Today we met our tour guide Omar Deras at the entrance to St. Herman’s Cave in the Blue Hole National Park. St. Herman’s Cave is of great archaeological interest. It was used by the Maya during the Classic Period up to 2,000 years ago. The ancient Maya believed that caves, particularly those with rivers flowing through and out of them, were entrances to the underworld, Xibalba. We saw remains of pottery vessels which were used for the collection of Zuh uy Ha (virgin water) from driping speleothems, actively growing stalactites. There were also charred remains of pots which were used to catch and burn blood sacrifices to the rain god Chaak during droughts. The blood was collected during bloodletting ceremonies in which priests and elders would pierce their tongues or foreskins. No evidence of human sacrifice has been found in this cave, unlike some others in Belize and Guatemala. All of the pottery pieces found in the cave have been shards, since the ancient Mayans believe that it was necessary to smash sacrificial vessels to release the spirits within. All those items are now studied by the Department of Archaeology in Belmopan. This cave system has been carved out of limestone by the Sibun River.
We hiked up the cave, looking at the various formations and artifacts, then drifted slowly down the river for about an hour. We didn’t see or hear another soul for the entire tubing trip. We then hiked back up through the river to the entrance. We completely lost track of time and space for the 2 1/2 hour expedition. It was a jolt emerging into the tropical sunlight after so long underground.
We saw a few cave-dwelling animals during the trip, such as this short-tailed bat. There were several species of bat flying throughout the cave during out trip. They roost in holes, or “pots” in the ceiling carved out by their acidic urine eroding the limestone. There was a large, active colony of cave swallows at the entrance to the cave. There were also many camel crickets as well as their main predator, scorpion spiders or whip spiders, which are actually not spiders, but arachnids closely related to scorpions, but without the stinger. They are harmless, despite their fierce appearance, and Omar even picked a large one up to demonstrate. Mary was not amused.
After the tubing trip we stopped by the inland Blue Hole for a quick swim. The Blue Hole (not to be confused with the much large and deeper oceanic Blue Hole located int the barrier reef), is a formation where the river upwells into a limestone sinkhole, then travels as a daylight river for a hundred feet or so, then dives back down into another cave system. The hole itself is about twenty five feet deep and crystal clear. Our visit coincided with a huge group of army ants, which livened things up. Despite their large numbers they were very orderly, so it wasn’t too difficult to step over their trails. John learned that they have painful stings when he decided that it would be a good idea to flick them into the Blue Hole for the waiting tilapia to snap up. They found a red-rumped tarantula with an egg sac and forced her out of her hole. She was still struggling to escape when we left. It was the only time I’ve ever felt sorry for a spider. The highlight of the stop was a large purple-crowned fairy hummingbird taking a bath in the river just below the Hole. The emerald, white and black hummingbird repeatedly hovered right at the river surface and buzzed in the water, their form of bathing. She then perched on a branch and preened herself.
Today we visited the Cayo District in the western part of Belize close to the Guatemalan border. As we drove from the coast to the west, we were marveled by the beautiful hills and mountains rich in green dense jungle. From the humblest of beginnings Chaa Creek Cottages has grown into a 365 acre private nature reserve offering a range of exciting, educational adventures, expeditions and cultural experiences. The Natural History Centre, Butterfly Farm, Conference Centre, Macal River Camp bungalows, Rainforest Medicine Trail, Organic Maya Farm, eco-friendly Hilltop Spa and swimming pool are linked by miles of beautiful jungle trails perfect for bird watching, mountain biking, horseback riding, hiking, or just strolling through a pristine rainforest. The canoes remain the most popular way to explore the river and enjoy scenic excursions into San Ignacio Town. The Chaa Creek region has been a hub of Maya civilisation for thousands of years. They are now internationally recognised for providing an authentic Maya experience, and already this year played host to leading Mayanist and author Dr Mark Van Stone as well as a team from National Geographic magazine. Throughout 2012 they will be offering unique Maya tours, presentations, events and activities, culminating in the grand Winter Solstice celebrations on December 21. They offer the Reef and Rainforest Tour where you can combine a true Caribbean getaway with a Maya experience.
