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| Our staff members travel frequently in Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and the South Pacific. This section highlights their latest travel experiences, with cutting edge regional updates, exciting new travel destinations, and special-interest activities. |
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SOUTHEAST ASIA
Inle Lake
As if a visit to Burma (Myanmar) is not unique enough, treat yourself to a dream-like stay on Inle Lake. After an overnight stay there to end my three-week trip to Thailand, Cambodia and Burma, I realized that a visit to Inle deserved no less than a two-night stay. This is a magical place, with a culture and experience unique to the lake and its shores. The physical beauty of the lake and surrounding mountains is truly incredible. On either side of our longtail boat were fisherman, poised to drop their conical fishing traps as they balanced on one leg, while steadying their boat with the other leg wrapped delicately around their single oar. The majority of these people are Intha, an ethnically unique people with their own culture and language. As we skimmed along and wound our way through smaller passages between floating gardens and villages constructed on bamboo stilts, we were confronted by waving and smiling children and their parents. Inle Lake has an otherworldly feel, especially at dawn as mist forms on the surface of the lake, and at dusk as the heat of the midday sun dissipates, and the sun reflects brilliantly off the water. Opportunities abound to explore markets, temples and villages in the middle of the lake built up on earthen and bamboo platforms.
The overall ambience of this tranquil place, coupled with the choice of accommodations, is unparalleled. One hotel, the Golden Island Cottages, appear as a stunning mirage as you approach by boat -- it literally sits on stilts and platforms of bamboo and wood in the middle of the lake. Before your boat even pulls up to the stairs that meet the lapping water, the staff gathers around with instruments and sings you a song welcoming you to their bamboo island resort. This is a rustic option but is chock full of local character. The individual cottages are simple, but comfortable, and some are even furnished with floors of bamboo that give a little with each step and offer a slight glimpse of the sparkling lake below. I stayed just up the river from here at the Inle Princess Hotel in a tastefully appointed chalet on the lakeshore. It was absolutely unbelievable. This elegant property is constructed entirely of dark wooden pavilions and chalets, with wonderful views out onto the lake, especially from our private balcony perched over the water's edge. This is an extremely quiet, serene and peaceful spot to relax, or walk around the grounds and nearby village.
- Michael Rubinstein
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Cambodia & the Mekong
There are now direct flights to Siem Reap-home of the temples of Angkor-from both Bangkok and Saigon. This makes it easy to fly in, see the temples, and be on your way in a matter of days. But if you have the time, the best way to get a feel for the lush countryside between Cambodia and Vietnam is to travel by river in the Mekong Delta from Saigon to Phnom Penh. This is a cutting edge way to travel in Indochina, and there are new deluxe hotels in the Mekong Delta region so you can do it in style. The way I recommend it is a 3 day / 2 night journey. Drive three hours from Saigon to Can Tho and overnight at the Victoria Can Tho Hotel. Visit floating villages and markets the next morning, then take a boat down the Mekong to Chau Doc, in the heart of the Delta and near the Vietnam-Cambodia border. Tour fishing villages and overnight at the Victoria Chau Doc Hotel. On the third day, travel by boat down the Mekong to Phnom Penh. The trip to Phnom Penh takes about four hours including border formalities, in order to allow you to tour Phnom Penh and fly to Angkor Wat the next day. This is one of my favorite new routes in Asia and I highly, highly recommend it. Call us for details.
- Natalie Nevares
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Cambodia
Clearly the highlight of any trip to Cambodia, the temples of Angkor are a truly spectacular remnant of the Khmer empire of centuries past. I was able to visit a variety of temples and structures throughout the area of Angkor. One of the most fantastic temples I saw was Ta Prohm, which has remained sturdy and intact with huge trees that have grown through it and now actually support the structure! It is truly a miraculous occurrence. Another breath-taking temple is Preah Kahn, which has been left in its natural state in co-existence with the wild jungle. I took some time to sit and enjoy the sounds of nature and take in the magnificent stone-carvings before moving on to other locations. One of the great joys of being in Angkor was waking up for an early morning trip to the awesome Angkor Wat, the largest and most famous temple in Angkor. This is the best time to beat the crowds that normally swamp this temple during the day and at sunset. One could easily spend three to five days at Angkor in order to explore the area at one's own pace. We can easily customize a trip to Angkor and the rest of Cambodia depending on your time constraints and preferences.
