TAKE YOUR NATIONAL PARK VACATION TO THE NEXT LEVEL
Course Correct
Great golf getaways, from the desert to the mountains
Under the Sea World class scuba and snorkeling in the Caribbean
Death Valley
The ultimate guide to North America’s desert oasis
Great Escapes
Domestic destinations that feel a world away
The Preferred Guest Program–your exclusive access as a past guest to deals and perks that open the door to A World of Unforgettable Experiences. Gaze at the Milky Way from a True American Oasis in the middle of Death Valley National Park, sail the glittering Mediterranean Sea, cycle through French wine country, or discover a world of fire and water on Iceland’s hiking trails. Ride in a 1923 Pullman train car to the Grand Canyon, watch the African plains come to life on a photo safari, or trek to the ancient mountain-top ruins of Machu Picchu. From the 7 seas to 214 feet below sea level, it’s all possible through Xanterra Travel Collection ®’s exclusive Preferred Guest Program . The only question is–where will your wanderlust take you next? Explore your benefits as a past guest through the Preferred Guest Program at Xanterra.com/Exclusive
THE OASIS AT DEATH VALLEY
VBT BICYCLING VACATIONS GRAND CANYON RAILWAY & HOTEL WINDSTAR CRUISES
OUR COLLECTIVE PASSION for travel has never been stronger. With renewed vigor, people are taking to the seas and skies to discover new places and explore new horizons.
And why not? We have a deeper appreciation for what it means to travel and for the type of experience only found beyond the comforts of home. Travel brings us closer to the people we love, to our family and friends. And it brings us closer to those we have never met, bridging cultures across the globe.
The past few years have not only reinvigorated our desire to travel but they’ve also revolutionized how we travel. Trends across the industry show that people are craving deeper, richer experiences. From personalized trips to longer stays with custom-crafted adventures, a more thoughtful approach and desire to get off the beaten path has taken hold.
That’s why we’ve dedicated this issue of Explore Magazine to these unique experiences, whether close to home or far afield. Scuba diving shipwrecks across the Caribbean, golfing below sea level, or hiking glaciers in Alaska are just a few of the possibilities. We’ve intentionally curated a wide array of destinations and experiences to open your mind to journeys you may have never dreamed about.
Even better, getting there is easy with the Xanterra Travel Collection®. Our portfolio of award-winning companies and world-class resorts can help you plan—and realize—your next life-changing travel experience.
We hope these pages will inspire you to explore new horizons.
ANDREW N. TODD PRESIDENT & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
For world-class scuba and snorkeling, look no further than these wow-worthy Caribbean destinations.
BY MEGHAN RABBITT
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Looking for an out-of-the-ordinary escape? Don’t miss these extraordinary locations.
BY ALEXANDRA BARRONExceptional golf experiences, from the desert to the ocean to the mountains.
BY JEN MURPHY
You enter through the park gate and can already feel the sense of excitement and wonder build. The anticipation grows as you walk towards the Rim Trail and through the Grand Canyon, South Rim’s Historic Village–a living time capsule of a world from the turn of the 20th century. And then, so suddenly that you become breathless, you find yourself there. You are peering into the abyss of this Natural Wonder of the World and as time stands still, you understand. This is where wonder lives. Learn more at GrandCanyonLodges.com .
You enter through the park gate and can already feel the sense of excitement and wonder build. The anticipation grows as you walk towards the Rim Trail and through the Grand Canyon, South Rim’s Historic Village–a living time capsule of a world from the turn of the 20th century. And then, so suddenly that you become breathless, you find yourself there. You are peering into the abyss of this Natural Wonder of the World and as time stands still, you understand. This is where wonder lives. Learn more at GrandCanyonLodges.com .
The grandest way to make a Grand Trip Grander, Rail Baron Charters are for those who wish to make the ultimate Grand Canyon memories. Charter your own private car on a historic train already headed to the Grand Canyon–or even a private train–from Williams, AZ to Grand Canyon National Park and back while our helpful and entertaining staff make the journey one you will reflect on with joy for years to come. Designed for those with vacation dreams as big as the canyon, Rail Baron Charters combine the luxury of private train cars with the views of the old West and provide the perfect platform for celebrating a wedding, birthday, anniversary, retirement, class reunion, or other milestone moments. TheTrain.com/Charters
GRAND CANYON RAILWAY & HOTEL’S RAIL BARON CHARTERS
One upscale small ship cruise line
WSC WINDSTAR CRUISES WindstarCruises.com
One historic railroad
GCR GRAND CANYON RAILWAY & HOTEL TheTrain.com
Three award-winning tour companies
Four fine hotels
OAS THE OASIS AT DEATH VALLEY OasisAtDeathValley.com
GCR GRAND CANYON RAILWAY HOTEL TheTrain.com
GCGH THE GRAND HOTEL AT THE GRAND CANYON GrandCanyonGrandHotel.com
GNP CEDAR CREEK LODGE GlacierNationalParkLodges.com
Proud stewards of six national parks
GNP GLACIER NATIONAL PARK GlacierNationalParkLodges.com
GC GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK GrandCanyonLodges.com
MRNM MOUNT RUSHMORE NATIONAL MEMORIAL MtRushmoreNationalMemorial.com
RMNP ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK TrailRidgeGiftStore.com
YNP YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK YellowstoneNationalParkLodges.com
ZL ZION NATIONAL PARK ZionLodge.com
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There are so many new and exciting things happening in the world of travel these days! Here are the trends to inspire your bucket list.
BY LINDSEY GALLOWAY
With so many places in the world to visit, it can be challenging to figure out where to go—and how to see the places you most want to visit—when you start planning your next vacation. Rather than turning to the same-old itineraries, why not indulge in new types of travel? These experiences let you fully immerse yourself in a destination, focus more on your wellbeing, and embark on once-in-a-lifetime adventures. Here are some top travel trends, including a few of our favorite ways to experience them firsthand. »
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A recent study found that 80 percent of travelers would spend more on trips that tailored their itineraries just for them. More than ever, people want to not only see the places off the beaten track but also participate in activities catered to their unique interests. VBT Bicycling Vacations and Country Walkers offer private tours in spectacular locations that’ll make you feel like your getaway was personally designed for you.
As remote work policies become the norm, vacationers don’t feel the same need to rush back into the office after a trip. In fact, more than a third of travelers are taking longer vacations than they would have pre-pandemic, according to research by Airbnb. This trend is finally giving people time to explore off-the-beaten path destinations, like the smaller islands of the Carribean you’ll visit on the Windstar Cruises Star Collector: Grand Caribbean Adventure.
The past two years have given everyone the chance to reevaluate their focus on their mental and physical health, and that trend has extended to travel plans. That’s why The Oasis at Death Valley, The Broadmoor, and Sea Island are ideal wellness destinations. Their wide open spaces in desert, mountain, and ocean environments, plus rejuvenating spa treatments, give guests the chance to truly unwind —and establish healthy-living habits they can take home with them and implement for good.
Today’s travelers continue to look for quality over quantity when it comes to the destinations they’re seeking out. Rather than pack in a handful of countries or cities, vacation planners are choosing one spot to explore more fully. The Windstar Cruises Tahiti trip lets travelers do just that, giving guests the chance to explore small harbors and take in the breathtaking beauty of many incredible island destinations.
Travelers are seeking more active and personalized itineraries that cater to their own lifestyle interests. Combining various modes of transportation into one trip diversifies the experience and further immerses people in the destination. Bespoke tours like VBT’s Croatia Bike & Boat give visitors the chance to explore Croatia’s second-largest city, Split, and the Dalmatian Islands in the Adriatic Sea by traditional bicycle or e-bike—allowing for an upclose-and-personal look at olive oil farms, small fishing villages, and Mljet National Park, home to a 12th-century Benedictine monastery.
More than 65 percent of travelers prioritize experiencing something new over feeling rested and recharged, according to one recent survey. Upscale mountain destinations like The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs let travelers indulge in both adventure and relaxation. The world’s longest-running consecutive winner of both the AAA Five Diamond and Forbes Five-Star awards, the resort has no shortage of luxury amenities, including two swimming pools, a sprawling spa, 17 restaurants and cafes, and two golf courses. Yet The Broadmoor also offers site-specific adventures such as falconry, rock climbing, mountain hikes, and the Wild West Experience, which includes tomahawk throwing, archery, and pellet gun firing from an old stagecoach road.
