American World Traveler Summer 2022 Issue

Catalonia California Cuba Curacao Seattle
A M E R I C A N
Traveler
W O R L D
Already 20 Years
Summer 2022
Already
20
Years!
C o m e W i t h U s & S e e T h e W o r l d !

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Editor-in-chief
Greg James
Already 20 Years!
Contributing Editor
David J. Cox
Graphic Department
Al Cheong
Advertising Department
Leo Santini
Marketing Department
Tania Tassone
Distribution
Royce Dillon
Senior Travel Writers:
Susan Campbell
Steve Gillick
Regular Contributors:
Habeeb Salloum
Jennifer Merrick
Olivia Balsinger
Mike Cohen
Ilona Kauremszky
Natalie Ayotte
Jasmine Morcos
Daniel Smajovits
Cherie DeLory
Lisa TE Sonne
Alexandra Cohen
Jessica Percy Campbell
Mathieu Morcos
Gregory Caltabanis
Anne-Marie Macloughlin
Janice Mucalov
This year, 2022, marks a very special
anniversary for World Traveller as we
celebrate 20 years of our multi-awardwinning
publications, and we are as passionate
about travel as ever.
When we began, our print issues were spread
far and wide. It was not long until we launched
our website: www.worldtraveler.travel, which
has recently merged both American World
Traveler and Canadian World Traveller. In the
following years we introduced new media:
eMagazines, eNewsletters and World Traveler
Social Media pages. Today we find ourselves
with a vast reader base and electronic presence
which has been growing exponentially in
the past three years.
In this issue, the third of a full year of
special issues, we will bring back some
of your favourite articles from the past
20 years as well as some memorable
front covers and a sample of amazing
photographs. So let’s go!
We start our journey of discovery in Asia as we
visit the intreging city of the ‘Holy Varanasi’
where we take in the uniqueness of Hindu ceremonies
and Buddhist rituals. In Asia-minor,
we go to Turkey and discover the best of the
fascinating Cappadocia and its rugged geography.
We then head to Europe. In the Mediterranean
Sea, we enjoy a delightful father and daughter
cruise aboard Windstar's Star Pride that ends in
Barcelona. While in Catalonia, we take in the
best of the Pyrenees’ including stunning
scenery, a unique culture, beautiful and historic
architecture and wonderful gastronomy. Still in
Iberia, we head to Portugal for a wonderful
river cruise on the Douro River with the French
cruising company CroisiEurope. With them, we
enjoy the fine onboard cuisine, amazing
scenery and tour the best villages, towns and
cities in this valley while always close to worldclass
wineries. Next up, we head to England for
yet another cruise, this one with the luxury liners
of Cunard as we head for the open seas
towards New York City aboard the Queen
Mary 2.
Our adventure continues in the Americas as we
head to the west coast to the beautiful
port city of Seattle before traveling
straight down for an exciting Southern
California road trip. While so close to
Mexico, we jet-off to the Yucatan and
indulge in the best foods of this region.
In the Caribbean, we go to Cuba to visit
the wonderful natural settings of the island
of Cayo Largo and then follow Cuba’s Tobacco
Route in Pinar Del Rio. Close by, we embark
the fabulous new expedition ship, the Viking
Octantis on its maiden season through the best
islands in this tropical paradise. Finally, we
head towards South America to just off its
shores where we explore the last of the
Caribbean islands in the Dutch island of
Curacao before ending in Peru where grab
some rest and relaxation in three amazing new
hotels.
Happy Travels!
Disclaimer: World Traveler has made every effort to
verify that the information provided in this publication
is as accurate as possible. However, we accept
no responsibility for any loss, injury, or inconvenience
sustained by anyone resulting from the information
contained herein nor for any information
provided by our advertisers.

Destinations
Cayo Largo, Cuba 10
Crusing Section
36
Seattle 8
Curacao 60
California 12
Cruise News
CroisiEurope Cruise
Viking Cruise
Windstar Cruise
Cunard Cruise
Varanasi 62
Catalan Pyrenees
64
Stay & Play - 50
Haleakalā National Park, Maui
Around the World 14
Paseo Del Prado Hotel, Havana