- Mona Iskander
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Vietnam
Vietnam is the only country in Southeast Asia I hadn't previously traveled, but now that I have, I've decided that it's my number one, favorite country in the region. Considering that Vietnam's only been officiallyfor tourism since 1989, it's almost inconceivable that Vietnam is today one of the most ideal destinations we offer. They've got pristine beaches on the coast, terraced mountains in the north, bustling cities, unspoiled tribal villages, unique fine arts traditions, delicate cuisine, relaxed cafes, phenomenal shopping opportunities, and the comfort of an ever-improving tourist infrastructure.
I recently inspected many new deluxe hotels and products in the country, mostly by the Victoria group, which is a small French concern based in Indochina. The new Victoria properties include two hotels in the Mekong Delta and the Victoria Hoi An Hotel. This charming hotel is just outside of Hoi An, but right on a sandy beach. Rooms face either the East Sea or to the adjacent lush rice paddies. Another great new service in Vietnam is the deluxe train to Sapa, in the heart of the northern hilltribe country. The Victoria Sapa Hotel is perched on a hill overlooking the town, and they have their own deluxe rail cars on the local train, to make travel to the north more comfortable for discerning travelers. The Victoria cars have red carpets laid out in front, and the interior decor is teakwood with crisp white sheets, fluffy duvets, and a selection of toiletries. Since the market in Sapa operates daily (and is often overcrowded with tourists on the weekends), I suggest taking the train to Sapa on Wednesday night, then returning on the Sunday afternoon train so you see the mountain scenery by day. Alternately, we can arrange a private car for the journey back to Hanoi. See our Northern Vietnam Explorer and Sapa in Style Extension itineraries for further details.
- Natalie Nevares
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Thailand
The Regent Chiang Mai is an absolutely gorgeous, gorgeous resort, and my favorite property in all of Thailand. It is one of the top resorts in Asia, surrounded by lush rice paddies right on the property, lovely Thai-style villas, a gorgeous plunge pool, and a magnificent view of smoky blue mountains in the distance. Each villa is tastefully designed with teakwood floors and Thai-style furniture, and for the rice paddy or mountain view villas, you have a lovelyair lounge area with a table and daybed where you can enjoy the beautiful views of the property's surroundings. The service is excellent here. The resort also offers residence villas, HUGE 2/3-bedroom villas to accommodate families or couples traveling together. They're absolutely amazing, with massive public area rooms (living room, dining room, etc, and even a room for the in-house maid who can cook and clean for the family). Each room is decorated with beautiful Thai antiques and sculptures. The most recent news on this property is the beautiful two-million dollar Lanna spa, but the spa is already very popular with their guests, so make advance reservations! This hotel is about a 25-minute drive away from city center. Good piece of advice: plan AT LEAST a day or two free at the resort.
One of the best days in Thailand was the Adventure tour from Chiang Mai, an excellent tour for those who want a little adventure (soft, that is) and who want to get out and combine a bit of exercise with sightseeing. The day starts early, around 8am, and the day's activity included a one and a half hour mountain bike ride. The ride was beautiful, past rice paddies, lush green scenery, banana and fruit trees, villages, and no traffic. Then we took a 1.5 hour elephant ride. Elephant riding is definitely more scenic from Chiang Rai, but this is fine if you'll only be in Chiang Mai. We then did a fun and easy 40-minute white water river rafting ride down the Mae Taeng River followed by a very simple, basic local-style lunch which actually was very tasty. The final activity of this fun day was a one hour hike to a quiet and untouristy Akha village, which was a great place to end a nearly perfect day. The day ends in the late afternoon, just in time for some R&R or a relaxing swim at the peaceful Regent resort.
