andrew harper traveler magazine | april/may/june 2015

APRIL | MAY | JUNE 2015

ANDREW HARPER

EXCLUSIVELY FOR HIDEAWAY REPORT SUBSCRIBERS

22+SPECIAL OFFERS

TOWN & COUNTRY ITINERARIES PART II

PARISIAN PERSPECTIVE

DEEP-SEA FISHING

Mr. Harper’s

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P R O M OT I O N

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Hotel Le FontanelleTUSCANY, ITALY Recommended since 2010.

Andrew Harper

601 Oakmont Lane

Suite 450Westmont, IL 60559

“Amazing in every aspect. It was

truly one of the trip’s highlights

and we can’t wait to return some

day. The concierge team was

great. We received an upgrade,

and enjoyed a cooking class, great

fitness room, pool and grounds,

and the best breakfast terrace ever.

Great restaurant, room, Internet,

baths were tops—just perfect.”

— An Andrew Harper Subscriber

Andrew Harper Benefits: Preferred rates • Room upgrade, when available at check-in • Welcome bottle of house Chianti • Farewell gift on evening before departure • For stays of five nights or longer in a Junior Suite or below, a 100 EUR credit per room toward food, beverages and spa services • For stays of four nights or longer in a Suite, a four-hour guided driving tour of Chianti

Tuscany, Italy

SPECIAL OFFER: Complimentary Spa Treatment Receive a 50-minute spa treatment for guests age 20 and older when staying four nights or longer in a Suite or Junior Suite, or five nights or longer in a Classic, Prestige or Deluxe room. also includes: Andrew Harper benefits, as well as standard inclusions. dates: Offer is valid on new reservations only, for travel through Oct. 31, 2015, based on availability. Offer is not combinable with any other promotions.

Standard Inclusions: Daily continental buffet breakfast served at the restau-rant • Welcome amenity • Use of hotel facilities • Porterage • Private indoor garage • Wi-Fi • Scheduled round-trip shuttle service to central Siena • When booking a Junior Suite or higher room category, a non-alcoholic minibar

PB | APRIL/MAY/JUNE 2015 ANDREWHARPER.COM

B E L M O N D L A S A M A N N A , S T. M A R T I N

DISCOVER ST. MARTIN

WE INVITE YOU TO DISCOVER OUR COLLECTION OF EXCEPTIONAL

TRAVEL EXPERIENCES IN THE WORLD’S MOST REMARKABLE LOCATIONS.

INDIVIDUAL, INSPIRED, AND IMAGINATIVE,

THE WORLD OF BELMOND IS A WORLD LIKE NO OTHER.

For reservations, contact the Andrew Harper Travel Office

at (800) 375-4685 or [email protected]

Book a one-bedroom suite at Belmond La Samanna and as an Andrew Harper

subscriber you will enjoy an exclusive 30 percent discount on the nightly rate.

Offer includes Andrew Harper benefits*, standard hotel inclusions,

access to hotel facilities and unlimited use of non-motorized water sports.

SUITE DREAMS

EXCLUSIVE OFFER

Offer is valid on new reservations only, booked by Dec. 15, 2015, for travel from April 24–Dec. 18, 2015, based on availability. Offer is not combinable with any other promotions.

*Andrew Harper Benefits - Best available non-restricted rates; Room upgrade, when available at check-in; Daily buffet breakfast served at the restaurant; One lunch for two per room,

excluding beverages; Welcome fruit basket; For stays of five nights or longer, a wine and cheese tasting for two per room

P R O M OT I O N

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Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai & Four Seasons Tented Camp, Golden TriangleCHIANG MAI AND CHIANG RAI, THAILAND – From the terraced rice fields of the Mae Rim Valley to the lush vegetation of the Thai jungle, both of Four Seasons’ idyllic resorts capture the spirit of this ancient destination.

Decompress amid the 98 sumptuous pavilions at Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai,

just an hour from Bangkok. Surrounded by silk- and cotton-covered furnishings and

original Siamese artifacts, the world-class oasis provides serenity, calm and authentic Thai

hospitality. At Four Seasons Tented Camp, Golden Triangle, cruises down the Mekong

River, handmade treasures at local markets and unforgettable sights all await adventurous

travelers. A three- or four-night excursion at the camp might include hikes along serene

mountain trails or through a bamboo jungle at sunrise from the back of a graceful elephant.

After a few days of exploration, soothe tired muscles with the traditional Mahout Recovery

Treatment, a style of Thai herbal massage administered in the calm of the camp’s open-air

pavilion. Both Four Seasons properties act as windows to one of Southeast Asia’s most

beautiful cultures, delivering natural beauty with elegance and warmth.

Chiang Mai: Recommended since 1995; Readers’ Choice–2013.

Golden Triangle: Recommended since 2006; Readers’ Choice–2014.

fourseasons.com/chiangmai • fourseasons.com/goldentriangle

SPECIAL OFFER: Summer Compliments—Two Free Nights Book a three-night stay at Four Seasons Tented Camp, Golden Triangle through Sept. 30, 2015, and receive a complimentary two-night stay at Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai or Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui. Nights may be split between the two properties. also includes: Andrew Harper benefits and standard inclusions. No benefits apply for the complimentary nights. dates: Offer is valid on new reservations only, for travel through Sept. 30, 2015, based on availability. Offer is not combinable with any other promotions.

offer. Andrew Harper Benefits: Chiang Mai–Best available non-restricted rates • Room upgrade, when available at check-in • Daily buffet breakfast served at Sala Mae Rim restaurant • $100 spa credit once per stay • Complimentary standard Wi-Fi • Golden Triangle–Best available non-restricted rates • Room upgrade, when available at check-in • $100 spa treatment credit per room • Early check-in and late check-out, when available

Standard Inclusions: Chiang Mai–Compli-mentary newspaper • Twice-daily housekeep-ing service • Complimentary select fitness activities • Use of mountain bikes • Golden Triangle–All meals and beverages • A half-day mahout training and Golden Triangle excursion • One 90-minute spa treatment per person • Round-trip Chiang Rai International Airport transfers • Wi-Fi

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

B E L M O N D L A S A M A N N A , S T. M A R T I N

DISCOVER ST. MARTIN

WE INVITE YOU TO DISCOVER OUR COLLECTION OF EXCEPTIONAL

TRAVEL EXPERIENCES IN THE WORLD’S MOST REMARKABLE LOCATIONS.

INDIVIDUAL, INSPIRED, AND IMAGINATIVE,

THE WORLD OF BELMOND IS A WORLD LIKE NO OTHER.

For reservations, contact the Andrew Harper Travel Office

at (800) 375-4685 or [email protected]

Book a one-bedroom suite at Belmond La Samanna and as an Andrew Harper

subscriber you will enjoy an exclusive 30 percent discount on the nightly rate.

Offer includes Andrew Harper benefits*, standard hotel inclusions,

access to hotel facilities and unlimited use of non-motorized water sports.

SUITE DREAMS

EXCLUSIVE OFFER

Offer is valid on new reservations only, booked by Dec. 15, 2015, for travel from April 24–Dec. 18, 2015, based on availability. Offer is not combinable with any other promotions.

*Andrew Harper Benefits - Best available non-restricted rates; Room upgrade, when available at check-in; Daily buffet breakfast served at the restaurant; One lunch for two per room,

excluding beverages; Welcome fruit basket; For stays of five nights or longer, a wine and cheese tasting for two per room

Golden Triangle

Chiang Mai

Golden Triangle

Chiang Mai

Ocean House CollectionWESTERLY, RHODE ISLAND – Experience the best in New England hospitality and the freshest flavors of the season this spring. As part of Ocean House Collection, sister properties Ocean House and Weekapaug Inn offer world-class service and two distinctly unique personalities capable of catering to your every culinary whim. Local estate-grown ingredients, organic produce and off-the-boat seafood inspire signature epicurean events—available to guests of both properties—like daily wine-tasting classes, dessert workshops and a two-part culinary boot camp. Learn about the catch of the day with the Inn’s resident naturalist or join Ocean House’s food forager on a trip to the local market.

Should you prefer to stay out of the kitchen, take part in a time-honored Weekapaug

Inn tradition at a family-style clambake along Quonochontaug Pond. Or, at Ocean House,

the storied Victorian hotel overlooking the Atlantic, enjoy an intimate wine dinner in their

Forbes Five-Star fine dining outlet. A stay at an Ocean House Collection resort is a lot like

being on a fabulous cruise—you can do absolutely everything, or as little as you please.

OCEAN HOUSE: Recommended since 2011; Grand Award–2012; Readers’ Choice–2013,

2014; WEEKAPAUG INN: Recommended since 2014; Grand Award–2015.

oceanhouseevents.com

offer. Andrew Harper Benefits: OCEAN HOUSE: Preferred rates • Room upgrade, when available at check-in • Daily continental breakfast served at the restaurant • A private tour per room • Welcome amenity • Early check-in and late checkout, when avail-able; WEEKAPAUG INN: Preferred rates • Room upgrade, when available at check-in • Seasonal welcome amenity per room • Pri-vate tour of the property • Early check-in and late checkout, when available

Standard Inclusions: OCEAN HOUSE: Access to fitness center • Resort activities • Wi-Fi • Parking; WEEKAPAUG INN: Daily full breakfast served at the restaurant • Access to fitness facilities • Round-trip transfers to Ocean House and use of the Ocean House spa • Valet parking • Wi-Fi

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4 | APRIL/MAY/JUNE 2015 ANDREWHARPER.COM

Ocean House Ocean House

Ocean House

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Ocean House Weekapaug Inn

Weekapaug Inn

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The Charles and Hotel de RomeMUNICH AND BERLIN, GERMANY – Experience the best of old and new Germany with Rocco Forte. A stay at The Charles Hotel in Munich offers unparalleled access to the charming Bavarian culture capital. Adjacent to the Old Botanical Garden and near many of the city’s historic attractions, the serene 160-room hotel boasts the stylish Davvero restau-rant, as well as Munich’s largest indoor pool. Even beyond the celebrated Oktoberfest, spot authentic lederhosen-clad locals in the city’s many famous beer gardens while being entertained by traditional Bavarian musicians. The majestic alpine surrounds retain much of their traditional character, dotted with numerous castles and palaces, none more striking than those of still-beloved King Ludwig II, “The Fairytale King.”

A delightful drive or train ride north connects you to fascinating Berlin. Enhanced by its

palpable history, the city is a buzzing modern metropolis of innovative architecture and

vibrant five-star contemporary dining, where world-class music institutions, infamous

cabarets and some of Europe’s greatest museums all compete for your attention. The 145

rooms and suites of the historically sited Hotel de Rome form an ideal base of operations,

located in a former banking headquarters in East Berlin and featuring a lovely classical

interior, summer dining terrace, contemporary rooftop bar and the grand Opera Court for

afternoon tea. Synthesize your journey with Berlin’s variety of amazing art exhibits set for

2015, spanning from the Renaissance to modern day.

The Charles and Hotel de Rome: Recommended since 2007.

roccofortehotels.com

.offer. Andrew Harper Benefits: The Charles–Best available non-restricted rates • Room upgrade, when available at check-in • Daily full breakfast served at the restaurant or in-room • 85 EUR food and beverage credit per room • Early check-in and late checkout, when available • Hotel de Rome–Best available non-restricted rates • Room upgrade, when available at check-in • Daily full breakfast served at the restaurant • 85 EUR food and beverage credit per room • Private historical tour of the hotel for two

Standard Inclusions: The Charles–Access to spa facilities • Daily newspaper • Local calls • Wi-Fi • Hotel de Rome–Access to spa facili-ties • Local calls • Wi-Fi


Hotel de Rome Hotel de Rome

The Charles The Charles

P R O M OT I O N


Historic Italian Villa • Two-Michelin-Star Restaurant • Eight-Acre Private Park • Heated Outdoor Pool, Croquet Lawn • Private Wine

Cellar with More Than 500 Italian Wines • Riva Motorboat & La Contessa for Excursions • Private and Secluded Lakefront

• Breakfast Served Anytime, Anywhere • Distinctive Suites • 24-Hour Room Service, Wi-Fi

offer. Andrew Harper Benefits: Best available non-restricted rates • Room upgrade, when available at check-in • Complimentary car service to local restaurants • Early check-in and late checkout, when available • Farewell amenity

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

villafeltrinelli.com

LAKE GARDA, ITALY

Grand Hotel A Villa FeltrinelliCradled by lush mountains on the tree-shaded shore of Lake Garda, the 21 refined suites of the neo-Gothic villa offer an

unforgettable escape. The excellent two-Michelin-star cuisine delights with garden-fresh herbs and local products, highlighted by Chef Stefano Baiocco’s personal and elegant presentation.

Recommended since 2003. Readers’ Choice–2012, 2013, 2014.

Reeling in a prized marlin 3422 Eiffel Tower

Paris, France

CONTENTSApril | May | June 2015

PropertyLocation56


14 Mr. Harper’s BrazilWith his newly recommended luxury resorts calling, the Andrew Harper Travel Office has seen a significant increase in travel to this sizeable, vibrant country. Ahead of the 2016 Olympics, Mr. Harper navigates first-time and repeat visitors alike through the fifth-largest country in the world.

22 Parisian PerspectiveHarper hotel partners share their thoughts of the ever-captivating City of Light, from their favorite neighborhoods and streets to stroll to the one thing they would miss the most.

34 Gone FishingFrom Mozambique to Sicily to the Florida Keys and beyond, deep-sea fishing provides more in the way of adventure and challenge than the more common sport of river and lake fishing.

42 From the Travel Office Town & Country Itineraries Part II

New York City, the Hamptons and Hudson Valley; London, Bath and the Cotswolds; and Buenos Aires and Bariloche. These favorite pairings provide plenty of excitement and relaxation.

58 Meet Our TravelersKeith McWalter talks travel philosophies and inspiration, and can’t rave enough about his recent visit to the South Pacific and Laucala Island.

60 Meet Our GuidesFor Entrée Destinations’ Marc Telio, Alaska and Canada never fail to inspire. Expect the unexpected on his tailor-made journeys.

DON’T MISS: Highlights of some favorite Harper award-winners in Andrew Harper Award-Winners, a special supplement to the Andrew Harper Traveler.

ON THE COVER The 125-foot Christ the Redeemer

statue stands atop Corcovado mountain, overlooking the city

of Rio de Janeiro.

Central Park, New York City42

plus 22 SPECIAL OFFERS throughout

plus

15PropertyLocation

PropertyLocation

CONTENTSApril | May | June 2015

PropertyLocation56

28

00 HeaderBody goes here.






DON’T MISS: See what fellow readers had to say about some of their favorite destinations, hotels and partners in Postcards from Afar, a special supplement to the Andrew Harper Traveler.

