Posts tagged with "360 travel"

Naya Traveler Colombia press images courtesy of Naya Traveler for use by 360 MAGAZINE

Naya Traveler Colombia Trip

Naya Traveler is known for their one-of-a-kind travel experiences that cultivate rich experiences with beloved family and friends. Each trip is created to optimize travel time, and to ensure that guests have an unforgettable time at their fabulous destination.

Naya Traveler recently announced their latest Colombia trip that takes off this March.

Rich in biodiversity and full of the world’s most beautiful landmarks, Colombia is a travel destination like no other. Embodied by breathtaking ocean views to hills of green accompanied by Colombia-grown coffee to the snow-encompassed Andean summits, Colombia has everything that you could want out of a vacation and more.  

The trip curated by Naya Traveler guarantees guests learn extensive background regarding Colombia’s roots from local experts. Unique and rare experiences are created and always aim to honor the heritage, tradition and culture of each space.

Luxurious levels of relaxation and assistance are certified through your trip with spectacular itineraries sure to cover all the landmarks Colombia has to offer. Whether you’re exploring through the mountains in the Sierra del Cocuy or setting out towards the Pacific Coast to enjoy some whale watching, each Naya Traveler trip will have you stunned.

Starting at $1,000USD per guest per day, rates consist of accommodations, domestic airfare, transportation, host and expert guides, daily activities and excursions, limited meals and services with an on-call team that safeguards your trip 24/7. International airfare not included in pricing. For more information visit HERE.

To celebrate this years upcoming International Women’s Day, Naya Traveler had the chance to chat with Blanca Londono. Blanca runs Colombia’s Finca Silletera – a female-owned business that puts tradition, culture and female empowerment at the forefront of their principles.

Born and raised in Santa Elena, Blanca works with her family on making silletas for decades. The business is something so sacred to her family, something passed down throughout their family history.

Q: Blanca, what are the traditional types of silletas?

A: The silletas can be presented in different types: the monumental, where the arrangement is made flower by flower, emblematic (flat), artistic (in three dimensions) and traditional. They are built using dozens of types of flowers.

Q: How many women in the family are dedicated to this?

A: Six sisters and three daughters. My three daughters and I plant and pick the flowers, we sell them and parade.

Q: What is it about Santa Elena that makes it such a special ideal area for flower-growing?

A: Santa Elena has very good, generous land. We are located 8,500 ft above sea level: we could plant anything in this soil. We don’t use greenhouses, everything is open air land, and we only use organic fertilizers.

Q: What are your childhood memories, growing up in the silleteros tradition?

A: I treasure the most beautiful memories being absolute winners in all 4 versions of silletas. The greatest pride is to be recognized among many artisans. It means that our teamwork is shared and celebrated as an entire family.

Q: How do people live their daily lives in Santa Elena?

A: Here people are wonderful, chatty, we love gathering among neighbors, cousins, siblings… people are so very kind.

Q: Blanca, how would you define Colombians and being Colombian?

A: Colombians are hardworking, honest, straight-forward. We value peace, tranquility and have much respect for visitors, wanting them to have a great experience when traveling around our Country. To me, being Colombian is the greatest thing in life. And living in Santa Elena is something I take immense pride in.

Naya Traveler Colombia press images courtesy of Naya Traveler for use by 360 MAGAZINE
Naya Traveler Colombia press images courtesy of Naya Traveler for use by 360 MAGAZINE
Naya Traveler Colombia press images courtesy of Naya Traveler for use by 360 MAGAZINE
Naya Traveler Colombia press images courtesy of Naya Traveler for use by 360 MAGAZINE
Naya Traveler Colombia press images courtesy of Naya Traveler for use by 360 MAGAZINE
Images provided courtesy of Naya Traveler
L.A. Tourism/HOUSE/OBEY press image via Los Angeles Tourism and Convention Board for use by 360 MAGAZINE

L.A. Tourism × OBEY × House Industries

Bouncing back from the prolonging COVID-19 pandemic, Los Angeles Tourism announced their brand-new partnership with OBEY Clothing and House Industries on an exclusive, limited-time-only collection that captures the SoCal essence enthralled by the city of Los Angeles.