- Lisa Sun
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Indonesia
Indonesia is one of the most varied and appealing countries I've ever visited. Each trip I've made there has been a joy, and a fascinating look at cultural and natural diversity. Bali has got to be one of the most delicious of destinations, where you really are spoiled for choice for luxurious, elegant accommodation: the Four Seasons, the Aman properties, the Matahari - all of them are delightful, perfect for honeymoons or just a taste of luxury. The island itself is teeming with attractions - and a lot less spoiled that its detractors say! You can snorkel, cycle, hike, visit temples and art galleries, or just soak up luxury at one of the island's resorts. Aside from Bali, Indonesia has many islands that all offer the traveler a wide range of delights. Eastern Java easily warrants a week of touring. Sunrise at Mt Bromo is an unforgettable sight, as the volcano is surrounded by thick mist. Yogyakarta is surrounded by fabulous sights, such as the ancient cities of Prambanan and Borobodur, reflecting the Hindu and Buddhist heritage of the area. Just outside Yogya is the Amanjiwo, designed by Ed Tuttle for Aman resorts, and inspired by the Buddhist temples of Borobodur. Like all the Aman properties, it's in a class of its own, combining discreet elegance with the ultimate in service. East of Bali is the delightful island of Lombok, which will always hold a special place in my travel memories for the glorious days' snorkeling I had off of the Gili Islands. I also loved the tour of the Sasak artisans' villages, where I bought some lovely woven baskets and woodcarvings, which made great presents for family & friends. These three islands are combined in our Indonesia: Arts, Culture and Natural Wonders program.
Aside from these three islands, I absolutely adored my trip to Camp Leakey, in Kalimantan. This was one of the most exciting experiences of my life. We flew to Pangkalan Bun, then traveled for two hours by boat up to Tanjung Harapan. The jungle along the river was teeming with hornbills, proboscis monkeys, and egret. We stayed at the Rimba Lodge. This is basic, but clean accommodation: you don't come here for luxury, but to have a base for exploring Camp Leakey. Established by one of Richard Leakey's students, Dr Birute Galdikas, this study center offers a rare opportunity to see orangutans in their natural habitat, and learn about the jungle and its inhabitants. You can also see orangutans in Sumatra, at Bukit Lawang. Orangutans are one of the world's most endangered species, and the jungles that they live in are just awesome - you can't be unmoved by the richness and splendor of this landscape. You can see both these orangutan reserves on our Focus on Wildlife and Culture tour, which also includes Yogya & Bali. For anyone who's interested in nature, this is a rare opportunity to see one of the world's most awesome lands in safety and comfort.
- Siobhan Maderson
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Bali
For an ideal stay in Bali, I recommend spending your first few nights at the Amanusa - an architectural masterpiece -- followed by a night or two in Ubud at either the Amandari, the Begawan Giri, or the Four Seasons Sayan. Ubud is a convenient base for visiting the studios of some of Bali's most important living artists. The village of Mas is home to the Njana Tilem Gallery, founded by the son of Bali's master woodcarver, Ida Bagus Njana. Just down the road is the Ketut Puja Gallery, founded by his apprentices. There are also several prominent traditional painters in the nearby village of Batuan. Those interested in modern Balinese art should be sure to visit Ubud's premier art gallery, the Komaneka Gallery. As a grand finale, stay at on the east coast at the Amankila, the most isolated and dramatic Aman resort on Bali. Its close proximity to Bali's most interesting and traditional culture allows for great day tours, and the remote beaches and seaside location will please anyone looking for a few days of romance and relaxation.
- Ashley Isaacs
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INDIA & THE HIMALAYAS
India
Just back from a fantasy trip through Northern India. With three weeks, I started off in Delhi and traveled to Varanasi, Agra and much of Rajasthan. This area was a perfect introduction to the sub-continent since there is so much to see in India and it is important not to squeeze too much traveling in a short period of time. Varanasi was the first highlight of my trip. It is a place of intense spiritual significance for Hindus and life continues here with a unique sense of timelessness; the streets are always bustling with people and the Ganges is constantly crowded with pilgrims. Only a short drive away is Sarnath, a holy place for Buddhists. The Buddha gave his first ceremony here to his disciples and the grounds around the ancient stuppa are a place for relaxation and a popular place for picnicking.
