The captivating Boulders Resort is a magical retreat from the conventional, nestled on 1300 acres in the Sonoran Desert foothills of northern Scottsdale. It’s a virtual outdoor museum of nature where dramatic and innovative architecture blends with the sun-splashed terrain, towering cacti, and spectacular 12-million-year-old granite boulder formations that dot the landscape. 

The Boulders Golf Club, Hole #7

A nature-lover’s paradise where the terrain and plant life have been left virtually untouched to allow indigenous plant and wildlife to prosper, The Boulders is renowned as one of the finest golf, tennis and spa resorts in the United States. Named one of America’s top golf resorts by Conde Nast Traveler and Golf Digest, The Boulders features two Jay Morrish-designed 18 hole golf courses that combine challenging greens with the extraordinary beauty of the Sonoran Desert.  

The Boulders Casita

Accommodations have a warm, contemporary Southwestern ambience with hand-hewn wood-beamed ceilings with fans, regional art, Mexican tiling and wood-burning fireplaces. Casitas are adobe-style guestrooms; one-, two- and three-bedroom Pueblo Villas are spacious patio homes with full kitchens, laundry facilities and garage. The five-bedroom Villa Retreat compound, favored by celebrities, captains of industry, and families requiring perfect service and privacy, offers a private infinity-edged pool, gymnasium, Japanese tub, floor to ceiling windows of the very best of desert views, separate catering kitchen, unique artwork, and is stylishly unparalleled in every way.

The colorful restaurants at The Boulders Resort serve up Southwestern flair as vibrant as the Sonoran Desert setting. You can enjoy cocktails with commanding sunset views, traditional club dishes, Mexican specialties and seasonal culinary options at six different dining venues.

The 33,000 square-foot Golden Door Spa at The Boulders offers pampering treatments including Native American specialties, a meditation labyrinth, circular tea room with vibrant desert vistas, spa café, organic garden and heated swimming pool nestled against ancient boulders.

Other pleasures of the award-winning resort include the tennis garden with three classic clay courts and five premier cushioned courts, rock climbing excursions, evocative event and meeting space, and el Pedregal marketplace of intriguing shops, restaurants, and galleries.

Three popular event series have returned to The Boulders for the summer of 2012:

• 

  El Pedregal stage at The boulders Resort

  The Arizona Microbrewery Series includes pre-dinner reception, three-course dinner and beer tasting. Held on Thursdays, June 7, July 5 and August 2, $39 per person.

• The Summer Wellness Series includes a 90-minute lecture, 50-minute spa treatment related to the lecture topic, lunch at the Spa Café and full use of the luxurious spa amenities. Lectures begin at 11:00 am, $195 per person.
• Carefree Sundays Live Series features the ever-popular marmalade Skies performing a musical tribute to The Beatles on the outdoor amphitheatre stage. Sundays from 1:00 – 4:00 pm, no admission fee.

Only 33 miles north of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, The Boulders is listed in the New York Times bestseller “1,000 Places to See Before You Die” by Patricia Schultz as a bucket-list worthy destination. If you need more incentive to visit, exclusive and complimentary Virtuoso amenities include an upgrade on arrival, daily continental breakfast, a $100 recreational credit and VIP status. And the countless crystalline clear twinkling stars visible at night are just a bonus that you have to see to believe. If you want to be vigorously challenged or indulgently relaxed, contact Covington Travel’s expert advisors for your escape to The Boulders Resort.

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, Sorrento, Capri and Monte Carlo. Symposium gives high level travel professionals an opportunity to make personal contacts and build relationships with travel suppliers so we can provide our clients with unique and exclusive travel experiences. This year was no exception, as Josée and Dale gathered a host of travel tips that will help make your travel more efficient, elegant and engaging.

• Expect airport terminal turmoil– Most travelers agree that the airport experience is not the highlight of a trip, but a necessary evil to get there. If you fly via JFK in New York and need to change terminals, allow at least three hours connecting time. It seems like a lot, but you will need every bit of it to maneuver the shuttle, constant construction and hoards of travelers. In Rome Fiumicino Airport, be prepared for a sprawling, bustling beehive of activity with confusing signage. It takes about an hour from landing to get through passport control and luggage claim, but if you are taking the Leonardo Express train into Rome, allow at least three hours to comfortably find  your train and make the connection. Traffic in Rome is abominable, so don’t drive! We recommend arranging a private car for the hour ride into the city or from the city to the port. Zurich is an efficient, but huge international airport where it is imperative to be mindful of your connecting times and get where you need to be.

  

  Hotel Hassler, Rome, Italy. Photo: Hotel Hassler

   

• Treat yourself to luxury accommodations – When Virtuoso member hotels are reserved through Covington Travel, guests receive complimentary amenities such as upgrades, wine and flowers in the room, breakfast or meal credits or special gifts. The Virtuoso network includes 10 luxury hotels in Rome that are the epitome of sophistication and service. Josée and Dale chose the Hassler Hotel at the top of the Spanish Steps which has been owned by the same family for over 150 years and boasts a wonderful 1-star Michelin rooftop restaurant. We recommend spending at least three days in Rome and using private tours to see the Vatican and the many other sights to get private viewings and avoid long lines of do-it-yourself tourists.
  

