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APRIL | MAY | JUNE 2016 ANDREW HARPER EXCLUSIVELY FOR HIDEAWAY REPORT SUBSCRIBERS KONDRATENKO/ISTOCK/THINKSTOCK WORLDWIDE RIVER CRUISES SOUTHEAST ASIA ITINERARIES COASTAL NEW ENGLAND

Andrew Harper Traveler Quarter Two 2016

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Italian Lakes, Coastal New England, River Cruises and Southeast Asia itineraries from Andrew Harper Travel.

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Page 1: Andrew Harper Traveler Quarter Two 2016

APRIL | MAY | JUNE 2016

ANDREW HARPER

EXCLUSIVELY FOR HIDEAWAY REPORT SUBSCRIBERS

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WORLDWIDE RIVER CRUISES

SOUTHEAST ASIA ITINERARIES

COASTAL NEW ENGLAND

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P R O M OT I O N

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2 | APRIL/MAY/JUNE 2016 ANDREWHARPER.COM

38Angkor WatSiem Reap, Cambodia

Lighthouse on Cape Cod, Massachusetts

CONTENTSApril | May | June 2016

Cruising the Ayeyarwady River in Myanmar 11

50

11 Rise of the River CruiseAs bookings and itineraries for river cruises continue to multiply, learn about the options available for your own aquatic excursion through these six Andrew Harper travel partners.

22 The Italian LakesFrom hidden villages to memorable risotto, Mr. Harper recalls his favorite experiences in the beautiful Lake District of northern Italy.

34 Masterclass Series: SommeliersExperts Arnaud Vallet of Vila Joya and Keven Ring of Twin Farms reveal their process for working with the world’s best wines, as well as a few of their top recommendations.

38 Journey through Southeast AsiaThe Andrew Harper Travel Office provides two itineraries for exploring the vibrant cultures and beautiful scenery of Cambodia, Thailand and Malaysia to inspire your next trip.

50 Seaside EscapesDiscover the quaint and classic shores of Maine, Rhode Island and Massachusetts with insight and suggestions from local Andrew Harper Alliance partners.

ALSO: Don’t miss the special Family Travel supplement included with this issue of the Andrew Harper Traveler.

plus 22 SPECIAL OFFERS throughout

ON THE COVERView of Lake Como from

a side street in Varenna, Italy.

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Angkor WatSiem Reap, CambodiaAngkor WatSiem Reap, Cambodia

Page 5: Andrew Harper Traveler Quarter Two 2016

ANDREW HARPER TRAVEL OFFICE (800) 375-4685 [email protected] | 3

HotelsCanada

2 (S) Fogo Island Inn; Fogo Island

England

9 Athenaeum Hotel & Residences; London

37 The Goring; London

7 (S) The Lanesborough; London

France

3 (S) Abbaye de la Bussière; La Bussière-Sur-Ouche, Burgundy

5 (S) Grand Hotel du Palais Royal; Paris

5 Hotel Crillon le Brave; Provence

8 Hotel Plaza Athénée Paris; Paris

7 (S) Le Bristol Paris; Paris

61 Park Hyatt Paris-Vendôme; Paris

Germany

9 (S) Schloss Elmau; Krün

Ireland

10 Ballyfin Demesne; Ballyfin

Italy

31 Ca’Sagredo Hotel; Venice

33 Grand Hotel à Villa Feltrinelli; Lake Garda

30 Grand Hotel Tremezzo; Lake Como

32 Hotel & Spa Rosa Alpina; Dolomites

7 Hotel Le Fontanelle; Tuscany

4 (S) Hotel Savoy, a Rocco Forte hotel; Florence

31 Relais San Maurizio; Santo Stefano Belbo

Mexico

9 Belmond Casa de Sierra Nevada; San Miguel de Allende

Netherlands

60 Conservatorium Hotel; Amsterdam

Portugal

36 Vila Joya; The Algarve

Spain

60 Gran Hotel la Florida; Barcelona

St. Martin

8 Belmond La Samanna; Baie Longue

St. Vincent and The Grenadines

11 (S) Petit St. Vincent Resort; Petit St. Vincent Private Island

Thailand

3 (S) Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort; Chiang Rai

49 Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai; Chiang Mai

49 Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle; Chiang Rai

United States

CALIFORNIA

4 Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa; Rancho Santa Fe

IFC The Resort at Pelican Hill; Newport Beach

GEORGIA

6 (S) Little St. Simons Island; Little St. Simons Island

MASSACHUSETTS

57 The Wauwinet; Nantucket

57 White Elephant; Nantucket

MONTANA

8 (S) The Resort at Paws Up; Greenough

RHODE ISLAND

58 Ocean House; Watch Hill

58 Weekapaug Inn; Westerly

VERMONT

57 Twin Farms; Barnard

Destination SpecialistsAsia and the Pacific

48 Asia Transpacific Journeys

New Zealand

62 Tourism New Zealand

United States

6 (S) National Parks Revealed; U.S. National Parks

Worldwide

INSERT Lakani World Tours

INSERT TCS World Travel

VillasMexico

2 (S) Villas at Esperanza; Los Cabos

Yachts & CruisesAmazon and Mekong Rivers

21 Aqua Expeditions

Tahiti, French Polynesia, and the South Pacific

11 (S) Paul Gauguin Cruises

Worldwide

21 Crystal Cruises

20 PONANT Cultural Cruises & Expeditions

7 Silversea

Special Offers & Alliance Partners IN THIS ISSUEPartners listed below are participating in this issue of the Andrew Harper Traveler magazine showcasing their Harper benefits and more. Page numbers in red circles indicate those partners including short-term SPECIAL OFFERS in addition to their Harper benefits. Page numbers followed by (S) are located within the Family Travel Supplement.

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P R O M OT I O N

Grand Hotel à Villa Feltrinelli PHOTO COURTESY OF GRAND HOTEL À VILLA FELTRINELLI

E A C H Y E A R , M O R E T H A N6 0 0 H A R P E R - R E C O M M E N D E Dho t e l s , r e s or t s , i n n s , v i l l a s ,yach ts, cru ises an d t ou r oper at or s choose to partner with the Andrew Harper Alliance, providing special recognition and benefits ranging from complimentary breakfasts and resort credits to room upgrades and preferred rates. To ensure receipt of all benefits we have negotiated on your behalf, please confirm your reservations through the Andrew Harper Travel Office or at AndrewHarper.com. If, however, you choose to book directly, please provide your Andrew Harper subscriber number upon booking. Andrew Harper contracted rates and benefits are typically not combinable with other special rates or promotions.

4 | APRIL/MAY/JUNE 2016 ANDREWHARPER.COM

Page 7: Andrew Harper Traveler Quarter Two 2016

P R O M OT I O N

Hotel Crillon le BraveCRILLON LE BRAVE, FRANCE – At the base of legendary Mont Ventoux, this beautiful hilltop hamlet is an unrivaled destination for cycling enthusiasts and those seeking the abundant charms of Provence. Take one of the hotel’s Trek bicycles to emulate your Tour de France heroes as you make your own ascent of the dramatic “Giant of Provence,” which will feature as the Stage 12 finish of this year’s race.

The hotel’s 36 rooms across eight restored 17th-century

village houses are an ideal hub from which to enjoy the region’s

bucolic countryside. Surrounded by vineyards and olive groves,

discover the best of local cuisine from the terrace of the gourmet

restaurant or at rustic Bistrot 40K; try your hand at boules

or unwind with a traditional pastis; and indulge in soothing

treatments at the romantic Spa des Ecuries, which this year

celebrates its first anniversary. Recommended since 1991.

Andrew Harper Benefits: Best available non-restricted rates • Room upgrade, when available at check-in • Welcome bottle of rosé per room with seasonal fruit • For stays of three nights or longer, a wine tasting with the hotel sommelier

Standard Inclusions: Daily buffet breakfast served at La Grange or in room • Access to spa facilities • Bicycles • Wi-Fi • Parking

P R O M OT I O NP R O M OT I O N

THE ANDREW HARPER ALLIANCE

Publishers of the quarterly Andrew Harper Traveler magazine

and the annual Andrew Harper Travel Directory

VICE PRESIDENT, PUBLISHER, ACCOUNT MANAGER TRAVEL PARTNERS

Georgia Beth Ridenhour

email [email protected]

phone (512) 904-7330 fax (512) 904-7350

DIRECTOR, ACCOUNT MANAGER EUROPE Colin Housley

ACCOUNT MANAGER REST OF WORLD Carol Bacon

ACCOUNT MANAGER NORTH AMERICA Heather Eberle

ALLIANCE COORDINATOR Joyce Jorden

SENIOR ART DIRECTOR David Villarreal

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Linda Bigirindavyi

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR Andrew Herner

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Scott Turrentine

ANDREW HARPER TRAVEL OFFICE

senior vice president Becky Powell

vice president Sandi Ferreira

toll free (800) 375-4685 phone (630) 734-4610

fax (630) 734-4642 email [email protected]

ANDREW HARPER CLIENT RELATIONS

toll free (866) 831-4314 phone (512) 904-7342

fax (512) 904-7350 email [email protected]

ANDREW HARPER’S HIDEAWAY REPORT AND THE HARPER COLLECTION

editor-in-chief Andrew Harper

ANDREW HARPER, LLC

president Greg Marchbanks

chief operating officer Lorelei Calvert

ANDREWHARPER.COM

Andrew Harper, LLC is registered to sell travel in the following states: California SOT-2110806-40; Iowa SOT-1096; Washington SOT-603248672. California law requires certain sellers of travel to have a trust account or bond. This business has a trust account.

Erratum: A photo of The Dunmore on Harbour Island in the Bahamas in the January 2016 article “Caribbean Mosaic” was incorrectly identified as The Cove, which is, in fact, on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas. We apologize for the error.

ANDREW HARPER TRAVEL OFFICE (800) 375-4685 [email protected] | 5

The latest NEW 2016 Andrew Harper Alliance Partners HotelsEngland Ham Yard Hotel; London

Fiji Nanuku Auberge Resort Fiji; Pacific Harbour

Israel Mamilla Hotel; Jerusalem

United States

CalIFoRNIa The Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel; Beverly Hills

gEoRgIa Greyfield Inn; Cumberland Island

TExaS Hotel Saint Cecilia; Austin

Page 8: Andrew Harper Traveler Quarter Two 2016

AH Web/Social Media Content Call Out

Hong Kong

@HarperTravel “Sunset from the infinity plunge pool of the Vunikau Penthouse

at @nanukuresort.” –Andrew Harper

INSTAGRAM @HARPERTRAVEL

FACEBOOK

Like us on Facebook atFACEBOOK.COM/ANDREWHARPERTRAVEL

TWITTER @HARPERTRAVEL

Chile is unquestionably the South American

country of the moment. –Andrew Harper

AndrewHarper.com

INSTAGRAM PHOTOS BY ANDREW HARPER

From superb Cantonese food to incomparable dim sum, check out our exclusive city guide for suggestions on where to eat, where to stay, insider tips and more.

ITINERARY:

5-Day Driving Tour of Iceland This Iceland itinerary explores the coastal city of Reykjavík, the natural wonders of

the “Golden Circle” and beyond. Enjoy!

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KONLINE ONLY:

Bucket List Inspiration Visit The Harper Way to view Top 10

Places to See in America, Top Places to Visit in 2016 and more—online now!

@HarperTravel “When we came across this family

of desert-adapted elephants in the dry bed of the Hoanib River,

one of the youngsters was enjoying a dust bath.”

–Andrew Harper

6 | APRIL/MAY/JUNE 2016 ANDREWHARPER.COM

Page 9: Andrew Harper Traveler Quarter Two 2016

Hotel Le FontanelleTUSCANY, ITALY Recommended since 2010.

Andrew Harper

601 Oakmont Lane

Suite 450Westmont, IL 60559

“Amazing in every aspect. It was

truly one of the trip’s highlights

and we can’t wait to return some

day. Concierge team was great. We

received an upgrade, and enjoyed a

cooking class, great fitness room, pool

and grounds, and the best breakfast

terrace ever. Great restaurant, room,

Internet, baths were tops—just perfect.”

— An Andrew Harper Subscriber

Tuscany, Italy

SPECIAL OFFER: Complimentary Dinner for Two Book a minimum of seven nights in a suite and begin your stay with an exclusive three-course dinner for two—a $175 value. alSo INCludES: Andrew Harper benefits and standard inclusions. daTES: Offer is valid on new reservations only, for travel through Nov. 3, 2016, based on availabil-ity. Dinner must be taken on the night of arrival and does not include beverages. Offer is not combinable with any other promotions.