ON THE COVER Cover caption goes here.

plus 00 SPECIAL OFFERS throughout

HotelsBrazil

21 Ponta dos Ganchos; Governador Celso Ramos, Santa Catarina

British Virgin Islands

13 Rosewood Little Dix Bay; Virgin Gorda

British West Indies

7 (S) Cap Juluca; Anguilla

England

51 The Athenaeum Hotel & Apartments; London

50 The Dorchester; London

49 The Halkin; London

51 Lucknam Park; Wiltshire

Fiji

55 The Wakaya Club & Spa; Wakaya Island

7 (S) The Wakaya Club & Spa; Wakaya Island

France

32 Grand Hotel du Palais Royal; Paris

32 Le Bristol; Paris

33 Park Hyatt Paris –Vendôme; Paris

31 The Peninsula Paris; Paris

Germany

3 (S) Schloss Elmau; Krün

6 The Charles; Munich

6 Hotel de Rome; Berlin

Ireland

2 (S) Ballyfin; Co. Laois

Italy66 Casa MANNI; Rome

10 Castello del Nero; Tuscany

7 Grand Hotel A Villa Feltrinelli; Lake Garda

2 Hotel Le Fontanelle; Tuscany

Maldives

54 Cocoa Island; South Male Atoll

Mexico

4 (S) Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita; Punta Mita

Mozambique

56 Azura Quilálea Private Island Mozambique; Quilálea Island

56 Azura Benguerra Island Mozambique; Benguerra

Nicaragua

5 (S) Mukul Beach, Golf & Spa; Guacalito de la Isla

Seychelles

54 Fregate Island Private; Fregate Island

South Africa

5 (S) Mateya Safari Lodge; Madikwe Game Reserve

Spain

12 Finca Cortesin Hotel Golf & Spa; Casares

St. Martin

2 La Samanna; Baie Longue

St. Vincent & The Grenadines

55 Petit St. Vincent; Petit St. Vincent Private Island

Thailand3 Four Seasons Resort Chiang

Mai; Chiang Mai

3 Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle; Chiang Rai

Turks & Caicos

53 Amanyara; Providenciales

United States

ALASKA

65 Tikchik Narrows Lodge; Tikchik Lake

CALIFORNIA

11 Rancho Valencia; Rancho Santa Fe

iFc The Resort at Pelican Hill; Newport Coast

GEORGIA

13 Sea Island; Sea Island

MONTANA

6 (S) The Resort at Paws Up; Greenough

RHODE ISLAND

4 Ocean House Collection: Ocean House and Weekapaug Inn; Westerly

SOUTH CAROLINA

40 The Inn at Palmetto Bluff; Bluffton

Travel PartnersWorldwide

52 Aqua Expeditions; Peru, The Amazon, Cambodia, Vietnam & The Mekong

inseRt TCS World Travel Global

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


P R O M OT I O N


THE ANDREW HARPER ALLIANCE

Publishers of the quarterly Andrew Harper Traveler magazine

and the annual Andrew Harper Travel Directory

vice president, publisher, account manager travel partners

Georgia Beth Ridenhouremail [email protected]

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

director, account manager europe Colin Housley

director of travel partners Pam Sigler

account manager rest of world Carol Bacon

account manager n. am. Heather Eberle

alliance coordinator Joyce Jorden

senior art director David Villarreal

graphic designer Linda Bigirindavyi

traffic coordinator Andrew Herner

editorial assistant Scott Turrentine

ANDREW HARPER TRAVEL OFFICE

director Sandi Ferreira

toll free (800) 375-4685

phone (630) 734-4610

fax (630) 734-4642

email [email protected]

ANDREW HARPER CLIENT RELATIONS

toll free (866) 831-4314

phone (512) 904-7342

fax (512) 904-7350

email [email protected]

ANDREW HARPER’S HIDEAWAY REPORT AND THE

HARPER COLLECTION

editor-in-chief Andrew Harper

ANDREW HARPER, LLC

president Greg Marchbanks

chief operating officer Lorelei Calvert

ANDREWHARPER.COM

Andrew Harper, LLC is registered to sell travel in the follow-

ing states: California SOT-2110806-40; Iowa SOT-1096;

Washington SOT-603248672. California law requires cer-

tain sellers of travel to have a trust account or bond. This

business has a trust account.

Castello del Nero Hotel & Spa TAVARNELLE VAL DI PESA, TUSCANY,

ITALY – On a hilltop in the heart of the Chianti wine region, halfway between Florence and Siena, this converted 12th-century castle delights with original frescoes, vaulted ceilings and scenic terraces. The hotel’s 50 rooms and suites are enveloped by a 740-acre nature preserve, offering a range of activities and

amenities for a perfect Italian hideaway.

• Surrounded by Vineyards and

Olive Groves

• Michelin-starred La Torre Restaurant

• Italy’s First ESPA Spa Recommended since 2007.

SPECIAL OFFER: Tuscan Experience Book a five-night stay in any room category and experience a complimentary wine and extra-virgin olive oil tasting for up to two peo-ple per room. also includes: Andrew Harper benefits, as well as standard inclusions. dates: Offer is valid on new reservations only, for travel through Dec. 28, 2015, based on avail-ability and excluding Sept. 4–5, 2015. Offer is not combinable with any other promotions.

offer. Andrew Harper Benefits: Best avail-able non-restricted rates • Room upgrade, when available at check-in • Welcome bottle of red wine per room, plus a sweet amenity • For stays of three nights or longer in a suite, one three-course dinner for two at La Taverna Restaurant (excluding beverages)

Standard Inclusions: VAT • Daily buffet breakfast served at the restaurant • Use of hotel facilities • Daily newspaper • Scheduled shuttle service to Florence or Siena • Wi-Fi

The latest NEW 2015 Andrew Harper Alliance Partners HotelsArgentina

Las Balsas Relais & Chateaux; Villa la Angostura

AustraliaLilianfels Blue Mountain Resort & Spa; Blue Mountains

AustriaHotel Zur Tenne; Kitzbühel

DenmarkHotel d’Angleterre; Copenhagen

DominicaSecret Bay; Portsmouth

EnglandShangri-La Hotel, At The Shard; London

FranceGrand Hôtel Du Palais Royal; Paris

Hôtel Belles Rives; Juan-les-Pins

Les Etangs de Corot; Versaille

Les Sources de Caudalie; Bordeaux

Park Hyatt Paris; Paris

Prince de Galles Paris; Paris

The Peninsula Paris; Paris

KenyaMara Toto Camp; Olare Motorogi Conservancy

ItalyCastello Banfi – Il Borgo; Siena

L’Albergo della Regina Isabella; Ischia

Mezzatore Resort & Spa; Ischia

Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco; Tuscany

MauritiusFour Seasons Mauritius at Anahita; Beau Champ

SeychellesFour Seasons Resort Seychelles; Mahé

SwitzerlandPark Hyatt Zurich; Zurich

VillasWorldwide

Four Seasons Residences Costa Rica; Peninsula Papagayo, Costa Rica

Four Seasons Residences Punta Mita; Punta Mita, Mexico

Photo courtesy of qualia, Great Barrier Reef © JASON LOUCAS

P R O M OT I O N

E A C H Y E A R , M O R E T H A N 6 0 0 H A R P E R - R E C O M M E N D E D h o t e l s , r e s o r t s , i n n s , v i l l a s , yach ts, cru ises a n d tou r oper ator s choose to partner with the Andrew Harper Alliance, providing special recognition and benefits ranging from complimentary breakfasts and resort credits to room upgrades and preferred rates. To ensure receipt of all benefits we have negotiated on your behalf, please confirm your reservations through the Andrew Harper Travel Office or at AndrewHarper.com. If, how-ever, you choose to book directly, please provide your Andrew Harper subscriber number upon booking. Andrew Harper contracted rates and benefits are typically not combinable with other special rates or promotions.

APRIL/MAY/JUNE 2015 ANDREWHARPER.COM | 11


P R O M OT I O N

T The Andrew Harper Journeys (formerly Signature Tours) grew from Mr. Harper’s global travels to find true hideaway hotels. Along the way, he befriended the best guides and learned about one-of-a-kind experiences in each destination.

All of this knowledge is shared in these exclusive Journeys, designed for you to experience interesting destinations in VIP comfort and style.

For more information, contact Erica Doose in the Travel Office: (800) 375-4685 or [email protected].

THE SPLENDORS OF SOUTHERN AFRICA

Aug. 28–Sep. 9, 2015

The southern region of Africa summons a spirit of adventure. Both South Africa and Botswana are renowned for majestic scenery, rich cul-ture and abundant wildlife experiences while on safari. Join us on a safari experience of a lifetime; departing Aug. 28 and returning Sept. 9.

A Namibia pre-extension is available Aug. 22-28. The vast, sparsely populated land of astounding scenic splendor is dominated by forbidding mountains in the Namib Desert, yet offers remarkable game-viewing, and cultural discovery with the Himba, a colorful and strikingly tradi-tional tribal people. Journey is limited to 16 participants.

ANDREW HARPER JOURNEYS™ for 2015

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

© Sanctuary Chief’s Camp

© Abu Camp

Finca Cortesin Hotel Golf & SpaCASARES, SPAIN – With 67 suites offering sweeping views

of the Mediterranean Sea and surrounding Casares Moun-

tains, Finca Cortesin is a world-class, family-friendly golf and

spa destination, which one Andrew Harper guest says “could

not be faulted.” Recommended since 2009.

• Award-Winning Mediterranean and Spanish Cuisine

• Exclusive Beach Club with Infinity-Edge Pool

• Spa with Spain’s First “Snow Cave”

Andrew Harper Benefits: Best available non-restricted rates • Room upgrade, when available at check-in • One 50-minute massage for two per room • Valet parking

Standard Inclusions: Daily full breakfast served at the restaurant • Access to spa facilities • Round-trip transfers to exclusive Beach Club • Wi-Fi

P R O M OT I O N

It IS PERFECTLY ACCEPTABLE TO MAKE MOTORBOAT SOUNDS AS YOU PASS OTHER horses.

Experience more at seaisland.com For reservations call the Andrew Harper Travel Office at 800-375-4685.

And that’s just one of dozens of memorable experiences, all uniquely available at

Sea Island, a haven for families for 85 years.

Harper Subscriber Benefits:

• Daily Restaurant Breakfast for two

• $100 gift card • 4:00 late check out

• Upgrade upon arrival, if available

SI_AHarper_2_2015.indd 1 2/23/15 2:35 PM

Guanabara Bay in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

T he fifth-largest country in the world, Brazil has long fascinated travelers with its enchanting Amazon Rainforest, epitomic beaches, thriving coastal cities and irrepressibly vibrant and musical culture, along with its unique status as the only Portuguese-speaking nation in the Americas. Now, too, Brazil welcomes the luxury traveler with several

fine options for accommodations across the country; over the past year, Mr. Harper recommended five new properties in Brazil, including two winners of 2015 Grand Awards. Harper travelers have taken note as well, doubling their bookings to Brazil in that same span. Here, Mr. Harper shares his expert advice for getting the most out of your visit to this colorful and diverse South American destination.

| APRIL/MAY/JUNE 2015 ANDREWHARPER.COM14

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

QCompared with other South American countries such as Peru and Argentina, Brazil is not well known to American

travelers. Why do you think this is?MR. HARPER: Brazil is blessed with immense natural resources, and in recent years has also developed a successful industrial economy. So there is not the same imperative to foster tourism. The national lan-guage, Portuguese, is also a factor. The rest of Latin America is united by its Spanish heritage. Many Americans can speak a few words of Spanish, but few know any Portuguese.

Brazil is a huge country, nearly as large as the continental U.S. When is the best season to travel there?Unlike the United States, most of Brazil falls within the tropics, so the climate has greater uniformity and is chiefly defined by wet and dry seasons. I suspect that many Americans will travel south to escape the northern winter. This is the warm, wet season in much of the country. It is also the time of the Rio Carnival. Personally, I enjoy Rio most when it is humid, tropical and in a festive mood, but that weather can be capricious. However, you should try to visit the Amazon Rainforest during its dry season from August to October; at other times the rain can be incessant and the humidity asphyxiating.

Rio de Janeiro has a reputation as a dangerous city. Is it justified?To an extent. Notoriously, there are the favelas, the slums that are home to around 1.4 million of the city’s inhabitants; street crime affects even the central business district; and Copacabana has its share of pickpockets and petty thieves. But strolling through upscale areas like Ipanema and Leblon, I never feel at risk. You just have to take sensible precautions, as you would in many major cities, including some in the United States. And the authorities are very sensitive about Rio’s image in advance of the 2016 Summer Olympics, so policing the principal tourist areas is a priority.

Which area of Rio do you suggest for a first-time stay?On their first trip, most people want to stay close to the beach. To stroll among the soccer players and the sun-worshippers is a quintessential Rio experience. The most fashionable of the city’s beaches is Leblon, closely followed by Ipanema. Rio’s wealthier residents seldom ven-ture onto the sands, however, but stroll or jog along the promenade, especially on Sunday mornings. The beaches are considered to be the playgrounds of the working and middle classes. On subsequent visits, some foreign visitors opt to stay in an older, quieter neighborhood such as Santa Teresa, from where there are spectacular panoramic views.

What are the sights not to be missed in Rio de Janeiro? Rio does not have a wealth of sights, monuments or museums. Its cul-ture is a unique way of life; its chief glory is the natural splendor of its setting. From the 2,316-foot summit of the Corcovado, the

“Personally, I enjoy Rio most

when it is humid, tropical

and in afestive mood.”

“Such trips will appeal to more adventurous

travelers who are genuinely fascinated by

wildlife and ecology.”| APRIL/MAY/JUNE 2015 ANDREWHARPER.COM16

“ To stroll among the soccer players and the sun-worshippers is a quintessential Rio experience.”

TOP: Copacabana Beach along Rio’s southeastern coast MIDDLE LEFT: Iguaçu Falls in southern Brazil INSET: The Amazon Rainforest MIDDLE: Colorful samba dancers perform during a Carnival parade in Rio. BOTTOM: The Escadaria Selarón (Selarón’s Steps) in the Santa Teresa neighborhood of Rio de Janeiro

BRAZIL


“When the wealthy citizens of Rio vacation by the sea, they

generally head to the Angra dos Reis

archipelago, a local version of

the Hamptons...”

“Many of the country’s upscale resorts

are to be found in the northern state of Bahia...”

TOP LEFT: The clear waters of Angra dos Reis TOP RIGHT: Towering palms line the entrace to Rio’s Botanical Garden. MIDDLE LEFT: The Amazon Rainforest

is home to an incredible array of wildlife, including macaw parrots. MIDDLE RIGHT: Colorful houses mark the historic city center of Salvador in

Bahia, Brazil. BOTTOM: A village beach in the Brazilian state of Bahia



panorama is truly amazing. I like to stroll around the Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas—a lake five miles in circumference—and to make excursions into the adjacent 8,000-acre Tijuca National Park, the largest urban forest in the world. There, Rio’s Botanical Garden is incomparable. Founded in 1808, it comprises 134 cultivated acres, plus 205 acres of tropical rain forest. Upon seeing it in 1832, a young Charles Darwin was moved to raptures. From the entrance, a pathway extends down a 765-yard avenue of 134 imperial palms. Numerous glasshouses are dedicated to bromeliads, orchids, succulents and carnivorous plants.

