Family-friendly safari company adds exciting new trips

August 21, 2023 No Comments

Extraordinary Journeys, a tour operator and safari specialist, has unveiled a diverse array of new family-forward safari experiences tailored for all age groups across its African destinations.

While Extraordinary Journeys recommends South Africa, Kenya, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, Zambia, and Botswana as wonderful family safari destinations, as of recently, Kenya and Tanzania have become more accessible to families thanks to new and improved accommodations and experiences by top safari camps and lodges that are tailored to little ones.

Extraordinary Journeys has the insider intelligence and expertise to know precisely which camps are best for the type of family adventure travellers want to experience.

Explore Tanzania & Kenya

In Tanzania and Kenya specifically, Extraordinary Journeys’ family itineraries feature new safari sites that have moved on from the old standard of tents with extra beds and now give families exclusive use of their own “camp within the camp.”

The private sites sport amenities such as private guides, dining spaces, fire pits, and a private or additional shared pool, giving families a larger area to spread out, breathe, and connect. Whether roasting marshmallows and stargazing with the kids or enjoying a drink on the deck while the kids are safely asleep nearby, these new luxury suites offer families increased options and ease.

In addition to game drives, family safaris offer many other experiences for children to enjoy including bush walks to look for tracks, horseback or camel riding, local village visits, cooking with the camp’s Chef, hanging out near a waterhole (where the wildlife comes to you!), helicopter safaris, young explorers programs, and more.

For more information and to book your own safari, visit extraordinaryjourneys.com.

All-inclusive resort in Mexico adds aqua jungle experience

August 18, 2023 No Comments

Delta Hotels by Marriott Riviera Nayarit recently unveiled the Aqua Jungle & River experience as well as an additional rooms and suites tower.

The hotel is one of the 31 properties in the All-Inclusive by Marriott Bonvoy hotel portfolio in the Caribbean and Latin America. 

Located in the hotel’s own forest canyon, the Aqua Jungle & River experience offers members an all-encompassing immersion in the surrounding jungle landscape with adult and family offerings. With five jacuzzis, a total of seven pools, an elongated lazy river and two kid’s areas with waterslides and splash amenities, visitors of all ages will have plenty of options to enjoy this water experience in addition to convenient food and beverage spots.

Inspired by the Tolantongo caves in the state of Hidalgo, where thermal waters cascade to natural pools, the Aqua Jungle & River experience brings that model to the hotel’s epicentre, allowing guests to relax and rejoice in a paradisiac adventure for themselves. 

More than 200 rooms

With the Delta Riviera Nayarit’s expansion, the resort’s footprint increased from 117 to 212 unparalleled rooms and suites featuring mountain views with King or Queen modalities for adaptable comfort and with a design that resembles the Mexican artistry and natural elements of the locale. 

The hotel has three sit-down restaurants on-site featuring Mexican, Asian, and local cuisines, three main pools to offer a total of seven pools, a dedicated beach club just 15 minutes away from the resort, the renowned Tzicuri Spa, among other offerings.

Infused with the local Huichol culture, visitors will find inspiration in the design, architecture, spa treatments, and food and beverage options on the hotel premises for relaxation and a unique wellness retreat. 

Some of the best experiences to have in Slovenia this summer

August 16, 2023 No Comments

If you are thinking about an exciting new travel destination,  Slovenia stands ready.

The summer season is ideal for exploring cultural treasures, embarking Slovenian Coast, indulging in wellness retreats, or savoring exquisite culinary delights. Slovenia’s diverse attractions and warm hospitality will leave lasting memories and a desire to return. 

Do not miss Slovenia’s picturesque coastline, adorned with sun-soaked coastal towns also known for producing wine, olive oil, and salt, or wander amongst the orchards, vineyards, and romantic villages in Brda. Ensure you include a visit to the renowned Lipica Stud Farm, the historic birthplace of the world-famous Lipizzaner horses, listed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the World’s Intangible Heritage.

