In this age of information overload (a Google search of “Where should I stay on Maui?” returns 7.7 million results) and pandemic-related uncertainty, we believe travelers can benefit from personalized vacation-planning help now more than ever. There are thousands of travel advisors around the world (including 22,000 Virtuoso travel advisors in 50 countries, to be exact) who are ready to help make travel dreams come true.
Despite what you may have heard, travel advisors aren’t a vanishing breed; they aren’t trying to upsell you; and – trust us – no matter how well traveled you are, Virtuoso travel advisors have way more connections than you do. We’ve uncovered eight of the most common myths about travel advisors, and we’re here to debunk them, once and for all.
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.
Fully immersive, feels like you’re there, cooking and travel experience.
Hosted by Lisa VanBuhler, Founder XOOM Tours
Live from New York City, our local destination specialist Earlston Dill from the Bermuda Tourism Authority, will provide our tour and share his love for his beautiful country.
Earlston will also show us how to make Bermuda’s National Drinks…The Rum Swizzle & Dark ‘n Stormy. YUM!
Here are some highlights of our adventure!
The attraction to Bermuda is obvious. The historical ambience, reef-fringed clear blue waters, pink-sand beaches, unique architecture and an array of adventurous activities, such as golfing, scuba diving, cycling make it a popular destination.
Comprised of around 180 islets, Bermuda is an archetypal retreat with its fine sandy beaches, colorful coral reefs and swaying palms.
Bermuda is a British Territory in the North Atlantic Ocean. The island has a unique blend of American and British culture. The capitol of Bermuda is Hamilton and one of its famous attractions is the Royal Naval Dockyard. It’s a gorgeous island to explore and a totally idyllic place to rest and relax.
WHY BERMUDA:
Pristine landscape
Friendly locals
Rich in Culture Heritage and History.
Thanks to its unique blend of Caribbean, British, and African American roots, Bermuda offers a world of experiences to all who visit.
Easy to get around the island
Easy to get there. Less than 90 minutes from New York and less than a two hour flight from most East coast cities.
MOST POPULAR SIGHTS
Town of St George – a UNESCO World heritage site
Crystal and Fantasy Caves – Bermuda has one of the highest concentrations of lime stone caves in the world.
Gibb’s Hill LightHouse – tallest Case island lighthouse ever built.
Somerset Bridge – world’s smallest draw bridge
Royal Naval Dockyard
Pink Sand Beaches – miles of beaches including Horse Shoe Bay, one of the top 10 beaches in the world.
Bermuda Railway Trail – Scenic routes for non-motorized vehicles and pedestrians.
Bermuda Aquarium, Museum and Zoo – one of the oldest aquariums, built in 1926.
Next week…a Virtual Experience to Slovenia
We have an upcoming experience to Slovenia, where we will be engaging in a FREE and LIVE cooking class with an Executive Chef along with a visit from a Pulitzer Prize Nominee and International Best Selling Author!
Here’s Slovenia’s AMAZING lineup!!
Featuring Executive Chef Janez Bratovz, Pioneer of Fine Dining Cuisine in Slovenia, Owner of JB Restaurant & 1 of the top 50 Chefs in the World
We will be making Chef Janez’s famous Soft Polenta with Chanterelle Sauce and Sour Cream! DELICIOUS!
Pulitzer Prize Nominee and International Best-Selling Author Dr. Noah Charney from Slovenia (Noah will be sharing some funny stories about his experiences in Slovenia.)
Special XOOM Tours Slovenia Wine Package. I partnered with Manjula deSilva from Laureate Imports to select 3 fabulous Slovenian wines for our virtual tour.
Everyone is encouraged to cook along with the chef in the comfort of your home. Once you register, I will send you the recipes.
Here are the Slovenian wines that we are tasting! For the guests that live outside of the Charlotte area, check your local wine shops to see if they carry Slovenian wine.
For the guests who live in the Charlotte area, you can order and pick up the wine at Wine Maestro in Mooresville. You will receive the XOOM Tours 10% discount.
I, along with our special guest speakers look forward to sharing insights and tastes from these wonderful destinations. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to me about the details.
Looking forward to seeing you this Tuesday, March 2nd at 7:00 p.m. EDT!
Fully immersive, feels like you’re there, cooking and travel experience.
Hosted by Lisa VanBuhler, Founder XOOM Tours
Live from Lima, Peru, our local destination specialist Laurence Quinio of Peru Empire, will provide our tour and share her love for his beautiful country.
Also live from Lima, Executive Chef Maria Fe Garcia from Hotel Titilaka, will be showing us how to make Ceviche and Pisco Sours.
Here are some highlights of our adventure!
Whether you crave stunning landscapes, famed highlands, jungles, colonial architecture, lush vineyards, world class cuisine or adventures of a lifetime, Peru is a worthy choice for a “bucket list” destination. It’s a diverse South American country and has so much to offer within its many terrains.
WHY PERU:
World’s Leading Culinary Destination for 8 consecutive years
Peru has it all: Wonders of the World, breathtaking landscapes, and one of the world’s most diverse ecosystems
5,000 years and counting: the perfect blend of ancient heritage and living traditions
Year-Round Destination, easily accessible
Perfect for all interests: romantic getaways, family vacations, adventure-seekers, foodies and more
Most popular places to visit in Peru:
Machu Picchu – This is Peru’s most popular tourist destination and one of the famous archeological wonders of the world.
Lima – Lima is one of the largest cities in South America, as well as the capital of Peru. It is a business metropolis and home to a collection of pre-Colombian art.
Arequipa – Surrounded by three volcanoes, Arequipa boasts of Spanish colonial and indigenous cultures.
Nazca Desert – Who wouldn’t want to get a closer look at the famous Nazca Lines? It’ll make you wonder how they were created.
Cusco – Located in southeastern Peru, Cusco used to be the Inca Empire’s historic capital.
Upcoming Virtual Experiences to Bermuda and Slovenia
Not only will we be sharing about the magical destination of Peru, we also have upcoming experiences to Bermuda and Slovenia, where we will also be engaging in FREE and LIVE cooking classes with Executive Chefs along with a visit from a Pulitzer Prize Nominee and International Best-Selling Author!
More AMAZING lineups!!
Featuring Executive Chef Janez Bratovz, Pioneer of Fine Dining Cuisine & JB Restaurant & 1 of the top 50 Chefs in the World from Slovenia (We will be making a traditional Slovenian recipe.)
Pulitzer Prize Nominee and International Best Selling Author Dr. Noah Charney from Slovenia (Noah will be sharing some funny stories about his experiences in Slovenia.)
Master Rum Swizzle Mixologist Earlston Dill from Bermuda
I, along with our special guest speakers look forward to sharing insights and tastes from these wonderful destinations. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to me about the details.
See you this Tuesday, February 23 at 7:00 p.m. EDT!
Back by popular demand…Virtual Travel & Tasting Experiences but with a twist! Not only will we be sharing about the magical destinations of Peru, Bermuda and Slovenia, we will also be engaging in FREE and LIVE cooking classes with Executive Chefs along with a visit from a Pulitzer Prize Nominee and International Best Selling Author!
Everyone is encouraged to cook along with the chefs in the comfort of your home. Once you register, I will send you the recipes.
What an AMAZING lineup!!
Featuring Executive Chef Maria Fe Garcia from Hotel Titilaka in Peru (We will be making Ceviche & Pisco Sours.)
Featuring Executive Chef Janez Bratovz, Pioneer of Fine Dining Cuisine & JB Restaurant & 1 of the top 50 Chefs in the World from Slovenia (We will be making a traditional Slovenian recipe.)
Pulitzer Prize Nominee and International Best Selling Author Dr. Noah Charney from Slovenia (Noah will be sharing some funny stories about his experiences in Slovenia.)
Master Rum Swizzle Mixologist Earlston Dill from Bermuda
Join me for FREE and LIVE Cooking Classes!
Pack your bags and let’s head on our Virtual Travel Adventure.
While recent events have kept us off planes and on our couch, travel remains one of the best ways to feel a global interconnectedness with humanity. So, let’s use the power of our minds along with in-country specialists to bring these destinations alive.
HERE’S THE PLAN FOR ALL 3 VIRTUAL TOURS:
We have scheduled 3 different Virtual Travel Experiences from different regions of the world. Each night, we’ll use Zoom Video Conferencing to present the destinations along with recipes so you can join in on the cooking experiences.
Join us to be inspired by these amazing destinations, with fun and laughter along the way.
Here are some highlights of our Peru adventure!
Whether you crave stunning landscapes, famed highlands, jungles, colonial architecture, lush vineyards, world class cuisine or adventures of a lifetime, Peru is a worthy choice for a “bucket list” destination. It’s a diverse South American country and has so much to offer within its many terrains.
WHY PERU:
World’s Leading Culinary Destination for 8 consecutive years
Peru has it all: Wonders of the World, breathtaking landscapes, and one of the world’s most diverse ecosystems
5,000 years and counting: the perfect blend of ancient heritage and living traditions
Year-Round Destination, easily accessible
Perfect for all interests: romantic getaways, family vacations, adventure-seekers, foodies and more
Most popular places to visit in Peru:
Machu Picchu – This is Peru’s most popular tourist destination and one of the famous archeological wonders of the world.
Lima – Lima is one of the largest cities in South America, as well as the capital of Peru. It is a business metropolis and home to a collection of pre-Colombian art.
Arequipa – Surrounded by three volcanoes, Arequipa boasts of Spanish colonial and indigenous cultures.
Nazca Desert – Who wouldn’t want to get a closer look at the famous Nazca Lines? It’ll make you wonder how they were created.
Cusco – Located in southeastern Peru, Cusco used to be the Inca Empire’s historic capital.
Idyllic Bermuda
Tuesday, March 3rd at 7 PM EDT
Bermuda is a British Territory in the North Atlantic Ocean known for its pink sand beaches. The island has a unique blend of American and British culture, with an island flare of course. The capital of Bermuda island is Hamilton and one of its most famous attractions is the Royal Naval Dockyard. It’s a gorgeous island to explore and a totally idyllic place to rest, relax and explore.
