Luxury Travel

Is it time to consider a rail vacation?

Tuesday, February 21, 2012 by Dan Ilves

There's something magical about a rail journey. There's the sense of comfort of sitting back and enjoying the world go by, as you are moving to...somewhere. It's not like taking a flight or driving somewhere. There's a different sense of the journey, and of the arrival.

The finest of the world's trains offer even more -- a luxury experience, from dining to personal comforts, that make a rail journey quite special and unique. Certainly you won't find that level of dining and comfort on a flight, car or motorcoach. There's also a more scenic view of the countryside, especially if you're not driving.

As today's travelers seek to enjoy the journey as much as the destination, rail vacations become a compelling option. In recent years, there have been a several new luxury rail journeys that have become available to the discerning traveler, along with the classic favorites.

In an era when being "social" is quite the rage, there's hardly a more social vacation. For those conscious about the carbon footrpint they leave behind, trains are the most eco-friendly means of transport.

Perhaps the grand-daddy of them all is Europe's Venice Simplon-Orient Express, with its refurbished classic 1920's carriages. One of the newer options is The Maharajah's Express in India, which offers travelers the opportunity to cover large distances and visit more out of the way, and somewhat inaccessible sites, in the utmost of luxury. Not far afield from us is western Canada's Rocky Mountaineer.

Of course there are many opportunities from which to choose. Read more about rail vacations you might enjoy.

Five Family Friendly Vacations in Britain in 2012

Saturday, January 21, 2012 by Dan Ilves

A family recently contacted us wanting ideas for a special trip in Britain. So it got us thinking and we thought we’d share five with you... Are you in?

1. Experience the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. Scotland is growing in popularity. This year is the 62nd Military Tattoo commemorating HM, The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. The Military Tattoo is a great event. Who doesn't get excited by pageantry and bagpipes? In addition to exploring Edinburgh during the Tattoo, we can add a visit to Glamis Castle, the childhood home of HM, The Queen Mother, St Andrews and maybe Scotland's oldest distillery.

2. Harry Potter Tour of England. Explore London through Harry Potter's eyes before you travel on to Gloucester and Oxford where prime city locations were transformed in the films into Hogwarts School. Your itinerary includes a tour of The Warner Bros. Studio London - The Making of Harry Potter, which showcases a huge array of sets, costumes and props.

3. Savor the Royal Scotsman Rail Journey and Scottish Island Experience. Explore Edinburgh before joining the The Royal Scotsman Orient-Express train for a unique and luxurious rail journey of a lifetime. Follow it up with a fantastic island hopping adventure taking in the remote and windswept Outer Hebrides, the romantic isle of Skye, Mull and the historic islands of Iona and Staffa. Now honestly, have any of you done this one yet?

4. Smell the blooms at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show. While the Floriade in Holland is the horticultural event of the decade, not everyone will clamor to get there, and the Chelsea Flower Show is one of the most famous flower shows in the world. Spend a week and include visits to gardens like Highgrove, the private gardens of the Prince of Wales, Blenheim Palace, Hampton Court Palace, the Royal Botanic Gardens of Kew, RHS Wisley and Sissinghurst. Oh, of course, having proper afternoon tea is a must!

5. An Exclusive Castle Celebration in the Scottish Mountains. Enjoy the exclusive use of a highland castle with friends. No, it's not haunted as far we know... Spectacularly situated on the shores of Loch Ness, the castle sleeps up to 30 people. Your experiences include a private cruise along Loch Ness, a trip on the famous Jacobite Steam Train, the opportunity to ascend a mountain in a private gondola, and a gala dinner in traditional Scottish dress as a finale.

Yes, there's more happening in England this year than the Olympics!

Villa le Scale reopens -- luxury Italy vacation packages await!

Wednesday, November 16, 2011 by Dan Ilves

Italy is always one of our most sought after vacation destinations. Travelers never tire of Italy, and there's always new resorts and activities to explore. So what about a luxury vacation package exploring Italy's vacation isles?

The seven-room Villa le Scale, on Italy's most popular vacation island, Capri, is re-opening next May after refurbishment. The stunning 19th century villa continues to appeal to those desirous of Capri's surrounding landscapes and views of the Bay of Naples, and the fine service here, where you're treated as a resident.

