Ultimate Experiences April 2019 by tagmediaaspen

U LT I M AT E E X P E R I E N C E S

HAUTE HAWAII BHUTAN An Elevated Sojourn CRUISE GPS California Dreamin’

Olympian ROBBIE DIXON Chef NOBU MATSUHISA Six Senses’ MARIE GIUGE PERRY

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POINT OF VIEW

Next-Level Travel WE OFTEN HEAR ABOUT “LIFE-CHANGING” ADVENTURES. Suspended moments while discovering new places and people—when time slows, your Inbox has no relevancy, and your view of the world shifts—anchor a transformational journey. In fact, it’s those very moments that fuel our mission to design seamless trips and customized itineraries for you. Once we experience life-altering travel, most curious adventurers want to inspire others to do the same. Within this issue we’ll capture such memorable journeys. We’ll travel to Bhutan, Hawaii, and step aboard a Crystal Cruise that celebrates the California coast. And in addition to taking you to various corners of the globe, our goal with Ultimate Experiences is to spotlight the other wow-factor ingredient of life-changing travel: the private guides, local community leaders, restaurateurs, ship captains, and hoteliers who add their secret sauce via insider knowledge and genuine hospitality. As you plan your 2019 travel this spring, think about those destinations and resorts that you will always carry with you, long after the flight or road trip home. The best adventures are yet to come! ENJOY THE ISSUE,

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ULTIMATE EXPERIENCES

An Iconic Return. A Legendary Welcome. Now available for reservations for stays from August 2019.

SINGAPORE SIEM REAP PHNOM PENH JAKARTA MANILA HAINAN SHENZHEN SEYCHELLES DUBAI MAKKAH JEDDAH ISTANBUL PARIS WARSAW

EYE CANDY

SPRING

Fling

PORTUGAL MAY JUST TURN INTO THE NEXT BLUE ZONE—a coveted international locale

with alluring landscapes and home to some of the happiest, and healthiest, people on the planet. This vibrant European country has an evolving cleaneating scene, with farm-to-table restaurants and chic cafés on many city corners. Six Senses Douro Valley Consulting Chef Ljubomir Stanisic dishes seasonally inspired cuisine at the posh property, which has an organic garden of vegetables and herbs located on the estate. Portugal also enjoys nearly 300 days of sunshine per year, and its rugged coastline, including this wooden footbridge to Praia do Camilo beach on the coast of the Algarve region, beckons the adventurous spirit. If an urban escape is more your scene, the capital of Lisbon prides itself on its walkable layout. It’s hilly, so a stroll through the city can count toward your Fitbit goals, too. Here’s to wandering well!

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CONTENTS ULTIMATE EXPERIENCES April 2019

F E A T U R E S

ALOHA, HAWAI‘I!

Journey over the Pacific Ocean and discover six tropical islands that are decidedly different yet equally enchanting. BY JEN MURHY

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DESTINATION >HAPPY

CALIFORNIA DREAMIN’

A country that measures success in smiles versus income, Bhutan is rich in natural treasures, ancient temples, and a gracious culture.

A week-long journey aboard Crystal Serenity® reveals a playful Pacific coastline and America’s unique ports of call.

BY IGNACIO MAZA

BY ERIN LENTZ

ON THE COVER Hi‘ilawe Falls, on the Island of Hawai‘i. Photographed by Brian Hirschfeld.

CONTENTS

Go Now Wow Factor

26 HAVE MISSION, WILL TRAVEL

THE SUITE LIFE

Exclusive suite privileges ensure indulgence when booking two or more nights at a luxe suite or villa.

14 ROOM KEY

14 16

Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas uniquely connects guests to untrammeled land and local communities.

16 GAME CHANGER Five oh so tasty reasons to dine in Monaco.

18 CRUISE GPS Discover the Galápagos on Silversea Cruises’ new expedition ship—Silver Origin, which debuts its maiden voyage in 2020; discover the poshest suite on the ocean with Regent Seven Seas Cruises®.

National Geographic photo journalist Andrew Evans returns to India on a Uniworld river cruise.

30 DESTINATION GPS Oceania Cruises sets its sights on Tahiti, New Zealand, and Australia, and plans onshore experiences that surprise and delight.

32 ABROAD & BEYOND To sail with Ponant is to see the ends of the earth, from polar extremes to islands unknown.

36 LIVE LIKE A LOCAL Olympian Robbie Dixon’s Whistler.

38 POINT OF VIEW Celebrating the “one love” spirit in Jamaica.

22 BESPOKE Unwind, dine, and connect aboard Canada’s decadent Rocky Mountaineer.

66 THE RESOURCE Where to stay, how to explore, and what to see.

69 BEYOND 2 EYE CANDY 6 EDITOR’S LETTER 7

CONTRIBUTORS

Travel, Elevated: Cruises, Hotels & Resorts, Vacations.

80 POSTCARD FROM… Thailand, with Marie Giuge Perry, Vice President of Sales & Marketing at Six Senses.

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EDITOR’S LETTER

Ultimate Experiences April 2019

Wander Well WHEN I FIRST STEPPED ONTO THE MAASAI MARA NATIONAL RESERVE IN KENYA, I WAS SPEECHLESS. As we departed our bush plane, my friend, a luxury travel agency owner and intrepid traveler, told me to feel the soil—let it sift through my fingers. As I cradled a tiny part of East Africa’s storied landscape in my hand, I was overwhelmed with emotion. This destination I had daydreamed about for so long had finally become a reality. I will forever carry the scent of that soil with me. Life-altering journeys are like that. They tug at your memory and remain a blessed go-to on days when, back home, a mental escape is needed. With this issue we celebrate such extraordinary, life-changing travel—trips and experiences that surpass all expectations. We’ll wander through Bhutan with Editor at Large Ignacio Maza, who reveals a country measured in happiness versus materialism. We’ll escape to Hawaii with author Jen Murphy, an expert on the islands who finds the ocean her inspiration. And I’m thrilled to spotlight new discoveries found along the Pacific coast during my unforgettable escape aboard Crystal Serenity®. Where will your dream trip take you, and once there, what do you most desire to celebrate? Our mission with this magazine is to inspire once-in-a-lifetime moments. Here’s to thinking big! Happy Travels

ERIN LENTZ, EDITOR IN CHIEF

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CONTRIBUTORS

EDITORIAL EDITOR IN CHIEF Erin Lentz CREATIVE DIRECTOR Karrie Sims EDITOR AT LARGE Ignacio Maza PHOTO DIRECTOR Stefanie Michejda COPY EDITOR Sarah Taylor Asquith

CONTRIBUTORS Amiee White Beazley, Meredith Diers, Jimmy Im, Ignacio Maza, Stefanie Michejda, Jen Murphy, Oliver Sharpe, Avery Stonich, Clara Woodbridge

2019 TAG Custom Publishing LLC. Ultimate Experiences Magazine is published four times a year on behalf of Signature Travel Network. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part of any material in this publication without publisher’s permission is strictly prohibited. For copies, customer service, or to exhibit or distribute at a business, please inquire at info@tagmediaaspen.com.

Jen Murphy

Stefanie Michejda

WRITER Jamaica

WRITER Hawaii

PHOTO DIRECTOR Bhutan

p. 38

p. 42

p. 52

Meredith Diers is a

Jen Murphy writes

Stefanie Michejda,

freelance journalist

the What’s Your

Tag Media’s Photo

covering travel,

Workout column for

Director and self-

literature, and news.

the Wall Street Journal

proclaimed travel

Her work has been

and contributes to

junkie, is in charge

featured in Dallas

publications including

of researching the

Style and Design,

Town & Country,

inspiring photography

CURATED, and The

Conde Nast Traveler,

found within Ultimate

Meredith Diers

Denton Record

Men’s Journal, Outside

Experiences. When she

Chronicle. She lives

and Food & Wine. She

isn’t drooling over travel

in Aspen, where she

is the author of the

imagery, she is out

hikes, bikes, and skis

Yoga (Man)ual.

exploring the world with

as often as possible. TAG MEDIA 418 East Cooper St. Suite 207B Aspen, CO 81611

I NEVER TRAVEL WITHOUT: A good book and my journal DREAM INTERVIEW: Christiane Amanpour

Signature Travel Network is comprised of top-tier travel agencies that share one common objective: serve the personal needs of the discerning traveler. The network’s buying power translates into the ability to leverage worldwide partnerships to provide you the best value and ensure the best service before and during your travels.

This brochure has been produced for the exclusive use of Signature Travel Network member agencies only. All efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein. Should an error occur, we reserve the right to correct it. Print Date: April 2019.

NEVER THOUGHT

her own camera in tow.

I’D SEE: A sea turtle

DREAM TRIP: Gorilla

swimming alongside

Trekking in Uganda

me as I kite surfed in Maui

PHOTOGRAPHER I MOST ADMIRE: Ami

CURRENT

Vitale. Her work with

RESTAURANT

elephant conservation

OBSESSION: Lineage

is as inspiring as her

in Wailea, Maui.

imagery.

IN-FLIGHT TRAVEL

GOURMAND

READ: Flux—a

DISCOVERY: On a

gorgeous, coffee

recent trip to Singapore,

table-worthy magazine

I tried Sri Lankan crab

that dives deep into

in Golden Sauce at Chin

Hawaiian culture.

Huat Live Seafood. Heaven!

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GO BEYOND. IMMERSE INTO ICONIC LUXURY. EXPERIENCE A NEW ERA OF IMMERSIVE LUXURY IN THE HEART OF THE GREAT BARRIER REEF OPENING 1 JULY.

Live the InterContinental life.

GOURMAND

A taste of Monaco Page 16

LAND & SEA

The Galápagos Page 18

TRAIN OF THOUGHT

Rocky Mountaineer Page 22

wow factor

ULTIMATE EXPERIENCES

April 2019

THE SUITE LIFE . ROOM KEY . GAME CHANGER . CRUISE GPS . BESPOKE >

Seasonal cuisine from Le Louis XV - Alain Ducasse à l'Hôtel de Paris, located in Monte Carlo, Monaco. U LT I M AT E E X P E R I E N C E S

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THE SUITE LIFE

Key Ingredients Stay at one of these chic retreats, and consider yourself primed for adventure and culture. Exclusive Suite & Villa Privileges promise once-in-a-lifetime stays, with oversized accommodations, impeccable service, and special benefits worth up to $500 per stay at more than 500 participating global properties. Pair this to the exclusive amenities across the Hotels & Resorts Collection, including daily breakfast, complimentary WiFi and an additional valuable benefit (as well as early check-in and late check-out whenever possible), and your next journey is poised for perfection.

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Clockwise from top left: Alcron Hotel in Prague; The Benjamin Hotel in New York features Romanesque architecture; Germany's Hotel Traube Tonbach; Hotel Brunelleschi in Florence, Italy.

THE SUITE LIFE

U.S.

THE BENJAMIN HOTEL (New York, NY)

Located in Midtown Manhattan, the hotel’s neoRomanesque edifice exudes a private club ambiance and proves its worth as a New York City landmark. The recent redesign—a collaboration by interior designer Lauren Rottet and Benjamin sleep expert Dr. Rebecca Robbins— features an updated residential ambiance. Named one of the New York Times 50 Favorite Restaurants, The National serves modern bistro cuisine by Food Network Chef Geoffrey Zakarian.

SUITE TALK: Decorated with modern, clean lines, accommodations feature ample room and marble bathrooms stocked with Elemis bath amenities. The pied-à-terre Benjamin Suite overlooks bustling Midtown and its décor references the Art Deco era. Two private terraces set this luxury suite apart. Dine al fresco with views of the Manhattan skyline. NOT TO MISS: Spend time at the hotel’s new Sanatio Spa and relax with a traditional Japanese massage. Spa services are also available in the comfort of your room or suite. The hotel’s central

location makes it easy to visit NYC’s top attractions, like Rockefeller Center, Park Avenue businesses and shops, and Grand Central Station. Full Breakfast for two daily at The National ($50 maximum breakfast credit, per room, per day); $100 spa credit, per room, per stay; complimentary WiFi; upgrade, early check-in and late checkout (subject to availability). $100 food and beverage credit, once per stay (minimum two-night stay in select categories).

EUROPE

ALCRON HOTEL (Prague, Czech Republic)

This luxurious Art Deco hotel marries world-class hospitality and intuitive service. Set in the center of Prague’s cultural scene, it’s located near Old Town Square, Charles Bridge, and Prague Castle. The hotel is also home to the Michelin star-awarded restaurant, Alcron. SUITE TALK: Expect contemporary furnishings and layouts. The Castle View Suite features unforgettable views of Prague Castle, designer furnishings, and wood floors.

Clockwise from top: A suite at the stylish Benjamin Hotel in Manhattan; expansive outdoor terraces call for al fresco meals; in-room dining celebrates European flavors; Prague's Alcron Hotel is replete with modern touches.

NOT TO MISS: Visit Prague’s celebrated concert venue, Smetana Hall, and the Municipal House. Also venture to the Museum of Communism, where you’ll discover an immersive look at life behind the Iron Curtain after World War II. End the day at the Franz Kafka Museum, near Prague Castle, which chronicles the author’s life and works.

Buffet breakfast in La Rotonde Restaurant or full a la carte breakfast in Be Bop Bar for two daily; $100 food and beverage credit per room, per stay; fruit basket in room on arrival; upgrade, early check-in and late checkout (subject to availability). $100 food and beverage credit, once per stay (minimum two-night stay in select categories).

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THE SUITE LIFE

Europe

HOTEL BRUNELLESCHI (Florence, Italy)

Built within a Byzantine tower and the medieval church of San Michele, Hotel Brunelleschi bridges a deep history with updated elegance and luxury. Situated in the heart of Florence, enjoy an authentic Italian experience with easy access to all of the city’s treasures. SUITE TALK: The property's 96 rooms and luxurious suites celebrate Florence's unique charm. The Pool Suite Terrace offers an almost 360-degree view of the city. The Tower Suite is located at the top of Pagliazza Tower and glimpses Giotto’s Bell Tower and Brunelleschi’s Dome. NOT TO MISS: Walk to the Uffizi Gallery and admire some of the foremost pieces of artwork in the world, including Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus and da Vinci’s The Annunciation. Or take in the grand and unique Gothic style Duomo in Piazza del Duomo, which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Treat yourself to the Michelin-listed, gourmet

restaurant, Santa Elisabetta. Seven romantic tables are located inside the ancient Torre della Pagliazza. $70 food and beverage credit, per room per stay, (only valid for restaurants and bar); bottle of prosecco welcome amenity; upgrade, early check-in and late check-out (subject to availability). One-way airport transfer (minimum two-night stay in select categories).