Off to Slovenia
Tuesday, March 9th at 7 PM EDT
From the peaks of the Julian Alps to the Mediterranean coast; the quaint old town streets of Ljubljana to the emerald waters of the Soča; or the alpine lakes of Bled, Bohinj and Jasna – Slovenia is simply a stunning and unique country. You will feel like you are stepping back in time as you visit the many medieval castles surrounded by the vivid lakes. There are an abundance of things to see and do like whitewater rafting, hiking, kayaking, exploring fun cities, tasting delicious food or conversing with the locals. It is truly a gem of a destination!
During our one hour-long adventure, you’ll see gorgeous photos and videos of the region and what you will experience when you travel to these destinations. After each presentation you will be cooking some traditional cuisine alongside the executive chefs. AMAZING!!
I, along with our special guest speakers look forward to sharing insights and tastes from these wonderful destinations. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to me about the details.
It’s February and that means “love is in the air”. Valentine’s Day is right around the corner. Who is your special Valentine, your sweetheart, the one who will receive a special greeting or a treasure that reflects your love on February 14th? I can tell you who has stolen my heart! It’s definitely this cutie pie!
This past week my grandson and I had fun creating footprint art projects. One we shaped into a heart and the other like a ladybug. He laughed when I dabbled paint on his feet because the bristles from the brush tickled his toes. These little treasures will be wonderful memories of how tiny and cute his feet were way back when!
It’s a match made in Lisdoonvarna!
While many consider Paris the “City of Love”, there is another gem of a place that Allan and I discovered on our adventure through Ireland a few years ago. As we were driving through the lush, green countryside, we came upon a quaint town in County Clare. We noticed the beautiful murals painted on the buildings and the signs of love and peace throughout the town. So, we decided to stop and take a look around.
Does Lisdoonvarna sound familiar? To our surprise, this gem of a find is famous for 2 very large festivals that attract thousands of people every year. One is for music and the other for matchmaking! Imagine that!
“In life it’s not where you go, it’s who you travel with.”
Matchmaker, matchmaker make me a match.
Find me a find. Catch me a catch…in Ireland that is.
Quite a catchy tune! I’ll bet you’re singing along. After all, it is February…the month of Love and Romance.
Matchmaking has been a long-standing Irish tradition that began over 150 years ago in Lisdoonvarna, a rural spa town located in County Clare on Ireland’s Atlantic coast. On the Emerald Isle today, it’s synonymous with only one thing: love.
“Traveling in the company of those we love is home in motion.”
Every fall, the town is home to a huge matchmaking festival, where thousands of people (like 20,000…wow!) flock to find “The One.” This fun-filled tradition began years ago when upper class visitors came to Lisdoonvarna to enjoy the mineral spas and to find a suitable match for their children. The parents would take their children to social gatherings, sporting events and musical evenings with the hopes that courtships would blossom.
Lisdoonvarna was developed around The Royal Spa Hotel, a historic landmark that opened in 1832. In 1887, the West Clare Railway Station opened and contributed towards the development of the town. From that time onward, until the invention of an automobile, tourists travelled from the train in pony and trap to ”The Spa”.
Who is Irelands most famous Matchmaker?
Well, you can’t have a match without a matchmaker! Meet Willie Daly, a third-generation Irish matchmaker who LOVES love! He is passionate about helping hopeful singles, of all ages and nationalities, find a life partner.
What’s his secret to success? He believes in the old-fashioned method of gathering the couples together for a conversation and then encouraging them to dance. He feels it’s the best way to get the passion flowing.
Interestingly, Willie carries around a notebook that he affectionately calls his “Lucky Book”. This ancient matchmaking book has special romantic powers. It also has a collection of love-seeking profiles dating back 150 years. Now that’s some real record keeping! Imagine the profiles from then until now! I’d love to see what treasures and advice he has on the pages of his book.
Willie claims, “If you touch this ‘love ledger’ you’ll be in love and married inside of six months. If you are already married, you will recreate the honeymoon period you first had”.
WOW! Now that is some secret sauce!
Willie’s track record is pretty impressive. Since he started out as a matchmaker 50 years ago, following in his father’s and grandfather’s footsteps, he has matched over 3,000 couples. Matchmaking is in his blood and he knows instinctively what makes a good match. He surely has the hang of this!
So, in honor of Valentine’s Day and Willie Day, Ireland’s most famous matchmaker, let’s partner together to plan a trip to Ireland for September 2022….just in time for the next Matchmaking Festival! You never know what kind of spice he will add to your life!
Are you in? Ready for some travel inspiration!
We have an amazing line-up ready to inspire you!
First up…PERU! Get ready to enjoy a FREE cooking class with Executive Chef Maria Fe Garcia from Hotel Titilaka as she teaches us how to make Ceviche and the perfect Pisco Sour! We will also learn about Machu Picchu, one of the seven wonders of the world, about Peruvian history, architecture, regions, culture and cuisine!
Second…Bermuda! Let’s head to this beautiful island to learn about their history and culture, see the pink sandy beaches, and hear about what makes Hamilton’s Town Crier so special! We will make their famous drink…the Rum Swizzle! YUM!
Third…Slovenia! And then off to experience Slovenia’s beautiful landscape, stunning architecture, immersive experiences, amazing cuisine and abundant wildlife! We will also be cooking some of their local specialties with an Executive Chef!
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“Travel opens your heart, broadens your mind and fills your life with stories to tell.”
“You have to taste a culture to understand it.” – Deborah Cater
I’m glad you choose to read my weekly newsletters. They have been one of my favorite ways to virtually sit down with you, sip a cup of tea or coffee together, and just share what I am seeing and feeling in regard to travel. So, thank you!
I am amazed at how much our world has changed over the past year. As we are closer to the light at the end of the tunnel, I know many are looking forward to the opportunity to get out and travel again. I sure am! How about you?
I’m planning a few adventures with other travel advisors, starting with the Canadian Rockies in early October, South Africa at the end of October and Sicily, Italy in November!
I’ll soon be sharing a few “Come with Me” adventure opportunities where I will lead a group to another magical destination. Stay tuned!
Oh, and by the way…Series 4 of our “Virtual Travel and Wine Nights” will start again around the 3rd week of February. Wait until you see what countries/destinations I will feature! More details to come!
‘It’s important to remember the reason we love to cook: it creates beauty, joy and love.” Angelo Sosa
There are plenty of things we gain from exploring different destinations. We’ll have a better understanding of the people living there, including their culture, history and background. It’s also an opportunity to gain new friends, new experiences, and new stories. But one of the best ways to get an intimate look into the culture of a place is through their food.
Cooking is LOVE made visible!
On a recent trip to Thailand, my travel buddy Sandy and I thought it would be fun to take a cooking class to learn how to make authentic Thai food. After spending a few weeks in Bangkok and the surrounding areas, we headed North to Chiang Mai where they have an overwhelming amount of Thai cooking classes. It’s definitely one of the “must do’s” when in that area. We chose the Chiang Mai Thai Farm Cooking School with Chef Wass. It’s the first and original Thai cooking school at an organic farm in Chiang Mai.
Our class began with a trip to a local market. Chef Wass walked us past small, roofed vendors and florists to the main area of the bustling marketplace. Our group of eleven food-lovers gathered around the chef as she pointed out colorful vegetables, spices and other key ingredients for the Thai dishes we were going to make. She also taught us about the different types of rice and when it’s best to use each one. There were at least 3 that I’ve never seen in the USA…the first of my new learning experiences. As long as I have been cooking rice I have been doing it incorrectly. Sticky rice and jasmine rice are not cooked using the same method. Did you know that? Everything was so fresh, and it was hard not to miss the different smells in the market.
“Chefs don’t make mistakes; they create new dishes.” – Chef Elizabeth Briggs
Once we gathered all that was needed at the market, we headed back to the farm to see the many different kinds of organic herbs, vegetables and fruits that they proudly grow themselves. Lemon grass, rice, tomatoes, coconuts, Jackfruit, onions, basil, ginger, long beans, papaya, garlic, eggplant and many other goodies were spotted throughout the farm. We also picked a few more things from their crops to add to our recipes. There’s nothing better than selecting home grown ingredients for any recipe! So delicious!
“Cooking is not a chore, it is a joy. Dining is not a fuel stop, it is recreation.” – Julia Childs
First step of the day was to learn about the Thai ingredients. We prepared curry paste, which is one of the most important aspects of Thai cooking. We also learned how to use fresh picked herbs and whole spices to increase aroma –> very important factor.
I chose to make yellow curry paste while others chose green or red. Each color paste has its own unique flavor and level of spice, green is usually the milder of the curry pastes, while red is usually the hottest and yellow falls somewhere in between. Green curry is usually the brightest colored and the more popular curry used in Thai dishes. YUM!
“Dining with one’s friends and beloved family is certainly one of life’s primal and most innocent delights, and one that is both soul-satisfying and eternal.” – Julia Childs
After creating the paste, we cooked many other dishes like Kaeng Ka Ri Gai (Yellow Curry with Chicken), Tom Kaa Gai (Coconut Soup), Phad Kaprao Gai (Chicken with Basil leaves), Phad Thai (Fried Noodles), Somtam (Papaya Salad) and Kluay Bod Chii (Bananas in Coconut Milk), all of which were delicious.
It was fun working side by side with Chef Wass as she taught us about traditional Thai food. All of our dishes looked like masterpieces. For the rest of the day, we alternated between cooking a dish then eating it, all the while listening to the chef’s funny jokes.
It was truly a wonderful experience and both Sandy and I would love to go back one day to try and make other Thai dishes!
Making food and sharing meals with others is believed to lead to a happier and healthier life. As the food nourishes our body, the conversation nourishes our soul. It really is an intimate act to share a meal with a stranger – as you never know who you will connect with or what stories you’ll hear. What a wonderful way to experience traditional Thai cuisine and meet others traveling in this beautiful country.
