Archive for the ‘My Blog Posts’ Category
Viking River Cruises | Update for 2012
This is the latest from Viking River Cruises per their industry update February 14, 2012. I sell a fair amount of river cruises and would counsel my clients to 1/book early as capacity is really limited and 2/be ship specific and cruise line specific as not all ships are the same, and you might have a strong preference for one style vs. another.
For instance, Viking’s six new 190 guest ‘Longship’ Class vessels are quite different from the majority of their fleet. The look of the public areas is very contemporary with high ceilings, lots of glass and marble. The design firm is the same one that did the newer Seabourn ships, and you can see the similarities. There are full suites of 445 square feet (tub/shower), and veranda suites of 270 square feet (shower only). Regular veranda cabins are 205 square feet.
WHY RIVER CRUISING?
- The biggest benefit of river cruising is the destination as the ships dock in the heart of the towns and cities
- Small ships with just 66 to 260 guests
- Resort casual
- Port or starboard irrelevant
- All cabins and suites have river views, some with windows that open (french balconies), traditional balconies
- No motion sickness
DESTINATIONS
- Central Europe, Ukraine, Russia, china, Vietnam/Cambodia, Egypt/Nile
- Portugal’s Douro river in 2013
VIKING RIVER CRUISES AMENITIES
- Complimentary wine, beer soda with lunch and dinner
- Complimentary mimosas with breakfast
- Optional beverage plan
- No corkage fees
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
CULTURAL ENHANCEMENT
- Comprehensive shore excursions included
- Chef tours of local markets
- Home cultural excursions
- Old world highlight include cuckoo clock making, wooden shoe carving, tai chi lessons, traditional Russian tea service & more
FOOD
- Classic American
- Regional specialties
- Healthier alternative every day
- Single seating
- Martin Yan menu in China
- U.S. Beef, not European (due to customer request)
ITINERARIES | Most Popular
- Amsterdam to Budapest or vice-versa (2 weeks)
- Amsterdam to Basel or vice-versa (1 week Rhine Getaway)
- St Petersburg to Moscow
- Shanghai to Beijing
ITINERAREIS| New
- Amsterdam to Bucharest for 21 days
- Amsterdam to Prague
PROMOTIONS
2013 sailings now available at 2012 prices
2 for 1 pricing
Air promotions
[all promotions subject to change so please ask for latest]
Josh Friedman is a travel agent specializing in luxury travel for small groups and individuals – particularly ultra-luxury cruises, customized vacations and food & wine inspired journeys. Based in San Francisco, and with clients throughout the USA and abroad, his business is focused on 24/7 personalized service to the sophisticated leisure and business traveler. His personal relationships with the world’s top hotels, cruise lines and local agencies often allows for exclusive amenities and VIP status.
If you’d like to learn more about luxury travel and our services, please contact Josh Friedman Luxury Travel in San Francisco’s Financial District via phone at 415.987.0372 or email: josh [at] joshfriedmantravel [dot] com. Follow him on Twitter and Facebook, too.
associated with casto, a virtuoso member and four seasons preferred partner, 500 sansome st., san francisco, ca 94111 cst#1008439-10
Interview | Four Seasons Hotels in Hawaii
Lenora Yuen, Senior Sales Manager for the Four Seasons resorts in Hawaii (Maui, Hualalai, Manele Bay and The Lodge at Koele), and probably my longest time and most favorite travel partner (we go back to Irvine in the 80s), sat down with me when I was in Hawaii a few weeks ago. I asked her what was new with Four Seasons in Hawaii and about the differences between the resorts and how to choose which one to go to! This post is part of our series on various Four Seasons hotels and resorts along the West Coast, and now Hawaii.
Josh: Lenora, this is the 3rd time I’ve stayed at the Four Seasons Maui at Wailea and I think it’s heaven on Earth. For my partner and I, it’s the service levels, the location and the contemporary Asian feel. Why is this place always so popular?
Lenora: Thanks Josh…that’s really great praise coming from someone like yourself who’s travelled extensively around the world and stayed at many top hotels. I feel our popularity in Maui can be attributed to our staff and their warm, personal and truly genuine way of taking care of guests. In Hawaii we say “E Komo Mai”..which means “please come …we invite you into our home”. We want our guests to relax and feel at home with us and we realize how precious your vacation time is.
Four Seasons Resort Maui has been fortunate to receive many awards and accolades over the years – we are the only AAA Five Diamond and Forbes Five Star Hotel on Maui and last year #1 Luxury Resort in the USA on TripAdvisor…all because of direct guest feedback. So many guests love to post on TripAdvisor or Facebook or tweet before, during and after their stay. We’re really into social media at our Maui resort and I know of so many guests who have visited as a direct result of wonderful guest comments they’ve read online.
