by Jan Mauer | Oct 27, 2017 | European Travel, Luxury Destinations, Luxury Travel, Romance Travel and Honeymoons
A luxurious private picnic at Cocoa Island by COMO in the Maldives Travel is meant to transport you — to other destinations, certainly, but also sometimes to other times, other worlds, and other possibilities. These four utterly unique hotels are full of the magic, mystery, and wonder that travel embodies. These are places that will, without a doubt, remain locked in your heart and mind forever. Lily pond at the Lake Palace – by Taj Hotels, Resorts and Palaces (Taj images) [CC BY-SA 3.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons. The Taj Lake Palace Resort, Lake Pichola, Rajasthan, India is an exquisite luxury hotel for the traveler who has ever wondered what it was like to see the world in the Golden Age of travel. This is the place (or palace) to get a glimpse of what it feels like to be royalty. Built in the middle of a lake as a winter palace in the mid-18th century, this huge marble resort features opulent 1930s rooms with intricately carved archways and windows draped in sumptuous fabrics. Gardens, pillared terraces, fountains, and columns line the resort’s lavish courtyards. You can dine al fresco with a view of the surrounding mountains and the warm lights of the shoreline, and then hop on a traditional sunset boat ride with your own personal oarsman. The Nawelpi Lodge, located in the middle of the forest at the Huilo-Huilo Resort, is a place to relax and connect with nature. If you’re a dedicated nature lover who also appreciates indulgence when traveling the world, then staying at one of the luxurious lodges on the Huilo-Huilo Biological Reserve in... by Jan Mauer | Oct 18, 2017 | European Travel, Luxury Destinations, Luxury Travel, Romance Travel and Honeymoons, Small Group Tours, Travel Tips
Be aware of things that might offend our foreign hosts. Knowing what NOT to wear when traveling abroad can allow you to enjoy closer connections with the locals, and help you avoid uncomfortable situations. We in the United States are used to freedom of speech and freedom of expression in terms of what we wear. It can be a very different climate when we go abroad, especially in countries where such freedoms can sometimes make you a target for reproval by the local government. I want you to have the best experience on your much-anticipated vacation, so let’s discuss what NOT to pack when traveling internationally. Dress to Blend and Not Offend One key to being safe is to not call attention to yourself. I remember visiting Turkey once and wondering how everyone seemed to know we were American tourists. Then I looked down. We were dressed in vibrant colors with camera bags on our shoulders, and bright white athletic shoes on our feet. We looked nothing like the locals around us, who were all dressed modestly and in muted colors. In that environment we weren’t in any danger, but did we have to shout “American” quite so loudly? Just be aware and tone it down a bit. Always respect the local culture, and the locals will, in turn, respect you. Here are 5 things to leave at home when you’re packing to go abroad: If you’re wearing shorts or a tank top, carry a shawl or wrap to avoid giving offense when visiting religious countries or landmarks (such as churches or mosques). 1. Immodest Clothing This is especially... by Jan Mauer | Oct 10, 2017 | European Travel, Luxury Travel, Small Group Tours, Travel Adventures
With All Hallows’ Eve just around the corner, a post about haunted locations around the world seems particularly apt. If you’re into encounters of the spine-tingling variety, you’re part of a small but passionate group of travelers. “Paranormal Travel” enthusiasts participate regularly in online forums, and there’s even a small cottage industry that specializes in highlighting travel to spooky destinations. If this interests you or someone you know here’s a quick list of some of the world’s most haunted destinations. Night guards claim to hear pacing footsteps, strange voices, and blood-curdling screams. Castle of Good Hope, Capetown, South Africa This bastion fort built in the 17th century is said to still terrify the soldiers who guard her ramparts by night. Sentries claim to hear pacing footsteps, strange voices, and blood-curdling screams. Less gruesomely, this castle is also said to be home to a supernatural canine that jumps up on guests as they walk the halls! The Tower of London is haunted by a dark history (here the Tower Bridge is shown looming in the background). Tower of London, England The Tower of London, part of which was built as early as 1078 by William the Conqueror, has served as a royal residence, an armory, and, most famously, a prison. It is here that people claim to have seen the headless ghost of Anne Boleyn, the ill-fated wife of Henry VIII, wandering the halls and gardens with her head cradled in her arms. Dolls photographed on the Island of the Dolls by Esparta Palma [CC BY 2.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons Island of the Dolls, Xochimilco, Mexico The story of... by Jan Mauer | Oct 4, 2017 | European Travel, Luxury Travel, Travel Tips
Traveling can be exhausting. Whether you’re preparing for an early train ride to the next city or your third full day of touring the Louvre, sometimes even non-coffee drinkers need a pick-me up in the form of that caffeinated nectar of the gods. Ordering coffee outside of the US can sometimes be a bit tricky for travelers – but once you get the hang of it, you’ll find yourself enjoying some of the best java on earth. What’s more, sipping an expertly brewed cup of coffee can be a rewarding way to make connections with locals. So here’s a brief overview of how to order coffee at a few stops around the world. Coffee made with a French press is rich and flavorful. How to Order Coffee in France Coffee in France is pretty similar to coffee options in the States. The most common caffeinated drinks you’ll find are: Cappuccino This is a rich shot of espresso with steamed milk and lots of frothy foam on top. Latte Also a shot of espresso with steamed milk, a latte only has a small amount of foam on top. French Press Coffee This is your standard black coffee, but instead of using a drip coffee method, cafes in France commonly use a French Press, which does not have a filter. Some people believe that this method makes the coffee more flavorful, and richer in antioxidants. If you don’t consume dairy, most cafes in France will have soymilk available and are happy to use it for any drink. However, other dairy alternatives such as almond, coconut, and cashew milk are not as... 
