On The Go Magazine

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JULY - SEPTEM

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ON GOTHE

A MAGAZINE FOR TRAVELERS

Top 10 Things to Do in HawaiiWith so much to do, spread across sixbeautiful islands, we help you narrow

down your Hawaii to-do list.Page 20

All Aboard the Napa ValleyWine Train

Get transported back in time to early 20thcentury luxury as you ride historic rails to

some of Napa Valley’s best vineyards.Page 14

JULY - SEPTEMBER 2015

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Writer & Editor Susie Reese

Layout & Design Sharon Martin

Marketing Team Melissa Gusman,

Adam Okimatsu & Sarah Afana

Associate Editor Meghan Brennan

Group Editor Phil Gusman

Editor’s Note 4Paradise Found 5Hawaii, the Paradise 6-7of the Pacific

On the Move 8-9The latest on property openings, flight routes, andcruise news.

A Flight Attendant’s30,000-Foot View 10-11Get truths, tips, and thoughts about flying and the air-line industry from a veteran flight attendant..

City Switch 12-13You don’t want to accidentally book a flight to themiddle of the country instead of Europe.

All Aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train 14 -15Chugging through one of the most famous wine regions in the world, the Napa Valley Wine Train ispart restaurant, part museum, and all fun.

Top Travel Apps 16-17In case of last-minute travel snags, these apps are really good to have in your pocket.

Top 10 Things to Do InHawaii: Coffee,Craters,and City Tours 20 -21Hawaii is home to Kona coffee, the world’s largest dormant volcano, America’s only royal palace, and more!

Ladies’ Must-HaveTravel Gear 22,24-25International TV Host Ashley Colburn dishes about herfavorite gear to make your next trip less stressful andmore enjoyable.

Oddest NFLTraining CampLocations 26-27A Trip to Rome: What to See &What to Skip 28-29

The Sands of Summer—Sand SculptingCompetitors &Competitions 30-33Sandmasters Matthew Deibert and Sue McGrewdiscuss their sandsculpting adventures and favoritesummer festivals.

Which Celebrity Destination ShouldYou Visit? 34-35Expert Advice:Group TravelTrips & Tips 36Snow Bunny Shuns Skis,Embraces Zip-Linesand Snowmobilesin Whistler 38-39Mr. Brochure Jed Hauck discovers there’s more thanjust world-class ski slopes in Whistler, Canada.

Spotlight On:Hyatt ZivaPuerto Vallarta 42-43Erica’s Asian Adventure— Vietnam 44-45, 47From Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, discover the sightsof Vietnam.

Conspiracy Sites:Roswell, New Mexico 48Wine & Food Festival,Cancun-Riviera Maya 50-52Cancun-Riviera Maya is more than a Spring Breakparadise. It’s found a sophisticated palate for food lovers!

Save the Date 54Mark your calendars with these world-class events inthe U.S. and beyond.

Halloween inthe Hollow 56-57What’s more Halloween than Sleepy Hollow? .

Stuffed GypsyPepper Recipe 64

The Wizarding Worldof Harry Potter:Guide for Nerds 60-61Associate Editor Meghan Brennan takes us on a magical journey through Universal Orlando®

Resort’s newest addition.

Tuscan Treats andCinque Terre 62-63Experience all of Tuscany’s flavors and famous sightswith traveler Peter Dias and Back-Roads Touring

Spotlight On: Magic Castle Hotel 64-65General Manager Darren Ross tells us what it takesto be the number one hotel rated on TripAdvisor inLos Angeles.

For Generations: Travel Destinations 66-67.

Spotlight On: Wildcatter Ranch 68-69Howdy, Partner! How about a true home-on-the-range escape? Check out this unique resort in Texas

Q&A with TravelBlogger Lesley Carter 70-71Explore Mauritius with Bucket List Publications

Editor Lesley Carter and her daughter, Athena!

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JULY - SEPTEMBER 2015 I GOGO VACATIONS 71

Follow Lesley’s globe-trotting adventures on Bucket List Publications at bucketlistpublications.org, and nextmagazine, look for more adventures from Lesley!

Q: Can you give a brief itinerary of your trip? Whatwere you most looking forward to seeing/doing?

Q: What sort of travelers would you recommend visit Mauritius?

A: I stayed half of the time at Constance Belle Mare Plage and the otherhalf at Constance Le Prince Maurice. Transportation to each Constance property is included as part of the all-inclusive package. We planned oneactivity per day to avoid getting over-tired and hired a guide to drive us toeach location and help us on our journey.

Activities included Casela Nature & Leisure Park, Chamarel Colored Earth,Curious Corner, Crocodile Park, Blue Safari Submarine, and EasterliesCatamaran Cruise. We usually ate lunch at a new place each day. Sincewe had the all-inclusive package at Constance, we ate breakfast and dinnerthere. We scheduled a full day at each property for relaxation, resort activities, and beach time.

I was most looking forward to our spa day at Constance Le Prince Maurice.I’ve had many spa experiences around the world but none where Athenacould join me. We were each given a massage at the same time, andthen Athena had her finger and toenails painted while I finished my full-body massage. She is, undoubtedly, a princess, and she loves beingpampered. Joining me at the spa made her feel valued and like a “biggirl.” She talked about it for weeks after we returned home.

I also looked forward to the full-day catamaran tour. We both love snorkeling and being on the ocean. It’s a fantastic way to sightsee andspend quality time together.

A: Mauritius offers something for almost every traveler. With countless extreme adventures like skydiving, kiteboarding, windsurfing, and hiking,it’s an adventure seeker’s paradise. The numerous luxurious properties pamper you like royalty, and the family-friendly options are plentiful. Theturquoise waters are a diver’s dream, and Mauritius is among the top fivebest places to get married and take a honeymoon. Even budget travelerscan find cheap all-inclusive options or campsites in Mauritius. For solo travelers,I’d recommend a hotel like Club Med where group activities are plannedand the nightlife is more active, but it’s still a great place to explore.




While completing the weekly cruise update for our blog, The Journey, I read a press release about PrincessCruises’ annual World Cruise, which departs for an unprecedented 111 days and visits six continents and 40destinations. Obvious question aside (who has 111 days to sail the world?), the itinerary is comprehensive, startingin Los Angeles and ending in Fort Lauderdale, and along the way, cruise goers will no doubt scratch off halfof their bucket list.

After seeing this itinerary, I immediately thought of this issue of On the Go: A Magazine for Travelers and decided to dub this our “bucket list issue.” We start off in Hawaii, a must-see destination for many Americansand romantics, and then catapult to Vietnam where Erica Scannelli of Worldwide Traveler takes us on a cultural journey from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. We need some sustenance after that long haul, so we headto Cancun-Rivera Maya with Social Media Manager Sarah John Afana, who taste-tests her way around the Food& Wine Festival. Then we head out to Mauritius with travel blogger Lesley Carter, who writes the aptly namedBucket List Publications. Ashley Colburn of Paradise Found shows us her travel tools of the trade, including hermonster suitcase affectionately named Big Bertha.

While we’re overseas, Associate Editor Meghan Brennan shows us what to see and what to skip in Rome before we get on board with Peter Dias and Back-Roads Touring for the Tuscan Treats & the Cinque Terre Tour.

Of course, no American’s bucket list is complete without discovering more of our own country, so we head tothe beach (and sometimes the pier) for the best sandsculpting competitions, complete with recommendations fromsand legends Matthew Deibert and Sue McGrew. And there’s no way you’ve lived until you’ve taken a ride onthe Napa Valley Wine Train or visited Roswell, New Mexico, the supposed sight of an actual alien encounter.Halloween’s coming up, so why not spend it in one of the spookiest destinations in America, Sleepy Hollow?We talk to master storyteller Jonathan Kruk about his rendition of the classic story in the Old Dutch Church, whereparts of “Legend” actually took place.

We also stop by some of the most unique accommodations in the U.S., including a working ranch in Texas andthe Magic Castle Hotel, the number one hotel on TripAdvisor for L.A. Speaking of magic, Meghan also givesus the nerd tour of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ at Universal Orlando® Resort.

Of course, we can’t leave out ski season as it rapidly approaches, so Jed Hauck, Mr. Brochure here at GOGOVacations, heads up to Whistler to check out the slopes, snowmobiles, and even the zip-lines.

And as we make our bucket list, we should also celebrate the start of the journey, so we’d like to welcome Rylie Jordan Stout, the newest addition to our graphic designer Stefani’s family. And special thanks to Sharon Martinfor stepping in and designing the magazine you see here.

Hopefully, we’ll help you make that bucket list so you can embark upon your own journey! But please excuseme as I speak to Group Editor Phil Gusman about the World Cruise. That’s practically working from home, right?

Susie Reese

EDITOR’SNOTE:

Welcome To Our Bucket List Issue!




Find the resort and destination that fits your unique vibe, taste,and personality with Paradise Found, GOGO Vacations’ TellyAward winning webseries that takes you to the most luxurious,exciting, and relaxing resorts and destinations in Mexico andthe Caribbean. Hosted by Emmy Award winner and internationaltravel guru Ashley Colburn, Paradise Found, has explored therestaurants, spas, and activities at Excellence Resorts, Melia Resorts, AMResorts, and more. Ashley showcases each resort’sdistinctive service, feel, and experiences so you and your travelagent can choose the destination that best suits you.

Ashley recently discovered paradise in the Bahamas at Atlantis,Paradise Island and on Norwegian Cruise Line’s NorwegianBreakaway. With signature dining, the largest casino in theCaribbean, and accommodations to fit every need andbudget, Atlantis is the premier vacation destinations on the islands, and Norwegian Breakaway offers the quintessentialcruise experience with spectacular Broadway shows, three newseafood venues, and The Waterfront, a quarter-mile oceanfrontpromenade with restaurants and bars, plus breathtaking vistas.

Also, check-out Paradise Found: Hawaii as Ashley explores thetropical escape, featuring stops at Outrigger Resorts, PearlHarbor, Paradise Cove Luau, and Waikiki.

Check out our newest ParadiseFound episode featuring Atlantis

Norwegi an Breakaway



Hawaii,the Paradisein the Pacific

Hawaii,the Paradisein the Pacific

(Page 20)

Hawaii offers something for every traveler tothis tropical destination. From crystal clear waters and coffee plantations, to beachfrontresorts and historic landmarks, the six distinctislands welcome surfers, adventurers, and relaxation seekers. Experience the natural phenomenon of an active volcano or thebeloved culture of a traditional luau. Immerseyourself in the beauty of Waimea Canyon orwatch the sunrise over the Haleakala Crater. Discover Hawaii’s most spectacular sights and experiences in the “Top 10 Things to Do inHawaii: Coffee, Craters, and City Tours.”


Properties

AMResorts® will bring its popular all-adult brand, Secrets® Resorts, to Costa Rica with Secrets® Papagayo Costa Rica. Originally the Papagayo Resort & Spa, the resort suspendedoperations to undergo renovations and rebranding, and will reopen on Nov. 11.

Secrets® Resorts will also expand into Panama with Secrets® Playa Bonita Panama,scheduled to open in December. It will be AMResorts’® second venture in Panama.

Also in December, Breathless Resorts will reach the Mexican Pacific with Breathless Cabo SanLucas Resort & Spa, offering stunning views of El Arco with a prime location near the marina.

In Jamaica, AMResorts® will open the family-friendly Sunscape Montego Bay, located nextto Secrets St. James Montego Bay and Secrets Wild Orchid Montego Bay.AMResorts will assume operation of the Sunset Beach Resorts, Spa and Water Park andthe Oasis at Sunset Aug. 1, but the resort will not be rebranded until later this year.

Hilton announced the addition of two new properties to the Curio – A Collection by Hiltonline: the Jewel Paradise Cove Beach Resort & Spa Runaway Beach, Curio – A Collectionby Hilton, and Jewel Dunn’s River Beach Resort & Spa Ocho Rios, Curio – A Collectionby Hilton. The properties will be the first Curio resorts in the Caribbean and are slated tojoin the line in 2015.

Karisma Hotels and Viacom have agreed to a deal to bring Nickelodeon-branded hotelsto the Caribbean and Mexico. Nickelodeon Punta Cana, the first hotel, is scheduled toopen in the Dominican Republic in 2016. Nickelodeon Experiences, including characterappearances, family activities, and themed dishes, will be available at Azul Resorts in theCaribbean, starting this summer.

EVERYTHING you need to know about new flights,hotel & resort openings, and cruise experiences.



Omni Hotels & Resorts, in partnership with The Atlanta Braves, are developing TheOmni Atlanta Hotel at SunTrust Park, which will feature16 floors, 260 guestrooms rooms and suites, and an elevated pooldeck and bar overlooking the plaza and ballpark. The hotel is slatedto break ground later this year.

Scheduled to open in spring 2016, Rush Creek Lodge will be the firstnew hotel accommodations in California’s Yosemite National Park areain over 25 years and will be a contemporary mountain resort with 143lodge rooms, suites, and hillside villas. The resort will also boast arestaurant and tavern with a wood-fired oven and open kitchen, a full-service onsite recreation department with more than 30 types of guidedexcursions, a general store, and more.

Airlines

Alaska Airlines will add service between Los Angeles (LAX) and CostaRica’s two major international airports, San Jose (SJO) and Liberia/Guanacaste (LIR), beginning Oct. 31 and Nov. 1, respectively. Beginning Sept. 9, the airline will also have daily nonstop service between LAX and Baltimore (BWI), and later in the fall, it will beginnonstop service from its Seattle (SEA) hub to Charleston, South Carolina(CHS); Nashville, Tennessee (BNA); and Raleigh/Durham, North Carolina (RDU).

Southwest Airlines announced its seat choice for its new Boeing 737-800 and 737 MAX aircrafts, and according to a company statement, the new seats will be the widest economy seats available inthe single-aisle 737 market. They will also have increased legroom andpersonal stowage, and offer an adjustable headrest. The new seatswhich arrives on the new 737-800s in mid-2016, are part of Southwest’s fleet upgrades, which also include the introduction of theBoeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft and the projected launch of the737 MAX aircraft in 2017.

Southwest also announced it will provide daily, nonstop service between Denver International Airport (DEN) and Lic. Gustavo DiazOrdaz International Airport (PVR) in Puerto Vallarta, beginning in November, subject to governmental approval.

JetBlue will launch twice-daily service from Fort Lauderdale-HollywoodInternational Airport (FLL) to Baltimore/Washington Thurgood MarshallInternational Airport (BWI) on Nov. 12; and daily service from AlbanyInternational Airport (ALB) to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood InternationalAirport (FLL) and Orlando International Airport (MCO), starting Dec. 10.

Virgin American will fly from the new Terminal Two at San FranciscoInternational (SFO) to Honolulu, Oahu (HNL), starting Nov. 2, and toKahului, Maui (OGG), starting Dec. 3.

Emirates will begin nonstop, daily service between Orlando (MCO)and Dubai (DXB) starting Sept. 1. The flight will be approximately 14hours and 10 minutes long.

Cruise

Norwegian Cruise Line announced that guests sailing from Miamiaboard Norwegian Sky will enjoy a more comprehensive, all-inclusiveexperience with dining, entertainment, and free unlimited beer, wine,and premium spirits, beginning January 2016. The premium spirits andinnovative cocktails will be crafted by award-winning mixologists fromMiami’s Bar Lab. Guests 20 and younger will enjoy unlimited sodasand juices.

Back-Roads Touring, a small-groups operator of European tours,launched new water-based products called Charming Waterways ofEurope, which feature barging trips on French canals, the Adriatic Islands of Croatia, along the Turquoise Coast of Turkey, and the GreekCycladic Islands. Launching in summer 2015 and 201 6, the new toursalso combine with land travel to create a unique, cultural immersion.


If Anne Murphy (not her real name) could telleveryone boarding her plane just one thing,it would be that she and her fellow cabincrew are there, first and foremost, for passengers’ safety. Well, that and to pleaseboard a little more quickly. And maybe consider bringing your own food on board.And a pen for customs forms.

Flight attendants may notbe the ones guiding theplane through the air, butthey are the members of thecrew that passengers seeand interact with most.They’re also highly trainedemployees of any airline –they know how to handleevery kind of situation,from the everyday to themost rare occurrences.Many speak more thanone language, especially on internationalroutes. Basically, serving soda and peanutsis only the smallest part of what they do.

After over 30 years as a flight attendant for amajor U.S. airline, Murphy knows all the insand outs of air travel. And since she does international routes, she knows the world likethe back of her hand. The day before wespoke, she was flying home from Japan, andthe day after she was off to the Chinese consulate to renew her visa – talk about anexciting life!

It’s not all fun and games and glamour,though, as Murphy will be the first to tell you.She’s seen some things. “Some people justsnap,” she says, which seems to encompassa range of sins from air rage to attemptedstranglings to, well, attempts to “go into thebathroom with another person for…pleasure,” as Murphy delicately puts it. Her

most frightening story isone of a passenger whoattempted to open one ofthe plane’s doors whilein flight (which, she isquick to point out, is impossible).