The collection dropped on February 11 and sports Los Angeles Tourism’s latest logo with a set of three other designs on a selection of tees and sweatshirts. Los Angeles Tourism, OBEY Clothing and House Industries have pledged to contribute all funds from the project to The Midnight Mission, a non-profit that aims to fight the problem of homelessness in L.A.

The energy that encapsulates the city of L.A. is like no other, often chased throughout differing locations across the nation. The distinctive cities that encompass the area are rich in culture, experience and opportunity, entailing everything that L.A. is notorious for.

For this upcoming collection, the collaboration sees this celebration of four differing locations in the L.A. area. Designs range from the price points of $34 – $77, honoring the distinguished cities of Venice, Griffith Park, Echo Park and the city of Los Angeles in total.

The collection is available for purchase at obeyclothing.com NOW!

Don Skeoch, Chief Marketing Officer for Los Angeles Tourism spoke to the new collection, stating, “When we launched our new brand identity, we received so many awesome messages from fans who wanted to see it on a shirt they could buy. We’re thrilled to partner with House Industries and hometown-based OBEY Clothing to create a special LA-themed line that also contributes to the higher good. It was important to us that 100% of Los Angeles Tourism’s proceeds go towards a cause so critical in Los Angeles –homelessness.”

CEO of OBEY Clothing, Steve Ternosky, expressed the excitement behind the collaboration, stating, “It’s exciting to get to work on a project based on your own backyard and the icing on the cake is getting to work on it with your friends. In this case, having the opportunity to represent the city we love and co-design a collection with House Industries, of which we have so much respect and history, is a perfect scenario for us. We would like to thank Los Angeles Tourism for solidifying the opportunity and their generosity to ensure the project gives back to the community in its support of The Midnight Mission.”

Andy Cruz with House Industries elaborated on the power of the collection, stating, “The fact that our artwork can help support people that are struggling makes the L.A. Tourism/HOUSE/OBEY collaboration even more impactful than just designing a defining logo for an iconic city.”

G. Michael Arnold, President and CEO of The Midnight Mission, detailed what the profits would be supporting, stating, “The Midnight Mission is delighted to be a beneficiary of this limited-edition capsule collection. Our goal is to restore people to self-sufficiency and combat the issues surrounding homelessness, and the proceeds from this project will help us provide individuals and families experiencing homelessness with a secure place to sleep and three nutritious meals a day.”

To find out more, visit @discoverla on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook. If you plan on visiting soon, travel carefully and adhere to guidance from Los Angeles County Public Health.

L.A. Tourism/HOUSE/OBEY press image via Los Angeles Tourism and Convention Board for use by 360 MAGAZINE
L.A. Tourism/HOUSE/OBEY press image via Los Angeles Tourism and Convention Board for use by 360 MAGAZINE
L.A. Tourism/HOUSE/OBEY press image via Los Angeles Tourism and Convention Board for use by 360 MAGAZINE
L.A. Tourism/HOUSE/OBEY press image via Los Angeles Tourism and Convention Board for use by 360 MAGAZINE
Travel illustration by Samantha Miduri for use by 360 Magazine

3 Ways Technology Will Change How We Book Travel

The travel and hospitality sectors are in the midst of a massive technological transformation that will affect how you book travel and stay at hotels moving forward. Tech savvy customers will come to expect the convenience that artificial intelligence brings. This vision is what I like to call ‘high-tech automation with high-touch personalization and customization.’

Here are three mega-trends leading the way toward realizing this vision:

Artificial Intelligence Will Personalize Your Travel Booking Experience 

Online travel agencies (i.e. Expedia, Booking, or my company HotelPlanner) are working toward becoming smarter, more seamless and more personalized and customized than ever before. Access to increasing amounts of data is transforming the customer experience for online booking, allowing for smarter search functionality and better tailored results for each unique customer.

As for the top customer concerns of price and flexibility, the solutions brought by AI can lead to enhanced hotel inventory connectivity to deliver better price accuracy and more real-time options to fit any budget.

