Travel can expand your mind, break down borders, change your perspective, change your life and empower your soul. I learned to scuba dive because I went to a Club Med 28 years ago. Always a swimmer but never with a mask on my face and 80 feet underwater! What a very different world it is down there. A famous Mark Twain quote: “Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry and narrow-mindedness!” I learned to never say never.
Sometimes planning from thoughts to execution of a trip can be most daunting. As I am getting older I am tempted to just stay put. So I call me, and say help! My travel adviser brain helps me put it all together. Because I know how wonderful I feel exploring something new or seeing a very old friend.
So often I am asked what is the best or hottest place and of course there is no such thing. This month’s Virtuoso Life has 10 suggestions. An interesting list:
Europe for Less – The Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast has beautiful beaches, vineyards, hill towns, a walled city and shopping all for much less than the Europe you already know.
Honeymoons – The French Polynesian islands or the Maldives are beyond beauty. And they may not be here when you are older so go now for that second honeymoon.
Culture – Milan is hosting the EXPO Milano 2015 where 144 countries present ideas and technology on the theme of “Feeding the Planet, Energy for life” You will be able to taste foods from around the world.
Safari – South Africa continues to develop their game parks to compete with the plain countries. The Rhino population is under attack by poachers so the more people in the bush the safer the rhino’s.
Emerging Destination – Myanmar has opened its doors to travelers. It is currently most unspoiled by modern development. Take a cruise to Shangri-La. This will really expand your mind.
City Escape – Paris is like no other European metropolitan area. There are luxury and affordable hotels and restaurants, museums and beautiful walks that never end, and of course the “Lights.”
Supernatural Nature – The Galapagos, also in danger of flooding, are being developed. We all know of the magnificent animals to encounter. This is a camera paradise.
Family Travel – Costa Rica remains most popular as it offers so much variety, from animals, birds, volcanoes, beaches, forests and mountains. Not the easiest to negotiate on your own but there are lots of excellent and often affordable tours.
Close to Home – Napa Valley is perfect for travelers who want to go to Tuscany or Provence but do not have the time or budget. The very dry California weather may soon effect the vineyards so this might be the year to visit.
Adventure Travel – New Zealand is truly a breath of fresh air. It is one of the few places you can still slow down, touch the earth and experience silence. And still take a hike or bike ride.
(Idea and quotes from Virtuoso Life January 2015)
AlwaysHarriet 