28 minute read
DESTINATION GPS
NOW GO Explorers Wanted
WHY THE ARCTIC SHOULD BE YOUR NEXT LIFE-CHANGING JOURNEY. BY MEREDITH DIERS
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THE RUGGED ARCTIC REMAINS ONE OF THE MOST PRISTINE AREAS ON THE PLANET. From the Canadian High Arctic to the Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard and the North Pole, this ice-laden region is home to polar bears, muskoxen, arctic foxes, beluga whales, reindeer, seals, walruses, and migratory birds, among other wildlife species. Experiencing this unique part of the world should be on every traveler’s list.
QUARK EXPEDITIONS: THE LEADER IN POLAR ADVENTURES
As the leader in polar adventures, Quark Expeditions offers guests the comfort of experience, the excitement of adventure, and the pleasure of luxury. Quark’s newest ship, Ultramarine, is equipped with two twinengine helicopters and all the bells and whistles for incredible adventure—expect more outdoor wildlife viewing spaces than any other expedition ship its size. And given that it’s been built via an innovative mix of industry-leading sustainability features, you’ll also be cruising with minimal environmental impact. Here are two not-to-miss Quark journeys.
GREENLAND ADVENTURE PROGRAM: EXPLORE BY LAND, SEA, AIR
Alongside municipal, regional, and national partners in Greenland, Quark Expeditions has created a bold itinerary for the Ultramarine. Based in and around Southeast Greenland’s spectacular fjords, guests can explore areas where others can’t. The ship’s aforementioned twin-engine helicopters allow guests to travel to glacial lakes high in alpine terrain, and trek across the vast Greenland Ice Sheet. Another highlight? Roaming the arctic tundra with a resident chef, followed by an unforgettable meal made from local ingredients.
SPITSBERGEN HIGHLIGHTS: EXPEDITION IN BRIEF
Perfect to pair with a tour of Oslo, Norway, this Quark Expeditions itinerary showcases all the excitement of an epic Artic cruise in just seven days. As the Ultramarine travels through pack ice along the west coast of Spitsbergen, guests will retrace the steps of historic explorers. The rocky island is home to a thriving and diverse ecosystem, including mountains and glaciers, towering cliffs, and fjords. From the ship’s 20 quick-launching Zodiacs and extensive wildlife viewing spaces, travelers will spot walrus, arctic birds, and polar bears.
The Viking DIFFERENCE
SAIL EUROPE ON BOARD A SCENIC RIVER CRUISE.
BY MEREDITH DIERS
SAIL EUROPE’S MOST ICONIC RIVERS WITH VIKING, THE WORLD’S LEADING SMALL SHIP CRUISE LINE. Viking’s destination-focused itineraries are for experienced travelers interested in geography, culture, and history. Each journey includes a shore excursion in every port, while the exclusive Viking Culture Curriculum program immerses guests in destination-centric music and art performances, cooking demonstrations, and guest lectures.
BEFORE YOU GO
Looking for inspiration pre departure? Viking features a comprehensive online library, including all itinerary information. Whether you’re a movie buff or literature enthusiast, the Viking online catalogue has something for every traveler type. Reading recommendations, cultural profiles, and videos allow guests to delve deeper into their destinations.
ONBOARD
Every detail aboard a Viking ship is designed to enrich and enhance the travel experience, so guests can fully immerse themselves in the rich cultures of each journey. From the insights of guest lecturers and presentations to regional cuisine with cooking demonstrations and regional vintages, Viking connects guests to diverse destinations through their food, countryside, and customs.
ON SHORE
The Viking Way of exploration takes you deeper into ports of call, offering exclusive experiences and hands-on exploration. While Viking includes iconic museums and notable landmarks, it also reveals local life and experiences in places otherwise quite difficult to visit.
