WILDERNESS SCOTLAND

Ah..the fresh air…the breathtaking vistas…the impossibly striking landscapes...sound good? Isn’t it about time you took a little distance from life’s hectic pace? We’ve got just the thing - an active holiday in beautiful Scotland and there is no better custom outfitter of all things adventure-related than Wilderness Scotland. Be it hiking, sea kayaking, canoeing, mountain biking, or even photography, their experienced team has a deep passion for the destination. But this is no surprise as they are based in Scotland! Wilderness Scotland offers a wide selection of group tours which are open to anyone to join. They also orchestrate perfectly tailor-made itineraries in a seemingly effortless manner, all the while maintaining their overall commitment to sustainable tourism efforts which, lets face it, makes us all feel really good!

Want to be led? No problem, their team of expert guides not only keep you on track but impart the true spirit of Scotland into everything they do. Feel like going it alone instead? No problem - this award-winning company can create self-guided excursions as well, arming you with a full dossier of maps, tips and instructions to assist you on your way, along with with the comfort of a reachable staff any time day or night in case you change your mind.. On a visit to the Scottish Highlands and Islands you will experience Scotland's friendly culture, outstanding scenery and great outdoors. But, perhaps most importantly, it is also a place that makes you slow down and enjoy the serenity and tranquillity of it all and let’s face it, we all could use a dose of that right about now.

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Book a place onto a Wilderness Scotland scheduled trip and receive one free night's accommodation in Inverness - Book by 31 March for travel through in 2009.
http://www.wildernessscotland.com/ / info@wildernessscotland.com
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STRAWBERRY HILL, JAMAICA

It’s no secret that recessions, depressions, stress and the problems of everyday life take its toll and you need to find a place where you can give your soul a chance to catch up with your body and mind. It’s about finding a place where you can find the balance to your everyday life and that place is Strawberry Hill in Jamaica.
Set high up in the world-famous Blue Mountains of Jamaica, this classic retreat gently allows your mind, body and soul to come together again and lets your ying catch up with your yang. Fly into Kingston, and in less than an hour you’re a mile up in the mountains looking down on Kingston. The drive is not for the faint of heart, the rule of the road here is that the bigger vehicle always has the right of way-right or wrong- so you will probably need a nice refreshing libation upon arrival. But once you check into you own chalet and listen to the myriad of birds and wildlife your mind, body and soul are already scheduling a meeting to get together.
Simply put this is a Jamaica one rarely finds. First there is no beach, and you know what you don’t care. There are no vendors hawking souvenirs, it’s just you, the attentive staff, fabulous food and the best night’s sleep you have ever had in your life. And when you awake and have a cup of Blue Mountain coffee, really fresh Blue Mountain coffee and sip on some fresh OJ, you’ll feel that all is right with the world. At least for the number of days you’ll spend at Strawberry Hill.

Traveler’s Tip: Bring a sweater, as the thermometer drops to the low 50’s at night up in the mountains, so high above sea level and so far above it all.
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CAN XICARRO- SITGES, SPAIN

Take 2 hectares of grounds, 70 different tree species, 3 Floors, 9 bedrooms, 1 swimming pool, 1 music room, 1 games room, 1 dining room and 1 incredible kitchen and what do you get? The most stylish villa on the Contient...Can Xicarro. Set in sunny splendid Sitges, just miles from bustling Barcelona, this private enclave is absolutely ideal for a small group wishing to completely disconnect and wrap themselves in luxurious splendour. Dating back from the 1800's, the structure is inspired by Moorish architectural themes, and just exquisitely elaborate. Bedrooms with curious names beckon...be it the Menta room with its mint green hues, or the Honey room with its soothing vibe, all the way up to the ultra luxe Sultan Suite, complete with its own Bang & Olufsun surround sound system, king-sized bathroom and reception hallway. Housekeepers abound and race to take care of your every need with efficiency and warmth, while private chefs remain on hand to master anything in the kitchen you wish for. The absolutely sweeping views of the Mediterranean Sea surrounded by the lush hills really complete this glorious experience. Even if it's only for a few days' stay, this truly becomes your own private Spanish hideaway. Villa Nova i la Geltru, Spain
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MOYO, SOUTH AFRICA