Travelers are more than ready to indulge in their long putoff vacations, and nowhere is that more apparent than the rise of all-encompassing vacations that offer a wealth of experiences and amenities within one pre-planned itinerary. Country Walkers’ New Zealand: The South Island Tour includes some of the country’s famed “Great Walks,” a private culinary cruise with local delicacies, shopping local artisans, and more. Wrap it all into one package and trust that your experience will be complete, without the stressful planning.
Plenty of people had to put off dream vacations during the pandemic, and even more realized the importance of seizing the moment and taking that bucket list trip now instead of filing it away as a “someday” adventure. In fact, 25 percent of baby boomers who expected to travel internationally said they were planning a trip, according to AARP. That has led to many more travelers booking “big trip” itineraries, like the 50-day Windstar Cruises Star Collector: The Grand Far East Adventure
During the voyage, guests can see ancient temples and jungle coastlines in Japan, Malaysia, Indonesia, Australia, and more.
Authentic “experiential travel” is top of mind for travelers these days, with so many of us seeking real human connection. All Xanterra Travel Collection® brands have immersive experiences, and Grand Canyon Railway’s trip to the South Rim is no exception. This getaway gives visitors the chance to take the fabled journey to the heart of one of the seven wonders of the world. The views are ever-changing— and they may very well change you
Gone are the days of travelers jet setting from one destination to another back-to-back. Instead, they’re staying longer in one spot in order to really get to know a place like the locals do and slow way down. According to travel company Virtuoso, hotel guests have increased their average length of stay in a single hotel by 43 percent as compared to pre-pandemic data. These types of trips allow for more in-depth adventures, like the Summer Solstice in the North Sea cruise offered by Windstar Cruises. The 26-day trip lets visitors take advantage of the long summer days— perfect for visiting storied Scottish castles, riding Icelandic horses, and tasting homemade Norwegian goat cheese.
We sat down with the much heralded James Beard Foundation Chef to hear more about his culinary background, the new restaurant concept he created on board, and where he eats when he’s in Spain.
As one of the youngest chefs to receive a Michelin Star, Anthony Sasso knows a thing or two about delicious food.
He rose to stardom by making modern, inventive Spanish cuisine at the wildly popular New York City restaurant Casa Mono. In 2018, he was asked to be a guest chef on a James Beard Foundation Culinary Collection themed Windstar cruise in the Mediterranean—and a partnership was born.
Now, Sasso is bringing inventive flavors inspired by his travels all over Spain to the intimate setting of Cuadro 44 by Anthony Sasso, an intimate restaurant on all-suite Star Plus Class Windstar yachts.
“I’ve spent a lifetime studying Spanish food and culture, working in several Catalán kitchens, traveling the Iberian landscape and learning from and getting inspired by the masters,” says Sasso. “This new venture with Windstar is the perfect vehicle to showcase the universally enticing flavors of Spain and its coastal seas.”
Intrigued? Read on to learn more about this talented young chef and how he’s lighting up the food scene on the high seas.
How did you learn to cook Spanish food so well?
A: I’d been working in the kitchen at Casa Mono for two years when I bought a one-way ticket to Spain. If I was going to cook Spanish food, I needed to cook in Spain for a while. My mom’s side of the family is from the Maresme region, along the Catalán coast, and when I got there my uncle Ramone brought me to his favorite restaurant and told the chef I needed to learn how to cook. I trailed the chef on a Friday and Saturday, and I think he liked my hustle. He offered me a job on Monday.
My first bite of pan con tomate was a revelation. I quickly realized I was in food heaven and went all in. I lived two blocks from the sea and rode my uncle’s old bike everywhere. There were all these amazing restaurants just minutes from where I was working. It was pure luck that my mom’s family was from this hot spot that was changing the way the world was looking at Spanish food. For a long time, Spanish cuisine was looked down on by the French and Italians. Then the world started noticing how amazing Catalán cuisine is, and the perception turned around.
Q: What was it like creating a new restaurant concept for Windstar?
A: When Windstar asked if I’d work with them, I was so excited. I wondered how we might be able to put a restaurant like Casa Mono on a cruise ship, and Windstar has been an incredible partner in making it happen. The restaurant— called Cuadro 44, Spanish for the 44th quadrant of the ship, where it will live—is very intimate and personal. When you look at the menu, you’ll see elements of the food I’m known for, what Spain is known for, and what Casa Mono is known for—like razor clams on the grill with parsley on top, and cod, which is king in Spain. And most of the food will be served family-style, meant to be shared.
Q: Where are your favorite places to eat in Spain—and what do you order?
A: When I get off the ship, I head straight for the local bar. Some of the best food you’ll eat in Spain is at the bars, where you get free tapas when you order drinks. These bars have some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever taste, cooked to order. Octopus is a must. And eat as much jamón as you can. Every bar has 75 legs of ham hanging from the ceiling, so do yourself a favor and have some in every bar or restaurant you go to. It’s their caviar.
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Checking items off your bucket list has been our business for 50 years. It is time to explore the world without having to worry about the details. We include airfare, accommodations, most meals, and attractions into our group travel pricing. A $200 fully-refundable deposit is all that is needed to reserve your spot.
Whether you are checking the first or 1,000th item off your bucket list, there is only one chance at this life. Shorten your list.
Peter Tobler, Director of Corporate Food & Beverage for Windstar Cruises, and Jovan Culibrk, Windstar’s Fleet Restaurant and Beverage Operations Manager, share their favorite spots for wine tasting around the world—plus the wines from each region that wow them.
BY PETER TOBLER AND JOVAN CULIBRK
You don’t have to be a serious oenophile to appreciate wine country. Tasting room visits are only part of the experience. You can hike or bike the vineyard-lined landscape, visit medieval villages, and dine on Michelin Star meals. Yet travel is an excellent way to expand your wine repertoire. Talking to wine makers and sommeliers who’ll share their wine expertise, tasting tips, and recommendations for varietals can broaden your palate and open your eyes to new favorites. Here are don’t-miss regions around the world producing incredible wine, plus some of our top picks from each region.
There are literally hundreds of appellations throughout the nation of France, most of which you probably haven’t heard of, but there are two regions that stand out among the rest: Bordeaux and Burgundy. Bordeaux is like the Upper East Side of French wine regions—old money, very well established in their traditions and methods. Burgundy is like Williamsburg—new school, much smaller but full of interesting and uncommon ideas.
TOBLER’S PICKS: .
Chablis Grand Cru, Domaine William Fèvre 2015
Tasting notes: Plenty of fruit, the nose is all melon, peaches, and lime and the palate has a juicy and fleshy texture combined with a flash of bright, refreshing acidity.
Château Lafite-Rothschild, Premier Grand Cru Classé 2017
Tasting notes: Despite its youth, this wine presents a very harmonious character, in which one can already appreciate the qualities of a great Lafite, combining finesse and concentration.
From Rioja and Albariño to Cava and Sherry, Spain is a wine lover’s paradise. The styles and characteristics of these wines are incredibly diverse, thanks in large part to the various climates in which they’re produced. For example, the lush green landscape of northwestern Spain is known for crisp white wines, while the unique climate of western Andalusia provides perfect conditions to produce sherry wines. With its terraced vineyards, slate soils, big reds with good acidity, and a mineral line, Priorat—located in the hills south of Barcelona—is one of Spain’s great red wine regions.
TOBLER’S PICKS: .
Hermanos Lurton Verdejo 2018
Tasting notes: There are flavors of white-fleshed fruits, fennel with dried fruit notes, which come from the aging on its lees.
Garnacha, Vall Llach Embruix-Priorat, 2017
Tasting notes: Bold blackberry, black cherry, and raisin aromas are balanced by ingrained minerality, always a good sign for Priorat. A saturated palate fits the house style for Embruix, while toast, coffee, blackberry, and prune flavors finish chocolaty but not that long or complex.
Chile is considered a New World wine region, as it wasn’t until the 16th century that the Spanish brought various vines with them as they began to colonize the region. More recently, an assortment of French grape varieties was introduced to many of Chile’s wine appellations. The Aconcagua Valley is an incredible wine-producing region in Chile, located north of the capital, Santiago. Red grape varieties dominate the production from Aconcagua Valley, with Syrah being particularly well adapted to the region’s hot temperatures and long ripening season.
TOBLER’S PICKS:
Errazuriz Max Reserva Chardonnay Valle de Aconcagua 2016
Tasting notes: Its rich, mouth-filling texture, its freshness and aromas of ripe apple, butter, and hazelnuts are simply irresistible.
Sena, Aconcagua Valley, Chile 2012
Tasting notes: The red fruit stands out on the palate, nicely accompanied by sweet spice. Well-rounded and silky tannins, this is an elegant, complex wine, refreshing with outstanding structure and balance.
