BRISTOL BUENAVENTURA- Panama

Panama is a destination you may have thought of for checking off that “cross the canal” box on your travel to-do list, but it actually is an excellent choice for a beach holiday like none other. The value proposition alone is great, but blend that with world-class beaches, ease of access with convenient flights, luxury hotel options and the vibrant cultural prospect of Panama City and we’d say you’ve found yourself a deal.

The luxurious Bristol Buenaventura is ideal. It’s a Leading Hotel of the World, set on the Pacific Coast of Panama, on an amazing 2 km stretch of beach but just over an hour away from Panama City making both the travel time as well as the option for an exciting day trip as easy as possible. For golfers, there’s a world-class Jack Niklaus-designed course, for foodies, signature gourmet Panamanian cuisine and for spa-lovers, they’ve got restorative customized treatments a-plenty at their Corotu spa. The most lovely aspect here is the sheer understated elegance- the traditional deep mahogany hardwood floors, chic yet comfortable beach furniture, Molton Brown amenities in the rooms, and hospitality that is truly warm and sincere. People here are just so happy that you’re in their home, in their country for that matter and the staff is incredibly accommodating.

A few days of beach may be just what you need, but there’s no shortage of things to do if sunbathing isn’t strictly your thing. River rafting, thermal springs, hiking, rapelling, fishing, even shopping are all within a short radius and ever-so-affordable. Buen viaje!

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- This one’s not to be missed… save 10% off of any category, plus receive a VIP amenity upon arrival. Suite or Lagoon Villa bookings receive butler packing/unpacking services, 10% off any spa treatment, private pool cabana including Evian spritzer, chocolate covered strawberries and champagne. Click HERE for more information and, as always, be sure & tell ‘em The Explorateur sent you!
*offer valid for travel through 19 Dec 2010

MOZAMBIQUE HOLIDAY - by Immersion Journeys

It is often said (and loosely translated) that Mozambique enters your blood and never leaves. Anyone who’s been to this energetic and unique place will likely agree wholeheartedly. From the urban complexity of Portuguese-influenced Maputo, to the absolutely untouched pristine beaches of the Bazaruto islands, to the safaris in Gorongosa National Park, all the way to the quaint colonial-style feel of Ilha de Mocambique. It’s a different experience everywhere you turn, literally, and it’s no wonder it’s Africa’s most up-and-coming tourism destinations. Our friends at Immersion Journeys have once again created a totally unique package, just for Explorateurs, designed to deliver the best immersion into this marvelous land far southeast in Africa.

This 10-day trek begins in the capital city of Maputo, giving you time to get acclimated while taking in beautiful architecture and flavors from Europe and beyond. Next stop is the Gorongosa region, ecologically unique and situated at the southernmost point of the Great African Rift Valley. What you’ve got here is a place with high species diversity and environmental features found nowhere else in Africa, so naturally your safari experience here is going to be fantastic and full of unique sightings.

Moving on to perhaps the most visually stunning part, the Bazaruto Archipelago, and the incredible Marlin Lodge- flagrantly romantic and as private and remote as you can imagine. A stay here is an experience in itself, spend your time marveling at views of the unbelievably translucent water flecked with dhow sails, gliding in a boat through the turquoise sea alive with dolphins, or retreating into your own private chalet-style suite for a private dinner prepared just for you. Rest, scuba dive, snorkel, eat, sleep and breathe it in…you won’t likely see a paradise like this again soon.

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- This package is only available for Explorateur subscribers at special savings- click HERE for more information and as always, be sure & tell ‘em The Explorateur sent you!

VILLA SOL VILAMOURA SPA & GOLF RESORT- Algarve, Portugal

Amazing…aromas…azure…attractive...and affordable. Welcome to the Algarve, a most outstanding holiday destination in Portugal that is one of the last in Europe to still maintain a strong value (believe it or not!) It’s 100 miles of crystalline coastline, with 25 golf courses, and over 300 days of sunshine a year. It’s as peaceful or as cosmopolitan as you want it to be, with no lack of the vibrant all-nighter nightlife scene you’d also expect in an European seaside locale. Oh, and let’s talk about the food…the freshest fish straight from the sea to your plate, from charming beach shacks to gourmet restaurants, to dining in caves and no trip is complete without a sardine sandwich fresh off the grill.

