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Virtuoso Travel Week wrapped up recently, a huge event normally held in Las Vegas, which went virtual for the first time. While I missed seeing my colleagues and travel partners in person, the outcome was the same:  strong connections with the people who have the most influence over my clients’ travel experience, who will hand select their hotel room and VIP them, and who I will call on for support with a special request or a problem.

Suzette Mack with team from Africa

A supplier’s network of contacts and personal relationships with hotels in the destination are my most important consideration when selecting who to partner with for my clients’ trips.

Of course it’s a sales event as well, and I love getting the inside scoop on what’s new and what’s going on behind the scenes that you won’t find on the internet.

Some highlights this year:

  • An adventure tour operator has structured their pricing so 6-7 travelers can take over many of their tour dates as a private trip with no increase in cost. How great for family groups or couples traveling together!
  • A sneak peak at two new resorts: one opening soon in Sonoma wine country, and something completely unique on the Pacific Coast of Mexico.
New hotels in Sonoma Wine Country and the Pacific Coast of Mexico

Exciting new hotels opening in late 2020 – reservations being accepted now!

  • Suppliers are working on vetting more private luxury beach houses, villas, and apartments so we can book them with confidence for our clients.
  • Some resorts have interconnecting 2-4 bedroom options, but they are not advertised on their website because they have to manually block them. We must contact our sales reps to book these.
  • A luxury cycling company has the motto is BIKE – EAT – DRINK – SLEEP.  You can choose your priorities!
Cycling tour in Zion National Park

A Southwest national parks trip includes a visit to lesser known Snow Canyon State Park.

  • Hotels are coming up with creative ways to make the vacation experience special while still social distancing:  private movie nights offered on bungalow patios, mobile bar carts instead of public bars.
  • A Sedona resort is debuting a new adventure center for hikers and mountain bikers. Talk with an expert to pick the right trail, and rent top of the line gear.
  • Several guest ranches are open through winter with fun programs for families.
Guest ranch lodge with christmas tree

Ranches offer a “home away from home” winter experience, with accommodations from lodge rooms to cozy private cabins to multi-bedroom fully-equipped homes.

  • One of the most exciting and innovative developments: A few resorts have announced homeschool packages, where they will provide remote learning space and staff so kids can keep up with coursework while the parents work.

Holiday space is starting to book up, and I can confirm that as I have had two clients this week find out the resort they wanted is not available. But many properties which normally sell out by now do have space.  Cancellation policies are more flexible than usual (some even up 24-48 hours prior to arrival), so planning now is risk-free for at least several months.

St Regis Bora Bora overwater bungalow

Virtuoso exclusives in Bora Bora include 4th night free, daily breakfast (some  with dinner, too), $100 hotel credit, and roundtrip airport shuttle.

Also check out Virtuoso’s recap of the 9 Best Things Learned at Virtuoso Travel Week.

I didn’t attend any cocktail parties, but I did get martini tips from a bartender in London. And I bonded over a love of boxers with the owner of a beautiful Tuscany resort who’s also a Michelin chef. (I don’t speak Italian, but I think  our dogs may be betrothed now??)

Screenshots of meeting with Tuscany resort owner and luxury hotel in London

Il Falconiere, a Relais & Chateaux property in Cortona, and Egerton House, one of only 15 Forbes 5 star hotels in London.

Whether or not to plan travel now is a personal choice, but if you hope to get away in 2021 (or even 2022 for big trips like Africa), we should talk.  Drop me a note or give me a call at 408-223-6155, I’m always happy to talk travel!

Supply vs Demand
The holidays have always been a popular time to travel, but now more people than ever are choosing to travel instead of exchanging presents. Popular destinations that typically require 2 weeks or more to experience, like Australia, New Zeland, and Africa, often start booking two years in advance.

Safari vehicle viewing giraffes

Wildlife!

Minimum Night Stay Requirements
If you want to stay less than 7-10 nights at a resort, your choices drop significantly. The early booking bird may get to check out early, too.

Family skiing in Utah

Powder!