For example, the hotel booking engines of the future will already know you want a hotel with a good gym or pool, that’s pet friendly or eco-friendly, or has some other amenity, feature, or price point that’s important to you.

Voice-Enabled Services Will Grow With the Rise of the ‘Internet of Things’

AI-driven advancements in natural language recognition are making voice search the industry’s next big trend. Voice activation will continue to expand with the rise of the Internet of Things and smart homes, smart cars and smart offices.

For example, at the height of the pandemic, my company launched what we believe is the next generation of call center customer service:  a 24/7 global gig-economy based call center connected to customers through AI-enabled VOIP. This voice-enabled technology allows us to connect the right customer with the right agent to provide personalized service, and to convert more sales of course.

And now you can even use Alexa to make a hotel reservation. (Give it a try and please email your feedback to feedback@hotelplanner.com).

Big Data & Predictive Analytics Will Know You Better Than You Know Yourself

Data is king, but only if you know how to interpret the data in real-time for ‘actionable intelligence’ as they say in the military. Travel technology firms and hotels will employ predictive data analytics and advanced machine learning solutions to anticipate and then deliver more bespoke services based on each customers’ unique needs and wants.

For example, at hotels this might include contactless check-ins, Alexa devices in your hotel room, or perhaps the hotel gym’s personal trainer offers you a free session since the hotel already knows that health & fitness is important to you.

For online travel agencies, they will focus on a more personalized user experience to engender your customer trust and loyalty. So when you go to search for a hotel, the site already knows exactly the type of hotel you want based on previous bookings or your unique digital footprint.

These are just a few examples of how technology is rapidly evolving to meet the current and future needs of travelers who are now expecting a more tech-savvy and personalized experience.

Written by John Price, Co-Found and CIO, HotelPlanner

 

John Price headshot via Christine Lenzo for use by 360 MAGAZINE
Rita Azar for use by 360 Magazine

FASTEST GROWING TOURIST ATTRACTION OF KOREA – INCHEON

Korea has quickly earned increasing global interest and attention with the rise of online cultural trends. So many people are intrigued by the experience of Korean culture, and since Korea has been continuously recuperating from COVID-19, the Incheon Tourism Organization predicts that international tourists will be able to indulge in trips to Korea very soon.

Seoul has been often regarded as the leading tourist attraction in Korea, but Incheon may triumph over Seoul modernly. Conveniently located by the sea amongst islands and numerous filming locations of Korean cultural content, tourists can now encounter trips in the area with Incheon’s smart tourist platform.

Incheon Tourism Organization suggests the following tourist locations to get to know the true essence of Incheon.

Wolmido Island – Location from Squid Game

Wolmi Theme Park (Wolmi My Land) opened in 1992 and is the oldest amusement park in Wolmido. The park has become exceptionally popular as it was the filming location of Squid Game, where Deoksu meets his gang members. Fans come near and far to get photo ops at Wolmi There Park, indulging in dalgona like the characters from Squid Game and to admire the breathtaking sunsets.

Yeongjongdo Island – The Heart of Korean Content

Yeongjongdo Island is typically the first site that tourists encounter, as many international airlines arrive in Korea via Incheon International Airport. One of the top art and entertainment resorts in Yeongjongdo Island, Paradise City, is noteworthy for the multitude of music videos, photoshoots and fan meeting sites for K-Pop artists. Paradise City isn’t the only filming location for Korean content from TV series to reality shows in Yeongjongdo Island. Eurwangni Beach is where BTS filmed one of their music videos, and is a must-visit for those looking to appreciate a stunning sunset in Korea.

Incheon Open Port – Smart Travel via Incheon Easy App

Incheon Open Port may just be the most significant historic tourist attraction that allows for an experience of the 19th century, and the present. Domestic and international visitors can take pleasure in these trips by using the Incheon Easy app. The app includes tourism suggestions, transportation reservations and a luggage keeping service. Download the Incheon Easy app if you plan on traveling to Incheon soon. (Available on Google Play and App Store).

If you’re in search of the perfect tourist destination that will submerge you in culture, entertainment and history, you’ve found exactly that in Incheon.