The award-winning Viking Longships offer travelers unprecedented levels of comfort and elegance as they sail the world’s great rivers. With routes sailing past large cities and off-the-beaten-path villages, guests will discover storybook villages and hilltop castles in Germany, see ancient temples along Egypt’s powerful Nile, and explore scenic vineyards and ancient monasteries.
Eco-Exploration
NATURAL HABITAT ADVENTURES REDEFINES SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL. BY AMY ROBERTS
TERMS LIKE “ECOTOURISM” AND “SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL” HAVE LONG BEEN A MARKETABLE TREND IN THE VACATION INDUSTRY. In 2006, the New York Times called ecotourism the “buzzword of the year.” And unfortunately, buzzword is often an accurate description of what many so-called green travel companies offer. In contrast, Natural Habitat Adventures delivers on the authentic definition of eco-friendly travel.
For starters, Natural Habitat Adventures is the world’s first completely carbon-neutral tour operator. Since 2007, the company has offset 100 percent of carbon emissions from every trip. Natural Habitat Adventures was also chosen as a travel partner by World Wildlife Fund (WWF)— the world’s leading conservation organization. Travelers can book with confidence, knowing each itinerary has been meticulously curated to ensure the utmost respect for the natural world, and an unparalleled experience within it. But that’s just the proverbial tip of the iceberg.
Natural Habitat Adventures also specializes in small-group, Arctic exploration, allowing guests safe and intimate encounters with polar bears. With just a handful of other guests, you can explore Canada’s Hudson Bay, home to the planet’s greatest concentration of polar bears, as they gather along the bay waiting for it to freeze over.
From the comfort and safety of a custom-built Polar Rover, you and fellow passengers will navigate the tundra in search of the largest bear species on Earth. With massive picture windows inside and an elevated viewing platform outside, the rover provides unrivaled proximately to the bears. Watch them play, interact, and occasionally engage with your group. Curious bears have been known to sniff the vehicle and stand on their haunches for a better view of the humans visiting their territory. If you’re among the lucky, you may catch the grunt of a vocal polar bear as it communicates with other bears across the ice.
While a polar bear safari is certainly the highlight of the trip, cultural experiences like an authentic dog sled ride through a boreal forest and opportunities to view the northern lights are equally enticing.
Egypt & South Africa
ALEXANDER + ROBERTS REDEFINES PRIVATE TRAVEL WITH SMALL GROUP JOURNEYS. BY AMIEE WHITE BEAZLEY
KNOWN FOR EXCEPTIONAL EXPERIENCES AND INSIDER ACCESS, ALEXANDER + ROBERTS IS AN AMERICAN TOUR OPERATOR SPECIALIZING IN LUXURY SMALL GROUP JOURNEYS to 87 destinations around the world— always guaranteed to have “Never More Than 16 Guests.” For 75 years, A+R has been known for its stays at the world’s finest five-star boutique hotels, safari camps, and lodges, plus comprehensive sightseeing with award-winning guides native to each destination. Expect fine dining with wine included and exclusive cultural experiences. In addition to A+R Small Group Journeys, the company also offers an array of Private Journeys to all 87 destinations around the world, for any number of family or friends.
VISIONS OF EGYPT
Enjoy this land and cruise itinerary featuring the best ship on the Nile, the five-star Oberoi Philae. With only 22 staterooms, this spacious five-star ship offers spectacular cuisine and private docking facilities along the Nile. Visit the Temple of Ramses II at Abu Simbel, a wonder of the ancient world, and explore Cairo’s Great Pyramids and Sphinx with Egyptologists, followed by a visit to the new Grand Egyptian Museum. Other marvels include the spectacularly preserved Valley of the Kings and King Tutankhamen’s tomb, the Alabaster Sphinx, the Step Pyramid of King Zoser, and the 4,000-year-old Tomb of Mehu, recently opened to visitors for the first time in 80 years!