As New World wine regions, these two countries aren’t beholden to the hundreds of years of tradition of Old World wine regions. The result? They’ve been able to experiment, push boundaries, and ultimately revolutionize the way the world views, produces, and packages wine. From rich, smooth Barossa Shiraz (Australia) to mouth-watering Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc (New Zealand), there’s something for everyone from the many wine regions in the Southern hemisphere.
TOBLER’S PICKS: .
Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, New Zealand 2020
In addition to being the birthplace of the Renaissance, Tuscany is central Italy’s most important wine region—and the country’s sixth largest wine-producing region. It offers a diverse selection of internationally recognized wines from both indigenous and international varieties in an array of styles. Tuscany spans multiple elevations, expositions, soil types, and climatic conditions. The region’s other most significant red wines are the famed Super Tuscans. A local take on the classic Bordeaux-style blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah (and sometimes Cabernet Franc), these wines were developed, in part, as a reaction to the restrictive regulations in Tuscany during the 1970s.
TOBLER’S PICKS: .
Alois Lageder Pinot Bianco
Südtirol Alto Adige, Italy 2020
Tasting notes: Bright pale-yellow Pinot Bianco with an elegant, floral-mineral bouquet and notes of ripe apples and peach. Clean, vinous taste, balanced body and remarkable, medium-long aftertaste.
Ornellaia Bolgheri Superiore, Tuscany, Italy 2015
Tasting notes: Nose offers rich fruit that is fully ripe yet at the same time crisp and lively, underlined by delicate balsamic and toasted notes.
Tasting notes: The nose is open, appealing, and expressive, with ripe passionfruit, white peach and a hint of lime. The palate is deliciously concentrated and tropical, underpinned by nectarine and blossoms.
Penfolds Grange South Australia, Australia 2015
Tasting notes: Opaque, a dark core with a lighter deep red concession on rim. An eruption of fruits. At once lively and expressive, conceding Grange personality yet still not revealing all.
Want to feel like you’ve traveled to an exotic vacation spot—without leaving the country? Book a trip to one of these incredible domestic vacation destinations and prepare to be wowed.
BY MEGHAN RABBITT
When you think about your next vacation, it’s tempting to let your mind wander to faraway lands. After all, there’s nothing quite as romantic as strolling the cobblestone streets of Europe, sipping coconut water on a beach in Tahiti, or experiencing the otherworldly scenery in in a place like Iceland, right?
Not so fast. While those incredible experiences are worthy of a spot on your travel wish list, there are also many domestic destinations that are every bit as majestic—and a lot easier to get to. Case in point: The unforgettable experiences you’ll have at the Xanterra Travel Collection® destinations here, all of which are so unique they’ll make you feel like you’re a world away even though you’re practically in your own backyard.
Without question, the scenic vineyards nestled among the rolling hills of Tuscany and Umbria are worth visiting—yet what you’ll find in the world-famous wine regions just an hour north of San Francisco are also guaranteed to impress. The Sonoma Valley tends to have a more intimate feel than the more popular Napa, especially as you head further towards the Russian River. You’ll find iconic labels, as well as small-batch indie producers turning the region’s diverse grape varietals into world-class wine, with tasting rooms in renovated barns and old castles. In Napa, the celebrated Silverado Trail is dotted with countless vineyards and expansive tasting rooms—not to mention Michelin Star restaurants, chic lodgings, and quaint towns best seen by bike or on foot.
VBT vbt.com/tours/california-napa-sonoma-winecountry-guided-bike-tour/
HV holidayvacations.com/tours/ northern-california-highlights/
While the western-most country in Europe draws travelers looking for dramatic, surreal scenery that excites the imagination, you’ll find the same kind of epic landscapes in Glacier National Park. The 50-mile Going-to-the-Sun Road yields one impressive vista after the next, and you can catch the views from a car, motorcycle, bike, or one of the 33 famed “Reds”—the low-emission vintage touring sedans that offer tours on the park's scenic road. Even better, multiple lodging options make it easy to see even the farthest reaches of this awe-inspiring park: The contemporary Cedar Creek Lodge in Columbia Falls at the western entrance is a AAA Three Diamond hotel with a classic mountainlodge feel. Bonus: With only seven residents per square mile, Montana has America’s third lowest density population, which means a trip to Glacier National Park will be filled with adventures—not crowds.
GNP glaciernationalparklodges.com/lodging/ cedar-creek-lodge/
HV holidayvacations.com/tours/ glacier-yellowstone-grand-tetons/ CW countrywalkers.com/tours/ montana-glacier-national-park/
Looking for a place where mountains meet the sky in dramatic fashion? You could visit one of the eight Alpine countries in Europe—or you can travel to Alaska, where you’ll find some of the highest peaks in North America and some of the most impressive wildlife and marine life in the country. It’s a state filled with awe-inspiring extremes and nature at every turn, from brown bears fishing for salmon to humpback whales breeching in the distance. Don’t miss Alaska’s glaciers, from Juneau’s Mendenhall to the Kenai Fjords’ Harding Icefield—all of which will leave you awestruck.
HV holidayvacations.com/destinations/alaska/ WSC windstarcruises.com/destinations/alaska/
Traveling by train is a timeless classic—an elegant, if slower, way to drink in the scenery outside your window. And the best way to do this in the U.S. is by boarding the historic 1901 Grand Canyon Railway in Williams, Arizona for a trip to the iconic Grand Canyon National Park. Experience a bygone era with a stay at The Grand Canyon Railway Hotel before the 65-mile, two-hour train journey, which will give you a new perspective on the American West and its cinema-worthy scenery. Take in the sage-brush-dotted fields and Ponderosa pines as you enjoy the train’s stylish interior, Old West entertainment, and exceptional service. For a more exclusive experience, reserve a private historic rail car for a customized, luxury trip that'll enable you to explore the park’s splendor in style.
GCR TheTrain.com
Think you need to travel all the way to Granada or Madrid to marvel at incredible Spanish architecture?
Think again. St. Augustine was settled by Spanish explorers in the 1500s, and its Spanish colonial architecture provides all the charm of an old European city. Wander the narrow cobblestone streets in the historic downtown, sampling the cuisine in one of the many award-winning Spanish restaurants serving up traditional fare, as well as new-age, fusion dishes. While you’re in the area, you can
also visit some of the beautiful Atlantic Ocean beaches, including Vilano Beach, Anastasia Island, and Ocean Hammock Park (which is home to a sea turtle nesting site!). Of course, no trip to St. Augustine is complete without a visit to the famed Fountain of Youth, located in the area first explored by Juan Ponce de Leon in 1513 and settled by Pedro Menendez Aviles in 1565.
VBT vbt.com/tours/florida-historic-coast-guided-bike-tour/
Death Valley’s amazing and ever-changing landscapes make for an incredible vacation—especially with a comfortable desert oasis as your home base.
BY MATTHEW JAFFE
It will take your breath away. The sheer expanse of Death Valley National Park—the enormous sky, enveloping silence, endless solitude— is something to behold. It’s the largest national park outside of Alaska, and often overlooked on must-see lists. And as I breathe in the vastness, Death Valley’s beauty is simply striking.
The Inn at Death Valley holds a commanding perch overlooking the outstretched valley. The lush gardens look across to the Panamint Ridge, where the snow atop 11,049-foot Telescope Peak glows pink with the day’s fading light.
Following the recent $100 million renovation project, the 66-room Inn retains its Old California romance.
With its towering palm trees and true oasis feel, the new-andimproved Ranch at Death Valley is a perfect spot to base yourself for all kinds of exploration. Don’t miss these three new additions to this incredible property.
Enjoy the classic Town Square...
You’ll find a new restaurant, ice cream and coffee bar, and general store with souvenirs, as well as groceries. After a day of adventuring in Death Valley, don’t miss drinks and dinner in the must-see Last Kind Words Saloon, which will make you feel like you’ve stepped straight into a western movie.
Stay in one of the new cottages...
The newest addition to The Oasis at Death Valley’s multi-million dollar restoration, The Ranch at Death Valley’s new Cottages have added modern western living to your lodging options at the historic property. They offer the perfect gathering place for families and golfers alike, thanks to their perfect location walking distance to the Town Square and The Furnace Creek Golf Course at Death Valley.
