BLACK FRIDAY EXCLUSIVES!
OK, Explorateurs...here we go...our latest and greatest collection of exclusives, ONLY available to you- our loyal subscribers! Enjoy and have a wonderful holiday weekend.

AN ANTARCTIC DREAM
Literally...Antarctic Shipping, the cruise line that made these explorations famous, is offering an amazing deal for their 18 Feb 2010 departure. Explorateur readers receive 20% off their 11 day/10 night journey departing from Ushuaia and cruising through the Drake Passage, over to the Shetland Islands and through some of the world's most majestic natural scenery. The modern vessel features all the comforts you'd expect, so no need to rough it! Final payment must be made by 31 Dec 2009 to take advantage of the savings. Visit http://www.antarctic.cl/ for more details or contact rkern@antarctic.cl / Tel. +5624816929 for more details.

CULINARY WONDERS
Discover a whole new world of gastronomic delights in Morocco with an amazing experience personally led by ingenue Tehra Turnbaugh Thorp, a graduate of Le Cordon Bleu who is as comfortable cooking her delights for celebrities as she is in her own kitchen, preparing dishes for her loved ones. This incredible package includes cooking classes with Tehra herself, a class cooked by traditional women of Fez, cultural & historical walks, biking & hiking excursions, 3 nights at the ultra-chic Riad El Fenn in Marrakech, 1 night at Richard Branson's Kasbah Tamadot, 2 nights at Heure Bleue (a Relais & Chateaux) in Essouira, and culimnates in a spectacular Moroccan farewell feast. This is a gorgeous way to see such an amazing place who, beyond its natural beauty and historical charm, is a true culinary paradise. Visit http://www.tehrathorp.com/ for more details.

SURF'S UP
That's right, a surfer's paradise where you'd least expect..Taghazout, Morocco. This hip village just a few miles from Agadir has a rhythm all its own...funky shops, cool cafes, constant sunshine, and some of the best waves around. Not to mention the VALUE, it's unrivaled and staying in an apartment or villa is the way to go here. HomeAway Holiday Rentals has an Explorateur deal for you- 10% off a great 2-bedroom holiday hideaway- Visit www.holiday-rentals.co.uk/p95590 for more details

MEXICAN SPA BLISS
Take advantage of a unique, personally hosted & guided spa-infused journey in the charming historic spa town of Ixtapan de la Sal. Mexico spa & hospitality expert Phyllis Stoller has created a 7 Night group itinerary complete with an all inclusive stay at the Hotel Spa Ixtapan, 21 organic spa treatments, golf or tennis lessons, yoga, aerobics, and pilates daily. Explorateur readers will receive a special excursion into the village for unique shopping experiences and off-the-beaten-path walks. Dates are 17-24 Jan 2010, contact phyllisnycity@gmail.com for more information.

And...be sure & tell 'em, THE EXPLORATEUR sent you!
 
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URBANE NOMADS' "WORLD'S MOST LUXURIOUS TRIP"
It takes quite a bit to bowl us over with travel-related shock and awe, but when we learned of this experience, we did a triple-take and proceeded slip into a suspended state of intense curiosity as to the composition of what they dub "The World's Most Luxurious Trip". While that's subject to opinion, we ceratinly find it one of the "most interesting". Leave it to Urbane Nomads to painstakingly design something like this, a group famous for its "no holds barred/nothing is impossible" attitude to creating absolutely incredible experiences.

The journey strings together a collection of truly once-in-a-lifetime experiences all relating to equestrian, falconry and hunting themes. Actually, what it is at the very core is a recreation of a hunting expedition of Kublai Khan himself. The trip begins at the Presidential Suite of the Park Hyatt Beijing for a reason...to completely pamper guests and prep them for the road to come which takes travelers through western Mongolia, led personally by an award winning filmmaker and hunters who know the region like the back of their hand.
The itinerary is not for the faint of heart - Mongolian terrain can be notoriously unforgivable though, and activities like eagle hunting and horseback falconry are not engaged in with considerable ease. But, made ever so much more bearable with the comfort of a luxurious private jet, personal chef, butler, abjectly lavish mobile accommodations that travel along with you throughout your Mongolian jaunt. Price tag? US $2 MILLION. Hey, we told you it wasn't for the faint of heart...