JOURNEY TO SOUTH AFRICA AND VICTORIA FALLS
Experience the rich diversity of South Africa with the intimate luxury of uncrowded private reserves, thrilling nature expeditions, and celebrated local wines and cuisine. Since A+R groups remain small, they access the finest boutique properties in Africa, including The River Club, which has a spectacular setting on the Zambezi River at Victoria Falls. Also on the itinerary? Viewing the Big Five at Tintswalo Safari Lodge, located within the 57,000 acre Manyeleti Private Game Reserve nestled between Kruger National Park, Timbavati, and Sabi Sands. End your adventure at Grootbos Forest Lodge, a pristine coastal paradise showcasing the splendor of the Cape Floral Kingdom and the incredible marine life of the southernmost tip of Africa.
NATURE’S WAY
The Galápagos Islands Page 46
EUROPEAN ESCAPES
Adventures Abroad Page 54
ST BARTHS
Oui! Page 60
PHOTO BY: SONIA KUNIAKINA Copenhagen, Denmark.
S A A
F R I
Have you ever snorkeled with friendly sea lions, walked on a black-
sand beach, sat next to a perfectly still marine iguana, and spotted a blue-footed booby from your kayak—all in the same day? If you visit The Galápagos Islands, special encounters like these await.
As with many ultimate destinations, it takes effort to get to the Galápagos. Made up of 13 volcanic islands and a series of tiny islets, the archipelago is located about 600 miles west of Ecuador’s mainland. Travelers typically fly to either Quito or Guayaquil, spend the night, then fly to Baltra Island, the Galápagos’ main gateway. Because most of the archipelago is a national park, expect entry forms and strict requirements as to what can be brought into the islands. Yet rest assured, your effort will be rewarded: Visiting the Galápagos exceeds all expectations. The archipelago is a must for anyone interested in seeing wildlife in its natural habitat and experiencing a truly once-in-a-lifetime destination.
Previous page: A playful sea lion in the Galápagos Islands. Opposite: Bartholomew Island.
I have sailed on 100-plus cruises, and rarely have I experienced the warmth, service, and authentic hospitality delivered by the team onboard Celebrity Flora.
NATURE AS CENTER STAGE
Above all, the Galápagos are nature’s showcase. The archipelago is home to the highest concentration of endemic wildlife in the world, with 1,000-plus indigenous birds, plants, fish, and mammals. Think iguanas that swim, flightless cormorants, the only penguins north of the Equator, red-footed birds, and giant tortoises that live up to 150 years and weigh up to 800 pounds (and that’s just for starters). Since the islands are so remote, wildlife has nothing to fear. You are the visitor. The wildlife is at home. There are few predators, and most of the islands are uninhabited. The other factor that makes the Galápagos so special is that the archipelago is “oceanic.” How so? The islands rose from the ocean floor millions of years ago and were never part of any land mass. As a result, active volcanoes are found along the islands, and evidence of volcanic activity is everywhere. Each island is different. Some feature otherworldly lava flows resembling the surface of the moon; others have green landscapes and forests. Beaches can have white, black, ochre, red, or a light olive colored sand. Expect the unexpected, as The Galápagos are a world apart.
Clockwise from left: The famous blue-footed booby; Celebrity Flora’s penthouse suite bedroom; onboard happy hour includes Celebrity Flora’s inspired cuisine; the Galápagos Islands are known for giant tortoises; jacuzzi with a one-of-a-kind view; exploring via tender.
CRUISE CONTROL: CELEBRITY FLORA
Based on my own travels, the best way to experience the Galápagos is to take a cruise around the archipelago. This is much more efficient than staying in a resort on Santa Cruz Island and venturing daily to nearby islands (both time-consuming and offering limited options). On a typical seven-night cruise you’ll visit up to 10 different neighboring islands, enabling you to experience much more in a short amount of time. Cruises also offer a wider range of activities, including exploring on foot, skirting the coastline on a tender or a kayak, and swimming or snorkeling near the beach and in the open sea. It’s your prerogative on how you want to discover the islands.
