THE SURIN- Phuket

 Think Surin, think seclusion. This is the place you'll want to be when absolute disconnection from the rest of the world is in order. This slice of bliss elegantly sashays down the tropical landscape to rest along Phuket's finest white sandy beach at Pansea Bay, world-famous for its crystal clear waters and pristine white sands. The resort nestles in peaceful seclusion in the form of 108 secluded cottages gently shaded by coconut palms on verdant slopes. It is the genuine rustic serenity and warm tropical hospitality that beach lovers and island enthusiasts seek.

This celebrated resort paradise has been rejuvenated by its original designer, Paris-based architect Ed Tuttle who has artfully refreshed Thai beach cottages utilizing local materials and traditional designs fused with modern functionality. The cottages are connected by elevated walkways and all feature unobstructed views of the ocean, spacious bedrooms, bathrooms with his-and-hers vanities and high-tech electronic elements. All done up in custom made furnishings and warm, earthy, organic colors. The atmosphere is eclectic yet serene, the service is high touch yet unobtrusive.

Authentic dining can be found at a variety of the resort's eateries, including Lomtalay offering a wide selection of regional, delectable dishes, and casual Asian fare and international specialties at the Beach and Sunset Bars. Fitness and wellness come in many forms at the Surin, from the stylish black-tiled pool adjacent to a special children's pool, fully- equipped gymnasium, and all manner of watersport from catamarans to windsurfing, snorkeling to scuba diving and more. Relaxation can be found within the peaceful confines of The Surin Spa, created in harmony with the natural beauty of the surroundings, featuring a complete menu of Thai-inspired wellness and rejuvenation treatments. Spa rooms offer sweeping views of the Andaman Sea and pose the perfect sanctuary for ultimate spa indulgence

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Complimentary 1-category room upgrade plus stay 5 nights in a Beach Cottage or Beach Studio and receive a complimentary 50-minute spa treatment, welcome drink, bottle of local wine en suite and use of gym and sauna during your stay. Click HERE for more info and as always, be sure & tell 'em The Explorateur sent you!

*upgrade subject to availability

MY COMPLICATED LOVE AFFAIR WITH JOBURG

 I'm in love with Johannesburg. As I sit here in this amazing city once again, I am reminded how fascinating it is, so it's no wonder I'm frankly tired of the disapproving looks and quotes of incorrect statistics I get from so many when say its name. My first visit changed my life, and any trip to South Africa with an intentional Joburg bypass means missing out on this intriguing nation's soul.

Years ago, I could've stayed within the lavish surroundings of my hotel and shopped the day away, but I instead opted for a private tour including a visit to Soweto, an outskirt of a million people, with far too many living in absolute squalor. To be guided through a courthouse which was once a prison, only to find that my guide was imprisoned there himself for years for breaking curfew during Apartheid was a glimpse into a difficult emotional journey from hardship to forgiveness that I will never fully comprehend. 

Later on, I found myself comfortably at peace while walking in Soweto's massive outdoor market, and even having tea at an elderly resident's home who proudly regaled us with his own stories of the past. As we pressed on, I encountered a makeshift shop held up by 3 ratty pieces of corrugated steel. While I could have purchased all of the contents for less than the price of a gourmet dinner, I settled on pens and lollipops and we walked down the street to a school, where 50 beautiful children rushed to the gate to see us mysterious strangers.

 

Mostly clothed in tatters, all with bright sparkles of wonder in their eyes. In an instant we heard the most beautiful chorus of young voices, singing us the national anthem as a way to welcome to their country which they will always be proud of, no matter how much they have (or don't have). The tears flowed, the emotions raced through my mind and I wondered how many visitors miss out on things like this.

So, go to Joburg. Get out of the car, follow that intriguing aroma that's emanating from a hole-in-the-wall eatery, take time to visit a local orphanage to just hold a baby in need of love, even help a school plant a vegetable garden. For, this is a city of a million stories, with an indescribable spirit and edge that fully proved it has the strength to the entire planet with its flawless display of impeccable hospitality and organization during the World Cup.

The magic of Africa lies not behind the walls of a luxury hotel, its something only found discovered once you look beyond the surface. Do so and you'll gain a whole new perspective on yourself and what's important. I certainly did.

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE-Save up to 30% on a fabulous, custom-crafted South Africa tour complete with unique experiences perfectly tailored to your interests throguhout the country. Contact us at info@theexplorateurportfolio.com for more information and as always, be sure & tell 'em The Explorateur sent you!

XARA PALACE- Malta 

It’s hard not to fall in love with Malta.  It’s a mysterious, magical Mediterranean mixture that is totally unexpected and somehow always seems to surprise even the most informed traveller.  A little bit North African, a tad Italian, somewhat British with a hint of Arabic, it’s a blend of prehistoric temples, fantastic food, hidden alleyways, medieval cities, spectacular historical structures and rich diverse cultural history.  Though you’ll never know quite what to expect until you arrive, one thing you can be sure of is the hotel which will offer you the most fabulous stay, the Xara Palace.