Air travel has changed alot in the decades thatMurphy’s been flying,especially in terms of security. “When I firststarted,” she says, “all

you had to do was show your badge andyou could walk through security; you didn’t have to stop.” And of course, the sophistication of the Jet Age is long gone. Murphy wasn’t there for it, but she works withsome flight attendants who were. “Peopleused to dress up to fly, and now people barelyhave clothes on...It’s less civil,” she adds, aslightly mournful tone in her voice.

For whatever drawbacks there might be,though, Murphy keeps on going for one verygood reason: “I’m in love with the world.”

“ PEOPLE USED TO

DRESS UP TO FLY,

AND NOW PEOPLE

BARELY HAVE

CLOTHES ON...

IT’S LESS CIVIL”


Asked for a list of her favorite destinations,she can’t quite help herself from gushing.“I love going to Greece; I love Asia because it’s so different…I like places thathave culture, that have history…Paris,England, Italy.

“Wherever I go, I find something to like.” Sometimes it’s thefood, like arancini and gelato in Italy,bratwurst and beer inGermany, and abaguette with butter in France.In fact, Murphy always tries to stopby a grocery storewhen she’s abroad.Sometimes it’s just soshe has something toeat on the flighthome. “There’s not much anyone can do”for plane food, she says – remember,flight attendants eat the same meals passengers do, which have been frozenand stored in a warehouse before beingbrought to the airport. She’s become ahuge advocate of bringing her own

meals for flights, but acknowledges thatsome people rely on hot sauce to makethings more palatable.

Still, there are a few things she says youshould always bring on your flight, even if you’re OK with the airline’s food. “Planesrun cold,” she mentions, so even if you’re

always warm, it can’thurt to have a sweateror a jacket with you,especially these dayswhen there aren’t always blankets onboard. She also sug-gests an eye coverand earplugs if youknow you want tosleep, plus somethingto keep yourselfamused – becauseyou never know if the

in-flight entertainment system might havesome problems. Her most surprising itemto bring along? An umbrella – becausethere’s always a chance of rain when youget where you’re going.

But really – don’t forget a pen.

“ I LOVE GOING

TO GREECE; I LOVE

ASIA BECAUSE IT IS

SO DIFFERENT...I LIKE

PLACES THAT

HAVE CULTURE”

A FLIGHTATTENDANT’S30,000-FOOT VIEW

by Meghan Brennan

Find more travel tips, interviews, and vaction ideas on our blog, The Journey, at http://blog.gogo-vacations.com/



So my editor laughed at me when I suggesteda story called “Cities with the Same Name.”

He asked me, “What will that entail?”

“An article about cities with the same name.What people do differently in each one.”

He laughed again (he does that frequently)and said he was interested in seeing what I came up with.

So here it is!

Springfield is the number one most commonname for a city/town/municipality in the UnitedStates. In Massachusetts, Springfield is home toBasketball Hall of Fame, the Dr. Seuss NationalMemorial Sculpture Garden, and (less than threemiles away) Six Flags New England. In Springfield, Missouri, travelers will find Six FlagsSt. Louis because…someone can’t name SixFlags theme parks properly. And Springfield, Illinois houses the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, Lincoln’s home, his law offices, and even his tomb.

Bristol, Kentucky draws thousands of fanseach year to the Bristol Motor Speedway, akathe Last Great Colosseum (Yeah...okay), and inAugust, the NASCAR Spring Cup Series will return with the Irwin Tools Night Race along witha week’s worth of festivities. Bristol, England isone of the UK’s most populous cities, with the breathtaking Clifton Suspension Bridge, a zoowith 13 animatronic moving bugs (yep, giantanimatronic bugs…there are also live animals), and the largest restaurant in the UK,able to feed 1,000 people at one time.

SWITCH CITY



Lexington, Kentucky is known as the “HorseCapital of the World,” with the Kentucky HorsePark featuring as many as 50 breeds of horses,a museum, and art galleries. There’s also theAfrican American Heritage Trail and KentuckyKingdom theme park. Lexington, Massachusettsis best known for its role in the American Revolutionary War and offers the Liberty Ride,guided trolley tours of Lexington and nearby Concord, the Minute Man National HistoricalPark, and the Battle Green, where blood wasfirst spilled against Great Britain.

Paris, France is known as one of the most romantic spots in the world, with world-classsites like the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower. Butcloser to home, you can visit Paris, Texas, withits Eiffel Tower topped by a giant red cowboyhat (it’s true). Paris, Tennessee also has an EiffelTower (without the cowboy hat); Paris, Ontariois the Cobblestone Capital of Canada (no Eif-fel Tower). And there are other locations bearingthe same name in New York, Virginia, Illinois,and Idaho, among others.

Of course, these aren’t the only cities that sharenames. You might be able to get gourmet Italianfood in Rome, New York, but it’s not the sameas if you’re eating it in the shadow of the Colosseum. Also, there is no Big Ben in London,Ohio, and I hear they don’t have a royal family.So this is just another reason to use a travelagent. After all, you don’t want to accidentallybook a flight to the middle of the country insteadof Europe.


Chugging through one of the most famous wine regions of the world, the Napa Valley Wine Trainis part restaurant, part museum, and all fun. Housedin 1915 restored Pullman railcars, the train is a nostalgic journey in early 20th century style with awelcome two-ounce pour, a three-course meal, anda three-hour ride through the vineyards.

“It was one of the most exclusive experiences of my life,”boasts Gosha Reese, destination coordinator, U.S. Westfor Flight Centre. “A beautiful old fashionable train, staffdressed in beautiful uniforms—you had a feeling of beingtransported to the 20’s.”

“The Wine Train is a restaurant housed on an antiquetrain,” explains Kira McManus Devitt, director of marketingand public relations for the Wine Train, and the grand-daughter of Vincent DeDomencio, Wine Train founder.“We have options where guests can remain on the trainfor the three-hour trip, or guests can spend part of theirtime on the train and then part of their time touring one ofour partner wineries.”

On board is a full bar, stocked with wines from the localvineyards, and the exquisite meals of roasted beef tenderloin, almond encrusted salmon piccata, and stuffedgypsy peppers (see recipe on pg. 59), aren’t the onlyentertainment.

“With the day tour, you have beautiful views becauseyou’re riding through Napa Valley,” says Reese. “Youhave wineries on both sides.”

CASTLE WINERY TRIP

Ken Dolan, account director of the W Los Angeles, tooka night ride on the Napa Valley Wine Train. “The wholething was fantastic from start to end, and the views werenice at dusk. Later, even though we didn’t have much ofa view, the wineries were lit up in the front, so you don’tjust necessarily have that sprawling view, but you can seethe entrances.”

The most popular ride is the Vista Dome, a two-story traincar built in 1952 that offers the Wine Train’s first-class, VIPexperience.

Notes Devitt, “It tends to sell out two to three weeks in advance, so guests really seem to like the VIP experience.It’s also a private car, so other guests can’t travel throughthat car unless they purchased seats in it.”

Wine Train ExperiencesThe Napa Valley Wine Train offers themed, unique experiences you won’t find at most restaurants or evenmost theaters.

Perfect for groups, birthdays, and bachelorette parties,The Murder Mystery Train is like Clue for the rails, whereguests interact with actors to find out who committed thedastardly crime. The experience is interactive, and guestsare urged to dress the part and join the hunt for the murderer.

“The Murder Mystery Train is really, really fun,” says Devitt. “You are able to pick your own name if you wantto participate in that way, or you can just sit back andenjoy it. It’s like an interactive dinner theater, and throughout

ALL ABOARD THE NAPA VALLEY

WINETRAIN


VISTA DOME

the train ride, the actors come into your car and play out a scene.”

At the end, guests try to figure out who committed the murder,but the murderer changes from train ride to train ride, soguests who enjoyed the experience can return for a new one.

“A fair amount of people dress up,” explains Devitt. “Youdon’t get up and act with the characters, but you do interactwith the actors. It might take a second because it puts yououtside of your comfort zone, but a lot of times people endup participating.”

Another experience on the wine train is the Santa Train,which runs in November and December. Families first arriveat the station to have their picture taken with Santa, and thenSanta and other holiday characters board the train for thehour-and-a-half trip.

Notes Devitt, “That’s half the duration of a regular trip. It’sdownsized for children with short attention spans, but theyhave such a fun time.”

Reflected in the discounted price, the experience does not include food, but certain items, like chicken fingers and evensalmon and caviar, are available for purchase.

“We wanted to be able to give families the option of ordering or not ordering food because some kids have to eat,and some kids won’t eat.”

The train also offers cookies and hot chocolate, as well as afull bar onboard (this is the wine train after all.)

Holidays can also be spent on the wine train with special experiences for Easter, Mother’s Day, and New Year’s. Andthe Napa Valley Wine Train offers a special experiencecalled The Big Gay Train. In conjunction with Out in theVineyard, this special train is designed to be a fun, gay-friendly event featuring wines from LGBT makers.

“Now it’s expanded to Washington and Oregon winemakers,too, but we just wanted to showcase these lesser knownwinemakers because there wasn’t an event like it in the valleyat the time. It’s been fun and it’s been really successful for thelast five years.”

Groups about the trainThe Napa Valley Wine Train offers wonderful group experiences, tailored to the clients’ desires. According toDevitt, groups can buy up a train car or even the whole train,which hosts up to 360 passengers.

“We have our commissary, where our main prep kitchen is,”explains Devitt, “and guests have started upstairs on our commissary overlooking our rail yard before having asparkling wine reception.” Then the party boards the train fora night on the rails.

The wine train also celebrates weddings, but the experiencesare more conducive to elopements, rehearsal dinners, andwedding receptions, Devitt notes.

(See a Napa Valley Wine Train recipe on page 59)


PHOTO CREDIT: KEITH ROSENTHAL


TOPTRAVEL APPSPeople have been traveling for ages, but now that our phones are mini-computers, it’seasier than ever before. In case of last-minute snags, these are some apps that are really good to have in your pocket.

City Maps 2GoOffline MapsYou don’t want to carry around agiant paper map (who can fold thosethings anyway?), and the map onyour phone needs pricey data to helpyou find your way. That’s where thisapp comes in – download a map ofthe city before you head out, and pullit up – offline – whenever you want.

Cost: Free, but offers in-app purchases.

Packing ProAnyone who thinks packing is easyhas never had to go 10 days withone carry-on bag. Luckily, this app ishere to simplify things – just put insome basic information about yourtrip and it gives you a packing listseparated into nifty categories like‘Essentials,’ ‘Gadgets,’ and, oh yeah, ‘Clothes.’

Cost: $2.99

SunscreenProving that there really is an app foreverything is this deceptively simplelittle guy. When you input your location’sUV Index, the SPF of your sunscreen,and your skin type, it’ll tell you exactlywhen you need to reapply to avoidpainful sunburn – a vacation ruiner ifever there was one.

Cost: Free

FlightAware Flight TrackerTrack real-time flight status with this app and check out the trackingmap that shows any commercialflight worldwide.


PostagramTired of the same old postcards? Thisapp lets you upload one of your ownvacation photos along with a person-alized greeting. Then you can send itover email, or mail a physical copyfor just 99 cents in the U.S. and$1.99 worldwide.


LoungeBuddyCan't take waiting by the gate onemore minute? Stuck with an unexpectedlayover or delay? LoungeBuddy helpsyou find airport lounges, along withall the amenities they offer, in morethan 500 airports around the world.You can even buy your pass in theapp and get to relaxing even faster.

Cost: Free


EntrainImagine getting to your destination already accustomed to the new schedule, with no jet lag. That’s whatthis app, developed at the Universityof Michigan, does by helping you toadjust your circadian rhythm to thetime zone you’re traveling to.

Cost: Free

FoodspottingAvoid tourist traps and make sureyou’re getting the real deal with thisapp. It uses crowd-sourced reviews,photos, and suggestions to help youfind the perfect spot for dinner. Youcan even search by price, ranking,neighborhood, and more!

Cost: Free

FootprintWhen you feel like getting nostalgic,you’ll be happy to have this app athand. It lets you pin a digital mapwith all of the places you’ve been –you can even add photos and notes,so your memories are never far away.

Cost: $2.99





5. A Traditional LuauYou haven’t experienced the Hawaiian cultureunless you’ve enjoyed a traditional luau, a feastto celebrate special events, such as a battle victory or an important milestone. Luau foodnow blends with Hawaiian, Polynesian, or evenAmerican flavors, but many still include porkcooked in an imu (underground oven); poi,boiled taro roots; poke, raw fish marinated inlemon or lime juice and coconut cream; andvarious marinated chicken, salmon, and beefdishes. Some add in Chinese noodles, potato or macaroni salads, steamed rice, and, of course,pineapples. A fresh flower lei greeting, a Mai Tai,and the hula dance make this a must-attend attraction when in Hawaii.

6. Active Volcano AdventureExperience the beauty of Hawaiian landscapeswith a helicopter adventure. Seeing Kilauea,one of the most active volcanoes in the world,is a definite highlight with its molten orangesand reds. You’ll also marvel at the natural wonder and beauty of the islands, including thetropical rainforests, breathtaking waterfalls, anddramatic cliffs. Combine your tour with a zip-linecourse through the rainforest and a tour of Volcanoes National Park with a guide for afull-day adventure.

1. Maui Whale Watching Experience

Humpback whales are some of the most photogenic whales in the world because of theirsurface activity, including breaches, pec slaps,and tail up dives, and Maui’s warm watersmake an inviting habitat for mating and givingbirth. Take a leisurely cruise into the crystal clearwaters of the Hawaiian Island HumpbackWhale National Marine Sanctuary to see themigrating whales up close. From December toMay, humpback whale sightings are almost aguarantee because of their mating season.Many voyages include live whale songs,played over hydrophones, and expert commentary, whether on a yacht, raft, or kayak.

7. USS Arizona Memorial with City Tour

The World War II Valor in the Pacific NationalMonument is a storied memorial, which includesthe events of Pearl Harbor, the internment ofJapanese Americans, the battles in the Aleutians,and the occupation of Japan. The 184-foot-longstructure spans the mid-portion of the sunken battleship and offers exhibits on the sights,sounds, and artifacts of the attack on Oahu andthe aftermath. Following the memorial, explore historic Honolulu with visits to the Iolani Palace,the official residence of Hawaiian Kingdom’slast two monarchs; King Kamehameha Statue,one of Oahu’s most photographed landmarks;the State Capitol, and more.

Hawaii is home to Kona coffee, pineapples, the world’s largest dormant volcano, and the only royal palace in America, and year after year, the world’smost isolated population center draws millions of visitors. From history buffsand luxury seekers to nature lovers and beach bums, Hawaii offers unique experiences for every visitor, and we’ve compiled the top 10 to help youchoose an itinerary that fits your interests and tastes!

by Susie Reese

Photo: Sarah John Afana

COFFEE, CRATERS, AND CITY TOURS

TOP 10 THINGS TO DO IN



2. North Shore Tour with Waimea Bay and Diamond Head

North Shore is a surfing mecca with gentlewaves in the summer and big waves in the winterthat attract beginners and veteran surfers, andthe seven-mile stretch of beaches hosts theworld’s premier surfing competitions. WaimeaBay was the legendary spot where big wavesurfing originated in the 1950s, and is also abeautiful place to sunbathe and picnic. Hike Diamond Head, a dormant volcano in theshape of a tuna’s dorsal fin. It was once a militarypost and offers enchanting views of Waikiki andOahu’s south shore, as well as underground tunnelsand military bunkers.

8. A Dole Planation VisitHawaii produces a third of the world’s pineapplesupply, so you won’t want to miss the opportunityto visit the Dole Plantation. Ride the PineappleExpress, a 22-minute train ride that takes visitorsthrough the Dole Plantation field, providing thehistory of the pineapple industry in Hawaii.Wander the eight different gardens and hearstories about plantation life and the Hawaiianheritage with Plantation Garden Tour. Oh, andyou won’t want to miss the world’s largest maze,a three-acre puzzle with almost two and a halfmiles of paths created by 14,000 colorfulHawaiian plants. Stop by the Plantation Grillefor island favorites like teriyaki chicken, kaluapork, and loco moco.

3. Napali Snorkel TourThis tour is more than just a water adventure. Ona Napali Snorkel Tour, you’ll take a catamaranout to the sublime Napali Coast where you’ll explore sea caves, ancient lava tubes, majesticwaterfalls, and swim among marine wildlife atKauai’s best snorkeling area. Some tours ventureto hidden beaches and explore ancient fishingvillages. Couple yours with a whale-watchingadventure.

9. Haleakala Sunrise Bike RideSee the sunrise over Haleakala Crater, theworld’s largest dormant volcano. It’s so largethat Manhattan could fit inside, and the viewsof Maui from its peak at sunrise are nothing shortof majestic. Riders will first drive to the summit ofHaleakala National Park (10,023 above sealevel) with guides offering history and commen-tary about the island’s rare plants and animals.Then, you will be outfitted with your bike andride down 6,500 feet on Mount Haleakalathrough the switchbacks, Haleakala Ranch, andKula before zooming through the towns ofMakawao and Paia and ending at Paia BayBeach Park.