Currently, there are more than 50 different ships sailing the Galápagos. Finding the vessel that’s right for you can be overwhelming. I did my research and chose Celebrity Flora. I wanted to sail on a newer ship that was comfortable, well-suited to the destination, and with an excellent program of daily explorations. Launched in 2019, Celebrity Flora was the first purpose-built ship created specifically for the Galápagos. It meets the strictest environmental standards, offers ample stateroom and guest space per passenger, features more onboard facilities, and boasts a staff to guest ratio of almost 1:1—ensuring top-notch, genuine service. Celebrity Flora is large enough to feature two restaurants, a small gym, two bars, and plenty of deck space and public areas, yet small enough that the staff on board gets to know you on the second day of your cruise. The ship is intimate, with a maximum capacity of 100 guests. Every stateroom is a spacious suite, most with a veranda, or an “infinite veranda”—a window with a special feature that allows for additional fresh air. If you want an upgrade, book a Royal or Penthouse suite with more space, separate living and sleeping areas, and larger bathrooms and terraces.
PEACE OF MIND
Celebrity Flora’s fares include all meals, drinks, tipping, excursions, transfers, and pre- and postpackages in Quito, plus an exclusive, nonstop flight to and from the Galápagos. Once on board, guests are provided with snorkeling equipment, fins, and wet suits. Every detail is taken care of. The only extra charges are for premium wines and spa treatments.
Celebrity Flora is also specifically designed for adventure. I found that getting on and off the ship was easy, with next-generation tenders that embarked or disembarked a group of 10 guests in under a minute—I timed it! I was also impressed with the quality of expedition leaders: Celebrity Flora’s team of seasoned professionals is knowledgeable, caring, and entertaining. For next-level adventure, spend the night under the stars “glamping.” Celebrity Flora’s open-air cabanas are located on the ship’s top deck and feature dinner for two under the stars, a proper bed set up with all the trimmings, and breakfast served in the morning.
DAY IN THE LIFE
Because you are on the equator, sunrises are around 6 a.m., year-round. After breakfast, checkin to the main lounge for morning excursions, with departures starting at 8 a.m. You’ll be back on board for lunch, and then out again in the afternoon. Guests return before sunset, allowing time to freshen up, enjoy a drink with other passengers, and attend the daily briefing, which previews the following day’s experience options. On average, Celebrity Flora offers up to seven excursions and experiences to choose from daily. These range from easy coastal wildlife sightings on a tender to challenging hikes. Additional options include kayaking, snorkeling (both near the beach and in the open ocean) as well as various-level walking and hiking adventures. The Galápagos cruise reminded me of an African safari, combining the thrill of adventure, the element of surprise (wildlife is unpredictable), learning from expedition leaders, and an early-to-bed, early-to rise daily rhythm.
ITINERARY HIGHLIGHTS
Every day on my Galápagos cruise was special, but certain experiences and places are unforgettable. Highlights include climbing more than 400 feet to a series of wooden staircases in Bartolomé Island for a glorious view of two crescent beaches—Pinnacle Rock, and Santiago Island—the emblematic Galápagos image. Additional next-level surprises: Snorkeling in the open ocean with a school of yellowtail surgeonfish being followed by a shark. Kayaking off the red beaches of Rábida island with sea lions darting in and out of the water. Hiking up the highlands of Isabela Island. Sailing around Kicker Rock. Up-close sightings of magnificent frigate birds and the celebrated blue-footed boobies. Visiting the Charles Darwin Research Station in Santa Cruz and coming face-to-face with the giant tortoises that gave the islands their name (I could go on). Yet, last but not least, the service level on my Celebrity Flora voyage was a definitive trip highlight, with staff that truly went above and beyond for guests. I have sailed on 100-plus cruises, and rarely have I experienced the warmth, service, and authentic hospitality delivered by the team onboard the Celebrity Flora.
