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Three cheers for some great news in the travel industry!
Iceland, the North Atlantic country, will be one of the first to open its borders this week since the beginning of the pandemic. They will welcome visitors with open arms who have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 without further testing or quarantine. Yahoooo!
Are your ready to explore this magnificent destination? I am!
When you think of Iceland, what comes to mind? How about a landscape of unending snow, sheets of ice and freezing cold? While this is true in the winter months, the summers are quite temperate with temperatures averaging between 55 to 60 degrees.
It’s also a country of real treasures where the people are warm and friendly, and the land is magical in every way! Iceland is ranked as one of the “happiest places on Earth” by the World Happiness Report and is also known as the world’s friendliest country.
Iceland is one of the most incredible adventure destinations in the world and a popular spot for nature lovers. It’s a country of extreme geological contrasts. It is often called the Land of Ice and Fire, a land where volcanoes and geothermal heat have made their mark on the landscape, along with the many glaciers and lagoons, fjords and geysers, a land of pristine and unspoiled nature.
Iceland is the land of light and darkness…long summer days with just about 24 hours of sunshine (Imagine that!!) and short winter days with only a few hours of daylight.
Did you know that Iceland was chosen as the backdrop for Sci-Fi films and Hollywood block buster’s such as the James Bond series, the Star Wars Saga, the Game of Thrones series, Batman Begins and Fast & Furious 8? It was also the inspiration for the Tolkien’s stories.
Iceland is so lunar-like that astronauts Buzz Aldrin and Neil Armstrong practiced for moon-landings there. Pretty cool fun fact!
Here’s why everyone is obsessed with Iceland—and why it’s time to book now.
The Blue Lagoon
In the 1970’s, Iceland built a geothermal plant, and accidentally created one of the most visited places in the world…The Blue Lagoon. It is the world’s most amazing pool.
The Blue Lagoon is a Geothermal Spa (with water temperature around 37-40°C or 98-104°F). The geothermal water features three active ingredients: Silica, Algae & Minerals. While it looks blue, the water is actually white. If you pour it into a transparent cup, it will have a milky white color. The sun simply makes it look blue!
The Northern Lights are awe-inspiring!
Seeing the Northern Lights up close has always been a dream of mine. Iceland is a great place to see them because it is close to the Arctic Circle. Although the summer nights are light and bright, the winters are dark. The Aurora Borealis (or Northern Lights) occurs year-round but is only visible in dark and clear skies.
When is the best time to see them? From mid-September to mid-April, when the nights are cold and dark and the weather is still. One of the best places to see them is on the Jokulsarlon Lagoon located in South Iceland. They truly are a majestic natural phenomenon. What makes them so special? Their elusiveness.
There’s no better place to find yourself than sitting by a waterfall and listening to its music. -Roland Kemler
Waterfall Wonderland
I love the quote above. What a great analogy…the sounds of the rushing water is a musical masterpiece! Picture yourself sitting on the grassy hill taking in the site and sounds of Seljalandsfoss the most visited waterfalls in Iceland. Breathtaking, wouldn’t you agree?!
Iceland is a country with no shortage of waterfalls. They are home to the most powerful waterfalls and largest waterfall complex in Europe. This is largely due to their climate – the country’s northern latitude means an abundance of rain and snow, along with a large number of glaciers. Combine these facts with the mountainous landscape, and you have a country that is just epic for waterfalls. I can picture the endless photo opportunities since each waterfall shows it’s own unique style and character!
Nature is painting for us, day after day, pictures of infinite beauty. – John Ruskin
The Golden Circle
The Golden Circle is one of the most beautiful trips you’ll ever take. It’s a circular route that covers about 300 kilometers and loops from Reykjavík, the capital of Iceland, into central Iceland and back in a day trip. (It is not to be confused with the Ring Road which takes about a week to explore and complete.) You will meander through some of the most scenic parts of the country, from natural sites to historic buildings. There are so many breathtaking points along the route, including Icelandic horses! This is an incredible way to experience the diversity of Iceland in a relatively short trip.
You’ll have a whale of a time!
Iceland is one of Europe’s premier whale watching destinations. I can’t even imagine what it will feel like when we are out on a boat and a whale jumps out of the water right before our eyes. Incredible!!
The Icelandic waters are home to a variety of krill and fish. It is a bountiful feeding ground for the whales. You’re almost guaranteed to spot at least one of the twenty indigenous species circling the island, including minke and humpback whales. You may even catch one splashing around under the Northern Lights or illuminated by the midnight sun, depending on what time of year you visit.
While out on a whale-watching tour you may come close to the seaside cliffs to observe puffins, the country’s adorable unofficial mascot.
I’m sure you will agree that Iceland is BREATHTAKING!
It’s the unspoiled nature, the majestic Northern lights, the sun in the midnight sky, the geothermal areas where the geysers rule supreme, the massive icebergs on a glacial lagoon, the endless stretches of black sandy beaches, the volcanos, waterfalls and the abundant adventure that make this destination so desirable!