4. “The Grand Canyon of the Pacific”Formed from erosion of the Wailua River andthe collapse of a volcano, Waimea Canyon isknown as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” Itstretches more than 14 miles along the west sideof Kauai, and is 3,600 feet deep with dramaticgorges and cliffs. The red rock among the lush,green valley offers an amazing spectacle of naturalbeauty. Experience it up close on a WailuaRiver cruise which stops at the famous FernGrotto with a rainforest walk and HanapepeLookout with a great view of the canyon. Fromthe latter, you can see where sections of themovie Jurassic Park were filmed.

10. Kona Coffee TourHawaii is the only place in America that growscoffee, so you can’t skip a Kona Coffee Tour ifyou worship the glorious elixir of life. (I love coffee;can you tell?) Visit a mountain coffee plantationand taste the smooth, sweet blend of Kona beansthat is usually expensive or even unavailable in thecontiguous 48 states (do not mistake “Kona blend”for actual “Kona” coffee). Most coffee tours are blended with a crater experience. (See what I did there?)

Ah! So that’s why so many people flock to theworld’s most isolated population center! Paradise Found’s Ashley Colburn and GOGOVacation’s Sarah Afana John just got back, socheck out the latest episode of Paradise Found:Hawaii on The Journey now. And start planningyour own journey to Hawaii with these 10 must-see sights and tastes now!

Photo: Keith Levit/Shutterstock.com



As an international TV producer, Ashley Colburn is away from her SoCal home approximately nine months out of the year. In order to look and feel her best, Ashley haslearned how to live out of a suitcase, bringing just a handful of carefully chosen items, whichcan be difficult, especially for the lady travelers. So she gave us the rundown of her favorite gearto help make your next trip a little less stressful and little more enjoyable!

The Suitcase

While some people might grab theircute hard-case luggage with

pictures of the Eiffel Tower, this bag justwon’t work for me. I need something muchsturdier and more practical with lots of compartments, and if it happens to be a littlestylish, this is just a bonus. While I havenever enjoyed packing too much, at least Ihave a suitcase I can count on. My suitcase,a Dakine Split Roller dubbed “Big Bertha,”has traveled to more than 30 countries overthe last five years, and while it has a fewscratches and blemishes, overall it still looksbrand spanking new! Some avid travelers in-sist that traveling only with a carry-on is log-ical, but this is something I cannot do as aTV host. Having to pack several outfits andshoes requires more than a carry-on, andI’ve never had my luggage lost.

So why do I love Big Bertha?

1. There are four compartments inside, allwith zippers. This allows me to feel somewhat organized and not have all ofmy stuff thrown into a black hole.

2. There are also two pockets on the outside, and since I do tend to over pack,I put some heavier items in these pockets (incase my bag is overweight, I can quicklyaccess these items and move them into mycarry-on).

3. It is very narrow. When I hop on trainsor roll a bag through a hotel room, a widesuitcase can sometimes be a hugeinconvenience. Big Bertha is the perfectsize to fit in those tiny areas.

4. The Dakine brand is known for its durability in the wheels, plastic, and fabric.I know it is a trend to get the hard case luggage, but this fabric has never let me down.

by Ashley Colburn

TRAVEL GEARLadies’ Must-Have




The Toiletries Bag Ladies, I like my creams, nailpolish, shampoos, etc., and soI need a toiletries bag bigenough to hold it all. Since Itravel so much, I try to stayaway from the hotel three-in-one shampoo/condition/bodywashes that they provide.Sometimes I just want my ownshampoo and soap from home, and it also gives me somewhat ofa routine in this very-not-routine life that I live. Made by Jo & Jo Australia, this bag is the perfect bathroom kit since—

1. It hangs. European bathrooms are so small, and many have nocounter space at all. The last thing I want is to knock my toiletries into the toilet or have my makeup fall on the ground andbreak. This is also great if you enjoy cruising because you can hangit up in the small ship bathrooms.

2. Everything can stand upright, and I don’t have to worry abouttoo many leaks or bursts of my lotions, etc.

3. The compartments are great. I have makeup brushes in one; thisprevents powders and blushes from getting all over my other toiletries.

4. It zips all the way around. There’s no way anything is going tofall out and explode in my suitcase.

5. Last but not least, it holds a lot! I don’t feel like I have to live without anything. One tip I have is to never pack and unpack this. Ifyou travel a lot, just make sure you have two of everything. That waythis kit is all set to go, and you don’t have to stress about the packing.I keep this in Big Bertha all the time.

The Carry-on

I’m very excited to tell you about my newest travel purchase. SinceI never travel with just a carry-on, it also took me a long time to finda carry-on I liked. I hated stressing about the size and if it would fitin the overhead bin, and wondering if it would protect my laptop

and personal camera and still allow me to be organized. TheCruiser Backpack by Lululemon is the perfect fit for me.

1. First and foremost, there is a pocket for my laptop! It also has itsown zipper, meaning I don’t have to shuffle through everything toaccess it.

2. I am a very organized person, so I love all the pockets on thefront. I use them for headphones, sunglasses, hand sanitizer, pens,mophie®, business cards—the list goes on.

3. Inside the main pocket are several other pockets, including a drybag. This can be great if you are traveling and have a wet bathingsuit or are going on an adventure and want to protect certain items.

4. There are two pockets on the sides — one with a magnetic flapand the other which is perfect for a water bottle. It’s important to alwaysstay hydrated when flying and traveling, so this is very convenient.

The Jewelry Case

Most women love jewelry, especially me! However, I amknown for losing an earring hereand there or misplacing anecklace somewhere and neverbeing able to find it. So I found this great travel jewelry case thathas saved my life and my earrings. Just because someone is on theroad doesn’t mean they shouldn’t accessorize. I don’t feel limitedsince my jewelry is safe in the Lori Leigh Travel Jewelry Box.

1. There’s a specific area for earrings and their backs, allowingyou to return from your trip with the same number of pairs.

2. Rings won’t get scratched or discolored as there is a specificholder for each and every one of them.

3. The small protective envelope is perfect for small gold or silver delicate necklaces.

4. Underneath the flap is an area perfect for some small bracelets.I have a few favorite pieces of everything, so I usually just keepthem in this case. This way I know where they are and can easilygrab the box and go!



Follow Ashley’s adventures, including her filming of Paradise Found, and get tips on gear and other travel must-haves on her Facebook fan page, Ashley Colburn Productions, or on Instagram, @Ashley_colburn.

The Jacket

Living in Southern California is a blessing and a curse. The blessingis we have 75-degree weather year-round, so I live the eternal summerwhen I am home. The curse is when I am traveling and experiencing anythingunder 60 degrees. Then, Iam freezing! For the pastfew years, I have teamedup with Scottevest®, whichhas the ultimate travelgear. I always travel witha jacket because I am usually freezing on the airplane, and you neverknow what kind ofweather you will encounter no matterwhere your travels takeyou. Scottevest® is theperfect brand to wear onthe airplane becausethere are secret pocketseverywhere! I roll up mypurse and keep it in mybackpack in case I want itsometime during my travels,but with my backpack andthis jacket, I’m good to go!

1. It’s stylish and so convenient. Nobody knowsthat under the cute buttonsand belt I have my creditcards, cash, passport, etc.

2. Money belts are so outdated. There’s no need to buy the sillypouch or necklace to hold your passport under your clothes. With thetrench coat, your personal documents are just as close to your body.

3. There are different colors to choose from, and I suggest lookingat some of the other gear such as pants, men’s clothing, and evenvests if you are traveling to warmer destinations.

The Shoes

Big Bertha (my suitcase) is, y’know, big, but I usually can’t travel withmore than three pairs of shoes, which some still might consider to bea lot. For sure, the brand that has taken me across the globe isOTBT (Off the Beaten Track). Comfort is most important, but the factthat they are unique and adorable is another bonus for any traveler.I also love the color schemes they have — earthy, rustic colors thatcan go with my wardrobe. They are meant to be worn while exploring some of the world’s most beautiful, tropical, and mind-blowing locations. You can see why I like them and wherethey have taken me:

1. I walked the beach in La Digue, which looks like my computerscreen saver.

2. I discovered the lost world of Atlantis with these comfy platforms.3. They took me to the marvelous Machu Picchu as I hiked aroundone of the most beautiful wonders of the world.

4. I rode an elephant and left my footprint in the sand of Bentota, Sri Lanka. The colors of these sandals matched the country perfectly.

The Neck Pillow

Some travelers might hate me when I tell you I can sleep almostanywhere, whether it’s on a plane, train, or automobile (with nosleeping pills). However, I don’t even try to sleep if I don’t have myneck pillow. This might sound silly, but those plush colorful neck pillowsat the airport kiosks just don’t cut it. Head to Brookstone for the neckpillow because:

1. I can wash this neck pillow after each trip. Imagine some ofthose plush ones that have no cover. I don’t want to think about theamount of germs they carry.

2. The material is soft and soothing, so I enjoy having somethingvery comfortable to rely on.

3. When you buy this neck pillow at Brookstone, it comes in a plasticcase, which keeps it safe and germ-free. It can easily be attachedwith a carabiner to your backpack.

Ashley at La Digue beach in the Seychelles1. 2. 3. 4.

It’s all about the shoes


ODDEST NFL NFL Training Camps are boring. There, I said it. The MLBforms two leagues in early spring, transports its teams downto Florida and Arizona, and then plays multiple games allwithin driving distance of one another. What does the NFLdo? Many teams hold their training camps at their own stadiums, but a few actually go the distance to train in faraway, off-the-beaten-path destinations.

Take the New York Jets, for example. Even though theyare based in New Jersey (not New York, as their nameindicates), they travel all the way to SUNY Cortland,

in New York. That’s a whole eight-hour drive…north (wrongway, boys, it’s colder in that direction!). The team draws morethan 41,000 spectators to the SUNY Cortland Stadium Complex, and the intimate atmosphere allows for autographs,fan activities, and merchandise from a Jets tent.

by Susie Reese


TRAINING CAMP LOCATIONSOf course, the Jets don’t take the cake for “oddest NFLtraining camp location.” That might go to the OaklandRaiders who have been holding training camp at the

Napa Valley Marriott since 1995 (and they wonder why theyhaven’t won a Super Bowl since 1983?). This unique setting offersmeeting rooms named after types of wine and a middle schoolout back with two practice fields for the team to use. And after along day on the field, who wouldn’t want to open a bottle ofNapa’s finest and relax? The Raiders can do just that in the heartof California’s wine country.

Hold on there, Napa Valley Marriott. We have anothercontender for the title! The Greenbrier®, America’s Resort in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, is a National Historic

Landmark and has welcomed distinguished guests since 1778.Those guests include the New Orleans Saints and their fans. Practicesare open to fans, and following each one, the players will sign autographs.

And if you want to stay in the same hotel as the team, the Greenbrier® does offer special rates for Saints’ fans (try to refrainfrom calling every room in hopes of talking to your favorite player).

Okay, now we’re getting somewhere! The Dallas Cowboys hold their training camp at the City of OxnardFields in California, about 30 miles west of…Los Angeles!?

(Does California have an unusually large number of Cowboysfans?) Training camp is free, and this year there will be a KidsZone with live performances from the team mascot, Rowdy. Also,there will be live broadcasts from the players and coaches as wellas team trucks, merchandise, and Hall of Fame trailers. Don’t missout on fan events and other fun activities.

And, of course, if you’re a fan of the International Series, youcan alway head over to London in October and November tosee your favorite team play in Europe during the real season!


A TRIP TO:

WHAT TO SEE & WHAT TO SKIPby Meghan Brennan

Rome is the eternal city—for millennia, people have been walking its streets and building its wonders. While this makes it one of the world’s most important cities—historically, artistically, architecturally, take your pick—it also makes it difficult to see all that the city has to offer (unless youhave weeks to explore, in which case we’d love to know if you’re looking for a travel companion).

So we have painfully and thoughtfully put together a list of what you absolutely must see in Rome and what you canskip if time just won’t allow you to do it all.

Let’s start with two of the city’s most recognizable houses of worship: the Vatican and the Pantheon. (OK, we’re cheating a little bit here, because the Vatican isn’t technically in Rome; it’s its own country. But going to Rome is howpeople get to the seat of the Catholic Church, so we’re allowing it.) A visit to Vatican City is generally comprised ofthree things: the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica. It can take up a whole day if you let it,but you can also get through it in about three hours with a good tour guide—and you really ought to have a tour guide.

The Pantheon is smaller, but just as amazing—it’s one of Rome’s ancient buildings, originally a place to worship allthe gods, but transformed into a Catholic Church later in time. Perhaps its most famous feature is its dome, with acentral opening called the oculus. It is also home to the resting places of many famous individuals, including the artistRaphael and Queen Margherita, after whom, according to legend, margherita pizza was named.


So, which should you see and which should you skip? That depends on how much time you have. If you canallow the time, visit the Vatican, because the museums are home to one of the most astounding art collections in the world, including Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel. But, if you are short on time (or more interested in ancient architecture than art), head to the Pantheon and use the extra time to explore the area.

ANCIENT LANDMARKSThe ancient Romans left an astounding amount of their culture behind, and a walk down the street inRome quickly finds you face to face with a building that predates Christianity. But two of the most famous areas left by the ancients are certainly the Roman Forum and the Colosseum. The Forumcan be wandered for free, whereas the Colosseum requires a ticket, but both are greatly improved by having a guide along for the ride. Whichever you visit, you’re sure tobe amazed by the stories told by and among the ruins, from the temples of theForum to the labyrinth once hidden under the Colosseum’s floor.

Which to see? We’d have to go with the unorthodox choice and say the Forum.Hear us out! The Colosseum is magnificent, but there’s something remarkable aboutwalking the same cobblestones as the Romans, from the mightiest of Senators to thelowest of commoners, once strode. So, sorry, Colosseum, but we’re going with theplace where ordinary Romans lived their lives, not the ancient equivalent ofMadison Square Garden.

FIT FOR FILMWhen it comes to Roman landmarks, there are two that fall just behind places like theColosseum in terms of both recognizability and beauty – Piazza Navona and the Spanish Steps. Both have been prominently featured in films of the last century: the steps in the Audrey Hepburn film Roman Holiday and the piazza in Angels and Demons and Sophia Loren’s Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow. Both are greatplaces to relax and enjoy a scoop of gelato (though, unlike Hepburn, you can’t eat it onthe steps – that’s prohibited under Roman law) and take a picture to show all your friendsthat yes, you were in Rome and it was awesome, and aren’t they jealous? OK, maybe notthat last part.

So which should you visit? We’re going to have to give Piazza Navona the slight edge, because the Spanish Steps are often too packed with visitors to appreciate their real beauty—though a photo from the top at dusk is a great memento. Instead, head to thepiazza and marvel at Benini’s Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi, The Fountain of Four Rivers. Its statues represent rivers in each of the four continents over which the Papacy held swayat the time —Africa’s Nile, Asia’s Ganges, Europe’s Danube, and Rio de la Plata inthe Americas, and it’s all topped by an ancient Egyptian obelisk. Like Rome itself, thefountain is a blending of cultures and eras—maybe that’s why we love it so much.


St. Pe ter’s Basilica, Vatican Fountain of the Four Rivers


Photo: Denmark

Summer is synonymous with the beach, and every year thousands migrate to warm sands and cool seas to enjoy lifeat the water’s edge. And while some people try to make sandcastles, others sculpt works of art.

T ake Matthew Deibert and Sue McGrew, professional sandsculptors, also called “sand masters.” With more than 20combined years of experience, Deibert and McGrew haveshowcased their talent across the globe on beaches, inmuseums, and even on piers.

TRAVELING SAND MASTERSDeibert has sculpted professionally for more than 15 years andruns the business, Sandcreation, which provides sand master-pieces for special events. When we originally caught up withDeibert, he was on a break from carving sand for the AtlanticCity Beer and Music Fest. The sculpture included the festival’s logowith the city’s distinctive buildings on top of a sudsy beer glass.

“People loved it,” says Deibert. “I actually added bubbles toit and dry ice. It was spectacular.”

One of Deibert's most memorable adventures in sand sculptingtook him to France for the 60th anniversary ceremony of D-Day.

Recalls Deibert, “We were sponsored by The White House Commission on Remembrance, and they flew myself and the guywho I learned how to sculpt with, John Gowdy, over to France.”

Deibert met up with artists from other countries involved in theD-Day invasion, and the sand sculpture itself included sandsfrom the five different beaches of Normandy. Gathering thesand proved an entertaining challenge.

“When we all showed up—the five artists—it was like, ‘OK,who’s going to run the back-hoe?’” Deibert laughed. “I jumpedright in there. I have a little experience, but it was also on-the-job training.”

“We put a pile of sand up above the high water mark,” explains Deibert, “and we sculpted the soldiers in the Higginsships that are landing on the beach.”

The ceremony was very emotional and attended by Europeanleaders, then-President George W. Bush, and D-Day veterans.

“It was really special to be there. They had a lot of vets thatwere telling their stories, and for some of them, it was their firsttime back since the invasion,” says Deibert.

Likewise, McGrew’s sand sculpting has taken her all around theworld, from Europe down to Central America, and over to Asia,including Japan, which was where she was when we reachedout. McGrew worked at the Sand Museum in Tottori, Japan,which displays sand masterpieces from April through Januarythe following year on a specific topic. This year’s topic was Germany, and McGrew carved “The Fall of the Berlin Wall.”

