If you think the small city of Magelang doesn't offer much, you couldn't be more wrong. Home of accommodations like Plataran Borobudur Resort & Spa, Indonesia's most-visited temples, and sprawling lush landscapes, the city's awe-inspiring wonders certainly prove that size doesn't matter.
Magelang is located in Central Java, Indonesia. Though covering a relatively small area, the Indonesian city envelops plenty of amusements and diversions for the leisure traveler. It features structures that house its prized heritage, modern attractions and establishments for convenience, and a gateway to some of the country's most treasured landmarks.
Museum Pangeran Diponegoro
Formerly the Karesidenan Kedu building, the site honors the location where Prince Diponegoro, one the nation's heroes, was arrested by the colonial government during the onslaught of the Java War. The chair on which he once sat, along with other artifacts, remains on display within its halls.
Shopping districts
Along Jalan Pemuda is Magelang's very own version of Chinatown, where the Chinese-Indonesian community mostly resides. Roughly translating to "Youth Street", it is lined with several shops, markets, and restaurants. The Town Square, located at the city center, is another spot where visitors can access Magelang's most convenient attractions. These include prominent department stores, cinemas, banking institutions, and business offices.
Parks
Magelang is bordered on the east by the Elo River and on the west by the Progo River, the latter of which can be easily accessed through the Kyai Langgeng Park. Located 1 km from the city center, the 28-hectare property offers a family-friendly environment with playground fixtures, rare plants, sprawling greenery, and rafting activities.
Temples
Probably one of the most famous landmarks and reason to visit Magelang, Borobudur lies just a few minutes from the city. The majestic and truly captivating Mahayana Buddhist monument was built around the 9th century and declared as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. This incredible landmark includes 6 square platforms, topped by 3 more circular ones, and decorated with remarkably detailed relief panels and over 504 Buddha statues. On top of the eye-catching structure is a grand dome, located at the center of the platform, and surrounded by more Buddha statues. The ancient shrine is often the destination for Buddhist pilgrims and, of course, tourists that seek to witness the temple in all its glory.
Sports Complexes and Resorts
For a more contemporary and luxurious holiday in Magelang, the city also offers a variety of establishments for a lavish getaway. The International Golf and Country Club opened in 2006 in the middle of town with an 18-hole greenery designed by Douglas Duncanson and Jababeka. There is also the plush Magelang resort called the Plataran Borobudur Resort & Spa, where guests can retreat to serene, well-appointed spaces while relishing the view of the Borobudur Temple and surrounding landscapes.
By : Bookhotelsonline
Wednesday, 29 August 2012
Thursday, 23 August 2012
Travelling the Canning Stock Route
The outback of Australia is a hot, dry, desolate place, full of spiders, scorpions and not ONE Blooming Onion in sight; it's nothing at all like the steakhouse! But this is the kind of stuff that adventourists live for: The off-chance of being stranded without water or GPS for days, pitted against the elements, wondering if they'll ever live to gaze upon the tender eyes of their loved one just…one…more…time.
First, A Little History
Australia is a continent that was built on the backs of British convicts, gold explorers and other adventurers. As these foreigners started settling Australia, they brought over their livestock, equipment, and technology; they also brought over parasites.
In the late mid-19th century the face of Australia was developing rapidly. New cities were springing up along the coast to house the influx of immigrants. Immigrants preferred to settle the coast because its climate was more moderate and access to the ocean facilitated international trade.
But, while some struck it rich, others fell on hard times. Imported cattle in eastern Kimberly--a region in Western Australia--were discovered to be carrying the boophillis tick. The tick, in turn, was a carrier of the Babesia parasite--a blood parasite that caused malaria-like symptoms in those infected.
Authorities feared the spread of the parasite and ordered a ban on shipping eastern Kimberly cattle, giving a near monopoly on beef to the cattle ranchers in western Kimberly.
Faced with the loss of their livelihood affected ranchers needed a solution. The ranchers reasoned that the ticks would not survive in the dry desert climate and proposed that the government create a stock route so they could walk their cattle to the markets on the west coast.
The government was keen on reducing beef prices and agreed to begin surveying a route that these ranchers could take.
Many speculated that it would be impossible to create a route in such an inhospitable terrain, but the government, nevertheless, commissioned Alfred Canning to do so. And so, Canning set out to do what previous expeditions concluded as an impossibility.
Canning resorted to brutal tactics, enslaving local aboriginal people to find underground water sources along the route. Canning ultimately succeeded in finding a giant sub-artesian basin in this barren landscape and sinking close to 50 water wells along an 1,850km route from Halls Creek to the mining town of Wiluna in the west.
The Canning Stock Route
The route was opened up for commercial cattle driving in 1910, but the first parties that attempted to cross the route suffered terrible fates. The aboriginals resented the foreigners--because let's be frank, colonialists were kind of asshol-ish in their tolerance and respect for other cultures--and killed those that attempted to cross. Word spread of this added danger, and ranchers began to fear walking this desolate and dangerous route.
Between the route's opening in 1910 and final livestock drive in 1959, the route was seldom used.
In the 1970's adventurous travelers reinvented the Canning stock route as something of a novel adventure and began walking and cycling it. In 2005, Jakub Postrzygacz became the first person to traverse the entire track without backup, travelling alone by bicycle for 33 days.
Today, the Canning Stock Route is one of the world's great four-wheel drive adventures. The track is unmaintained and remains open only by the passage of vehicles, so travelling the route you will get an untainted taste Australia's natural offerings. Along the way you will be exposed to starry skies, exotic wildlife, and incredible scenery.
There are different ways you can do the stock route. You can do it as part of an organized two-week tour, where you will be supplied with freshly-prepared meals, fine wine, and a curated look at the various landmarks along the route. Or, you can go solo and do the I-need-to-keep-going-or-else-I-will-die-here,-oh-god,-what-just-bit me?-I-hope-it's-not-poisonous.-It-is-poisonous!-I'm-swelling-up!-For-the-love-of-god, what-happened-to-all-my-water adventure.
By : TheAdvenTourist
First, A Little History
Australia is a continent that was built on the backs of British convicts, gold explorers and other adventurers. As these foreigners started settling Australia, they brought over their livestock, equipment, and technology; they also brought over parasites.