“Travel opens your heart, broadens your mind and fills your life with stories to tell.” – Paula Bendfeldt
As we move into February, take time to reflect on your dream destinations! What places and moments would you like to experience and what memories would you like to cherish long after you return from your adventure?
“Did you ever notice the first piece of luggage on the carousel never belongs to anyone?” – Erma Bombeck
Have you ever noticed that kindergartners carry different things to school in their backpack compared to what teenagers carry in theirs? There are many similarities like books, paper, pencils and crayons. But as our kids transition from one grade level to the next, the contents of their backpack changes too.
As you think about traveling in the near future, what you pack in your luggage may change from what you traveled with before the pandemic. Besides your clothes, shoes and toiletries, it may include masks, hand sanitizer, a face shield, gloves and a thermometer. It struck me that this process parallels to how our kids, over the years, have had to change the items in their backpack each year.
Some of you may have school aged children, and others will look back and fondly remember the beginning of a new school year. Our kids always thought it was very exciting to meet new friends and teachers, begin new classes, wear a new outfit or new shoes and of course pick out a new backpack to hold all the tools necessary for success. And not just any backpack would do. It had to be one that fit their personality each school year.
There were so many choices…like Elmo, Arthur the Aardvark, Scooby Doo, Disney Princesses, Thomas the Tank Engine, the Solar System or Dinosaurs.
As the years progressed, it became more complicated because they were more self-aware about their choice of backpacks. It not only had to fit their books, pens, crayons and paper, but their lunchboxes, laptops, cell phones, gum, after school activity clothing, snacks, water bottles, makeup and more. Much like travel today.
So, let’s prepare your TRAVEL BACKPACK with the resources you need to be successful, especially if you are traveling internationally. My travel consortium, Virtuoso, has an expert-sourced Traveler’s Tool Kit packed with everything you need to know. Let’s take a look at what’s inside!
First, there’s a Pre-Trip Checklist and guess what’s at the top? Your passport! Take a look at yours. Is it valid through December 2021 or after? If not, let’s talk about getting it renewed!
How about your toiletry kit? Have you used any of the travel size items over the last few months and need to restock just in case you have an impromptu trip sneak up on you in the near future?
The Traveler’s Tool Kit also has insights on the cruise industry, post pandemic tour trends and hotel stays, along with thoughts from Virtuoso travel advisors on how to confidently and safely travel the world, whenever you’re ready to go.
Just click on the button below for this valuable resource.
As you know from my recent newsletters, I traveled internationally to Africa in November. I am also keeping up with all the latest developments and I’m here to help you, as are all of my supplier partners around the world.
Have you heard the news??
Stay positive! Stay Healthy! Stay safe!
Travel Update
Last week the Center for Disease Control and Prevention has expanded the requirement for all air passengers entering the United States from foreign countries, including all American Citizens, must present a negative COVID-19 test taken within three days of departure to enter the country beginning January 26, 2021.
As your Travel Advisor, I will help you navigate through this new protocol. Many of my supplier partners have been working to set up procedures to provide testing at their resort or in destination so it’s easy and seamless for you.
Here’s a perfect example.
Uganda requires a negative Covid test 72 hours before arrival and 72 hours before we could leave the country. Test & Fly Laboratory (www.testandfly.co.ug) sent a team to administer PCR tests to us while we were at the lodge in Bwindi…which was our last stomping ground before departure. We received our results within 24 hours, printed and ready for our return flight. Seamless!
Let’s take a look at the details:
Airlines are responsible for checking each passenger’s results.
Rapid antigen and PCR tests will be valid for entry.
Those who have a negative test result or documentation from a doctor stating they’ve recovered from COVID-19 will be allowed boarding.
Those without documentation will be denied boarding.
You can present your results digitally or on paper.
Flight crews are exempt, as are those traveling to the Continental U.S. from any U.S. territory.
If you’ve recovered from COVID-19 within three months, you can be exempted with a positive test as well as a doctor’s note.
Connecting passengers are not exempt from the rule.
Those who have been vaccinated still must present a negative test result before boarding.
If you test positive while abroad, you will be stuck in that country until you test negative.
Anyone over the age of 2 must provide written documentation of the laboratory test result (paper or electronic copy) to the airline or provide documentation of having recovered from COVID-19.
And…it’s all in due time that this new policy was to be implemented!
“Travel opens your heart, broadens your mind and fills your life with stories to tell.” -Paula Bendfeldt
“I would gladly live out of a suitcase, if it meant I could see the world.”
As we move into February, take time to reflect on your dream destinations! What places and moments would you like to experience and what memories would you like to cherish long after you return from your adventure?
As your travel advisor, I’m here to help you dream about your next adventure! I call it putting “HOPE on the calendar”! When you are ready, let me know! I personally can’t wait to travel to my next far off distant land to experience a new culture! These memories will forever be a part of my travel experiences!
“There is no greater beauty or charm than what we can find in nature.” – Todd Romano
My recent trip to Africa offered so many once-in-a-lifetime experiences and chimpanzee trekking was one of them. Spending some time with our closest genetic relatives was a truly humbling experience, and it was so much more special because of the hard work involved in getting there. Since this was my first-time seeing chimpanzees in their natural habitat, I can honestly say it was so fascinating observing these species in the wild.
Allan and Lisa Pre-Trek
Meeting our Guide
Registering
Kibale National Park is the best place to spot chimpanzees in Uganda. There are some 5,000 of them found in the country, and Kibale is home to a high concentration of family packs.
We started our journey early in the morning…all geared up with layers of clothing…rain jackets, thick gloves, hats, long socks, hiking boots and gaiters. The gaiters were important because they helped to prevent fire ants from creeping into our pants.
Since it’s Covid times, we wore masks, had our hands sanitized, and our temperature was taken upon arrival at the center.
Chimpanzee trekking often means hours of hiking on steep, narrow footpaths and through the forest to see these primates in their natural habitat. It’s difficult work, but it’s thoroughly rewarding once you come upon a family of chimpanzees quietly preening, playing, and relaxing. It’s required to obtain a tracking permit before your trip because the total number of permits per day is limited.
Before heading into the forest, our Uganda Wildlife Authority Ranger filled us in on the details.
The first thing we noticed was that she was carrying a gun. The purpose of her firearm wasn’t for the chimps. Instead, rangers shoot it into the air to fend off aggressive elephants and buffalo because, in this rainforest, they’re not used to human company as they are in savannah parks. Thank goodness she didn’t have to use it while we were on our adventure!! :> If so, I think we all would have “hit the dirt…literally! LOL!
Habituation, the process by which wild animals become accustomed to the presence of humans, can take up to two years for chimpanzees. Three habituated communities are found in Kibale: two for research and one for visitors.
Distance must be kept between us and the wildlife.
Loud talking, eating near the chimpanzees, littering, flash photography and monkey imitations were not allowed. In fact, the entrance sign to the park states “hooting and shouting” is prohibited!!!
By the end of the briefing, we were eager to get moving. Who knew how long it would take to track them?
Chimp Sighting!! I think we are getting close!!
Only a few minutes passed before our group detected signs of chimp life, the first being poop and the second were knuckle tracks.
Chimpanzee Droppings
Knuckle Imprint
So, we forged on, trekking over roots, limbs and tree trunks, pushing the foliage out of our path so we could make our way through the forest. We were on a mission to see the chimps and the excitement continued to build and become more real as we heard them ‘hooting” in the distance.
Wildlife Encounters – Up Close & Personal
Our ranger warned us to be aware of falling fruit from the trees or even splitter splatter of what would seem like rain but in reality, was chimp urine. Thank goodness we wore hats….just in case we were caught in the “shower”.
We hiked for about an hour and a half, getting closer and closer to their “hoots”, when we noticed a wrestling of the leaves in the distance. Right before our eyes was a chimpanzee jumping from tree to tree. We all stopped dead in our tracks to observe. It’s a showstopper when you realize how close you are to them! What a sight!
Chimp & Gorilla Trekking are quite different!
Chimpanzee trekking is a very different experience than gorillas. What’s similar is that trackers have their general location each day, but once you find them, they are almost constantly on the move. They can be difficult to keep up with because they are quick-footed, erratic and move at all angles. So it’s a very active encounter….and a noisy one as they hoot and holler to each other.
Gorillas, on the other hand, usually stay within a very contained area each day before making their new nest for the night, and then moving on when waking up the next day.
He’s mighty fierce looking! Oh, and that’s me in the background! :>!!
Let the chase begin…
Once we saw the first chimp, we knew others were nearby…and so the chase was on. Our ranger said, “Let’s go”! And off we went, following the chimps as they moved quickly through the forest. We tried our best to keep up with them by climbing over the tree stumps, zig zagging through the forest and pushing the foliage out of our way!
Check out the video! We’re on the move! If you look closely, you will see the chimp ahead of the ranger!
A little hooting and hollering!
Look at how close we were to the chimpanzees! Check out the video below!
Adventure Highlights!
Seeing the chimpanzees in their habitat was one of life’s magical moments. My first ever face-to-face encounter was profound and exhilarating. There’s an undeniable connection of familiarity since these primates’ behavior, mannerisms, hands and expressions are very similar to ours. It’s not surprising they share 98% of our DNA. To have tracked and sweated for over 5 hours in a deep jungle and finally stumble upon a family of chimpanzees is for sure an awe-inspiring and memorable experience!
Now…are you ready to travel to Uganda? Let’s go!!
Have you heard the news??
Stay positive! Stay Healthy! Stay safe!
Travel Update
This week the Center for Disease Control and Prevention has expanded the requirement for all air passengers entering the United States from foreign countries, including all American Citizens, must present a negative COVID-19 test taken within three days of departure to enter the country beginning January 26, 2021.
As your Travel Advisor, I will help you navigate through this new protocol. Many of my supplier partners have been working to set up procedures to provide testing at their resort or in destination so it’s easy and seamless for you.
Here’s a perfect example.