Moyo is so much more than a restaurant, each visit is an experience. This magnificently unique venue draws you in to a curious intriguing blend of authentic African adventure, innovative yet traditional cuisine, and a vibe all its own. As you wander up the stairs through all of the levels, each of them unique wtih a different drumbeat and decor, you almost don't want to commit to a location to base yourself becuase there's too much to take in. Begin with a traditional African handwashing ceremony before dinner... and be forewarned, this will not be a relaxing dinner! During your stay you will likely be invited to take part in a vigorous drum lesson which is fantastic...your face will most likely be painted by a skillful artist who somehow channels your spirit and finds the decorative pattern that most suits you...and of course, no visit is complete without the tableside serenade by Moyo's famous Wishy Washy ladies, straight out of the 70's and raring to go with beautiful rhythmic tunes and an energy all their own. Moyo allows you to indulge in the intoxicating spirit that is South Africa, it is a celebration of life, art, culture and fortune. Don't miss it!

Multiple locations in South Africa - Melrose Arch & Parkview (Johannesburg), Stellenbosch, Durban
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A TREE GROWS IN SAO PAULO

As if the chaotic pace, hectic traffic, imposing buildings, cacophonous echos of horns and frenetic streewalkers weren't enough to boggle your mind, we've got another that will leave you quite curiously intrigued...a gigantic fig tree in the middle of a restaurant. Yes, that's right- this famous plant is over 130 years old, is impeccably manicured, and grows right up through through the skylight windows of this hip, swish eatery which is a scene you'd never expect to see in the middle of Sao Paulo. A Figueira Rubayat is favorite of local chic Paulistas who want to be seen, and a fab choice for some authentic Brazilian fare. Their specialty of the house is the feijoada, a heavy bean and beef stew which is a local favorite, and their massive woodburning oven set within a modern glass-walled kitchen makes good work of some of the local meats that are out of this world. Save room to sample the the dessert buffet that stretches across about 25 feet of beautifully carved wooden tables too. Despite it's modern sleek chic aura, the food is tremendously good, the wine list is extensive, and it's one of the best spots in the city for some great people-watching! Rua Haddock Lobo 1738, Sao Paulo
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GRAND HOTEL DES ILES BORROMEES, STRESA, ITALY

We're just back from our latest discovery along Italy's Lake Maggiore, STRESA. Sure, the name to Americans may make you smile a bit quizzically at first, and absolutely, the nail-biting super-winding one-car-at-a-time road leading down to this town may be a bit on the stress-ful side, make you question why you actually chose this place out of everywhere else in the region to stay...and then you arrive. And then you instantly know. Places like this with such stunning natural beauty and elegance are few and far between, and its privileged location set along the crystalline lake framed by picture-perfect mountains and lush green hills make this possibly one of the world's most beautiful locations. The Grand Hotel des Iles Borromees is exactly where you want to stay when visiting Stresa, and going off-season still provides you with the region's signature luxury feel, naturally beautiful crisp scenery (snowcapped mountains included!) without breaking the bank. Starting rates are just under US$200 per night including a sumptuous breakfast at the moment for this 5-star luxe property. The original building dates back to 1800's but careful renovations, keeping with its Belle Epoque theme have transformed it into an exquisite gem. Although it's served as a holiday retreat of choice for royalty around the world, it is so surprisingly down to earth and comfortable, and the ubiquitous staffmembers take time to get to know you, your preferences, and make you feel as if you're the only ones in house. Although the decor is regal and grand, t's the little touches that are so memorable here, like the concerned concierge making sure he personally handed us a comprehensive printout of directions for wherever we were planning to venture that day either by car or on foot.

Stresa has a beautiful old-world charm, like most towns around the Italian lakes it is quite seasonal so it can be challenging at times to find most shops and restaurants open on a consistent basis, so just make note. However, we made some great discoveries such as La Cascinetta, a rustic farmhouse in the hills serving dinner by the fireplace in a quaint dining-room-style space along with some of the villages just over the Swiss border such as Locarno, that are brimming with restaurants, sailboats along the lake, families taking their daily stroll, and just an overall atmosphere that is as far away from the word stress as you can get.