8
I, Too, Have Been Sleepless in Seattle
by Olivia Liveng
World Traveler - Already 20 Years!

Ican finally say that I, like Tom Hanks,
have been Sleepless in Seattle. And no,
it's not because I was part of some dating
scheme a la the corny early 1990s film.
It's because I had just one week in Seattle,
and I was determined to explore every
cranny possible of this dynamic and quirky
city in the Pacific Northwest. I'm happy to
report that I not only fulfilled my mission
but did so with a plethora of local cod,
some delicious coffee, and many new
acquaintances in this amiable city. If you
follow some of my Seattle suggestions, I'm
sure even Tom Hanks would be envious of
your itinerary.
What To Do
Being my first time in Seattle, I knew that I
had to hit all tourist recommendations. The
best way to do this was with a Seattle
CityPASS. The pass is perfect for tourists
who want to experience some of the city's
must-sees, such as Seattle's iconic Space
Needle and The Seattle Aquarium, The
Aquarium of the Pacific (plus a choice of a
few more options!) at a discounted rate
when booked all together. Pass users additionally
have a choice of three other unique
Seattle attractions: an Argosy Cruises
Harbor Tour, the Museum of Pop Culture
(MoPOP), Woodland Park Zoo, and
Chihuly Garden and Glass, an exhibit in
the Seattle Center directly next to the Space
Needle, showcasing the studio glass of
Dale Chihuly.
For me, The Space Needle attraction alone
was enough reason to book CityPASS.
Considered to be the most recognizable
and iconic symbol for the city of Seattle,
The Space Needle is not only a Seattle
Landmark but a riveting piece of history
(after all, it was built in the Seattle Center
for the 1962 World's Fair, which drew over
2.3 million visitors!) Today, the newlyinstalled
500-foot glass floor allows visitors
to see the tower's elevators glide up and
down the structure and watch the mechanical
apparatus that drives the floor's rotation.
Pike Place Market is Seattle's original farmers
market and the center of locally
sourced, artisan and specialty foods. Be
sure to see one of the dramatic and
dynamic fish-throwing spectacles, which
has helped put the market on the world
stage. And Seattleites are undoubtedly
proud of sharing a home with the first
Starbucks ever, located parallel to Pike's
Place Market. It has maintained its early
appearance over time and is subject to
design guidelines and historical significance.
Where To Eat
The Smith Tower not only serves delectable
food, but it also serves some pretty iconic
views overlooking Seattle as well.
Completed in 1914, this 38-story stands at
484 feet, nearby the water and pier. Grand
and imposing, this tower is the oldest skyscraper
in the city and was among the
tallest skyscrapers outside New York City at
the time of its completion. While Seattle has
blossomed into quite the metropolis with
buildings much more elevated than Smith
Tower, it is still a unique cocktail or dinner
spot for any traveler to Seattle.
Diners enter through the ground floor,
which doubles as a hands-on museum
showcasing the history of The Smith Tower,
especially during the flapper and prohibition
days. An old-fashioned elevator then
whisks guests up to floor 38, the presentday
restaurant and bar. Though tables are
assigned, there is no bad seat here: all
have a unique view overlooking Seattle. On
a clear day, one can spot the two sports stadiums,
the iconic pier-side Ferris Wheel,
and even the stoic Cascade mountain
range in the distance. Lest we forget the
menu offerings: a meld of Asian dishes and
unique cocktails offer tantalizing tastes for
dining guests looking for a high-end meal.
Where To Stay
If you're looking for a centrally located
property that oozes history, Hotel Sorrento
is the obvious choice. Seattle is a funky city,
and I wanted to find a boutique hotel with
a similar vibe. I knew Sorrento was the spot
with rooms and suites that are all individually
designed, including period features
and furnishings. My suite was fit for
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royalty, decorated with two-period
paintings of…well…genuine royalty.
It also included a separate living area and
especially striking city views of downtown
Seattle. The hotel has an onsite restaurant
and bar, which ooze elegance and class.
Another unique lodging option is
Cedarbrook Lodge and Spa, located just
moments from Seattle's International
Airport. Though one may be inclined to
believe an "airport hotel" with 169 rooms is
gritty and serves only the purpose of convenience,
Cedarbrook does wonders at
proving this misconception wrong. Seattle's
nickname, Emerald City, is quite apparent
when exploring the property's eighteen lush
acres of natural restored wetlands. The
property also boasts an incredibly cozy
onsite restaurant and a full-service spa.
Free transport service whisks guests to the
local metro station, connecting them to
downtown Seattle in less than 40 minutes.
If exploring Seattle for the first time, I recommend
spending a few days in the
bustling metropolis, followed by a few
more days here, where Mother Nature
shows off every season. If seclusion and
luxury are paramount to your Seattle rendez-vous,
consider Salish Lodge and Spa,
perched right above one of Washington
state's most natural wonders: Snoqualmie
Falls. Be sure to enjoy breakfast at The
Dining Room, with outstanding views of the
Snoqualmie Falls and Snoqualmie River,
and the locally-famous Country Breakfast,
including the iconic Honey from Heaven,
where honey from the local hive is poured
onto buttery biscuits from above. Making
something simple feels magical–funny
enough, an apt metaphor for my entire
time exploring Seattle.
https://visitseattle.org
American World Traveler Summer 2022

10
Serene, Wild Beauty in Cayo Largo, Cuba
Article and Photography by Steve Gillick
The more you visit Cuba, the more you
discover the incredible diversity of the
country. Cuba is an extensive archipelago
with over four thousand islands and
keys (Cayos), each with its own unique personality
and attraction. Certainly, Cayo Largo
stands out as one of the most enjoyable destinations
to explore.
Located 80 Km (50 miles) south of the main
island of Cuba and 135 km (84 miles) east of
Isla de la Juventud in the Caribbean Sea.
Cayo Largo means ‘Long Cay’ due to its 28
km (17 miles) length (and only 2-3 km (1.2 to
1.8 miles) width. The flight from Havana or
Varadero is roughly 30 minutes, plus there
are several direct international flights. After
arriving at the newly remodeled and expanded
airport, visitors board a tour bus, pick up
their rental car, or hop on the little beach train
to take them to the hotels, villas, and local
experiences, such as the Sea Turtle Rescue
Center.
In fact, Cayo Largo is also known as Turtle
Island. Between April and October, visitors
are asked not to walk on the beaches at night
because sea turtles, using their natural GPS
locators, are returning to the beaches on
which they hatched years before. And from
May to September, as long as there are no
perceived threats, hundreds of turtles emerge
from the sea and crawl onto the sandy beaches
to dig nests and lay their eggs.
World Traveler - Already 20 Years!

In the spirit of celebration, nature-curious
tourists are invited to contact the Sea Turtle
Center to find out how they can volunteer to
count and collect eggs. There is a feeling of
personal accomplishment in helping to save
endangered Caribbean Sea Turtles (including
Leatherback, Loggerhead, Hawksbill, Green,
Olive Ridley and Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtles)
and experience, first-hand, a sense of the
fragility of nature.
Another way for tourists to get involved is
through the turtle release program. Turtles
who have been raised in the Centre are carried
aboard a boat. Once it reaches the
turquoise waters above the coral reefs that
provide a safe haven, the turtles are released.
In our case, one of the staff from the Center
told us that this was a very happy occasion for
him, as he was now part of the solution in
conserving a new generation of turtles. He
jumped into the water, reached inside a milk
crate, and took out two small turtles. He
kissed each one for their own good luck and
long life, and then with a wish that they return
to Cayo Largo one day to lay their eggs, he
released them, proudly watching as they
flapped their flippers and scampered below
the surface. And once the turtles were
released, so were the passengers on the boat,
to swim, snorkel, enjoy the tranquil waters,
and view the curious, colorful fish swimming
by.
One can only wonder if the released turtles
will discover the whereabouts of Pirate Henry
Morgan’s lost treasure somewhere in the
vicinity of Cayo Largo. It may very well be
buried under some of the 200 shipwrecks that
attract snorkelers and scuba divers to the wild
beauty of this area.
As our boat skipped past tiny Keys, one entirely
occupied by a white sand beach, a Cuban
flag, and seven beach umbrellas, we headed
for another unique nature enclave: Cayo
Iguana.
This coral island is home to Cuban Rock
Iguanas. The boat edged close to the island
so visitors could climb down and walk
through knee-deep water to the shore. Like a
scene from Jurassic Park, curious and hungry
pre-historic-looking Iguanas had already
gathered, looking for food handouts (our
guide gave out bread to feed them, but for the
record, iguanas are mainly herbivores). We
were warned not to get too close, as an iguana
bite can be pretty painful! Still, more and
more iguanas appeared on this protected
nature reserve, some up to a meter-long, posing
for close-up photos, vying for positions
along the shore, and ducking from the equally
hungry Laughing Gulls flying overhead.
As we continued on the boat to Playa Sirena,
we enjoyed an impromptu rum tutorial, starting
with the practice of spilling a small
amount of rum upon opening the bottle
(which the bar staff on our Catamaran
demonstrated for us). While there are various
explanations for this practice, one of the best
comes from Eloy Govea, the former head of
the Cuba Tourist Board in Canada.
“I feel that I need to offer the saints a
11
bit of the rum I am about to enjoy. It is
like having them in mind in the good
times, not just when going through a rough
patch in life”. And indeed, rum, often paired
with cigars, beaches, wind, waves, and birdsong
has become part of the Cuban cultural
experience or, as the Minister of Tourism, Juan
Carlos Garcia Grande called it, “the music of
the environment.”
And in Cuba, this music tends to be ‘surround-sound’!
This was emphasized when we docked at
Playa Sirena, one of nine gorgeous, dreamy,
soft-white-sand beaches in Cayo Largo. The
multi-hued, blue, warm waters complement
the long stretch of beach, dotted with palm
trees and thatched-roof palapas. It’s the perfect
‘chill-out’ scenario.
When we eventually returned to the main
island, our train was waiting to take us to a
celebration of nature. In a grove of picturesque,
twisted trees, a small group of dancers
and musicians welcomed us to learn from the
trees. In a Cuban version of ‘Shinrinyoku’, the
Japanese practice of forest bathing, we
touched the trees to connect with nature. We
made wishes on amulets and placed them in
niches in the trees, and we experienced a
cleansing with leaves and twigs. The practice
may have had religious roots. Cuba’s history
of colonization, immigration, and the strength
of Afro-Cuban traditions, has resulted in a
mixture of cultural and religious ingredients.
The spirits in the trees play an important role
in these beliefs and emphasize the need to
educate locals and tourists alike about the
gifts of nature.
Back at the airport, our flight to Varadero was
delayed, which meant it was party time! A
group of musicians and dancers took over the
departure lounge with catchy, flashy Salsa,
Rumba and Timba notes. Only in Cuba… or
perhaps, only in Cayo Largo!
Our Cayo Largo experience was excellent:
exciting, educational, thrilling, relaxing, tasty,
adventurous, swash-buckling, musical, and
naturally memorable.
https://gocuba.ca/en/
American World Traveler Summer 2022