Uganda requires a negative Covid test 72 hours before arrival and 72 hours before we could leave the country. Test & Fly Laboratory (www.testandfly.co.ug) sent a team to administer PCR tests to us while we were at the lodge in Bwindi…which was our last stomping ground before departure. We received our results within 24 hours, printed and ready for our return flight. Seamless!
Let’s look at the details:
Airlines are responsible for checking each passenger’s results.
Rapid antigen and PCR tests will be valid for entry.
Those who have a negative test result or documentation from a doctor stating they’ve recovered from COVID-19 will be allowed boarding.
Those without documentation will be denied boarding.
You can present your results digitally or on paper.
Flight crews are exempt, as are those traveling to the Continental U.S. from any U.S. territory.
If you’ve recovered from COVID-19 within three months, you can be exempted with a positive test as well as a doctor’s note.
Connecting passengers are not exempt from the rule.
Those who have been vaccinated still must present a negative test result before boarding.
If you test positive while abroad, you will be stuck in that country until you test negative.
Anyone over the age of 2 must provide written documentation of the laboratory test result (paper or electronic copy) to the airline or provide documentation of having recovered from COVID-19.
And…it’s all in due time that this new policy was to be implemented!
Another close encounter!
Africa Smiled…
Africa smiled a little when you left. “We know you,” Africa said. “We have seen and watched you. We can learn to live without you. But we know we needn’t yet.”
And Africa smiled a little when you left. “You cannot leave Africa,” Africa said. “It is always with you there inside your head.”
Our rivers run in currents in the swirl of your thumbprints. Our drumbeats counting out your pulse Our coastline, the silhouette of your soul.
So Africa smiled a little when you left. “We are in you,” Africa said. “You have not left us yet.” –Bridget Dore
It’s Official! I earned my Chimpanzee Tracking Certificate!
Uganda…The Pearl of Africa!!
Part of what makes Uganda such a special place to visit is its combination of wildlife experiences within such a small region. It’s a beautiful destination for adventurous souls and wildlife lovers.
Click below to follow along on this amazing journey.
In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks. -John Muir
As we start a new year, take time to reflect on your dream destinations! What places and moments would you like to experience and what memories would you like to cherish long after you return from your adventure?
As your travel advisor, I’m here to help you dream about your next adventure! I call it putting “HOPE on the calendar”! When you are ready, let me know! I personally can’t wait to travel to my next far off distant land to experience a new culture! These memories will forever be a part of my travel experiences!
“Life is about creating and living experiences that are worth sharing.” – Steve Jobs
Spending time with the gorillas in the wild was by far the most transformative and up-close wildlife experience I had in Africa. I stood just a few feet from these gentle giants in their forest habitat and saw them munching on fruit and plants, playing with each other and being groomed by their mother. This face-to-face encounter has gifted me with memories that will last my lifetime. And yes…although I had no idea what to expect, and to be honest was a little nervous at first, the experience was definitely and absolutely worth it!
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, Uganda
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Adventure Highlights!
Gorilla trekking often means hours of hiking on steep, narrow footpaths and through the impenetrable forest to see these primates in their natural habitat. Because mountain gorillas don’t live anywhere in the world outside of the forests of Central and Eastern Africa, gorilla trekking is the only way for humans to see and observe them. It requires an advance permit as the number of trekkers per day is limited to 60.
We started our journey early in the morning…all geared up with layers of clothing…rain jackets, thick gloves, hats, long socks, hiking boots and gaiters. The gaiters were important because they helped to prevent fire ants from creeping into our pants.
Since it’s Covid times, we wore masks, and our temperature was checked upon arrival at the center. Gorillas are highly susceptible to human illnesses. So, for extra precaution, our boots were sanitized with alcohol twice…once before we began our hike through the fields and then again before entering deep into the forest.
After the park rangers debriefed us about the adventure, we set out on a 45-minute drive to the entrance point on the other side of the mountain. Because gorillas are monitored so closely, and either researchers and trekkers are in touch with them every day, our guides knew more or less where the different families were located. Our mission was to find the Habinyanja family and we were excited and ready for one of the most profound wildlife experiences in the world.
Once we arrived at the starting point, we began our hike along the ridge of the mountainous rainforest, through vibrant green tea plantations and tall fields of millet. Our climb was steep and our footpaths were narrow. We forged through the crops until we reached an entrance point in the forest. It was very dense and there wasn’t a pathway that was clearly marked. So we followed the lead tracker who slashed through the foliage with his machete creating a pathway so we could continue trekking through the forest. The gorilla families are constantly on the move and we were warned that the hike could take 1 to 3 hours to find the Habinyanja family.
A trekking we will go!
Because the terrain was so steep and the forest dense, all of us hired a local porter, something that is quite customary for a trekking experience. Paison was my buddy and porter who assisted me on the climb and at times pulled me up the steep terrain. After 5 hours of carrying my lunch, water bottles, my gear (and sometimes me), and using his machete to slash a clear path through the forest (see video above), I was glad to have him with me for the entire adventure!!
After about an hour and a half of hiking, I noticed the look on Paison’s face change…from a serious look to a smile and then he said to me…”A little longer! We are almost there.”
Within 10 minutes we came to a clearing and Paison said…”Look to your right! Over there!” And before my eyes was a mountain gorilla sitting in the brush, pulling leaves from a vine, eating. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw a second, then third and another hanging from a tree and then a young one cuddled up with its mother. In total, the family was 12 members, with two Silverbacks.
Once you arrive, you only have 1 hour to visit and take photos and videos. For their protection, human interaction is limited to one visit per day, per family group. Their beautiful black and silky coats against the rainforest’s vibrant green and lush foliage, is what we went to see in Uganda. And we did…up close, and personal!
Seeing the mountain gorillas in their habitat was one of life’s magical moments. My first ever face-to-face encounter was profound and exhilarating. There’s an undeniable connection of familiarity since these primates’ behavior, mannerisms, hands and expressions are very similar to ours. It’s not surprising they share 98% of our DNA. To have tracked and sweated for over 5 hours in a deep jungle and finally stumble upon a family of mountain gorillas is for sure an awe-inspiring and memorable experience!
Now…are you ready to travel to Uganda? Let’s go!!
Look at how close we were to the gorillas! Check out the video below!
Wildlife Encounters – Up Close & Personal
“You cannot leave Africa, Africa said.It is always with you, there inside your head.Our rivers run in currents in the swirl of your thumbprints.Our drumbeats counting out your pulse.Our coastline the silhouette of your soul.”-Bridget Dore
Never lose an opportunity of seeing anything beautiful, for beauty is God’s handwriting. -Ralph Waldo Emerson
Uganda…The Pearl of Africa!!
Part of what makes Uganda such a special place to visit is its combination of wildlife experiences within such a small region. It’s a beautiful destination for adventurous souls and wildlife lovers.
Next week, I will highlight more spectacular wildlife along with the beautiful landscape. I’ll also share some fun stories and pictures from what I captured on our journey!! Stay tuned!
Click below to follow along on this amazing journey.
In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks. -John Muir
As we start a new year, take time to reflect on your dream destinations! What places and moments would you like to experience and what memories would you like to cherish long after you return from your adventure?
As we close out 2020, I wanted to take a moment to thank you from the bottom of my heart for taking part in my entrepreneurial journey! You have played an important role in my business and I am very grateful!
Now, let’s focus forward to 2021! Make sure you take time to reflect on what your dreams are for the new year…what places and moments you want to experience and what memories you want to make.
Three cheers to health, happiness and prosperity in 2021!
Christopher, Christina, Megan, Owen, Santa (Allan), Lisa
Celebrate the Season!
I hope you had a wonderful and festive holiday this year! It was nice having our kids home for a few days so we could celebrate Christmas together. To start off the holiday festivities, we had a visit from the jolly ole’ fellow himself…Santa Claus. He brought a few gifts in his bright green sack. Our grandson was happy to receive some shiny new Matchbox cars.
We also loved attending Christmas Eve candlelight service at our church. The message and music was so joyful. I love hearing Christmas carols during the holidays. The words are so beautiful and truly remind us of this festive season.
Although this holiday season was a bit different than in previous years, we were glad to be together! I hope your Christmas, Hanukkah or holiday was joyful and memorable as well.
Così Delizioso!!
Charlotte, NC
Chef Debora, Rome, Italy
Spinach with 3-Cheese Ravioli
On December 26th we thought it would be fun to learn how to make Christmas tree shaped ravioli with Chef Debora. She came to us LIVE via Zoom from Rome, Italy. She is so bubbly and loves teaching others how to make traditional Italian cuisine! The 3-cheese mixture was tasty and the end result was a delicious pasta meal along with a Nutella puff pastry dessert. Her husband even serenaded us during our class! It was truly a memorable experience.
By the way, I have access to cooking classes all over the world. If you are interested, let me know! We can plan one featuring your favorite country!
Nutella Puff Pastry Christmas Tree
When we recall Christmas past, we usually find the simplest things, not the great occasions, that give off the greatest glow of happiness. — Bob Hope
2021…We are ready for you!
XOOM Tours is excited for travel to take flight in the New Year (rubbing hands together excitedly)! We’ve been busy researching destinations, meeting with our travel partners and preparing for any happenings so we are ready to plan your next adventure.
Until then, here’s a look around our wonderful world at how other countries celebrate and ring in the New Year!
2021 – It’s game ON!
“The world is vast and meant for wandering. There is always somewhere to go.” — Nick Beard
Put your right foot forward!
Celebrating New Years in Scotland
During Scotland’s New Year’s Eve celebration of Hogmanay, “first-footing” is practiced across the country. The first person who crosses the threshold of a home in the New Year should carry a gift for luck. Friends and relatives are good choices to enter first – always on their right foot and never empty-handed. Scots also hold bonfire ceremonies where people parade while swinging giant fireballs on poles, supposedly symbols of the sun, to purify the coming year.
Watch out for flying dishes!
Celebrating New Years in Denmark
Residents of Denmark greet the New Year by throwing old plates and glasses against the doors of family and friends to banish bad spirits. They also stand on chairs and jump off of them together at midnight to “leap” into January with the hope of good luck.
