In the Cayman Islands, you’ll find a rum that’s been aged 42-feet under the sea

October 31, 2022 No Comments

The Cayman Islands is home to a rum with a unique aging process. Seven Fathoms rum — which takes its name from the depth at which the rum has been aged — is the only spirit producer in the world to age its rum underwater.

“The term Fathom is a unit of measurement, roughly the length of one’s outstretched arms. This was most commonly used to measure rope, which was once one of the main industries of the Cayman Islands many years ago,” says Walker Romanica, owner and distiller of Cayman Spirits Co., which produces the rum. “So Seven Fathoms, or 42 feet, is the approximate depth at which we aged a portion of the rum that goes into every blending of Seven Fathoms Rum.”

The rum is aged under the sea in American white oak bourbon casks where it is rocked by underwater currents to mimic a concept that dates back to the golden age of rum.

“The concept of aging underwater goes back to a time when there was something called Ocean Rum, or Dock Rum, which was a term given to barrels of rum that had made a voyage in a barrel across the ocean,” he says. “People knew this rum had aged better because on the ship it had been rocked by the sea. This stirring of the barrel and the rum is called agitation and it is something many distilleries seek to achieve today, we are just doing it in a unique way, using what we have naturally available to us here in the Cayman Islands.”

Although some European wineries and cava producers have started aging their products underwater, Cayman Spirits Co. remains the exclusive spirit producer to use this method. 

“A few whiskies and even some beers have also ventured to ship their liquid in barrels on ships circumventing the globe, to achieve a similar effect,” he says. 

To get a taste of the unique rum firsthand, the distillery offers tours Monday through Saturday “where you can come and get the full experience of the rum at Cayman Spirits Co. Distillery.”

In addition to Seven Fathoms Rum, visitors can also sample a variety of spirits that are only made and sold in Cayman, including some seasonal specialties only available certain times a year like Mango Brandy and Scotch Bonnet Vodka.

 

Ritz-Carlton’s upscale yacht collection sets sail

October 28, 2022 No Comments

Envisioned to perfectly blend the lifestyle of The Ritz-Carlton resorts with the casual freedom of a yachting vacation, Evrima, the first of three custom-built yachts from The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, set sail on October 15, 2022, with a voyage from Barcelona, Spain, to Nice, France, delivering highly tailored getaways for travelers seeking to wholly immerse themselves in the culture of each destination. 

“We are thrilled to introduce The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection and usher in an exciting new chapter for this beloved brand,” said Chris Gabaldon, Senior Vice President for Luxury Brands, Marriott International. “The Ritz-Carlton has long been rooted in innovation and service excellence, guided by a commitment to be at the forefront of delivering transformative travel experiences. As we continue to evolve our legendary brand, we could not be more excited to give our guests the opportunity to experience The Ritz-Carlton in a new way.”

An exclusive experience at sea

Unveiling unique itineraries and immersive experiences, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection carves out an exclusive space within the industry while exemplifying the brand’s forward-thinking approach to luxury hospitality. Stopping at both intimate and signature ports of call, most voyages range from 7 to 10 nights, with no two journeys alike so that guests can combine itineraries without repeating a destination. Depending on the season, Evrima visits the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, Central America, and South America. Destinations along the way range from Spain’s Balearic Islands and coveted havens along the French Riviera, to the aquamarine shores of Aruba and the tropical coastlines of Costa Rica. The intimate size of Evrima also allows unique access into some of the most sought-after ports of call, delivering yacht-style cruising in destinations such as Mykonos, Saint-Tropez, and St. Barts.

The specially designed yacht measures 190-meters and can accommodate up to 298 passengers. The onboard experience reflects the sublime comfort and legendary service for which The Ritz-Carlton brand is renowned, with one of the highest staff and space ratios at sea. The design of the yacht’s 149 suites is one of the many tone-setting elements. In addition to offering a high percentage of large suites, Evrima also features several innovative two-story loft suites, a unique duplex accommodation. All rooms feature a private terrace and floor to ceiling windows, resulting in some of the most airy and expansive guestrooms at sea. Through a blind wall, select suites also have the option to be combined into larger, open-concept spaces, allowing for more flexibility when selecting accommodations. All suites feature the luxurious amenities that visitors expect from Ritz-Carlton properties around the world, including a king bed, double vanity bathroom, luxury linens, and more.