12
SoCal Desert Road Trip
Article and Photography by Jennifer Merrick
For many, a California road trip is synonymous
with Highway 1, the iconic
route that hugs the Pacific coast.
Beautiful to be sure, but this winter-weary
Canadian couple craved desert climes, big
skies, wide-open roads and off-the-beaten
track adventures. And that’s exactly what we
found when we rolled inland on the desert
roads of the Golden State.
Santa Clarita
Easily accessible at only an hour north of Los
Angeles International Airport, we couldn’t
have asked for a better starting point than this
valley town. The rolling green hills, speckled
with the purples and yellows of the spring
desert flowers, greeted us as we drove in.
Once in town, the wide main street and historic
buildings of the Old Town Newhall
neighbourhood looked and felt exactly what a
western desert town should except with the
added charms of independent shops, breweries
and wineries. With so much character,
and this being California, we couldn’t help
but feel we were part of a movie set. So it wasn’t
surprising to learn that Santa Clarita has
been the setting for numerous TV shows and
movies, including Heroes, Dukes of Hazards
and Twilight.
Right in the heart of town was the William S.
Hart Park and Museum, a 150-acre site that
had once been the ranch of the western silent
film director it’s named after. Scenic hiking
trails showcased the high desert vegetation,
an interesting mix of cacti and hardwoods.
We climbed to the top for a panoramic view
of the town with the distant mountains peeking
through colourful blooms.
A 20-minute drive away were Vasquez Rocks,
striking boulder formations that have been
featured in countless movies and TV shows,
including Star Trek, Blazing Saddles and The
Flintstones. When we arrived at this 932-acre
World Traveler - Already 20 Years!