• Private indoor garage • Scheduled round-trip shuttle service to Siena center • Wi-Fi • When booking a Junior Suite or Suite, a non-alcoholic minibar

Andrew Harper Benefits: Preferred rates • Room upgrade, when available at check-in • Welcome bottle of house Chianti • For stays of five nights or longer, a 100 EUR resort credit per room

Standard Inclusions: Daily continental buffet breakfast served at the restaurant • Welcome amenity • Use of hotel facilities • Porterage

the mostEXCLUSIVE

ALL-INCLUSIVENOW AVAILABLE ON SELECT 2016 ASIA VOYAGES

Whether it’s a choice of worldwide destinations, a bespoke event ashore, or a butler to accommodate your every request, personalised travel is the very essence of Silversea. And now you can even choose your preferred style of travel — cruise-only

or a complete, all-inclusive holiday featuring a complimentary shore excursion in every port, a deluxe hotel stay plus flights and transfers. Then step aboard and relax while we pamper you with Silversea’s legendary all-inclusive lifestyle.

Reserve your Asia voyage with Andrew Harper and enjoy exclusive added value amenities.

Contact the Andrew Harper Travel Office at (800) 375.4685or [email protected]

9 INTIMATE SHIPS • 7 CONTINENTS • INFINITE POSSIBILITIES

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P R O M OT I O N

ANDREW HARPER TRAVEL OFFICE (800) 375-4685 [email protected] | 7

Page 10: Andrew Harper Traveler Quarter Two 2016

Hotel Plaza AthénéePARIS, FRANCE – There is no better address in Paris than 25 Avenue Montaigne. A 2014 renovation of the hotel embraced the high style for which the surrounding couture houses are known, and the results are stunning. In the signature restaurant, Alain Ducasse au Plaza Athénée, sweeping stainless steel booths reflect the crystal chandeliers above, while a transparent resin bar and billowing wreaths of fabric create a dreamlike atmosphere in Le Bar.

The 208 accommodations, including 54 suites, are at once elegant

and comfortable. Yet however sumptuous the surroundings, it is the

people that are the heart of this historic hotel, where some staff have

served for more than 30 years. It is this ideal balance of style and

service that continue to prove its exceptional reputation.

Recommended since 1991.

Andrew Harper Benefits: Best available non-restricted rates • Room upgrade, when available at check-in • Daily buffet breakfast served at the restaurant or in room • 85 EUR spa voucher per room

Standard Inclusions: Wi-Fi

P R O M OT I O N

8 | APRIL/MAY/JUNE 2016 ANDREWHARPER.COM

Page 11: Andrew Harper Traveler Quarter Two 2016

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Athenaeum Hotel & ResidencesLONDON, ENGLAND – Discover the heart of London’s buzzing May-fair district while balancing all the practicalities of home with five-star amenities. The Athenaeum’s 18 contemporary townhouse residences, available in a number of sizes and configurations, bring comfort to travelers passing through London, be it on business, an extended stay or a trip with the family. Private front door entrances and conveniences such as full kitchens, spa access and twice-daily maid service are a few of the exceptional perks this London lifestyle affords. Meanwhile, the neighboring hotel—with its lush vertical garden and 164 spacious bedrooms—will complete a refurbishment early this summer, revitalizing the property’s iconic exterior and ground floor and introducing a new restaurant and bar run by the Michelin-starred

London chefs, The Galvin Brothers. Recommended since 1996.

Andrew Harper Benefits: Preferred USD rates • Room upgrade, when available at check-in • Daily full breakfast served at the restaurant or in room • Early check-in and late checkout, when available • For stays of three nights or longer, a one-way Heathrow Airport transfer • For stays of five nights or longer, round-trip Heathrow Airport transfers

Standard Inclusions: Wednesday evening drinks • Complimentary in-room tea and coffee • Wi-Fi

P R O M OT I O N

ANDREW HARPER TRAVEL OFFICE (800) 375-4685 [email protected] | 9

Page 12: Andrew Harper Traveler Quarter Two 2016

P R O M OT I O N

Ballyfin DemesneBALLYFIN, CO. LAOIS, IRELAND – Surrounded by 614 wooded acres, discover modern hospitality within the mid-18th-century landscape of this remarkable Regency mansion. Just an hour from Dublin and yet remaining the picture of complete privacy and escape, the 20 lavishly appointed and individually designed rooms are ideal for both an intimate weekend retreat or a special celebration. The rich décor of the house, featuring exquisite Irish antiques and original paintings, combines history, grand romance and comfort into an unforgettable experience.

Immersed in legendary Irish hospitality, enjoy the warmth of a log fire in the rare-book

library, wine and whiskey tastings at Ballyfin Bar, and mouth-watering cuisine—always local

and seasonal—served in a variety of exquisite venues, from the opulent State Dining Room

and sunlit Conservatory to a rustic gourmet picnic. Ballyfin has even added a selection of

beautiful period costumes and accessories provided by the Chicago Lyric Opera, which

guests can don for their own “Downton Abbey”-inspired evening. Outside the mansion’s

walls, the gardens and surrounding parkland offer lake fishing, clay pigeon shooting, archery,

tennis and even falconry. Nearby, find championship golf, medieval cities and the majesty

of the Slieve Bloom Mountains. Recommended since 2012; Grand Awards–2013; Readers’

Choice–2013, 2014.

ballyfin.com

Andrew Harper Benefits: Best available non-restricted rates • Room upgrade, when available at check-in • Private tour of the kitchen with the executive chef and his team • Clay pigeon shooting for two per room

Standard Inclusions: Tax • Gratuity • All meals, snacks and non-alcoholic beverages • Pre-dinner beverage • Select on-site activities • Wi-Fi • Laun-dry and pressing service

10 | APRIL/MAY/JUNE 2016 ANDREWHARPER.COM

Page 13: Andrew Harper Traveler Quarter Two 2016

RISE OF THERIVERCRUISE

Discover the many options for a river cruise, as luxury lines expand with more ships and into more markets than ever before.

RISE OF THERIVERCRUISE

Discover the many options for a river cruise, as luxury lines expand with more ships and into more markets than ever before.

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ANDREW HARPER TRAVEL OFFICE (800) 375-4685 [email protected] | 11

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F or well over a century, the high seas have been the traditional domain of the lei-sure cruise. But several tour operators have lately challenged that perception, plying the world’s great rivers with a fleet of expertly staffed and smartly appointed

vessels. Now that the options are available, how do you know a river cruise is right for you?

Bridget Kapinus of the Andrew Harper Travel Office outlines three practical reasons why modern travelers are drawn more and more to the idea of a river cruise:• The idea of packing and unpacking only once is

extremely enticing to many travelers who want to visit a variety of destinations but are turned off by the idea of hopping between multiple hotels.

• In the last few years the quality of river cruisers has increased significantly, offering accommodations that are comparable with the best hotels in many cities. The all-inclusive nature of the ships also makes for a fantastic value.

• Cruises combine a number of fantastic cities and off-the-beaten-path destinations that often might be overlooked in a land-based trip, or are just not logistically feasible. For instance, the typical India trip is riddled with drives of six hours or more. By taking a cruise instead, you can dramatically reduce transportation time by cruising through the southern portions of the country.

Indeed, it is hard to overstate the appeal of the river: Whether tranquil or roaring, they have gripped our imagination perhaps more than any other geography. Symbols and metaphors are cast in them as often as nets and fishing lines, from Chiron’s ferry across the River Styx to Huck and Jim floating down the mighty Mississippi. Whispers of the Amazon or the Congo still inspire unmatched visions of mystery and adventure. And of course, civilization itself is said to have begun between two rivers, the Tigris and Euphrates, in what is now modern-day Iraq.

With the rising popularity of small-scale cruising and a favorable euro exchange, now is the perfect time to begin planning your own river journey. Find inspiration and insight from the following Andrew Harper Alliance partners.

12 | APRIL/MAY/JUNE 2016 ANDREWHARPER.COM

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AQUA EXPEDITIONSS

ailing exclusively along the Peruvian Amazon and the Mekong through Cambodia and Viet-nam, Aqua Expeditions brings an intimate scale to two of the world’s most impressive rivers. The newest of three sleekly designed

vessels is the 40-passenger Aqua Mekong, recently awarded Andrew Harper’s Cruise of the Year. Excur-sions to remote temples, floating villages and em-erald forests are anchored by the onboard cuisine of Michelin-star consulting chef David Thompson (whose restaurant Nahm in Bangkok is considered one of the best in Asia), as well as the luxe facilities and fine aesthetic expected of a five-star hotel.

The 24-guest Aqua Amazon and 32-guest Aria Amazon offer equally elegant experiences in Peru, along with up-close access to the unparalleled flora and fauna of the rain forest that is enhanced by the expertise of accompanying naturalist guides. Aqua Expeditions offers three-, four- and seven-night itineraries on each of its ships and boasts an exclusive staff-to-guest ratio of 1:1.

*See our article on page 38 for an itinerary in Southeast Asia that includes three nights aboard the Aqua Mekong.

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Each suite aboard the Aria Amazon features floor-to-ceiling windows; Skiff boats allow up-close exploration of the Amazon River; The Aria Amazon; Aqua Expeditions guides on a bicycle excursion along the Mekong.ALL PHOTOS THIS PAGE © AQUA EXPEDITIONS BICYCLE EXCURSION AND SKIFF PHOTOS BY RICHARD MARK DOBSON COURTESY OF AQUA EXPEDITIONS

ANDREW HARPER TRAVEL OFFICE (800) 375-4685 [email protected] | 13

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UN-CRUISE ADVENTURESU

n-Cruise Adventures operates innovative, all-in-clusive adventure cruises in Alaska, Central America and beyond, as well as round-trip, sev-en-night river cruises on Oregon’s Columbia and Snake rivers. These depart from Portland aboard

the 88-guest S.S. Legacy, a replica of a typical coastal steamship from the early 1900s. This historical authen-ticity is complimented by lively onboard presentations and included top-shelf shore excursions to attractions such as stunning Multnomah Falls and private winery tours, striking the right balance of education, comfort and fun. “The scenery along the mighty Columbia River cannot be beat, and combined with the rich heritage of the west, it’s a fascinating journey through the country’s history,” says Sarah Scoltock of Un-Cruise. “The conve-nience of sailing roundtrip from Portland is a bonus. You no longer need to travel the long distance to Europe for a scenic and entertaining journey along a river.”

Q&A with Sarah Scoltock of Un-Cruise Adventures: What’s a favorite event or cultural interaction you’ve experienced on a river cruise? A favorite aboard the S.S. Legacy is hearing tales of the Nez Perce and early American pioneers. Each trip, J.R. Spencer, a member of the Nez Perce tribe as well as a professional storyteller and singer of traditional songs, visits the guests aboard the ship and brings the history and culture of the Nez Perce to life with humor and music.

What’s your favorite onboard amenity? The Pesky Barnacle Saloon. Featuring carved wooden cabinetry, turn-of-the-century décor, a trunk full of period garb and an open bar, the Saloon is the place to go for a friendly game of cards. Keep your eyes peeled for card sharks.

What do you find most appealing about river cruising? River cruising allows guests the opportunity to see vast changes in scenery over a short timespan. Guests sailing along the rivers enjoy spectacular scenery as we move from the lush green West Coast through the scenic Columbia River Gorge to the rolling hills of the Palouse and the desert climate of the east.

Most unexpected moment on a journey? You never know whom you’re going to run into on the S.S. Legacy. An onboard heritage team and local experts from along the route recreate the past with lively presentations and authentic clothing and style of the era.

Featured CruiseJOURNEY: Legacy of Discovery

LENGTH OF TRIP: Seven nights

RIVER NAMES: Columbia, Snake and Willamette rivers

VESSEL NAME: S.S. Legacy

VESSEL DETAILS: 192 feet long, 40 feet wide, max. 88 guests

FEATURED DESTINATIONS: Multnomah Falls, Bonneville Dam, Astoria Column and Columbia River Maritime Museum.

RATES: Master cabins from $3,395 per person

Notable moments:1. Ride a jet boat into Hells Canyon, the deepest canyon in North America.

2. Enjoy a private tour, tasting and lunch at Terra Blanca Winery & Estates Vineyard.

3. Transit eight sets of locks and tour the Bonneville Dam Visitor Center.

In your opinion, which is the most fascinating river to travel and why? The Columbia River passes through an incredible variety of scenic landscapes. Stops along the Columbia River include Multnomah Falls, the tallest falls in Oregon; the Hanford Reach Interpretive Center in Richland, Washington, to discover the region’s fascinating geologic history; and the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center in the Dalles, Oregon. Additionally, guests learn about the history of Lewis and Clark, early entrepreneurs such as Sam Hill, and the Nez Perce with firsthand experiences in those destinations and interpretation provided by the ship’s Heritage Guides.

