DRIFT Travel Summer 2018

TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL 

TRAVEL MAGAZINE 

OUT OF AFRICA 

THE BEST SAFARI DESTINATIONS 

HIGH IN THE HIMALAYAS 

A PHOTOGRAPHIC JOURNEY 

RUSSIA BY RAIL 

TRANS-SIBERIAN RAILWAY 

LUXURY IN MEXICO 

GRAND VELAS, LOS CABOS 

FACES OF THE WORLD 

CAPTURING THE UNIQUE HUMAN CULTURES 

SUMMER 2018 

COME ALONG ON THE JOURNEY at DRIFTTRAVEL.COM

2 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM

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TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 1

PUBLISHER 

GLOSSY MEDIA 

CREATIVE DIRECTOR 

STEVE DRAKE 

PRODUCTION/EDITORIAL 

MARK BLANK, RUSS WALSH, GILAD FISKUS, SPORT 

CHEK, BHARADWAJ KAMESH, SYLVIA TENNANT, 

SARAH BENNETT, JULIE LEVENTHAL, ANNIE 

HENNESSEY, AMANDA SOUFI, EMILY WILCHESKY, 

JULIA GONSALVES 

CREATIVE | PHOTOGRAPHY 

MARK BLANK, GILAD FISKUS, BHARADWAJ KAMESH 

, SPORT CHEK, SYLVIA TENNANT, SARAH BENNETT, 

JULIE LEVENTHAL, AMANDA SOUFI , EMILY 

WILCHESKY, THE MOORING, BOOKING.COM, ADOBE 

STOCK, STEVE DRAKE, FIVES AZUL BEACH RESORT, 

PIXABAY.COM 

ADVERTISING & PUBLISHING RIGHTS INQUIRIES 

sales@DRIFTtravel.com | www.DRIFTtravel.com 

Published by: Glossy Media 

All rights reserved. No part of DRIFT magazine may be 

copied or reproduced without permission. 

© COPYRIGHT DRIFT TRAVEL MAGAZINE 

GLOSSY MEDIA 

2015-2018 


INSIDE this issue 

4 OUT OF AFRICA 

Safaris and adventures. 

10 WHALE SHARKS 

Cancun’s gentle sea giants. 

14 TRAVEL GEAR 

New and cool travel products 


16 Global citizens photo essay. 

TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL 

TRAVEL MAGAZINE 

LUXURY RESORT 

26 Grand Velas, Los Cabos 

TRAVEL ROUND-UP 

32 Top pick for travel 

34 SAR PASS, INDIA 

A Photographic Journey 

56 RUSSIA BY RAIL 

Trans-Siberian Railway 

OUT OF AFRICA 

THE BEST SAFARI DESTINATIONS 

HIGH IN THE HIMALAYAS 

A PHOTOGRAPHIC JOURNEY 

RUSSIA BY RAIL 

TRANS-SIBERIAN RAILWAY 

LUXURY IN MEXICO 

GRAND VELAS, LOS CABOS 


CAPTURING THE UNIQUE HUMAN CULTURES 

SUMMER 2018 

COME ALONG ON THE JOURNEY at DRIFTTRAVEL.COM 

46 

BHUTAN 

Gangtey Lodge in the Kingdom of 

Bhutan 

52 BEAUTIFUL BEACHES 

Six bucket list sandy destinations. 

64 MALLORCA 

What to do in Spanish paradise. 

AWAKEN THE SENSES 

68 In Playa del Carmen 

At DRIFT, summer isn’t just about 

beach living and road trips. This 

year, we are thinking bigger and 

further away than ever! Come 

along to Africa, India, Mexico, 

Russia and beyond. Discover 

ancient cultures, modern hotels 

and must have travel gear. 


Natural Habitat 

Adventures in 

Africa 

BY: SARAH BENNETT 

Africa is a continent 

known for its natural 

beauty and wildlife. It is 

home to various species that 

are rarely found anywhere else 

in the world. The African Safaris 

provide you insight into the lives 

of these creatures by taking you to the 

remote areas. There lie various insects, birds, 

animals that dwell and live here, offering much 

for you to visit and attain knowledge about their 

habits and living conditions. 


1Mashatu Game Reserve: Northern Tuli Game 

Reserve engulfs Mashatu. It is home to many 

elephants and leopards. It offers quality sightings 

of few flagship animals. The main attractions of 

this reserve are the elephants and the predators. Other 

animals that can be seen include leopards, lion, wild dog, 

cheetah and spotted hyena. Various antelope species can 

also be found such as giraffe, wildebeest, zebra, etc. Other 

things that excite the adventurers include the scenery, 

bushes and birds. The scenery of this reserve is exemplary 

comprising of wilderness of savannah, wetland and 

riverine forest. You will be excited to spot the cliffs of 

sandstone, dry riverbeds that are frequently visited by 

herd of elephants. The Machatu trees are found along the 

riverside and provide food and shelter to various animals. 

2Etoshia National Park: This largest national 

park lies in the north of Namibia as it spreads 

over 5000 square kilometers. It offers a beautiful 

scenery as the area was once an ancient inland 

sea. This provides holes of water for the various species 

and creatures in the area. You will be able to spot various 

unusual and rare animals, mammals, reptiles, birds and 

threatened and endangered species like that of black 

rhinoceros. The best time to go adventuring at this 

national park is from April to October as the weather 

conditions are suitable. 


3Serengeti National Park in Tanzania: The national 

park of Serengeti in Tanzania is stretched over the 

area of 1.5 million hectares. The endless plains, 

wildlife and annual migration of Great Wildebeest 

are famous here. The name of the national park refers to 

the place where land runs forever, thus, explaining the 

vastness of the plains. The area boasts of the oldest ecosystem 

on the planet. The lions and cheetahs are very 

common in Serengeti while you can spot the leopards 

near the Seronera River. The area around the river is 

frequently visited by most of the animals for water. Hippo 

pods and crocodiles can be seen in the river bathing and 

squabbling in the water to escape the heat. 