  Positano, Amalfi Coast, Italy

• 

  Palazzo Sasso, Rome, Italy. Photo: bownsbest.com

  Sorrento is the perfect sightseeing base for the Amalfi Coast– The Excelsior Hotel, overlooking the Bay of Naples, has an old world charm and a large, private garden park with citrus groves.  From there, hire a car for a drive along the dramatic Amalfi Coast to colorful Positano and medieval Ravello. If you stay in Ravello, the elegant Palazzo Sasso is the hotel of choice, housed in a 12th century villa on 1,000 foot cliffs overlooking the sea. From Sorrento, you can also take ferry service to the oh-so-fashionable island of Capri to see and be seen. If staying overnight, the chic Capri Palace high up in Ana Capri is owned by an artist and collector. It sports eclectic decor, incredible views and a fabulous 1-star Michelin restaurant. Naples and the ruins of Pompeii are also within an easy day excursion from Sorrento with a car and driver. You can go by train or day bus tour, but it will make for a long day.  

  

  Yachts in Monte Carlo. Photo: trekearth.com

• 

  Terrace of Chateau Eza in Eze

  Monte Carlo is the perfect sightseeing base for the French Riviera – Monte Carlo is the Gem of Cote d ‘Azure. It’s extremely wealthy, as evidenced by the magnificent million dollar yachts in port. The residents are elegant but not condescending, with everyone from hotel staff and shop owners to cab drivers being very friendly and accommodating. The Metropole Hotel is no exception. Located in the heart of the action, their innovative and personalized services are a source of wonder to guests. From glittering Monte Carlo, the charming towns of the Riviera are an easy drive by cab or rental car. Eze is perched on a 1,500 foot cliff overlooking the Mediterranean, affording spectacular views of the Riviera. To negotiating the narrow cobblestone walks and many, many stairs is fairly strenuous; you may feel like part mountain, but a lunch at Château Eza’s 1-star Michelin restaurant or Château de la Chèvre d’Or’s 2-star Michelin restaurant makes it well worth the effort. The colorful houses, flowers and bikinis of Nice are also a short drive from Monte Carlo. We recommend visiting the trendy Old Town (Vieux Nice) for shopping and nightlife, or the Promenade des Anglais to stroll and people-watch along the pebbly beach.

In any career, continued education is the key to staying abreast of industry trends. The Virtuoso Symposium brings serious luxury travel professionals together to learn from each other, in order to provide the very best experiences to our clients. We hope you can use these tips we have shared and if you would like to learn more about living the art of travel, we are only an email away!

Wishing you elegant and fascinating travels,

Josée & Dale

Andy Levine, President and Founder of DuVine Adventures

This month our Travel Professional Interview is with Andy Levine, President and Founder of DuVine Adventures, an active adventure company focused on enhancing life through authentic travel experiences. DuVine operates multiple trips in more than 16 different countries worldwide; each tour specifically designed to maintain a sense of balance between adventure and luxury – immersing each traveler in the local culture while providing luxurious accommodations, good food and fine wines. The mission is to bike, eat, drink, sleep while exceeding expectations every day at every turn; no detail to small, no surprise to extraordinary, no nuance to subtle.

1) For many of us, you have a very enviable job. Did you purposely choose travel as a career or, as is often the case, did travel choose you?

I wanted to share my experience of travel with others – I had been living in France and gradually began to see a vision emerge – a way to combine my passions for cycling, great food, great wine, and luxury accommodations into one comprehensive whole: bike eat drink sleep. A simple mission, an amazing result. To this day I still strive to hold true to that vision and craft each tour with the same passion that led me into this career path.

2) What actually constitutes “luxury” on a bike tour?

4 and 5 star hotel accommodation; Michelin starred meal, full van support; professional and knowledgeable guides; wine included with all meals; tastings at some of the finest local vineyards; top of the line bicycles….

3)  What is a typical day on tour like? Is there an average ride length?

A typical day starts with a delicious breakfast before we head out on the road to explore the countryside by bike. Throughout the day we will make various stops, whether that’s a visit to a winery for a tasting, to explore an historic site, tour a local cheese shop, meet the café owner in town, a roadside picnic, etc. There is a freedom to traveling by bicycle, an encumbered freedom that allows you to pause at will and take in all the sights, sounds, and aromas of the region you are exploring. On average, you will be cycling between 3 and 5 hours out of the day. You will eat lunch on the road, be it a picnic or at a local restaurant, and return back to the hotel for a few hours of downtime before you meet up for dinner that evening.

4)  Do people have to be serious cyclist to handle a DuVine bike trip? What happens if someone’s legs run out of steam before the end of the day?