Rita Azar for use by 360 Magazine

Travel Tips During the Holidays

Travel Preparedness Expert Cheryl Nelson has generated a few travel tips to keep you and your family safe during the holidays! Let’s break down these travel tips.

Packing

Nelson encourages holiday travelers to not overpack! Ensuring that you and your traveling party have not overpacked can save a lot of time, stress and even money. Make sure that you only pack what you really need and know you will use! If you are traveling by plane and must check a bag, know your airline’s weight restrictions prior to check in. If you’re traveling with a roller bag, make sure that you can lift that bag into the overhead bin by yourself. If you also plan on buying more items on your trip, make sure to save extra space in your suitcase.

Another specific tip that Nelson has is to roll your clothes when packing them instead of folding. This surprisingly saves a lot of room!

When packing your medications, try not to pack every single medication or supplement bottle. Pack your pills in a pill container or small bags and label them. Nelson recommends keeping a cold shortening product with Zinc on-hand, such as Zicam, to deliver general health while traveling.

Vaccination cards

Travel expert Nelson recommends having your physical vaccination card on hand when traveling this holiday seasons. Some states and even restaurants (like New York City) require proof of vaccination, so it’s best to do your research on the area you’re traveling to beforehand. Definitely make note to bring your vaccination card when traveling outside of the U.S. Nelson also urges travelers to make copies of both the front and back of the card, and to also keep a spare copy in your luggage as well as at your home. Another smart tip would be to take photos of the card to keep on your smartphone.

Nelson suggests keeping your card in a sleeve like this to ensure its protection. She also advises to not laminate the card as there is a potential to add to the card with future booster shot information.

Read the updated CDC guidelines

Continue to consider the plans of your travel leading up to the anticipated dates of travel. Evaluate the amount of people you may be around, if there are COVID-19 outbreaks in the location and if there are specific restrictions in your place of travel. Although traveling by air is not risk-free, Nelson believes that traveling on a commercial airline to be safe. The cabin’s air is run through a HEPA filter and refreshed every few minutes, and airlines also still require masks as protection tactics.

Be mindful of others around you

Prioritize good personal hygiene throughout your trip. Wash your hands in warm water for at least 20 seconds, carry hand sanitizer and use it after touching common surfaces. If you are vaccinated and still feel more protected by wearing a mask, wear a mask. Throughout the duration of your trip, continue to make time for rest. Drink a lot of water and don’t forget to exercise, even by just walking. Remember that it is OK to give yourself a mental break! Nelsons encourages travelers to relax, and

The Concord Hotel, 360 MAGAZINE, New Hampshire, four diamond, aaa

Venice’s Hotel Ca’ di Dio May 2021

Venice’s newest 5-star hotel, Ca’ di Dio, will be born in May 2021. The hotel sits within a transformed ecclesiastical compound dating from 1272 that has hosted Crusaders, pilgrims and tourists for more than eight centuries.

“We are honored to have been asked to represent the Ca’ di dio,” says Geoffrey Weill, “particularly at this moment in history when revolutionary vaccines are combatting a pandemic that has crippled the travel business in Venice and throughout the world.”

Located on the Riva Ca’ di Dio, the hotel overlooks Venice’s legendary lagoon, and is located adjacent to the Arsenale and the gardens that house the city’s Biennale, one of the world’s most iconic art festivals and exhibitions. The Ca’ di Dio is an easy stroll along the waterfront from bustling St. Mark’s Square.

The 66-key Ca’ di Dio (pronounced Ka-di-dio) is one of a new class of properties managed by Italy’s VOI Hotels, to be known as V-Retreats. The Ca ‘di Dio, like all V-Retreats, is set to be an oasis of peace, a palace of timeless beauty imbued with the finesse and warmth of Italian hospitality. The hotel’s general manager, Christophe Mercier, has a rich history of managing some of Venice’s finest properties.

The creation of the Hotel Ca’ di Dio was entrusted to the studio of the internationally renowned Spanish architect Patricia Urquiola. “My goal was to create an original and distinctive concept,” says Urquiola, “a Venetian ‘mansion,’ deeply linked to the history of the city with fine woods, rich textiles, colors, finishes and Murano glass; each decorative, architectural and lighting element is the result of the skillful hands of skilled craftsmen who combine the passion for their work with the secrets and techniques of Venetian tradition.”

