tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-355099242012-01-27T22:33:51.922-08:00Travel HorizonsDavid Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.comBlogger4161100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-66164447547134812922012-01-24T15:55:00.000-08:002012-01-24T16:00:22.034-08:00Four Seasons Punta Mita | Early Bird Special
Four Seasons Punta Mita just sent out this email blast. Although anyone can take advantage of the 15% discount, only guests who book through a Four Seasons Preferred Partner travel consultant will also receive the following added-value amenities, all at the same nightly rate you'll find online.
Daily full American breakfast for two people per bedroom, served through In-Room Dining or in the David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-9656081729518842242012-01-23T07:45:00.000-08:002012-01-23T15:10:56.860-08:00Hangzhou | Lingyin Temple and West LakeHangzhou is the most beautiful city in China and the final stop on our trip to China last November. A three-hour drive south of Shanghai, it is the wealthiest city in China. With a population of "only" 4 million, with some lovely wooded areas and a large, beautiful lake (West Lake), most western tourists will feel more at home here. Hangzhou is a worthwhile destination to include on your trip to David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-15582435176965516412012-01-13T16:44:00.000-08:002012-01-14T10:40:26.108-08:00Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe | free lift tickets
Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe is a true ski-in, ski-out winter resort located mid-mountain at Northstar, and this January special must be booked by January 17 (next Tuesday) for reservations from January 16-30, 2012. This is an amazing value featuring two free lift tickets at Northstar!
With a nightly rate of just $399 per room, what's included?
Deluxe Room
Two (2) adult or child lift tickets valid David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-85960054654800814812012-01-11T10:13:00.000-08:002012-01-11T14:33:10.008-08:00Little Dix Bay | guaranteed two-category upgrade
Little Dix Bay is a Rosewood resort on Virgin Gorda in the British West Indies. In recognition of Brownell Travel's 125th Anniversary (just celebrated this past weekend in Birmingham, Alabama), Little Dix Bay is offering Brownell clients this special double upgrade offer for stays in January and February, 2012, subject to availability and blackout dates.
Garden View Rooms upgrade to Tree House David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-2016877245313578592011-12-31T12:43:00.000-08:002012-01-01T07:45:25.419-08:00Shanghai | the Bund and Pudong
Pudong through Shanghai's smog
(c) 2011 by David Ourisman
Shanghai is the financial center of China and the second largest city in the country with a population of 23 million (the largest being Chongqing). We were amused, during the trip, when we would hear cities with 7 million residents — roughly the population of New York — being described as "small cities," but this is an indication of David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-60018345127897788552011-12-22T10:39:00.000-08:002011-12-22T10:45:51.267-08:00Serengeti: The Eternal Beginning
Serengeti: The Eternal Beginning is a photo essay documenting the fragile beauty of the vast Serengeti, a World Heritage Site which is now endangered due to climate change. Author and photographer Boyd Norton has been visiting the Serengeti since he was a schoolboy in the late 1940's, and this 250-page book conveys his intimacy with and passion for this area. This book is not for the casual David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-52543186716557747712011-12-19T07:08:00.000-08:002011-12-19T15:27:07.159-08:00bamboo rafting down the Li River
A typical feature of many tours of China is a three day cruise down the Yangtze River, but Imperial Tours does tours differently. Although there is some spectacular scenery along that cruise, they reason that three days is too long to be stuck on a boat instead of actually exploring one of the most intriguing and diverse countries in the world. So instead, they planned a scenic cruise on a David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-84888851001405094182011-12-16T12:33:00.000-08:002011-12-16T12:33:46.429-08:00holiday wishes from Brownell
An interesting holiday card, showing the development of our logo over the past 125 years (Brownell is one of the oldest travel agencies in the United States). What's next? Not allowed to say, but I do notice the big red question mark… Let me pass along my own holiday wishes and best wishes for the next 125 years.
Brownell Travel (search here on Google)
copyright (c) 2011 by David Ourisman David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-79217729589317012232011-12-15T13:13:00.000-08:002011-12-15T13:27:53.208-08:00Up the Down Volcano | a very good read!
Cotopaxi is one of the tallest mountains on earth, its top 19,347 feet above sea level, and Up the Down Volcano is Sloane Crosley's autobiographical account of her mountain climbing adventure on Cotopaxi. Any reader forearmed with this one essential fact (e.g., 19,347 feet elevation) would know from the first two sentences of the story that her adventure was not likely to end well.
I am told David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-66301194347086541662011-12-07T13:05:00.000-08:002011-12-07T13:09:27.136-08:00Xi'an … terracotta warriors and more
Xi'an is one of the oldest cities in China and is China's former capital. While many folks go just for the terracotta warriors (which is an amazing sight - see my photo above), Xi'an is a destination well worth two nights. This gives you one day to see the warriors, ride a bike around the ancient city walls which encircle the core of the city, and explore the downtown area.
Don't miss what most David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-3055077796694985712011-12-02T09:23:00.000-08:002011-12-02T09:28:45.437-08:00don't miss the Great Wall of China
Great Wall of China - Jinshanling Section
The Great Wall of China is one of those iconic attractions that you must see, if you have the opportunity. The only structure constructed by humans that is visible from space, its construction began in the 5th century BC. Intended to protect China from invaders from the north, nearly 4,000 miles of walls qualifies the Great Wall of China as history's David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-83985144274755171672011-11-25T12:00:00.000-08:002011-11-24T18:53:45.531-08:00Greenwich Hotel | a unique NYC design hotelOne is immediately impressed, on entering the Greenwich Hotel, that this is a very unique hotel for Manhattan — or for anyplace else, for that matter. We were greeted at the front door by a doorman, dressed in a jacket and open shirt, who greeted us warmly while opening the door for us. Stepping into the lobby, we felt that we had entered a vintage living room from another era, with comfortable David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-23728155470893729332011-11-24T12:01:00.000-08:002011-11-24T12:01:27.770-08:00High Line Park | a nice walk in New York CityVisiting New York City and looking for something different to do? Consider the High Line, a public park created on an abandoned elevated rail line above the West Side. Instead of tearing down the tracks, residents organized to preserve and transform the old rail line into a public park.