McGrew also competes in competitions, and her most memorable win was in the solo division at the Virginia BeachNeptune Festival.

Recounts McGrew, “The event was right on the beach, andwe were hit with a giant storm with hurricane force winds. It was an epic battle against nature and time as we all struggledto finish our pieces.”

McGrew’s sculpture was entitled "You Complete Me," whichshe explains as a “Romeo and Juliet-like scene between a mermaid and a ‘fish’ man, the opposite of a merman with thehead of a fish and the body of a human.”

The sculpture won the Judges’, Sculptors’, and People'sChoice awards.

“It was incredible euphoria to survive not only the weather butto feel like I could compete alongside the professionals.”

The Sands of Summer –SAND SCULPTING COMPETITORS AND COMPETITIONS

by Susie Reese



SAND PROS ON TV SHOWSBoth Deibert’s and McGrew’s work has led them to participating in different TV programs. Deibert’s work has been featured on the Travel Channel’s Sand Blastersin 2007 and 2008, and more recently, he was the winner of SandWars in 2012with his son, Ian.

They were “treated like royalty,” he adds. Not only does being invited mean a sculptor has reached a certain level of expertise, but the show also pays for the competitors’ travel, food, and lodging, and they have a chance to win prize money.

“We were just happy to be there,” remembers Deibert, “but to make it even better,we actually won the contest and the prize money, which was really cool. But it wasjust special, just going, being a father-and-son team, and since then, we’ve carvedtogether.”

Ian Deibert helps his father with Sandcreation projects and was on hand for the Atlantic City Beer and Music Fest project.

McGrew was a part of The Travel Channel’s Sand Masters and Sandblaster III—the Extreme Sand Sculpting Competition.When filming Sand Masters, she happenedto be in Thailand during Songkran, their traditional New Year’s celebration.

“This holiday is celebrated by ‘blessing’ people with water, which means it's acountrywide water fight for three days,” recounts McGrew. “There is absolutely noway to stay dry! It’s just buckets of water flying from all directions. Even the policeare ‘blessed’ on the streets, and I was ‘blessed’ on my way through airport securityby a guard.”

FAVORITE COMPETITIONSAs a member of the Atlantic City Fire Department for 2 3 years, and captain formore than 11, Deibert has to pick and choose which contests he can enter.

“Sand is a hobby, a part-time thing,” he explains. “It’s grown. I have to turn downwork sometimes because I can’t get off to carve, but the way my schedule worksout, sometimes I can do quite a few of them, which is nice.”

Deibert’s favorite competition is the International Sandsculpting Championship atThe Virginia Beach Neptune Festival, which he has been attending for 12 years.The festival’s signature event hosts 32 sculptors under one tent.

Notes Deibert, “Between the organizers, the way it’s set up, how they developedit, and how much time, effort, and money they put into the contest—it’s the best inthe world.”

Deibert enjoys going down year after year and seeing familiar faces and battlingagainst international superstars in the sandsculpting world.

“I’ve been very fortunate enough to place,” he says. “It’s a world-renowned competition. You’re competing against artists from all over the world. If you place,you get an automatic invite back.”

Matthew Deibert

Matthew Deibert

International Sandsculpting Championship at the Virgina BeachNeptune Festival

Atlantic City Beer and Music Fest

Sue McGrew


Donna Tate, who has been chairing the sandsculpting event at Virginia for 26years, says that each competition is better than the one before, so it’s hard to pinpoint a favorite sculpture.

She says, “There have been so many! Some come with stories, some from simplybeing awestruck. No way to pinpoint ‘one.’ They are almost all my favorite.”

The artistic value is what is truly captivating at the International Sandsculpting Competition.

“Sand art, like other art, is very subjective, and each sculpture is special, as iseach sculptor. I feel privileged to have worked with the artists over the years andcontinue to be amazed. I really look forward to this year as we will have manyreturning ‘winners’ and exciting new talent as well. Unbelievable how each yearis the best yet!”

Though the Neptune Festival spans the month of September, this year’s sand sculptingcompetition runs Sept. 25 through Oct. 4, and involves meet-and-greets with thesculptors, “QuickSand” competitions (speed sculpting contests), live music, andviewing areas of the sand sculpting process and artwork.

“The downside, if there is one, is the temporary aspect of the art. Permanence isin memory only,” explains Tate. “Photos are a simple reminder, but it is difficult tocapture all the details or do justice to them. You must ‘view’ them.”

McGrew lists her current favorite competition as the U.S. Sand Sculpting Challengein SANDiego™, and unlike the Neptune Festival, which takes place on the beach,this competition is held on the “B” Street cruise ship terminal pier.

“It’s a really unique venue,” McGrew says. “It’s not on a beach, but they bringgood quality sculpting sand to a pier, so you're sculpting on the water in the middleof a busy city! They invite some incredible international artists, and it’s alwaysbeautiful weather there.”

U.S. Sand Sculpting Challenge in SANDiego™

Sue McGrew


Last year, the competition drew more than 46,000 people, and according to Gordon Summer, the competition’s representative, they expect to see more than 50,000this year. But what makes this festival a favorite of sculptors and attendees alike?

“The sculptors absolutely love the location,” boasts Summer, “and this is San Diego.What’s not to like about San Diego?”

Attendees enjoy the big bands, mostly from the San Diego area, a beer garden,kids’ rides and entertainment, and the festival’s second biggest feature: dimensionalartists, who bring more than 1 ,000 works of art to sell.

Notes Summer, “Sand sculpting is dimensional art, but people can’t take the sandsculptures home. They weigh 10 tons or more. If you could get it home, it wouldruin your carpet, so in order to satisfy the need to buy souvenirs or buy some artmementos or décor, we have about 40 or 50 artists who work in metal, wood,glass, and fabric.”

The festival donates a third of all net proceeds to charity. Some of their recipientsare the San Diego School for Creative and Performing Arts, the Maritime Museumof San Diego’s kids educational program, Young Audiences of the San Diego,and It’s All About the Kids Foundation.

The exposition takes place over Labor Day weekend, starting on Friday when allactive police, military, firefighters, and EMTs receive free admission for three familymembers and themselves. Sculptors actually begin their works on Wednesday, soby the time viewers see the works of sand art, they are approximately halfwaythrough the process. The competition ends at 2 p.m. on Saturday, but the judgingresults aren’t made public until Sunday morning.

Sue McGrew

SCULPTOR SURVEYS

Matthew DeibertYears Active: 15 yearsTV Shows: Sand Blasters 2007and 2008; SandWars 2012Favorite Thing to Sculpt: “I usually lean

toward doing some sort of Biblical piece or some type of piece that has a meaning. My tagline is ‘send a message in sand.”

Sue McGrewYears Active: Six years professionally; first sand sculpting gig in 2004TV Shows: Sand Masters and Sandblaster III—the Extreme Sand

Sculpting CompetitionFavorite Thing to Sculpt: “I really enjoy sculpting humans. It’s such a fun challenge to bring a figure to life. I like making pieces that bring out some emotion.”

FAVORITE FESTIVALS

Virginia Beach Neptune FestivalDates: September; Sandsculpting CompetitionSept. 25 - Oct. 4, 2015 Place: Virginia Beach, Virginia Activities: Sandsculpting, surf classic, arts & craftshow, volleyball tournament, 8k and 5k runs, fireworks, and a grand paradeFood: Fall Wine Festival (Sept. 12-13); Boardwalk Weekend with American favorites and beverage tents (Sept. 25-27); Hometown Heroes: Neptune’s Final Toast with a Sunday brunch to honor local heroes (Sept. 27)Admission: $5 for the sandsculpting tent for adults;children 12 and under free

U.S. Sand Sculpting Challenge & Dimensional Art ExpositionDates: Sept. 4-7, 2015Place: San Diego, California Activities: Sandsculpting competition, concerts, circus performances, three-dimensional art (for sale),big bands, sand sculpture classes, “bubble fun,” and more. Food: More than 100 menu items from gourmetfood trucksAdmission: Last year’s price was $7-$12, and Summer, representative for the festival, says this year’s will also be “reasonable.”

Photo: USSC


Which Celebrity DestinationShould You Visit? by Meghan Brennan

Let’s start easy:how far do you want to go?

OK, now, what’s your favorite vacation drink?

What do you want to packfor this getaway?

A. Think something sparkly and sky-high heels.B. Light cottons, maybe some nice jeans.C. Bathing suits, sarongs – no one’s seeing me anyway.

A. Mojitos, baby!B. I’ll take a glass of wine on the terrace, thanks.C. The local liquor of choice, neat or on the rocks.

A. A quick flight’ll do!B. I want to feel far away from all my cares.C. If they can track me down, I’m not far enough.


A. Dr. NoB. Under the Tuscan SunC. The African Queen

A. Shop ‘til I drop, make some new friends, check out a restaurant…B. Tour – there’s so much to see!C. Relax on the beach.

Which is your favorite travel movie?

What do you want to do all day?

Aruba Tourism

If you picked mostly A’s…

Pack your tiniest bikini and highest heels; you’reheaded to South Beach! This getaway of GiseleBündchen and Tom Brady is the perfect placefor you to enjoy the high life. You’ll see and beseen, and don’t worry; everyone will know exactly how glamorous you are.

If you picked mostly B’s…

Congratulations, you have something in commonwith George Clooney – Lake Como is the placefor you! Take a ride on the funiculare up into themountains, go sailing, and relax with a glass ofwine – or gelato. You’re on vacation, after all.

If you picked mostly C’s…

Are you going on vacation or dropping off theface of the earth? Either way, you can do it inthe Seychelles. When you see how isolated thisisland nation is, you’ll understand why PrinceWilliam and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridgechose it as their honeymoon escape – andwhen you see the beaches, you’ll wonder howthey ever left.



Group Travel Trips & Tipsby Diana Mazzeo

While group travel has been available toconsumers for some time, it has evolvedover the past decade, with exciting new destinations emerging for groups. And there'sno end in sight.

Where are group travelers spending theirtime and money? Mexico and the Caribbeancontinue to be popular group destinations, primarily due to proximity and price. Thesuperstars of those regions include Cancun,Riviera Maya, Jamaica, and Punta Cana.These destinations offer terrific options for avariety of tastes and budgets. Equally attractive are the very reasonable airfares departing from many U.S. gateways. Weare also seeing growing interest in group

travel plans within the U.S., particularly to Hawaii, as well as destinations in Canada and Europe.

We’re now seeing an enormous amount ofinterest among wedding groups. Currently,one in four couples choose to hold a desti-nation wedding. Their focus is typically inter-national over domestic, largely due to the factthat all-inclusive properties provide such greatvalue. Additionally, wedding guests frequently

choose to extend their own stays at the destination, which is a winning situation for everyone.

Increasing interest in many group destinationsis coming from corporate/incentive groups,church groups, and family and friends groups.The latter is comprised of several sub-groups:birthday celebrations, bachelor and bache-lorette getaways, and special interest groups.

Then we have the baby boomer generation approaching or already in retirement. Leisuretravel is popular within this outsized demographic,including milestone events like graduations,birthdays, anniversaries, and weddings.

Most group bookings include parties of 10people or more with no maximums. One ofthe trends we’ve seen over the past severalyears is smaller groups traveling, many ofthem being of a social nature. Not so longago, it was quite common for hotels to drawthe line for groups at a minimum of 10 rooms,but now many hotels are enticing smallergroups by offering extra concessions and/oramenities with a minimum of five or six rooms.

Travelers should provide their agents with

basic information about their group: Whatkind of group is it? What experiences are theylooking for? What about their budgets, bothmoney and time? Armed with these basics,travel agents work their magic, promptlypresenting the ideal proposal for every traveler. These are exciting times: exciting for thosewho dream of traveling, for the destinationsthat strive daily to create memories for theirguests, and, most importantly, for those of usin our industry who make it all happen. It's agreat day in group travel, and there are manymore to come!

About Diana Mazzeo

Diana Mazzeo joined GOGO in 2003 as aconsultant in the Nashville office. In 2011, shetransferred to the new GOGroups brand asTeam Leader of the Groups South office. Previously, she was a retail travel agent for fiveyears. Mazzeo has traveled extensively in theUnited States, Mexico and Caribbean. She isoriginally from upstate New York and alsoresided in the Boston area, San Antonio, andPhoenix before settling in Nashville, Tennessee.

Sandals & Beaches Resorts

Expert Advice



Snow Bunny Shuns Skis, Embra ces Zip-Lines and S

I love winter, I love snow, and I love speed. But somehow over the years I've justnever gotten it together enough to strap into a pair of skis or a snowboard andlearn to conquer the slopes.

So a couple years ago, when I found myself at the breathtaking Winter Olympicsvenue of Whistler, British Columbia, amid bracingly crisp weather and two giant mountainspacked with snow, what did I do? I went zip-lining and snowmobiling, of course!

Super FlyAfter a mini “get acquainted” run on a 50-foot zip-line close to the ground near the Village, the Ziptrek Ecotours bus motored up the winding road between Whistlerand Blackcomb Mountains to an elevation of a few thousand feet, where we set outalong a series of boardwalks and suspension bridges to a platform built around ahuge Douglas fir, some 200 feet in the air. This was the first of a series of fivelaunching pads from which we would zip down the mountain, criss-crossing the glacialwaters of Fitzsimmons Creek.

I admit right here that I was a bit daunted -- after all, I usually fly with a Boeing 767 underneath my derriere, and I'm not the pilot. But when a gray-haired gentlemanin my group eagerly stepped off the platform to begin his first zip, I felt I had noexcuses left. The pros from Ziptrek -- who virtually invented modern zip-lining -- attached my harness to the thick steel cable while I adjusted my provided helmetand gloves. After they gave me a thumbs-up, I cast my fate to the wind and stepped off.

Within three or four heartbeats, I was hooked. OMG, I'M FLYING -- AND IT'S AWESOME!!

Maureen Provencal

Horse Sleigh, Randy Lincks

by Jed Hauck



Photo credits: Jed Hauck

I zipped into the supplied snowmobile suit (a breathable, waterproof, full-length zip-up suit) and gloves,pulled on my helmet, and made sure everythingwas tight-fittingand comfortable. I then joined up with my fellow group members at the staging area, where the crew had alreadyfired up the sleek machines.

Driving a snowmobile is a cross between riding a motorcycle, driving a car, and steering a sled with handlebars, except that you control the speed at alltimes. When you're riding on a groomed snowmobile trail,it's intense and thrilling. Beyond the fun of actually piloting the sled, we spent hours zoomingthrough a canopy of snow-laden evergreen trees, witnessing winter scenery that everybody else misses. Itwas a back-country dream!

After this round of exhilarating adventures, I returned to my room at Delta Whistler Village Suites,an excellent value alpine style retreat that's one of themany superb resort hotels in the Village. All modernand sleek, my two-bedroom suite had a welcome fireplace that blazed away and made the eveningscozy, plus a balcony that was ideal for people-watching. Ilater stayed at Delta Suites Vancouver prior to my flighthome from this amazingly civilized city. This downtownhigh-rise hotel is also very modern and offered unbeatable service, all just a few blocks from harborside.

After I traversed the line, the automatic braking system kicked in,and I gently glided onto the landing platform while laughing hysterically. Now I could barely wait to get to the second zip.And with each successive run down the mountain, I was moreable to enjoy the incredible views, to scream and wave at my fellow group members, to bask in the flying experience itself.

The final zip is over 2,000 feet long, drops about a dozen storiesor so, and gets your speed up to about 60 mph. Thoroughly inthe moment, I wished it would never end!

(As of this writing, Ziptrek has announced that it is constructinga zip that will run approximately two kilometers and span Blackcomb to Whistler Mountains. So now I'm trying to figureout a way to get back to Whistler…)

Going MobileI've spent much time at Lake Placid as well as the European Alps,but I don't believe I've seen more awesome winter vistas than atWhistler. The brilliant white snow clings to the branches of Western red cedars, mountain hemlocks, spruces, Douglas firs,lodgepole pines, paper birches, and Pacific dogwoods, while theglacial streams run absolutely crystal-clear and sparkling underdappled sun. And you get to see all of it, up-close, from the saddle of a snowmobile.

Zip-line launch pads areway up in very tall trees.

d Snowmobiles in Whistler

Alpine, Whistler Style





Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta officially opened earlier this year,and already it has created quite the buzz in the tourism industry.During the property’s official opening, the resort received the official announcement of its AAA Four Diamond status.

“Achieving the Four Diamond Award was one of our primary goalsand certainly an honor!” exclaims Alexandre de Brouwer, managingdirector of Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta. “It was truly an honor to receive this coveted rating so quickly.”

A Four Diamond Award-winning hotel offers incredible service, hospitality, and attention to detail, along with upscale amenitiesand luxuries. de Brouwer attributes this high-level achievement tothe quality of Hyatt Ziva’s service.

Though impeccable service is the keystone of a Four DiamondAward winner, Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta provides scrumptious culinarydelights, exquisite accommodations, and special touches that setthe property’s all-inclusive experience as the new standard of luxuryin Mexico. With a recent $20 million renovation and refurbishment, Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta truly welcomes guests toa luxurious escape.