This exclusive family-run hideaway is a member of Relaix & Chateaux, coyly hidden within the walls of a 17^th Century Palazzo restored to its original grandeur. The property, replete with antique furnishings and artwork is an homage to Maltese history and reminiscent of the ancient capital city of Mdina.  Back in the 1500’s, this was a hotspot for all manner of nobility, and today their eatery, Trattoria AD 1530 is a stunning reminder of those simpler times, with divine cuisine and panoramic views to die for.

Retire to your sanctuary where you’ll be ensconced in fine linens, spoiled with ultra-plush seating areas and luxurious marble bathrooms, all bathed in serene natural light, with original windows and fully restored balconies for charming views.  http://www.xarapalace.com.mt/ 

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Save 10% on stays of 3 nights or  longer, complimentary welcome drink, bottle of local wine in room upon arrival and use of gym and sauna during stay.  Click HERE for more info and as always, be sure & tell ‘em The Explorateur sent you!

*valid for travel through 28 Dec 2012, advance payment required, subject to availability. Quote savings code EXP/12 when booking

OUTRAGEOUS PERKS

Right, so you may have heard about tanning butlers in chic sun destinations, or super senior concierges that have connections to the best tables at the hottest eateries in town, but that's nothing compared to some of the most intriguing and lavish amenities at the world's finest hotels. Thanks CNN for the roundup! Would you find any of these useful in your travels? Tell us, we'd love to know!

-The Art Concierge, Andaz 5th Ave- NYC. GM Jonathan Frolich aims to connect guests with local culture, even going so far as to commission street artists to graffiti the hotel walls, and pushing guests straight to the top of the waiting list of world famous tattoo artist Mister Cartoon.

-The Fragrance Butler, Rosewood Hotels- North America- Want to try a new scent? Ring your butler who will be toting menu complete with scents from Chanel to Tom Ford, Bulgari to Marc Jacobs

-The Pet Psychic, Hotel Monaco- Portland- What's your pet thinking? If you're stuck on that thought while staying at this hotel, simply ring downstairs and this special staff member will work with you and your pet over a glass of wine to solve all manner of issues.

-Mad Men Mixologist, The Surrey Hotel-NY- On call 24/7, arriving in mere minutes with a cart containing just about everything needed to create a custom cocktail. He'll not only whip one up, but he'll leave the instructions behind so you can do it yourself. (and, he leaves the cart behind)

-Plastic Surgery Recovery, The Pierre- NY- Working hand in hand with NY Presbyterian, this package includes round trip car service to and from procedure, private escort, in room spa treatments, special healing menu and a doctor on call

-Recovery Conceirge, Ritz Carlton New Orleans- Taking it a little too hard in the Big Easy? Club level guests can now chat to Russell who will prescribe tips to rid the most horrible hangovers

-On Site Genealogist, Lodge at Doonbeg-Ireland- Trace your roots with their 2 resident members of the Council of Irish Genealogical Organzations who will trace your roots and coordinate visits to your ancestral villages

-Rock Star Recording Studio, Eden Rock- St Barths- Didn't make the cut on the X Factor tryouts? Indulge in their 16,000 sq ft Villa Rockstar complete with a recording studio where A-listers have spent time making music in the past.

OUTRAGEOUS HOTEL FEES

We've all had those moments where we feel we've been ripped off while traveling (hello 28 Euro glass of milk in Greece, one of my personal bests). I felt better after seeing this list- what's your best/worst experience? Shout out on Facebok and share!

Biggest Resort Fee? Ritz Carlton St Thomas- $55 per day. Um, didn't you already pay for all of the amenities in the hefty room rate?

Most Obscene Gym Fee? Wynn Las Vegas- $30 per day. I'll take a jog on the strip, better people watching anyway.

Most Absurd Valet Fee? Inter Continental San Francisco- $53 per day. No self parking option so you're stuck there

Craziest Room Service Fee? Trump International Beach Resort Miami- 20% service charge, 9% tax, $3 delivery fee. I'll go downstairs and get it myself.

Most Bizarre Fee- Elysian Beach Resort USVI- $21 per day Energy Surcharge PLUS $110 for daily housekeeping. I just can't even comment without being ridiculously snarky.

Sexiest Fee? M Resort & Spa- $20 "Men's Only" fee to visit the adults-only Daydream Pool. I thought that was just a guido club thing...

The Art Of The Galão- There are certain words in other languages that just cannot be directly translated in English. Take schadenfreude in German for instance, a feeling of pleasure gained via someone else's misfortune; ilunga, from the African language of Tshiluba, when loosely translated describes someone who will neither forgive nor forget a repeated wrong.

And then, in Portuguese there is the galão. This blissful beverage that elicits instant effervescent happiness is simple enough in its composition but incredibly difficult to describe exactly how delicious and uniquely flavored it truly is. It's the kind of drink that takes you aback and makes you want to say "you had me at first sip" as it's the perfect balance of ¾ hot foamed milk and ¼ espresso that somehow just tastes completely different in Portugal than in it does when recreated anywhere else in the world.