Explore the cave systems

The captivating Karst region is another must-see. With around 13,000 caves, including the breathtaking Postojna Cave, Europe’s largest cave system, and the UNESCO-listed Škocjan Caves, Slovenia is a paradise for cave enthusiasts.

Captivating cities and nature

Charming cities await as well: the capital Ljubljana invites you to wander its scenic streets, while Maribor, the second-largest city, boasts the world’s oldest vine, symbolizing the city’s rich viticultural heritage.

If your heart beats for more into nature, the Pohorje Hills will captivate you with extensive forests, peat bogs, and lakes.

For wine & wellness

For those seeking spa experiences, numerous natural spa resorts like Rogaška Slatina, known for its revered mineral-rich springs, Dobrna Spa with its blend of modern treatments and historic charm, and Terme Olimia Spa with luxurious pools, offer holistic wellness rejuvenating escape.

In the eastern part of Slovenia, the Pomurje region  offers a serene haven with rolling hills, vineyards, and quaint villages. Visit Expano, an interactive pavilion, to explore the region’s wonders through cutting-edge technology, interactive exhibits, and captivating events.

Further south, you can visit Dolenjska and enjoy idyllic moments among vineyards or make unforgettable romantic memories at the charming Otočec Castle.

For outdoor enthusiasts

Lastly, do not overlook Slovenia’s breathtaking outdoors. Dive into the Soča Valley for exhilarating adventures and soak in the natural beauty of Slovenia’s haven for nature lovers.

For inspiration, latest summer stories, and events, visit www.slovenia.info.  

One of Saint Lucia’s hottest resorts shows off multi-million dollar upgrade

July 31, 2023 No Comments

The Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort, a luxurious five-star resort nestled in the hillside on the Caribbean Island of Saint Lucia, debuts a fresh new look following a 12-million-dollar renovation.

Nestled in the glamorous hills of the island’s Labrelotte Bay, the resort’s renovations feature new additions, including the revitalization of enhanced luxury estate villas, new Ocean Point Residences, a refreshed lobby, an innovative culinary program, and updated accommodations.

Influenced by its Caribbean meets Mediterranean island setting, the resort’s new design blends nautical and coastal elements, utilizing soft neutrals and pops of Saint Lucia’s renowned blue hue. Custom-made wood furnishings, including mindi and teak, are used throughout spaces to provide contrast, and natural rope and rattan furnishings transform outdoor space into a chic oasis.

The resort’s 12-million-dollar refresh pays homage to its origins, bringing a focus back to the serenity of the beach escape and celebrating over 30 years of service since its opening in 1989.

The Lobby’s grand infrastructure featuring high vaulted ceiling beams and an open-air concept has been re-envisioned as a space where guests can mingle and meet. Outfitted with elegant chandeliers, contemporary furniture, marble floors, a new reception area, an ambassador’s lounge, and a coffee bar by day/wine bar by night concept, the refreshed look will enhance the guest check-in experience and bring to life the heart of the resort.

Revitalized rooms

Dubbed the Manor Collection, the resort’s newly revitalized luxury estate villas feature sweeping views of the Caribbean Sea perched at the top of the hillside, complete with in-ground pools.

Among the collection is ‘The Presidential Manor’ slated to be unveiled later this year; the largest villa on-site, at over 4000 sq ft, will feature a 45’x20′ swimming pool, driveway, and adjunct living space perfect for extended family or friends.

Additionally, guests can now enjoy the newly built Ocean Point Residences featuring a mix of luxury two and three-bedroom beachfront villas. Each villa in this collection has multiple outdoor terraces, a private infinity pool, fully equipped kitchens, artwork showcasing Caribbean culture and landscape by local artists, smart technology, and more.

Guests will revel in the modern meets Mediterranean-style rooms, where island vibes blend seamlessly with a luxurious escape. A new ‘Ocean Point Club House’ has been designed as an exclusive lounge for Ocean Point Residence guests with a dedicated concierge desk and private check-in area.