One of the few remaining historic homes on Capri, Villa le Scale offers a private, sophisticated appeal. Each of the historic home's guest rooms is individually decorated, each style taking its theme from a centerpiece artwork. The private gardens on the property are three times the size of the villa, and all guest rooms look out on them.

Most rooms also have terrific views of the bay. Amenities here include a heated pool and 8-station gym. Staff can help guide guests to the best activities, restaurants, Capri's secrets and more. And our travel agency can make all your necessary arrangements.

It's jazz and blues time in Fiji

Wednesday, November 9, 2011 by Dan Ilves

Travel vacation packages to Fiji make for wonderful luxury family vacations or romantic getaways or dive vacations. We love sending customers to Fiji. Now for music fans, there's a special reason to plan a trip to Fiji: the 2nd Fiji International Jazz and Blues Festival.

This year's four-day event attracted about 2,000 visitors, quite a crowd for Fiji. Taking place May 10 - 13, 2012, Fiji hopes to ensure this blues and jazz festival is the premier event of the pacific. Scheduled for next year's bash are Australian guitarist Kevin Borich, acoustic maestro Paul Ubana Jones from the UK, jazz diva Julie Mason, New Zealand blues guitarist Billy TK jnr, as well as local Fijian artists like Dejavu and Tom Mawi.

With so many attending the event, it's best to plan your Fiji vacation package early if you want to be part of this special event. Our Fiji experts really know the ins and outs of this destination. Read more about Fiji vacations.

Wanted: The world's greatest travelers for one of the most amazing trips in the world!

Thursday, November 3, 2011 by Dan Ilves

Do you consider yourself a savvy, been-around-the-block a few times traveler? Are you willing to challenge yourself on a global adventure? Here's the deal...

A decade ago the world’s first around-the-world travel adventure competition took place and crowned The World’s Greatest Travelers™. This unique travel adventure was featured on National Geographic Traveler, NPR, ABC-TV, The Wall Street Journal, TIME, USA Today, Travel Weekly, Peter Greenberg, Fodor’s Travel Show, among hundreds of other global media outlets.

We're now looking for a limited number of intrepid travelers who will trust strangers in strange lands while visiting at least ten countries over a 23-day once-in-a-lifetime around-the-world travel adventure and cultural immersion. Just 25 teams will be allowed to enter this exclusive event, which begins April 13th, 2012, and ends May 5th in New York City.

All international flights, first class luxury accommodations, and about 40% of the meals are included. The trip is a scavenger hunt of sorts, that challenges you to open your mind and heart. It is an authentic real-life travel competition (but not a race). The price is $9,900 per person and includes the travel costs outlined, plus travel swag bags, the bon voyage party and winner's gala. Oh, one more thing -- you won't find out where you're going till the day of departure! Tempted? Sign up by December 16th and save $1,000 on the trip price.

Interested? If you're a serious contender, email us at info@travelstoreusa.com re: "Global Hunt".

The Ritz-Carlton New Orleans: a luxurious resort in the heart of the Big Easy

Tuesday, October 11, 2011 by Dan Ilves

Just returning from a 4-night stay at the Ritz-Carlton New Orleans, where I stayed while on the Tauck Tours Jazz Event. Located on Canal Street between the French Quarter and the up and coming artsy Warehouse District, the hotel makes for a luxurious respite from the bustle of this city. With its Beaux Arts structure, The Ritz-Carlton conveys a sense of place. On this spot once stood the Grand Opera House, later rebuilt as a department store, and at fourteen stories, the city's largest building. It wasn't until the late 1990's that the shuttered buildings were purchased and after a $250 million restoration, reopened as the Ritz Carlton in 2000.

Room sizes vary, but mine, while quite comfortable, had the smallest bathroom I've experienced at a Ritz Carlton: single sink, minimal storage for toiletries, and a tub/shower combination with a curtain. It's been a long time since I've stayed at a Ritz Carlton with a shower curtain. What the bathroom lacked was somewhat made up for by the luxurious bedding. Service was very attentive, as one would expect. Higher category rooms were certainly far more appealing, and recommended.

The Davenport Lounge, just off the main lobby, was a comfortable place to relax, recharge, have afternoon tea or a cocktail, and enjoy jazz in the evening. An outdoor center courtyard, with its center fountain, was also a pleasant area in which to escape the city for a spell. The highly rated M Bistro does not disappoint. The Spa offers a wide range of treatments. And where else can you find a spa treatment called the Marie Laveau Voodoo Love Massage and Bath or Cafe Au Lait Body Polish.