Does São Paulo have much to offer leisure travelers?São Paulo is primarily a business city, though its partisans make great claims for both its art galleries and its food. (D.O.M., where chef Alex Atala serves a contemporary version of Brazilian cuisine, is widely regarded as the best restaurant in South America.) Boutiques in the streets off the grand Avenida Paulista have a comprehensive selection of the leading international designer brands. Air services from the United States to São Paolo are much better than those to Rio, so you will likely find this to be the more convenient gateway city.

What Amazon cruises do you recommend?Strangely, Brazil offers no equivalents to the sophisticated riverboats on the Peruvian Amazon operated by Aqua Expeditions. But, of course, most of the Amazon ecosystem is in Brazil. If you wish to venture into this extraordinary environment, I recommend signing up for a cruise with the specialist Brazilian company Matueté. It can offer a variety of vessels, including private yachts for as few as eight people, staffed by talented chefs and knowledgeable naturalist guides. Amazonia is full of surprises. For example, the Rio Tapajós tributary has translucent water and white-sand beaches off of which it is possible to swim. The region’s large animals are often hidden by the dense forest, but re-splendent birds, huge butterflies and river creatures such as caimans and pink dolphins are commonly encountered. Such trips will appeal to more adventur-ous travelers who are genuinely fascinated by wildlife and ecology.

Which beach resorts do you prefer?Despite the fame of Rio’s hedonistic culture and the country’s more than 4,500 miles of mostly tropical coastline, Brazil has surprisingly few beach resorts of an international caliber. When the wealthy citizens of Rio vacation by the sea, they generally head to the Angra dos Reis archipelago, a local version of the Hamptons, three hours’ drive (30 minutes by helicopter) south of the city. To the south, Florianopolis is a popular summer beach destination. However, many of the country’s upscale resorts are to be found in the northern state of Bahia, especially around the laid-back village of Trancoso. The climate is warm year-round and rainfall is also fairly consistent, with modest spikes in precipitation during November, December, March and April.

What are the up-and-coming areas of the country for visitors?The Pantanal is one of the world’s great wildlife areas. Alas, at present there are no lodges equivalent to those I recommend in Africa and India. But on my next trip to Brazil, I intend to search out the best that are available. Located mostly within the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, the Pantanal is the world’s largest tropical wetland, and extends over nearly 75,000 square miles. Eighty percent of the region’s floodplains are submerged during the rainy season, an inunda-tion that nurtures an astonishing range of aquatic plants and animal species.

Here you will find spectacular rare birds like the hyacinth macaw and the crowned solitary eagle, plus mammals such as the giant river otter, maned wolf, giant anteater, tapir and capybara. The Pantanal is home to one of the world’s largest jaguar populations and it is frequently possible to see the big cats in daylight. One day, I suspect that the Pantanal will be as familiar to American travelers as Botswana’s majestic Okavango Delta.

What advice would you give to travelers making their first visit to Brazil?Don’t underestimate the distances involved. Brazil is 3,000 miles west to east and more than 2,000 miles north to south. The air network is restrict-ed compared to that in the U.S. and there are a limited number of non-stop flights. So don’t try to rush, or to see the whole country in one visit. Brazilians tend to be friendly and hospitable to Americans, but few people speak much English, so travelers should make an effort with a few words of Portuguese. Brazilian cuisine, often paired with cachaça (cane spirit) cocktails, is of one of the principal pleasures of a trip and it invariably pays to be adventurous. Although it is based in Portuguese cooking—the national dish, feijoada, comes from the provinces of Beira and Estremadura in northern/central Portugal—there are strong influences from Italy, Germany, Lebanon, Africa and Japan. Brazilian fish and seafood are rou-tinely outstanding.

The Pantanal wetlands in southern Brazil RIGHT: A Brazilian jaguar

Area Alliance PartnersHotels Belmond Copacabana Palace; Rio de Janeiro

Belmond Hotel das Cataratas; Iguaçu National Park

Hotel Fasano Rio de Janeiro; Rio de Janeiro

Hotel Fasano São Paulo; São Paulo

Ponta Dos Ganchos Resort; Santa Catarina

Destination SpecialistsMatuete

Yachts & CruisesSeabourn

SeaDream Yacht Club

Silversea

Crystal Cruises

“ The Pantanal is home to one of the world’s largest jaguar populations.... One day, I suspect that the Pantanal will be as familiar to American travelers as Botswana’s majestic Okavango Delta.”


P R O M OT I O N

Ponta dos GanchosGOVERNADOR CELSO RAMOS, BRAZIL – One of Brazil’s most exclusive beach resorts and winner of a 2015 Andrew Harper Grand Award, this romantic enclave on a privately owned peninsula is surrounded by the azure waters of the Emerald Coast. Each of the 25 charming villas is sumptuously appointed, some with sea views, wraparound all-wood balconies and spa bathrooms. The Special Villa includes premium touches such as 600 thread-count Egyptian cotton sheets, a sauna with a sea view and unobstructed sunset views. Romance is always in the air at the resort; the adults-only policy ensures quiet and privacy for candle-lit outdoor dinners and unforgettable daytime excursions. Spend the day hiking nature trails, enjoying a few matches on the oceanfront tennis courts or scuba diving at nearby Arvoredo Island, one of the best dive sites in Brazil. Return in the evening for a seasonal meal highlighting the best produce from the kitchen’s organic vegetable and herb garden, tended by a dedicated gardener. The menu changes daily, reflecting the best of the

region’s cuisine. Dine in your bungalow, at the beach or on the resort’s private island.

Recommended since 2014; Grand Award–2015.

pontadosganchos.com

SPECIAL OFFER: Complimentary Nights Enjoy more time on the beach with complimentary nights. Book four nights and only pay for three, or book seven nights and only pay for five. also includes: Andrew Harper benefits, as well as standard inclusions. dates: Offer is valid on new reservations only, for travel through Sept. 30, 2015, based on availability and excluding April 2–5 and 17–21, April 30–May 3, June 3–7 and Sept. 4–7, 2015. Stay four pay for three offer only valid on Sunday arrivals. Offer is not combinable with any other promotions.

offer. Andrew Harper Benefits: Best avail-able non-restricted rates • Room upgrade, when available at check-in • Cachaça-tasting for two per room • 60-minute relaxing mas-sage for two per room

Standard Inclusions: Daily 10-course tasting menu breakfast served at the restaurant • Welcome drink • Fruit basket • Afternoon tea • Non-motorized water sports • Access to sport and fitness facilities • Wi-Fi • Parking



Notre Dame de Paris on the Île de la Cité



Paris’ charming streets and neighborhoods, the striking architecture and elegant gardens, the incomparable cultural and culinary underpinnings, and the effortless style of Parisians have enchanted visitors for centuries. Despite being a major global metropolis, Paris remains familiar, intimate and personal —whether you prefer strolling the narrow streets of the Latin Quarter or gazing at the whole city from atop the artistic, village-like Montmartre.


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O f the 20 Harper-recommended hotels in Paris, 14 have partnered with the Andrew Harper Alliance for 2015, extending benefits and special recognition to Harper guests. We spoke with staff at the Four Seasons Hotel George V, Grand Hôtel du Palais Royal, Hôtel

Lancaster, Hôtel d’Aubusson, Le Bristol Paris, Hôtel San Régis, Le Meurice, Park Hyatt Paris–Vendôme, The Peninsula Paris, Relais Christine, Saint James Paris and Shangri-La Hotel, Paris to get their thoughts on what makes their city so inimitable.

Most Illustrative Images of Paris “It is very clichéd, but to me the Eiffel Tower (1) truly illustrates Paris. Wherever you show a picture of it, people will know where it is. Also, from up there you look down on the whole of Paris for the best view of our city’s skyline.” GRAND HÔTEL DU PALAIS ROYAL

“The Île de la Cité. It includes the Bridge Pont Neuf (2), beautiful Place Dauphine and Notre Dame Cathedral.” HÔTEL D’AUBUSSON

“The Bridge of Alexander III (3) with the view of the River Seine and the Eiffel Tower.” HÔTEL SAN RÉGIS

“The Palais Royal, where the famous writer Colette used to live, with its typical arcades. Here you can find the oldest Parisian institutions.” LE MEURICE

“A Sunday at the Luxembourg Gardens (4) in May.” THE PENINSULA PARIS

“The view from the Right Bank of the Seine close to the Louvre, looking southwest to see the Conciergerie (5), Pont des Arts, the dome of the Academies, Musée d’Orsay (6) and the Eiffel Tower. Even for Parisians, it is one of the most beautiful sights in the world.” RELAIS CHRISTINE & SAINT JAMES PARIS

Favorite Streets and Neighborhoods to Walk “Le Marais, because you have all kinds of small shops—fashion, design, food—and you have all types of people there walking in the street, shopping or at a cafés.” FOUR SEASONS HOTEL GEORGE V

“The Palais Royal Garden, one of Paris’ most beautiful hidden gems. No other garden is more Parisian than this one. It is a very secluded place where you could spend the afternoon in the sun.” GRAND HÔTEL DU PALAIS ROYAL

“The Court of Commerce-Saint-André, a public passageway in the Monnaie area of the 6th district, opened in 1776. Remains of Philippe Auguste’s surrounding wall are still visible, and the court houses the oldest café in Paris, Procope, established in 1684.” HÔTEL D’AUBUSSON

“The French chocolate crepes at Carette, Place du Trocadéro, just a five-minute walk from the hotel. They are to die for.” SHANGRI-LA HOTEL, PARIS

The Conciergerie's clocktower dates from 1535

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Updated for 2015, Andrew Harper’s Paris app—Mr. Harper’s selective and personal guide—is available at no charge from the iTunes Store for smartphones and tablets. While Mr. Harper focuses attention on the small gems of Paris, such as intimate museums and neighborhood gardens, the app also offers tips for visiting popular attractions, including Notre-Dame, the Louvre and the iconic symbol of Paris, the Eiffel Tower. The expanded version features new hotels, restaurants, shops, galleries and attractions, as well as suggested walking tour itin-eraries and recommendations for visiting Paris with children.

25APRIL/MAY/JUNE 2015 ANDREWHARPER.COM |

“Rue du Faubourg St. Honore [because it is] central and quintessen-tially Paris with diversity and highlights: Gastronomy (from bistros to Michelin-rated); fashion (famous names, should it be couture or ready-to-wear); art (galleries, auction houses) and glimpses of landmarks as you walk, including Champs-Élysées, Place de la Concorde and Place de la Madeleine (1).” LE BRISTOL PARIS

“Avenue des Champs-Elysées from the Grand Palais until the Place de la Concorde (2) and Tuileries Gardens; Montmartre (3), around Rue Cortot, Rue des Saules, Rue Girardon until Place Dalida; and the Saint-Germain-des-Prés area.” HÔTEL SAN RÉGIS

“Île Saint-Louis, with its magnificent architecture and historical facades and mansions. The best time to go is when night falls and you can see the boats on the River Seine, with its little private restaurants only for insider dealers.” LE MEURICE

“Every week I take a walk on the Quai de Seine (4). For a typical Parisian day, my journey starts by the Park Hyatt Paris–Vendôme lo-cated on Rue de la Paix. I cross the Place Vendôme and the Tuileries Garden by walking along the Seine in order to reach the Eiffel Tower. This promenade unites all my favorite places and monuments in Paris.” PARK HYATT PARIS–VENDÔME

“Walking on Victor Hugo Avenue in the 16th district to get a sense of the truly French part of the city, exclusive boutiques, no tourists, a view of the Arc de Triomphe (5) and the very typical façades of the hôtels particuliers (grand private homes found in urban areas, such as Paris) from the Baron Haussmann era.” RELAIS CHRISTINE

“Getting lost in the small streets of the old Latin Quarter in Saint-Germain-des-Prés (6) on the Left Bank. With art galleries, book-stores and antique shops, it conveys a romantic feel and brings one to the realization that Paris is a really historic city.” SAINT JAMES PARIS

“My favorite itinerary is to leave the Bon Marché department store and head toward Place Saint-Germain-des-Près, passing by Hermès, Berlutti and Shang Xia for some window-shopping.” SHANGRI-LA HOTEL, PARIS

Favorite Restaurants and Cafés“I love Le Lulli, our hotel’s restaurant. Not only is the chef very talent-ed (aiming at our first Michelin star), but the restaurant is very peace-ful and bathed in light. We may add a terrace next spring, which will be the place to go to enjoy an amazing meal away from Paris’ crowds.” GRAND HÔTEL DU PALAIS ROYAL

“Restaurant Semilla at 54, rue de Seine, and Restaurant La Crèmerie at 9, rue des Quatre-Vents.” HÔTEL D’AUBUSSON

“114 Faubourg, Le Bristol Paris’ one-Michelin-star brasserie, and Lazare, Eric Frechon’s brasserie.” LE BRISTOL PARIS

“Our own restaurant, Les Confidences du San Régis, nestled under a transparent glass roof.” HÔTEL SAN RÉGIS

“The Coq Rico restaurant in Montmartre—a very simple, but friendly menu with dishes everyone likes, such as a Bresse chicken with homemade French fries.” LE MEURICE

“My favorite restaurant is very close [to the hotel]: La Corte, an Italian restaurant in the heart of Paris.” PARK HYATT PARIS–VENDÔME

“There are many I love! For instance, L’Avenue on Avenue Montaigne for a view of the Eiffel Tower, or Semilla, a confidential wine bistro with delightful cuisine prepared in front of the guests, [on] Rue de Seine.” Relais Christine

RIGHT: The north fountain in the Place de la Concorde BELOW: Sacré-Cœur Basilica atop Montmartre 2

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BELOW: Interior of La Madeleine church BOTTOM, LEFT: The facade of a building in the Latin Quarter, so named because of the students who spoke Latin in the district’s medieval universities BOTTOM, RIGHT: Outdoor bookshop along the Quai de Seine

27APRIL/MAY/JUNE 2015 ANDREWHARPER.COM |

Andrew Harper Travel Office Side Trips from the City of LightAlthough Paris draws throngs of tourists, it remains a thoroughly beguiling city with an almost unparalleled wealth of attractions. It wouldn’t be at all difficult to spend an entire vacation just in the city center, exploring the museums, cafés, bistros, markets, boutiques and parks. But with so many wonderful sights within easy reach of the city, it seems a shame not to make at least one day trip. And if you love Paris but feel no need to return because you’ve already seen the sights, con-sider using the city instead as a base to visit some of the remarkable places nearby.