We cater to a wide range of cycling abilities, from novice to professional level cyclists. We offer guests a range of “comfort zones” to select from, allowing each guest the ability to choose what would work best according to their perceived level of cycling ability. That being said, there is always van support on the road for those who would like a break from the bike, be it a climb they feel is too challenging or if they don’t feel they can complete the entire route that day.

5)  DuVine tours seem to emphasize food and wine as much as the actual cycling, making them perfect for active foodie-oenophiles. Can you tell us a little about the food and drink aspect of a DuVine trip? 

Our motto is bike eat drink sleep, and each tour is designed to emphasize each of these elements. We visit some of the finest restaurants in the area, focus our picnics on the freshest of local ingredients, and strive to provide the most authentic experience of both the food and wines of the region. We include visits and tastings to some of the best vineyards in the region and include wine with all meals. While each tour focuses on the bike eat drink sleep elements, we have created some tours that highlight one facet more than others. We offer a Chef on Wheels series featuring renown chefs who not only ride alongside you on the road, but share their culinary secrets and creations with you throughout the week. Some of our tours are more wine-centric while others focus more on the riding: more mileage and challenging days in the saddle. However, each tour still maintains elements of each of four core ingredients.

6) What kinds of travelers choose a luxury bike trip? Can families bring kids?

We offer tours that appeal to a wide range of guests – couples, singles, and families. The majority of our guests are still in the work force and enjoy a more active approach to a vacation. We have honeymooners, guests celebrating anniversaries or graduations, summer vacations, and birthdays. We also offer scheduled departures, custom-designed family tours, and the ability to privatize a tour for your own personal group.

7)  What are the most popular trips for families with kids, very strong riders, or honeymooners?

Family trips: The Czech Republic & Austria, the Loire Valley, Switzerland, Ireland. Strong riders: Our pro series tours and Cannondale tours Honeymooners: Tuscany, Champagne, and Provence

8)  Do clients need to bring their own equipment and is there a “dress code?”

We provide all necessary equipment for the bike. Many guests prefer to use their own pedals and shoes so they bring them along and our guides handle the rest. We recommend bringing comfortable, breathable clothing for cycling during the day and casual evening attire for the night. Regarding “dress code,” Ireland is the only destination that men will need a jacket for dinner.

9)  How many people are on a tour together? Do you simply ride from point A to point B as a group each day or can individuals stop for a break or detour for some sightseeing?

We limit our group size to 14. Our smaller group size offers a more intimate experience and better all-around service from our guides. Groups usually average between 8 and 10 guests. Your guides provide you with daily route instructions and a map each morning and ride alongside you on the route, leading the way and providing roadside support. Guest can stop along the route to take pictures, etc. Guides are also available to lead extra rides if guests are looking to extend their time in the saddle.

10)  How much do you personally ride? Do you ever join the tours?

I ride as much as possible. Living in Boston, I don’t get out as much in the winter months, but I am on the road the moment the weather warms up and the days brighten. I am also lucky to be travelling throughout the year, giving me more opportunities to ride when the weather at home isn’t cooperative. I make a point of joining tours every year to visits guests, and I usually devote a solid month or so to make my rounds and visit different regions and guests. I’m also on the road creating new tours every year, personally riding and selecting the routes.

Andy in Corsica

11)  If I only let you pick one, what is your all-time favorite area to ride?

That’s a tough question…. Let me qualify that by saying my all-time favorite area to ride RECENTLY is on the French island of Corsica. ______________________________

Thank you, Andy, for sharing your travel style of bike, eat, drink, sleep!

If you would like to know more about DuVine bike tour itineraries, contact Covington Travel’s Adventure Specialists.

All photos courtesy of DuVine Adventures.

Covington Vacation Advisors Pat Franks and Tracy Carr recently toured with Adventures by Disney for a luxurious introduction to the friendly culture of Peru and the mystery of the ancient Inca Empire.

Lima is the gateway airport for visits to Peru. Our overnight flight from JFK took about 7 hours, Lima is in Central time zone, so there’s no real jet lag. On an Adventures by Disney trip, the VIP treatment begins immediately upon arrival. We were met by local representatives and were transferred to the Miraflores Casa Andina in the heart of Lima where we met our guides for the trip. In the afternoon we toured Lima with our Virtuoso on-site, Lima Tours.

Crepy catacombs at the San Fransisco Monestery

Our group was engrossed with the catacombs of the San Francisco Monastery. We wandered through room after creepy room of bones, skeletons and skulls. A special treat available only to Virtuoso guests was a visit to a private home, Casa Luna, where we met the owners and saw their incredible collection of Nativity scenes.

The second day we flew to Cusco, elevation 11,200 feet. It takes some adjustment to get used to the altitude but taking it slow, staying hydrated with plenty of water and a daily dose of cocoa tea kept any serious effects at bay. We visited the Center for Traditional Textiles and were impressed by demonstrations from the master weavers. They truly put their hearts into their creations, proudly tagging each piece with the artist’s name and photo. We had lunch there and got caught in an unusual golf-ball sized hail storm.