Beginning at Gansevoort Street (in the Meatpacking District) to 10th Avenue at W 30th Street, there are plans David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-43411358992278128872011-11-17T18:47:00.000-08:002011-11-17T18:49:18.648-08:00a clever scamChinese yuan on top, Belarus ruble on bottom
A colleague on my recent trip to China experienced a clever scam at the hands of some street merchants. He had negotiated the purchase of two "genuine fake" Louis Vuitton handbags, successfully negotiating the price down to 20 yuan (about $3.14). After being subtly encouraged to pay with a 100 Yuan bill, he received change of 80 in return.
My friend David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-85933269392664336252011-11-10T15:02:00.000-08:002011-11-10T15:02:37.845-08:00keep watching this space
I had fully intended to post updates during my trip to China, not realizing that the free flow of information is restricted from within China. In particular, access to any Blogspot blog is blocked.
I am having a great time and have lots to share - nothing of which should concern the Chinese authorities, as I am only trying to promote luxury travel to China. So keep watching this space after I David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-79960654325298569462011-11-03T11:40:00.000-07:002011-11-03T11:40:19.816-07:00London Summer Olympics hotel space
Bulgari London - opening April, 2012
If you've tried to book London hotel rooms during next summer's London Olympics, you've doubtless discovered that London Summer Olympics hotel space is very difficult to come by. Much of the city's hotel inventory has been pre-blocked by the Olympic Committee. If you are lucky enough to find a hotel that can welcome you, that stay comes with stringent David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-27453448565940217212011-10-28T11:21:00.000-07:002011-10-28T16:33:38.433-07:00Paris Metro options | what's the best value?
Karen Fawcett has a great weekly blog, Bonjour Paris, with great content that only an American living in Paris can offer. Check it out, and especially today's article on Free and Inexpensive Paris Activities. I was especially interested in her up-to-date recommendations on getting around in Paris. Of course, the Paris Metro is the easiest way to get to most places in the city!
If you're in David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-73338754849277444132011-10-21T12:09:00.000-07:002011-10-21T12:12:33.590-07:00Silk Rooms at The Goring
Room 59 at The Goring
The Goring is a traditional British hotel, literally around the corner from Buckingham Palace. With the largest private garden in London, this is a very special place to stay with the most choice rooms looking over the beautiful gardens. And for something even more special, book one of the "Silk Rooms" (see the picture above for an idea of their elegance).
If you're David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-54786391942630500882011-10-17T16:47:00.000-07:002011-10-18T07:39:53.592-07:00left coast | right coastOver the weekend, I announced a new addition to my luxury travel business. My daughter-in-law Jessica Ourisman has just started to work with me as a Four Seasons Preferred Partner, Ritz-Carlton STARS, and Virtuoso travel consultant. In addition to providing help in responding promptly to requests from clients, Jessica also brings geographical diversity to our agency, along with her eclectic David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-11130573216660285862011-10-11T11:18:00.000-07:002011-10-11T15:47:00.717-07:0025 reasons to stay at a Starwood resort
If you're planning to stay at a Starwood resort between now and March 31st, here's a promotion I can offer to nine (9) vacationers who want to take advantage of the offer. I have nine numbered $25 Resort Credit Certificates that can be used at designated outlets at each resort, including food, beverage, golf, and spa. Here's a list of more than 150 Starwood resorts that will honor the $25 creditDavid Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-33835280058042873652011-10-04T08:53:00.000-07:002011-10-04T19:53:01.928-07:00$700 business class round-trip to Paris?Is it possible to pay as little as $700 for a round-trip business class ticket from Washington Dulles to Paris Orly? Including taxes and fees? According to Joe Brancatelli, the answer is "yes," for a very short-term deal. Check out this deal from OpenSkies. The fare requires a Saturday night stay and is good only for travel in October.
And after you've grabbed your bargain airfare to Paris, David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-19275839370896091162011-10-03T11:57:00.000-07:002011-10-03T11:58:23.247-07:00travel to ChinaMuch of the pleasure of traveling is the anticipation of an upcoming trip … and I will be leaving for China in exactly one month on Nov. 3 (not that I'm counting down the days). Living in the San Francisco Bay area, Asia is an easy destination to reach, Beijing being just a 12 hour non-stop flight away.
Here are some highlights of our trip:
Beijing — the Temple of Heaven, Tian'anmen Square andDavid Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-77604512912453272092011-09-27T17:19:00.000-07:002011-10-03T21:43:24.359-07:00Pan Am
I watched Pan Am last night, ABC's new Sunday night TV show this fall, and I rather enjoyed the pilot episode. The show offers a lot of nostalgic value for older viewers who remember a time when Pam Am was America's greatest international airline (TWA, another name from the past, being its major U.S. competitor).
A work in progress — this is how I would describe Pan Am. Like all new shows, itDavid Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-38845493085019722592011-09-21T10:50:00.000-07:002011-09-25T17:55:13.603-07:00how to speed through immigration in Paris
If you're a FAN of Mandarin Oriental, here is a tempting offer. You will receive a VIP escort through immigration in Paris as well as a complimentary one-way limousine transfer to the Mandarin Oriental Paris. With just a three-night stay (two nights in a Suite), you will be met on the jetway by a hostess who will fast track you through immigration, assist you at baggage claim, and introduce you David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-53497682372702127052011-09-15T00:01:00.000-07:002011-09-15T04:55:40.606-07:00Ritz Carlton | Let Us Stay With You
Ritz-Carlton advertisement to be released today
Here is the second ad that has been shared with me, a leisure-focused "Wow story" featuring the Ritz-Carlton Marina Del Rey. The added text in this advertisement also speaks of unique experiences that create lasting memories.
Let us invent a drink in your honor.
Let us transform your room into a tropical paradise.