In terms of location, the Ritz Carlton is ideal. Arnaud's is a two-block walk from the back entrance of the hotel. The St. Charles Avenue streetcar ($1.25 each way) is a block away, providing easy access to the Garden and Warehouse Districts. And the Canal Street streetcar was at the front entrance of the hotel.

TravelStore is a preferred partner of Ritz-Carlton, assuring VIP treatment at any of its choice properties worldwide.

Why Not Yachting As A Turkey Vacation Packages Component

Friday, September 30, 2011 by Dan Ilves

Turkey has steadily become an in-demand vacation destination. Perhaps many cruise travelers have been introduced to cities like Istanbul and sites like Ephesus, and craving to experience more on Turkey vacations. Perhaps those used to touring Europe are looking for something a bit more exotic to enrich their travel experiences. And speaking of enriching experiences, that might mean cruising the Turkish coast or Eastern Mediterranean on a Turkish gulet.

Gulets are traditional wooden schooners which can range in comfort and luxury and in how many each accommodates. Larger gulets accommodate up to two dozen guests. We can arrange such vacations on gulets that best meet the needs of the American traveler. A variety of private luxury sailing vacations on a variety of itineraries are offered. Gulets include captain and crew, and are all-inclusive vacations.

Read more about alternative Mediterranean sailing vacation packages in Greece with Variety Cruises, or more about Turkey vacation packages.

Six tips on planning the best family friendly vacations

Wednesday, September 7, 2011 by Dan Ilves

family friendly vacations take everyone into account

Traveling with children always requires some extra prep time. Even when you pick the best family vacation destinations, there's no guarantee everyone will have a great time. Bottom line: you know the personalities and idiosyncracies of your kids and family best. That should largely serve as a guideline on how you go about it. While it's easy for our luxury travel agency to plan your best vacation in Hawaii, or an all-inclusive Club Med vacation, planning luxury family vacations such as a European vacation, Asia vacation and beyond is more challenging. So here are some general observations about family friendly vacations I hope you'll find useful.

1. Take the kids and expose them.
We know children are like sponges in absorbing new sights, sounds and smells. While there are some adults that prefer children not be dragged about the planet because "they're too young to appreciate it, and it's a waste of money;" most parents know exposing children to travel, to other cultures and to new experiences is a great way to acclimate them to grow up to become better rounded individuals. (While this blog isn't about politics, I'm always worried when an elected official to higher office is poorly traveled -- they generally exhibit a much narrorwer viewpoint to the world's problems.)

2. Let your kids be your guide to new experiences.
For parents traveling with children, there's an added bonus. Seeing new destinations through the eyes of children is part of the joy of family vacations. At least that's been my experience traveling with my kids over the years. They often notice and call attention to things that I may not have given a second glance to or considered.

3. Do some advance preparation so your kids have an idea of where they're going and what to look forward to.
When we planned our first trip to Europe with our kids, exposing them to a bit of history and art was important. We went to the library and took out some children's books that dealt with castles in Europe (knights, royalty and all that), and art. Reading these illustrated books, written in language they can understand, prepared them. When we visited a castle or chateau, they had a better appreciation of it, and what life was like in centuries past.

4. How to make a museum visit last longer for everyone's increased pleasure.
We enjoy visiting the world's museums. It's important to limit the time one exposes younger children to at a museum -- there's only so much they'll take or can absorb. But you can make it fun. Our kids have always enjoyed pretty postcards, so sometimes we've gone to the gift shop first, looked at the postcards, had the kids find those they like, then we're off on a treasure hunt in the galleries to find those works of art. Another "game" is have them find paintings that depict certain things, like a castle; or a saint, and what do they think about that portrayal; or an animal, and talk about how the animal is depicted.

5. Don't make all the decisions, let the kids plan some of your activities.
Involving kids in the decision of day-to-day planning is also important. If parents program all the sightseeing without kids' input, and without appropriate down time, kids will generally get bored, have issues, and have a propensity to whine. Making a list of "things to do," and allow everyone to pick their favorite. It's one way to engage kids and cut down on complaining, because they know they got their pick, too. If a full day of sightseeing precludes that, then allow a day just for the kids to do what they want to. If traveling in warm summer months, staying at a hotel with a swimming pool, or near a beach, is advantageous. With the promise of an afternoon swim after some sightseeing, kids can be more patient.