1 VersaillesOne of the easiest and most famous day trips from Paris is Versailles, home of the ex-travagant château which inspired so many other royal palaces. It was here that Marie Antoinette strolled in the gardens and pre-tended to be a shepherdess in her Hameau (hamlet). It was here armed Parisian women converged and forced the King Louis XVI to return with them to Paris. And it was here that the Treaty of Versailles was signed, ending World War I and sowing the seeds of World War II.

The gardens designed by André Le Nôtre cover nearly 50 acres, including formal parterres, wooded groves, water basins and fountains using water pumped from the Seine by an ingenious 17th-century hydrau-lic system. The spectacular Apollo fountain, with the sun god’s chariot drawn by galloping horses, marks the entrance to the forested park, a 1,500-acre expanse that includes the cross-shaped Grand Canal. Every Tuesday, July through October, classical music plays throughout the gardens between 10 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. To avoid crowds, arrive at 9 a.m. or two hours before closing.

Although Versailles is an easy day trip from Paris, you can also make it a more relaxed two-day visit. Spend the first day seeing the main château and gardens, and the second day exploring the smaller Trianon palaces and the Hameau. The Trianon Palace hotel, which almost adjoins the royal domain, has a two-star restaurant run

Favorite Foods and Dishes“Line-fished sea bass with caviar and fermented milk from my childhood.” FOUR SEASONS HOTEL GEORGE V

“I love scallops in any way (cooked, raw, etc.), and I am also a big fan of Italian food. I think French and Italian gastronomies are the best in the world (French being no. 1, of course).” GRAND HÔTEL DU PALAIS ROYAL

“Foie Gras, Bœuf Bourguignon, Saint-Honoré cake.” HÔTEL D’AUBUSSON

“Steak tartare…as Parisian as it can get.” LE BRISTOL PARIS

“Italian food in general, for example a simple chicken oyster risotto.” LE MEURICE

“You can get the best fragole gratinate (strawberries with almond cream au gratin).” PARK HYATT PARIS–VENDÔME

“The famous ris de veau (veal sweetbread).” RELAIS CHRISTINE

Most Romantic Spots in Paris“Le Pont Alexandre III, overlooking the Eiffel Tower. It is the most beautiful bridge.” FOUR SEASONS HOTEL GEORGE V

“There are many places I can think of, as Paris is the City of Love. However, there is one museum that used to be a private house, which I think is very romantic —the Musée Jacquemart-André. Time stopped there and you are back in the 19th century.” GRAND HÔTEL DU PALAIS ROYAL

“Pont des Arts (1) (bridge over the Seine).” HÔTEL LANCASTER

“A cruise on the River Seine—nothing compares.” HÔTEL D’AUBUSSON

“Romantic walk on the Quai de Seine.” PARK HYATT PARIS–VENDÔME

“The weeping willow in the heart of the Square du Vert Galant (City Island), [or] a cruise at night.” THE PENINSULA PARIS

“Sitting at the tip of Île Saint-Louis at night in front of the river, and seeing the Eiffel Tower sparkling.” RELAIS CHRISTINE

Favorite Time of Year in Paris“December, because of the Christmas decorations.” FOUR SEASONS HOTEL GEORGE V

“August, when Paris is quiet and most of the Parisians are gone on holidays, is the best time to discover the city. Don’t think that all is closed—that’s absolutely wrong (just maybe my butcher store!).” GRAND HÔTEL DU PALAIS ROYAL

“January and February are quieter than the rest of the year; in addition there are big sales. It is nice to walk around and access the exhibitions.” HÔTEL D’AUBUSSON

“If I had to pick just one, it would be a summer month with all the cafés and restau-rants expanding on their terraces (2), everybody strolling in the streets and the smell of the fresh-cut grass in the gardens.” LE BRISTOL PARIS

“Spring, because there are not too many people, the weather is fine and the gardens are nice.” HÔTEL SAN RÉGIS

Pont des Arts RIGHT: Café at Place de Vosges in Les Marais

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by Scottish chef Gordon Ramsay, a simpler brasserie, a Guerlain spa and a terrific indoor swimming pool.

2 GivernyClaude Monet’s gardens at Giverny rank among the most famous in the world, and their renown is amply justified. The impres-sionist’s house and gardens were in a sorry state when the French Academy of Fine Arts inherited them in 1966. They were restored and replanted under the direction of French art expert Gérald van der Kemp who, previ-ously, as chief curator for 35 years, had res-cued the Château de Versailles—both with funds mostly from American donors.

Monet’s now-pristine pink farmhouse is a joy to discover (or revisit), especially his simply furnished bedroom overlooking the garden, the sunshine-yellow dining room with its yellow and blue china, and the big blue- and white-tiled kitchen gleaming with copper pots and pans. Renovated in 2011, the salon-atelier now displays 60 replicas of paintings shown there in photos taken sev-eral years before the artist’s death in 1926.

The two large gardens are joined by an underground passage beneath the town’s main street. The house garden, the Clos Normand, changes with the seasons but is usually lush with color, with irises, tulips, peonies, poppies, dahlias, daffodils, roses, cherry and apricot trees. The water garden, with its big water lily pond, is crossed by an arched Japanese bridge dripping with wiste-ria. Both were restored to Monet’s original plans.

Monet’s house and gardens are just 55 miles from Paris by car, or take the train from the Gare Saint-Lazare to Vernon, and take a taxi from there to Giverny. Visit during the week if possible.

3 ReimsIt takes less than an hour by high-speed TGV train from Paris to reach the capital of Champagne, Reims. This historic city has an astonishing 13th-century gothic cathedral

which witnessed centuries of coronations of French kings. (Joan of Arc’s expulsion of the English from Reims allowed for the coronation of Charles VII here in 1429.) The city has an important 20th-century history as well. In the Musée de la Reddition, housed in a former technical school, you can see the very room where the Germans surrendered to the Allies, ending World War II. The furnishings are all original to that day, as are the maps on the walls showing troop positions. Standing in this room sends chills up the spine.

But of course, most people come to Reims for the Champagne. Wineries around the world make sparkling wine nowadays, but no one does it quite as well as the Champenoise. Touring the Champagne houses is a delight. Grand mansion-like tasting rooms stand on top of networks of caves, or aging cellars, carved out of the chalk and limestone. (Romans did the initial quarrying for building material.) Of the reg-ularly scheduled guided tours offered by the great Champagne houses, one of the best is Mumm, with an interesting video before a tour of the caves, and a nice glass of bubbly as the grand finale. The tour of Pommery also is worthwhile; its impressive caves host rotating exhibitions of contemporary art.

The TGV train makes it easy to visit Reims as a day trip from Paris, but the city certainly merits an additional day or two, if time allows. Right across the street from Pommery is the elegant Château Les Crayères, which has a superb setting in a beautifully landscaped park, two outstanding restaurants (a brasserie and a haute-cuisine table), and exquisitely decorated rooms, sev-eral of which come with fireplaces. And what could be better than curling up in front of the fireplace in a château with a flute of exquisite Champagne?

“ Standing in this room sends chills up the spine.”

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from the travel office SAMPLE ITINERARIES

Best Places to Take Kids “I like taking my niece, when she is visiting Paris, to the Cirque d’Hiver (winter circus), a beautiful circus close to Bastille that was built in 1852 following the order from Napoleon III. It is a magnificent venue and the shows are amazing—kids love them.” GRAND HÔTEL DU PALAIS ROYAL

“The Jardin du Luxembourg (1).” HÔTEL SAN RÉGIS

“There are so many! We created a special Paris passport for kids where they can follow recommendations made by our concierge team. For example, the Air and Space museum, the French tennis federation museum, the Tuileries Garden, the Berges de la Seine and the City of Science and Industry in La Villette.” LE MEURICE

“The Jardin des Plantes (2), including the evolution gallery (Grande Galerie de l’Évolution) and the zoo, and the Cité des Sciences.” THE PENINSULA PARIS

“Le Jardin d’Acclimatation in the Bois de Boulogne. The Fondation Louis Vuitton, designed by Frank Gehry, has just opened right next to it.” SAINT JAMES PARIS

What These Locals Would Miss Most if Leaving Paris “Bread and cheese.” FOUR SEASONS HOTEL GEORGE V

“The architecture.” HÔTEL LANCASTER

“Sunrise time, sitting in a café with a warm croissant, our cheeses, bread and good wines.” HÔTEL D’AUBUSSON

“The elegance and the restaurant scene.” LE BRISTOL PARIS

“Beautiful architecture and the charm of Paris at night with the nice lighting of the bridges and buildings.” HÔTEL SAN RÉGIS

“Definitely the French touch, which is hard to explain. When I arrived in France 35 years ago, the feeling I had was completely different. Now, I feel I am part of the beating heart, mix of cultures, lifestyles and challenges of Parisian society. It took me a long time to tame the city, but what is fantastic in Paris is that everyone is most welcome. Believe me, no other city in the world made me feel like this.” LE MEURICE

Area Alliance PartnersHotelsHôtel d’Aubusson; Paris Grand Hôtel du Palais Royal; ParisHôtel Lancaster; ParisFour Seasons Hotel George V Paris; ParisLe Meurice; ParisHôtel Plaza Athénée Paris; ParisHôtel San Régis; ParisPark Hyatt Paris – Vendôme; ParisSaint James Paris; ParisThe Peninsula Paris; ParisShangri-La Hotel, Paris; ParisLe Bristol Paris; Paris

Prince de Galles Paris; Paris

Relais Christine; Paris

Destination SpecialistA&K Europe

Decouvertes

The 1492 Company

VillasLaCure Villas

Yachts & CruisesAbercrombie & Kent

Belmond Afloat in France

Uniworld River Cruise

TOP: Children famously sail toy boats at Le Jardin du Luxembourg. ABOVE: Flowers line the entrance to the Jardin des Plantes

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P R O M OT I O N


Steps from the Arc de Triomphe • Classic Haussmanian Building • Meticulous Six-Year Restoration • 200 Elegant Rooms

• Indulgent Peninsula Spa • Artisan-Crafted Furniture • Premier Meeting and Reception Venues • Six Sophisticated

Dining Options • Rolls-Royce and BMW Transportation • Exquisite Rooftop Gardens • Intimate, Exclusive

Rooftop L’Oiseau Blanc • Near Fauborg St. Honoré Shopping

offer. Andrew Harper Benefits: Best available non-restricted rates • Room upgrade, when available at check-in • Daily breakfast served at the restaurant or in room • 85 EUR voucher per room for use at The Lobby or LiLi restaurants or the Peninsula Spa • Seasonal amenity • Also includes PenClub Benefits: “Peninsula Time” flexible check-in and checkout • Upgraded welcome amenities • Complimentary 30-minute extension on any 50-minute body or facial treatment • Unlimited Wi-Fi (restrictions may apply)

Standard Inclusions: Non-alcoholic minibar • VoIP calls • Daily shoe shine • Wi-Fi

peninsula.com/paris

PARIS, FRANCE

The Peninsula ParisImpeccably restored to its 19th-century grandeur and discreetly modernized with the ultimate in contemporary luxury, The Peninsula Paris brings the incomparable Peninsula standard and style to Europe’s premier address.

Recommended since 2014.


Grand Hôtel du Palais Royal PARIS, FRANCE – Refined with contemporary flair, this 18th-century marvel is comprised of 68 rooms and suites and set in the very heart of Paris. Classic lines and structure intersect beautifully with modern furnishings in the Pierre-Yves Rochon–designed interiors. Enjoy a chef-prepared picnic in the Palais Royal garden before taking in the City of Light, or book a table at Le Lulli to experience chef Jean-Yves Bournot’s sumptuous seasonal menu. Be sure to request a private tour of the Louvre, which will be discreetly arranged by the Clefs d’Or concierges. End a culture-filled day by raising a glass of Champagne

aloft in the sumptuous Bar Lounge. Recommended since 2014.

SPECIAL OFFER: Complimentary Night in August End your summer in Paris with a four-night minimum stay and enjoy the fourth night free. also includes: Andrew Harper benefits, as well as standard inclusions. dates: Offer is valid on new reservations only, for travel from Aug. 1–31, 2015, based on availability. Offer is not combinable with any other promotions.

offer. Andrew Harper Benefits: Best available non-restricted rates • Room upgrade, when available at check-in • Daily buffet breakfast served in the restaurant or full breakfast served in room • VIP welcome amenity • For stays of three nights or longer, a 50 EUR food and beverage credit per room

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

Le Bristol ParisPARIS, FRANCE Recommended since 1988; Readers’ Choice–2012, 2013, 2014.

Andrew Harper

601 Oakmont Lane


“The level of service and the

warmth that we felt during our

visit made us Le Bristol clients

for life! It is quite rare indeed

to have both the superlative

hotel experience and the dining

experience we had at Epicure.

Incredibly special and absolutely

the perfect way to celebrate our

25th wedding anniversary.”


Andrew Harper Benefits: Room upgrade, when available at time of booking • Daily full breakfast served at the restaurant • Welcome bottle of wine per room • For stays of three nights or longer, a 140 EUR spa credit per room • For stays of three nights or longer in a suite, a one-way airport transfer

Paris, France

P R O M OT I O N

Standard Inclusions: Access to fitness center • Daily newspaper

Park Hyatt Paris–VendômePARIS, FRANCE – On the right bank of the Seine—the nexus of commerce, history, arts and nature—resides this contemporary Parisian palace of 153 spacious and refined rooms and suites. Featuring classical French architecture and modern design combined with a location just minutes from the grand Place Vendôme, Opéra Garnier, the Louvre and the Jardin des Tuileries, the complete City of Light experience awaits.

Rejuvenate with a variety of wellness offerings at the spa. Soak in the whirlpool, bask in

the sauna or undergo a treatment with Crème de la Mer’s sea-kelp formula. After that, per-

haps a mani-pedi will be in order at the beauty salon operated by Kure Bazaar, the French

beauty brand.

Indulge in divine cuisine for a perfect end to the evening. At Pur’, the Michelin-star

restaurant presided over by Chef Jean-François Rouquette, enjoy a sumptuous array of

seasonal fare combining game, organic vegetables, flowers and herbs. Top it off with a slice

of cheesecake from Fabien Berteau, who was recently awarded “Best Pastry Chef of the

Year” by Gault and Millau.


paris.vendome.hyatt.com

SPECIAL OFFER: Complimentary Fourth Night Enjoy a complimentary fourth night when booking four nights or longer in a Park Room or higher room category. also includes: Andrew Harper benefits, as well as standard inclusions. dates: Offer is valid on new reservations only, for travel between July 15–Sept. 15, 2015, based on availability. Offer is not combinable with any other promotions.

offer. Andrew Harper Benefits: Best avail-able non-restricted rates • Room upgrade, when available at check-in • Daily buffet breakfast served at Les Orchidées or in room • 85 EUR food and beverage credit per room

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


P R O M OT I O N

Yachts moored at the marina in Seward, Alaska

Gone Fishi ng


Gone Fishi ng

F rom Melvi l le’s Ahab and the white whale to Hemingway’s Santiago and his marlin, stories about deep-sea fishing are fodder for legend. These captivating tales of man versus beast have inspired generations of fishermen to take to the seas in search

of their own open-water adventures. Each year, more than thirty million Americans enjoy some version of fishing, whether in fresh or salt water, for sport or for sustenance. While lake and river

fishing are more common by far, deep-sea fishing elevates the sport to a different level. Bodies of water more than 100-feet deep entice anglers with the promise of trophy catches like marlin, swordfish and tuna.

