Across the Bridge of Sighs

By: Globus

The world’s most poetically-named bridge, Il Ponte dei Sospiri, the Bridge of Sighs, was built in 1614 so that prisoners of the Venetian state could be transferred in secret from the Doge’s Palace to the so-called Nuovi Prigioni, or New Prisons. 

The wistful name was actually conceived by the English poet Lord Byron in the early 1800s that imagined the horror of prisoners taking their last glimpse of Venice before going underground to captivity. Although Venice in the 1600s was a famously permissive society, it was overseen by shadowy oligarchy through their omnipresent secret police that sniffed out any hint of political treachery against the all-powerful Republic. The slightest suspicion could lead to a midnight arrest and secret trial; prisoners would be tortured and convicted without being told the charge or the length of their sentence. The cells for new prisoners were located around the torture room so they could hear the victims’ screams, designed to wear them down psychologically in advance. Today, this new Prison is part of the standard tour of the Doge’s Palace. 

One can follow the route of the prisoners across the covered bridge, which was divided for two-way traffic, and peer through the grille to the sparkling Lagoon as gondolas pass underneath. Visitors should also keep an eye out for the more recent graffiti – the cells were still in use for political prisoners in the 1930s for victims of Mussolini’s fascist regime. Don’t just bring home stories. Bring home unforgettable memories. Book your trip to Venice, Italy with Globus and The Little Travel Consultant today and get ready to see first-hand the most diverse architecture the world has to offer.

The Swiss Rhone Valley

By: Globus

Running through the belly of Switzerland, near the Italian border in the region of Valais, the Rhone River has its origins in the Swiss Alps runoff above the Gletsch Glacier. Picking up water as it flows east from Brig, through a glacier valley draining the highest mountains in Switzerland, it moves from a mountain stream to an important riverway.

Its silty torrent carves its way through some of Switzerland’s finest ski areas, including Crans-Montana and Zermatt, and its highest chalet towns and mountain villages. In summer, a boat ride on the Rhone offers grand views of the Swiss countryside. As it nears the French border city of Martigny, the Rhone veers northwest towards Lake Geneva. Here if forms the banks of some of Switzerland’s best vineyards, before hooking up with the flow from Lake Geneva and the Arve River where it enters eastern France. It then runs southeast through Lyon and some of France’s greatest vineyards before emptying in the Mediterranean near Montpellier. Destinations have stories. We bring them to life. What Globus story might you discover next in Switzerland with The Little Travel Consultant?

The Shades of Ireland Top 10

By: Collette Vacations

Shades of Ireland remains one of Collette’s most popular tours. Here’s a quick Top 10 with some major highlights.

1. Experience an overnight stay on the grounds of a castle.
2. Meet the locals on a visit to a working Irish Farm.
3. Enjoy a truly memorable evening of traditional Irish entertainment.
4. Travel one of the most beautiful coastal routes in the world, the Ring of Kerry.
5. View the spectacular Cliffs of Moher, soaring nearly 700 feet above the mighty Atlantic.
6. Take a jaunting car ride in beautiful Killarney.
7. Learn how Irish Whiskey is made and enjoy a tasting.
8. Tour the rollicking city of Dublin with a local guide.
9. Explore the medieval city of Kilkenny.
10. Kiss the famous Blarney Stone!

60 Second Geography - Jamaica

 

Jamaica is a world apart. Few locations on earth have been so graced with amazing natural beauty, wonderful climate, crystal clear water and rich culture. The Jamaicans say their land is the "biggest little island in the world. Indeed, one trip is not enough. To fully take in Jamaica you must travel there again and again. And why not? There are tropical rainforests, waterfalls, wonderful sand beaches, shimmering sands and a turquoise sea, a wide variety of resorts, and a culture with a rhythm all its own.

• Tourism in Jamaica is well established and the resort infrastructure is excellent with a wide variety of accommodations at every end of the budgetary scale. Properties range from independent hotels to all inclusive resorts.