Let us turn a weekend getaway David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-86546054845424332502011-09-14T11:43:00.000-07:002011-09-14T11:45:05.212-07:00Ritz-Carlton | Let Us Stay With You
new Ritz-Carlton advertisement to be released tomorrow
The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, as reported by an article in yesterday's New York Times, will begin a major rebranding tomorrow morning. I am free to release additional information at midnight EDT, but here is the gist of the new Ritz-Carlton Let Us Stay With You marketing campaign.
Let Us Stay With You is the new tagline shown in the ad David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-66693924111047365482011-09-11T19:53:00.000-07:002011-09-14T11:09:25.278-07:005 reasons to stay at Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe
the fifth floor Club Lounge
Just back from a three-night site inspection trip to the new Ritz Carlton Lake Tahoe, I was truly wowed by this two-year old resort. Upscale travelers wanting to experience a luxurious winter ski vacation (or active summer mountain vacation) should strongly consider staying at the Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe. Here are five top reasons why:
1. Easy to reach. Lake TahoeDavid Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-33934925897075920432011-09-05T13:22:00.000-07:002011-09-05T13:24:52.604-07:00FS Punta Mita | best all-inclusive in Mexico
Four Seasons Punta Mita is a luxurious Four Seasons resort on Mexico's Pacific coast, near Puerto Vallarta. The resort has announced a limited time offer for bookings through October 17. Guests at FS Punta Mita will can enjoy three meals daily, all included with the price of your room, when booked under the all inclusive rate. Dine at any of seven restaurants and bars, or in the privacy of yourDavid Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-36464329820126121172011-09-02T11:37:00.000-07:002011-09-05T13:17:24.955-07:00don't be a last-minute travel planner
It's probably too late if you want to make any BIG plans for Labor Day weekend (although I did make one last-minute booking last night for a client who will be spending the weekend at the Mandarin Oriental Las Vegas). However, if you'd like to be vacationing somewhere during the Christmas and New Year season — and you don't already have reservations — now is the time to do some serious dreaming.David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-85451656273440467822011-08-27T12:41:00.000-07:002011-08-27T13:17:08.291-07:00The Venice ExperimentThe Venice Experiment: A Year of Trial and Error Living Abroad is the story of a really adventurous guy (Barry Frangipane) and the very interesting account of how he met his wife and subsequently decided to drop everything and move to Venice for a year. "Trial and error" is probably a very good way of describing their experience, but sometimes this is how we best learn. Barry and Debbie made David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-76489519765205188862011-08-25T12:44:00.000-07:002011-08-25T12:44:33.840-07:00A&K's Egypt: A Moment in HistoryAbercrombie & Kent is one of the world's preeminent luxury tour companies, and rarely can they offer values like what is currently available in Egypt. In the aftermath of its birth of freedom, tourism is still markedly down. There has never been a better time to visit Egypt and see the normally crowded historic sites. In addition, your dollars will never go further.
Egypt: A Moment in History isDavid Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-32220733705139451502011-08-20T15:05:00.000-07:002011-08-20T15:09:17.759-07:00Mauna Kea | free breakfast and golfMauna Kea is a luxury beach resort on the Big Island of Hawaii. Its recent renovation took down interior walls, resulting in guest rooms 50% wider than before. Guests have been highly complimentary about the new rooms. Mauna Kea has just announced a Travel Mart Bonus Offer. Make a new reservation by September 5 (minimum 5 nights) for stays through December 18 (but excluding Thanksgiving), and David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-10799473790792431922011-08-18T15:51:00.000-07:002011-08-20T13:28:15.487-07:00Cap Juluca | 5 free nights
the beach at Cap Juluca
Cap Juluca is a Virtuoso resort on Anguilla in the British Virgin Islands. Beyond the impossibly blue sky and water and the impossibly white sand beach (pictured above), Cap Juluca is offering an impossibly good value — with five paid nights, you receive the next five nights free ... and to continue the streak of impossibilities, Virtuoso amenities are included:
David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-33231565439339089952011-08-14T07:31:00.000-07:002011-08-18T15:21:52.346-07:00Bellgaio Las Vegas | room renovationsThe first bit of news from Travel Mart is the fact that the Bellagio is in the process of renovating each of its thousands of rooms. There are three new color schemes, a blue theme (pictured above), a green theme (which is a bit more whimsical), and a gold theme (which is found exclusively in the rooms with two Queen beds). The marble in the existing bathrooms will remain, and the new themes are David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-19756378043215175822011-08-08T16:33:00.000-07:002011-08-08T20:08:29.995-07:00New Zealand luxury lodges | free night offer
pastoral scene at Wharekauhau
New Zealand is one of the most beautiful countries in the world, and I have always remembered my ten day visit several years ago. The South Island features ice-capped mountains and breath-taking fjords, while the North Island offers everything from wine tasting to glowworm caves.
And you never have to rough it — New Zealand luxury lodges provide intimate and David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-33708685986565275052011-08-05T10:58:00.000-07:002011-08-05T11:14:29.821-07:00Travel Mart 2011 | Aug 15-19Thousands of Virtuoso travel consultants and suppliers will soon descend on Las Vegas and its sweltering August heat for the 2011 edition of Travel Mart. Meeting at the Bellagio Hotel, days are filled with educational opportunities, hundreds of appointments with vendors, as well as countless cocktail parties and dinners.
The picture above really captures the scale of Travel Mart. Cavernous (and David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-72856028533190905592011-07-29T08:22:00.000-07:002011-07-29T08:28:29.005-07:00visiting the Grand Palace in Bangkok?If you are visiting Bangkok and plan to see the Grand Palace (and you should), please be aware of some dress requirements over the next 100 days. Princess Bejaratana died on July 27, and Thailand is in a period of national mourning. Palace protocol requires that anyone planning to visit the Grand Palace in the 100 days following her death should wear dark colors or black clothing.