Visiting the Galápagos is an experience that changes you. The islands give you a glimpse into life as it was thousands of years ago, and reminds you of the fragility of our natural world. In 1835, a young scientist visited the Galápagos. His research and observation of endemic species on the islands and how they adapted over millions of years helped him form the Theory of Evolution, forever changing how science views life on earth. His name was Charles Darwin. May you walk in his footsteps.
From left: The iconic Kicker rock in the Galápagos; the Vista lounge, located aboard the Celebrity Flora.
Opposite: Stargazing aboard the Celebrity Flora; author Ignacio Maza discovers the Galápagos.
WHAT TO PACK?
Celebrity cruises are casual and relaxed. There is no need for formal attire. Practicality is top priority.
FOR THE GALÁPAGOS
Protect yourself from the sun, which is intense. Bring sunscreen (SPF 40 or higher), a hat, and sunglasses. I also recommend long-sleeved tees and lightweight hiking pants, ideally in neutral earth tones.
• A lightweight rain jacket, and a sweater or light jacket for the evenings • Ziplock bags for your phone/camera, to keep them dry • A small backpack for daily outings • Because you will have both wet and dry landings, bring water shoes and lightweight hiking shoes • Pack at least two swimsuits
IF YOU SPEND TIME IN QUITO
Quito sits at 9,300 feet above sea level. Because you are at the equator and higher elevation, weather is unpredictable. Nights are cool (high 40s or low 50s), and days can be warm (up to 70s). It can rain at any moment. My advice: wear layers, a rain jacket, and comfortable walking shoes.
Stay hydrated and drink more water than normal. Try to have your big meal for lunch and a lighter supper to cope with the altitude during your time in the Andes.
ARE CHILDREN ALLOWED?
Children are welcome on Celebrity’s Galápagos cruises. The recommended minimum age is seven years or older, but younger children are welcome, too.
OTHER TIPS?
Go on as many shore excursions as possible. Wildlife is unpredictable, and you never know what you will find at sea and ashore.
Don’t miss the daily briefing on Celebrity Flora. This is a great preview of the next day, what to expect, what to wear, and a summary of each shore excursion.
WHEN TO GO?
The Galápagos are a year-round destination, and every season has its plusses and minuses. In general: The driest weather is from June to November. This is also the season of cooler temperatures (especially in the evenings) and barren landscapes. The ocean is colder and its currents stronger this time of year. On the plus side, sea waters are clearer and better for snorkeling and diving.
The rainier period is from December to April. This means a warmer ocean and hotter temperatures on land. February and March are the hottest months of the year. Rain falls sporadically, mostly in the highlands. It usually rains for an hour or so, and that’s it. Rain brings out the vegetation and typically more bird activity.
May is a transition month, with greener landscapes but not as hot as February or March. The expedition guides I met consider May an ideal month to visit.
LAND ROVER!
Europe is having a serious comeback. Whether in search of historic landmarks, modern cuisine, or coastal retreats, these unique destination experiences ensure insider access.
THERE’S JUST SOMETHING ABOUT EUROPE’S OLD-WORLD MEETS NEW-WORLD ATTITUDE. Italy promises enchanting landscapes and decadent cuisine. Croatia has become the “it” locale for the adventurous. Copenhagen and Denmark? Next-level hospitality. And let’s not forget our global romance with brilliant Paris, as The City of Light is awaiting your return. Ultimate experiences are brought to life with our worldwide network of in-destination experts. Get passport ready— your summer adventure awaits.