Ocean Point Residence

Enhanced culinary program

Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort’s enhanced culinary program, led by Culinary Director Aurelien Duarte and Executive Chef Sebastian Francis, boasts chic upgrades to design elements and refreshed menus for Papa Don’s (dinner-only Mediterranean), Jammers (all-day beachside dining), Upper Deck (dinner-only legendary steakhouse) and now ‘Masala at Embers,’ serving up authentic Indian cuisine, led by Chef Vikrham Singh, daily for dinner service.

Upscale dining at Upper Deck evokes a modern steakhouse vibe with moody accents, including a soon-to-be-unveiled wine lounge. Fire pits and sophisticated coastal furniture adorn the newly re-envisioned Jammer’s restaurant, adding luxe touches to the all-day beachside dining hot spot. Each restaurant supports Saint Lucia’s local farmers and fishermen, serving only the freshest ingredients.

The resort’s signature restaurant, Dragonfly, has undergone an extensive renovation and now serves breakfast and dinner. In addition, the new restaurant now features a rooftop bar and lounge dubbed “The Perch by Dragonfly,” featuring hand-painted murals by a local Caribbean artist, Sandy Layne, depicting the restaurant’s scenic breakwater views.

The Perch is set to be the newest hot spot in Saint Lucia, where locals and tourists alike will mingle over some of the most innovative cocktails and menu offerings like our Piri Piri King Prawns, Hot & Spicy Eggplant, and our Spices of Lucian cocktail, all while taking in sweeping views of the Caribbean Sea.

The renowned spa at Windjammer Landing has a new moniker, Serene Wellness & Spa, which compliments the wide range of alluring, balance-restoring rituals and treatments available to nurture physical and spiritual routines. Stand-out feature packages include their holistic approach to Detox and Immunity featuring steps to transition to a healthier way of living. This year the spa plans to unveil the island’s first medi-spa featuring treatments at the forefront of anti-aging and rejuvenation.

For more information and reservations, visit www.windjammer-landing.com.

The USVI’s newest adults-only hotel is a pink Barbie dream house

July 28, 2023 No Comments

On July 21, one of the most anticipated movies of this year hit the big screen – Barbie!

And with the iconic doll making her film debut, travellers around the world are looking to experience the pink side of life at spots like Pink Palm Hotel in the U.S. Virgin Islands, a new adults-only boutique hotel where you can soak in all of the pink, dreamy, Barbie vibes.  

This magnificent property opened in March 2023 in the heart of the islands’ capital city Charlotte Amalie on St. Thomas, and features one of the most magical and beautiful views of the city’s waterfront harbor.

The 28-room adult boutique luxury hotel renovates the famed Smith’s Fancy, popular in the 1940s as a destination guesthouse for those in the fashion, art, music, and film worlds. This unique spot offers gorgeous water views that can be enjoyed from many of the rooms and the poolside common area.

Pink Palm offers guests a relaxing, private oasis while being steps from local restaurants, bars, art galleries and St. Thomas’s famous shops. This exotic place offers guests a full-service cocktail bar, highly skilled bartenders & cocktail servers.    

Explore these five nature spots in Lithuania

July 21, 2023 No Comments

Lithuania’s captivating natural wonders, including pristine lakes, enchanting forests, and massive sand dunes, offer a myriad of stunning landscapes for nature enthusiasts this summer.

As the summer season reaches its peak, Lithuania’s treasure trove of natural wonders are bound to captivate the hearts of visitors and locals alike. From over 3,000 pristine lakes, 90 kilometres of the Baltic Sea shoreline, and enchanting forests that blanket more than 30 per cent of the country, this Baltic gem offers a myriad of stunning landscapes for nature enthusiasts to immerse themselves in.

Here are five nature spots not to miss during your Lithuanian summer adventure.

