Tag Archives: Plan

Caribbean, Grenada, Guadeloupe, Plan, St. Kitts, Trip Ideas

Where to go now in the Caribbean

May 18, 2017

Caribbean travelers are always keen to find that next great new place, but most also want to experience of a bit of local flavor. These three islands offer up traditional culture, natural beauty and some of the finest and newest resorts in the region. See what’s trending on these authentic Caribbean isles and make sure they are on your radar.

Grenada

Spices in the air, waterfalls cascading from rainforest slopes, colorful island sloops lining a Colonial era harbor. These are the visions conjured by the slogan “Pure Grenada,” which is this three-island nation’s new statement of cultural identity. The fertile volcanic soils still sustain a thriving agricultural economy, but Grenada also nurtures a growing tourism infrastructure that is proving equally rich and rewarding for both hosts and guests. On the hillside overlooking Grand Anse Beach, Kimpton Kawana Bay has broken ground and is slated to open in 2019. A 375-acre resort and residential development at Levera Beach Resort includes the boutique Turtle Beach Hotel, which will open in late 2017. In addition, the landmark Mount Cinnamon property is undergoing a renovation and expansion that will add another section of villas.

On the secluded north shore of Grenada, the Turtle Beach Hotel overlooks the pristine sands of Levera Beach and a pair of private islands accessible to hotel guests. Photo: Joshua Yetman/Grenada Tourism Authority

Stunning beaches and natural beauty aren’t the only assets drawing visitors to Grenada. The islands are steeped in tradition, which manifests in a year-round roster of festivals and cultural events. With a deep connection to food and locally grown produce, the Chocolate Festival celebrates the island’s agricultural tourism. Traditional crops such as allspice, cinnamon and nutmeg now take a back seat to the production of cacao, and chocolate may have its place on the national flag one day. Sister isle Carriacou maintains a line up of festivities rooted in local tradition. The annual Carriacou Carnival includes dancing in the street, parades and competitions that include rhyme and humor. The island also hosts the Maroon & Music Festival, honoring African origins depicted through drumming and singing.

Grenada is known as the Spice Island, famous for its groves of nutmeg and cinnamon. In recent years, chocolate has become a sweet addition to the agricultural scene. Photo: Joshua Yetman/Grenada Tourism Authority

St. Kitts

It’s been just over a decade since the government of St. Kitts made a conscious decision to transition the local economy from an agricultural base to hospitality. Today a quarter of the population is involved in tourism, and new residential and resort properties are opening each year. A key focus of this planned growth is preserving the elements that have made St. Kitts such a desirable destination. This is an island known for its green landscapes, uncrowded beaches, historic sites and plantation inns. With infrastructure on the rise, and construction prevalent on the once vacant hillsides, the government has taken measures to protect the cultural and natural heritage of the island. More than a quarter of the island is set aside in nature preserves, and marine parks line the shores.

On the southern coast of St. Kitts, a long peninsula known for pristine beaches and secluded bays is now home to the marina village of Christophe Harbour and soon, the Park Hyatt hotel. Photo: St. Kitts Tourism

Of the several new resort and residential projects underway, the island’s new favorite is Kittitian Hill, which sits on 400 acres of organic farmland that stretches from the slopes of Mount Liamuiga to the beach. Here, guests of Belle Monte Farm are housed in a collection of authentic West Indian cottages and farm houses, and dine at The Kitchen Restaurant, where cuisines are derived from the on-site organic gardens. The Kittitian Hill project continues to expand with new villas and programs created to immerse guests in the local culture and agriculture scene in a setting that resembles a traditional village. Another ongoing project is the marina village of Christophe Harbour, where the shores are lined with restaurants, bars, shops and home sites. The once vacant peninsula will have its first full-service hotel when the Park Hyatt opens in the summer of 2017. Also on the horizon and slated for 2017 with a price tag of $180 million is the Koi Resort & Residences, a multi-use resort development with 295 villas and suites located adjacent to the Royal St. Kitts Golf Club. Two smaller projects include the Imperial Bay Beach & Golf Residences adjacent to the Koi, and the Silver Reef Resort, another residential plan with one, two and three-bedroom apartments.