The Best and the Cheapest Go First
This rule of thumb applies all year round. You can wait to see if there are any last minute “deals,” but it likely won’t be the best rate you could have had. And if you want the best suite at a resort, you may find there’s a waiting list a year in advance.

Munich Christmas market

Decorations!

Special Requests
Many of our preferred partner hotels will guarantee requests like connecting rooms or a particular location, but they are first come, first served.

Family ziplining in Costa Rica

Adventure!

You Can’t Find It Online
Many properties will not allow holiday bookings on their website due to the complexities of managing high demand and booking restrictions such as designated arrival dates. I work with my personal contacts on the sales team, who may know of inventory available that the front desk agents can’t see, and can prioritize my clients on waiting lists.

Jet skis and kayaks at Four Seasons Bora Bora

Toys!

Large Groups Have Limited Options
Since villas and private homes are all unique, they take more time and care to book.  The holidays also bring peak rates with stringent cancellation penalties.  You want to be sure you are booking with a reliable supplier who has personally vetted the properties, and provides support to call since there’s no on-site staff to address problems.

Multi-generational family wine tasting in Italy

Wine!

What sounds better:  Knowing where you are spending the holidays before spring arrives?  Or scrambling to find whatever space is available next fall as you deal with all the other impending holiday tasks? Contact me at suzette@suzettemacktravel.com to get started now!

Happy family on beach at Turks & Caicos

Happiness!

Don’t panic if you haven’t planned summer vacation yet. There are still many options available, and you can even get some pretty good deals.  I have many offers in my inbox, I just pulled out a sampling of what’s available around the globe.

Kids Free in the Galapagos

With Lindblad Expeditions’ 50th Anniversary Savings, book a Galapagos trip by July 1, 2017 and the first child travels free, the second at 50% off on select departures!  Snorkel with sea lions, hang out with giant tortoises, hike right next to iguanas and blue-footed boobies and kayak along the most idyllic bays. You’ll do, see, and learn more with the most experienced Expedition Team in the islands! 

Yes you can get this close! 
Bucket list item- check!
Fun for all ages!


And if you can’t make it this year, book any 2018 expedition before June 1, and you’ll be guaranteed the 2017 rates.

I had the pleasure of traveling to the Galapagos with Lindblad in March, check out more of my photos here.  

Cruise to the Great Land

Several lines still have space available for Alaska this summer.  Crystal Cruises is offering Kids’ Sail Free when sharing a cabin with 2 adults on most departures.  That can be combined with their Crystal Clear Choice promotion which offers a choice of savings, including a $600 per person onboard credit!  AND my clients also get an additional onboard credit courtesy of Virtuoso.

From ship to glacier in a few hours

Regent Seven Seas is offering a Book Now Bonus on all sailings, including $250 per person shipboard credit for Alaska.  And if you select a Virtuoso Voyages sailings, you also receive your choice of amenity, either a shipboard credit or an exclusive shore excursion.

Glacier Bay is just one of several locations
where you can see spectacular glaciers

Seabourn’s Extraordinary Opportunity Event runs through June 13, with special savings on select 2017 departures including:
• Three Veranda Suite Category Upgrade
• Veranda for Oceanview category Upgrade
• Onboard credits up to $1,000


Say Aloha to Hawaii

Four Seasons Resorts on Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island are offering resort credits of up $200 per night for select dates (credit varies by room category booked).  The Four Seasons Resort Lanai is offering a $1000 activity credit for guestrooms, and $2000 for suites.  Stay longer than 5 nights and the credit increases, and all this can be combined with our Four Seasons Preferred Partner amenities.

Maui beaches rock!

Kings Pond is fun for families who like to snorkel
at Four Seasons Hualalai

Hit the Beach in Miami

Acqualina Resort & Spa in Miami is offering a Family Escape Package through Sep 30, including

  • Daily access to the Children’s Center, home to the AcquaMarine program offering educational marine-themed programming for children ages 5-12
  • Access to the resort’s beachfront basketball, soccer lawn, foosball and ping pong tables.
The kids may never want to leave

  • Daily activities for toddlers including bike time on a no-pedal Strider Balance Bike, stretch sessions and relay races on the beach
  • A $40 spa credit for up to two adults 
  • Daily buffet breakfast for two (or four in a two-bedroom suite)
  • Complimentary Valet Parking
  • Complimentary Wifi

Parents may never want to leave, either!