Silence of the dunes

Neringa is a top seaside location for every Lithuanian summer, mostly characterized by its massive moving sand dunes. Due to efforts to manage nature long ago, pine woods now dominate the area, yet parts of the historic dunes still remain entirely untouched.

On the 1.1 km walk of the Nagliai Nature Reserve, visitors may come to the peculiar natural phenomenon known as dead sand dunes. A few centuries ago, powerful winds formed a strange landscape of hollows and washouts that exposed the soil of a long-dead forest that was buried in the sand. The Curonian Spit — a UNESCO-listed peninsula with a carefully protected ecology —  is capped with unlimited vistas.

Nida’s Parnidis Dune is one of its most beautiful sites. At 52 m, it is one of Europe’s tallest dunes and provides a beautiful view of infinite sandy beaches that mingle with aromatic pine trees.

A therapeutic walk among junipers

The 1.3-kilometer-long Arlaviškių — or Juniper Valley — nature trail, located just outside Kaunas, Lithuania’s second-largest city, welcomes visitors to appreciate the wonderful vista of the expanded Nemunas river, Dabinta Island, and the picturesque surrounding outcrops.

The trail’s uniqueness is more readily apparent now that it has been renovated: naturally grown on a steep slope, with patches of steppe grassland between the juniper trees and in other parts of the reserve that are home to rare plants, mushrooms, springs with forming tuffs, and even hanging wetlands. Furthermore, the air here is particularly pure due to essential oils secreted by junipers. According to some folk medicine practitioners, the aireven has a therapeutic value.

Treetops at a touching distance

The Treetop Walking Path in Anykščiai was the first trail in the Baltic States and in the whole of Eastern Europe where it was possible to walk at treetop level. At the end of the trail there is an observation tower, the height of the observation deck is 34 m.

This unique architectural structure is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Lithuania, as no other location offers the chance to walk among the tops of trees at an altitude of over 20 meters. From this height, the winding Šventoji River Valley unfurls in all its undisturbed beauty, with romantic peaks of the highest church towers — St. Matthew’s —  in Lithuania, popping up from the sea of green.

An ever-evolving landscape

Biržai’s surroundings are full of surprises. It is a one-of-a-kind land where the earth’s surface affects the landscape, with land collapsing in the most literal sense. This occurs when groundwater washes away gypsum deposits in the earth.

Above this special landscape and the local karst lakes looms the Kirkilai Observation Tower, which has a distinctive form — resembling a canoe or a sinking boat. The height of the tower is almost 32 meters, meaning visitors can take in the full-breadth of the surrounding landscape. In summer, under certain conditions, the lakes take on different colors — becoming painted with various shades of green and blue.

Mysteries of Lithuania’s pagan heritage

The Dūkštai Oak Grove Nature Trail meanders through one of the oldest and largest natural oak forests in Lithuania. Among the undergrowth of 200-year-old oak trees there are several species of rare and endangered animals, plants, fungi, and lichens that call the grove home.

As these trees were worshiped as gods several hundred years ago, wooden statues made in their honor can be discovered by those who wander through the area. Adding to the mystic energy of the park is the Airėnai Stone, with runes etched onto it whose meanings are still a mystery to mankind.

The world’s first ocean pool just opened in Turks & Caicos

July 17, 2023 No Comments

Wymara Villas, perched on one of the highest points of the secluded Turtle Tail peninsula, a short drive from Wymara Resort is a community of one, four and five-bedroom modern masterpieces located on Grace Bay Beach.

Each villa offers guests a private pool, expansive ocean views, and exclusive access to a state-of-the-art sports club.

Recently, the property welcomed an ocean pool that measures 130 ft long by 30 ft wide, spanning nearly 3,900 square feet.

Now ready for guests to take a dip, the stunning swimming spot features a shallow end that is three-to-five feet deep (depending on the tide) and a deep end that plunges six-to-nine feet with a soft, sandy bottom throughout.