A Mouthful of Grapes
Celebrating New Years in Spain
In Spain it’s customary to eat 12 green grapes, one at each stroke of the midnight bell. It’s believed that each grape represents a month of good luck in the new year. It’s thought to be bad luck if you can’t eat them all by the final midnight chime. People gather in city plazas to eat grapes and drink Cava (Spanish sparkling wine).
Bopped with an onion
Celebrating New Years in Greece
Onions symbolize rebirth in Greece and are hung on the door to symbolize the birth of a new year. Children are awakened on New Year’s Day by their parents tapping their head with the onion!
A Year of Travel!
Celebrating New Years in Colombia
Colombians carry empty suitcases around the block at midnight, with the hopes that the New Year will be filled with travel. This tradition is right up my alley! I am ready to adopt this one!
Oodles of Noodles!
Celebrating New Years in Japan
Soba noodles are eaten just before midnight in Japan. The Toshikoshi noodle is a long buckwheat noodle; a rough translation of the noodle’s name is “year crossing noodle” and eating it before midnight symbolizes crossing from one year to the next. Chewing the soft noodles is thought to signify a letting go of any regrets from the old year and starting the new year fresh.
What’s your lucky shape?
Celebrating New Years in Finland
In Finland, people throw molten metal into containers of water, and then interpret the shape of the metal to predict the future year. Hearts or circles (ring shape) predict a marriage, a pig shape predicts plentiful food, while a ship shape represents travel.
Lentils = Good Luck
Celebrating New Years in Italy
Italians believe that lentils (lenticchie) symbolize luck and prosperity. After all, they look like money. They are frequently prepared with rich cuts of pork (cotechino) which represents the bounty of the land.
Round it is!
Celebrating New Years in the Philippines
Filipinos believe that round things symbolize coins and will bring wealth during the new year. They celebrate by serving 12 round fruits such as apples, melons or oranges. Twelve grapes are eaten at midnight just like they do in Spain. Many people wear polka dots on New Year’s Eve.
A Brazilian tradition…
Celebrating New Years in Brazil
Brazilians wear New Year’s Underwear. The most popular colors are red, thought to ensure love in the new year while yellow is believed to bring wealth.
Looking forward to 2021!
Whether you are ringing in the New Year in some far-off distant land or at home with family and friends, you probably have a New Year’s tradition or two. Common traditions throughout the United States include singing “Auld Lang Syne” to greet the New Year and eating black-eyed peas for good luck.
What are your fun traditions? Let me know!
The New Year stands before us, like a chapter in a book, waiting to be written. Melody Beattie
I love taking pictures of my adventures. Click below to follow along on my social media.
As we look to 2021, take time to reflect on what your dreams are for the new year…what places and moments you want to experience and what memories you want to make.
As your travel advisor, I’m here to help you dream about your next adventure!I call it putting “HOPE on the calendar”! When you are ready, let me know! I personally can’t wait to travel to my next far off distant land to experience a new culture! These memories will forever be a part of my travel experiences!
When our children were young, we enjoyed taking them to the zoo to get a firsthand glimpse of the lions, gorillas, elephants, tigers, giraffes and more. They loved seeing them in real life rather than in the books they read before bedtime. We loved witnessing the wonder and amazement in their eyes as they saw the animals for the first (2nd and 3rd) time! Their faces lit up and their smiles came alive.
Michael, our youngest son, was always fascinated by their size, color, patterns and shape. He knew God was the master designer, but was in awe with what he saw. When he was in kindergarten, he painted the animals during art class. He titled his masterpiece, “I Wonder Why Animals Have Different Designs?” His teacher was so impressed she entered his painting in the county art competition, where he won first place. I love his painting, the title and his creativity. It’s proudly displayed in our home.
“There is language going on out there, the roars, snorts, trumpets, squeals, whoops and chirps that have meaning derived over eons of expression. We have yet to become fluent in the language – and music – of the wild.” -Boyd Norton
When I look through my pictures or see Michael’s painting, I am reminded of my recent trip to Uganda. What a magical destination! It’s quite difficult to find the words to adequately describe what it’s really like to be so close to the wildlife. Awestruck!? Amazed!? Inspired!? The animals would frolic through the savanna, stomp across the road, meander through the forest, dangle from the trees or trudge up the mountainside….WOW! It was priceless to see them in their natural habitat eating, sleeping, running or having fun in their “wildlife playgroup”.
Uganda…a lush, green East African country, is a safari and animal trekking paradise. Its’ national parks are home to a huge array of wildlife, including the Big 5 (leopard, lion, rhinoceros, elephant and Cape Buffalo). Not only is there abundant wildlife, there are also stunning landscapes. And the Equator runs right through the country, along with the Nile River.
Uganda is the Pearl of Africa! It’s a magnificent country, diverse in color, with valleys, tropical rainforests, brilliant wildlife and an abundance of birds, all on a truly vast scale. And of course, it’s home to the world’s best gorilla and chimpanzee encounters too! Uganda is really something to experience.
Let’s meet the stars of the show! Are you ready?!!!
Powerful & Mysterious…the Leopard
Of all the animals you will see on a big cat safari, none are as beautiful, powerful and mysterious as the African leopard. These increasingly rare animals are quite elusive, making the most difficult of the “BIG 5” safari animals to spot. But we were lucky! Look at this beauty! She came right up to our Safari jeep and sat near my door. That’s when the driver suggested I close my window just in case she decided to jump in. If I opened my door, I would have hit her body! Yes…WE WERE THAT CLOSE!
Leopards are graceful. Their coats are simply breathtaking, and their muscular build combined with their confident demeanor makes them both intimidating and captivating. Leopards are strong and comfortable in trees and often haul their kill into the branches. Their spotted coats allow them to blend in with the leaves. These nocturnal predators stalk antelope, deer, hyenas and pigs. They are also strong swimmers. Many of their populations are endangered, especially outside of Africa.
Look at her coat?!! It’s so beautiful, shiny and silky. I really wanted to lean out the jeep and touch her. I bet it would have felt like velvet! What do you think?
The King of the Grassland
Spending time with these lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Of all the animals that can be seen on a safari, there is one that stands out above the rest: the lion. As we were driving through the savanna, I felt like a kid on a scavenger hunt. My eyes were glued to the binoculars, glancing to and fro, hoping to find the “King of the Grassland”. And when we spotted not one but three, we excitedly jumped on the seats and stuck our heads out the roof to get a better view.
There is nothing like seeing a lion in its natural habitat, unconstrained and free to roam. Its’ power and beauty are simply unmatched in all of nature and cannot be truly appreciated unless you are able to experience it firsthand.
Protecting the Rhino
One of our adventures was to ZIWA Rhino Sanctuary, 4 hours from Entebbe. The sanctuary was created to reintroduce rhinos to Uganda after their elimination due to poaching in 1982. It’s the proud home of the only wild rhinos in Uganda. Presently, the sanctuary is home to 33 southern White Rhinos and has become increasingly popular for rhino trekking, bird watching and nature walks. You’ll notice, White Rhinos aren’t white, but slate gray in color. The species color comes from the Dutch word, “weit”, which sounds like “white”, but means wide.
While we were trekking to the rhinos, we learned that one of the females was pregnant. Good news!! On December 10th the sanctuary welcomed a healthy boy into their family. He was born to 7-year-old mom Uhuru. It’s her second calf and he’s a big, strong, healthy rhino! He had fun wallowing in the mud on day 1. His name will be made public very soon so stay tuned!
A Pillar of Strength
Elephants were everywhere! We saw them taking a mud bath, eating leaves from the trees, playing follow the leader and walking through the river. On one of our game drives, we parked close to a herd of elephants and watched them interact with each other. It was very clear that the Mamma elephant did not want us that close, so she charged at the safari jeep. Our guide, Richard, was quick to put the pedal to the metal keeping us from harm’s way. It was a pretty exciting experience!!
A fierce one…the Cape Buffalo
It’s not hard to spot the Cape Buffalo. We saw herds of them along the banks of the Kazinga Channel while in Queen Elizabeth National Park. Their horns are quite large and unique and show an indication of their age. The females and young males do not have the hard shielding that protects the base of the skull in large adult males. As we were cruising down the channel, we heard an elephant screeching and then chase after a buffalo because he was invading his territory.
Cape Buffalo are always within a day’s walk of water. This is especially true in the dry season when they are eating dried grasses. These animals are extremely social and live in large, mixed herds of up to 2,000 members!
They made their way into the Big 5 ranking because of their size, moody behavior and their ability to charge without warning. It’s been said that the Cape Buffalo is one of the most dangerous animals to hunt on foot.
Uganda…truly the “Pearl of Africa”!!
You are most welcome here!
Part of what makes Uganda such a special place to visit is its combination of wildlife experiences within such a small region. It’s a beautiful destination for adventurous souls and wildlife lovers.
Next week, I will highlight the spectacular wildlife along with the beautiful landscape. I’ll also share some fun stories and pictures from what I captured on our journey!! Stay tuned!
Click below to follow along on this amazing journey.
To me the best part of traveling is meeting people along the way. Sometimes they are fellow travelers. Other times they are locals. Sometimes these people can change your trip, or even your life, in ways you’d never imagine. This is what makes each trip a magical experience and one more reason I’m grateful every time I set out on a new adventure.
Uganda has a special place in my heart! I loved my visit 3 years ago and my most recent trip was just as special. It’s not only because of the beautiful wildlife, the lush landscape or the interesting lodges but because of the genuine, kindhearted, happy people I met. I enjoyed connecting with the locals, hearing about their customs and traditions, learning about how they are making a difference in their community and about a typical day. These moments rank at the top of my memories along with the beauty I saw in each destination!
Below you will discover the real reason why I love to travel!!
The eye never forgets what the heart has seen. -African Proverb
Meet Aubrey Price
Aubrey Price
Aubrey Price is one of a kind! And so is Ndali Lodge. This is THE LODGE! I loved it here!