Los Angeles County Park (which like Hart Park
is free), the ranger asked if we were here to
see ‘the big, famous rocks’. Indeed we were,
and he pointed the way to the interpretive trail
that led to the geological wonder. As we
approached, the tiny moving specks focused
into climbers scrambling up the dramatic
jagged rocks that looked alien, especially
compared to the time-worn rounded peaks
surrounding them.
Placerita Canyon was another remarkable
nature park for both its history and natural
beauty. The Heritage Trail led to the ‘Oak of
the Golden Dream’, marking the spot where
gold was discovered in 1842. Located in the
San Gabriel Mountain, the public park has an
interpretive center and seven marked trails.
We chose the picturesque Canyon Trail and
once again found ourselves awed by the
colourful combo of forest and desert flora.
Main Street in Old Town Newhall had no
shortage of tasty eats and refreshing libations.
Draconum Brewery had a casual outdoor
beer garden with a large selection of brews
made on the premises and classic pub fare.
More upscale was Reyes Winery on Main,
where we indulged in vino and tapas with a
view of the surrounding mountains on their
rooftop patio.
Also on Main Street was the Hotel Lexon,
whose western theme, modern style, amenities
and spacious outdoor patio made it the
ideal base to explore it all.
Joshua Tree National Park
From Santa Clarita, we drove an incredibly
scenic three hours to Joshua Tree National
Park, a 792,000-acre reserve revered for its
ancient rock formations and Mojave Desert
vegetation, including its namesake, the
Joshua tree. Standing at up to nine feet, these
succulent plants captivated us, silhouetted
against the bright blue skies and surreal rock
sculptures of the park.
As we hiked Hidden Valley and Split Rock
trails, we couldn’t help but see shapes and
forms in the magical landscape: dragons,
ghosts, skulls, giants and even a smiling fish
to name a few. Keys View, the highest vehicleaccessible
point in the park at 5185 feet
above sea level, was our final stop. We
soaked in the expansive view of the Coachella
Valley with its pink-hued mountainous landscape
shaped by the movement of plates
along the San Andreas fault. In the distance,
we could faintly see the mirage-like peak of
Mount Jacinto and Palm Springs, our next
destination.
Palm Springs
Zany: amusing, unconventional and idiosyncratic.
From its 26-foot statue of Marilyn
Monroe to its tiki bars, happy hours and
Hollywood glitz, this definition describes Palm
Springs to a tee. But it’s also beautiful with
bright pink bougainvillea lining the streets
and Mount Jacinta dramatically posing as a
backdrop to it all.
We biked like a star on a tour led by the Palm
Springs Historical Society. This desert oasis
has the 2nd largest collection of Hollywood
homes outside of Tinsel Town; and as we pedaled
along the wide streets, we learned about
its glamourous history, modernist architecture
and juicy tidbits of local gossip of past inhabitants
like Marilyn Monroe, Frank Sinatra and
Elvis.
While there was no shortage of happy hours,
eateries and patio options, tiki-styled establishments
matched the town’s live and let live
attitude. Our first foray into this Palm Springs
tradition was at the colourful and authentic
Bootleggers Tiki, where we sipped
Tropicolado and Gilligan Ate the Skipper
cocktails. Fittingly, our last meal was at The
Reef, where we enjoyed its generous portions
and playful cocktails among the tropical
décor.
A 15-minute revolving tram ride to Mount San
Jacinto State Park took us up 3000 feet and
through five unique geological zones from the
Mexican Sonoran Desert to the alpine wilderness
-in other words, from cacti to snow-dusted
pines. The Desert View Loop proved true to
its name revealing panoramas of the rose
peaks of the Coachella Valley, made even
more magical by the breezy mountain mist
that shrouded the landscape.
Temecula Valley
An hour and a half drive away was wine
country. Not Napa or Sonoma, but the lesser-
known Temecula Valley, whose vineyard
and vistas combined with its
serene vibe, was the blissful finale of
our SoCal road trip.
Grapes thrive in this region’s ocean breezes,
cool evenings and hot days, and approximately
50 wineries make Temecula their
home. We stayed at Carter Estate Winery (see
page 55 in the Stay and Play section for more
details) and soaked up the sunshine and a
vineyard view from our outdoor patio. The
view of surrounding mountains and high-flying
red-tailed hawks from the terrace of
Altisima Winery was enjoyed with a Spanishinspired
menu and wines. At Fazeli Cellars,
the mountain view was paired with Persianfusion
cuisine, an award-winning shiraz and
an interior space reminiscent of a European
village.
Time slowed down in Temecula, and we lingered
at every stop. Strolling around Old
Town, the historic downtown district, we poked
around the speciality shops, taking time to
smell the lavender at Temecula Lavender Co.,
taste the olive oil at Temecula Olive Oil Co.
and hunt for treasures at Fourth Street
Antiques. Like Santa Clarita, the western influence
was evident in the wooden buildings that
had gone through multiple incarnations in
their lifetime. The saloons, churches and
warehouses of yesterday have been transformed
into happening restaurants, and we
indulged in smoky wings and pork belly salad
at Devilicious and reveled in the lively patio
scene and good eats at 1909 Temecula.
The soaring highlight of the trip was a hot air
balloon excursion with Grape Escapes. We
rose above the clouds, and I could imagine
we were in a picture of heaven surrounded by
blue skies and with a white cotton blanket
below us. Floating back down through the
clouds, the landscape once again emerged:
the hilly vineyards below, Mount San Jacinto
Mountains to the east and the faint outline of
the Pacific Ocean in the west. Perhaps another
time, we’ll travel along its coast or maybe
not. Our desert road trip filled our winterweary
Canadian hearts with awe, wonder,
fun, sunshine and adventure. Who could ask
for more from a road trip?
www.visitcalifornia.com
13
American World Traveler Summer 2022

14
Around The World
(in 22 pages)
Three New Hotels Open Up the Skies and
Provide a Haven in the Sacred Valley
State of Yucatan Launches the
Year of Yucatecan Gastronomy
The state of Yucatan's Ministry of Tourism (SEFOTUR) will launch a
new campaign aiming to increase awareness of the state's culinary
offering, rich cultural history, and current modern gastronomy as
an important part of its tourism offering. Position the state as one
of Mexico's foodie destinations to expand tourism to all regions of
the state and develop new products. Starting on June 18, the World
Day of Sustainable Gastronomy, and promoting under the hashtag
#YucatanIsFlavor, the campaign highlights the recipes, ingredients,
and gastronomic experiences of the Yucatan.
Yucatań gastronomy is culturally rich in traditions that bring
together Maya, Spanish, Caribbean, Dutch, and Lebanese influences.
It mixes ingredients such as corn, tomato, honey, and
beans, with endemic products such as habanero chili, sour orange,
and the popular Achiote, used to create a red paste called recado
that is used in tamales and over proteins, most popularly wild
turkey and pig.
Some of the more traditional dishes of the state of Yucatan include
Sopa de Lima (chicken broth seasoned with local Yucatecan lime),
Huevos Motulenõs (tortilla with beans and fried eggs), and the
Cochinita Pibil (pork marinated in Achiote paste and sour orange
juice and cooked in an underground pit). Visitors to the state will
find these dishes served at posh haciendas converted into restaurants
or hotels, others may take a meal in the home of the living
Maya while visiting the southern part of the state and the PUUC
route.
Modern Yucatan offers of one Mexico’s trendiest foodie scenes
spanning across its six regions and including rooftop dining in
Valladolid, beach clubs in Progreso and Mezcal tastings in the yellow
city of Izamal. Its capital, Merida, is home to traditional cantinas,
modern restaurants, and mixologists.
https://yucatan.travel/en/
The Sacred Valley, known as El Valle Sagrado, is a lush green valley that
lies north of Cusco and is a popular destination for those looking to trek
and explore the archeological site of Machupicchu. Beyond
Machupicchu, the valley has a lot of incredible opportunities for cultural
exploration. The Sacred Valley envelops a fertile agricultural and cultural
landscape, punctuated by small villages of Quechua-speaking
communities and dotted with the surviving remains of great Inca family
estates.
StarLodge Adventure Suites: Already known for their unique hanging
SkyLodge Adventure Suites (guest room pods suspended on the side of
cliffs overlooking the Sacred Valley), Natura Vive has now introduced six
new StarLodge Adventure Suites. Unlike the original suites that were
accessed after a longer hike, these can be reached after a short drive to
the base platform, and then an easy climb up to the room via stairs with
a secured guideline. Each of the six pods can accommodate up to four
people (minimum age is 12 years), and offer a glass ceiling so guests
can see the stars while tucked into bed. The site also includes hot tubs
and a restaurant, and a stay can be combined with a via ferrata climb
or ziplining adventure.
StarDome Peru: Co-founded and run by the local indigenous Quechuan
community, StarDome Peru provides curious travellers with firsthand cultural
immersions and transformational experiences led by locals. The
geodesic dome houses five guest suites with floor-to-ceiling glass walls
and vivid views of the valley and mountains. The property opened
recently and just started taking reservations at the beginning of
February. The hotel offers “spiritual encounters for those seeking not just
to travel, but to heal.”
Las Qolqas Eco-Resort: Guests can experience glamorous camping, or
“glamping”, at Las Qolqas Eco-Resort, while also minimizing their
impact on their beautiful surroundings in the Sacred Valley. Located in
Ollantaytambo, halfway between Cusco and Machupicchu, the resort
offers guests an immersive experience in an Andean botanical garden
in high-end tents that are temporary in nature, yet elegant, safe and very
comfortable.
www.peru.travel/en
American World Traveler Summer 2022

