Archive for category Return On Life™
Leisure Travel Leads Recovery
Posted by Cristine Lammers in Return On Life™ on March 4, 2010
Looking for signs of economic recovery? Check the newspapers piling up outside your neighbor’s door. They may be enjoying an international vacation. Members of leading luxury travel network Virtuoso® have confirmed that people are once again traveling and are no longer deferring vacations, releasing some of the pent-up demand for vacations that has been building since the economic downturn began.
A recent survey of these high-end retailers revealed the following travel patterns:
* 81 percent of Virtuoso travel retailers reported that their agency’s future bookings were up compared to this time last year
* 80 percent say sales are up over the last three months
* 55 percent say revenues are higher than this time last year
Virtuoso members were also surveyed on the type of business they see increasing. More than half – 54 percent – stated they believe both their leisure and corporate travel bookings will rebound in the next six months. However, leisure business is leading the way out of the recession for Virtuoso agency owners and managers.
* International leisure business has been the most insulated against the economy, according to 39 percent of respondents
* 21 percent stated that sales of 3-5 day vacations have remained strong relative to the economy
* 18 percent said sales of 10+ day vacation sales have been the most resilient against declines
* Only 13 percent reported that corporate travel has been the most insulated segment
Virtuoso travel agency owners and managers were polled at five regional meetings during January and February 2010 held throughout the U.S. Virtuoso’s upscale travel retailers attend the meetings each year to participate in trend analysis and training; hotel, cruise and tour industry reviews; and technology education, all centered on delivering better value and service to travelers.
“Many people are not aware that travel represents the world’s largest service industry; that it makes up 9.4 percent of the world’s GDP and 220 million jobs worldwide. Travelers benefit the world economy and deepen world understanding. We are happy to help people travel again while benefiting countries that rely on tourism revenue,” said Virtuoso CEO Matthew D. Upchurch, CTC.
If you don’t have a Virtuoso travel advisor working for you, click here to find one.
Revealing the Best of the Best
Posted by Cristine Lammers in Return On Life™ on February 19, 2010
Virtuoso’s Best of the Best: 2010 Guide to the World’s Best Hotel Experiences is now available to consumers around the globe. The ever-popular guide highlights the hotels and resorts of its elite worldwide membership, featuring incredible properties in unique locations, with extraordinary services and top-drawer amenities. Virtuoso Hotels & Resorts, considered the most exclusive hotel program in the industry, currently includes more than 800 world-renowned properties in 89 countries.
This year’s guide features a stunning cover shot and photography of the renowned One&Only Cape Town in South Africa, an urban chic waterfront resort with captivating views of Table Mountain and a private Spa Island, a Virtuoso preferred property. The first page presents the exclusive Virtuoso amenities that await consumers when they reserve their stay through a knowledgeable Virtuoso travel advisor, such as room upgrades, breakfast for two daily, early check-in and late check-out, preferred rates and availability, and value-added Virtuoso amenities. Also, as in past years, each listing features a valuable “In the Know” tip provided by one of Virtuoso’s expert travel advisors who has experienced the property firsthand.
Highlights include:
* Annual Best of the Best Award Winners – Singled out by Virtuoso travel advisors as extraordinary
* Virtuoso Lifestyle: Villas & Private Retreats – Travel dreams come true at these exclusive hideaways
* Africa & Middle East – Explore wildlife-filled savannahs, ancient wonders and timeless cultures
* Asia & Pacific – Venture to a land of gilded cities, glistening reefs, great walls and other architectural masterpieces
* Caribbean & Bermuda – Stroll miles of soft-sand beaches rimmed by turquoise waters
* Canada & United States – Escape to coastal resorts, cosmopolitan hotels and romantic mountain lodges
* Europe – Enjoy enchanting stays in medieval castles, opulent estates and glamorous metropolitan retreats
* Mexico, Central & South America – Wander colorful markets, wonder at ancient Mayan cities, and hike through rainforests
* Introducing the Newest Virtuoso Hotels & Resorts (Page 380) – Meet the most recent hotels to be named among Virtuoso’s Best of the Best
Click here to view the digital version of Virtuoso Best of the Best.