One of the David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-80587149174366387952011-07-27T08:55:00.001-07:002011-08-05T10:33:37.412-07:00Cuba | hot new Caribbean destinationCuba is the hot new Caribbean destination. Just this week, my agency sent out an email blast from luxury tour operator Abercrombie & Kent announcing a fall and winter tour — Cuba: the Forbidden Isle Revealed. An 11-day, 10-night tour, the itinerary includes the opportunity to "walk the cobblestone streets of Old Havana, savor the unspoiled beauty of Trinidad, meet families in culture-rich David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-32157500347875857052011-07-20T21:35:00.000-07:002011-07-21T12:11:33.205-07:00Four Seasons Vail | Rocky Mountain HighFour Seasons Vail is one of the newest resorts in the Four Seasons worldwide family of hotels, and it joins the FS properties in Whistler and Jackson Hole as one of the preeminent ski resorts in North America. But winter is not the only time to come to Vail. Summer is a great season for families to enjoy outdoor activities in the clean Rocky Mountain air.
Fresh back from her site inspection tripDavid Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-35688538242153798872011-07-15T14:35:00.001-07:002011-07-21T11:54:54.822-07:00Four Seasons Nevis | fabulous sunsets and moreThere's a silver lining inside every rain cloud. When the skies cleared after a day of rain showers at Four Seasons Nevis, guests at the resort were treated to this stunning sunset in shades of blue, pink, and purple. My associate Sarah just returned from a site inspection trip and was truly impressed with the property.
The resort is set on Pinney's Beach on the western, leeward shore of Nevis. David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-58934043032350833822011-07-08T15:21:00.000-07:002011-07-08T15:25:20.512-07:003 reasons to consider Ritz-Carlton KapaluaI am frequently asked to compare the two major Virtuoso resorts on Maui, the Four Seasons Wailea and the Ritz-Carlton Kapalua. Both are excellent choices for the upscale vacationer planning a family holiday in Hawaii. Here are three reasons to consider the Ritz:
(1) Lots of space. Ritz-Carlton Kapalua is a resort where you can truly spread out. Its 463 rooms and suites are located on 54 acres, David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-45415986655814670132011-07-04T21:18:00.000-07:002011-07-05T14:08:51.652-07:00Midnight in Paris
This afternoon I saw Woody Allen's new film Midnight in Paris. If you're a lover of Paris (as I am), that's reason enough to see this film... and if you're a fan of Woody Allen's movies (which I also am), then Midnight in Paris is absolutely a must see.
The movie has a very creative plot twist (which I won't divulge). Gil Pender (the Woody Allen-esque character played by Owen Wilson) has a mostDavid Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-13485883146130538562011-06-28T11:03:00.000-07:002011-07-04T20:44:00.471-07:00how long to visit Italy?Should we visit Italy for one week or two? This was the question posed in an email I received this morning. The writer explained that she could save $400 on airfare if she returned after one week instead of two. She wanted to visit Italy and see Rome, Tuscany, Florence, Siena, and Pisa. Could she do it all in a week? What did I think as a travel advisor?
Saving $400 on airfare is a false economyDavid Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-35439136169494435392011-06-21T21:10:00.000-07:002011-06-23T15:31:38.545-07:00Kapalua Wine & Food Festival
Kapalua Wine & Food Festival
I was invited by the Ritz-Carlton Kapalua to participate in the 30th Annual 2011 Kapalua Wine & Food Festival, held annually at the Ritz-Carlton Kapalua on Maui. This is a very popular event for lovers of fine wine and seafood, and we spoke with visitors from all over Hawaii as well as the mainland U.S. An entire weekend of events is offered, but these were the David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-59924703194274209342011-06-18T15:49:00.000-07:002011-09-30T10:58:42.420-07:00Four Seasons Wailea, Maui | room categoriesFour Seasons Wailea is the most popular Four Seasons resort in the world and has the distinction of being the first resort that Four Seasons developed. Built in 1990, it is one of four major resorts in the Wailea area of South Maui.
Maui is blessed with great beaches, but those beaches tend to be lined with larger resorts, especially on Ka'anapali Beach where the Grand Hyatt has 806 rooms in an David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-36307826653190004512011-06-17T14:25:00.000-07:002011-06-17T22:28:14.038-07:00Maui | beach vacation paradiseI'm just back from a 5-day trip to Maui during which we visited three different resorts and explored some of the beaches and snorkeling opportunities on Maui. Some quick impressions about Maui.
1. Maui is a beautiful island which is easy to get around. The one main road along the coast of West Maui is smooth and attractive (and it's been widened to four lanes around Ka'anapali area which helps David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-52913029448384702912011-06-09T09:00:00.000-07:002011-06-09T09:00:10.810-07:00map your Virtuoso hotel
There are 900 Virtuoso hotels and resorts around the world (more or less), and you really should make your hotel booking through a Virtuoso travel consultant - and not directly on the internet. Why?
1. Because websites can be deceiving; a wide-angle lens can make the most cramped room look spacious. Most travel consultants make hotel site inspections when they travel, so why not ask someone David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-91145255115685871972011-06-02T20:00:00.000-07:002011-06-02T20:09:43.085-07:00a luxury bargain in London | Milestone Hotel
Do you have plans to visit London this summer? While June and July are a busy time for this great destination, August is a much quieter month. Hotels are begging for business, and this means low rates and exceptional values for you (not to mention shorter lines to visit the British Museum, Tower of London, and Houses of Parliament - and you can get into Buckingham Palace and tour the State RoomsDavid Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-16888533774389606632011-05-30T10:09:00.000-07:002011-05-30T10:41:37.712-07:00Amankila | cocktails at sunset Aman Resorts in Bali offer unique experiences for guests, with one complimentary activity included at each resort when you enjoy three nights at one or more Aman resorts in Bali (the Aman Bali Experience).
