We found Deception Valley Lodge, the only photographic safari lodge in the Central Khalahari Region, graceful, charming and fun. A specialized boutique property situated on a former cattle ranch, the Lodge afforded us the opportunity to enjoy small group outings; and share time and experiences with guests and staff in a convivial environment. There was a quiet and unspoiled beauty in the area which we will miss.
We were amazed by the quality of the game viewing near the Chobe Safari Lodge. During our first private river boat ride we saw three of the big five, including a teenage leopard on the bank of the river. Our patient, knowledgeable and able private hire driver/guide Flores led us to one impressive viewing after another, including a sitting buffalo less than 20 feet from our boat; an elephant family with young; a large hippo pod of 20 or more adults and pups; two spectacular African eagles; a 70 year old crocodile and more.
We found the Steigenberger, a historic and elegant hotel dating back to the early 1900’s, a welcome respite. In the heart of Düsseldorf and across the street from the Opera, the Hotel was ideally situated for a visit to the central part of town. Owned by the Steigenberger chain, it offered a combination of charm, experienced and efficient staff, and a great location.
Rydquist Cottage was much more than a cottage. It was a three story four-bedroom bright and spacious multi-million dollar house. Just two blocks from the Florida Panhandle’s white sand beach, it looked new and spotless. Decorated in a homey style with comfort in mind, it was conveniently situated within a few minutes walk of the Rosemary Beach town hall and retail shops. It offered excellent partial views of the beach and gulf waters from several areas. Our favorite view was from the second floor porch.
We found Rosemary Beach, established as a planned community in 1995, to be an ideal vacation village for beach lovers from the South. Situated on a striking white sand beach in the Northern Gulf, Rosemary Beach consisted of a town hall, post office, restaurant, spa, fitness center, tennis courts, five swimming pools, a handful of retail businesses and about 350 homes. Architecturally distinctive, it featured a blend of elements from various areas of Florida and the South. Named after a local shrub, this pedestrian friendly exclusive vacation neighborhood seemed well suited for families
On the heels of a long transatlantic flight, lunch at Menuett Restaurant was a welcome pleasure. Located in the lobby of the historic and attractive Steigenberger Park Hotel, Menuett’s classic décor was inviting. We, like almost everyone else that afternoon, chose to enjoy lunch outdoors on the terrace, which faced the Steigenberger Park Hotel entrance and a nearby park. To match the prominent setting and delicious meal, the service could have been more attentive and customer oriented. Overall, our spring meal was refined and satisfying.
Eighteen museums, 100 important art galleries, the German Opera House and a reputation as a center for German high fashion place this city of just over half a million inhabitants on plenty of travelers’ lists. We liked the genteel and efficient attitude, elegant and cosmopolitan feel, historic old town, and blending of classic and modern architecture of this daughter of the Rhine River.
After four weeks of game viewing in Southern Africa , we still found De Wildt amazing. Seeing cheetahs, king cheetahs, wild dogs, Egyptian vultures or honey badgers in the wild is rare. During our safari trip we were very fortunate to see cheetahs two or three times. We treasured each brief viewing. Visiting De Wildt was like going through a working laboratory, where the staff were the animal caretakers looking after these precious creatures from birth until their reintroduction into the wild or delivery to a zoo. At De Wildt we had a chance to see the wild dogs interacting in a pack, eating and playing; we saw cheetahs and king cheetahs up close next to their fence; we also went inside the caged area where they ran loose, fed and prepared to mate.
Once again we were pleased with the Emperor at Caesars Gauteng, part of a large 1.3 billion rand hotel and entertainment complex. Its location near Johannesburg International Airport , Italian Empire décor, gate and hotel security, quiet and elegant style and welcoming staff were a winning combination for us. An added bonus was the access to a health club, spa, casino, and exhibition and business center in the adjacent Emperor complex.
Arriving in Johannesburg after a long international flight, we preferred to remain within the Caesar’s complex (where the Emperor Hotel and Aurelia’s are located) near the airport. While there, we enjoyed the excellent and friendly service and food at Aurellia’s , named in honor of Julius Caesar’s mother. The high quality food was served hot and freshly made. Waiters were attentive and eager to please. The glass enclosed dining room was comfortable with an outdoor feel. Dining selections included South African, Asian and continental dishes.