A word about Peruvian cuisine: Peruvians place the most emphasis on lunch with it being the largest meal and lasting a couple hours. They seem to have thousands of ways to serve potatoes and use every opportunity to do so! Ceviche, a seafood dish “cooked” by being marinated in citrus juices, is prevalent. Llama meat is tender dark meat, somewhat like venison, but not gamey. Guinea pig is a delicacy; however, we did not have any (thankfully, for Pat!). Adventures by Disney does not serve the traditional dish to anyone in a group if there are children present because the entire guinea pig, head and body, is presented and that could be a traumatic culture shock for young kids.

From Cusco, we continued on to the Sacred Valley where we spent four nights in the lovely Sol y Luna. 28 individual casitas are situated amidst colorful gardens teeming with birds and exotic flora. On-site activities include spa services, yoga and cooking classes, horseback riding and special children’s activities. A highlight was the Paso horse demonstration – a beautifully choreographed traditional dance between a man on horseback and a woman on the ground.

The precarious “Flying Steps” at Moray

Excursions in the Sacred Valley included a visit to the ruins of Moray, the Salt Pans and a rafting trip on the Ollantaytambo River. Moray was an Inca agricultural area designed in huge concentric terraced circles. Hiking down the “flying steps” to get to the echo-reverberating center was quite a feat! The return back up was actually easier, but the altitude could easily sneak up on you making some hyperventilate with the exertion of the climb. Travel Maestro tip: Drink lots of water!

The Salt Pans have been mined by local families for over 500 years. We had the opportunity to get up close and put our hands in the pools. We all grinned like kids with our first mud pies when the salt caked to our fingers. On the half-day rafting trip, we rowed and floated down river through Class 1-5 rapids. A guide on each raft, wetsuits, helmets and life jackets were provided, as well as a lovely picnic lunch by the river.

At last the day to visit Machu Picchu arrived. This was to be the most special event of the trip. On the hour and a half train from the Sacred Valley, we each privately wondered if this popular World Heritage Site would meet our expectations and what this mystical place would say to us. We were certainly not disappointed. Looking out over the llamas grazing on the terraces carved by the ancient Incas, surrounded by green peaks and rolling mist, is simply awe-inspiring. While others wandered and explored the site, nine strangers made the strenuous hike to the Sun Gate together. A father and six year old son encouraging each other, others finding their own spiritual power. As we stood at the entrance, we felt like a family, bonded by the accomplishment and power of this magical place. Some shed a tear, some said a prayer, others just sat to absorb the energy, but all were affected by this mysterious wonder.

We were very impressed with the service provided by Adventures by Disney. Beyond the convenience of luggage transport (straight from airport to our hotel rooms) and supremely knowledgeable guides, they take a very personal interest in making each individual’s trip special. Members of our group experienced dining restrictions, lost and found items, illness on the road and personal emergencies that required travel home; all were handled seamlessly and with compassion. Adventures by Disney has excellent tours to other areas including Galapagos, Hawaii and Europe. Please contact Pat or Tracy to learn more about Peru and Adventures by Disney.     

Summer is just around the corner and with it comes long, warm days and carefree vacations. Outdoor shows are an annual right of summer so why not make the most of the season and take a trip to one of these top outdoor concert venues?

The Gorge, photo credit: flickr

The Gorge Amphitheatre, George, Washington. Widely considered one of the most beautiful settings in the U.S. for an outdoor concert, The Gorge is nestled along the Columbia River in a narrow valley, reminiscent of a mini-Grand Canyon. Open air seating, unobstructed views and excellent sound quality insures a concert experience to remember. (Capacity 20,000)

Red Rocks Amphitheatre, photo credit: leeds.colorado.edu

Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Morrison, Colorado. A mecca of outdoor music, this geologically formed open air amphitheater has hosted performances for over 100 years. Two 300-foot monoliths of red rock create an acoustically perfect sound while the surrounding mountains provide breathtaking views. The music scene is diverse, unique and vibrant, ranging from Norah Jones to Bassnectar. (Capacity 9,450)

The Greek Theater, Berkeley California. On the campus of University of California Berkeley, the classic marble pillars, modeled after an actual ancient Greek theater, create an intimate, theatrical feel in this home to the annual Berkeley Jazz Festival. Mellow crowds enjoy everything from Bach to rock in this acoustically impeccable venue. (Capacity  8,500)

Alpine Valley Music Theater, East Troy, Wisconsin.  Located in the midst of dairy country, but close to Chicago and Milwaukee, this venue feels off the beaten path, but welcomes major rock acts like Dave Matthews Band every summer. It boasts unobstructed views from an enormous picnic-friendly lawn and plenty of volume from the free-standing band shell. (Capacity 37,000)

The Backyard, Austin

The Backyard, Austin, Texas. The relatively small setting of this natural open-air amphitheater with a “yard” shaded by ancient live oaks gives this Texan favorite its name. The Backyard regularly hosts acts as varied as the people who call music-rich Austin home, from legendary Willie Nelson to pop diva Colbie Caillat. (Capacity 5,000)