The Ca’ di Dio’s accommodations comprise 57 suites and nine Deluxe rooms, spread over three floors. Ten suites have a unique view of the lagoon and San Giorgio Maggiore Island; two of the suites have a large roof terrace overlooking the San Marco Basin.

Two internal courtyards are home to the hotel’s Alchemia Bar and the Essentia Restaurant, whose design combines Venetian tradition with Urquiola’s contemporary signature. The hotel’s indoor-outdoor VE-RO Restaurant overlooks the breathtaking Venetian lagoon. Named for its Venetian roots, its cuisine is inspired by traditional dishes of the Veneto, reset in contemporary tones, respecting the seasonality of fish and produce. Many of the ingredients will come from the Ca’ di Dio’s vegetable garden secreted within yet another internal courtyard.

The Ca’ di Dio will offer a state-of-the-art wellness program in its Spa Pura, and will welcome small meetings and events. The colors and comfort of the reading room provide the ideal location for contemplation. The hotel’s elegant boutique will offer a selection of Murano glass produced exclusively for the Ca ‘di Dio. The hotel’s side canal entrance provides direct docking for water taxis and the hotel’s water-transfer cruisers.

The opening of the Ca’ di Dio coincides with a new reclaimed future for the city of Venice. “I was in the city in October when the Acqua Alta threatened the customary flooding of the city,” says Weill, “and for the first time, the lagoon’s new high-tech water barriers were set in motion, saving the city’s treasures from the customary flooding.”

The Venice Biennale 2021 has been postponed to 2022 because of Covid-19. The Venice Architecture Biennale, is now slated for May 22, 2021 to November 22, 2021.
Full details of the new Hotel Ca’ di Dio are at https://www.lifestyle-voihotels.com/en/ca-di-dio/and will be expanded in coming weeks.

Rita Azar illustrates travel article for 360 MAGAZINE

Cozy Winter Retreats

Enjoy delicious food, spectacular accommodations, and seasonal activities this winter

As temperatures drop and winter nears, a sweet escape may be closer than you think! If you’re yearning for a weekend getaway, look no further than the scenic Hudson Valley for a charming winter retreat. Located just an hours’ drive from New York City, Orange County, N.Y. offers acclaimed restaurants and accommodations with seasonal packages for couples, singles, and families looking for a home away from home this season.

“The perfect winter getaway can be found close to home with a visit to one of our cozy inns or B&Bs — all just a short drive from the area’s ski resorts, ice rinks, riding stables, hiking, biking, and mountain trails,” said Orange County Tourism Director Amanda Dana. “Unwind with loved ones or a good book by a crackling fireplace after a day outdoors. Or, warm up with a delicious meal from one of our many acclaimed restaurants offering indoor dining and seasonal menus, too.”

Below are some winter getaways available in Orange County, N.Y. Before visiting any of the locations, please contact the venue directly to confirm that they are open and practice safe social-distancing.

Cedar Lake Estates, 1 Team USA Way, Port Jervis: Cedar Lakes Estate offers 500 acres of Winter Wonderland for you to explore. Stay for a long weekend, or grab a seat at one of the venue’s Saturday dinners. Whether just for a toast by the fire, or a snowshoe around the property, explore all there is to do in the beautiful Hudson Valley. cedarlakesestate.com

The Thayer Hotel, 674 Thayer Road, West Point: Experience the luxurious accommodations at the Historic Thayer Hotel at West Point with one of many seasonal packages available. Visitors can enjoy a delicious Thanksgiving dinner prepared by the Culinary Institute of America team of chefs with an overnight stay, or choose the venue’s holiday brunch package that includes an exquisite feast for two, luxurious overnight accommodations, and a souvenir Thayer Hotel holiday ornament. Ring in the New Year with overnight accommodations, a cocktail reception at MacArthur’s Riverview Restaurant, a four-course meal, open bar, DJ, champagne toast at midnight, and a New Year’s Day champagne brunch. thethayerhotel.com

