IN TIMES OF NEED
By now, you know the destruction Hurricane Sandy has caused and as someone who is sitting right in the middle of the path it struck, everything now somehow seems different. Fortunately we were spared, relatively speaking. Power inconveniences and spotty internet are nothing to deal with as long as our families and homes are safe. For so many others though in Sandy's wake, and so many near me personally, they were not so lucky. Power out for potentially weeks, hurrendous flooding, homes and businesses lost and what we thought would "never happen to us in this part of the world" has indeed happened.
It got me thinking. We somehow have a bit of an invicibility factor at times, we think these things are never going to happen to us, and that they only happen to other people. When it hits home, it's unbearable at first and it makes you realize how important it is to not only help locally where needed, but to consider helping out globally. I've always been a strong proponent of integrating community outreach initiatives into any travel itinerary, it not only changes someone else's life, but yours as well.
We're fortunate here in the US that things move relatively fast, first responders and emergency crews work at lightening speed and what some of us consider to be major challenges like losing TV service (which we know will be back up in days) are really nothing in comparison to someone losing their home, their livelihood, friends, family and in some cases an entire village with little hope of rebuilding. The beauty of travel lies in the experiences you dive into and the memories you create. So much of the world is in need, get out there and see it, and be a part of it and if you are searching for any outreach ideas for inspiration, we've got them for you.
Our hearts and prayers go out to everyone that has been affected by Sandy, and anyone in the world affected by a natural disaster. We're with you, I'm with you. Be well, and stay safe.

WORLD'S WEIRDEST FOOD TOUR?
There's a saying in China that goes something like "people will eat anything with 4 legs except a table, and anything with wings except an airplane." You may think you know street food, but like most brave souls who take on Untour's Weird Meat Tour of Shanghai, you have no idea. Quite rightly so, because this culinary endeavor treks foodies through the twisting turning back streets, frequently stopping at some of Shanghai's most secret savory sites.

Your fearless food leader will pick you up at your hotel, arm you with an Untour Shanghai Welcome Pack and off you'll go on an adventure that will include plates of dragonflies, fried bees, pigeon, duck tongue, and heck knows what else.
It's easy to get lost in this sensory overload so not to worry, they'll provide you with a detailed recap of what you've consumed, and the pictures to prove it to your friends when you get back.

3 Kilometers and 3 hours later, you may find yourself reaching for the Pepto but one thing's for sure, it will be a heck of an adventure not likely to be repeated. Best of luck and may the food force be with you- and if you do try this, we want to hear about it!http://untourshanghai.com/Shanghai-culinary-tour/weird-meat .

BUCKET LIST ITEM- AT 25% OFF

* DID YOU ENTER YET? WE WANT TO SEND YOU SCHUSSING IN THE ALPS WITH A LUXURY STAY IN AUSTRIA! ENTER HERE *
For most Explorateurs, the words 'bucket list' and 'Himalayas' very often go hand in hand.It's one of those extreme aspirational journeys that we often dream about, but put off all too often. "I'm not fit enough", "I don't have the time", "it's too expensive".Well, what if we could help you with that? We know a trek that is absolutely ideal for ALL people.


If you can walk, you can do this and if you've got the drive, you can easily reach 5000 meters without a single piece of equipment or extra oxygen.We know it may sound unbelievable, but believe us - it's true. Cue Neeraj, your guide. A unique character complete with token bearded countenance, mild yet firm coaching style and effortless skill.He'll be your guide on this trek, and oh- did we mention, he also runs training drills for the Indian Navy?Yeah, you're in good hands.
This beautiful 6-day trek passes through gorgeous forests and vast meadows, and awesome views of the snowcapped Himalayas all along the way. Begin in Okhimath, and pass through Chopta and Tungnath to reach the summit of Chandrashila at nearly 5000 meters which is absolutely incredible. Along the way, Neeraj and his team set up camp and prepare your meals before you retire each night in a North Face tent for a good night's sleep to refresh for the next day's walk.
Once you finish, we recommend combining this with a stay at the luxe Ananda in the Himalayas to treat yourself to a handsome treasure trove of a reward complete with body treatments in their award-winning 24,000 square foot spa whilst connecting with your spiritual side.You'll certainly deserve it.This journey is delivered by the world-renowned Liberty India tour outfitter.


EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Save 25% when booking before 30 Nov 2012, travel anytime in 2013.Click HERE for more information and as always, be sure & tell 'em The Explorateur sent you!
 


WIN 3 LUXURY NIGHTS IN THIS AUSTRIAN WINTER PARADISE
It's time for you to get your schuss on. This uber-chic winter haven is a showpiece of stunning art blended with gracious Alpine hospitality & privilege...where your a reading butler is on hand to personalize your holiday book collection, your bath butler awaits to prepare the perfect spa experience, your Lifestyle service attendant chauffers you in a Maybach or unpacks your suitcase, an in-room spa treatment therapist on demand, and even a pet concierge to assist with all things canine and feline.
Hotel Kristiania Lech even features a personal ski concierge to ensure you are fitted (and outfitted) perfectly for the stellar slopes and all manner of apres-ski activity. And, they are giving away 3 winter nights of luxury for one lucky winner...complete with a special Lech Survival Kit. It's a surprise but trust us, you are going to find it most delectible!
Enter HERE and be sure to pass it on, the more you do, the better your chance of sitting pretty on the Austrian slopes. Visit our Facebook pages for updates on who's won...Good luck!


*winner will be selected at random and must be a fan of both The Explorateur . Prize is hotel only, 1 room double occupancy and does not include airfare, transfers, meals or tours. VAlid for a 3 night midweek stay between 07 Jan and 06 Feb, and 28 Feb - 07 Apr 201


ARE YOU OUR NEXT EXPLORATEUR?
We're always telling you about the things we find most unique...and now, we want to give you a chance to tell your own stories to our amazing like-minded readers that share a passion for unique travel experiences as a guest blogger!
If you're thinking about being a travel blogger, or dreaming about being a travel writer then send us a sample story. Subject? Well, that's up to you- perhaps you wish to share your most memorable (or most quirky) experience, give readers a glimpse into a hidden gem that nobody knows about but you, or even share a review about a travel product or experience that you found ultra-fabulous. We'll run the 2 most intriguing stories and cross promote them across Facebook & Twitter so here's your chance to shine.
Email samples to info@theexplorateurportfolio.com - happy writing!
 
*
The Explorateur does not pay for submissions, any entries or samples sent to editors are done so with the writer's understanding that there is no compensation. The Explorateur will request writer's permission in writing to publish stories before anything is run live.


LONDON HILTON PARK LANE- SECRET AGENT PACKAGE
To know me is to know my absolute obsession with all-things-Bond. James Bond. Those incredible international settings, those intriguing accents that sound beautiful but are impossible to place, the suspense, the action, the evil but laughable villains, and the glam. I was hooked long ago and I believe that's where my love affair with luxury hotels began.
The prospect of living like a Bond girl in sheer opulence, even temporarily, is just something that never gets old, and only more exciting as I tackle new destinations. To all of my like-minded Explorateurs, here's a brilliant Bond option to ponder. Oh, and don't try to find me on the day of the Skyfall premiere...'I'll either be first in line at the theater or in this suite...
 
In honor of one of the world's most famous spies, the London Hilton on Park Lane has launched the "Spies the Limit" package, allowing guests to live the life of a true international man of mystery, if only just for the night. Indulge in an overnight stay in the stunning Penthouse Suite, topped off with an evening at celebrity haunt Whisky Mist for a martini or two, and exclusive access to the Executive Lounge. And, by Penthouse Suite we're talking absolute Bond style in every aspect- 125m² in size with amazing views of Hyde Park and Buckingham Palace, ultra-sleek gadgetry that even Q would be proud of, including an automatic door closer, bespoke lighting system to set the mood, a TV set inside a mirror and even a jacuzzi complete with colored light effects. Spy friendly indeed.
The opulence of the suite is truly something out of any Bond film with the typical to-die-for views only found in movies and a private balcony to enjoy them on, swanky study for use when work actually needs to get done, and butler service which can be added on (naturally) as what self-respecting spy wouldn't have one on hand?
 