Relax and
Inside the hotel, vintage Spanish character defines the lobby, with decorative Saltillo floor tile and a new library. Behind the reception desk, a richly detailed map of Death Valley depicts the surrounding mountain ranges and a host of famous landmarks: Badwater (the lowest point in North America at 282 feet below sea level), the mile-high overlook at Dante’s View, and Harmony Borax Works. At first I assume the map is an artifact from the hotel’s early days. But even though it appears like it has been here forever, the map is actually a contemporary piece added during the renovations. Within minutes, I’m certain of one thing: The hotel is better than ever.
The 275-room hotel has been part of a $150 million renaissance. Guest rooms have easy access to the refreshing 87-degree spring-fed pool, sports courts, and children’s playground. Many rooms open onto patios, while others have balconies overlooking the grounds—perfect for taking in Mother Nature’s majesty.
Built in several stages, the inn definitely rambles: From the lobby, I go up and down a couple of staircases before reaching Room 331. I’ve always wanted to stay in this room—located at the top of one of the inn’s towers—because of its commanding views from windows along three walls. I leave the windows open a crack to draw in the cool night air and fall asleep to the desert wind rustling the palms, waking occasionally to the calls of a great horned owl and the yipping of coyotes.
Considering that Death Valley is notorious as both the hottest place on earth, thanks to a 134-degree day in July 1913, and the driest spot in North America (rainfall averages less than two inches annually), the morning arrives surprisingly blustery and wet. But with Zabriskie Point just five minutes away—the spot in Death Valley to watch the sunrise—I layer up and head out before first light. A few people already await at the overlook, a mix of serious photographers with pricey cameras on tripods and selfie-seeking tourists from around the world. Among the early risers is a familiar face: basketball Hall of Famer and analyst Bill Walton, a passionate Death Valley aficionado and regular inn visitor.
“It’s such a healing, inspiring, and empowering place,” he tells me as the rising sun fights through the overcast. “This is a land of extremes, and there are countless, fantastic adventures and experiences. And you just keep going, because there is sadly never enough time. I’ll be out on my bike all day, then come back to the inn and go in the pool. You just get healthy and feel so good.”
The badlands brighten to rich gold and stand out against an almost indigo sky. Then the clouds break and I see something I never expected in Death Valley: a rainbow arcing across the misty sky.
I watch the remnants of the storm from a window table at The Inn Dining Room. I want to linger, but as Walton lamented, there’s never enough time in Death Valley. So I decide to drive north into the park, bound for some favorite places. Past the dunes, I continue to the trailhead for the Titus Canyon Narrows. While many visitors take on the rugged 27-mile road that travels the canyon’s length, I prefer the 2½-mile round-trip hike that leads directly to
The Narrows, where the cliffs, hundreds of feet tall, close to just a few feet across. Though Death Valley is vast, it’s also filled with secluded, intimate spots that feel cut off from the outside world.
The feeling is totally different 40 minutes north at Ubehebe Crater, an enormous 600-foot-deep gouge in the earth created by a volcanic steam eruption about 2,100 years ago. Walking the 1.5-mile trail that follows the rim, I watch shadows of fast-moving clouds glide across the surrounding volcanic field. No one is around for miles, but along with the rim’s unmistakable “king of the world”
perspective comes an emancipating sense of smallness. My day-to-day concerns fade to insignificance against this landscape of epic, timeless grandeur.
By the time I return to The Oasis, a good 60 miles from the crater, I’m dusty and hungry for dinner. Pulling into The Ranch at Death Valley, I’m stunned by its transformation. Mission-style buildings, inspired by the inn’s architecture, have replaced the ranch’s older, more generic structures, and a palm-shaded zocalo provides a new gathering place for visitors. I stride through a set of swinging doors and into The Last Kind Words
“It’s such a healing, inspiring, and empowering place.”
Saloon, the ranch’s new restaurant. Filled with artifacts—Native American blankets, saddles from the 1920s, and mining gear—displayed beneath wagon-wheel chandeliers and a ceiling of ornate stamped tin panels, the place recreates the atmosphere of an authentic Old West saloon. And after all, what’s an oasis without a watering hole?
With longhorn skulls peering down, I belly up to the cherrywood bar and plant my boots along the brass rail. First I savor a Dust Storm, a craft cocktail made with rum and sarsaparilla, and then dig into a memorable bison strip loin. Back at the inn, I’m tempted to hang out in my tower-top redoubt. But the hotel’s pool, fed by a natural hot springs, beckons me for one last outing.
I lose all track of time, alternating between laps and lazily floating on my back so I can gaze up at the Milky Way, luminous in the cloudless desert sky.
After warming up by a fireplace along the deck as the logs crackle and pop, that evening’s sleep comes quickly. And if the owls are hooting and the coyotes baying, I never hear them before waking at dawn, rejuvenated and ready for more. WALK
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A highlight of any Death Valley trip is sunrise at Zabriskie Point, the famed overlook less than 10 minutes south of The Inn at Death Valley. Watch the starkly beautiful badlands turn violet, pink, and gold at dawn, and then explore dramatically eroded terrain below the point on the 2.7-mile Badlands Loop.
The four-mile round-trip hike into Mosaic Canyon leads through areas of exposed marble and breccia that give the canyon its name. There’s no formal trail, but follow the footprints as the canyon narrows to areas of rock polished by gravel.
Telescope Peak is the park’s highest point, which you can get to on the challenging 14-mile-round-trip hike that starts at Mahogany Flat Campground. The route ascends 3,000 feet and the payoffs include incomparable views and bragging rights. After all, you’re two miles above Death Valley at the top!
Darwin Falls off State Highway 190 is worth the drive:
Fed by a spring, this modest cascade flows year-round, plunging down a mossy rock face and into a most un-desert-like grotto. The two-mile roundtrip hike isn’t challenging but requires crossings of a shallow, narrow stream.
For world-class scuba and snorkeling, look no further than these wow-worthy Caribbean destinations.
BY MEGHAN RABBITTWhen you think about the Caribbean, it can be tough to distinguish one island from another. After all, the turquoise water and diverse marine life you’ll find everywhere mean one thing: You’re in scuba and snorkeling paradise!
While that may be true, there’s a lot that makes each island distinct and special in its own right—and the best way to really experience all that each of these islands has to offer is to visit their small ports on one of Windstar’s Star Plus yachts.
Imagine being on a sailing yacht or all-suite motorized yacht with just 148 to 342 guests—ships perfectly proportioned for small ports, remote islets, and under-the-radar spots. You’ll wake up in a new destination almost every day without having to pack and unpack or
worry about the logistics of transportation or accommodations. Your meals will be locally-inspired feasts at world-class restaurants created by renowned chefs. Whichever yacht you choose, you’ll find expansive decks and elegant outdoor spaces, impeccably appointed staterooms and suites with spa-like bathrooms, and high-end amenities—a 180-degree difference from most other cruise ships!
Before you start planning your next scuba or snorkeling beach vacay, read on for a close look at the unique histories, cultures, and underwater experiences you’ll have at some of the most sought-after destinations in the Caribbean. Then, get ready to experience these extraordinary destinations in a way that’ll delight you with new discoveries and deeply enrich your life. »
The island: Like many of the Caribbean’s beautiful islands, Aruba’s diverse past is woven into the fabric of everything— from its artwork and architecture to the cuisine and cultural traditions. Originally a fishing outpost for the Indigenous population, the Spanish and then the Dutch colonized the island. It wasn’t until 1986 that Aruba seceded from the Netherlands Antilles, obtaining a separate status as an autonomous country in the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Today, the island is a true melting pot: More than 90 nationalities are represented in its 110,000 residents, most of whom can speak several languages (the native language of Papiamento, Dutch, English, and Spanish).
The scuba and snorkeling scene: This island nation offers plenty of coral reefs and wreck diving to keep snorkelers and divers busy for days. For some of the best snorkeling sites, go to Malmok Beach and Boca Cataline, where the water is shallow and calm and the marine life is plentiful. The southern, leeward coast has multiple dive sites and is home to the Antilla wreck—known as the best shipwreck in the Caribbean.
The island: While virtually every island in the Caribbean was shaped by other cultures, the confluence of African, Caribbean, and French influences gives Martinique a special feel. This tiny island located in the center of the Lesser Antilles is still an overseas region of France—a connection that’s palpable everywhere you go. In capital city Fort de France, don’t miss the Schoelcher Library, a cast-iron building that was built in France in the late 1800s and shipped to Martinique, piece by ornate piece. The Jardin de Balata is a private botanical garden located on the Route de Balata about 10 km outside of Fort-de-France. And in the resort town of Trois Ilets, an open-air museum educates visitors on the country’s colonial-era history of slavery, when Africans were forced to work on sugar plantations during the colonial era. But
perhaps the best way to experience the unique mix of cultures this island has to offer is through its cuisine. From fine-dining restaurants run by French-trained chefs to world-renowned Créole cuisine, you’ll get a taste—both literally and figuratively—of this country’s rich and distinctive history.