The Waterstone Inn, 62 Sterling Road, Greenwood Lake: Skiers won’t want to overlook one of Orange County’s hidden gems, The Waterstone Inn. Located just three miles from Mount Peter, a full-service mountain offering skiing, snowboarding and tubing, the beautiful inn offers visitors a peek back in time to the Golden Age of Greenwood Lake when affluent New York families would flock to the lake for leisure throughout the 1800s and early 1900s. Accommodating parties of all sizes, guests can choose from studio rooms, suites, or the entire third floor. thewaterstoneinn.com

Bear Mountain Inn, 3020 Seven Lakes Drive, Bear Mountain: Built in 1915 upon a plateau overlooking the shores of Hessian Lake, this natural beauty of local stone and timber is a national treasure. Its 15 deluxe guest rooms and suites combine rustic mountainside elegance with all the creature comforts of home to make it the quintessential romantic Hudson Valley destination. Relax and recharge with the inn’s shop, stay, and spa package that includes a gift card to Woodbury Common Premium outlets and a $100 credit to the Spa at Bear Mountain. visitbearmountain.com

Cromwell Manor Historic Inn, 174 Angola Road, Cornwall: Relax at this elegant 1820 mansion with additional guest rooms in a charming 1762 colonial cottage. Decorated with period antiques and furnishings, all rooms have private baths and many have working fireplaces. Enjoy homemade breakfast each morning, overlooking the seven-acre private estate, before heading out to explore nearby parks and trails, world class shopping at Woodbury Common Premium Outlets, and many vineyards and wineries. cromwellmanorinn.com

Stagecoach Inn, 268 Main Street, Goshen: The Hudson Valley’s premier inn and restaurant can be found within an elegant mansion built in 1747. Despite its historic past, the five-bedroom inn features private baths and all the modern updates and amenities for 21st-century travelers. The on-site restaurant offers casually elegant dining in several sitting rooms and a stone veranda overlooking three acres of manicured lawns. During the day, explore all that Orange County has to offer with local museums and art galleries, parks and outdoor activities, and shopping galore. stagecoachny.com

As the world reopens, Orange County, N.Y., invites residents and visitors to escape, enjoy and explore its wide-open spaces. For a full list of attractions, lodging and dining options available at this time, please visit orangetourism.org/fall-fun. Additionally, a fun, free, 56-page travel guide is available for digital download at OrangeTourism.org/travel-guide.

About Orange County Tourism

Orange County Tourism, based in Goshen, N.Y., is the county’s tourism headquarters and a participant in the I LOVE NY program. A comprehensive listing of area attractions, lodging and events can be found at OrangeTourism.org. Like Orange County Tourism on Facebook for the latest news on local happenings.

Rita Azar illustrates travel article for 360 MAGAZINE

Transport Considerations While Traveling Abroad

Choosing a vacation and booking our travel and accommodation are the things we think of when planning a trip. But we rarely plan how we’re actually going to get around once we arrive. Let’s take a look at some of the main options… 

Motorcycles and quad bikes 

Motorcycles and quad bikes are a common and popular means of transport among people taking vacations near the beach. The thing to remember is that you cannot be certain when a motorcycle or quad bike was last used, or whether the rental has been checked for mechanical issues since the last user – all of which can lead to issues that may result in injury (see a motorcycle accident lawyer in your local area if you have been affected). 

Although these modes of transport may seem like a convenient option, always take precautions to ensure your safety. This could include checking the brakes, checking the lights, and checking the treads are suitable to grip the road before you drive off the forecourt. 

Public transport 

Planning the various stop-offs and sight-seeing days out on a vacation sometimes leads people to rely on public transport. And, sometimes, the results can be acceptable. Nevertheless, there are at least two inherent potential issues with public transport. One is that the bus or train service is unlikely to pick you up and drop you off exactly on time outside the front door of your hotel. There’s going to be some walking involved to get to the bus or train station. The second potential issue is that, due to the waiting times involved with public transport, you aren’t likely to be able to spend your day doing multiple things – you may have to stop your activities early to leave time to get back to the station, for example, cutting into your plans, and the routes may not be direct, meaning you will waste even more time.

