Judy Faust, a Corporate Travel Advisor with Covington Travel, recently revisited one of her favorite cities – Paris. She offers her perspective of the “rude French,” as well as some of her favorite experiences in Paris. The Kindness of Strangers The stereotype of the French being rude is a staple of American travel lore. Admittedly,… Continue reading »
Oct
16
Luxury Outlet Shopping in Europe
For many, shopping is an integral part of travel. Who doesn’t love to find that perfect gift or memento of their trip? For discerning shoppers, that doesn’t mean kitschy souvenirs, but revered designer brands that would make any fashionista proud. And if those famous brands are found with a significantly reduced price tag, it’s a… Continue reading »
Oct
12
Why European Christmas Markets Beat Black Friday Shopping
Scenario A: Standing in line for hours in the predawn gloom of “Black Friday”, waiting for the doors to open at Toys R Us, in the hope of beating the other 50 people in line to the hottest toy of the season. Scenario B: Strolling among the festively decorated shops and stalls of an enchanting… Continue reading »
Oct
05
The Palaces of St. Petersburg, Russia
Palace construction in St. Petersburg, Russia all started with Peter the Great building the first imperial residence there in 1708. It was actually a wooden house on the site of the future Winter Palace, but was soon reconstructed in stone and continually revised over the next 150 years. The incomparable splendor of the Winter… Continue reading »
Sep
07
Culinary Exploration with Valesa Cultural Services
Our Travel Maestro September travel industry professional interview is with Marcy Forman, Vice President and co-owner of Valesa Cultural Services. Valesa is a Virtuoso Onsite operating in Spain and Portugal since 1990 and now Morocco, too. Marcy is a native Connecticutter and graduate of the Cornell School of Hotel Adminstration. Originally in the hotel business, Marcy… Continue reading »
May
11
Travel Tips Gleaned from the 2012 Virtuoso Symposium
Virtuoso Symposium is an annual business meeting that brings together the most influential decision makers of the travel industry, including travel agency advisors and suppliers. Covington Travel’s President and CEO, Josée Covington, and Italy Specialist, Dale Fuller attended the 2012 Symposium held on a chartered sailing of the beautiful Regent Seven Seas Mariner including Rome,… Continue reading »
Apr
20
Tuscan Luxury: Terme di Saturnia Spa & Golf Resort
Terme di Saturnia Spa & Golf Resort is an elegant boutique resort in southern Tuscany. Constructed around an ancient travertine heart, it is designed according to ‘habitat philosophy’: a constant striving for harmony with one’s surroundings. Every tiniest detail – from flooring to lighting and choice of fabrics – has been thought through to create… Continue reading »
Mar
30
The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee
This year, Her Royal Majesty, The Queen of England is celebrating 60 years of reign. Queen Elizabeth II ascended the throne on February 6, 1952 and her coronation took place on June 2, 1953. She celebrated her Silver Jubilee (25 years) in 1977 and her Golden Jubilee (50 years) in 2002. The only other British… Continue reading »
Mar
23
The Pleasures of France
France is a wonderful destination for many travelers, especially those who have an interest in art, history, food and wine, and beautiful scenery. Each region of the country has a distinctive landscape and culture, so it is one of those rare countries that offers something for almost everyone. Paris, also known as the “City of… Continue reading »
Mar
09
All About Ireland – An Interview with Jonathan Epstein
In honor of St. Patrick’s Day, Travel Maestro is pleased to have Jonathan Epstein for our March interview. Jonathan is president of Celebrated Experiences, a family business that specializes in hotels and touring in the United Kingdom and Ireland, and has an intense knowledge of all the best in Ireland. 1) Celebrated Experiences was founded… Continue reading »