In the late mid-19th century the face of Australia was developing rapidly. New cities were springing up along the coast to house the influx of immigrants. Immigrants preferred to settle the coast because its climate was more moderate and access to the ocean facilitated international trade.
But, while some struck it rich, others fell on hard times. Imported cattle in eastern Kimberly--a region in Western Australia--were discovered to be carrying the boophillis tick. The tick, in turn, was a carrier of the Babesia parasite--a blood parasite that caused malaria-like symptoms in those infected.
Authorities feared the spread of the parasite and ordered a ban on shipping eastern Kimberly cattle, giving a near monopoly on beef to the cattle ranchers in western Kimberly.
Faced with the loss of their livelihood affected ranchers needed a solution. The ranchers reasoned that the ticks would not survive in the dry desert climate and proposed that the government create a stock route so they could walk their cattle to the markets on the west coast.
The government was keen on reducing beef prices and agreed to begin surveying a route that these ranchers could take.
Many speculated that it would be impossible to create a route in such an inhospitable terrain, but the government, nevertheless, commissioned Alfred Canning to do so. And so, Canning set out to do what previous expeditions concluded as an impossibility.
Canning resorted to brutal tactics, enslaving local aboriginal people to find underground water sources along the route. Canning ultimately succeeded in finding a giant sub-artesian basin in this barren landscape and sinking close to 50 water wells along an 1,850km route from Halls Creek to the mining town of Wiluna in the west.
The Canning Stock Route
The route was opened up for commercial cattle driving in 1910, but the first parties that attempted to cross the route suffered terrible fates. The aboriginals resented the foreigners--because let's be frank, colonialists were kind of asshol-ish in their tolerance and respect for other cultures--and killed those that attempted to cross. Word spread of this added danger, and ranchers began to fear walking this desolate and dangerous route.
Between the route's opening in 1910 and final livestock drive in 1959, the route was seldom used.
In the 1970's adventurous travelers reinvented the Canning stock route as something of a novel adventure and began walking and cycling it. In 2005, Jakub Postrzygacz became the first person to traverse the entire track without backup, travelling alone by bicycle for 33 days.
Today, the Canning Stock Route is one of the world's great four-wheel drive adventures. The track is unmaintained and remains open only by the passage of vehicles, so travelling the route you will get an untainted taste Australia's natural offerings. Along the way you will be exposed to starry skies, exotic wildlife, and incredible scenery.
There are different ways you can do the stock route. You can do it as part of an organized two-week tour, where you will be supplied with freshly-prepared meals, fine wine, and a curated look at the various landmarks along the route. Or, you can go solo and do the I-need-to-keep-going-or-else-I-will-die-here,-oh-god,-what-just-bit me?-I-hope-it's-not-poisonous.-It-is-poisonous!-I'm-swelling-up!-For-the-love-of-god, what-happened-to-all-my-water adventure.
By : TheAdvenTourist
Friday, 17 August 2012
The Direct Train From Delhi
The Direct Train from Delhi which begins at 5'o clock in the morning takes you to the Centre of India - Bhopal. From the railway station we take you to the Hotel where the food of your choice will be served as Dinner. The night is at your disposal. In the morning after the refreshing Breakfast, we leave off for Khajuraho. The Morning Breakfast will be served early, so that we can leave by 9 a.m. It will be 12 0'clock in the afternoon by the time we will reach Khajuraho.
Khajuraho, the UNESCO World Heritage Site depicts the 22 live Temple made by the Chandelas in the 10th and 12th Century. It took 100 years to make these beautiful Temples of the Shikhara Temple Styles. Take a round around these and see the engraved rock - cut architecture of these temples. With all the beautiful surroundings, the Khajuraho Temples are a marvel to see.
Your night stay will be here in the 5 star Hotel / 4 star hotel near the Khajuraho Temple. Dinner with the Inter - Continental Dishes will be served in the Hotel. The morning shall see you at the Khajuraho Airport from where you shall be deported to the Pink City of Rajasthan.
Day 3:
As soon as you reach, the cab outside the Airport will be waiting to take you to the Hotel. After the Traditional Welcome of Tilak and Phoolmala (Garland ), you will be shown off to your room. After a little refreshment we will take you to a city tour with the round about of the Lake Palace. This Palace known for the Bird Shooting and its five levels under the water, is a well known destination of Jaipur - the Pink City of Rajasthan. In the evening you can shop at the local markets of Jaipur or just roam around. If you wish to shop, then look for Rajasthani Shoes called Mojaris or the Ghaghra Choli. After this we shall take you to the most famous Man Made Village of Jaipur called Choki Dhani. Enjoy the Rajasthani Culture among the fireworks, camel ride and the rajasthani delicacies. Its one of the best experiences you will have. The night will be spent here in the nice and cosy air - conditioned huts of Choki Dhani.
Day 4:
After the breakfast the say bye to the Choki Dhani and set afoot on the luxury coach to see the other attractions of Jaipur City. First of all we shall take you to the most famous Palace of Jaipur - the Hawa Mahal/ Wind Palace. With thousands of Jalis in the Honeycomb style, it is famous for its brilliant architecture. Painted in dark pink it also houses the museum containing the relics of the Queen and the King.
From here we move to the place where the Rotating Hotel is present. Both a famous hotel and a popular market, it has what the Jaipur Sells as the Blue Pottery. In addition to the Blue Pottery, you can shop for the Rajasthani Silver Jewellery, Artificial Jewellery, Meena Ka Kaam and Mojaris.
After the lunch in a good hotel which serves the Multi Cuisine we move on to the City Palace. Known for its beautiful grounds and the combination of red and creme color; see the Kings and Queens Palace. The Queens Palace known as the Chandni Mahal is inside the City Palace. With enough ground for the courtiers and various functions, it is painted with the beautiful paintings of gold and dark blue. Green too has been added in some places.
The City Palaces arranges for the Dinner in a Royal Manner. T o give you a feeling how the Kings and Queens used to have dinner in the old days, we have arranged for your dinner here. Enjoy the Royal Feast!
The night shall be spent in your Hotel.
Day 5:
The new day shall see you hopping on the Train towards Jaisalmer. Known for the sand dunes, its a perfect place for a new adventure. The lunch shall be served on board.