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UNIWORLDL

ong recommended by Mr. Harper, Uniworld offers bou-tique all-inclusive river cruises across Europe, Asia, Russia, India and Egypt. Nineteen

intimate and beautifully designed ships—carrying an average of just 130 passengers—introduce guests to unforgettable cities and landscapes amidst plush surroundings featuring original works by famous painters, master craftsmen and furniture de-signers commissioned exclusively for Uniworld. More than 40 years of experience has elevated service to an elite level, epitomized by the in-suite butlers trained to exacting Bucking-ham Palace standards (available on most European cruises). A variety of exclusive and personalized outings create opportunities for new and in-depth exploration at each desti-nation, as do newly crafted themed itineraries. The onboard entertain-ment, expert lectures and five-star dining with unlimited premium beverages ensure your experience aboard the ship is just as thrilling.

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CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: The Columbia River seen from a vantage point on Cape Horn; Multnomah Falls in Oregon; The S.S. Legacy, Un-Cruise Adventures’ replica steamship; Uniworld’s S.S. Antoinette cruises past a castle along the Rhine.

ANDREW HARPER TRAVEL OFFICE (800) 375-4685 [email protected] | 15

Page 18: Andrew Harper Traveler Quarter Two 2016

BELMONDC

hoose to explore some of the most enchanting regions of France from its great waterways with Belmond Afloat in France, or traverse the vital rivers of exotic and untouched Myanmar, which is embracing tourism after spending

decades hidden from the West. As part of its renowned collection of hotels and travel experiences, Belmond’s river cruises provide the same trusted brand of refinement and adventure.

In France, five lavish barges accommodating between just four and 12 guests (some are available for private charter only) cruise through Burgundy along the Rhône and through the historic Canal du Midi in the Languedoc. Relax on enthralling six-night journeys with views of stunning countryside and majestic cities such as Avignon and Dijon, with opportunities for exclusive wine tastings and unique excursions.

A different adventure is found in Myanmar, though the fine details and service remain the same. The 82-guest Belmond Road to Mandalay and 50-guest Belmond Orcaella cruise the Ayeyarwady and Chindwin rivers, respectively; in a land unspoilt by modern sprawl, these vibrant waterways are still the lifeblood of the nation and oftentimes the only method of travel to its remote and rural corners. This fact means journeys often have a twofold purpose: one, treating guests to the utmost comfort as they witness spectacular sights such as the temples of Bagan, dramatic jungle cliffs and villages full of happy children and curious locals; the other is more humanitarian, as Belmond staff and doctors provide much-welcomed medical care and assist with community projects while passengers enjoy daily excursions.

TOP: Passengers board Belmond Orcaella at a stop on the Chindwin River in Myanmar. BOTTOM LEFT: Belmond Hirondelle navigates the Canal de Bourgogne in France. BOTTOM RIGHT: Passengers enjoy refreshments from the deck of their barge along the Canal du Midi. FAR RIGHT, TOP: Belmond Road to Mandalay cruises through the jungle landscape along the Ayeyarwady River near Bhamo, Myanmar.ALL PHOTOS COURTESY OF BELMOND

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Featured CruiseJOURNEY: 20th Anniversary Celebration

LENGTH OF TRIP: Four nights

RIVER NAME: Ayeyarwady River

VESSEL NAME: Belmond Road to Mandalay

VESSEL DETAILS: 330 feet long, max. 82 guests

FEATURED DESTINATIONS: Bagan, Mandalay

RATES: From 1,861 GBP per person*

Notable moments:1. Take an in-depth tour of Bagan, visiting the most famous temples and examining the rich local lifestyle.

2. Get involved in the “20th Anniversary Road to Mandalay Rally,” featuring a range of exciting, authentic experiences that give you the opportunity to win special prizes.

3. Visit Mandalay, watching artisans at work and witnessing a deeply symbolic Buddhist novitiation ceremony.

*Five percent of your ticket price will be donated to the Belmond Myanmar Foundation, which supports health and education projects in communities along the river.

ANDREW HARPER TRAVEL OFFICE (800) 375-4685 [email protected] | 17

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CRYSTAL CRUISESR

enowned for their acclaimed and innovative ocean cruises, Crystal Cruises is embarking on a signifi-cant expansion that has already seen the addition of a new superyacht, while announcing plans to intro-duce their own luxury aircraft as well as a fleet of five

world-class river vessels. The latter launches this July with the Crystal Mozart, which will sail through Central Europe along the Danube River from Passau, Germany, to Buda-pest, Hungary. At 75 feet wide, it aims to be the largest riv-er-cruising vessel in Europe; yet a capacity of just 160 guests ensures the bulk of the space is reserved for the generously sized suites and ample, yacht-like amenities: think multiple dining venues, fitness center, library, spa and beauty salon, and more. Look for the similarly appointed 84-guest Crystal Debussy and Crystal Ravel on the Seine and Garonne rivers, as well as the 110-guest Crystal Bach and Crystal Mahler on Germany’s Rhine and Main rivers, to begin sailing in 2017.

ABOVE: Crystal Cruises river vessel Crystal MozartPHOTO COURTESY OF CRYSTAL CRUISES

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Q&A with Kathy Johns of Ponant: What’s a favorite cultural interaction you’ve experienced on a river cruise? Meeting the Warao, an indigenous people inhabiting northeastern Venezuela. Their name translates as “the boat people,” after the Warao’s lifelong and intimate connection to the water. Most unexpected moment on a journey?Nearly every moment on an expedition is unexpected! But typically the wildlife provide the most spontaneous and memorable moments. I love exploring the Amazon and Orinoco rivers because they include cultural visits to local villages where you can meet the people and learn about their lives, and you also have amazing wildlife opportunities from the mythical pink dolphins to the sweet dusky titi monkeys.

Featured CruiseJOURNEY: Over the Amazon & Orinoco

LENGTH OF TRIP: 17 nights

RIVER NAMES: Amazon and Orinoco rivers

VESSEL NAME: Le Soleal

VESSEL DETAILS: max. 264 guests

FEATURED DESTINATIONS: Brazil and Venezuela

RATES: From $9,290 per person

Notable moments:1. Embark on Zodiacs to explore the green paradise of the Amazon or the winding Orinoco in the heart of the Amazon rain forest.

2. A team of 10 naturalist guides interpret your excursions and give presentations to provide context to the destination.

3. Discover the endemic fauna in a region rich with natural history, including several species of monkeys, sloths, toucans, red ibis, Caymans, iguanas, anacondas and more—with mangroves and rain forest as their playground.

4. Join the captain and crew on the bridge as they navigate the river.

PONANTT

he French cruise line Ponant is rapidly garner-ing acclaim for its fleet of four elegant vessels (including one three-masted sailing yacht), whose smaller design allows them to traverse rivers such as the Amazon in Brazil and the

Orinoco in Venezuela on otherwise coastal itineraries. “Small expedition ships give access to unique desti-nations and remote areas,” says Ponant’s Kathy Johns. “The Amazon and Orinoco rivers are rich with wildlife, and every bend and tributary of the river offers a new opportunity to see a different species—from the tops of the trees to the river itself.” Extended 17-night itinerar-ies provide time to fully enjoy the meandering water-ways with naturalist-led excursions and cultural visits to indigenous villages, as well as the refined ambiance and amenities of the ship.

TOP: Ponant’s Le Soleal can sail across oceans as well as larger rivers. CENTER: Toucans and other unique wildlife are frequently encountered during river cruises in Brazil and Venezuela.BOTTOM: A riverbank along the AmazonLE SOLEALPHOTO © COMPAGNIE DU PONANT, TOUCAN PHOTO SYLWIA KANIA/ISTOCK/THINKSTOCK, AMAZON PHOTO DC_COLOMBIA/ISTOCK/THINKSTOCK

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P R O M OT I O N

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Aqua ExpeditionsPERU ALONG THE AMAZON AND CAMBODIA & VIETNAM ALONG THE MEKONG – Three state-of-the-art vessels spirit

guests—just a maximum of 40 aboard the largest ship—along

the world’s most enchanting rivers. New for 2016 are limited-

edition Hosted Departures: Discover the creative vision behind

the company through exclusive treks and casual drinks with

founder Francesco Galli Zugaro, or peruse local markets and

learn from the world-renowed chefs behind Aqua Expeditions’

cuisine, including Michelin-starred Chef David Thompson.

• Contemporary, Award-Winning Design

• Exclusive 1:1 Staff-to-Guest Ratios

• Personal Small-Group Excursions

Andrew Harper Benefits: One complimentary onboard mas-sage per person

Standard Inclusions: AMAZON CRUISES: All onboard meals and non-alcoholic beverages, as well as select wine and beer • All shore excursions • Round-trip group transfers to the ship • Use of bicycles • Entrance to Pacaya Samiria • MEKONG RIVER CRUISES: All on-board meals and non-alcoholic beverages, as well as select wine and beer • All shore excursions • Laundry services • Use of bicycles • Group transfers • Wi-Fi

These inclusions may vary from voyage to voyage, ship to ship, and are being pro-vided only as an example.

P R O M OT I O N

Crystal CruisesWORLDWIDE – With cruises to destinations as varied as South Africa, Alaska’s glaciers, France’s Bordeaux wine region and beyond, these all-inclusive trips set the standard for ease and adventure. In addition to their celebrated oceangoing vessels, Crystal Cruises will soon begin sailing the great rivers of Europe. Launching this July with the Crystal Mozart, by 2017 the river-cruising fleet will include four additional brand-new, generously appointed vessels. The ships will accommodate between 84 and 160 guests in complete comfort, including butler service, Wi-Fi and premium wines and spirits, as well as spacious suites with king beds—an industry first! The European river cruises will offer spectacular daytime river views, exciting shore excursions and world-class nightlife at some of the continent’s best ports, alongside the world-class comfort and services that are syn-

onymous with the Crystal brand.

Andrew Harper Benefits: Exclusive amenities • For seven-night sailings, a $125 shipboard credit • When booking a river cruise, a $200 ship-board credit

Standard Inclusions: Complimentary wine and spirits • Optional dining • Staff gratuities • Yoga and Pilates classes • Self-service laundry • Golf clinics led by PGA pros • Select shore excursions • Water sports • Wi-Fi

These inclusions may vary from voyage to voyage, ship to ship, and are being provided only as an example.

P R O M OT I O NP R O M OT I O N

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ANDREW HARPER TRAVEL OFFICE (800) 375-4685 [email protected] | 23

TOP: A water taxi moored near Varenna on Lake Como LEFT: The village of Malcesine on the shore of Lake GardaMALCESINE PHOTO FREEARTIST/ISTOCK/THINKSTOCK, WATER TAXI PHOTO GODRICK/ISTOCK/THINKSTOCK

Mr. Harperon the

ItalianLakes

The Italian Lakes lie at the heart of one of the loveliest regions on earth. The calm, indigo water, vertiginous mountainsides and terraced villages

form a landscape of unique and ethereal beauty.

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LAKE MAGGIORE

LAKE COMO

LAKE ORTALAKE ISEO

LAKE GARDAMILAN

LAKE MAGGIORE

LAKE COMO

LAKE ORTALAKE ISEO

LAKE GARDAMILAN

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T he three principal Italian lakes, from west to east, are Maggiore, Como and Garda. In addition,

Lake Iseo is situated 90 minutes to the east of Milan, while the eight-mile-long Lake Orta lies less than 10 miles west of Maggiore. (Lake Garda, in contrast, is 33 miles in length.)

I have visited this region many times, yet always depart wanting more. Following are highlights from my visits, favorite memories and ways in which to soak up the limitless beauty of the area.

VIEWS AND GARDENSOn my first visit to the Italian Lakes,

nearly 40 years ago, I stood high on a hillside above Bellagio, gazing in wonder at the scene that lay below. The glassy surface of Lake Como had a mysterious opalescent quality and the late afternoon sun had tinted the entire scene with a delicate wash of pink. It was like gazing at a vast three-dimensional watercolor by Turner. Como is in the shape of a Y and Bellagio is situated on the promontory where the lake divides. It is often cited as the most beautiful of the lake towns and, in consequence, during high season it can be overrun with visitors. But somehow it remains undiminished by tourism. In truth, however, the lakes have so many stunning vantage points it is invidious to pick just one of them.

TOP: Aerial view of Malcesine, a village on the eastern shore of Lake Garda BOTTOM: Buildings along the shore of Isola Bella, one of the three Borromean Islands within Lake Maggiore OPPOSITE PAGE, TOP: Peschiera del Garda on Lake Garda OPPOSITE PAGE, BOTTOM: The picturesque town of Torbole on Lake Garda

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ANDREW HARPER TRAVEL OFFICE (800) 375-4685 [email protected] | 25

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“ON MY FIRST VISIT TO THE ITALIAN LAKES, NEARLY

40 YEARS AGO, I STOOD HIGH ON A HILLSIDE

ABOVE BELLAGIO, GAZING IN WONDER

AT THE SCENE THAT LAY BELOW...”

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ANDREW HARPER TRAVEL OFFICE (800) 375-4685 [email protected] | 27

Perhaps the most famous panorama of the entire region is from the 5,581-foot summit of Monte Generoso, which lies 15 miles northwest of the town of Como on the Swiss border. (The mountain railway to the summit actually departs from Capolago on Lake Lugarno in the Swiss canton of Ticino.)