The natural swimming pool, which gets replenished with fresh seawater from the Atlantic, is carved out of the coastal rock and lined by an expansive timber deck that spans the entire length of the pool. Featuring a tiki bar and stylish sun loungers and umbrellas for shade, guests can take breaks from sipping spritzes to dip in and out of the refreshing, salty sea while soaking in the serene views. 

Its remote location gives privacy for swimmers, yet is close enough to Wymara’s five-star amenities offering something for everyone. Future plans call for the opening of a new beachside restaurant and the availability of day passes. But for now, the Ocean Pool at Sunset Cove Beach is for the exclusive use of Wymara Resort + Villa guests, with access to a poolside Tiki Bar from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. serving a variety of fresh cocktails, wine, and beer.

Azamara Cruises returns to Canada for the first time since 2017

July 14, 2023 No Comments

 Azamara has released 73 itineraries for 2025, including two brand-new voyages visiting Canada for the first time since 2017.

Along with these itineraries comes the debut of double night stays, giving guests two overnights to explore one destination at their leisure. 

With Azamara’s new double night stays, guests can spend three days and two nights in Bordeaux, France. Due to their small size, Azamara’s ships can dock in the centre of the city, allowing guests to explore the stunning architecture and renowned museums, as well as the world-famous surrounding wine region.

Azamara guests can also sail seven hours down the Guadalquivir River to enjoy an extended stay in the heart of Seville, Spain, where they can fully immerse themselves in the local culture and traditions of Andalusia by indulging in tapas, watching authentic flamenco dancers and bullfighters, and admiring historic palaces – all at their own pace. 

“We are thrilled to return to Canada in 2025, and we’re excited for our guests to experience these unique itineraries visiting lesser traveled ports in Quebec and Newfoundland as well as Iceland and Greenland,” said Michael Pawlus, Head of Itinerary Planning at Azamara. “As demand for our Country Intensive sailings remains strong, we’ve also added a range of these specialty voyages across Europe for 2025, so our guests can discover smaller ports and hidden gems within a single country.”  

New sailings 

Marking the cruise line’s return to the country for the first time in more than five years, Azamara’s new sailings will stop in six Canadian ports, including:  

  • Cap-aux-Meules, Quebec (maiden port): Known as the center of the Magdalen Islands, this small fishing town boasts incredibly fresh seafood, stunning coastal trails, and over 300 species of birds. 
  • L’Anse Aux Meadows, Newfoundland (maiden port): L’Anse Aux Meadows is the only authenticated Viking site in North America. Guests will be transported back 1,000 years as they explore the recreated Viking Encampment and discover original Norse artifacts.  
  • Harve Saint Pierre, Quebec (maiden port): With panoramic views and never-ending sandy beaches, Saint Pierre sits on the north shore of Quebec’s Saint Lawrence River and is the gateway to the Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve, home to an abundance of wildlife. 

2025 itineraries

Azamara’s signature Country Intensive sailings continue to see high demand, making up more than half of the newly released 2025 itineraries.

These specialty voyages encourage guests to dive deeper into countries such as Italy, Spain, France, Norway, Ireland, and Scotland by providing more time to discover the local culture and hidden gems. Two of the fleet’s four ships will visit Greece in 2025, a destination Azamara knows best as its ships visit more unique ports throughout the country than any other cruise line. 

Azamara’s 2025 itineraries include a record number of 15 golf cruises in collaboration with longtime partner PerryGolf. Golf lovers will want to book the 2025 British Isles Golf Cruise, which includes weekend attendance to the final two rounds of The 153rd Open at Royal Portrush in Northern Ireland.  

To book one of Azamara’s immersive itineraries for 2025, please visit www.azamara.com/europe-2025.  

Meet the tour operators offering incredible wildlife encounters in Manitoba

July 3, 2023 No Comments

Travel Manitoba says tourists can see some pretty impressive critters in the northern part of Manitoba and much farther south as well.