• Most of the hotel development is on Jamaica's North Shore at Montego Bay, Ocho Rios and Negril. Jamaica is home to many all-inclusive resorts, but also offers alternatives from locally owned properties to luxury villas.

• The mountainous interior of Jamaica provides an idyllic setting. The island's Blue Mountains contain a wide variety of plant and animal life and ecotourism here is seeing a healthy interest.

• Contemporary Jamaican culture, epitomized by the music of Bob Marley, expresses the national pride in the island's heritage.

• The English wrested Jamaica away from the Spanish in the mid-1600s and used the island as a base throughout the Caribbean. They permitted pirates to hold sway over some areas of the island like Port Royal to continue to threaten Spanish interests in the rest of the Caribbean.

• Jamaica has more churches per square mile than any other place in the world. Every denomination finds a home here, as well as Jews, Hindus, Muslims and Rastafarians.

• Most resorts and hotels will arrange for guided drives around the island for visitors. It is a great way to get off of the beaten path, see the real Jamaica, and to slowly acclimate to a side of the island not found behind the gates.

Contact The Little Travel Consultant and start planning your Jamaica vacation.

Unplug and Unwind in Eight Remote Destinations

By: Abercrombie & Kent

Venture off the grid with Abercrombie & Kent's eight recommended Unplugged journeys in destinations far from wireless access. Delve into the heart of the Sahara desert — 400 miles from Marrakech — on Splendors of Morocco or journey to the ends of the earth, the White Continent, on Antarctica, South Georgia & the Falkland Islands.

Here are a few more options from Abercrombie & Kent to help you find your the perfect place completely off the grid.

• Desolation Canyon, Utah: Majestic Canyons River Rafting
• Galápagos Islands: Wonders of the Galápagos
• Kakadu National Park, Northern Territories, Australia: Tailor Made Journey
• Los Glaciares, Argentina: Tailor Made Journey
• South Luangwa National Park, Zambia: Wings Over Zambia

Contact The Little Travel Consultant for more information.

Freestyle on a Budget in St Lucia

 

By: Lea Ann Fessenden

St. Lucia is one of the most beautiful islands of the Caribbean basin with its breathtaking natural resources such as the emerald green covered Piton Mountains, dense bird- filled rainforests and mind blowing waterfalls. Most tourists end up in the northern area of the island near the capital city, Castries. Rodney Bay, Cap Estate and Gros Islet are home to some of the most sought after luxury resorts in the world, where celebrities are frequently spotted winding to some good reggae, Soca or calypso music

But you don't have to be a celebrity to enjoy the luxuries of this exceptional vacation spot. Some truly hidden gems that will not pinch your pocketbook can be found in the south of the island. The best sites of the island are near Soufriere anyway. One thing to keep in mind about St Lucia, that unlike some of the other Caribbean islands, this island is not known for a lively night scene, except on weekends. During the week, spend your energy hiking, swimming, snorkeling, walking, diving, wind surfing, sunbathing, taking leisurely drives and relaxing under waterfalls. Most of these activities are very reasonable, some even free.

The currency used on the island is Eastern Caribbean (EC) which is currently 2.65 to 1 US dollar. Basically, if something is 15EC, divide by 3 to get a price of US5.00. On a calculator it actually translates to $5.66 US dollars, but I just divide by 3 to make it easy on my brain. When you are visiting the craft shops in Choiseul, and there are several, this will help you to quickly calculate how much that beautiful wood carving will cost.

Budget accommodations are easily found if you know where to look. Try the Villa Caribbean Dream in Vieux Fort which offers rates as low as $45 (single) or $55 (double). Included is a stunning view of the ocean and perhaps a Salsa lesson or two. Just minutes from the Hewanorra International Airport are The Reef Beach Huts and Café. Rates are only $50 (single) and $60 (double) and this includes breakfast on the beach. The Reef is located on a beautiful stretch of white sand beach overlooking the Maria Islands where leatherback turtles and the rare turquoise and black zandoli iguana reside. This is also the perfect spot to kite and windsurf the Atlantic Ocean. Meals at The Reef are also reasonably priced: lobster in season is about $13.00 and a cheeseburger with fries will run $5.00. This is also a free Wi-Fi spot so don't forget your laptop.