These seven picturesque deep-sea-fishing sites across the globe make it easy to enjoy this thrilling sea sport. Just be sure to bring a sense of adventure, patience and strength—and a little bit of luck never hurts.


HawaiiLOCAL CATCHMahimahi, swordfish, spearfish, sailfish, dol-phinfish, wahoo (known locally as ono), bigeye and yellowfin tuna (ahi), skipjack tuna (aku) and marlin

FISHING SEASONYear-round, though some months are better for certain species. Dolphinfish are most abundant from March through May. June, July and August are best for catching yel-lowfin tuna. Visit between September and November for marlin.

Lush scenery, a tropical climate and an unhur-ried ambience make Hawaii one of the world’s most sought-after travel destinations. This stunning archipelago is comprised of eight small islands—six of which are inhabited—which makes for ideal fishing conditions. The Kona Coast of Hawaii Island, in particular, offers outstanding big-game fishing. Each summer, this region hosts the Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament, consid-ered one of the world’s premier fishing events.

“The ecology of [Hawaii] provides calm water for fishing along the coastlines of the is-lands,” says Frank Hernandez, chef concierge at Halekulani in Waikiki. The Hawaii Marlin Tournament Series draws serious anglers from June through September, but the consis-tent climate makes recreational fishing a year-round pursuit. “Fishing in Hawaii knows no season. There’s always something to catch,” says Hernandez.

Area Alliance PartnersHawaii

HotelsHalekulani; Honolulu

Mauna Lani Bay Hotel & Bungalows; Kohala Coast

The St. Regis Princeville Resort; Princeville

VillasCuvee Escapes

LaCure Villas

Yachts & CruisesCrystal Cruises

Seabourn

Sea Cloud Cruises

Silversea

Un-Cruise

TOP: Lahaina Harbor in Maui, Hawaii MIDDLE LEFT: School of grunts and snapper in a Caribbean reef MIDDLE RIGHT: Marlin is the quintessential big-game fish. BOTTOM: Boats anchored in the port city of Sciacca, Sicily


SicilyLOCAL CATCH

Grouper, dentex, red snapper (pargo), amber-jack, bluefin tuna, swordfish, sea bream, mackerel, barracuda and sea bass

FISHING SEASON

April through December

Thought to have human inhabitants since roughly 12,000 B.C., Sicily is rich with cul-ture. The island is home to six World Heritage sites, including Mt. Etna, one of the most active volcanoes on the planet. However, the island’s appeal transcends its ancient heritage. Alongside the ancient ruins and landmarks, travelers to this southern Italian favorite can enjoy sun, saltwater and a relaxed seaside lifestyle.

Sicily is the largest island in the Medi-terranean Sea, and almost all of the types of fish that inhabit this body of water swim through the Sicilian Channel nearby. Also known as the Straits of Sicily, this 100-mile wide waterway separates Sicily from Tunisia and is dotted with small islands both inhab-ited and uninhabited. “Sicily offers a great variety of fishing species and the opportunity to [use] different fishing techniques to catch them,” says Emanuele Venezia, concierge at Rocco Forte Verdura Resort.

Area Alliance PartnersSicily

HotelsBelmond Grand Hotel Timeo; Taormina

Hotel Villa Ducale; Taormina

Rocco Forte Verdura Resort; Sciacca

VillasLaCure Villas

Destination SpecialistsA&K Europe

Absolute Italy

IC Bellagio

AlaskaLOCAL CATCH

Salmon (king, coho, sockeye, pink and chum), halibut and cod

FISHING SEASON

Year-round; weather and sport-fishing condi-tions are best between May and September

While Alaska isn’t known for its beaches, in truth it boasts more ocean coastline than any other state. Accordingly, the “Last Frontier” offers ample opportunity for sport fishing.

“Alaska has such prolific fishing waters that almost everyone catches something,” says Martin Behr, president of National Parks Revealed. Charter a boat from one of four main ports— Juneau, Skagway, Sitka and Ketchikan—or opt to stay in a fishing-focused lodge equipped with its own gear and vessels. Anglers of all skill levels can participate in the Alaska Department of Fish and Game’s Five Salmon Family certificate program, which challenges families to catch all five species of Pacific salmon commonly found throughout the state. Travelers wishing to enjoy their Alaskan catch long after they’ve left can arrange to have their haul cleaned, frozen, vacuum-packed and shipped home. As Behr says, “anyone can serve fish from the supermarket, but those don’t come with great stories.”

Area Alliance PartnersAlaska

HotelsTikchik Narrows Lodge; on Tikchik Lake


Midnight Sun

Seabourn

Silversea

Un-Cruise

Destination SpecialistsEntrée Alaska

MozambiqueLOCAL CATCHKing mackerel, queen mackerel, marlin, sailfish, tuna, giant trevally, wahoo and mahimahi (dorado)

FISHING SEASONYear-round for most types of fish, with set windows for specific species. Marlin season runs from October through March; sailfish are present during July and August as well as October through March.

In Mozambique, anglers cast their lines into the Indian Ocean in the hopes of hooking game fish like giant black marlins, wahoo and sailfish. In fact, the waters off of Mozambique are the only place in the Indian Ocean known

to have produced a black marlin weighing more than 1,000 pounds, which was caught in 1998. Two archipelagos off of the African nation’s eastern coast create underwater con-ditions that corral baitfish, attracting bigger game to the area.

“ Th e B a z a r u t o Arc h i p e l a g o a n d Quirimbas Archipelago have some of the best big game, reef and bill fishing in the Indian Ocean,” says Krista North, sales and marketing manager at Azura Benguerra & Azura Quilalea. To protect this valuable resource, the properties have taken steps to ensure the survival of the natural ecosystem.

“We have established the island’s first no-fishing zone to protect the seas around us and help to guard Africa’s last viable popula-tion of the elusive dugong [a unique marine mammal related to the manatee],” North says.

Area Alliance PartnersMozambique

HotelsAzura Benguerra Island; Benguerra Island

Azura Quilalea Private Island; Quilalea Island

BelizeLOCAL CATCHSnapper, snook, bonefish, tarpon, permit, jacks and barracuda

FISHING SEASONYear-round, but certain fish are most abun-dant during specific periods. Look for permit from February to May, tarpon from April through September, bonefish from April through October, and reef fish from December through August.

From dense rainforests to white-sand beach-es, the unspoiled natural landscape of Belize attracts almost 300,000 visitors annually. No matter the time of year, the air temperature rarely varies by more than 10 degrees, making this Central American nation a reliable spot for fishing the crystal-line waters of the Caribbean Sea. Spanning roughly 180 miles, the Belize Barrier Reef is the largest in North America—second in the world only to Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. Just beyond the reef, the depth of the water increases significantly, offering fantastic conditions for reeling in a big catch. Eco-friendly anglers can enjoy catch-and-release fishing in designated Marine Reserve areas.


Area Alliance PartnersPhuket

HotelsAmanpuri; Phuket

Trisara; Phuket

VillasLaCure Villas


Seabourn

Silversea

Destination SpecialistsAsia Transpacific Journeys

DEEP-SEA FISHING TOURNAMENTS

APRIL

• World Sailfish Championship (Key West, FL, USA)

• Offshore World Championship (Quepos, Costa Rica)

MAY

• Armed Services Combat Fishing Tournament (Seward, AK, USA)

JUNE

• Islamorada Dolphin Tournament (Islamorada, FL, USA)

JUNE-SEPTEMBER

• Hawaii Marlin Tournament Series (multiple sites in Hawaii)

JULY

• Blue Marlin World Cup (worldwide)

AUGUST

• Hawaii International Billfish Tournament (Kona, HI, USA)

OCTOBER

• Belkin Spectacular Blue Water Billfish Tournament (Ambergris Caye, Belize)

• Bisbee’s Black & Blue Marlin Tournament (Los Cabos, Mexico)

NOVEMBER

• Phuket International Sport Fishing Championship (Phuket, Thailand)

Area Alliance PartnersBelize

HotelsCayo Espanto; Ambergris Caye

Victoria House Resort; Ambergris Caye

Yachts and CruisesAll Yachts Worldwide

Crystal Cruises

Seabourn

Sea Cloud Cruises

Silversea

Florida KeysLOCAL CATCH

Sailfish, blue marlin, white marlin, snook, swordfish, wahoo, tuna, tarpon, permit, shark, barracuda, snapper and grouper

FISHING SEASON

Year-round, with species-specific windows. Sailfish season runs November through March, kingfish are easiest to catch from September through March, and tarpon are more abundant from April through July.

More than 125 miles of land and sea make up the arc of islands known as the Florida Keys. Sandwiched between Florida Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, the Keys are home to sport fishing sites appropriate for both experts and novices alike.

“[At Little Palm Island on Little Torch Key] we rarely get professional anglers and are accustomed to teaching new anglers how to enjoy the sport,” says Bill Foster, area di-rector of sales and marketing at Noble House

Hotels & Resorts. However, roughly 54 miles to the northeast lies Islamorada, known as the “Sport Fishing Capital of the World” and home to one of the largest fleets of charter boats in the country. Rich waters from the Gulf Stream current, combined with large schools of baitfish, create exceptional fishing conditions in this area.

Area Alliance PartnersFlorida Keys

HotelsLittle Palm Island Resort & Spa; Little Torch Key

Destination SpecialistsNational Parks Revealed

Yachts and CruisesAll Yachts Worldwide

Crystal Cruises

Seabourn

Silversea

PhuketLOCAL CATCHKing mackerel, tuna, dorado, giant trevally, long-nosed emperor, red snapper, grouper, marlin

FISHING SEASONYear-round, though some months are better for certain species. Marlin inhabit the area from October through March. August through January are the best months for wahoo. Look for giant trevally in March and April and then again in October through December.

Set off the west coast of Thailand, the island of Phuket juts into the deep-blue Andaman Sea. Stunning mountain terrain covers more than half of this 222-square-mile paradise, but the landscape beneath the surface of the sea is just as spellbinding. The area boasts arguably the best deep-sea fishing in Thailand, with species like marlin and king mackerel ripe for the taking; the team at Trisara Hotel recommends casting near the islands of Koh Kaew or Koh Racha Yai, where emerald green waters offer a spectacular and unusual backdrop for a day at sea. The Phuket Fishing Association charters vessels ranging from budget to high-end for trips lasting a day, a night, or longer. No matter the duration, a deep-sea fishing excursion offers the perfect opportunity to explore one of the 32 nearby is-lands that dot the seas surrounding Phuket.

Rainbow fish caught near Phuket, Thailand


A pier in Caye Caulker, Belize

Sunset over a marina in Phuket, Thailand

Yachts docked in the Florida Keys


Wonder is indigenous here, from ancient, moss-draped oaks to serenely winding rivers. Here, in South Carolina Lowcountry, land and architecture resonate with the grace

of a bygone era, where families create indelible memories of their own. At The Inn at Palmetto Bluff, not only is history at every turn. It’s always in the making.

AndreW HArPer exCLuSIve Offer: Stay three nights and receive your fourth night free.

Offer is valid on new reservations only, booked by May 31 for travel through June 30, 2015, based on availability, and excluding April 3-6 and May 22-25, 2015.

Offer is not combinable with any other promotions.

For reservations contact the andrew harper travel oFFice at (800) 375-4685 or [email protected].

Benefits: Daily Breakfast • $100 spa treatment CreDit per room • accommodation Upgrade (based on availability)

Some places create great stories. Others make history.

PB_LeisureOFFERad_AndrewHarperSpr.indd 1 1/27/15 12:08 AM

P R O M OT I O N

Share #TheHarperWayJoin us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram to share your unrivaled experiences inspired by the travels of Mr. Harper.

More onInstagram.com/HarperTravel

1 Explored the canals of Venice, home to the 2014 Hideaway of the Year, Aman Canal Grande #TheHarperWay

2 A beautiful (and delicious) welcome plate of local cheeses at The Tsitouras Collection in Santorini, Greece #TheHarperWay

3 Spotted a pair of giraffes at Oceana Beach and Wildlife Reserve #TheHarperWay

1 2

3


P R O M OT I O N

The Manhattan skyline by night



I n the last issue, we discussed three of our favorite city and countryside combinations: San Francisco and wine country, Florence and Tuscany, and Sydney and the Australian coast.

In each of these examples, the city and the surrounding region both merit exploration on their own. But when combined, the pairings lay the groundwork for a vacation that leaves you feeling both invigorated and refreshed. The world presents numerous tempting options, but these three additional pairings rank among the most unforgettable.

New York and the Hamptons or Hudson ValleyThe largest city in the United States has nu-merous world-famous tourist hot spots, in-cluding Times Square, the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, Central Park and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. But digging a little deeper into the many attrac-tions of New York will yield memorable ex-periences away from the crowds. Few tourists are aware of the unique Neue Galerie on the Upper East Side, for example, which displays masterpieces of Austrian and German art (in-

cluding major Klimt and Schiele paintings) in a former Vanderbilt mansion. In the former music room, an ornate Viennese café serves tortes that alone make a visit worthwhile.

On the opposite side of Midtown, inde-pendent shops beckon with cutting-edge pieces as well as traditional treasures. Browse the stores and galleries along West Broadway between Houston and Grand in SoHo or along nearby Elizabeth Street in Nolita. Your concierge or Andrew Harper travel advisor could even arrange for a private shopper to show you some insider favorites.

The city’s vibrant restaurant scene only continues to improve. In fact, Mr. Harper named The River Café his formal restaurant of the year in the United States. And of course, Broadway continues to mount ever-more spectacular plays and musicals.

New York can be a sensory overload, and a spell in the country immediately following a visit to Manhattan feels especially appropri-ate. The Hamptons on the eastern tip of Long Island are a classic escape from the city, and they remain as enticing today as ever. Well-to-do resort towns and wide beaches line the south side of the island, and the quieter North Fork has developed a world-class wine country.

As Mr. Harper explains, New York City “is also a gateway to the tranquil Hudson Valley,

with its orchards, vineyards, fine restaurants and stately homes that have afforded escape to some of the great names in American his-tory—Rockefeller, Vanderbilt and Roosevelt among them,” and the extravagant estates of these three families now open their doors to the public. In his article in the September 2014 Hideaway Report, Mr. Harper also rec-ommends touring West Point, seeing the incredible stained glass of the Union Church of Pocantico Hills and tasting local wines at Millbrook Vineyards and Whitecliff Vineyard.