4Kruger National Park: If you are among those 

that wish to campaign in forest or national park 

and also experience the best wildlife, Kruger 

National Park is a must visit for you. This great 

national park is the largest and the oldest in South Africa 

as it spreads over 20,000 square kilometers. You will be 

able to spot various iconic safari species, 137 mammals 

and more than 500 different types of birds. This park 

offers the best place to see leopards. With the aid of 

highly qualified guides, you will be able to cover vast 

span of area witnessing the wildlife and scenery. You can 

also enjoy romantic dinners under a starry sky amongst 

the bushes or in Kruger lodges. 


5Moremi Game Reserve in Botswana: Moremi 

Game Reserve stretches over one-third of 

Okavanga Delta. The two large islands, namely 

Chiefs Island and Mopane Tongue lie on the west 

and the east of the reserve respectively. The game reserve 

won the title of “the best game reserve in Africa” in 2008 

by African Travel and Tourism Association. Another 

astonishing fact about this reserve is that it is the first 

reserve in Africa that was established by the localities. The 

reserve startles the adventurers with its unique landscape 

as you can see riverine forests, marshlands, wetlands, and 

savannahs, palm trees, etc. All these natural features are 

sure to leave you in awe. 

6South Luangwa National Park in Zambia: At 

the tail of Africa’s Great Rift Valley, in the east 

of Zambia, lies Luangwa National Park in the 

valley of Luangwa. There are very small numbers 

of visitors in this national park due to its remote location. 

Thus, it offers an undisturbed haven for the animals and 

other wildlife, providing a more thrilling experience than 

the other reserves of the continent. You can know more 

about wildlife there and attain knowledge if you walk 

on foot. You are accompanied by an experienced guide 

and you choose to have a one-day trail or enjoy trekking 

for one long week. You will be able to witness the best 

scenery, variety and density of animals such as impala, 

leopards, hippos, giraffes, pukus, waterbucks, buffaloes 

and elephants in Luangwa Park. 


7Mahale Mountains National Park in Tanzania: 

Mahale is located in the west of Tanzania on 

the shores of Lake Tanganyika. The place offers 

the best chimpanzee viewing in Africa while 

providing home to more than 1700 chimpanzees in the 

region. It is the only place in the world that provides 

homage to both chimpanzees and lions together. Mahale 

offers a beautiful scenery with mist covered mountains, 

lakes, crystal clear waters and white sands. You can visit 

the park in boat on lake and not on the foot as there are 

no roads or any other infrastructure. 

If you are a nature and wildlife lover, these top 

natural habitats in Africa are a must visit for you. 

You can learn a lot more about animals, plants and 

ecosystem in these habitats of Africa. 


Call 800.669.6529 

moorings.com/drift 

unwind 

Life doesn’t come with a reset button, 

but an undocked vacation without 

limits could be the next best thing. 

Out here, sitting on the edge of the 

world, carefree living comes naturally 

and undisturbed paradise beckons 

in every direction. With every breath, 

capture another unforgettable moment 

on the water, and unwind—one 

blissful exhale at a time. 


Cancun’s 

Gentle 

Giants 

BY: MARK BLANK 


As our boat cut through the 

small swells, my stomach turned. 

I have never been one to get 

sea sick even in rough waters; 

but that day there was another 

reason for my uneasy stomach. 

Our vessel began to slow and I felt 

the hum of the engine cease. Once 

your boat’s engine turns off you 

really began to understand how 

powerless you are in the open sea. 

You simply drift, completely at the 

mercy of the vast blue expanse. 

We began to gear-up and my 

anxiety intensified. Wet suit, 

fins, snorkel… check. After 

awkwardly finding my feet in 

my oversized flippers, the object 

of my restlessness swam right 

up against the side of our boat. 

A dark shape nearly 40 feet in 

length dwarfed our skiff and I 

began to question my decision 

to sign up for this excursion. 

If you are lucky, you may have a few 

moments in your life that begin 

with terror and then manifest 

into absolute wonder. Perhaps it 

is sky diving or climbing a lofty 

mountain peak. For me it was free 

diving with the ocean’s largest fish 

off the coast of Cancun, Mexico. 

Every year from June to 

September hundreds of whale 

sharks find their way to the warm, 

turquoise waters of the Mexican 

Caribbean to feed on the dense 

plankton populations. Whale 

sharks are filter feeders which 

means they eat tiny organisms like 

krill, fish eggs and microscopic 

crustaceans. I continually 

reminded myself of this fact as I 

was about to enter their habitat. 

“There’s a big one!” our dive 

guide shouted, and we plunged 

in. The shark’s cavernous, wheel 

barrow-sized mouth was at the 

surface vacuuming in dozens of 

gallons of water. I heard some 

shouting from the crew on the 

boat and turned around to see 

another colossal whale shark 

swimming directly toward me. 

Its massive mouth was no more 


than four feet from my face. My 

initial reaction was fear, but I 

quickly noticed this animal had no 

interest in me. With a flick of its 

tail the shark changed directions 

and continued its feeding path. 

After the shock of the sheer 

size of these animals subsided, 

I soaked in the spectacular 

experience. Looking into the 

shark’s enormous yet gentle 

eyes, it was hard not to wonder 

what things these fish have seen. 

The speckled leviathans are 

surprisingly quick for their 

size. Just a few swoops of 

their powerful tailfins and 

they were out of visibility. 

By the end of the tour we had seen 

at least 20 sharks and that was 

a slow day for the world’s largest 

concentration of whale sharks. 

During the hour and a half boat 

ride back to the main land, my 

mind thought about the amazing 

experience. Not many people get 

to swim with sharks in their life, let 

alone the largest sharks in the ocean. 

My only fear is that experiences 

like this may not be available for 

future generations. Overfishing 

and human stress on marine 

environments threatens the future 

of whale sharks. I am convinced 

that if more people took 

opportunities like this to witness 

first-hand the beauty of the ocean, 

the fight to protect the seas would 

take a dramatic turn for the best. 