Here’s a story of one family’s determination to do something good, not only for travelers but for the local community! Upon arrival, we received a warm welcome from Aubrey (third generation owner), his staff and 3 dogs!
Ndali Lodge is perched on the rim of an extinct volcano which, since its demise, has filled with water to become the breathtaking Lake Nyinambuga. There is a main thatched lodge and 9 solar-powered cottages. It’s secluded, charming, has 360-degree views of the lake and mountains.
The story behind the lodge is so fascinating! The estate dates back to the 1920’s when Aubrey’s grandfather, Englishman Trevor Price and his friend Hugh Naylor, purchased the land for a tea estate. Others followed suit and the great estates of western Uganda flourished until 1972 when the land was appropriated by the military regime. Both Trevor and Hugh returned to England and later passed away.
In 1992 Aubrey’s father, Captain Mark Price, reclaimed the land with the intention of establishing a Safari lodge. His goal was to work on reforestation, support the locals by providing employment, provide sponsorships for the children to attend school and to bring growth and prosperity to the community. He began building in 1993 and opened in 1996. He later passed away. His son, Aubrey Price and his niece Lulu Sturdy, took up the reins of the lodge and farm and have continued Captain Mark’s legacy. It is now an expanse of indigenous trees, beautiful gardens, home to a diverse array of birds, monkeys and other wildlife!
Ndali Lodge is an amazing place with a wonderful history, incredible staff, fabulous cuisine and genuine hospitality! Truly a charming Safari lodge!!
Meet Evelyn Habasa
Evelyn Habasa with Lisa
Evelyn is magnetic! I loved spending time with her and the ladies from the Bwindi community. We were the first group of visitors to the area since March and they were beyond thrilled. It didn’t take long to notice how talented they were in basket weaving, sewing and quilting. We all wanted a custom-made item…whether it was a dress, a suit, pants or any other craft as a precious gift to take home. When I asked Evelyn if our order was too big, she said, “Oh, Lisa…over the last several months I needed to remind the ladies to keep the faith…to remain hopeful…good times are coming…it’s a promise.” Evelyn continued to encourage the ladies, but she “noticed their hope start to dwindle”. When our group arrived, Evelyn said she witnessed “hope rise within each lady from the bottom of their feet to the top of their heads”. They couldn’t believe it!
“Ride 4 A Woman” is Evelyn’s passion!
Evelyn started “Ride 4 A Woman” as a way of empowering the local women and to create change in her community. Together with her husband, they started by renting mountain bikes to tourists to fund their training program. After some time, there was a need to maintain the bikes so they taught the ladies how to repair them.
Three years later, they met Patricia, an Australian tourist, who knew how to quilt. Evelyn asked her to teach the women in the village, and that’s when they started a sewing program. The women learn how to sew from scratch, how to measure, cut, hand stitch and provide a nice finish to each item they design.
The ladies also learn basket weaving skills and create masterpieces that they sell in their shop.
Evelyn and her husband oversee 8 programs that include sewing, bike mechanics, agriculture, water filtration, safety from domestic situations, micro-finance, education and baking.
“Ride 4 A Woman” also provides low interest loans to assist the ladies in starting a small business. They have provided 101 loans to their members. The women continue to set up shops, market stalls, buy animals and purchase sewing machines to make clothes in their respective villages.
Today, 300 women from 11 different villages in the Bwindi community are registered with the organization. They enjoy gathering together to learn while having fun!
This is why I travel…to meet people like Evelyn!! The best news…I still chat with her through What’s App and look forward to when I return to the Bwindi community!
Meet Paison
Paison and Lisa
Paison was my porter for our Gorilla tracking experience. He carried my backpack and camera the entire journey. As we walked through the dense forest, I fixed my eyes on his heels…one step in front of the other, making sure I wouldn’t trip on the roots or step on fire ants. I held his hand as he pulled me up the mountain and rested my hand on his shoulder when we climbed down.
Paison is 22 and has his heart set on earning a college degree in tourism. He is very close to achieving his goal. When Covid hit, Paison returned home to be with his family. He was without work and did not have the funds to pay for his last semester. He was excited to learn we were the first group of tourists to arrive in Bwindi since March. This meant he would have work for the first time in months and he was beyond thrilled. He planned to put the $20 he earned toward his schooling.
Paison and I have kept in touch since my trip and he is very grateful for that day of work. This is true evidence of how much the local community needs tourism to return!
Meet Dr. Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka
Dr. Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka with Lisa
Dr. Gladys was invited to have dinner with us when we were in Bwindi. She was in town hosting workshops and teaching her colleagues about her specialty…the health and well-being of mountain gorillas.
Dr. Gladys has become one of the leading conservationists and scientists working to save the critically endangered mountain gorillas of East Africa. She is founder and CEO of Conservation Through Public Health (CTPH), a 16-year old nonprofit organization that promotes conservation by improving the quality of life of people and wildlife to enable them to coexist in and around protected areas in Africa. This is extremely important because humans can transmit any number of diseases to the gorillas.
FUN FACT: Dr. Gladys completed a zoological medicine residency and masters in specialized veterinary medicine at North Carolina State University and North Carolina Zoological Park.
It was a pleasure meeting Dr. Gladys. We both have one commonality – NCSU! She’s a graduate and I’m a DASA (Division of Academic & Student Affairs) Board Member. As I listened to her speak at our dinner one evening, it dawned on me that she must have ties to NCSU and she sure did!!! Go WOLFPACK!!
Meet Deo
Deo with Eric
Deo is a true pioneer, a teacher, an innovator and a community builder. He is one remarkable man! Deo lives in a small farming village that borders Queen Elizabeth National Park. Since his property is so close to the park, elephants and lions would invade his land and destroy his crops and livestock. Instead of killing the wildlife, Deo rallied his neighbors and others in the community and taught them alternatives to poaching. They first started by digging a trench along their property line which took 2 years to complete 2km. He then created a watch tower and an innovative warning system of bells to alert the neighbors that the wildlife was close. When the elephants came to the ditch, they would extend their trunk and quickly realized the depth and turn away. Uganda’s conservation organization took notice of Deo’s contributions and they assisted with the project. It took 6 years but they worked together to dig a 20 km trench by hand. Deo is one proud and very humble man…a true inspiration to those in the community!
Uganda…the Pearl of Africa!!
You are most welcome here!
Uganda is a beautiful country with very warm and friendly people. Quite often we heard them say, “You are most welcome here!” and they meant it. They have not seen visitors since March and were thrilled to have us on their soil.
Next week, I will highlight the spectacular wildlife and beautiful landscape. Many of you know I have a passion for photography and I can’t wait to share what I captured from our journey!!
Click below to follow along on this amazing journey.
Happy Thanksgiving to my family, friends and clients! I am thankful for you, not just on Thanksgiving Day!
It has been a whirlwind of a month. I can’t be more excited to share about our adventure to Uganda. It was so nice to be traveling again…and internationally!
With over a year of preparation, and the uncertainty of the pandemic, we were thrilled to hear that Uganda opened its borders on October 1st. And with a great deal of perseverance, the organizers worked tirelessly to make this happen…kicking it into high gear when we received the message that Uganda is welcoming travelers. Yep, we were surprised. But they made sure we were fully prepared with all the safety and health protocols in place. And guess what? We did it!!
Uganda…the Pearl of Africa!
With a tapestry of landscapes, excellent wildlife watching and welcoming locals, Uganda packs a lot into one small country. It’s home to Africa’s tallest mountain range, (the Rwenzoris), the source of the Nile, the world’s longest river and the continent’s largest lake. The country’s most iconic experience is tracking mountain gorillas in their misty habitat. And when viewing the Big Five, you’ll see that nature – diverse and resplendent – looms large here.
“Life is meant for spectacular adventures. Let your feet wander, your eyes marvel and your soul ignite.”
Uganda…it has been a few years since I stepped onto your soil and I am thrilled to be back! To me…it’s the happiest place on Earth! From the people to the culture to the smiles, the cuisine, the music, the generosity of everyone…it was good to be back!
The first time I visited your beautiful country, I was with 3 friends as a part of “Acres of Hope” and we worked together to teach 30 house moms entrepreneurship skills. This adventure is one of the highlights of my many international journeys and it brings a smile to my face and warms my heart every time I think of “Acres of Hope”.
Uganda…the happiest place on Earth!
This adventure was a little bit different than my first trip to Uganda. I loved exploring the National Parks, trekking to the big guys…gorillas and chimpanzees, visiting animal sanctuaries and looking for the Big 5. It was fun traveling with other advisors from my host agency, Gifted Travel Network, and our spouses and friends!
What’s it like to travel internationally now?
Uganda requires 2 negative Covid-19 Tests (PCR) results. The first one is required within 72 hours of arrival and then the second one is administered 72 hours before you depart the country. You’ll need to wear a mask, wash your hands with soap and water frequently and use hand sanitizer as well. We took every precaution and felt very safe on our trip over.
We loved flying Qatar!
Since Qatar Airways is a ONE WORLD Alliance partner, we opted to fly them from DC to Entebbe. From day one of Covid, Qatar was determined to continue flying throughout 2020 as long as country by country regulations allowed.
They have strict on-board safety protocols for passengers and crew members. They wear white gowns, goggles, gloves and face masks. Every passenger had their temperature taken during check in. Plus, we were required to wear a face mask and a shield when boarding and deplaning.
On Board Experience
Once we were settled in our seats, it didn’t take long to notice that there were very few passengers onboard. The flight attendant told me that 21/36 seats were occupied in business class and 80/236 for the rest of the plane.
Cleanliness was top of mind for the crew as I noticed them wiping down surfaces both in the cabin and the lavatories often! To be honest, we had a great experience and felt very safe flying on Qatar!
You are most welcome here!
Uganda is an amazingly beautiful country with very warm and friendly people. Quite often we heard them say, “You are most welcome here!” and they meant it. They have not seen visitors since March and were thrilled to have us on their soil.