Area Alliance PartnersHotels Crosby Street Hotel, New York

Glenmere; Chester

Jedediah Hawkins Inn; Jamesport

Hotel Plaza Athenee; New York

The Baker House 1650; East Hampton

The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel; New York

The Greenwich Hotel, New York

The Lowell; New York

The Mark; New York

The Plaza Hotel, New York

The St. Regis New York; New York

VillasBeautiful Places

LaCure Villas

ABOVE: Sunset Rock and the Catskills in New York’s Hudson Valley OPPOSITE: Montauk Point Lighthouse in the Hamptons



“�Some�argue�that�London�today�is��the�first�truly�global�city…”–MR. HARPER



“�Some�argue�that�London�today�is��the�first�truly�global�city…”–MR. HARPER

London, the Cotswolds and Bath“Some argue that London today is the first truly global city,” writes Mr. Harper, “a me-tropolis where the populations of Europe, Asia, Africa and North America now all meet and mingle.” Visitors to the capital of Great Britain have no shortage of fine hotels from which to choose. As Mr. Harper notes, “London can boast some of the world’s most legendary grand hotels, many of which have been extensively modernized in recent years.” Some of London’s top sights also recently received major makeovers, most notably the British Museum, which added a new wing last July. The $220 million World Conservation and Exhibitions Centre is one of the largest redevelopment projects in the museum’s 260-year history.

In addition to other museums such as the Tate Modern and the National Gallery, travelers can include a visit to one or more royal palaces, depending on the time of year. Buckingham Palace , Clarence House (home to the Prince of Wales) and Kensington Palace (former home of Diana, Princess of Wales) all have tours available when their occupants are not in residence. Your travel consultant or concierge can help make the arrangements.

London has a theater scene rivaling any on earth, and seeing a West End production in a historic auditorium never fails to be memo-rable. More unexpectedly, London also now ranks among the world’s top dining cities. Mr. Harper goes so far as to argue that “Because London today is so cosmopolitan, the variety of the city’s dining options is incomparable.”

The English countryside offers innumera-ble possibilities for some relaxed sightseeing after a few days of running around London. One of the loveliest patches can be found in the Cotswolds, which contains a wealth of enchanting medieval villages set amid gently rolling hills. Instead of blockbuster sights, you’ll find “Diminutive cottages built of hon-ey-colored stone surround squares lined with appealing shops and atmospheric vintage pubs,” as Mr. Harper describes. Even though the main towns can be crowded during summer, the back roads and lesser-known villages remain delightful even in high season. Alternatively, or in addition to the Cotswolds, you could stay in the countryside just outside

of Bath, which Mr. Harper calls “perhaps the most beautiful city in England.” His recom-mended hotels nearby make fine bases for exploring the medieval town of Wells, with its extraordinarily beautiful cathedral, and enig-matic Glastonbury Tor, a hill said by some to be the Avalon of Arthurian legend.

Area Alliance PartnersHotelsBarnsley House; Cirencester

Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons; Oxford

Buckland Manor; Worcestershire

Covent Garden Hotel; London

Dorset Square Hotel; London

Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa; Wiltshire

Lower Slaughter Manor; Gloucestershire

Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park; London

Shangri-La Hotel, At The Shard; London

The Athenaeum Hotel & Apartments; London The Bath Priory Hotel; Bath

The Dorchester; London

The Goring; London

The Halkin by COMO; London

The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa; Bath

The Stafford London; London

Destination SpecialistsA&K Europe

Adventures in Golf

Dream Escape

VillasLaCure Villas

Yachts & CruisesHebridean Princess

TOP: Bibury Village, near Cirencester in the Cotswolds ABOVE: Sheep graze outside St. James’ Church in Chipping Campden, a town in the Cotswolds. OPPOSITE: The iconic Tower Bridge spans across the Thames River in London.



Buenos Aires and BarilocheIn spite of Argentina’s economic turbulence, the citizens of Buenos Aires remain ebullient. This is still a city that loves to party. Tango bars, known as tanguerias, remain immensely popular, and every Sunday dancers show off their paces in the charming Plaza Dorrego. “Thanks to its broad boulevards, tree-shaded squares and noble neoclassical buildings,” Mr. Harper writes, “it is sometimes not difficult to fancy yourself in Paris.” Most first-time visi-tors to the city make a point of seeing the Casa Rosada, the executive mansion from which Eva Perón made her famous last speech, and La Recoleta Cemetery, full of ornate mausoleums including the one belonging to Perón. But we also recommend taking time to explore lesser-known sights such as Palermo Soho, a trendy low-rise neighborhood of art galleries and chic restaurants and bars, and MALBA, the Buenos Aires Museum of

Latin American Art, which has an excellent modern and contemporary collection. Those with more time should also consider a cruise in the delta of the Paraná River, the many channels of which are lined with mansions, country cottages and marinas. And of course, no visit to Buenos Aires would be complete without attending a first-class tango show. Rojo Tango and Esquina Carlos Gardel have two of the best; if you prefer something more hands-on, your travel consultant can arrange a private tango lesson.

From Buenos Aires, it’s a short flight to some of the world’s most spectacular scenery. At the northern end of Patagonia, Bariloche beckons with majestic snowcapped peaks, crystalline blue lakes, waterfalls, ancient forests and colorful wildflower meadows, a breathtaking wilderness landscape that is protected by a vast network of national parks and ecological reserves. Skiers flock here in the winter, and the summer offers myriad outdoor activities such as kayaking, golfing, hiking, horseback riding, sailing and trout

fishing. Often referred to as the “Switzerland of South America,” this region has a unique central European/Argentine flavor because of its original Swiss and German settlers. Mr. Harper’s recommended hotels all boast lake or river views, making it wise to also leave time to simply relax at your resort, glass of fine Malbec in hand, taking in the expansive vistas.

Area Alliance Partners HotelsAlgodon Mansion; Buenos Aires

Alvear Palace Hotel; Buenos Aires

Four Seasons Buenos Aires; Buenos Aires

Las Balsas Gourmet Hotel & Spa; Villa La Angostura

Llao Llao Hotel & Resort; Bariloche

Villas LaCure Villas

Destination SpecialistsAbercrombie & Kent

Yachts & CruisesAll Yachts Worldwide

Crystal Cruises

Seabourn

Silversea

TOP: The Torre Monumental clock tower and Retiro rail station in Buenos Aires ABOVE: Lake Nahuel Huapi in Patagonia as seen from Villa La Angostura, near Bariloche, Argentina




P R O M OT I O N


Boutique Hotel on a Quiet Residential Street • Set in the Storied Belgravia District • Walking Distance to Knightsbridge and Hyde

Park • Michelin-Star Basque Restaurant, Ametsa with Arzak Instruction • Chef Elena Arzak Voted “Veuve Clicquot World’s Best

Female Chef” • In-Room COMO Shambhala Spa Treatments • Access to COMO Shambhala Urban Escape at Nearby Sister Hotel

• Ideal Family-Friendly Hotel • Children’s Amenities • Full Concierge Service

offer. Andrew Harper Benefits: Best available non-restricted rates • Room upgrade, when available at time of booking • Daily full English breakfast served at the restaurant or in room • Welcome amenity • For stays of three nights or longer, an 85 GBP food and beverage credit per room

Standard Inclusions: Welcome drink • Access to fitness facilities • Wi-Fi

comohotels.com/thehalkin

LONDON, ENGLAND

The Halkin by COMOThis central London gem with 41 sleekly designed rooms and suites is a study in refined elegance.

A focal point is the Michelin-star restaurant, Ametsa with Arzak Instruction, a Basque culinary collaboration between Chef Elena Arzak and her father, Juan Mari Arzak.


If you become hospitalized more than 150 miles from home, most travel protection plans leave your care to the nearest hospital.Medjet is different. We get you home to the hospital you trust.

Protect yourself today. Annual Medjet memberships start at $260. Visit Medjet online or call toll-free to enroll.

join the premier air medical transport membership program

for travelers

800.527.7478 Medjet.com/HarperMention Andrew Harper when calling.

Medjet Harper_Traveler_2015_half pg Horizontal.indd 1 11/13/14 10:10 AM

If you become hospitalized more than 150 miles from home, most travel protection plans leave your care to the nearest hospital.Medjet is different. We get you home to the hospital you trust.

Protect yourself today. Annual Medjet memberships start at $260. Visit Medjet online or call toll-free to enroll.

join the premier air medical transport membership program

for travelers

800.527.7478 Medjet.com/HarperMention Andrew Harper when calling.

Medjet Harper_Traveler_2015_half pg Horizontal.indd 1 11/13/14 10:10 AM

The DorchesterLONDON, ENGLAND Recommended since 1992.

Andrew Harper

601 Oakmont Lane


“Excellent level of service and

attention throughout the stay. The

Dorchester has the best concierge

service. There was never a request

they didn’t satisfy. Stuart Aubrey

was most gracious and helpful. We

were treated so well, and in such a

warm and friendly manner, that

we know we will return on our next

trip to London. Impeccable.”


Andrew Harper Benefits: Best available non-restricted rates • Room upgrade, when available at check-in • Daily full breakfast served at the restaurant or in-room • 85 GBP food and beverage credit per room • Welcome amenity

London, England

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

P R O M OT I O N

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

The Athenaeum Hotel & Apartments

LONDON, ENGLAND – Nestled in Mayfair, minutes from Buckingham Palace, this central London gem (134 rooms, 12 suites and 18 fully-equipped apartments) pairs next-level service with warmth and hospitality.

Spend your day exploring the capital, ducking into shops in the West End and watching the changing of the Queen’s Guard, before returning to the Garden Room for afternoon tea; voted top tea service in London by the Tea Guild in 2012, this time-honored tradition is not-to-be-missed.

After enjoying contemporary classic British cuisine prepared with fresh ingredients at the hotel’s restaurant, a well-deserved nightcap is in your future—toast a full day with one of the 300 whiskies on offer at Whisky Bar. Recommended since 1996.

SPECIAL OFFER: Summer Shopping Break Experience a luxury shopping break with such illustrious London landmarks as Fortnum & Mason, The Burlington Arcade, Liberty and Covent Garden when booking an apartment or suite. With our exclusive discount cards and Britain’s best shops on our doorstep, the Athenaeum is perfectly placed for a shopping break in the capital. Rates start at $999 per room, per night. also includes: One complimentary meal for children under 12 with each adult meal purchased; a second room with identical dates available at half price during the low season; as well as Andrew Harper benefits and standard hotel inclusions. dates: Offer is valid on new reservations only, for travel from July 1–Sept. 30, 2015, based on availability. Rates are per room, per night, valid on apartment and suite accommodations only. Offer is not combinable with any other promotions.

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

Standard Inclusions: Wednesday evening drinks reception • In-room minibar • Wi-Fi

Lucknam Park WILTSHIRE, ENGLAND – This 17th-century Palladian estate encapsulates English tradition and fine country living. Situated on 500 acres of manicured parkland and hushed countryside, this stately British mansion offers a welcome retreat from the city rush. Beyond the 42 rooms and suites, the grounds house the Equestrian Centre, the Cookery School, two restaurants and a spa and well-being house enveloped by walled gardens. Just minutes from Bath and The Cotswolds, the estate is close

to desirable destinations, yet feels worlds away.


offer. Andrew Harper Benefits: Best available non-restricted rates • Room upgrade, when available at check-in • Daily full English break-fast served at the restaurant or in room • One Wiltshire afternoon tea for two per room • Late checkout, when available

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

P R O M OT I O N



P R O M OT I O N

The River’s Most Exclusive Guide-to-Guest Ratio • Onboard Comforts of a Floating Five-Star Boutique Hotel • Floor-to-Ceiling

River-Facing Views in Every Suite • Private Skiffs & Expert Guides • Intimate Access to Remote Communities • Daily Excursions

Among Amazon Pink Dolphins and a Rainbow of Birdlife • Exploration of the Flooded Forests and Buddhist Temples of Southeast

Asia • Locally Influenced Cuisine from World-Renowned Executive Chefs, David Thompson and Pedro Miguel Schiaffino

aquaexpeditions.com

PERU & THE AMAZON AND CAMBODIA & VIETNAM ALONG THE MEKONG

Aqua ExpeditionsTravel with the recognized leader in luxury small-ship river cruising. The Aqua Amazon and Aria Amazon explore

Peru’s Amazon River, while the new 20-suite Aqua Mekong sets sail on the historic Mekong.

Amanyara PROVIDENCIALES, TURKS AND CAICOS – Flawless reefs and lush, quiet foliage surround this peaceful, contemporary escape. Soak up the island during your stay in one of 38 tranquil pavil-ions or one of 20 unique villas, each boasting more than an acre of its own secluded terrain. Awake each morning to a compli-mentary in-villa breakfast of dishes such as smoked salmon and toast points, housemade pain au chocolat or seasonal specials prepared a la carte, set against the backdrop of gleaming azure seas. Pair the exquisite cuisine with selections by a personal wine

concierge and watch your cares drift away with the ebbing tides.

Recommended since 2005

SPECIAL OFFER: Season of Discovery Offering a serene spa and spectacular natural surroundings, Amanyara is the ideal setting for rejuvenating body and mind. Confirm a minimum stay of three nights and receive all meals daily; confirm four nights or longer and receive all meals daily and a complimentary fifth night; and when seven nights or longer are confirmed, receive the above, plus two complimentary massages per Pavilion or Villa. also includes: Andrew Harper benefits, as well as standard inclusions. Additional inclusions apply for Family Suites and Villas: movie night in a private screening room complete with beverages, popcorn and canapés; ice cream social/pool party for the family one afternoon; a private guided snorkeling trip; eco-hike with Amanyara’s Resident Naturalist; and daily Nature Discovery Center program for children, tailor-made by the Resident Naturalist. dates: Offer is valid on new reservations only, for travel from June 1—Nov. 24, 2015, based on availability. Offer is not combinable with any other promotions.

offer. Andrew Harper Benefits: Best available non-restricted rates • Room upgrade, when available at check-in • Daily continental breakfast served at the restaurant or in room • One lunch for two per room, excluding beverages • Sunset cocktail per person with canapés once during stay

Standard Inclusions: Private round-trip airport transfers • Minibar (excluding spirits) • Telephone calls • Non-motorized water sports • Daily snorkel trips • Regular fitness/wellness classes • Access to fitness center • Tennis • Wi-Fi


Far from the tourist crowds of more accessible destinations, private islands offer the ultimate in serenity and seclu-sion. Once the fate of shipwrecked sailors and castaways, the following private island escapes now showcase some of the most exclusive accommodations available. Though spas and fine dining are never far, it’s not unusual to feel as if you’re the only person around for miles. Set course for a private island, and enjoy some of the world’s most astounding beauty all to yourself.