We adore the Villa Sol Vilamoura Spa & Golf Resort, a relaxing retreat that’s self-contained in its own nature preserve and just minutes away from great shopping and the chic Villa Sol Beach Club, to which guests have private access. And, when you’re done beaching it for the day, the resort’s luxurious spa offers a menu of world-class spiritually-inspired treatments.

We especially recommend the Villa accommodations, offering the exclusive feel of a private home, set in a private enclave complete with lush greenery, 3 pools, a bar and elegant décor.
Thinking of traveling with the family this summer? Try their Escape package, including accommodations in 2 adjoining rooms, daily buffet breakfast, and discounts on meals for children. Singles, couples and friends traveling together can also save with our special offer.

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Save 10% on stays through 20 July 2010. Click HERE for more information and as always, be sure & tell ‘em The Explorateur sent you!

ESTANCIA SAN PEDRO VIEJO-Cordoba, Argentina

Argentina is an intense experience, probably why we fell in love with it so hard and fast upon arrival for the first time. Intense flavors and aromas of delicious parrilladas, intense passion for everything from soccer to tango. Intense bargains…hello shoes, bags, and leather! Buenos Aires is a must-do for a gorgeously multi-cultural urban experience, but let’s not forget the deeply serene and naturally gorgeous remainder of the country that evokes a sensation of the country’s true soul. For a true reconnection with Argentina’s past, we think Cordoba’s Estancia San Pedro Viejo is perfect.

Once used as a resting place for horsemen trekking to Alto Peru, it has been occupied by conquistadors, missionaries, warriors and patriots. Built with materials extracted straight from nature itself, and designed to preserve its uniquely beautiful personality, the open arms of its staff wait to greet you as if you’re family into their home, and straight to one of their 6 cozy colonial-style bedrooms.

A stay here is an enriching experience, and they encourage you to delve into the splendor of Argentine rural life. Indulge in one (or all) of their unique sensory adventures including wine tasting, horseback riding, learning Spanish, partaking in regional cooking classes, hiking, even knitting on a loom. This is the other side of Argentina, serene but still just as intense.

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Book 3 nights at Hotel San Pedro Viejo and receive a complimentary trip to Ambargata Salt Lake- one of the region’s best kept ecological treasures. Once you get past the overwhelming sensation of the multitude of colors that appears in time for the spectacle of the rising moon, you’ll sit down to enjoy a traditional Picada Criolla complemented by fine Argentine wines at a table set on the salt sea. Click HERE for more info and as always, be sure & tell ‘em The Explorateur sent you!

DESTINY BHUTAN

South of China, east of Nepal and northeast of India sits Bhutan, small in size but colossal in centuries-old cultural impact and one of those amazing spots in the world that is deserving of much more exposure. Bhutan is a land of enigmas, a cross between medieval and emerging contemporary style, where Buddhist monks mix with technology, where life is precious and land is sacred, where visitors are famously charged a minimum of $200 per day but as most visitors would agree, it is well worth the price of admission. Here are a few pointers we can share with you if considering a trek to this part of the world:

GETTING THERE
Druk Air, Bhutan’s national airline, offers the only service into the country with connections from points such as Bangkok, Delhi and Kathmandu. During winter, unpredictable weather can delay flights so best to add an extra day in your itinerary.

PREP WORK
-You’ll need a visa prior to arrival- apply in advance for clearance but it’s only stamped upon arrival.
- Bhutan’s unit of currency is Ngultrum (NU). Advisable to carry travelers checks along with US Dollars
-Taking photos? Bring extra film and batteries, both are not easily found whilst in-country
-Pack casual, comfortable clothes- cotton shirts, khakis, and plenty of rain gear
-Brush up a bit on your Dzongkha if you really want to immerse yourself, otherwise relax- English is widely spoken
-Allow yourself time to acclimatize, key points in this region lie thousands of feet higher than you’re likely accustomed to.