You shall set off for the Sand Dunes in the Evening after light refreshments. Then here you are, in the Sand Dunes of Jaisalmer. With the vast stretch of the Sand and the Camels with you, it will be a different experience. Spend the night listening to the folk songs and dancing to the Rajasthani Tunes as the food is being prepared here. The Tents shall furnish for the night. The morning shall see you back with the Guide.
Day 6:
After a heavy breakfast and refreshment we shall take you to Barmer - the City of Palaces. Open your eyes to one of the many beautiful Palaces of Barmer. Each Palace has its own uniqueness. So here you shall be, walking from one corridor to another, watching the beautiful paintings and the surroundings - spending your entire half day at leisure. The next day too, shall be your rest day. You can spend your day as per your wish - either watching the city or playing the Golf else resting the entire day enjoying the life of a Palace - the choice is your. The Dinner shall be a lavish Rajasthani Feast with cuisine of Dal Bati Choorma, Papadi Dal, Gatte Ki Sabzee, Methi Paak, Bajre Ki Roti, Moong ka Halwa, Dry Fruit Chutney and so on....
Day 7:
The next morning after the breakfast you can see the Barmer city and can do a little shopping. In the afternoon after the lunch, we shall go ahead for another beautiful Destination - Agra. By the evening you will reach Agra. The night stay shall be at another good Hotel of the City.
Day 8:
The breakfast will be served in the Hall. A lavish Breakfast of the Uttar Pradesh shall be served in the morning / or as per your taste. After the breakfast, hop on the A/C Coach to see the building which comes under the Seven Wonders of the World - The Taj Mahal. Made by Shah Jahan in the memory of his Beloved Queen Noorjahan, this architectural Marvel stands here from 1700 A.D. After a good watch we will move to the Agra Fort. The third largest fort of the Country, the Agra Fort is the place from where Shah Jahan used to watch Taj Mahal in his seclusion. With a private Mosque, its a beauty undaunted.
After the lunch in the hotel you are at your ease to take a Guided Tour of the City. The Dinner Shall be served in the Hotel.
Day 10:
Next morning after the breakfast you will be in the Capital of India - Delhi. Keep your bags in the Hotel, as the day would be spent at seeing the marvels of the Capital.
The first place we will see is the Raj ghat. The last place of the Father of the Nation, Raj Ghat comes as a quiet place. From here we shall go to the Red Fort of Delhi. Beautiful and large, it will take at least two hours of yours. Near to the Red Fort is the famous market of Delhi - Chandni Chowk. Shop here till your pockets are empty as its famous for its traditional indian dresses. Eat the chaat and drink the lemon here.
In the evening you can see the Lotus Temple. Made in the Shape of a Lotus, this Baih Temple is also a Meditation Centre. The dinner will be at the Hotel.
Day 11:
After a refreshing Breakfast we will take you to Qutub Minar. This leaning Minar, still stands today as the Architectural Marvel. Take a round of the Minar and then hop on to see the Akshardham Temple. This Huge Temple spread in 100 acres of area, is the beautiful example of the Hindu Architecture.
Spend your evening in the Cannaught Place Market - the most sought after shopping market of delhi for Souvenirs. In C.P. Shop for Kashmiri Papiermache, Pashmina Shawls, Indian Sarees, Ghagra Cholis, Artifact s, Paintings and so on..... You can spend the time here at your leisure and have dinner in the good hotels of Connaught Place. Our Coach shall take you back to the hotel in the night.
By : Rafael Chumbe
Khajuraho, the UNESCO World Heritage Site depicts the 22 live Temple made by the Chandelas in the 10th and 12th Century. It took 100 years to make these beautiful Temples of the Shikhara Temple Styles. Take a round around these and see the engraved rock - cut architecture of these temples. With all the beautiful surroundings, the Khajuraho Temples are a marvel to see.
Your night stay will be here in the 5 star Hotel / 4 star hotel near the Khajuraho Temple. Dinner with the Inter - Continental Dishes will be served in the Hotel. The morning shall see you at the Khajuraho Airport from where you shall be deported to the Pink City of Rajasthan.
Day 3:
As soon as you reach, the cab outside the Airport will be waiting to take you to the Hotel. After the Traditional Welcome of Tilak and Phoolmala (Garland ), you will be shown off to your room. After a little refreshment we will take you to a city tour with the round about of the Lake Palace. This Palace known for the Bird Shooting and its five levels under the water, is a well known destination of Jaipur - the Pink City of Rajasthan. In the evening you can shop at the local markets of Jaipur or just roam around. If you wish to shop, then look for Rajasthani Shoes called Mojaris or the Ghaghra Choli. After this we shall take you to the most famous Man Made Village of Jaipur called Choki Dhani. Enjoy the Rajasthani Culture among the fireworks, camel ride and the rajasthani delicacies. Its one of the best experiences you will have. The night will be spent here in the nice and cosy air - conditioned huts of Choki Dhani.
Day 4:
After the breakfast the say bye to the Choki Dhani and set afoot on the luxury coach to see the other attractions of Jaipur City. First of all we shall take you to the most famous Palace of Jaipur - the Hawa Mahal/ Wind Palace. With thousands of Jalis in the Honeycomb style, it is famous for its brilliant architecture. Painted in dark pink it also houses the museum containing the relics of the Queen and the King.
From here we move to the place where the Rotating Hotel is present. Both a famous hotel and a popular market, it has what the Jaipur Sells as the Blue Pottery. In addition to the Blue Pottery, you can shop for the Rajasthani Silver Jewellery, Artificial Jewellery, Meena Ka Kaam and Mojaris.
After the lunch in a good hotel which serves the Multi Cuisine we move on to the City Palace. Known for its beautiful grounds and the combination of red and creme color; see the Kings and Queens Palace. The Queens Palace known as the Chandni Mahal is inside the City Palace. With enough ground for the courtiers and various functions, it is painted with the beautiful paintings of gold and dark blue. Green too has been added in some places.
The City Palaces arranges for the Dinner in a Royal Manner. T o give you a feeling how the Kings and Queens used to have dinner in the old days, we have arranged for your dinner here. Enjoy the Royal Feast!
The night shall be spent in your Hotel.
Day 5:
The new day shall see you hopping on the Train towards Jaisalmer. Known for the sand dunes, its a perfect place for a new adventure. The lunch shall be served on board.