The scuba and snorkeling scene: One of the most popular dives on the island is the legendary Rocher du Diamant (Diamond Rock), on the south of the island. This dive spot is filled with mysterious formations— from caves to arches that are sure to impress. Anses d’Arlet (a.k.a. Arlet’s Coves) is another dive and snorkeling spot not to be missed: You can scuba or snorkel in both spots if you’re on Windstar’s Blue Waters of the Leeward Islands cruise, which stops in Martinique .
The island: This former British colony in the eastern Caribbean is an independent British Commonwealth nation—and it still has enough British traditions to be called “Little England” by many. When the first English ship touched the island in 1625, it was claimed on behalf of King James I—and within a few years, much of the land was deforested to make way for tobacco and cotton plantations. These days,
the interior of the island is still quite lush, with plenty of wildlife and botanical gardens amid the large plantations. And while this island used to be a hideaway for the elite (it has the most luxury properties per square mile in the Caribbean) its 70 miles of stunning beaches, Bajan food (an eclectic mix of African, Caribbean, West Indian, and European cuisine), and its rum now draws an eclectic mix of travelers.
The scuba and snorkeling scene: With more than 200 shipwrecks, it’s easy to see why Barbados is a scuba diver’s dream. The Pamir and Friars Crag wrecks are not to be missed— especially the relatively shallow Pamir if you’re a new diver. The thriving, colorful coral attract parrotfish, rays, and sea turtles— perfect for divers and snorkelers alike. Check out Windstar’s epic Grand Caribbean Adventure.
The island: Roughly 200 miles east of Puerto Rico, this small island is actually divided into two parts: Saint Martin, which is a French collectivity and Sint Maarten, a constituent country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Adding to the island’s multicultural history is the fact that Christopher Columbus claimed the island for Spain on his second voyage to the Americas, landing on St. Martin’s Day (and naming the island in honor of the saint). Yet soon after, both France and the Netherlands claimed the island as theirs and have peacefully shared the small country since 1648. As a result, you can experience both cultures without having to go more than a few miles, all in the context of local Caribbean charm and a tropical paradise backdrop.
The scuba and snorkeling scene: No matter which side you choose—the French or the Dutch—there are plenty of snorkeling and scuba sites to explore. On the Dutch side, don’t miss Mullet Bay Beach, a sandy stretch of coastline with clear, turquoise waters and a wide variety of sea life. On the French side, head for Creole Rock—a small island just north of Grand Case where you’ll find stingrays, angelfish, parrotfish, barracudas, and sea turtles. For diving, the south and south east sides of the island feature rocky, coral-encrusted reefs, colorful marine life and numerous wrecks. The island is particularly well-suited to beginner and novice divers, with most sites offering shallow, sheltered conditions perfect for learning or improving skills.
DIVE RIGHT IN Windstar Cruises offers spectacular small ship journeys to these magnificent destinations and makes it easy to get out discover the local wonders.
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WindstarCruises.com 844-485-5239
The island: This large Caribbean island located in the West Indies was ruled for centuries by the Spanish. Yet during the brief SpanishAmerican War in 1898, U.S. armed forces occupied Puerto Rico—and under the Treaty of Paris that formally ended the war, Spain ceded the island to the U.S. Today, Puerto Rico’s 270 miles of beaches and vibrant culture inspires people from around the world to visit. In the vibrant capital city, San Juan, you’ll experience a gastronomical delight: Puerto Rican cuisine melds Taino Indian (the native Puerto Ricans), African, Spanish, and U.S. influences to create popular traditional dishes such as arroz con gandules (rice with pigeon peas), tostones (twice fried plantain slices), and flan de queso (cream cheese
dessert). And no matter where you go, the country’s myriad forms of music, tropical lushness, and some of the friendliest and most joyful people of the Caribbean will help you get a true sense of what makes Puerto Rico so special.
The scuba and snorkeling scene: With hundreds of miles of shoreline and countless islets and cays, Puerto Rico is an incredible destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. Experienced divers flock to Desecheo, Mona Island, and “The Wall” near La Parguera. If you’re a newbie diver, Vieques’ Mosquito Pier offers a great, easy shore dive to help you hone your new skills. For snorkeling, don’t miss the keys near Fajardo on the east coast, with several atolls, reefs, and islands teeming with tropical fish and reefs.
Get the best of the best without doing the research by letting Xanterra bring the park’s resident experts to you! With everything planned for you in this one-stop-shop vacation planning, all you need to do is decide how active you want to be. For a taste of what you can experience, read on. »
When explorers entered what would become Yellowstone National park and described a land where superheated rivers kicked out plumes of steam, trees were made of stone, and the ground bubbled up beneath their feet, no one believed them. Over time, explorers and geologists would realize that Yellowstone’s geysers, hot springs, fumaroles, and mud pots were there to relieve the pent-up thermal pressure of a supervolcano called the Yellowstone Caldera. There are so many natural wonders to experience in the 3,500-square-mile park, which recently celebrated its 150th anniversary.
Don’t miss...
Bunsen Peak Trail
In a park packed with great trails, this one in the northernmost part of the park takes you through some of the best sights in Yellowstone. Best done in early morning or late afternoon, when the light is ideal, the hike is fairly short (just four miles round-trip) but requires some exertion on a series of steep switchbacks to the summit. On the lower slopes, you’ll find a bird’s-eye view of Golden Gate and Glen Creek canyons, with the Hoodoos and Mount Everts visible in the distance. Be sure to snap pictures of Mammoth Hot Springs and Mount Everts as they come into view— and the stunning panorama at the top.
Lake Yellowstone Hotel or Old Faithful Inn
Captivating views of Yellowstone Lake are best appreciated from Lake Yellowstone Hotel’s elegant Sun Room, where classical music performances enchant guests most evenings during the summer season. First opened in 1891, an era where guests arrived by stagecoach, this National Historic Landmark received a multi-million-dollar renovation in 2014. Or, stay at the Old Faithful Inn, a 327-room historic inn crafted from local logs and stone in 1903 and 1904 and considered the largest log structure in the world. After a day spent exploring the park, guests relish in the opportunity to relax in the iconic lobby, where the massive stone fireplace provides compelling ambiance. During summer months, music often fills the air as guests retreat to comfortable chairs in the heart of the grand room or on one of the three mezzanines to read, play games, enjoy a snack, or people-watch.
Are you ready for a trip that’ll inspire you to take the scenic route like never before? The Grand Canyon Railway will wow travelers of all ages. With multiple departures every day from historic Williams, Arizona, you can skip the traffic (and parking!) and head into the park in this majestic way. Sip a cocktail as you watch the scenery change from high desert to prairie to pine—and listen to music that brings the Old West to life again. For adventurous visitors looking to create a true lifetime memory, this experience is not to be missed.
Don’t miss...
A private charter
For a more private, upscale experience, you can charter one of the newly refurbished Rail Baron cars: The openair rear platform car (The Kansas) can accommodate 18 day passengers or six overnight guests; a parlor and lounge car (The Utah) can entertain 26 guests and has an onboard kitchen and bar; and a sleeper car (The California) can accommodate 44 guests during the day or 16 overnight and also includes a second-story glass dome top with sofa seating for stargazing. Simply hire your car (or cars!) of choice, choose a steam or diesel locomotive, and take off for the canyon! During the holidays, don’t miss Grand Canyon Railway’s Polar Express, a 90-minute ride to the “North Pole” where you’ll sip hot chocolate and listen to the timeless Christmas story as servers dance and sing along to the music before Santa gets on the train.
The Grand Hotel at Grand Canyon or El Tovar
The Grand Hotel is the only AAA Three Diamond hotel near the Grand Canyon, just one mile from the South Rim entrace. Located in Tusayan, Arizona, this rustic yet elegant location gives visitors easy access to the park and offers the comforts and amenities travelers want. El Tovar is a National Historic Landmark hotel, perched just steps from the Grand Canyon. Completed in 1905, El Tovar provides a history-rich lodging experience on the South Rim of the canyon. Today, El Tovar retains every bit of the elegant charm that has attracted visitors throughout its colorful history. Past guests have included Theodore Roosevelt, Albert Einstein, and Sir Paul McCartney.