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HOMERIC POEMS, SANTORINI, GREECE

To infinity...and beyond...and beyond... That's all that comes to mind when you see the amazing pool that seems to just touch the sky and provide a direct view from your spot in Santorini's sleepy Firostefani village, straight across the world. You think to yourself, views like this can't possibly be real. Then, you get to the rooms, and you're surprised that you can be even more awed. Each of this boutique hotel's 19 uber-romantic suites all have their own individual flair, ranging from apartments decorated in traditional island style with whitewashed walls and quaint handmade furnishings- all the way up to the chic Grand Suites, ideal for honeymooners. Private terraces, awe-inspiring views, modern techonological fare including satellite TV and surround sound stereo, and a charming unique "starlight sky" facade over the jacuzzi tub in the bathroom makes it possible to feel like you're sitting under the stars at any time of the day or night. Stunning- just stunning, and extremely secluded.
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EX-HACIENDA LA TRINIDAD, GUANAJUATO, MEXICO

Guana-what? you may be saying? Exactly our first thought as well, don't worry. My first experience with this intoxicating place began sort of like a blind date you're not really sure you want to go on, when I was told "surprise, we're going to a really interesting place for your birthday." Never heard of it, didn't know anything about it but like anything in an Explorateur's life, the unknown is always an adventure so bags were packed and off we went. Fast forward to subsequent total 180-degree turnaround in mindset upon arrival, the feeling of wonder upon first setting foot in the gardens awaiting behind the massive door of the Ex-Hacienda La Trinidad is like none other, set in a sleepy town known as Marfil, just minutes from the city center. This hacienda, made up of little cottages and the famous torre (where we had the pleasure of staying) is your home from the minute you arrive. You've got Luis, who is a marvellously pleasant man that takes such pride in everything he does, even going out of his way to drive us into town. You've got an incredibly warm staff who can't wait to treat you to the best homemade Mexican food you've ever had (we were served a zucchini and squash dish with cream sauce that was so delectable you would have bet money it was pasta...gracias by the way to the gracious chefs that tried to help keep us on our diets with that trick!). And then of course you have Guanajuato just minutes away, an amazingly beautiful colonial city with surprises around every corner. A blend of colors, design, markets, churches, and the most intricate underground labytinth tunnel system - no signs, barely any light, but you'll be amazed how deftly the taxi drivers navigate these streets. It's a true feast for the senses, and another side of Mexico to definitely discover.
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HANKYU DEPARTMENT STORE, OSAKA

OK, there are just a few realities that a traveler to Japan just has to deal with. Yes- it actually CAN cost upwards of US $300 for a taxi ride from the airport to your downtown hotel. Yes, there actually is a right way and a wrong way to enter & exit the subway and yes, making a call on a public phone is challenging even for the tech-savviest of people. But, there are fewer places that are more chaotically beautiful, visually stimulating, (and yes, crowded too) than Japan itself, and the same goes for the Food Hall at Osaka's Hankyu Department Store. This popular mainstay has a food floor that rivals that of Harrods as far as culinary overload is concerned. Traverse the aisles and you'll likely agree, never before and never again will you see such a collection of interestingly shaped fruit, angry/cool/ugly-looking fish, brilliantly colored sweets...and who knew there could be an entire aisle dedicted wholly to the art of tempura? Bring your appetite, your camera, and naturally, your very fat wallet becuase even small souveniers or nibbles of these intersting delicacies don't come cheap. If you find yourself in Osaka, do drop in, it's worth a visit. 8-7, Kakudacho, Kita-ku, Osaka, Japan. 
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WESTIN CHOSUN HOTEL, SEOUL, KOREA
Service really is what you come away remembering after a stay at this posh hotel. Sure, the lobby is immaculate, the restaurants (serving both Asian and Western-style cuisine) are fantastic, and absolutely, the rooms with their high-tech gadgets, Bond-like monitors by the door telling me my newspaper is waiting for me outside, the hypo-allergenic carpets are unique, but the service...
There seem to be helpful employees everywhere, upon exiting your taxi you're dutifully met by several enthusiastic bellman all wearing a sincere smile and ready to converse with you in perfect English which can be such a relief for travelers from this side of the pond! From the moment you arrive to the moment you depart, from the heartfelt welcomes to the proactive assistance, to the graceful touches in your room like flower arrangements, personalized notes about the weather and the day's happenings, it is clear that the staff of the Westin Chosun understands the true meaning of hospitality and is eager to share it with their guests.