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American World Traveler Summer 2022

17
American World Traveler Summer 2022

18
Photos courtesy of Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel Launches 15 New Backcountry & Hiking Trips in the U.S.,
Making America Its Single Biggest Destination
Intrepid Travel – the B Corp certified
world-leader in responsible travel – has
added 15 new itineraries across the
United States focused on backcountry and
hiking adventures that provide both a minimal
footprint and immersive nature-based
experiences few others get to see.
The new trips will more than double
Intrepid’s trekking portfolio within the U.S.,
with tours in sought after destinations such
as Yellowstone, Yosemite and Zion, and will
primarily focus on backcountry adventures
on off-the beaten-track trails away from
most signs of civilization, allowing travelers
to reconnect with nature in its purest form.
In 2021, over 3.3 million people visited
Yosemite National Park, yet just 1% of visitors
got off the main (and often crowded)
trails. With the addition of these new trips
World Traveler - Already 20 Years!
to its U.S. tour range, Intrepid hopes to
change this trend. Backcountry trekking
allows adventurers to see these iconic destinations
away from the popular trails,
often times with no vehicles or fixed facilities
in sight, while relying on responsible
camping and a “pack in, pack out” philosophy
that makes for some of the most sustainable
holidays on the planet.
Demand for this style of travel in the U.S.
has increased dramatically since the onset
of the pandemic, which saw people wanting
to get away from city crowds and closer
to nature. In April 2022, the company
saw bookings in North America up 208%
year-over-year, with customers predominantly
planning active summer trips. For
the U.S. year-to-date, active trip bookings
are up 61% vs. 2019, with walking and
trekking tour bookings up a remarkable
211%.
Samples of the new backcountry trips
offered by Intrepid include:
Hiking and Backpacking
Yosemite's North Rim (4 days)
Explore the North Rim of Yosemite Valley
during an early season Yosemite hiking
adventure up to the rim that overlooks one
of the world’s scenic treasures. Travelers
will see Yosemite Falls, North Dome and
Indian Rock while taking in expansive views
of the entire Yosemite Valley and the
incomparable High Sierra, and will sleep
under the stars, witness Yosemite’s only
above water natural arch, and climb to the
summit of Half Dome’s smaller twin, North
Dome. This small group backpacking trip
offers a wonderful opportunity to escape
the crowds and absorb some of the best
views in Yosemite National Park.
Hiking and Camping in Zion (3 days)
Travelers will sleep under the stars in the
heart of Zion National Park on a backcountry
camping and hiking adventure in Utah’s
most famous national park. Highlights
include strolling down the paved River Trail,

uttressed by tumbling water and a 3,000-
foot cliff face, experiencing the iconic Virgin
River Narrows hike walking through moving
water on the way to Orderville Canyon,
and exploring Snow Canyon, which is like
a mini Zion and cuts impressive walls from
the lava-covered country above the rim
through the slickrock country below.
Hiking Washington's Olympic National Park
and Mt Rainier (6 days)
Travelers will discover the best of the
Olympic Peninsula and Mount Rainier, from
the high alpine ridges and glaciated volcanoes
to dramatic waterfalls, wildlife, and
lush rainforests. Hike along a ridge traverse
5,500 feet above sea level on a
coastal hike to Shi Shi beach, one of the
world’s most beautiful beaches, walk
through the Hoh Rainforest to see some of
the largest and oldest trees in Washington,
and admire the Reflection Lakes at Mount
Rainier. The trip also includes a visit to the
famous Makah Museum to learn more
about the cultural history of the local
Makah people.
Hike New Hampshire's Appalachian Trail
and Presidential Peaks (4 days)
Travelers will hike the highest mountains in
New Hampshire, the Presidential Range,
including the highest point in the
Northeastern United States – the summit of
Mount Washington - spending their nights
in authentic backcountry huts. Visitors will
enjoy stunning views of the Ammonoosuc
River before rock scrambling among beautiful
waterfalls, eat a picnic lunch at Lake of
the Clouds hut perched above the trees
near spectacular alpine lakes, and traverse
some of the most famous Presidential
Peaks, including Mount Monroe and Mount
Eisenhower.
Hiking and Backpacking North Carolina's
Appalachian Trail (3 days)
Discover the Cradle of Forestry area where
American forest conservation began and
stop at Looking Glass Falls, a stunning
roadside waterfall, which features incredible
360-degree views. Travelers will spend
two nights camping in the heart of the
action near the famous and unique rock
feature known as Shining Rock and take in
sweeping views of the Appalachian
Mountain Range as they enjoy lunch on the
summit of one of the peaks or in the grassy
meadows of Ivestor Gap.
The addition of these new experiences are
a result of Intrepid’s recent acquisition of
Wildland Trekking, an environmentallyconscious
U.S.-based tour operator focused
on walking and trekking experiences,
which was done to build upon Intrepid’s
operational capability in the United States,
providing more diverse and robust outdoor
adventure-based options for both domestic
and international travelers.
Intrepid Travel also launched its own dedicated
American operations hub in 2021,
Intrepid DMC North America, to increase
its capacity in the region, ensure the utmost
quality control over each trip and incorporate
the highest sustainable and responsible
measures. The company has additionally
been increasingly focused on building
more impactful relationships with BIPOCowned
businesses and suppliers throughout
the United States to offer its travelers a
broader range of experiences and perspectives.
For more information visit:
https://www.intrepidtravel.com/us/theme/wa
lking
19
About Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a world leader in sustainable
experience-rich travel that has been
taking travelers off the beaten track to discover the
world's most amazing places for more than 30
years. The company offers more than 800 trips on
every continent and every trip – whether closer to
home or further afield - is designed to truly experience
local culture. Travelers eat, sleep and get
around the local way, going where the bigger groups
can’t. With its own network of destination management
companies in 23 countries, Intrepid has
unique local expertise and perspectives. Globally
renowned as a leader in responsible travel.
www.intrepidtravel.com
American World Traveler Summer 2022