Rajasthan is famous for its vibrant colors and exquisite Moghul structures and art. I chose to drive through much of Rajasthan which was an excellent decision as I was able to appreciate the stunning beauty of the countryside through endless mustard fields and rural Rajput villages selling everything from brightly-colored fabrics to the freshest produce. Throughout my trip I had the opportunity to visit some amazing properties that redefine luxury. Amarvilas in Agra has the closest spot to the Taj and affords breath-taking views of it from the rooms! Another property I highly recommend is Rajvilas in Jaipur. The property was designed like a fort and is beautifully spread out on lush grounds. Its brand-new spa offers a variety of techniques to sample. The Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur is absolutely spectacular and the Maharaja still occupies part of this amazing property. The rooms are designed in art-deco style but the public areas retain a classically Indian style.
I ended my trip by traveling west to the fabled city of Jaisalmer on the edge of the Thar Desert. This city ranked as one of my favorite spots on the trip and was a definite highlight. Jaisalmer is home to one of the oldest continually inhabited forts with a vibrant and bustling populace living within it. It was great fun to get lost in the narrow alleyways and walk around for hours in awe of the sheer magnitude of this fort. There are a variety of desert excursions you can take out to the sand dunes. Many people take a few days or even weeks to sleep in the desert and experience a truly nomadic life. I took a camel ride to the Sam Sand Dunes and watched an unforgettable sunset. Fort Rajwada is by far the best place to stay in Jaisalmer. Located just ten minutes outside of the fort, this property is luxurious and modeled after a Moghul palace. It is an ideal place to escape to at the end of the day.
- Mona Iskander
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Nepal
...Just back from the jungles of Nepal where the growing numbers of Rhinos and Tigers in Royal Chitwan National park led to some wild Elephant rides. Surrounded by the Sal forest jungle with the Himalayas towering in the distance, Tiger Tops Jungle Lodge is the perfect place to unwind after such elephantine adventures. If there in December, make sure to catch the famous annual elephant polo tournament.
In the Kathmandu Valley, the Patan Museum boasts an excellent collection of Hindu and Buddhist art treasures from around Nepal, in a recently refurbished Palace on Patan's Durbar Square in the Kathmandu Valley. Enjoy lunch or a refreshing drink in the lovely courtyard Cafe.
Kathmandu is famous for its elaborate woodcarvings, most noticeably adorning the window frames of newari pagodas and palaces. In Naxal, the locals seek to rejuvenate the high quality craftsmanship using the best wood to create both traditional and contemporary pieces. Across from the gallery is a Newari mansion housing a stunning garden restaurant, Wunjala Moska. It is a peaceful escape from Kathmandu's hustle and bustle, elegantly serving fine Newari cuisine in its lush garden, accompanied by traditional music and dance. Just a block down the road is another great source for traditional crafts and contemporary Nepali art, The Indigo Gallery, which is located in a charming house with a beautiful garden. It also contains the famous 'post trek' destination: Mike's Breakfast.
Nature, adventure, culture, shopping and good food... what more could one ask for?
- Sasha Lehman
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India
On my last trip to India, I had the pleasure of staying at a couple of new deluxe Oberoi properties, including Rajvilas in Jaipur and Amarvilas in Agra. These hotels, and similar properties being built in Udaipur and Ranthambore, have completely changed India for sophisticated travelers, and make what was merely an amazing trip through India's most important historical cities, a truly decadent resort experience. I felt like a Maharaja with a personal butler and rose petals in the sunken marble tub. I also highly recommend an Ayurvedic body treatment at Rajvilas' spa. If you like to shop, there's an elaborate outdoor cultural center in Delhi called Dilli Haat. They've got stalls set up with handicrafts and local delicacies from all over India as well as traditional dance and music performances. This bazaar is geared for locals rather than tourists, so it's a uniquely low-key shopping experience, and culturally interesting as well.
India is much larger than many people think, so if you've never been, you may have to tackle it in stages. For your first trip, I suggest traveling in the North, incorporating Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Udaipur and Varanasi, as in our 11day Northern India program. This will give you an opportunity to see the most important Moghul architecture, as well as the Rajasthani desert, the Ganges at Benares, and an assortment of forts, palaces, markets and museums. This is just a taste of India, and will probably leave you longing to return. For your second trip, go south, using Bombay as your gateway. Depending on your interests, you can spend time in Tamil Nadu exploring India's most colorful and elaborate Hindu temples, or relax and enjoy the coconut curries, boutique hotels, and tropical backwaters of Kerala. Of course, if you have time, I suggest doing both, relaxing in Kerala at the end. A good introduction that incorporates the highlights of Tamil Nadu and Kerala is our 14-day Southern Exposure program.