Caribbean Getaways

Ritz Carlton Reserve Dorado Beach is offering a Stay Longer promotion, with 10-30% savings on Ocean View and higher rooms.  The longer you stay, the more you save.  And you receive a $50 per night resort credit, as well as Virtuoso amenities.  No passport needed to visit Puerto Rico! 

Besides these beautiful rooms, they have residences
and a 5 bedroom plantation


Shore Club Turks & Caicos lets you stay for 7 and play for 5 when booking a full size suite or penthouse. Rates include breakfast daily, free calls to the USA & Canada, Kids Club for 4-12, use bicycles, tennis court, fitness center, and non-motorized water sports, and wifi.  And of course you can enjoy their four pools: Adults Pool, Family/Resort Pool, Colonnade Pool and lap pool.

An exclusive retreat on Long Bay Beach

Nicaragua Ecolodge Package

My “go-to” Central America supplier is offering an amazing program that includes two of the most authentic and luxurious ecolodges in Nicaragua at a fantastic low price.  You first visit Jicaro Island Ecolodge, one of National Geographic’s Unique Lodges of the World, located on a private island on Lake Nicaragua.  

You don’t have to rough it at an ecolodge

Then you are transferred to Morgan’s Rock Hacienda & Ecolodge, a Virtuoso property located right on the beach.  You can choose from a wide selection of tours in each location, including visits to volcanoes, artisan markets, and colonial towns.  Rates include 3 meals a day at Jicaro, and breakfast at Morgan’s Rock, plus other value-added amenities.

This beach!

Don’t let summer slip away without making some fabulous family memories! To get started, contact Suzette at suzette@family-treks.com.

It’s not too late to plan a spring break trip! And you don’t even need a passport, check out these great options:

ARIZONA

You have to forego a beach, but not beautiful resorts with fabulous pools!
I love the desert scenery.

A serene retreat at the base of Camelback Mountain, a “hotel within a hotel.”   Families will appreciate the kids’ club for ages 5-12  and access to The Phoenician’s 7 pools and 165-foot water slide as well as a private infinity pool. 
Making a splash with young kids. 
Special Offer: 4th night free April 5 – December 24, 2017

Virtuoso Amenities
– Room view upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
– Full breakfast daily for 2
– $100 Food & Beverage credit (Additional $100 food and beverage credit when staying 3 or more nights in a Canyon Suite, through March 5)
– Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
– Complimentary Wi-Fi

HAWAII

Even if you’ve been before, remember that each island is unique and offers activities not found anywhere else.

Unscheduled stop at a roadside market
My recommendation:  Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui

Every room  is an 800 sq ft 1 bedroom suite, which normally goes for premium pricing at other resorts.   So families get space & privacy, plus a beautiful, quiet beach, two level pool with waterslide, and adults only pool. It’s one of my personal favorites.

Special Offer: 5th night free through March 31

Virtuoso Amenities
– Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
– Daily buffet breakfast for 2
– $100 Spa Services credit
– Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
– Complimentary Wi-Fi

PUERTO RICO

A Caribbean gem that has it all:  beautiful beaches, culture, historic military forts, street art, and unique natural attractions like El Yunque rainforest and bioluminescent bays.

What kid doesn’t like seeing cannons up close?

This luxurious island sanctuary has only 115 oceanfront guestrooms spread across 50 acres and one mile of beach.  Larger families can book a residence on the beach or even a 5-bedroom hacienda.  Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment program offers exciting and memorable adventures, such as snorkeling, hiking and exploring an archaeological site on property. 

One of the US’s pretties beaches!
Special Offer: Stay Longer promo with discounts of 10-30%. The longer you stay the more you save!