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Book any journey with Urbane Nomads and receive a special gift reflecting the heritage of the destination you're traveling to...from a batik pareo in Trengganu, to the "world's best chocolates" in Damascus, to a kilkoy cloth in Zanzibar...you get the idea. Contact http://www.urbanenomads.com/ or info@urbanenomads.com for more information and be sure & tell 'em The Explorateur sent you!. To know more about Luxury Travel Destinations around the world please browse the www.theexplorateurportfolio.com






PLAY THE MARTINIQUE MATCH GAME AND WIN A FRENCH CARIBBEAN ESCAPE FOR TWO
Do you know where the colorful Caravelle Peninsula lies on Martinique? Can you point out the spot where the volcanic Mt. Pele looms over the island? Find out the answers in our Martinique Match Game and your newfound knowledge could be your ticket to the Caribbean! You could win a 5 day stay for two at the beachside Carayou Hotel and Spa, airfare and spa passes included!

After you try your luck in the Match Game, check out the special deals that will have you in the "Flower of the Caribbean" in no time! With flights from JFK and connections throughout San Juan, its easy for Americans to get in on the vacation destination Europeans have enjoyed for decades. Package deals include a 5-Night Escape + Air from only $205/Night* and 5 Nights of Luxury + Airfare for just $1307!*

For the more adventurous, there's even a 5-Night Scuba Package starting at just $495*

Do your research. In Martinique, the catch of the day is never complete without its own creative French-Creole twist, and the best of Paris fashions can be found during a day of window shopping in Fort-de-France. And that's not all! Imagine scuba diving and snorkeling near beautiful Diamond Rock, staying in quaint beach-front chateaux, and wandering the lively village streets full of exciting cafes. Martinique is truly the best place to find the Art of Living in the Caribbean.


*See terms & conditions

CRETE LUXURY VILLAS
It's such a fabulous thought to imagine yourself lazing around in a European villa, high in the hills, taking in the vistas, breathing in the gorgeous aromas of fresh food being carefully prepared nearby, and starting each day deciding what to do first (beach? village shops? shopping for today's bread & fruit?) When reality sets in though and you realize you just may not be able to swing a stint in that Tuscan home you had your eye on, consider Crete. Why? Well, we're glad you asked. Crete is all you imagine a Mediterranean island to be- verdant hills, fresh food, authentic traditions, sparkling shores, and a general snail's pace of life...yet not without its Ibiza-style nightlife for those that crave the club-til-dawn option. We've discovered three stunning villas, just a short hop from just about everything- the airport, the local village, the shops, and the beach. The collection offers options that accommodate up to 8 people, all decorated in traditional island style and offering private pools, outdoor patios, TVs, A/C and absolute privacy. Best part? The price tag, just a fraction of the cost of what you'd pay in Tuscany, Marbella, Sardinia and the like. Crete is easily accessible with frequent flights from Athens, or even London if you opt to connect there instead.

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- 10% Savings (in HIGH SEASON, people!) Book by 31 Jan 2010 for travel between 01 April - 31 October 2010. Contact info@cretefamilyvillas.co.uk to book and be sure & tell 'em The Explorateur sent you!
Explore our Europe Travel Guide and know about the luxury villa, hotels and exclusive travel deals in europe.

Clean Water For All- Asking Your Help

CLEAN WATER FOR ALL- ASKING FOR YOUR HELP
Yes, that's our goal. But, every exploration must start with the first step, and we're respectfully requesting your help. Clean water should be a given. It should be a basic essential in everyone's life, but sadly this is not the case. Imagine if it was your child, or your parent, having to walk miles for an glass of water that may or may not be disease-free...it's just not right, and we can all do something about it. We ask for 2 quick favors:

1. We've embarked on a quest of our own with MyCharity:Water to raise enough funds to ensure clean water for an entire African community. Please take a look at our page at http://mycharitywater.org/theexplorateur to read all about the impact your donations will make. Our first goal tier is US $5000, and we know it can be done and please remember, no amount is too small. EVERYTHING HELPS.