Even since Roman times the Italian lakes have attracted the wealthy and famous. As a result, their shores are studded with magnificent villas and palaces. (For much of the time, George Clooney lives in an opulent villa at Laglio on Lake Como.) Perhaps my favorite is Villa del Balbianello, near Lenno on Lake Como, which was built for the Milanese Cardinal Angelo Maria Durini in 1787. It is enveloped by gardens lush with wisteria, laurel and rhododendrons.

My favorite garden of all is that which surrounds the Villa Carlotta. Built in the 18th century, the villa was later acquired by Princess Marianne of the Netherlands, who gave it to her daughter Charlotte as a wedding present. The 14 acres of gardens are notable for their spring camellias and azaleas.

DINING AND SHOPPING As you might expect, the Italian Lakes

boast innumerable fine restaurants and charming trattorias. However, I continue to have a soft spot for Terrazza Barchetta, located on a side street leading up from the port in Bellagio. Owner Armando Valli is a charming and hospitable host. The menu changes often, but a variety of lake fish is on offer. Alternatively, try the delicious risotto with sausage, red wine, sage and Parmesan shavings.

One of the most romantic places to dine is Casabella, located on the Isola dei Pescatori on Lake Maggiore, and easily accessible by complimentary boat service from the town of Stresa. Standout dishes include prosciutto with candied porcini mushrooms, grilled octopus with burrata cream, and ravioli stuffed with rabbit and black olives.

Tucked away in an 11th-century monastery on the northeast shore of Lake Como, the charming shop at the Abbazia de Piona sells goods made by the monks, including excellent limoncello and mandarin orange liqueur, perfume, and toiletries such as skin creams and bees-wax soap.

OPPOSITE PAGE: Panoramic view of Bellagio on Lake Como THIS PAGE, TOP: Within the gardens of Villa Carlotta THIS PAGE, BOTTOM: Piona Abbey sits on a peninsula overlooking northern Lake Como.

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HIKING AND BOATINGThe easiest and most delightful way to get around

the lakes is by boat. A complex network of ferries will take you pretty much anywhere you want to go. Or you can just cruise, admiring the landscape, with little thought of a precise destination. For example, from Stresa, hop on and off the boats that connect the three Borromean Islands: Isola Bella, Isola dei Pescatori and Isola Madre. Another favorite trip crosses Lake Como from Varenna to Menaggio, by way of Bellagio; on this voyage it is possible to see all three arms of the Y-shaped lake.

The shores of the lakes offer a multitude of scenic footpaths. However, keen and reasonably fit hikers may wish to walk the stunning six miles from Colonno to Cadenabbi along the so-called Greenway del Lago di Como. Much of the path is on flat ground, though some stretches are a little steep.

HIDDEN GEMSThe western shore of Lake Garda is comparatively

little-known, but even if you are not staying at my recommended Villa Feltrinelli, you should make time for a trip to the lovely and unspoiled lakeside town of Gargnano. In my view, there are few more satisfactory places in which to sit with a glass of Prosecco and to do absolutely nothing. The English novelist D. H. Lawrence was more industrious, however. From September 1912 to March 1913, he lived in Gargnano in order to write his celebrated travel book, Twilight in Italy. The Michelin one-star restaurant, La Tortuga, offers delicious lake fish and a particularly interesting wine list.

No trip should omit visits to lakes Iseo and Orta. The former offers magnificent scenery and elegant medieval towns, including Iseo and Sarnico. The Franciacorta wine region, just minutes away from the lake, produces exceptional sparkling wines. From Sulzano and Sale Marasino on Iseo’s eastern shore, ferries ply back and forth to the large island of Monte Isola, with its famous 13th-century hilltop church of Madonna della Ceriola. On Lake Orta, the ravishing town of Orta San Giulio has a picturesque lakeside piazza and unforgettable views of the Isola san Giulio. The Enoteca Re di Coppa, a wine bar on Piazza Motta, is a favorite place for a glass (or two) of local wine, a light lunch and peerless people watching.

TOP: The town of Marone on Lake Iseo LEFT: The church of Madonna della Ceriola overlooks Lake Iseo. RIGHT: Patio at Grand Hotel a Villa Feltrinelli in GargnanoMARONE PHOTO ANDREW_MAYOVSKYY/ISTOCK/THINKSTOCK, MADONNA DELLA CERIOLA PHOTO GABRI90/ISTOCK/THINKSTOCK, PATIO PHOTO COURTESY OF GRAND HOTEL A VILLA FELTRINELLI

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“IN MY VIEW, THERE ARE FEW MORE SATISFACTORY PLACES IN WHICH TO

SIT WITH A GLASS OF PROSECCO AND TO DO

ABSOLUTELY NOTHING.”

ANDREW HARPER TRAVEL OFFICE (800) 375-4685 [email protected] | 29

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P R O M OT I O N

Grand Hotel Tremezzo, Lake ComoLAKE COMO, ITALY – Relish the timeless pleasures of beautiful Lake Como with an updated experience at Grand Hotel Tremezzo. This March, the iconic Art Nouveau palace unveiled a chic new addition to its celebrated T Spa, expanding into the renovated 18th-century Villa Emilia. The freestanding villa now encompasses an impressive 10,000 square feet of pure lakeside relaxation, featuring five treatment rooms, a spa suite, indoor infinity pool, hammam, sauna, panoramic lounge and more. Also housed within the villa is the exclusive new Suite Emilia, offering absolute privacy, direct spa access and memorable views of Lake Como and the village of Bellagio. Flowers Pool, immersed within the verdant scenery of the gardens of Villa Carlotta, has received a contemporary redesign as well.

With these new updates, Grand Hotel Tremezzo furthers the charming service it’s provided

for more than 100 years. The hotel’s Grand Tour pedigree is evidenced in its 76 elegant rooms

and 14 spacious, individually designed suites, as well as its acclaimed gastronomy—under the

influence of Executive Chef Osvaldo Presazzi and the legendary Maestro Gualtiero Marchesi,

virtuoso cuisine is found in each of the five restaurants and bars. And yet, as intimated when

lounging on the lake’s only private beach or cruising on the restored 1961 mahogany Venetian

motorboat, the experience is catalyzed into something still more profound by the cherished

pleasures of Lake Como and its fabulous surrounds, where the art, culture and countryside

provide an unparalleled choice of attractions. Recommended since 2013; Grand Award–2014,

Readers’ Choice–2015.

grandhoteltremezzo.com

SPECIAL OFFER: T Spa Retreat Package Enjoy a moment of pure relaxation and wellbeing with a package featuring the signature treatments of our T Spa and the privacy of our T Spa Suite. The package includes: two nights of accommo-dation in a room category of your choice; daily buffet breakfast served in La Terrazza restau-rant overlooking Lake Como; one 60-minute massage per person; two ESPA bath oils to take home; and one hour in the privacy of the T Spa Suite (for two people). also includes: Andrew Harper benefits and standard inclusion. dates: Offer is valid on new reservations only, for travel through Nov. 6, 2016, based on availability. Offer may be extended at a favorable rate. Restric-tions may apply. Offer is not combinable with any other promotions.

Andrew Harper Benefits: Best available non-restricted rates • Room upgrade, when avail-able at check-in • Complimentary room service breakfast • Welcome bottle of Prosecco • For stays of two nights or longer, a one-hour boat tour on the hotel’s exclusive private boat

Standard Inclusions: Daily buffet breakfast served at La Terrazza • Access to spa facilities • Valet parking • Wi-Fi

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Ca’Sagredo HotelVENICE, ITALY Recommended since 2008.

Andrew Harper

601 Oakmont Lane

Suite 450Westmont, IL 60559

“Ca’ Sagredo is one of a kind. Very

hospitable—we are so pleased that

Andrew Harper brought the property

to our attention. We cannot imagine

staying anywhere else.”

— An Andrew Harper Subscriber

Venice, Italy Standard Inclusions: Wi-Fi

Andrew Harper Benefits: Best available non-restricted rates • Room upgrade, when available at check-in • Daily full buffet breakfast served at the restaurant • A three-course lunch for two, once per stay (excluding beverages) • Early check-in and late checkout, when available • Welcome amenity

P R O M OT I O N

Relais San MaurizioSANTO STEFANO BELBO, ITALY – The Relais San Maurizio is at once intimate and expansive. Nestled within olive trees, beeches, oaks and elms, the former monastery sits on a hilltop overlooking vineyards and the Langhe Valley below. The individually decorated 36 rooms and suites blend 17th-century character with 21st-century luxury and comfort.

As the countryside changes with the seasons, so does the experi-

ence. Truffle Bistrot and the Michelin-star Guido da Costigliole source

their produce from local farmers, including truffles from the hotel’s

own hunts. An herb and vegetable garden also provides ingredients for

the both restaurants, as well as the spa’s teas and skincare line. Here

you’ll find an oasis of privacy and a tradition of good living.

Recommended since 2015.

Andrew Harper Benefits: Best available non-restricted rates • Room upgrade, when available at check-in • Complimentary daily tea time • Com-plimentary access to thalassotherapy spa and salt cave • Private transfer and guided visit to a historical underground wine cellar

Standard Inclusions: Daily buffet breakfast served at the restaurant • Access to spa and fitness facilities • Wi-Fi

P R O M OT I O NP R O M OT I O N

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P R O M OT I O N

Hotel & Spa Rosa AlpinaDOLOMITES, SAN CASSIANO, ITALY – Nestled at the base of the picturesque Dolomites mountain range, Rosa Alpina perfectly complements the natural beauty surrounding it. A study in quiet elegance and understated glamour, the hotel is home to 51 guest rooms and suites. Styled in an alpine aesthetic, the rooms are filled with a mix of local antiques, rustic elements and fine linens. “It was a truly amazing place with service to match,” says a recent Andrew Harper guest.

With three unique dining concepts, from casual to the Michelin-star Restaurant St.

Hubertus, cuisine is a delicious component of a stay at this mountain retreat. Meanwhile, the

diverse, World Heritage–listed landscape—a symphony of snowy peaks, emerald meadows,

tranquil valleys and quaint villages—lends itself to a plethora of adventures, from hiking and

climbing via ferrata to biking and golf. Guests in search of more tranquil pursuits will find them

at the hotel’s decadent spa. Boasting a full menu of services, an indoor swimming pool and a

Finnish sauna, this serene oasis is all about relaxation.Recommended since 2005.

rosalpina.it

SPECIAL OFFER: Upgrades, Credits, Guided Activities and More Specially crafted three-, five- and seven-night packages feature a host of exciting amenities, including guaranteed room upgrades, spa and dining credits, guided moun-tain excursions and more. Package rates start at 1,420 EUR per person. Contact the Andrew Harper Travel Office or visit AndrewHarper.com for full details. also includes: Andrew Harper benefits and standard inclusions. dates: Offer is valid on new reservations only, for travel from June 1–Sept. 25, 2016, based on availability. Offer is not combinable with any other promotions.

Andrew Harper Benefits: Preferred rates • Room upgrade, when available at check-in • Welcome bottle of local wine per room • 30 EUR spa credit per person • Special aperitif in the kitchen with Chef Norbert Niederkofler • For stays of three nights or longer, a farewell amenity

Standard Inclusions: VAT • Service • Daily buffet breakfast served at the restaurant • Access to spa and fitness facilities • 24-hour concierge service • Wi-Fi • For winter stays, shuttle service to ski-lift station

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P R O M OT I O N

Grand Hotel à Villa FeltrinelliGARGNANO, LAKE GARDA, ITALY – On the shores of Lake Garda, the neo-Gothic Grand Hotel à Villa Feltrinelli and its 20 distinctive rooms and suites embody the history, culture and charm of Northern Italy’s Lombardy region. Breathe in lake views from terraced guest-rooms or while strolling among gardens, olive groves and lemon houses in the eight-acre private park. Intricately crafted details, from hand-painted fresco ceilings and stained-glass windows to marble stairways and delicately embroidered fabrics, create an authentic Italian experience. Enjoy handmade pasta dishes, fresh fish from Lake Garda and regional Italian specialties while overlooking the lake in The Dining Room or alfresco in The Pergola, then taste one of the 500 labels of premium wine in the subterranean wine cellar. Whether you tour Lake Garda aboard the Villa’s private boats, explore the nearby historic cities of Brescia and Verona with a private guide or simply relax in the Salon with lake vistas reflected into every corner via

antique Venetian mirrors, discover the easy luxury of a timeless Italy with Villa Feltrinelli.Recommended since 2003; Readers’ Choice–2013, 2014.

villafeltrinelli.com

Andrew Harper Benefits: Best available non-restricted rates • Room upgrade, when avail-able at check-in • Complimentary car service to local restaurants • Farewell amenity

Standard Inclusions: Daily full breakfast served at the restaurant or in room • In-room minibar • Valet service • Laundry service • Wi-Fi • Parking

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SOMMELIERSOne of the chief joys of wine is the complexity of flavors that can be extracted from the unassuming grape.