The leather Vertical Security Purse was perfect for my last trip to New York City. With steel cables sewn into the shoulder straps it felt safe around crowded areas like the airport and tourist attractions. The back pocket design was practical allowing me easy access to my airline tickets and identification. The flap in the front folded readily so I could retrieve items from a small zippered pocket without opening the main compartment.
The Metropolitan Museum, more accurately a collection of museums, was a must for art lovers in the New York area. With two million artifacts spanning 5,000 years of art history, the sheer size of the Metropolitan Museum was daunting. It was the kind of place best enjoyed in multiple viewings and visits. There are only a small number of museums in the world with such large and diverse collections. Of those, few allow visitors as much room to admire and enjoy their extraordinary collections. When we visited The Metropolitan Museum, there were tours, audio guides, several eateries and souvenir shops to enhance the experience.
Visited by more than five million people a year, the Metropolitan Museum was a bustling art reservoir. In spite of large crowds, the afternoon we were by there was plenty of space to enjoy the fine art; we were even able to approach individual sculptures and paintings to observe a detail or identify a signature. This was noteworthy because getting within a couple of feet of major artworks at other comparable museums can be a tricky.
: Dinner at Alain Ducasse’s New York restaurant was well prepared and well served. It was as close to authentic gourmet French food as we have had in the U.S. For those able to appreciate the nuances of an elaborate gourmet meal; and willing to spend the time and resources – dinner could easily exceed $300 per person – to enjoy it, ADNY would be an obvious choice.
In a city where several seatings a night are the norm, ADNY stood out for its one seating policy. It allowed diners to savor and stretch out the multiple course dinner over several hours. The professional, discreet, and customer oriented staff combined with the delicious food and ambiance provided the setting for a wonderful evening. The intimate ambiance and details like handbag stools, an after dinner sweets and candy trolley, a discreet and knowledgeable wine steward, and a souvenir brioche upon departure can make ADNY ideal for a special occasion or important meeting.
: In a city where basic accommodations cost a king’s ransom, and many hotels take their guests for granted, we found the hotel refreshing and a good value. It is in a fabulous location in the prestigious eighth arrondisement. We were pleased by the quiet room and large bathroom (including a whirlpool bathtub and separate shower). The high speed connectivity was particularly welcome. We also prized the on-sight fitness center and spa including an inviting swimming pool. There were two well rated restaurants an elevator’s ride away, and some of the better room service food we have had in a while.
For a step in a different direction, Morikami offers a wonderful alternative to the usual tourist attraction. In a beautiful setting, coupled with art exhibits, classes and other special activities and festivals, it provides restful escape from the everyday.
: Founded in the 12th century as a castle, the Louvre has one of the most extraordinary art collections in the world. It houses an extraordinary collection of approximately 290,000 works, including the Venus de Milo, the Winged Victory of Samothrace, Leonardo Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa and many others. For the curious or moderate art lovers it merits at least one visit in a lifetime; for dedicated art lovers, perhaps there are never enough visits to satiate their need.
We thought this small museum, situated in a luxurious late 19th century home in the tony eighth arrondissement, was a treasure in a city of treasures. Visited by 600,000 people a year, the Jacquemart André Museum was home to the art of 150 masters including Rembrandt, Tiepolo, Della Robbia, Botticelli, Uccello, Carpaccio, Mantegna, Bellini, Boucher, Chardin and Fragonard.
Dining at Drouant was like visiting an old friend in a beautiful old home. We felt welcome, in familiar surroundings and an always memorable meal. We found it noteworthy that the meal was as delectable as in past occasions although the assistant chef and assistant sommelier where in charge during our visit.
: Cirque du Soleil Alegria is not a new show, it was first introduced to audiences in the mid 1990’s. We found the show likeable, especially for theatre and circus lovers who have never seen a Cirque du Soleil show. The show included acrobatics, trapeze performances, Aerial High Bars, flaming knives, a strong man, clowns, a contortionist act, Russian Bars and synchronized choreography. Though veteran Cirque du Soleil fans may prefer more dynamic shows such as “O,” Mystére, and Dralion, first timers may appreciate Alegria’ s understated efficiency.
We were disappointed. The food left us uninspired and wanting more. Expecting to enjoy delicate, creative and delicious food, we found these qualities elusive at best. Perhaps a long-standing reputation has made them lazy. Many of the dishes were mediocre and lacked harmony. The wine selection was fabulous, and seems to be the strongest point of this restaurant, although the sommelier did not seem adequate for the cellars. The dining room, china and glassware were more beautiful than the food. The service was mostly professional but at times inattentive, smug and even surly.