Prices start at £3,007 per room for two, valid for travel through 30 Nov 12. reservations.parklane@hilton.com for info and be sure & tell 'em The Explorateur sent you!

DAR DARMA- Marrakech, Morocco
Amidst the sanctuary that is Dar Darma, the word "no" simply does not exist. Your wish is their command, truly, at this private, casually chic private retreat that takes personal service to an elevated level. Carefully restored and thoughtfully preserved, this 18th century treasure is positioned beautifully in the heart of the Old Quarter, just steps from the Museum of Marrakech and the bustling Jemaa El Fna.

Elegance, seclusion and discretion abound throughout, with a traditional Moroccan décor carrying through the space from the hand-painted wooden ceilings to the intricate ancient portals. All 4 lavish suites and 2 apartments are unique in décor and character, featuring fireplace, spacious bathroom and impossibly thoughtful accents in the form of traditional handcrafted Moroccan furnishings, intricately painted ceilings, richly woven carpets and vibrant fabrics. NB- The Mirror Suite is especially decadent, where opulent reflections seemingly infinitely enhance the size of the space.

All of the rooms overlook the 2 central courtyards, blending into the Moroccan lounge, Hall of Arches and the fireplace lounge, oases of relaxation amongst the accelerated pace of the city. Their traditional hammam is best enjoyed when blended with a signature spa treatment, while culinary delicacies are freshly prepared throughout the day for dining enjoyment at each guest's discretion. In case you can't get enough of the chef's fabulous creations, Dar Darma also organizes interactive cooking lessons with the culinary masters so you can not only participate and learn, but also take the recipes and memories back home with you.

Life happens at each individual guest's pace, for here, there are no specific times for breakfast, meals or check-out, no demands at all except for those of the guest which are catered to effortlessly. Daring, delicious, divine...Dar Darma.

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Complimentary bottle of wine upon arrival PLUS, stay 4 nights, pay for 3 or stay 7 nights, pay for 5 for travel on select dates in 2013. Connect with us for more info and as always, be sure & tell 'em The Explorateur sent you!

MAGIC MOUNTAIN- CHILE
When your only option of accessing a hotel is via a monkey bridge, you know you're on to something cleverly curious and magical, like the Magic Mountain. Set in the middle of a forest in the southern Huilo Huilo reserve, miles from any sort of civilization lies this entirely self-sufficient craggy mountainlike structure that houses this interesting lodge who gets its name from a mysterious place found only in a book that was beloved by the owners that was said to have magical powers and grant wishes. Not only is it entirely self sufficient (not that the location would permit them any other option), but for anyone looking to have a wish granted that somewhat relates to sleeping under a waterfall, yes, it does that too.
At the top, water spews and cascades down the sides. At the sky, condors and eagles circle and call. At the ground, creatures lurk and at the comfort of your cozy room, you are ever more grateful to be several floors above land. Each of the thirteen rooms offer en-suite bathrooms and gorgeous forest (and trickling water) views, and are all named for various indigenous flora and fauna. Eleven cabins are also set nearby that can accommodate slightly larger groups.
Traditional meals are served daily at the Meson del Bosque restaurant, where chefs prepare authentic homestyle Chilean recipes best paired with a great selection of local wines, or a traditional Pisco Sour. We recommend you use it sparingly.
If the quirky architecture isn't enough to intrigue you, consider their amenities which are more like fantastic oddities. Hot tubs carved out of huge tree trunks, perched on decks proffering lush forest views. Or a mini golf course build into a walkway 40 feet in the air, that bobs and weaves through the trees, some of which have opted to grow straight through the plank. www.huilohuilo.com/alojamiento/montana-magica-lodge
Massively magical...