When we checked into Amankila for the final evenings of our trip, we were asked to come to the lobby at 5 p.m. (but not told why - it was a surprise the resort had for us!). When we came David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-38071289891317100862011-05-25T13:49:00.000-07:002011-05-30T10:40:49.615-07:00kids eat free at Ritz-Carlton Kapalua
Hawaii is a great summer vacation spot, especially popular with West Coast residents who enjoy easy flights to the Hawaiian Islands. Combine that fact with this kids eat free offer from the Ritz Carlton Kapalua, and you have the makings of a really good value at one of the best luxury beach resorts on Maui. Here's the scoop: children twelve (12) and under eat free from the children's menu at David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-20547777351101310812011-05-23T04:46:00.000-07:002011-05-23T20:03:51.588-07:00Global Entry can save you timeIf you're a frequent international traveler, you should consider Global Entry, the new trusted traveler network established by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
How can Global Entry save you time? If you dread the thought of returning from an international trip and finding yourself at the back of a long queue at Immigration, Global Entry was created just for you. You bypass the long lines David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-7174431513412744102011-05-18T15:46:00.000-07:002011-05-19T10:02:59.625-07:00Four Seasons or Aman | high end travel choicesFour Seasons and Aman Resorts are two of the world's top luxury hotel families. Clients traveling to Bali have frequently asked my advice as to where to stay. Four Seasons Jimbaran Bay and Amankila are both great beach resorts. Amandari and Four Seasons Sayan are top choices near Bali's cultural center of Ubud. Four Seasons or Aman? That question was one reason I recently traveled to Bali. I David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-90696797359095437122011-05-13T17:54:00.000-07:002011-05-13T17:56:39.285-07:005 tips for buying crafts in BaliVisitors to Bali will be impressed by the arts and crafts produced by the Balinese people - stone carvings, wood carvings, batik, paintings, woven cloth. Here are 5 tips for buying crafts in Bali...
1. Ubud is not the best source for crafts. Overrun with tourists, Ubud has multiple craft shops on every street. The inexpensive shops have mediocre products, and the expensive shops are, well, quiteDavid Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-43756455456318369292011-05-11T02:16:00.000-07:002011-05-11T02:20:59.260-07:00temple ceremonies in BaliYou will see Hindu temples everywhere you go in Bali. Every village has one. Every home has one. Even our suite at FS Jimbaran Bay had a small temple, and a small offering (such as flower petals) would be placed before that temple each day. Your guides and drivers will all offer explanations of Balinese spirituality, and you should appreciate this as a most significant aspect of the culture of David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-25120552591240571072011-05-08T00:01:00.000-07:002011-05-24T20:39:40.623-07:00sunrise breakfast at BorobudurBorobudur is an UNESCO World Heritage site, an eighth century Buddhist temple on a hilltop in central Java. Both immense in size and intricate in design — there are hundreds of stone carvings depicting the life of the Buddha (see one set illustrated above), Borobudur is the single most popular tourist destination in Indonesia.
Here's the best way to visit Borobudur. Stay at Amanjiwo, an David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-60200379865518833772011-05-07T00:13:00.000-07:002011-05-08T02:15:31.248-07:00an utterly authentic dinner in BorobudurWhen the chairman of Amanresorts visits Amanjiwo in Borobudur, Indonesia, he makes it a point to eat at Pak Parno.
Gourmet ethnic cuisine is an oxymoron — at least that's my opinion. I love discovering an utterly authentic restaurant that's known only by locals "in the know," and that's what Pak Parno is all about. It's not really a restaurant at all — it's a private home. The food is prepared David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-16781003328954372932011-04-30T18:08:00.001-07:002011-05-08T00:21:14.368-07:00if you build it, they will come looking down onto the tops of skyscrapers
“If you build it, they will come.” The Eiffel Tower is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Paris; visitors will pay and wait in line to take the elevator (or walk) to the top of this iconic tower to enjoy the views of Paris from the top. Tourists to New York used to pay to take the elevator to the observation deck of the David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-48806832654199153902011-04-29T01:43:00.000-07:002011-04-29T02:17:22.485-07:00the best Chinese restaurant everLung King Heen is the first Chinese restaurant to be awarded three Michelin stars, and after having lunch here today, I can understand why. The name literally means "View of the Dragon," and from its fourth floor location in the Four Seasons Hong Kong, the restaurant offers a commanding view of Victoria Harbour and Kowloon ... in addition to having the best Chinese food I have ever eaten.I David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-16970207058952007212011-04-25T16:53:00.001-07:002011-05-09T04:50:45.848-07:00Hong Kong and Bali
I'm leaving early Thursday morning for Hong Kong — in fact, my Cathay Pacific flight leaves SFO at 1:20 a.m. — for a site inspection trip to Hong Kong and Bali.
Hong Kong is a most fascinating city, combining ancient Chinese culture with contemporary architecture and avant garde interior design. Victoria Harbour is a beautiful sight, and the nightly light show, while kitschy, is a must-see. TheDavid Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-52236601383206186382011-04-24T10:52:00.000-07:002011-04-27T11:20:23.526-07:00Taking Root in Provence | a great readTaking Root in Provence is a great read — well-written, engaging, with interesting insights on French life and culture. Written by Anne-Marie Simons, who retired to Provence with her husband Oscar, the book contains about three dozen short chapters (3-4 pages each). They settled in Aix-en-Provence, an attractive small city that many of my readers will have visited!What makes the book so David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-75018187920953086892011-04-23T12:13:00.000-07:002011-04-23T12:57:11.953-07:00the secret to running a profitable airlineMy favorite travel writer, Joe Brancatelli, publishes a subscription-only website. Written especially with business travelers in mind, it's a worthwhile read for anyone who travels a lot, wants to be in the know, and would value a regular summary of airline and hotel "steals and deals." A subscription is $49 a year but well worth it for the information alone.I was intrigued by the following David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-75476443808870369212011-04-19T16:10:00.000-07:002011-04-19T16:42:20.916-07:00round the world by private jetWouldn't this be be the ultimate luxury, traveling round the world by private jet in 22 days, enjoying Four Seasons brand of hospitality in each destination, and