Europe

HOTEL TRAUBE TONBACH (Baiersbronn, Germany)

Located near the Black Forest National Park and nestled among tall fir trees, the familyowned and operated Hotel Traube Tonbach is known for tastefully decorated rooms and the three-Michelin starred Restaurant Schwarzwaldstube. Unique landscapes and cultural diversity make it ideal headquarters for both relaxing and exploring. 12

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SUITE TALK: All rooms, apartments, and suites feature spacious rooms, stateof-the-art amenities, and a balcony or terrace. Six unique suites are exclusive and individually furnished with panoramic landscape vistas. Family Apartments offer privacy and room for the whole family, including a separate nursery, large living room, and bedroom. NOT TO MISS: Spend time on various hiking and biking trails within the Black Forest National Park while discovering cirque lakes and spectacular waterfalls. Auto fans should check out

Clockwise from top: Hotel Brunelleschi's décor bridges past and present with a mix of historic and modern touches; room with a Florence view; lavish outdoor gardens at Hotel Traube Tonbach; the property's rooms are replete with neutral accents and pops of color.

the Mercedes-Benz Museum. The modern exhibit tells the history of the Mercedes automobile put in the context of technology and modern life. Five-course dinner at Restaurant Silberberg, per guest, once per stay; glass of Champagne on arrival; welcome amenity; upgrade, early check-in and late check-out (subject to availability). $100 spa credit, once per stay (minimum two-night stay in select categories).

THE SUITE LIFE

From top: The sea-kissed InterContinental Hayman Island Resort reopens this summer with lavish outdoor design and pools; dining experiences are inspired by the ocean's bounty.

Australia

INTERCONTINENTAL HAYMAN ISLAND RESORT (Hayman Island, Australia)

Experience an iconic Great Barrier Reef private island experience, as this anticipated resort re-opens this summer. Nestled on the northernmost point of the Whitsunday Islands, immerse yourself in nature, while connecting with family and friends. SUITE TALK: Located on a pristine 400-hectare private island, the 166-room luxury resort has undergone a spectacular renovation. Opt for the new Three-Bedroom Beach House, with three private pools (one for each room) and direct beach access.

NOT TO MISS: Bespoke experiences include private trips to secluded beach coves, jet ski adventures, and seaplane rides with incredible views of the Great Barrier Reef. As for underwater excursions, diving and snorkeling reveals the reef's famous marine life and coral.

Island Escapade Snorkeling Excursion for two, once per stay; upgrade, early check-in and late check-out (subject to availability).

Staying Power The world's top suites are just a click or phone call away.

$100 resort credit, once per stay (minimum two-night stay in select categories)

Visit the website on the back cover and enter OFFER M19033.

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ROOM KEY

Sense of Place Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas uniquely connects guests to untrammeled land and local communities. BY J I M MY I M

Debuted in 1995, Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas is taking over the globe—one remote location at a time. Each property is rooted in place, immersed in nature (known for indelible views) and merges luxury, culture, and wellness to create unforgettable experiences. With a growing portfolio, Six Senses features rustic-elegant rooms, elevated dining, holistic spa programs, and authentic vacations connected to the land. Here are five top resorts for a luxury escape.

SIX SENSES DOURO VALLEY Lamego, Portugal SUITE GPS: While the wine-region property will debut 10 new rooms and suites this year, book One Courtyard and enjoy a $100 resort credit (per room, per stay). The 1,100-square-foot suite features a veranda overlooking the courtyard with granite fountain. From top: Overwater villas at Six Senses Fiji; source-to-fork cuisine at the Six Senses Douro Valley in Portugal. Opposite, clockwise from top: Interiors at the Maldives property celebrate a genuine sense of place; Félicité Island in the Seychelles; an unforgettable birds-eye entrance to Zighy Bay in Oman.

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DISCOVER: The tile painting workshop immerses guests in the famous Portuguese pastime painting azulejo (ceramic tile). EAT: Take a seasonally inspired cooking class at a Josper Grill. Join a small group for a meal prepared and hosted by the chef, with decadent wine pairings.

ROOM KEY SIX SENSES LAAMU Laamu Atoll, Maldives SUITE GPS: The ultimate overwater retreat, the Laamu Water Villa features an infinity pool over the lagoon, expansive treetop deck, and an overwater glass bathtub. DISCOVER: The beachfront spa offers four uniquely designed treatment “nests” right on the powdery white sand, with Ayurvedic treatments and aerial yoga. Guests are pampered with a 50-minute massage for two (per room, per stay). EAT: The signature restaurant Leaf is perched above the resort's organic garden. Local ingredients are sourced from Maldivian fishermen and farmers, including a fresh catch of the day. Enjoy a $100 food and beverage credit (per room, per stay).

SIX SENSES FIJI Malolo Island, Fiji

SIX SENSES ZIL PASYON Félicité Island, Seychelles

SUITE GPS: The Two-Bedroom Beachfront Residence includes a private pool, direct beach access, seamless indoor/outdoor design, and in-villa chef. Experience a $100 FJD spa credit (per person, per stay).

SUITE GPS: The 2,150-square-foot Pasyon Pool Villa boasts an outdoor shower built into a garden, private infinity pool, and an elevated, oceanfacing location. Included in the stay is a $100 resort credit (per room, per stay).

DISCOVER: Fijian Cultural Night celebrates local culture with traditional dances, songs, food, and stories about Fiji right on property. EAT: Don’t miss Tovolea, designed to encourage dining interaction with international cuisine and commanding sunset views.

DISCOVER: Hike through the tropical jungles of Felicite Island with the Island Conservation manager. The nature trails take guests to the hilltop with magical views. EAT: Escape to Lakanbiz, an elegant, hidden rum bar with ocean vistas, housemade infused rums and cigars.

SIX SENSES ZIGHY BAY Musandam, Oman SUITE GPS: The 12,000-square-foot Two-Bedroom Beachfront Retreat (with direct beach access) features its own personal spa suite, a wine cellar, and infinity pool with outdoor space within the privacy of rustic, cobblestone walls. DISCOVER: The Paragliding Arrival, where guests can sail from a 960-foot jump and land on the white sandy beaches for check-in. At the spa, be pampered with a 60-minute Six Senses Signature Spa treatment for two (per room, per stay). EAT: The views go for miles at Sense on the Edge, the signature restaurant located on the mountaintop. Frenchinspired dishes like quail and scallops are elegantly paired with fine wines. Chic Retreats Visit the website on the back cover and enter OFFER M19031 to learn how Six Senses further elevates the luxury vacation.

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GAME CHANGER

5 Reasons to Dine in Monaco Whether in search of decadent or health-conscious cuisine, this Mediterranean outpost delivers oh so tasty options. BY J E N M U R P H Y THERE’S NEVER BEEN A MORE EXCITING TIME TO DINE IN THE STORIED RIVIERA PRINCIPALITY. There are plenty of Michelinstarred restaurants to splurge on, but you’ll also find stylish vegan spots, gourmet food halls, and much more.

ELSA

In 2015, Chef Paolo Sari’s Elsa became the first all-organic restaurant in the world to be awarded a Michelin star. Set within the effortlessly chic Monte Carlo Beach Hotel, it’s earned a loyal following amongst healthconscious sun seekers with its sustainable16

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minded tasting menus. All of the ingredients in dishes like roasted lamb with Provence herbs and verbena-scented scampi with ginger carrot puree are sourced from within 60 miles, and much of the produce comes from Sari’s nearby gardens.

EQVITA

Tennis star Novak Djokovic credits his unstoppable energy on the court to a mostly vegan diet. In 2016, the Monaco resident and his wife, Jelena, opened a casual restaurant featuring a menu of their favorite plant-based dishes. The champ tapped Lee Clay, the chef who helped fuel him through the Australian Open, to help develop tasty yet healthful recipes like avocado Caprese salad and quinoastuffed sweet potato with sautéed oyster mushrooms and sweet pepper harissa.

GAME CHANGER

Opposite: Monaco's famous waterside retreats. Clockwise from top: La Condamine Market; Le Louis XV - Alain Ducasse à l'Hôtel de Paris; Eqvita restaurant is a favorite of tennis star Novak Djokovic; Les Perles de Monte Carlo is known for its oysters; Elsa, located at Monte Carlo Beach Hotel.

LE HALLE GOURMANDE

When La Condamine Market first opened in 1880, it was just as much a social hub as it was the principality’s main grocery stop. Today, not much has changed, except spiffier digs (the market was renovated in 2012) and more food options from the region’s best butchers, bakers, fishmongers, and farmers. The daily market has always been a popular lunchtime haunt, but it’s now earning a reputation as a great dinner stop, thanks to the 2014 debut of Le Halle Gourmande. Located in the building adjacent to the market square, expect Monegasque specialties like pissaladière, a pizza-like tart topped with caramelized onions and olives.

LE LOUIS XV ALAIN DUCASSE

The accolades are many, and well deserved, but legendary chef Alain Ducasse isn’t one to rest on his laurels. He continues to raise the bar at Le Louis XV, his three Michelin star restaurant in à l'Hôtel de Paris, which is fresh off a renovation that left the dining room looking like a mini Versailles. Ducasse

describes his cuisine here as “food that tastes like the sun” and together, with chef Dominique Lory, he’s crafted a dazzling menu of haute dishes such as truffled guinea fowl with pine needles and blue lobster with myrtle berries and ginger. An exceptional wine cellar of 600,000-plus bottles, many of them rare vintages, complements the experience.

LES PERLES DE MONTE-CARLO

On a sunny, summer day, skip the white tablecloth and fancy china and head to Les Perles on the port of Fontvieille. The oyster nursery, run by two trained biologists, supplies all of the principality’s top chefs with its briny bivalves. Laze away an afternoon sitting on wooden benches, under the shade of umbrellas while slurping freshly shucked oysters and sipping local, organic wine.

Custom Escapes Enjoy insider access to the best of Monaco. Visit the website on the back cover, enter OFFER M18994, and access unforgettable stays.

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CRUISE GPS

NATURALLY ELEVATED Discover the Galápagos on Silversea Cruises’ new expedition ship, Silver Origin, which debuts its maiden voyage in 2020. BY AV E RY S TO N I C H

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CRUISE GPS

By the Numbers With room for

100 and the

guests

101

crew,

-meter

Silver Origin will set sail in

2020

The ship has Opposite: A happy marine iguana on the Galápagos Islands. Clockwise from top left: Cruising for wildlife sightings; snorkeling in the Galápagos is a bucket-list check for adventurers; scenic coves are endless.

WHEN CHARLES DARWIN EXPLORED THE GALÁPAGOS ISLANDS IN 1835, HE WAS AWESTRUCK BY THE WILDLIFE. “I never dreamed that islands, about 50 or 60 miles apart, and most of them in sight of each other, formed of precisely the same rocks, placed under a quite similar climate, rising to a nearly equal height, would have been differently tenanted,” he wrote. Indeed, the Galápagos is like nowhere else on earth; this “living museum” even inspired Darwin’s Theory of Evolution. The remote archipelago—a constellation of 19 volcanic islands located 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, where three ocean currents converge—evolved in isolation, creating a unique environment home to hundreds of endemic species. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978, the Galápagos is almost entirely national park, surrounded by 51,000 square miles of marine reserve. For anyone who is curious about the natural world, a trip here—ideally by ship—is a must. Soon, the latest evolution in expedition cruise ships will set sail. In 2020, Silversea Cruises is unveiling Silver Origin, a small luxury ship designed specifically for immersing guests in the wonder of the Galápagos. All-suite accommodations wrap the ship’s exterior in an outward-facing layout that frames sweeping views of the islands’ aquamarine waters, volcanic landscapes, and fascinating wildlife. Lavish interior design is further enhanced when the natural world claims the limelight.

zodiacs and

kayaks for

exploring. Onboard amenities include With room for just 100 guests, Silver Origin promises an intimate experience. Spend your days snorkeling among sea lions in crystalline seas, kayaking alongside marine iguanas, watching blue-footed boobies prance and dance in elaborate mating displays, and marveling at prehistoric-looking giant tortoises. Silversea’s experts unlock the magic of the islands, with nature walks, zodiac tours, and other excursions. Onboard you’ll soon understand why Silversea is frequently named best luxury cruise line. Silver Origin will cradle you in uncompromising style and comfort, with exquisite furnishings, locally inspired and sourced cuisine, and personalized service. Cap off adventurous days by soaking in the whirlpool, indulging in a massage at the spa, and deepening your understanding of the islands with lectures in the Explorer Lounge. Every creature comfort is at your fingertips, and if you think of something else you need, your personal butler is on call. In the Galápagos, find plants and animals that are uniquely adapted to their environment. With Silver Origin, Silversea has created a ship that is perfectly adapted to the Galápagos. Both are otherworldly. Your floating adventure basecamp awaits.

restaurants,

1 plunge pool, 1 whirlpool, 1

observation lounge, and

stargazing lounge.

Ocean Bound Call us today to learn more about the unique experience aboard

Silver Origin, open for bookings this May, or visit the website on the back cover, enter OFFER M19030, to uncover more itineraries with Silversea Cruises.

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CRUISE GPS

From left: Regent Suite dining area; sunset views are all but guranteed aboard the Seven Seas SplendorTM; the stylish Regent Suite spa.

Suite Dreams Regent Seven Seas Cruises® will soon debut the Seven Seas SplendorTM, with a decadent new suite to rival the finest ocean headquarters. WHAT DOES A HAND-CRAFTED HÄSTENS VIVIDUS BED FROM SWEDEN, A PRIVATE ITALIAN MARBLE SPA SUITE, AND A CUSTOM-MADE TREESSE MINIPOOL HAVE IN COMMON? They are all h n touchstones of the largest and most decadent suite at sea. Debuting in 2020 aboard the Seven Seas SplendorTM, The Regent Suite is reimagining the potential for pampering while cruising the globe. With plenty of bragging rights, this suite’s calling card is defined by out of the box and over the top.

THE REGENT SUITE

At 4,443 square feet, the two-bedroom, twoand-one-half bath Regent Suite sleeps up to

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six lucky guests and is 20 times larger than the average cruise ship stateroom. Expect plenty of space to do as you please, when you please, and always in the comfort of your floating headquarters.