FASANO LAS PIEDRAS- Punta del Este, Uruguay
It's a beautiful thing when your destination is equally as stunning as the winding journey one must take to arrive, and in the case of Hotel Fasano Las Piedras, this has never been more true. One must really have a strong desire to reach this coastal haven, as it is an extensive distance from just about anywhere but once you arrive, you'll likely find it impossible to leave.
This is a destination for the jetsetter that years for adventure and luxury in abject serenity. Design lines are clean and angular here, farmstyle décor and upon first sight it seems as though it was completely carved right out of the landscape itself. The staff...discrete from years of handling celebrity clientele at sister properties. The service...multilingual, supersonically capable and intuitive down to the last detail. Design lines are sleek and angular, and the landscape is naturally Uruguayan with native flora and fresh vegetables used daily in the hotel's menus daily. Here, life is quiet amidst the inspiring scenery and rustic chic décor. This is where one goes to escape, ironically though you find yourself instead enveloped in the center of all that this region embodies. A natural stone outdoor pool beckons, a fabulous spa tempts, and the gorgeous cuisine served up at Fasano presenting Italian goodies and Las Piedras for more casual fare complemented by the ever-creative libations doled out at the bar ensure one is obtusely spoiled for choice. Bungalows here are intimate and inviting, all proffering phenomenal views of the greenery and the River Maldonado, while high-tech amenities and uber-comfortable bedding enshrouds you while you rest from a day of picnicking by the river, jet skiing and kayaking on the water, a complimentary session with a personal trainer, yoga session and spa treatment. The perfect antidote to the hypnotic hyper-active Punta del Este beach scene, impossibly close yet very far away from this stylishly remote retreat.
 
EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE OFFER- Complimentary breakfast for two people served in the restaurant, wireless internet access and 15-minute welcome massage in Spa Fasano. Connect with us for more information and as always, be sure & tell 'em The Exploraetur sent you

ANTARCTIC ICE MARATHON
 
I see this and all I can picture is Jack Nicholson yelling "You can't handle the cold!" You may see this and get inspired to do something absolutely beyond the ordinary (if not a slightly bit mad as well) and if you can in fact handle the absolute freezing, bitter, bone chilling temperatures- you might just have a shot at winning the next Antarctic Ice Marathon this November 20th.
The race takes place in this coldest part of Earth, the foot of the Ellsworth Mountains just a few hundred miles from the South Pole to be exact. 

We're talking seriously treacherous terrain, windchills of -20C, fierce Katabatic winds...oh, and did we mention you'll be doing this all at an altitude of 700 meters in 24/7 daylight? Minor details at this point. Runners embark on a 5 day whirlwind journey that has them flying from Punta Arenas, Chile to Union Glacier on the frozen continent where the 26.2 mile journey will begin. There won't be anyone on the sides cheering you on or offering you ice cubes, not even penguins or any mammals for that matter. Just you, the wind, the ice, the cold and the drive to conquer this last frontier. Overnight in the bright sunny evenings at the Glacier Camp, featuring double-walled cozy sleeping tents, home cooked meals and solar powered electricity.
Did we hear you say this isn't tough enough? No problem, there's also the Antarctic 100K Ultra Race reserved for the fiercest of competitors- truly the world's most freezing route through mountains and massive expanses of ice beginning on November 22.
Registration starts at €9,900 including the flight from Punta Arenas, 5 days' accommodation and meals, plus entry in your race of choice. As for me, I chose to sit back and watch and congratulate the brave contenders- all of them winners in my book for even attempting such a feat. www.icemarathon.com

PERCHING BAR @ PARC ARBOXYGENE- Reims, France

In France, there certainly is no shortage of absolutely fabulous ways for one to spend their time. However, the Perching Bar is truly the definition of haute fabuleaux (no pun intended), because you are, in fact, sipping a gorgeous selection of champagnes 18 feet above ground in a positively glamorous treehouse. 15 minutes from Reims (or 45 from Paris) puts you in the heart of Parc Arboxygene, which in itself is a bit of a haven for zip-liners and jungle acrobats alike.

10 more minutes of upward trekking which includes a stint on a suspended wooden footbridge and you’ve arrived at what is certainly one of the most unique outposts in the world. Inside, they’ve kept it classic rustic treehouse with a dab of chic- we’re talking stilts, comfortable furniture, modern designs carved into the wooden benches surrounding the perimeter, and sexy low-lighting at night which makes for a fairy tale-like setting. If your inner child isn’t convinced yet, they’ve even got rope-handle swings hanging from the ceiling.