ACCOMMODATION EXPECTATIONS
Hotels, lodges and guesthouses are quite comfortable in tourist destinations, and of a higher caliber in western Bhutan. Five-star flags such as Uma, Taj and Aman fly in Bhutan so luxury is possible.

Itineraries in Bhutan are highly customizable and so thoughtfully crafted by Destiny Bhutan that you truly feel like you’re part of the fabric of the nation. We’re talking visits to the weekend market, attending archery matches, time spent at an art school, visits to handicraft centres, private monastery tours, access to private museum collections, trekking, hiking, and taking in the mystical cerebral aura that envelopes each and every visitor.

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Special pricing on on select tours and customized itineraries with Destiny Bhutan. Click HERE for more information and as always, be sure & tell ‘em The Explorateur sent you!

TANZANIA TREK- by Immersion Journeys

Tanzania is an East African jewel of a country, one of the most alluring and intriguing on the continent and certainly one of the most diverse. A land of massive lakes, blended tribal cultures, Middle Eastern-inspired regions, pristine beaches, and home to the tallest peak in Africa. Our friends at Immersion Journeys know Tanzania inside and out, and have created a special package just for Explorateur readers designed to show you the true soul of this tremendous destination.

An arrival in Arusha, the safari capital of Tanzania, kicks off your journey- giving you time to recoup before heading out the following day on an unforgettable hike across the lower slopes of the awe-inspiring Mt. Kilimanjaro. How's that for diving right in?

Tarangire National Park is your next stop, a unique eco-system unto itself with an incredible abundance of game from zebra to elephant, lion to leopard and beyond. Savor the excitement of a game drive which brings you face to face with these amazing creatures, evoking incredible sensations.

Up next is the world famous Ngorongoro Crater. Standing 610 meters deep and 260 km squared, a wonder of the world that is truly a natural zoo of its own with game galore. . All lodges in this area are perched high upon the rim, lending themselves to powerful yet calming vistas.

And, of course, no trip to Tanzania would be complete with out a jaunt to the Serengeti National Park, but not before a visit to a Maasai village for opportunities to immerse yourself in tribal culture. Your days in the Serengeti are filled with game adventures in this tremendously animal-abundant region, while nights are spent under the stars, eating and drinking by a fire and soaking up the natural sounds of silence.

No stones have been left unturned- meals, fine accommodations, transfers, guides, internal Tanzania flights and park fees are all included in the package price. Click HERE for more information and as always, be sure & tell ‘em The Explorateur sent you!

TRAVELPOD & TRAVEL BLOG SITES.COM

We already know you're a fan of us and we love you for that! But, there is quite a world out there of tremendous blogs and sites that are chock full of all sorts of information, photos, and detailed guides for global nomads. It's difficult at times to know where to start, but with Travelpod.com and Travelblogsites.com, you have a veritable one-stop-shop solution to some of the world's best. Click HERE to log on and discover that the world can truly be at your fingertips.

VISITBRITAIN'S LONDON SIGHTSEEING DEALS

A long weekend jaunt to London is always a fabulous way to spend a few days- easily accessible with non-stop flights from major gateways far and wide and there’s always a hotel deal to be had (and yes, we can help you find the best ones to suit your particular style!)

Our friends at VisitBritain have cleverly drawn up some ideal all-in-one packages designed to make your stay as easy and seamless as possible, and with extra savings for Explorateur readers only, you’ll be ahead of the curve and on track with your advanced planning.

Essential London Kit
The Essential London Kit is ideal if you’re spending a long weekend in London. It allows you to see all of the iconic sights for less, easily- with components like

-London Travel Card- giving you the freedom to explore the city with unlimited access to public transportation for 3 days

-The London Eye- admission for a ride aboard this unique observation wheel, providing tremendous views of the city

-The Tower of London- access to this famous fortress, also serving as home to the Crown Jewels

-The Original London Sightseeing Bus Tour Ticket- giving you hop-on,hop-off service around London with over 80 stops. It’s valid for 24 hours and even includes 3 walking tours (including Jack the Ripper!) and a Thames river cruise