EYE ON DESIGN

Concepted by Tillberg Design of Sweden, suite interiors feature exotic woods, handcrafted furnishings, plus Italian marble and golden chandeliers. Curated sculptures and rare works of art adorn the walls, while the master bedroom is adjacent to a separate sitting room with high-tech finishes. The guest bedroom reflects the master suite design, with a separate sitting area, walkin closet, and private balcony. The showpiece, however, is the master bedroom’s custom-built Vividus bed from the acclaimed Hästens brand. Crafted by four master artisans (who spent 300 hours on an 18-month timeline)

CRUISE GPS

at the Hästens workshop in Köping, Sweden, the king-sized continental bed features a pinewood frame, steel springs, and layers of flax, horsetail hair, and cotton and wool batting.

IN SUITE SPA

The Regent Suite master bath and in-suite spa feature a floor-to-ceiling ocean-view shower, so you can spy the sea’s wildlife as you relax. What’s more, a custom-made Treesse minipool graces the front balcony, where you can toast the sunset with a glass of Veuve Clicquot.

INSIDER ACCESS

Regent Suite guests have exclusive access to an additional private dining room every evening in The Study. Host a cocktail reception or dine on decadent dishes from the steak-inspired Prime 7, or the Seven Seas SplendorTM’s contemporary French restaurant, Chartreuse. BESPOKE SERVICE The Regent Suite comes with a car and driver for excursions in every port. The Head Butler serves as a dedicated personal assistant to Regent Suite guests and will coordinate spa services, daily activities, and dining whims.

BY THE NUMBERS> Seven Seas SplendorTM

Seven Seas SplendorTM’s 2020 Europe Collection: Enjoy $400 shipboard credit per couple. JULY 23 Festa in Italia: Venice to Barcelona AUGUST 4 Iberian Peaks & Coasts: Barcelona to Southampton SEPTEMBER 14 Spanish Embrace: Monte Carlo to Rome

Seven Seas SplendorTM launches in February 2020. 375 all-balcony suites range

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from 307-square-foot Veranda Suites to the lavish 4,443-square-foot Regent

For Regent's not-to-miss European

Suite. After opening Seven Seas SplendorTM reservations in 2018, Regent Seven

port experiences, enter EW17098

Seas Cruises® had the best single-booking day in its 26-year history.

on the website on the back cover.

OCTOBER 14 Picturesque Shores: Istanbul to Venice NOVEMBER 13 The Perfect Sojourn: Barcelona to Miami

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BESPOKE

BESPOKE BEAUTY Unwind, dine, and connect onboard Canada’s decadent Rocky Mountaineer. BY A M I E E W H I T E B E A Z L E Y

I ARRIVED BEFORE DAYBREAK AT THE ROCKY MOUNTAINEER TRAIN STATION IN BANFF, ALBERTA, CANADA. During an early fall morning in the mountains, guests gathered inside the train station until a light approached in the distance. With its bells ringing, a custom-designed navy blue, whiteand-gold, bi-level glass-domed train emerged through the morning mist. Rocky Mountaineer had arrived to take us on a journey through the Canadian Rockies. We're set to follow the “First Passage to the West” route from Banff to Vancouver, the only passenger rail service along the historic Canadian Pacific track, which connected British Columbia to the rest of Canada more than 130 years ago. Stepping onto the upper level of the train and into GoldLeaf Service, we settled into oversized leather seats and were given warm hand towels, coffee, and pastries to kick off the journey. 22

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Considered a signature of Rocky Mountaineer, the train's glass domes allow jaw-dropping, panoramic views. As such, a new surprise appeared around every corner—craggy peaks, powerful waterfalls, and wildlife, seemingly unaware of our passing. The rivers were a stunning turquoise blue, similar to Lake Louise and Banff, and the trees were at their peak of autumn colors. They dazzled with a vibrant mix of gold and red, contrasting with the blue sky and new fallen snow on surrounding summits. Not long after we pulled out of Banff, we were escorted downstairs to the first floor and an elegant dining room. Culinary offerings on Rocky Mountaineer is an event in and of itself—a throwback to the days of romantic train travel. While sitting with other travelers, we enjoyed a freshly prepared breakfast and three-course lunch as dramatic scenery passed outside the windows. In the GoldLeaf Service dining room, food is prepared by Michelin-trained chefs,

BESPOKE

Opposite: The Rocky Mountaineer traverses Cheakamus Canyon. Clockwise from top: The glass-domed train ensures panoramic vistas; onboard dining is inspired by land and sea; elk navigate the Athabasca River.

“Dining on ROCKY MOUNTAINEER is an event in and of

itself—a throwback to the days of romantic train travel.” Jean-Pierre Guerin and Frederic Couton, who oversee a bustling kitchen staffed with a culinary team of 85. They create cuisine in a space less than 26 feet long and 10 feet wide, one of the smallest commercial kitchens in the world. Prior to each season, the chefs re-imagine the menu, inspired by the bounty of Western Canada and highlighted by such ingredients as Pacific salmon and Alberta beef. My breakfast included perfectly poached eggs over Canadian ham and buttermilk pancakes with local berry preserves, of course topped with Canadian maple syrup. Later in the day, I enjoyed a lunch of fresh maple-cured wild Coho salmon from British Columbia, paired with wines from the Okanagan Valley. After breakfast, the train passed over the Continental Divide at Kicking Horse Pass and through Spiral Tunnels, which cuts into Cathedral Mountain and Mount Ogden, and past Craigellachie—the spot where the last spike on the Canadian Pacific Railway was driven—before descending into the Columbia River Valley. As landscapes changed so did the wildlife and the colors. Our conductor would slow the cars while our onboard Host would alert us to sightings of bears, mountain goats, elk, deer, osprey, and heron.

Rocky Mountaineer, however, is much more than just a sightseeing adventure; it’s an experience in pampering and a practice in decompression. I spent the day talking with other passengers, reading, and tasting regional wines. I also spent a lot of time on the outdoor viewing platform, taking photographs and counting bald eagles (35!) as they dove into the rivers to feast on salmon that had returned to the bedrock from which they spawned. This unique adventure is perfect for avid photographers, those who love escaping city life to relax in nature, and adventurers who want to be surrounded by the mountains while indulging in leisurely activities and exquisite cuisine. Through the passing of endless ponderosa pine, aspen, and evergreens, I came to understand that while these mountains, rivers, and landscapes may be timeless, the view simply never gets old. Rail Time For further info on Rocky Mountaineer itineraries, visit the website on the back cover and enter OFFER M18995.

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Lessons in a life well lived Sobremesa GRAN MELIĂ

Sobremesa: that moment when, after lunch, relaxation leads you to a great conversation. The essence of Spanish culture is hard to teach, but easy to learn: simple pleasures, connection to the land, respect for things well done and subtle elegance in every detail. As we call it, Lessons in a life well lived.

A life well lived

ULTIMATE EXPERIENCES

RIVER TALES India & ME to WE Page 26

ALL’S AN ISLE

Oceania, Sun + Sand Page 30

CANADA IS CALLING Robbie Dixon’s Whistler Page 36

go now

April 2019

HAVE MISSION, WILL TRAVEL . DESTINATION GPS . ABROAD & BEYOND . LIVE LIKE A LOCAL . POINT OF VIEW>

Above: The sun-drenched shadows of Jamaica’s playful coastline. U LT I M AT E E X P E R I E N C E S

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DEEP DIVE National Geographic photojournalist Andrew Evans returns to India with Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection, and through ME to WE experiences, comes home with sacred memories and images. P HOTOS BY A N DRE W E VA N S

YOU’VE BEEN TO INDIA TWICE BEFORE. WHAT MADE THIS PARTICULAR EXPERIENCE UNIQUE?

ME to WE is an utterly new way to experience such a remarkable country. I was so impressed with the focus Uniworld placed on the people and culture of India. Showcasing the unfiltered beauty of rural India adds an amazing dimension to the experience, blending authenticity with comfort. YOU’VE TRAVELED THE WORLD MANY TIMES OVER WITH NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC. HOW DOES THE UNIWORLD SACRED GANGES ITINERARY PROVE THAT TRAVEL CAN TRANSFORM?

India changes you, and Uniworld’s intimate, face-first approach to India is a one-of-a-kind journey that highlights all the things that make India so wonderful. Uniworld’s Sacred Ganges itinerary especially immerses you in the peaceful nature, diverse people, and ancient spiritual tradition that is India. After just a week, I felt like I understood India in a way few foreigners ever do. I have seen and experienced rare and intimate moments that bring deeper meaning to my own life. TOP THREE HIGHLIGHTS FROM YOUR TRIP?

Only three? Gosh—so many unforgettable moments! Doing yoga at sunrise on the back deck of the Ganges Voyager II while floating upriver was very powerful. I felt like I finally “got it” in terms of why people do yoga. In addition: waving at children and families on the riverbank; watching as holy men conducted Hindu rituals inside remote and silent temples; learning how to make real chai with fresh Indian spices; exploring the village marketplace, devoid of tourists; and exploring the dramatic city of Kolkata with a native who loves her hometown.

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Forty-two year old Dalludi Bai, outside her family home in rural Rajasthan. As part of the ME to WE program, Bai hopes â&#x20AC;&#x153;all of my children can go to school and study and do well.â&#x20AC;?

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HAVE MISSION, WILL TRAVEL Seventh grade students take an exam outside of their WE school. Funded by the ME to WE program, it has an almost 100-percent graduation rate and full gender equality.

MOST PHOTO-WORTHY MOMENTS?

watching the beautiful and surprising moments of daily life taking place along the riverbank. The Ganges is the mother of Indian civilization, and there is no better way to experience the spiritual heartland of the country than to float gently down the river, watching and interacting with a region that is barely touched by tourism.

UNIWORLD IS KNOWN FOR ONBOARD WELLNESS PROGRAMS. HOW DID THE YOGA PROGRAM, CURATED SPECIFICALLY TO CELEBRATE INDIA’S YOGA CULTURE, IMPACT YOU?

INDIA HAS INCREDIBLE CUISINE. WHAT’S ON YOUR HIT LIST FOR FOODIES?

India’s big sun adds extraordinary light to everything. Highlights include a fisherman right in the path of the sun’s pink reflection. And the temples’ devoted, humble spirituality. It’s not hard to take good pictures in India, because they’re happening around you all the time.

I found it to be so different from other river cruise experiences. Like the yummy, healthy options available at every meal, the comprehensive yoga program was à la carte— do as much or as little as you want. I loved doing a more rigorous workout in the morning, and then a gentle relaxation practice at sunset. I especially appreciated the many informative daytime lectures from our yoga teacher, who wanted us to really understand the history and philosophy of yoga. I gained a whole new perspective and realized that I don’t have to be “good” at yoga, but rather, yoga can help me be better. HOW DOES EXPERIENCING INDIA BY BOAT LEND A DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVE?

Too many India itineraries focus on a handful of architectural highlights—the Taj Mahal, New Delhi’s Red Fort, Jaipur’s Pink Palace, etc.—but on a river cruise, you are seeing the country through the back door. I could stand on the balcony for hours 28

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Come to India prepared to eat! The food is one of the best parts of the experience, and there is food for every palate. Bengali cuisine is quite different than what you’ll find in Rajasthan or northern India, and Uniworld is very good about ensuring their guests get to try everything. Even more important, their food is prepared in a very controlled and hygienic environment on board, giving you peace of mind to try everything. In the same way, the meals the chef made at ME to WE’s Aravelli Camp were some of the best I’ve had. I really love Indian street food, especially the bhel puri (a savory puffed rice snack) and jalebi (a syrupy sweet fried pastry). The fish curry in Bengal is a must. NEVER THOUGHT I’D EXPERIENCE …

Having a sadhu (Hindu holy man) bless me and place a tika mark on my forehead, inside a 5,000-year-old temple filled with smoky incense and frolicking monkeys.

HAVE MISSION, WILL TRAVEL

If You Go

Evans’ key advice as a seasoned traveler? Be in the moment. BE OPEN. India is no fun if you’re always trying to resist what’s in front of you. The constant surprise is part of the excitement. Also remember that India is all about the people, and that the best travel is a two-way Clockwise from top left: Yoga is offered as part of Uniworld’s onboard wellness programs; traditional dance showcases local culture; special events feature local leaders.

street. TAKE YOUR TIME. Most every Indian you meet will be very excited to talk with you. Never rush an experience—take time to sit down in the ruins and enjoy

HOW DID THIS SPECIFIC ITINERARY AND SHORE EXCURSIONS GIVE AN AUTHENTIC GLIMPSE INTO LOCAL LIFE?

The combination Uniworld & ME to WE experience is a unique itinerary, meaning nothing is contrived. Instead, they gave me access to real people, real places, and spontaneous moments that were utterly unique and unaffected. In that way, the journey becomes incredibly personal. We had so much time to explore safely on our own by simply stopping on the riverbank and entering a tiny village and interacting with the locals. I loved that. TRAVELING WITH ME TO WE SHOWCASES HOW TRAVEL CAN HAVE A POSITIVE IMPACT ON LOCAL COMMUNITIES. WHAT WAS MOST IMPACTFUL FOR YOU?

ME to WE is such a powerful model for affecting positive change through sustainable and thoughtful travel. Every interaction I had brought direct benefit to individuals and the community. What they are doing seems so obvious—to make better choices in travel that offer a win-win situation for both the traveler (me) and the locals—yet I do not know of any other program achieving what ME to WE is in India. Taking part in all these aspects of local culture (cloth dying, dancing, carrying

water, feeding goats, baking chapatti) was an amazing chance to put myself in another person’s shoes, and it made India a part of my own life experience. Meanwhile, my work and contribution helped provide education and economic opportunity for my hosts. That’s terrific and prevents the kind of exploitation that so often plagues modern tourism in the developing world.

all the beauty that happens

WAS THERE A LOCAL YOU’LL MOST REMEMBER?

with some new recipes.

The kids in Chanda Nagar, all getting out of school at the same time. They had no apprehension and were just so joyous, surrounding us and then showing us their town. We played hide and seek by the riverside—and then they followed us through the streets, just laughing and having a blast. DURING YOUR TIME IN MURSHIDABAD, BARANAGAR, THE UNIWORLD ITINERARY INCLUDES THE AREA’S INCREDIBLE ARCHITECTURE. WHAT HAD THE BIGGEST WOW FACTOR?