To be Portuguese is to live in a heightened state of all-consuming coffee culture. It was Portugal that actually even introduced coffee to Brazil by the King of Portugal centuries ago whereas most would tend to assume it was the other way around. It was brought to Brazil where it could be grown in massive volume and turned right back around to Europe, and now it's literally a part of the fabric everywhere across the country. In restaurants, perpetually buzzing cafes, clubs, museums, side streets, universities, homes and vending machines and is a daily ritual for most citizens, beginning early on in life.Coffee is more of an event, a social occasion even if only to meet someone and sip an espresso quickly while standing up at a café, it is a way to end (or even begin) a great meal and a means by which to spend a lazy Sunday morning.

The galão is truly best enjoyed a café in Lisbon. My choice would be a charming place called Pastelaria Suica in Rossio Square in the center of the city which incidentally served as a meeting point during World War II where exiles could negotiate their tickets to Switzerland and thus to freedom.

Outdoor seat, preferably facing a bustling square, aluminum table with just one leg slightly off kilter due to the uneven grooves of the cobblestone streets beneath your feet, tabletop covered by a waxy sheet of tablecloth paper, chair perfectly positioned outward in prime people-watching position. A galão is always served steaming hot in a tall glass, steam and gorgeous aromas arising constantly and one must take great care not to burn fingers. The sugarphobe in me always seems to take a hiatus when the concoction appears on a menu, because to have it just absolutely right, one must succumb to the multiple cubes that must be added to achieve the perfect balance.

Since a galão almost always must be accompanied by an obligatory sweet of some sort, order a traditional pastel da nata and enjoy that while waiting for your drink to cool. Then, sip or gulp, and enjoy the galão, the views on the street, and everything else that goes along with this charming city and stay as long as you want as most café waiters in Portugal will never bother you to move even if you decide to spend hours on just one drink.

If you can't hop the pond but find yourself in the New York metro area, hop a train or a taxi to the heavily Portuguese Ironbound section of Newark and take a stroll down to Delicia's Bakery on Ferry Street. It's about as close as one can get to the Lisbon experience, but there's still that tiny bit that's missing, that certain something that just can't be translated...

THE BLOCK PRINTER OF SANGANER- A wise woman (and I do mean very wise, as in Indira Gandhi) once said, ““If you wish to know something about India, You must empty your mind of all pre-conceived notions. Why be imprisoned by the limited vision? Don’t try to compare. India is different. And as exasperating as it may seem, they would like to remain so…This is the secret of India, the acceptance of life in all its fullness...”

Every time one visits India, it is a completely different story, another extreme adventure for the senses each complete with its own unique set of personalities and experiences. A few weeks ago, I added another person to my long list of “most memorable travel characters”, and if you ever find yourself in Sanganer, you’ve got to go see this guy.

Sanganer is located in Rajasthan, just a short jaunt from the Pink City we know as Jaipur where you’ll pass majestic temples, ancient forts and palaces en route in a gentle haze that makes the city appear to be dusted in a shimmery gold. Set within the majestic Dausa Gate, amid the camel-filled alleys, lie the homes of thousands of craftsmen whose ancestors made Sanganer the “metropolis of calico painting.” The delicate flower, bird, tree and animal prints for the gathered Rajasthani skirts were created here and it’s fascinating to sit and watch the older artisans in their orchestral movements through the block printing process. One separates the colors, another cuts the finely crafted woodblocks and a third prints each color down the fabric.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=akE6jQJkQSQ&feature=channel&list=UL

It was here that I shook hands, exchanged words, and fist-pounded blocks with the self-proclaimed “master of block printing” – a very senior guy donned in traditional dress, proudly showcasing with his outstretched arm and hand tremendously intricately printed cloths that he did by that same bruised, calloused hand over decades. He proudly shouted his name several times, along with his tagline- “ONE FIST, ONE DESIGN!” The prints were incredible, the designs so intricate and if it wasn’t fascinating enough to watch him, he gently placed a piece of cloth, a worn palette of ink stains, and a series of carefully crafted wooden blocks and with his eyes and hands alone, gestured for me to take a try which was exciting yet nervewracking. How do you perform with a master looking on at your work? The distorted elephant I somehow managed to create after banging blocks until my hands were red and numb seemed to amuse him and make him beam with pride. Not bad for a first-timer I suppose, or perhaps he was just thrilled someone was taking such an interest. It’s easy to lose sight of how much time these ancient, authentic crafts take to make when we live in a world of reproductions and cheap knock-offs.

India is a world unto itself, with thousands of possibilities so take time to savor moments like this- of which there will no doubt be many along your travels...

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Save up to 40% on creative, bespoke India journeys! Connect with us for more information and as always, be sure & tell ‘em The Explorateur sent you!

THE BLOCK PRINTER OF SANGANER- A wise woman (and I do mean very wise, as in Indira Gandhi) once said, ““If you wish to know something about India, You must empty your mind of all pre-conceived notions. Why be imprisoned by the limited vision? Don’t try to compare. India is different. And as exasperating as it may seem, they would like to remain so…This is the secret of India, the acceptance of life in all its fullness...”