So if you are visiting Cancun 

and up for an adventure, a whale 

shark snorkel trip is an absolute 

must. Memories of sipping 

cocktails by the pool will fade, but 

swimming with these creatures is 

something you will remember and 

cherish for the rest of your life. 


TRAVEL GEAR 

HOT NEW TRAVEL PRODUCTS 

BY: RUSS WALSH 

FLOATTI 

The World’s First SUPER SUITCASE 

Innovation is built into every feature of the 

Floatti suitcase, and yet each fresh idea is 

integrated within a design framework that 

draws inspiration from the classic suitcase. 

Combining the best of both worlds, Floatti 

was conceived with the belief that truly great 

design is timeless, while up-to-the-minute 

technology and user friendly interfacing 

can make our lives and our journeys much 

easier. It gives you free hands, peace of 

mind and keeps everything clean and 

organized. 

fl oatti.com 


NOMAD Battery Cable 

Battery cable combines a durable, ballistic nylon 

braided, MFi approved Lightning cable with 

a high capacity 2,800mAh portable battery. 

Battery Cable knows your priorities: it charges 

your phone fi rst before then charging its internal 

battery. Designed to be the only charging device 

you need for everyday use. 

hellonomad.com 

Pawscout, The Smarter Pet Tag 

Community Pet Finder: Alerts all users 

in the area as soon as your pet goes 

missing. Get notified when your pet 

comes within range of anyone with the 

Pawscout App. 

pawscout.com 

Lewis N. Clark 

Anti-Theft Convertible Bag 

Convertible design allows for 

seamless transition from urban 

adventure backpack to a cool, 

everyday messenger bag. The bag 

holds everything from a tablet, phone, 

and wallet, to water bottle and other 

essentials, while keeping everything 

easily accessible, and it can even fit a 

15” laptop. 

lewisnclark.com 


FACES 

OF THE 

WORLD 

BY: GILAD FISKUS 

Photographer Dr. Gilad Fiskus was born in 

Montreal, Canada and has lived in Isreal since 

childhood. www.fiskus-photos.com 

“My artistic photos concentrate mainly 

around unique human cultures. Being an 

autodidact photographer I am nourished by 

my imagination and cultural ceremonies, 

outfits and rituals are my passion. Over the 

years my photos were displayed in more than 

100 exhibitions around the globe. Nowadays I 

travel once or twice a year searching for a new 

authentic destination, and filling my soul with 

new geographic photos.” 


Holy festival is celebrated every 

year in India and Nepal. Here 

in Mathura, the birth town of 

Lord Krishna, colorful energetic 

powder spray is everywhere. 


The Miao people are an ethnic tribe centered in southern 

China. On special occasions, women wear silver crowns with 

horns as a respect to the precious buffalo. 

Every year, thousands of Buddhist pilgrims trickle in from across the 

countryside of Bagan Myanmar to attend Ananda Pagoda Festival. 

Barefoot monks, young and old, line up in long queues to receive alms. 


It is obligatory for every Burmese boy to become a novice Buddhist at 

least once in his lifetime. The thousands of temples spread across the 

plains of Bagan provide the holy atmosphere for that rite of passage. 


20 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM 

Women of the Mursi tribe in Southern Ethiopia are well known for the 

tradition of wearing pottery plate in their lower lip.

The tradition of tattooing the faces of Myanmar’s Chin State was to 

protect them. Known for their beauty, the women were prone to be 

kidnapped by the king’s mercenary. 

Walking up the streets of Havana, one can feel a special vibe. Kids 

playing soccer on the streets beside samba bands create the city’s beat. 


Every year tens of thousands of Christian pilgrims come to celebrate 

Easter in the holy city of Jerusalem. Eventually arriving at the church of 

Holy Sepulcher the crowd welcomes the sacred fire. 

On the 1th of October 1949 Mao Tse Tung announced the creation of 

The Peoples Republic Of China - the communist rule to this day. 


Geisha is a traditional Japanese entertainer specialized in singing dancing 

and playing ethnic string instruments. Although it rare to encounter them 

in Tokyo, I was lucky to photograph them. 


The colorful Ethiopian church in the holy city of Jerusalem is a 

pilgrimage place for a multitude of worshippers. Many families travel 

each year to celebrate Easter in Jesus Christ’s birth land. 

Golden Eagle Festival commemorates the tradition of hunting assisted 

with eagles. Here in the valley of Ulgi, surrounded by the white snowy 

Mongolians mountains, the festival takes place every year. 


Cormorant fishing is a traditional technique where fishermen use 

trained birds to fish. Here in the Li river of Guilin, China very few 

fishermen are left to demonstrate this heritage. 


Grand Velas 

Los Cabos 

BY: SYLVIA TENNANT 


The flight from Vancouver to 

Los Cabos was nothing short of 

entertaining. Yes, the aerial views 

were stunning, but they paled in 

comparison to the joyous energy 

of the passengers. A spectacle of 

high fives, cocktails and laughter 

surrounded me as I watched 

the incredible transformation 

of cold Vancouverites becoming 

Mexico-bound vacationers. The 

flight attendant informed us that 

someone was getting married 

(massive round of applause) 

and two others were celebrating 

milestone anniversaries. I 

couldn’t help but imagine myself 

on a flying school bus destined 

for paradise, which I’ve now 

discovered exists at Grand Velas 

Los Cabos. It was the perfect 

setting for a girls’ trip with my 

friend, Heidi. 


Situated just outside the hustle 

and bustle of Cabo San Lucas, 

Grand Velas Los Cabos is a 

luxury all-inclusive beachfront 

resort with a 5-diamond rating. 

Impressive, given that my stay 

overlapped its first birthday. 

The reception area framed 

the ocean view like a painting 

and was lined with a curated 

collection of art, including pieces 

by acclaimed Mexican artist, 

Sergio Bustamante. Check-in was 

enhanced by an aromatherapy 

shoulder massage, and at that 

point I knew this would be an 

elevated experience. 