The sheer size of the palace and Islamic buildings was astonishing—touring the buildings really gave me a taste for the British colonial period and the grandeur of India. It felt like going back in time.

around you. WEAR SUNBLOCK. India is equatorial and hot. A TASTE OF INDIA. Ask how to make the food they are serving you and go home

SAY, STRETCH. Do yoga! You’ll be surprised how much you learn in a short while.

Need further inspiration? Enter EW17098 on the website on the back cover and discover Uniworld’s new itineraries in Central Europe.

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DESTINATION GPS

SHORE BET Oceania Cruises sets its sights on Tahiti, New Zealand, and Australia, and plans onshore experiences that surprise and delight. BY JIM MY IM REDEFINING LUXURY AT SEA, OCEANIA CRUISES IS RENOWNED AT SHOWCASING THE WORLD’S LEADING CULINARY- AND DESTINATION-FOCUSED JOURNEYS. Onboard guest experiences will be enhanced with OceaniaNEXT, a re-imagination over the next two years of its four Regatta-Class ships— Regatta, Insignia, Nautica, and Sirena. Additionally, on Marina and Riviera, the signature Dom Perignon Pairing Dinner elevates onboard dining, while the new Owner’s Suites are furnished exclusively with Ralph Lauren Home and reflect effortless style and glamour. While distinguished for upscale amenities, Oceania Cruises also exceeds expectations beyond its fleet. It’s known for meaningful, one-of-a-kind shore excursions 30

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that rise to every occasion. In fact, on every voyage, guests truly immerse in local culture and traditions that create extraordinary moments. In top destinations like Tahiti, Australia, and New Zealand, Oceania makes culture a priority with signature shore excursions that are unforgettable—and worth the journey. MO’OREA AND RAIATEA Almost a dozen incredible shore excursions are offered on the beautiful island of Mo’orea. Guests can sail crystal-clear lagoons on a catamaran, experience a picnic on a private motu, or hike three coconut trails for panoramic views from Belvedere Lookout (the money shot very few travelers get to see). While guests never

DESTINATION GPS

Opposite: Milford Sound on the south island of New Zealand. Clockwise from top: a Ralph Lauren-designed suite; discovering koalas while in port; an aerial view of Mo’orea; Oceania Cruises’ Nautica ship.

forget the aromas of Raiatea, known for its vanilla plantations, they can also take home a genuine black pearl. After a scenic drive through the island, arrive at a black pearl farm near the fringed reef to snorkel for pearls and learn how they’re harvested. BORA BORA A trip to Tahiti isn’t complete without a visit to Bora Bora, forever known for wooing honeymooners. The enchanting group of islands is surrounded by turquoise waters, and guests get up close and personal with well-known residents: gentle and beautiful stingrays. On a shallow sandbank, visitors spend time with stingrays in their natural environment and then snorkel with tropical fish in a pristine coral garden. AUSTRALIA Shore excursions are just as thrilling and exotic in itineraries through New Zealand and Australia. While Melbourne is a bustling, cosmopolitan city, it’s also surrounded by nature and famously connected by Puffing Billy, a vintage, narrow-gauge steam train on one of the world’s finest preserved railways. The journey takes guests through the immense Dandenong Mountains. Animal lovers are quick to join “Kangaroos and Koalas,” an excursion that features Australia’s most famous (and adorable) wildlife. At Serendip Open Range Sanctuary located on the Western Plains, an expert guide will introduce guests to kangaroos in their natural bush setting followed by a visit to wild koalas in a nearby national park.

TASMANIA The famous island of Tasmania has captivated travelers for decades, especially the port city of Burnie. The seaside town is a must-see destination known for rugged countryside and stunning coastlines. It’s also home to Gunns Plains Caves and Wildlife, where awe-inspiring limestone caves and a well preserved river system tantalizes with unique species, including bioluminescent glowworms clinging to the walls. At the end of the tour, guests can experience rare, indigenous species, like the iconic Tasmanian devil, in nearby Wing’s Wildlife Park. NEW ZEALAND Once-in-a-lifetime journeys abound in New Zealand, a country with precious places like Wellington and Napier— though lesser-known destinations like Rotorua pack a lot of cultural punch. Here, guests can visit film locations from Lord of the Rings (reflecting the breathtaking scenery) and also take a detoxifying mud bath at Hells Gate Thermal Park. The site has an enormous impact on the history and culture of the native Maori.

South Pacific Bound Oceania Cruises celebrates the finest in island hopping. Enter OFFER M19028 on the website on the back cover to further explore.

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ABROAD & BEYOND

Charting New Waters

To sail with Ponant is to see the ends of the earth, from polar extremes to islands unknown. Whatever expedition inspires the adventurer in you, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a journey to take you there. BY C L A RA WOODBRIDGE

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ABROAD & BEYOND

“You come to regard your guides as resident ROCK STARS, as courageous as they are all-knowing, giving riveting lectures on the polar bear’s hunting habits and the narwhal’s mating rituals.”

Into the Land of Ice

Opposite: Polar bear sightings are a top draw on Arctic expeditions. From top: Playful penguins in Antarctica are amongst many wildlife sightings with Ponant’s naturalist guides; Ponant guests leave with indelible memories and photography.

Calm Seas Ahead: SOTHYS SPA There’s something soothing about the open sea—especially when the ship you’re sailing has a Sothys Spa. The French wellness brand

brings more than just massages to Ponant cruises, offering anti-aging facials, salon services, aromatherapy, state-of-the-art

fitness equipment, and hammams. Try the revitalizing balneotherapy, a re-mineralizing salt bath that invigorates both body and mind.

The 5 a.m. summer sun is shining bright and high when L’Austral quietly settles on to the edge of the ice sheet. The elegant expedition ship slowly skirts the meters-thick slab of white. Minutes later, a pair of Zodiac dinghies zips around from the ship’s aft and pulls right up to the sheet’s edge. Six figures clad in bright red explorer jackets—Ponant’s naturalist guides— begin pointing out wildlife and explaining the incredible glacial history of the area. Thus begins another morning on a Ponant polar expedition. For more than 20 years, the French company’s ships have been traversing open water to the ends of the earth, from the Arctic Circle all the way down to the edges of Antarctica, to explore earth’s last primal landscapes. A far cry from your average cruise, the itineraries don’t offer mere activities— they’re packed with bona fide adventures. On a classic, eight-day expedition in the Arctic far north, guests experience a journey that can be imagined as a similar route to the one American explorer Robert Peary made through these fabled landscapes more than 100 years ago: Marked by trails of walruses and traces of polar bears, extreme winds, subzero temperatures, and an enduring sun that never dips below the horizon. Led by a team of naturalist guides— glaciologists, zoologists, and experts on everything from icebergs to orcas—the itinerary has a sense of unscripted spontaneity, because you never really know what to expect in this land covered in ice and snow. So you come to regard your guides as resident rock stars, as courageous as they are all-knowing, giving riveting onboard lectures on subjects like the polar bear’s hunting habits and the narwhal’s mating rituals, and how to test the mercurial landscapes for safety before you ever set foot on land. Still, however intrepid this cruise may be, comfort and luxury are integral and found at every turn onboard L’Austral. Though the ship has been reinforced for polar missions, U LT I M AT E E X P E R I E N C E S

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its interiors are elegant—more like a yacht than a classic cruise liner—and its Alain Ducasse cuisine is excellent. It’s small enough to feel intimate, and to allow for nimble movement among the towering grid of icebergs, yet large enough to stretch out, whether on the upper deck at midnight watching a barely setting sun, in the Sothys Spa getting a massage, or in your private suite decorated in leather and fine linens. And the service is perfectly executed, with Champagne on silver trays at nearly every occasion and white-gloved attention morning, noon, and night. Never mind the fact that you’re in one of the last uninhabited places on earth— somehow Ponant can make even the most isolated ends of the Arctic feel utterly five-star, giving you the privileged feeling of sailing aboard your very own yacht. 34

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The Last True Tropics

There may be no more magical place to disappear to than the remote South Pacific, a true paradise where almost nothing has changed over the last centuries. It’s fitting that Ponant named its newest ship after fabled seaman Jean-François de La Pérouse: Last year, the elegant Le Laperouse made its debut to much applause. Travelers aboard the 92-room Le Laperouse on the 12-day “Revealing the Mysteries of Melanesia” cruise will explore the littleknown corners of Oceania, from the Vanuatu archipelago—where Captain James Cook famously observed dramatic volcanic eruptions in 1774—to the villages of Malekula and Ambrym. It’s a journey to an unadulterated old world

ABROAD & BEYOND

Opposite: Beach Port Olry in Vanuatu. From left: Tribesmen from the mountains of Melekula; chieftain Jean-Denis on Ambrym island.

aboard state-of-the-art, new-world luxury—a juxtaposition that takes you from the native Rom ceremony of Ambrym—where nine-foot “spirits” dance on golden sands—to the ship’s underwater lounge, where you can sip cocktails to the views of marine life just outside your window. Hopping from island to island, passengers can swim in the famous blue holes of Espiritu Santo and sail in handmade dugout canoes with locals wearing grass skirts, then come back to Le Laperouse to Champagne and canapes. The contrasts are nothing if not extreme—from a meeting with a black magic sorcerer one afternoon, and a swim in the warm waters of Port Mary another, to a five-course dinner in the gourmet restaurant and a lazy morning lounging by the pool. The ship is like a chic floating hotel, combining French design with true adventure. Every luxury is at your fingertips and nothing is too much to ask, and yet every day, a new reason to disembark awaits—if only for a few hours anyway.

Top Tables: ONBOARD DINING

Ponant has long been a gastronome’s favorite thanks to its decadent French cuisine and selection of fine wines. And now, the company has joined forces with Ducasse Conseil, the catering service run by the acclaimed French Chef Alain Ducasse, to take its culinary offerings to the next level (or, perhaps more appropriately, le niveau suivant). Through the partnership, Ducasse—the world’s most Michelin-starred chef—and his team train all on-board chefs and develop more than 100 new recipes per year for the ships’ restaurants. It’s like dining at Ducasse Paris anywhere in the world, whether sailing over the Drake Passage or traversing the Indian Ocean.

Ship Mate Further access the luxurious world of Ponant by entering OFFER M19061 on the website found on the back cover.

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LIVE LIKE A LOCAL

From left: Olympian Robbie Dixon in Whistler; the mountain town’s inspired Sunday Farmers Market; outdoor therapy at Scandinave Spa; cross-country mountain biking.

Robbie Dixon’s Whistler The former Olympian shares his perfect summer and winter day in the mountain town he calls home.—J E N M U R P H Y ONE OF CANADA’S MOST GIFTED SPEED SKIERS, ROBBIE DIXON UNDERSTANDABLY HAS A SOFT SPOT FOR WINTERS IN WHISTLER. They will forever remind him of an experience of a lifetime, competing in the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympic Games on his own turf. But summer is the season when he’s able to let loose and enjoy the beauty of the town this North Vancouver native calls home. When he was competing, he explains, he was constantly on the road in the winter. Summers were a time to cross-train on Whistler’s epic trails and recover with yoga and massages. After more than a decade long career as a pro, he retired in 2016. Not having to worry about career-ending injuries and strict diets has allowed him to truly take advantage of the area’s skiing, hiking, and mountain biking while also indulging in Whistler’s fantastic dining scene, guilt free.

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PERFECT SUMMER DAY

Fresh from the Farm

The farmers market takes place Sundays (11 a.m. to 4 p.m.) and Wednesdays (2 to 7 p.m.) in the Upper Village at the base of Blackcomb. It’s filled with art, food, music, and small local vendors. There’s something for everyone—a must do.

Hit the Trails

There are trails for everyone’s ability, for both hiking and biking in Whistler. While I have many favorite hikes, the beautiful, four-hour round trip to Rainbow Lake is a classic that never disappoints. If interested in mountain biking, the Lost Lake trails offer something for everyone, kids included. Rent bikes at Cross Country Connection, located at the Lost Lake trailhead. For those after a downhill biking experience, take a chairlift and ride the Whistler Mountain Bike Park. The Top of the World Trail on Whistler Mountain offers amazing views, and you will definitely earn your cold beer!

LIVE LIKE A LOCAL

Reward your Efforts

I’m a regular at Sushi Village. Take advantage Friday through Sunday when they’re open for lunch. Request a back table and order sake margaritas as you peruse the menu. All of the fish is flown in fresh off the docks from Vancouver. Ask for the off-the-menu Nicole roll. Trust me.

Shop Around

My girlfriend, Carleigh, hits the village when she wants to shop. You’ll find everything from recognized brands like Lululemon and North Face to boutique shops such as Edin and indie businesses like Armchair Books.

PERFECT WINTER DAY

Start the Day with Namaste

When I was skiing competitively, part of my training included sessions at YYoga, located in Function Junction. The instructors truly understand athletes and they offer a lot for both the mind and body, including hot yoga.

Fuel for the Slopes

Elements serves some of the tastiest brekky in town. The healthy hash, a mix of butternut squash, cherry tomatoes, roasted peppers, onions, and kale topped with poached eggs and sundried tomato pesto is my go-to. Be sure to head over early, as the space is intimate, and it’s become a popular spot.

Ski Strategy

On a bluebird day, I like to do laps on 7th Heaven, particularly the Panorama run. You’ll find lots of fun, roll-y terrain and the views are some of the best in Whistler. The Peak to Creek run from the top of Whistler meanders its way down 11-kilometers all the way to Creekside. If your legs are feeling up to it, it’s a pretty incredible run. And to top it off, it ends right at Dusty’s, which is a perfect place to après, especially on Saturdays when longtime resort rockers Grateful Greg and Guitar Doug of the Hairfarmers jam.

Unwind

If you’re planning to get out on the trails again tomorrow, treat your muscles to a soak in the baths at Scandinave Spa. Here, you can experience the age-old Scandinavian tradition of hydrotherapy in the natural elements. Cycle through hot steams, cold plunges and then relaxation time in the spa’s solariums or hammocks.

Best Burger

Locally owned Alta Bistro is reliably great for dinner. The menu showcases fresh, locally sourced ingredients complemented by a great wine list and awesome cocktails. It’s by far the best burger spot in town— veggie burger too.

“If you’re planning to get out on the trails, treat your muscles to a soak in the baths at Scandinave Spa.”