UPSCALE UPGRADES AND BEACHFRONT WONDERSThe property has lured luxury seekers for more than 30 years asthe Camino Real Puerto Vallarta and Dreams Puerto Vallarta, butwith the reopening as Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta, it has receiveda new main building and lobby while providing a location forthe new pools, spa, gym, restaurants, and lounges. The roomsand suites were also completely renovated.

“What guests now enjoy is a village-style atmosphere that enables them to enjoy the beautiful beach and find the perfectatmosphere for their mood,” says de Brouwer.

But what is truly unique about this resort is that the restaurants, the fitness center, the spa, and the wedding venues all enjoy an ocean view.

La Estaces is the focal point of the resort, which sits on one of theonly secluded beach alcoves in Puerto Vallarta. This allows HyattZiva Puerto Vallarta to offer a wide range of water sports and activities, including kayak lessons and kayak fishing lessons.

“We also have the most beautiful spa with a spectacular oceanview that includes an indoor/outdoor lounge area overlooking the Pacific,” boasts de Brouwer.

The beach is quite spectacular as dolphins swim right up to thecove, allowing guests to feed them, and during the winter, guestscan whale watch from the golden sand. It is also a traditionalspot for sea turtles to lay their eggs every year, and guests caneven release a baby turtle to sea. GOING BEYOND LUXURY AT HYATT ZIVALuxury has a different meaning at Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta than atmost all-inclusive resorts. While every guest receives the usual threemeals and snacks, unlimited domestic and international brandliquor, in-room mini-bar stocked daily, and Wi-Fi access, this propertyoffers such refined inclusions as wine and tequila tastings, nightlyturndown service, and complimentary use of the hydrotherapy circuitat the spa.

Emphasizes de Brouwer, “Our philosophy is to not only offer all ofthe expected amenities and services, but also to go beyond whata guest would normally receive in an all-inclusive experience andadd those little extra touches and surprises.”

Among these extra touches: a welcome cocktail, marshmallowroasts over the property’s fire pits, and kayak fishing lessons. Food carts around the pool area offer local favorites like “street” style

Spotlight On: Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta by Susie Reese



tortillas, homemade ceviche, and peeled papaya on a stick, becauseHyatt Ziva also wants guests to enjoy Puerto Vallarta as a world-class destination.

“We also like to incorporate the destination into our resort’s atmosphere, so guests not only experience the resort but have asense of place,” explains de Brouwer. “The food carts provide genuine street-atmosphere for our guests, and activities such as ourcomplimentary jungle tour actually allow our guests to experiencethe terrain of our destination.”

LOVE IS IN THE FIREWORKSPuerto Vallarta is one of Mexico’s hot wedding destinations, andHyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta hosted its first wedding in January.

“The ceremony was at the beach directly in front of the oceanwhere the waves silenced to listen for the most awaited words, ‘Ido,’” remembers de Brouwer. “Right after the ceremony, the weddinggroup enjoyed a cocktail hour and dinner at the beach with thesunset as our backdrop.”

The menu included a preferred drink prepared with tequila, and theceremony ended with a fireworks spectacular.

The beach isn’t the only setting for weddings at Hyatt Ziva PuertoVallarta. Included in the renovations was the addition of aspectacular sky wedding suite.

The resort also offers three different wedding packages that includethe basic needs of the bride and groom, like serene venues for ceremony and reception, live entertainment, salon/spa, florist,unique menus, customize decorations, and more. Though Hyatt Ziva is a family-friendly resort, it does boast an adults-only section, including an adult-pool area, perfect for honeymooners.

Culinary DelightsOne of the most important features of any all-inclusive resortis the food, so just what does Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallartaoffer guests? de Brouwer says the exquisite culinary lineupincludes four internationally infused a la carte restaurants anda sumptuous buffet restaurant.

BLAZE: This uniquegrill experience inPuerto Vallarta is next to the beach and offers a spectacularview of the Pacific.The menu includesCaribbean lobsters,steaks, and othermeats,including lamb as well as regional favorites such as Puerto Vallarta styleservices. This scenic restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, anddinner. In the mornings offers traditional Mexican breakfastsand specialty Mexican cinnamon infused coffee.

PUREZA: Also a beachside restaurant, Pureza offers a dinner menu inspired by authentic Asian specialties createdwith the freshest ingredients of Mexico’s Pacific coast.

CASA GRANDE: Open for dinner, this restaurant offersauthentic Mexican food with a Puerto Vallarta and Jaliscotwist. It also features a Tequila Bar with the resort’s ownTequila Master, who is available to help guests understandthe nuances of tequila sipping, tequila food matching, andeven tequila “flights” for tastings.

MELANZANE: Feel the Italian spirit on the Pacific coast ofMexico at this Trattoria on the Terrace for lunch, featuringbrick oven pizzas and, in the evening, fine Italian diningwith a traditional antipasto bar.

VIVAZ: This international buffet experience features chefcooking stations and fresh fruit stations where chefs areslicing fruit and preparing smoothies. Arranged like an exciting international market, the foods are displayed incolorful and appetizing arrays. There is a separate children’s buffet withsome bite-sized sand-wiches, fresh fruits andvegetables, and healthychoices.

Don’t forget the foodcarts around the pool!

Adult only Infinity Pool

Wedding Gazebo


Earlier this year, Erica Scannelli, team leader for GOGO, and Worldwide Traveler, ventured to Vietnam, and though the destination has recently become a popular Asian stop for Americans, it’sbeen well-traveled by others for quite some time.

“Vietnam is not off the beaten path,” Scannelli empathizes. “For a lot of Americans, we’re still just finding this destination, but it’s not new anymore. It was new 10 years ago. What people think Vietnamis, is what Myanmar is now. That’s getting off the beaten path. Vietnam now is pretty commercial.”

Scannelli notes Australians, due to their close proximity, and Europeans, with more vacation time than Americans, have been traveling to Vietnam for years. The tourism infrastructure is already in place, includingthe brand hotels like Marriott and Starwood, and Vietnam recently constructed a new bridge in Hanoi thatreduced travel time from the airport into the city from 1.5 hours to 45 minutes.

“So if people want to see Vietnam as a hidden gem, they better hurry up,” laughs Scannelli.

HANOIScannelli’s first stop in Vietnam was Hanoi.

“The north is more traditional, and the south is more modern,” Scannelli explains. “The north is where there is lessindustry. Hanoi is a big, busy city, but it’s at a slightly slower pace than Ho Chi Minh City.”

ERICA’S ASIAN ADVENTURE—

VIETNAMby Susie Reese


Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi


Hanoi is known for its beautiful opera house, the mausoleum of Ho ChiMinh, and the “Hanoi Hilton” Hoa Lo Prison that held North Vietnam’sPOWs during the Vietnam War, but one of Scannelli’s favorite placesin the city was Hoan Kiem Lake.

“It’s in the middle of the city. You can take one of these red arch bridgesacross the lake, and there’s this peaceful little temple on an island.”

Scannelli began her tour de Vietnam with a cultural experience atThang Long Water Puppetry Theatre. For more than 10 centuries,Vietnamese water puppetry has engaged audiences, and in a movie-theater sized room, the stage is a pond. Puppets float over thewater while the puppeteers work behind a curtain.

“This was really fun,” recounts Scannelli, “and I was sitting next to amature couple from England. The gentleman was laughing along, andhe was having a good time. There also were kids in the audience wholiked it. There were no age or language barriers. I really liked that.”

HA LONG BAYIn Vietnam, Scannelli used Buffalo Tours, and the company is one of thefew offering seaplanes out to Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO WorldHeritage Site. The seascape includes more than 1,600 islands andislets with limestone pillars rising from the jade-colored water.

Points out Scannelli, “The water was pretty clear, and anunbelievably vibrant, jewel-toned color. Blue sky, and the cliffs are sogreen — in Asia, you don’t get that white sand and clear water. Youget those vibrant, blinding colors.”

The drive from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay is approximately three hours, butScannelli recommends the seaplane, which offers a 40-minute flight.

“The seaplane sits about 12, and it flies low, so you get these beautifulviews,” Scannelli explains. “The drive is lovely, but you see all the samesights on the three-hour return drive. When you take the seaplane, youland on the bay, and everyone is coming out on the ships to watch.”

Generally, a seaplane tour includes an overnight cruise, and guestsenjoy kayaking, snorkeling, and other water sports on Ha Long Baywith a small number of passengers.

MIDDLE VIETNAMHoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a preserved SoutheastAsian trading port from the 15th through 19th centuries that reflects bothindigenous and foreign influences.

“It was one of my favorite places I’ve been anywhere in the world,”raves Scannelli. “These are history lovers’ destinations for those whowant to see a more cultural side to Vietnam.”

According to Scannelli, Hoi An is visually dramatic, with lanterns lightingup the night sky. It has narrow streets and alleys, but it’s so small that visitors do not have to worry about getting lost. Historically and architecturally fascinating was the blending of Vietnamese, Champa,Chinese, and Japanese influences.

“The tour guide gave us a list of about 20 places to visit and a bookwith five admission coupons,” Scannelli explains. “Then your guidetalks to you about your interests and helps you choose where to use yourcoupons.”

This is a great destination for history buffs who can’t decide if they wantto visit old temples or see historic homes. The town is also filled with boutiques, art galleries, and cafés boasting authentic and fusion delights.

“Green tea ice cream? Yes please,” laughs Scannelli.

Scannelli also took a lantern-making class at a workshop in Hoi An, inwhich 10 people craft 80,000 lanterns per year. Each class gets a tourof the factory, and the guide gives the history and meanings of colors(“I’m green for wood!” exclaims Scannelli).

“After you pick your color, then they show you how they use the glueover the ribbon and stretch the linen. Then you get to take it home withyou. It was only an hour or so, but it was really fun.”

Though Scannelli stayed in Hoi An, she recommends travelers stay inDa Nag, which is a beach resort area about 30 minutes away.

Scannelli also visited Hue, the ancient capital city of Vietnam which isabout a four-hour drive away from Hoi An.


The Nam Hai Hoi An, VietnamHoi An, Vietnam

L, Lantern Factory, Hoi An Ho Chi Minh City InterContinental, Da Nang

Photos: Erica Scannelli



Notes Scannelli, “When you are up in Hanoi,you get that sort of pre-Vietnam War history.When you are in Hoi An, you get that imperialtime, and then when you’re in Hue, you’re inancient time. When you reach Ho Chi Minh,you’re in modern Vietnam.”

However, Hue, with an old temple and an oldpalace, is recommended for real historians, andScannelli only stayed one night, which wassufficient for her history palate.

HO CHI MINH CITY“Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam’s metropolitancity,” explains Scannelli. “That’s the hub of allthe business that happens in Vietnam. It’s theirmost crowded city.”

Official street signs say, “Ho Chi Minh City,”but the Vietnamese city dwellers call it Saigon.Scannelli took the Ho Chi Minh day tour,which takes visitors to the War Remnants Museum.

“It was one of the most depressing places I’veever been in my life,” recounts Scannelli. “It’svery confrontational, insofar as it’s very image-heavy. It was very different to see.”

Scannelli recalls the full-sized photos of the battles and their gruesome details, and it evenhad a full room dedicated to the effects ofAgent Orange. “You have to go in with anopen mind and know that this is how theirpeople presented what happened during thewar,” Scannelli explains.

The next day, Erica took a half day Cu ChiTunnels tour where she saw the space wherethe Viet Cong were living.

“You see where the soldiers would get in andout of the tunnels, and there were some examples of the rudimentary weaponry theyused.”

This tour was more interactive than the WarRemnants Museum, which allowed Scannellito look at the war more observationally than emotionally.

Scannelli also happened to be visiting duringthe Vietnamese New Year, Tet Nguyen Dan, orTet, meaning “Feast of the First Morning of theFirst Day.” The celebration coincides with theChinese New Year, and Scannelli celebrated it at the hotel’s rooftop bar, whereshe watched the fireworks at midnight.

You’re going to a foreign nation onthe other side of the world, so Ericaoffers her tips on what to wear, whatto expect, and when to go!

What to wearWhen entering any religious complex,you should be appropriately dressed.That generally includes long pants, andshirts with sleeves, but the main issuewith this part of the world is that it’s always hot. It’s 95 degrees with highhumidity. Long pants and long sleevesare pretty uncomfortable, so most people will put a shawl in their bag.One of the women in my group worethose pants with the zipper around herthigh, so she could zip on her pants.Absolutely no miniskirts.

WeatherA lot of people don’t realize how longnorth/south Vietnam is. If you look at iton the map, it’s long, like Italy, so I hada little bit of everything. Up in Hanoi,you’re pretty far north, so it was cold. Itwas 55 degrees and a little rainy, sowhen I was out walking around for theday, I was fine. At night or when it wasrainy, it was a little cold. Then by thebeach and Da Nang, it was 85 degrees and sunny and gorgeous, andthen by the time I got to Ho Chi Minh, itwas almost a 100 degrees and humid.

UnderstandingIn Vietnam, man did I get lost! Therewere no signs in English in Hanoi, andcab drivers can’t really speak Englisheither. After a minute we worked it out,but definitely not as easy as…well,anywhere I’ve been so far in life.

When to goSeasonality is really important in Vietnam.You would rather go when it’s coldthan when it’s raining. Autumn is rela-tively calm — September toOctober — and spring, from March toApril, if you’re covering the wholecountry, as Vietnam has heavy down-pours during the monsoon season. Also,while December to February doesn’t seeas much participation, it can get uncomfortably chilly in the north.


The small town of Roswell, New Mexico wasstirred up in 1947 when locals reported seeinglights in the night sky and then hearing a loud explosion. Later, a rancher discovered wreckageon his property, which many speculated to be ofextraterrestrial origin. Some claimed to have seenbodies at the crash site. Air Force officials who inspected the debris released a statement sayingthey had recovered “a flying disc.”

Later, the military released information about Project Mogul, a top secret government project to detect the long-range sound waves of Sovietatomic-bomb tests. According to the military, ahigh altitude balloon used in the test crashedlanded near Roswell, and the subsequent cover-up is what transformed reality intoconspiracy.

However, a 1997 CNN/Time poll found thatnearly two-thirds of America believe that a UFOdid crash in New Mexico. In May, a former journalist claimed to have found two photographs, taken in 1947, depicting analien’s body in the back of a car. Though Kodak supposedly authenticated the age of the photographs, the content has yet to be validated.

Perhaps (near) Roswell is the perfect landing sitefor visiting aliens. With the nearest large city almost 200 miles away, the aliens certainly didn’tneed to worry about unwanted eyes (until theirsaucer crash-landed, that is). The Historic Downtown District looks circa 1960s but without-of-this-world touches, like light posts with alien-head tops and a local McDonald’s shapedlike a flying saucer. Though cute, these decorations don’t show any true evidence ofalien existence, although they show that the smalltown has embraced its local legend.

Next stop—The International UFO Museum andResearch Center. This non-profit organization hasa mission to educate the public about “UFO phenomena.” Though it is housed in a formermovie theater, the museum is serious in its stance

with information and exhibits about not just the Roswell incident, but also Area 51, other UFOsightings, and even abductions. The museumhosts a research library and other facilities, but itdoes not contain hard evidence of the existenceof our little green friends.

Area 51 Museum is the exact opposite of the International UFO Museum, offering no stanceother than fun. With dummy aliens and 20 life-size dioramas — including an “alien autopsy,”an alien BBQ, and a crash site — visitors are encouraged to pose for pictures and enjoy thecolorful displays. Inside is also a gift shop with animpressive amount of alien souvenirs, we shouldnote that the government “secret” site you’re thinkingabout is in Nevada.

So if we want to find any real proof that aliens visited our little mud ball, we’ll have to go directlyto the crash site. A two-hour guided tour takes visitors through the city, pointing out importantRoswell sites like the former Roswell Army AirField, including Hanger 84 where the bodies of

the aliens were supposedly stored, and the former location of the Roswell Daily Record newspaper, which reported on the sightings.

Though a fun adventure to New Mexico, a trip toRoswell didn’t find us the answers we sought, butwe have no doubt: the truth is certainly outthere…just not in Roswell.

If the aliens were searching for luxurious accommodations, they should have stopped bythe Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort & Spa in SantaAna Pueblo. This award-winning hotel offers spacious suites, sweeping views of the SandiaMountains, and endless activities at The Stablesat Tamaya, the Tamaya Mist Spa & Salon, andTwin Warriors Golf Club. Don’t miss the “TamayaJourney” GeoTour, an interactive treasure hunt-style experience that leads guests through the resort’s500 acres of southwest terrain while simultaneouslyteaching them about the local history and wildlife.

CONSPIRACY SITES: ROSWELL, NEW MEXICO by Susie Reese

THE CONSPIRACY: Aliens crash landed in Roswell, New Mexico in 1947.

BACKGROUND:

EXPLORATION:

WHERE TO STAY:




Wine & Food Festival,Cancun-Riviera MayaFor my whole life, whenever someone mentioned “Cancun,” I instantly picturedlapis blue swimming pools, raucous Spring Break revelers, and snorkeling withrainbow painted fish. I never thought it would also be a hot culinary destinationcelebrating the best of Spanish, French, and Mexican chefs.