Lunch was served by beautiful Mayan ladies dressed in white dresses with bright floral accents. The dishes were typical of the Latin culture.
Salbutes stuffed with pico de gallo, cabbage, and chicken.
Ceviche with plantain chips.
Chicken soup with cabbage and potatoes.
Xunantanich, located in the Cayo District is the tallest Mayan Ruin in Belize.
We made the steep, but short, climb to the top of “El Castillo.” This vantage point provides a breathtaking, 360 degree, panoramic view over the jungle canopy of the Macal, Mopan and Belize River valleys, as well as a vast area of the Guatemalan Peten District, which is only a few miles away. You will also get a close look at the restored portions of two unique stucco friezes, which appear on the east and west sides of the upper portion of the pyramid.
Located in the Cayo District in western Belize, Xunantunich is easily accessible. Most of the lodging facilities in the area offer day trips to the site, which is very popular with all tourists in the region.
Almond Beach is a beautiful property in Hopkins, a small coastal village. This area has not become overdeveloped and is quiet in the evenings. Perfect for a family getaway or couple’s honeymoon. A Garifuna population inhabits the town and these friendly people staff the resort.
These pictures give you an idea of the flora and the fauna that surrounds you.
We are staying on the top floor of this incredible villa.
These are individual cabanas located directly on the beach.
A boat dock directly in the front of the property takes you on snorkeling and fishing trips to the nearby South Water Caye and Glover’s Reef.
The view from our veranda and an iguana friend that sunbathed in front of our porch each day.
Yesterday we ate a delicious lunch at Iris’s Sunny Side Up, a small restaurant in Hopkins village. The previous owner, Iris, started the restaurant 16 years ago with no running water or electricity. She still lives upstairs but the restaurant is now owned by a South African woman. She kept Iris’ name.
Lightly fried Snapper fingers with a ginger sauce and new potatoes.
Fried plantains and black beans with Chicken curry and vegetable.
On our way to Hopkins from the airport in Belize City, we stopped at the Baboon Sanctuary in the small town of Burrel Boom. The Belizeans call the indigenous Howler Monkeys “Baboons”. There is an area of protected land where conservationists and residents cooperate to create a wonderful habitat for the Howlers. Residents allow the trees and vegetation to grow so the Howlers have plenty to eat. Our guide, Robert showed us where a family of Baboons were feeding and the mother and two babies came down from the trees to eat bananas from his palm. The mother had her hands on Mary’s head in eager anticipation of the treat. The father was very upset and howled severely until I finally told everyone to move out.
The tree cutter ants are amazing. They are much bigger than our ants in the states. They travel in large groups transporting leaves from plants in the jungle to their hill. They spit on the leaves and a fungus grows provided them a source of food. The males have huge fangs which can be used as stitches when people get a cut in the jungle. They create huge trails when they are foraging through the jungle. We tried not to step in the trails.
The cashew plant is used to make cashews like the ones we eat at home. They make wine from the fruit of the cashew tree. It is heard to be very strong in alcohol content. The picture below is a lovely cashew tree with people relaxing under it’s shade.
While we were on the tour, a local boy did some dirt bike stunts. He was so cute that I couldn’t resist taking his picture. The Belizeans are very friendly and warm people. The official language is English, but many speak Creole and Spanish.
We finally arrived at Almond Beach in Hopkins. This is a beautiful Spanish style property with clay tile roofs and mahogany interiors. Upon arrival to our room, we found these swans made of towels and fresh flowers on our bed as well as on the kid’s bunkbeds. More pics of the property to come.
On Friday, April 27th, Largay Travel will host its annual company retreat. The Sagamore Resort and Hotel will serve as the backdrop for the Largettes as they work with each other and travel suppliers to improve their already incredible skills and abilities. Suppliers attending the annual gathering include, Adventures by Disney, Crystal Cruises, Holland America, Micato, Oceania, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Silversea Cruises, Tauck World Discovery, Travel Impressions, Travelex, and Virtuoso. Over the course of the weekend the Suppliers will showcase their travel offerings, while the Largay Travel team assesses each, in order to strengthen their understanding of each supplier’s market. This way, customers will be directed to the best tour or cruise for them, based on their own travel desires. Company Vice President Amanda Kilmak is very enthusiastic and optimistic about the weekend.