Renting a car is the best way to enjoy the island but for budget conscious travelers, there is island wide bus service that is very affordable. The buses will have license plates that start with an M and the fare to ride from Vieux Fort to Castries, about a one hour, trip runs $3.00 each way. Typically they just run along the one main highway but if you need to go off this road a short ways, ask the driver and they will usually comply. Tip them a little if they do.

The town of Soufriere has some fantastic attractions. Among my many favorite things to do is a visit to the Diamond Falls Botanical Garden which has mineral baths from the days of King Louis XXIV, where you can soak and take in the therapeutic waters that pour straight from a volcano in a breathtaking waterfall. Entrance to the Gardens is $5.00, mineral bath in outdoor pool is an additional $4.00 or for a private indoor bath the cost is $6.00. The gardens are a visual treat with luscious tropical flowers, homemade benches and stunning waterfalls.

Some of the very best snorkeling on the island is in this southwest corner near Soufriere. Anse Chastanet has a buoyed off snorkeling area called Fairy Land which drops from 20 to 140 feet into a wall of coral and spectacular underwater life which is an underwater photographer's paradise. Nearby Jalousie Plantation also has some fantastic snorkeling, hit their spectacular wall dive, Superman's Flight beneath the Piton Mountains. The wall drops to a depth of 1600 feet and boasts excellent visibility via the crystal clear waters. You can get equipment rental and directions at any local dive shop.

Ladera Resort was rated by Conde Nast 2005 as Best Hotel in the World. If the accommodation rates for their three sided ocean view rooms is to steep for your budget, at least stop in for a drink at their bar snuggled between the majestic Piton Mountains. The view is worth the slightly higher drink price.

Across the street, the new Hotel Chocolat, on the historical Rabot Estate, is busy growing and harvesting the best cocoa for delicious chocolates and treats. Two more excellent working plantations that encourage visitors are also in this region: Fond Doux Estate, which includes guest cottages, restaurant and hiking tours, and Mourne Coubaril, a reconstructed 18th-century village which provides visitors with a historical glance into Creole life.

On the road to the Jalousie Plantation Hotel, be sure to stop at the Piton Falls. Entrance to this little paradise is only about $2.00 US. A 10 minute walk through the tropical gardens leads you to a mineral waterfall cascading into a refreshing waist high pool. After you take in the warm thermal waters of this pool, all of your aches and pains will melt away. Therea's also a cooler pool to invigorate your senses. Be sure to go to the Sulphur Springs Volcano and take their short tour of the bubbling sulphur and the volcano's history. Treat yourself to some sulphur soap hand made by locals while you are there, it is great for aching joints and those who have arthritis pains.

Enjoy southern St Lucia, there is so much rich culture and beautiful scenery, there isn't enough time to see all the waterfalls, snorkel all the coves or hike all the trails that abound. Plan to go back, really soon.

Ready to enjoy St. Lucia? Contact The Little Travel Consultant and get started!

 

A Taste of South Africa

By: Silversea

The sweet aroma of barbecue (or braai, as it's called in Afrikaans) permeated the outdoor air as Silver Whisper, sailing on her 115-day World Cruise, hosted a special poolside lunch on Wednesday that gave guests a chance to sample authentic South African cuisine before the ship departed East London.

The culinary tradition of South Africa is rich and varied, and reflects not only its African roots, but its historical connection with Dutch, British, Malaysian, Indian and other cultures, resulting in uniquely flavourful delicacies.

As it so happens, Silver Whisper's very own executive chef, Anne-Mari Cornelius (pictured above), hails from South Africa and was delighted to personally introduce our guests to the fascinating cuisine of her homeland.