Whether you sample the menu or simply want to soak in the incredibly lush views, entrance is 15 Euro (1 glass of bubbly included), and you definitely want to be there to see or be seen on Thursday, Friday or Saturday nights. Just delightful... www.perchingbar.eu



HOTELS FOR LONERS
"I vant to be alone..." If you've ever just wanted to channel your inner Greta Garbo and disappear from it all, literally, we've got the place for you. Meet the Bubble Hotel. Here's what we know: First, it's in Estonia, but far far away from any sort of civilization (approximately 150 km from Tallinn). Second, it's spartan- we're talking a 3 x4 meter living space with a bed, table, and two chairs...and yes, sans private toilet. Third, this thing is inflatable and shaped like a translucent bubble, and at the end of the day it's just the perfect place for anyone who truly wants to become one with nature and escape any sort of noise.
 
If you still "vant to be alone" but you feel just a bit better knowing there actually are human beings in the immediate vicinity, consider the new one-room rooftop boat hotel atop the Queen Elizabeth Hall at Southbank Centre in jolly old London. This architectural feat is a room for one, a haven and refuge from the bustling energy of the city. It's difficult to beat the panoramic views, and unlike some other quirky properties of a similar ilk, this one is stocked with all of the amenities you crave and prefer not to do without. The Room for London is almost impossible to get into as it's been nearly fully booked since it opened, but definitely add it on your list of sights to see when next in the area.

YOU SAY TOMATO, I SAY TO-MAH-TO...RUNNING WITH THE BULLS
 Mid-twenties, overworked and underpaid at a job I loved and loathed at the same time (loved only because it was in travel), post-breakup from a ridiculous relationship and in dire need of a summer jaunt. Me circa 2002, as I sat at my desk literally spinning a globe and throwing fun-tak at it to see what stuck. OK, so that didn’t work well, but far-too-low Iberia fare dropped in my inbox and off I went, decision made. I would run with the bulls. Solo.

I’d always wanted to do this, and it seemed like the perfect time to run. Run with the bulls, run from what was bugging me, run towards an adventure and off I went. Good old San Fermin, where would we be without him- a man who’s thought to have met his tragic end by being overrun by bulls in Pamplona, thus opening the door somehow hundreds of years later for thousands of fanatical, fervent revelers ready to take on the challenge head on. And so it goes, I arrived just in time for the beginning in early July, which starts with a bank, literally- with a spectacular rocket display known as the chupinazo. Then, the madness sets in, and for me it was sheer bliss.

8 AM the following day, dressed in the obligatory crisp white pants, white shirt and red scarf proudly tied around my neck...there I stood looking around at hundreds of strangers, and BAM! Crash/firecracker/yelling/screaming/laughing/chanting/handwaving all in that order followed by a huge tidal wave-strength shove as the masses pushed forward taking me with them. Why? Because there were GIGANTIC BULLS TRAILING BEHIND. It seems funny when you think about it (usually from thousands of miles away) but when you’re there and you see these things, you can either freeze or do your best Usain Bolt impression and get the heck out of dodge, literally. I recommend following the locals that chant to San Fermin for help and then run like nobody’s business. This is no joke, these things are real and can (and do) gore people or stomp over them. OK, so I didn’t run miles and miles each day, I’ll admit I only ran THAT day, but still it was incredible.

Your reward after such a daring feat? Getting soaked by thousands of tomatoes being pelted from all directions by fellow revelers which feels surprisingly amazing. Gone are your worries about the white clothes, wet socks, seeds stuck in your hair. Actually, gone are your worries about anything at all- while you hurl fruit at strangers that somehow become friends as you realize you’re a part of a most spectacular celebration of happiness and life. This is truly not having a care in the world, and it’s brilliant. Not for the faint of heart, but definitely for someone who needs a bit of a shake up and game-changer. I’d do it again, and I will.

THE JAPANESE CAPSULE HOTEL


When I was little, my mother used to caution me never to even think about crawling into a small space. Perhaps it was those multiple warnings while appliance shopping of “don’t get in that empty fridge and close the door, it’ll seal shut!” that planted a rebellious streak within me that some years later compelled me to do something crazy.  Spend a night at a Capsule Hotel.