Click here to learn more about Virtuoso.
History and Adventure Awaits in Scotland
Posted by Cristine Lammers in Return On Life™ on January 27, 2010
If you think Scotland is all bagpipes and pubs, think again. Scotland is a vibrant country with a rich history, active adventures and unique experiences galore. Consider these intriguing experiences for a Scottish vacation:
1. Kayak around the Isle of Skye. Paddle your way through the wildlife, history, geology, and mind-blowing scenery of the waters surrounding the Isle of Skye.
2. Sample the Malt Whisky Trail. Follow the Malt Whisky Trail through its own traditions, lore, and recipes for everything from malting the barley to the height and size of its stills.
3. Explore Cairngorms National Park. Take a dogsled ride through the forest tracks or embark on one of the many hiking tours to discover the wintry beauty and diverse landscapes that make up this amazing park.
4. Test your skills at the famous Old Course at St Andrews. Play the oldest golf course in the world that still challenges the abilities of some of today’s champion golfers.
5. All aboard the Waverly steamer. Enjoy a unique chance to relax aboard the Waverly – the last sea-going paddle steamer in the world. Set sail from many of the departure points around the Firth of Clyde and soak up the stunning scenery of some of the most picturesque parts of the Scottish coastline.
6. Go shopping in Edinburgh. Splash the cash while shopping in Edinburgh. Princes Street is full of popular shops or, head to Rose Street where you’ll find even more shops!
7. Take a ferry to the Isle of Arran. Board the ferry from the Ayrshire town of Ardrossan to the Isle of Arran’s main town, Brodick and treat yourself to views of picturesque villages, castles and ancient monuments along the way.
8. Explore the Outer Hebrides. Head to one of the most remote locations to take in some of the most stunning views in Scotland, including 130 miles of white sandy beaches.
For more Scottish possibilities, click here for the VIRTUOSO LIFE special supplement on Scotland.
To ensure that you garner the best experiences on your travels, use a Virtuoso travel advisor.
Hope and Help for Haiti
Posted by Cristine Lammers in Return On Life™ on January 15, 2010
The thoughts and hopes of all of us at Virtuoso are with the people of Haiti, their families and the organizations working hard to provide relief in the aftermath of Tuesday’s earthquake. The devastation from the earthquake is heartbreaking – especially the reports of injuries and fatalities. Assistance efforts have been crippled by the loss of infrastructure accompanying the earthquake.
As we are in the travel industry, we consider ourselves members of a global community. One of the members of this global community is now in dire need of assistance. If you would like to support relief efforts, click on the picture to the left to donate to the American Red Cross International Response Fund.
Or visit these websites for more information on contributing to relief organizations:
Stay informed on U.S. government relief efforts: http://www.whitehouse.gov/haitiearthquake
New Year’s in New York
Posted by Cristine Lammers in Return On Life™ on January 11, 2010
by Matthew D. Upchurch, CEO of Virtuoso, Ltd.
Happy 2010; a bit belatedly. I want to share an incredible experience I had with my family this New Year’s Eve in New York City. With a little help from some savvy friends, we had an evening that I don’t think my family will ever forget.
If you’ve watched the ball drop in Times Square on TV, I’m sure you can imagine how exhilarating it is to be there and feel that energy. You’re personally experiencing and sharing an annual event that’s world famous and viewed by billions.
A Family Experience
But having children with you can make it a lot more challenging. Your younger kids are not thrilled about the cold or the (to them) towering crowds. Well, this year I found out that if you know a few inside secrets, New Year’s Eve in NYC can be outstanding for everyone in the family.
Jessica and I had Evan (14), Matt (12) and Clay (4) with us. I had a chat with Kitt of Discover New York with Kitt Garrett (a Virtuoso On-Site of course!) and she put me in touch with a great restaurant called Tony’s di Napoli on 43rd Street. Family-style Italian, table sharing and a terrific show featuring Broadway performers.