But with so many varieties, vintages and vintners, discovering what you like or what pairs well with your meal can be a challenging—and expensive—adventure. Fortunately, Andrew Harper Alliance partners consistently attract the

industry’s top professionals to preside over their impressive cellars and select the perfect wines to match your tastes, meals and moments. Gather some exclusive recommendations and peek into the mindset of these gustatory wizards as the

Andrew Harper Traveler chats with Arnaud Vallet, the award-winning sommelier at Vila Joya in Portugal, and Keven Ring, wine director at Vermont’s Twin Farms.

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Q&A with Arnaud Vallet: How do you retain the wine knowledge you’ve gathered, and the memory of tastes?Tasting, tasting and more tasting. I

never forget a wine when it reminds

me of something from my past

or childhood, or when the bottle

was opened and tasted with good

friends or family. For all the other

ones (and there are a lot), nothing is

better than tasting notes.

What’s your go-to wine at home? What do you love about it?An Alvarinho—light and fresh and

not-too-intense notes of tropical

fruits. [It is] the perfect pairing to

seafood and grilled fish from the

Algarvian coast.

What’s a wine people should be drinking that they aren’t?Without joking, Madeira wines. One

of the best wines in the world, and

it’s a shame that, worldwide, people

think it’s a wine to cook with.

When most Americans think of Portuguese wine, they think of Port. Tell us about some of your favorite styles of table wines.Alvarinho from Minho [is] the

next world-class white wine from

Portugal—very fresh and either light

or complex and full-bodied depend-

ing how it is produced.

[Also] Baga from Bairrada, for

me [one of] the more unusual

grapes of the country. An old-school

style—you need to be patient to

drink these wines, but when you

open a bottle after 15 or 20 years,

it’s a treasure. Elegant and rustic

at the same time, with acidity and

tannins side by side—one of greatest

experiences of my professional life.

The Douro Valley is Portugal’s most famous wine region, but other areas certainly produce fine wine as well. What other wine regions in Portugal should travelers be aware of?Madeira, Bairrada, Dao, I have to

stop or I will list them all! I think it’s

best to visit Portugal and taste the

wines at the quintas (wine-produc-

ing estates) and in the Portuguese

restaurants, because you may know

a few wines that are exported but

more than 75 percent of the best

cuvées are produced in such small

quantities that they never leave

the country.

1. The Douro Valley, Portugal 2. Keven Ring decants a bottle of Lamoresca. 3. Wine cellar at Twin Farms 4. Vermont landscape at Twin Farms 5. Vila Joya boasts a 17-year history of Michelin-star cuisine. 6. Views of the Atlantic coast from Vila Joya FOLLOWING PAGE: Arnaud Vallet of Vila Joya

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Arnaud ValletSommelier VILA JOYA, ALBUFEIRA, PORTUGAL

AWARDS AND RECOGNITION• 2010 “Prix au Sommelier,” Inter-

national Academy of Gastronomy • 2012 “Sommelier of the Year,”

Wine (Essência do Vinho)

WINE CELLAR 12,000 bottles

WINE LIST HIGHLIGHTSDow’s Port, Madeira Barbeito, Quinta do Vale Meão, Chryseia, Charme Niepoort, Pera Manca, Quinta do Monte d’Oiro, Mouchão, La Tâche DRC, Chateau Latour, Krug Clos du Mesnil, Ornellaia, Sassicaia, Castillo Ygay and many more…

WINE PAIRING PHILOSOPHYIt’s much more about finding the perfect match to the recipes we are serving, and for that a wine with a bit too much alcohol or acidity is often a better choice than a “perfect” wine.

Keven Ring Wine Director TWIN FARMS, BARNARD, VERMONT

AWARDS AND RECOGNITION “Best of Award of Excellence,” Wine Spectator

WINE CELLAR 15,000 bottles

WINE LIST HIGHLIGHTSReserve list: California-focused with vintage depth of some of the finest producers.All-Inclusive list: Big focus on the old classic and lesser-known sub- regions of France, Spain and Italy. Also Austria, Oregon and new up-and-coming regions in California.

WINE PAIRING PHILOSOPHYI prefer working with wines made in an Old World style, without extra additives and manipulation, from grapes grown sustainably, organical-ly and biodynamically; wines with a sense of place and a reflection of their terroir. I also prefer wines with lower alcohol and higher acidi-ty as I feel they work best with food. And that’s my goal: finding the perfect pairing to [our] cuisine.

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P R O M OT I O N

Q&A with Keven Ring:How do you keep up to date with the seemingly ever-multiplying wineries out there? I taste a lot with my purveyors and

try and take a wine trip each year.

I find that’s the best way for me to

get a feel for what that region and

producers are doing, and it also

gives me a story to share with

our guests.

What qualities do you consider when pairing wines?What is going to highlight the

course, not compete with it? How

will the wine and the food make

each other even more interesting,

and create balance? I like to start

the three to four wine pairings night-

ly with something that our guest

might not have tried before, be it a

different grape varietal or part of the

world, in the earlier courses. [Then

I] share an older vintage of a classic

varietal from a well-known producer

to anchor the main course.

I have also found that food and

wine from the same parts of the

world tend to work very well with

each other. Oysters and shellfish

with Muscadet de Sèvre-et-Maine

AC from the coastal Loire Valley in

France are a perfect match.

There are wineries now in all 50 states. Are there any in Vermont worth knowing about?Vermont has a very young, but

interesting and exciting wine in-

dustry. Because of the cold winters

they have to work with cold-weather

hybrids, such as Marquette, Fronte-

nac, Le Crescent and St Croix. I’m

a big fan of the work that Deirdre

Heekin at La Garagista right here in

Barnard is doing, as is Eric Asimov

at The New York Times. The folks at

Shelburne Vineyards are also

doing some really good work with

wine and cheese. Vermont also

has a wonderful craft cider and

beer community.

And what about wines from the nearby region—do you have any selections from, say, Long Island or the Finger Lakes?Yes, I love the Chardonnay and

Rieslings coming from the Finger

Lakes, Fox Run being one of them.

Long Island has Merlot and Caber-

net Franc (Wölffer Estate), which

are fine wines.

Are there any more hidden gems on your list that you wish people would order more often? I’d say wines from Austria and

Oregon deserve more attention for

their quality and value.

Austrian wines get confused

with German wines because they

share a language, but Austrian wines

are closer in style to northern Italian

reds and whites. Most people know

Austrian Grüner Veltliner, but their

dry Riesling from areas like the

Kamptal and Wachau are outstand-

ing (from producers like Tegern-

seefhof and Steininger). The reds

are also great food-friendly wines—

grapes like Zweigelt, Blaufrankisch,

St. Laurent and Pinot Noir from the

Wagram and the Burgenland.

Oregon, well everyone knows

their Pinot Noir, but that’s just

the tip of the iceberg as to what is

happening in Oregon. They have

figured out a clonal issue with

Chardonnay, by using the Dijon

clone from Burgundy which is better

suited for the colder climate. Also

showing great quality are Pinot

Blanc, Riesling, Muller-Thurgau,

Syrah and Tempranillo. Producers to

watch are Winderlea in Dundee Hill,

Bethel Heights in Eola-Amity Hills,

R. Stuart, Brooks and Teutonic.

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Vila JoyaTHE ALGARVE, PORTUGAL – The views at the table are equal to the views of the Atlantic at this 22-room boutique hotel. The restaurant, run by Chef Dieter Koschina, has held two Michelin stars for 17 years running and is ranked among the world’s 50 best restaurants by San Pellegrino. Sommelier Arnaud Vallet oversees the 12,000-bottle wine cellar, which comprises the best wines of Portugal and beyond.

Originally a lavish private villa, the Moorish-styled “House of Joy” is

a hidden gem situated just beyond the city of Albufeira, where you’ll

find no fewer than 36 golf courses within a five- to 45-minute drive. A

tranquil spa, outdoor pool and sandy beach complement the beauti-

fully landscaped gardens of this gracious property.

Recommended since 2015.

Andrew Harper Benefits: Best available non-restricted rates • Room upgrade, when available at check-in • 50 EUR credit per person toward one dinner at Chef’s Table • Welcome glass of Champagne

Standard Inclusions: Daily buffet breakfast served at the restaurant • Access to spa and fitness facilities • Wi-Fi • Parking

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P R O M OT I O N

The GoringLONDON, ENGLAND – As London’s last remaining family-owned, five-star hotel, The Goring has led the way in personalized service for more than a century—most recently acknowl-edged with its designation as a Five-Star Hotel by Forbes Travel Guide. “The staff was superb,” says a recent Andrew Harper guest. “They went out of their way to make our stay pleasant and enjoyable.”

In desirable Belgravia, just minutes from Buckingham Palace, Knightsbridge and May-

fair, this historically innovative hotel encapsulates quintessential London: here glamour,

elegance and style combine effortlessly with English refinement and tradition. This ambi-

ance is instantly evident in the renovated Front Hall and in the 69 individually appointed

rooms. Of particular appeal are the suites, each fashioned by one of a number of renowned

British designers, featuring state-of-the-art amenities, silks and fine heritage furniture, and

the services of a scarlet-coated footman (Forbes even describes the four-room Royal Suite

as “the most glamorous accommodation in England”). Packages that include breakfast, a

daily in-suite cocktail hour and dinner are available. Guests find the food equally as impres-

sive—according to another subscriber, “the Afternoon Tea was one of the best we have ever

experienced.” And The Dining Room, home to the faultless pairings of Chef Shay Cooper and

Head Sommelier Olivier Clausse, was awarded a Michelin Star in September 2015. Recommended since 2008; Readers’ Choice–2014, 2015.

thegoring.com

SPECIAL OFFER: Half-Price Connecting Rooms The Goring makes a trip with your family all the more rewarding by offering a 50 percent discount on a connecting or adjacent room for the children. Additionally, children will receive a VIP amenity pack, “mocktails” and a cookie-making class in the hotel’s kitchen; adults enjoy complimentary cocktails. Rates start at 683 GBP per night. also includes: Andrew Harper benefits and standard inclusions. dates: Offer is valid on new reservations only, for travel from Jan. 4–May 2 and July 17–Sept. 11, 2016, based on availability. Blackout dates may apply. Offer is not combinable with any other promotions.

Andrew Harper Benefits: Best available non-restricted rates • Room upgrade, when available at check-in • Daily continental break-fast served at the restaurant or in room • $100 food and beverage credit per room for use at The Dining Room

Standard Inclusions: Daily newspaper • Wi-Fi

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OPPOSITE PAGE, TOP LEFT: The Damnoen Saduak floating market in Bangkok, Thailand TOP RIGHT: The Silver Pagoda in Phnom Penh, Cambodia BOTTOM LEFT: Detail of a Buddhist statue in Bangkok’s Wat Arun temple BOTTOM RIGHT: Colorful Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple in Little India, Singapore

Like Europe, Southeast Asia combines rich history, extraordinary landscapes,

magnificent architecture and superlative cuisine. The result is nothing short of

intoxicating. Of course, parts of the region experienced terrible violence in the 20th

century, but nowadays, “very few areas of the world offer such a profound sense of

peace,” says Mr. Harper. “Most return from their visits stirred by the beauty of the

landscape and the generosity of their hosts.”

The wide variety of Southeast Asia’s attractions ensures that the region offers

excursions to suit all interests and travelers. The following two contrasting itineraries

serve as perfect examples, with the first taking travelers off the beaten track in

endlessly fascinating and friendly Cambodia, incorporating Mr. Harper’s most recent

Hideaway of the Year and Cruise of the Year. Alternatively, those who prefer more urban

delights will surely enjoy spending time in two of the world’s greatest culinary cities,

Bangkok and Singapore, connected by a jaunt on Belmond’s luxury train.

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Arrive in Phnom Penh late in the evening. Cambodia’s capital can be reached from several major U.S. airports—including Los Angeles, Seattle, Dallas, Chicago and New York—with just one change of airplanes.

Check into Mr. Harper’s recommended hotel in the city, the Raffles Hotel le Royal, a renowned historic property with 170 guest quarters divided among an Old World main building and low-profile wings overlooking a tree-lined courtyard and an 80-foot swimming pool.

DAY 1Quite small when compared to other Asian capitals, mellow Phnom Penh still retains its French colonial boulevards and parks.

Take a day with a guide to visit the top attractions, including the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda and National Museum of Arts (housing one of the finest collections of statuary from the Angkorian period). Shop for local crafts and artwork in the Central Market.

Those with the time and inclination can take an additional day in Phnom Penh to visit Tuol Sleng, the notorious Security Prison 21, where 20,000 people were tortured and executed by the Khmer Rouge. And 40 minutes south of the city are the notorious Killing Fields, centerpieced by the 17-story Choeung Ek memorial, containing the skulls and bones of genocide victims.