This year at the fourth annual Wine & Food Festival Cancun-Riviera Maya, I was shownwhat I had been missing. From Spain’s renowned molecular gastronomy of Chef JoanRoca to the traditional Mexican cuisine of legendary Chef Alicia Gironella, the festivalbrought the flavors of the world together in inventive and fantastic dishes.

Over the four-day festival, amateur cooks got to test their skills side-by-side with the chefsin hands-on classes. There were opportunities to listen to the promoters of today’s culinaryarts describe the food scene and discuss the challenges and trends they are taking on.Also, there were top wines to savor from acclaimed wineries, and multiple extraordinarydinners. This is NOT the Cancun you went to on your storied college Spring Break — it’sfound a sophisticated palate over the years and it’s ready to serve you.

From the keynote speech through the Divas Dinner and beyond, the chefs were on a missionto educate and amuse with the fresh, regional ingredients they love. Chef Joan Roca said,“We are here to discuss ‘why’ we cook what we do, not so much ‘how.’” A believer that“modern cooking must have roots,” he has traveled the globe to engage cultural influences that inspire his menu at El Celler de Can Roca (which, in case you find yourselfin Girona, Spain, plan ahead, as he and his brothers are taking reservations no earlierthan 11 months from now). He believes travel allows a deeper connection to the food, andthat being “surrounded by the landscape that inspired the food rounds out the experience.”

Chef Mikel Alonso concurred, saying that “travel transforms culinary identity with inspirationand informs to develop products and flavors.” The chefs further agreed on the magical diversity found in Mexican cuisine. Since Mexico spans over 17 latitudes, including twooceans and the Gulf of Mexico, the sheer volume of biodiversity allows for wondrous variety.Even experienced Mexican chefs may find it complicated to be educated in the salt content and array of plankton diets found in the assortment of fresh catch that find their wayto their kitchens.

Chef Alicia Gironella brought attention to the continued effort of conserving the biodiversitythroughout Mexico. Take corn, for example, a staple in many traditional dishes and availablein a medley of native maize. Some regions have a special varietal that has grown therefor generations, similar to grapes for wine varieties; the regional differences are discernibleand desirable for particular recipes. There are distinct identities to the corn tortillas madein a particular region that make that element unique to a dish. Like many areas of theworld, Mexico’s agricultural lands need protection from development and other destructiveelements that force the crops from their terra.

by Sarah John Afana


Sustainability for all resources — agricultural, forests, sea life, and wildlife —is a toppriority for today’s chefs, and throughout the events that followed, there was a nod to that driveof sustainability and keeping traditions alive while incorporating contemporary techniques.

At the traditional Star Chefs Dinner, the tasting event featured 39 chef stations and winetasting tables hosted by acclaimed international chefs, who generously served swarms offollowers. Chef Hubert Keller of Fleur de Lys in San Francisco offered a deliciously layered “White Gazpacho flavored with Almond Milk & Green Grape, VanillaOil.” Chef Rafael Zafra of Benazuza at Hotel Oasis Sens in Cancun delighted with “MollusksCold & Hot Aquachile,” featuring the fantastic liquid nitrogen presentation from the clamshell.

The sold-out evening was fluid with a bustling flow around the pool at the Fiesta AmericanaGrand Coral Beach Cancun Resort & Spa, but it was not so crowded that guests couldn'tfind an opportunity to meet the creators of the bites they enjoyed.

Photo Credits: Sarah John Afana


Wine & Food Festival, Cancun-Riviera Maya

The weekend continued at The MoonPalace Golf & Spa Resort for two days ofThe Gourmet Tasting Village. Regular festivalgoers looked forward to these days and theabundance of flavors discovered from over25 wine boutiques and local favorites fromthe top hotels and artisanal products foundin Cancun and Riviera Maya. After crunchingon a salty cricket and savoring a sip ofSangrita with Xoximilco, I meandered overto ME Cancun’s booth for a chilled “popsde camaron con queso de cabra y almendras”(shrimp with goat cheese and almonds), whichmight have been my favorite bite of the day.

Elaborate displays of sweet treats from PalaceResorts and airy Mini Macaroons from ElDorado Royale brought delicate surprisesamong the savory plates throughout theMoon Palace Arena. The afternoon wasrounded out with wine tasting from SecretsThe Vine, and, in a first for the festival, theFrench Market, specializing in sumptuouscheeses and wines.

My luxurious food tour ended with the Divasde la Cocina Mexicana Gala Dinner highlighting a collaborative menu createdby the 10 best Mexican female chefs. I wasinvited in with a dramatic “Warrior” cocktailand a story told by Martha Ortiz and PaolaGarduño. The drink — created in a deepred and garnished with a black feather —symbolized female power and strength, and astatement to what these chefs were bringingto the dinner.

I continued to be drawn in by the first courseof delicate lionfish wrapped in thinly slicedavocado with a depth of full flavors andcreaminess. Chefs Susanna Palazuelos andLula Martín del Campo shed light on the promoted consumption of lionfish, an invasivespecies of the Caribbean Sea now needingto be fished to protect native small crustaceans and fish.

Truly the most intriguing plate of the night wasa classic tortilla soup with a creative mystery in“Shadowed Beauty.” A shallow handmaderustic bowl sprinkled with delicate ediblepetals and crispy butterfly shaped blue corntortillas dusted in sparkling glitter was presented by waiters who poured a richlyspiced clear broth.

As the evening progressed we were givenglimpses of the chefs’ pasts with a taste ofa “Bridal White Mole” created by Chef AliciaGironella, originally developed for herdaughter’s wedding 30 years ago, and acoconut mole that Chef Martha Chapadreamt up while on a beach vacation. Thefinal dessert of the night was sweet mochaand tart citrus tastes combined with anespresso and Mezcal pairing that brought anexplosive ending to the accomplished gala.

I look forward to next May when the chefsreturn to Cancun and Riviera Maya for thefeast of the year that combines the flavors ofthe world with traditional Mexico for a newstandard of contemporary cuisine.

Joan Roca

Martha Chapa

Mikel Alonso

Martha Ortiz

Hubert Keller

Alicia Gironella

Lula Martin del Campo

Susanna Palazuelos

Secrets the Vine. Photo: Sarah John Afana




JULY EVENTSJuly 24-26 — Experience night glows and the mass ascension of morethan 125 balloons at The QuickChek New Jersey Festival of Ballooningin Association with PNC Bank in Readington, N.J.

July 25,26, August1— For three nights, the annual Honda Celebrationof Lights fireworks competition sets the sky ablaze over English Bay, Vancouver.

July 31-August 2 — Satchmo SummerFest (New Orleans), the yearly celebration of the great Louis “Satchmo” Armstrong, features three days ofoutdoor concerts, music history seminars, and jazz exhibits.

July 31- August 2 — Lollapalooza is a unique music experience atChicago’s Grant Park with all-star talent and a food festival.

AUGUST EVENTSAugust 1- September 27 — Visit the official London residence of theQueen, Buckingham Palace, during its summer opening.

August 3-9 — Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in Sturgis, S.D. is a cultural pilgrimage for half a million motorcycle enthusiasts with hill climbs, dragraces, big-time concerts, and the main event: the city’s “ride-through.”

August 7-16 — Musikfest lures more than 900,000 people to historic Bethlehem, Penn. for more than 500 shows on 14 stages over 10days, plus food and a golf tournament.

August 8 -16 — The magic of ballooning inflates the International Balloon Festival of Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu (Quebec), which also offers the world’s largest inflatable theme park.

August 30 -31 — West London comes alive with the Notting Hill Carnival,featuring Calypso music, tempting Caribbean food stalls, and more!

SEPTEMBER EVENTSSeptember—Open House London offers more than 800 free guidedtours of hundreds of buildings and spaces around and in the city, such as10 Downing Street, The London Eye, City Hall, Mansion House, and theBank of England.

September 10 -20 —Toronto International Film Festival brings the bestin Canadian and international filmmaking to Toronto with 10 days ofscreenings, workshops, and more.

September 11-13—Dancefestopia in Kansas City promises three daysand three nights of nonstop music (“24/7”), thanks to 70 artists on a brandnew stage.

September 18-20—KAABOO is a “mix-perience,” meant to stimulate allfive senses with world-class music, dancing, incredible cuisine, craft libations,contemporary art, and personal indulgences in Del Mar, Calif.

September18-November1—On select nights, Universal Orlando® Resort presents Halloween Horror Nights® 2015 that celebrates the nightmarishside of Halloween with eight “haunted houses” and frightening street events.

September 26-October 24—On weekends in September and October,New Orleans celebrates Oktoberfest with live traditional music, Germanfolk dancing, and delicious authentic delights.

OCTOBER EVENTSOctober—The London Restaurant Festival is a city-wide, three-week celebration with restaurant-hopping menus, culinary-themed tours and trails,and tasty activities.

October 3-11—The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta offersmass ascensions with more than 550 balloons and the start of America’sChallenge Gas Balloon Race.

October 4—The New York Jets play the Miami Dolphins in the first gameof the NFL International Series 2015 at Wembley Stadium in London.

October 4-November 9—The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze returns for25 weeknight evenings with more than 5,000 hand-carved, illuminatedpumpkins on the Van Corlandt Manor (Croton-on-Hudson, N.Y.).

October 15 -18—The eighth annual Food Network & Cooking ChannelNew York City Wine & Food Festival presented by FOOD & WINEfeatures more than 500 world-renowned chefs, culinary personalities, wine andspirit producers, and of course, Food Network and Cooking Channel stars.

October 23-31—Neewollah hosts carnival rides, bands, 5k and 10kruns, a chili cook-off, a pumpkin competition, and parades—plural (Independence, Kan.)!

October 26—The Jacksonville Jaguars take on the Buffalo Bills in the secondgame of the NFL International Series 2015 at Wembley Stadium in London.

October 31—Named one of the Top 10 Things to Do in New York Cityand one of the 100 Things to Do Before You Die, The Village HalloweenParade is back with giant puppets, more than 50 bands of various music,dancers, artists, and more than 50,000 costumed participants.

Check out more events (now through March 2016) onour blog, The Journey: http://blog.gogo-vacations.com/

MARK YOUR CALENDARS WITHTHESE WORLD-CLASS EVENTS IN THE U.S. AND BEYOND!



Can you get more Halloween than Sleepy Hollow? The namesake, New York village ofWashington Irving’s famous story comes alive during the fall season with a handful of spectacularly chilling and thrilling events to tickle every traveler’s spine with dramatic performances, a grand pumpkin blaze, cemetery walking tours, and a fantastic haunted house.

Irving’s “Legend”

One of those delightfully eerie events is a dramatic performance of “The Legend of SleepyHollow” by master storyteller Jonathan Kruk.

Kruk has performed in a variety of historic places like Washington Headquarters in WhitePlains and Newburgh, N.Y., and he’s the current in-house storyteller at the Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum in Manhattan. It was his love of history that broughthim to Sleepy Hollow.

Explains Kruk, “Historic Hudson Valley used to have a one-weekend Halloween event,and I would just tell spooky stories. But then they began to change their mission. Theywanted to make it more locally based — Hudson River, Washington Irving, AmericanRevolution — and at that time, I was reading and studying all of that. And I came up withthe idea of telling a short ‘The Legend of Sleepy Hollow’ and then later, other stories.”

Kruk’s performances, which occur every weekend in October, are housed in the iconicOld Dutch Church, which is actually part of Irving’s story.

“It’s very atmospheric, with candlelight and spooky organ music by Jim Keyes,” notesKruk, “and it just took off.”

Kruk will perform the story more than 40 times this season, and he warns to get thosetickets early as they usually sell out by mid-September. This year, he’s bringing the performance to Broadway through the United Solo Artist Festival.

“If you’re visiting New York City, you can see a hundred other different people doing aworld of performances, sometimes personal stories and sometimes, like mine, a classic story reinvented.”

His favorite venue to perform in, however, is the Old Dutch Church.

Notes Kruk, “I feel like I’m home in this musty, candlelit, spooky, 1685 spiritual edifice.”

Kruk returns to the Old Dutch Church in the winter with a reinvented version of “A ChristmasCarol.” He performs more than 30 character voices, and Keyes plays the church’s pipeorgan as well as a violin, a harp, and even chains when Marley’s ghost appears.

Emphasizes Kruk, “Travelers want something unique in the area, and going to the OldDutch Church in Sleepy Hollow is indeed a unique and enchanting experience, and thenlistening to these classic stories completely immerses them. It’s a little bit of magic, but italso brings that little corner of Lower Hudson Valley to life.”

Halloween in the Hollowby Susie Reese

Photo: Historic Hudson Valley

Photo: historytrekkershoppe.com


APRIL - JUNE 2015 I GOGO VACATIONS ##

Halloween Happenings in the Hollow

If you enjoy your Halloween bloodcurdlingly scary, then Horseman’s Hollow at PhilipsburgManor should be on your list. Each year, the manor transforms into a warped version ofSleepy Hollow with terrifying, undead residents who have been driven mad by the HeadlessHorseman. Scream your way through haunted paths, scary scenes, and even the ruinsof Ichabod’s Schoolhouse, before facing the Headless Horseman himself. Makeup completed by feature-film artists, frightening sets, and incredible special effects make thisone haunted house not to miss. Please note: this event is not suitable for children or adultswith medical conditions.

Don’t want recurring nightmares? Then head over Lyndhurst mansion for the Ghoul FamilyCelebration. The Mummy, The Phantom of the Opera, the Bride of Frankenstein, and moretake you on a tour of the Gothic castle. Though geared toward adults and teens, the experience is also spooky fun for younger children.

You haven’t lived until you’ve walked under a covered-bridge with Jack o’lanterns surrounding you, even on the ceiling! In its 10th year, The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze willilluminate Sleepy Hollow for 30 exciting nights with more than 6,000 individually hand-carved pumpkins in spectacular scenes like an undersea aquarium, a circus area,a flesh-eating plants section (because why not?), Jurassic Park, and of course, “The Legendof Sleepy Hollow.” Wander through the lighted paths of Van Cortlandt Manor, whichdazzle with sound effects, synchronized lighting, and an original soundtrack made specifically for the Blaze®. And yes, every pumpkin is individually hand-carved on-siteat the manor.

Of course, not all events at Sleepy Hollow are scary, and some do not even take placeat night. Head over to Sunnyside, the house of famous “Legend” scribe Washington Irving, and learn about his life in this historic Hudson Valley setting from guides dressed inperiod clothing. Kids will especially enjoy a shadow puppet performance of “The Legend ofSleepy Hollow” and another one of Irving’s spooky tales during a walk through the woods.

So head to the Hollow for Halloween fun throughout the month of October. Most eventssell out in September, so get your tickets early. And though candy isn’t given out, you’recertainly in for a spooky treat.

Blaze® Photos: Mark Puzio



Ingredients:

Peppers8 ounces Butternut Squash1 can or 6 total Fire Roasted Piquillo Pepper - Available at finer grocery stores2 ounces White Cheddar Cheese2 ounces Smoked Goat Cheese1 teaspoon Fresh Chervil1 teaspoon Dry Sage1/4 teaspoon Dry Lavender PowderSalt and Pepper to taste

Mustard Dijon Vinaigrette1/4 cup Rice Wine Vinegar2 Tablespoons Dijon Mustard2 Tablespoons Honey1 Tablespoon Marsala Wine1 Tablespoon Dry Tarragon1/4 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper1/3 cup Extra Virgin Olive OilSalt and Pepper to taste

Quail Egg Crouton6 Slices Sourdough Bread6 Quail Eggs6 Tablespoons Sweet Butter6 Tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil

18 ounces Spring lettuce mix

Preparation:

PeppersHeat oven to 350 degrees. Line baking dishwith parchment paper. Cut the squash horizontally, discard the seeds. Then place inbaking dish cut side down. Bake until squashis tender, approximately 30-45 minutes. Prepare piquillo peppers by rinsing and patting dry, discarding any seeds. Set aside. Remove squash from oven and allow to cool.Once cooled, scrape squash out of shell and

place eight ounces in bowl. Add the rest of the ingredients and mix until thoroughly combined. Place squash mixture into pastrybag and pipe into the prepared peppers.Place peppers on parchment lined sheet panand bake for 10 minutes. While peppers are in oven, begin the quail egg crouton.

Mustard Dijon VinaigretteIn a bowl, whisk the first six ingredients.Slowly drizzle the olive oil, whisking welluntil thoroughly combined.Add more salt and pepper if desired. Set aside.

Quail Egg CroutonRemove crust from bread, then using a two-inch diameter cookie cutter cut the breadfrom the center of the slice and discard. In anonstick sauté pan over medium heat, placeone tablespoon butter and one tablespoonolive oil, allow butter to melt. Place oneslice of bread in pan and toast on bothsides, then crack quail egg into center ofbread and cook for approximately 12 minutes. Gently remove from pan and setaside. Continue the process until all thebread/eggs have been cooked.

Presentation

Using six salad plates, place three ouncesof spring lettuce mix on each plate, arrangingit off to one side. Drizzle each salad withthe vinaigrette. Rest warm pepper in middleof plate aside the spring mix. Arrange thequail egg crouton so that it lies just to theside of the pepper.