Travellers aboard Evrima can access the following:

  • curated menu of ESPA and 111SKIN spa treatments
  • a sauna and steam room
  • watersports from the yacht’s marina
  • an infinity pool
  • a fitness studio
  • a breadth of dining options

Enriching entertainment on board includes intimate performances by in-house jazz and classical musicians, discussions led by renowned experts, and partnerships with local arts and music communities. Families exploring the world together can enjoy a dedicated space on board for Ritz Kids. The Ritz Kids programming, tailored for young guests between the ages of four and twelve, has been crafted to appeal to children’s curiosity and innate love for discovery, with an emphasis on marine conservation.

In each destination, guests can choose from a selection of unique experiences within The Shore Collection that align with their interests or utilize the services of the Concierge Ashore to customize their own private tours. Experiences on shore range from a guided tour in a world-class museum with its curator and visiting a UNESCO World Heritage site, to yoga on a private beach, zip-lining through a rain forest, truffle hunting, and more. By working with local guides who were selected for their insider knowledge and subject matter expertise, guests enjoy a singular journey. On select itineraries, guests can deepen their experience mid-voyage through an overnight tour, promising an unforgettable and uniquely immersive cultural experience, before rejoining the yacht at their next destination.

The yachts of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection are also available for private charter. For more information, click here.

 

Hotel brand seeks foodie “CEO” for new job sampling food on all five continents

October 26, 2022 No Comments

Sampling Mexico’s sizzling street tacos, inhaling the bold aroma of Turkish coffee, uncovering the tangiest chimichurri in Argentina – it’s a job any foodie would covet and now, it could be yours. Ramada® by Wyndham, one of the world’s most well-known hotel brands, is searching for its first-ever Chief Eats Officer (“CEO”), a newly created role that will take one lucky job-seeker around the globe as they help the brand uncover and share some of the world’s best culinary and cultural delights. Best of all, the gig comes with a $10,000 payday and bragging rights as the most mouth-watering job ever.

Known for its diverse portfolio of award-winning hotels in more than 63 countries around the globe, Ramada helps travelers sample the world. The appointed “CEO” will be tasked with uncovering the culture and cuisine throughout five different continents and creatively showcase their finds on the brand’s social media and marketing channels. In exchange, the selected candidate will receive $10,000 and a $150 daily travel stipend to help them make the most of their globetrotting adventure. The “CEO Comp Package” also includes paid accommodations and air travel, an upgrade to Wyndham Rewards Diamond membership and bucket-list travel experiences.

Known for its diverse portfolio of award-winning hotels in more than 63 countries around the globe, Ramada helps travelers sample the world. The appointed “CEO” will be tasked with uncovering the culture and cuisine throughout five different continents and creatively showcase their finds on the brand’s social media and marketing channels. In exchange, the selected candidate will receive $10,000 and a $150 daily travel stipend to help them make the most of their globetrotting adventure. The “CEO Comp Package” also includes paid accommodations and air travel, an upgrade to Wyndham Rewards Diamond membership and bucket-list travel experiences.

For more information and how to apply, visit www.ramada.com/ceo.

This credit card company now offers a luxury hotel and airport lounge collection

October 24, 2022 No Comments

Credit card company Capital One recently announced that cardholders will soon be able to access an exclusive hotel booking platform with the launch of Premier Collection for Capital One Venture X Rewards later this year.

Through the rewards program, cardholders can also look forward to two new airport lounges with “chef-driven” experiences.

With the launch of the Premier Collection, travellers can enjoy perks including a $100 experience credit to be used during the stay, complimentary breakfast for two each day, free WiFi throughout the stay, room upgrades, early and late checkout, and the opportunity to earn 10 times the miles on Premier Collection bookings.

Some of the luxury hotels included in the Premier Collection include 1 Hotel South Beach (Miami Beach); Crans Ambassador (Switzerland); Hotel Cafe Royal (London); Chable Yucatan (Yucatan); Faena Miami Beach (Miami); and Montage Healdsburg (California).

Alongside the new luxury hotel collection, Capital One Travel cardholders will also gain access to two new airport lounges, two at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) and one at New York’s LaGuardia Airport’s Terminal B (LGA), curated by chef, humanitarian and bestselling author, José Andrés.