6. Give your kids travel "homework"
Finally, we've always encouraged our kids to keep a travel diary or scrapbook of their adventures. We give them time at the restaurant (waiting for dinner to be served), or before bedtime, to record something about each day. When they were younger, we gave them questions to answer about their day, to make it easier. Saving tickets, pictures, and postcards is also fun and creates memories for them later. Of course, giving them their own digital camera to record their impressions is a bonus. As kids get older, sharing their experiences in the classroom is also useful, and we've encouraged their teachers to let kids talk in class about their adventures abroad, because that's of benefit to all children. (Sometimes they've earned extra credit in class for doing so!)

In working with so many families planning vacations over the years, it's not uncommon, after listening to a client's initial trip request, that I've had to ask: Is this trip for you and your wife, or is it for your kids, or are we planning this so all of you have a great time? It makes them consider that maybe they've left out an important equation -- their kids, or in some cases, themselves and their own needs. That helps us plan a better paced vacation that takes everyone's interests into account. Read more about planning family vacation packages.

Going to the London Olympic Games in 2012?

Thursday, September 1, 2011 by Dan Ilves

Whenever an Olympic Games hits town, there's a horde of visitors from around the world that want to attend, and for good reason. The Games are an incredible spectacle, and on one important level, one of those rare occasions when the world comes together in friendly competition.

But as it is each Olympic Games, travelers are shocked by the prices hotels charge during these events, which can border on highway robbery. Some cities get away with it, and some suffer the consequences of attracting fewer visitors than they otherwise might have.

Now comes London in 2012. And fresh on the heels of William and Kate's wedding, soon the media frenzy will kick in about the London Olympics. As is typically the case, many hotels tie up rooms for the exclusive use by the IOC. But the good thing about London is, there are lots of accommodation choices, and for those willing to book now, they'll have the best availability, whether at hotels or apartment-type lodging. While many companies are still negotiating rates with hotels and haven't put programs out, others have access and booking accommodations for clients now.

Obviously, the further one stays from the city center, the better the pricing will be, though that will mean battling the underground or city trains and buses to get about. It's important to keep in mind some events won't even occur in London, but in locations like Eton near Windsor, Weymouth, Essex and Hertfordshire. Either way, if you wish to attend the London Olympic Games in 2012, we encourage you to book now. It's bound to be a popular Games.

For those that wish to acquire their own event tickets, or check event schedules, you might refer to www.cosport.com, Otherwise, our luxury travel agency can assist, not just with accommodations, but with touring activities, flights and more. Likewise, we have contacts in London with whom we can make your accommodation arrangements. So for your London vacation packages during the Olympics, or in conjunction with touring Europe, contact our travel agency early, so we can help fulfill your travel request.

Dreaming about an Asian vacation -- this weekend try out Singapore Air

Tuesday, August 23, 2011 by Dan Ilves

Singapore Airlines has always been one of our favorite airlines to Asia. Their service and comfort always makes this long haul flight enjoyable. And Singapore makes for a perfect stepping stone for visiting wonderful southeast Asian counties like Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia and Laos, and beyond.

This weekend, on Third Street Promenade in Santa Monica, between Santa Monica Blvd and Arizona, Singapore Airlines will have its A380 seats on display for you to try out. Strap yourself in and imagine what could be... In addition, there will be an Asian cultural fair of sorts, so if you want to get the inside scoop on traveling to this marvelous part of our world, and what it has to offer, you might want to check it out.

The knowledgeable Asia experts at our travel agency, of course, are always eager to help you plan your vacation to Asia. We've got numerous personal connections with hotels and suppliers, and can plan your dream vacation to Asia. So check out Singapore's seats, and once you realize how cozy your flight will be, maybe you'll be ready to plan that Asian vacation you've been dreaming about with one of the vacation planners at our luxury travel agency.

What's on your bucket list?

Saturday, August 6, 2011 by Dan Ilves

Smithsonian has released it's Life List of 43 places to see before you die. From wonders of the world to thrills for adventure seekers, this is a great list to review for passionate travelers. Whether you're considering African safari tours or an Australia vacation and the Great Barrier Reef, the vacation planners at our luxury travel agency have been to these destinations, and are eager to help arrange yours!