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Save an additional $10 off the Essential London Kit. Valid for travel through 30 Jun 2010, must be booked by 25 Mar. Please click HERE http://www.visitbritaindirect.com/en-US/detail.aspx?ProductCode=ELK1 and use coupon code majestic2010

London Remedy Kit
Just the thing you need when you have a bit more time to explore. Includes

-£20 Visitor Oyster Card - the smartest all-access ticket for London’s public transport

- London Eye Champagne Flight – Bubbly brilliance aboard the unique observation wheel
The Original London Sightseeing Tour Ticket – with a 48-hour hop on, hop off access ticket, 3 walkng tours plus a Thames river cruise

-London Map

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Save an additional $10 off the London Remedy Kit. Valid for travel through 30 Jun 2010, must be booked by 25 Mar. Please click HERE http://www.visitbritaindirect.com/en-US/detail.aspx?ProductCode=ELK40 and use coupon code remedy2010

And, as always, be sure & tell ‘em The Explorateur sent you!

HOTEL TUGU BALI

Sssshhhh....Nyepi is approaching and total silence is required. This Indonesian holiday falls this year on 16 Mar, and is a holiday dominated by absolute quiet...no traffic is seen anywhere, no lights are lit. A day for introspection for locals, but a deliciously indulgent one for you when you stay at Hotel Tugu. What better way to reconnect with someone you love than ensconcing yourself in your own private retreat, watching the Indian Ocean sunset from your bedroom window, dipping into your own private plunge pool or rejuvenating in your outdoor bath, falling asleep to the songs of the whispering rice fields and tropical birds. Evenings provide guests with the opportunity to dine in the lavish garden, poolside, or in your own private dining retreat decorated with beautiful antiques. Or, how about a picnic in bed, on the beach or a beautiful BBQ under the stars? They've pretty much thought of everything, all you have to do is decide what ingredients you want to create your own perfectly blended experience.

But, it doesn't have to be Nyepi for you to be able to enjoy the sensual sensation of solitude, it's naturally gorgeous any time of year. Take time to reflect and indulge in this perfectly peaceful place. http://www.tuguhotels.com/

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Complimentary one hour spa treatment at Waroeng Djamoe Spa on property, when staying at Hotel Tugu. Click HERE for more information and as always, be sure & tell 'em The Explorateur sent you!

*Offer valid for travel now through 14 July and 01 September - 19 December 2010

RUBA- Visual Travel Guide Site / **Explorateur Reccommended!***
Ruba is a visual travel guide site which offers user-generated travel guides, grouped into themes such as “The Best Museums in Spain” or “Highlights of San Francisco” full of hidden gems and local favorites. Each review features a large photo and a map, making the process of browsing guides to discover new places fun. While there are many travel sites out there to search for hotels in particular places, Ruba gives quick, concise ideas for people who don't want to sort through a long list of reviews, said founder and serial entrepreneur Mike Cassidy. "Maybe it's (because of) the ADD (attention deficit disorder) generation. “

By keeping reviews under the author’s name, it’s easy for users to discover even more new places they’ll enjoy. If you find yourself liking the places that one person recommended, you can browse all sorts of other recommendations in other cities that they also liked just by viewing his or her profile. And you can build your own Ruba profile and share your favorite places and experiences with other Ruba users.

Ruba takes advantage of powerful search and location technology to help suggest places near each attraction which you may be interested in, further helping users discover the perfect spots for their next trip. You can even use Ruba’s unique tours search to browse and discover escorted tours from the leading tour operators around the world.

Ruba also capitalizes on the popularity of social networks to help people share their travel experiences and get advice from friends. “Travel is one of the most social activities we partake in,” says Cassidy, “It seems only natural that we would want a way to share travel with our friends.” Ruba users can login to the site using their Facebook credentials and then share their guides or ask Facebook friends for ideas in a single click. Users can also tweet their favorite guides and places to their followers.

NORMAN CARR SAFARIS- Zambia

There's a pure, natural, unspoiled beauty of Zambia that is difficult at best to convey in words alone, much like so much of Africa whose magic needs to be experienced to be fully understood. And nobody knows the essence of Zambia better than Norman Carr Safaris, based in the heart of South Luangwa and doing what they do best - leading the way in Zambian wildlife safaris for over 50 years.