We’ve had some fun recognition lately as well…Maui was named one of the “Coolest Beach Resorts in the World” and Forbes selected our Serenity Pool cabanas as one of the top five in the World! I’m sure you enjoyed the adults only Serenity Pool with the underwater music, cool bubble loungers, swim up bar and an amazing view of the Pacific Ocean and West Maui mountains. Two of our six luxury cabanas are new Missoni design by the acclaimed Italian fashion house. They include a long list of luxuries such as an espresso machine, 42″ flat screen TV, Pellegrino waters, WI-FI, chilled towels, hourly pool treats and Veuve Clicquot to toast some truly lavish pool time!
Josh: We’ve also stayed at the Four Seasons Hualalai on the Big Island which is totally different. The rooms there are very Hawaiian and it’s a much quieter, and much more spread out. Is there one type of traveler who would prefer that over Maui, or Lanai which we haven’t spoken about yet?
Lenora: Yes… our four resorts in Hawaii are on three Hawaiian islands – not only is each resort different but each island has a unique personality. One of the advantages Four Seasons offers – you can select your favorite or combine islands and have a different experience all in the same vacation.
Maui is probably the most popular island and Four Seasons Maui is often described as “contemporary chic” but our enchanting Hualalai resort on the island of Hawaii is a luxurious sanctuary reminiscent of Hawaii’s Golden Age.
Hualalai was named as Hawaii’s #1 Resort by Travel + Leisure and Conde Nast Magazine and also the #1 Spa in Hawaii. The accommodations are in one and two story bungalow style buildings…grouped around a pool by the ocean. Very different design than most hotels in Hawaii and the lower level rooms and suites offer an outdoor garden shower which is very popular especially with honeymooners!
Each grouping of bungalows is around a different pool – there’s Palm Grove -our new tranquility adult pool, Beachtree - an infinity edge pool centrally located, Seashell - more of our family pool and Kings Pond a very unique lava rock pool where guests can snorkel with 3,000 Hawaiian fish and an eagle ray! We also feature a lap pool at The Sports Club & Spa and of course our biggest pool of all…the “Ocean Pool”…aka the Pacific Ocean!
Hualalai also came out with a pretty cool new app - Huaka’i which means journey and it’s available as a free download in the ITunes store.
Josh: I book a lot of honeymoons to the Four Seasons Hawaii. What special services do you offer to newlyweds?
Lenora: All of our resorts are ideal for honeymooners as well as couples celebrating a special occasion such as an anniversary or birthday. We recognize these guests with special welcome amenities and also have “romance” amenities that are often sent as a surprise gift by family and friends. We can also arrange weddings (small and large) and vow renewals as well as private romantic dinners on the beach and couples spa treatments, picnics and many other fun activities.
Josh: Tell me more about the 2 resorts on Lanai. And what’s the best way to get to Lanai in your opinion?
Lenora: The island of Lana’i is really Hawaii’s best kept secret! It’s a privately owned island, with only 3,000 residents and closest to Maui. To me, the easiest way to get to Lana’i is by ferry from Lahaina, Maui. It is run by Expeditions Ferry and operates 5 times a day each way – a short 45 minute crossing for $30. per person. You can fly nonstop from many cities directly into Maui, then arrange a transfer to Lahaina, hop on the ferry and be enjoying a mai tai on the beach in no time!
The other way to get to Lana’i is on Island Air, a commuter airline that operates several flights a day from Honolulu. It’s a good idea to combine Lana’i with a visit to another island and it makes the most sense to do so with Maui. When people say “Hawaii has become too commercialized”…my suggestion is to go to Lana’i. There’s no traffic lights, no commercialism whatsoever…no Starbucks but there’s the Blue Ginger Cafe!
We have two wonderful hotels on the island – Manele Bay which is an ocean paradise that sits above Hulopo’e Bay, a protected marine preserve with superb snorkeling and ocean activities…informal or as we say “barefoot luxury”. Then a short 20 minutes in the cool central highlands of Lana’i, where the temperature dips 10 degrees we have the enchanting Lodge at Koele. It’s the most idyllic, tranquil, untouched spot surrounded by wonderful gardens and spectacular scenery.
So you can see how different our 4 resorts are – Maui is contemporary chic, Hualalai is a sophisticated sanctuary, Manele is barefoot luxury and Koele is a relaxing hideaway.