2. Please spread the word about theExplorateur and ask your travel-savvy friends to subscribe to our e-newsletter by clicking HERE . This is just the beginning of our initiatives and we want to keep as many people informed about what's yet to come! The bigger the network, the more effectively we can all help.

It couldn't be any easier to help save a life, save a child, and save a community one at a time.

THANK YOU ALL!

THE BEST BOUTIQUE HOTELS- Argentina
There certainly is strength in numbers, and we love this new collection of Argentina's absolute best boutique properties that truly feel more like warm, inviting homes rather than the typical hotel. The collection, comprised of such standouts in our minds like Hotel del Casco, MINE, & Legado Mitico Salta, banded together under one common philosophy- the neverending pursuit to create the PERFECT HOTEL. A hotel that evokes emotion, inspiration, and most of all, an indelible mark on a traveler's memory. This collection is veritable one stop shopping when planning the ideal Argentina journey, and if the ease of use wasn't enough, each traveler who books via BBH receives an exclusive added value benefit offered by Exclusive Hotels in the collection.

Intrigued? Here's just a sampling of the special experiences:

-Free polo class at El Colibri


-Personalized wine tasting at Hacienda de Molinos
-Moonlight speedboat excursion through the Ibera Marshes at Posada de la Laguna


and many, many more. Visit the site for more information- http://www.thebbh.com/
NB- Argentina, with its diversity from the puslating vibes of Buenos Aires, to the mellow Patagonian plains, to the luxe serenity of the winelands, is an excellent destination for a fly-drive. Use the BBH site's intelligence to help you plan your very own "boutique route" rather than the standard pre-packaged itineraries. You'll enjoy your experience much more this way!

SANDRA'S WALKS- London
We all know London is so much better on foot than by train or car, and walking this fab city has never been so much fun thanks to Sandra Shevey. She knows the ins and outs of EVERY market and is all too happy to share her insider knowledge with you on her signature London Street Market Walks. These 3-hour personally guided jaunts celebrate the city's multicultural diversity, while taking care to ensure you're still getting the whole true cockney market experience, true to the city's roots. She keeps it even more interesting by mixing up the markets and route each day, so you're always sure to get a great surprise. Departing daily at 11 AM, £25
Shopping not your thing? Channel your inner mystery-movie-loving self and embark on the Alfred Hitchcock walk, where you'll pass by locations used in the multitude of movies in the brilliant writer/director's collection, and even be treated to audio clips of Hitchcock interviews along the way. Departing Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays at 11 AM, £25

Get to steppin' and see London in a whole new way...
EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- 10% off all of Sandra's Walks, and her DVD documentary about London's ancient markets until February 2010. Contact Sandra herself to book at sandra_shevey@yahoo.com and be sure & tell her The Explorateur sent you!
Browse our Europe Travel Guide and know about the Luxury Travel Destinations of Europe. 

CONRAD BANGKOK, Thailand

Thailand often plays tricks on your senses...the taste food that is perhaps more spicy or creatively playful than you can imagine, the sight of beaches so exquisite they look other-worldly, the sounds the chaotic noise of the city streets where somehow life flows at a strangely fluid pace, and believing that luxury this tremendous can actually be affordable. Case in point, the Conrad Bangkok. A palatial property in the heart of the business district, and more importantly close to the city's best shopping at alarmingly affordable prices. Rooms are litoral cocoons of stylish design and top technology, done up in silks, sweet-dream-inducing bedding, entertainment systems, and note to those traveling kids or husbands that refuse to grow up... Playstation 3 in the Suites.

Working off the delicacies is easy here, take advantage of individual classes for yoga, boxing, Pilates and Tai Chi or opt for a spa treatment, especially with the Explorateur discount. It's well worth the splurge.

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE-Save 20% off Advance Purchase Rate for travel now through 31 Dec 09, plus save 15% on all Food & Beverage, and 20% on a-la-carte spa treatments. Amazing deal, contact reservations@conradbangkok.com or Tel : +66 2690 9999 to book and to view conditions, and be sure & tell 'em The Exploratuer sent you!