Virtuoso Amenities
– Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
– Full breakfast daily for 2
– $150 Resort credit
– Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
– Complimentary Wi-Fi
AMELIA ISLAND

The northern coast of Florida offers southern charm, as well as miles of unspoiled coastline, pristine beaches, and even some pirate history!

Barrier island bliss
My recommendation:  Ritz Carlton, Amelia Island 

One of the most popular beach destinations on the East Coast, this luxurious barrier island hotel is surrounded by 13 acres of island beachfront.  Activities abound, including 18 holes of PGA championship golf, 4 tennis courts, and charming Fernandina Beach just 10 minutes away with boutiques, antique stores, and excellent restaurants.

Elegant, classic, and oceanfront
Special Offer:  Book an Oceanfront Suite for at least two nights  and receive a connecting room for only $149 per night, through April 30.

Virtuoso Amenities
– Full breakfast daily for 2
– Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
– $100  Spa Services credit
– Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
– Complimentary Wi-Fi
 
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

One of the most accessible destinations, with lots of nonstop flights from around the country. A Mediterranean climate means outdoor activities are available year-round, and it offers incredible diversity: mountains, desert, and coastline a short drive from Beverly Hills, Hollywood, and Disneyland! 

Butter beer at Universal Studios!

My recommendation:  Terranea Resort
Active families will love this luxury eco-resort’s Aqua-Terra Adventures program, staffed by naturalists, ornithologists, and artists.  Activities range from kayaking, tidepooling, and surfing to cycling, painting, and hiking.  They even have a falconry program!

A private playground just outside LA
Special Offer: Save 30% on reservations 5 nights or longer through Feb 28.

Virtuoso Amenities
– Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
– Full breakfast daily for 2
– $100 Resort credit
– Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability– Complimentary Wi-Fi

For help with planning a spring break getaway, contact suzette@family-treks.com

You could be here soon!
My family vacationed in Puerto Rico several years and loved it. (Read about our trip here.)   We are an active family, and we found plenty to do during our 8 day stay.  

Kayak and snorkel trip
There’s even more to love about Puerto Rico now, and here’s why you should go.

1. It’s exotic but easy.  No passport needed, no international phone calls or data roaming charges, no international calls, no currency exchange or foreign transaction fees

2. Old San Juan is a UNESCO World Heritage site with lots of history and charm, and interesting architecture. And there are two cool forts to explore:  El Morro and San Cristóbal.
El Morro
Old San Juan
3.The food is great, and foodies will especially enjoy the Saborea culinary festival in April.   Rum lovers can visit the Bacardi factory, or attend the Taste of Rum festival in February.

4. It has the world’s longest single line zip line at Taro Verde Eco Park.

Taro Verde zipline

5. There are 5 bioluminescent bays in the world and Puerto RIco has 3 of them.  Our night kayak tour was one of our most memorable activities, ever.
6. El Yunque is the only tropical rainforest in US, with 40 species of plants and trees.  You might even get to spot the rare Puerto Rican parrot, there are only 30 left in the wild.

Rainforest nature trail
The up and coming Santurce neighborhood is drawing crowds to see its vibrant street artThey host an art festival in August.
 

One of many street murals


8. Camuy River Cave Park is the third largest underground cave system in the world.
9. It has award-winning beaches, some of the most beautiful in the Caribbean, including Flamenco and Palomino Island.  (The latter is a private island available to Las Casitas Village and El Conquistador Resort guests.  Read my trip review here.)  Surfers should head to Sandy Beach in Rincon.
 

Flamenco Beach

10. There are great luxury resorts, including the Ritz Carlton Reserve Dorado Beach and St. Regis Bahia Beach.   And when I book your stay you get the following exclusive Virtuoso amenities:
  
Ritz Carlton Dorado Beach 
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Daily full breakfast
$150.00 resort credit
Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
St. Regis Bahia Beach
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Daily full breakfast
$100 dining credit
15% off golf and spa services
Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability

For help with planning a great getaway to Puerto Rico, contact me at suzette@family-treks.com.