DAY 2Board Aqua Expeditions’ Aqua Mekong, which Mr. Harper named as the Best Cruise Grand Award winner for 2015. (In the Grand Awards issue, he also cited the Aqua Mekong as having the “Staff Who Made Us Feel Most at Home.”)

The third and newest member of the Aqua fleet, the Mekong carries 40 passengers in 20 stylishly appointed suites, each of which is a spacious 320 square feet. Most have walls of windows, and eight have private balconies. For even more space, two suites can be interconnected into a 640-square-foot accommodation, with one suite serving as a living room.

Celebrate the start of your cruise with a Khmer “Apsara” dance performance, an indigenous tradition memorialized on the temple walls at Angkor Wat.

“Much of the pleasure of a Mekong cruise comes from lounging on deck as Southeast Asia slides gracefully past,” Mr. Harper shares, “observing the painted storks and pied kingfishers, the rice barges and the huge drifting rafts of purple water hyacinth.”

NOTE: The following cruise itinerary can be undertaken in the high-water season, between July and November. Late October and November have the most favorable weather during this period. Four- and seven-day itineraries also are available, and routings vary depending on the season.

DAY 3Visit Koh Chen, a silversmith village known for its fine craftsmanship. Cambodia’s king regularly chooses its silver bowls as gifts for visiting dignitaries, and guests can watch the artisans at work.

Mr. Harper describes where he went next: “Later, we stopped at a small Buddhist temple with graceful lines, bright saffron-orange wooden supports and impressive gilding. Several of the young monks had gathered under a tree for lunch. Although shy, they were nonetheless extremely welcoming. Nearby, we spotted two intricately carved and painted dragon boats.”

DAY 4Explore two picturesque floating villages around the rim of Tonle Sap lake. In Chhnok Tru, the schools, churches, pagodas and even the police station all float. Also visit Moat Khla, accessible only by water, to attend a Buddhist blessing ceremony.

Enjoy a farewell dinner back on the ship. The cuisine aboard the Mekong is under the supervision of Michelin-star chef David Thompson. “Under his guidance,” Mr. Harper relates, “the kitchen turned out a series of superb meals with dishes such as Cambodian rice noodles with chicken and wild ginger sauce, a green curry of catfish with a lemon-basil-cashew nut pudding and coconut cream, and prawns braised with white wine and herbs accompanied by pea and prosciutto risotto.”

DAY 5

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OPPOSITE PAGE, LEFT: An overwater deck at Song Saa, near Sihanoukville, Cambodia RIGHT: Young Buddhist monks THIS PAGE, LEFT: A Cambodian man with palm fruit TOP RIGHT: Stupas at the Royal Palace in Phnom

Penh, Cambodia BOTTOM RIGHT: Apsara dancers strike traditional poses at Angkor Wat.

Before you disembark, there’s time for one more excursion. Set off by skiff into the 54,000-acre Prek Toal Core Bird Reserve, one of the largest freshwater bodies in Asia and the last refuge in Southeast Asia for large waterfowl such as spot-billed pelican, milky stork, black-headed ibis and elusive masked finfoot.

Transfer to Siem Reap’s airport and fly to Sihanoukville on Cambodia’s coast. In the port, board the luxury Song Saa speedboat, which takes 35 minutes to reach the private-island resort in the unspoiled Koh Rong archipelago.

Mr. Harper named Song Saa his 2015 Hideaway of the Year because, quite simply, he “loved everything [he] saw and experienced” at this “blissfully relaxing and otherworldly” retreat. All 27 villas have spectacular sea views, and eight of them are overwater accommodations.

DAY 6Spend three days relaxing at Song Saa. Activities include kayaking in the surrounding archipelago, rain forest tours guided by a member of the resort’s conservation team, and snorkeling trips through nearby coral gardens led by a marine biologist.

Although there is no centralized spa facility, outdoor salas and treatment villas are scattered through the rain forest and along the ocean shore. The tempting treatments combine traditional Khmer techniques with Ayurvedic principles.

DAYS 7-9Return to Sihanoukville and fly back to Siem Reap, the base for exploring Angkor Wat and numerous other extraordinary Khmer temples.

Mr. Harper recommends three contrasting properties here: the midcentury modern-styled Amansara, a tranquil villa enclave in the grounds of a grand guesthouse that once belonged to King Norodom Sihanouk; the nearby Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, a restored landmark French Colonial-styled hotel surrounded by a 15-acre park; and the new Park Hyatt (the former Hotel de la Paix), a contemporary hotel in a downtown location close to the Old French Quarter, a short walk from Siem Reap’s covered market and various restaurants.

DAY 10Spend these days exploring the ruins of the sophisticated and enigmatic Khmer civilization that flourished here hundreds of years ago. The most famous temple, Angkor Wat, can become terribly crowded, but we can arrange an entry just before dawn, when the light is soft and you have the magnificent monument to yourself. It’s unforgettable.

Also visit Angkor Thom, an abandoned city that housed as many as 150,000 people at its height. The only remaining structures are its walls, gates and, at its center, the Bayon. This immense stone temple has numerous huge faces carved into its towers.

Just a bit farther from Siem Reap is Ta Prohm, a sprawling and atmospheric temple complex partially overtaken by strangler figs and sprung trees. It looks straight out of an “Indiana Jones” film.

Those with time also should visit the similarly spectacular but lesser-known Beng Mealea temple complex, which sees far fewer visitors than Ta Phrom. It has more of the feeling of an undiscovered temple in the jungle.

DAYS 11-12Take the morning and afternoon to relax and perhaps do some shopping in Siem Reap’s Central Market, where you can find reasonably priced fabrics, carvings and other handicrafts.

In the evening, board your flight out of Siem Reap. Connect to your flight home, arriving the morning of the following day.

DAY 13

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ABOVE: A floating village on Tonle Sap lake in Cambodia LEFT: The jungle has reclaimed the ruins of Ta Prohm temple FAR LEFT: An exterior wall at the Angkor Wat temple complex

“MUCH OF THE PLEASURE OF A MEKONG CRUISE COMES FROM LOUNGING ON DECK AS SOUTHEAST ASIA SLIDES GRACEFULLY PAST, OBSERVING THE PAINTED STORKS AND PIED KINGFISHERS, THE RICE BARGES AND THE HUGE DRIFTING RAFTS OF PURPLE WATER HYACINTH.” Mr. Harper

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Arrive in Bangkok late in the evening and check into your hotel.

In this bustling metropolis, you’ll discover an array of treasures, from spectacular temples huddling beneath glass skyscrapers to extraordinary cuisine. “But perhaps the greatest pleasure,” Mr. Harper argues, “is just sitting beside the Chao Phraya River, watching the endlessly fascinating life of this uniquely colorful waterway. Stately rice barges make their way down to the Gulf of Thailand, while brightly painted ‘long tail’ water taxis forge upstream in a welter of spray.”

DAY 1Begin your explorations by boat, gliding past glittering skyscrapers, monumental wats, venerable mansions and traditional wooden houses, until you reach the Royal Grand Palace. This mini-city comprises formal gardens, ornate halls and elaborate temples, including Wat Phra Kaew, the famed Temple of the Emerald Buddha.

Nearby, the immense Wat Pho contains an enormous golden statue of the Reclining Buddha, as well as Thailand’s most famous massage school.

After lunch, meander through the Monk’s Bowl Village, where craftsmen beat out metal alms bowls in a traditional Khmer technique. The lightweight lacquered bowls make ideal souvenirs.

Late this afternoon, return to your hotel, where you might indulge in a relaxing spa treatment.

DAY 2Spend today touring the opposite side of the river, beginning with the spectacular Royal Barges Museum. Here it’s easy to understand why Bangkok was once known as the Venice of the East.

Majestic Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn, rises about a mile downriver, its towering spires encrusted with colorful ceramics.

Board a private long-tail boat and embark on a tour of Bangkok’s khlongs (canals), which flow throughout the city. Over the years, many khlongs were filled in to make way for roads, but numerous other canals remain intact, inviting leisurely exploration. You might like to stop at a floating market, where traditional boats laden with flowers and produce vie for prime water real estate.

DAY 3Consider starting today with a Thai cooking lesson in a traditional wooden house on the river. Learn how to prepare dishes such as grilled pumpkin with curry sauce, northeastern-style herbed soup with chicken or black sticky rice with taro in scented coconut syrup, and dine on your creations for lunch. Alternatively, we can arrange for a memorable cooking class aboard a stylishly converted wooden rice barge, during which you prepare traditional recipes while cruising along the river.

In the afternoon, visit the exquisite house of Jim Thompson, who almost singlehandedly revived the Thai silk industry. The six teak wood houses he assembled and converted into a modern home stand on Khlong Saen. Some of Bangkok’s most upscale and interesting shops are nearby in the Siam Square neighborhood.

DAY 4Board Belmond’s Eastern & Oriental Express, sister train to the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. The carriages of this extraordinary and rather exotic train have been completely refurbished and redecorated in the style of the golden age of rail travel. Public lounges and private accommodations alike feature intricately inlaid wood paneling, rich upholsteries and brass accents.

An open-air observation car at the end of the train allows for unobstructed viewing of the dramatic landscapes and timeless villages passing by. A live pianist entertains in the bar car each evening, and the gracious restaurant cars serve sophisticated Western and local recipes.

Book a State Cabin or the Presidential Cabin for the most space.

DAY 5Disembark at the River Kwai Bridge (immortalized in the famous film) for a cruise along the river guided by a local historian.

Later in the morning, visit an evocative war museum and, if you like, a nearby war cemetery.

Return to the train for lunch and dinner. Expect dishes like a pan-seared scallop gratinated with chili-spiked calamansi on green papaya and pomelo salad, and aromatic confit of duck with cauliflower purée and vegetable teppanyaki.

DAY 6

ABOVE, LEFT: The Royal Grand Palace in Bangkok, Thailand ABOVE, RIGHT: A barge within Thailand’s Royal Barges Museum OPPOSITE PAGE, BOTTOM LEFT: The Sultan Mosque in Singapore’s Arab Quarter OPPOSITE PAGE, TOP RIGHT: A restaurant in Little India, Singapore G

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Breakfast as the countryside of Malaysia passes by. When you reach Kuala Kangsar, tour the grand Ubudiah Mosque, the Royal Museum of Perak and the Sultan Shah Gallery.

Tonight’s farewell dinner promises to be a highlight and, in the bar car, the convivial mood continues well into the night.

DAY 7

Arrive in Singapore and transfer to one of Mr. Harper’s recommended and Alliance partner hotels.

As he writes, this city-state off the tip of Malaysia is full of surprises: “Most people are aware of Singapore’s robust economy and eerily spotless rapid transit system. They may be less familiar with its Arab Quarter, raucous food stalls and centuries-old temples.”

Singapore has become a major gourmet center, and it’s one of the best cities in which to sample Peranakan cuisine, a seductive fusion of Chinese and Malay flavors.

DAY 8

Start perhaps with a walk around the atmospheric Arab Quarter, home to the grand golden-domed Sultan Mosque as well as numerous colorful shops and sidewalk cafés.

A 15-minute walk northwest leads to the Little India neighborhood, home to the impressive Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, dedicated to the Hindu goddess Kali. Atop its elaborate entrance gate stand four rows of technicolor sculptures illustrating religious stories.

A stroll in the Singapore Botanic Gardens makes for a restorative way to finish an afternoon. The National Orchid Garden within, a wonderland worthy of the film “Avatar”, is not to be missed.

DAY 9

After so much time in cities, it’s time for some relaxation along the beach. Take the comfortable high-speed ferry 45 minutes from Singapore to Bintan Island, Indonesia. Mr. Harper’s recommended hotel The Sanchaya can easily arrange for the ferry tickets and the visa necessary to enter the country. This colonial building that once sheltered government officials and army officers in Singapore has been converted into a 21-villa, nine-suite retreat beside the sea, embellished with Thai-style pitched roofs, Burmese window frames, Laotian temple ornaments and Khmer glazed pottery jars.

Settle into your accommodations, and perhaps follow in Mr. Harper’s footsteps this afternoon: “After a dip in the 150-foot infinity pool, I indulged in a signature Sanchaya spa treatment, which involved deep-tissue massage and warm-stone therapy.” Or simply have a peaceful stroll along the beach.

DAY 11On Bintan Island, according to Mr. Harper, “The most impressive sight is the 500 Lohan and Guan Yin Chinese Temple, with its life-size handcarved stone statues of arhats (a Sanskrit word that means ‘one who is worthy’), or Buddhist saints. Tanjung Pinang, Bintan’s capital, is located on the southwestern coast of the island. A lively town where many of the houses have been built over the sea, it is a great place to shop for Javanese batik textiles.”

Alternatively, you might enjoy a round at the Ria Bintan Golf Club, which Mr. Harper ranks as one of the best in Southeast Asia.