LAZIO, ITALY
THE PARK OF MONSTERS IN THE GARDEN OF BOMARZO
Wow Factor: Commissioned by the Prince Pier Francesco Orsini in 1552, The Parco dei Mostri wasn’t designed to be beautiful. Rather, the Prince had lived through a brutal war, during which is his friend was killed and held for ransom. Upon his return home, his beloved wife died. Ambushed by grief, the Prince created a shocking “Villa of Wonders.” His vision remains, and today the park is filled with bizarre and fascinating sculptures, with accompanying inscriptions providing detailed explanation. Built during the Italian Renaissance, the garden layout bore little resemblance to the symmetry of other Renaissance gardens, while the art was created in a rough “Mannerist” style (a 16th-century version of Surrealism). Don’t miss viewing the giant screaming mouth (known as “the mouth of hell”), where a small group picnic table stands on the sculpture’s tongue.
Where to Stay: Continue your art-inspired sojourn at The First Roma Arte. This five-star boutique hotel is located in the heart of Rome along a quiet street between Piazza del Popolo and the Spanish Steps. The property showcases 200-plus original artworks, with spaces and suites curated by the contemporary Galleria Mucciaccia.
COPENHAGEN, DENMARK
BIKING AND DINING IN COPENHAGEN
Wow Factor: Experience a progressive, five-course meal during an exclusive bike tour of Copenhagen designed to showcase Danish hospitality. Begin with an aperitif, then follow your cycling chef as you wind your way through strategic spots in Copenhagen. This outdoor culinary journey is served in several enticing landmarks. Reputed to be the happiest city in the world, Copenhagen is also known for its Tivoli Gardens, unique canals, and breweries.
Where to Stay: Copenhagen’s 71 Nyhavn Hotel graces the historic Nyhavn district, housed in two heritage warehouses along the water. SEA by Kiin Kiin restaurant features a modern Thai kitchen, and celebrates the roots of the buildings, formerly a post for spice trading.
SPLIT, CROATIA
EPICUREAN JOURNEY IN THE HEART OF DIOCLETIAN’S PALACE
Wow Factor: Game of Thrones certainly raised this country’s repute, yet the Dalmatian Coast, Roman ruins, World Cup football, and endless lavender fields have long been this country’s calling card. This unique epicurean experience allows visitors to select, prepare, and then savor Dalmatian cuisine while sipping the the area’s finest wines—all staged in the heart of the famous Diocletian’s Palace. Begin the journey with a private, chef-led visit to the local market, then take a cooking class with your sourced, fresh ingredients. The finale? A sunset dinner on a private rooftop terrace. Where to Stay: Unwind at Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Split, located just steps from Dalmatia’s best beach and the Adriatic Sea. The property is known for its pebble beach and wellness center.
Previous page: Paris, France. Clockwise from top left: The Merrion Hotel in Ireland; The Park of Monsters in Italy’s Garden of Bomarzo; Diocletian’s Palace; cycling and savoring in Copenhagen.
TIPPERARY, IRELAND
BEE-KEEPING AT GALTEE HONEY FARM
Wow Factor: Visit the Galtee Honey Farm near Cahir, operated by well-known beekeeping family, the Mac Giolla Codas. Discover 170 hives of honeybees that span three counties across the scenic Galtee Vee Valley. While wearing protective gear, you’ll visit the hives, sample a variety of honeys, and learn about the unique symbiotic nature of hives. Additionally, guests will learn about the heritage of Irish beekeeping and Ireland’s unique honey bee—the native Irish black bee.
Where to Stay: Combine your countryside honey-hunting with a city fix at Dublin’s The Merrion Hotel. Located in four Georgian Townhouses and a contemporary Garden Wing, 142 bedrooms and suites embrace two 18th-century style gardens. Restored interiors feature one of Ireland’s largest private art collections.
PARIS, FRANCE
EXCLUSIVE ACCESS TO THE LOUVRE
Wow Factor: As if navigating the arrondissements of Paris and its famous cafés, fashion boutiques, and art galleries weren’t enough, during this unique outing you’ll also discover the world’s most visited gallery with a tenured curator. Your private, behind-the-scenes tour grants access to exclusive areas and the museum’s leaders. Each season, the Louvre showcases the latest research by experts and scholars. Current exhibitions include “Pharaoh of the Two Lands: The African Story of the Kings of Napata” (through July 25th, 2022).