Every time one visits India, it is a completely different story, another extreme adventure for the senses each complete with its own unique set of personalities and experiences. A few weeks ago, I added another person to my long list of “most memorable travel characters”, and if you ever find yourself in Sanganer, you’ve got to go see this guy.

Sanganer is located in Rajasthan, just a short jaunt from the Pink City we know as Jaipur where you’ll pass majestic temples, ancient forts and palaces en route in a gentle haze that makes the city appear to be dusted in a shimmery gold. Set within the majestic Dausa Gate, amid the camel-filled alleys, lie the homes of thousands of craftsmen whose ancestors made Sanganer the “metropolis of calico painting.” The delicate flower, bird, tree and animal prints for the gathered Rajasthani skirts were created here and it’s fascinating to sit and watch the older artisans in their orchestral movements through the block printing process. One separates the colors, another cuts the finely crafted woodblocks and a third prints each color down the fabric.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=akE6jQJkQSQ&feature=channel&list=UL

It was here that I shook hands, exchanged words, and fist-pounded blocks with the self-proclaimed “master of block printing” – a very senior guy donned in traditional dress, proudly showcasing with his outstretched arm and hand tremendously intricately printed cloths that he did by that same bruised, calloused hand over decades. He proudly shouted his name several times, along with his tagline- “ONE FIST, ONE DESIGN!” The prints were incredible, the designs so intricate and if it wasn’t fascinating enough to watch him, he gently placed a piece of cloth, a worn palette of ink stains, and a series of carefully crafted wooden blocks and with his eyes and hands alone, gestured for me to take a try which was exciting yet nervewracking. How do you perform with a master looking on at your work? The distorted elephant I somehow managed to create after banging blocks until my hands were red and numb seemed to amuse him and make him beam with pride. Not bad for a first-timer I suppose, or perhaps he was just thrilled someone was taking such an interest. It’s easy to lose sight of how much time these ancient, authentic crafts take to make when we live in a world of reproductions and cheap knock-offs.

India is a world unto itself, with thousands of possibilities so take time to savor moments like this- of which there will no doubt be many along your travels...

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Save up to 40% on creative, bespoke India journeys! Connect with us for more information and as always, be sure & tell ‘em The Explorateur sent you!

DINNER IN THE SKY- When terrestrial dining is no longer enough

When foodies converse with fellow foodies, it gets heated. Competitive culinary banter can reach all sorts of maniacal levels, generally followed by someone going down the El Bulli reminiscence route which can stop the one-upping in its tracks. Admittedly this foodie has pulled that card occasionally but I now have an even cooler gauntlet to throw down next time I find myself in a dining-obsessed crowd - Dinner In The Sky.

It is exactly as it sounds, and what began with a crazy idea and a crane in Belgium has spiraled outward to a worldwide phenomenon, available now in 35 countries. And if you can handle being hoisted 50 meters up on a table supported by a crane to have your dinner, then this is for you.

It begins with a rectangular table, fully set with service for 20, comfortable chairs, and smiling, welcoming, well-dressed staff. It seems normal enough until blast-off, and said crane propels you high into the sky, where you spend the next several hours hovering above the land below and drinking in stunningly breathtaking views along with your wine and champagne.

As you float along, the staff discreetly serves while you eat suspended in the air. Legs do not dangle thanks to a sturdy bottom platform, and temperatures do not become uncomfortable thanks to a generous canopy, and just about anything can be organized to be served. Chefs have their own place in the middle of the table to craft their creations and it's just full-on impressive from liftoff to descent. Cocktails flow, diners toast to the beauty and their luck to be aboard, and spirits tend to fly higher than the table itself.

The concept certainly has a wow factor that leaves event organizers on a high for months at a time reveling at their success with clients. Even those who may have a slight fear of heights stand to be cured just by the value of the views along with the simultaneous, perpetual adrenaline rush. One word of caution: there is no "rest room in the sky", so our advice is to visit before liftoff. Those who simply cannot wait are brought down briefly during the flight, which can sometimes be an inconvenience to fellow diners, especially those who have to be convinced to embark in the first place.

Though this flight of dining fancy took place over Paris, the apparatus and concept can be set up just about anywhere in the world. Over a vineyard in France, lazing over Lebanon, meandering sky-high over Monte Carlo, even over a concert or the Vegas strip for an extra fabulous surprise. Your cost for high-flying adventure? US $6500. Your take-away from soaring suspended in the air on this most unique culinary experience? Truly priceless.

SOUK THIS! LESSONS LEARNED IN MOROCCO
When I arrived at Djemaa el Fna in Marrakech, I fully believed I was keyed up with all of the negotiating skills I thought I so expertly acquired thorugh my years of shopping while traveling. Yeah- not so much- this place was unlike anything I had ever experienced and if you think you know how to bargain, think again before you step your foot in this souk because you will indeed be running with the big boys!

This has got to be one of the most fun, enriching, and gut-wrenchingly-funny things I've ever done, and I'd do it again weekly if I could. It's like being in a badly acted play, where vendors become abjectly over-emotional, almost heartbroken about having to come to terms with the bottom line price you throw at them.