Travellers who visit the lounge can enjoy an espresso and coffee bar, grab-and-go eats and curated cocktails, all inside a comfortable and thoughtfully-designed space.

For more information, click here. 

At $3,000 per night, this hotel is one of the most luxurious in NYC

October 21, 2022 No Comments

Aman New York opened its doors on Aug. 2, 2022.

The culmination of a monumental transformation of the iconic Crown Building in Manhattan, the 83-suite hotel and its 22 branded residences bring the peace promised by Aman’s Sanskrit-derived name to the heart of New York. The hotel is the second in a new, pioneering generation of Aman properties in urban settings, following in the footsteps of Aman Tokyo and taking the brand to 34 properties worldwide.

Resting on the corner of 57th Street and Fifth Avenue, the storied Crown Building was built in 1921. Designed by Warren & Wetmore, architects of some of New York’s most influential buildings – including Grand Central Station and the Helmsley Building – the building has undergone a significant restoration, marking its next chapter as an urban Aman sanctuary. Through a combination of its original architectural splendour and Aman’s harmonious design language, the inimitable tranquillity of Aman is extraordinarily reimagined in this urban environment, transporting guests away from the frenetic pace of the city below.

On entering Aman New York, guests ascend to the hotel’s 14th floor, where a double-height atrium instantly instils a sense of grandeur while connecting exceptional spaces for socialising, designed by Jean Michel Gathy of Denniston and guided by the pulse of the city. Restaurants include Arva, Aman’s convivial Italian restaurant, and Nama, Aman’s interpretation of Japan’s washoku dining tradition, which features a Japanese Hinoki wood counter for omakase-style fine dining, alongside a Wine Library, all linked by a verdant wraparound Garden Terrace. Featuring reflective pools and dramatic firepits, the 650-square-metre outdoor space benefits from a retracting glass roof allowing year- round access. Meanwhile, the exclusive Jazz Club offers world-class live performances, reinventing a classic New York experience and serving as a nightly gathering place.

Elsewhere, a flagship Aman Spa covers three-storeys (2,300 square metres) defining an entirely new and all-encompassing approach to rejuvenation in the city. The most comprehensive realisation of Aman’s wellness philosophy in the Western Hemisphere, the spa offers a full spectrum of wellness- enhancing facilities, centred by a 20-metre indoor swimming pool flanked by firepits and daybeds and warmly lit by the glow of magnificent copper light installations. For those seeking a dedicated wellness experience, two vast Spa Houses comprise double treatment rooms, Banya and Hammam rooms, and private outdoor terraces with hot and cold plunge pools, daybeds and fireplaces. Available for private use, the Spa Houses are comparable to those of Aman’s remotest retreats and introduce a totally new concept to the city.

Ideal for business or leisure guests alike, the hotel’s 83 suites are among New York’s largest and are inspired by the airy architecture of Aman’s properties in Southeast Asia. An invitation to switch off from the outside world, every suite also offers a functioning fireplace, a first in New York City, while bathrooms are opulent and oversized with oval soaking bathtubs, marble rain showers and double vanities. Large windows offer dynamic views, and the use of organic, natural materials and muted tones brings a sense of balance and harmony reminiscent of that found in Aman resorts of the East.

On the building’s 11th and 12th floors, 11 Grand Suites can be configured with additional bedrooms to create family-sized spaces, while two Aman Suites offer the pinnacle of urban Aman living with views of 57th Street and Fifth Avenue, living and dining areas with tables for six, kitchenettes with counter seating and large walk-in wardrobes.

In a further nod to the brand’s roots, each suite also features a large-scale mural by contemporary Japanese artist Ryoko Adachi and inspired by the 15th-century masterpiece Pine Trees (Shōrin-zu byōbu) by Hasegawa Tōhaku. One of Japan’s most celebrated works, Pine Trees, owned by the Tokyo National Museum, was designated as a National Treasure in 1952 and is internationally acclaimed. Adachi’s recreation of the piece perfectly captures its eminent pre-Edo influence, and is a homage to Tōhaku, printed on delicate rice paper and spanning the walls as a captivating focal point.
Vlad Doronin, Chairman and CEO of Aman says: “Following the success of the multi-award-winning Aman Tokyo, our strategy to bring the coveted Aman lifestyle to urban destinations continues apace. A milestone opening, Aman New York marks our greatest investment into a single destination to date. The hotel introduces an entirely new concept to the city through expansive and unmatched amenities, which propels the brand forward, delivering a guest experience like no other.”