Presiding over the barbecue, Chef Anne-Mari skillfully cooked up such local delicacies as boerewors (pronounced bor-eh-vors ). This homemade sausage — whether served with a traditional porridge called pap (pronounced pop), or a sweet and spicy chakalaka sauce, or placed in a bun in the style of a hot dog — is a signature food cherished throughout the African nation.

Of course, it doesn't hurt to have a few bottles of Mrs H.S. Ball's Original Chutney on hand, also a popular accompaniment for boerewors, or any braai. Probably the most famous South African chutney, it's made in Johannesburg using a 19th-century recipe of dried fruits and spices. A favourite among South Africans living abroad and looking for a taste of home, it's exported to England, Germany, Britain, New Zealand and Australia.

And what South African barbecue would be complete without a few handcrafted ritual dolls to adorn the table? The ones pictured above are from the Ndebele tribe. Their presence created an atmosphere of authenticity and a connection with Africa's spiritual heritage that we hope resulted in a culinary experience that was not just culturally enriching for our World Cruise guests, but maybe a bit enchanting.

Aruba - Desert Island of the ABCs

 

People who know Aruba feel like they have their own secret hideaway. But a place this good can't remain the secret trove of only a few. The liveliness and abundance of casinos, discos, cabarets and dinner shows makes this resort a premium location for sunbathing, windsurfing and partying. You'll enjoy the hot weather, the desert climate and the sandy beaches and crystal clear ocean. Most of all, you won't lack for something to do! They must do something right in Aruba. It has the highest hotel occupancy rates and the highest rate of return visitors of any destination in the Caribbean.

Aruba is a relatively small island. it is only 20 miles long and slightly less than 6 miles across at its widest point. It is one of the Dutch "ABC islands" consisting of Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao and only 19 miles off the north shore of Venezuela. It's easy to get around in Aruba. The public bus is efficient and runs through the hotel zone. Taxis, cars, motorcycles and bicycles are also available for rent.

Aruba's leading industry is relaxation. Over 500,000 people visit each year, bringing a lot of money to the island. As a result, Aruba is quite prosperous by Caribbean standards. The locals have good housing, healthcare and education. The city of Oranjested is the capital and was named after the first king of the Dutch Royal Family, Willem van Orange-Nassau, in 1824. Today it is known as the House of Orange. In Oranjested you'll find the Aruba Historical Museum and the oldest building in Aruba, Fort Zoutman (1796). There is very little history of racial or social strife, so the inhabitants are friendly, warm and open with travelers.

One of the real graces of Aruba is its near-perfect weather - a nearly constant phenomenon of sunny skies, warm temperatures, and cool breezes driven off the Caribbean. This island's low humidity and desert like terrain is likewise nearly a full-time affair as it almost never rains and the island is far below the hurricane belt of the Caribbean. Aruba's beaches are some of the best in the Caribbean with miles of white, sugary sand. The nearly picture-perfect beach settings and gentle surf are what many people have in mind when they think of this part of the world. Aruba is a desert island full of cacti, iguanas, more cacti, a few aloe-vera plants and unusual boulder formations. While the resort area of the island has very calm, pristine beaches, the north coast features craggy limestone cliffs, caves, sand dunes, and a more energetic surf.

In Aruba, there are plenty of activities. It's a great place to experience snorkeling, scuba diving, windsurfing or kite surfing. Both experienced and novice practitioners of all these sports find great outlets on Aruba. When you tire of the beach you can dine at the restaurants or do some local shopping. Aruba has two horse competitions each year. The horses are descendants of Andalusian and Arabian horses that were brought to the island by the Spanish conquistadors. If you enjoy nightlife, you'll want to check out The Lounge at the Crystal Casino and the Alhambra Casino. You'll be up all night, entertained by carnival shows and all-you-can-drink parties. Most hotels are located in the Palm Beach and Eagle Beach resorts. You'll find luxury accommodations on the beach that also cater to sports, shopping and entertainment. Guest Houses and self catering apartments are also available. Oranjestad is Aruba's only real town with an "urban" environment and a serious variety of restaurants and evening venues. Oranjestad's waterfront harbor will be filled with cruise ships, private yachts, and smaller native fishing boats. The architecture has a decidedly Dutch influence, with the multi-colored Caribbean color spectrum evident in its housing and buildings on the main routes. The food and entertainment options are excellent, and your travel agent will be able to chart out for you a most pleasant stay on this desert-island playground.