On the southern coast of St. Kitts, Salt Plage is new spot at Christophe Harbor. Patrons can enjoy craft cocktails while relaxing in day beds or hammocks suspended over the water. Photo: Debbie Snow

Guadeloupe

With loads of scenic beauty and a unique French Creole mix of cultures, Guadeloupe has long appealed to Canadian and European tourists. Today, thanks to additional air service, these islands are also attracting a growing U.S. market. But the international influx hasn’t changed the character of the destination, and this gem of the French West Indies remains true to its roots. In addition to the culture, the landscape delivers a wealth of natural attractions. The white sand beaches, coral reefs and seaside villages of Grande-Terre stand in stark contrast to Basse-Terre, where shores are lined in dark volcanic sands and backed by towering mountains laced with hiking trails and waterfalls. Also in the mix is a collection of unspoiled out islands, where life moves at a slower pace. Guadeloupe is noted for its French Creole culture and delicious Creole-based cuisine. Visitors will find an abundance of seafood dishes accented with local fruit and vegetables.

The Cascade Aux Ecrevisse is one of Guadeloupe’s most popular waterfalls. It can be reached by an easy ten-minute walk along a well-maintained pathway. Photo: Guadeloupe Islands Tourist Board

At the center of island culture are the markets. The largest in the heart of Pointe-a-Pitre is filled with vendors offering spices, seafood and mounds of fruits, vegetables and locally made condiments. Also noteworthy are the markets at Sainte-Anne, and new to the scene is the Friday night market at Gosier, which includes artwork from local artists, baked goods as well as produce and spices. A favorite place to stay in Gosier is Auberge de la Vieille Tour, a charming seaside resort with a touch of Creole décor over French colonial architecture. On the hillside overlooking the ocean, La Toubana Hotel & Spa has added ocean view suites, two with their own pools. Guadeloupe’s new focus comes in the form of eco loges. Two new projects offer up alternatives to typical hotels and serve as environmentally sound stays. Aqua Lodge is a floating hotel equipped with solar panels and Tendacayou is a retreat and spa in the rainforest on Basse- Terre.

On the islands of Guadeloupe, the blending of Creole flavors and French flair creates a savory range of cuisines, often featuring fresh seafood and locally grown fruits and vegetables. Photo: Shutterstock

Mexico, Plan, Puerto Vallarta, Trip Ideas

Discovering Riviera Nayarit

May 18, 2017

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From Acapulco to Zihuatanejo and Cancun to Cabo, Mexico has its share of famous beach towns. But the name that’s now trending with a growing number of travelers is Riviera Nayarit. This 200- mile swath on the country’s west central coast offers everything from deserted beaches and small towns to some of the most exclusive beachfront resorts in the world. If you haven’t yet heard of this up and coming destination, we invite you to come along for a whirlwind tour.

The North Side Playground

We’ll begin by flying into Ordaz International Airport in Puerto Vallarta. But instead of heading into the city’s historic vacation corridor, we’ll turn north and cross the Ameca River into the state of Nayarit. Here, just across the state line, a three-mile stretch of golden sand is flanked by modern, elegant high rises. This is Nuevo Vallarta, a resort district replete with yacht clubs, golf courses, luxurious all-inclusive properties and upscale shopping corridors. It’s the region’s equivalent of Cancun or Miami Beach, and a favorite with both international visitors and affluent vacationers from Mexico City.

The Paradise Village Marina & Yacht Club sits at the southern end of the Nuevo Vallarta resort district. This area is known for its upscale all-inclusive properties. Photo: Riviera Nayarit Convention & Visitors Bureau

The Big Bay

Keep heading north from Nueva Vallarta on Highway 200 and you’ll pass into the smaller towns of Bucerias and La Cruz de Huanacaxtle. These former fishing villages open to the waters of the Bay of Banderas, and are favorite destinations for water sports from sailing and windsurfing to fishing and diving. Here, the beach hotels shed a few floors and are a bit easier on the budget, while the adjacent town centers take on a more local vibe.