Aman New York joins Amangani in Wyoming and Amangiri in Utah as the brand’s third destination in the United States. Part of Aman’s robust future pipeline, the trio will soon be accompanied by Aman Miami Beach (2024).

Aman New York hotel reservations open on 25 July 2022, with stays commencing on 2 August 2022.

Here are some of the best tips for a successful sports fishing trip to the Bahamas

October 14, 2022 No Comments

The Bahamas is a destination associated with blissful relaxation and lazy days of sunbathing on pristine sandy beaches. For a certain subset of travelers, the ideal Bahamian trip involves less time on the island and more time spent miles offshore on a charter fishing boat. The Bahamas is a sportfishing hotspot, drawing both veteran and aspiring anglers from far and wide with the promise of exhilarating big game fishing. We’ve got you covered if you’re interested in going out on the open waters on your own deep-sea odyssey but don’t know where to start. Here, we present a beginner’s guide to deep-sea fishing in The Bahamas…and how you might reel in a majestic tuna, wahoo or mahi-mahi that lives up to their legendary reputation!

What is deep sea fishing?

To start, you’ll need to understand what deep sea fishing is all about. If you’re picturing a small tin boat on a placid lake, you’re mistaken. Deep sea fishing often takes place in ocean waters about 100 feet deep so that anglers can target the largest sporting fish. You’ll definitely have to put in the work to catch these species; some specimens easily weigh over 100 pounds. Many prized fish caught off the shores of The Bahamas have tipped the scales at over 300 pounds, meaning reeling one in is a test of mental and physical strength.

If your heart is set on catching a legendary big fish, let’s dive in deeper about how to actually do so. Within The Bahamas, there are many favourable areas in which to go deep- sea fishing. Picking a perfect fishing spot is tough, but some of the best in The Bahamas are the waters around Bimini, Treasure Cay, the channel between Andros and Nassau and the Exuma trough. As a beginner, your best bet is to find a great charter with an even better guide to help you navigate the waters. As you might expect, we’ve prepared a helpful list for you below.

How to choose a charter

You can’t go wrong stepping aboard any of these trusty charters. For new and even experienced anglers, they represent one of the most consistent ways to return to shore with an impressive catch:

Yellowtail Charters

You’ll find family-owned Yellowtail Charters in Nassau. This deep-sea fishing business runs on three generations of sportfishermen with significant experience navigating the waters offshore. The expertise and knowledge of the captains at Yellowtail Charters will maximise your potential for catching big fish. If you want to experience the excitement that comes along with a deep-sea fishing trip, this is the charter for you!

Hunter Charters 

You’re bound to have a blast during a day out with Hunter Charters. The captains at Hunter Charters take pride in giving guests an incredible fishing experience. The owner and operator of Hunter Charters, Paul Smith, has been fishing in Nassau since 1979. The experienced crew takes their guests only 15 minutes off the shore of Nassau for some of the best deep-sea fishing in The Bahamas. Come aboard their clean, modern charters for some world-class fishing!

Chubasco Charters 

With over 30 years in the boat chartering business, Chubasco Charters has been joyfully guiding visitors on their fleet of four sportfishing boats. Chubasco Charters has made quite a name for itself in the deep-sea fishing industry and often sets annual catch records. If you want to get in on the action, Chubasco Charters will be delighted to share in the joys of deep-sea fishing. They prioritise their visitors, so you can expect nothing but smooth sailing on your deep-sea fishing adventure with Chubasco Charters.

Once you’ve decided on the perfect charter, you’re well on your way to making a big catch. You can prepare for your trip in several ways, so we’ve compiled a few tips to ensure your success!

What to bring on the boat

It’s not just about choosing the right rod. There are a number of elements to consider when prepping for what can be a long day at sea:

Clothing 

Clothing is very much weather-dependent. On a hot sunny day, you’ll want to bring a light, breathable long-sleeve t-shirt to protect your skin from the sun. Consider also wearing shorts on hotter days and on cooler days, opt for pants. Also, bring additional layers like a windbreaker and an extra shirt. Ultimately, wear clothes that you don’t mind getting fish slime on!