- Natalie Nevares
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EAST ASIA
China
When most people think of travel to China, they think of the main highlights: Beijing's Forbidden City, the Great Wall, the Terracotta Army at Xian, cruising the Yangtse River, and the electric verve of Shanghai. My memories of China are of the western region of Sichuan and Yunnan. I traveled overland from Chengdu to Kunming, then flew to Xishuanbanna. The first thing that impressed me about Sichuan was its landscape. I'd always thought that the steep, mist-shrouded mountains of traditional Chinese landscape paintings were a fantastic, mythologized view. I was amazed to see that the region really does look like that! I visited Emei Shan, one of the five sacred mountains of Buddhism. I'll never forget visiting temples that are sequestered amidst the forests, and sipping tea on the banks of thundering waterfalls. I drove south to Dali, which was just gorgeous--the town is on the banks of Lake Erhai, and the area is home to a lot of ethnic minorities. The weekly market at Shaping offers everything from dried fish, to embroidered silks, to antique coins and copies of Mao's Little Red Book! Nearby is Lijiang, where I heard a concert of traditional music sublimely performed by an orchestra whose average age was 68. Lijiang is a lovely mountain village, with wooden houses along tree-lined canals, and little curved bridges. Around Lijiang are lots of interesting small villages. We also spent a day visiting Tiger Leaping Gorge, which was gorgeous--it's the Yangtze's deepest point.
Xishuangbanna is a whole other realm altogether. Hidden deep in the remote southwest, the region is culturally and geographically much closer to its southern neighbors--Burma, Thailand and Laos--than mainland China. It's reckoned that Southeast Asia's hilltribes all originated from this area. These regions are included in our Western Paradise tour, and The Borderlands of Xishuangbanna. They're great opportunities for people who have already explored China's eastern attractions, and for people interested in traditional cultures.
- Siobhan Maderson
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Japan
Having spent several years living and traveling in Japan, I can confidently say that the Gora Kadan is Japan's most special place to stay. If you want to experience the best of Japanese cuisine, style, and hospitality, this is the place to splurge for a night or two. The best way to get there is to have a driver and guide escort you from Tokyo to Hakone, visiting Kamakura en route. Kamakura has fascinating temples tucked into the mountainside, including Tokei-ji: this series of caves once served as a safe haven for women seeking divorce in ancient times. After three years in residence here, women were officially recognized as nuns. Every minute at the Gora Kadan is pure indulgence: seasonal kaiseki dinners, private outdoor hot springs, dramatic glass corridors lined with ikebana arrangements, and the shiatsu massages at the spa - these are just a few of the reasons why I can't wait to return.
Another highlight of my most recent visit to Japan was the Miho Museum near Kyoto. Although its collection of antiquities is impressive, the real highlight is the drive there that winds through rural farmland: this is a great way to witness a side of Japan you might not otherwise see. The museum is a work of art in itself. Its architect, I. M. Pei, says that it is still his most cherished project. Similar to Japanese temple architecture, each window frames the surrounding scenery, inviting you to stop and meditate on the power of the view alone.
The Gora Kadan and the Miho Museum are included in several of Absolute Asia's Japan tours, such as Traditions of Elegance and Japan In Style.
- Ashley Isaacs
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SOUTH PACIFIC
The Real Australia
When most of us think of Australia, the first places that come to mind are popular tourist locations like Sydney, Melbourne, the Great Barrier Reef, and Ayers Rock. If you've got the time, it's well worth complementing these locations with other, lesser traveled regions of Australia. I suggest starting your trip in Western Australia; Broome, with its awe-inspiring sunsets from the Cable Beach Resort, is a great departure point for an 'outback adventure' in the Kimberleys, one of Australia's last frontiers. Moving on, it's just a short flight to the exclusive El Questro Homestead, where you're guaranteed to experience the genuine Outback.