You shall set off for the Sand Dunes in the Evening after light refreshments. Then here you are, in the Sand Dunes of Jaisalmer. With the vast stretch of the Sand and the Camels with you, it will be a different experience. Spend the night listening to the folk songs and dancing to the Rajasthani Tunes as the food is being prepared here. The Tents shall furnish for the night. The morning shall see you back with the Guide.
Day 6:
After a heavy breakfast and refreshment we shall take you to Barmer - the City of Palaces. Open your eyes to one of the many beautiful Palaces of Barmer. Each Palace has its own uniqueness. So here you shall be, walking from one corridor to another, watching the beautiful paintings and the surroundings - spending your entire half day at leisure. The next day too, shall be your rest day. You can spend your day as per your wish - either watching the city or playing the Golf else resting the entire day enjoying the life of a Palace - the choice is your. The Dinner shall be a lavish Rajasthani Feast with cuisine of Dal Bati Choorma, Papadi Dal, Gatte Ki Sabzee, Methi Paak, Bajre Ki Roti, Moong ka Halwa, Dry Fruit Chutney and so on....
Day 7:
The next morning after the breakfast you can see the Barmer city and can do a little shopping. In the afternoon after the lunch, we shall go ahead for another beautiful Destination - Agra. By the evening you will reach Agra. The night stay shall be at another good Hotel of the City.
Day 8:
The breakfast will be served in the Hall. A lavish Breakfast of the Uttar Pradesh shall be served in the morning / or as per your taste. After the breakfast, hop on the A/C Coach to see the building which comes under the Seven Wonders of the World - The Taj Mahal. Made by Shah Jahan in the memory of his Beloved Queen Noorjahan, this architectural Marvel stands here from 1700 A.D. After a good watch we will move to the Agra Fort. The third largest fort of the Country, the Agra Fort is the place from where Shah Jahan used to watch Taj Mahal in his seclusion. With a private Mosque, its a beauty undaunted.
After the lunch in the hotel you are at your ease to take a Guided Tour of the City. The Dinner Shall be served in the Hotel.
Day 10:
Next morning after the breakfast you will be in the Capital of India - Delhi. Keep your bags in the Hotel, as the day would be spent at seeing the marvels of the Capital.
The first place we will see is the Raj ghat. The last place of the Father of the Nation, Raj Ghat comes as a quiet place. From here we shall go to the Red Fort of Delhi. Beautiful and large, it will take at least two hours of yours. Near to the Red Fort is the famous market of Delhi - Chandni Chowk. Shop here till your pockets are empty as its famous for its traditional indian dresses. Eat the chaat and drink the lemon here.
In the evening you can see the Lotus Temple. Made in the Shape of a Lotus, this Baih Temple is also a Meditation Centre. The dinner will be at the Hotel.
Day 11:
After a refreshing Breakfast we will take you to Qutub Minar. This leaning Minar, still stands today as the Architectural Marvel. Take a round of the Minar and then hop on to see the Akshardham Temple. This Huge Temple spread in 100 acres of area, is the beautiful example of the Hindu Architecture.
Spend your evening in the Cannaught Place Market - the most sought after shopping market of delhi for Souvenirs. In C.P. Shop for Kashmiri Papiermache, Pashmina Shawls, Indian Sarees, Ghagra Cholis, Artifact s, Paintings and so on..... You can spend the time here at your leisure and have dinner in the good hotels of Connaught Place. Our Coach shall take you back to the hotel in the night.
By : Rafael Chumbe
Saturday, 11 August 2012
Expose on South America Travel - The Luxury Landscape Unfolds
(1888PressRelease) By 2013 we will see the luxury market in South America explode as groundbreaking boutique hoteliers such as Rogerio Fasano and Aman open game-changing resorts.
I have seen the future of South America and I advise you to get out your darkest sunglasses because this future is as bright as a solar flare. The eyes of the world are on South America, especially as Brazil hosts the region's first Olympic Games in 2016.
I will make a case that by 2013 we will see the luxury market in South America explode as groundbreaking boutique hoteliers such as Rogerio Fasano, Aman Resorts, Relais & Châteaux and others create a new impression: that South America can bring it!
We have discovered long ago that the unparalleled natural beauty of South America is as complex as its nations. From the rainforests of the Amazon, the Atacama Desert and the unspoiled Galapagos Islands, to the majestic peaks of the Andes and the glaciers of Patagonia, the landscape is awe-inspiring, the wildlife stunning and the differing cultures utterly beguiling. However, we have seen little sophistication and world-class luxury outside the iconic Orient Express properties. With the exception of a few breakthrough gems such as the Ponta Dos Ganchos Exclusive Resort in Floripa, the Cavas Wine Lodge in Mendoza and the Estrela d'Aqua in Trancoso, which are all affiliated with Relais & Châteaux, South America has disappointed those who have sought to explore the region's beauty in the highest standards of comfort and luxury.
But here is the good news. Over the next year we will see Aman Resorts, St. Regis, The Singular and Fasano among others open new exciting, "game-changing" properties that will compete with anything in Europe or Asia. This breakthrough moment can't come soon enough.
Brazil:
Brazil has been slow to adapt to luxury-until now. In the past, North American agencies seldom arranged trips only to Brazil. The standard in luxury travel was the "South American circuit:" a guided tour for 40 people that lasted three weeks. You started out in Rio de Janeiro, probably staying at the Copacabana Palace, then flew to Buenos Aires and Bariloche, crossed the Andes, and stopped in Lima and Machu Picchu before returning home. What made it a luxury tour were services like a private guide or a suite instead of a room. But you always used the same hotel or resort the economy group used. There were no luxurious, extravagant, and custom-made experiences for upscale travelers. "Maybe that is because Brazilians were not sure what luxury tourism was supposed to be," Jack Smith, reported in a recent Robb Report issue. During the 1970s, when a military junta ruled the country, the government neglected tourism, labeling it as elitist. "When they finally decided to promote tourism as a way of generating revenue, they didn't promote the arts, our museums, our cuisine, or our culture," Luiz Augusto, president of Rio's State Syndicate of Tourist Guides told me while I was visiting the city. The main reason for coming to Rio was the "women". The ads always showed a girl posed seductively in a tanga and saying, 'come see me in Rio,'" he pointed out. But that has changed.