Over the next few weeks, I will highlight my favorite parts from our journey through many pictures and stories….from the inspirational people to the beautiful landscape to the mighty animals that we encountered!
Many of you know I have a passion for photography and you’ll really see it from my journey.
Click below to follow along on this amazing journey.
WOW! What a presentation and a whirlwind tour through the Scandinavian countries! Thank you for joining me on this virtual experience. Agueda, from Delta of Scandinavia, came to us LIVE from Copenhagen to share all the goodness that these countries have to offer! Could you feel and hear her enthusiasm as she brought these countries alive?
Just think…endless days, perpetual nights, rocking festivals, Aurora Borealis, chic cities, wilderness hikers, remote forests, locally immersive experiences, fabulous cuisine, craft beer, and snow, snow and MORE snow!! Did you know that Scandinavia is a year-round destination and one where beauty abounds? As you can imagine, the scenery is quite different in every season!
By the way, which country was the most fascinating to you…you know…the one that made you think…I need to visit there to see it with my very own eyes?
I had plans to visit the Scandinavian countries in June 2020 but due to the pandemic it was cancelled. It is now back on my “bucket list”. Is it on your list? If so, let’s partner together to make it happen. Better yet…let’s plan a trip for 2022. Who is ready??
Are you ready for some fun facts about Denmark?
I’ve got that Hygge feeling!
FUN FACT #1
How about some coziness? The Danes have a word for that cozy feeling of togetherness. Hygge’ (pronounced as hoo-guh) is about creating cozy social gatherings and intimate get-togethers with family and friends. It’s the feeling of wellbeing and warm atmospheres. You can also feel this notion of hygge when you stroll through the narrow, cobbled streets of Copenhagen. You will feel the warmth and togetherness as you pass by the vintage boutiques, coffee shops and many colorful houses.
Kanelsnegle or Wienerbrød
FUN FACT #2
Now this one caught me by surprise…
In the 1840’s bakers from Austria settled in Denmark and brought along their famous recipes for pastries. Danish pastries are called “wienerbrød” or “Viennese bread” in Denmark.
Wienerbrød is a pastry made of yeast-leavened dough which is folded 27 times over. These delights are still the locals’ favorite. You’ll find them in different sizes and with various fillings such as cream or jam.
Kanelsnegle or cinnamon rolls are among the most popular pastries in Denmark. Danes prepare them with a slightly different dough that is quite similar to the one used for croissants. The result is a flaky and light cinnamon bun full in flavor. I can’t wait to visit a bakery in Denmark to try the cinnamon buns!! So yummy!
It’s not uncommon for visitors like you and me to have a hard time deciding between trying a Wienerbrød, a piece of Dream Cake or a Kanelsnegle.
Which would you like to taste?
Ain’t No Mountain High Enough
FUN FACT #3
Denmark is for bikers! One thing you will notice when traveling by train or car, is that Denmark is extremely flat. There are no mountains, only a few hills. The only klipper (rocks) are located on the island of Bornholm, between Sweden and Poland. The rest of Denmark is fladt som en pandekage (flat as a pancake). Who knew?
There are also more than 12,000km of cycle tracks and lanes throughout the country which makes biking in Denmark a safe and respected way to travel. About 50% of Copenhageners cycle to and from work every day. And guess what? They love biking so much that about 75% of them like to bike in the winter months too!
Tivoli Gardens & Bakken
FUN FACT #4
Denmark is home to the two oldest amusement parks in the world…Tivoli Gardens and Bakken. Tivoli Gardens is an amusement park and pleasure garden that opened in 1843 in Copenhagen. The park is best known for its wooden roller coaster Rutschebanen or Mountain Coaster. There are a variety of attractions, restaurants, gardens, theaters and a scenic railway. This is a must-see when visiting Copenhagen.
Bakken (Dyrehavsbakken), which is located about 10 minutes north of Copenhagen, dates back to 1583 when it was first discovered as a natural spring. Residents of Copenhagen were attracted to the springs due to the poor quality of water in their city. Many people believed the natural spring had curative properties, so they flocked to the area. The large crowds attracted entertainers and hawkers and was developed into an amusement park. Bakken’s longest-standing visitor is, however, Pierrot, a well-known white-faced clown. He’s been a hit with the youngest guests for more than 200 years. Still, the main attraction for most is the park’s many fun rides, including an 82-year-old wooden rollercoaster.
Æ, Ø, and Å
FUN FACT #5
Did you know the Danish alphabet has 29 letters? Yep…let me introduce you to three letters you won’t come across in the English alphabet: Æ, Ø and Å. The Danish language is said to be one of the most difficult ones to learn due to a bunch of silent letters and complex pronunciation.
DENMARK
Denmark is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. It’s small, compact, and a convenient country to visit. This amazing Nordic gem is known for its engineering, architecture, food, fashion, art galleries & museums, castles & palaces, and truly world class cities.
Let’s plan to explore this Nordic beauty together in 2022!
Where are we heading next?
Our next virtual tour will be to Slovenia, then to Peru and back to Iceland. I will keep you posted on the dates and times. It will more than likely be mid-December or the beginning of January before I begin the next series. Stay tuned for those details.
I am thrilled many of you are enjoying the Travel & Wine Tasting events we have been hosting over the last few months. It’s like a virtual dinner party with tasty regional cuisine and specialty beverages while we escape to a featured destination…all from the comfort of your home.
Next up…The Scandinavian Countries of Denmark, Sweden, Norway and Finland!
Let’s use the power of our minds along with local destination specialist, Agueda Mazarrasa of Delta of Scandinavia, as she joins us LIVE from Copenhagen to bring this destination ALIVE!
It’s time to pack your bags for our next adventure to this Nordic beauty.
THIS THURSDAY, October 29 at 8:00PM EDT. HERE’S THE PLAN:
On Thursday night, we’ll use Zoom Video Conferencing to present pictures, stories and videos of each country. We will also share some delicious recipes for appetizers, entrees, desserts and beverages that you can prepare ahead of time and enjoy during our “virtual vacation”.
Join us to get inspired by these amazing destinations, with fun and laughter along the way.
DENMARK
Denmark is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. It’s small, compact, and a convenient country to visit. This amazing Nordic gem is known for its engineering, architecture, food, fashion, art galleries & museums, castles & palaces, and truly world class cities. And one interesting tidbit is that Denmark’s greatest charm is its unique concept of ‘Hygge’ (pronounced as hoo-guh), which means to look out for a comfortable, cozy moment to cherish in your daily routine.
Are you ready for that comfortable cozy moment? I am! Let’s explore this Nordic beauty.
SWEDEN
When you think of Sweden what comes to mind? How about a country of thousands of islands, snow-capped mountains, beautiful lakes, dense forests and abundant wildlife! Sweden also has a long and exciting history. Whether you visit the capitol of Stockholm or any of the other outlying cities, there is so much to see, experience and eat! Get ready for some awe-inspiring stories and pictures of this beautiful destination!
FINLAND
Finland is a stunning country. It’s home to epic mountains, waterfalls, fjords and some of the best places to see the Northern Lights in the world. It’s also known for ice formations including frozen waterfalls and tall ice walls inside deep canyons or valleys. Get ready to experience an amazing adventure to this beautiful country!
NORWAY
Norway is breathtaking, awe-inspiring and quite photogenic. It’s full of rugged and adventurous landscape. It’s the land of fjords, quaint coastal towns, the Northern Lights, Vikings, trolls, dramatic photo spots, scenic drives and some of the best hiking in the world. Norway is your “go to” destination for a relaxing cruise through the fjords, that epic hiking adventure or even a trip to the Arctic Circle. Incredible, right?
With jaw-dropping landscapes, friendly locals, and epic adventures to be had, it’s no wonder why tourists flock to the Scandinavian countries. You won’t be the only one seeking the Northern Lights, hiking, fjords, waterfalls, epic scenery, coastal towns, or snow-capped mountains in these Nordic gems.
I’m sure your bags packed by now! Are you ready for a Scandinavian adventure? I am! Let’s go!!
Agueda Mazarrasa, of Delta of Scandinavia, takes us on an unbelievable tour through Denmark, Norway, Finland and Sweden. Agueda will be coming to us live from Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark! Very exciting!
There will be limited availability in 2021 because many people “lifted and shifted” their vacation from this year.
If you want your 2020 “Vacation Do Over”, let’s start planning your next adventure now!
It’s time to pack your bags and head on our next virtual vacation. Many of you enjoyed the Travel & Wine Tasting events we hosted this summer and have requested we continue.
Guess where we are going on our next two adventures? First to Costa Rica then to the Scandinavian region…Denmark, Sweden and Norway.
Let’s use the power of our minds along with local destination specialists, Wilhelm, Mauricio and Luis from Costa Rican Trails as they join us LIVE from Costa Rica to bring this destination alive.
Join US! Click on the box below to register!
I have fond memories of my 2 trips to Costa Rica. The jungles are incredible. The beaches are sparkly. The forests are lush. The waterfalls cascade through the cliffs and mountains. The volcanoes are active and biodiversity is spectacular. Costa Rica has an astonishing diversity of unreal places to visit. This beautiful country is a traveler’s eco-touristic paradise, where sloths s-l-o-w-l-y make their way through forest canopies and monkeys swing through trees. BEWARE…LOL!
National Geographic describes Costa Rica as ‘the most biologically intense place on the planet’ and you will notice how true this is as we explore this amazing country.
It’s not hard to fall in love with Costa Rica’s relaxed Pura Vida philosophy. It’s not just a catchphrase, it’s a way of life.
HERE’S THE PLAN FOR THE NEXT 2 VIRTUAL TOURS:
We have scheduled 2 different Virtual Travel Events from different regions of the world. Each night, we’ll use Zoom Video Conferencing to present the destinations along with delicious recipes for entrees, appetizers, desserts and beverages from each region.
Join us and you will be inspired by these amazing destinations, with fun and laughter along the way.