Wolf Trap, Vienna, Virginia. America’s only National Park dedicated to the performing arts offers performances for every taste ranging from pop, country, folk, and blues to orchestra, dance, theater, and opera. Set on 100 acres of farmland, the Filene Center is an indoor/outdoor theater that runs an average of 90 performances from May to September. (Capacity 6,800)

Summerstage, Central Park, New York City. Nestled into a corner on the Upper East Side of the park, this tree-lined outdoor venue is within steps of the hustle and bustle of the city. It offers an eclectic mix of acts from world music to indie-rock to adult contemporary. Most of the programs are free, except benefits, and gates open 60 minutes prior to the event. (Capacity 5,000)

If the sounds of summer are calling you, pack your bags and follow the music! Contact Covington Travel to arrange your vacation.

Sharing a villa with friends in Tuscany to glean kitchen techniques from one of the region’s acclaimed chefs. Joining locals at work in Spain’s saffron harvest, then tasting the fruits of your labor in a bowl of fresh paella. Leisurely cruising along the Rhône, stopping to visit the gently rolling vineyards and sample fine Syrahs with your guest wine expert. Culinary tourism is hotter than a habanero pepper and many fabulous hotels, tours and cruises are designing tasty ways for you to travel.

As Cece Drummond, director of tours and On-Sites for Virtuoso, puts it, “There really is no better way to explore a country or city than through the sampling of the local cuisine, wine, beer and more. Travelers today want to get to know local people and customs and culinary tourism provides those intensely local experiences.”

To prepare for trips, today’s travelers refer to the Food Network as much as they do a Fodor’s Guide. Popular programs such as “Spain … On the Road Again,” which takes a look at Spanish cuisine featuring actress Gwyneth Paltrow, introduce viewers to the culinary delights of a specific region but also inspire people to experience a local culture through its cuisine beyond dining at a city’s most famous restaurant.

“The food of a particular region is at the heart of the culture,” says Jeffrey Bershaw of Avanti Destinations, a tour operator in Portland, Oregon. “Our palates have become more curious and we want authentic meals in restaurants that the locals prefer.”

Marcy Forman, vice president of Valesa Cultural Services in Madrid, Spain, says her company has always included regional gastronomy in tours of Spain and Portugal. Some of Valesa’s more distinctive offerings include taking part in the saffron or wine harvests; meeting prestigious Iberian ham producers to learn about their artisan cured meats; and visiting an octopus market in Portugal’s Algarve.

Of course Italy is renowned for delicious pastas, breads and wines and Virtuoso On-Site tour operators offer a plethora of tasty travels there. I.D.I. Tours has a vast array of customizable culinary experiences, from cooking classes to wine tastings with the most renowned chefs. IC Bellagio, another Virtuoso On-Site, offers a market tour, cooking class and wine tasting at the Culinary Institute of Florence “Apicius.” From a truffle hunting expedition to a vineyard tour to visiting an olive oil press, foodies can learn about Italian culinary delicacies right where they are grown.

France is arguably the original culinary grand dame. Delicate crème brûlée, flakey croissants, rich coq au vin or elegant Escargots are only a few of the gifts French gourmands have in store. You can explore French cuisine on river cruises through the waterways of France, elite dining in Michelin-starred restaurants of Paris, or touring chateaux and vineyards of the countryside. It would be difficult for a foodie to be disappointed with the culinary options of France.

Italy and France, however grand, are hardly uncharted territory for culinary travelers. As for untapped markets, Forman mentions Galicia in northern Spain and Portugal, as well as the Basque Country: “We have the most Michelin-starred restaurants outside of France.” Bershaw suggests Peru. “Many travelers are unaware that Peruvian cuisine is outstanding and diverse, with the mixture of so many native and international cultures.” The gastronomy of Japan is fresh and healthy, born of an ancient heritage, while Australian and Chilean cuisine capitalize on their ranch and vineyard stock. The point is that food is a window to the local way of life and is a bit different in each destination.

Spices from Thai chili powder to Moroccan ras el hanout, and dishes from hearty Russian borscht to sophisticated French Foie Gras bring the customs and traditions of a foreign culture to the palate. If you would like to enrich your travel through an exploration of local food, let Covington Travel’s expert vacation advisors design a culinary journey that will tempt your taste buds.   

Quote source: Virtuoso

Header photo credit: Jeremy Fenske, courtesy of Outstanding in the Field

In Barbados, cricket is the national passion, afternoon tea is common and a mannerly reserve is typical of the inhabitants, all of which demonstrate the British influence on this small Caribbean island. In fact, Barbados is frequently referred to as “Little England,” although in recent years, its African roots have shown through, particularly in the arts. The people of Barbados, called Bajans, boast a 99% literacy rate, a strong middle class and a stable democratic government, so it doesn’t tend to have the pervasive poverty or social unrest that afflicts some other Caribbean island nations. Barbados has been hosting travelers for decades and has a strong infrastructure with many cultural and natural attractions to enjoy.