The all-inclusive option is a 

highly popular pillar of the hotel 

industry, and for good reason. 

Coordinating details, day trips 

and meals is much easier on-site 

and, in our case, with access to a 

3:1 staff to guest ratio. The Grand 

Velas brand is synonymous with 

Mexican luxury resorts, and their 

Los Cabos property is the crown 

jewel of accommodations along 

the Baja coastline. Set on the edge 

of a flowering desert that meets 

the union of the Sea of Cortez 

and the Pacific Ocean, I found 

myself in awe of every last detail, 

beginning with the food. 


Never have I experienced allinclusive 

dining quite like Cocina 

de Autor, helmed by two-time 

Michelin Star chef Sidney Schutte. 

From the glowing LED menus 

to the multi-course tastings 

paired with fine wines, we were 

completely spoiled with service 

(and live saxophone). Other 

dining options took us on a 

journey around the world – Lucca 

(Italian, boasting a wine cellar 

of 3200 bottles), Piaf (French, 

decorated with roses) and Frida 

(contemporary Mexican) are 

equally excellent, but if you’re 

short on time, pop in just to 

experience the innovative 

restaurant designs. We left dinner 

each night wondering how to 

import our loved ones and live 

in our expansive suite forever, 

or as long as the L’Occitane bath 

products and in-room tequila 

would last. 

Practicing self-care while on 

vacation looks different for 

everyone and I always applaud 

resorts that incorporate a holistic, 

mind-body wellness angle. 

Grand Velas sets the bar with 

their extensive list of services, 

including a custom wellness suite 

for those who want to go the extra 

mile. After a hands-on Ayurvedic 

body scrub workshop, we headed 

underground for a seven-step 

hydrotherapy journey – a unique 

offering that felt like an energetic 

reset button. 


Of all my Mexican adventures, 

this was the shortest, but it 

felt so indulgent. As I walked 

back to our suite along the lush 

pathways, the colors of the sunset 

shimmered in the cascading 

infinity pools. Grand Velas Los 

Cabos is quite literally surreal, 

which is reason enough to keep 

coming back for more. 

The perfect travel companion for a 4-day getaway: 

The timeless and perfectly-sized Weekender bag by 

Market Canvas Leather (marketcanvasleather.com). 


Ray-Ban RB3016 Classic Clubmaster 

Sunglasses – Mock Tortoise Arista 

Inspired by the 50s, Ray-Ban Clubmaster 

Classic sunglasses are both retro and timeless. 

{top picks 

for summer 

travel from 

Dakine Split Roller 

100L Wheeled Luggage – Carbon 

The Split Roller is an iconic travel companion for the 

adventurous traveler. The durable fabric and dividing 

pockets will keep your thing safe and organized. 

McKINLEY Women’s 

Nicole Shell Rain Jacket 

With Aquamax pro construction that is 

fully seam sealed, the McKinley Women’s 

Nicole Shell Jacket will keep you dry no 

matter the weather. 

Hydro Flask 32 oz Wide 

Mouth Bottle – Pacific 

The Hydro Flask will keep 

your beverages piping hot or 

icy cold, perfect for travel.

Sea to Summit Travel Adaptor – Europe 

Use this compact and colorful travel adaptor 

with your two-pin electrical devices while in 

Europe. 

McKINLEY Men’s Moree Bomber Jacket 

The McKINLEY Men’s Moree Bomber Jacket 

is both stylish and practical, with a waterresistant 

and windproof 

Aquabase Pro build. 

Monster Clarity HD On-Ear Bluetooth 

Monster performance, sound and 

clarity. 

Nike SB Courthouse Backpack 

The Nike SB Courthouse Backpack is built with a durable 

polyester design, including several organizing pockets, 

and has ample room 

for all of your gear 

as well as straps 

in front to hold 

your board. 

Sorel Women’s Campsneak Lace Shoes – Red 

The Campsneak Lace sneaker is the only shoe you need 

for chic and effortless style. 


Music is a big part of a region’s culture. Its value in society lies in its power to bring people 

together and express themselves. A local of Pulga, plays the Karnal with a backdrop of 

colorfully dressed locals dancing to his tunes. 


Himachal, India 

a photographic journey 

Featured Photographer: 

Bharadwaj Kamesh 

A 22-year old self taught photographer and film maker, 

Bharadwaj Kamesh finds true happiness in capturing honest 

moments of people. His passion for exploring nature and 

culture brought him to Himachal, India, where he captured 

the images in this travel photo essay. 

“If there’s anything I want my photography to reflect, it is a strong 

social commentary and I intend to get better at doing that.” 

Instagram: @bharadwajkamesh 



In high altitudes, the weather never ceases to surprise. Dark, stormy 

clouds approach the Naggaru campsite, covering only half the 

landscape, while the sun sets, piercing itself through the clouds. 


A local from Solang weaving 

patterned shawls made of wool. 

Famed for keeping one warm 

in the winters and cool in the 

summers, these weaving machines 

are found in every village through 

Himachal Pradesh. The rich colors 

and patterns are a reflection of the 

locals’ creativity and personality. 

Walking along narrow roads 

snapping shots and freezing 

moments. 


The younger generation of Grahan locals are cool, modern and yet carry the humble and 

polite personalities of their elders. In this image, they wait at the top of Sar Pass for their 

clients to collect their bags. 


In the cluttered yet silent village of Solang, an old man has to walk up to make 

his way back home. This picture shows how most hardships in the mountains are 

common, irrespective of religion, gender, age or money and therefore bringing its 

people together. The mountains do not discriminate. 


Four Grahani women carry their client's 

bags across Sar pass, well ahead of 

their group in this cold, unforgiving 

landscape. 

The contrast in this image is the reason 

its one of my favorites. While the older, 

seemingly humble man walks past 

my camera, the little girl stares into it 

confidently. 