“Our company retreat is a way for us to improve our business on every level. We get to work with each other and enhance our abilities as travel advisors, we get to work with our travel suppliers and see how they have changed and evolved for the future. This year we are giving the suppliers incentive to really WOW us but rating their presentations. Our ultimate goal is to find better ways to serve our clients, and what better way than to pull all the pieces together for an annual tune up.”
All in all, the annual retreat looks to be successful, enjoyable and very productive as it is every year.
When I first 1st learned that the Allure of the Seas accommodates in excess of 6000 passengers and has a crew of 2500+, I was initially tempted to QUICKLY jump ship & swim for shore. After all, I was interested in a cruise not a stampede- what I envisioned at dinner time would be the Caribbean equivalent of the running of the bulls in Pamplona. Oh how wrong I was.
There is no denying it; it has the title of ‘World’s Largest Cruise ship’ because it is, but big in this case is not synonymous with bad or inferior. Quite the contrary, after having a look around, I was pleasantly surprised that the ship was designed & strategically divided into what can best be described as neighborhoods complete
with names such as Central Park, and the Boardwalk. Central Park was home to a number of intimate, alternative restaurants and a fabulous wine bar proudly displaying the world’s largest bottle of Cabernet!
In contrast, the Boardwalk neighborhood’s authenticity immediately reminded me of my childhood days in Coney Island. There are hot dog/ice cream stands, carnival games, popcorn/candy apples, and of course the requisite/magnificent wooden, hand carved carrousel. Does incredible begin to come to mind?
The active and adventure sports offered on-board are highlighted by a (40) foot rock climbing wall, flow rider(s) (go figure I’ve always wanted to know what it was like to surf, and now I do), a zip line -yes an actual zip line- strung 50 feet
above the deck (the 1st step is the most difficult!), and a running track that encircles the ship that helps you to keep pace with the additional calories found around every corner of the ship (kinda, but not really!).
The gym/workout facilities and spa boast abundant, state of the art pieces of equipment, instructors, and attendants. Not only can you get a personalized exercise/nutritional program,but have your teeth whitened, receive a Botox treatment and experience acupuncture as well. Lions & tigers& bears, oh my!
If nighttime action and entertainment options ‘float your boat’ (sorry it was there) then you’re in luck. AGAIN! As a matter of fact you may be exhausted just deciding between jazz/rock/disco/karaoke music. Or perhaps you want your evening’s entertainment menu to include a combination of a comedy club and a Broadway show (Chicago), or maybe an Ice Capades performance followed by an aqua theater nightcap.
The aqua show can best be described as a unique combination of Cirque de Soleil meets the cliff divers from Acapulco. The choices go on as long as the night.
After sailing for (7) days, my experience/impression is that this ship is a ‘boat load a fun’, unique, and certainly in a class by itself. This ship, like all ships, is NOT for everybody. Folks accustomed to more intimate settings, variety of ports, large cabins and surroundings will be better served elsewhere. But, singles, active couples, families (so PERFECT for multigenerational trips/reunions) should seriously consider adding the Allure to their respective bucket lists. The food, entertainment, and service all exceeded my expectations.
The net result when I think back upon this cruise-and I’ll do so very fondly-is a big ol’ Fashioned smile.
Each time I consider taking an active vacation there are some immediate questions/concerns that surface prior to taking the trip itself: have I chosen the right company, have I chosen the correct trip for me with regards to activity levels, geographic venues, style/ levels of hotels? What will my group of fellow travelers/ adventures be like? Most importantly, HOW GOOD WILL THE TOUR DIRECTORS/GUIDES BE??!!
Prior to ultimately selecting the Backroads Canadian Rockies biking trip, I spent considerable time seeking answers to all my aforementioned questions.I knew I wanted a physically challenging program that had multiple options for both longer & shorter days on the bike. I wanted (4-5) star hotel properties. I wanted nightly fine wine & dining opportunities. I wanted less travelled country roads. I wanted magnificent scenery and authentic wildlife encounters. I wanted moderate temperatures conducive to long days on the saddle. I guess you could say, like most folks, I essentially wanted it all…
Backroads and the National Parks of Canada didn’t disappoint & delivered in style.