The High Point

At the northern end of Banderas Bay, a long point of land juts westward into the pacific. This is Punta de Mita, home to a collection of exclusive luxury home developments, championship golf courses and premier resorts from brands such as Four Seasons and St. Regis. If the bank account allows, this is the place to be for five-star service and upper crust amenities. If not, it’s still worth a stop in the fishing village of the same name, which is known for its seafood restaurants.

The view from the pool deck at the Four Seasons Punta Mita takes in the surf-washed Pacific Coast. In winter, migrating whales often pass close to shore. Photo: Four Seasons Punta Mita

Small Town Charms

As we leave the bay behind on our journey north, the highway necks down to two lanes and enters a coastal forest. For the next 70 miles as you run parallel to the coast, and every so often, a turnoff to the left will lead to a beachfront village. First up is Sayulita, where surf culture takes on a bohemian vibe. Eclectic galleries line the cobblestone streets, and hostels and guesthouses welcome everyone from backpackers to with-it baby boomers. As you continue up the coast, each village offers a unique personality. San Francisco is an artists’ town, and the place to pick up some authentic Huichol. Los Ayala is the starting point for boat rides and snorkel trips to Coral and Cangrejo Islands. The fishing villages of Lo de Marcos and La Peñita provide cobblestone streets, open-air markets and a respite from the tourist trade. By contrast the lively local beach scene at Guayabitos is one of Mexico’s favorite family vacation spots.

The seaside village of Sayulita draws an eclectic crowd of travelers, including surfers, artists and backpackers. Photo: Riviera Nayarit Convention & Visitors Bureau

Time Traveling North

Traveling north in Nayarit is like stepping back in time. Nature takes over, with miles of deserted beaches and estuaries that are a bird watchers paradise. Coastal towns retain Colonial-era overtones. The village of San Blas offers five centuries of history, and plenty of cultural authenticity. Even older is Mexcaltitan, known as Mexico’s Venice. This traditional community, which perches on a small man-made island in a lagoon, is said to be the birthplace of Aztec civilization. And for those seeking total solitude, the last stop on our tour is Playa Novillero. This is the longest and widest beach in all of Mexico, stretching for more than 55 miles, and fronted by virgin forests.

Large sections of coastline along the Riviera Nayarit remain wild and undeveloped. This area is home to Mexico’s longest beach, Playa Novillero. Photo: Riviera Nayarit Convention & Visitors Bureau

Europe, Islands, Plan, Play, Trip Ideas

Art Under the Waves

May 10, 2017

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The latest creations of underwater sculptor Jason deCaires Taylor lies under 40 feet of clear water in the Canary Islands. In recent years, Taylor has created iconic underwater sculpture displays in Grenada, Cancun and the Bahamas. The Museo Atlántico exhibition is located in the Bahía de Las Coloradas, just off the south coast of the island of Lanzarote.

The work known as Crossing the Rubicon shows a group of figures walking towards a gateway in a 100-foot underwater wall. This is said to represent the absurdity of creating barriers. Photo: Jason deCaires Taylor

The submerged gallery includes 12 tableaus with more than 300 life-size human figures. Taylor says that the collection is designed to provoke environmental awareness and social change. As an added element, the collection also serves as an artificial reef that attracts and shelters marine life. The exhibition can be toured by scuba divers and snorkelers, who follow a trail to discover the site’s narrative.

The work known as Los Jolateros depicts a group of children paddling a type of small skiff that island youth traditionally fabricate from oil drums and scrap metal. Photo: Jason deCaires Taylor

Among the noteworthy pieces is a Wall to Nowhere sculpture created to emphasize that notions of ownership and territories are irrelevant to the natural world. The final piece on the swimming tour is The Human Gyre, which is a large circle of over 200 life-size human figures representing all ages and all walks of life. The site can be visited by excursion boats departing from the island’s Marina Rubicón. More can be seen at www.cactlanzarote.com.