Private Island Escapes

P R O M OT I O Nprivate island escapes

Cocoa Island by COMOSOUTH MALÉ ATOLL, MALDIVES – A private and intimate island resort with 33 overwater suites and villas, allowing you to slip right into the stunning lagoon from your private deck. Encircled with powder-white sand and crystal-blue waters, the carefree, under-stated luxury experience includes holistic wellness treatments at COMO Shambhala Retreat, South Indian-influenced cuisine at Ufaa and fine wines and cocktails at Faru, an easy, “foot-in-the-sand” resort bar. Explore the exceptional house reef, cruise to neighboring islands and beaches, experience world-class diving and relax in the

pristine infinity-edge pool. Recommended since 2008.

SPECIAL OFFER: Complimentary Nights Make the most of your stay at Cocoa Island with complimentary nights. From May 1–Oct. 31, 2015, stay four nights and pay for three, stay seven nights and pay for five, or stay 14 nights and pay only for 10; from Nov. 1–Dec. 25, 2015, stay seven nights and pay for six or stay 14 nights and pay only for 12. also includes: Andrew Harper benefits, as well as standard inclusions. dates: Offer is valid on new reservations only, for travel through Dec. 25, 2015, based on availability. Offer is not combinable with any other promotions.

Andrew Harper Benefits: Preferred rates • Room upgrade, when available at check-in • Welcome bottle of wine per room • $100 spa credit per couple • For stays of four nights or longer, one private yoga class per room

Standard Inclusions: Daily full American breakfast served at the restaurant or in room • Non-motorized water sports • Snorkeling equipment • Wi-Fi


w w w. f r e g a t e . c o m w w w. o e t k e r c o l l e c t i o n . c o m

One of a kindA jewel of conservation, Seychelles’ true sanctuary

For Reservations contact the Andrew Harper Travel Office at (800) 375-4685 or [email protected]

Andrew Harper members receive:• 50 minute Spa treatment per couple• 1 hour snorkeling excursion• 1 hour sunset cruise

EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT

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Andrew Harper members receive:• 85 EUR spa credit per couple• 1 hour snorkeling excursion• 1 hour sunset cruise

EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT

P R O M OT I O N

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Property Name LOCATION, LOCATION – XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX.

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XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX. Recommended

since XXXX; Awards; Awards.

SPECIAL OFFER: XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. also includes: XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. dates: XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX. XXXX XXXX XXXX.

offer. Andrew Harper Benefits: XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX

Standard Inclusions: XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXX XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX • XXXX

Petit St. Vincent ST. VINCENT & THE GRENADINES – Situated on a 115-acre pri-vate island in the Grenadines, this 22-cottage retreat is the epitome of gracious island living. Between sessions of unwinding on the powdery sands of the West End Beach and luscious locavore dining, guests can explore the rich marine world around them. At the newly opened Jean-Michel Cousteau Dive Center, take an introductory course in scuba diving within the safe confines of the bay led by a group of professional instructors, or take a full PADI open-water

course to earn international certification.

Recommended since 1980; Readers’ Choice–2012.

SPECIAL OFFER: Exclusive Spa Credit Book a seven-night stay by April 30, 2015, and receive a $50 spa credit. also includes: Andrew Harper benefits, as well as standard inclusions. dates: Offer is valid on new reser-vations only, booked by April 30 for travel through July 31, 2015, based on availability. Offer is not combinable with any other promotions.

Andrew Harper Benefits: Best available non-restricted rates • Room upgrade, when available at check-in • Welcome fruit and cheese plate per room • Half pound of Neuhaus chocolates per room

Standard Inclusions: All meals • Non-alcoholic beverages • Use of all resort facilities • Non-motorized water sports • Wi-Fi





Andrew Harper members receive:• 50 minute Spa treatment per couple• 1 hour snorkeling excursion• 1 hour sunset cruise

EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT

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Andrew Harper members receive:• 85 EUR spa credit per couple• 1 hour snorkeling excursion• 1 hour sunset cruise

EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT

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The Wakaya Club & SpaWAKAYA ISLAND, FIJI – Secluded beaches, soaring cliffs

and crystalline lagoons set the stage for your own private

island escape. Exclusivity is guaranteed with only 10 spacious

luxury bures and a maximum of 28 guests. The warm and

friendly Fijian staff provides gracious and unobtrusive service

to ensure your visit becomes the trip of a lifetime. Welcome to

paradise. Recommended since 1991; Readers’ Choice–2013.

• Paradise, Perfected

• Private 2,200-Acre Island

• Azure Lagoons, Majestic Cliffs, White-Sand Beaches

Andrew Harper Benefits: Preferred rates • Room upgrade, when available at check-in • Two 50-minute massages per room • Discover Scuba program for two

Standard Inclusions: All meals and beverages (alcoholic and non-al-coholic) • Fully stocked minibar • Meet-and-greet service at Nadi In-ternational Airport • One scuba tank per person per stay for certified divers • Private beach picnics • Guided archaeological hiking tours • Use of all sporting facilities and equipment, including golf, tennis, snorkeling, sea kayaking, fitness bure and croquet • Wi-Fi • Laundry service

SPECIAL OFFER: Ultimate Escape Package With Complimentary Seventh Night Confirm the Ultimate Escape Package for a minimum of six nights and receive a complimentary seventh night. also includes: Andrew Harper ben-efits and standard inclusions, plus one 50-minute spa treatment per person. dates: Offer is valid on new reservations only, for travel through Dec. 31, 2015, based on availability. Offer is not combinable with any other promotions.

P R O M OT I O Nprivate island escapes


QUILÁLEA AND BENGUERRA ISLAND, MOZAMBIQUE

Azura Quilálea Private Island & Azura Benguerra Island MozambiqueAfrica’s ultimate private luxury hideaways, where authenticity of the experience—without compromising on standards—is key.

QUILÁLEA: Recommended since 2014. • BENGUERRA: Recommended since 2008.

QUILÁLEA: Private, Uninhabited Island • Nine Seafront Villas

• Snorkel Directly Off Main Beach • Historical Tours to Ibo Island

• Spa Features Local African Products

BENGUERRA: Pristine Nature Reserve • 17 Designer Villas

• Diving and Snorkeling in National Marine Park

• Deep-Sea Big-Game Fishing • Family Villas

SPECIAL OFFER: COMPLIMENTARY SIXTH NIGHT Enjoy the gorgeous villas and friendly Mozambican hospitality for an extra day with a complimentary sixth night when booking a five-night minimum stay.also includes: Andrew Harper benefits, as well as standard inclusions. dates: Offer is valid on new reservations only, for travel through Dec. 19, 2015, based on availability. Offer is not combinable with any other promotions.

offer. Andrew Harper Benefits: QUILÁLEA: Preferred rates • Room upgrade, when available at check-in • Guided canyon snorkeling excursion per per-son• BENGUERRA: Preferred rates • Room upgrade, when available at check-in • A full body massage per person

Standard Inclusions: QUILÁLEA: All meals • Non-alcoholic beverages, local beers, spirits and selected house wines • Sunset cocktail of the day • Butler service • Use of kayaks and snorkeling equipment • BENGUERRA: All meals • Non-alcoholic beverages, local beers, spirits and selected house wines • Butler service • 15-minute refresher massage • View complete list of inclusions at AndrewHarper.com.

azura-retreats.com

Azura BenguerraAzura Benguerra

Azura QuiláleaAzura Quilálea

private island escapesP R O M OT I O N


Azura QuiláleaAzura Benguerra

Azura Benguerra

P R O M OT I O Nprivate island escapes private island escapes

Q What prompted your recent journey to the South Pacific?

My wife and I were accustomed to traveling to places either one or both of us had gone previously and loved. Neither of us had ever been to the South Pacific, and as a cer-tified PADI diver and beach-lover, I’d had a long-standing dream to go there. With a milestone birthday approaching for me, we decided to make this the occasion for the proverbial “trip of a lifetime.”

What was your impression of Laucala Island?It’s a big island and the resort property is enormous, far larger than we expected. Upon alighting on Laucala’s pristine landing strip, we were met by a troupe of amused and amusing, sarong-clad guys with guitars who greeted us with a lively bula song which, though sung in Fijian, could not have had a clearer message of welcome. That, and the huge milk-filled coconuts we were handed along with cold towels and leis, let us know we had entered a distinctly different world, where such corny gestures have reclaimed a modicum of sincerity we’d thought long lost.

We spent the first day or so of our stay on Laucala Island in a state of stunned disbe-lief, wandering around our “villa,” its huge bedroom suite with sunken living room, walk-through dressing area and enormous

stone- and pebble-lined bathroom, across the breezeway to the “lounge,” out to the big plunge pool and the broad, sandy beach beyond. You think you’ve got a grip on the place until you turn a corner and find a second (or is it a third?) outdoor shower, or the outdoor tub on the separate massage lanai, on the other side of the pool from the patio and dining area. That all this is for just the two of you seems almost laughable, but the beauty of the setting—the soaring palms and mango trees, the hibiscus amidst the bougainvillea, the surf crashing a few yards away—somehow demand that you keep a straight face, act as though it’s all to be expected, and quietly gape in awe.

What were some of the most unexpected features?For the first few days, we were “TOGOTI” (a word I made up, meaning The Only Guests On The Island). Yes, we had the entire billionaire’s paradise to ourselves, with the whole staff tracking our movements to antic-ipate our next whim.

Were any dining experiences especially memorable?On our first evening ... we had a wonderful teppanyaki (meat, fish or both fried with vegetables on a hot steel plate forming the center of the dining table) meal prepared for just the two of us on a platform in the trees

above the Pacific by a young chef who seem-ingly materialized out of nowhere.

All our meals, ordered from extensive menus around the resort, were not just de-licious, but superb. Wines and liquor were all top shelf. Service was of a high European standard. We struggled to find comparisons for the elegant breakfasts at the Plantation House, and could only come up with break-fast at Le Meurice in Paris or at Villa Feltri-nelli on Lake Garda, but presented here with a minimum of fuss, abundant Fijian warmth, and a forest of palms spread before you in ordered rows stretching to the sea. Dinners at the Plantation House restaurant could not be equaled by most of the haute cuisine venues in Manhattan or San Francisco, and its bar epitomizes the perfect blend of sophis-tication and island insouciance that so often eludes tropical resorts.

What do you wish that you had packed?A better camera so as to do justice to the as-tounding beauty of the place.

What part of this trip was worth every penny?The private air charters to and from the island.

Meet Our TravelersKeith McWalter Attorney and writer | Granville, Ohio and Sanibel, Florida

TRAVEL PHILOSOPHY: There is no such thing as returning too often to a place you love, but new experiences are ultimately the reason we travel.

NEVER TRAVELS WITHOUT: My wife.

TRIPS TAKEN ANNUALLY: Half a dozen.

NEXT DESTINATION: Either a return to Villa Feltrinelli on Lake Garda, Italy, or the south of France.

TRAVEL INSPIRATION: Travel journalism and occasionally friends’ recommendations.

TOP: Villa bedroom interior at Laucala Island ABOVE: The Peninsula Villa juts out into the bay. Photos courtesy of Laucala Island © Jason Busch

meet our travelers


59

What souvenirs did you bring back?A sheet of masi bark cloth adorned with tradi-tional symbolic patterns, both cloth and art created by an artisan at Laucala’s extensive cultural center.

What moment from this trip will you never forget?So many moments were memorable that it’s hard to single one out. Perhaps it was the moment of our arrival at the stunning cen-tral campus of the resort, a vast acreage of manicured lawns and towering palms, punc-tuated here with a huge pool and bar area, there with a stately plantation house, and yet over there with another pool and bar on the beach, all thatched and mahogany-timbered in traditional Fijian style. As we drove along a meandering cobblestone path among the palms toward our villa, we realized we had entered a truly unique world.

What would you advise someone to skip?Much as all of us like to play at being James Bond, one could safely skip the two-man sub-marine, which as a diver I found more fun in concept than in actual experience. One final-ly gets into the water only to discover that the glass bowl over your head distorts your field of vision, making me long for the simplicity of a mask, regulator and tank. It’s strictly for snorkelers, and non-claustrophobic ones at that. But still, to put such a plaything at the disposal of the random guest? That’s hospital-ity taken to a new level.

Is there anything you wish you had more time for?More scuba diving. We had too much rain to do as much diving as I would have liked, though we did some. Likewise, I would have loved to have the honor of playing the mag-nificent golf course, but again, conditions did not permit it. Nothing could diminish the natural beauty of this place, and the weather heightened the jungle ambience.

“��We�realized�we�had�entered�a�truly�unique�world.”�

TOP: The waterside Beach Bar MIDDLE: The Overwater Villa, one of the 11 glamorous villas on the island BOTTOM LEFT: Lounge chairs at Beach Bar BOTTOM RIGHT, ABOVE: Panoramic sea views from a villa bath BOTTOM RIGHT, BELOW: Laucala’s 18-hole championship golf course was designed by David McLay Kidd. (All photos courtesy of Laucala Island © Jason Busch, except as noted.)

meet our travelers

Q What’s the driving spark behind Entrée Destinations?

It’s to show guests what we’re made of, giving them reasons to realize why they booked with us. And to make them our guests in Canada and Alaska, seamlessly exposing them to the most outstanding experiences and destina-tions we can find. We love sending guests to the wonderful collection of partners we have who make the journey so memorable and meaningful, the network of hoteliers, lodge owners, sales managers, pilots, food servers, guides, drivers and hundreds of people across Canada and Alaska who deliver such excep-tional experiences to our guests. So the driv-ing spark is achieving that—doing our best for the guests who entrust their travel with us, not cutting corners and connecting them to our top tourism partners for exceptional travel experiences.

What was the moment in your own experience that pushed you into this endeavor? I traveled through many parts of Asia, Africa and Australia during my early twenties after finishing university. While living in Cairns, Australia, I spent several months working for a hippie backpacker’s hostel, coordinating trips across Australia for inbound travelers. Following that, I set my course on doing the same in Canada after my world walkabout, with a fellow Montrealer that I met in Tokyo. The goal was to eventually become the best in the country (our Alaska division came 12 years later). I was 24 years old at the time and knew nothing about how to start or run a business. I’m so proud of where we’ve come from and what we’ve accomplished over 20 years.

What fascinates you most about Canada and Alaska? Roughly 80 to 90 percent of Canada and Alaska is uninhabited. The sheer size of the territory is so hard to explain, one has to experience it to get it. You can fly for hours from point to point and would see nothing below but moose, glaciers, forest, tons of wildlife and pristine natural environment. And of course there are compelling people, locals and communities. Alaskans live for the land. They are true blue people who love living there, and sharing their way of life. It is infectious. And Canada is a lovely mosaic of people and cultures who preserve their ways while being distinctly Canadian. We have more than 600 different native bands across the country, each with their own language, art, customs and music. And the provinces and territories all have their own culture, geography and attributes.