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VILLA MANDARIN BOUTIQUE HOTEL, Faralya, Turkey
Warning- read this only if you have the capacity to RELAX and literally, DO NOTHING on holiday. We know, it's not always easy but then again that really is the point of a holiday, isn't it? Villa Mandarin is one of those places that brings you back to understanding what a true break is all about. Perched on the magnificent Turquoise Coast in Turkey, this is a stylish, private hideaway for those looking to check in, and truly check out of reality even if only for a few days. Everything is so personalized that it feels as if this villa is actually your own, complete with a resident pup named Pacha who you completely want to take home with you, and the service from the staff is so spoil-centric that it's instantly addictive.

Guests here generally like to laze about, sit on their balconies, relax in a large chair or hammock looking out to sea, knowing anything you need is just a quick ring of the bell away. If the view and the pampering isn't enough, indulge in a visit with the property's local spa celeb who is on hand for a marvellous array of theraputic treatments. Wholesome meals prepared fresh on property round your do-nothing day. Eat, relax, daydream, sunbathe, eat, sleep, repeat.

Getting here isn't terribly difficult, there are connections from most major European airports to Dalaman, which is about an hour from Villa Mandarin.

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- 10% off on stays of 5 nights or longer. Consult http://www.villamandarin.com/ to book and be sure & tell 'em The Explorateur sent you!

Browse our Luxury Travel Guide and know about Exclusive Hotels deal around the world.










STUNNING STOCKHOLM
Välkomna till Sverige! Or shall we say, welcome to Sweden! For sun lovers, late October may not be the most ideal time to visit this stunning Scandinavian country. However, it seems no matter what time of year you decide to venture here, Stockholm and those who call it home, are sure to offer a warm welcome and an adventure around every corner.

Since there was so much to see and do in this bustling city – we decided the key to a successful holiday would first begin with location, location, location! The chic’ and contemporary Hotel Birger Jarl offers just that and more. It is true, there are plenty of hotels dotted along the waterfront, adjacent to most of the tourist attractions. However, proximity usually comes at a price folks. That’s why we found the Hotel Birger Jarl the best fit offering an ideal setting with easy access to all of Stockholm combined with exceptional value. The hotel, named after Stockholm’s founding father, is situated in the Stureplan, Jarlaplan and Odin triangle-the heart of the city. Birger Jarl is just minutes from museums, the Stockholm Observatory and the Royal Swedish Opera. For those looking to explore the Old Town or perhaps take one of the numerous boat tours, just hop a quick taxi ride or go by train or bus down to the waterfront. The hotel also includes a complimentary full traditional American or Swedish breakfast and guests receive free wi-fi and use of the business centre as well.

Looking for a great meal? No problem. The property offers its own posh and oh-so-European restaurant and Lobby Bar as well. There is also a plethora of restaurants nearby all within easy walking distance offering Irish, Asian, Italian and, of course, Swedish cuisine. Anything and everything is at your fingertips just steps from the hotel.

Where to go? What to see? Where do we start? There are many sites we enjoyed in Stockholm, including the spectacular Vasa Museum. Established in 1990, the Vasa is probably one of Stockholm’s most popular tourist attractions, showcasing the splendor of the world’s only intact 17th century war ship. Vasa’s history is almost as shocking as her breathtaking beauty. During her maiden voyage, the ship sank less than one mile from port during a highly anticipated and publicized inaugural debut. The ship was excavated in 1961 after 33 years under the sea and only 5% of the original vessel was in need of reconstruction. She now sits on display at the Vasa Museum, visited by nearly 80,000 visitors a year. It almost seems Vasa found more accomplishment after her “death” than she did in “life.” NB- Word of warning. The ship is nearly impossible to catch on film for the novice photographer. You are better off visiting the gift shop and purchasing a postcard.

During our short stay in Stockholm we also wanted to get a taste of its 24000 islands that make up the archipelago. What better way then one of the city’s famous boat tours! Late Sunday morning we took a quick taxi ride down to the waterfront and boarded the S.S. Stockholm for our three hour tour. The brunch cruise is the perfect way to sit back, relax and enjoy the natural beauty that abounds in this area. Along the way to Vaxholm, you will see the unique traditional Swedish homes and villages dotted throughout the islands. There isn’t much to do on the tour, other than take in the picturesque views and sea air but it is a great way to unwind at the end of a trip. So, whether you venture out on a historic Ghost Walk tour, take a visit to the Medieval Museum or simply have a seat on the docks and enjoy the views, this stunning city, is sure to deliver an experience of a lifetime. Så lång från Sverige!