Digital Download For the ultimate 24 hours in Whistler, enter EW17098 on the website on the back cover. U LT I M AT E E X P E R I E N C E S

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POINT OF VIEW

JUST SAY ONE LOVE! Jamaica’s private beaches, island cuisine, reggae and spa-ing? Why wouldn’t you? WHETHER in search of warm weather, locally sourced cuisine, or only-in-Jamaica culture and adventure, these top resorts via Island Destinations celebrate unforgettable views, seaside golf courses, and opportunities to explore and decompress.

GOLDENEYE

Nestled along tropical gardens, private beaches, and secluded coves in Oracabessa, this hotel is a collection of private villas, cottages, and beach huts. With ancient vines and trees, this jungle-meets-sea locale creates an ethereal ambiance.

Spa: Unwind at the Field Spa with the Cooling Sea Salt Glow Body Scrub. Receive a detoxifying scrub with sea salt harvested in nearby Oracabessa Bay, combined with Jamaican green coconut oil, followed by a hydrating massage with mint-infused coconut lotion.

HALF MOON

Located in Montego Bay, Half Moon is a favorite destination for presidents and royalty. The private oasis celebrates the finest in Jamaican hospitality, culture, food, and adventure.

Known For: Part fresh spring water, part seawater, the Lagoon is always warm, clear, and tranquil—ideal for swimming laps, exploring beneath the water’s surface, or just lazing the afternoon away.

Known For: The resort’s 35 acres of beach front, originally used for stevedoring (loading and unloading ships) and home to a sugar cane estate, stretches several miles between foothills and Jamaican coastline.

Not to Miss: Plant a tree at GoldenEye. By making a donation of $1000 to the Oracabessa Foundation, which focuses on local, sustainable development, you’ll follow in the footsteps of such Hollywood stars as Michael Caine and Johnny Depp.

Not to Miss: Half Moon’s Equestrian Center offers riding, jumping, and polo lessons. Additionally, the unique Turf and Surf Experience includes a swim with the horses.

Eat: Dine at the treehouse-style Gazebo, which overlooks Low Cay Beach and the Lagoon. Order the Butter Roasted 38

Lionfish, served with cornmeal, mussels, garlic and parsley.

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Eat: Experience Sugar Mill Restaurant, known for its historical location and unique twist on Jamaican cuisine. Order the Solomon’s Brochette—a beef, pork, sausage, fish, and shrimp skewer prepared tableside. Sip a curated

POINT OF VIEW

Opposite: GoldenEye resort hugs a secluded coastal cove. Clockwise from top left: Half Moon Spa in Montego Bay; Jamaica Inn features mesmerizing ocean views; Round Hill Hotel and Villas inspires unplugged adventure.

selection of premium rums, including the 50-year-old Appleton Estate rum. Spa: Cleanse your soul and revitalize your body with the Fern Tree Spa’s Jamaican Bush Bath, steeped in fresh herbs, roots, leaves, and fruits. This traditional Jamaican experience is known for its healing principals.

JAMAICA INN

With a backdrop of impeccably manicured green lawns, vibrant flowers, and blue seas, 48 bluetrimmed white suites and cottages frame ocean views at this Ocho Rio property. International travelers are tempted to this intimate Jamaican resort for its authentic spin on the country’s laidback lifestyle. Known For: The iconic, small luxury hotel was where Marilyn Monroe and Arthur Miller famously toasted their honeymoon, and James Bond creator, Ian Fleming, sipped martinis at the bar. Not to Miss: Take a day boat trip to Dunn’s River Falls with Tony and Marvin and discover the rugged coastline. Along the way, snorkel in crystal-clear waters—Tony and Marvin have insider knowledge of top spots. Eat: The local favorite, Jamaican Patties, is a decadent pastry filled with curried chicken or spicy beef and served with a mixed greens salad and herb vinaigrette.

Spa: Try the signature Biolight™ Miracle Facial at the Ocean Spa. It employs a Glyco-Sea Glyolic peel to help brighten and diminish the appearance of hyper-pigmentation from sun while enriching the skin with anti-aging benefits.

ROUND HILL HOTEL AND VILLAS

Known as one of the most luxurious resorts in Montego Bay and the Caribbean, Round Hill is lauded for genuine Jamaican hospitality, while the resort’s Kids Club is a draw for young families. Known For: Ralph-Lauren designed oceanfront suites feature white stone floors, romantic, fourposter mahogany beds and furniture from the designer’s home collection. Not to Miss: Experience Jamaica’s South Coast on a Black River Safari. Float down the Black River and explore an incredible ecosystem of exotic animals. Eat: Don’t miss the Seaside Terrace’s Jamaican Night Buffet. It’s filled with traditional Jamaican fair including Crispy Fried Conch and Red Pea Soup with Coco Bread. Spa: Try the Vichy Shower Therapy. An outdoor shower is located under a canopy of tropical foliage and increases blood circulation, hydrates the skin, and soothes the nervous system through hot and cold water movement.

Island Vibes Enter OFFER M19096 on the website on the back cover and access essential Jamaican itineraries with Island Destinations.

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ULTIMATE EXPERIENCES

April 2019

HAWAI‘I'S SUNNY SIDE Culture, Adventure + Cuisine Page 42

LAND OF JOY Betting on Bhutan Page 52

CRUISE CONTROL

Step aboard Crystal Serenity® Page 60

A local man in Bhutan showcases the traditional Gho, a knee-length robe tied at the waist. U LT I M AT E E X P E R I E N C E S

Aloha, Hawaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;i! JOURNEY OVER THE PACIFIC OCEAN AND DISCOVER SIX TROPICAL ISLANDS THAT ARE DECIDEDLY DIFFERENT YET EQUALLY ENCHANTING.

BY JEN MURPHY

Kaua‘i’s emerald green coastline is reason enough to jump into a Hawai‘i escape.

AWAI‘I HAS LONG BEEN SYNONYMOUS WITH TROPICAL VACATIONS. Home to 400-plus beaches and eight national parks, the islands are a natural paradise. They are also rich with history and culture. Each of the six main islands has its own distinct character. Here’s your personal guide to discovering the aloha spirit on each.

MAUI

Maui lures travelers with its perfect balance of wild nature and beachfront luxury. Award-winning golf courses and polished resorts can be found on the south and west side in Kapalua, Ka‘anapali, and Wailea. Famous surf breaks, like Pe‘ahi (Jaws), and paniolo (cowboy) culture await on the island’s North Shore and jungle- and farm-covered upcountry. ADVENTURE: Go paddling with Maui Eco Tours. From December through April, kayak excursions offer the opportunity to spot humpback whales during their annual migration. Snorkeling promises sightings of turtles, rays, and colorful coral. VOLUNTOURISM: The Pacific Whale Foundation’s Volunteers on Vacation program gives visitors the chance to give back while experiencing the beauty of Maui’s natural environment. Lend a hand with farm chores on O‘o Farms in Kula each Wednesday, or work alongside a naturalist to remove invasive plant species in Haleakalā National Park on the first and third Saturday of the month. CULTURE: Tucked away in Hana, Ala Kukui Cultural Retreat Center hosts workshops on traditional practices like kapa (bark cloth) and ipu heke (a double gourd drum). SAVOR AND SIP: Top Chef favorite Sheldon Simeon recently opened Lineage in the shops of Wailea. His family-style menu (huli huli chicken, pork n’ peas) pays homage to his island of Hawai‘i roots. STAY: Spread across 24 oceanfront acres, Montage Kapalua Bay offers it all, from two immense golf courses to a splashy spa and lagoon-style pools. One- to four-bedroom condos and a kids’ club make it a great option for families. 44

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The Montage Kapalua Bay, on Maui. Opposite: Maui is a haven for family conection and young explorers.

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ISLAND OF HAWAI‘I

Island of Hawai‘i is the largest landmass in the island chain. Home to all but four of the world’s climate subzones, this is an island of contrasts, offering both dramatic, lava-sculpted landscapes and a sun-drenched, resort-dotted coastline. ADVENTURE: Located in the plantation town of Hawi, Flumin’ Kohala invites guests to kayak along the century-old irrigation ditch that once supplied water to the people of Kohala. VOLUNTOURISM: The Stewardship at the Summit project in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park provides visitors the opportunity to help out the ‘aina (land) by cutting invasive Himalayan ginger on the park trails. CULTURE: One Saturday a month, the Volcano Art Center hosts hālau hula (schools) from around the island to perform in an outdoor setting in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. SAVOR AND SIP: Locally-loved Puka Puka Kitchen in Hilo melds Greek and Indian influences with Hawai‘i flavors. The ahi plates and chicken katsu at this tiny spot should not be missed.

Opposite: Refueling with poke during a waterfall hike on the island of Hawai‘i. From top: Exploring the gorgeous Island of Hawai‘i via kayak; Moloka‘i is serene and remote, without a single traffic light.

STAY: Known for its signature orange umbrellas, Mauna Kea Beach Hotel entices guests away from the sun and sand with immersive cultural activities such as lei making, hula lessons and free art tours of the resort’s extensive collection.

MOLOKA‘I

A trip to “the Friendly Island” offers a glimpse of the Hawai‘i of a bygone era. No building is taller than a palm tree and you won’t find a single traffic light. The slower pace and strong sense of community means every visitor discovers the true meaning of aloha. ADVENTURE: More than 250 rare Hawaiian plants grow in the 2,750-plus acre Kamakou Preserve, located on the slopes of the island’s highest mountain. Nature conservancy staff lead a monthly hike from April through October. VOLUNTOURISM: A group of residents formed the Moloka‘i Land Trust as a way to preserve nature. Weekly volunteer activities, from nursery work to dune restoration, are available. CULTURE: When leprosy broke out in the Hawaiian Islands in the late 1860s, King Kamehameha V banished the afflicted to the remote Kalaupapa peninsula on the north shore. A former prison, Kalaupapa National Historical Park tells a story of forced isolation. U LT I M AT E E X P E R I E N C E S

SAVOR AND SIP: Set within a refurbished green-andwhite plantation house, Kualapu‘u Cookhouse serves hearty island fare like baby back ribs with guava bbq sauce and classic lunch meals.

O‘AHU

Of all the Hawaiian Islands, none offers as much diversity as O‘ahu. Get your “big city” fix of restaurants and culture in the bustling capital, Honolulu, on the South Shore. Then head to the North Shore to experience the island’s world-class waves and the trapped-in-time vibe of plantation-era town, Hale‘iwa. ADVENTURE: A 2.5-hour guided horseback tour of Gunstock Ranch reveals historical WWII sites, stunning vistas, and a taste of real ranch life. End your trek by planting a Monarch Milo tree in the property’s Legacy Forest. Clockwise from top left: Halekūlani Hotel on O‘ahu; diving into O‘ahu’s turquoise seascape; playful dolphins off the island of Lāna‘i.

VOLUNTOURISM: Every third Saturday of the month, 63-acre Papahana Kuaola invites volunteers to get their hands dirty with restoration activities like native plant propagation and weeding along the upper reaches of He‘eia stream. CULTURE: Since the Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum opened in 1889, its researchers have acquired 25 million items—from cultural objects to biological specimens—that tell the story of Hawai‘i. SAVOR AND SIP: When chef Ed Kenney opened Town in Honolulu’s Kaimukī neighborhood in 2005, his dedication to sourcing local, organic ingredients garnered rave reviews. Today, he runs a mini restaurant empire that includes Kaimukī Superette, Mahina & Sun’s, and Mud Hen Water. STAY: Halekūlani translates to “house befitting heaven.” Stay one night and you’ll understand why. The historical 410-room hotel, nestled on five acres fronting Gray’s beach in Waikīkī, excels in Hawaiian hospitality. Past guests have included Doris Duke and Clark Gable.

LĀNAʻI

Billionaire Larry Ellison purchased what was once the world’s largest pineapple plantation and has transformed it into Hawai‘i’s most exclusive getaway. The island’s 47 miles of mostly rugged, shipwrecked, and turtle-dotted shores draws adventurers with a penchant for luxury, too. ADVENTURE: Spot breaching whales and acrobatic spinner dolphins on a five-hour sailing excursion with PacWhale Eco-Adventures. The ship’s certified marine naturalist will help identify coral and fish during a session. 48

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VOLUNTOURISM: Cat lovers won’t want to miss a visit to Lāna‘i Cat Sanctuary. The nonprofit partners with the Four Seasons Resort Lāna‘i to give guests a chance to assist with everything from painting kitty shelters to helping socialize the felines. CULTURE: Treasures of all kinds, from poi pounders to plantation equipment, fill the small, communityrun Lāna‘i Culture & Heritage Center. SAVOR AND SIP: Coffee Works, Lāna‘i’s sole java joint, caffeinates the entire island with its delicious lattes. For a souvenir, order a bag of Kona-grown beans.

KAUA‘I

Kaua‘i’s emerald valleys, tropical rainforest, and cascading waterfalls make this island a tropical gem. From the golden beaches of the east side to the dramatic cliffs of the Nāpali Coast in the north, the island promises enchanting natural beauty and endless options for adventures. ADVENTURE: The thrilling eight-zipline tour from Skyline Eco Adventures in Po‘ipū sends guests soaring above a vibrant green canopy of Kukui, the state tree, and Uluhe fern.

Opposite: The iconic Nāpali Coast in Kaua‘i. From top: Local pineapple from Lāna‘i is considered some of the sweetest on the planet; Kaua‘i is famous for ethereal waterfalls and brilliant rainbows.

VOLUNTOURISM: Volunteer Kaua‘i posts opportunities with organizations such as Hanalei National Wildlife Refuge. Join the Surfrider Foundation for a beach cleanup or commit two weeks to working with the Hawaiian Monk Seal Conservation Hui. CULTURE: Dive deep into the history of the island at the Kaua‘i Museum in the town of Līhu‘e. Exhibits focus on King Kaumuali‘i, the last independent king of Kaua‘i, and how Polynesian culture helped shaped the island. SAVOR AND SIP: Bar Acuda in Hanalei showcases the freshest ingredients from the island’s fishermen and organic farmers. Wine is a specialty at this tapas spot, so ask the knowledgeable team to suggest a pairing. STAY: Set along a white sand beach on Po‘ipū’s easternmost coastline, Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i Resort and Spa is known for its over-the-top amenities, including four pools, seven restaurants, and the island’s largest waterslide. Eco-innovations include an old tennis court converted into a hydroponic garden where its restaurants source ingredients. Let Hawai‘i Happen Ready for a bespoke aloha getaway? Enter OFFER EW17098 on the website on the back cover to further discover authentic Hawaiian culture.