Josh: What type of promotions will we see for 2012? Also, we have a Preferred Partner relationship with Four Seasons. What specific and exclusive benefits does that offer our clients in Hawaii?
Lenora: Maui and Hualalai are offering a $1000 resort credit for suite bookings this year and Lana’i has a fun golf or 4×4 Adventure package. I would suggest if anyone interested in staying to confirm their reservation through you as soon as possible for the best rates and availability. Rates fluctuate so it’s always a good idea to grab the space when you see it before it slips away or the rate goes up as occupancy builds.
Guests who book through you receive exclusive Preferred Partner amenities – reserved for our top producing travel partners. Your clients will enjoy daily breakfast for two (in the restaurant or room service), an $85. lunch credit and an upgrade to the next category if it’s available on arrival. It’s a huge advantage that you don’t get by booking direct or through any other channel!
Josh, thanks so much for giving me the opportunity to share with everyone all that we have to offer in Hawaii! Mahalo nui loa!
To contact Lenora with any questions or comments, please leave a comment by clicking the link above.
Josh Friedman is a travel agent specializing in luxury travel for small groups and individuals – particularly ultra-luxury cruises, customized vacations and food & wine inspired journeys. Based in San Francisco, and with clients throughout the USA and abroad, his business is focused on 24/7 personalized service to the sophisticated leisure and business traveler. His personal relationships with the world’s top hotels, cruise lines and local agencies often allows for exclusive amenities and VIP status.
If you’d like to learn more about luxury travel and our services, please contact Josh Friedman Luxury Travel in San Francisco’s Financial District via phone at 415.987.0372 or email: josh [at] joshfriedmantravel [dot] com. Follow him on Twitter and Facebook, too.
associated with casto, a virtuoso member and four seasons preferred partner, 500 sansome st., san francisco, ca 94111 cst#1008439-10
Costa Concordia and Carnival Corp
As a travel agent with a large luxury cruise business, as a former employee of Carnival Corporation’s Seabourn Cruise Line division and as somebody who used to live in Tuscany (where the ship sank) I have been particularly interested in the development of the tragedy of the Costa Concordia.
My biggest surprise and concern has been Carnival Corp’s perceived lack of presence on the scene in Italy, and therefore perceived lack of interest. The news is coming out of Italy via interviews with the belligerent captain, but where is Carnival? If I were a Director of the largest cruise conglomerate in the world I think I’d be up front and center, assuring the world that a full investigation will be conducted across all the company’s brands including Princess and Holland America. Costa probably is managed in a hands off fashion, as is their practice with their brands, but this disaster requires the intervention of the top senior management.
I’m leaving with a group on a Seabourn cruise in 2 weeks and I feel confident that all will be fine, and that our captain (a Scots I understand) won’t be grandstanding as we pass through the Virgin Islands.
Bhutan | Encounter with a Monk
The following originally appeared on the blog of Champaca Journey’s John Leupold. My former talented landscaper, he’s been leading these small groups for several years.
_______________
On each of my visits to Bhutan I take many pictures. Photographing people here is a pleasure, as most everyone is a willing subject. Little kids often times clamor, please take my picture, then act serious or ham it up for the camera. All they want is to see is their image at the back of your digital camera. Those very few people who shoot film always disappoint these young kids.
I take many photos and then bring copies on return visits to distribute to friends, aacquaintances and others I meet and think I might encounter again on future trips. Few people seem to have photos of themselves (though most everyone has a phone with camera, and stored pictures, actual print photos are not the norm). On the few occasions when I’ve not brought pictures I feel I’ve disappointed my friends and acquaintances, “what no pictures?”
Among the many impressive sights is the Paro Dzong, the 350 year old fortress/monastery that perches above Paro town in western Bhutan. These fortresses, vast white washed stone buildings with inward sloping walls, several stories tall with protruding towers, cover an acre or more of land. They were constructed to provide refuge for the inhabitants of an area against marauding Tibetans. The population of a given area would take shelter inside the several feet thick stone walls in times of strife, where the army resided. The monks and monastery, as well as civil servants also operated from the dzong.
Three and a half centuries later, not much has changed in the appearance of the dzongs. Electricity was installed 50 years ago, and the army is now garrisoned elsewhere, the local municipal government offices now use computers instead of abacuses, while the monk body has scarcely changed in appearance or numbers.
To become a monk in Bhutan, where Mahayana Buddhism is practiced, is a life long commitment. Parents often send, or rather give one of their children to the monastery to become a monk at the tender age of 5 or 6. This may be to reduce the number of mouths that poor families have to feed, but also it is considered a blessing to have a son as a monk in this highly devout society.