If you wish, garnish the edge of the platewith chopped herbs.

Executive Chef Kelly Macdonald

SERVES 6

(From 15)

Stuffed Gypsy Pepper


Merlin’s beard, you’ve finally made it. You’re at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando™.Take a moment – don’t forget to breathe. And don’t get tooexcited just yet, because we have to be strategic about howwe tackle this whole thing if we want to see it all.

Universal Orlando is made up of two distinct parks, Islandsof Adventure (home of Hogsmeade™ and Hogwarts™ Castle)and Universal Studios Florida® (whereyou’ll find Diagon Alley™).To get the full experience,you’ll need a park-to-parkticket, which lets you go between the two sides on thesame day. Luckily there’s aquick way of getting betweenthe two that doesn’t requireyou to leave the world of HarryPotter at all.

You’ll start your day at DiagonAlley, where any journey toHogwarts™ School of Witch-craft and Wizardry should

begin (it’s helpful to stay on property, as that will get youinto the parks an hour before general admission). The entrance is just the first of the literally thousands of littletouches that will make any fan weak in the knees – justlike in the books, Diagon Alley is accessed by walking froman ordinary London street through a brick wall behind theLeaky Cauldron and emerging into the wizarding world.

Head straight for Harry Potter andthe Escape from Gringotts – its immersive feel is a treat for anyonewho loves the books and movies,and it features cameos from many ofthe films’ stars (and poor BillWeasley probably gets more screentime in this ride than in all the filmscombined). Even the wait is carefully designed to make youfeel as though you’re wanderingthe halls of Gringotts, from thegoblins in the front hall to therumbling elevator to thewinding staircases.

The Wizarding World ofHarry Potter:

A Guide for Nerdsby Meghan Brennan



your time to explore all of the amazing little touches that makethis world so complete and so unique. Spot Mr. Weasley’smagic Ford Anglia from your place in line for Dragon Challenge, enjoy some traditional English fare at the ThreeBroomsticks (we highly recommend the Cornish pasties with apumpkin fizz – there aren’t any Muggle sodas in the magicalworld), and even hear Moaning Myrtle’s complaints in the restrooms in Hogsmeade. Don’t forget to stop for a chat with theconductor of the Hogwarts Express — and study up, becausehe might ask you what the school’s motto is (draco dormiens nunquam titillandus – never tickle a sleeping dragon. Yeah, we’reRavenclaws.).

When you’ve had your fill of Hogsmeade, take the Hogwarts Express back to London to explore some more of Diagon Alley – it’s shadier and cooler, making it a better area tospend the afternoon. There are more shops to explore here, butall of the hidden easter eggs will repay the patient wanderer.You may recognize an advertisement in King’s Cross Station fromthe sixth film. You can take a seat on the stoop of the Black family’sancestral home on Grimmauld Place (just across from the KnightBus) while Kreacher peeks out through the curtains upstairs. Ifyou buy an interactive wand, be sure to take a look at the mapthat comes with it under the black lights in Knockturn Alley to seeall the places you can cast spells of your own. And if you see ashow starting, go ahead and take a look – it could be a live appearance by Celestina Warbeck (one of Molly Weasley’s favorite singers), or a retelling of The Tale of The Three Brothers,a wizard-world fairytale which was hugely important in HarryPotter and the Deathly Hallows.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is the culmination of notjust years of work by Universal, but decades of dedication andpassion from fans of the series, who Universal knew would settle for nothing less than perfection – and it shows. Leaving atthe end of your trip will be hard, but in JK Rowling’s own words,“Hogwarts will aways be there to welcome you home.”

Once you’re on the ride, you’re expecting a quiet, peaceful tourfrom Bill Weasley himself…too bad you decided to visit on thesame day that Harry, Ron, and Hermione decide to break intothe bank. You’ll see them on your way through, along with a fewgoblins, an escaped dragon, Bellatrix Lestrange, and You-Know-Who himself. Will you make it out alive? Well, Gringotts is “thesafest place on Earth”…maybe.

Once you return to the street, make your way out of DiagonAlley – fear not, we’ll be back – and head for the Hogwarts Express. The train is an amazing replica of the one in the films,and that’s only part of the magic. As you travel between theparks, keep a close eye on the window — you might recognizesome familiar faces, both friendly and not-so-friendly.

Upon arrival at Hogsmeade village, stroll up the main street towards the castle, and get in line for the park’s flagship attraction — Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey. It’s a darkride crossed with a roller coaster, and while Escape fromGringotts offers an alternate view of a major event from thebooks, Forbidden Journey is the ride that makes you feel likeyou’re inside the story. Here, again, the waiting area is anotherpart of the ride, with “behind-the-scenes” looks at Hogwarts,from its moving portraits to Dumbledore’s office. The ride itself is thrilling, and you’ll encounter both characters andcreatures of all sorts, from Harry and Hagrid to spitting acromantulaand soul-sucking Dementors. We tend to think that ForbiddenJourney is a better ride than Escape from Gringotts (with fewerbreakdowns, to boot), but you’ll have to try both to be sure! If theline is long and the day is hot, grab a butterbeer to sip during thewait – we prefer the frozen ones to the regular cold ones, but nomatter which kind you get you’ve got to try one!

After Forbidden Journey, the day is more or less yours — you’vedone the two major rides, so from here on out take




TUSCAN TREATSAND CINQUE TERRE

by Peter Dias

Last October, I flew from JFK to Rome to catch up with a fellowWorldwide Traveler colleague for the Tuscan Treats and CinqueTerre tour. We went by train from Rome to Florence. It’s a very easyway to travel, and we did it in Business Class for $60 each –cheaper than flying, and we were already in the city center areawhen we arrived.

From there, we caught a taxi to the Pitti Palace Hotel, the start and endpoint for the “Tuscan Treats and Cinque Terre” that Back-Roads Touringoperates. It is a nine-day, eight-night tour, with two nights in Florence,two nights in Lucca, two nights in Volterra, and the last two nights’ accommodation at a property in the beautiful Tuscan countryside.

We met up with the rest of the tour group — 13 others, from Australia,the U.S., Canada, and the UK. With Back-Roads Touring, for tours oncontinental Europe (except for the Sailing Tour in Croatia), there is aguide and a driver, and no more than 18 to a tour group. Our tourleader for the trip was Dario, a local Tuscan with a charming accent. Hespoke English well enough, but occasional phrases were lost in transla-tion – probably more lost in the accent! The first day of the tour was justa chance to meet everyone, with a Welcome Dinner to help facilitatethat.

For the second day, we were led, along with Dario, by an accreditedguide for a walking tour of Florence. We ventured into the heart of the cityitself, seeing Piazza della Signoria, and continuing on to the Mercato Nuovo with its bronze boar statue (tourists were rubbing its noseto ensure their return to the city).

We also visited Orsanmichele church and museum, where we saw itsimpressive statues of the patron saints of Florence’s various trade guilds.After a short break in the Piazza della Repubblica, we followed ourguide to the Duomo – the cathedral of Florence. This beautiful 14th century building — with its green-, pink-, and white-marble exterior walls,the towering Campanile, and iconic red-tiled dome — is a sight to behold.

The interior of the cathedral is very simple, with decoration largely reserved for the marble flooring and Italian painter Giorgio Vasari’s frescoes of the last judgment that adorn the dome high above.

The Walking Tour of Florence finished at a leather shop, where welearned how to detect real leather from fake. It’s not the smell, whichfakers can reproduce and spray onto synthetic fabrics. It is, in fact, thefeel of leather — if you can press the inside surfaces together andmove them between your fingers, it’s fake.

Our afternoon was free to spend as we wished. My colleague and I decided to climb to the top of the Duomo – it is not for the faint hearted!You need to be in decent shape for it (but if this writer can do it, prettymuch anyone can!), and not be claustrophobic, as it is dark and tightin places. But, once you get to the top, it’s well worth it – panoramicviews over Florence, and, on a really clear day, you can see the surrounding area for miles!

On the third day, we saw the original Michelangelo statue of David (thereare copies in various locations, but the original is at the Galleria dell’Accademia) before leaving Florence. Back at the hotel, we met Sergio, our driver for the tour. He was courteous and considerate; alsoa talented musician, never missing a chance to burst into song,particularly to wish us “Buon giornooooo” every morning!

We traveled to Lucca – this was one of the rare occasions where wedrove on the motorways (It is called “Back-Roads” Touring, after all).Lucca is an old walled city that looks big, but it is very easy to getaround. The old wall is only about 2.5 miles in circumference.

After lunch as a group, we had the rest of the afternoon and eveningto ourselves. Dario showed us a great spot from which to see all ofLucca – I realized I would be climbing a lot of structures throughout thistrip to get panoramic views! This time we went to the Torre delle Oreclock tower, and the view was amazing.



Arriving at Villa La PalaginaPhoto: Peter DiasRelaxing in the Cinque Terre

City of Siena

Find more travel tips, interviews, and vaction ideas on our blog, The Journey, at http://blog.gogo-vacations.com/

Day four included a trip to the Cinque Terre, which literally means “fivetowns.” It is indeed a string of five towns that you can only traverse by train, boat, or on foot — there are no cars. The area is UNESCO Heritage listed. The five pretty pastel-colored villages arenestled among five miles of remote, rocky coastline, with the CinqueTerre offering magnificent scenery filled with hillside olive groves, and vineyards set against a harbor backdrop.

We sampled superb fresh seafood in Vernazza, the fourth town, andfound the perfect spot for gelato on the beach at Monterosso, the lastand largest of the five towns. Later, we returned to Lucca for dinner.

On the fifth day, we travelled to Volterra, stopping first at Pisa. Youhave the opportunity to see the Leaning Tower of Pisa at your own expense. During the included tour of the Baptistery of St. John, wewere witness to the two-minute sound check they do there, where at aset time a lone singer projects his or her voice into the dome. The echoreverberates around it for so long that the singer can harmonize withhis or her own voice – truly a spectacular thing to witness.

Next we made our way to Volterra, a delightful walled hilltop town.Volterra has narrow winding alleyways, ancient Etruscan gates, recently discovered Roman ruins, and fabulous views from the city wallsover the whole surrounding region.

On the sixth day, we went to the ancient city of Siena, famous for its traditional medieval horse race, the Palio di Siena, which is run aroundthe Piazza del Campo twice each year. Here, we had an accreditedguide who took us inside the magnificent Cathedral. Seeing the frescoscreated there, learning how old they are, and seeing the condition theyare in — you just have to marvel at it! After Siena, we visitedMonteriggioni, a tiny, charming 13th century walled hilltop town.

On day seven, after leaving Volterra, we went to San Gimignano, oneof Italy’s most beautiful hilltop villages, and we were able to

sample what is arguably the best gelato around, from a multi-award-winning gelato maker – it truly was that good! Next, at the Sant’AgneseFarm, we sampled locally made balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, truffleoil, and a variety of wines. The family’s passion for its business was evident in the quality of its products, and the pride they had in them.

Our last accommodation destination was Villa La Palagina. Here, wefelt at home in the Tuscan countryside. My colleague and I met the generalmanager, a Dutch gentleman who prided himself on bringing the property to such a level that people from around the world make thestop on their trips through Tuscany. It also helps when your neighbor upthe road is Sting – yes, Sting from The Police! He has a place that isavailable for rent too!

Sunday at the Villa La Palagina, the head chef taught us how to makefresh pasta and focaccia! We were even able to have it as part of ourdinner at the property that night. Truly, it is one of the nicest places I’veever stayed in!

On our final day, heading back to Florence, we stopped at the Castellodi Verrazzano to sample more Chianti types of wine. We enjoyed alunch of roasted vegetables, breads and cold cuts, and cheese, and wewere tutored in the art of wine tasting: how to lift the glass, look, smell,swirl, smell again and enjoy.

The Tuscan Treats & Cinque Terre tour conducted by Back-Roads wasone of my favorite traveling experiences, and I look forward to a similartrip soon!



At the Magic Castle Hotel, you will. Thisboutique property in Los Angeles has beennumber one on TripAdvisor for the lasttwo years due to its infallible commitment to service.

“Two weeks ago, I accepted an award inWashington, D.C. from the America LodgingAssociation for Best Guest Relations for aSmall Property,” explains Darren Ross,general manager of the Magic CastleHotel. “In 2014, for the second time infour years, we won the Stars of IndustryAward for Best Guest Relations for a SmallProperty from the California HotelLodging Association.”

So what makes the Magic Castle Hotelso…magical for its clients?

MAGICAL AMENITIES

Service is paramount, with special touchesand enchanting amenities you won’t find atany other hotel.

“We do all sorts of crazy things for our gueststhat are incredibly unique for hotels,” saysRoss. One unique amenity is the PopsicleHotline by the pool, where guests can pickup a red phone and request a popsicle. “Wecome out wearing white gloves with a silvertray full of popsicles, and then guests get freepopsicles out by the pool,” explains Ross.

But like all of the hotel’s surprises, the magicis in the details. Not only does the sign bythe red phone say “popsicle hotline,” it alsolists what popsicles are called in other countries,like “icy poles” and “ice blocks,” so guestsfrom other countries understand what thepopsicle hotline offers.

For the last decade, the Magic Castle Hotelhas also offered unlimited snacks. Uponcheck-in, guests will receive a list of 30 to 35items, like Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, Kit-Kats, Snickers, M&Ms, pretzels, popcorn,peanuts, and a huge variety of sodas. Andguests can come to the front desk or call thefront desk to have the snacks delivered to

their room 24 hours a day, absolutely free ofcharge. Notes Ross, “People are really takenaback by this because they are just not used to it.

“People traveling for two to three weeks, stayingat all these hotels—we’re just such a stand-out.They’re used to being nickeled and dimed atthe minibar, so it’s a fun amenity. Parents loveit. Kids love it. Business travelers love it.”

Another special amenity: free laundry service(you heard that right). Says Ross, “All youhave to do as a guest is call us up and sayyou have laundry to pick up, or bring it to thefront desk — in the morning, preferably —and it doesn’t matter how much you have orhow often you want it done.”

The hotel washes and dries the laundry,wraps it up in brown butcher paper with asprig of lavender, and ties it with twine beforedelivering it to the room that evening. “Andthere’s absolutely no charge,” Ross boasts. “Itblows people away. There are hotels chargingcrazy prices for laundry service. What wetry to do is give our guests these services thatare really relevant to them. We want to dothings that really have an impact on ourguests, on their experience.”

Other amenities include a welcome drink ina champagne glass and a personalized welcome to the hotel, a continental breakfastwith pastries delivered by the famous Los Angeles bakery Sesinta, and, on Mondays,Wednesdays and Fridays, guests are treatedto a magician performance.

The hotel offers turndown service every night,and the rooms feature robes and slippers forchildren as well as for adults.

“We really want the kids at the hotels to feellike grownups, and that — combined withbeing able to go to the front desk anytimethey want, with their parents’ permission, andask like a grownup to order snacks — createsmemories for these kids that they keep forever.”

The hotel’s aim is to continue to add services.“We never take a service away. A service thatwe offer now will be there a year from now —five years from now — so people don’t say it’snot as good as it used to be. We only add.”

But perhaps the most impressive amenity isone that isn’t even an amenity. “We listencarefully, and we respond creatively.™ Thatis our motto,” says Ross. “We listen to ourguests, and we want to surprise them. Wewant to blow them away with service.”

This includes surprising guests with somethingin their rooms based on something the hotelstaff has overheard, and Ross says, “We’revery good at that.”

Ross explains that if the staff overhears that aguest loves Spider-Man, they’ll place somethingSpider-Man related in the family’s room, sothe guest is surprised upon returning from aday out.

Just recently, a young guest asked for spicy,flaming Cheetos, which the front desk did nothave as part of its unlimited snack menu.“We have the original ones on our snack list.And I said, ‘No, we don’t. I’m so sorry,’” recalls Ross. “And then of course, we wentout and bought the flaming Cheetos and hadthem in the room for them.”

Spotlight On: Magic Castle Hotel by Susie Reese

DO YOU BELIEVE IN MAGIC?

MAGICAL


One of the special amenities of the hotel isthe ability of guests to make reservations atthe Magic Castle Club, which is an exclusive magicians’ club in Los Angeles.Only guests who receive passes from clubmembers themselves, and guests of theMagic Castle Hotel, are allowed to makereservations for evening shows and weekdaybrunch. While weekend brunch requires resort casual dress, evening performancesrequire cocktail attire, including jackets andties for male guests. Recently, a male guestforgot his dress shoes at home and didn’thave time to buy a new pair.

“Our front desk agent said, ‘Here. Wearmine,’” says Ross. “And we have a greatpicture of our front desk agent wearing ourslippers for the rest of his shift.”

MAGICAL ACCOMODATIONS

Ross takes great pride in the Magic CastleHotel’s status as the number one hotel on TripAdvisor, especially since the Magic CastleHotel is not a five-star property. It doesn’thave an elevator, a restaurant, or bar, thoughit is located one block behind the Hollywoodand Hyland Center, a comprehensive mallwhere TCL Chinese Theatres are.

