by Jan Mauer | Oct 18, 2018 | European Travel, Luxury Destinations, Luxury Travel, Ocean Cruises, River Cruises, Romance Travel and Honeymoons, Small Group Tours, South Pacific Tahiti, Travel Adventures, Travel Tips
There are, of course, thousands of possible trips out there. There are plenty of great trips to choose from — and then there are trips that are great for you and your fellow travelers. Being honest about what you want and need, and getting to know your own personal travel profile can save you from the but-it-looked-great-on-paper trip disappointment. Here are a few simple things that can help you better understand your unique and personal travel profile. Find Out What Is Your Ideal Getaway Matsumoto Castle in Japan is a stunning and exotic travel destination. 1. Make a quick list of the twenty most fun memories you have of trips you’ve taken in your lifetime. Notice if there are any themes. While you don’t necessarily need (or even want) each vacation to be a carbon copy of things you’ve already done, you can use those larger themes to guide your planning of future trips. That way, if you decide to step out a little from your comfort zone, you’ll at least have a solid idea of what makes the most meaningful moments for you. Is it time with friends or family? A certain type of weather or geography? Certain activities? Quiet time? When you can build some of these elements into your travel, you’re more likely to come home energized and restored. Do stunning views help you to relax? 2. What do you like to do to relax, unwind, have fun, or re-energize when you’re not on vacation? Do you like to be still or active? Quiet or surrounded by crowds? Scheduled or free-form and spontaneous? Simplicity or luxury?... by Jan Mauer | Oct 1, 2018 | European Travel, International Flights, Small Group Tours, Travel Tips
I am sometimes asked how to pack light – especially on an itinerary where you will be moving and changing locations frequently. The benefits of packing light cannot be underestimated. In fact, it can mean the difference between an enjoyable vacation and a miserable one! You will never meet anyone who says, “I wish I had packed heavier” when they return from a journey. Rick Steves, the European travel guru, only allows the members of his escorted tours to bring one carry-on piece of luggage per person…even when the tour is three weeks long! But can it really be done? Yes, and I recommend that you give it a try. I’ve done it myself, and schlepped all over Europe with my family, packing one carry-on each for a month. Why Do I Recommend Packing Light? You’ll be more relaxed, and find your trip more enjoyable, when packing one carry-on for your journey. 1. You can move quickly from place to place. You’ll have no worries about big suitcases and where you can fit your luggage on the train, bus or taxi. A lot of European hotels have no elevator, so lugging heavy bags up and down stairs can be quite a challenge. 2. Having too much luggage “marks” you as a typical tourist. Con artists figure you’re an unseasoned traveler, and you’re more likely to become the target of pick-pockets or scam artists, especially in big tourist cities. 3. You’ll save time and energy. Save time by not having to wait around at luggage carousels in strange airports. Instead, you can be off and starting your adventure while everyone... by Jan Mauer | Sep 19, 2018 | Luxury Destinations, Luxury Travel, Romance Travel and Honeymoons, Travel Tips
Ahhh…Maui: Almost everybody’s favorite island! It always lands at the top of travel polls in magazines like Travel & Leisure and Conde Nast. The beaches are pristine, the restaurants world-class, and some of the most luxurious resorts in the world are located there. While I will be the first person to take you up on an invitation to lounge poolside at the Four Seasons, or dine at Mama’s Fish House, my favorite way to spend the day on Maui has nothing to do with sand, surf or incredible dining. I always recommend that my clients and friends spend a day exploring Upcountry Maui. Its charms are sure to surprise and beguile. Upcountry Maui is located on the high elevations around the dormant volcano, Mt. Haleakala. The fertile slopes are home to ranches, botanical gardens, organic farms and liquor distilleries that boast soaring views of the sea. It is an easy drive in your rental car from either the Ka’anapali or Kihei/Wailea resort areas. The coastal town of Pa’ia, with its surfer-dude population and “anything goes” mentality marks the start of the drive uphill. If you get an early start, pause in Pa’ia for a cup of coffee and delicious bakery treat, but you will definitely want to stop back through on your return trip in the afternoon when everyone wakes up! Here are some of the best sights in Upcountry Maui: 1. Makawao Town Photo credit: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Max Wanger Makawao is one of Hawaii’s last paniolo (cowboy) towns. There is a very popular rodeo held here each 4th of July. Makawao retains much of that... by Jan Mauer | Sep 5, 2018 | European Travel, Romance Travel and Honeymoons, Travel Adventures