Are you ready to see, to witness or to experience something new, and unique?
I’m ready to pull out my winter gear and head there in the fall so I can see the main attraction – the Northern Lights!
I expect there to be quite a rush on summer and fall bookings because of this news. So, if Iceland is on your radar, give me a call so we can plan quickly.
It’s springtime in the Carolinas and the world is waking up after spending the last year in Covid dormancy. With new cases down and vaccinations becoming generally available, hope is in the air and the sights, sounds, smells and flavors of Spring are bursting from the natural world with increased intensity – inviting inspiration, commitment and action to a fresh start in each of us.
This past weekend my grandson and I traveled around our yard and in the woods behind our house to see the first signs of spring. He was so excited. The daffodils and flowering trees are quite colorful and in full bloom. We gathered leaves, picked up pinecones and smelled the flowers. His highlight was picking up small rocks, tossing them into the creek and watching the ripple effect of the splash. It was a perfect kid adventure!
And just like my grandson who was so excited to travel with me to a faraway place (for him at least), I am also seeing a lot of enthusiasm in new travel inquiries and bookings. Just yesterday I had someone call and say, “I’m ready to travel again. How about Croatia just like you did!” I also had another client call on Tuesday who wanted to travel to Disney World leaving on Friday. We made it happen!
Now is the best time to plan and book, as pent-up demand is starting to come back and will soon drive-up prices and limit availability.
New seasons bring new opportunities!
This week I thought I’d share my inspiration around Croatia….a picture-perfect destination.
I love looking at pictures of destinations. A few years ago, I came across a photo of stunning turquoise waters, gorgeous canyons, spectacular waterfalls and vibrant mossy green landscape and I thought…hmmm…I wonder where this magical place is. After doing some research I discovered it was Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO site in northern Croatia. I knew that if this picture reflected such beauty, I could only imagine what it looked like in person. So, I set my mind on traveling to Croatia and what I found was a gem of a destination.
Nature is painting for us, day after day, pictures of infinite beauty.– John Ruskin
Croatia is breathtaking! It’s home to a beautiful coastline on the Adriatic Sea, UNESCO-listed old towns of Dubrovnik, Split and other towns and cities from the Greek, Roman, Venetian and Ottoman eras, stunning lakes and forests, picturesque national parks, a fascinating history, exceptional wine and delicious sea-to-table cuisine. Being a coastal country, it is a place for water sports like boating, sailing, kayaking or diving. It’s a great way to admire the coastline from the water.
A few years ago, I gathered a group of friends and off we went to explore this beautiful country…and to put our eyes on the waterfalls, canyons and turquoise waters of Plitvice Lakes. This national park is best described as a paradise–there’s no exaggeration needed! It looked just like what I saw in the pictures.
From crystal clear blue seas and rushing waterfalls that belong on a postcard, Plitvice Lakes is the ultimate fairytale destination. It is made up of 16 lakes that are connected by a series of waterfalls surrounded by picture-perfect woodlands.
Plitvice Lakes was the inspiration for my group tour in September 2019 and it was spectacular seeing it in person.
One of the many crown jewels of Croatia are the Dalmatian Islands, known for its pristine beaches, limestone cliffs, crystal-clear waters and beautiful vineyards and olive groves. And even if it’s not pretty beaches you seek, stone castles, magnificent waterfalls, UNESCO sites, and fabulous hiking await travelers of all kinds!
Boating is a popular excursion while visiting the country of 1,000 islands. We chartered one and sailed to Hvar, the island known for lavender and to Kornati National Park to swim in the crystal-clear waters. It’s definitely a country for the outdoor enthusiast and adventurous soul.
There are many unique and quaint cities in Croatia. From Split to Pula to Zadar, Rovinj to Split…they all have distinguishing features that make them one of a kind.
Dubrovnik, an ancient walled city and UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of my all-time favorite cities. It is truly charming! It’s filled with medieval stone buildings, narrow streets, churches, wonderful restaurants and boutique shops. Within the city walls is the oldest pharmacy in Europe. It is still operating today, and people come from all over the world to purchase their natural skin creams that are made from local herbs! I’m hooked on the creams and brought some home on my recent trip to Croatia.
Christmastime in Croatia is very festive! Zagreb, their capital, has been voted “Best Christmas Market” in Europe 3 years in a row! The city is all lit up during the holidays. The parks are filled with Christmas booths and cheerful holiday music can be heard throughout. There are sausages, mulled wine, schnaps bars and many other traditional foods to taste while shopping, taking in the sights and listening to the sounds of the holiday music.
I’ve returned to Croatia over and over again, experiencing its unique culture, the stunning National Parks and sailing around the beautiful islands. It’s a country of adventure, history, fabulous cuisine, tradition and character. It is a “must see with your own eyes” destination.