Sunrise

We’re coming up on graduation and wedding season, so today’s post is about celebration trips.  Here are my top suggestions for a one-of-a-kind trip to celebrate a special occasion or milestone birthday or anniversary.
                  
My criteria:
– It’s multi-generational, with accommodations and activities suitable for all ages
– It offers unique and exceptional experiences in the destination
– Meals are included or there is ample onsite dining.  No hassles figuring out what to do for dinner!
– There is a supervised children’s program or ample activities for kids
– It requires minimal advance planning on the travel organizer’s part.  Just book it, show up, and have a fantastic time!
Lindblad Expedition Cruise–  No casinos or nightclubs, instead travelers get up close to wilderness and wildlife.  Great destinations for families are Alaska, Baja California, and the Galapagos.  There’s hands on learning for everyone, kayaking and snorkeling right off the boat in warm waters, and intimate, personal service since ships have less than 100 passengers, and most less than 70!  There is no minimum age on family sailings, and kids under 18 get $500 off.
Virtuoso amenity:  $25 onboard credit on all sailings, additional credits and exclusive discounts on select sailings.

You won’t have this view of glaciers calving
 from a traditional cruise ship.
If they were any closer they’d be swimming with them!

Alaska Wilderness Lodge – This is another trip perfect for outdoor and wildlife enthusiasts, the land version of an expedition cruise.  Expert guides and naturalists lead activities such as hiking, fishing, bear watching, and glacier climbing during the day, and then you have downtime or educational presentations at night.  The type of activities vary greatly by location and time of year, so research is key to find the best fit.  And advance planning is a must, as it’s not uncommon for them to book up a year or more in advance for peak periods.

Wilderness doesn’t mean roughing it- fresh crab!
Relaxing after a full day of activity

Caribbean Villa Resort – There are lots of private villas and homes available, but if you book one that’s part of a resort, you get the benefits of both worlds:  the services & amenities of a luxury hotel, plus the space and privacy of a home away from home. It’s the perfect compromise if you have some who want to relax beach or poolside, and others who want to be on the go. It’s also a good option for families with very young children. 

  
5 bedrooms and more available!
Great gathering spaces

Check out:


Round Hill Jamaica – 26 private villas, 100 acres of lush gardens, a pristine crescent beach, and complimentary children’s program starting at age 3
Virtuoso amenities:
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Daily full breakfast, for up to two in room guests
$100 spa credit
Early check-in/late check-out

Private pool (and lawn) with a view
Fun for little ones

Escorted Family Tour – This is a great option if your family wants to see as much as possible in a limited amount of time, but doesn’t want the hassle of managing travel logistics. These small group tours visit popular sights in destinations ranging from national parks to European cities to Africa.  Families get lots of quality time together,  but also get to socialize with other adults and children. (Great for families traveling alone!) Most widely known is Adventures by Disney, but Tauck and A&K also offer family departures.  Active families should check out cycling, hiking or multi-sport trips with Backroads 


Adventures by Disney in the Southwest

Guest or Dude Ranch – What’s the difference?  A very simple distinction is that guest ranches offer ala carte activities and more flexible check in /out dates,  where a dude ranch is all inclusive, generally runs Saturday to Saturday and has scheduled trail rides. But every ranch is unique so again, this is a trip that requires careful research to find the right match. Guests can do as much or as little as they want, so it suits a variety of interests and activity levels. Accommodations range from lodge rooms to large private homes to luxury tents.  And don’t worry about it being too rustic, gourmet dining and other resort-style amenities like a pool and spa are often available.

Heading out on the trail
Learning to rope

Check out:


The Resort at Paws Up – A guest ranch in Montana’s gorgeous Big Sky country, with 28 luxurious vacation homes and 30 luxury tents with private baths and a Camping Butler.
Virtuoso amenities:
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Daily full breakfast, for up to two in room guests
Complimentary round-trip private airport transfers
Early check-in, late check-out, subject to availability
A $300 activity credit
Bottle of wine in room on arrival

Private luxury at Paws Up

Brush Creek Ranch – An all-inclusive luxury dude ranch on 30,000 acres of Rocky Mountain wilderness in Wyoming. Rates include on site activities and trail rides, and the Lil Wranglers program for ages 4-8. Ages 9 and up can participate in most ranch activities.