Another 'off the beaten path' destination is the South Australian state capital of Adelaide, one of Australia's most elegant cities with its many gardens, stately homes, stunning beaches to the west, and the lush Adelaide Hills to the east. It's a 'must see' if you're interested in Australian cuisine, wine, gardens, and antiques. Adelaide is also a perfect base for day excursions to Kangaroo Island, famous for its native wildlife and dramatic scenery, and the Barossa Wine Valley. Adelaide preserves a certain charm with its many B&Bs and heritage accommodations. I particularly recommend Thornegrove Manor or the converted Fire Station Inn.
Just off the coast of South Australia is Tasmania, an island ideal for nature-lovers and hikers. Whether you're interested in peaceful drives through rolling hills of lavender, or hiking the lunar-like landscape at Cradle Mountain, Absolute South Pacific can customize a self-drive or a guided tour based on your interests. Of course, we'll see that you're pampered at the end of each day with stays at premier properties such as Freycinet Lodge or Cradle Mountain Lodge. These intimate lodges -- with their spas, beautiful locations, and meals emphasizing Tasmanian wines, cheeses, and gourmet cuisine - are the ultimate getaway. Traveling through these regions will revolutionize your perception of the land Down Under.
- Ken Fish, President
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Nelson, New Zealand
Nelson is a much-overlooked destination by foreign tourists. A favorite vacation spot for Kiwis, this festive town on the north end of New Zealand's South Island receives more sunshine throughout the year than anywhere else in the country. Under an hour's drive to Abel Tasman National Park, visitors can experience sandy beaches, crystal waters, and scenic walks, ranging from casual to moderately challenging.
Also known for its thriving artist's community, Nelson embraces its burgeoning creative scene and boasts the celebrated Suter Museum, which provides insight into the region's arts and crafts. Imagination flows beyond ceramics and jewelry, as even the cuisine takes aesthetics into consideration. Visitors are encouraged to sample the food at Lambretta's in downtown Nelson, where gourmet pizzas and other goodies are served to order.
As far as accommodation, The Lodge at Paratiho Farms is one of the New Zealand's most exclusive experiences. Visitors are certain to be overwhelmed by the magnificently manicured grounds, the well-trained and attentive staff, the terrific food and local wine, as well as all the amenities that one could dare to ask for. Another great place to stay is the historic Cambria House, located only a five minute walk from downtown. The owners, Peter and Georgina, are terrific hosts and make splendid breakfasts.
- Alex Kotler
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Papua New Guinea
PNG remains one of the world's most enticing destinations for anyone interested in tribal art and culture, and rare flora and fauna. The most convenient way to get there is to fly to Australia and take one of the new direct flights from Sydney to Port Moresby. The two "must visit" regions in PNG are Tari, in the Southern Highlands, and the Sepik River. We offer several tour options, depending on the level of comfort you prefer. For a luxurious and comprehensive tour, spend at least three nights at Tari's Ambua Lodge, where you'll visit Huli Wigmen villages and see the rare Birds of Paradise. The Lodge, with its beautiful nature trails, fireside communal dinners, and views over the dramatic valley, is definitely a highlight of any visit to Papua New Guinea.
There are several ways to explore the Sepik River. The most deluxe option is to take a cruise on the Melanesian Explorer. The most popular cruise route departs from Madang and spends five nights cruising the lower Sepik River. Days are spent visiting villages, each with their own unique culture and craft work; nights generally involve educational lectures and screenings of documentaries. Adventure travelers may prefer the three-night Sepik Spirit Cruise, departing from Karawari Lodge, that explores remote villages in the Upper Sepik and Blackwater Lakes region
If you're a scuba diver, you probably know that PNG offers the best scuba diving in the world!
- Ashley Isaacs
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MIDDLE EAST & NORTH AFRICA
Egypt
Cairo is a city with endless activities and possibilities. No time is too long for adventure and fascination in this city that contains so many rich layers of culture and tradition. After visiting the ancient sites at Memphis, I recommend a survey of Islamic and Christian Cairo- a fascinating side of Cairo's post-Pharaonic history. If you have more than five days there, a look at modern art in museums and galleries can be very valuable for all those interested in modern art expression in the developing world. A perfect place for a day trip is the Mediterranean city of Alexandria with its many seafood restaurants, ruins of the Roman, Greek and Islamic eras and the famed ancient harbor that Alexander the Great conquered centuries ago. A walk along the bay at Montazah Palace is the perfect place to take in the fresh sea breezes and watch the traditional fishermen wait patiently for the catch of the day.