I fondly recall the gentleman who held up a lighter against a jacket I was haggling about, who came to a teary-eyed point screaming he'd rather BURN it than sell it to me at that price...but guess what, I got the price, and a cute pair of shoes to go with it. And so will you.

Here are a few tips I learned:

1. Keep an open mind regarding what you want. If you think you want a red scarf for example, you'll likely be shown an array of hundreds, all with red hues and intricate unique designs,and you'll likely want to buy them all.

2. You are the MASTER of all things negotiable! Do not be deterred from the price you are willing to pay. And if you don't achieve success with one vendor, stroll down a few paces and you'll likely find the same items somewhere else so start all over again.

3. Poker face, poker face, poker face. Display no emotion.

4. Work on your "pretending to be disinterested" act after a few back-and-forths.

5. Relish the overly-emotive ham acting of the seller. Take time to appreciate all the work he/she is putting into it, the persuasiveness, the faux-anger, the close-to-tears-sheer-agony of when they finally come around to getting close to your price. It's a show, it's great and it's meant to be enjoyed!

6. Remember, this is how it goes. This is how it's MEANT to play out. It's easy to fall into the guilt-ridden trap of feeling as though you're somehow skimping on helping out the local economy, but they love this. It's a passion, it's how business at the souk is done so dive right in. What they will likely find strange or rude is if you actually didn't engage in a negotiation.

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Receive a complimentary bespoke Morocco travel guide customized to your exact needs...created by our Explorateur Concierge team when registering for Concierge Access. Connect wtih us for more information and as always, be sure & tell 'em The Explorateur sent you!

LA RESIDENCE HUE- Vietnam

There are hundreds of ways to experience Vietnam in all it’s beautifully chaotic splendor, but if you’ve ever yearned to cross the threshold into private homes, you’ll know that most of the tourist haunts provide only surface views of everyday living at a glance. Want to immerse yourself truly? We’ve got the solution. La Residence in Hue offers a fabulous Residential Life program that peers behind the curtain at everyday traditional life in the country’s towns and cities.

Guests of the program embark on an intriguing one-of-a-kind exploration that includes 2 nights at La Residence in a superior room, visits to a pair of traditional Vietnamese homes where descendants of Vietnamese royalty still reside today, visits to 2 French homes built in the colonial era including a gorgeous lunch served in the garden, cyclo transport and dinner at Le Parfum, the city’s premiere eatery. A dinner experience at Tha Om is also included, one of the city’s most exquisite compounds of traditional Vietnamese homes, whose owner is a noted preservationist and antiques dealer who has saved and revitalized four traditional garden homes bounded on one side by a stunning half-moon lotus pond.

It’s something out of a dream, a most unique way to experience how you’ve always envisioned this part of the world to be, behind traditionally closed doors for a revolutionary experience only a privileged few have been able to see. http://www.la-residence-hue.com/the-residential-life/

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Receive a complimentary bespoke Vietnam travel guide created by our Explorateur Concierge team when booking this package (a $150 value!) Connect with us for more information and as always, be sure & tell ‘em The Explorateur sent you!

CHARGING FOR CARRY-ONS

This is just so RyanAir-esque. Charging for carry-ons, I can barely even write such a sentence without a scowl on my face. Low cost carrier Allegiant Air will start charging about $35 per carry on bag. Come on now…

THE $1 BILLION RESORT-

Real Madrid, quite possibly the world’s most renowned football club, announced it will spend US $1 billion on a luxe resort complex complete with multiple hotels, marina and amusement park in the UAE. “Real Madrid Resort Island” will also feature an Oceanside stadium, hi-tech club museum and fabulous beachside bungalows with views of a hologram show scrolling Real Madrid’s most thrilling goals. And, in case you were worried, rest assured there will be a 10,000-seat stadium as well.

WORLD’S MOST DANGEROUS AIRPORTS

Whether they’re big, small, innovative or antiquated, if you’re an avid traveler, chances are that airports of any type intrigue you in some way. It’s challenging to fully grasp how these micro-cities function, and beyond that, how their design concepts even arise. Have a look some of these feats that have been named to the list of “World’s Most Dangerous Airports”- and consider this if you’ve ever flown into any!

-Kansai Int’l Airport- Osaka, Japan- Engineers here had to head 3 miles offshore into Osaka Bay to construct this artificial island that battles daily against potential earthquakes, cyclones, storms, unstable seabeds and global warming that may eventually impact rising water levels that surround the complex.

-Gibraltar- Moonlighting as a base for the UK’s Royal Air Force, commercial flights land here on a strip that is bisected by Gibraltar’s busiest road. Railroad gates drop each time a plane lands or takes off. Eek.

-Madeira International Airport- Portugal- A runway built literally on a bridge- thankfully it’s strong enough to handle a 747 but to look at this photo, it’s easy to have doubts.

-Courchevel International Airpot- France- Pilots landing at this airport in the French Alps would be best served by slalom lessons in addition to the required special certification before attempting this runway- takeoff is downhill, landing runs uphill literally, at an 18.5% incline grade.