exploring some of the most exotic locations on earth? Here's the itinerary:Los Angeles — welcome dinner at Four Seasons Los Angeles at Beverly HillsThe Big Island, Hawaii — two nights at Four Seasons Hualalai with a choice of David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-87626628193930328882011-04-18T16:52:00.000-07:002011-04-20T09:50:30.707-07:00luxury Egypt | $6,000 nine day tour for twoPhotos courtesy of Abercrombie & KentAbercrombie & Kent offers the most outstanding luxury tours of Egypt, and with the slowdown in tourism to Egypt, this is an amazing summer promotion for luxury Egypt: $6,000 for an eight day tour for two guests. Here's the itinerary:Day One — arrive in Egypt and private transfer to FS Cairo at First ResidenceDay Two — buffet breakfast, followed by a tour of David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-47396126335441684002011-04-16T15:39:00.000-07:002011-04-18T10:45:25.131-07:00the luxury hotels of Chicago© LauraAndersonArt.comI spent last weekend in Chicago where I stayed at the Four Seasons Chicago. While in the Windy City, I had site inspections of three other luxury properties, the Ritz-Carlton, Peninsula, and Elysian. Here are my impressions of the luxury hotels of Chicago:Four Seasons Chicago is a traditional hotel with great service. Entering through the lower lobby at street level, David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-68691564420423223662011-04-15T16:09:00.000-07:002011-04-15T16:27:02.127-07:00Ritz-Carlton Orlando | a magical offerOrlando is home of the Magic Kingdom, and Ritz-Carlton Orlando has just announced a truly magical Family Fun Package with $100 Resort Credit. You receive the $100 credit just by booking through a Ritz-Carlton STARS agent. Here's what you get:Overnight accommodations in connecting rooms.Confirmed upgrade to Lake View rooms at time of booking.Kids (up to age 12) dine free with every adult entrée David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-50029080082846570382011-04-12T09:21:00.000-07:002011-04-14T11:58:23.185-07:00Four Seasons Vail | a resort for all seasonsFour Seasons Vail is a recently opened resort with activities for all seasons. Located in Vail Village, just steps away from the lifts, Four Seasons is the premier luxury resort for a ski vacation at one of America's top ski destinations.Winter or summer, Vail offers countless choices for an active vacation. Downhill and cross-country skiing, snowboarding, and sleigh rides top the list of winter David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-70654585596963717722011-04-02T11:49:00.000-07:002011-04-04T17:37:34.193-07:00Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong | world's tallest hotelThe Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong has the distinction of being the highest hotel in the world! Occupying the 102nd - 118th floors of the International Commerce Centre, this hotel features commanding views over Hong Kong's Victoria Harbour. With 312 guests rooms - each offering a spectacular city or harbour view - the Ritz Carlton Hong Kong is a hotel to experience while visiting Hong Kong.As a David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-4682083307683123652011-03-25T17:53:00.000-07:002011-03-25T19:39:14.014-07:00Jumby Bay all-inclusive summer promotionHere's an exclusive summer promotion at Rosewood's private island resort in Antigua - Jumby Bay - and it's available ONLY to Rosewood Elite Agencies such as Brownell.Guaranteed upgrades! Book a Courtyard Suite ($1150 per night) with a guaranteed upgrade to a Pool Suite (normally $1525 per night).All-inclusive! Jumby Bay is an all-inclusive luxury Caribbean resort:breakfast, lunch, and dinner David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-62449526635511261852011-03-23T07:29:00.000-07:002011-03-23T10:16:49.161-07:00travel to Egypt | consider 2011Photo courtesy of Abercrombie & KentCopyright © Steve Filipiak 2007As the world knows, Egypt experienced a peaceful revolution in which an authoritarian government gave way to a new democratic process. However, February's uprising has impacted tourism in Egypt, many travelers canceling trips already planned. The drop in tourism persists, despite the return to normalcy and the reopening of David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-48770702242423222412011-03-12T17:45:00.000-08:002011-03-16T20:27:40.424-07:00Four Seasons Hualalai | reopening April 30The recent 8.9 magnitude earthquake off the coast of Japan created a huge tidal wave that caused damage at Four Seasons Hualalai. All guests were safely evacuated in advance of the tsunami, and the resort suffered damage to the grounds and to some of the lower floor rooms. The reopening has been pushed back twice, now to April 30, 2011. In the words of one Four Seasons manager, “It's not the David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-24651614471593553612011-03-10T05:08:00.000-08:002011-03-10T05:35:12.257-08:00Mandarin Oriental ParisMandarin Oriental Paris is the newest addition to the Virtuoso collection of five-star luxury hotels in Paris. Centrally located at 251 rue Saint-Honore, the Mandarin Oriental Paris is on a great shopping street, just a block away from the Place Vendome, and very convenient to the Tuileries. In other words, a great location if you're coming to Paris and want to be able to walk to all the best David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-20632350750714092582011-02-28T19:32:00.000-08:002011-03-02T11:30:14.579-08:00high-tech hotel room frustrationThe genius of Steve Jobs of Apple Computer is that he figured out how to make technology intuitive to the end user. The adventure that began with the first Macintosh in 1984 has led to leading edge products like iPhones, iPads, and iPods. You'd think everyone would get the point: intuitive is better, and if you need to read a manual to turn on the lights, or take a shower, you've hired the wrong David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-70419870101267168742011-02-21T11:36:00.000-08:002011-02-21T13:07:55.679-08:00Tahiti vacation guideMoon Travel Guides have been published for a vast array of destinations; there are literally dozens of destinations available. I was offered the opportunity to review the Moon Handbook Tahiti and received a review copy that was thoughtfully autographed by the author, David Stanley. This encyclopedic guide to the islands of French Polynesia would be especially useful to travelers wanting to visit David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-13130838499034883032011-02-10T10:43:00.000-08:002011-02-16T20:00:35.486-08:00two couples save 25% in HawaiiWhen two couples vacation together, it's possible to enjoy significant savings while experiencing the ultimate in luxury. Each of the Four Seasons resorts in Hawaii is currently offering a program that includes 50% off the second room. You can luxuriate at the best resorts in Hawaii ... and this promotion will stretch your dollars.And to make the deal even better, you'll receive the following David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-1474283957663281062011-02-01T18:38:00.000-08:002011-02-02T20:20:56.869-08:00Le Meurice | guaranteed upgrade in MarchLe Meurice has