The Raft of Lampedusa is dedicated to a group of sailors who drifted to the island of Lanzarote on a life raft after being lost at sea when their ship sank off the coast of Senegal. Photo: Jason deCaires Taylor

Caribbean, Curacao, Plan, Trip Ideas

Caribbean Snapshots: Playa Jeremi, Curacao

May 9, 2017

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When islanders in the know want to get away from it all, they head to Curacao’s west end and the village of Lagun. On the far edge of town, an unobtrusive sand road leads to the parking area above a small cove filled with dazzlingly clear Caribbean water. Stone steps lead down the cliff face to Playa Jeremi, where a pair of small thatch huts is the only facilities.

Rather than sand, the beach is made up of tiny lava stones, which tickle the feet. The rocky area at the western end of the beach is a favorite with snorkelers, who can swim with colorful tropical fish and explore the underwater nooks and crannies inhabited by lobsters and eels. On weekdays, visitors may have the beach all to themselves, but a few locals usually show in late afternoon to take in the magnificent sunsets.

Africa, Islands, Plan, Seychelles, Trip Ideas

50 Shades of Blue: Seychelles Most Spectacular Beaches

May 3, 2017

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The granite islands of the Seychelles showcase a unique combination of ancient rock formations, soft sands and coral reefs. These juxtapositions make for some stunningly beautiful beach settings. Here, the palm-shaded shoreline of Anse Patates creates a postcard-perfect scene. A short swim into the waters of the sheltered cove leads to fish-laden coral gardens, where dolphins sometimes join snorkelers exploring the reef.

Africa, Asia, British Virgin Islands, Caribbean, Central America, Costa Rica, Curacao, Dominica, Florida, Hawaii, Hawaii-Big Island, Islands, Maldives, Plan, Seychelles, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, Tahiti, Trip Ideas

Earth Day Images From the Tropics

April 20, 2017

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On April 22, the natural world takes center stage as humans around the globe pause to reflect on the importance of protecting and enhancing the ecosystems we share with all other living creatures. Here, a colorful little red-eyed tree frog from the rainforests of Costa Rica serves as a visual reminder of the diverse, beautiful and sometimes-fragile nature of the planet Earth and its inhabitants.

Islands, Oceania, Plan, Tahiti, Trip Ideas

Tahiti: 10 Reasons to Go

March 31, 2017

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The mere mention conjures romantic visions of blue lagoons, emerald peaks and bronzed bodies with flowers in the hair. These are The Islands of Tahiti, a collection of green jewels in the blue Pacific where volcanic peaks rise above bright lagoons, and surf washed coral atolls are filled with colorful tropical fish.

1 Blossoms

Bright hued tropical flowers have long been one of the most iconic symbols of Tahitian culture. Blossoms are woven into necklaces and tiara-like crowns, while both men and women wear single flowers behind the ear. When worn on the right, it symbolizes that you are seeking romance, while a shift to the left side indicates that you are already spoken for.

Crowns of fresh flowers adorn women participating in a singing festival on the island of Rurutu. The blossoms are mirrored in the floral patterns of their traditional parau dresses. Photo: Tahiti Tourisme

2 Towering Peaks

Green clad volcanic peaks dominate the landmarks on the major islands of Tahiti. The view of craggy Mount Otemanu from across Bora Bora’s lagoon is one of the most iconic images from the South Pacific. Some peaks can be summited by dedicated hikers, but most visitors opt for overlooks half way up the slopes that can be reached by road, and provide sweeping views of island and ocean.

3 Waves

Neophytes and champions alike descend on Tahiti when the surf is up. On the island of Tahiti, long Pacific swells create rider friendly breaks at sites such as Papara, Papenoo and Taapuna. More challenging are the big swells that break on the southwestern coast at Teahupoo. In peak season, these expert-only waves crest to heights of 25 feet, and the world’s best riders gather to compete in the Billabong Pro surf competition.