For (6) days we were treated to a buffet and endless stream of brilliant blue skies, iridescent , jewel-like lakes, majestic, craggy-faced relentless mountain peaks. Abundant wildlife seemed to magically and strategically await us around each bend in the road (big horn sheep, elk, black bear, and yes even a mother grizzly bear…YIKES!).
The challenges of the daily distance and considerable elevation gains were a test of our collective wills, but whose attainment always offered the reward of a magnificent, scenic, visual dessert.
The guides were all incredibly energetic (they had no choice with all these ‘type A’ personalities!) knowledgeable, personable, and unilaterally available. They somehow innately understood & catered to the uniqueness of each participant and, in certain select instances, when somebody climbing a mountain pass ‘ran outta gas‘ , provided a seamless ‘lift‘ to the top where they eventually toasted & celebrated our arrival.
The hotels were all ‘best in show’ in their respective locales. The service, accommodations, & cuisine at the Post Hotel was in a category second to none and would rival ANY US/European ‘best of the best’ property.
Because of our desire to be situated in a very remote wilderness environment, everyone understood that on certain nights the level of accommodations would be adequate but NOT exceptional. On those particular nights the level of service, food, charm ,and dinner conversation offered by the inn keeper and his staff more than compensated us for the utilitarian accommodations.
What a privilege it was to bike & physically experience this hidden gem, pristine and well preserved wilderness area. The memories of this experience, like the endless rewarding scenery & wildlife of Calgary, will provide lifelong memories for all fortunate enough to have participated!
What cruise line could possibly think of having fireworks (yes, fireworks!) at sea, a pirate dance party on the pool deck, Captain Jack’s special appearance, a water slide flowing across both sides of the ship and even OVER the edge? Of course, it’s Disney, with the entrance of its new ship into the fleet, the ‘Disney Dream’.
The Dream welcomes guests onboard with all the latest in technology and design, but brings back the elegance and the ‘grandness’ of ships from the past with its sweeping staircases, nautical theme and colors, attention to every detail, and of course, everyone’s favorite Disney characters.
From the staff, to the food, to the amenities, Disney has gone all out in creating their beautiful new ship. The staff displays Disney’s commitment to excellent service with a friendly smile. The food is served to perfection, both in taste and in appearance, and the staterooms have all the features that one would expect when traveling at sea….and more! With the most comfortable bedding on the high seas, great bath products (H2O), iPod docks/alarm clocks, flat screen TV’s, excellent storage space, innovative WAVE phones for guest use onboard to keep in touch with the family, and the list goes on and on.
Entertainment onboard will amaze both adults and kids. With Disney characters participating in daily activities and leading the way in evening stage shows, the themes will delight adults and kids alike. Characters show up in all areas of the ship all day and night, whether you’re playing sports in the outdoor sports court, or walking to dinner through the main lobby area, they’re always entertaining and making guests smile. The stage shows are creative and colorful and will make cruisers of all ages smile: ‘The Golden Mickeys’, ‘Villians Tonight,’ and ‘Believe’ are each the beginning of a fun and festive night at sea.
A visit to the islands onboard The Dream would not be complete without a stop at Castaway Cay. The Disney-owned island offers everyone the opportunity to relax and unwind in a safe, extremely clean environment, and also explore and be active at the same time. With bike rentals and trails, a lookout tower with binoculars, watersports equipment rentals, excursions, beach bar service and food service, scavenger hunts and yoga, the choices are endless. The three beach areas (watersports, family beach, and “adults only”) everyone can find their own special place. And if you’re looking for some ‘special’ pampering, beach cabanas can be rented for the day ($499/family cabana, $399/adults only cabana). Renters are spoiled with beach butlers, food and beverage service, non-motorized watersports equipment, safe, refrigerators, towels, hammocks, and a comfortable seating area.
Disney’s Dining experience onboard is also a very unique experience. With three restaurants and ‘rotational dining’ each guest will be able to experience every dining venue onboard. The dining rooms hold surprises for all! And, of course, two specialty restaurants (Remy and Palo) serve the best French and Italian cuisine that you would expect from any 5-star restaurant.