The largest national park outside Alaska, Death Valley National Park in California spreads over 5,000 square miles of desert and mountains. It’s a landscape of striking contrasts, where snow lingers on peaks during winter, the occasional downpour brings forth a sea of wildflowers, and the dark sky offers stargazers a glittering treasure trove. Craft a perfect stay, filled with history and adventure, as you play golf below sea level or explore salt flats, ancient geological formations, chiseled canyons, and Badwater Basin—the lowest point in the Western Hemisphere.
Sunrise at Zabriskie Point
The spectacular views from Zabriskie Point are some of the most photographed in Death Valley National Park. The yellow and brown hills shaped by the powerful force of water take on a new beauty as the sun rises, and you’ll notice that views of the salt flats covering the floor of Death Valley are visible in the distance. After a day of hiking and exploring, catch sunset at Dantes View, which towers 5,575 feet above Badwater Basin, on the ridge of the Black Mountains. If the beauty and solitude inspire you to stay until after dark, you’re in for a breathtaking treat: Death Valley National Park is an International Dark Sky Park, which means a visit during a new moon will provide a humbling glimpse of the Milky Way and stars above. A visit during a full moon is equally as grand, as you’ll notice the salt flats below glow a ghostly white.
The new-and-improved Ranch at Death Valley is a must-visit for national park wanderers—and a must-stay for those spending a few days in this majestic park. Set along Highway 190 next to the National Park Service Visitor Center, you can enjoy a classic town square with mission California architecture. The new restaurant, ice cream and coffee bar, general store, and Last Kind Words Saloon—which feels straight out of a western movie—are sure to impress.
With 762 lakes, 563 streams, and more than 25 named waterfalls, this national park is the perfect spot to enjoy the pristine water features and mountain landscapes of Montana’s gem. The picture-perfect mountain waters host canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding, boating, and fishing. Take advantage of guided tours and ranger-led activities, whether by foot, boat, or horseback.
Don’t miss...
The famous red bus tour of “Going-to-the-Sun Road”
This spectacular 50-mile, two-lane road spans the width of Glacier, crossing the Continental Divide at Logan Pass, a 6,646-foot summit. Traveling this road, you’ll experience every terrain the park has to offer.
Cedar Creek Lodge or Many Glacier Hotel
In the town of Columbia Falls at the western entrance, Cedar Creek Lodge is a boutique hotel with a classic western look. It’s the perfect landing pad after a day of exploring, and offers everything from fly fishing to backcountry treks that leave right from the lodge. Or, stay at Many Glacier Hotel, a secluded, five-story hotel built by the Great Northern Railway in 1914 to lure tourists to the Wild West. Dedicated to honoring its historic roots, the 214-room gem recently completed a multi-million-dollar renovation that included installing a replica of the magnificent double helix spiral staircase that was part of the original hotel, a wonder in its own right.
FROM THE LOWEST COURSE IN THE WORLD AT DEATH VALLEY TO THE RENOWNED OCEAN-SIDE COURSES AT SEA ISLAND TO THE CHAMPIONSHIP COURSES A MILE ABOVE SEA LEVEL AT THE BROADMOOR, CONSIDER THIS YOUR VERY OWN PRO TOUR OF EXCEPTIONAL GOLF EXPERIENCES FROM THE DESERT TO THE OCEAN TO THE MOUNTAINS.
BY JEN MURPHY
The golf industry touted 2020 as the “year of resurgence,” with the National Golf Foundation reporting 24.8 million golfers in the U.S. in 2020—the largest net increase in 17 years, as well as the highest number of new players (6.2 million) on record. The surge in interest hasn’t shown any signs of slowing down, and the sport’s renaissance includes younger players and more women.
The top courses in America are taking note and upping their offerings both on and off the greens. Here are the golf getaways any novice or pro should have on their bucket list. With courses below sea level, at sea level, and perched at 6,800 feet, your game will literally reach new heights. »
SEASIDE COURSE, SEA ISLAND RESORT
The Courses: Nestled at the foothills of the Cheyenne Mountains, The Broadmoor Golf Club’s two courses are considered Colorado golf’s most coveted crown jewels. When classic architect Donald Ross designed the original 18-hole course in 1916, he declared it “his best work,” says Russ Miller, The Broadmoor’s director of golf. That’s an impressive statement, considering his last project had been another classic layout now named Pinehurst No. 2. When Broadmoor East opened in 1918, it was the highest golf course in the U.S. at 6,400 feet in elevation. In 1948, Robert Trent Jones, Sr. was hired to design an additional nine-hole course that joined with nine of Ross’
original holes, opening in 1952 as the new East Course. The first nine holes of the original Ross 18 became known as the “Back Nine.” In 1964, Robert Trent Jones, Sr. returned to design nine new holes in addition to redesigning nine holes of the original course, forming The Broadmoor West Course.
The latter plays tightly off the tee and features steeply angled greens set at 6,800 feet with rolling fairways and demanding hazards.
The East Course, known for its wide, tree-lined fairways and expansive greens, ranks among the top courses in the country and has been home to major tournaments, including the 1959 U.S. Amateur (Jack Nicklaus’ first major win!) and the 1995 U.S. Women’s
Open, which was Annika Sorenstam’s first major title. The famous course recently hosted the 2008 U.S. Senior Open, the 2011 U.S. Women’s Open Championship, and the 2018 U.S. Senior Open. The 2025 U.S. Senior Open will be hosted again on the East Course, making it the ninth USGA championship dating back to 1959. According to Miller, the front nine provides the most scoring opportunities. The long par-35 back nine should be approached strategically.
The Rooms: The historic mountain resort’s 784 accommodations include rooms, suites, cottages, brownstones, and the lavish Estate House. If you’re after the best golf course views, opt for the West Junior Suites or West Tower Patio Suites. However, the cottages bordering the 18th fairway of the East Course have the largest guest rooms at the resort, with luxe features like natural stone fireplaces, five-fixture
baths, and elegant French doors that open to expansive verandas.
Where to Eat: You’ll want to work up an appetite to indulge in The Broadmoor’s many restaurants, cafés, and lounges. Located at the Golf Club, The Grille serves Colorado classics such as a Signature Open Face Short Rib Sandwich and The Broadmoor Golf Club Chili. At the same time, Ristorante del Lago channels Italy with dishes such as Dayboat Black Cod Peperonata and Cacio e Pepe paired with an exclusively Italian wine list.
Personal Pampering:
The deep tissue massage at The Broadmoor’s Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Spa was designed with golfers in mind. Between treatments, unwind in the Himalayan salt-infused dry saunas, steam rooms, and oxygen lounge. Posttreatment, you can study the greens (and peaks) from the Mountain View relaxation room.
The Course: At Sea Island, Touring Professional Davis Love III learned how to play golf from his father, practiced with his brother, and introduced the game to his son. His story could easily be the story of any Sea Island member or guest, because where else can you get the world’s best Golf Performance Center with top instructors, oceanfront driving range, and three championship golf courses—all in one place? The first
of the resort’s three championship courses, Seaside Course, combines beautiful oceanfront views and natural settings into a course that is both challenging and fun. The manicured fairways and greens are bordered by sweeping dunes mixed with native grasses, wildflowers, and bunkers— and the sea breeze creates a different golf experience, daily. Seaside is routinely ranked among the top 100 courses in the United States and, along with Plantation Course, is the home of the PGA TOUR’s RSM Classic. Plantation Course offers a mix of forest and ocean views. Inspired by Walter Travis’ 1928 original ninehole course, it reopened in 2019 after a complete redesign by Davis Love III and his brother, Mark, of Love Golf Design. Finally, Retreat Course was redesigned in 2001 by Love Golf Design and
offers a variety of green shapes and fairway widths, extensive bunkering, and six sets of tees, including family tees.
The Rooms: Centerpiece to Sea Island Golf Club, as well as its Seaside and Plantation golf courses, is The Forbes Five-Star Lodge at Sea Island. Opened in 2001, The Lodge provides an intimate 58-room setting for couples and golfers. Overlooking the beach joining St. Simons Sound with the Atlantic Ocean, The Lodge boasts seven golf-in golf-out cottages— including the King Cottage with a private hitting bay— an oceanfront pool and pool house, and an 18-hole putting course called Speedway.
Where to Eat: The Oak Room offers a relaxed, tavern-style setting that transports guests to Scotland with a selection
of fine single-malt Scotch and a bagpiper playing classic tunes such as “Scotland the Brave.”
Beloved by guests since 1928, The Forbes Five-Star Cloister at Sea Island is set on 50 lush acres and is nestled between five miles of private beach and largest salt marsh on the eastern seaboard. The Cloister encompasses a vast range of world-class amenities, including the Sea Island Beach Club with Sea Strike & Pub, The Spa at Sea Island, Sea Island Yacht Club, Sea Island Shooting School, and Rainbow Island.
