collect from the winner federal withholding equal to 25% of the prize value and remit such to the government.

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past & present

Qantas (Top left) 1921: pilot Hudson Fysh (right) wearing typical flying gear required in an open cockpit, (top right) 1935: Capt. Russell Tapp (middle) wearing the first Qantas uniform, (middle left) 1939: the first Qantas pilots to transfer to the RAAF during World War II, (middle right) 1950s: Capt. John Connolly, (bottom) 2016: pilots’ uniforms designed by Australian fashion designer Martin Grant

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PHOTOS: © QANTAS, © DUNCAN KILLICK

Take a look at the evolution of the Qantas pilots’ uniforms over the years.

Proof we’re taking your journey to new heights.

Raising the bar for award-winning service and products.

We’re proud to receive the 2018 GT Tested Awards.

Best Airline in North America

Best Airline for Domestic First Class

Best Frequent-Flyer Customer Service

Best Airline Website

Best Airline App

Fastest-Growing Airline, Trans-Pacific

American Airlines 2018

American Airlines

American Airlines AAdvantage 2018

AA.com Second Consecutive Year

American Airlines 2018

Second Consecutive Year

Third Consecutive Year

2018

American Airlines, Flagship and the Flight Symbol logo are marks of American Airlines, Inc. oneworld is a mark of the oneworld Alliance, LLC. © 2018 American Airlines, Inc. All rights reserved.

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