Whether you’re a Disney-lover or not, the Disney cruise experience will not disappoint; the only thing missing is a casino, but with every other surprise that you find onboard, you may only realize this when you are returning home from the trip!
If you ask me, choice is one of life’s greatest challenges because eventually by its very definition you need to make one. So, here I am again, it’s another year, another February vacation opportunity; ultimately another choice needs to be made.
Oh where oh where should I go this year? And what should I do once I get there? Said the cobbler’s son :O)
Well, after reviewing multiple options (translated professional & personal zip code fantasies!) I’ve decided upon a rediscovery tour of the Hawaiian Islands. The 1st runners up, The Maldives, Tahiti, Dubai, etc. etc. etc, will just have to take their rightful, patient place in my traveler’s universal category of ‘must see & do, just not now!’
I describe my choice as a “rediscovery of the Hawaiian Islands” because I’ve been fortunate to have traveled there several times on traditional, multiple Island hopper itineraries-staying a few days on one Island and then taking a puddle skipping transfer to another. Can you say fly & flop? But this time, I wanted to see it from what I anticipated would be a unique and rewarding perspective: from the vantage point of cruising on an ultra yacht.
The ship we (my significant only Ms. Reenie is always at my side!) chose, the Safari Explorer, was (1) of (3) ships in the fleet from American Safari Cruises (can you, should you call it a fleet if there are only three vessels?). Their ships range in size from 8 to 36 passengers and sail, depending upon the season, to
Alaska , British Columbia, Sea of Cortez/Baja, U.S./Canada, and most important of all, (because this is after all.. all about me!) to the Hawaiian Islands from October to May.
Our ‘official ‘Hawaiian itinerary included The Big Island/Maui/Lanai/Molokai. The unofficial, actual itinerary was where the wildlife, culture and the real, pristine beauty of Hawaii led our talented and affable captain.
(5) minutes after embarking and setting sail from the Hilo area our published course took a 180 degree turn as we lazily paralleled (20) migrating
humpback whales and their recent offspring, and a school of spinner dolphins intent on doing their best to live up to their name! The only aspects more incredible than the immediacy, and abundance of the wildlife sighting were the resolute discipline of the crew to respect a non-invasive distance from the marine life, and the breadth of their mammal and environmental knowledge that they dispensed with ease, precision, and artistry-as if they were the love children of a maestro conductor and a college professor.
The precedent of flexibility and ‘Hawaiian go with the flow’ had been established and magically mirrored for the balance of the week. We were treated to a blended collage of water sports (snorkeling/scuba diving/kayaking/zodiac tours), contemplative sunsets, cultural immersions, active hikes, bike rides and good ol’ fashioned Happy Hour socializing with our fellow travelers. We would gather at day’s end to reflect and share the personal experiences, activities and insights we had collected during the day.
One of the most unique and enriching aspects of the experience was the familiarity and intimacy of the group that developed and matured as trip progressed. We seemed to magically morph from (12) individual couples to a familial, fraternal group similar to the social dynamics in one of my favorite movies The Big Chill.
I LOVED this ship and experience, but it is NOT for everybody. Travelers accustomed to, and expecting the more traditional cruise experience are best served elsewhere. If multiple dining venues & extensive menu options, nightly choreographed entertainment, spas, large commodious cabins, assigned dining room seating, and a large variety of daily shore excursions and a formal shipboard dress code is what constitutes the ‘DNA’ of vacation success, you won’t find ANY of this aboard the Safari Explorer.
What you will find is a floating house party properly primed (great bar!) and supported by the all inclusive nature of ship board life. Your fellow passenger (historically 50+ years of age) will be successful, highly educated (present party and author excluded!), well travelled, and most willing to share their
respective life & discovery experiences with you over a hearty glass (or two) of scotch. The nightly meals include a choice of meat or local fish accompanied with fresh vegetables & all too delicious homemade desserts. All meals are nicely prepared and graciously delivered in portions that thankfully won’t have you mistaken as cargo as you disembark the ship.