In Brazil, the Fasano Hotel Group will be the most ambitious over the next three years. Fasano already opened a small charming Fasano in Jose Ignacio, Uruguay, this year, adding to their collection of boutique hotels in Sao Paulo & Rio de Janeiro. Fasano now plans to open 3 more boutique hotels in Brazil in 2012 & 2013. The first will be in Salvador with 75 rooms. With an Art Deco and Art Nouveau style, Fasano will open at the Castro Alves Square, right in front of the Baia de Todos os Santos. A former headquarters for the "Jornal A Tarde" newspaper, the 1930 building will undergo a full renovation, though it will keep its original façade. There will be a roof top pool overlooking the gorgeous bay. The second Fasano will open in Belo Horizonte, a bustling business city. Offering 85 rooms in the Liberdade Square, Fasano will be located in the heart of the cultural center of the city, where the main museums are located. The third and maybe the most ambitious will be on the chic beach of Trancoso, Bahia, with 40 rooms and 38 villas. Trancoso is known for its gorgeous beach coast with enormous palm trees. Fasano will have its own private beach, just 1.5 km away from the Quadrado, which is where all the best restaurants and stores are located. This cozy small town, with its narrow streets covered with old pavements, reflects a quaint atmosphere, with one story colored houses, making it one of nicest destinations in Brazil.
Aman Resorts have plans to open a property in Angra dos Reis, 2.5 hours south of Rio by the end of 2012. The Amanoca Resort will be nestled within 70 acres of beach and with the majority of the resort being accessible by paths and golf carts. Designed by the world-renowned and award winning Jean-Michel Gathy of Dennison International. Plans include a 20-suite Amanresort and Spa, sophisticated dining alternatives, private library and customized multi-media theater, beach club with a full complement of water sport activities. The marina will have dedicated crewed yachts exclusive to the resort. Maison Des Reves will be a new Relais & Châteaux boutique hotel in Paraty, a historical UNESCO town 3.5 hours south of Rio.
Txai Resorts will open Txai Ganchos in Florianopolis, Santa Catrina in the south of Brazil. The newest project of the Txai chain located in Florianopolis, a few minutes from Ponta dos Ganchos. A huge project which will include a 5 star hotel, residential houses and small studios. The acclaimed philosophy of living and hosting well from such resorts Txai Itacaré has been translated into pure forms and then wedged into a preserved area on the Emerald Coast, surrounded by the culture from the Azores, and fishing and sea culture along the Santa Catarina coastline.
In Brazil, occupancy is at 85% or higher. Rio will be supercharged by both the 2014 Rio World Cup and the 2016 Rio Olympics. Brazil is expensive right now to Americans due to the rising value of the Real versus the Dollar; however local Brazilians are driving the luxury business. Although most of the luxury properties are coming from outside Brazil, local Brazilian Oil Tycoon Eike Batista is dragging Brazil out of the "old Brazil ways" in to the "world's most exciting emerging market". Real estate in Rio has grown 385% in the past 4 years, and Eike Batista almost single handedly reeled in the Olympics with his own money, getting "City of God" director to film the presentation that won them the Games. Eike is also restoring Rio's age old Gloria Hotel in the historical downtown area or Rio.
Argentina, Chile & Peru:
Argentina, Chile & Peru are also seeing amazing changes to their luxury markets but have been able to keep the cost in-line with the rest of the international market, making it easier to sell than Brazil at the moment.
In Argentina we will see a new St Regis in Buenos Aires and Entre Cielos in Mendoza. We recently had an inspection at the Loi Suites in Puerto Iguazu and we were very impressed with the hotel. It is a very charming property in the Iryapu jungle, surrounded by vegetation and wildlife; it is located only 15 minutes from the Argentine waterfalls and 20 minutes from the IGU airport. We definitely think this would be a good option for those who cannot afford the rates at Hotel das Cataratas but still want to receive high-level service in a charming 5 star property.
Chile will see the new hotel group called The Singular open in Patagonia and in Santiago. Ignacio Maza, Vice President Signature Travel Network, recently reported in their intranet blog, the following review for The Singular Patagonia: The popularity of Patagonia, both Chilean and Argentinean regions, continues to grow. The area has much to offer intrepid travelers, including endless landscapes, jagged peaks, gigantic glaciers, stunning vistas, and a wide range of explorations available. Unfortunately, the number of lodging options is limited and it can be difficult to find space during peak season, which runs from November to March, when the weather is mildest and sunniest. The Singular is a new brand that will launch a series of unique, different and authentic hotels in various destinations in Chile. The first hotel to open will be The Singular Patagonia. The hotel opens November 1st and is located in Puerto Bories, at the end of a sound called Ultima Esperanza. The Singular will feature the best and largest spa in Patagonia, as well as a heated swimming pool. The restaurant will serve first-class cuisine from its own interactive kitchen. So, on days when the weather is stormy or rainy, there will be a number of indoor options to offer your clients, including cooking classes, spa treatments, lectures, and visit to the hotel's own museum featuring a history of the region. The Singular Patagonia will be joining our Signature hotel collection shortly, and we will be first to feature this unique property in North America.
Hotel investments in Peru will reach a historic record in 2011 totaling USD 475.4 million, a 324.5 percent rise compared to this year (USD112 million), Peru's Hotel Society (SHP) reported. Forty-two new hotels will open in 2011 and also in 2012, while only 28 hotels will officially open in 2013. Some projects foreseen for next year include Westin hotel from Libertador chain, JW Marriot in Cusco and the Westin in Lima. This first Westin in Peru is a very modern hotel and the tallest building in Lima with a spa, convention space and luxurious suites. According to etravelblackboard.com, Cusco and its surrounding region is also seeing an increased investment in the luxury sector and 2011 sees the opening of with a new Aranwa Boutique Hotel, a JW Marriot Hotel, and the expansion of the Orient Express owned Monasterio Hotel with a new boutique hotel: Palacion Nazarenas opening by 2012.
The last five years has already seen a dramatic rise in boutique and luxury hotels around Cusco: the Hotel Casa Cartagena, the Andean Wings, the Rio Sagrado by Orient Express in Urubamba, Aranwa in Urubamba, the new Luxury Collection Tambo del Inka Hotel from Libertador Hotels, and seven new hotels from the Casa Andina group.