- Mona Iskander
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Turkey
Turkey is one of my all-time favorite destinations. Several years ago, I spent two months exploring the heartland of Anatolia. I've recently spent some time exploring the western coast - and I can't decide which region I prefer. It's possible to have any kind of trip in Turkey: a lazy cruise along the Mediterranean, with day trips to stunning Roman ruins; an exploration of the dramatic landscape and rock-carved Byzantine churches of Cappadoccia, or an adventurous tour of the Black Sea coast and remote Georgian villages in the mountains of the northeast. Whatever you choose to do, you must spend at least three days in Istanbul - known to the Ottomans as the City of the World's Desires. I highly recommend staying at the Four Seasons: this converted Ottoman prison can't be beat for style or location. It's a five minute walk from the Hippodrome, and some of the city's best restaurants. My favorite is the Rami, a restored Ottoman townhouse with great food, elegant decor, and superb views of the Blue Mosque from its terrace. Two of my favorite tour options are our Coastal Highlights of Turkey, and our Istanbul and Cappadoccia option. The first takes you to Ephesus - the largest classical city in Turkey, and Antalya, which is filled with beautifully restored Ottoman townhouses, and is a great base for exploring the nearby ancient cities of Perge and Aspendos. The second focuses on Istanbul and Cappadoccia, with a leisurely schedule designed to let you really appreciate all these two destinations have to offer. You can explore Cappadoccia's underground cities of Derinkuyu and Kaymakli, and then get an overview of the area from a hot air balloon. The Byzantine churches carved into the mountains are very dramatic, and the landscape is just fabulous. Traveling in Turkey is incredibly easy. The roads are all in excellent condition, there are great restaurants throughout the country, and you couldn't ask for more gracious hosts. Wherever you choose to go to in Turkey, just go!
- Siobhan Maderson
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Egypt, Israel & Jordan
A combination of Egypt, Israel & Jordan is a great introduction to the Middle East. In a 2-3 week itinerary, we suggest beginning in Cairo, then traveling to Upper Egypt to tour the tombs and temples in Aswan, Luxor & Abu Simbel. Spend several days at the Oberoi's premier resort on the Red Sea, then continue to Jerusalem. From here, you can either take excursions to various Biblical sites in Israel, or proceed directly to Amman via the King Hussein bridge. (Remember not to get your passport stamped on the Israeli side if you plan to travel to other Arab countries!). In Jordan, the highlight is clearly Petra, but we also recommend Jerash and Wadi Rum if you have the time. Special hotels we recommend include the The Oberoi Sahl Hasheesh Red Sea, the Hilton or King David in Jerusalem, Cairo's new Four Seasons Hotel or historic Mena House, the Grand Hyatt in Amman, and the Movenpick Resort in Petra.