There's Kapani Lodge to start, luxurious seclusion and rustic-chic feel- from which you can proceed to any of the stylish yet simplistic Bush Camps all the way to the elegance and sophistication of Mchenja Camp, the group's most traditional experience. Trust us, an African safari is perhaps one of the most inspiring experiences one can embark on, and Zambia offers something special and utterly unforgettable.

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Save 10% on stays at Kapani Lodge and their selection of Bushcamps within Norman Carr Safaris throughout 2010! Click HERE to book and as always, be sure & tell 'em The Explorateur sent you!

*Conditions and restrictions apply, please contact for details

INN @ 202 DOVER- Maryland

After a long, cold, snowy winter, everyone deserves a little pampering- at least the Inn @ 202 Dover thinks so and they are going March Madness crazy to ensure you take some time out to relax. This luxurious Maryland inn is easily accessible by car from Baltimore, DC, New York and Philadelphia, giving you every excuse to take a much needed early spring break.

What a location for a romantic getaway for two…upon entering, you’re immediately transported to another place and time, Victorian elegance, French sophistication, English traditional or even Safari exotic depending on which lovely room or suite you choose. And the cuisine, phenomenal. Opt to dine in the privacy of your suite or in the lovely Peacock Restaurant on property. Mornings greet you with a sumptuous home-cooked breakfast with anything and everything from Butter Croissant French Toast with an orange calvados sauce to scrambled eggs in their own shell finished with sour cream and caviar. Tempted yet?

What’s more, evening turndown service includes fruit, chocolates and a fresh-baked goodie from the kitchen, while you can enjoy free wi-fi, complimentary coffee, tea and soft drinks throughout the day and the serenity of the Inn’s peaceful library. http://www.innat202dover.com/

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Save up to 27% through the end of March, Sunday – Thursday stays only! Click HERE to book and as always, be sure & tell ‘em The Explorateur sent you!

HOTEL VIKING- Newport, Rhode Island

Ever want to escape the stresses of life? If only for a day or two? We think just about everyone would answer “yes” to that! Then, Hotel Viking’s SpaTerre Escape package will have you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Save 30% on a treatment of your choice at Newport's most exclusive, chic hideaway just in time for the warm weather. Perhaps indulge in a Seaside Salt Body Scrub to leave your skin feeling silky soft. Or a facial to restore your skin's natural balance. Or a hot stone massage, manicure, or pedicure. Shall we go on? Their SpaTerre Escape is the perfect way to change your perspective.

SpaTerre Package includes-
• Overnight accommodations
• Breakfast for 2 in One Bellevue
• Complimentary Parking
• 30% off Spa services*

Or, if you’d rather get out and explore spring, Newport style while daffodils and tulips push through the last of the winter snow, check out their Spring Escape package including breakfast for 2 and complimentary valet parking. So, you can roam at your leisure down famous Bellevue Avenue or along the Atlantic Ocean, browse the shops & boutiques at the Newport waterfront and return to enjoy a fabulous meal at One Bellevue, Hotel Viking’s esteemed restaurant.
NB-Be sure to plan extra time to enjoy the sights and sounds of Newport - all within walking distance. And don't forget their famous Afternoon Tea in their award winning One Bellevue Restaurant.

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Goodies galore!
-Book the Spa Package and receive complimentary champagne & strawberries
-Book the Spring Saver and receive complimentary fresh fruit bowl plus cookies & milk

Yum! Click HERE to book and as always, be sure & tell ‘em The Explorateur sent you!

*Offer cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion. Valid April 1 - June 30 2010. Excludes all holiday brunches.

BOUTROS TOURS-Greece
There are 6000 islands in Greece, no wonder it’s difficult to decide which ones to visit when planning a holiday! Trust us, we just did it and the choices are all so amazing that almost any decision is the right one. Something we find extremely helpful when planning that first visit to Greece is a short cruise, it’s the perfect way to sample a bit of the best of the islands to help you make your selection. Boutros Tours has the ideal itineraries for even the most time-challenged of travelers, designed to give you a taste of several stunners so you’ll know which ones you want to return to for an extended stay.