The entertainment, when not generated by the interaction of the passengers, usually consists of a compelling lecture about the local marine creatures or the culture and traditions of the local people. You will find a very upscale but incredibly understated experience. Never to be confused with bohemian, but, with a complete and refreshing absence of glitz and pretense.
In closing I would be remiss if I did not point out that the crew was indeed the crown jewel in the overall experience. The crew (2 to 1 ratio to the passengers) were a magical, eclectic group comprised of eager, gregarious, talented, interesting, and knowledgeable individuals, (where did they learn ALL that stuff..I think they would clean up on Jeopardy or perhaps Cash Cab!) who were ready to please and delight. They essentially personify the essence of what the cruise; authentic, unstructured, beguiling, educational, engaging and just plain and simple..A total ‘hoot!’
I felt like Indiana Jones. I even had the obligatory chapeau, although in this case, it was a hard hat equipped with a headlamp. Actun Tunichil Muknal, or ATM, is only one of the many unique excursions one can take from the Cayo district in Belize.
The full day excursion started with a 40 minute hike, complete with three river crossings, to the staging area, where we quickly scarfed down box lunches and strapped on our equipment. Then we climbed down a hill and literally swam into the cave. Once inside, we alternated between walking, swimming, crawling and climbing. Definitely a challenge, mentally and physically (if you are an almost middle aged average Josephina)! Of course, there were numerous stalagmites and stalactites. But, the true reward was the treasure trove of Mayan pottery and human sacrificial remains. I had been concerned that viewing the skeletons would seem irreverent and overly voyeuristic. But, the requirement that all hikers remove their shoes and the accompanying educational commentary insured proper decorum. My children, ages 20, 18 and 16, having been blessed with many wonderful trips during their short lifetimes, declared that ATM was truly one of best, most unique experiences.
Twice a year I travel to sunny Scottsdale for my TAMS (Travel Agency Management Solutions) meeting. Traditionally, my trip has involved a long connecting flight followed by two days of intense and enlightening meetings which leave me thoroughly drained as I rush home to return to the office with a notebook full of ideas and a body full of exhaustion. This hurried pace often leaves little time for reflection and pondering about how I will once again take on the world of travel. However, on my most recent trip to Scottsdale in February, I decided that a few days after my meeting with my significant only, Gary, and visit the immense beauty of Sedona, Arizona was just what the doctor ordered.
As we began our two hour journey north from Scottsdale and began to climb in elevation, you could instantly see a change in the landscape. The saguaro cacti began to slowly disappear and mountains emerged in the distance. Along the way Gary had suggested a stop at the Caduceus Winery in the historic, and most haunted, town of Jermone and I couldn’t have been happier that he did. This town of only about 400 residents is perched atop the mountain and is by-far one of the coolest places I have been. The houses are placed one on top of the other and connected by a main road, which winds up the mountain and past stores, galleries, restaurants and, oh yes, some of the most delicious wineries. With the location similar to a village in Tuscany and the charm of the old west, Jerome was both fascinating and fun and a must see for any traveler looking to take in true Americana.
After a wonderful afternoon in Jerome we continued north on to the city of Sedona and the Enchantment Resort. This resort is located about 15 minutes outside of the city of Sedona in a remote canyon at one of Sedona’s well know vortexes, which made it perfect for our sun rise hikes and mountain biking adventures. With red rock canyon walls rising on three sides of the resort, this locale provides, spectacular views, unlimited outdoor activities such as; hiking, biking, tennis, health & wellness classes and an extensive kids programs. The rooms are spacious and the Mii Amo spa provides a feel of serenity that is sure to please even the most discerning of guests. With an 18 million dollar renovation to the lobby and restaurant close to completion, the Enchantment Resort is perfect for guests who want lots of options in an environment that is truly relaxing and laid back.
The Twisted Branches of the Juniper
The vortexes of Sedona were of particular interest to me, as I had heard that they have healing powers and provide one with a sense of energy and a renewed spirit, which I definitely felt I needed. There are vortexes located around the world; some of which major monuments have been built on, such as the Great Pyramid in Egypt, Angkor Wat Temple in Cambodia and the Bermuda Triangle. So, with a map from the concierge and a good pair of hiking shoes, Gary and I set off to find our Mecca in the desert. After a short hike with a beautiful view, we arrived at the first of Sedona’s four major vortexes. As I understand it, the vortex is a spot earth where a strong amount of energy is released in almost a tornado like fashion and you definitely get that feeling, as the traditionally strait juniper trees that sit on the vortex have braches that are completely twisted like a pretzel.