The island of Tahiti draws surfers from around the world with warm, clear waters and some of the best waves in the Pacific, plus a number of beginner friendly breaks. Photo: Tahiti Tourisme

4 Singing

In traditional Polynesian culture, legends and histories were often passed down through song. With the arrival of Europeans, these traditional melodies melded with religious hymns to create the a cappella styles known as himene ru’au and himene tarava, which mix soaring solo performances with complex choir harmonies and vocal percussion. These styles, first brought to the world music scene by the performers of the Tahitian Choir, can be heard at festivals and worship services across the islands.

5 Tattoos

Body art has long been considered a symbol of beauty in Polynesian culture. In ancient times, woven tatua patterns were applied as a rite of passage to adulthood. The practice was banned by Christian missionaries in the 1800s, but has since enjoyed a revival. The intricate patterns of traditional Tahitian designs now inspire tattoo artists around the world.

The ancient Polynesian’s created an intricate form of body art known as tatua. European sailors later adopted the practice, which evolved into the modern day tattoo. Photo: Tahiti Tourisme

6 Waterfalls

When the rains that fall on the soaring volcanic peaks of the major islands of Tahiti tumble towards the sea they create thundering cascades and wispy waterfalls. Some are hidden deep in the jungle, reachable only by strenuous hikes or four-wheel-drive excursions. Others are just a short walk away from towns and roadways. Among the most spectacular is towering Fautaua Falls on the island of Tahiti, where waters plunge more than 400 feet over a cliff in a remote hanging valley. Also popular is Vaipahi Falls, which is a classic jungle clad cascade that feeds a cool pool ideal for swimming.

7 Overwater Bungalows

Few images from The Islands of Tahiti are as compelling as the vision of a thatch roofed bungalow set on pilings above the sparking turquoise waters of a lagoon. Overwater bungalows were first introduced to the world in the 1960’s on the island of Moorea. In the decades since, a number of these idyllic structures have spread to other islands in the group, gaining features such as glass floor viewing panels, decks with private plunge pools and hammocks suspended over the water.

The island of Moorea saw the construction of the world’s first overwater bungalows in the 1960s. These iconic resorts have now spread to the other islands of Tahiti. Photo: Tahiti Tourisme

8 Heiva

The biggest celebration in The Islands of Tahiti is a month-long festival originally inspired by French Bastille Day observances. Today, Heiva is a showcase of traditional island culture that includes lavish dance performances, singing competitions, outrigger canoe races and displays of physical prowess that include stone lifting, fruit carrying races, coconut cracking, and palm tree climbing. The festival also includes arts and crafts, with displays that feature works from across French Polynesia.

9 Snorkeling

Islands such as Tahiti, Bora Bora and Moorea are ringed in reefs that enclose clear water lagoons, while atolls such as Rangiroa and Manihi enclose expansive coral gardens. This creates ideal conditions for snorkelers, who can immerse in shallow, sheltered waters to discover colorful corals and abundant fish life. Reefs often begin right from resort beaches or at the steps of an overwater bungalow, while more sites can be reached by relaxing boat rides across lagoon waters.

Small uninhabited islands such as this one in the Moorea Lagoon are known as motus. These become favorite destinations for sailing excursions and outrigger canoe trips. Photo: Tahiti Tourisme

10 French Connections

The Islands of Tahiti have long been associated with France, first as an overseas territory, and more recently with the added autonomy of an affiliated overseas country. This relationship has created a blended and cosmopolitan island culture, where ancient Polynesian traditions of hospitality and reverence for nature combine with a French appreciation for the good life. The result is a people who are among the happiest and most welcoming in the world.