Family friendly vacations: Reducing stress and getting the best deal

Tuesday, July 26, 2011 by Dan Ilves

It's not surprising travel has grown in importance to families. It stands to reason: strapped for time, family vacations are those rare windows when hard-working parents and their busy kids can get away and have quality time together. Family vacation packages are no longer luxuries -- they've become a necessity for many.

Another type of popular family facation is the family reunion trip: multi-generational vacations. When multiple generations, grandparents and extended family, or even a few different families, get together to plan their best family vacation destinations, it can be challenging to find agreement and make decisions that provide fun and enrichment for everyone involved. That's where our travel agency can help -- a lot. As an unbiased advocate, we can help plan the best family vacations and avoid many of the tensions and frustrations planning such trips can involve. It's often easier to have an "outsider" to make recommendations and handle the arrangements.

Popular family vacations include all-inclusive resorts like Club Med and family cruise vacations. That's because everything is pretty much included: accommodations, meals, activities and entertainment. However, our family vacation experts can plan a customized vacation for you to just about anywhere in the world. If there's enough of you to consitute a group, extra amenities can also be offered. For example, right now there are all-inclusive resorts in Mexico where children 12 and under stay, play and eat for free! Or at select resorts in the Caribbean, for every five rooms booked you can get one room free. At a beachfront Maui resort, children 12 and under eat and drink free, and free rollaways for children 12 and under are provided.

If you've been involved in planning your family's vacation for a larger group, perhaps you have some tips to share.

Touring Europe: Breakfast in Berlin, lunch in Helsinki and dinner and a concert in Tallinn

Friday, July 22, 2011 by Hilton Smith

Sometimes the best experience is touring Europe on the road less traveled. New discoveries, away from the big popular destinations, can be rewarding.
In this case ever more visible Berlin and emerging Estonia highlighted this summer's European adventure.

Getting around was easy with advanced planning and my United Mileage Plus miles. For 135,000 miles and the proper routing I was able to get Lufthansa First Class via Frankfurt to Berlin, roundtrip to Tallinn via Helsinki, ending with Swiss First Class from Zurich to Los Angeles. Both carriers were excellent, but I would give Lufthansa the edge with a more comfortable bed, greater entertainment selections and more attentive service.

Berlin is amazing and continues to evolve into one of the most stimulating cities of the world. With over 200 museums of every character, diverse architecture, huge parks and a city river system, a 24 hour a night life cycle and touring costs generally below most of Western Europe, there is plenty of reasons to visit. Of course summer brings Berlin and all of Europe alive.  Yes, airfare is generally less in winter, but summer is unbeatable for the overall best European vacations.

Tallinn, Estonia, which is across the Gulf from Helsinki, Finland, has become popular as a day stop for cruise ships. It is much more than that. Five days in Tallinn was a personal discovery of friendly people in a progressive country, and one more wired than almost any country on earth. The Tallinn Old Town is magical with typical European style hundreds of years old. Beyond that is a thriving city with museums, galleries and churches. Food is amazing and well prepared, including some of the best Russian and European food I have ever had -- and at reasonable prices.

I was lucky to be there during the annual Beer and Music Festival, and for only 12 Euros entrance I was able to mix and mingle with the locals, drinking beer, dining on local cuisine and watching about eight bands a day. A local band, 2 Quick Start, and a touring "Queen" band were the highlights.

When touring Europe, it is easy and convenient to follow the crowds. However, it is sometimes more rewarding to discover and explore something new and exciting. Do you have discoveries you made that made for your best European vacations?

Our luxury travel agency is here to be your travel guide and concierge to maximize your time and funds for the best Europe travel deals.

WiFi connections and phone service within the UK

Monday, July 11, 2011 by Dan Ilves

wifi connectivity in the UK So you're transferring by car in the UK, wondering if you can get any WiFri connection between your destinations. After all, with traffic you've got nearly an hour ormore to kill before you get there, and once you get there, you don't want to spend that hour catching up on emails, right? If only my mobile will work in the car...

Fret no longer. Our preferred group transfer company in the UK is to the rescue, rolling out complimentary WiFi in their fleet of Mercedes vehicles. With their built-in connectivity and stronger signals, you can automatically connect with your mobile devices to their in-car WiFi system with greater reliability than every before. So, when you rely on our luxury travel agency to arrange your best European vacations in the UK, you're set.