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DRACULA'S CASTLE - Romania
Though the real Dracula's Castle lies in a pile of ruins, never fear, dear Halloween addicts- it's actually Bran Castle that you'll want to see if you dare to trek to the infamous depths of Transylvania. Located just a few paces from what once was the castle of the world's most famous vampire, Bran Castle is where it really all happened. Where the legendary Vlad Tepes (aka Vlad the Impaler...eeek, or Vlad Dracula as his contemporaries regarded him) headquartered himself for his conquests westward. And, where, so they say, the resident ghosts and spirits like to come out and play. If you're looking for a good fright, or just a fun night while trapsing through the diverse trails of rural Romania, take a few early evening hours and check it out. http://www.brancastlemuseum.ro/indexfrm_en.htm

As a Luxury Travel Advisor theExplorateur is pleased to provide you insights of Dracula's Castle-Romania


ROYAL OLYMPIC HOTEL, Athens

Athens is busy, Athens is loud, Athens is fascinating, and Athens is also...relaxed? We found an oasis of calm in the center of the symphony of sounds and mind-bogglingly-old treasures from the past, the Royal Olympic Hotel. This lovely find is almost hidden amongst its surroundings (oh, if you're having trouble finding it, just look for that little structure called the Temple of Zeus which incidentally is right outside its doorstep), and that's what makes it so appealing. Unassuming from the outside, with five-star elegance on the inside. It's an independently owned property, with a very hands-on owner and the result is purely warm hospitality, extreme attention to detail, and surroundings both in the public areas and the rooms that are incredibly thoughtful. It's right where you want to be- walk left and you're in the Plaka, walk across and you're at Hadrian's Gate, walk up and you're at the Acropolis. They've thought of everything, extreme detail in the rooms, a lovely courtyard pool, fabulous intriguing artwork throughout the hotel, meeting space, restaurants, FREE Wi-Fi, and even a super-quiet library. The rooftop bar is especially spectacular, with a retractable ceiling that allows you to enjoy the generously pleasant Athens evenings while looking out at a stunning lit-up work of art from thousands of years past. Best of all, the value here is tremendous- watch their website for continuous specials and keep it in mind. Athens is expensive, so save where you can without sacrificing elegance. http://www.royalolympic.com/

Browse the Online Travel Guide and know about more Luxury Travel Destinations around the world.

AFRISKI- Lesotho, Africa
OK- you've conquered all domestic slopes, schussed the Alps, even trekked to Chile to add a bit of Latin flavor to your well-worn skis. But- did you ever consider the possibility of skiing Africa? Most people don't even think it's possible, which is why it's all the more appealing. One of the best ways to do this is through Afri Ski, the top African ski experience. It's set in the mysterious kingdom of Lesotho...ok- not so mysterious but it sounds good, doesn't it? Lesotho is a tiny nation surrounded by South Africa, so carry your passport on the drive which is just a few hours from Johannesburg. We're talking a 1 KM ski slope, snow making equipment, kids club, ski school, ski rentals, challenging courses, lifts and more- it's the real deal, in a place you'd never expect. Needless to say this is not a snap decision, a trip like this takes plotting out, so we're giving you enough time to get your plans together and you'll make it for next season which begins April 2010. Plus, you can brag about just returning fresh off the slopes at a fabulous find when everyone else back home is still waiting for the season to begin. You are so ahead of the curve... Visit http://www.afri-ski.net/ for more info and conquer the final ski frontier!