-Ice Runway- Antarctica- Surprise, no runway here at all! Just a long thick sheet of ice that is groomed carefully and frequently, so supersized aircraft used to haul researchers and supplies can travel in and out with relative ease, as long as Mother Nature cooperates.

RIVA LOFTS- Florence- Stop dreaming about your own fabulous apartment in Florence and go acquire one! (well, for a few days anyway). We’re loving the sensational Riva Lofts- a collection of 8 contemporary, individually designed studio loft spaces replete with austere hand-selected modernist objects, intriguing artwork, antiques and soothing stylish colors that envelop you in an oasis of chill.

Years ago, father/daughter architectural design team Claudio & Alice Nardi blended their wealth of global experiences and tastes to create a curiously beautiful homestyle, welcoming atmosphere whose rooms are as individual as each guest. Spaces are all slightly different from one another when comes to elements and style, ranging from 300-1000 sq. ft...some with private terraces, others opening directly onto the private garden that surrounds a stunning metaphysical white sandstone swimming pool.

You've got the absolute best of Florence right here , just minutes from the city by foot or complimentary bicycle and the spectacular Tuscan countryside in the other direction. The property sits along the Arno River, just opposite the Parco delle Cascine which extends the tranquil feel. Indulge in a gorgeously prepared breakfast including freshly baked breads & croissants, cereals, yogurts and fresh j in a gorgeously prepared breakfast including freshly baked breads & croissants, cereals, yogurts and fresh juices before heading out to explore. A most fabulous, fashionable Florence feel...

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Spend 2 nights in a beautiful Loft Studio and save 390 EURO, plus be gifted with a welcome bottle of Prosecco in your room upon arrival, complimentary breakfast and one 35-minute massage for 2 people. Connect with us at info@theexplorateurportfolio.com for more information and as always, be sure & tell ‘em The Explorateur sent you!

* Valid until may 31^st (06-09 Apr excluded)

OASIS CLUBHOUSE- Buenos Aires

It's your very own members-only social club, your private space in the sexy, sultry city of Buenos Aires where guests are gifted with this phenomenal hideaway and gorgeous bespoke extras including exclusive events and dedicated concierge service. Opting to reside in a private club-style atmosphere allows guests to integrate themselves into the social and cultural fabric of a city, by living like a local.

Residing ever so discreetly in the city's ultra-hip Palermo Soho district, the property offers a stylish lounge with a rotating collection of contemporary art, two chic bars, a lush garden with the city's coolest infinity pool complete with signature poolside cocktails by Barman Pite van den Bossche. While summers sizzle here with the super social pool party atmosphere, chilly winter events are just as chic, spent at the cozy bar and billiards room or in one of the fabulous nightlife spots that line the street.

Accommodations here are more like complete sanctuaries, replete with just about everything a savvy traveler would seek. We're talking gorgeous king sized beds with handcrafted Indonesian headboards, oversized dressing rooms, private terrace, 60-inch LCD TV with DVD and a wealth of channels, iPod docks and double rainshowers. Add an extra splash of verve and upgrade to the Master and get 90m2 to play in, complete with fireplace, pool table and more.

The Clubhouse features a diverse calendar of fabulous activities exclusively for guests, along with access to their special Guest Services team who can create an absolutely distinguished, bespoke stay in this phenomenal city.

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- 20% OFF! Connect with us for more information and as always, be sure & tell 'em The Explorateur sent you!

THE MAGICIAN OF TERMINAL 5- Ah, the airport layover…to some (and when I say some I mean those like me), it means a great excuse to make mad dashes through duty free shops and newsstands buying ridiculous amounts of gossip mags and unnecessary cosmetic products that weigh you down as much as the in-flight buyers remorse pangs through the rest of the journey. To so many others that see it as a dreaded gaping void, we’ve got good news if your travels take you through London Heathrow. A magician, front and center, live and in person in grand Terminal 5.

That’s right, magician Mike Stoner has been hired by the airport’s Crown Rivers bar to entertain their customers. He’s no stranger to performing in front of large, diverse crowds from businessmen to celebrities, so taking on a blended group of airport traffic from all parts of the globe is a piece of cake.

Stoner’s unique brand of blended magic and mind reading skills is proving to be a most welcome diversion from the endless hours spent wandering the halls waiting to board. Tricks in the forms of cards, coins and hypnotic watches fly through the lively space, entertaining crowds with laughter and fun.

Heading to the UK or have a layover to contend with at Heathrow on 30 Mar? Catch Mike at his next show at the Crown Rivers, T 5! For more on Mike, check him out at http://www.magician-4-hire.co.uk/

HOTEL 1000 SEATTLE- There are 1000 reasons to love Seattle...daydreaming about them now while we close our eyes and wish for a Top Pot donut & steamy cup of hot Ovaltine to be teleported to us...but alas we digress. Topping our list of stellar Seattle finds is the ultra-fab Hotel 1000, the epitome of genuine, personalized service fused with cutting edge technology, wonderful cuisine and eclectic accommodations in a privileged location just steps from the waterfront along Elliot Bay and Pike Place Market.