Monks are everywhere visible in Bhutan, in their flowing red robes. An expected sight in monasteries, but also a common sight on the street, markets and shops, even in my local gym where the owner allows monks to shower with hot water, unavailable in the monastery. While Bhutanese are extremely friendly, gracious and willing, even eager to talk with foreigners, monks are an exception to this. Education in Bhutan is in English, so proficiency in English is near universal and many foreigners are surprised by the eloquence of Bhutanese, in many cases exceeding that of many Americans who have English as our mother tongue. Bhutanese and their elegant command of English are a joy to the ears.
Monks however do not receive a secular education, so seldom speak English and are less willing to interact with tourists, other than smile and permit photographs. Three months ago at the monastery section of the Paro Dzong we encountered 3 monks sitting by the entrance of one of the altar rooms. They had a table of amulets attached to strings to place around ones neck. Each amulet was blessed by a senior monk, making them powerful talismans to ward off illness and bad luck, and promote good fortune. Many Bhutanese wear these around their necks. One of the monks spoke English and very politely explained the meaning of the different amulets. The other 2 monks were younger than him and spoke no English. I took several photos of the three monks. And I told him I would bring copies on my next visit. “I am always here, find me in this same spot,” he said.
Yesterday I carried pictures of the monks to the dzong. I thought perhaps I’d not see them, but would give my photos to another monk and they’d make their way to the monks. As we neared the entrance of the altar room, I saw across the way the eldest monk in my picture. I split from my group and approached him. The immediate look on his face was one of alarm, I think perhaps my approach was too hasty and he wondered why this tall chilip (foreigner) was making a beeline to him. My own thoughts were that he’d maybe disappear into one of the numerous maze like corridors of the monastery, off limits to foreigners and I’d loose him. Though he did not bolt and as I brought out the pictures his face visibly relaxed and then morphed into a smile of delight as he saw himself and his friends. “Please come with me” he murmured and we walked across the stone courtyard to the table where an assortment of amulets were laid out in what I can only term a serene display. We reintroduced ourselves, Dorji is his name. I told him I was happy to see him again and to be able to bring him the photos. No replied, the pleasure and joy was his, and how kind of me to remember and to bring such beautiful pictures. Dorji’s path is not the standard monk story. He is 16 years old, and 2 years ago decided to become a monk. He left school and his family and joined the monastery, as he felt himself a devout Buddhist and wanted to devote his life to religious studies. He is very content in the monastery. His English is not just impeccable, but eloquent and beautiful. We talked for a long time, as my clients were inside the altar room with our guide. Dorji’s wish is to transfer to a mountain top monastery near Thimphu where higher religious studies are offered, akin to a university.
I told him his parents must be very happy to have such a son, and his reply was that they will be very happy to hear he has me as such a friend. His words were so sincere and pure and had the force of happiness behind them that I myself felt a shiver of what? Bliss, joy, the beauty of small things being greater than my pursuits in the material world. I was touched as I seldom feel touched.
Moments later my clients emerged from the altar room. I introduced them all to Dorji and asked him to explain the amulets. In exquisite English he did so, answering all their questions, all the while radiating an aura of confidence mixed with humility, that made me feel I was in the presence of someone much more evolved than myself. He and I sat cross legged side by side, and after my clients had purchased many amulets, and I purchased one, Dorji said he had a present for me, and gave me one of each, and 2 small paper packets of medicine. Mix with water and drink he said, it is blessed and will protect you from illness and bring you good fortune. We had several pictures taken of us together, and agreed to meet in March when I next visit.
As I walked away from him I turned around to look back until he was out of my view, each time his hand was raised in a farewell wave, and the smile never left his face.
John Leupold
Visit Bhutan with CHAMPACA JOURNEYS
www.champacajourneys.com
john@champacajourneys.com
www.facebook.com/champaca.journeys
Call Josh for details, excellent pricing & the ultimate in service
josh friedman luxury travel at casto
in san francisco’s financial district
415.987.0372 | joshfriedmantravel.com
a virtuoso member agency
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The Origin of Santa Claus and Christmas | in Turkey
Happy Holidays Readers!
This is a most interesting account of the origin of Santa and Christmas. It’s from one of my preferred travel partners who helps me create fabulous customized luxury vacations in Turkey — Turkey At Its Best. Engin, my friend and contact there, also credits a Turkish sumeriologist named Dr. Muazzez Ilmiye Cig in this account.