Barbados cruise terminal

About half of Barbados’ visitors arrive by cruise ship, as it is the second busiest port in the Caribbean. The cruise terminal is a large, clean, modern facility with many duty-free shops, local craft stalls and specialty shops. There is a tourism office, WiFi access and plenty of taxis available, so it’s easy to arrange off-ship excursions.Travel Maestro tip: There is no bank or ATM available at the cruise terminal, but U.S. Dollars are accepted everywhere on the island. A shared shuttle to Bridgetown for shopping (about $4 Bajan =$2 US) or to the beach at Carlisle Bay (about $6 Bajan = $3 US) are easy outings that fit most cruise schedules. For tours, most are similar to those offered by the cruise lines, so don’t waste valuable vacation time making comparisons unless you want to customize your outing, and then let your travel advisor arrange it in advance.

Ancient Baobab tree in Queen's Park, photo credit: xelaboy

If you’re visiting Barbados by land, a week is a good length of stay. Because the island is only 14×21 miles in area, with most beaches and resorts on the calmer-water western side, it is easy to see and do whatever you like in day trips from your hotel. Besides beautiful white-sand beaches, natural attractions include the Andromeda Botanic Gardens and Orchid World, each worth a couple hours stroll to appreciate the beautiful flora. At Harrison’s Cave, you can ride a tram through the extensive cave system to see the stalagmites and stalactites, underground rivers and waterfalls. And be sure to visit the mysterious 1,000 year old Baobab tree at the Queen’s Park in Bridgetown.

Beautiful Codringron College

Barbados also has quite a lot of well-presented heritage attractions and historic sites. One of the oldest synagogues in the Western Hemisphere sits on a tiny lane in Bridgetown and Codrington College is a hauntingly beautiful, centuries-old theological seminary out in the country. Guided tours and tastings at the Mount Gay Rum Distillery are always popular, or you can visit George Washington’s House to learn how his life was changed when he lived in Barbados as a young man. The 18^th-century Morgan Lewis Sugar Mill, one of only two in the world still operating, and St. Anne’s Garrison, a collection of military buildings with a rare collection of 17-thcentury iron cannons, also depict parts of Barbados’ heritage. Many museums showcase Bajan culture ranging from cricket legends to sugar.

Sailing at King's Beach

Recreation opportunities in Barbados are many. Water sports include scuba and snorkeling, fishing and sailing. The wild Atlantic waves on the eastern side of the island make for serious surfing (but can be dangerous for swimming) or the Caribbean side is much calmer for swimming, windsurfing and general beach lounging. Mountain biking, horseback riding, golf and hiking are other popular sports found there.

If shopping is your preferred form of recreation, you’ll want to hone in on Broad Street in Bridgetown and the Pelican Craft Centre near the pier. Or Saturday is the main day for the markets in St. George and Cheapside where you can get a taste of authentic Caribbean shopping and the social event that ensues. Travel Maestro tip: Barbados’ 15% value-added tax (VAT) is non-refundable as, but does not apply to duty-free goods.

Nightclubs are happening spots throughout the island, with the core of the nightlife on the south coast in St. Lawrence Gap. The party stays lively until the wee hours (3:00-4:00 a.m.) and karaoke is rampant, so be ready to participate in the revelry.

Barbados is a sophisticated, yet never stuffy destination with an extremely friendly and welcoming residents. To plan your Bajan vacation, contact Covington Travel’s Caribbean experts.

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 an atmosphere of total well-being.

There’s an impressive Roman Bath, sauna and Turkish Room, while the original spring feeds the thermal park with hot-water swimming pools, waterfalls, Jacuzzis and waterways. Water gushes into the swimming pools at the rate of 500 liters (200 gallons) per second at a constant 37°C (98.6°F). Travel Maestro tip: When soaking in the warm pools, a constant rise of air bubbles makes it feel like a gigantic jetted tub! It’s quite exhilarating, yet relaxing at the same time.

Terme di Saturnia has now been awarded by Condé Nast as the Best Medical/Thermal/Natural Spas in the World. All personalized treatments offer an impeccable course in relaxation and well-being. A great start is a Four-Hand Massage or a Saturnia Massage Shower where two masseurs work in conjunction with a water-jet to the attainment of full-body relaxation. Then enjoy the unforgettable sensory experience of a Saturnia Long Massage, 70 minutes of total-body well-being. A host of other treatments such as Aromatherapy and Aquarelaxation are also offered.

The innovative spirit that has enlivened Terme di Saturnia is once again the driving force behind the creation of the “Ultimate”, the new luxury Spa area; a private world whose careful choice of treatments creates unique experiences transcending the traditional perceptions of a Spa. You can choose among the Saturnia Gold Facial, the Oxygen Infusion and exclusive massages for your body.