Every detail has been carefully considered here, from the anticipative service down to art that adjusts to your individual tastes, and rooms that respect your privacy as a guest. Speaking of rooms, they’re more like residential-style sanctuaries- beautifully appointed, with space to breathe, gorgeous pedestal tubs, plush bedding, soothing colors and our absolute favorite amenity of all, free wi-fi.

Hungry? They certainly hope so, as the signature BOKA Kitchen & Bar with its convivial atmosphere and urban American fare beckons. Stressed? No problem- spend some time The Spaahh, an oasis of calm complete with spa and beauty treatments to rejuvenate the body and soul. Feel like golfing but don’t want to go outside? Test out a round on your choice of 50 of the world’s best courses at Hotel 1000’s virtual golf club, comprised of an infrared tracking system with planes fitted with 680 sensors calculating the velocity and trajectory of your ball on various surfaces.

For everything else that you haven’t thought of yet, believe us, they have- and there’s nothing their full service concierge’s can’t assist with. It’s a surefire Seattle win...trust. www.hotel1000seattle.com

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- “CURIOUS IN SEATTLE” package! Includes overnight accommodations, breakfast for 2, 2 Adult Seattle City Passes complete with admission tickets to local attractions & tours, 15% off Spaahh services, complimentary valet parking and a $30 gift card to Ye Olde Curiosity Shop nearby selling an eclectic mix of treasures. Click HERE for more info and as always, be sure & tell ‘em The Explorateur sent you!

EVADE HOTELS- BARCELONA

We're pretty obsessed with Catalonia (or Catalunya depending on who you're speaking to)... we can't quite put our finger on exactly why. Perhaps it's the fierce pride and independent strength of the people, or the multitude of converging landscapes from mountains to beaches, or the intoxicating wine and food, or maybe just the old-fashioned fun of decoding the language especially if you're a Spanish-speaker. Whatever it is, it continues to lure us back. It's easy to get drawn in by Barcelona's wonders, but on your next visit, consider moving a bit into the interior and discovering two unique boutique hotels within the EVADE portfolio that both define a true Catalunyan experience.

Are you into design? Be overwhelmed at the cutting-edge The Mirror where you'll surround yourself in dazzling white reflections of grandeur and dine on contemporary cuisine prepared by their 2-star Michelin Chef, with the city's most bustling streets just below. www.themirrorbarcelona.com

Obsessed with the city's architecture? Explore Hotel Cram whose majestic modernist, avant-garde interior somehow comfortably contrasts with its supreme comfort and warm, inviting atmosphere. Cuisine here is equally as intriguing with it's signature Michelin star-winning Restaurant Gaig, founded in 1869 and still churning out tremendous Catalan cuisine. www.hotelcram.com

Serious foodie? Well, then you'll fit right in at ABaC Restaurant & Hotel a bit further inland ..... It's all about the fabulous modern cuisine here, spearheaded by their own in -house 2 Star Michelin restaurant that allows you into this culinary palace for a peek, and an opportunity to select your wine from over 800 varieties. During any times where you're not sampling the sumptuous cuisine (which may not be many), you have your choice of one of 15 exclusively lavish rooms bestowing upon you the finest linens, soothing cream colored decor, extreme technology, Hermes bath amenities and privacy. www.abacbarcelona.com

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- 10% savings on accommodations and breakfast, plus welcome cocktail upon arrival and early check-in/late check-out*. Email info@theexplorateurportfolio.com for more information and as always, be sure & tell 'em The Explorateur sent you!

VILLA MAYA- SRI LANKA- Saunter slowly to the edge of a peaceful Sri Lankan village surrounded by rice fields graced by tree-filled gardens replete with exotic birds and tropical flowers...when you hear the soft call of cicadas flowing through the balmy breezes, you'll know you've arrived at Villa Maya. This exquisite property is a 110-year-old manor home-turned-luxury-boutique-hotel by world renowned designer Niki Fairchild stumbled upon the property in 2004 and has since creatively transformed it with a dash of Sri Lankan colonial style mixed with traditional chic.

Open plan spaces with wooden shutters, cool concrete floors and charming touches including vintage fans and stylish design details. Here, you'll find an old wing and a modern wing seamlessly fused, with a gorgeous courtyard pool carefully set in between. Each of the 5 suites here are luxurious and large, with 25-ft ceilings, tasteful décor and a wonderful staff to attend to your every need. Chef Darshana wins local praise with a creative Western/Asian fusion menu infusing locally sourced ingredients, and if you really want to remain secluded, book one of the three suites with private dining room and indulge in your own personal sanctuary.