The Countdown Begins
We had a terrific evening, and about 30 minutes before the ball drop, we headed outside. We were guided inside the barricades and led to a prime spot right in front of the police substation in Times Square. Literally a million people were standing behind us and New York’s finest (NYPD) were personally watching over us. Incredible! An officer asked Jessica and Clay if they’d like to warm up in the sub-station, so while the older kids and I stayed in the cold with the revelers, they were offered a cookie and a chair. Clay even got to meet the Chief of Police! Jessica and Clay stay stayed happily indoors until about five minutes before the ball drop.
Finally, the countdown began and the glittering ball seemed to drop directly toward us. I got some terrific shots. Everyone was excited and oohing and aahing. It was perfect. A New Year’s to remember and a fantastic start to 2010. All thanks to some inside advice from a native New Yorker and Virtuoso On-Site!
Click here to learn more about the one-of-a-kind travel experiences that a Virtuoso travel advisor can create for you.
What’s On a Travel Advisor’s Dream Travel List?
Posted by Cristine Lammers in Return On Life™ on December 22, 2009
When you have a passion for travel, the popular destinations quickly become “old favorites”. For the experienced traveler, the next great trip is more along the lines of a once-in-a-lifetime journey to a destination that’s off the beaten path.
Knowing that Virtuoso travel advisors are some of the most well-travelled people in the world, and that they specialize in creating unique experiences for their clientele, we asked them which “once-in-a-lifetime” destinations they would recommend to clients. Here are a few suggestions that should be on any traveler’s to-do list:
Great Migration on the Serengeti: Africa
See one and a half million wildebeests, 200,000 zebra, 500,000 Thompson’s gazelles, plus more during their extraordinary annual migration in Eastern Africa.
Singing Sand Dunes: Oman
Considered the most melodious sands in the world, this natural sound phenomenon and beautiful location provide an unrivaled experience for the adventurous traveler.
Dubai Fountain: Dubai
The world’s tallest performing fountain with water leaping 500 feet high in time to lights and music. It’s speculated to be the brightest spot on earth from space.
Ayers Rock, Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park: Australia
One of Australia’s most iconic natural landmarks, it stands resplendent in the great Central Australian desert. At night the stars are awe-inspiring.
Choquequirao: Peru
This elite Incan ceremonial center is called the sacred sister city to Machu Picchu. It requires an arduous, 20 mile trek to access. Hence, no crowds.
Boyeros Parade: Costa Rica
Boyeros are intricately painted ox carts, originally used to carry coffee in the late 19th century. Over 200 of the carts parade through San José in an unforgettable spectacle.
Virtuoso is the leading travel network made up of more than 6,000 travel advisors associated with over 300 agencies in 22 countries within North and South America, the Caribbean, Australia and New Zealand. Click here to learn more and to get connected with a Virtuoso member travel advisor.
A Postcard from Mexico City
Posted by Cristine Lammers in Return On Life™ on December 16, 2009
By Terrie Hansen, Vice President of Marketing for Virtuoso.
The Hansen Family (from left to right): David, Abbey, Haley, Terrie
Steeped in tradition.
Colorful and vibrant.
Picture perfect weather.
Delicious cuisine.
Surprisingly cosmopolitan.
If you haven’t been to Mexico City you don’t know what you’re missing. As the world’s 2nd largest city, many people travel here for business but Mexico City also offers an array of cultural activities, shopping, and sightseeing that make it an ideal place for a leisure getaway. We enjoyed a three day excursion that allowed us to sample a culturally unique destination that was easy to get to, yet felt miles away from home. We stayed at the Four Seasons Hotel which provides an authentic Mexican experience highlighted by the lush, tropical courtyard which can be viewed from every room. In just two short days we toured centro histrico one of the largest city squares in the world, with stops at the Metropolitan Cathedral, the Palacio Nacional, and Templo Mayor and the adjoining archeological museum. Shopping in an open air market, a journey to Teotihuacan (ancient pyramids), and a visit to Chapultepec castle completed our journey. Not bad for 72 hours.