The most common trail for the Sar pass trek is through the village of Grahan. During 

the trekking season, the people of Grahan open canteens in the trails, carry wood for 

fire, and also work as porters. Here, a local carries a filled gas cylinder to the Naggaru 

campsite, at an altitude of 13,800 ft. 


A typically misty morning in Kasol, where the clouds slowly glide through 

mountains and trees, offering an observer a gloomy, melancholic perspective 

of life. A warm cup of chai with such a landscape will help one kill hours of 

time wondering about the meaning of life. 


Silhouettes have always held a soft spot in my photography. There 

is something about the ambiguity of such a portrait that is meant 

to reveal more about the picture than the subject itself . 


A villager from Pulga sits on the edge of his window to observe the variety of tourists 

and travelers that have come to attend the annual Pulga festival. 

Every year, the people of Pulga come together to celebrate their Devta, culture and traditions. They 

eat, drink and dance, and the village lights up with a homely atmosphere. Everything about these 

festivals is genuine, humble and truly beautiful. 


3 days 

BY: JULIE LEVENTHAL 

in Bhutan 

Delving deep into the mystical regions of Southeast Asia, Eastern Safaris’ Gangtey Lodge in the Kingdom of 

Bhutan delivers a genuine and authentic experience in one of the world’s most undiscovered destinations. 

The remote glaciated Gangtey Valley and the Lodge provides a perfect springboard to Himalayan adventures 

– with world-class luxury to return to at day’s end. 


Travelers can experience the unique adventures of Gangtey Valley 

with the Gangtey Lodge thrill-seeking 72 hour itinerary, aimed at the 

intrepid traveler. Whether it’s mountain biking or hiking, spiritual 

experiences or complete relaxation, Gangtey Lodge has it covered. 

Itineraries can be tailored to the guests’ personal preference. 

DAY 1 

On arrival, enjoy a late afternoon 

mountain bike ride as the sun is 

setting over Gangtey Valley. The 

activities officer, Namgay, will 

lead the ride. Upon return, dine 

on the outdoor patio enjoying 

cuisine created by the new chef 

Adrian Broadhead. 


DAY 2 

After breakfast, guests will drive 

to Pele La Pass and begin the 3-4 

hour “Longtey Hike” to Gangtey. 

The hike takes you through a 

wild rhododendrons forest and 

offers spectacular views over 

Gangtey Valley. For lunch, enjoy 

a carefully curated picnic at a 

remote meditation hut followed 

by a traditional game of archery 

against some of the lodge staff. At 

the end of the day of adventure 

and discovery, guests are invited 

to experience a Bhutanese 

hot stone bath, a traditional 

Bhutanese Dotsho, at Gangtey 

Lodge Bhutan’s new Hot Stone 

Bath House and a sixty minute 

massage. 

First, the treatment starts with a 

foot scrub for a gentle exfoliation, 

followed by a luxurious destress 

massage, using warm 

aromatic oils. Your muscles are 

continuously massaged along 

with gentle stretching, which 

encourages you to relax and 

assists in toxin removal from 

the body. Relieving physical and 

mental stress transmitted in daily 

life, this therapy offers renewed 

energy and encourages repair and 

renewal to all systems of the body. 

It is believed that the heat from 

the water, the minerals released 

from the rock and the local herbs 

all combine to produce medicinal 

benefits for joint pains, stomach 

disorders, arthritis, hypertension 

and many other minor diseases. 

Request a glass of champagne 

to enjoy with your views of the 

Gangtey Valley below. 

The massage will be followed 

by a Traditional Bhutanese hot 

stone bath which is meticulously 

prepared by heating river rocks 

over an open fire and then 

sprinkled with local medicinal 

plants and herbs from the valley. 


DAY 3 

Before sunrise, cycle down to 

the valley floor and watch the 

Black-necked Cranes wake up 

from roosting. The Black-necked 

Cranes of Bhutan are the most 

mysterious and the last of the 

15 species in the world to be 

discovered. They are endemic to 

the Tibetan Plateau and migrate 

to lower altitudes, in autumn 

and winter (usually from end of 

October – February / March). 

Phobjikha Valley is one of the 

best places for bird-lovers to 

spot this amazing species with 

over 10% of the world’s total 

population gathering there. The 

Black-necked Crane is revered in 

Bhutan as a symbol of longevity 

and the annual migration is a 

cause for great celebration, as 

residents mark the passing of 

another year against the arrival of 

these famously long-living birds. 

Following breakfast, take a 

morning Gangtey Trail hike 

down to Khewa Lhakhang. Visit 

the black-necked crane center 

and monastery on the drive back 

up. The Black-necked Crane 

center performs invaluable work 

in ensuring the protection of 

their roosting areas, educating 

the locals & tourists of the 

importance of the cranes to the 

valley and in providing care & 

shelter for an injured Blacknecked 

Crane, Karma. In the 

afternoon, cycle up to Lawela Pass 

and enjoy the sun setting over the 

snow-capped Himalayas. 


Gangtey Lodge Bhutan delivers 

a genuine and authentic 

experience in one of the world's 

most undiscovered destinations. 

Discretely nestled near a cluster of 

farm houses, the remote location 

of Gangtey Valley and the Lodge 

provide a perfect springboard 

to Himalayan adventures –with 

world class luxury to return 

to at the day’s end. The lodge’s 

stunning design in the heart 

of Bhutan allows one to take a 

step back in time, away from 

the stresses and materialism of 

modern day life. 

The 12 beautifully appointed 

guest rooms, each with their 

own cozy fireplace and spacious 

private bathroom, reflect the 

rich cultural heritage with 

warm fabrics and earthen tones. 


Additionally, all guest rooms 

command sweeping views of the 

valley below and of the Gangtey 

Goenpa, or monastery, just a 

5-minute walk away. Heated 

hand cut stone floors and deep 

bathtubs next to wood burning 

stoves complete the sense of 

luxury and coziness. The stunning 

main lodge subtly captures 

the vibrancy of Bhutanese 

artwork and monastic design, 

complimented by the murals and 

carvings created local artists and 

masons reflecting images and 

landscapes from the valley. 

gangteylodge.com 


OUR PLANET’S MOST 

BEAUTIFUL BEACHES 

BY: EMILY WILCHESKY 


Koh Lanta, Thailand 

Amongst the neon lights and 

hedonistic full-moon parties 

of Thailand is the hidden gem 

of Koh Lanta. An untouched 

haven, unspoilt by tourists and 

appealing to all kinds of travelers. 