The 3 –Day Aegean Legends Cruise is fantastic- departing from Athens each Friday, it takes you through a divinely gorgeous route through Mykonos for dinner at a taverna in the evening, Patmos for a Saturday morning stroll through the village streets strewn with charming whitewash homes and religious monasteries, over to beachside Kusadasi in Turkey where you’ll have enough time for an excursion to the historic ruins of Ephesus. Sunday brings you to Crete for a lazy Sunday morning brunch on the water or a rest on the beach, and finally stunning Santorini where you can tour the tiny streets by rented moped and take in the sheer overwhelming beauty of the impossibly gorgeous views.

A bit fast paced for Greece but one of the best sampler options we’ve seen yet.

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Book the 3-day Aegean Legends Cruise and get 1 night of hotel accommodations in Athens FREE , including breakfast. Click HERE for more information and as always, be sure & tell ‘em The Explorateur sent you!

DESERT PALM DUBAI- A Per AQUUM property
Rising like a stellar oasis in the desert landscape is Desert Palm, modern luxury fused Arabia Avant-garde set in acres of lush greenery enigmatically contracting with the vast sandscapes. This is true Dubai extravagance- sensual design, rare dining experiences, overly-dramatic views, and pure grace. Desert Palm stands unrivaled in just about every sense, clearly embracing the Per AQUUM belief that rules should be broken and expectations should be defied, and defied they are indeed- even more so when one enters their signature LIME Spa. Let us explain what they like to call the WOW Factor.

• LIME rooms where you can book private time and space to indulge
• LIME couples treatment room
• LIME realms to nurture, energise, detox , indulge and connect
• 'Sublime' including steam, sauna, ice room, cold plunge, heated lounges, two chrome
therapeutic showers incorporating aroma-infused cold and hot experiences with light therapy
• Enter harmony – relaxation bar, organic juice bar & aromatic herbal infused teas
• Specially designed &developed kids "fingers and toes" treatment using eco-friendly products
• Spa and Yoga guru retreats all year round…and more

The LIME Spa is the only property in Dubai to offer both body and face treatments with Anne Semonin products, long favored by women around the world who appreciate their composition of purely natural ingredients, blended with unique technology that allows them to be combined in a way that addresses each individual’s skincare needs. LIME’s spa rituals are like none other, just like Desert Palm, so indulge and take a LIME Break! http://www.desertpalm.ae/

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- LIME Break package, valid for travel now through 31 May 2010 and 10 September – 24 December 2010 including:
-3 Nights in a stunning Pool Villa
-Daily breakfast plus 1 afternoon tea for 2
-East meets West Realm for 2 – a lavish 150 minute treatment comprised of body polish, Made to Measure Massage and Anne Semonin LIME Coture facial.

Click HERE for more information or to book and be sure & tell ‘em The Explorateur sent you!

*Non-combinable with any other offers and may not be exchanged for cash or any other services.

AIGLON DE MORZINE- by Erna Low Ski Holidays
Erna Low knew European skiing. In fact, she knew it so well that she parlayed her knowledge into a small escorted group tour in the 1930’s, and transformed that concept through the years into a global powerhouse of a company based on delivering superior, quality skiing experiences around the world. Winter is on its way out, but just in case you haven’t treated yourself to any skiing this season, here’s an opportunity to get that last bit of schussing in and lucky you, it just happens to be at one of the finest residences in the French Apls, the resort of Morzine.

The stunning Aiglon de Morzine is centrally located in the charming town of Morzine, an easy hour’s drive from Geneva. A complex of 12 prestigious apartments, complete with state of the art entertainment systems, panoramic views from patios and balconies, modern kitchens, wood burning stoves, and a cozy chic style that just screams ski holiday chic. And, best of all, it’s available at a great value if you can get away at the end of the month. Hope to see you on the slopes!

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Ski over Easter and save over 20%! Book a 1-bedroom suite for 7 nights and 4 people can share in the apartment and the savings. Valid on arrivals 27 March 2010. For more information or to book, click HERE and as always, be sure & tell ‘em The Explorateur sent you!