Car rentals 

Car rentals are perhaps the preferred option for anyone who doesn’t want to face any waiting times – the car will typically be available for you to pick up from the airport upon your arrival, and you will most likely be able to drive straight to your hotel and come and go as you please. One of the standout potential issues with car rentals can be that the rental company may try to bill you for damage to the vehicle. That’s why it’s not only important to rent a vehicle from a reputable company, but also to inspect the vehicle before you drive away (take photos of anything that you think the company may try to bill you for, including any scratches to the paintwork or any cosmetic damage to the interior). 

You may also wish to ask the rental company if the car has any special button or release that you must activate to open the panel covering the fuel intake – the last thing you need is to be stuck at a fuel station with no idea of how to open the covering! 

Vaughn Lowery, Rothschild, Daniel Caesarea, 360 mag, 360

Rothschild’s Dan Caesarea Reborn As Mediterranean Resort

The most dynamic “new” resort hotel on Israel’s Mediterranean shore town of Caesarea was unveiled, combining elegance and luxury with frissons of the playfulness, style, and sophistication evocative of Tel Aviv, one of the world’s hippest cities.

The new Dan Caesarea lies 35 miles north of Tel Aviv, adjacent to the artfully preserved aqueduct and amphitheater of the Roman capital of ancient Judea, and to Israel’s only Pete Dye-designed golf course. It represents a head-to-toe transformation of the chic resort opened some 60 years ago by Baron Edmond de Rothschild.

The Dan Caesarea is a member of Israel’s most prestigious hotel group, whose King David Hotel in Jerusalem has been welcoming royals and presidents for 90 years. The redesigned Dan Caesarea sits amid 15 acres of newly landscaped gardens and offers 116 guestrooms and suites. The hotel is rich in contemporary Israeli art, with 15 monumental sculptures by the award-winning Israeli sculptor, Yaakov Dorchin, in the gardens, and works of art in the guestrooms created by the late Rita Alima.

The once sedate lobby is now Salon Bocca, with cocktails curated by Tel Aviv’s hip Suramare group. The multi-angle pool is bordered by the Limonada Bar (soft drinks and more cocktails) and within the swimming pool itself is Israel’s “first pool table in a pool.” A Greek Taverna is the ideal spot for poolside dining or taking an elegant picnic hamper into the gardens – along with the hotel’s more traditional restaurant. A shuttle service is available to the beach, five minutes from the hotel.

“We’re proud to unveil a new Dan Caesarea,” says Ronen Nissenbaum, Dan Hotels’ CEO, “a concept conjured up by some of Israel’s most creative architects, designers and style-makers – who have managed to combine stylish guestrooms, fascinating art, a culinary experience with contemporary bars, all set in beautifully landscaped gardens that create a magical atmosphere.”

The complex $25 million project to create a post-modern luxury resort was headed by Daniel Federmann. Iconic Israeli architect Ilan Pivko reimagined all the public areas; and Roni Federmann, the project’s architect, along with Esti Robinson and designers Philippe Boulakia and Dikla Robinson, created a new and refreshing approach that connects the location with nature.

Bentzi Arbel, who is responsible for some of the leading concepts of the Tel Aviv culinary scene, created the concept of Happiness is Around, which describes the spirit of the resort from its design to the service.

Each guestroom opens from a private hallway and has been designed to ensure lightness and airiness. The unique balcony structure gives guests an open view with maximum privacy and a double seating area overlooking the grounds. Fine Italian walnut floors are set at an angle to the view and artist Tzachi Nevo created unique masks to adorn each room. Rooms are equipped with “Bluetooth gramophones,” mood lighting and 55-inch high-end TVs. Immense marble bathrooms have separate bathtubs and shower. All rooms are equipped with a well-stocked bar and a unique coffee machine complete with a selection of fresh coffee beans for grinding.