This beautiful island is loved by 

locals and travelers for its beaches, 

relaxation and diving. Embrace 

barefoot beauty and immerse 

yourself in the rich island culture of 

traditional fishing villages or kayak 

through natures tropical mangrove 

forests. 

Where to stay: The luxurious Crown Lanta Resort & Spa is situated on an elevated peninsula in Koh Lanta 

and offers guests a piece of paradise with their very own private beach, with breath-taking views of the 

Andaman Sea. The resort is a perfect fusion of modern Thai style and extravagance, with spacious rooms and 

beautiful sea views. Guests can enjoy a selection of restaurants, bars, a fully-equipped gym and free mountain 

bikes, kayaks and snorkeling gear – perfect for exploring the natural beauty of the island. 

Boracay, Philippines 

At only 4.5 miles long, Boracay is 

a picture-perfect postcard stretch 

of sand white beaches lined with 

luxury seafront resorts. Booking. 

com travelers have endorsed this 

piece of paradise for its beaches, 

beautiful beach walks, water 

sports and for the friendly locals. 

It’s a secluded getaway perfect for 

travelers seeking idyllic beaches, 

timeless sunsets and friendly 

islander locals. 

Where to stay: Surrounded by a lush hillside overlooking the turquoise ocean, Shangri-La’s Boracay Resort 

and Spa provides a luxurious and secluded hideaway. Boasting a private beachfront, two stunning outdoor 

pools and spacious guest rooms, travelers are sure to experience the true meaning of Shangri-La. The villas 

and suites add a touch of first class with a butler service and either a private pool or hot tub. Whether you are 

seeking adrenaline or tranquillity this resort can cater for all, with a selection of spa treatments or a range of 

water-sport activities from kayaking, deep sea diving to even a romantic sunset cruise. 


Waikoloa, Hawaii 

Whether you are taking a family 

trip or a romantic getaway 

America’s 50th state will not 

disappoint. Unearth the tropical 

beauty of Hawaii and surround 

yourself with stunning ocean views, 

pearl-dust beaches, vast green 

mountains, and an abundance of 

tropical wildlife, island culture and 

food, making Waikoloa the perfect 

place for the more than 46% of 

Canadian travelers that a recent 

Booking.com survey found choose 

their vacation destinations for its 

great food and drink. 

Where to stay: Situated amongst 32 oceanfront acres on the Kohala Coast, the Fairmont Orchid is a 

spectacular resort offering luxurious accommodation and extensive resort facilities to the discerning traveler. 

The stunning beachfront location of powder soft sands and aquamarine waters even attracts a family of 

sea turtles. Resort facilities include an array of first-class restaurants and bars, ten tennis courts, a 36-hole 

golf course, and a unique outdoor Hawaiian ‘Spa Without Walls’, which features waterfall massage huts and 

massage cabanas. 


Grand Case, Saint Martin 

This small, 37 square mile Caribbean 

island shared by France and the 

Netherlands – offers travelers secluded 

beach coves, a fusion of cuisines and a 

vibrant island nightlife. Grand Case is 

known for its sandy white beaches and 

restaurants. 

Where to stay: Discover the tranquil 

French side of St. Martin at the beautiful 

Grand Case Beach Club, with two 

private beaches where guests can swim, 

snorkel, and water-ski and all rooms 

have a tropical garden or oceanfront 

setting. Guests can enjoy an array of activities such as golf, windsurfing, deep-sea fishing, and horseback 

riding. The on-site restaurant, Sunset Café serves delicious French cuisine and is open for breakfast, lunch and 

dinner. BBQ facilities are also available for guests to enjoy.

Chia, Sardinia, Italy 

Discover the silky sands of Italy’s 

Chia, lapped by turquoise-hued 

waters and attracting visitors 

from Italian families, local surfers, 

dolphins and flamingos. This 

coastal area in southern Sardinia 

is loved by the locals because of its 

beautiful seaside, tranquillity and 

nature. 

Where to stay: Guests at the Chia 

Laguna Hotel Village can relax in 

the luxurious infinity pool, unwind 

in the Turkish baths or have a 

cocktail or two at the poolside 

restaurant specializing in Sardinian 

dishes. Guests can enjoy stunning 

beaches, a tennis club and the 

location and merely one hour from 

the Cagliari-Elmas Airport. 

Punta Prima, Menorca 

Explore the beauty of the 

Balearic Islands and visit the 

picturesque Punta Prima. Unlike 

the neighboring island of Ibiza, 

travelers to Menorca can experience 

a laidback island lifestyle and 

ultimate relaxation. Punta Prima is 

highly endorsed by Booking.com 

travelers for tranquillity and being 

family friendly. This charming little 

island offers scenic landscapes, 

deserted beaches and turquoise 

seas. 

Where to stay: Guests will love the oceanfront setting of Insotel Punta Prima Prestige Suits & Spa, ideally 

situated near the beautiful Punta Prima beach. Relax in your own apartment featuring a seating area, balcony, 

kitchenette and private bathrooms, and take advantage of the complex’s outdoor pool, fitness center and spa. 

Spend your days relaxing on sandy white beaches and indulge at the three restaurants offering a selection of 

mouth-watering Mediterranean cuisine and stunning sea views. 


The 

Trans-Siberian 

Railway 

BY: ANNIE HENNESSEY 


At 102 years old, the 

monumental engineering 

feat that is the Trans-Siberian 

railway is a travel marvel not 

to be missed. 

As the longest railway line in 

the world, a lot of its appeal as 

a travel experience lies in the 

sheer distance covered. And 

thus, the opportunity to see so 

much of Russia’s commanding 

and hybrid landscape in one 

go. 