The tourism promotion body’s Karin Schreiber told delegates at Rendez-vous Canada 2023 that those visiting the northern Manitoba community of Churchill can spot polar bears in a destination that bills itself as The Polar Bear Capital of the World, with guided tours providing sightings of the huge bruins.

Schreiber also told her late May Quebec City audience that Hudson Bay-fronting Churchill also has tours that enable people to spot some of the thousands of beluga whales that gather nearby in the summer.

Churchill-based Lazy Bear Expeditions has a “wildlife-viewing boat” that enables people to comfortably view belugas, and adventurous clients can opt for “beluga AquaGliding,” which sees people wearing wet or dry suits and masks and snorkels lie on floating mats tethered to Zodiacs on the Churchill River or Hudson Bay. Curious but harmless belugas often approach the mats, giving tourists close-up looks at them.

“The belugas come close to the mat and follow it,” Lazy Bear Expeditions’ Melissa Perry later said of the “naturally curious” marine mammals.

Perry said clients are “on top of the water, not in it” but the provided wet or dry suits prevent them from getting wet from splashing.

More information can be found at lazybearexpeditions.com.

Schreiber also said that northern Manitoba’s “cloud wolves of Kaska Coast” aren’t wary of people, which in turn leads to sightings of them by nature enthusiasts who venture to the Hudson Bay-fronting region they live in.

But she also noted that the “Prairie oasis” of Riding Mountain National Park — found in southwestern Manitoba — is home to such imposing creatures as bison, black bears and moose.

“Manitoba is best known for its compelling wildlife,” Schreiber said.

She said the huge province has over 100,000 lakes and can provide great winter sightings of the Northern Lights.

Glamping’s popularity increased during the pandemic.

But Schreiber also said visitors should experience urban Manitoba, adding “hustling and bustling” Winnipeg sees world-class performing arts performances.

Aviation enthusiasts will appreciate the city’s Royal Aviation Museum,  she added.

Winnipeg’s Qaumajug Art  Museum in turn has the largest Inuit art collection anywhere,  she continued.

Schreiber also noted that The Wyndham Gardens Ode Akiing Hotel (also called the Wyndham Gardens Winnipeg Airport Hotel) is Indigenous-owned. The hotel has Indigenous art and an Indigenous chef.

—IAN STALKER

Here’s where you can hike the highest sea cliff in Europe

June 28, 2023 No Comments

Hornelen Via Ferrata is a new and spectacular via ferrata up the highest sea cliff in Europe that offers stunning views of Norway’s coast. 

Hornelen is located on the island of Bremangerlandet in Nordfjord, north of the Sognefjord and south of the city of Ålesund. From the top (860 metres above sea level) there is a magnificent panoramic view over narrow fjords and high mountains.

Hornelen Via Ferrata opened on June 18, 2023.

A landmark full of myths

The mountain was formerly an important landmark for passing ships, and in even older times a gathering place for witches (according to a legend) both at Midsummer and Christmas.

According to the saga of Olav Trygvason, he climed up the steep side of the cliff, and many people believe that is why Olav established the first climbing route in Norway. Now you have the chanse to climb the same route as Olav, but in controlled and safe and controlled conditions.

Guided hikes available

Hornelen Via Ferrata is now ready to welcome guests on guided hikes on Hornelen. The experienced and knowledgeable guides take care of equipment and safety, and bring the guests safely up the mountainside so they can focus on climbing and the powerful nature experience.

There are three different routes up to the top of Hornelen:

  • Ørnelia takes two hours and is the perfect introduction to via ferrata for beginners
  •  The Hekseveggen takes about five hours  and offers very varied and sometimes challenging climbing.
  • The Olavsruta is by far the fiercest rout, climbing the very peak of Hornelen. This route takes about eight hours and is really exposed and challenging.

There will be six available daily guided hikes, with a variety of group sizes.