Rothschild, Daniel Caesarea, 360 mag, 360
 The Dan Caesarea abounds in dazzling Israeli art

The renovated Dan Caesarea is the perfect location for families, as it provides a wide range of activities for all ages. The spirit of innovation did not overlook the guests’ children, as a new and unique Danyland has been created for a younger generation. This new complex, never seen before in Israel, was designed by Philippe Boulakia and Dikla Robinson, with a deep understanding of what today’s children enjoy, combining a selection of retro games and technological innovations. Among the attractions that the Danyland club offers are a unique aquarium; a world of dinosaurs that combines a classic sandbox with a 3D projection;  and a wealth of possibilities for an exciting gaming experience.

There is a variety of sports activities on offer such as a basketball court designed with unique graphics, a soccer field, a tennis court, mini golf, table tennis and more.

Finally, the new Dan Caesarea would not be complete without a pampering spa complex. There are wet and dry saunas and a state-of-the-art gym with high-quality equipment connected to advanced systems. Six advanced treatment rooms offer an exciting and pioneering treatment menu.

For more information, visit http://www.danhotels.com/CaesareaHotels/DanCaesareaHotel.

ABOUT DAN HOTELS:
Dan Hotels Israel is the largest luxury hotel group in the country. The history of the chain dates back to June 1947, when two brothers Yekutiel and Shmuel Federmann, purchased a 21-room guest house called the “Kaete Dan” on the Tel Aviv seashore. Today, the chain owns thirteen deluxe and superior first-class hotels in prime locations around the country, an international convention center, and a hotel training school. The collection includes Jerusalem’s legendary King David Hotel, a member of “Leading Hotels of the World” and considered the most prestigious hotel in Israel. Additional luxury hotels include Dan Accadia Hotel Herzliya, Dan Caesarea Hotel, Dan Carmel Haifa Hotel and Dan Eilat Hotel. Dan Hotels places an emphasis on hospitality and warm accommodation with its, “Experience the Best” ethos. Dan Hotels recently expanded overseas with the development and opening of the Den Hotel in Bangalore, India’s capital of high-tech.

Cycling Across Ireland’s West Coast

Journey from Ireland’s Extreme South to Far North on NEW Cycling Adventure

Wilderness Ireland launches 400-mile Wild Atlantic Way trip for 2018

Wilderness Ireland, specialists in crafting outdoor adventure experiences, has launched a new 12-day bike tour covering over 400 miles along the The Wild Atlantic Way, travelling from Ireland’s extreme south to its northernmost point, through three National Parks and eight counties.

The epitome of an adventure challenge, this is the bike tour of a lifetime. Cycling the best of western Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, travelers will traverse wild mountain passes, find secret beaches, admire steep cliffs, and visit quaint villages while taking in the dramatic coastal scenery from one extreme of Ireland’s west coast to another.

This bucket list journey begins at Mizen Head, Ireland’s southernmost point, with a scenic ride past rocky coves and fishing villages following beautiful coastline. Cross the rugged peninsulas and mountain passes of Cork and Kerry and pass through the remote and suitably-named Black Valley (the last place in Ireland to get electricity) before exploring Killarney National Park. On a short break from the bikes, island hop to the famed Aran Islands, a final outpost of the Irish language.

Cyclists continue biking along Connemara’s rocky shoreline, offering some of the most impressive Atlantic panoramas, including the world-famous Sky Road. Visit two of Ireland’s three glacial fjords before covering the quiet back lanes of Yeats Country – Sligo’s stunning, windswept landscapes that have inspired much of the famous poet’s writing. Bike through the Bluestack Mountains of Donegal, exploring its rugged landscapes before ending at Malin Head, Ireland’s northernmost point, a rocky headland that feels so alien, it has been featured in Star Wars: Episode VIII – The Last Jedi.

While expert guides interpret this wild place, travelers can focus on the challenge of biking the Wild Atlantic Way, ticking off classic Irish biking routes such as the Ring of Kerry, Corkscrew Hill, and Mamore Gap.

Wilderness Ireland’s new Wild Atlantic Way bike tour includes 11-nights’ accommodation in unique guesthouses, most meals, ride support, luggage transfers, admission and entrance fees. The trip runs July 28 – August 8 and August 18 – 29, 2018, from approx. USD$3,900.

For more information about Wilderness Ireland, visit www.wildernessireland.com.