If you need a global phone when touring Europe or anywhere overseas, you may find our package from Wireless Traveler of use.

Work, rest or play whilst on the move.

Isn't it time for you to get out of town?

Friday, July 8, 2011 by Dan Ilves

Business coach Tanveer Naseer posts about the importance of taking vacations, whether you are a boss or not. (We can't agree more, for all the reasons he notes.) It's worth a read.

And for many busy worker bees, strapped for time, we know they can gete to the point where they just toss up their hands out of frustration after spending the first half hour online trying to figure out what to do, where the best European vacation packages are, how to book the best Bora Bora all-inclusive vacations, or where to find the best Africa safari. Indeed, the world is a big place and in the travel arena, there are plenty of fine options to consider. Don't you want an experienced vacation planner to help you out?

More to the point, the personal hours you save will be considerable, you've got someone to rely on to work out issues (especially if things don't go according to plan), and, more likely than not, a good luxury travel agency can save you quite a bit in executing that best vacation experience. It goes beyond just helping you reach a decision and making the arrangements because, after all, for some vacations these days, that's quite easy to do online. But what you won't get online are the insights of experienced vacation planners who can differentiate what may work out best for you (and don't tell me you can completely rely on the posted opinions on sights like Trip Advisor). You also get the benefit of the personal contacts and access we have with hotels around the world, and knowing which tour companies and suppliers will deliver the services you want. We work with companies that are tested and "deliver the goods," and that stand behind their service.

So read Tanveer's post, then contact an experienced luxury travel agency like ours -- because you deserve to have a great vacation.

Singapore, always a surprise, is a great gateway to Southeast Asia

Wednesday, July 6, 2011 by Wido Schaefer

Singapore is a destination that represents various southeast Asia cultures in a harmonious city state setting. English is the official language. Public transportation and taxis are easy to use, hotels as well as entertainment options are endless, and the food makes this a destination not to be missed.

Singapore Airlines is renowned for it's meticulous service delivered in flight by the Singapore Girl. Nonstop service from both Los Angeles and New York in an all-business-class A345 Jumbo Jet, with only 100 seats, makes the long journey a delight. Upon arrival at Singapore Changi airport, one of the world's finest, your checked luggage is waitinig for you once you clear immigration, guaranteed. On the 20-minute drive into town you are engulfed by an oasis of green trees and Bougainville-lined avenues.

Our hotel is the Fullerton Bay, 100 rooms built over the water, a masterpiece in elegant contemporary design with amazing views of the bay, the three new Marina Bay Sands towers and its floating island on top (see photo), as well as the lotus like Art & Science museum. With its sexy rooftop with pool deck and outdoor restaurant, turned into a vibrant bar scene at night, the Fullerton Bay is a sought after destination. The hotel is one component of the Fullerton Heritage, a waterfront project that also includes a variety of high end restaurants, entertainment venues as well as the Fullerton Hotel, with it's 400 deluxe rooms in an iconic, traditional colonial architecture that once housed the post office.

The recommended stay would be 3-4 days to full take advantage of all that is there: world class architecture, a haven for foodies from hawker stalls (sanitary street food stalls open 24 hrs) to fine dining on top of some of the skyscrapers, a ride on the Singapore Flyer while enjoying a Singapore sling, dancing on the floating island at kou de tat on top of the Marina Sands Towers.

It's fun to ride a rickshaw through Chinatown and to visit the Indian as well as the Muslim parts of town. There's endless shopping, friendly people, and excellent warm climate year around. And the island of Sentosa is a playground with theme park and spa. There's no better city to get to know and be comfortable in before traveling to other parts of South East Asia. Of course, our luxury travel agency is pleased to arrange your Asian travel adventures.

What's your favorite thing to do in Singapore?

An African wildlife safari with a glass of Shiraz, please.

Wednesday, June 29, 2011 by Dan Ilves

Even before last year's World Cup in South Africa, interest in adventure travel to Africa has been on the rise. It's not surprising. As our lives have become more hectic and the information overload seeing no bounds, we have a growing need to escape, "get back to" nature, experience life at its more grassroots and take pleasure in the miracles our planet offers. An African wildlife safari fulfills on all counts.