A view over Il Vecchio Maneggio, a working farm in Tuscany. Photo credit: IlVecchioManeggio.com The word “Tuscany” conjures a serene world of rolling, cypress-lined hills, fecund grapevines, and golden sunlight. It signifies an escape from modernity, back to a simpler time of peaceful afternoons on a quiet terrace with a good book, and plentiful wine. In short, to many of us, Tuscany is a place of magic. Tuscan Agriturismos In recent years, one of the most exciting developments in Tuscany has been the proliferation of agriturismos. These working farmhouses offer visitors the unique opportunity to escape into the allure of quintessential Tuscan life with a traditional family dining experience, or to sleep in luxurious accommodations on their farms. During our last visit to Tuscany, my husband and I stayed near the famous medieval hill town of San Gimignano. We read excellent reviews about a nearby agriturismo called Il Vecchio Maneggio, and decided to reserve two spots for dinner. The medieval towers of San Gimignano Il Vecchio Maneggio – The Old Riding School When we arrived a little before 8pm on the night of our dinner, I was pleased to see that we would be eating in the garden, with a stunning view of San Gimignano’s ancient towers in the distance. Tiziana, the big-hearted matron of the farm, greeted us warmly. She met us in her apron, inviting us to explore the farm grounds while she finalized dinner preparations. Her friendly, gregarious manner immediately made my husband and I feel at ease, as though we were enjoying an evening with family in a picturesque pastoral setting. A view of San... by Jan Mauer | Aug 23, 2018 | European Travel, Luxury Travel, Romance Travel and Honeymoons, Travel Tips
Let me start by saying that I recommend taking a minimum of three days in Rome. This much-loved Italian city boasts nearly 3,000 years of incredible history, art, religion and philosophy that have heavily influenced the world. All of this translates into a wealth of inspiring sights that draw millions of visitors every year. With that said, there are times when your schedule simply cannot accommodate a longer visit to this vibrant city. When that’s the case, here are my top sights to see with one day in Rome. Before You Go Please note that I recommend scheduling a Colosseum tour in advance of your visit, ideally for the mid-to-late morning. In addition, if you choose to follow my suggestion for lunch at Divin Ostilia Wine Bar, make a reservation for 2pm the day of your visit to Rome, as this desirable restaurant has limited seating. If you are working with a travel agent, these are bookings that your agent can easily take care of for you. Now, prepare for a jam-packed day! Rise and Shine Get lots of sleep the night before you tour Rome. Set your alarm clock to 6:30am, giving yourself plenty of time to get ready. You’ll want to wear comfortable walking shoes, and bring along a bottle of water. In the summer months, be sure to pack sunscreen and a hat. Cappuccino and a Pastry – The Breakfast of Champions A quick and delicious breakfast to start your day. Ask your travel agent or hotel concierge to call you a taxi for a 7:30am pick-up, and then take it to the quaint Caffe dei... by Jan Mauer | Aug 9, 2018 | European Travel, Luxury Destinations, Luxury Travel, Romance Travel and Honeymoons
The Mozart Dinner Concert in Salzburg is a captivating – and delicious – occasion. Photo credit: Mozart-Dinner-Concert-Salzburg.com Ever since watching the Academy Award-winning movie, Amadeus, I have been fascinated by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. The film shines with Mozart’s brilliant music, and tells the sometimes humorous, sometimes sordid, and, in the end, tragic tale of the composer’s too-brief life. So when my husband and I visited Salzburg, Austria, the birthplace and part-time residence of Mozart, I wanted to see all of the sites that could lay claim to a piece of Mozart’s history. First, we toured Mozart’s childhood home, where he was born in 1756. Next, we visited the residence on Makartplatz where the Mozart family lived after outgrowing their previous home. Here we saw the original pianoforte on which Mozart played during some of his concerts in Vienna. Dinner and Mozart Concert in Salzburg, Austria My absolute favorite experience in Salzburg, however, was the Mozart Dinner Concert that we attended. I had heard rave reviews about the concert, which features songs from some of Mozart’s most famous operas. In addition to music, the event includes a three-course meal based on 18th-century recipes, and it all takes place amidst candlelight in an authentic Baroque Hall. It sounded too good to miss! The Mozart Dinner Concert was scheduled to begin at 7:30pm, but we were told to arrive an hour early for the best seats. At 6:30 that evening, a formally-dressed maître d’ who spoke perfect English invited us into the Baroque Hall, and we were led to our front-row table. The Baroque Hall of St. Peter The Baroque Hall of... by Jan Mauer | Aug 2, 2018 | European Travel, Luxury Travel, Travel Tips
Vacations, even simple weekend getaways, can be full of adventure — that’s part of the great appeal, after all. If you’re a foodie who values a delicious, high-quality meal to go with your adventure, you may find yourself asking how to find the best food when you travel. Check out these four apps that can direct you to the ideal spots for savoring the most delectable food around. Each app serves a different purpose, so take a look through the list below, and select the option that best meets your own travel needs. GateGuru: Find the best food when you’re stuck at the airport. Enjoy delicious food while you wait for your flight. Usually, airports are not known for their culinary quality, although that’s changing in some places. GateGuru is an app developed by TripAdvisor that is a full-on airport genie for your phone. With this app, you can get lists of restaurants in the airport and see reviews from fellow travelers. In addition, GateGuru helps you check in, check your flight status, get a rental car and see maps of individual airports. (Available for iOS and Android) OpenTable: Let technology choose the best food option for you. Get great eating options based on previous dishes you’ve enjoyed. App developers have a knack for creating complex algorithms that essentially “get to know you” by analyzing your previous food choices. OpenTable delivers up choices based on specific dishes you’ve previously indicated you loved (or hated). (Available for iOS and Android) ChefsFeed: Let the experts help you find the best food around. Get recommendations from top chefs. If you’re searching for... by Jan Mauer | Jul 25, 2018 | European Travel, Luxury Destinations, Luxury Travel, Romance Travel and Honeymoons