Virtuoso amenities:
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Daily full breakfast, for up to two in room guests
A complimentary 50-minute massage for up to two people
Choice of complimentary Cattle Drive, Scenic Float, Premium Fly Fishing or Wing Shooting Experience for 2 guests
Early check-in/late check-out

Wyoming scenery
Imagine waking up to this view!

If your group is large enough, you can buy out an entire property or tour. This is the ultimate celebration trip, completely private and customized, something to remember forever!

Are these choices overwhelming?  No worries, just drop me a note at suzette@family-treks.com and I’ll help you design the perfect celebration for your family.
Yes, you can still book an awesome family vacation for the holidays!  Many Ritz Carlton hotels and resorts still have space available, though rooms are booking up quickly.  Contact me for the latest information on current availability and rates.  Some properites do not require a minimum night stay, either!
Here is just a sample of some of the great destinations where you could spend Thanksgiving or Christmas, and why they would make a great family getaway any time of year.
Sarasota

  • The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art showcases costumes, photography and artifacts from the greatest show on Earth.
  • The beautiful beaches of Longboat Key, Lido Key and Siesta Key (rated #1 by Dr. Beach) are within easy reach of the resort.
  • A live mermaid welcomes patrons in the Jack Dusty restaurant on weekend nights (it’s not as cheesy as it sounds).


Amelia Island

  • They honor the area’s heritage with a weekly Pirate Toast, Pirate Tuck-ins for little ones, and a giant gingerbread pirate ship during the holidays.
  • The island is home to museums, forts, nature paths, and eco-tours, so it appeals to history buffs as well as nature-lovers. 
  • Parents who reserve a 50 minute or longer spa service will receive a complimentary afternoon Ritz Kids program for a child age 5-12. 


Key Biscayne

  • It’s located on a seven mile-long barrier island near South Beach, so you are close to the action but not in it.
  • A short drive away are Jungle Island, home to exotic birds, mammals, primates, and reptiles, and the Miami Seaquarium, featuring marine animals.
  • Complimentary tequila tastings are offered every evening by the Tequilier, who was trained in Mexico’s Agave growing regions.


Aruba

  • It’s one of the newest properties, open for less than one year, is located at the very end of exclusive Palm Beach.
  • It features a 15,000 sq. ft. casino open 24×7, with slot machines and card games.
  • The island is known for hot weather and little rain, and it lies outside of the hurricane path.


Grand Cayman

  • It’s located on one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean, with crystal clear turquoise-blue water and pristine white sand.
  • Stingray City is just a 15 minute boat ride away.
  • Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment program offers unique Caribbean eco-tours for all ages.


Dorado Beach (Puerto Rico)

  • All rooms are ocean-facing, with an entire wall of windows or louvered panels which can be opened up facing the water.
  • It features an onsite waterpark with waterslides, a lazy river, a family pool, large fitness center and snack bar.
  • Residential suites are perfect for larger families with up to 5 bedrooms.

And no passport is required!

 


St Thomas

  • Nearby is Coral World Ocean Park, a five-acre marine park with a three-story underwater observation tower
  • It’s perfect for active families, as use of Hobie cat boats, paddle boats, noodles, kayaks, snorkel gear, etc. is included.
  • The resort operates its own 50 foot catamaran, the Lady Lynsey, for sailing and snorkeling excursions.
(No passport required here either, but  you must carry proof of citizenship such as a birth certificate.)


And remember, at all Ritz Carton properties any time of year, my clients receive complimentary STARS amenities which include:

  • Daily breakfast for two
  • Upgrade at check-in-in, based upon availability
  • A special welcome gift
Plus VIP treatment such as first priority for sold out space, connecting rooms, and other requests such as bed type, rollaways, etc.

Exclusive, unpublished offers are also available throughout the year at various properties, only for clients of Ritz Carlton STARS agencies!