The other huge growth we've seen in travel is an interest in all things food and wine. And in particular, there's a growing interest in experiencing the wines of up and coming regions, such as Chile, New Zealand, Argentina and South Africa. So it's not surprising when you can combine the best African safari with a wine experience, you've got a winner.

Stellenbosch, along the Cape Winelands, is the soul of the South Africa wine region, and this year's Stellenbosch Wine Festival takes place from July 28 to 31. The festival will be presented at more than 50 participating cellars.

A comprehensive program will include an opportunity to taste over 500 wines, meet winemakers and watch professional chefs compete in cooking competitions. Of course, our luxury travel agency specializes in travel to South Africa and in arranging the best African safaris. So if you just have to be there, contact your TravelStore agent or one of our Africa travel experts.

Lana'i An Island Apart

Wednesday, June 29, 2011 by Trudy Flores

As the plane descends and I move closer to the island of Lana’i, its spectacular coastline with its towering cliffs, comes up to meet me. The earth is red. I can see the perfectly etched outlines of where the pineapple fields once were. Once on the ground, I inhale the sweet aroma of the ocean and tropical flowers. Stress falls away, this is paradise. Why have I never come here before?

If you are looking for nightlife and a party scene, please head for a Maui beach vacation, a short boat ride away, or to Oahu. This is not the place for you. Here you step back in time, to live the idyllic vision of how Hawaii used to be. There are no stoplights, no traffic jams, no fast food and no neon signs. Its only concession to the 21^st century is a renovated theater that offers first-run movies. And yes, as of recently, you will find an ATM machine!

So what do you do on Lana’i? I had wondered the same thing. The island is inhabited by a mere 2,300 people living on its 141 square miles. Only two quality hotels, both managed by Four Seasons, grace its 47 miles of shoreline. One is Manele Bay, on the coast, and the other is the Lodge at Ko’ele, located inland. So what do you do with such a sparse population and so few buildings? More than you would think!

For the perfect beach experience, the Manele Bay Hotel is perched on a truly spectacular beach. No problem finding a spot for your towel here. You will find very few people vying for position. If you prefer to be more active, Hupopo’e Bay has fabulous snorkeling. It is a lush marine preserve with huge parrotfish, sea turtles, eagle rays, moray eels and octopuses, just to name a few.

If you dive, head to the northeastern shore and Shipwreck Beach. It boasts a concrete hull of a World War II Liberty ship. You can picnic there as well

For the hiker, there are endless trails that lend themselves to both expert and beginner. Everywhere on Lana’i you will find overlooks and spectacular views. No need for a car if you prefer not to drive. You can take advantage of the many trails located right near the hotel. Yet, if you do love to drive, rent a Jeep and go on an adventure. You will have a true off-road experience because 90 percent of the roads are unpaved.

The more spirited traveler can kayak off the coast or head to Pine Sporting Clays for skeet shooting (adults and teenagers only.)

Championship golf is a major attraction on the island, and both hotels offer highly acclaimed courses, designed by Jack Nicklaus. The challenge at Manele is the home of the signature 12^th hole, with a stunning cliff rising 150 feet above the crashing surf. During winter months you can enjoy whale watching from the fairway. At Ko’ele, the golf experience is a Greg Norman and Ted Robinson work of art. Dramatically different from Manele; here you will find a cooler, milder climate with misty wooded slopes, stately pine trees, manicured bunkers and terraced water hazards. The 17^th hole drops 250 feet to the fairway below from a tee box on the ridge.

What a great island, what a great feeling. I have discovered there is plenty to do on this enchanting island in the style of Old Hawaii. I highly recommend you visit this island and maybe take the ferry over to Maui for the next part of your trip. Make your next Hawaii trip different. Of course, our luxury travel agency can make all the arrangements.

Travel vacation packages to Scottsdale, with a touch of opera.

Thursday, June 23, 2011 by David Huber

The Montelucia Resort sits at the base of Camelback Mountain.

There has been a lot of talk recently about boycotting travel to Arizona as a nearby choice for travel vacation packages. I recently got a call from a client who actually wanted to travel to Arizona to show his support of the state’s new immigration law. This got me thinking that there are probably others who feel the same way and I thought this would be the appropriate time to share my experience on a recent trip to the valley of the sun.