But to make the most of a 

Trans-Siberian trip, one would 

be well-advised to soak up as 

much as you can of Russian 

culture along the way; attend 

the ballet or the opera or try 

some Russian street food at a 

local market. 

The starting point of the Trans-Siberian route is Russia’s capital, Moscow. It is most highly endorsed for 

sightseeing by Booking.com travelers and as you dash between palaces and churches you’ll discover that almost 

every corner of the city boasts some form of historic intrigue. First to visit would have to be Red Square and the 

Kremlin. Then the city’s numerous galleries and museums, often framed by regal gardens. 

Notably, the Tretyakov Gallery, containing the greatest collection of Russian fine art in the world. Take a stroll 

along the Old Arbat, a street dating back to at least the 15th century that has been home to several Russian 

heavyweights including poet and playwright, Alexander Pushkin. If you can get hold of tickets, catching a 

performance at the Bolshoi Theatre makes an unforgettable evening. 


First stop, Kirov. As is popular 

amongst visitors and local 

alike, you’ll want to explore on 

foot. The city is named after 

Soviet leader, Sergey Kirov, 

but its story goes back to the 

14th century. Visit the Vyatka 

Museum of Art, founded in 

1910 by local artists and one 

of the oldest of its kind. 

This attractive city of Kirov is 

best explored on foot. 


Yaroslavl’s winning feature 

may well be its stunning 

skyline. Thanks to some 

generous religious patrons, 

the city is filled with 

churches, cathedrals and 

monasteries. All of which 

possess wonderfully garish 

and bulbous domes, dripping 

in gold and reaching up into 

the sky. 


Yekaterinburg is perhaps 

most famous as the place 

where the Russian royal 

family, the Romanovs, met 

their tragic fate. But in their 

memory, various typical 

Russian churches have been 

constructed, hence the town 

being most highly-endorsed 

for ‘temples’. While you’re in 

town, potter around the busy 

Bazaar for a taste of a real 

Russian marketplace. 


The Novosibirsk Opera 

and Ballet Theatre is the 

largest theatre in Russia, and 

modeled on ancient Greece. 

It’s best viewed when lit up at 

night and blanketed in snow, 

dominating Lenin Square in 

the city center with its sturdy 

columns and palatial dome. 

But this populous city has 

many more delights, be it 

nightlife, the restaurant scene, 

or its many monuments, from 

the Novosibirsk Rail Bridge the 

Byzantine-esque Alexander 

Nevsky Cathedral. 


Of all the stops along the Trans- 

Siberian route, Khabarovsk is 

perhaps the prettiest. Booking. 

com travelers endorsed it 

most for ‘parks’ but its whole 

riverside area on the banks of 

the Amur, filled with tsaristera 

architecture and decorated 

walkways, is the major 

attraction. With good weather 

comes live music, al fresco 

eateries, and warm evening 

walks but it’s equally majestic 

when covered with snow. 


With sea mist rolling in from 

Vladivostok’s Golden Horn 

Bay and the city skyline 

focused on its two mighty 

bridges, this Pacific port 

city feels reminiscent of 

San Francisco or Istanbul. 

Though its most endorsed for 

‘excursions’, you could easily 

occupy yourself for days just 

wandering around under your 

own steam. Walk along the 

waterfront on Korabelnaya 

Embankment to get the closest 

views of Russia’s Pacific Fleet. 


MALLORCA, SPAIN 

Five must-do experiences on one of the world’s most stunning islands 

BY: AMANDA SOUFI 

When thinking of where to venture off to next, it’s easy to pick the destination that 

first comes to mind, like Spain, and that’s totally fine. But before you book that 

flight to Barcelona why not consider discovering a hidden gem that will offer you 

that unique experience you’ve been craving all year long? If Spain’s on your mind 

you won’t find a more magical place than Mallorca. With so many picturesque 

ports on this little island, the best way to indulge in all the fun is aboard your very 

own yacht, giving you the ease to schedule in as many activities as you’d like while 

taking in the scenic shorelines from a unique perspective. 


Cycling the Island 

Immerse yourself in the history 

and traditions of Spain as you 

cycle your way through Mallorca’s 

top attractions, including a stop 

at the famous Palma Cathedral. 

This beautiful landmark is one 

of the most impressive sites on 

the island, and makes for a great 

photo opportunity, especially 

once the sun has set and the 

church is lit. Cycling the island 

is a fun and cost-effective way to 

explore all the beauty Mallorca 

has to offer while providing 

easy access to local shops, fine 

restaurants, and tapas bars. 

Guided Hiking 

Swap the wheels for a pair 

of sneakers and embark on a 

journey through Mallorca on 

foot! Torrent de Pareis is one 

of the most scenic hikes on the 

island. It follows a deep canyon 

all the way to sea, opening on a 

beautiful sandy beach in the bay 

of Sa Calobra. If you’re looking 

to spot local wildlife and be one 

with nature, don’t forget to visit 

Isla Cabrera National Park for 

some breathtaking views and fun 

onshore activity. After a long day 

of trekking, put your mind at 

ease knowing a tranquil serenity 

awaits your return onboard, 

where you can sip Sangria on 

deck while watching the sunset. 


Foodie Tours 

Let’s be real. European cuisine is 

likely one of the major reasons 

you decided to travel here in the 

first place and who can blame 

you? Tasting the local Mallorcan 

cuisine should be on your list 

of to do’s. Why not partake in a 

few of the foodie tours offered 

including a tour of a local olive 

oil farm, where you can learn 

about the traditional oil pressing 

process and of course, taste the 

goodness for yourself. Paella 

tours are also a must along with 

informal cooking classes. Shop 

for authentic local ingredients 

and put what you’ve learned to 

the test by creating a traditional 

Mallorcan meal back onboard. 

Thrills & Skills 


Adrenaline junkies and adventure 

seekers alike – read closely! 