” You may not know that Turkey and Turks have played a rather unique role in the history of Christmas Holiday celebrations: First of all, Santa Claus was from Demre (ancient Myra), on the Mediterranean coast of Turkey. He was the Bishop of Patara, and a kind and giving man, who assisted poor brides-to-be by secretly placing gifts in their homes. He probably wore a toga and sandals, rather than a fur coat and hat, as he lived in a rather hot climate! His gift giving became well known in the area, and he was eventually made a saint. Today, you can visit his church in Demre and the site where he was buried. Alas, his tomb was robbed by sailors from Bari (Italy) who took his remains there; he was re-buried under a church that bears his name.
Now, something else you may not know is that Turks, whose original homeland was Central Asia, had celebrated a holiday called “Nar Tugan” in pagan times, 3000-4000 years ago. “Nar” means sun and “Tugan” means birth, so it meant the birth of the sun; interestingly enough, Noel also means “day of birth”. Ancient Turks believed in one God, creator of the world, and they called him “Tengri”. One of their demigods was Ulghen, to whom they prayed on December 22, to ask that the sun be returned to them after the longest night of the year. They had a sacred spruce tree which was believed to symbolize the center of the earth; they decorated it with ribbons and placed gifts under it. All the people in town dressed in new clothes for the occasion, wished for good fortune, and had big family feasts, just like we now have during Christmas. This symbolic “Tree of Life” can still be seen in the designs of Turkish carpets and tiles.
It seems that Ulghen of the Turks eventually became the symbol of “Santa” for Christians; you can see that the caftans, fur-trimmed hats, big belts, and high boots that the Turks wore in those days are now parts of the Santa Claus costume in our times.
Thank you for trusting your valued clients to us; we will do our best to continue to deserve that trust!
We wish you all a wonderful Holiday Season, with peace and prosperity for all!
josh friedman luxury travel at casto
in san francisco’s financial district
415.248.5079 | joshfriedmantravel.com
a virtuoso member agency
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Borneo, Orangutangs, Travel and Poetry
The following blog post was written by John Leupold of Champaca Journeys* and my former landscaper. It’s fun to share his insights every so often as he leads small groups of travelers around the world, with an emphasis on Bhutan.
Enjoy,
Josh
Men on the bus, men of the forest
Two blind men get on a bus. I was there yesterday, seated in the bus, when they stepped through the front door. Each with collapsible white cane, both with sunken eyes (no dark glasses), and one with a hearing aid. And both with smiles and talking to each other, moving with more fluidity than I would have imagined. All the seats were taken and they walked past me, as I sat near the front so quickly that soon as I commence debating whether to offer my seat, they were past me. I stared unabashedly at them, as did others on the bus, safe in the knowledge that my scrutiny would be undetected, and yet aware that there was none the less something obtrusive about it.
I guessed them to be about 30 years old. Their faces were Asian, Chinese I think, and smooth and unlined, and I’d go so far as to say innocent. Of course I have no way of knowing this, but it was the thought that came into my mind as they passed me and as I later kept my seeing eyes on them. Towards the back of the bus they were offered seats, not together but seemingly this caused them no consternation, to be separated. Once seated they collapsed their canes. These two must have announced their destination, as after 10 minutes one came to the other and touched his shoulder, and together they made their departure from the bus, and again I saw and was struck by their innocent and happy faces, as they talked and smiled, at who I wondered, as these were not the disarming smiles that we sighted people can offer to make people like us. It left me thinking how shallow the smiles of us sighted folk can be, and how their smiles were pure expressions of their contentment, not offered to anyone.
As they talked their way off the bus, one slung a day pack over his shoulder, and then placed his hand on the shoulder of the other, and in this manner they disembarked, and he re-postioned his hand, while his friend took the lead and together they walked away. The leader had some sight I thought, though he none the less moved his cane to and fro in the manner I have seen other blind people employ.
I was profoundly touched by this scene, by the unpatronizing and unpitying manner in which the other bus passengers aided them. And by their good nature which seemed to radiate through the bus or at least as it was absorbed and processed by me. I’ll confess that I regularly hold private pity parties for myself. They never last long and I’m simultaneously aware that I have it very good, and one glimpse or thought about those that have it less good than me, fills me with compassion and gratitude. I was not having such a party when I saw them, but had one been in session, this is the sort of scene that would have ended it in a flash.
I sat on the bus for another hour, as it meandered through suburbs and shopping centers, passed a few factories, mostly the sort of new and bland architecture of suburbia and mall culture that I interpret as vapid affluence in my rather snooty and judgemental way. Though the biggest surprise to me is that this is all occurring in Kuching, Malaysia, on the island of Borneo. My first time to Malaysia, and while I’m aware it’s considered an affluent society, I’m unprepared for the amount of prosperity. When the bus is empty of all but 5 people, and these 5 all white people the driver stops and motions us to get off. We do so, 2 couples and myself, none of them even look at me, and now it’s my turn to feel lost, though I have the sight required to make it to what seems to be the ticket kiosk of my destination.