The team in the spa devises tailor-made treatments to tackle the symptoms of unsightly cellulite or the initial signs of ageing. And when you feel in need of some exercise, the well-equipped gym provides a host of activities, from personal training to Fitvibe, Pilates to a physical check-up. There’s also water gymnastics and morning hikes, with the option of tennis and golf if you’re feeling sporty. With all the spa and activities, most guests move throughout the resort wearing the luxurious white robes that are provided, never dressing in street clothes until dinner.

Dining is quite the experience at Terme di Saturnia. The Aqualuce Restaurant offers magical luxury candlelit dinners with a view of the spring, where you can try out amazing recipes from the talented chefs. You will be bowled over by the authentic flavors of the Tuscan cuisine or amazed by the Grande Carte at the Gourmet Restaurant All’Aquacotta under the auspices of a 3-starred Michelin Chef. Light and healthy dishes – specially devised by the in-house team of dieticians – are also on offer. Leave your bad eating habits behind and give your body a healthy treat.

A prestigious Art Gallery stages contemporary art exhibitions, while the nearby open-air Juice Bar offers fruit- and vegetable-based cocktails, smoothies and snacks. The brand new Atelier delle Eccellenze now features the best products of the Maremma-shire. The Spa Boutique Terme di Saturnia caters for all health & beauty purchases complemented by a welcoming Spa Cafe and the brand-new Atelier Aldo Coppola.

Just 100 meters from the hotel is a 18-hole Championship Golf Course, par 72 and 6,316m over 70 hectares. Conceived by the Californian architect Ronald Fream of the internationally renowned Golfplan Studio, it has been designed with total respect for the environment. The realization of such an impressive course has respected strict regulations governing the protection of local nature with the aim of earning the Golf Federation’s ecological certification.

Terme di Saturnia is a marvelous, relaxing Italian gem. To visit, please contact Covington’s expert vacation advisors for special complimentary Virtuoso upgrades and amenities.

Source: Terme di Saturnia. Photos courtesy of Terme di Saturnia.

The magnificent Taj Mahal, an immense mausoleum in India; Robben Island, South Africa, where Nelson Mandela was confined for 27 years; Machu Picchu, the masterpiece of the ancient Inca Empire in Peru; the amazing marine diversity of the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. What do these sites have in common? They are all World Heritage sites and represent the diverse cultural legacies shared by our human race. You can visit these and many other World Heritage Sites with Tauck World Discovery.

UNESCO (United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization) maintains a list of sites that contribute outstanding universal value to the cultural and natural heritage of our world. Currently there are 936 properties in 153 countries awarded this high honor. If you ever need help in creating a travel bucket list, this would be a good place to start!

With Tauck, knowledge-seeking world travelers can visit many of the World Heritage sites and connect with the people and places with ease. Tauck takes care of all the details so you can truly engage with the destination and find inspiration in interacting with different cultures. They offer several different travel experiences: guided land vacations, river cruising and small ship cruising. Culturious is an active and immersive travel experience with small groups of like-minded adventure seekers. Tauck Bridges is enriching, engaging travel designed for families to enjoy together. All Tauck vacations are of premium quality with the best hotels, authentic meals and exclusive sightseeing included. Knowledgeable tour directors and personalized service insure that travelers don’t have that dreaded “herd” experience.

Because of Tauck’s commitment to providing guests with rich cultural exploration, UNESCO World Heritage Sites are naturally found in many Tauck trips. Here are just a few:

• Venice & the Dalmatian Coast – Visit the World Heritage Sites of Venice, Dubrovnik, historic Split and Diocletian’s Palace and the Cathedral of St. James in Sibenik with Tauck Small Ship Cruising.
• Budapest to Amsterdam by Riverboat –Tauck River Cruising features all-included private shore excursions that take you to many UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the historic districts of Budapest, Vienna and Bamberg, and the Wachau and Rhine valleys, plus Schönbrunn Palace (Vienna)  and Kölner Dom (Cologne Cathedral).
• Russian Glories, Baltic Treasures – Enjoy an in-depth guided tour of the cobbled streets of old town Riga, Latvia and Tallinn, Estonia; St. Petersburg, Russia and its monuments; the 64-acre Kremlin, Moscow.
• Treasures of the Aegean – On this land and cruise combination, travel from Turkey to the Greek Islands and explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites including the Acropolis, Mycenae, Delos, the medieval city of Rhodes and the historic district in Istanbul.
• Vietnam, Cambodia & Thailand – Experience the fabled archaeological site of Angkor Wat in Cambodia, the South China Sea trading port of Hoi An and Vietnam’s most beautiful city, Hué.
• China, the Yangtze River & Hong Kong – Explore Chinese culture and visit compelling UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Forbidden City, the Great Wall and the Terra Cotta Warriors, the Summer Palace and Imperial Gardens.

If you would like to find out more about these and other fascinating UNESCO World Heritage Sites or how you can explore other cultures with Tauck, please contact Covington Travel.

Jeremy on a Desert Safari in Dubai

Hi Jeremy, welcome to our travel industry professional interview series.

1)      What drew you to the travel industry as a career and how did you land in the hotel segment?