Sunscreen

There’s not much to elaborate on here, but most definitely bring sunscreen. We suggest also bringing sunglasses and a baseball hat or any other brimmed hat! You don’t want to burn, and a brim may keep any sea spray out of your eyes.

Food and Drinks

Many charters offer everything needed for a fantastic fishing trip, like food and drinks. Check out the website of the charter you’re using for specific details. If food and drink aren’t included, you’ll want to bring plenty of drinking water, snacks and lunch for a more extended trip. It takes a lot of energy to reel in a truly massive fish!

After preparing and planning for your first deep-sea fishing trip, it’s time for the real fun! On the day of your journey into the bright waters of the Atlantic Ocean, you can expect plenty of excitement! Bring your camera because this will be a day you won’t want to forget!

Getting there:

  • Daily flights from Toronto to Nassau with either Air Canada or WestJet.  
  • 2-3 flights weekly from Montreal to Nassau with Air Canada beginning Nov. 5.
  • Weekly Air Canada flights from Toronto to Great Exuma beginning Nov. 13.
  • Weekly WestJet flights from Calgary to Nassau beginning Nov. 26.
  • Weekly Sunwing flights to Freeport, Grand Bahama from Toronto & Montreal beginning Dec. 17.

See why this region in eastern Switzerland is perfect for active travellers

October 10, 2022 No Comments
While most travellers know popular Swiss cities like Zurich, Bern, Geneva or Basel, few tourists venture into the smaller regions and cities that make this country so spectacular year-round.
 
Just far enough off the beaten path to be distinctive, Graubunden is a region in east Switzerland that is known for its breathtaking alpine slopes and magical landscapes. Each region offers extraordinary experiences to be discovered any time of the year. Here are our top picks to vacation like a Swiss!

Celerina

Winter here is a Christmas market in the historic village center, bobsledding down the world’s only natural and oldest bobsleigh track in the world, the St. Moritz-Celerina Olympia bob Run, then slowing down time for a snowshoe trek on the Staz Forest Trail. Summer is about a horse-drawn carriage ride to Lake Staz, returning to the Staz Forest for a sensory barefoot hike through fragrant meadows, and savoring a gastronomic walking tour through town.
 
Where to Stay?
Built in 1906, the Cresta Palace elegantly walks that fine line between history and modernity, incorporating the best of both worlds. Luxury comes in the form of treatment rituals and Swiss-quality medical wellness at the superb Vita Pura Spa, beautifully appointed classic rooms or sleek renovated accommodations, and impeccable white-glove service. Direct access to the Corviglia cable car is an added plus.

Flims Laax

Winter is all about traditional sports, yes, but punctuated by the unexpected: filming your ride though the halfpipe at the world’s largest halfpipe and Europe’s largest snow park, Foxtrail scavenger hunts, and culinary trails await your readers. If they choose summer, talk to them about the longest treetop walkway on earth or swimming in Lake Cauma, a balmy 75-degree temp turquoise gem surrounded by tall forest.
Where to Stay?
Located directly at the LAAX valley station for maximum mountain accessibility year-round, signinahotel revolves around well-being in all its forms. Its signature signinawellness program features a hydro-circuit pool, massage therapy, gym, and a sauna area with five distinct offerings for body and soul.

The chic rocksresort—also right on the LAAX lift station—gives travelers a different view of the alpine lifestyle. Offering double rooms and modern apartments, it’s the place to be for singles, couples, or families.

Lenzerheide
Winter means 225 snow-safe slopes and record-breaking sunny days at the Arosa Lenzerheide Ski Area. Summer brings outdoor concerts, hiking to the ruins of medieval Belfort Castle and the Sanaspans Waterfall, or ride the famed longest toboggan run in Switzerland, listed in the Guinness Book of World Records.
Where to Stay?
The 126-room Valbella Resort—comprised of three separate buildings—is fresh from an extensive renovation inside and out that not only drastically reduced its ecological footprint, but also included upgrades of all rooms in the Tgiasa Principala main building, an expansion of the Capricorn restaurant, and the addition of an organic swimming pond, among other improvements.