One of the most common requests I get is to suggest a vacation destination that has lots of outdoor activity and adventure.  Getting outside, being active, and seeing lots of wildlife seems to make everyone happy.  I know that formula works for my family!
 

So here are some vacation destinations you might not think of right of right away, which are great for the active family.   There is something for every age on this list, and several which are perfect for a multi-generational group.
PUERTO RICO – This gorgeous Caribbean island offers a wealth of activities, from cultural sites to impressive national parks.  Some of my favorites:  kayaking in a bioluminescent bay, hiking in El Yunque rainforest, and snorkeling in Culebra’s Luis Peña Channel Natural Reserve.   You can also visit Rio Camuy Cave Park or check out Rincon, one of the Caribbean’s top surfing destinations.  The bonus: no passport needed!
 

Culebra kayak and snorkel excursion
Hiking in El Yunque

SWITZERLAND – While known as a great destination for hiking and spectacular alpine scenery, there are quite a few other activities for adventure seekers.  The Bernese Oberland offers bungee jumping off a canyon wall into glacial gorge, or even out of a gondola suspended over a lake.  And there’s whitewater rafting and canyoning for all ability levels, some routes including high rappels, water slides, and zip lines.


Canyon water slides
Matterhorn hiking
EXPEDITION CRUISE – Don’t skip this paragraph because you saw the word “cruise.”  I’m not talking about a 2000-3000 passenger vessel that offers midnight buffets and Vegas-style shows.  These are small ships, often with fewer than 100 passengers, that focus on the destination and the activities, not onboard entertainment.  Their small size allows you to get up close and personal with wildlife and scenery in destinations like the Galapagos Islands, Alaska, Antarctica, South America, and Asia.   And they have a fleet of kayaks and zodiacs for even closer exploration (plus snorkeling gear where suitable).
Galapagos with Lindblad Expeditions
ARCTIC CANADA –   Been there, done that?  Now this is a list of activities that you will be hard pressed to find anywhere else: kayaking with narwhals, hiking in Inuit territory, hot air ballooning between icebergs, polar bear safaris.  You’ll have cocktail party bragging rights for many years to come!
 

Polar Bear Viewing with
Natural Habitat Adventures 

Note that even places that are not normally considered “active” destinations have fun adventures, you just have to know where to look.  For example, companies like Butterfield & Robinson and Backroads offer cycling, hiking, and multisport tours in many European countries.  If you don’t want to cycle or hike for a whole week, I can arrange just a day or tour of outdoor activity, such as cycling in The Hague or rock climbing and a high ropes course in the Dolomites.

Backroads in France
San Juan Islands
For some inspiration on where to go for you next outdoor adventure, check out the 2014 Virtuoso VAST catalog. That should spark your imagination!

Experience this season’s top paranormal tourism hot spots and rub elbows with century-old ghosts! Here are five hotels that really get into the “spirit” of Halloween, including two Virtuoso member hotels.

The Grove Park Inn (Asheville, NC) has had a ghost roaming its halls for over half a century. She is referred to as the Pink Lady because of the flowing pink gown she wears. It is believed that this young woman was a guest in Room 545 in the 1920’s and that she either jumped or was pushed to her death in the Main Inn’s Palm Court, five floors below. New reports of her sightings still occur, especially by young children. Some say they just see a pink mist, others a full apparition of a young long-haired beauty in a pink gown.

La Posada de Santa Fe (Santa Fe, NM) has a rich history dating back to 1882 when a Santa Fe Trail merchant, Abraham Staab, built it as a three-story Victorian mansion for his family. When Julia, Staab’s wife died in 1896 at the age of 52, her presence continued to live on throughout the home. Today, the Staab House at La Posada de Santa Fe retains its original structure and is home to a cozy bar and Suite 100, which used to be Julia’s bedroom. To honor her, the hotel staff makes sure to invite her to parties held in the house and greet her when they enter her bedroom.