DAY 12

After taking another morning to relax on Bintan Island, return to Singapore and head for home on an evening flight.

DAY 13

On the other side of the Singapore River is the city’s Chinatown, home to the ornate Thian Hock Keng Temple, one of the oldest in the city. Dragons swirl around the columns flanking its tranquil courtyards, and elaborate gilded capitals support the sweeping green-tile roofs.

A short walk along streets lined with colorful old shophouses leads to the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum, an elaborate Tang Dynasty-style building, and the Sri Mariamman Temple, the city’s oldest Hindu temple, built in 1827.

A short walk from either temple, the Maxwell Food Centre ranks among Singapore’s best “hawker centers,” collections of food stalls that look unpromising but nevertheless sell some of Singapore’s most delicious local cuisine. A guide can help point out dishes to try, or ask your concierge for the best options. The food here qualifies as street food, but because it’s Singapore, you’re guaranteed that it will

be perfectly safe (and thoroughly delicious) to consume.

After lunch, have a walk along pedestrianized Trengganu and Pagoda streets, home to a popular outdoor market. Much of the merchandise ranks as tourist kitsch, but the markets make for great people-watching and it’s an excellent place to find small, inexpensive gifts to bring back home.

If the weather is good, head to the Marina Bay Sands SkyPark Observation Deck, set atop one of Singapore’s most iconic contemporary buildings. The views over the city, the bay and the port—its thousands of colorful shipping containers looking like so many Lego bricks—are sensational.

DAY 10

BANGKOK

THAILAND

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BANGKOK CUISINE PHOTO CHALABALA/ISTOCK/THINKSTOCK, BELMOND EASTERN & ORIENTAL EXPRESS PHOTO ©MARK HIND COURTESY OF BELMOND EASTERN & ORIENTAL TRAINS AND CRUISES, WAT PHRA KAEW PHOTO ZXCZXCZXC555/ISTOCK/THINKSTOCK, MALAYSIAN FOOD PHOTO YULIANG11/ISTOCK/THINKSTOCK, BUDDHA TOOTH TEMPLE PHOTO PAULLAMBOURNE/ISTOCK/THINKSTOCK.

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“MOST PEOPLE ARE AWARE OF SINGAPORE’S ROBUST ECONOMY AND EERILY SPOTLESS RAPID TRANSIT SYSTEM. THEY MAY BE LESS FAMILIAR WITH ITS ARAB QUARTER, RAUCOUS FOOD STALLS AND CENTURIES-OLD TEMPLES.” Mr. Harper

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP RIGHT: Ketupat, a traditional Malaysian dumpling packed into a woven pouch made of palm leaves; Detail of the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum in Singapore, said to house a tooth of the historical Buddha; Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok, Thailand’s most sacred Buddhist temple; The Belmond Eastern & Oriental Express hugs a forested cliffside on its route through East Asia; Some of the staple ingredients that make up the distinctive flavors of Thai cuisine

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Of course, a region so densely packed with attractions rewards multiple visits. There’s no need to limit yourself to just one of these itineraries. Indeed, they complement each other beautifully.

“VERY FEW AREAS OF THE WORLD OFFER SUCH A PROFOUND SENSE OF PEACE. MOST RETURN FROM THEIR VISITS STIRRED BY THE BEAUTY OF THE LANDSCAPE AND THE GENEROSITY OF THEIR HOSTS.” Mr. Harper

TOP: Cambodian children cool off in the Mekong River. BOTTOM: Bangkok’s Wat Arun temple at sunset.AQUA MEKONG PHOTO BY ANDREW HARPER, WAT ARUN PHOTO LANCE LEE/HEMERA/THINKSTOCK

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Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai & Tented Camp Golden TriangleCHIANG MAI AND CHIANG RAI, THAILAND – Be immersed in authentic Thai culture at the refreshed and renewed Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai. The 64 Pavilion rooms have been upgraded with custom furniture and fabrics, and also include shaded outdoor salas with plush swing sets for spectacular breakfasts or quiet afternoons. Also new is the stun-ning Orchid Garden private dining venue, an opulent floral paradise that integrates the fine offerings of Sala Mae Rim and Ratree Bar and Lounge even more deeply with the lush culture and natural beauty of northern Thailand. Additional activities—now including everything from exploring the resort’s extensive gardens and learning the art of Thai cooking to practic-ing yoga at the Rice Barn and relaxing at the spa—ensure there is something for everyone in the family.

Approximately 150 miles northeast, Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle offers

adventurous travelers unique expeditions through wondrous natural settings. Three- or

four-night excursions include elephant journeys through magnificent forests, mountain trail

explorations and a chance to recharge each night in one of the 15 luxurious open-air tents.

Settle in with a post-ride massage, savor delectable Northern Thai cuisine and take a dip in the

two-person, hammered copper bathtub and awake ready for another thrilling day in Thailand.Recommended since 1995 (Chiang Mai) and 2006 (Tented Camp); CHIANG MAI: Readers’

Choice–2013; TENTED CAMP: Readers’ Choice–2014, 2015.

fourseasons.com/chiangmai fourseasons.com/goldentriangle

SPECIAL OFFER: Exclusive Complimentary Stay Book a three-night minimum stay at Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle and receive a member-exclusive complimentary two-night stay at your choice of either the Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai or the tropical island retreat of Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui. also includes: Andrew Harper benefits and standard inclusions. dates: Offer is valid on new reserva-tions only, booked by Oct. 27 for travel through Oct. 31, 2016, based on availability and excluding April 30–May 2 and Oct. 1–7, 2016. Offer is not combinable with any other promotions.

Andrew Harper Benefits: CHIANG MAI: Best available non-restricted rates • Room upgrade, when available at check-in • Daily buffet breakfast served at Sala Mae Rim • $100 spa treatment credit once per stay • Early check-in and late checkout, when available • TENTED CAMP: Best available non-restricted rates • Room upgrade, when available at check-in • $100 spa treatment credit per room • Early check-in and late checkout, when available

Standard Inclusions: CHIANG MAI: Select fit-ness activities • Complimentary yoga session • Use of mountain bikes • Daily newspaper • Wi-Fi • TENTED CAMP: All meals and bever-ages, including house wines and spirits • Nightly wine and cheese tasting in the Wine Cellar • A half-day mahout training and Golden Triangle excursion • One spa treatment per person • Round-trip private Chiang Rai International Airport transfers • Wi-Fi

Chiang Mai Chiang Mai

Tented Camp Golden TriangleTented Camp Golden Triangle

ANDREW HARPER TRAVEL OFFICE (800) 375-4685 [email protected] | 49

Of course, a region so densely packed with attractions rewards multiple visits. There’s no need to limit yourself to just one of these itineraries. Indeed, they complement each other beautifully.

“VERY FEW AREAS OF THE WORLD OFFER SUCH A PROFOUND SENSE OF PEACE. MOST RETURN FROM THEIR VISITS STIRRED BY THE BEAUTY OF THE LANDSCAPE AND THE GENEROSITY OF THEIR HOSTS.” Mr. Harper

TOP: Cambodian children cool off in the Mekong River. BOTTOM: Bangkok’s Wat Arun temple at sunset.AQUA MEKONG PHOTO BY ANDREW HARPER, WAT ARUN PHOTO LANCE LEE/HEMERA/THINKSTOCK

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EXPERIENCE QUINTESSENTIAL NEW ENGLAND WITH A VISIT TO ONE OR MORE OF THESE

QUAINT TOWNS AND BEACHES.

Ocean House Resort & Spa in Watch Hill, Rhode IslandPHOTO © CHIP RIEGEL. COURTESY OF OCEAN HOUSE.

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Ocean House Resort & Spa in Watch Hill, Rhode IslandPHOTO © CHIP RIEGEL. COURTESY OF OCEAN HOUSE.

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Ask a native New Englander, and they’re likely to admit that locals often live up to the stereotype: pragmatic, reserved and forthright. But spend a little time in a New England town, and you’ll find a community bound by a shared respect for tradition, a love for the surrounding landscape and an uncommon attachment to the four seasons. Nowhere is this truer than along the coast. With some 6,130 miles of shoreline between Connecticut and Maine, visitors and locals alike share in the same appreciation for the sea. Whether you prefer a day sail to Block Island, or beach time on Nantucket’s North Shore, you’ll discover even the smallest coastal town has its own distinct character and unique delights.

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WESTERLY As elsewhere in New England, a “town” is made up of a number of small villages. There’s Downtown Westerly (the municipal seat) and 12 other distinct communities that make up the Town of Westerly. According to Can-dice Traskos of Ocean House in Watch Hill, this area of Rhode Island is one of coastal New England’s best-kept secrets. Visitors “love the ‘Hamptons feel’ without the chaos and crowds. Our beaches are some of the best in New England, and there is a lot to do around town.” When is the best time to visit? “July and August are a lot of fun on the beach,” says Traskos, but it’s a busy time, so she prefers the quieter atmosphere in September. However, “a walk on the beach in the winter after it has snowed is incredibly peaceful. Someone should visit at least once a season to see the many faces of our area.”

D rive 20 minutes in a northeasterly direction from Stonington Village to arrive in the town of Westerly, Rhode Island—the offi-cial starting point of coastal New England. (Technically speaking,

New Hampshire has more coastline than Connecticut. The latter state’s shores belong to Long Island Sound, and are considered “tidal” rather than “coastal.”) The high summer season throughout the region gen-erally runs from Memorial Day through Labor Day, but unless you’re the hale and hearty type, July and August are the preferred months for swimming.

BEACH TIME: Head to Weekapaug Beach for family time, East Beach in Watch Hill for swimming and Napatree Point for a long walk by the dunes.

SCENIC DRIVES: Roll along Ocean Drive in Watch Hill and Wawaloam Drive in Weekapaug.

FAMILY ATTRACTIONS: The Flying Horse Carousel in Watch Hill is the only surviving carousel of its kind in the U.S. The lucky child who pulls the golden ring gets a free ride.

IN THE ARTS: Stroll the Virtu Art Festival in Wilcox Park in downtown Westerly on Memorial Day weekend. Take in free live music in Watch Hill every Tuesday through July and August.

NEARBY: Visit the Mystic Seaport Museum in Mystic, CT for nautical history, the Connecticut Wine Trail (for the obvious), and the Stonington Borough for a quintessential New England village experience.

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“VISITORS LOVE THE ‘HAMPTONS FEEL’ WITHOUT THE CHAOS AND CROWDS.”CANDICE TRASKOS OF OCEAN HOUSE

TOP: Castle Hill Inn, Newport, Rhode Island BOTTOM LEFT: Weekapaug Inn in Westerly, Rhode Island BOTTOM RIGHT: Bannister’s Wharf in NewportCASTLE HILL INN PHOTO COURTESY OF CASTLE HILL INN, WEEKAPAUG INN IN PHOTO BY ANDREW HARPER, BANNISTER’S WHARF PHOTO SKYF/ISTOCK EDITORIAL/THINKSTOCK

NEWPORTAn hour’s drive up and over to Aquidneck Island, and you’ve arrived in Newport. The area has beaches, yes, but it is best known for its Gilded Age mansions along Bellevue Avenue. According to Margaret Wilcox at Castle Hill Inn, “The prevalence of historic architecture makes the simple act of walking down the street both educational and beautiful.” When you’ve toured the mansions and strolled Broadway, make your way over to the east-ern side of Aquidneck. “There you can start your day with a hike around Sa-chuest Point National Wildlife Refuge, then refuel at Sweet Berry Farm, a local farm-market offering a casual farm café. Cap off the day with a tour and winetasting at Newport Vineyard,” says Wilcox.

BEACH TIME: Spend the day at Easton’s Beach, rent a surfboard and cool down with a Del’s frozen lemonade.

GOOD EATS: Order The Mooring’s “bag of doughnuts,” a collection of lobster, shrimp and crab fritters.

ON FOOT: Sign up for a guided walking tour at The Museum of Newport History at the Brick Market and, of course, don’t miss the 3.5-mile Cliff Walk.

SCENIC DRIVES: Make the “Ten-Mile Drive” from the southern end of the island past the mansions on Bellevue.

ON THE WATER: Take a sailing lesson at Fort Adams with local outfitter Sail Newport.

WHEN IT RAINS: Explore the Newport Art Museum or the International Tennis Hall of Fame.

LIKE A LOCAL: Stroll Broadway, sample the beer selection at Pour Judgement, and try the Thai shrimp nachos at Malt.

ON YOUR FIRST VISIT: Don’t miss the Breakers, the most elaborate of the Preservation Society mansions.

UPON RETURN: Visit the Isaac Bell House, a shingle-style home built in 1883.

DAY TRIP: Take the high-speed ferry from Newport to Block Island and tour the island by bicycle or moped.