- Lane & Natalie Nevares
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Morocco
I just finished a three week tour of Morocco, and I'm already planning my next trip there. Morocco has everything a visitor could possibly ask for: luxurious and elegant properties, varied landscapes, superb food, and a rich artistic tradition. There is currently a passionate artistic and cultural renaissance taking place throughout the country, which makes it an even more exciting time to visit: the traditional arts of woodcarving, mosaic, plasterwork, ceramics, and weaving are being studied and practiced to a very high standard. Marrakesh is one of the loveliest cities I've ever visited, and the heart of the ryad revival. Ryads are traditional Moroccan courtyard homes, often elaborately decorated, with rooms surrounding fountain and plant-filled courtyards, and rooftop terraces. Many of the ryads have been converted into luxury hotels, and a stay in one is a highlight of any tour of Morocco. Some of the city's palaces have been transformed into restaurants, where you feast on twelve course meals while traditional music is played by talented musicians. I could easily have spent the entire trip in Marrakesh alone, but there was so much more to see! I drove south to Zagora, for a taste of the Sahara: the town is in the Draa Valley, which is an archetypal oasis, complete with lush date palms and fruit trees, and stark desert mountains in the background. Camels stroll down the main street. The oases and kasbah around Ourzazate can be explored from there, or from nearby Skoura's Hotel de Ben Moro - an actual 17th century kasbah that has been lovingly restored by a Spanish designer, and is now proudly, efficiently managed by the grandson of the last resident. I went hiking in the Dades & Todra gorges, whose sinuous geology, and mud-brick architecture reminded me of Utah & Arizona. You can also drive through these gorges, if you don't want to walk. I finished my trip in Fes, with two delicious nights at the Maison Bleue. This gorgeous property used to be the home of a judge and theologian. Today, it's a delightful boutique property, with a mini-swimming pool in the courtyard, and the most discreet, but attentive service you could ever ask for. The hotel is linked to an award-winning restaurant: you can eat there, or in the hotel's private restaurant. Two of us feasted on a ten course meal, served by a staff of four! If you have just a short time, I'd recommend our Introduction to the Kingdom program, which focuses on Marrakesh & Fes, with time in the cities, and day trips to the Atlas mountains & Volubilis, the ancient Roman city near Fes. If you have a little more time, and want to experience more of the country's history and landscape, I'd recommend Under a Sheltering Sky, which includes Casablanca, Marrakesh, Ourzazate and Zagora, and Fes and gives you a real taste of the Sahara, and the cultures that thrived on the trade caravans that passed through the area. This tour is exciting, beautiful, and dramatic, with luxury at the beginning and end. There's also great shopping in the cities and towns.
- Siobhan Maderson
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CENTRAL ASIA
Central Asia is a region brimming with history; great empires have been created and destroyed in these lands. And like other parts of the world I've visited, fantastic legacies abound. With the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, the "stan" republics of Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan arefor a new type of travel. In an effort to attract foreign visitors, authorities have relaxed travel restrictions, making it easier to visit sites that were once off limits, and to meet people who once eschewed foreign contact.
I traveled on our "Great Silk Road" trip, which beautifully highlights the diversity of the region. I followed one of the traditional Silk Routes passing through Uzbekistan into Kyrgyzstan and into Western China. The trip begins in Uzbekistan--the gem of all the Central Asian Republics. The city of Samarkand, which Alexander the Great considered the greatest city in the world, and the towns of Bukhara and Khiva astonish modern visitors with their grand mosques, homes, and tombs. Travelers interested in architecture will be impressed at how influential these buildings have been on succeeding generations of architecture.
Kyrgyzstan is mountain and nomad country. Though the country isn't blessed with the great architectural legacies of its neighbor, Kyrgyzstan is stunningly picturesque. The Tien Shan Mountains offer a gorgeous backdrop to the engaging, confident and friendly people you'll meet. Nomads will happily invite you into their summer yurt for a chance to sample some fermented mare's milk and some local cheese. If you're interested in hiking, horseback riding, or any of the lake areas, Kyrgyzstan deserves much more time.
Leaving Kyrgyzstan via the Torugat pass I crossed into China. Descending from the pass down into China is an exhilarating journey. You gradually travel from lush mountain topography to flat dry scrub-like land as you make your way into Kashgar-just in time for the "Sunday Market." This historical Sunday Bazaar, dating back some 2,000 years, brings well over a 100,000 people of varying nationalities and ethnic groups who blanket the town selling everything from small animals to bootleg Michael Jackson CD's. The market is a spectacle, and little wonder it's been attracting travelers for thousands of years.
On the "Great Silk Road" I continued south through quiet, bleak landscapes and numerous check-points to the border of Pakistan and over to the KKH (Karakorum Highway). The KKH winds through lovely glacial valleys, slowly meandering down into the heart of Hunza, Northern Pakistan, another region worthy of a trip in itself.
The tour eventually leads down through Gilgit, Chilas, the Swat Valley, the unruly border town of Peshawar, and across to Islamabad where it concludes. For a three-week journey, the scope and mixture of history, landscapes and people is unmatched. Though it doesn't attract the attention it deserves, Central Asia should be on every traveler's "must see list."
- Lane Nevares
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