A pioneer in sustainability and community outreach, Hotel Schweizerhof is also known for being the home of the Green Michelin Star restaurant, Scalottas Terroir, where Chef Hansjörg Ladurner works exclusively with regional produce. Its 75 stylish rooms, art-filled common areas, and newly redesigned BergSpa will impress the most discerning of travellers.

This luxury barge has teamed up with one of the oldest champagne houses for a river cruise like no other

October 7, 2022 No Comments

Belmond is launching a luxury barge, part of its unmatched French collection: Coquelicot, A Belmond Boat, Champagne.

Debuting in May 2023, Coquelicot will take guests on a cinematic journey of Champagne in partnership with Maison Ruinart, the world’s oldest champagne house. Featuring three spacious cabins with ensuite facilities, an indoor salon with a champagne bar, and an extensive outdoor deck, Coquelicot will set a new standard of sophistication for slow-paced sailing in France. Coquelicot, A Belmond Boat is available for week-long private charters starting from €82,000 (approximately $79,500).

Designed by successful French duo, Humbert & Poyet, Coquelicot, formerly the Hirondelle barge, will boast three double cabins with marble ensuite bathrooms and an indoor lounge with a champagne bar – stocked with a curated selection of the guests’ preferred labels. The vessel’s top deck will be the social centre for guests to unwind as they meander the calm waterways. Framed by potted local herbs and indigenous wildflowers that root the space in the locale, the deck features two seating lounges, an open kitchen and a shaded dining area to enjoy a menu inspired by seasonal ingredients from trusted local suppliers.

To complement the ever-changing views and create an intimate sanctuary on the water, the barge’s interiors and exteriors will capture the essence of Champagne, with nods to the region’s hues and character. Local fabrics in earthy tones and raw materials will honor Champagne’s agricultural heritage, while fluted walls, decadent interiors and pieces of art will pay homage to the land’s glorious present. Coquelicot’s namesake, the red poppy, will be found in subtle references such as the hand-cut red marble side tables and the tone-on-tone hand-painted petals that line the hallway, while the lounge’s skylight is a celebration of Champagne’s water mapping legacy.  

Elevating the river barge journey, Belmond has partnered with Maison Ruinart to offer exclusive access to the first established House of Champagne with a private tasting lunch by Chef In Residence Valérie Radou and guided tours of the historic Taissy vineyard to discover the brand’s latest sustainability initiatives. Guests will disembark Coquelicot for unrivaled access to Taissy vineyard, which has been referenced as early as 1733 in the Maison’s archives. Immersed in the hillsides of the Champagne region, Maison Ruinart, in partnership with Reforest’Action and the University of Reims, launched a pioneering viti-forestry project in 2021 to preserve and regenerate forests in order to restore biodiversity. Also dotting the grounds is a new art installation by German visual artist Nils-Udo, a pioneer of land art. A technical tasting of iconic Maison Ruinart cuvées, led by a Maison Ambassador, will conclude the morning experience in the vineyard.

Back on board, Belmond guests will be treated to a private five-course tasting lunch by Maison Ruinart’s Chef In Residence Valérie Radou and Coquelicot Head Chef. It will be the first time Maison Ruinart’s Chef will be cooking a private ‘four hands’ lunch outside of Maison Ruinart. A true lesson in French art de vivre, this dining experience includes five seasonal dishes inspired by regional cuisine and paired with prestigious cuvées such as Dom Ruinart Blanc de Blancs and Dom Ruinart Rosé. Framed by the idyllic landscape and in the comfort and privacy of their own luxury boat, guests will delve deep into the world of Maison Ruinart, as their ambassador reveals the story, characteristics and technical aspects of each bottle.

Personal Guest Experience Executives will help craft customized itineraries depending on guest preferences. Whether an art-focused tour of Champagne, a historic voyage through the mighty castles, an active adventure on two wheels or a series of epicurean visits to Europe’s most celebrated and most secret wine producers, guests will have the liberty to design their own journey and marvel at the region’s treasures at their own pace. Alternate an al fresco soirée on the top deck with an off-board Michelin-starred restaurant experience or a less inhibited dinner in one of the quaint villages scattered across the region. The all-inclusive journeys include table d’hóte meals, complimentary beverages, all planned excursions escorted by a private guide, and transfer from Paris to the barge. Helicopter transfers from Paris are also available upon request.