60 Second Geography - Delhi

 

New Delhi was built by the British; a fact that is obviously reflected in the architecture. All roads in New Delhi lead to the India Gate which is a memorial to the unknown soldiers who lost their lives in World War I. As you head to Janpath, you'll see many international 5-star hotels, impressive governmental buildings, foreign embassies and museums such as the famous National Museum and the Nehru Museum. New Delhi is also where most international businesses are concentrated and subsequently, the areas surrounding New Delhi have spawned many suburban residential areas. This is quite a contrast to Old Delhi and its crowded, urban life.

Old Delhi is over 2500 years old and was the capital city of the Mughal empire. The City is dominated by the grand bazaar of Chandni Chowk and by the Jama Masjid which is the largest mosque in India. But, once you leave the bustle of the market center, the stillness of the City will take you by surprise. Old Delhi offers some of the most spectacular views of the City (both old and new). While it seems that it is in a neglected state, this should not dissuade you from visiting the "real" India. It still is an excellent place to wander around and breathe in the atmosphere of the old emperor's days.

Some of the major attractions in both New and Old Delhi include:

• Red Fort. This fortress build by the Emperor Shahjahan in 1648 is one of Delhi's most magnificent monuments. The exquisite places inside include Diwan-i-Aam (hall where the public audiences or meeting were held), Diwan-i Khas (or private meeting place for the royals), Rang Mahal (water cooled palace for the royal ladies) and Pearl Mosque. A Sound and Light show that recreates the Red fort's history is held every evening inside the Red Fort.
• Qutub Minarqutub. This minaret, which was built by Qutub-ud-Din Aibek in 1199, and stands at an impressive height of 238 feet high, is one of the major landmarks of Delhi. Although the origin of Qutub Minar is shrouded in controversy, it represents one of the finest examples of Islamic architecture in India.
• India Gate. This majestic arch, which is 42 meters high, was built as a memorial in honor of the Indian soldiers who died during the First World War. Beneath this arch burns an eternal flame (Amar Jawan Jyoti) to honor the memory of the unknown soldiers.
• Akshardham Swaminarayan Templeakshardham. The sprawling pink sandstone complex, which is spread over 100 acres, has become an important landmark and tourist attraction in India. This grand complex, which was opened in November 2005, brilliantly showcases the grandeur and essence of India's ancient architecture, traditions and timeless spiritual messages.
• Humayun's Tomb. This 16th century tomb was built in the center of a well - planned garden by Haji Begum, the wife of the Mughal emperor Humanyun. This tomb, which is constructed of white marble and red sand stone, is believed to be the architectural predecessor to the famed Taj Mahal in Agra.
• Old Fort or Purana Quila. This walled fort, which is currently in ruins, was constructed by the emperors Sher Shah Suri and Humayun between 1538 to 1545 A. D. It is believed to be at the same site, where Indraprastha, the capital of the Pandavas in 1000 B.C. was located. The fort has three entrances and the only entrance open to the public is the Bara Darwaza. Inside the fort there is a mosque with a two-storied octagonal tower. The Mughal King Humayun is believed to have died by falling accidentally from this tower.

What are you waiting for? Contact The Little Travel Consultant and learn the secrets of Old and New Delhi.

3 Tips for Hassle-Free Travel

By: Collette Vacations

The travel experience isn’t always perfect. But with the right attitude and these tips you can simplify your trip and avoid any hang-ups at the airport.