the best location in Paris for the leisure traveler. As you can see in the photograph above, it is right next to the Jardins des Tuileries, the large park in the center of Paris that runs alongside the Seine between the Louvre and the Place de la Corcorde. Step outside the door of Le Meurice, and you're already in the center of Paris. You're just a short stroll across the gardens David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-65056229277900288592011-01-26T11:11:00.000-08:002011-01-27T10:43:34.155-08:00Bed and Breakfast Guide for Food LoversPamela Lanier runs one of the best websites to find a wonderful Bed & Breakfast for your romantic weekend getaway. I love a great B&B, but I don't generally book them myself for clients. Pamela is doing a great service both to B&B's and B&B lovers by maintaining her website. Bed and Breakfast Guide for Food Lovers was assembled by Pamela Lanier. It features 133 recipes from the kitchens of Inns David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-6440211373622141842011-01-21T12:12:00.000-08:002011-01-22T07:19:36.037-08:00Miraval | it's not just a spaMiraval is not just a spa... it is an entire lifestyle experience nestled in the high desert outside Tucson, Arizona.All-inclusive adult resort, virtually everything is included at Miraval — luxurious accommodations, transfers from the Tucson airport, all meals and snacks, programs and activities — with $130 per person per day thrown in that you can apply to extras such as spa treatments, privateDavid Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-58154480450307300392011-01-17T12:34:00.000-08:002011-01-17T19:50:09.640-08:00Meadowood Napa Valley | visit in the winterWhile winter rages across most of the country, Northern California has gotten beautiful for the moment. I'm just back from walking my dog in the park this morning, and the weather was gorgeous. I started with just a light fleece jacket and ended up the walk in just shirtsleeves. Of course, the weather in Northern California is very changeable with beautiful, sunny days followed by a period of David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-58000567741264533892011-01-12T15:31:00.000-08:002011-01-12T15:50:46.903-08:00what's better than Four Seasons City Breaks?City Breaks is a winter promotion offered by Four Seasons through the end of February. It offers you a complimentary daily breakfast for two and either a $100 or 100€ Hotel Spending Credit.Could anything be a better value than Four Seasons City Breaks? Yes. Just reserve your room through a Four Seasons Preferred Partner, and you will receive the following additional amenities:Enjoy your full David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-47096756743437637252011-01-05T08:47:00.000-08:002011-01-05T16:38:09.203-08:00why luxury cruises are the best valueNobody likes watching their wallet, but that's exactly what happens with a typical cruise. The ads headline a super-low fare, but by the time you inspect your bill at the end of the cruise, you've paid as much or more for "incidentals" as you did for the cruise itself. You've shelled out significant amounts of money for cocktails, wine at meals, soft drinks, bottled water, gratuities, etc.That's David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-73660544761335764282010-12-24T08:40:00.000-08:002010-12-24T08:56:54.086-08:00holiday wishesWhether your holiday plans are taking you to the mountains to ski, to a tropical beach to soak up the sun ... or you're staying home for the holidays ... I hope you enjoy this time with family and friends.Family and travel are two of the most important things in life. Travel expands our horizons, brings us in touch with the incredible panoply of human diversity, and allows us to enjoy sights, David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-19061328409184472122010-12-19T07:09:00.000-08:002010-12-19T11:54:37.775-08:00why you need travel insuranceA snow plough clears the taxi ways after heavy snowfall at Heathrow Airport, London, Saturday Dec. 18, 2010. (AP / PA, Steve Parsons)The phone rang early on Saturday morning. My friend Lauren was calling on behalf of her friend John. He was ticketed on a British Airways flight to London Heathrow that afternoon — and onto India the next morning. John's flight to London had been cancelled. BA's David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-4657129456500463122010-12-13T16:33:00.000-08:002010-12-15T16:17:13.742-08:00The Goring | a hotel fit for a royal weddingLooking for a very traditional British hotel? Look no further than The Goring. Celebrating its 100th birthday this year, The Goring has received two very special honors.Hotel of the Year. The Goring received the distinction of being named "Hotel of the Year Award" at this year's Travel Mart, the annual trade show held for Virtuoso travel consultants and suppliers.Hotel of the Royal Wedding. David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-50620930193849748182010-12-13T12:32:00.000-08:002010-12-13T16:03:23.123-08:00weather map got you down?Winter has started early in North America and Europe, with blizzards and very chilly weather. Flights have been disrupted, and even people traveling by car have been stranded. The San Francisco Bay Area (where I live) has been stuck in a cool, damp, overcast weather pattern. But the most striking weather news of the week was the sight of snow pouring through the teflon roof of the Metrodome in David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-22468065678467636852010-12-08T07:42:00.000-08:002010-12-09T17:48:59.633-08:00Ritz-Carlton deals for STARS guestsRitz-Carlton Central Park — third night free. With an ideal location in the middle of Central Park South at 6th Avenue, Deluxe Park View rooms offer an outstanding view over Central Park. Valid through March 5.Ritz-Carlton Battery Park third night free + guaranteed upgrade to the Club Level at time of booking. Offered from December 17 - March 31 (excluding New Years Eve). The hotel offers views David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-39015090862417421512010-12-06T19:53:00.001-08:002010-12-06T20:11:07.378-08:00travel consultants - to use or not to use?A thread was posted today on fodors.com asking, "How do you book your trips? TA or yourself." Although the response was predictable (the Fodors community has a bias against using a travel consultant), I read anyway to get a sense of how the discussion would develop.The poster — Eliza — is going to Paris next May with two friends. She normally plans her own travel, but one of her friends wanted toDavid Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-9426562269234166612010-11-29T18:50:00.000-08:002010-11-29T19:33:15.971-08:00two new luxury hotels in New Yorkguestroom at The Chatwal, New YorkI had the opportunity to visit two New York Virtuoso hotels over the Thanksgiving holiday. Here's a brief description of these newly renovated luxury properties.The Chatwal — Planning a visit to New York to see some Broadway shows? The Chatwal is a great hotel in the heart of the theater district, located on W. 44th Street, half a block from Times Square.The David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-30291103373239322522010-11-22T13:44:00.000-08:002010-11-23T13:47:07.230-08:00Ritz-Carlton STARSRitz-Carlton STARS has always been a "semi-secret" program, but now that the official veil of secrecy has now been lifted (including a new "for publication" logo), I'm free to tell the world about Ritz Carlton STARS.