The 'eco market' is another key area for investment with openings such as the San Agustin Paracas opening by 2012 on the South coast. This new resort, located 300 Km south of Lima and close to the World Heritage Listed Nazca Lines, will be one of the most modern ecological resorts and multifunctional hotels in the country. The project includes 120 rooms in two buildings and will be powered by solar energy. Peru posted a 72.4 percent growth in the last eight years, which is considered the best economic performance in South America, and this year is expected to grow 8.5 percent or more.
VIP Tour Group is a Luxury Tour Operator offering the highest level of tours to South America. We work with the best luxury hotels, private villas and private yachts creating tailor made itineraries throughout South America. VIP Tour Group currently serves Brazil, Argentina, Peru, Chile, Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands.
Michael Eiseman is the founder of VIP Tour Group and proudly serves as a Director of the Brazil Tour Operators Association.
By : Donald Hood
I have seen the future of South America and I advise you to get out your darkest sunglasses because this future is as bright as a solar flare. The eyes of the world are on South America, especially as Brazil hosts the region's first Olympic Games in 2016.
I will make a case that by 2013 we will see the luxury market in South America explode as groundbreaking boutique hoteliers such as Rogerio Fasano, Aman Resorts, Relais & Châteaux and others create a new impression: that South America can bring it!
We have discovered long ago that the unparalleled natural beauty of South America is as complex as its nations. From the rainforests of the Amazon, the Atacama Desert and the unspoiled Galapagos Islands, to the majestic peaks of the Andes and the glaciers of Patagonia, the landscape is awe-inspiring, the wildlife stunning and the differing cultures utterly beguiling. However, we have seen little sophistication and world-class luxury outside the iconic Orient Express properties. With the exception of a few breakthrough gems such as the Ponta Dos Ganchos Exclusive Resort in Floripa, the Cavas Wine Lodge in Mendoza and the Estrela d'Aqua in Trancoso, which are all affiliated with Relais & Châteaux, South America has disappointed those who have sought to explore the region's beauty in the highest standards of comfort and luxury.
But here is the good news. Over the next year we will see Aman Resorts, St. Regis, The Singular and Fasano among others open new exciting, "game-changing" properties that will compete with anything in Europe or Asia. This breakthrough moment can't come soon enough.
Brazil:
Brazil has been slow to adapt to luxury-until now. In the past, North American agencies seldom arranged trips only to Brazil. The standard in luxury travel was the "South American circuit:" a guided tour for 40 people that lasted three weeks. You started out in Rio de Janeiro, probably staying at the Copacabana Palace, then flew to Buenos Aires and Bariloche, crossed the Andes, and stopped in Lima and Machu Picchu before returning home. What made it a luxury tour were services like a private guide or a suite instead of a room. But you always used the same hotel or resort the economy group used. There were no luxurious, extravagant, and custom-made experiences for upscale travelers. "Maybe that is because Brazilians were not sure what luxury tourism was supposed to be," Jack Smith, reported in a recent Robb Report issue. During the 1970s, when a military junta ruled the country, the government neglected tourism, labeling it as elitist. "When they finally decided to promote tourism as a way of generating revenue, they didn't promote the arts, our museums, our cuisine, or our culture," Luiz Augusto, president of Rio's State Syndicate of Tourist Guides told me while I was visiting the city. The main reason for coming to Rio was the "women". The ads always showed a girl posed seductively in a tanga and saying, 'come see me in Rio,'" he pointed out. But that has changed.
In Brazil, the Fasano Hotel Group will be the most ambitious over the next three years. Fasano already opened a small charming Fasano in Jose Ignacio, Uruguay, this year, adding to their collection of boutique hotels in Sao Paulo & Rio de Janeiro. Fasano now plans to open 3 more boutique hotels in Brazil in 2012 & 2013. The first will be in Salvador with 75 rooms. With an Art Deco and Art Nouveau style, Fasano will open at the Castro Alves Square, right in front of the Baia de Todos os Santos. A former headquarters for the "Jornal A Tarde" newspaper, the 1930 building will undergo a full renovation, though it will keep its original façade. There will be a roof top pool overlooking the gorgeous bay. The second Fasano will open in Belo Horizonte, a bustling business city. Offering 85 rooms in the Liberdade Square, Fasano will be located in the heart of the cultural center of the city, where the main museums are located. The third and maybe the most ambitious will be on the chic beach of Trancoso, Bahia, with 40 rooms and 38 villas. Trancoso is known for its gorgeous beach coast with enormous palm trees. Fasano will have its own private beach, just 1.5 km away from the Quadrado, which is where all the best restaurants and stores are located. This cozy small town, with its narrow streets covered with old pavements, reflects a quaint atmosphere, with one story colored houses, making it one of nicest destinations in Brazil.
Aman Resorts have plans to open a property in Angra dos Reis, 2.5 hours south of Rio by the end of 2012. The Amanoca Resort will be nestled within 70 acres of beach and with the majority of the resort being accessible by paths and golf carts. Designed by the world-renowned and award winning Jean-Michel Gathy of Dennison International. Plans include a 20-suite Amanresort and Spa, sophisticated dining alternatives, private library and customized multi-media theater, beach club with a full complement of water sport activities. The marina will have dedicated crewed yachts exclusive to the resort. Maison Des Reves will be a new Relais & Châteaux boutique hotel in Paraty, a historical UNESCO town 3.5 hours south of Rio.
Txai Resorts will open Txai Ganchos in Florianopolis, Santa Catrina in the south of Brazil. The newest project of the Txai chain located in Florianopolis, a few minutes from Ponta dos Ganchos. A huge project which will include a 5 star hotel, residential houses and small studios. The acclaimed philosophy of living and hosting well from such resorts Txai Itacaré has been translated into pure forms and then wedged into a preserved area on the Emerald Coast, surrounded by the culture from the Azores, and fishing and sea culture along the Santa Catarina coastline.
In Brazil, occupancy is at 85% or higher. Rio will be supercharged by both the 2014 Rio World Cup and the 2016 Rio Olympics. Brazil is expensive right now to Americans due to the rising value of the Real versus the Dollar; however local Brazilians are driving the luxury business. Although most of the luxury properties are coming from outside Brazil, local Brazilian Oil Tycoon Eike Batista is dragging Brazil out of the "old Brazil ways" in to the "world's most exciting emerging market". Real estate in Rio has grown 385% in the past 4 years, and Eike Batista almost single handedly reeled in the Olympics with his own money, getting "City of God" director to film the presentation that won them the Games. Eike is also restoring Rio's age old Gloria Hotel in the historical downtown area or Rio.