1. De-clutter your carry-on bag ahead of time. Make it easy for the transportation security officers. Uncomplicated works for you and them.
2. Stay within the baggage allowance. Those rules change. Do yourself a favor and check ahead.
3. Give yourself plenty of time. Whether it’s getting to the airport, visiting a museum on a free day during an escorted tour or grabbing a meal, I swear by this bit of advice.

Aruba - Desert Island of the ABCs

 

People who know Aruba feel like they have their own secret hideaway. But a place this good can't remain the secret trove of only a few. The liveliness and abundance of casinos, discos, cabarets and dinner shows makes this resort a premium location for sunbathing, windsurfing and partying. You'll enjoy the hot weather, the desert climate and the sandy beaches and crystal clear ocean. Most of all, you won't lack for something to do! They must do something right in Aruba. It has the highest hotel occupancy rates and the highest rate of return visitors of any destination in the Caribbean.

Aruba is a relatively small island. it is only 20 miles long and slightly less than 6 miles across at its widest point. It is one of the Dutch "ABC islands" consisting of Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao and only 19 miles off the north shore of Venezuela. It's easy to get around in Aruba. The public bus is efficient and runs through the hotel zone. Taxis, cars, motorcycles and bicycles are also available for rent.

Aruba's leading industry is relaxation. Over 500,000 people visit each year, bringing a lot of money to the island. As a result, Aruba is quite prosperous by Caribbean standards. The locals have good housing, healthcare and education. The city of Oranjested is the capital and was named after the first king of the Dutch Royal Family, Willem van Orange-Nassau, in 1824. Today it is known as the House of Orange. In Oranjested you'll find the Aruba Historical Museum and the oldest building in Aruba, Fort Zoutman (1796). There is very little history of racial or social strife, so the inhabitants are friendly, warm and open with travelers.

One of the real graces of Aruba is its near-perfect weather - a nearly constant phenomenon of sunny skies, warm temperatures, and cool breezes driven off the Caribbean. This island's low humidity and desert like terrain is likewise nearly a full-time affair as it almost never rains and the island is far below the hurricane belt of the Caribbean. Aruba's beaches are some of the best in the Caribbean with miles of white, sugary sand. The nearly picture-perfect beach settings and gentle surf are what many people have in mind when they think of this part of the world. Aruba is a desert island full of cacti, iguanas, more cacti, a few aloe-vera plants and unusual boulder formations. While the resort area of the island has very calm, pristine beaches, the north coast features craggy limestone cliffs, caves, sand dunes, and a more energetic surf.

In Aruba, there are plenty of activities. It's a great place to experience snorkeling, scuba diving, windsurfing or kite surfing. Both experienced and novice practitioners of all these sports find great outlets on Aruba. When you tire of the beach you can dine at the restaurants or do some local shopping. Aruba has two horse competitions each year. The horses are descendants of Andalusian and Arabian horses that were brought to the island by the Spanish conquistadors. If you enjoy nightlife, you'll want to check out The Lounge at the Crystal Casino and the Alhambra Casino. You'll be up all night, entertained by carnival shows and all-you-can-drink parties. Most hotels are located in the Palm Beach and Eagle Beach resorts. You'll find luxury accommodations on the beach that also cater to sports, shopping and entertainment. Guest Houses and self catering apartments are also available. Oranjestad is Aruba's only real town with an "urban" environment and a serious variety of restaurants and evening venues. Oranjestad's waterfront harbor will be filled with cruise ships, private yachts, and smaller native fishing boats. The architecture has a decidedly Dutch influence, with the multi-colored Caribbean color spectrum evident in its housing and buildings on the main routes. 