20
Cuba’s Tobacco Route, Pinar Del Rio
Article and Photography by Steve Gillick
Cuba’s Minister of Tourism, Juan
Carlos García Granda, waxes passionate
about the importance of the
Cuban cigar. After honoring two tobacco
growers for the quantity and quality of their
produce, he invited visitors to Cuba to
explore the Ruta del Tobaco (Tobacco Route),
to see the farms, meet and interact with the
workers, and learn about Cuba’s history and
culture. “This is something we don’t want to
lose”.
And addressing the non-smokers in the
room (including this writer), Granda emphasized,
“we don’t promote smoking, but it’s
part of our history; tied into the arrival of the
Spanish and to Cuba-African folklore.
Ultimately it’s an individual decision”.
And so we set off for the province of Pinar
del Rio to explore the town of San Juan y
Martínez in the Vuelta Abajo region, known
for ideal conditions of soil, climate and
humidity, and perfect for growing Black
Tobacco, the kind used to make cigars.
Behind signs imparting the message ‘A Cuba
Ponle Curazon’ (‘You have to put your heart
in Cuba’), we visited the warehouses and
factories to discover the labor-intensive
process in which an estimated 300 pairs of
hands touch each leaf from the time the
tobacco is planted, to the time the leaves are
shipped to the respective cigar manufacturers.
Our guide noted that quality control was
“a key element in enjoying each puff”, as the
tobacco leaves underwent the stages of production:
humidifying, de-humidifying, fermentation,
stacking, sprinkling, stripping the
vein from the leaves, sorting, sizing, aging,
and then shipping.
Down the road, we visited the Finca (farm) of
Hector Luis Prieto. In 2008, at the age of 36,
he became the youngest ‘Man of the Year’,
for producing the largest yield of wrapper
leaves, used in the outer layer of the cigar.
Prieto took over the farm from his grandfather
and father, and now his son and grandson
are in the business. He spoke to us about
the added value, for visitors (smokers and
non-smokers alike), to get to know the people
behind the scenes and learn about this
important tradition. He spoke of the perfect
Cuban combination: “a happy atmosphere
of tobacco, playa (beaches) and rum”. And
to emphasize the point we were treated to a
cigar and rum pairing that featured a special
drink he called “Aroma Magic”, made of coffee
liqueur, tobacco syrup and rum.
The Ruta del Tobaco in Pinar del Rio provides
insight and interaction with the production of
tobacco leaves, where aroma, color, texture
and taste define the quality of a Cuban
cigar. And this, amidst a backdrop of tranquil,
rural scenery, something the Tourism
Minister called “the music of the environment”.
It’s definitely a unique experience
and something to include in your Cuba
adventures.
https://gocuba.ca
American World Traveler Summer 2022

World Traveler
American & Canadian
since 2002
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20 Years Replay
Summer 2015
MAUI
Vacation with the Volcano!
Article & Photograph by Michael Morcos
Coming from a land without them,
flying over the mouth of Maui’s
volcano is an impressive sight!
Maui is a wonderfully green gem in the
Hawaiian islands and is renowned for its
beaches and central “potentially hazardous”
volcano!
We flew into Kaanapali, a beautiful resort
town with a three mile beach that was once
named America’s Best Beach. This former
retreat for Hawaiian royalty is now a popular
getaway for everyone.
Kaanapali was Hawaii’s first planned resort,
and is a model for resorts around the globe.
All amenities are available, including championship
golf courses, cliff diving and the open
air Whalers Village, a world-class shopping
area with a variety of exceptional shops,
restaurants and a renowned whaling museum.
From Kaanapali on the west coast, I had the
drive of a lifetime along the Hana highway
toward the city of Hana. Hugging the coast,
drivers must be careful and attentive, which is
difficult along this amazing road that is filled
with breathtaking views and approximately
620 curves along Route 360!
After driving through thriving rainforests, cascading
waterfalls, plunging pools and dramatic
seascapes, you arrive at historic St.
Sophia’s Church, announcing your arrival
into Hana, where the meadows roll right up to
the main street. The town of Hana is very quiet
and has very few tourists as compared to the
rest of the island. Though small, there are
many lovely things to see and do. The historic
Travaasa Hana, a luxurious retreat rooted in
Hawaiian tradition, unique souvenir shops,
swimming and sunbathing at Hamoa Beach
that author James Michener felt was the most
beautiful beach in the Pacific. Seeing the Hale
Piilani, the state’s largest heiau (Hawaiian
temple), in Kanahu Gardens, is a particularly
special site to visit.
Also present is the heart of the island, the
Haleakala, or East Maui Volcano, a massive
volcano that forms more than 75% of the
Hawaiian Island of Maui. The drive up was
incredible, twisting and turning, and the
change in landscapes, from tropical to dry
mountain desert is marked. Hiking way up to
the clouds to see the top of the Volcano at a
height of over 10,000 feet. There are even
signs on top that indicate to move slowly due
to low levels of Oxygen, but the view from on
top was out of this world. The crater was
something out of a sci-fi lunar scene and you
could get a 360° view of the ocean and the
whole island of Maui.
www.gohawaii.com/en/maui
American World Traveler Summer 2022

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C o m e W i t h U s & S e e T h e W o r l d!

26
Qatar Airways Qsuite Sets Precedent in Air Travel
by Olivia Balsinger
Galavanting around the world
just got a whole lot easier–and
a whole lot more glamorous.
Qatar Airways has proved that travel–even
luxury travel–does not have to break the
bank. Further, the airline is an industry
leader in aviation travel that doesn’t create
extra headaches or grievances.
And with direct flights to Doha from more
than 150 destinations on every inhabited
continent, Qatar Airways is genuinely connecting
the world. As one who typically
loathes flying, I was disappointed when
the flight attendant woke me up as we
descended into Doha’s dawn on an
overnight from New York City. Qatar’s
Qsuite (Business Class) was undoubtedly
the finest flying experience of my life
Here’s why:
My Qsuite Journey
I was fortunate to travel Qsuite -the first of
its kind in business class-which provided
me complete privacy when I wanted it,
along with ambient mood lighting and a
fully flatbed. I have flown business or first
class on many airlines, but Qatar Airways
sets the new standard. The lovely stewardess
who greeted me as I stepped onto
the flight showed me all of the (countless)
amenities travelers with this airline class
receive. Afterward, she smiled and told
me I had the option to close my curtains,
which ultimately sealed my belief that I
wasn’t on an airplane but in the comfort
of my cozy living room.
Even better, had I been traveling with my
husband or other family members, we
could have even chosen seats amenable