River Bar and Lounge, located with The Cloister at Sea Island, is simple elegance with beers on tap, an extensive wine list, single-malt scotch, and a fine selection of bourbon and whiskey. The menu features casual and creative cuisine with French and European twists, like our signature Sea Island Seafood Gumbo—perfect for sharing as guests take in panoramic views of the Black Banks River.
Personal Pampering: With towering palms above and smooth stones below, The Forbes Five-Star Spa at Sea Island captures the very essence of nature, with cascading waterfall showers, mineral pool baths, a peaceful grass labyrinth, and sun-filled garden atrium. From the moment of arrival, the gentle flow of waters leads to a renewed sense of spirit. This 65,000-squarefoot facility is a haven for guests and members seeking a sanctuary of unparalleled elegance and serenity. Cryotherapy treatments, as well as hands- and arms-specific massages, were developed with golfers in mind.
The Course: If you want golf bragging rights, book a tee time at Furnace Creek Golf Course. Designed at more than 200 feet below sea level, it’s the world’s lowest golf course in elevation and set within the desert oasis that is Death Valley National Park. Golf Digest ranks the 18-hole, par-70 course among the 50 toughest in America.
Some unique challenges include the low barometric pressure that prevents golf balls from traveling as far as they would at sea level, as well as wily coyotes who are known to dart onto the course and steal golf balls.
The remote course goes back to 1927, when Murray Miller, a date-palm caretaker at Furnace Creek, set up a three-hole golf course for the local miners. In 1931, a nine-hole course—the first grass course in the California desert—was created. Oasis water was used to irrigate the fairways and the ranch’s nearby sheep kept them mowed. Noted course designer William F.
Bell expanded the course to a full 18 holes in 1968, and a state-of-the-art irrigation system allows it to remain open year-round. The resort’s recent renaissance included eco-updates that have made the course water neutral and incorporate native plantings. A PGA Golf Pro is on site for lessons and to share tips for navigating this deceptively difficult course.
The Rooms: The Oasis at Death Valley offers five choices of accommodations, ranging from a campground anchored by a natural spring-fed swimming pool to the historic inn that has hosted Hollywood stars like Marlon Brando and Clark Gable. A recent multi-million-dollar restoration has added 22 casitas scattered around date palms and gardens, as well as 80 modern
cottages that are walking distance to the Furnace Creek Golf Course.
Where to Eat: After working up an appetite on the greens, head to the 19th Hole. This open-air lunch spot, adjacent to the Furnace Creek Golf Course, at Death Valley clubhouse is known for its burgers (try the Mulligan Burger, topped with sautéed onions, green chili, and bacon) and craft brews. Don’t miss the creative cocktails inspired by the local bounty at The Inn at Death Valley Dining Room. The Date & Thyme, a mix of date-infused vodka, thyme honey, St. Germain, and prosecco, is a favorite. On a hot summer day, cool off with a famous date shake or root beer float from the Ice Cream Parlour, an oldtimey soda fountain that will make you nostalgic for your childhood.
Personal Pampering: Check in to one of the new spa rooms at the Wellness Sanctuary at Death Valley. A Trigger Point Foot Wrap offers relief after being on your feet for 18 holes, and sports-specific massages can be enhanced with pain-relieving arnica cream or magnesium oil and percussion guns that knead away stubborn knots.
BY LINDSEY GALLOWAY
It’s not every day a cruise ship is cut in half. Yet Windstar Cruises embarked on exactly that for not one, but three of their cruise ships—including the Star Breeze, the Star Legend, and the Star Pride—to give guests a more luxurious and comfortable experience.
Dubbed “Windstar Stretched”, the $250 million project started in 2019, as the Star Breeze ship docked in Sicily and was cut in half to make room for a new 84-foot block to be inserted at its midsection. The Star Legend and Star Pride followed shortly after, each receiving the same renovation throughout 2020 and 2021.
Even better for those setting sail on these new-and-improved vessels: While the new addition to each ship added 50 new suites, a new pool deck, and a new outdoor lounge area, the ships still carry only 312 passengers, allowing them to be far under the 350-passenger limit to access smaller, less-traveled ports and more narrow waterways. The project also added four new engines per ship, ensuring more efficient fuel usage, better environmental performance, and higher speeds that make it possible to reach more far-flung destinations.
The new Star Plus Class fleet is now fully ready to show off these ambitious changes to guests, departing for destinations like the Mediterranean, Alaska, and Scandinavia this year. Here is just a peek at what to expect from the renovations as the “stretched” fleet takes to the seas again.
The new suites incorporate a more open layout, featuring the bed near the window or balcony for even better sea views. Each suite is at least 277 square feet, and includes an Egyptian cotton-fitted queen bed, walk-in closets, and a newly renovated bathroom (even in the original suites).
For an even more expansive stay, the new Grand Owner’s Suite Midship reaches up to 1,374 square feet when combined with the adjoining suite, making it a 3-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom escape.
The renovations came with two brand new restaurants, including the Star Grill on the top deck, and Cuadro 44 on Deck 6.
The Star Grill, created by grill master Steven Raichlen, features barbeque dishes from around the world, each with a contemporary take. Dishes like maple sriracha chicken drumsticks and lemongrass pork can be enjoyed alfresco alongside sea views.
Inspired by Spanish staples, Cuadro 44 features reimagined tapas dishes by Michelin Star chef Anthony Sasso. Classic dishes like paella have been reimagined into a more bite-sized croquetta form, and Basque-style cod is seasoned with salt extracted from the same seas as the fish itself. Foodies will especially love the chef’s counter, which lets guests see the intricate preparation happen before their eyes in the open kitchen.
The two restaurants join existing favorites like elegant, sunset-filled Amphora (which received a total renovation) and the newly expanded buffet dining at Veranda.
The midsection expansion allowed for the installation of a brand new infinity pool, whirlpool, and expanded lounge area on the top deck, adding even more space for outdoor relaxation. Even if sunbathing isn’t your style, the pool lights up at night for splashing under the stars.
Indoors, the World Spa by Windstar was also expanded to be three times as large as it was previously, including a Motion Room for yoga classes, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and four rooms for regionally-inspired spa treatments like glacial mud body wraps and basalt stone massages. A new steam room, sauna, and “experience shower” (featuring targeted water sprays and changing ambient lighting) can also be enjoyed anytime by spa guests.
Even with the expanded ship footprint, the Star Plus Class fleet still offers the same 1-to-1.5 staffto-guest ratio, ensuring the high levels of safety service the fleet has long been known for.
And while the fleet will continue to operate its tried-and-true routes to Tahiti, Greece, and the Mediterranean, it will also be embarking on new destinations to places like the Holy Lands, Austrailia, New Zealand, and the Red Sea.
A WORLD OF
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NATIONAL PARKS
LODGING & CONCESSIONS
• Death Valley National Park
• Grand Canyon South Rim
• Zion National Park
• Yellowstone National Park
• Glacier National Park
• Mount Rushmore National Memorial
• Rocky Mountain National Park
CRUISE LINE
• Windstar Cruises
HOTELS & HISTORIC
RAILROAD
• Grand Hotel at Grand Canyon
• Cedar Creek Lodge
• Grand Canyon Railway & Hotel
TOUR COMPANIES
• VBT Bicycling Vacations
• Country Walkers
• Holiday Vacations
AFFILIATE PROPERTIES
• The Broadmoor
• Sea Island
With nine unique lodging options, including the renowned historic Lake Yellowstone Hotel, Yellowstone National Park Lodges provides the ultimate park experience. Staying in the park is the best way for visitors to experience everything. Once the day visitors leave, Yellowstone comes alive for the in-park overnight guests alone. Yellowstone National Park Lodges also offers tours and activities guided by accomplished guides, tailoring memorable and engaging experiences.
YNP YellowstoneNational ParkLodges.com
Zion National Park Lodge is the only lodging inside Zion National Park. Enjoy spacious accommodation— including hotel rooms, suites, and cabins—plus a year-round restaurant. The lodge offers a wide variety of ways to keep you entertained during your visit to Zion National Park.
ZL ZionLodge.com
In northwestern Montana, where the American and Canadian Rockies meet, sits one of the most breathtaking of all the national parks, Glacier National Park. Guests can plan a memorable vacation and stay in one of five historic lodges within the park. Enjoy in-park accommodations and famed Red Bus Tours from late spring to early fall, as well as year-round accommodations at Cedar Creek Lodge.