60 Second Geography - Canary Islands

 

As expected with any island, the beach life is the main life to live. Such phenomenal beaches as Jardin or Martianez offer a wondrous combination of sculptures, black sand, and sky-high waves — all of which embrace the surfing culture but at the same time, embrace those who enjoy basking in the rays

• If there is one thing the Spanish are proud of, it is their sports. From lucha canaria, a wrestling competition in which the winner forces the opponent to touch the ground with any other part of their body besides their feet to golf or diving, the outdoors are a passion that thrives within everyone.
• If you are in the mood to learn, courses that will teach you the official language, Spanish, can be taken at the Don Quijote Tenerife Spanish Language School. This may be the most beneficial part of your trip, as it is a skill you'll never lose and can help you communicate with over 500 million people in the world.
• The nightlife of Tenerife is endless, and arguably the best spot to experience it all is the Casino Taoro. Built in 1892, this classy joint is well known for its dancing, gambling, and remarkably delicious food that lets visitors sample the local dishes.
• If taking home a language isnât enough of a souvenir for you, be sure to hit up the shops in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. While Tenerife isn't all that known for its shopping, the ability to find great deals on electronics is abundant, so don't be afraid to hunt for anything that you may need.
• With two main airports and several options to get around, transportation will be the least of your concerns as you embrace the volcanoes and sandy beaches that surround you. Taxis, buses and even renting a car are options, so if the desire to tear up the streets and find a beach of your own overwhelms you, just find your local car rental shop and enjoy the day away.
Ready to experience the Canary Islands? Contact The Little Travel Consultant and get started planning your trip.

The Bohemians of Taos

By: Globus

Thanks to its otherworldly landscape, Historically, New Mexico has long attracted artists. Perhaps the most famous is the painter Georgia O’Keefe, who worked for decades in Ghost Ranch outside Santa Fe (a town that today boasts 300 galleries). But a number of more eccentric shrines lie scattered around the town of Taos, which in the early 1900s attracted a flood of visual artists, writers, playwrights, philosophers and socialists. The town’s bohemian social life was led by the free-spirited New York heiress and patron Mabel Dodge Luhan, who moved here in 1917 and fell in love with the colorful desert scenery and the rich Native American culture of the Pueblo. Mabel’s guest list was international: In 1922, she invited the notorious English writer D. H. Lawrence, author of the banned erotic work Lady Chatterly’s Lover, to live in Taos with his formidable wife Frieda. Lawrence was stunned by New Mexico, and called his visit “the greatest experience of the outside world that I have ever had.”

Today, memories of the illustrious writer can be found all over the area. In Taos' main plaza, the historic Hotel La Fonda displays Lawrence's “Forbidden Art” – a dozen paintings, supposedly pornographic, which were once banned by the Vice Squad in London, causing a huge scandal. (Few people would be shocked today by the images, which are kept in a special studio). Mabel Dodge Luhan’s grand adobe mansion, which was once the scene of riotous partying, is now a quiet bed-and-breakfast. Owned for an interval in the 1970s by the actor Dennis Hopper, the house still retains an aura of creativity, and you can still see the paintings Lawrence did in the windows of the upstairs bathroom. Finally, in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, lies the humble log cabin where Lawrence and his wife lived for several months after they left Mabel’s house. Lawrence’s ashes actually lie there, beneath a crude statue of a phoenix. Before his death in Italy in 1930, he asked for his remains to be sent back to this once-remote corner of New Mexico – the landscape he loved best.

The story of D. H. Lawrence is just one of many waiting to be discovered in the majestic Southwest. Experience another or write your own with escorted vacations from Globus and The Little Travel Consultant!

Guanacaste Costa Rica

 

Guanacaste Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a country in Central America, bordered by Nicaragua to the north, Panama to the east and south, the Pacific Ocean to the west and south and the Caribbean Sea to the east.

Costa Rica has consistently been among the top Latin American countries in terms of the Human Development Index, and ranked 54th in the world in 2007. The country is ranked 3rd in the world, and 1st among the Americas, in terms of the 2010 Environmental Performance Index.

In 2007 the Costa Rican government announced plans for Costa Rica to become the first carbon neutral country by 2021. According to the New Economics Foundation, Costa Rica ranks first in the Happy Planet Index and is the “greenest” country in the world.