The Homestead (Hot Springs, VA) is one of the oldest resorts in America (built in 1766) and has a long history including reports from the 14th floor located in the resort’s oldest wing. As the story goes, in the early 1900’s, a woman was set to be married at The Homestead but on the day of her wedding her husband-to-be ran out and never returned. The bride became so distraught that she took her own life. Now her spirit roams the 14th floor of the resort asking guests and staff for the time with hopes her groom will return.  Families take note, the resort just opened Allegheny Springs, a 2 acre waterpark including two 100-foot water slides and a 400-foot lazy river.

** VIRTUOSO AMENITIES**
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Daily buffet breakfast for two
$100 Outdoor Activities credit

Omni Mount Washington Resort (Bretton Woods, NH) hosts the ghost of Caroline Foster, the wife of railroad tycoon and the resort’s builder, Joseph Stickney. Visions of an elegant woman in Victorian dress are often spotted in the hallways of the hotel, but perhaps the most common sighting of the beloved Caroline is in room 314, where guests report seeing the vision of the woman sitting at the edge of their guest bed. This year, guests can get in on the scares with a new Haunted Canopy Tour offered October 26 and October 27 where you can zip through the trees during the early evening hours and expect to be spooked by ghouls, goblins and more.

Jumby Bay, A Rosewood Resort (Antigua) is an all-inclusive luxury resort located on the private island of Jumby Bay which takes its name from “jumbie,” Antiguan colloquial for “playful spirit.” In Antiguan culture, it is considered taboo to pass by graveyards at night for fear of becoming entrapped by Jumbies, spirits of persons who have become trapped in a state of limbo or purgatory who remain near their grave sites until they have served enough time to earn a place in heaven. The small island of Jumby Bay has an old graveyard near the main beach dating back to the 1700s.

** VIRTUOSO AMENITIES**
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
$100 Spa services credit


To learn how you can have the family vacation of your dreams (rather than a family vacation nightmare), contact Suzette at suzette@family-treks.com.

I had to pass along these offers I just received from Ritz Carlton. These are great values if you are planning a late summer or early fall stay.

The Ritz-Carlton Rose Hall, Jamaica

All inclusive “Family Escape to Luxury” starting at $449 per night.   Includes meals and beverages for two adults and two children (under 12), taxes, service fee, and wireless internet.
Why it’s great for families: They offer a variety of beach activities to please all ages, including sailing, hobie cats, kayaking, and snorkeling.

The Ritz-Carlton, San Juan
“Stay 4 Nights, Pay for 3” starting at $259 per night, and includes internet access.

Why it’s great for families: Kids don’t have passports yet but you want to try something more “exotic?” Puerto Rico is a true Caribbean gem, but is as convenient to travel to as any other US destination.

The Ritz-Carlton, Cancun
“Comfort You” starting at $249 per night in an ocean view room.  Includes breakfast for two daily and a $100 resort credit.

Why it’s great for families: Parents of infants can book an Itzy Bitzy Baby Room which has all the conveniences of their nursery at home: crib, changing table, even miniature hangers for baby clothes.



The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas
“Intrigue You” starting at $449 per night, including fifth night free and daily breakfast for two.

Why it’s great for families: They offer a Kids Sailing and Windsurfing Camp weekly from Wednesday to Sunday for children ages 7 to 12. Instruction is provided on a variety of equipment, including Hobie cats, windsurfers, stand up paddle boards, kayaks and Optimist Prams.* Students receive a U.S. Sailing Level 1 Certification booklet to track their progress.
*I had to look that up. It’s a dinghy.



The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman
“Cayman Splash” starting at $299 per night, including fifth night free and $100 resort credit.

Why it’s great for families: The first RC property to offer the exclusive Jean-Michel Cousteau Ambassadors of the Environment program. Guests of all ages are introduced to natural wonders and rich cultural traditions through unique Caribbean eco-tours.



Rates are available until October 31, 2012. All rates are based on double occupancy unless otherwise mentioned. Rates do not include taxes, service fee and/or resort fee, unless otherwise mentioned. Rates do not apply to groups and are subject to change until reservation is confirmed.