Our visit to Sedona would not have been complete without a visit to the local artist galleries and shopping venues. Although I found uptown to be a bit too touristy for my taste, the Tlaquepague Arts & Crafts Village was right up my alley. Tlaquepague, meaning “best of everything”, has over 40 specialty shops including art galleries featuring local artists, restaurants and wine bars. Built in the 1970 as a Mexican style village with vine covered stucco walls, cobble stoned walkways and magnificent arched entryways, you have the distinct feeling that it has been here for centuries. Although the dining experiences are unlimited, I highly recommend a stop at the Oak Creek Brewery for one of their freshly brewed beers and, if you are very patient soul, dinner at Elote, just up the street is a must, however, be prepared to wait up to two hours in line, since they do not take reservations. If you have the patience of a saint, then you won’t be disappointed.
L'Auberge Resort in Sedona
Our visit to Sedona concluded with a brunch and tour of the L’Auberge Resort. Located in the heart of Sedona and within walking distance of almost everything, this resort is the perfect local directly on Oak Creek. The placement of the resort and the sound of the babbling creek completely drowned out the busyness of the world above and give guests the feel that you have been transported to a whole different world. Cabin accommodations are strategically perched on the hill, giving them the perfect view of the Red Rooks above and although the log cabin exteriors may look rustic, they are certainly not. With modern and bright décor, some with fireplaces and outdoor showers, these cottages are perfect for a romantic getaway. The restaurant is located along the side of the creek and offers wonderful outdoor dining when weather permits, which almost always and one can’t forget to take the time to feed the resident ducks or sit by a campfire, as these are some of L’Auberge Resorts best kept secrets.
Our weekend getaway had to come to an end but not without an overnight at the Canyon Suites at the Phoenician in Scottsdale. Just 15 minutes from the Sky Harbor Airport, this resort was the perfect location for our early morning flight home and was a wonderful combination of an exclusive, concierge style experience, combined with all of the choices and activities that the Phoenician has to offer. Located on the property of the Phoenician, the Canyon Suite, with our own private entrance, lobby and pool and suite that included many wonderful complimentary amenities, this was a perfect way to end our journey. As our personal ambassador, Julian, persuaded us to dine in one of the many restaurants at the Phoenician and temped us with rounds of golf and spa treatments, wild horses couldn’t have pried us out of our Canyon Suite. I’m not sure if it was the palatial estate we called home or the feeling of relaxation we had gathered from Sedona but this was, in fact, the perfect ending to a perfect Arizona getaway. Of course I still returned to my office with all the fresh ideas and plans we had made at our TAMS meeting but I was now rested, relaxed and ready to take on the world.
FACT: Goldmans don’t gush. I, in particular, tend to be a woman of few words, especially in the company of my ever-loquacious family. For some odd reason, however, I desire to memorialize my feelings our family trip to Israel.
I have had the privilege of traveling extensively, both in the United States and abroad. Without exception, I enjoy my jaunts during the time of the travel and lament their end once I return home. This Israel experience, however, is quite a different matter. It has “legs.” Every moment was jam packed with adventure, history and just plain fun. Now that I am home, I find myself reliving and analyzing each day.
A trip to Israel usually requires overcoming some mental obstacles. I will admit to a few, although security was not one of them. I felt sure that the Israeli government and Tourist Board would ensure that visitors not find themselves in harm’s way. The first concern was the very title of the trip, “ Family Mission.” The word “mission” sticks in my craw, in the same manner as the hackneyed terms “closure” and “giving back.” Sure, I had a “mission,” to see the country, each kosher meat, learn some history, spend time with family and friends, and stimulate the economy with excessive purchases of jewelry, food and object d’art. Nothing altruistic or ego-gratifying.