Where to Stay: One of Paris’ current “it” properties, the Cheval Blanc Paris debuted in the fall of 2021 and is located in the heart of the city (just steps from the Louvre, the Marais, and La Samaritaine Paris Pont-Neuf department store). Known for innovative modern design, the hotel is a favorite among foodies, too, with four restaurants and bars.
LJUBLJANA, SLOVENIA & THE KARST-COST REGION
TRUFFLE HUNTING AND THE POSTOJNA CAVE
Wow Factor: Explore Ljubljana, where you’ll find gorgeous olive groves. Visit the olive oil producer’s estate, where you’ll sample regional cuisine. During this unique trip, you’ll also go truffle hunting, unveiling some of the tastiest ingredients of the region. You’ll then travel to southwstern Slovenia and discover the magnificent (and massive!) halls and chambers of the Postojna Cave, the most prominent karst cave in the world. Lastly, a private cave train ride will feature a saxophone player and a champagne toast.
Where to Stay: Considered one of the capital’s most coveted locales, InterContinental Ljubljana is a posh urban stay. Overlooking Old Town and Park Tivoli, the hotel features natural interiors and a refined international culinary experience.
Clockwise from top left: The Louvre, in Paris; beekeeping at Galtee Honey Farm; Slovenia’s Postojna Cave; Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Split.
Joie De Vivre in St Barths
HOW YOU ARRIVE AND DEPART ST BARTHS IS AS MUCH A CONVERSATION STARTER AS WHERE YOU’LL STAY. For one, the single airstrip
into this Caribbean gem is as famous as the island’s rosé-all-day mantra and swanky beach clubs. As the most precarious landing on the globe at 2,119 feet long, the landing abruptly
Joie De Vivre in St Barths
hugs the ICEE-blue Caribbean Sea and is so celebrated you’ll find history and artwork about it sprinkled throughout the island. And while discerning travelers know the best places to get to are often the hardest, as far as discovering remote St Barths, your effort will be handsomely, deliciously, and oh-so-fabulously rewarded.
DAY ONE
After arriving to St. Maarten, your trip begins with a private, 45-minute boat charter along a scenic stretch of open sea. Your destination, of course, is the tony enclave of storied Saint Barthelemy. The French-speaking island has long been famous for its white-sand beaches, redroofed colonial villas, and yachts-a-plenty (no, that is not a small cruise ship you spy on the horizon, but rather a mega yacht owned by a rock star or business titan). Arriving by boat allows you to unwind and take it all in as you approach Gustavia, a high-end harbor peppered with head-turning boats, European restaurants, and plenty of boutique-hopping.
Next up, a private transfer (with a signature “Life is Eden” music soundtrack in route) to your vacation headquarters: Eden Rock – St Barths. An iconic island hideaway originally built by Rémy de Haenen, the 37room property (formerly Haenen’s home, with original stone still intact) is perched atop a rocky promontory overlooking Baie de St-Jean. As word traveled around the globe about Haenen’s penchant for the joie de vivre, the new hotel quickly attracted Hollywood’s elite, including Greta Garbo, Howard Hughes, and Robert Mitchum. Why all the buzz? Bragworthy views, sophisticated décor, and a revolving roster of noteworthy guests that remains today. Helmed by the Oetker Collection since 2014, the latest rendition is as scene-y as ever—Hurricane Irma forced an extensive rebuild, and in 2019, Eden Rock – St Barths debuted the renovated Sand Bar, a brand new Rémy Bar & Salon, and the low-key Eden Spa. Expect come-hither suites and villas (the massive, six-bedroom Villa Rockstar is replete with dedicated Chef and Butler service and a 20-meter private pool), all finished with individual décor and locally sourced artwork. The food here is as much of an entice as the turquoise sea, so after a dinner of locally caught fish, you’re lured to sleep by the sound of the ocean’s ebb-andflow.