GNP GlacierNationalPark Lodges.com
Cedar Creek Lodge and Conference Center blends the comfort of a mountain lodge with modern style, conveniently located at the gateway to Glacier National Park. It’s the perfect home base for everything the region offers—hiking, biking, fishing, winter sports, and more.
GNP GlacierNationalPark Lodges.com
The Oasis at Death Valley is a lush sanctuary surrounded by the vast desert of Death Valley National Park, California. It’s one resort with two hotels—the historic, AAA Four Diamond, 88-room Inn at Death Valley and the family-oriented, 224-room Ranch at Death Valley. The resort recently underwent a $100 million renovation, including new rooms and the addition of 22 private casitas at The Inn, as well as a revitalized Town Square, complete with shopping and a new saloon at The Ranch at Death Valley. The property features natural spring-fed pools, an 18-hole golf course, horse and carriage rides, worldrenowned stargazing, and is surrounded by Death Valley National Park’s main attractions.
OAS OasisAtDeathValley.com
Exclusive Offer: 15% off the best available rate at The Inn at Death Valley.*
Grand Canyon National Park Lodges offers six distinct historic lodges. From the El Tovar Hotel, long considered the crown jewel of national park hotels, to Phantom Ranch, the only lodging on the floor of the canyon, you’ll find accommodations to enhance your visit to the Grand Canyon. Don’t miss the Historic Village or guided tours via mule, motorcoach, rail, or raft.
GC GrandCanyon Lodges.com
The Grand Hotel is the only AAA Three Diamond hotel near the Grand Canyon, just one mile from the South Rim entrance. Located in Tusayan, Arizona, this rustic yet elegant location gives visitors easy access to the park and offers the comforts and amenities travelers want.
GCGH GrandCanyonGrand Hotel.com
Welcome to our Preferred Guest Program. As a valued past guest, you can enjoy unforgettable experiences at special rates at any of these brands. Choose your next adventure and experience savings, perks, and more!
Hidden wonders. Tuckedaway ports. Secluded beaches. Windstar’s elegant, smaller ships carrying fewer than 350 guests bring these magical places within reach, in ways bigger ships can’t. Feel what it’s like to get close enough to see the narrow confines of the Corinth Canal or the delicate green-and-brown mantle of Iceland’s Surtsey Island. Find new perspectives that deepen your understanding of iconic destinations and enrich your experience of other cultures. This is travel that’s 180 degrees from ordinary, revealing worlds only a select few will ever see.
WSC WindstarCruises.com
Exclusive Offer: Save 5% off nationally published cruise fares.*
For more than 40 years, Country Walkers has provided active, fully immersive, and unforgettable travel experiences on five continents—including unforgettable safaris to Africa. Opt for scheduled, small-group “Fully-Guided Walking Adventures,” perfectly balanced “Flex-Guided Walking Adventures,” or independent “Self-Guided Walking Adventures.” On tour, guests enjoy superb local cuisine, first-class guides, fine accommodations, and authentic cultural encounters.
CW CountryWalkers.com
Exclusive Offer: Save 5% on any FullyGuided, Flex-Guided or Self-Guided Adventure.*
Founded in 1971, VBT Bicycling Vacations offers over 50 deluxe, small-group guided bicycling and guided bike and boat tours, as well as self-guided bicycling vacations throughout the world. Each trip includes all accommodations, some meals, unique facilitated cultural experiences, and biking support. Unlike other companies, VBT also includes round-trip international airfare from over 30 U.S. cities and select Canadian cities for all international vacations. VBT has been rated among the “World’s Best Tour Operators” by the readers of Travel + Leisure for eight years. VBT vbt.com
Exclusive Offer: Save 5% on any VBT Bicycling Vacations.*
Holiday Vacations is one of America’s most reputable tour companies, with more than 47 years of experience. Expert tour directors handle every detail, ensuring you a carefree and memorable vacation. Holiday Vacations is a nationwide provider of air, rail, motorcoach, and cruise-guided vacations to destinations worldwide, with convenient packages that include all flights, hotels, guides, attractions, transportation, and many delightful meals.
HV HolidayVacations.com
Exclusive Offer: Save $100 on select tours.*
Travel more than 120 round-trip miles through beautiful northern Arizona while being entertained by cowboy characters and strolling musicians on the historic train to the Grand Canyon. The Grand Canyon Railway has been departing daily from Williams, Arizona, since 1901. Spend a night in Williams next door to the train depot at the AAA Three Diamond Grand Canyon Railway Hotel. Don’t miss Spenser’s Pub with its handcrafted 19th-century bar. Packages with train travel and overnight stays in Grand Canyon National Park and Williams are available.
GCR TheTrain.com
Exclusive Offer: Save 30% off upgraded class train fare.*
TO ACCESS YOUR BENEFITS GO TO
xanterra.com/exclusive
The gem of the Rockies, The Broadmoor, located in Colorado Springs, is the longest-running winner of both the Forbes Five-Star and AAA Five Diamond awards. The Broadmoor offers guests a unique way to experience the beauty of the American West, boasting a luxurious Forbes Five Star spa as well as 20 restaurants and lounges (including the only Forbes Five-Star, AAA Five Diamond restaurant in Colorado, Penrose Room), championship golf, ziplining, falconry, fly fishing, tennis, pickleball, indoor/ outdoor pools, distinctive retail shops, tours, and activities for guests of all ages. The Broadmoor offers three award-winning, all-inclusive Wilderness Experiences—Cloud Camp, The Ranch at Emerald Valley, and the Orvis Endorsed Fly Fishing Camp—blending the rugged adventure of the Colorado mountains with the Broadmoor’s luxury, elegance, and superior service. BR Broadmoor.com
Exclusive Offer: Enjoy 10% off standard rack rates and a complimentary room upgrade.* Enjoy 15% off standard rack rates at your choice of Cloud Camp, The Ranch at Emerald Valley, or Fly Fishing Camp.*
Since 1928, Sea Island has been known as an exceptional destination appealing to those who appreciate gracious service and heartfelt hospitality. (And it’s the only resort in the world to have received four Forbes Five-Star awards for 11 consecutive years.) Sea Island provides exceptional settings and service for conferences and executive retreats—and even hosted the G8 Summit. Located off the Georgia coast, Sea Island features five miles of private beach; a beach club; tennis and squash centers; a yacht club; a shooting school; children’s activities; and three championship golf courses, including Seaside and Plantation, home of the PGA Tour’s RSM Classic. Guests may also enjoy nearby Broadfield, a Sea Island sporting club and lodge, offering a variety of seasonal hunting, fishing, sporting, and organic culinary opportunities.
SI SeaIsland.com
Exclusive Offer: Stay and receive a $200 resort credit per stay.*
Visit Xanterra.com/Exclusive.
Find yourself here, on the 12-day Pearls of Paradise cruise.
Small-port destinations few truly know, and fewer still have visited. Discover them in a way only a Windstar cruise can o er: Small, uncrowded sailing or all-suite yachts serving just 148 to 342 guests, guided by a welcoming crew; unique shore excursions from local perspectives; and Cruise Only and All-Inclusive fare options to suit your style. It’s a cruise experience that’s 180 degrees from ordinary.
WINDSTARCRUISES.COM
To find your way to Windstar Cruises, call your Travel Advisor or 844.485.5239
WIND YACHTS
With the Xanterra Travel Collection, the gift of unforgettable experiences is just a gift card away. Invite your loved ones to pause, take a breath, and dream of the places they long to go. A historic stay on the rim of the Grand Canyon. A yacht-style cruise to hidden ports. A guided tour to bucket list destinations. Even works of local artists from our shops or head-to-toe pampering in a spa room at The Oasis at Death Valley. With our gift cards, they can do all that and more. Learn more about how to give the gift of travel at Xanterra.com/GiftCard
With the Xanterra Travel Collection®, the gift of unforgettable experiences is just a gift card away. Invite your loved ones to pause, take a breath, and dream of the places they long to go. A historic stay on the rim of the Grand Canyon. A yacht-style cruise to hidden ports. A guided tour to bucket list destinations. Even works of local artists from our shops or head-to-toe pampering in a spa room at The Oasis at Death Valley. With our gift cards, they can do all that and more. Learn more about how to give the gift of travel at Xanterra.com/GiftCard
XANTERRA TRAVEL COLLECTION GIFT CARDS
VBT BICYCLING VACATIONS
HOLIDAY VACATIONS
COUNTRY WALKERS
XANTERRA TRAVEL COLLECTION GIFT CARDS
VBT BICYCLING VACATIONS
HOLIDAY VACATIONS
COUNTRY WALKERS