The Goldman Family in Israel
My second obstacle, the “group” experience. I am not a rah rah sis boom bah kind of a gal. My nightmares are of Kumbaya and Row, Row, Row Your Boat being sung in rounds on the bus while I suffer a splitting headache. In truth, the “group” experience was great! Everyone was respectful of one another and showed up promptly at meeting times. We each brought something different to the group. I furnished over-the-counter medicines and Purel—others junk food and pearls of historical knowledge.
Having detailed the above lawyer-like caveats, I continue with the trip itself, replete with noteworthy experiences. Here are only SOME of the highlights:
Eating kosher meals and delicious bialies on the El Al flight from JFK to Ben Gurion. For once, we didn’t have to identify ourselves as “the Jews with the Kosher meals” by ringing our flight attendant call buttons.
Gazing upon Jerusalem for the first time in thirty years and seeing the building spread from hill to hill.
Feeling the fervor of our guide in the Kotel Tunnels as he explained the significance of the Foundation Stone.
Making it up the snake path to Masada, even though my husband and I were last to arrive. Group mates hung back on the hike to alert the paramedics in case we went into cardiac arrest.
Having our children be among the first to reach to top of Masada from the snake path. All those tennis and dance lessons paid off.
Seeing the look of horror on my daughter’s face as the women stripped off their swimsuits to shower off the Dead Sea salt. Ah, the end of innocence.
Ogling buff Israeli soldiers with their guns.
Visiting Yad Vashem and being moved without even going into the Museum. Our guide gave us the Israeli perspective on the Holocaust through Yad Vashem’s monuments and artwork.
Digging at the archeological ruins of Beit Guvrin and crawling through an unexcavated cave.
Visiting the underground bullet factor at the Ayalon Institute—the very definition of Israeli chutzpah.
Riding mules at Kfar Kedem while dressed in biblical garb—a crowd pleaser for adults, as well as children. I have never chilled out enough to don a costume, yet here it seemed the thing to do.
Jeeping in the Golan—a historical thrill ride.
Sharing the arriving Sabbath with throngs of observers at the Western Wall.
The Bottom Line: For many, a trip to Israel is a deeply moving personal experience. For others, it is a fabulous cultural, historical and dare I say “fun” adventure. Israel is a vibrant, diverse, living country, not an anachronism. It is the home to many of the great historical and religious sights of Judaism, Christianity and Islam. Go! You will end up gushing too!
Are you a couple with enough toasters and dish towels who’d much rather experience a “sunset cruise” or a “luxurious honeymoon suite” as a wedding gift? Would you prefer to have the honeymoon you have always dreamed of instead of more “stuff” for your already overcrowded home? With the unveiling of Largay Travel’s new, innovative Honeymoon Registry, couples can have all of that and much more. This complimentary honeymoon registry, http://largaytravel.honeymoonwishes.com/ enables couples to create their very own, personal wedding website that tells their story, share photos, and even blog about their romantic journey towards marriage. Couples can create their own ‘ wish list’ of things they want to experience on their honeymoon; like breakfast in bed, a dinner cruise, or perhaps a couples massage – even the cost of your trip. It essentially works like a gift registry, in which guests purchase portions of the dream honeymoon as a wedding gift. Guests can then print a personalized gift card which can be presented to the couple on their special day.
“With more and more couples living together before getting married, we’ve found that traditional wedding gifts are no longer needed, and often times many people feel it’s impersonal to give cash. Our new honeymoon registry allows family and friends to give what truly matters to couples…..the memory of an amazing honeymoon” says Amanda Klimak, Vice President of Largay Travel.
It takes about fifteen minutes for couples to register their honeymoon and there are no set up fees for using the website. Once registered, couples then have access to online & printed announcement templates, email blast suggestion and wedding website announcement cards. There are thousands of honeymoon ideas and photos on the website as well.
“This is an easily accessible, fun way for couples to share both their wedding day and the amazing trip that follows. For those couples unsure of where they want to travel, or perhaps want to keep it a secret, there is the option to exclude the details” says Vivian Leonard, a recently married Largay Honeymoon Travel Specialist. “The thing I love about the registry is that it’s fun and allows couples to share their honeymoon with their loved ones.”