Claustrophobics, consider yourself warned and if you need to turn away, I understand. For, this image of spending a night in a 4ft wide/6ft long space (and paying to do so) might be disturbing. I’m quite sure it’s disturbing to most people which is what also makes it so fascinating.
Though I must admit that the average dog in a cage has much more elbow room than a guest in the Capsule, it wasn’t entirely uncomfortable.

There is something inane about a cocooned feeling that evokes a sense of calm, but that all goes out the window as soon as you hear the first noise from your neighbor who's just way too close for comfort separated by a paper thin metal wall. Or, like me, until you start to burst out in hysterics with your travel companions scattered around you in Brady Bunch-opening-montage-formation.

It starts with a vending machine, granted with options you can’t comprehend, so you take your chances, insert some Yen and there you go. A handy ticket pops out that entitles you to one night in a Capsule. Walking down the corridor you get the dazed feeling that isn’t unlike being in a pet shop- hard nondescript linoleum floors under walls lined with cage-like structures 2 rows high.

Enter backwards and head-first and voila- you’ve got a sleep space complete with a thin mattress and blanket, a tv with limited channel selection, a funky 70-s hi-fi radio controller, and a pull down shade for maximum privacy. There’s even an alarm clock, but something told me that there was virtually no chance of me oversleeping. Bags stay locked up outside, as trying to insert anything else besides your body in the crawl space is virtually impossible, and there’s even a separate floor for ladies.

While it’s obvious the Hotel Asakusa & Capsule doesn’t equal comfort, the experience is certainly unforgettable.  Go for a few hours if you can’t spend the night, you’ve got to see it (and sleep in it) to believe it.

HOTEL FASANO LAS PIEDRAS- PUNTA DEL ESTE, URUGUAY
It’s a beautiful thing when your destination is equally as stunning as the winding journey one must take to arrive, and in the case of Hotel Fasano Las Piedras, this has never been more true. One must really have a strong desire to reach this coastal haven, as it is an extensive distance from just about anywhere but once you arrive, you’ll likely find it impossible to leave.

This is a destination for the jetsetter that years for adventure and luxury in abject serenity. Design lines are clean and angular here, farmstyle décor and upon first sight it seems as though it was completely carved right out of the landscape itself. The staff...discrete from years of handling celebrity clientele at sister properties. The service...multilingual, supersonically capable and intuitive down to the last detail. Design lines are sleek and angular, and the landscape is naturally Uruguayan with native flora and fresh vegetables used daily in the hotel’s menus daily.

Here, life is quiet amidst the inspiring scenery and rustic chic décor. This is where one goes to escape, ironically though you find yourself instead enveloped in the center of all that this region embodies. A natural stone outdoor pool beckons, a fabulous spa tempts, and the gorgeous cuisine served up at Fasano presenting Italian goodies and Las Piedras for more casual fare complemented by the ever-creative libations doled out at the bar ensure one is obtusely spoiled for choice.

Bungalows here are intimate and inviting, all proffering phenomenal views of the greenery and the River Maldonado, while high-tech amenities and uber-comfortable bedding enshrouds you while you rest from a day of picnicking by the river, jet skiing and kayaking on the water, a complimentary session with a personal trainer, yoga session and spa treatment.

The perfect antidote to the hypnotic hyper-active Punta del Este beach scene, impossibly close yet very far away from this stylishly remote retreat.

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE OFFER-  Complimentary breakfast for 2 people served in the restaurant, wireless internet access and 15-minute welcome massage in Spa Fasano.


FIERRO HOTEL- BUENOS AIRES

Sleek and chic, lyrical and poetic...the décor will draw you in and hypnotize you for your entire stay. Residing in the fashionably chic quarter of Palermo Hollywood, the Fierro takes the boutique hotel concept up several notches and invites guests to indulge in spacious quarters complete with sleek vinyl furniture, unique textured rubber walls, and Egyptian cotton sheets strewn across king beds.
Savvy, eternally connected travelers will well appreciate the free wi-fi along with iPads to lend, while iPod docks create a surround system tailored perfectly to your liking, resonating beautifully in your soundproof sanctuary of comfort