“Canada�is�a�lovely�mosaic�of�people�and�cultures…”What are some of the most requested journeys? For our guests wishing to visit Alaska some of the most typical requests include visiting glaciers, seeing whales, bears and Denali National Park. The setting for most of these journeys is from a backcountry wilderness lodge. In Canada, we’re known for accessing the top lodges in the remote territories, so this is woven into most of our trips. Also, we’re passionate about all of the bears we have, so grizzly, polar, black and spirit bears are on the wish list for many guests. Lastly, Vancouver Island and the Rocky Moun-tains are commonly requested and a favorite for many of our guests.

What are some of your favorite “undiscovered” experiences? In Alaska we love the Wrangell–St. Elias National Park; it is largest national park in the United States at over 13 million acres. It is filled with endless snow-capped peaks, pristine glaciers, herds of mountain caribou and thick forests. The scale of Wrangell–St. Elias is astounding—the equivalent of about six Yellowstone National Parks or roughly the size of Switzerland—and yet it gets less than 80,000 visitors per year. Whether at a remote luxury lodge or at a simple hotel in the one “town” located in the park, visitors will be glad they made the investment of time and budget to make it there. Also, while Kodiak is not “undiscovered,” one of our favorite new lodges is located there in the middle of the island. It is so remote that after three days of being there, I only saw two other people aside from the lodge staff—my pilot and the neigh-boring fish and wildlife officer. Truly, I saw three times as many bears as people—it is magical in its solitude and beauty! In Canada I love exposing our guests to the Fogo Island Inn, on the dramatic coastline of Newfound-land. Canada is full of spectacular Aboriginal experiences, as well. We have only begun to uncover a fraction of those available and it’s soulful, touching and real. And when you are touring in native traditional territories (like the spectacular Great Bear Rainforest in British Columbia), not having interaction with the indigenous people of the region is a shame; it feels wrong. Hearing their thoughts on the grizzly that is eating a salmon 10 feet away is pretty fascinating.

Entrée Destinations

Entrée Destinations designs custom deluxe travel experiences to Alaska and Canada. President Marc Télio tells us about what inspired the company 20 years ago, and what still inspires him today about these vast, beautiful and untamed locations.

ABOVE: A brown bear with cubs near Anchorage, Alaska OPPOSITE: A hiker looks out at Skoki Mountain in Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada.


meet our guides

“Roughly�80�to�90�percent�of�Canada�and�Alaska�is�uninhabited.��The�sheer�size�of�the�territory�is�so�hard�to�explain,��

one�has�to�experience�it�to�get�it.”�


meet our guides

What are some of the biggest draws for families traveling together? It’s all about shared experiences, and we love delivering those from wilderness lodges when possible. This is a priority for our guests. We provide moments where guests unwind together in a stunning setting; listen-ing to nothing but birds, the sound of a river running and the sounds of remote nature. Family favorites for us include bear viewing,

whale watching, hiking, kayaking or anything that involves a helicopter or a seaplane, where we access faraway places. Heli-picnic? Very exciting for families! Another nostalgic trend we’ve seen this summer is the classic father/son or daughter fishing trip. I’ve done this many times with each of my children and it is a wonderful “old-school” way to bond, especially when we can orchestrate a successful bounty of fish—that makes for lots of big stories.

Describe some of the more unique accommodations and activities: Camp Denali in Denali National Park has wonderful handcrafted cabins with cozy quilts, spectacular views and your own pri-vate and impeccably clean outhouse. At the Denali Park entrance, Tonglen Lake Lodge is way off the main strip and has artisan-crafted cabins, an amazing on-site bakery and is the heart of the year-round Denali community. The best accommodations in Kenai Fiords National Park, Kenai Fiords Glacier Lodge,

are cozy waterfront cabins nestled in the woods along a cove with a stunning view of a glacier. And when you stand on the beach looking back into the woods you will notice the cabins are placed so strategically you can’t even see them, maintaining the true wilder-ness experience. Doing morning yoga on the huge deck of Tutka Bay Lodge while sea otters play just a few hundred yards away—another cool experience. In Canada, I’ve always loved the luxurious tents at Clayoquot Wilderness Resort, appointed with hardwood floors, an-tique pieces, Persian rugs and ensuite wash-room/shower facilities. Last year they added “Cloud Camp,” a remote luxury camping ex-perience that provides solitude in your tent, 4,500 feet above sea level and on a private alpine lake, accessible only by helicopter. Per-fect for those who want privacy in as remote a setting as one can imagine. A favorite activity on the British Columbia coast would be from Nimmo Bay Resort, paddle boarding with sea lions and dolphins surrounding you. And one of my most amazing memories is snor-keling in Campbell River against hundreds of thousands of salmon swimming upstream.

TOP: Canoeing on Emerald Lake in Yoho National Park, British Columbia, Canada ABOVE: A helicopter provides access to the Iditarod Trail during the Alaskan winter.

“We�provide�moments�where�guestsunwind�together�in�a�stunning�setting…”�


meet our guides

Are your itineraries easily customizable? Every trip we do is customized. Even though we feature about 65 itineraries on our web-site, nobody has ever actually booked one as featured! And we are happy to discuss individual needs, budget and preferences; in fact we encourage it. A typical itinerary that we customize will reflect the pace and number of destinations desired by the guest. Essentially we collaborate with each guest on every booking to determine the best fit for their needs, and then we develop the right lo-gistics to make that happen. So a typical trip in Canada might involve a start in Montreal, private transfer to Quebec City, train to To-ronto and private driver or helicopter to the Niagara Wine Region. Or a combination of ferries, seaplanes, wheelplanes and helicop-ters in Alaska or the British Columbia coast to move people around from lodge to lodge. Seamlessness is the key, moving our guests effortlessly through the wilderness to make the absolute most of their time in our desti-nations. It’s this expertise that sets us apart and takes the guesswork out of the equation for our guests.

Thrilling wildlife features throughout many of your offered journeys—polar bears, grizzlies, orcas. How close are you really to these huge predators? Proximity to wildlife always begins with re-spect and understanding for the animal and their habitat. Some people have a spa voice; I have a bearwatching voice (calm, warm and barely a whisper—it resembles my golf voice). Remembering always that we deal with wild animals that are often unpredict-able means that we always exercise caution, never making the animal uncomfortable and always having safety in mind. All to ensure that we don’t become a bad experience for them; we want them co-existing with us, not avoiding us. All of this said, when a predator comes your way, we must let him do his thing. Running away will make the animal feel they should be chasing you. With that, I’ve been approached by polar bears, grizzly bears and black bears, all within 10 feet and it’s the most exhilarating feeling. I’ve actu-ally let a mama grizzly bear sniff my boot, always with an armed guide nearby, watching closely. I’ve watched an agitated black bear

jump out of the bushes 15 feet away from my family and he went on to catch salmon in the river. The ideal range for bears is 20 feet or further. It allows for great photography, per-fect viewing and still a comfortable distance.

Whales are also unpredictable; you might be viewing one that is a respectful 50 yards away, only to have him go down and surface next to your boat. This past summer I had the pleasure of sniffing the breath of a humpback whale, something I’ll never forget. One of my colleagues recounts her favorite whale story from Bartlett’s Cove in Glacier Bay Nation-al Park: She was on shore at the campground watching a whale sleep, just a few hundred yards off the coast. She and her friends pad-dled out to get closer to the sleeping hump-back. He woke up, looked at them with one eye and went under water, swimming back and forth under their kayaks several times. While we can’t stage these encounters, the unexpected almost always happens when you’re in a big wildlife habitat.

Do you do any work with indigenous groups? Yes, but not nearly enough. The past few years have seen a great evolution for Aborig-inal Tourism, especially in Western Canada. They have formed associations, gathered and created a great deal of “market-ready” experiences, lodges and cultural excursions. In some cases we work with guides and outfitters directly, and others operate world-class lodges, resorts and wineries. One of my favorite lodges is the Spirit Bear Lodge, located in Klemtu, British Columbia. It is positioned inside a native community, owned and operated by the Kitasoo/Xai’xais First Nation. And it’s one of the best bear viewing experiences we offer. In Alaska we provide behind-the-scenes touring at the Alaska Native Heritage Center, on the outskirts of Anchorage. It is a meaningful way of explor-ing Alaska’s history. As well, some of the most successful tourism businesses in Alaska are owned by native corporations.

The Northern Lights seen from the Dempster Highway in Yukon, Canada

“�So�the�driving�spark�is�achieving�that—doing�our�best�for�the�guests�who�entrust�their�travel�with�us…”


meet our guides

One of the properties you work with, Fogo Island Inn in Newfoundland, was recently awarded Hideaway of the Year by Andrew Harper. What makes this place special? What’s different about eastern Canada from the more common image of British Columbia? The distance between Eastern Canada (let’s say Fogo Island) and western British Colum-bia is approximately 5,000 kilometers. That’s the same distance from Athens to New Delhi. As you can imagine with a country so huge, you will find many cultures and geographies that make up the country. From the colorful characters of Newfoundland & Labrador, through Maritime Canada, French Canada,

the Prairie Provinces to oil and cowboy coun-try in Alberta and coastal British Columbia there is tremendous diversity in culture, ter-rain and people. Not to mention the 100,000 people who live in Northern Canada, an area the size of Mexico; the diversity is difficult to grasp.

Fogo Island Inn is absolutely deserving of the award. It is one of my favorite places in Canada for many reasons. First, the people and the welcoming community make you feel at home. The history of the island is also fascinating, from early French fisherman and Portuguese explorers visiting in the 1500s to the first settlements from the British and Irish—most of them after cod and other lo-cal resources. Over the next 250 years they almost succeeded at bringing the cod to extinction, as well as all economics and jobs revolving around the cod industry. Enter a lo-cal named Zita Cobb, born and raised on Fogo Island, and the epitome of social economist

and community organizer. She left the island to educate herself, then went on to become CFO of a major technology company. She went back to the island, intent on using some of her wealth to boost the local economy. And so she built the inn, offering everybody on the island a job who wanted it. The boat builders who used to build boats for the cod fisherman now had the opportunity to use their skills on the construction of the inn, or on the fur-niture line they developed; the local artisans formed a cooperative to knit every rug, quilt every bedcover and to restore their culture through the furnishing of the guestrooms and common areas. As they say, it is “made of them,” and no statement could be more accu-rate. When the beautiful inn was finally built, Zita donated it to the Shorefast Foundation, owned evenly by everyone in the communi-ties. As much as the story fascinates me, the activities they have created and social inter-actions are equally worth discussing. They’ve truly made it into a destination.

Fogo Island Inn, Andrew Harper’s 2015 HIdeaway of the Year. Photo by Andrew Harper


meet our guides

Tikchik Narrows Lodge TIKCHIK LAKE, ALASKA – Enjoy elegant living at this lodge located on a narrow peninsula in the isolated, pristine wilder-ness surrounding Bristol Bay in southwestern Alaska. Daily floatplane flights to varying locations offer some of the best fishing in the world for pro and novice anglers alike, including kids. Later, retire to one of seven duplex guest cabins with amazing views before venturing to the main lodge for a gour-

met meal and beverages from the full-service bar.


offer. Andrew Harper Benefits: Best available non-restricted rates • Complimentary beer and wine for each guest before and during dinner • Private fly-casting lessons

Standard Inclusions: All meals • Daily fly-outs to various fishing des-tinations • Fishing tackle and equipment (rods, reels, lures and flies) • Evening in-room cocktail • Non-alcoholic minibar • Transportation between Dillingham and the lodge

P R O M OT I O N

© Steve Larsen

© Steve Larsen

REMARKABLE JOURNEY TO AUSTRALIA BY PRIVATE JET

Oct. 19–Nov. 1, 2015

Australia is unique in many ways and has much to offer across the vast and fascinating continent. This journey easily accesses the highlights with the ultimate luxury of traveling by private jet. Enjoy world-class cosmopolitan cities and stun-ning natural areas, including Tasmania, Kangaroo Island and the Great Barrier Reef. Journey is limited to 16 participants.

TREASURES OF INDIA BY PRIVATE JET

Oct. 21–Nov. 3, 2015

Travel in luxury by private jet and explore India’s treasures, from the timeless Taj Mahal to the graceful Bengal tiger, staying in royal palac-es-turned-luxury-hotels. This elite 14-day itinerary will take you to the most famous sights and exotic expe-riences in India. Journey is limited to 16 participants.

MYANMAR—LAND OF THE GOLDEN PAGODA

Oct. 23–Nov. 4, 2015

Burma, now known as Myanmar, has experienced remarkable changes over the last five years, yet it has still escaped the modern advances of the rest of Southeast Asia. Our journey will be unforgettable, exploring the cultures, religion and nature of this fascinating country, including the northern Shan State, in Andrew

Harper style. Journey is limited to 10 participants.

Each journey is carefully crafted especially for Andrew Harper and each is limited to 16 participants

or less. To receive additional information about Andrew Harper Journeys, please contact

Erica Doose in the Andrew Harper Travel Office: (800) 375-4685 or [email protected].

Andrew Harper, LLC is registered to sell travel in the following states: California SOT-2110806-40; Iowa SOT-1096; Washington SOT-603248672. California law requires

certain sellers of travel to have a trust account or bond. This business has a trust account.

ANDREW HARPER JOURNEYS™ for 2015

SPECIAL OFFER: VIP Penthouse Experience, Plus Exclusive Olive Oil Amenity Enjoy VIP status with a complimentary limousine transfer from the airport and a stay in the exclusive one-bedroom Penthouse at Casa MANNI Roma, winner of a 2012 Andrew Harper Grand Award. Additionally, also receive one box of limited-edition Andrew Harper MANNI Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil, the choice for top chefs and restaurants around the world, such as Thomas Keller of The French Laundry and Per Se, and Pierre Gagnaire in Paris. also includes: Andrew Harper benefits, as well as standard inclusions. dates: Offer is valid on new reservations only, for travel through Oct. 1, 2015, based on availability. Offer is not combinable with any other promotions.

Andrew Harper Benefits: Best available non-restricted rates • Special selection of fine spirits • Bottle of Nature by Monsupello Champagne • Bottle of MANNI Extra Virgin Olive Oil • Jars of homemade jam and honey • Copy of Casa Manni Black Book, a personalized moleskin Rome guide • Copy of the book “101 Things to Buy Before You Die” • Casa MANNI candle and candle box • Use of iPad with integrated GPS

Standard Inclusions: Daily breakfast selections • Selected snacks • Wi-Fi.

P R O M OT I O N

Rome, Italy

Andrew Harper 601 Oakmont Lane


“Perfection! This one word sums up

our recent stay at Casa MANNI. We

found the privacy, location and

overall ambiance to be unequaled

by any other accommodation we’ve

experienced.”


Casa MANNIROME, ITALY Recommended since 2013; Grand Award–2012

andrew harper traveler magazine | april/may/june 2015

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