A dollar gets me a ticket and the instruction to walk 20 minutes along a road into the forest, and it’s here that I’ll see what I’ve come halfway across the world to see, the men of the forest, which believe it or not you’ll better understand when I write it in Malay (you didn’t know you knew any Malay, did you?): orangutang.
Two items amaze me here. One that just an hour outside a city of a half million there is virgin rain forest, and two that in this forest just minutes from suburbia there are wild orangutangs. And maybe a third item, that it cost just a dollar to see them, we spent $500 on permits to see mountain gorillas in Uganda, so you get lots more great ape for your buck in Malaysia.
But a disclaimer is in order. The older orangutangs here are rescue orangs. Meaning that they were orphaned when infants, their mothers shot as they were desired as pets. Cute and cuddly for a couple of years, then fierce and unmanageable and not so cute when they get stronger than their owner. Fortunately this practice has ended, thanks to education and steep penalties. Some 20 years ago several of these orangs were brought here and trained by humans in the ways of the wild, and though critics said it could not be done, they were successfull in becoming wild free roaming forest animals. The ultimate success is that they have been reproducing, so that now the number born free here to rehabilitated animals is greater than the number of rehabilitees. They are given supplemental food twice a day, as the amount of forest is not large enough to hold the 25 animals here, and this is what pretty much guarantees sightings. (In Uganda your permit does not guarantee gorilla sighting, as you hike through the forest with a ranger to hopefully find a family that has been habituated to humans). They say some days only 1 or 2 orangs show up for food, buy yesterday 15 appeared, though only 1 would have satisfied me, the sheer number of orangs was 15 dreams come true.
They are all redheads, and like any group of redheads, the color varies, some more auburn than others. Arms are longer than legs, this seems to be a pretty standard great ape characteristic, and they come is all sizes, sort of like humans, you see big and not so big adults, and all size of kid orangs. Not only opposable thumbs, but opposable big toes as well. The sex of the adults apparent as the females have breasts (and are smaller). While I first see them as smaller than humans, I soon notice they are about the size of many Malaysians, who stand a foot shorter than my 6’1′ frame. Superb climbers, technically they brachiate, the form or arboreal locomotion used by apes as they swing from branch to branch through the trees. It looks even more effortless than what Olympic athletes do. It probably is, they were after all built for this. It’s fascinating to observe, this unintentional display of brachiating grace and beauty. It occurs to me that this is what makes them so compelling to watch. Sitting is a cage, none of this would be apparent, and you might look for a few minutes. It’s the movements that are mesmerizing, and 2 hours later all of the 20 odd humans come to see the orangs are still transfixed.
We are also moist with perspiration, at least the white folks, unaccustomed to such heat and humidity. It’s an unpleasant sticky heat, and a damp towel or a shower or a blast of air conditioning would be welcome. The rangers and local tourists are wearing far more clothes than I could tolerate in this heat, and the orangs themselves look like they’re wearing orange fur coats. Yet excepting us white folks everything and everyone looks comfortable, and lush, vital, and alive. The fecundity of tropical rain forest. There is heat and there is heat, and this seems a particularly vicious form of it. Back in Kuching it was tolerably hot, I suppose the river providing a breeze and I felt comfortable. After 2 hours it seems I’ve seen everything the orangs might do, several times and my fascination is evaporating as I wilt. The time and heat equation has made me decide to leave, and I turn back along the road for the mile walk back to the highway where I can find a bus back to Kuching. Once seated on the bus, the air conditioned bus I regain my equilibrium and contemplate the amazing orangs again. Wow.