I’m sure you will agree that Croatia is BREATHTAKING! It’s the turquoise seas, the fairytale-like architecture, UNESCO sites and abundant adventure that make this destination so desirable! I’m ready to go back! How about you?
As you continue to dream about traveling, remember to take care, wash your hands and stay healthy!
If not Croatia, then where is your next “bucket list destination”? I have a few in mind…Slovenia, Morocco, Argentina or Turks & Caicos! In fact, anywhere sounds amazing right about now!! :>
Live from Ljublijana, Slovenia, our local destination specialist Matej Knific, owner of Luxury Slovenia, will provide our tour and share his love for his beautiful country.
Executive Chef Janez Bratovz, Pioneer of Fine Dining Cuisine & JB Restaurant & 1 of the top 50 Chefs in the World from Slovenia will “pop in” to share about his polenta recipe.
Dr. Noah Charney, International Best-Selling Author, Professor and Pulitzer Prize Nominee will share stories about his experiences in Slovenia.
Manjula deSilva from Laureate Imports representing Klet Brda Family Winery of Slovenia will be sharing about the wine selections.
Here are some highlights of our adventure!
Slovenia is a jewel of an alpine country, tucked between Italy, Austria and Croatia. It’s bursting with history and culture with some incredible natural treasures just waiting to be explored.
Did you notice the word LOVE in the middle of the name Slovenia? Slovenia is about exploring a nation of lakes, award-winning vineyards, gorgeous food, rolling meadows and a glacial valley! So much beauty wrapped up in this country.
Slovenia may be one of the most underrated countries in Europe. Not only is it full of stunning spots, but this compact country makes for a surprisingly affordable European vacation. Whatever your travel style, you can find it in Slovenia. Slovenia has a little bit of everything.
If you aren’t planning your trip to Slovenia yet, I am sure you will after you travel on our virtual tour.
(Pictures courtesy of the Slovenian Tourism Board)
WHY SLOVENIA:
Fabulous food and wine!
Slovenia has 28 miles of coastline.
The landscape is diverse…from the alps, to the Mediterranean to the Pannonian Plains to the Karst topography…the variety is truly stunning!
Rich in culture, heritage and history.
Everyone speaks English.
Slovenia is the size of Massachusetts and has a population of 2 million people.
It’s easy to navigate around the country. Everything is close and within an hour drive.
Slovenia is the third-most-forested country in Europe after Finland and Sweden.
Slovenia has one of the largest brown bear populations in Europe. Over 400 brown bears live in Slovenia.
A hundred castles still stand in Slovenia
And…Slovenia is the only country in the world with the word LOVE in its name.
MOST POPULAR SIGHTS
Predjama Castle is a magnificent Renaissance castle. It’s the world’s largest cave castle and boasts a network of hidden tunnels that lead to the edge of a precarious cliff.
Postojna Cave where you can walk through caverns, halls, and passages that were carved by the Pivka River.
Lake Bled is one of the most visited attractions in Slovenia. The beautiful views of the lake and the small island it surrounds brings thousands of visitors every year.
Ljubljana is the capital city of Slovenia. It’s a wonderful area to explore on foot or by bicycle. Ljubljana features attractions such as the Cathedral of Saint Nicholas, the iconic Dragon Bridge, the 19th century Triple Bridge, and its bustling outdoor Central Market.
Lipica Stud Farm has been breeding Lipizzaner horses since the sixteenth century. The farm was used by the royals for their private stables.
Triglav National Park, named after the country’s tallest mountain, is the only National Park in Slovenia.
When still operating, Mercury Mine in Idrija was the second largest mercury mine in the world.
The Salt pans in the Sečovlje Salina Nature Park are one of the few places in the world where sea salt is still produced by using a centuries-old method.
Ljublijana Castle, a historic sixteenth century castle and dungeon, offers the most beautiful views of Ljubljana.
Church of the Holy Trinity is a Romanesque-style church and is located in a small village, Hrastovlje. It is most known for its seven-meter-long fresco, The Dance of Death (Danse Mac).
Maribor, the second-largest city in Slovenia, is home to the oldest grapevine in the world. Wine lovers are drawn to the city’s surrounding wine regions that are filled with picturesque vineyards and wineries.
Solkan Bridge is the longest bridge on earth built completely out of stone. Its picturesque setting in the Soca Valley makes it one of the country’s most popular tourist attractions.
We are featuring wines from the Goriška Brda Wine Cellar which was established in 1957 as a cooperative and is still fully owned by local wine growers. The winery unites 400 families, who have been working together for over fifty years and have turned local wine making into a success story.
Check your local wine shops for Slovenian wine. If you happen to live in the Charlotte area, Wine Maestro in Mooresville carries this wine.
I, along with our special guest speakers look forward to sharing insights and tastes from Slovenia. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to me about the details.
See you this Tuesday, March 9th at 7:00pm EDT!
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