VIRTUOSO LIFE Wins Best Travel Magazine Over National Titles
Posted by Cristine Lammers in Return On Life™ on December 14, 2009
Winning a national magazine award is nothing to sneeze at, but the staff at Virtuoso felt especially proud when the company’s flagship publication, VIRTUOSO LIFE, won “Best Consumer Travel Magazine” in the 2009 FOLIO awards, beating out competitors like National Geographic Traveler and Travel + Leisure.
Exclusive Reading for Luxury Clientele
What makes this win even more sweet is that, unlike it’s competitors, VIRTUOSO LIFE isn’t for sale on the newsstands. It’s considered a “private” or “corporate” magazine that only goes out to the best clients of Virtuoso’s member travel advisors. View the winning issue here.
Esteemed Awards
The FOLIO awards competition is the largest of its kind, this year drawing more than 2,000 entries from a who’s-who of well-known consumer magazines. Other gold winners included Time, Newsweek, Food & Wine, Field & Stream, Harper’s Bazaar, Golf Digest, and Entertainment Weekly. See the complete list of winners here.
To find out more about what a Virtuoso member travel advisor can do for you, go to www.Virtuoso.com.
Virtuoso Exclusive Offers For November 2009
Posted by Michelle Duffy in Return On Life™ on November 25, 2009
LONDON CALLING
Celebrate The Goring’s centenary with a deal of historic proportions: rooms at 1910 rates. Stay three nights or more at the 71-room, family-run property adjacent to Buckingham Palace, and the first night is just 37 pence (about 60 cents). Through 2010, doubles from $395, including breakfast.
NAPA AND SONOMA VINEYARD VILLAS
Toast California wine country in comfort at BeautifulPlaces’ selection of Napa and Sonoma villas. Guests booking stays of four nights or longer by February 8, 2010, get a $500 credit toward dinner in The French Laundry’s private dining room, an in-villa dinner party with a private chef, or a guided wine tour in the valley.
Through March 31, 2010; villas from $759, including a bottle of wine on arrival.
CRYSTAL CRUISES’ WORLD OF BENEFITS
Virtuoso’s Voyager Club kicks off its 20th anniversary festivities on Crystal Cruises’ world cruise from Miami. Open only to Virtuoso travelers, the complimentary club carries perks such as shipboard credits of $500 to $11,400, depending on cabin category, for those sailing the entire 108 days. World cruise and segment passengers enjoy complimentary cocktail parties hosted by Virtuoso’s chairman, Jesse Upchurch; special shore excursions, such as dinner at a tango club in Buenos Aires and tours of Oman and Ephesus; and prepaid gratuities. As if that’s not enough, Crystal has recently announced two-for-one fares and additional amenities for all 2010 sailings.
Departure: January 11, 2010; world cruise from $58,245 and segments from $6,340.
COZY UP IN THE FOUR SEASONS SEATTLE
Warm up after holiday shopping at the new 147-room Four Seasons Hotel Seattle. Virtuoso guests receive a seasonal dessert from pastry chef Ryan Witcher, served with a blanket and some of Seattle’s finest coffee by the fire pit on the outdoor patio (home to a heated infinity-edge pool and Jacuzzi, with views of Elliott Bay and the Olympic Mountains).
Through December 31, 2009; doubles from $395, including breakfast and a $50 spa credit.
DISCOVER YOUR OWN AMAZON WITH BIG FIVE TOURS
Discover Peru with Big Five Tours & Expeditions. A new ten-day adventure exclusively for Virtuoso travelers begins with flights over the Nazca Lines and a yacht outing to the Ballestas Islands, followed by five days on the Amazon River aboard the 24-passenger Aqua. River excursions include hikes in search of birds and wildlife, piranha fishing, and visits with local farmers.
Departures: Multiple dates through December 15, 2010; from $6,350.