My parents divorced when I was young and I grew up with my mother and step-father in Germany, traveling back and forth to the United States about 5 times a year.  I think this constant travel between my parents and the ability to travel easily from European country to country while on holiday was where I first learned to love exploring and understanding new cultures.

2)      How have luxury hotels changed over the years?

I think luxury hotels have just adapted to meet the needs of today’s consumer. At one time it was a luxury to have on-demand movies in hotel rooms, and now everyone has this at home! As technology progresses, our hotels continue to evolve.  I will say that without a doubt however, the key fundamental of “exceeding even the unexpressed wishes and needs of our customers,” remains our highest mission. This phrase is a part of The Ritz-Carlton Credo and will always remain a priority and a constant.

Photo credit: collinsights.blogspot.com

3)      Ritz-Carlton is arguably the most prestigious luxury hotel chain in the world and consistently ranks highest in guest satisfaction. What sets Ritz-Carlton apart from the competition to achieve these statuses?

Our Ladies and Gentlemen. They are simply world class and are the best in the industry. Each of my colleagues around the world knows and owns The Credo, the Motto and the 12 Service Values that really act as a guide on how we can best exceed our customer’s expectations.

4)      Is there a “typical” luxury guest?

I think the “typical” luxury guest is to be “atypical.” Luxury holds a different meaning for everyone and our focus is to identify that meaning, which can be very personal, for each individual and ensure that those needs and wants are exceeded. 

5)      The atmosphere and even the culture of some luxury hotels really don’t encourage guests to bring the kids, but we find that many young families want and appreciate the quality and service of a luxury vacation. What does Ritz-Carlton offer for families traveling with children? 

Ritz Kids program

Now more than ever, as free time becomes even more a commodity, we definitely see an increase in multi-generational or family travel and The Ritz-Carlton LOVES families! From our famous Ritz-Kids programs offering Pirate ship sailings in St. Thomas to learning about Sea Turtles at Amelia Island and the Ambassador’s of the Environment in partnership with jean Michael Cousteau, we welcome VIP’s of all ages. 

6)      The new Ritz-Carlton Aruba is scheduled to open October 2013. Tell us what we can expect to find there.

The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba is being developed on the last possible plot of land on the island for a beach front property. The rest of the currently undeveloped shoreline has been sanctioned to be a wilderness preserve.  With this in mind, we are very excited to be bringing the first luxury property to this destination that lies outside the hurricane belt. It will be a little over 300 rooms and welcome both group and leisure customers.  We are aiming for a May 2013 opening. 

Bulgari Guestroom

7)      Bulgari Hotels and Resorts is a sister brand to Ritz-Carlton with properties in Milan, Bali and next month opening in London. I keep hearing about “LoveMarks” in connection with Bulgari. Can you tell us what LoveMarks are?

LoveMarks is a marketing concept first coined by Kevin Roberts, CEO of Saatchi and Saatchi and speaks to the idea that truly great brands gain both love and respect by the consumer. With this in mind, Bulgari Hotels and Resorts seeks to be a LoveMark space by delivering a consistent product that pays homage to its heritage, while still evolving to meet the needs of today’s society.  Every decision and action taken at Bulgari Hotels and Resorts seeks to ensure this continuity of passion for the brand. 

8)      What efforts does Ritz-Carlton make to practice environmental stewardship and sustainability?

Community Footprints is the philanthropic organization founded by The Ritz-Carlton. Its three main pillars are hunger and poverty relief, well-being of children, and environmental conservation. Specifically speaking to environmental conservation, each individual property is tasked with identifying ways in which their operations can “go green” and conserve natural resources and many of our Ladies and Gentlemen volunteer for various community organizations that share similar goals.

Lobby, Ritz-Carlton International Financial Centre

9)      Dubai is a hot destination as either a short layover or a destination in itself for both business and vacation travelers. What features of the Dubai Ritz-Carlton appeal to business travelers and what makes it a good choice for leisure travelers?

The GREAT thing about The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company and the city of Dubai is that you truly have a “Tale of Two Cities!” For the business traveler, The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai International Financial Centre is located just off Sheikh Zayad Road near The Gate complex in the heart of most multi-national headquarters office buildings. For the leisure traveler, guests can stay at The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai on Jumeirah Road which is a gorgeous, intimate property right on the Persian Gulf. I have been to both properties and think they are equally stunning. My recommendation… stay at both!

10)   Staying in a fine luxury hotel is on many people’s travel bucket list. Since you have already stayed in some of the most luxurious hotels all around the world, what’s on your travel bucket list?

I am extremely thankful to have this position which affords me the ability to travel around the world visiting our properties and exposing customers to different and fascinating destinations. Having been to six of seven continents, I think Antarctica would definitely be on my bucket list!

Jeremy, thank you for sharing your experiences and insights on the incomparable Ritz-Carlton luxury brand. For luxury lovers everywhere, to find out more about any of the 90+ Ritz-Carlton Hotels and Resorts and partner brands across 35 countries, please contact Covington Travel.