If relaxation is your goal, lazy hammocks beckon while private yoga and Tai Chi classes are available within these tranquil surroundings. However, this area of Sri Lanka truly is wonderful for nature exploration, and visits to UdaWalawe wild elephant park, birding excursions, night safaris and marine life visits at the beach can easily be arranged. Villa Maya suites can be booked individually, or alternatively the entire property can be booked for a group. Either way, it's Sri Lankan luxury at its finest. www.mayatangallesrilanka.com

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- 4TH night free plus 2 special Maya cocktails upon arrival, valid for travel 01 May - 3 Jun and 01 Oct - 30 Nov 2012. Click HERE for more info and as always, be sure & tell 'em The Explorateur sent you!

BLOWUP HALL 5050- Poland

What do you get when you fuse a dash of inspiration drawn from the 1966 British-Italian cult art film Blowup with futuristic electronic designs crafted by famed Mexican-Canadian artist Rafael Lozano-Hemmer, monumental photography from Holland and iridescent installations from Spain? Why…the most futuristic hotel in Poland (of course). Blow Up Hall 50 50- A combination of luxury, hi-tech, the finest design, and the top in personal artistic experimentation.

Let’s start with the sexy low-lit lobby. You won’t find any room keys here, or even a reception area. Instead, you’re given an iPhone which will guide you to your room and will open your door via electronic command. Open e-Sesame….or something like that.

Rooms here are sleek, one never knows exactly what you’re going to get until your handy gadget directs you but they’ve got all of your creature comforts in place, surrounded in hip décor. There’s plenty to do around the area, especially if you love to shop as it’s just minutes from one of the top shopping centers in the world, as well as the lively Old Market Square with a huge selection of bars and restaurants. Browsing not your thing? Then have a steam or a massage back at the hotel before heading down to the ultra-chic bar replete with galactic style designs and hypnotic lighting. 50% art, 50% complementary elements, and 100% intrigue.

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- - Complimentary room upgrade*, bottle of sparkling wine in room upon arrival + late check out. Email info@theexplorateurportfolio.com for more info and as always, be sure & tell 'em The Explorateur sent you!

*subj to availability

TERELJ HOTEL- Mongolia

Head 70 km upcountry from Ulaanbataar and a most unexpected surprise awaits in Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, one of the most unspoilt, untouched places in the world where rare birds fly, glacial lakes sparkle, mountains beckon to be climbed, edelweiss sprawls across the hills, and hospitable nomadic tribes roam. This lavish oasis otherwise known as Terelj Hotel is a world unto itself, a veritable portal into Mongolian culture, history and pure adventure.

Terelj is tremendous in its beauty, and stunning array of offerings, and everything you might not expect in this corner of the world. Rooms were created as tranquil oases, rich with local artwork, exquisite linens, environmentally-friendly amenities and hi-tech gadgets galore. Bliss awaits in many forms at the property’s Terejlmaa Spa, a space entirely devoted to earthly indulgence, where you’ll find a vast menu of enriching body treats designed to restore your glow (and who couldn’t use something like that these days…) before you feast on the splendid array of dishes at four different restaurants.

They’ve thought of everything, from a creative Children’s Club to a Gentleman’s Club, where a game of cards and a Cuban cigar can be enjoyed, a museum filled with Mongolian antiques and souvenirs down to a Karaoke Room where you’re likely to hear jovial guests belting tunes in Mongolian, English, Russian or Japanese. Sporting from basketball to ice skating, cycling to camelback rides, this Small Luxury Hotel member has it all. And, what they haven’t added, nature takes care of in the surrounding areas where guests can visit the natural springs, scout wildlife, gaze in wonder at stunning natural rock formations, spelunk in the 100 Monks Cave, or explore a Buddhist meditation temple. A most amazing, unexpected jewel. www.tereljhotel.com

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Complimentary room upgrade upon check-in, plus complimentary detailed Explorateur Concierge Mongolia Guide to help you prepare for your journey. Click HERE for more info and as always, be sure & tell ‘em The Explorateur sent you!

IT'S IN THE TOILET- LITERALLY

They say sometimes that jokes just don’t translate from one language to another, but bathroom humor is pretty much universally funny and never more so than the Toilet Restaurant. Born of a daydream had by a man on the throne reading manga, this Taiwa eatery which began as an ice cream shop has expanded to a full-scale restaurant with multiple locations. Meet The Modern Toilet.

Just about everything here was designed with #2 in mind…from the lights to the plates, and as you might have guessed, your meals are served up in a ceramic toilet dish for what they say is to “deliver a shock and confusion to the senses”. We should mention you’ll also be sitting on a throne while dining- keep the lid down!. Be forewarned, things like “green dysentery” on the menu really mean “kiwi yogurt” (we promise) but some of the curries may not look that appetizing in the bowl. http://www.moderntoilet.com.tw/en/store.asp

Doesn’t quite sound like your thing? Or maybe you can’t get enough? Then try Das Klo (aka the toilet) while in Berlin, which is an all-out hammer-falling, water-spraying, gust of air-shooting, skeleton hanging bizarre world where wine is served in blood transfusion packets, seats are choice of coffin or toilet, sausages are served in mini-toilet dishes, and as you may have already guessed, beer is served in urine specimen bottles. The website narration is hilarious… http://www.berlin-klo.de/

NB to the squeamish…don’t order the chocolate frozen yogurt. #justsayin