NB: The resort runs STRICTLY on a cash basis only, be sure to hit up the ATM before trekking out.
Browse our Online Travel Guide to know about luxury destinations like AFRISKI- Lesotho, Africa

FREE NIGHT FOR EXPLORATEURS AT MONTAUK YACHT CLUB
It's no secret we adore the Montauk Yacht Club, we've said it before, but now it's your turn to enjoy the Hampton's most fabulous retreat. All Explorateur followers get 1 FREE NIGHT on a 3 night stay, exclusively. All you have to do is refer 3 people to subscribe to our e-newsletter, that's it! And you're on your way to classic Hamptons luxury. You SO deserve a break, and if you're in the tri-state area, you can forget about airfare since it's so accessible by car. Just let your friends know about us, ask them to register on this link http://02c4b28.netsolhost.com/ and tell them to be sure to list your name as the source, we want you to get as much credit as possible! Email us to book your stay and redeem your free night- hurry! The Hamptons season ends soon!
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DOING IT UP GREEK…AND LOVING IT!
Sometimes even The Explorateur needs get back to the roots of being a culinary explorer. On a recent trip to Athens, staying at one of the best five star properties in town, and being tired of fussy food (albeit delicious) we made a trip to the famous culinary markets in the center of the city. There hidden behind the dozens of fresh meat butchers, an endless array of the freshest seafood, all being proclaimed by the seafood purveyors as the best, a stunning assortment of fresh vegetables, fruits, nuts, olives (So many incredible varieties that another column just about those olives needs to be done) and spices; lies a place where everyone who works at these food markets goes to eat.

It’s called KapBouvo & oxapa (forgive us if we've butchered the Greek-glish spelling, no pun intended!) and it is the most definitive Greek restaurant that I have ever experienced and all with the absolute freshest foods possible. Simply put, it’s delicious! Imagine that most of the better restaurants come to this market everyday to order their meats, fish and vegetables. They take it back, and prepare their menus and perhaps that evening, or the next, you are enjoying your repast. Now, let’s cut out the middle man, eliminate the driving, and have that amazing selection of food prepared in a matter of minutes. It’s a testament to great, fresh food, prepared simply over an open fire.
There are the basics like a mixed grill or a variety of seafood, but do not forget to have a memorable Greek salad, as it definitely puts the “Greek” in this salad, with fresh vegetables and feta cheese toped by an array of spices and great olive oil and tangy vinegar as a great start to the meal. And from there it only gets better. Fresh food, simply prepared at outstanding prices. So, the next time you are in Athens, head over to the market ask anyone who works there to point you in the direction of KapBouvo & oxapa and guaranteed, you’ll enjoy the best Greek meal of your life! Our Online Travel Guide covers almost all the luxury destinations around the world to know more about Luxury Travel Destinations please subscribe our online travel guide.

TRIBE- VILLAGE MARKET HOTEL- Nairobi, Kenya
When you think Kenya, you think Maasai, you think Serengeti...but modern luxury? Well, we'd like you to think again. In a land where the contrasts are plenty, the Village Market Hotel is one of Nairobi's true standouts. Chic, sleek design, fusion cuisine, entirely diametrically opposed to anything you'll see anywhere else in this beautiful land. It's the perfect antidote for dusty treks through the bush, and since you've got to stop in Nairobi either before or after a safari, why not mix it up a bit and see something else that's completely unexpected. The hotel sits right in the heart of eclectic sophisticated yet rustic village-style surroindings - steps from shopping, museums, and everything else that you wouldn't expect in this intriguing city. It's beautiful proof that completely different scenarios can actually peacefully coexist. It's an one of the best example of  Exclusive Hotels. 


EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Stay 2 nights and get the 3rd night FREE! Visit http://www.africanpridehotels.com/tribe---the-village-market-hotel.html to book and be sure and tell 'em The Explorateur sent you!

GLENBURN TEA ESTATE, India
There is no shortage of intrigue in India- with one of the world's most diverse terrains, the potential for new discoveries is endless. Our most recent Indian discovery is the charming Glenburn Tea Estate- that's right, a proper, active tea plantation that has remained in the hands of the same family for four generations who are proud to open their spectacular estate to visitors that dare to trek the heavenly Himalayan landscape on which it stands. What we find most impressive here beyond the absolute serenity are the following fun facts:

-Staff to guest ratio, 5:1 (!)