The inventive dishes designed by the world renowned Alain Ducasse are only one reason to visit the Plaza
We liked La Trémoille’s ideal location in the coveted eighth arrondisement just off the popular and ritzy Champs Elysees shopping district.We appreciated the relaxed and quiet atmosphere, a contrast to the hustle and bustle at larger properties. We found the staff friendly and attentive, from the doorman to the concierge.
I much prefer the classic beauty of the Opera Garnier to the cold impersonal ambiance of the Opera Bastille. Still, our visit to the Opera Bastille for a performance of Johan Strauss “Die Fledermaus” was pleasant.
As Monet lovers, this is one of the museums we enjoy visiting whenever we get a chance. Located in a house in a quiet patrician neighborhood, we think it has the perfect size for its collection. Visiting the entire museum is manageable in a half a day or less, even for first time visitors. We enjoy viewing our old favorites like the famous Soleil Levant and water lilies; and discovering temporary exhibits.
Flora Danica Copenhagueoffereda combination of fresh seafood worthy of fine sushi, served in classic French style withasubtle Danish influence. In addition to well prepared seafood, we were pleasantly surprised by the efficient service, fair prices and wonderful view of the Champs Elysees. With the trees decorated and the crowds out strolling and shopping for the holidays,Copenhague’slocation was stunning. We foresee continued success for this French restaurant with a Danish flair with an attentive and experienced team.
Though master chef Alain Passard appeared understated and perhaps even shy, his creations are anything but. Our meal shattered our preconceived ideas of French food and gourmet cuisine in general. Some of his flavors were unconventional (maple and egg), while other dishes presented us with amazing contrasts of delicate flavors in counterpoint with spicy or bitter ones. Like a great symphony, the chef composed a menu that moved our spirits.
In spite of wicked winds (gale force at times), overcast days, sand, rain, rivers, limited hours of access, moving satellites and remote locations in the African bush, we managed to stay in touch with
Though only a short distance from Florida’s east coast Andros might as well be a world away. We encountered friendly Bahamians the way they used to be 20 years ago at Kamalame Cay. We shared the secluded hideaway with a maximum of 8 other guests during our visit. While we were there we enjoyed a laid back, unhurried ambiance and wonderful, inventive food.
Overall thumbs up. An especially good property for those wishing to be near the airport and still have access to Nassau’s popular tourist attractions. When we were there, the restaurant provided great service and high quality food in a lovely setting on the ocean. The property is very colorful and has a tasteful island atmosphere.
This is a wonderful way to get a modest peek of the enormous Vatican collections. Regardless of your religious inclinations, these artifacts, artworks and jewelry, dating as far back as the 3rd century, are of historical significance and worth at least one visit. If you expect to see the Vatican collection, Rome is the place for you. Although the exhibit stands out for the quantity of pieces exhibited for the first time outside the Vatican, and there are some lovely items on display, they provide only a pale glimpse that cannot do justice to the immense (in size and artistic quality) Vatican collection. It whet my art and history appetite and motivated me to plan a visit to the Vatican Museums, among the most wonderful in the world .
We managed to arrive on the terrace just as the full moon rose over the hotels across the street. Between the moon, the variety of music, the watershow and the beautiful evening, it was a great experience! The menu degustation was excellent, I particularly enjoyed the foie gras.
We were pleasantly surprised by the staff’s professionalism and emphasis on safety. The tour was fun, worth the time and expense, especially for ecotourism oriented travelers visiting ‘Vegas.
We were six passengers on a 1997 helicopter for the Grand Canyon Celebration Tour, which included aerial views of 400-foot deep Lake Mead, one of the largest man made lakes, and the Hoover dam. We made a brief stop to fuel the helicopter. The high point of the tour was breakfast at a small Papillon owned covered picnic area near the bottom of the Grand Canyon with a wonderful view of the Colorado River. It was great to stand near the bottom of the 277-mile long and 3,000 to 6,000 deep majestic Grand Canyon
There are a lot of hotels in Las Vegas, many of them with rooms and suites just as nice as the Four Seasons. But for the overall experience, from check-in to breakfast to evening turndown, this was the hotel for us. No slot machines and casino to walk through to access the elevators, quick check-in without velvet roped lines of dozens of travellers.
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