DAY TWO
After a dip in the sea, recharge with the Eden Rock – St Barths’ lavish breakfast before touring the island via a Moke rental. You’ll whiz by plenty of these bright British classics turned Caribbean cars—symbols of fun in the sun. Your first stop: Gustavia shopping, as one trip is not enough. Hit Free In St Barth for a non-touristy tee that matches the spirit of the island and get tips from the shop’s surfing staff. Clic is a chic
Previous page: The Eden Rock – St Barths. From left: Eden Rock – St Barths showcases local design and art; Tamarin restaurant’s lobster with Caribbean melon, burrata cream, and citrus.
outpost by Christiane Celle (founder of beachwear label Calypso) and lined with home goods, books, and black-and-white photos of the island. If cigars are more your speed, don’t miss La Casa del Habano, Located in Saint Jean, it’s considered the best cigar shop on the island also selling (men, take note) hip Panama hits sourced from Ecuador. Yet some of the best island scores are found right back where you started: the Eden Rock – St Barths’ Eden Being is a global edit of hip clothes and accessories by style siren and hotel co-owner Jane Matthews.
All this shopping has kicked up an appetite, so you remove your sandals and navigate the tickle of the ocean as you walk five minutes from the Eden Rock – St Barths to dine at GypSea Beach. On the menu? French rosé (St Barth’s “pink water” as the server jokes) and the catch of the day, grilled and served with fresh veggies. Afterward, it’s back to the hotel for an afternoon of paddleboarding and play (soak up the sun from the signature red swim platform) before heading to dinner. Tonight, your table of choice is Bonito, a chic hillside restaurant with indelible sunset views and decadent flavors. Originally built as a private beach home and now helmed by Chef Owner Laurent Cantineaux, the outpost is an island mainstay, thanks to such dishes as lobster ceviche and tamarind and honey glazed grouper. Start your eve with the tableside Smoked Manhattan—as sultry and sophisticated as St Barths itself.
DAY THREE
Your daily wake-up call remains the sea. Kickstart your day with a lazy snorkel. Adventurists will find brilliant reef fish swimming near the coral right off Eden Rock – St Barths, and if lucky, may also spy a sea turtle or two. After exploring underwater, take a private surf lesson and navigate the rugged coast of your next stop: Le Toiny Beach Club. This tucked-away restaurant is an island must. During a toes-in-the-sand lunch, order the burrata topped with shaved truffle and the fillet of red snapper. Afterward, your Moke awaits, as does a handcrafted cocktail at the famous Nikki Beach, a five-minute beach walk from Eden Rock – St Barths. Expect a see-andbe-seen crowd, with plenty of table dancing (if a Sunday) à la buzzworthy international DJs. After a sunset walk to cap the day, your evening revs up (again!) with dinner at Tamarin. Dine al fresco among the lush tropical garden and a century-old tamarin tree while savoring a bottle of vino from one of the island’s most applauded wine cellars. Lastly, if the dance floor is calling, hit the infamous Le Ti (known for a nightly cabaret show and pirate-inspired costume room) for music and revelry.
DAY FOUR
No one welcomes their final day on St. Barths, or any island with this much personality, for that matter, yet as the saying goes, you can’t come back if you never leave. Say goodbye in serene style via a customized deep tissue massage and Dr. Barbara Sturm facial at the Eden Spa. Before departing the resort—and depending on when visiting—you may find artists like Elizabeth Sutton or Victor Matthews on site, creating artwork and live paintings right by the sea. Alas, the time has come to visit the famous airstrip, and whether you choose to leave by small plane or helicopter (yes!), the views of this magical island will mentally tease a return trip. Au revoir, St Barths. Until next time!
French Sophisticate. Enter OFFER H555
on the website found on the back cover to further explore sea-me escapes.