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NANTUCKETIf you’re looking for more island time, head east to Nantucket by high-speed ferry or one of the seven airlines that service the island. At 14 miles long and 3.5 miles wide, Nantucket has more than 80 miles of coastline, but classic beaches are just a part of its appeal. The island’s historic char-acter can be found in the cobblestone streets and cedar-shingle houses of Nantucket Town. “Due to the lack of heavy commercialism, Nantucket is not a place where you will find tourist traps,” says Bridgette Hynes of the Wauwinet and White Elephant. “One of the great benefits of visiting a small town like Nantucket is that locals and tourists share the same space and enjoy the same activities, restaurants and sights.”

BEACH TIME: Head to Jetties or Steps Beach for family time, Fisherman’s or Surfside for the waves, and Madaket or ’Sconset (Siasconset) for a walking excursion.

FESTIVALS FOR ALL SEASONS: Discover the Daffodil Festival in April, the Wine Festival in May, the Film Festival and Book Festival in June and the Arts Festival in October. In December, Santa arrives for the Christmas Stroll courtesy of the U.S. Coast Guard.

LISTEN LIVE: Check out a Boston Pops concert at Jetties Beach.

WHEN IT RAINS: Pay a visit to the Nantucket Whaling Museum.

SCENIC DRIVES: Take Milestone Road past the island’s iconic moors, through quaint ’Sconset overlooking the Atlantic, then return to town via Polpis Road.

UPON RETURN: Visit during the fall, when the mild weather offers an ideal time for biking and walking while you take in the seasonal colors.

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CHATHAMDue north of Nantucket lies Chatham, one of 15 towns on Cape Cod and perhaps its most beautiful, according to Mark Novota of Wequassett Re-sort and Golf Club. “The most popular destinations on the Cape include Chatham, Hyannis and Provincetown,” says Novota. “All have their own distinct charm. Chatham has always been my favorite,” he says. Galleries, boutiques and restaurants line Main Street, and visitors can enjoy regu-lar concerts in the gazebo during the summer months. “Generations of families return to the Cape year after year to appreciate the seashore and simple family values,” says Novota. “It’s quintessential Americana.”

BEACH TIME: Adventure to the Outer Beach, accessible only by boat, or check out Lighthouse or Hardings beaches. Nearby Coast Guard Beach in Eastham is considered one of the top 10 in the nation.

GOOD EATS: Sample the seafood at the Impudent Oyster, Chatham Squire and Delmar Bistro.

LOOK OUT: Visit the Chatham Lighthouse, established by President Thomas Jefferson in 1808 to protect the ships circling the Cape.

LISTEN LIVE: Pull up a seat for the annual Cape Cod Jazz Festival in July.

DAY TRIP: Take the ferry to Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket.

BY BIKE: Ride out on the eight-mile Chatham bike path past the lighthouse, the Chatham Fish Pier and the stately mansions and quaint cottages along the seashore.

OPPOSITE PAGE, TOP: Brant Point Lighthouse in Nantucket, decorated annually with a wreathe by the U.S. Coast Guard BOTTOM: Overwater cottages in Nantucket THIS PAGE: Beachfront homes and businesses in Provincetown, on the northern tip of Cape Cod

“GENERATIONS OF FAMILIES RETURN TO THE CAPE YEAR AFTER YEAR TO APPRECIATE THE SEASHORE AND SIMPLE FAMILY VALUES. IT’S QUINTESSENTIAL AMERICANA.”MARK NOVOTA OF WEQUASSETT RESORT AND GOLF CLUB

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“ I THINK IT’S IMPOSSIBLE TO SEE EVERYTHING MAINE HAS TO OFFER. ANYONE THAT TELLS YOU THEY HAVE ISN’T TELLING THE TRUTH.”JUSTIN GRIMES OF HIDDEN POND

TOP: A small lighthouse on Kennebunkport Harbor BOTTOM: Shops along Kennebunkport’s Dock Square

KENNEBUNKPORTContrary to popular belief, not all of the Maine shoreline is rocky. Many of the beaches in the southern part of the state offer sandy shores. “Goose Rocks Beach is one of the best beaches in Maine, and quite possibly in all of New England,” says Justin Grimes of Hidden Pond. “It’s protected by two small islands that shelter the bay and make it especially great for swimming.” In case you think it’s too cold, Al Black of The White Barn Inn says water temperatures are typically pleasant from late June through early September. Plus, you get two-for-one in Kennebunkport: From the coast, drive a mere mile inland and you’re in the thick of the forest. “I think it’s impossible to see everything Maine has to offer,” says Grimes. “Anyone that tells you they have isn’t telling the truth.”

BEACH TIME: Swim Goose Rocks or Kennebunk Beach, and stroll Gooches, Middle and Mothers.

GOOD EATS: Sample the fish and chips at The Ramp and no frills lobster and steamers at Langsford Road Lobster & Fish House.

LIKE A LOCAL: Take a tipple at Federal Jack’s tavern or Old Vines Wine Bar.

ON THE WATER: Test your sea legs aboard a classic wooden lobster boat with Rugosa Lobster Tours.

WHEN IT RAINS: Visit the Seashore Trolley Museum or the nearby Ogunquit Museum of American Art.

SCENIC DRIVES: Drive along Ocean Avenue to St. Ann’s seaside chapel, built in 1887, and on to Cape Arundel and Walkers Point.

UPON RETURN: Explore the oft-overlooked towns of Harpswell and Belfast, as well as Cheague Island.

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Twin FarmsBARNARD, VERMONT – Written in the walls of Vermont’s only five-star resort are stories of proprietors past. Once home to Nobel Prize-winning author Sinclair Lewis, Twin Farms exudes timeless taste while offering respite from daily life. Each of the 20 custom-furnished accommodations is cozily curated with comfortable interiors, col-lected art and warm amenities like wood-burning fireplaces. The property’s all-inclusive pricing welcomes guests’ every desire, from a breakfast of lemon soufflé pancakes to a private dinner in the wine cellar. Whether you aim to relax over a rejuvenating treatment at The Bridge House Spa or relish the 300 acres of wooded outdoors with a canoe, a fly rod or a game of croquet, Twin Farms’ romance

stays in memory long after leaving. Recommended since 1994;

Readers’ Choice–2013, 2014, 2015.

Andrew Harper Benefits: Best available non-restricted rates • Room upgrade, when available at check-in • Welcome bottle of premium wine per room • One private guided activity per stay

Standard Inclusions: All meals, snacks and beverages, including cocktails and canapés each evening and s’mores around the bonfire • Gourmet box lunches upon departure • Personalized welcome from the manager • Compli-mentary Lebanon Municipal Airport transfers • Packing and unpacking service • Laundry service • Unlimited phone calls • Wi-Fi

P R O M OT I O N

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Ocean House & Weekapaug Inn WESTERLY, RHODE ISLAND – History, charm and striking seaside views combine to provide the ideal setting for a relaxed getaway on the shores of Rhode Island. A charming yellow façade greets guests at the 67-room Ocean House atop the bluffs of Watch Hill, while a recently restored Shingle-style building welcomes travelers to the 27 rooms and four suites of the intimate Weekapaug Inn, situated on the west end of Quonochontaug

Pond. Recommended since 2011 (Ocean House) and 2014 (Weekapaug Inn); OCEAN HOUSE:

Readers’ Choice–2013, 2014, 2015; WEEKAPAUG INN: Grand Award–2015.

Find inspiration with this sample two-night itinerary:

Day 1 Check in to your scenic room at Ocean House, just 15 minutes from the Westerly train station. Relax with a drink in the Living Room to the sounds of world-famous blues pianist Al Copley. Later that evening, dine on seasonally inspired dishes at Seasons as the sun sets over Little Nar-ragansett Bay.

Day 2 Take a morning spa treatment at OH! Spa, then enjoy a day trip to the quaint island town of Newport in a complimentary Mercedes-Benz convertible. Upon your return, transfer to Weekapaug Inn and sink

into an Adirondack chair for afternoon cocktails and light bites on The Lawn. Afterward, take a sunset boat ride on the Quonnie Queen before enjoying an evening of s’mores by the fire pit.

Day 3 Wake up early to watch the sun rise over the Atlantic with a cup of coffee from the guest pantry. After a full breakfast at The Restaurant, included in your room rate, tour the village of Weekapaug on the inn’s complimentary bicycles.

oceanhouseri.com weekapauginn.com

SPECIAL OFFER: Spring Packages Delight in the bounty of coastal Rhode Island with tailor-made seasonal packages. Focus on health and relaxation at Ocean House with a $150 spa credit, juice class and more; or discover New England flavors at Weekapaug Inn with an exclusive clam-harvesting experience alongside a $50 dining credit. Contact the Andrew Harper Travel Office or view online at AndrewHarper.com for full details. also includes: Andrew Harper benefits and standard inclusions. dates: Offer is valid on new reservations only, for travel through May 26, 2016, based on availability and excluding major holidays. Offer is not combinable with any other promotions. Rates are based on double occupancy. Restrictions may apply.

Andrew Harper Benefits: OCEAN HOUSE: Preferred rates • Room upgrade, when available at check-in • Daily continental breakfast served at the restaurant • A private tour per room • Welcome ame-nity • Early check-in and late checkout, when available • WEEKAPAUG: Preferred rates • Room upgrade, when available at check-in • VIP welcome amenity • Private tour of the property

Standard Inclusions: OCEAN HOUSE: Access to fit-ness facilities • Resort activities • Valet parking • Wi-Fi • WEEKAPAUG: Daily full breakfast served at The Restaurant • Access to fitness facilities • Valet parking • Wi-Fi

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Ocean House

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Weekapaug Inn

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A M ST E R DA M , N E T H E R L A N D S

Conservatorium HotelGuaranteed Room UpgradeThis summer, enjoy your stay at the Conserva-torium and receive a guaranteed upgrade on arrival. also includes Andrew Harper benefits and standard inclusions. dates Offer is valid on new reservations only, booked by Aug. 31 for travel from June 19–Aug. 31, 2016, based on availability and excluding Aug. 6, 2016. Not applicable when booking Residence, Concerto, I Love Amsterdam or Penthouse suites. Offer is not combinable with any other promotions.

BA R C E LO N A , S PA I N

Gran Hotel La FloridaExclusive 15 Percent Early Booking DiscountBook a spacious Family Room—featuring an expansive private terrace—at least 45 days in advance and enjoy a subscriber-exclusive 15 per-cent discount on the nightly rate. also includes Andrew Harper benefits, as well as standard inclu-sions. dates Offer is valid on new reservations only, booked by May 16 for travel through June 30, 2016, subject to availability. Rates are based on two adults and two children per room. Restric-tions may apply. Offer is not combinable with any other promotions.

Here is what you can look forward to in the next issue of the Andrew Harper Traveler:

Wilderness Experiences•

Western Australia•

Southern Spain

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Park Hyatt Paris–VendômePARIS, FRANCE – From its prime location on the prestigious Rue de la Paix, this jewel-box hotel dazzles in the City of Light. A striking amalgam of contemporary architecture, classic design and understated elegance, the Park Hyatt Paris–Vendôme is one of the city’s most visually stunning hotels. Impeccably appointed, the establishment’s 110 guestrooms set the stage for a memorable five-star experience, where every need is met and every desire attended to. Guests looking for further decadence will swoon over the 43 opulent suites, three of which boast a unique in-suite spa experience.

Home to a mélange of dining experiences serving Paris’ finest—from gastronomic fare

at the Michelin-star Pur’-Jean Francois Rouquette to dining alfresco in the newly renovated

La Terrasse courtyard—traveling gourmets are sure to be delighted. Guests looking for the

pinnacle of rest and relaxation will feel equally at home in tranquil Le Spa, where the finest La

Mer products are used in a variety of indulgent treatments, certain to soothe the senses and

restore body and mind during your Parisian adventure.Recommended since 2014.

paris.vendome.hyatt.com

SPECIAL OFFER: Complimentary Fourth Night Confirm a minimum stay of four nights in a Park Room or higher category and enjoy your fourth night free. also includes: Andrew Harper benefits and standard inclusions. dates: Offer is valid on new reservations only, booked by Aug. 27 for travel between Feb. 1 and May 15, 2016, and July 15 and Aug. 31, 2016, based on availability and excluding March 1–9, 2016. Offer is not com-binable with any other promotions.

Andrew Harper Benefits: Best available non-restricted rates • Room upgrade, when available at check-in • Daily American breakfast served at Les Orchidées or in room • 85 EUR food and beverage credit per room • When staying four nights or longer in a Park Deluxe room and above, an airport meet and greet and one-way transfer

Standard Inclusions: VAT • Access to spa and fitness facilities • Wi-Fi • Parking

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Take in all the beauty New Zealand has to offer as you land a prize-winning trout. Local guides, with their intimate knowledge of the waters, can take you by helicoptor on an excursion tailored just for you. No matter your skill level, these untouched back country rivers will make your next experience unforgettable.

West Coast, South Island

newzealand.com/luxury

Photo Credit: David Lambroughton

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