Caribbean, Plan, Trip Ideas, U.S. Virgin Islands

The US Virgin Islands, Above and Below

March 31, 2017

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Seen from above, the US Virgin Islands present a tantalizing hint of what lies below. When Caribbean waters transition from deep blues to vibrant aquamarines, it is a sign that snorkel worthy coral reefs and swimmer friendly sandbars await. An aerial view of the island of St. John reveals the shallows of Cruz Bay, and a ring of reef around tiny Steven Cay. Photo: Christian Wheatley/iStock

Florida, Miami, Miami Beach, Plan, South Beach, Trip Ideas

Best Sunset Spots on Miami Beach

March 28, 2017

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The pinks, oranges and yellows of a South Florida sunset are all the more spectacular when they are reflected in water, and silhouetted against the Miami skyline. The best places to take in these views are from the west side of Miami Beach, where a select number of bars and restaurants front the waters of Biscayne Bay. Here are the top places to chill and watch the light show.

The Standard Hotel & Spa, Miami Beach

Want to get away from the tourist scene at Ocean Drive, and start the evening in chill fashion? Then the place to be when the sun goes down is The Standard Hotel & Spa, which is tucked unobtrusively into a corner lot on Belle Isle. From a table at the Lido Grill, you can watch the colors play across the waters of the bay and soak up the hipster-calm vibe of this spa-centric resort. The scene changes on Sundays, when the weekly BBQ pool party draws a crowd of in-the-know locals, who come to celebrate with DJs and rosé wine slushies, aka Frosés.

The scene is serene at The Standard Hotel & Spa, set on a small island between downtown Miami and South Beach. The energy escalates during weekend pool parties. Photo: The Standard

Mondrian South Beach

At the west end of 11th Street, the sleek and trendy Mondrian South Beach is a favorite with young, upscale professionals and SoBe’s glamour crowd. The epicenter of the sunset scene is the indoor/outdoor bar, with groups and couples spreading out to the expansive waterfront pool deck and gardens, where lounges, hammocks and private cabanas are tucked into the landscape. Monday to Friday happy hour tempts with “bites” by Executive Chef Dustin Atoigue. Nibble on chicken lollipops or tuna tartar with one of their signature cocktails. For elevated views of the sun sinking below the downtown Miami skyline, take your drink to the second story terrace.

An upscale crowd of South Beach locals is joined by in-the-know visitors to enjoy sunset views from the pool deck at the Mondrian South Beach. Photo: Mondrian South Beach

Monty’s Sunset, Miami Beach

Staying in South Beach, but want to pretend you are in the Florida Keys? Monty’s Sunset pairs the barefoot-and-boat-drinks vibe of the Conch Republic with the glitz of high-dollar yachts parked next door at the Miami Beach Marina. This long-time favorite recently received some renovations to the restaurant and pool areas, but what hasn’t changed is the four-to-eight-o’clock happy hour, which pairs fresh seafood favorites from the kitchen and raw bar with drink specials from the Tiki Bar. There’s usually live music and a great mix of locals, boaters, fishermen and tourists.

The pool deck at Monty’s Sunset is a slice of the Florida Keys set in the heart of Miami Beach, complete with a tiki bar and a marina filled with sport fishermen. Photo: Monty’s

Hawaii, Oahu, Plan, Trip Ideas

Hawaii Snapshots: Koko Crater, Oahu

March 13, 2017

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Rising more than 1,200 feet above the shores of the popular marine park at Hanauma Bay, Koko Crater is the most prominent landmark on the southern coast of the island of Oahu. It’s also the site of a popular yet challenging hike. The climb follows a railway line built to service artillery and lookout points during the Second World War.

Today, the cross ties of the abandoned rail line form stair steps for hikers, who negotiate more than 1,000 of these wooden risers on the way to the top. The hike is a favorite of former President Obama, who once scattered his mother’s ashes from the summit. As an easier alternative to the summit route, visitors can follow a two-mile loop through a botanical garden in the center of the crater.

Grenada

St. Kitts

Guadeloupe

The North Side Playground

The Big Bay

The High Point

Small Town Charms

Time Traveling North

1 Blossoms

2 Towering Peaks

3 Waves

4 Singing

5 Tattoos

6 Waterfalls

7 Overwater Bungalows

8 Heiva

9 Snorkeling

10 French Connections

The Standard Hotel & Spa, Miami Beach

Mondrian South Beach

Monty’s Sunset, Miami Beach

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