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DESTINATION >HAPPY A country that measures success in smiles versus income, Bhutan is rich in natural treasures, ancient temples, and a gracious culture. BY I G NACIO MAZA

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An unforgettable vantage point on the 13,000-foot Chele La Pass, the highest road pass in Bhutan. U LT I M AT E E X P E R I E N C E S

Left: Monks at the Punakha Dzong. Opposite: The ancient capitol of Punakha Dzong, also the site of the country’s longest suspension bridge.

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LOSED TO THE OUTSIDE WORLD FOR CENTURIES, Bhutan, aka Land of the Thunder Dragon, is the most authentic surviving Himalayan kingdom. Because of this rare isolation, Bhutan has meticulously preserved its culture, religion, and traditions far better than neighboring states such as Nepal, Sikkim, and Ladakh. During a recent visit to this enchanting land, I discovered a country primed for 2019 journeys. Believe it or not, the first foreign visitors arrived here only in 1974. What’s more, television began broadcasting just 20 years ago. Recently discovered by curious adventurers, word-of-mouth has quickly hailed Bhutan’s many national treasures. This unique country has a great deal to offer intrepid travelers. Think unspoiled landscapes in the foothills of the Himalayas; world-class hiking and trekking; inspired festivals (called “Tshechus”) in spring and fall; fortress-like monasteries; wildlife (especially birdwatching); and only-in-Bhutan shops and handicrafts. Of top note, however, are the people—warm, welcoming, and unassuming—of this storied land. Chances are, when you’re hiking in the countryside, farmers and children will stop what they’re doing to greet you. Bhutan’s government strives to focus on the “Gross National Happiness” of its people, not the typical GNP, as is the case elsewhere. Though life in Bhutan isn’t perfect, the government has made great progress in improving the lives of its citizens. Health care and education are free; over 60 percent of Bhutan is made up of nature reserves; smoking is forbidden; the country is clean; there is very little crime; the poverty level is lower than other South Asia countries. In a nutshell, why wouldn’t you visit?

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Ignacio’s Insider Tips:

THINK STRATEGICALLY. Plan way ahead, at least six months out. The most sought-after hotels are small and book far in advance. WHEN TO GO. Peak season is spring (March to May) and fall (late September to November), when the largest festivals take place. WEATHER. Monsoon season runs from July to early September, with rainfall usually in the afternoons. HOW TO BOOK. Your advisor first needs to make the ground arrangements Opposite, clockwise from top: Local cuisine from Bhutanese Thali restuarant; the author, Ignacio Maza, during his first journey to Bhutan; showcasing a traditional Bhutanese men’s scarf. Top: A young monk at the Gangtey Dzong.

and hotel reservations, followed by a request for air reservations to and from Paro. The visa arrives via email, usually two weeks prior to your arrival.

GO WEST: PARO> THIMPHU> PUNAKHA Seeing as most visitors stay for five to seven days, I recommend visiting the Western part of Bhutan. Here, you’ll discover Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha. While roads are improving, expect sections to be bumpy and unpaved; getting from A to B may take longer than anticipated. Start and end your visit in Paro, where the main airport is located. Don’t miss Paro Dzong, the massive fortress-monastery in the heart of the valley and a great example of Bhutanese architecture. Spend time in the inner courtyard to view paintings and experience the site. From Paro, it’s roughly an hour’s drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital. Highlights here include the weekend market—the largest in the country—known for its food and artisan vendors, as well as the colossal statue of the Buddha Dordenma, which towers over the city and sets a dramatic mood. If time allows, visit the National Institute for Zorig Chusum and witness how Bhutan is preserving centuries-old traditions via arts and crafts. From Thimphu, drive east over the Dochula Pass (more than 10,000 feet above sea level) to reach Punakha. The country’s former capital until the 1950s, it hugs a lush river valley. The most celebrated landmark here is Punakha Dzong, a massive fortress-monastery located at the confluence of two rivers. If you only see one Dzong (a distinctive style of fortress architecture found mainly in Bhutan and Tibetan areas of China), make it this one, originally built in 1644 and still in use. The Punakha river valley also includes hikes to sacred shrines, river rafting, and mountain climbing.

ELEVATION. Paro is located 7,000 feet above sea level, and there are mountain passes that exceed 10,000 feet. Stay hydrated and try to make lunch your big meal of the day. CURRENCY. The local currency is the Ngultrum, pegged to the Indian Rupee. I recommend paying with US Dollars or Indian Rupees when you need to use cash.

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Resort Report WHERE TO STAY? These two hotel companies pioneered upscale hospitality in Bhutan and have been welcoming sophisticated travelers to the kingdom for more than 12 years.

COMO HOTELS AND RESORTS

COMO has two lodges, one in Paro and the other in Punakha. The Paro lodge is built on a hill, overlooking Paro valley and convenient to the main airport. Its calling card includes bright rooms and spacious villas, a pool, spa (don’t miss COMO lodges’ hot stone baths), terraces, and serene public spaces. The lodge was built in Bhutanese style and offers guests a choice of local, Indian-vegetarian, and Western menus. The atmosphere is Zen, informal, and low-key. The lodge in Punakha, built only five years ago, is more intimate, with only 11 guest rooms and two villas. It’s nestled along a high ridge, with amazing views of the valley and Himalayas.

AMAN

Amankora, the collective name of AMAN’s Bhutan lodges, offers five resorts spread throughout Bhutan, including Thimphu, Paro, Punakha, Gangtey, and Bumthang. Because Aman offers more locations, you can delve deep into the country and create seven- to 12-day journeys, moving from lodge to lodge with a host guide for your entire stay. Aman lodges are secluded and exclusive, with an average of six to 16 stylish suites.

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Top: The living room of a one-bedroom villa at COMO Uma Paro, in Paro Valley. Opposite, clockwise from top: Al fresco dining in the archery field at COMO Uma Paro; a Thimphu cultural performance; suite with a view at Amankora Paro.

BEYOND PUNAKHA: THE ROADS LESS TRAVELED Ask your travel advisor to arrange hiking the Jomolhari Trek. This is one of the most celebrated routes in the country, with a spectacular view of the 24,000-foothigh Jomolhari, a beautiful Himalayan peak. Alternatively, visit the sacred sites and cultural riches of Bumthang. If you favor off-the-beaten-path adventures, navigate the remote and unspoiled Khotokha glacial valley, hike to sacred sites and holy water springs, and stay in village farmhouses or tented camps with an expert guide and crew. Your travel advisor can create a tailor-made journey that fits your needs and interests, including unique, only-in-Bhutan adventures, from biking and helicopter flights to a personal blessing from a monk. THE ULTIMATE EXPERIENCE No visit to Bhutan is complete without seeing the country’s best-known landmark, Taktshang Goemba, or “Tiger’s Nest.” Located a few miles outside Paro, this famous monastery was built on the edge of a cliff and is Bhutan’s most venerated religious site. Be prepared: The hike to the monastery is tough, as you trek from 7,000 to over 9,000 feet above sea level on a steep trail. Your reward? Breathtaking views from the top, worth every ounce of effort. My advice is to plan the hike to Tiger’s Nest toward the end of your vacation. It will end your Bhutan journey on a high note—an unforgettable exclamation point to a country that will leave you dreaming of a return trip. Land of Plenty Interested in exploring Bhutan? Enter OFFER M19026 on the website on the back cover to learn more about unique itineraries and top properties.

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A golden coast at Big Sur, in Northern California.

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CALIFORNIA DREAMIN’ A week-long journey with Crystal Cruises® reveals a playful Pacific coastline and America’s unique ports of call. BY ERIN LENTZ

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“La Bufadora!” Oscar exclaims, pulling the door open to his private van. “Vámonos!” WE’RE IN ENSENADA, MEXICO, STROLLING THE PORT TOWN’S MAIN DRAG ON A SUNNY JANUARY AFTERNOON. A FRIEND AND I HAVE DEPARTED OUR FLOATING HEADQUARTERS, and Crystal Serenity®, a beautiful, recently refurbished ship, is visible in the harbor and draws onlookers and cameras. It’s day three of our “Coastal California Getaway” itinerary, which traverses the California coast and dips into Mexico. By now, we’ve perfected our sea legs and settled into the rhythm of ocean cruising—a mode of travel somewhat new to both of us. We, too, snap pics of Crystal Serenity® as Oscar, our guide, pulls onto a two-lane highway. The ship’s teak decks and suite patios are peppered with guests admiring Ensenada’s rugged coastline. As we bump along the autopista and watch Ensenada’s city center fade into the rear-view mirror, Oscar, in broken English, shares a photo of our destination. Ensenada’s famous blow hole, La Bufadora, lies roughly 20 miles from the city center. As we snake up a scenic drive that hugs the Punta Banda Peninsula in Baja, he points to various roadside vendors: a peanut farmer here, a BMW factory there, los ninos playing soccer during school recess. We quickly gain elevation and watch the Pacific kiss the cliffs. Given the swells over the last two days, each time the ocean crashes into the rocky 62

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coastline, it erupts in dramatic spray. We drop into a tiny little fishing town and walk a short pedestrian-only street lined with souvenir shops, ceviche stands, and oceanside bodegas. At the end of the road, we finally reach our anticipated destination. At first I’m not sure what all the fuss is. Yes, it’s a pretty view, but why are so many people here? And then the ocean flexes its muscle, sending a huge wave against the shore, and—poof!—the blow hole sends a massive plume of water skyward, teasing onlookers with its power and beauty. We watch for nearly 30 minutes, and my friend, an aspiring photographer, leaves with digital eye candy to share with family and friends back home. It’s time for lunch, so we say adios to La Bufadora and Oscar. Today’s second on-shore mission? To find Manzanilla, a tucked-away restaurant in Ensenada’s warehouse district and hailed by foodies as a culinary must. It doesn’t disappoint. We laze over a three-course affair that includes a fresh mahi ceviche so divine that we order a second. Angel, the bartender, pairs our seafood with artful cocktails, ferrying two Celery Margaritas topped with corn ash salt across the bar. This decadent meal becomes a trip highlight, and it’s during this very lunch that we discuss Crystal’s ultimate appeal: When journeying by ocean, each day is greeted with a different view, and surprising new discoveries like Manzanilla are all but guaranteed. While experiencing Crystal’s "Coastal California Getaway," I’ll quickly realize you don’t have to cross oceans to feel perfectly removed.

Cruise Control>The New Crystal Serenity®

After docked for nearly four weeks in Bremerhaven, Germany, Crystal Serenity® re-emerged last November after an extensive refurbishment. Similar to the lauded changes aboard the Crystal Symphony®, it features new, butler-serviced Seabreeze Penthouse and Suite accommodations. “Guests appreciate that the suites are as modern and comfortable as they are elegant and luxurious—a delicate but important balance,” says Hotel Director Scott Peterson. “Many guests have commented on the spa-like bathrooms and convenient amenities.” Though our suites are indeed decadent, we’re most impressed by our personal butler, José, who anticipates our arrival with bites and bubbles. His genuine enthusiasm for cruising is infectious and he becomes a favorite aspect of our journey. While dining on fresh-from-the-sea yellowtail jalapeño at the Nobu Matsuhisa-helmed Umi Uma during our first night aboard, we quickly discover Crystal Serenity®’s other buzz-worthy improvement: open-seating dining. We have memorable meals at nearly every onboard restaurant, including the Italian-influenced Prego, yet Umi Uma tempts us back to its stylish sushi bar three times. “The dining experiences on board are second to none and are consistently among our guests’ favorite elements of their onboard experience,” Peterson adds. “Guests love coming back and seeing so many familiar faces and being greeted like a member of the family. Travelers aboard Crystal ships are

Clockwise from top: Onboard dining aboard the Crystal SerenityÂŽ; the ship passes under the Golden Gate Bridge, followed by shore excursions in San Francisco; sea kayaking in the Pacific; Serenityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s spacious pool deck.

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5 Qs with Nobu Matsuhisa

Step inside Umi Uma Restaurant, the decorated chef’s only seagoing outpost. What destinations have you traveled to that have inspired your cuisine? By traveling around the world, I experience many new ingredients and cooking styles. I usually go to the local market looking for some new ingredients. The most inspiring time for me is when I come across new ingredients and I think about new dishes. How does Umi Uma best showcase the signature Nobu culinary experience? You should eat the food you want to eat in the moment, so tell our chefs what you have a taste for. In crafting the Crystal onboard dining concept, what was your vision? Good food and service are needed on both land and sea. I focus on how to make each guest happy and relaxed when they are dining on the ship. How would you describe food as the ultimate connector when traveling? Balanced food is very important, and also has to be fun and enjoyable every time you eat at your destination. What is your current dream trip? I would love to go to a peaceful place with warm weather, where I’m totally relaxed.

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Clockwise from top: Crystal on Broadway dancers at the Galaxy Lounge; the Penthouse suite features spacious verandas; the historic Catalina Island; Crystal’s Voluntourism program at the San Francisco-Marin Food Bank.

immediately welcomed ‘home,’ whether it’s their first sailing or their hundredth.” What’s more, Crystal Serenity® now features a redesigned lounge and entertainment venues, including the Stardust Club and Palm Court; a production called “Crystal on Broadway, The Show;” and new interactive technological amenities. And the Crystal Spa & Salon is reason enough to take a week-long cruise. Whether booking cutting-edge medi-spa treatments or a classic massage, spa-ing while at sea is divine.

Travel with Impact>Voluntourism

“Crystal has the most comprehensive enrichment and entertainment offerings in the luxury segment of the cruise industry,” says Peterson. As such, we experience first-hand how Crystal is a trailblazer in voluntourism. During our port stay in San Francisco, we opt for a shore excursion to the San Francisco-Marin Food Bank. Alongside fellow cruisers and local San Franciscans, we spend an afternoon bagging rice for families and elderly in need. The outing not only spotlights the award-winning Crystal Cares Voluntourism program, but further connects us to the San Francisco community. “Volunteers are operationally necessary for the Food Bank,” explains San Francisco-Marin Food Bank Community Engagement Manager Cody Jang. “Over 38,000 people volunteer each year in the warehouse, helping to prep food for distribution to our neighbors. This means gleaning large bins of produce or dry goods, checking for quality, and assembling into useful sizes for our partners. This volunteer force packs over one million pounds of food a month, all in service of our 48 million pounds of food distributed last year. The work of volunteers is critical to helping the Food Bank maintain the ratio of 60 percent of distribution being fresh produce.” During our volunteer shift, we work swiftly to Eighties rock and collectively box 735 pounds of rice in just a few hours. We trade cruise stories with fellow guests and afterward Jang gives us a full tour of the facility. He explains it opened in 1997 and is lined wall-to-wall with food supplies, and that the aforementioned 60 percent of fresh produce is sourced directly from farms. The food bank depends on daily volunteers, delivers six

days a week, and every single dollar donated translates to $5 of food. And with one in four of the bank’s neighbors at risk for hunger, it serves 144,000 people every week. We depart the bank feeling like we’ve contributed to something larger than ourselves while vacationing, and it leaves a lasting impression. Colorado-based Crystal guest Terry Hardie explains, “I enjoy volunteering with a number of non-profits in Colorado, and I liked the fact that volunteer opportunities were offered instead of just shore excursions.”