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Complimentary room upgrade plus $100 Food & Beverage credit. Click HERE for more information and as always, be sure & tell 'em The Explorateur sent you!

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IL MATTARELLO RESTAURANT, LA BOCA, BUENOS AIRES
In the middle of Buenos Aires, sits a small Italian, tango-and-soccer-crazy neighborhood of La Boca, and in La Boca, lies a most amazing diamond in the rough. Il Mattarello is set just a few blocks from the famous Boca Juniors soccer stadium, quiet and unassuming, yet delivering inside a veritable powerhouse of homemade Italian dishes that would rival any taverna in Rome. You're treated like family from the moment you walk in- whether you speak English, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese or even German, someone there is happy to communicate with you and they take the utmost pride in serving these very special dishes. The Carbonara is to die for, and the bread is so fresh it melts in your mouth.
NB** You'll find this just down the street from the real-life Diego Maradona impersonator who proudly works his corner off of the main pedestrian shopping street, so you can't miss it if for some reason you can't find the street signs. Have your hotel arrange for a taxi to take you, much easier and more secure that way! Av. Martin Rodriguez 517, La Boca
Pair this with a stay at the Park Hyatt, pick up some of their signature Celedonio bath amenities, throw in a meat frenzy at Cabana Las Lillas and you've pretty much achieved Buenos Aires bliss
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PARK HYATT PALACIO DUHAU, BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA

Impressive...that's the first word that comes to mind when you first pull up to the driveway on the Palace side of this incredibly beautiful building that clearly resonates classic regal Argentina. Then, you step inside, to find an incredibly modern space, flowing curtains, statuesque flower vases, chic furniture. Ah...there is an aroma in the room that is most comforting...you stop and breathe it in. The attentive bellman escorts you to your beautifully appointed room, replete with all of the modern conveniences you could wish for and...wait, there is that aroma again. What is it? Can't place it? As you move through the property and take the time to enjoy all that it has to offer, including the spectacular Ahin Spa, the trendy Vinoteca restaurant, ideal for indulging in a few different types of Malbec accompanied by the most gorgeous cheeses, to the on-site art gallery (yes, within the property) that rotates its work every two months, and the gardens, it transports you back years, to the old stylish Buenos Aires that we read about. If not for the concierges, we would never have found some of the best restaurants we've ever had the pleasure of eating in (to be reviewed soon!) and here's the answer...the aroma is called Celedonio, it's their own intoxicating fragrance, flowing through every square inch of the property and sadly, can not be purchased. However, their bath products are quite similar so we recommend purchasing an extra bottle of shampoo or shower gel, so you can remind yourself of that peaceful beautiful experience anytime you wish when you get back home. www.buenosaires.park.hyatt.com
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ANTICO CASALE DI SCANSANO, ITALY

"Keep going, down the road, straight down the road and there you'll find our little Casale", said the front desk manager through the phone after we called from the car. Take one wrong turn in this part of Tuscany and you could be lost for hours (point proven) but wow is it worth it when you arrive. Set in a beautifully restored farmhouse, and surrounded by impeccably manicured gardens, this piece of heaven is just steps from the charming center of town and offers a fully equipped European spa, equestrian center, Italian cooking classes, and the most charming accommodations. The full breakfast (inlcuded by the way) was laden with the most wonderful fresh breads, cheeses and fruit, and dinner was absolutely gorgeous, with treats like homemade fettuccini, wild boar, and incredible desserts. It certainly feels like Mom is in the kitchen working her magic, and absolultely feels like home. Special spa and wine/culinary packages available now. Note to self- rent GPS along with your rental car to avoid unnecessary directions-related spats with your traveling companions! http://www.anticocasalediscansano.it
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