The best places to see North America’s spectacular fall foliage

October 7, 2022 No Comments

Come mid-September, Canadians everywhere recognize the telltale signs of the autumn season. Cooler nights call for cosy knits, a dockside Caesar gets swapped for a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon, and in bustling cities and quiet towns alike, tree leaves begin to change colour, and eventually fall. 

An abundance of external influences like warmer or cooler temperatures make “peak” autumn colour viewing times nearly impossible to predict, but generally, shades of deep burgundy, fiery orange, golden yellow and scarlet red spread across North America’s foliage from mid-September to late October, though sometimes, the changing of the leaves can start as early as September, and end as late as November, depending on location. 

The thousands of trees that dot the slopes of Tennessee’s Great Smoky Mountains are responsible for the lingering, mysterious, foggy effect, and starting mid-September, brilliant shades of gold on the yellow birch are visible below the haze. Running along the Tennessee and North Carolina border, here, elevation greatly affects the speed of the foliage turnover, with the highest points of elevation changing first. By mid-October, bright red leaves take over the sugar maples, red maples, and scarlet oaks. Part of the Appalachian Mountain chain and spanning more than 187,000 acres, the Great Smoky Mountains are one of the United States’ most-visited national parks and one of the oldest mountain ranges. There are approximately 100 species of trees in the park, which attract mass crowds, especially during mid-October when the foliage nears its peak. As one of the most popular U.S. parks, it’s best to plan ahead for fall colours tourism, as many nearby accommodations quickly fill up! 

A road trip through Upstate New York in late September to early October presents one of the best opportunities to marvel at the fall leaves. The Adirondack Region spans a whopping 48,438 square kilometres and is famous for having one of the longest fall foliage seasons in the U.S. The Lake Placid area in particular presents plenty of fall foliage observation. Plan a hike to Whiteface Mountain, the fifth highest peak in all of New York, or Mount Haystack, one of the most challenging but rewarding hikes of the Adirondack High Peaks. From way up high, visitors can take in the breathtaking colours of fall foliage that stretches as far as the neighbouring state of Vermont. Scenic drives and even hot air balloon rides over the Lake George Region are just a handful of some of the other ways to take in the breathtaking colours of autumn. During the fall months, the local tourism board, Visit Adirondacks, creates a fall foliage metre that depicts the percentage of colourful leaves present in each of the ten regions of the Adirondacks. A bustling summer tourist destination, the autumn months in the Adirondacks are slightly quieter, but offer just as much opportunity for guests. Visitors can enjoy ciders and local wine tours, harvest festivals and more, while staying at cosy accommodations that range from log cabins to luxury lakefront resorts.

Composed of 7,635 square kilometres made up of rushing rivers, wetlands, lakes and deciduous and coniferous forests brimming with trails, Algonquin Provincial Park is one of Canada’s most famous viewpoints for fall foliage. Starting in September, Algonquin Park officials release their fall colour change reports, which provide a daily track record via live camera stream on the park’s 34 native tree species. Data from last year’s fall colours timeline shows that the sugar and red maple trees began turning red by the second week of September, and that the sugar maple canopy reached its “peak” by Oct. 2. However, rain, wind, cooling temperatures and moisture levels can all affect the timeline, pushing it earlier or later in the season. The park’s camera is a great way to plan a visit, as potential visitors can keep an eye on the trees daily. Ideally, the best time to visit Algonquin Provincial Park is between mid-September and mid-October, as unexpected snowfall or windstorms could spontaneously cause fragile leaves to be knocked off prematurely. Of course, the drive leading into the park is equally spectacular, with popular routes like Highway 60 and Highway 11 boasting endless kilometres of beautiful foliage.

A gorgeous destination year round, the Laurentian Mountains are one of the best places to watch Canada’s leaves change. Their proximity to Montreal (roughly 100 kilometres) make the Laurentians a popular option for daytrippers, or as a quick weekend getaway for visitors from Ontario who may be eager to explore beyond the Kawartha and Muskoka regions. Unlike Algonquin Provincial Park, which has just three lodges to provide accommodation to visitors, there are many different options available for visitors to the Laurentians. Those interested in overnight accommodation can opt for hotels, bed-and-breakfasts, cottages or campsites, which are a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts. Every September, Croisières Alouette resumes its special fall colours sailing on Lac des Sables, where guests can enjoy a full-service bar and music as they take in the spectacular beauty of the Laurentians from the water’s edge.