Ports, Please>The Call of California

Though it’s easy to lounge each day aboard the ship, highlights of each stop reveal an itinerary chock-full of adventure. SAN FRANCISCO Not to Miss: Just a short walk from where Crystal Serenity® docks, San Francisco’s bustling Ferry Building Marketplace is a one-stop shop for source-to-fork restaurants, unique home décor, and regional wine. Try the local favorite Slanted Door for authentic Vietnamese fare or the famous Hog Island Oyster Bar for raw oysters and views of San Francisco Bay. SANTA BARBARA Oenophile: Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone is a top-draw for wine aficionados. Visit Paradise Springs Winery for a flight of notable reds (the 2015 Sanford & Benedict Pinot Noir is a standout) and then walk across the street to Riverbench Winery and sample outstanding single-vineyard sparkling wines. Alternatively, Crystal offers the Solvang and Santa Ynez wine tasting shore excursion, during which you can blend your own signature wine. SAN DIEGO Seascape: La Jolla. The Crystal Serenity® docks in downtown San Diego—which means top attractions like the San Diego Zoo and USS Midway Museum are easily accessible. If wanting to explore a bit further, take a short drive to La Jolla and go sea kayaking along its famous coves, stroll the pedestrian-friendly walkway along La Jolla Beach, and then shop local boutiques on Girard Avenue. CATALINA ISLAND Point of View: Airport in the Sky. Our cruise ended with an exclamation point when waking up to views of Catalina Island. Visit the famous Catalina Island Casino (William Wrigley Jr. commissioned its construction in 1929 to mark the 10-year anniversary of his purchase of the island), or opt for a 4X4 adventure in tricked-out ATVs to the Airport in the Sky, where you’re rewarded with an unforgettable bird’s-eye view of the island and LA’s skyline.

Sea Worthy Crystal Cruises celebrates itineraries anchored in local culture and experiences. Enter OFFER M19059 on the website on the back cover to discover more.

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the Resource

Your guide to this issue’s featured destinations. Here’s where to sleep, dine, and discover.

Hawai‘i

(Aloha, Hawai‘i!, page 42) STAY Montage Kapalua Bay This Maui landmark uniquely connects guests to Polynesian culture. Residential style accommodations were redesigned last year; if traveling with family stay at the two-bedroom ocean villa. Book a private dinner at the scenic Cliff House which overlooks the Pacific, Moloka‘i, and Lāna‘i. The island-inspired Spa Montage, where you’ll be treated to a $150 credit, features personalized treatments and body therapies including the popular Healing Seaweed Cocoon. BON VOYAGE>CRUISE Travel with Ponant Cruises from Honolulu to Pape'ete aboard Le Boréal on a 15-night Hawai‘i and French Polynesia Cruise, and enjoy a $500 shipboard credit. Explore the islands with onboard experts who give unique historical and cultural insights. Discover Hawai‘i’s beaches, 66

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rainforests, waterfalls, and volcanic lands, including a visit the Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. DON’T MISS Warehouse 3540 in Kaua‘i A new collective of local artisans, Warehouse 3540 is a haven for eclectic boutiques and food shops. Machine Machine features island-inspired, colorful clothing; Hawai‘i Says Hi procures beauty products made from such local ingredients as coconut, fig, and even Kona beer. You’ll also find artist-owned galleries, organic coffee shops, and artisan-made shaved ice. The Island of Hawi‘i’s Hi‘ilawe Falls As seen on the cover of this issue, the Waipio Valley’s Hi‘ilawe Falls is an emerald paradise. As the island’s largest waterfall, it’s massive in scope (with a free fall of 1200 feet). One of the best ways to witness the natural wonder is by helicopter. The bird’s-eye view will undoubtedly be a trip highlight. After experiencing it, celebrate the day with a decadent meal at Merriman’s Restaurant.

Bhutan

(Destination Happy, page 52) STAY COMO Uma Bhutan COMO offers entrée to luxury Bhutan lodging. An authentic sense of place is seen in the notable Zen-like design, which is decidedly laid back yet polished. Don’t miss the award-winning spa, where exclusive privileges include a one-hour COMO Shambhala massage. Amankora The stylish and private retreats, where you’ll receive a $100 resort credit, feature logdes in the the valleys of Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Phobjikha, and Bumthang. Experience a remote kingdom, with gorgeous forests, dramatic inclines, and 7,000-metre peaks. DON’T MISS Taktshang Goemba, or “Tiger’s Nest” Known as the country’s most famous landmark, this enchanting religious site warrants ample time to navigate. Be prepared to gain elevation, as the climb is steep yet well worth the effort. National Institute for Zorig Chusum Visitors will gain a first-hand appreciation for Bhutan’s dedication to preserving ancient traditions. The institute features multi-year courses in Bhutan’s 13 traditional arts, including woodcarving, statue-making, painting, and embroidery, among others. Witnessing students in action makes for incredible photos.

Crystal Cruises

(California Dreamin’, page 60) STAY Penthouse Suites The re-imagined Penthouse Suites with Verandahs are a standout among cruise accommodations. Amenity highlights include personal butler service, complimentary beer and wine, welcome champagne and fully-stocked complimentary in-room bar upon embarkation; large verandah; walk-in closet; and Riedel glassware. Bathroom amenities include a full Jacuzzi® bathtub with separate shower. Also enjoy free pressing upon request, afternoon canapés and tea service, nightly hors d’oeuvres, and evening room service from Crystal’s specialty restaurants. And with a 1 to 1.5 crew to guest ratio, the service is notable as the ship’s new design. BON VOYAGE>CRUISE Crystal Serenity® After a sophisticated overhaul in November 2018, the ship has re-emerged to applause. What to expect? In addition to renovated, contemporary suites, Crystal Serenity® now features a redesigned lounge and entertainment venues, including the Stardust Club and Palm Court; a new production show called Crystal on Broadway, The Show; and new interactive technological amenities.

DON’T MISS Crystal Cares Voluntourism Available on almost every cruise offered, this innovative program allows Crystal guests an immersive experience while discovering new landscapes and communities. Crystal sails the globe, connecting its guests to communities worldwide. Organizations impacted include non-profits ranging from orphanages and homeless shelters to wildlife refuges and hurricane relief.

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ÂŠ 2019 Cunard. Shipsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Registry: Bermuda.

See the world differently.

Contact your professional Travel Advisor now for expert advice and great value.

TRAVEL ELEVATED

Beyond

VACATIONS p. 70 CRUISES p. 75 HOTELS & RESORTS

p. 78

A colorful shopping district in Jerusalem, Israel.

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VAC AT I O N S INSIDER

AFRICA

As experts in luxury travel for more than 50 years, Abercrombie & Kent offers unforgettable travel experiences in over 100 countries on all seven continents. From small-group journeys and luxury expedition cruises to personally customized, privately guided, tailor-made itineraries, all A&K journeys are backed by an unmatched network of more than 55 local offices around the globe.

BOTSWANA SAFARI IN STYLE

Stay at boutique camps and lodges on this A&K safari journey, which celebrates phenomenal game areas in the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park, as well as stunning Victoria Falls. 9-NIGHT VACATION INCLUDES: Premier accommodations; many meals and beverages; guided sightseeing and park entrance fees; transfers; hotel taxes and gratuities (excluding tour director). Select travel dates through 12/18/19 OFFER 1307524

CALL OR VISIT THE WEBSITE, FOUND ON THE BACK COVER, FOR ADDITIONAL INFO + LATEST VACATION OFFERS. Amenities may vary by category and travel date. Restrictions, terms and conditions may apply.

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VAC AT I O N S INSIDER

AFRICA

African Travel, Inc. is America’s longest established travel company focused exclusively on Africa. For more than 40 years, African Travel, Inc. has handcrafted luxury safari experiences, delivering immersive and authentic cultural encounters. Turn your travel dreams into reality with the ultimate luxury safari adventure. In partnership with the TreadRight Foundation, African Travel is committed to helping ensure the environment and communities visited remain vibrant for generations to come.

ULTIMATE SOUTH AFRICA WITH VICTORIA FALLS

This journey combines contemporary design and exclusivity. Beautiful settings and spectacular wildlife viewing create the ultimate sensory safari.

10-NIGHT VACATION INCLUDES: Luxury accommodations; most meals; game drives and guided walks; private wine tour and scenic helicopter flight along Cape Town’s coast. Select travel dates through 12/14/19

• One night of sleeping under the stars at the Lion Sands luxury treehouse OFFER 1285076

ULTIMATE TANZANIA AND RWANDA

This journey has all the ingredients required to create a safari masterpiece. Enjoy unparalleled service at intimate properties, pristine locations devoted to preserving Africa’s wildlife, and diverse photographic opportunities—all perfectly paced and ready to be enjoyed. 12-NIGHT VACATION INCLUDES: Luxury accommodations; most meals; game drives and guided walks; two gorilla treks in the Virungas; Rwandan cooking class and hot air balloon ride over the Serengeti.

CAPE TO CAIRO

This comprehensive adventure features the most sought-after highlights on the African continent, including the cosmopolitan sights of Cape Town, the grandeur of Victoria Falls and the mighty Zambezi River. Additionally, discover endless game viewing opportunities in Kenya’s Maasai Mara and the towering Great Pyramids of ancient Egypt. 15-NIGHT VACATION INCLUDES: Luxury accommodations; most meals; game drives and guided walks; hot air balloon ride above the Mara plains; canoe along the Zambezi river and feed a giraffe for breakfast.

Select travel dates through 12/31/19

Select travel dates through 10/31/19

• Sun downer cocktails and four-course meal under a canopy of twinkling stars

OFFER 1317070

OFFER 1320147

• Chef’s Table dining experience - a journey of culinary discovery

CALL OR VISIT THE WEBSITE, FOUND ON THE BACK COVER, FOR ADDITIONAL INFO + LATEST VACATION OFFERS. *Valid for new reservations made by 7/31/19. Restrictions apply. | Amenities may vary by category and travel date. Restrictions, terms and conditions may apply. U LT I M AT E E X P E R I E N C E S

VAC AT I O N S INSIDER

C R O AT I A + J A PA N

Backroads opens up possibilities—to connect with the places you seek and people you meet. At Backroads, active travel is about more than just activity. It’s about refreshing and awakening your sense of exploration and discovery. Choose a long bike ride or take the slow route up the trail. Or just hang back and read a great book. Each day is as full or free as you wish.

CROATIA: MULTI-ADVENTURE TOUR

Bike amid stunning karst mountains. Gaze out over sun-drenched islands. Stroll ancient cobblestone streets. Kayak secluded inlets and soak up the sun on hidden beaches. Then linger over unbelievably fresh seafood. Come truly experience the Dalmatian Coast. 5-NIGHT VACATION INCLUDES: Casual accommodations; most meals; equipment and experienced guides; van shuttles to support a variety of route options; private guided tours at museums, historic sites and wineries; snacks and beverages between meals; all gratuities at hotels and restaurants; baggage transfers and porterage. Select travel dates through 10/7/19 OFFER 1321254

JAPAN BIKE TOUR

Japan’s dramatic coast. Perfected over eons and just waiting to be discovered by bike. On scenic rides, explore the Noto Peninsula’s “hidden shore,” lined with fishing villages, terraced rice fields, and rocky limestone formations. Discover peaceful Kyoto and exquisite Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines that stand the test of time. 7-NIGHT VACATION INCLUDES: Premier accommodations; most meals; equipment and experienced guides; van shuttles to support a variety of route options; private guided tours at museums, historic sites and wineries; snacks and beverages between meals; all gratuities at hotels and restaurants; baggage transfers and porterage. Select travel dates through 10/13/19 OFFER 1316835

CALL OR VISIT THE WEBSITE, FOUND ON THE BACK COVER, FOR ADDITIONAL INFO + LATEST VACATION OFFERS. Amenities may vary by category and travel date. Restrictions, terms and conditions may apply.

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VAC AT I O N S INSIDER

AFRICA + SOUTH AMERICA

Wherever Tauck travels, they take you to explore the world’s treasures and help you discover people and cultures you may not have known existed. Experience extraordinary, life-changing moments seamlessly arranged by top-of-the-line professionals. All you have to do is sit back and enjoy an amazing, worry-free trip.

GREAT MIGRATION: TANZANIA & KENYA

PATAGONIA

Earth Journeys ... Created by Tauck and BBC Earth.

Follow wildebeest and zebra on their annual trek from Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park to Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve on this nine-day safari. Witnessing this Great Migration is a unique experience that should top the bucket list of every safari enthusiast. Small group departures limited to 18 guests. 8-NIGHT VACATION INCLUDES: Standard accommodations; most meals; all safari expenses and adventures; entertainment; airport transfers; land transportation; admission fees; porterage; gratuities of hotel staff, local guides and drivers. Select travel dates 1/19/20 - 11/19/20 OFFER 1334961

HIDDEN GALÁPAGOS & PERU

In the southern Andes mountains lies one of the most beautiful places on Earth—Patagonia. Expect astonishing landscapes of jagged Andean peaks and deep fjords carved by glaciers. View panoramic vistas of living ice that changes shape and color by the angle of the sun, and deep-water lakes of emerald and turquoise.

Small Ship Cruising. Earth Journeys ... Created by Tauck and BBC Earth. This new Galápagos Islands vacation

10-NIGHT VACATION INCLUDES: Standard accommodations; most meals and special dinners; motor coach transportation; airport transfers; entertainment; sightseeing; porterage; gratuities for hotel and restaurant staff, drivers and local guides.