*John Leupold
Visit Bhutan with CHAMPACA JOURNEYS
www.champacajourneys.com
john
www.facebook.com/champaca.journeys
Call Josh for details, excellent pricing & the ultimate in service
josh friedman luxury travel at casto
in san francisco’s financial district
415.248.5079 | joshfriedmantravel.com
a virtuoso member agency
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Josh is Hosting Voyager Club Again! Seabourn Spirit 03 Feb 2012
I had such a fun time this past February, I’m doing it again! Escape the cold and snow of the Winter and join Virtuoso’s Voyager Club for a 5 star week on my old favorite ship – Seabourn Spirit. I know her backwards and forwards, and would love you to join me. Pricing starts at about $2,800 and includes Voyager Club benefits. [details at bottom of this post]……….. Josh
 |
From Fort Lauderdale, Florida To Charlotte Amalie,
| Company | Seabourn Cruise Line |  |
| Ship | Seabourn Spirit | |
| Cruise Dates | Feb 3-10, 2012 | |
| Begin/End | Fort Lauderdale, Florida to Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas | |
| Length | 8 days | |
| Summary |
| Day | Date | Location | Arrive | Depart |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fri, Feb 3, 2012 | Fort Lauderdale, Florida | 5:00 PM | |
| 2 | Sat, Feb 4, 2012 | Cruising the Atlantic Ocean | ||
| 3 | Sun, Feb 5, 2012 | Cruising the Atlantic Ocean | ||
| 4 | Mon, Feb 6, 2012 | San Juan, Puerto Rico | 9:00 AM | 11:00 PM |
| 5 | Tue, Feb 7, 2012 | Cruz Bay, St. John | 8:00 AM | 5:00 PM |
| 6 | Wed, Feb 8, 2012 | Fredricksted (St. Croix) | 8:00 AM | 5:00 PM |
| 7 | Thu, Feb 9, 2012 | Prickly Pear Island | 8:00 AM | 5:00 PM |
| 8 | Fri, Feb 10, 2012 | Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas | 7:00 AM | |
| What’s Included |
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Terms & Conditions
- All fares are US$ per person, double occupancy, unless otherwise specified. Cruise itinerary and pricing are subject to change and availability.
- Savings apply to select stateroom categories and could decrease or be closed for specific categories or entire voyages without prior notice.
- Savings not applicable to port charges or taxes.
- Select promotional offers including American Express cardholder benefits may not be combinable with Virtuoso amenities.
- The Virtuoso shore event, shore excursion, or shipboard credit is non-transferable and non-refundable.
- Virtuoso amenity option must be selected at least 45-days prior to sailing date and may not be changed. Within 45-days prior to sailing options may not be changed.
- Virtuoso events and amenities are capacity controlled, subject to change without notice and may be withdrawn at any time. The Virtuoso host will provide final event program details onboard to guests who have opted for the main Voyager Club event.
- Other restrictions and limitations may apply.
Voyager Club Events
| Exclusives & Options | <Choice of one option:
Option 1:
or Option 2:
or Option 3:
|
|---|---|
| Onboard Hosts | Yours Truly, Josh Friedman
Call Josh for details, excellent pricing, the ultimate in service & complimentary amenities with Voyager Club. Read my luxury cruise ship reviews and photos josh friedman luxury travel at casto yelp! Twitter Facebook Flickr You Tube[sign up for exclusive offers!] |
Virtuoso Voyager Club Shore Experience
Event details to be announced.
Galapagos Luxury Travel | Planning
You have completed your basic research – you have selected your ship, your itinerary and you have dates. Now, on to PLANNING: When to Go / Getting There / The Focus or Part of the Whole. Read On! Brought to my readers from the folks at Ladatco:
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Extra Baggage Costs in Europe
Flying to Europe this summer and concerned about excess baggage charges or fees? Remember that the 2 pieces of luggage system that applies to most carriers to/from the USA and Europe does not apply if you also happen to take a flight within Europe on your trip.
For example, if you’re flying from San Francisco to Venice on Lufthansa or United with a change of planes in Frankfurt, and you just bought one ticket for the entire round-trip, you’re OK. The 2 bags per passenger applies. But say you’re on a cruise from Venice to Athens and you want to stop in Munich on the way back. So you would have purchased a ticket from SFO to Venice with a return Athens/San Francisco. No problem. Easy. Do it all the time. But to stop in Munich, you’ll need to purchase a ticket from Athens to Munich. And that’s where the 2 piece system no longer applies and you go to the weight system of just 44 pounds, usually combined checked and hand carried luggage.
So here’s a rundown on what you might expect to pay. The hyperlinks go directly to what is currently the airlines baggage information page. Sorry if the URL has changed by the time you’re reading this.
Generally
There is no more generally. Heaven aforbid there should be any standardization in international baggage rules. Too bad Southwest doesn’t fly everywhere. First Class on Southwest to Paris – don’t laugh. It will probably happen as they’re the only airline that seems to know what they’re doing. Anyway:
Sorry, but their new policy as of 01 June 2011 is so strange I haven’t figured it out yet.
If your bag exceeds 23 kg/50 lb, then you pay either Euro 55. At least it’s not the usual 20 kg/44 lb!
If you’re above 32 kg/70 lb, it might not be allowed.
Plus they let you take a carry on up to 12 kg/26.5 lb.
If your bag exceeds 23 kg/50 lb, then you pay 40 British Pounds.