Colorado River an Awe-Inspiring Destination for Families
Posted by Cristine Lammers in Return On Life™ on November 23, 2009
Three generations take to the Colorado River for an inspiring trip through the Grand Canyon.
by Kimberly Brown Seely
Photographs by Justin Bailie
Reprinted with permission from Virtuoso Life
Life is short, and the Grand Canyon is long, which makes it ideal for family bonding. But five minutes into our 12-day trip through the canyon, my husband, Jeff, is worried. “Are you sure we need to be down here for two weeks?”
We’ve just pushed off down the Colorado River in a 17-foot dory with our two sons: 18-year-old Sam and his brother, James, 16. Our superfit guide, Kerstin, manning the oars, is explaining how dories differ from rafts: As passengers, we’ll need to shift our weight with a quick high-side “punch,” willing the boats up and over each big wave. For now, though, we’re bobbing over mud-brown riffles, and it’s hot – 104 degrees.
We are here because I’ve been casually plotting for about 33 years to transport my clan to the ancientness of the Grand Canyon. My outdoorsy parents took my sister and me down the river in the 1970s, and the experience evidently made such a lasting impression I’ve wanted to bring my own family ever since. We’ve waited so long for this reunion, in fact, we’ve decided to splurge and do it the way one-armed Civil War vet John Wesley Powell did – not in rubber rafts, but in these beautiful, graceful dory boats.
To make the trip even more epic, I’ve invited my 71-year-old father to come along (Mom’s adventure style these days leans more toward Oberoi and Aman).
Soon we hear our first rapid, Badger, rated 4 to 6 on the canyon’s scale of 1 to 10, rumbling downstream. Staring, we see the river come to an edge and – whoosh! – apparently vanish. Kerstin, whom everybody calls KJ, stands for a good look, and I give a wave to my dad, up ahead. He looks pumped. He grins just as his dory is seized by the current and abruptly disappears over Badger’s lip.
Our turn. “Sit straight!” KJ commands. We slide neatly down the rapid’s middle, while holes and haystacks explode all around. A wave rises up like a hand and hits me flat in the chest. Cold!
“This is sick!” the boys yell, officially baptized and actually impressed. Thank god, I breathe to myself. They’re in for the trip of a lifetime and just beginning to get it. Click here to read the article.
VIRTUOSO LIFE’S WHITE-WATER WISH LIST
Classic river trips around the world.
Touch the Southwest can arrange for classic 15- or 18-day wooden dory trips down the Colorado, giving guests an opportunity to dip their toes in the same historic rapids that John Wesley Powell first explored in the late 1860s. The company’s connections in the region also include a river trip that’s accompanied by a string quartet floating alongside guests in their own raft. Prices and departure dates vary.
In addition to a remote 600-acre location in the Four Corners area, clean design that plays up the surrounding vistas, and all the usual Aman trappings and service, Utah’s new 40-suite Amangiri resort offers a taste of the river life with half-day excursions down a placid pre-Grand Canyon stretch of the Colorado between Glen Canyon Dam and Lees Ferry. Doubles from $600, including breakfast and one lunch for two. Rafting trip extra.
Oregon’s Rogue River provides a classic North American wild ride, as evidenced on Abercrombie & Kent’s six-day excursion. Tackle the river’s exhilarating Class IV rapids, hike the surrounding countryside, visit a historic ranch, and sleep under the stars. Departures: Private departures through 2010; from $11,650.
During Alpine Adventures’ five-day white-water tour of Costa Rica, rafters ply the Reventazón and Pacuare rivers, passing monkeys and colorful birds and ranging through Class III and IV rapids by day, camping in riverside bungalows by night. Departures: Any day through 2010; from $910 per person for parties of four.
Travelers on Fiji getaways with Pleasant Holidays can experience the power of the Navua River during a daylong rafting excursion through jungle and past cascading waterfalls, with stops for lunch and a dip in the river. Departures: Any day through December 24, 2009, and from January 14 through March 31, 2010; from $1,689, including round-trip airfare from Los Angeles, accommodations, and rafting.
Contact your Virtuoso travel advisor for more information. If you don’t have a Virtuoso travel advisor, click here.