**NB- For any travelers arriving from the UK, Erna Low Ski Holidays has special rates on round-trip Eurotunnel crossings with free FlexiPass upgrade. Click HERE for details

HAPPY FOODIE FRIDAY-

We know some of you are buried under mass quantities of snow, and when you’re stuck inside it’s natural to want to eat mass quantities of everything in sight. Here’s something to keep yourself busy if you’re stuck inside- how about thinking of which great culinary escapade to embark on in 2010? And relax, we know some of these are difficult to get into, but not with Gen on your side-our in house concierge Genuine Access has ways and means so never fear, and be sure to click HERE to see how we can help with reservations.

Let’s start with the UK, which has no shortage of restaurants known and envied the world over. Consider something like like The Fat Duck, Bray- Heston Blumenthal’s infamous restaurant known as the ultimate culinary experience- difficult to get in but that’s half the fun. Try pairing it with a proper cottage holiday at nearby Woodrows Cottage, Aldworth, Berkshire- a cozy, comfortable place to retreat to after indulging in a meal here. There’s also Le Manoir aux Quat' Saisons, Raymond Blanc’s restaurant and cookery school priding itself on the freshness and purity of its ingredients grown right in their two-acre kitchen. Pair it with a stay at Alfie’s Barn, Oxfordshire, an 18-th century converted house with gorgeous countryside views. English Country Cottages offers these properties plus hundreds more- http://www.english-country-cottages.co.uk/

The French Laundry, arguably California's most emotional and extraordinary culinary experience promises to take you to places you've never been before, and that it does. It's two unique 9-course tasting menus featured per day, in the heart of Napa Valley's most picturesque spot. There's no shortage of gorgeous intimate lodges in the area, we'll find the one that's most perfect for you.

And then, there’s El Bulli, perhaps the holiest of holy grails in the restauarant world in remote Roses, Spain. Word on the street says they’re fully committed for 2010 but inquire with us anyway, 2011 isn’t THAT far off. Do it up right and pair this with a private villa stay at nearby Casa Cap-Ras by the sea.

Or, consider packaging the whole experience together and embarking on a fully encompassing, otherworldly culinary adventure with Epicurean Experiences, featuring signature tours through Spain that are a pure dream for any foodie. Try their Epicurean Experiences in Madrid package, including walking tours, tapas tours, private wine tours, cooking classes, luxury boutique hotel accommodations and more. Or, venture out a bit further into the country and take on the Epicurean Roads jaunt including private winery tours and tastings, cooking demo with Michelin chef, guided walks through vibrant markets, and all of the trimmings a curious culinary fiend seeks. http://www.epicureanways.com/ They’ll even send you a delicious Spanish food gift straight to your home before you depart to launch your adventure in taste, for Explorateur readers exclusively.

Click HERE for more information on any of these fabulous foodie finds!

51 BUCKINGHAM GATE, TAJ SUITES & RESIDENCES- London
It’s the ultimate in London luxury, a unique five-star townhouse hotel in the heart of gorgeous Westminster and we think you need to be there. It’s a member of the Taj portfolio, so naturally decadence abounds with stunning suites, an indulgent spa, Michelin-starred restaurant, and even a private courtyard space completing the feel of being in your own private grand residence, with personal butlers at your beckon call. We’re talking stylish contemporary décor, state of the art technology en-suite, with service and location so fabulous you’ll feel like royalty. As if that wasn’t enough, we’ve got two remarkable offers to share with you with unique twists and treats- enjoy!