Argentina, Chile & Peru:
Argentina, Chile & Peru are also seeing amazing changes to their luxury markets but have been able to keep the cost in-line with the rest of the international market, making it easier to sell than Brazil at the moment.
In Argentina we will see a new St Regis in Buenos Aires and Entre Cielos in Mendoza. We recently had an inspection at the Loi Suites in Puerto Iguazu and we were very impressed with the hotel. It is a very charming property in the Iryapu jungle, surrounded by vegetation and wildlife; it is located only 15 minutes from the Argentine waterfalls and 20 minutes from the IGU airport. We definitely think this would be a good option for those who cannot afford the rates at Hotel das Cataratas but still want to receive high-level service in a charming 5 star property.
Chile will see the new hotel group called The Singular open in Patagonia and in Santiago. Ignacio Maza, Vice President Signature Travel Network, recently reported in their intranet blog, the following review for The Singular Patagonia: The popularity of Patagonia, both Chilean and Argentinean regions, continues to grow. The area has much to offer intrepid travelers, including endless landscapes, jagged peaks, gigantic glaciers, stunning vistas, and a wide range of explorations available. Unfortunately, the number of lodging options is limited and it can be difficult to find space during peak season, which runs from November to March, when the weather is mildest and sunniest. The Singular is a new brand that will launch a series of unique, different and authentic hotels in various destinations in Chile. The first hotel to open will be The Singular Patagonia. The hotel opens November 1st and is located in Puerto Bories, at the end of a sound called Ultima Esperanza. The Singular will feature the best and largest spa in Patagonia, as well as a heated swimming pool. The restaurant will serve first-class cuisine from its own interactive kitchen. So, on days when the weather is stormy or rainy, there will be a number of indoor options to offer your clients, including cooking classes, spa treatments, lectures, and visit to the hotel's own museum featuring a history of the region. The Singular Patagonia will be joining our Signature hotel collection shortly, and we will be first to feature this unique property in North America.
Hotel investments in Peru will reach a historic record in 2011 totaling USD 475.4 million, a 324.5 percent rise compared to this year (USD112 million), Peru's Hotel Society (SHP) reported. Forty-two new hotels will open in 2011 and also in 2012, while only 28 hotels will officially open in 2013. Some projects foreseen for next year include Westin hotel from Libertador chain, JW Marriot in Cusco and the Westin in Lima. This first Westin in Peru is a very modern hotel and the tallest building in Lima with a spa, convention space and luxurious suites. According to etravelblackboard.com, Cusco and its surrounding region is also seeing an increased investment in the luxury sector and 2011 sees the opening of with a new Aranwa Boutique Hotel, a JW Marriot Hotel, and the expansion of the Orient Express owned Monasterio Hotel with a new boutique hotel: Palacion Nazarenas opening by 2012.
The last five years has already seen a dramatic rise in boutique and luxury hotels around Cusco: the Hotel Casa Cartagena, the Andean Wings, the Rio Sagrado by Orient Express in Urubamba, Aranwa in Urubamba, the new Luxury Collection Tambo del Inka Hotel from Libertador Hotels, and seven new hotels from the Casa Andina group.
The 'eco market' is another key area for investment with openings such as the San Agustin Paracas opening by 2012 on the South coast. This new resort, located 300 Km south of Lima and close to the World Heritage Listed Nazca Lines, will be one of the most modern ecological resorts and multifunctional hotels in the country. The project includes 120 rooms in two buildings and will be powered by solar energy. Peru posted a 72.4 percent growth in the last eight years, which is considered the best economic performance in South America, and this year is expected to grow 8.5 percent or more.
VIP Tour Group is a Luxury Tour Operator offering the highest level of tours to South America. We work with the best luxury hotels, private villas and private yachts creating tailor made itineraries throughout South America. VIP Tour Group currently serves Brazil, Argentina, Peru, Chile, Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands.
Michael Eiseman is the founder of VIP Tour Group and proudly serves as a Director of the Brazil Tour Operators Association.
By : Donald Hood
Sunday, 5 August 2012
Come and Experience Live Life with Bungee Jumping at the Source of River Nile in Uganda
When you think of the word 'Bungee jumping', instantly images of being flung off a bridge with only a single rubber band spring to mind. Sounds crazy? Well that's half the point. Uganda is full of interesting things. It is hard for me to describe how i felt when i was flung from that top. But for sure, this is a "must not miss" when you visit Uganda.
Bungee jumping! It's all about doing something that you couldn't believe that you could do and overcoming your inner most fears. For sure it's a wild adrenalin rush, but it has also been developed with a series of ropes, and back up ropes which makes it possible to jump off a bridge and still be able to yell "I did it" at the end.
It felt as if I could fly with my arms stretched widely in imitation of flight. Wind rushed through my hair and my cheeks pressed strongly against my face as I accelerated to toward the water.
In that remarkable feeling of slow motion, I had plenty of time to think, I could even enjoy the view as the cliff face flashed past in a blur and the river rose up to meet me.
Puffy white clouds seemed miraculously within reach and within seconds my fingers combed through the waters of the Nile. I hadn't imagined the whole movement to be so graceful and the splashes on my face emboldened the reality of the water touch.
I had only seconds to enjoy the proximity of the water before the latex rubber retracted and I was accelerating skywards.
This part of the bungee jumping had been given no thought as I had been so focused on the initial plunge and whether this enlarged rubber band would halt my speedy descent - after all the most common use of the rubber is to hold up women's underwear.
I had never intended to bungee jumping but afterwards as the adrenalin pumped through my body and the rush took over, I struggled to contain the excitement. This had been one of the best decisions I had made in some time.
It remains one of the most bizarre and unforgettable experiences of my life; to force myself to leap from a platform at what seemed like an impossible height above the Nile.It reminded me the escapades i passed through when i went for mountaineering in Mt Rwenzori
am'i a jumpmaster? no no..........