-The food on the estate is organically grown

-With almost 1000 people employed at the estate, it provides an amazing stream of support for the local residents


The Glenburn is like staying in someone's home that they have graciously opened up to you, with thoughtfully designed rooms, nostalgic-style hospitality and a hot cup of freshly brewed tea any time you like. Besides hiking, fishing, climbing, exploring, meditating, and just getting as far from the bustle of busy life as possible, the tea factory stands at the center of the activity circuit here and is most spectacular. You can literally spend days here learning to taste/brew/grow tea/prune leaves and probably even read leaves if you wander into the local village. India can be a very crowded place, but from this vantage point, you'd absolutely never know it. A well-worth-it break to weave into any India itinerary.


EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Complimentary visit to tea factory, tea tasting and special gift of Glenburn Second Flush brew, one of their best teas created with leaves that draw their succulence from mangoes.

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OPPOSITE HOUSE- Beijing, China
OK travel fiends, it's time to channel your inner George Costanza and take an OPPOSITE approach. Start here when next in Beijing with the fabulous Opposite House- the name says it all, a blend of unique contrasts that reside at extreme ends of the spectrum.

The Outside? Funky green glass and uber-modern design, yet is filtered from the inside

The Inside? Tranquil mosaics, sinewy structures yet no boundaries

The Location? Right in The Village of Sanlitun (aka "the village" to the locals), a vibrant innovative development centered on fashion, style, modernity, outrageousness and fun- diametrically opposed to its original state (aka Beijing's diplomatic quarter for half a century)

The Rooms? Probably some of the most mod out there- 400 thread count linen, mood lighting, French coffee press, super surround sound stereo system, rain shower, and signature deep soaking oak bathtub to name just a few of its stellar amenities.

Keeping with the theme, the F&B offerings here are not at all what you'd expect- rather, the themes here are centered on Mediterranean fare, Asian fusian, and naturally, 2 lounges (one for mellow moods and one with brisk beats). Go Opposite in Beijing, you'll be glad you did.
http://www.oppositehouse.com/

theExplorateur a Luxury Travel Advisor provides Luxury Travel Guide to explore the exclusive travel destinations around the world


LUGGAGE CONCIERGE
OK- we not only dislike checking luggage...in fact, we LOATHE it with a passion. It's the worst. We're the folks that have always been able to gallavant from one country to another with 4 pair of shoes, 5 outfits, a laptop & toiletries easily set inside a carry-on and with our "IT CAN TOO FIT IN THE OVERHEAD-JUST WATCH ME" attitude, we've always gotten around just fine. In comes the liquid ban and bam, our whole pattern was turned upside down. This is why we love the concept at Luggage Concierge. Yes, they ship your luggage for you and it's there when you arrive. Simple as that. If you can:

1. Log on & enter your info

2. Enter the sizes/shapes of your bags

3. Fill in the number of bags

4. Enter address of where you're going to be

5. Enter travel dates

Then you too can put an end of waiting for the carrousel to move & wasting precious moments at baggage claim that should clearly be used for more important things like exploring. They'll even provide baggage insurance. Sheer baggage brilliance.



ANJAJAVY- L'HOTEL- Madagascar

There is no road to Anjajavy...as we're told. It's location, not mapped on any atlas, inaccessible by most means of travel save for signposts through the forest, and known only to those that are either locals or "in the know" (and now you know) This is not surprising in the least, as most of Madagascar is enigmatic, intriguing and not at all what you expect- rather, it's so much better. Sunshine year-round, incredibly verdant lush greenery, home to curious animal species and the seductive scents of vanilla and ylang-ylang. And then there's Anjajavy- the rewarding oasis at the end of a very long journey, a gorgeous eco-friendly resort set within a nature reserve housing so many unique species that it could qualify as its own ecosystem. Chic modern villas, dinner tables on the beach, water activities aplenty and true absolute seclusion. Now, to get there isn't quick or easy, but then again no place this private ever is. Connect in Paris via Air France and perhaps break up the journey with a bit of cityscape or head to Joburg and connect on Air Madagascar, then hop the Air Hotel private plane in Antananarivo to the private Anjajave penisula. Again, not rapid, not simple, but WELL worth the journey. Anjajavy- l'hotel- Madagascar is known as one of the best Exclusive Hotel in the world


EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Save an additional 5% off of rates plus receive a free massage on property. Click HERE for more information and be sure & tell 'em The Explorateur sent you!