After fully immersing yourself 

on land and on water, opt for an 

aerial view of Mallorca by taking 

a ride on a hot air balloon. The 

Mediterranean island’s landscape 

is full of white-sand beaches, 

mountainous terrain and lush 

pine-tree forests and is sure to 

take your breath away. A visit 

to Mallorca’s Forestal Park will 

have you thrill-seekers climbing 

through nets, crossing rope 

bridges, and whizzing down 

ziplines, all with expert guidance 

and safety instruction from onsite 

professionals.

Scenic Train Rides 

All aboard! Departing from the 

Plaza de Espana Station in Palma, 

start your day on the Soller 

Vintage Train and explore the 

13 tunnels in the Tramuntana 

mountainous region. This tour 

offers the perfect companion 

to sailing to ensure you see as 

much of the island as possible. 

The whirlwind of passages will 

take you on a splendid adventure 

with awe inspiring views of the 

beautiful Mallorcan countryside. 

The twists and turns of the 

mountains is breathtaking and 

because of the slow pace of the 

train, you have plenty of time to 

relax and enjoy the views. 

Sail the Island 

With charismatic culture, 

historical sites, monumental 

architecture, mouthwatering 

cuisine and breathtaking scenery, 

Mallorca is the perfect place to 

explore the less touristy side of 

Spain. Short passages, uncrowded 

anchorages and endless seaside 

towns mean there is no better way 

to take in Mallorca than aboard 

your own luxury yacht, allowing 

you to cruise to your heart’s 

content and get the most out of 

this once in a lifetime vacation. 


Senses 

At Fives Azul Beach Resort 

Playa del Carmen 

5BY: JULIA GONSALVES 


Karisma Hotels & Resorts newest 

campaign, The Five Senses at 

The Fives Azul Beach Resort 

Playa del Carmen, centered on 

the five senses embodied within 

a luxurious Gourmet Inclusive® 

Experience. “Awaken Your Five 

Senses,” encompassing an array 

of weekly on-property activities 

and initiatives that stimulate taste, 

sight, touch, smell, and sound. 

From the moment you arrive 

on property, your senses are 

stimulated – most immediately 

upon entering the lobby, where 

The Fives signature scent of 

green tea, verbena and mandarin 

flows throughout. Greeted 

with a scented cold towel and a 

refreshing beverage, you are then 

guided through the lush Mayan 

jungle to their suite. “Sensational 

Areas” are marked throughout the 

resort, identifying which activities 

cater to what sense. 

Located on the turquoise waters 

of Mexico’s Playa del Carmen, The 

Fives Azul Beach Resort Playa del 

Carmen by Karisma, is a Gourmet 

Inclusive® property featuring 

ultra-spacious and luxuriously 

designed resort residences with 

shared living areas designed to 

foster togetherness among guests 

of all ages. Gourmet culinary 

offerings are beyond compare, 

encompassing exceptional a la 

carte restaurants and bars with 

cuisines from around the world, 

including the popular Zky Bar 

with stunning views of the 

Caribbean and the new Club82 

Wine Bar, the first international 

tasting room by Jackson Family 

Wines. With a variety of 

exceptional amenities, modern 

décor, warm hospitality, and a 

15,000-square-foot Vassa Spa, 

every aspect of The Fives Azul 

Beach Resort Playa Del Carmen 

creates a uniquely unforgettable 

vacation experience. 


Sensory-stimulating 

activities range daily: 

Monday (Savor The Fives) 

Activities to awaken and delight 

the palate; from cooking classes 

with Executive Chef Gusteau, to a 

barbeque dinner under the stars 

in The Love Garden. Catering 

to multiple senses, the popular 

“Dinner In The Dark” series 

invites you to enjoy a decadent 

5-course meal complemented 

with wine pairings and alluring 

music, all while wearing a 

blindfold, bringing all the senses 

to peak. 

Tuesday (Feel The Fives) 

You can dive into their creative 

side with hand-made jewelry and 

colorful Mayan hipils, and release 

tension through complimentary 

massages and reflexology 

treatments from Vassa Spa. 

Wednesday (Listen to The 

Fives)Touching on the sense of 

sound, you can enjoy various 

live-musical performances on 

Wednesdays from a Rock Disco 

Party and Michael Jackson Show, 

to Karaoke Night, storytelling 

sessions and more. 

Thursday (Aromas of The Fives) 

You are encouraged to find 

the aroma of happiness and 

relaxation on Thursdays with 

guided tours through the resort’s 

nursery and participation in a 

traditional Mayan Alux ceremony. 

Friday (Unique Views of The Fives) 

Visually stimulating shows and 

activities play into the sense 

of sight with fire shows, circus 

performances, acrobat shows, 

glowstick night parties, and 

outdoor cinema showings. 

Saturday (Day of the Body) 

On Saturday, you can find 

peace of body and mind with 

physical activities such as 

competitive sports games, canoe 

tours, stretching courses and a 

scavenger hunt for children. 

Sunday (Day of the Spirit) 

Spiritual activities including yoga, 

a detoxing Mayan Cleanse and a 

Mayan blessing ceremony to reestablish 

harmony for couples, are 

a few options for resort guests on 

Sundays. 


LIVE FRIDAY SEPT 7 8|7C 

STANDUPTOCANCER.CA 

American Lung Association’s LUNG FORCE, Breast Cancer Research Foundation, Farrah Fawcett Foundation, Laura Ziskin Family Trust, LUNGevity Foundation, 

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TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 71 

STAND UP TO CANCER CANADA IS A CANADIAN REGISTERED CHARITY (REG. # 80550 6730 RR0001). STAND UP TO CANCER IS LICENSED BY THE ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY FOUNDATION, A U.S. 501(C)(3) CHARITABLE ORGANIZATION. STAND UP TO CANCER AND STAND UP TO CANCER BRAND 

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SUBTLE CRYSTAL JEWELRY FOR THE MODERN BOHÈME 

VANCOUVER, CANADA

DRIFT Travel Summer 2018

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