A Few Places to Visit in Costa Rica
Manuel Antonio National Park
Manuel Antonio is one of Costa Rica’s prized jewels. Howler, squirrel, spider and white faced monkeys all inhabit the park. And they are certain to grab your food if it is left out in the open. So be alert…it can be a bit startling! LOL!! Just have your camera ready to capture the moment unless you are the target!! :>
Two-toed and three-toed sloths are abundant as are raccoons, coatis, pacas, anteaters, and occasionally ocelots. There are many reptiles including crocodiles, iguanas, boa constrictors and many lizards. Over 350 bird species have been identified within the park including toucans, aracaris, various parrots and parakeets, hummingbirds, trogons and more. Wildlife is everywhere and not just in protected areas.
So be prepared for some wildlife paparazzi moments!
As you stroll through the park, you’ll also see some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Did you know Costa Rica is a surfer’s paradise?
Arenal Volcano – La Fortuna
When you imagine a volcano you picture Arenal. It’s the perfect cone shape volcano with beautiful hiking trails all around. This is what makes Arenal one of the most popular tourist destinations in Costa Rica. The small town La Fortuna is located at the base of Arenal.
Native Animals of Costa Rica
Fun Fact: Did you know that there are more than 500,000 animal and plant species in Costa Rica, making the nation one of the 20 most biodiverse countries in the world. For this reason, it is an incredible place to come and see unique and abundant wildlife, the 32 national parks, 51 wildlife refuges, 13 forest reserves, and eight biological reserves.
I can tell you first hand that the opportunity to encounter native animals is quite high! You never know when one will pop in front of you or you’ll see one in a tree. I came across these animals (see pictures above) in Manuel Antonio National Park. So definitely keep your eyes peeled to enjoy the vast natural wonders of this magical place.
Costa Rica is for the Thrill Seeker!
Get ready for some adventure! Whether it is zip lining through the canyons, white water rafting on the Pacuare River, driving across Guanacaste on an ATV, walking across the many hanging bridges, kayaking in Manuel Antonio National Park or horseback riding in the Orosi Valley…there is something for everyone!
Costa Rican Cuisine!
There are so many delicious dishes that are a must-try when visiting Costa Rica. Traditional Costa Rican food is hearty, savory and always satisfying…kind of like grandma’s home cooking with a flavor-bursting Latin flare!
With jaw-dropping landscapes, friendly locals, and epic adventures to be had, it’s no wonder why tourists flock to Costa Rica. You won’t be the only one seeking the waterfalls, volcanoes and amazing surf in this Central American gem.
Are your bags packed? Are you ready for a Costa Rican adventure? I am! Let’s go!!
Join us as Wilhelm von Breymann, Co-Owner of Costa Rican Trails, along with Mauricio and Luis share their love of Costa Rica. For more than 25 years, Costa Rican Trails has provided unique and innovative travel experiences for families, romantic getaways, fishing and nature lovers, as well as pure adrenaline seekers! Are you ready?!
Join us as Claudio Nielsen, of Delta of Scandinavia, takes us on an unbelievable tour through Denmark, Norway, and Sweden. We will visit Finland, Iceland and the Baltic countries in Series #4. Claudio will be coming to us live from Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark! Very exciting!
The largest cruise ships serve nearly 20,000 meals a day! Yes, it’s true, between passenger and crew meals some of the largest ships put out staggering quantities of food. On a typical week long cruise passengers and crew can consume over 100 tons of food. This includes over 1 ton of coffee, 2.5 tons of butter, 4 tons of fish, 5 tons of lettuce, 5 tons of tomatoes, 5 tons of cheese, 6 tons of flour, 8 tons of potatoes, 10 tons of beef, 20 tons of chicken, 80,000 eggs, and the list goes on
Lisa & Allan – Sailing on Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas
Dining is a big part of the sailing experience and cruise lines know it. Tapping celebrity chefs for new, different and exciting culinary ideas, we see a variety of venues ranging from fast food to gourmet cuisine, not available anywhere else.
In-house culinary teams also create menu items that are so pleasing to our palette that they keep us coming back for more, sailing after sailing. Cruise travelers have their favorites and often request recipes so they can try their hand at replicating these wonderful menu items at home.
On every cruise, there’s a dish that stands out as the scene-stealer of the trip. These food memories stick in your mind — sometimes we can smell and taste our favorites long after we disembark.
Carnival Cruise Line certainly has created a delectable dessert…one that makes you salivate whenever the words MELTING CHOCOLATE CAKE are mentioned! This delight has a chocolaty, oozy middle, and pairs perfectly with creamy vanilla ice cream.
Did you know that you can order it onboard any night, even if it isn’t one of the desserts on the menu? This is surely a crowd-pleaser and is easily the line’s most popular dish. The good news: It’s super simple to make and requires no complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients.
Since we can’t enjoy the cruise life at the moment, I thought I’d bring a taste of the cruising experience (literally) to you. So put on a fresh pot of coffee and get baking! I can’t wait to see your yummy dessert. Please email me ([email protected]) your pictures!!
“All you need is love…but a little chocolate now and then doesn’t hurt.” -Charles Schultz
Carnival’s Famous Melting Chocolate Cake!
Enjoy this rich baked delight that is served to thousands on every Carnival sailing!
INGREDIENTS:
6 oz Dark Chocolate
6 oz Butter
4 Eggs
3 oz Sugar
2 oz Flour
HOW TO MAKE IT:
Melt the chocolate and butter together.
Mix the eggs and sugar and whisk for a few minutes. Then add the flour.
Add the egg mixture to the melted chocolate…slowly and mix together.
Pour the mix in a greased mold. I like to use ramekins.
Bake directly in the oven at 390°F for 14 minutes.
We love the fall season for many reasons. It’s a beautiful time of year when you wake up and the air is cooler and crisper. There is a sense of calmness as you sit drinking warm beverages, wearing a cozy sweater, wrapped in blanket by a toasty fire. But perhaps the most memorable moment of fall is the changing of the leaves as trees suddenly burst with hues of fiery red and orange and warm yellow and gold. Across the country, people marvel at the dazzling colors that seem to emerge overnight and fade just as quickly as the leaves fall and winter arrives.
“Winter is an etching, spring a watercolor, summer an oil painting and autumn a mosaic of them all.” -Stanley Horowitz
Over the next few months, each state will experience its own, unique view of fall. While many people associate watching leaves change with weekend getaways to the Northeast, there are plenty of places to see the stunning seasonal views throughout the country. Classic leafy views in Maine, New Hampshire, and New York are always a great go-to, but you can also find amazing leaf changing action in states like Alaska, Georgia and New Mexico. So, here are some suggestions on where to explore the vibrant colors along with the fall foliage prediction map.
Upper Peninsula, Michigan
Back to my old stomping ground…Michigan is certainly beautiful in the fall! I have fond memories of our family raking piles and piles of colorful leaves and then jumping in them only to rebuild the mound so we could do it again!
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Michigan is also known for beautiful coastal scenery and no place tops the Upper Peninsula for a spectacular fall adventure. Bordering three Great Lakes, a fall-foliage drive through these parts will take you across Mackinac Bridge and along the Keweenaw Peninsula. The best spot to catch great views is in the far north’s Copper Harbor with a quick detour along the kaleidoscopic Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Breathtaking!
As you continue to drive through the vast and uninterrupted wilderness you can’t help but notice the vibrancy of colors. When you’re done driving for a bit, pull over for a seasonal brew by the fireplace at Houghton’s Keweenaw Brewing Company. A perfect way to end your journey while savoring the surrounding beauty!
Great Smoky Mountains National Park… North Carolina/Tennessee
The best time to visit the Great Smoky Mountains is in the fall –especially mid-October through early November — when the park explodes into a sea of orange, yellow and red. The landscape here is populated with sugar maples, hickories, sweetgum, scarlet oaks, red maples and nearly 100 other species of native trees. This colorful show will last seven weeks or more, depending on temperatures, the length of the day and other factors.
One of the best ways to scope the splendor is to hike to Looking Glass Falls in Western North Carolina. Autumn foliage stands to impress even the most well-traveled seekers of beauty. The leafy drama, painted in living color on the Smoky Mountains, can’t help but leave an impression. Spectacular, right??!!
Gatlinburg is also sure to put on a show. You can have a choice of several tramways and chair lifts for taking in an aerial view of the landscape.
The glorious changing of colors, transitioning from green to gold to red to brown, are why visitors flock to this area year after year to find the most stunning overlooks in the Great Smoky Mountains.
Are your bags packed for this spectacular and colorful adventure?!
Upstate New York
Here’s another one of my stomping grounds…and a beautiful location to catch the magic behind the colorful fall foliage.
The Finger Lakes communities celebrate the fall arrival of color with seasonal festivals and events, including the Bristol Mountain Fall Festival and the Naples Grape Festival. The last two weeks of September may be the peak of leaf-peeping season in the Adirondacks. A few hours South lie the New York Catskills, where the famous “Five State Lookout” in East Windham will have you scoping leaves in New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Connecticut simultaneously. You can also summit the Catskills’ 3,214ft Mount Utsayantha for a 360-degree fall foliage experience. If you are not up for the hiking adventure, then you can catch the chairlift at Hunter Mountain and take in the beauty from above the tree line. Incredible, right?!!
Denali National Park – Alaska
Alaska may seem a bit far to trek for fall foliage if you are living in the continental US, but it will be worth the adventure. A drive through the park not only showcases the bright hues set against Denali — the highest point in North America — but also affords a chance to see moose, bears, and elks wandering around amid the turning leaves. Fall comes earlier in this part of the US, so aim to make your leaf pilgrimage no later than early October. And if you venture that way soon, I’d love to hear about your experience and see your pictures!
What fall colors are you seeing in your neck of the woods?
This year is already shaping up to be a better season than last for fall color. So hit your favorite trail, park or waterfall — or a new one — and take it all in. Enjoy this magical time of year…one filled with color and beauty!
If you want your 2020 “Vacation Do Over”, let’s start planning your next adventure now!
There will be limited availability in 2021 because many people “lifted and shifted” their vacation from this year.
So, don’t wait!
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