to a four-person work area or even a double
bed. Imagine that-flying with a partner
and given the luxury of a double bedheck,
airplanes become more comfortable
and luxurious than home!
And how often do we dread long airplane
rides simply due to the pit of hunger that
manifests after barely being able to digest
airplane food? The airline also provides
business class passengers an “a la carte”
dining option, making my constant hunger
more manageable. Was I on a flight or in
a five-star restaurant in the center of a
metropolis? The possibilities were endless.
The most difficult decision I made was to
commence with a French onion soup or
escargot (of course, my answer was oui to
both!) The Quite menu adheres to the
structure of a four-course meal - with
soup, appetizers, and desserts – with a
post-sleep 'breakfast' (starters and mains)
as the final destination is in sight. Of
course, there are lighter options available
that can be enjoyed at any time during the
flight.
The stewardess went out of her way, surprising
me with champagne and chocolate
when landing in Doha and with Maha
Gold Service (meet and greet’ service)
both during arrival and departure. I felt
like royalty in the air.
Stopover Program
It gets even better. Until discovering oil in
1939, Qatar cultivated its most significant
profit and recognition from pearl diving.
But it has since grown, making its considerable
mark on the tourism map. Typically,
accommodation is one of the costliest
expenses on vacation. However, travelers
can alleviate this cost when they transit via
Doha for a few days with Qatar Airway’s
Stopover Program.
This generous program waives visa fees
from eighty countries. It also provides
accommodation at luxury four or five-star
hotels, such as InterContinental Doha or
Souq Waqif Boutique Hotel for two
nights—for a mere USD 100 booking fee!
A Whole New World
Once landed in Doha, I was equally
blown away. Indeed, Doha itself has
proven to be a significant tourism draw.
The city is significantly smaller than Dubai
and Abu Dhabi, which allows it to keep its
slightly provincial feel. While travelers can
still find modern high-end innovations,
such as Doha Festival City with an Angry
Birds theme park, Qatar stays true to its
heritage in several ways. I visited the Souq
Waqif, one of the most traditional in the
Middle East, to find pearl shops and
tea shops where men still gather to
play Dama’s classic game. Whether
eating traditional Qatari food or getting
whimsically bewildered in the labyrinth of
people watching, the Souq is not to miss.
Qatar is also equally modern, as it is
timeless. The sheer decadence and luxury
found within Qatar’s hotels are reason
enough to visit. Take The Mondrian Doha,
in Doha’’s West Bay Lagoon neighborhood.
The property’s 270 rooms have
views of the human-made Pearl Island. I
enjoyed a luxurious detoxing massage
much-needed swim in the penthouse pool.
The hotel epitomizes dual elegance and
creativity, described as Alice in
Wonderland in real life, the whimsical
architecture by famed Dutch designer
Marcel Wanders. One misconception
among Western tourists is that because
Qatar is primarily governed under Sharia
Law, there are zero legal drinking opportunities.
However, five-star international
hotels are allowed to sell alcohol to foreigners.
Two Qatari hotspots are found in
The Mondrian, Masaharu Morimoto's new
Morimoto Doha, and the bespoke Black
Orchid club.
Finally, there are only two countries where
the desert sand meets Qatar and
Namibia’s ocean. Few things spike adrenaline
more than a safari in a 4X4 through
Qatar’s vast desert, about an hour and a
half ride from Doha city center. The radio
is blasting Arabian-French techno music
as a white Land Cruiser picks up speed.
The experienced guide smiles slightly mischievously
and revs the engine before
accelerating through this stunning natural
oasis as the sound of sand descending the
slopes overwhelms. Q-Explorer Tours is a
professional tour operator that handles
individual and group guided arrangements,
catering to specific itinerary desires
and budgets. In addition to dune bashing,
the company provides many other opportunities
to explore Qatar’s culture, gastronomy,
and natural beauty.
www.qatarairways.com
27
American World Traveler Summer 2022

Cappadocia - Spectacular in Every Season
five 'o'clock in the morning, usually from the
village of Göreme, and visitors can enjoy
sweeping views of Pigeon Valley, Zemi Valley,
Love Valley and Pasabağ Monks Valley,
along with the famous fairy chimneys and
other fantastic rock formations during the
ride. Don’t forget to bring your camera!
For guests seeking an authentic
Cappadocian experience, the area’s cave
hotels are the perfect accommodation. Rockcarved
rooms bring together history and
modern amenities in a luxurious blend. After
a full day of sightseeing, the best way to
spend the evening is to relax in the lounge of
a boutique cave hotel with a glass of fine
local wine.
Travel from Göreme to Ürgüp on horseback
As the ‘land of beautiful horses’, it is only fitting
to go horseback riding while enjoying
Cappadocia. The area’s many ranches offer
guided horseback riding tours on beautiful,
sure-footed horses. Watching the sunset over
the Red Valley while astride a horse is a truly
unforgettable experience, and while horses
can cover more ground, travellers can also
see many sights on foot. The peaceful Ihlara
Valley is a perfect place to take a walk or
hike, and along the Melendiz stream are
gazebos where hikers can enjoy tea or a coffee.
Jeep and ATV safaris are also available,
and some of the area’s churches and valleys
can be reached via off-road vehicles.
With its extraordinary topography,
rich history, and delicious cuisine,
Cappadocia never ceases to fascinate
its visitors. Featuring subterranean
rock-carved cities, enchanting fairy chimneys,
and breath-taking vistas, a visit to
Cappadocia offers magical hot air balloon
rides, horseback rides through rocky landscapes,
charming cave hotels, and sampling
local wines in quaint cafes.
Cappadocia is an unforgettable combination
of natural and historical wonders that
has captivated travellers for centuries. The
region’s topography, created by the erosion
of lava and ash spewed by now-dormant
volcanoes, fascinates visitors with the unusual
conical structures called “fairy chimneys”,
and centuries-old underground cities carved
from rock.
World Traveler - Already 20 Years!
Cappadocia gained notoriety in antiquity for
horse breeding, and has been known as the
‘land of beautiful horses’ for hundreds of
years. With all this and more, Cappadocia
promises an unforgettable holiday!
With travel picking up, Cappadocia hosted
an extraordinary number of visitors in Q1 of
2022. The region's museums and archaeological
sites were visited by 305,275 people,
an increase of 54 per cent compared to the
same period in 2021.
Enjoy Cappadocia from the sky, and sleep
in picturesque caves
The best way to experience Cappadocia’s
magical landscape is on a hot air balloon
ride through its incomparable skies. The
dozens of colourful balloons launch around
Cultural stops
Declared a UNESCO World Heritage in
1985, the incredible Göreme Open Air
Museum is a complex of frescoed, rockcarved
churches featuring traces of the
area’s earlier inhabitants, including the
Assyrians, Hittites, Phrygians, Hellenes,
Romans, Byzantines, early Christians and the
Islamic world. It is a major cultural hub of the
region, and The Kılıçlar, Karanlık and Tokalı
churches in the Göreme Open-Air Museum
are believed to have been used as necropoleis
by the inhabitants of Avanos during the
Roman period.
The Three Beauties fairy chimney formation
in Ürgüp is one of the region’s most-photographed
sites, while the 18th-century
Church of Saints Constantine and Helena in
Mustafapaşa was built during the reign of
Sultan Ahmet I. Ortahisar Castle, in the village
of Ortahisar, is a striking citadel carved
into the rock. Cappadocia is home to so
many important structures, especially those
of Early Christianity, that it is impossible to
list them all here.
Enthralling underground cities
A land of mystery, Cappadocia has been
inhabited for centuries, and at a time it was