While summer in the land of the Midnight Sun presents plenty of opportunities for active and adventure tourism, autumn in the north is truly an enchanting time to visit. Not only are the mountains and tundra decked out in autumn colours, but after months of endless daylight, darkness returns to the skies, and the Aurora Borealis once again paints the sky in shades of neon green, inky indigo, and deep plum. Autumn colours come to the Northwest Territories slightly earlier than the rest of Canada, with the tundra turning into brilliant shades of red as early as August. One of the best places to see this transformation take place is in the Barrenlands, a large territory residing in mainland Nunavut that extends into the Northwest Territories. Decorated with ancient sand and rock ridges and carpeted in soft moss and plants, by fall, blooms of yellow and green are replaced by deep burgundy and burnt orange. The fall months also present an excellent opportunity to camp in the Northwest Territories, as the summer crowds have all but left, and visitors have a wide selection of campsites to spend a few days or weeks watching the foliage change. During the autumn months, just as Canada geese begin their southern migration, herds of caribou begin their descent south, often sweeping through the Barrenlands, so visitors to the region can enjoy their share of wildlife watching, too.

https://spectacularnwt.com/story/15-reasons-youll-fall-autumn-canadas-northwest-territories 

Experience the wonders of the Cayman Islands

October 3, 2022 No Comments

After passing through otherworldly formations of stalactite and stalagmite crystal structures formed over millions of years, our tour guide at Cayman Crystal Caves on Grand Cayman leads the group to the aptly named Bat Cave where dozens of bats are hanging and flying around the dimly-lit ceiling. 

“When you do look up, please keep your mouth closed!” he warned as the bats whizzed above our heads.

“Why?” I pondered for a brief second until I understood all too quickly as I felt something liquid drop onto my head. “Bat poo!”

Proceeding with the belief that being pooped on is a sign of good luck, I took a closer look at the walls and ceilings of the caves lined with icicle-shaped rock formations, which continue to grow slowly from single drops of water.

Exploring this underground world of the Cayman Islands is one example of the unique experiences that await travellers on a trip to the tri-island destination, which also includes Cayman Brac and Little Cayman.

The attraction, which offers three caves that visitors are able to explore, is debuting a new zip-line next month set above the surrounding lush tropical forested area.

Another memorable place to visit on Grand Cayman is Pedro St. James, a national historic site which provides a glimpse into life in the 18th century.

Tour guides like Trisha Richardson-Jackson share engaging stories about how the site became known as the “Birthplace of Democracy in the Cayman Islands” by being the venue where the decision was made to form the first elected parliament back in 1831.

In the 1990s, the Government of the Cayman Islands purchased the property and restored the Great House, which survived hurricanes, fires and vandalism, to its former glory over an extensive restoration period.

Notably, the stairs of the Great Hall is also the location where Captain Anthony Pack read the Emancipation Act to end slavery in the Cayman Islands and other British Territories.

The site is also home to the new oceanside Thatch & Barrel restaurant, where visitors can learn all about the local rum scene by taking part in a rum sampling. One offering is 1780 Pedro St. James Dark Rum, named after the historic location.

Another local rum with a notorious story to tell is that of Seven Fathoms Rum. Created by Cayman Spirits Co., the rum is aged in American white oak bourbon casks in the ocean at a depth of its namesake seven fathoms, which equates to 42 feet, where it is rocked by underwater currents. The process stems back to the golden age of rum where rum stored on boats was believed to have aged better than the barrels that were stored on land.

For those looking to soak up some local beer instead, The Cayman Islands Brewery Ltd. is a fun location to grab a flight and learn about the beer making process.

On the wild side, the Queen Elizabeth ll Botanic Park is a non-profit outdoor garden and wildlife facility dedicated to preserving natural environments. In addition to enjoying the great outdoors, visitors have a good chance of encountering the endangered Grand Cayman Blue Iguana. The park is also home to the Blue Iguana Conservation facility.

Of course, one of the most notable and Instagram-worth excursions in Grand Cayman is Stingray City, where travellers get the chance to swim and get up close and personal with stingrays.

Whether travellers are staying in the destination or visiting by cruise, there are many unique ways to spend time on Grand Cayman.

BY: ANN RUPPENSTEIN