HARRODS at 51- For shoppers
Experience the ultimate luxury shopping & sleeping experience with this extraordinary package including:

-Stylish suite accommodations at 51 including daily breakfast for 1 night
-Chauffeur-driven Jaguar to and from Harrods
-£100 off all purchases at Harrods, membership to Harrods Rewards and copy of Harrods magazine
-Invitation to “By Appointment- Harrods personal shopping service
-10% off purchases in Harrods food hall plus complimentary evening cocktail/canapés reception in the Library at 51
-Full use of spa and gym facilities on property

HAMLEYS at 51- For families
Enjoy the benefits of 51’s exclusive partnership with the world’s finest toy store, including:

-Stylish suite accommodations at 51 including daily breakfast for 1 night for 2 adults and 2 children up to age 12 including daily breakfast
-Hamley’s welcome hamper
-Personal shopping experience in Hamleys
-Cooking or baking lesson with Chef en-suite including personalized chef’s jacket for each participating child
-Babysitter for 4 hours
- Complimentary evening cocktail/canapés reception in the Library at 51
-Full use of spa and gym facilities on property http://www.51-buckinghamgate.com/

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Book either of these packages and receive a beautiful bouquet of welcome flowers and fresh fruit basket platter en-suite upon arrival. Click HERE for more information or to book, and as always, be sure & tell ‘em The Explorateur sent you!

*valid for travel through 31 Dec 2010

LA TORRETTA BIANCA BED & BREAKFAST- San Benedetto, Italy

When innkeepers Romina Abbadini andThomas Christel opened La Torretta Bianca Bed & Breakfast just as a place for their friends & family to stay when visiting them in the Marche Region of Italy (talk about generous), they couldn’t yet have known what a stellar reputation this “little white tower” was to acquire just a short time after. This 18th Century hillside farmhouse-turned-country villa is simple, special, and offers comfortable, traditional Italian homestyle feel, inspired by the owner’s passionate feelings about family, the quality of the Italian lifestyle, and eagerness to show visitors this stunning side of Italy. And you really do feel like family here.

There are 5 guest rooms to choose from, including a stunning Vista Mare room on the 3rd floor with gorgeous views of the sea, and a larger apartment if that’s more your style. But the beauty really lies in the natural setting, terraces of gardens with all kinds of fruit and nut trees, homemade breakfasts made with homegrown figs, apples, plums, fresh baked rolls topped off with a cappuccino. OK- we’re officially hungry now.

It’s a different, more authentic Italian experience if tours are not your thing, and a perfect base when seeking to experience the essence of the countryside. Why? because it’s just a short drive to the mountains for hiking and castle exploration, minutes away from the beaches on the Adriatic Sea, steps from the delight of the open-air markets of downtown San Benedetto, and in the center of some of Italy’s best wining and dining. Romina and Thomas’s doors are always open for your arrival. Enjoy. http://www.bebtorre.com/

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Save 10% on stays at La Torretta Bianca through the remainder of 2010*. Please click HERE for more information or to book and be sure & tell ‘em The Explorateur sent you!

*not valid for travel July and August 2010

DISCOVER NEPAL with Kailash Himalaya Treks

It’s a country that spells heart-stopping adventure mixed with wide-eyed wonder, a land where the quests for folkloric Yetis and impossibly high peaks dominate, and precisely the solution for any daring traveler that seeks something more than just a getaway. Nepal’s magnetism pulls fiercely on the adventurists heart and soul, with the promise of an exploration beyond compare. If you’re not quite ready to tackle Everest yet (or even Base Camp for that matter), consider a discovery tour of this fascinating land. Funny enough, we’ve got just the thing.

Kailash Himalaya Treks have been designing the ideal Nepal itineraries for over 26 years, carefully vetting only the most qualified guides, and thoughtfully planning the most authentic experiences through Nepal, Bhutan, India and beyond. Their Discover Nepal 10-day tour is an ideal way to get to know the soul of Nepal, complete with elephant-back jungle safaris in Chitwan, sightseeing in Kathmandu, handicraft shopping in Jawalekhel, insightful visits to Buddhist shrines, Himalayan views, and even a home stay in the culturally rich village of Gurung if you so desire, where the community folks take pride in regaling guests with traditional stories, Nepali dances and songs.

NB- the accommodations are comfortable, but simple. The food is delicious, and uncomplicated. The itineraries are active, yet provide a renewed sense of peace and calm within your mind.

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Special savings on the 10 day Nepal Trek now available starting at just $1600 USD per person, double occupancy including private transport, hotel accommodations, breakfast daily, guided city tours ,activities, all entrance fees, and domestic flight as per programme. Click HERE for more information or to book and be sure & tell ‘em The Explorateur sent you!