Though Palermo Hollywood is brimming with shops, dining and nightlife, guests need not go further than a few steps to the Fierro's outstanding restaurant, under the direction of chef Hernán Gipponi, a Michelin-trained master who's delighted countless guests in Spain and has now returned to his native land to dazzle travelers and locals alike. He's created a fine selection of exquisite selections utilizing seasonal ingredients from seasoned scallops with cream of fennel to grilled sea break with artichokes and beyond, always recommending the perfect pairing from their fabulous wine selection. (BTW, the guy in charge of the wine also just happens to be President of the Argentine Sommelier Association...just sayin') Not in the mood for a full dinner? Not to worry, Chef Gipponi's happy hour features beverages and tapas in a convivial atmosphere.

A gorgeous pool provides a haven from the bustling city, featuring a dry sauna, showers, and an honesty bar or simply laze about on your private balcony as you gaze over the treetops and rooftops of Buenos Aires. Viva... http://www.theexplorateurportfolio.com/continent/Fierro-Hotel/

EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE- Early check-in, late check-out and 1-category room upgrade if available. Connect with us for more information and as always, be sure & tell 'em The Explorateur sent you!

THE SEXY (IN)SIDE OF SAO PAULO
 Gray. Serious. Complicated. Enormous. A jumbled mix of thousands of mismatched buildings with jigsaw-style rooftops, all sitting at different levels both in height and décor. People walking on the main streets of Sao Paulo tend to be dressed down, covered up, almost aloof, and the vibe has you questioning yourself over and over again whether you’re actually in Brazil.
I’ve traveled to this megalopolis countless times and though I still haven’t warmed to it, I’ve finally discovered how to enjoy it. Sao Paulo defies everything you’ve learned or thought about the famed carefree, colorful, sexy vibrancy of Brazilian life. That is, until you step inside.
The word inside means quite a bit in Sao Paulo and it’s the difference between having an over-the-top strikingly fabulous stay, or a bland, perfunctory visit with the obligatory stops and subpar meals. Sao Paulo is deceptive. Buildings from the outside that house the most glamorous, chic venues or residences are often moderate if not run-down outside. Some might say this is for security; to me it's clever marketing as there’s nothing more intriguing than gaining access to something mysterious, and getting to the root of Sao Paulo’s sultry side takes a leap of faith.
A step into the impossibly enormous doorway of what otherwise appears to be a drab office-style building with a short drive-up that is the Tivoli Sao Paulo Mofarrej is to be swallowed up by breathy pulses of sound, stark eclectic design elements, and hidden corners where drinks and conversation last for hours.
tivoli-top-400.jpg
A seemingly wrong turn down darkened, uninviting networks of complicated streets, paired with a stroll behind a softly lit boutique turns into an arrival at the doorstep of hidden local favorite Back Gastrobar for incredibly indulgent dishes and fabulous jazz.
A marvel of a gaze outside at the semi-circular Hotel Unique whose plain exterior, save for the shape, will have you stupendously surprised at the stark modern interior design and literally endless views at the Rooftop SKYE bar complemented by pulsating beats and smiling, beautiful people day or night. And a saunter through the Liberdade district will have your head spinning with the overwhelming array of Japanese emporiums and restaurants due to the city’s robust Asian population which, for many first-time visitors, is also quite a surprise.
liberdade-district.jpg
I’ve never been one for clichés, but Sao Paulo is a book that absolutely should not be judged by its cover.


ILHA DE TOQUE TOQUE- Brazil
Toque Toque (or Tap Tap, depending on where you're from) is about as far away from the hectic yet beautiful chaos of any Brazilian metropolis. It's a tiny haven in the middle of lush, relatively uninhabited nature reserves, serving as home to this spirited boutique hotel so remote that you'd find it hard to believe Sao Paulo is a mere 3 hours away. 10 rooms in the middle of 17,500 square meters of landscape fits quite comfortably as you'd well imagine. And here, you'll find dirt roads, not paved- the artesenal work of caiçaras fishermen, not commercial boats nor yachts trawling the shoreline...and total, complete privacy in an ultra-romantic setting.