A view over Innsbruck, Austria from atop the Innsbruck City Tower On a recent vacation in Austria, my family had the unforgettable pleasure of staying in Innsbruck, host to two Olympic Winter Games. A winning combination of picturesque mountain views, quaint streets lined with popular cafes, and historical influence, Innsbruck is surrounded by dramatic, high mountains that are verdantly green in the mild summer months, and cloaked in rich coats of powdery, white snow during the winter. It is impossible not to be moved by the breathtaking sight of medieval and Baroque buildings rising against a clear blue sky, with the majestic Alps framing your view in nearly every direction. Based on our two full days exploring this gem of a city, below I’ve compiled my list of 5 must-see sights in Innsbruck, Austria. Things to Note: Before we dive into the details of Innsbruck sights, first a few notes. You will find that many people speak a bit of English in Innsbruck, which is very helpful in shops and restaurants. Begin a conversation with, “Guten tag. Sprechen Sie englisch?” (Pronunciation: GOO-ten talk. SHPRAY-hen zee AIN-glish?) to politely wish a person “good day,” and ask them if they speak English. Such niceties go a long way with many locals. Even during the summer, weather in Innsbruck can vary greatly. In warmer months, plan to dress in layers, and bring along a thin, waterproof jacket with a hood for surprise thunderstorms (I travel with this jacket made by Columbia: It’s stylish, works as an excellent windbreaker or raincoat, and packs quite small). While public transport in Innsbruck is well managed,... by Jan Mauer | Jun 8, 2018 | Luxury Destinations, Luxury Travel, Romance Travel and Honeymoons, South Pacific Tahiti
Tahiti is a truly special place: Yes, it is an island paradise, but it is also a fascinating cultural enclave; a treasure-trove of some of the most resplendent dive-sites that beckon even the world’s most seasoned divers; an escape from the hectic pace of everyday life. More than 30 years in the travel industry have made it clear to me that a given destination is not the right match for EVERY traveler. Each location has its own character that, when coupled with a particular visitor, can either make or break a vacation experience. This is why it is so crucial for me to learn about my clients’ personalities and travel preferences BEFORE we begin planning their dream holidays. If you’re considering a Tahiti get-away, then before you commit, ask yourself, “Is a Tahiti vacation right for me?” OR if you’d be better off visiting a different destination. 1) Which statement best describes you? A) I dream of waking early in the morning with a full schedule of daily sightseeing all the iconic architecture in some of the world’s most famous cities such as Rome, London or Madrid. B) I prefer to visit locations that are off the beaten path with incredible, stunning, natural beauty and interesting culture. A couple snorkeling in the pristine waters of a Tahitian island. 2) If you close your eyes to picture your dream vacation, which of the following descriptions most closely matches what you see? A) I picture myself filling every moment of my hard-earned vacation visiting the attractions of famous cities round the globe. B) I imagine myself snorkeling in crystal-clear water, learning... by Jan Mauer | Apr 27, 2018 | European Travel, Luxury Destinations, Luxury Travel, Travel Adventures
One of the fastest growing travel specialties is the “Girlfriend Getaway,” and it is easy to understand why. After all the stresses of everyday life, there is nothing quite as enjoyable and relaxing as getting away from reality with those true friends who allow – and even encourage – you to be yourself without fear of judgement. Here are a few suggestions for upscale Girlfriend Getaways that some of my other clients have enjoyed: Spend a week shopping with your girlfriends in chic Milan How about a little retail therapy? Most women love to shop, so why not combine a week in Milan with great shopping, dining and entertainment options? Paris’ Champs-Élysées and London’s Oxford Street also come to mind, but there are many amazing options out there that are centrally located and served by convenient airports. Why not check into a luxurious spa or rejuvenating yoga retreat for a wellness getaway? A little pampering never hurt anyone, and you might even come home with some new healthy habits! For a truly decadent experience, check out the Schloss Elmau in the Bavarian Alps, or I can help you book a once-in-a-lifetime yoga retreat in the Tahitian islands. Girls only luxury spa breaks at Schloss Elmau A week spent wine tasting, or possibly signing up for a cooking vacation, can be fantastic options for Girlfriend Getaways. Try something a little different, and take a wine tour through the beautiful Yarra Valley in Victoria, Australia. Or combine the two activities into a sumptuous vacation by traveling to Tuscany, Italy, where you can taste some of the world’s best wines, while enjoying... 
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