Plus they let you take a carry on, also up to 23 kg/50 lb.
Note: Air France calculates 23 kg at 50 pounds and British does it as 51. I would have figured the French for being more lax.
If your bag exceeds 20 kg/44 lb, then you pay Euro 15 per kilo over.
Plus they let you take a carry on up to 6 kg.
If you’re flying between the Greek Islands, note:
You’re allowed to check 2 bags totaling 20 kg/44 lb. If you go above that they charge Euro 2 per extra kilo. But they don’t wear much on those islands anyway.
And you can carry on 1 bag up to 8 kilos.
Josh Friedman is a travel agent specializing in luxury travel for small groups and individuals – particularly ultra-luxury cruises, customized vacations and food & wine inspired journeys. Based in San Francisco, and with clients throughout the USA and abroad, his business is focused on 24/7 personalized service to the sophisticated leisure and business traveler. Business services include high-touch reservations, exclusive hotel and airline offers. His relationships with the world’s top hotels, cruise lines and local agencies will ensure your successful business or leisure trip.
For more information, to learn about our exclusive benefits, and to book, please contact Josh at 415.248.507, 800.553.4777 or by email. Associated with Casto, a member of the prestigious Virtuoso Travel network. Be a big fish in our small pond.
Interview | the Four Seasons Vancouer (B.C., Canada)
I recently caught up with Dan McGillen, Travel Industry Sales Manager for the Four Seasons Hotel Vancouver (British Columbia, Canada) , and one of our closest travel partners, and spoke to him about what’s happening at his happening downtown Vancouver, BC hotel. This post is part of our series on various Four Seasons hotels and resorts along the West Coast.
Josh: Dan, tell me what separates the Four Seasons Vancouver from the other top properties in your area. Vancouver is a fairly competitive environment, isn’t it?
Dan: Service – it’s not something that can be reproduced – being able to anticipate our guests needs is the reason why they are loyal to Four Seasons. Also with YEW restaurant + bar, you have top dining in the city in what is now being recognized as one of the best dining scenes in North America.
We also are bringing back our “Kids in the City” program, perfect timing as we approach the Summer holidays.
Josh: When I send guests to Vancouver, it’s usually as a pre-post stay for a cruise or for a wedding (not on a ship). Not sure why that is. But anyway, how is your location situated for access to the pier and for general Vancouver area sightseeing?
Dan: Four Seasons Hotel Vancouver is truly at the centre of it all. Situated in the heart of downtown Vancouver, it’s connected at the lobby level to the 140 shops and services of Pacific Centre, and located just minutes from world famous Stanley Park, art galleries, theatres, sport venues and night clubs. West Coast mountains, beaches and golf courses are all nearby. Also for those doing the cruises, we are located three blocks from the ship terminals, so we offer our guest a more central location so they can explore this beautiful city.
Josh: How’s the dining and shopping in the area?
Dan: YEW restaurant + bar leads Vancouver’s vibrant food scene, with seasonal fresh food, great atmosphere in the bar, 300 wines by the glass, perfect to wind down after a day of exploring or shopping on Robson street . Perched at treetop level in Four Seasons Hotel Vancouver, YEW’s chic space, communal table and bar make it the perfect place to bring your social network. For city dining, what I like is the choice. Visit trendy Yaletown, a walk down to historic Gastown, or enjoy the markets at Granville Island, all just minutes from the hotel.
Josh: What type of promotions will we see for 2011? Also, Four Seasons and Casto Travel have a Preferred Partner relationship. What specific and exclusive benefits does that offer our clients in Santa Barbara?
Dan: We still want to show the value for our guests and have continued with the 4th night free offer, which will give you plenty of time to explore this great ocean side city, with its many unique neighborhoods. As well, those booking through Casto are able to enjoy breakfast for two daily complimentary, upgrades if available and an $85 lunch credit, all which is combinable with the 4th Night Free offer!
Josh Friedman is a travel agent specializing in luxury travel for small groups and individuals – particularly ultra-luxury cruises, customized vacations and food & wine inspired journeys. Based in San Francisco, and with clients throughout the USA and abroad, his business is focused on 24/7 personalized service to the sophisticated leisure and business traveler. Business services include high-touch reservations, exclusive hotel and airline offers. His relationships with the world’s top hotels, cruise lines and local agencies will ensure your successful business or leisure trip.
For more information, to learn about our exclusive benefits, and to book, please contact Josh at 415.248.507, 800.553.4777 or by email. Associated with Casto, a member of the prestigious Virtuoso Travel network. Be a big fish in our small pond.