The hotel has 43 guestrooms, and since itused to be an apartment complex, mostrooms are suites, complete with fullkitchens, a dining area, a living room witha pull-out sofa, and usually one bedroom— though the hotel has a mixture of juniorsuites and two-bedroom suites as well.

Ross admits the rooms aren’t the fanciest intown, but the hotel is constantly renovating.A bathroom is currently being remodeledwith marble tile, and they have severalstyled like that.

Explains Ross, “We don’t try to be somethingwe’re not, and that’s a key for us. If you goto our website, the rooms are reallyunder-represented online. We do that bydesign. We would much rather have peoplecome to the hotel and be pleasantlypleased than put our best room there, andthere’s only one room like that.”

Rates at the hotel are also competitive with thestandard rooms in the area, never mind thesuite categories. Plus, the hotel rooms offerTime Warner on-demand programming,which allows for plenty of children-favorite movies as well as adult-favorite HBO, Showtime, and network TV shows.

All this combined makes for a magical experience at the Magic Castle Hotel, asseen by the numerous awards and itsstanding on TripAdvisor.

“We don’t ask people on TripAdvisor towrite these reviews,” explains Ross. “Ourjob is to compel them to do so with anamazing experience. When they leave,they want to write about it, tell friendsabout it, or return themselves. It’s really aunique hotel.”

SURPRISES



When Grandpa goes on vacation, helikes to golf. Grandma needs to goshopping. The kids need an adrenalinerush, and they can only spend somany hours in the pool doing cannonballs. And you and your partner?You just want an actual vacation.

So we’ve compiled a list where everyone—from Grandpa and Grandmato you— gets their desired vacation.

BEACHES OCHO RIOS

There’s a certain convenience to having golf,spa, and activities included in your stay, andthat’s where Beaches Resorts excel. Voted besthotel for families in the Caribbean by the2015 TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards,Beaches Ocho Rios is aptly named a spa,golf, and waterpark resort.

Unlimited rounds of golf, and round-trip transfers are included for everyone at the Sandals Golf & Country Club. Not only is itnamed one of the finest courses by Golf Digest and Frommers Travel Guide, but it alsohas enchanting views of the sea and mountains,700 feet above sea level.

Add in the Pirate’s Island Waterpark, theXBOX 360® Game Garage, the Kids Club,

Club Liquid for teens, and Caribbean Adventures with Sesame Street™, and the kids will bemore than entertained.

For relaxation, Mom and Dad can head overto the Red Lane® Spa with its European-stylemassages, facials, body wraps, and more, allwith Beaches’ tropical signature twists. Didwe mention that all meals and drinks are included? Well, now we have.

DREAMS SANDS CANCUNRESORT AND SPA

One of Dreams’ newest resorts, DreamsSands Cancun Resort and Spa, is the quintessential family resort in Cancun, cateringto first-time travelers and travel mavens. The

Beaches Ocho Rios, JamaicaForGENERATIONS:TRAVELDESTINATIONS

by Susie Reese


nearby Playa Mujeres Golf Club wows golfaficionados with a Greg Norman signature18-hole course with spectacular ocean andtropical views.

On property, kids will enjoy the Explorer’sClub with arts and crafts, a playground, storytelling and music, sandcastle contests,treasure hunts, video games, a climbing wall,and more. Parents will love that the staff isAmerican Red Cross certified in CPR and FirstAid, and parents receive a pager in case of emergencies.

The Core Zone is for teens ages 13-17 andoffers social events, video games, Ping-Pong,water sports and activities, and computerswith Internet. Add in a 650-foot stretch of privatebeach, movies under the stars, a world-classspa and fitness center, and you’ll be busy getting

your relaxation on. Six a la carte restaurants,an ice cream parlor, a buffet, and a grill, all included, ensure you'll have all you need withoutleaving the resort. Oh, and a private dinner in yourroom? Absolutely. Room service is encouraged.

HERSH EY, PENNSYLVANIAHershey is more than just chocolate, thoughchocolate is pretty awesome in and of itself. Butyou’re looking more for a vacation than aneat-fest, and Hershey’s got it!

For the golf-lovers, the Hershey Golf Club hasthree expert courses, including the first nine-holegolf course in the United States open to playersunder 18 (it was remastered in 2006 and hasa second set of tees for an 18-hole experience),

but if Grandpa wants a sophisticated experience, he can golf on a par-3 course withHigh Point Mansion, Milton S. Hershey’s formerhome, in the background.

For ultimate relaxation, The Spa at Hotel Hershey offers treatments for women, men, andteens in the form of massages, facials, and hydrotherapy. And yes, specialized treatmentscome with chocolate. Outlets with name-brandshops are the perfect place to spend a fewbucks and an afternoon, and of course, for bothkids and adults, there’s Hershey Park, with 12roller coasters, family rides, and kiddie rides.

Not sure if you’ve found the resort or destinationfor your family’s travels? Then check out ourblog now for Spotlight On articles about our favorite resorts from around the world. http://blog.gogo-vacations.com/

Dream Sandals, Cancun



Emphasizes McAlister, “As far as you can see, it is just beautiful, wide-open spaces. Very green, very lush. Most people think of Texas as being dry and flat, and that’s not atall the case, especially where we are in the center of Texas.”

Located two hours outside of Dallas, the Wildcatter Ranch sitsin the beautiful area of North Texas Hill County and has beenwelcoming couples and families for a decade.

What to do on the range

Have an adventure on the range with horseback riding, skeetshooting, jeep tours, archery, and great hiking trails, and ifyou’re searching for a relaxing retreat, the ranch boasts an infinity-edge pool and hot tub.

“Our area has some really good Wild West stories as part ofour local history,” explains McAlister, “so our cowboys will sharea lot of our local Texas history.”

Many guests enjoy the ranch for two- or three -night stays, relaxing at the facilities and venturing out to the small town ofGraham, which is a 10-minute drive from the ranch.

But many of the guests stay on property, which offers breakfastin the morning at the on-site lodging and dinner every night inthe restaurant, the Dinner Bell.

“The main staple of Texas cuisine is beef,” McAlister says, “Weactually hand cut our steaks, and they are all mesquite grilled.So it’s really unique.”

Spotlight On: Wildcatter Ranch by Susie Reese

Howdy, Partner. Are you looking for something a little differentfor your next vacation? How about a true home-on-the-range escapewith the Wildcatter Ranch?

The 1,500-acre ranch was built on the highest point among itssurroundings, with no other structures. According to Jason McAlister,general manager of the Wildcatter Ranch, the landscape is very natural and untouched.



The kitchen has a huge wood-burning grill in order to get a goodmesquite flavor, but the Dinner Bell also serves some barbecue and otherTexas favorites, like chicken-fried steak.

The Dinner Bell at the ranch only serves dinner, but a second DinnerBell in Graham opens for breakfast and lunch. The one on property isvery popular, however, with guests and locals.

“It’s a trendy, fancy place in the area to go for dinner; the special-occasion restaurant for locals,” McAlister notes.

Home on the range

Accommodations at Wildcatter Ranch include 41 guest rooms, with16cabin suites and the guest house, Herron Bend. According to McAlister, the cabin suites are popular, with log cabin exteriors, a stonefireplace, and high-end western furniture. And each suite has a unique theme!

“Each room has a theme, like the Oil Boom Room,” McAlister says.“The artwork in the room has images and stories about the oil boom inYoung County, and also the lamps are shaped like an oil derrick. Othersmall features in the room also bring in that theme.”

The ranch hosts 15 big weddings a year, and typically those weddingparties rent out the ranch for a weekend event. Most use one of thecabin suites as a bridal suite, but some couples choose Herron Bend.

“It’s an over-the-top house,” notes McAlister. “It’s 14,000 square feetwith a movie theatre, a game room, a private pool, a hot tub, andamazing views.”

Herron Bend also boasts a huge stone patio for the ceremony and a bigparty barn close by for the reception.

“Ranch hand” is a job all its own, and not what they call abellboy in Texas, as we found out when we spoke to Clint West, whohas been a ranch hand at the Wildcatter Ranch for two and a halfyears. So what exactly does the position of “ranch hand” entail?

Q: What is a typical day like at the Wildcatter Ranch?A: The first thing in the morning, we call up the horses from the pasture.We then feed them in the stalls surrounding the barn. There’s usuallytwo of us working, so one cowboy will saddle the horses if we have ahorseback ride scheduled while the other counts and feeds our Anguscattle. Then, at 9:00, one of us goes up to the hotel to take guests downto feed the longhorns in our covered wagon. At 10:00, if we have ahorseback ride, one of us or both will take the group out, depending onhow many riders we have. At noon, we go to lunch and come back byone to get ready for our 1:30 activities. We offer private horsebackrides and skeet at that time. At 2:45 if we have a jeep tour, one of uswill take that out. At 4:00, if guests want to shoot archery, then we willdo that.

Q: What is the best part of your job?A: The best part about my job is getting to meet people from all overthe world, from all different walks of life, and getting to hear their storiesand experiences. That is really neat to me.

Q: How/why did you become a ranch hand/cowboy?A: Cowboys have always been my heroes since I was a little kid. I wanted to be one when I grew up. I started rodeoing when I was 15.I rode bareback horses for a couple years in high school. I had workedfor several ranches and other jobs before I found the Wildcatter, whichhas been the most enjoyable job I have ever had.

Q: What is your favorite spot at the Wildercatter Ranch?A: My favorite spot is the bluff overlooking the Brazos River. It is a beautiful spot with a breathtaking drop.



Lesley Carter has been traveling the world since 2012 and has visited such destinations as Austria, Panama,Thailand, Mexico, Namibia, and most recently, Mauritius. Her journey to the island off the coast of Africa included all-inclusive hotels, safaris, submarines, and a pampering spa day. But perhaps the most fulfilling partof her journey was exploring an amazing new destination with her daughter. Read on to discover Mauritiuswith Lesley and her daughter, Athena!

Q&AWITH THE TRAVEL BLOGGER LESLIE CARTER

Q: What made you choose to visit Mauritius?

Q: How did you get to Mauritius?

A: Crystal-clear turquoise waters always call my name, but I wanted some-thing other than the Caribbean. I searched for a unique, family-friendlybeach destination where I could travel with my toddler daughter and feelsafe. I wanted something remote and luxurious with new experiences thatI couldn’t get anywhere else. I also wanted tons of family activities andwarm weather. Basically, I wanted it all.

When I found Mauritius online, I knew it was the place for us immediately.All it took was a beach photo and I was drawn in, but it was ConstanceHotels that truly hooked me. They were the perfect blend of family luxuryand adventure. Offering both high-end, beachfront accommodations andfamily-fun adventures, I wanted to give them a try.

A: Admittedly, the flights to Mauritius were not short. We flew overnightfrom LAX (Los Angeles International Airport) to Paris on Air France and thenwaited at the airport in Paris for six hours before continuing on to Mauritiuson Air Mauritius. Although it took a long time to reach Mauritius, the processwas simple.

Athena slept on the overnight flight to Paris. As a parent flying with a toddler,the flight attendants on Air France were very helpful. They put us in a rowwith an empty seat, so my daughter could stretch out. She slept most of theflight. By the time we arrived in Paris, she was ready to eat and play.

We found a restaurant area and took our time. Then we played in a children’s play area for a few hours before our next flight. It was nap timeagain, so she slept for the first few hours of the flight and then watched in-flight movies, played games, and colored for the last few hours. I travelwith her a lot, so I was prepared with games and toys.



@GOGOWWV

@gogovacations

/GOGOVacations

See more blog.gogo-vacations.com

Writer & Editor Susie Reese

Layout & Design Sharon Martin

Marketing Team Melissa Gusman,

Adam Okimatsu & Sarah Afana

Associate Editor Meghan Brennan

Group Editor Phil Gusman

Editor’s Note 4Paradise Found 5Hawaii, the Paradise 6-7of the Pacific

On the Move 8-9The latest on property openings, flight routes, andcruise news.

A Flight Attendant’s30,000-Foot View 10-11Get truths, tips, and thoughts about flying and the air-line industry from a veteran flight attendant..

City Switch 12-13You don’t want to accidentally book a flight to themiddle of the country instead of Europe.

All Aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train 14 -15Chugging through one of the most famous wine regions in the world, the Napa Valley Wine Train ispart restaurant, part museum, and all fun.

Top Travel Apps 16-17In case of last-minute travel snags, these apps are really good to have in your pocket.

Top 10 Things to Do InHawaii: Coffee,Craters,and City Tours 20 -21Hawaii is home to Kona coffee, the world’s largest dormant volcano, America’s only royal palace, and more!

Ladies’ Must-HaveTravel Gear 22,24-25International TV Host Ashley Colburn dishes about herfavorite gear to make your next trip less stressful andmore enjoyable.

Oddest NFLTraining CampLocations 26-27A Trip to Rome: What to See &What to Skip 28-29

The Sands of Summer—Sand SculptingCompetitors &Competitions 30-33Sandmasters Matthew Deibert and Sue McGrewdiscuss their sandsculpting adventures and favoritesummer festivals.

Which Celebrity Destination ShouldYou Visit? 34-35Expert Advice:Group TravelTrips & Tips 36Snow Bunny Shuns Skis,Embraces Zip-Linesand Snowmobilesin Whistler 38-39Mr. Brochure Jed Hauck discovers there’s more thanjust world-class ski slopes in Whistler, Canada.

Spotlight On:Hyatt ZivaPuerto Vallarta 42-43Erica’s Asian Adventure— Vietnam 44-45, 47From Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, discover the sightsof Vietnam.

Conspiracy Sites:Roswell, New Mexico 48Wine & Food Festival,Cancun-Riviera Maya 50-52Cancun-Riviera Maya is more than a Spring Breakparadise. It’s found a sophisticated palate for food lovers!

Save the Date 54Mark your calendars with these world-class events inthe U.S. and beyond.

Halloween inthe Hollow 56-57What’s more Halloween than Sleepy Hollow? .

Stuffed GypsyPepper Recipe 64

The Wizarding Worldof Harry Potter:Guide for Nerds 60-61Associate Editor Meghan Brennan takes us on a magical journey through Universal Orlando®

Resort’s newest addition.

Tuscan Treats andCinque Terre 62-63Experience all of Tuscany’s flavors and famous sightswith traveler Peter Dias and Back-Roads Touring

Spotlight On: Magic Castle Hotel 64-65General Manager Darren Ross tells us what it takesto be the number one hotel rated on TripAdvisor inLos Angeles.

For Generations: Travel Destinations 66-67.

Spotlight On: Wildcatter Ranch 68-69Howdy, Partner! How about a true home-on-the-range escape? Check out this unique resort in Texas

Q&A with TravelBlogger Lesley Carter 70-71Explore Mauritius with Bucket List Publications

Editor Lesley Carter and her daughter, Athena!



Follow Lesley’s globe-trotting adventures on Bucket List Publications at bucketlistpublications.org, and nextmagazine, look for more adventures from Lesley!

Q: Can you give a brief itinerary of your trip? Whatwere you most looking forward to seeing/doing?

Q: What sort of travelers would you recommend visit Mauritius?

A: I stayed half of the time at Constance Belle Mare Plage and the otherhalf at Constance Le Prince Maurice. Transportation to each Constance property is included as part of the all-inclusive package. We planned oneactivity per day to avoid getting over-tired and hired a guide to drive us toeach location and help us on our journey.

Activities included Casela Nature & Leisure Park, Chamarel Colored Earth,Curious Corner, Crocodile Park, Blue Safari Submarine, and EasterliesCatamaran Cruise. We usually ate lunch at a new place each day. Sincewe had the all-inclusive package at Constance, we ate breakfast and dinnerthere. We scheduled a full day at each property for relaxation, resort activities, and beach time.

I was most looking forward to our spa day at Constance Le Prince Maurice.I’ve had many spa experiences around the world but none where Athenacould join me. We were each given a massage at the same time, andthen Athena had her finger and toenails painted while I finished my full-body massage. She is, undoubtedly, a princess, and she loves beingpampered. Joining me at the spa made her feel valued and like a “biggirl.” She talked about it for weeks after we returned home.

I also looked forward to the full-day catamaran tour. We both love snorkeling and being on the ocean. It’s a fantastic way to sightsee andspend quality time together.

A: Mauritius offers something for almost every traveler. With countless extreme adventures like skydiving, kiteboarding, windsurfing, and hiking,it’s an adventure seeker’s paradise. The numerous luxurious properties pamper you like royalty, and the family-friendly options are plentiful. Theturquoise waters are a diver’s dream, and Mauritius is among the top fivebest places to get married and take a honeymoon. Even budget travelerscan find cheap all-inclusive options or campsites in Mauritius. For solo travelers,I’d recommend a hotel like Club Med where group activities are plannedand the nightlife is more active, but it’s still a great place to explore.



ON

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JULY - SEPTEM

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JULY Spine.qxp_Layo

ON GOTHE

A MAGAZINE FOR TRAVELERS

Top 10 Things to Do in HawaiiWith so much to do, spread across sixbeautiful islands, we help you narrow

down your Hawaii to-do list.Page 20

All Aboard the Napa ValleyWine Train

Get transported back in time to early 20thcentury luxury as you ride historic rails to

some of Napa Valley’s best vineyards.Page 14

JULY - SEPTEMBER 2015


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