Costa Rica will appeal to all ages and the country’s natural attractions, wildlife and reputation for enlightened conservation draw tourists from all over the world. The Government has made a real effort to preserve the country’s image as an eco-tourism heaven, making Costa Rica one of the best places to experience the tropics naturally and with minimal impact, at least for now. The country’s bio-diversity attracts nature lovers from all over the world. Add to this the incredible warmth and sincere hospitality of the local people and the exceptional variety of hotels along Guanacaste’s Pacific coast and you have a recipe for a unique and memorable destination for couples, singles and families. Costa Rica has become a mecca for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the beauty and peacefulness of nature. The country has more of its land (percentage) protected in natural parks, biological preserves and wildlife sanctuaries than any other nation on earth.

One of the most amazing regions in Costa Rica is the Guanacaste region, located along the Northwest Pacific Coast. It is a perfect central point from which to explore Costa Rica’s diversity. The natural setting is casual, secure, and unassuming. And the local “Ticos” are warm and friendly and eager to share the bounty of the Guanacaste province with visitors. Bird-watching, exhilarating zip-line canopy tours, excellent diving and water sports and exceptional hotels all combine to make Guanacaste a perfect choice for visitors. From crushed pink shells to salt and pepper volcanic sand, the beaches are as diverse as the nearby eco- adventures. Visit the popular resort town of Tamarindo, with its great surf and white-sand beaches, for browsing and souvenir shopping. From panoramic rolling savannahs to bubbling hot springs to hissing active volcanoes to remarkable beaches, visitors of all ages will experience a vacation like no other in Costa Rica’s popular Guanacaste region.

This region is very temperate and cooled by gentle Pacific breezes, making it very pleasant year-round, with an average temperature of 80 degrees. Some of the more unique jaunts available in the region include driving to the very edge of a volcanic crater, hiking through the heart of a mountain jungle and exploring a rainforest all in the same day. Fishing and snorkeling are also very popular activities.

What are you waiting for? Contact The Little Travel Consultant and get started!

Australia

 

Australia is a hot destination and will continue to be for quite some time. With landscape that varies from parched red desert to Mediterranean vistas, golden beaches to tropical green rainforests, snow capped mountains to untouched islands, Australia sometimes seems like a microcosm of the entire world.

The past and future come together in the great coastal cities, with a forward-looking attitude that embraces Australia's Pacific Rim location. This gives a decided contrast to a country that is so rich with remnants of its past. Australia has a wealth of prehistoric Aboriginal art that paints telling pictures of a distant time gone by and the fabled 'Dream time'. Colonists have added tales of early prison settlements which have been replaced by Victorian Architecture that adds a distinctly European feel to the cities.

Australia's beaches and surfing are legendary around the world and bordered by resorts and cosmopolitan cities. The country's largest and best-known city, Sydney, is a more fashionable and cosmopolitan than many people think. Melbourne, historically the great rival to Sydney, has a more European ambience of sidewalk cafés, parks, and a more temperate climate.

Brisbane, Australia's third largest city is the capital of Queensland and sits upon the Gold Coast, a seemingly endless stretch of beautiful beaches. The other coastal cities of Adelaide, Darwin, Perth and Cairns offer other experiences and individual character — each with much to see and do.

But of course, in a country whose size rivals the eastern United States, the cities are only the tip of the iceberg. Once you leave the cities and head into the outback, Australia is open and almost empty.There is a great sense of openness that people may never have experienced even in the more remote part of ts of the U.S. It is entirely possible to not see a person as you travel from horizon to horizon. The centerpiece (figuratively and literally, if you will) of the country is the great monolith of Uluru (Ayers Rock) which rises some 1400 feet from the desert and has a circumference over 5 miles. The rock is considered sacred and spiritually significant to the Aboriginal people and when you see it, it is easy to understand why. The amazing red sandstone takes on various hues depending on the position of the sun.

But no guide book, narrative, or Internet photographs can do Australia the justice it deserves. For that, you will just have to visit yourself!

What are you waiting for? Contact The Little Travel Consultant and get ready to go.

HAPPY NEW YEAR

Make 2016 the year that you explore somewhere new