Couples will dig the startling views, the private hot tubs designed for deliciously sublime baths, the seclusion of it all. Eco-friendly travelers will dig the owners' commitment to the Earth- no trees were harmed in the construction of this hotel, water here is collected from a waterfall, and the only energy here is solar powered. There's even a nutritionist and spa therapist on property to help restore your balance.
Travel the week of 23-30 Jun and be treated to the seductive sounds of phenomenal Brazilian jazz artists that will heat up the sultry nights on the beach with their soulful sounds and blissful beats. Ilha de Toque Toque's 2nd annual Jazz Festival. Check out the website for more info at www.ilhadetoquetoque.com.br
 
EXPLORATEUR EXCLUSIVE-15% off of the Honeymoon Package including 3 nights in an Essencial Suite with private Jacuzzi, daily breakfast, 1 romantic candlelight dinner, one hour-long massage per person and totally romantic decorations and goodies en suite upon arrival, plus complimentary Natura sunblock for those days in the Brazilian sun. Valid select dates in 2012. Connect with us for more information and as always, be sure & tell 'em The Explorateur sent you!
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KUMBUK RIVER ECO LODGE-
Face it, no matter how many plush beds, 600-thread-count linens, and luxe rooms you’ve spent time in, it still is infinitely cooler to say you’ve slept in an elephant. And now you can. Kumbuk River is a gorgeous oasis on the southeastern Sri Lankan coast, set amidst a wildlife sanctuary brimming with amazing sights. Here, one spends their days trekking around this area known as Yala, exploring the riverfront, taking a dip in the herbal therapeutic pool before seeking a coveted glimpse of an elephant in the moonlight and then retiring in one. The structure is indeed the world’s largest “elephant”, which sleeps up to 10 comfortably in its surprisingly spacious belly comprised of bedrooms, a staircase, full bathrooms and a lounge. It’s even said to gently rock guests to sleep as it sways ever so slightly on a breezy evening. Everything here is entirely centered around the environment, from the complex’s construction, to the full integration of the concept in the guest experience where the property’s team spends time teaching all guests about Sri Lanka’s biodiversity and conservation efforts. By the time you leave, you’ll be fully aware of how Kumbuk River Resort’s sustainable efforts help local suffering rural economies as well. www.kumbukriver.com

FARE START- Seattle
Give a man a fish, he'll eat for a day. Or, if you're a typical restaurant, give someone a dish and he'll eat that meal, but what happens after that? Especially if that person is facing tremendous hardship and doesn't know where the next meal might come from? The admirable, innovative hybrid restaurant/job training programFareStart tackles that issue successfully each and every day with Seattle's homeless.



Over the past 19 years, this stunning example of culinary goodness has provided opportunities for over 3,500 of the city's disadvantaged citizens to change their lives, while delivering some four million meals to hungry adults and children in the area. FareStart, in collaboration with the city, believes in ending homelessness versus just managing it with band-aids by developing long term solutions. While most sympathize with the issue, FareStart took a proactive stance from the beginning by developing a culinary training program offered to adults and youth at risk. The 16-week comprehensive curriculum with a foundation of emotional and social support provides them with significant culinary skills and thus an opportunity to successfully reenter the community and the food service job market with a renewed sense of confidence.

The course blends hands-on training with classroom instruction, followed up by job placement assistance, and for the younger set, there's the Youth Barista Program also providing job training mixed with counseling on life skills to help them get back on track.
It doesn't stop there. Day in and day out, volunteers deliver nutritious meals to shelters and childcare centers, while educating on healthy food choices. FareStart students help prepare and deliver the meals, providing them with the opportunity to utilize their new skills, while serving as shining examples to those they connect with at the shelters. It is indeed possible to transform your life and end your own personal cycle of hardship by embracing the opportunities in front of you.

FareStart generates revenue to support these projects via its businesses coupled with the generosity of others. They bring together the community in a special way, night after night, and this is the reason it is always at the top of my list whenever I am in Seattle. Food is even more delicious when you know each bite is created from inherent goodness, and when you know everything you order is contributing to changing lives.

Teach a man to fish, and he'll eat for a lifetime, and if you're FareStart, teach a person to cook, and you provide them with an entirely new lease on life. www.farestart.org
 
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