* Sometimes the lowest price is not the best deal, and the STARS amenities make Ritz-Carlton a compelling value when considering your luxury hotel options anywhere in the world. David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-36655933937201985082010-11-20T14:44:00.000-08:002010-11-21T19:40:57.328-08:00Atlas of Remote IslandsSeveral days ago, I received my review copy of Atlas of Remote Islands: Fifty Islands I Have Never Set Foot On and Never Will by Judith Schalansky. I had to wait my turn to see the book, however, as my partner Claire picked it up, started reading, and could not put it down! The Atlas contains 50 one-page stories that utterly intrigued her.I finally got my chance the next day. As the title David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-51279607256383932982010-11-16T14:58:00.000-08:002010-11-16T17:00:52.432-08:00weary of online booking?A headline in the USA Today this morning said, Weary of online booking, clients return to travel agents. The article reported that only 46% of travelers who use the web to book travel enjoy the experience. Why is this so? Because there are simply too much data out there, and we're drowning in information.The promise of the internet was that everyone could be their own travel agent.Want to know David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-37625782468096765772010-11-07T17:13:00.000-08:002010-11-09T16:43:56.195-08:00multi-island Hawaii tripthe beach at Manele Bay, Lana'iWhile west coast residents have the luxury of traveling frequently to Hawaii and experiencing a different island each time, the rest of North America doesn't have that luxury. That's one reason to consider a multi-island Hawaii trip.the Hawaiian IslandsOahu is the most populated Hawaiian island. While many people enjoy Waikiki Beach for its buzz (lots of bars, David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-11746340497844757442010-10-31T14:40:00.000-07:002010-11-01T16:21:33.206-07:00Traveller's Guide to Planet Earth | eco-travelThe Traveller's Guide to Planet Earth, based on the BBC documentary series, was just published by Lonely Planet. This is a useful resource for travelers wanting to explore the natural features of our planet. The book contains ten chapters, each based on one episode of the series:MountainsFresh WaterCavesDesertsIce WorldsGreat PlainsJunglesShallow SeasSeasonal ForestsOcean DeepEach chapter David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-46178297406336132582010-10-28T19:42:00.000-07:002010-10-30T14:25:51.236-07:00luxury hotels in Paris | my recommendationsHe was planning a five-day visit to Paris in November and sent me a very brief email: any hotel recommendations? I usually recommend one of three luxury hotels in Paris.In the 300€ range — InterContinental Paris Le Grand. The hotel is very well located, right next to the Paris Opera House, steps from the main store of the Galleries Lafayette, and right over a Metro station. It's one of the David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-37455560761673119852010-10-23T13:45:00.000-07:002010-10-23T17:41:12.072-07:00Hawaii on saleUnited Airlines has just announced a fare sale to Hawaii with one way fares as low as $190*, and Alaska Airlines is advertising one-way fares as low as $169*. Explore the possibilities at united.com and alaskaair.com.If you're planning a trip to Hawaii, this is the time to book with Hawaii on sale. 2011 occupancy levels are significant higher than 2010, and there are dates for which the David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-40024261029673455732010-10-18T11:16:00.000-07:002010-10-20T07:24:29.049-07:00The Kahala Resort | 7 Day SaleThe Kahala Resort on the island of Oahu is one of my favorite beach resorts in Hawaii. In fact, the banner picture across the top of this blog was taken from its beach one morning at sunrise. What do I like about the Kahala? It's not on Waikiki Beach, for starters. While Waikiki is perhaps the most famous beach in the world, it's in the busy downtown of Honolulu (population about one million) on David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-84385556412362944302010-10-15T09:25:00.001-07:002010-10-15T11:22:51.979-07:00Visit Napa Valley | iPhone appA free Visit Napa Valley iPhone app has been announced. According to the publisher's description, the app uses an interactive GPS map to help you visit Napa Valley - with directions to the top vineyards, updates on culinary and wine tasting events, exclusive offers, and over 100 places to stay. You can download the app here.Where to stay in Napa Valley? Let me shorten the list from 100 to three David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-73347690738765615432010-10-12T12:02:00.000-07:002010-10-12T17:05:45.178-07:00third night free at the PeninsulaThe Peninsula Hotels in Hong Kong, Beijing, and Shanghai have introduced a special "Spend The Night On Us" promotion that is "like" a third night free. Guests pay for all three room nights but receive the value of one's night's room rate towards any hotel expense including airport transfers, meals, cocktails, or spa experiences during their stay. In addition, guests will also enjoy the Virtuoso David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-85517761504402175852010-10-09T07:23:00.000-07:002010-10-09T17:12:07.146-07:00interview with Alastair Vere NicollI published a review of Riding the Ice Wind: By Kite and Sledge across Antarctica in my post on September 28. The book tells a compelling story of extreme adventure travel. I was privileged to have the opportunity to conduct an email interview with Alastair. Here is the text of our correspondence. (You can order the book here).(1) One of the conflicts in your narrative concerned your worry about David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-24861684609783402252010-10-02T16:22:00.000-07:002010-10-04T14:27:44.215-07:00a Mendocino weekendMendocino, slightly more than three hours north of San Francisco, is a picturesque little town on the northern California coast. Originally settled by lumbermen from New England during the Gold Rush, it was abandoned during the Great Depression but rediscovered decades later by artists. Mendocino has become a popular weekend tourist destination with something to offer visitors year-round: David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35509924.post-34426832479179426332010-09-28T09:36:00.000-07:002010-09-28T12:34:51.063-07:00adventure travelAdventure travel has been defined as any trip that includes at least two of the following three features: (1) physical activity, (2) interaction with nature, and (3) cultural learning or exchange (see the 9/27/10 issue of Travel Weekly). Within the category of adventure travel, further distinction can be made between "hard adventure" trips which involve caving, climbing, and trekking and "soft David Ourismanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11517792073719927473noreply@blogger.com0