The jump master in charge of the platform had kindly assured me that the most dangerous thing about bungee jumping was driving on the road between Kampala and Jinja
As I sat nervously in the Congolese kings' chair a soft cotton towel was wrapped around my ankles. Cam and Phil calmly explained the foot-tie system which was developed in New Zealand and this made me firm to continue with my bungee.
They said that I would be attached by my ankles and that the webbing bound firmly around my lower legs would pull tighter as I jumped - I was fine with that.
Nile High Bungee is one of the most spectacular sights you can imagine. The views from the bungee tower are sensational and when the tower is not in use for jumping a troop of Vervet monkeys stand guard against the Nile.
The views over the source of the world's longest river lead you to dozens of heavily forested islands with flocks of long-tailed cormorants swimming in the swirling currents below and crowds of onlookers cheering from the nearby bar.
Nile High is 44m above the inviting waters of the Victorian Source of the Nile and this gives jumpers the opportunity to water touch - a single splash in the river on the first bounce; and you can do it with a friend!.
The tower can jump 235kgs at once so you can choose a big friend, a bicycle, chair, kayak or just about anything you can imagine.
By far the most popular way to jump is using the ankle tie but there is the option of a full-body harness as well.
This means you can somersault from the edge or choose any form of freestyle that will give you the best bragging rights in the photographs.
Is it safe?
Absolutely... The company has in place a number of checks and balances, including very thorough and comprehensive task analysis and inspection routes which ensure we are operating at or above the very high standards that have been set elsewhere in the world.
Nile High Bungee tower operates to the most exacting standards set by law in Australia/New Zealand Standard Code of Practice for bungee jumping.
Commercial bungee jumping originated in New Zealand and advice was sought from the construction, adventure tourism and alpine industries. The standard is reviewed bi-annually and is altered or updated as new innovations or situations arise.
Every item of operational equipment gets extensively tested and then assigned an appropriate working life span; calculated as the expected length of time, or amount of use, the equipment can with stand before its performance is likely to be degraded to the point where it is only three times stronger than the expected working safety load.
The equipment in use is recorded by staff as it takes place and then compared to recommended times and instances. Our adherence to this code is entirely voluntary.
The company self-governs its policies and procedures and provides an avenue where any staff member can take safety issues to the right people and ensure that the situation is solved to the satisfaction of all concerned. It is of my pleasure to encourage you to save sometime and visit this place at the source of the Nile and have fun with Bungee jumping.
By : Twinomugisha Charles
Bungee jumping! It's all about doing something that you couldn't believe that you could do and overcoming your inner most fears. For sure it's a wild adrenalin rush, but it has also been developed with a series of ropes, and back up ropes which makes it possible to jump off a bridge and still be able to yell "I did it" at the end.
It felt as if I could fly with my arms stretched widely in imitation of flight. Wind rushed through my hair and my cheeks pressed strongly against my face as I accelerated to toward the water.
In that remarkable feeling of slow motion, I had plenty of time to think, I could even enjoy the view as the cliff face flashed past in a blur and the river rose up to meet me.
Puffy white clouds seemed miraculously within reach and within seconds my fingers combed through the waters of the Nile. I hadn't imagined the whole movement to be so graceful and the splashes on my face emboldened the reality of the water touch.
I had only seconds to enjoy the proximity of the water before the latex rubber retracted and I was accelerating skywards.
This part of the bungee jumping had been given no thought as I had been so focused on the initial plunge and whether this enlarged rubber band would halt my speedy descent - after all the most common use of the rubber is to hold up women's underwear.
I had never intended to bungee jumping but afterwards as the adrenalin pumped through my body and the rush took over, I struggled to contain the excitement. This had been one of the best decisions I had made in some time.
It remains one of the most bizarre and unforgettable experiences of my life; to force myself to leap from a platform at what seemed like an impossible height above the Nile.It reminded me the escapades i passed through when i went for mountaineering in Mt Rwenzori
am'i a jumpmaster? no no..........
The jump master in charge of the platform had kindly assured me that the most dangerous thing about bungee jumping was driving on the road between Kampala and Jinja
As I sat nervously in the Congolese kings' chair a soft cotton towel was wrapped around my ankles. Cam and Phil calmly explained the foot-tie system which was developed in New Zealand and this made me firm to continue with my bungee.
They said that I would be attached by my ankles and that the webbing bound firmly around my lower legs would pull tighter as I jumped - I was fine with that.
Nile High Bungee is one of the most spectacular sights you can imagine. The views from the bungee tower are sensational and when the tower is not in use for jumping a troop of Vervet monkeys stand guard against the Nile.
The views over the source of the world's longest river lead you to dozens of heavily forested islands with flocks of long-tailed cormorants swimming in the swirling currents below and crowds of onlookers cheering from the nearby bar.
Nile High is 44m above the inviting waters of the Victorian Source of the Nile and this gives jumpers the opportunity to water touch - a single splash in the river on the first bounce; and you can do it with a friend!.
The tower can jump 235kgs at once so you can choose a big friend, a bicycle, chair, kayak or just about anything you can imagine.
By far the most popular way to jump is using the ankle tie but there is the option of a full-body harness as well.
This means you can somersault from the edge or choose any form of freestyle that will give you the best bragging rights in the photographs.
Is it safe?
Absolutely... The company has in place a number of checks and balances, including very thorough and comprehensive task analysis and inspection routes which ensure we are operating at or above the very high standards that have been set elsewhere in the world.
Nile High Bungee tower operates to the most exacting standards set by law in Australia/New Zealand Standard Code of Practice for bungee jumping.
Commercial bungee jumping originated in New Zealand and advice was sought from the construction, adventure tourism and alpine industries. The standard is reviewed bi-annually and is altered or updated as new innovations or situations arise.
Every item of operational equipment gets extensively tested and then assigned an appropriate working life span; calculated as the expected length of time, or amount of use, the equipment can with stand before its performance is likely to be degraded to the point where it is only three times stronger than the expected working safety load.
The equipment in use is recorded by staff as it takes place and then compared to recommended times and instances. Our adherence to this code is entirely voluntary.
The company self-governs its policies and procedures and provides an avenue where any staff member can take safety issues to the right people and ensure that the situation is solved to the satisfaction of all concerned. It is of my pleasure to encourage you to save sometime and visit this place at the source of the Nile and have fun with Bungee jumping.
By : Twinomugisha Charles
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