15-NIGHT VACATION INCLUDES: Standard hotel and cruise accommodations; airport transfers; motor coach transportation; port charges; land excursions; admissions; entertainment; sightseeing; most meals, beverages on board and special dinners; porterage; services and gratuities of the Tauck Directors, hotel and ship staff, local guides and drivers.

Select travel dates 1/10/20 - 12/18/20 OFFER 1334966

travels from Incan citadels in the cloud forests of the Andes to the remote volcanic islands of the Galápagos. Experience Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley of the Incas, and colonial and preColumbian cultures in Peru.

Select travel dates 3/14/20 - 11/7/20 OFFER M18858

CALL OR VISIT THE WEBSITE, FOUND ON THE BACK COVER, FOR ADDITIONAL INFO + LATEST VACATION OFFERS. Amenities may vary by category and travel date. Restrictions, terms and conditions may apply. U LT I M AT E E X P E R I E N C E S

VAC AT I O N S INSIDER

DUBAI, MALDIVES + TA H I T I

Created by a team of South Pacific professionals, Tahiti Legends understands the unique characteristics of the region, using intimate knowledge to design memorable, customized experiences. Experience a romantic getaway in some of the world’s most beautiful island destinations.

DUBAI & MALDIVES SWEET ESCAPE

Begin your time in Dubai with a breathtaking view from the Burj al Arab tower. Enjoy the modern sights with a Dubai City Tour and escape back in time with a Desert Safari with a traditional BBQ dinner in a bedouin camp setup. From Dubai, experience an allinclusive stay in an overwater villa in the Maldives. Enjoy a relaxation massage, sunset cruise, water activities, and additional romantic indulgences. 8-NIGHT VACATION INCLUDES: Luxury Burj View Room accommodations at Taj Dubai; breakfast for two daily in Dubai; welcome meet and greet service upon arrival in Dubai; roundtrip private transfers from airport to hotel in Dubai; Dubai city tour; desert safari and BBQ dinner; romantic Ocean Villa accommodations at Hurawalhi Resort; all meals and select beverages in the Maldives; complimentary use of the airport Seaplane Lounge; roundtrip seaplane transfers from airport to hotel in the Maldives; fruit plate and flowers upon arrival; bottle of Champagne in-villa in the Maldives; romantic sunset cruise in the Maldives; use of non-motorized water equipment; 60-minute massage and romantic bath setup in the Maldives. Select travel dates through 10/20/19 OFFER 1331443

AUTHENTIC TAHITIAN DISCOVERY

Explore the islands of Tahiti, Moorea, Raiatea and Huahine. Take a 4x4 mountain safari and experience Tahiti’s mountainous interior. Zip through the trees on an aerial zipline adventure in Moorea and hop in your rented car to discover the island at your leisure. End your vacation on the lush island of Huahine with a visit to a local pearl farm, snorkeling and a picnic lunch on a pristine motu. 11-NIGHT VACATION INCLUDES: Luxury accommodations; breakfast for two daily; roundtrip inter-island air transportation on Air Tahiti to Raiatea and Huahine; inter-island transport by passenger ferry to Moorea; roundtrip ground transfers from airport to hotel in Tahiti, Moorea, Raiatea, and Huahine; 4x4 Mountain Safari with Lunch in Tahiti; three-day car rental in Moorea; zipline and aerial adventure in Moorea; Marc’s Motu Picnic with a pearl farm visit and snorkeling in Huahine; welcome flower lei and baggage handling. Select travel dates through 1/10/20 OFFER 1331449

CALL OR VISIT THE WEBSITE, FOUND ON THE BACK COVER, FOR ADDITIONAL INFO + LATEST VACATION OFFERS. Amenities may vary by category and travel date. Restrictions, terms and conditions may apply.

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CRUISE INSIDER

ALASKA, ISRAEL, BRAZIL + ARGENTINA

The initial layers of a city, including its people, buildings, and shops, can be seen by anyone. Inspiration is found when one goes deeper, beyond the city’s surface. Explore the world within the world, while discovering more about yourself. With overnight stays and docking at smaller, less-traveled ports, Azamara Club Cruises® invites you to step ashore as an insider and Explore FurtherSM.

ALASKA INTENSIVE

ISRAEL INTENSIVE

TANGO, SALSA, AND SAMBA

Azamara Quest®

Azamara PursuitSM

ITINERARY*: Anchorage (Seward), Hubbard Glacier, Icy Strait, Haines, Juneau, Skagway, Sitka, Ketchikan, Victoria, Vancouver

ITINERARY: Athens (Piraeus), Limassol, Haifa (overnight), Ashdod (two nights), Heraklion, Athens (Piraeus)

ITINERARY: Buenos Aires, Montevideo, Santos (São Paulo), Parati, Buzios, Rio de Janeiro (two nights), Punta del Este, Buenos Aires

10 NIGHTS DEPARTING: MAY 25; JUNE 22; JULY 20, 2019

10 NIGHTS DEPARTING: SEPTEMBER 4, 2019

13 NIGHTS DEPARTING: DECEMBER 8, 2019

• $200 shipboard credit per couple for Club Ocean View and higher categories

OFFER 1300524

OFFER 1300534

• Reserve the 5/25 sailing and receive $200 shipboard credit for Club Ocean View and higher categories; Reserve the 6/22 or 7/20 sailing and receive $250 shipboard credit, plus, a cocktail reception and experienced host. OFFER M18641

CALL OR VISIT THE WEBSITE, FOUND ON THE BACK COVER, FOR ADDITIONAL INFO + LATEST VACATION OFFERS. *Itinerary may vary. | Amenities may vary by category and travel date. Restrictions, terms and conditions may apply. Ships’ Registry: Malta. U LT I M AT E E X P E R I E N C E S

CRUISE INSIDER

CARIBBEAN + MEDITERRANEAN

SeaDream Yacht Club has achieved the industry’s highest accolades for its twin, casually elegant mega-yachts: SeaDream I and SeaDream II. With a maximum 112 guests and 95-person award-winning crew, “yachting, not cruising” defines the vessels’ size, onboard lifestyle, and anticipatory service. SeaDream visits small harbors in the Caribbean and Mediterranean. All cuisine is prepared à la minute, and international menus incorporate regional flavors and fresh ingredients.

EASTERN CARIBBEAN

SeaDream I Itinerary: San Juan, Virgin Gorda, Nevis, St. Kitts, Anguilla, St. Barths (overnight), Jost van Dyke, St. Thomas. 7 NIGHTS DEPARTING: NOVEMBER 16, 2019

• $200 spa credit per couple

OFFER 1313284

CUBA

SeaDream I ITINERARY: Cienfuegos (overnight), Trinidad, Cayo Largo, Isla de la Juventud, Maria la Gorda, Havana 7 NIGHTS DEPARTING: FEBRUARY 2, 2020

• $200 spa credit per couple

OFFER 1314334

MEDITERRANEAN

SeaDream I ITINERARY: Malaga, Cartagena, Denia, Tarragona, Port Vendres, Sanary Sur Mer, St. Tropez, Nice 7 NIGHTS DEPARTING: MAY 9, 2020

• $200 spa credit per couple

OFFER 1322655

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CRUISE INSIDER

N O R W AY

For nearly three decades, Quark has been blazing trails in Polar adventure travel. From being the first company to bring guests to the North Pole to successfully circumnavigating the Continent of Antarctica, Quark Expeditions brings the highest level of safety and expertise in the Polar Regions. Yet trailblazing is just one reason Quark is uniquely qualified to ensure a trip of a lifetime. Expect the finest in hospitality and the most skilled expedition team on one of seven purpose-built expedition vessels.

INTRO TO SPITSBERGEN: FJORDS, GLACIERS AND WILDLIFE OF SVALBARD Ocean Adventurer, World Explorer ITINERARY*: Longyearbyen (Norway), Spitsbergen (Norway- six nights), Longyearbyen (Norway) Ask about an Arctic 2020 Early Booking Bonus!** 8 or 9 NIGHTS DEPARTING: June 1, 9, 23; July 15, 2019; June 11, 19; July 9, 17, 2020 • $300 polar boutique credit per couple OFFER M19142

CALL OR VISIT THE WEBSITE, FOUND ON THE BACK COVER, FOR ADDITIONAL INFO + LATEST VACATION OFFERS. *Itinerary may vary. **Valid for new reservations made by 6/15/19. | Amenities may vary by category and travel date. Restrictions, terms and conditions may apply. Ships’ Registry: Bahamas. U LT I M AT E E X P E R I E N C E S

H OT E L S & R E S O R T S INSIDER

Hotels & Resorts Collection

MEXICO & ENGLAND

From Mexico to England, the Hotels & Resorts Collection ensures exclusive privileges at more than 1100 participating global properties. Enjoy complimentary breakfasts and resort credits towards spa treatments and available upgrades.

PARADISUS PLAYA DEL CARMEN LA ESMERALDA

Playa del Carmen, Mexico This luxury, all-inclusive playground caters to adults and children alike. Families will enjoy a variety of amenities, whether hanging out in the supervised kids zone, game zone, or participating in lifeenriching activities. Enjoy exclusive butler service, five restaurants, first-class mixology and enology, a water park, swim-up suites, heated pool, and private beach area. • 50-minute relaxing massage for two adults, per stay

• Welcome chef’s hors d’oeuvres

• Upgrade, early check-in, and late check-out, subject to availability OFFER 1335224

THE BERKELEY

London, England At The Berkeley, your front lawn is the green splendor of Hyde Park and your corner store, the singular shopping destination of Knightsbridge. The Berkeley offers a wealth of experiences found nowhere else; from the famed Blue Bar and Michelin-starred dining in Marcus to the exclusive Bamford Haybarn Spa. The Berkeley excels at everything you’d expect, while offering pleasures and discoveries you never anticipated. • Full English breakfast for two daily (also available via room service)

• £75 credit, per room, per stay

• Welcome amenity

• Upgrade, early check-in and late check-out, subject to availability OFFER 1335223

CALL OR VISIT THE WEBSITE, FOUND ON THE BACK COVER, FOR ADDITIONAL INFO + LATEST VACATION OFFERS. 78

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H OT E L S & R E S O R T S INSIDER

Hotels & Resorts Collection

USA

With the Hotels & Resorts Collection, expect exclusive access, peace of mind, and once-in-a-lifetime memories. At the Resort at Paws Up, an authentic western spirit is defined by Montana’s penchant for outdoor play, elevated cuisine, and an unforgettable spa.

THE RESORT AT PAWS UP

Greenough, Montana It’s time to take a totally different kind of all-inclusive vacation with a trip to Montana. At The Resort at Paws Up, no two days are the same. Try your hand at go-karting, sporting clays, ATV-riding and Cow Croquet. Indulge in gourmet meals and spa services, then return to your luxurious vacation home for a soak in the hot tub Consider this spring break a breath of fresh air. All guests enjoy roundtrip airport transfers from Missoula International Airport. • $300 hotel activity credit, per accommodation, per stay • Welcome bottle of wine, in room, upon arrival • Upgrade, early check-in and late check-out, subject to availability

• $100 spa credit, once per stay

OFFER 1335225

CALL OR VISIT THE WEBSITE, FOUND ON THE BACK COVER, FOR ADDITIONAL INFO + LATEST VACATION OFFERS. U LT I M AT E E X P E R I E N C E S

POSTCARD FROM …

THAILAND with Marie Giuge Perry of SIX SENSES

2019 WISH-LIST TRIP: I’m so lucky to visit incredible destinations with my job. This year, I’ll visit Bhutan again, discover Rajasthan, and explore more of Turkey and Israel. But I’d also like to go ‘home’ to the tiny village where I come from—‘Marie sur Tinee.’ It’s located in the mountains near Nice and is close to the Italian border. FAVORITE ASPECT OF SIX SENSES WELLNESS PROGRAMS: Our programs are developed specifically to personalized needs. After a non-invasive screening that analyzes your key physiological biomarkers, our experts use the results to create a bespoke and meaningful program of wellness activities, including yoga, spa treatments, fitness, and nutrition guidelines. But what I love most is that I can access these amazing range of experts and holistic wellness programs, while my husband can just be pampered in the spa and eat what he likes in the restaurants. I don’t have to drag him to a boot camp! TOP RECENT EPICUREAN ESCAPE: Last June, we had a family vacation in Tuscany. We visited small villages and tried the most extraordinary trattorias where the food is so simple and delicious. CURRENT OBSESSION: Say NO to plastic! Not only because I am part of Six Senses and it’s one of our most important core values, but because living on the beach in Thailand, I see, every day, the damage we are doing to our

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environment. So as a family we are fighting single use plastic—straws, shopping bags, water bottles and collecting rubbish—daily. Every little action counts. I’D MOST LIKE TO DINE WITH: Simone Veil. Survivor of the concentration camps, she was a French lawyer and one of the most famous female French politicians. She served as Ministry of Health in France in the 1970s. I grew up with her as a symbol of democracy and women’s rights, and I look forward to talking to my daughter, Lola, about this formidable lady. RESORT I MOST WANT TO RETURN TO: Six Senses Ninh Van Bay near Nhatrang, in Central Vietnam. I lived in Vietnam for 10 years and started my career with Six Senses by opening this property 15 years ago. It’s a special place to my heart—and to my stomach! I crave Vietnamese specialties like the Pho (traditional soup), fresh spring rolls, or Goi Cuon, which is full of aromatic herbs directly from the hotel’s organic garden. WHEN I’M NOT WORKING, YOU’LL FIND ME: On Ao Yon beach in Phuket, where I live with my daughter, my husband Craig, our dog Rio (a Vietnamese Ridge Back from Phu Quoc island in Vietnam) and our two cats, Lolli and Pop.

A scenic Ocean Pool Villa at Six Senses Yao Noi; Marie Giuge Perry, Vice President of Sales & Marketing at Six Senses.

VETTED&VAST Time is the ultimate luxury. We’ll handle the minutia. You tackle the fun.

I N S I D E R A C C E S S . E XC LU S I V E B E N E F I T S . B E S P O K E T R AV E L P E A C E O F M I N D . YO U R W I S H , O U R C O M M A N D Life-changing journeys? We’re on it. Call us today.

D E S T I N AT I O N >HAPPY PAGE 52

Bhutan

Ultimate Experiences April 2019

Articles inside

California Dreamin'

Destination > Happy

Deep Dive

Aloha, Hawai'i!

Charting New Waters

Bespoke Beauty

Shore Bet

5 Reasons to Dine in Monaco