Living in Sacramento, US Airways was a natural choice for my one hour and fourty five minute flight to Phoenix. Honestly, I was a bit leery about the “US Airways experience.” As you may know, America West Airlines purchased US Airways a couple of years back and neither airline have been known for excellent customer service. Let me tell you, this is not the US Airways of five years ago and this is definitely not Bill Frankie’s America West. The current CEO, Doug Parker, has done a phenomenal job of creating an atmosphere that represents the historic culture of the former US Airways and the innovation of America West. With new destinations such as Birmingham, UK, Rio de Janeiro & Tel Aviv, US Airways is a viable option when traveling domestically and across the Atlantic.

Upon arrival at the Phoenix Sky Harbor airport, I made my way to the Intercontinental Montelucia Hotel & Resort at the base of Camelback Mountain. Just over four years old, the Montelucia Resort is one of InterContinental’s newest properties though you wouldn’t know it based on the knowledge and professionalism of the staff. This hotel is an oasis in the Sonoran Desert. The buildings are modeled in an Andalusian style with long corridors, spacious courtyard and world class restaurants; this resort gives you the feeling that one should be in North Africa. This resort is not just a replica attempting to duplicate another part of the globe, this is the real deal. Example: there are artifacts from the region including the antique 18-foot doors of the Castillo Lucena chapel which were hand crafted in the 16th century in Spain, or the multiple olive oil barrels dating back to 1800’s.

My room faced the Oasis pool and Camelback Mountain. With over 500 square feet of space, the room was luxuriously furnished with a 42’ flat screen television, private balcony soaking sub and complementary Wi-Fi. I was especially impressed with the bed that you just melted into. I once thought that if you combined the mattress of the W Hotels with the linens of the Ritz Carlton, then you would have a bed that you would never want to leave. Well the folks at Intercontinental must have taken my suggestion to heart as this bed was the most comfortable I have ever slept in.

Each evening at the Kassbah pool live music is offered by local jazz artists or the Phoenix Opera. I was completely moved when I heard Bizet’s Carmen under the Phoenician sunset.

If you ever feel the need to leave the resort, the Camelback Mountain trailhead is about one mile from the resort. I would recommend walking as the parking lot has limited space and this is a very popular hike. Given my limited time and lack of proper shoes, I decided to take the “easy” hike to the top of Bobby’s Peak (the head of the camel). I reached the summit just after sunrise which provided a view of the Sonoran desert and Phoenix in glorious light. In my opinion, the best time to see the colors of any desert is at sunrise or sunset-- and I was not disappointed.

The view and accomplishment of hiking the Echo Park trail is rewarding. The trail is made of loose rock and an abundance of crevices where desert animals find shelter from the scorching sun. Be on the lookout for hare, desert torus, rattlesnakes, coyotes and a variety of birds.

I was delighted to spend a couple of days in Scottsdale. Whether you are a snowbird looking to spend the winter in the desert heat or a simple weekend getaway, Scottsdale has my vote for travel vacation packages not far from home. Check out our preferred Arizona resorts at which we offer you exclusive amenities.

For the sake of disclosure, the author was an employee of America West Airlines from 2000 – 2001 in Anchorage, AK and Sacramento, CA.

Ventana Inn & Spa and resort vacation deal

Wednesday, June 22, 2011 by Dan Ilves

Ventana inn on special at our luxury travel agency At our luxury travel agency we get a lot of requests from our clients for resort getaways. But with so much online noise about hotel deals, some have started to question the value of booking resort accommodations with a travel agency, or even where to find a travel agent to do so and deliver good value.

We have arrangements with nearly 800 hotels and resorts worldwide at which by booking with us, breakfast and additional amenities ARE INCLUDED! As for short getaways, we can also offer some great value. You can seach for those here.

Take for example the popular Ventana Inn & Spa. Book two nights of luxury with our travel agency, and receive a $100 resort credit in a Ventana Guest Room, Ventana Fireplace Room, or Superior Fireplace Room, or a $200 resort credit in a Big Sur Suite, Superior Hot Tub Room, Big Sur Spa Suite, Pacific House, Big Sur Villa, Big Sur Cottage, Vista Hot Tub Suite, or Sur House.

you can travel anytime through the end of the year. However, while many online deals are good for one day -- we'll give you till July 18th to book and take advantage of this one.