inhibited from underground. Multi-level subterranean
cities, carved entirely from rock,
date back to around the seventh and eighth
century BC, according to some studies. The
underground cities of Kaymaklı, Derinkuyu,
Özkonak, Mazi and Tatlarin, created to protect
the area’s population from invaders,
shed some light into the daily lives of their
inhabitants, with rock-carved tunnels connecting
dozens of living, worship, and storage
areas.
Fantastic flavours
Like the cuisines of every other region in
Türkiye, Cappadocian cuisine was shaped
by the area’s cultural heritage and the availability
of fresh local and seasonal products.
Visitors to Cappadocia can begin the day
with a traditional Turkish breakfast, accompanied
by a lovely view of the landscape and
fairy chimneys. This hearty breakfast showcases
local cheeses, fresh eggs, tomatoes,
cucumbers, and green peppers, along with
olives, jams, honey, butter, and cream.
Delicacies like homemade sausages, pastries,
and the traditional Turkish egg dish
Menemen, are complemented by fragrant
Turkish tea.
Other dining delights in Cappadocia include
local dishes such as apricot stew and zerdeli
rice (a saffron-rice dish). In a region famous
for its pottery, the testi kebab (pottery kebab)
is a must-try: vegetables and meat placed in
a clay pot sealed with bread and baked in a
tandoor (traditional oven). Before serving the
dish, the seal is broken with a dramatic flourish!
Cappadocia’s climate is ideal for
29
growing grapes and the area has a
long-established winemaking tradition.
At various wineries in the area, guests can
sample local vintages made from the grapes
grown in the rich tuff soil of the region.
Romance in the Land of Fairy Tales
With its fairy-tale landscape, Cappadocia is
one of Türkiye's most popular wedding and
honeymoon destinations. Couples and their
guests choose Cappadocia for its many gorgeous
boutique hotels, dining options and,
of course, the spellbinding hot air balloons
which make for the perfect photo. Many couples
immortalize their marriage proposals
and wedding ceremonies during a hot air
balloon ride or celebrate anniversaries and
honeymoons while floating across the blue
Cappadocia sky. Often featuring terraces
with stunning sunset views, secluded boutique
cave hotels are a popular option for
wedding celebrations. Many of these hotels
also have Turkish baths or other spa facilities.
www.turkeytourism.com
American World Traveler Summer 2022

Balinese women
Bamboo Forest ,Kyoto
Moraine lake, Banff
Masai Mara, Kenya
Seafood Feast
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Tree Frogs, Costa Rica
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Water Fun
Just a small portion of memorable
images published throughout the years!
Zakynthos, Greece
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Feluccas on the Nile
Venice, Italy
Hornbill Featival, Nagaland, India
Mt Cook, New Zealand
Church of the Holy Scapular, Jerusalem
Red Lizard Train, Tunisia

Perfume river, Vietnam
Sea Turtle, Caribbean
Dubai Skyline
Long-tail boats, Thailand
Li River, Guilin, China
Warrior, Flores, Indonesia
Snorkeling Fun
African Elepants
Santorini, Greece
Salt Caravan, Djibouti
Peruvian Family
Rice Fields, Ubud, Indonesia
Dim Sum, Hong Kong
Mount Fuji, Japan
Skiing, the French Alps

32
A Journey of the Senses
AAt the crossroads of Europe and
Asia is Istanbul, with a rich history
spanning over two thousand
years. Strategically located on the
Bosphorus Strait, Istanbul is a vibrant city
where east and west meet to create this
unique cultural capital. Istanbul is home to
an estimated 15 million inhabitants, built
on seven hills, and topped by the minarets
of over 3,000 mosques including the worldfamous
Blue Mosque and Hagia Sofia.
Mouth-watering tastes worth travelling for
It is the food that leaves the greatest
impression. Traditional Anatolian staples
such as doughy manti (dumpling), freshly
squeezed juices sold on every street corner
and sesame covered simit rolls, perfectly
accompanied by Turkish çay (tea). The
smell of fresh fish or rich Turkish coffee are
often in the air.
Take flight in a hot air balloon at sunset
On everyone’s bucket list should be a hot
air balloon flight at sunrise. People travel
to Cappadocia from all over the world to
take part in this spectacular sight of hot air
balloons making their gentle flight over the
valleys and fairy chimneys, lit up by the rising
sun. Accommodation ranges from
cool and rustic cave hotels to elegant and
luxurious houses. Traditional Turkish baths
(hamams) in which to relax and unwind is
also a highlight. During your stay, venture
into underground cities, cave churches and
the outdoor museums to learn more about
the history of this special place.
Cappadocia is also famous for its wine,
and a must experience element of your
meal.
The colourful Aegean coastal city of Izmir
In Western Anatolia on a bay of turquoise
water is the Aegean coastal city of Izmir,
where archaeological sites remind visitors
of a rich history set against a backdrop of
the hilltop Kadifekale castle. Spot one of
the most famous landmarks of Izmir, the
Clock Tower designed by French architect
Raymond Charles Pere dating back to
1901. To enjoy the view and save your
legs from the 155 steps connecting city
streets, use the public elevator known as
Asansör. Another alternative is the modern
European-style quarter of Karşıyaka which
also offers excellent sea views. Notable
nearby highlights are the enchanting
ancient ruins of Ephesus, one of the Seven
Wonders of the Ancient World. The nearby
village of Çeşme is a charming gastronomic
paradise with its whitewashed houses
and blue painted windows.
Turkish food in Izmir has many influences
and flavours for every palate. Izmir meatballs,
called köfte, are enjoyed across
Turkey, made lovingly with local spices and
served in a tasty tomato sauce. Try local
specialty Kumru, the perfect on-the-go
snack of sausage, cheese and tomato
served in bread, or the delicious pastry
Boyoz, which can only be found in Izmir
and should not be missed!

The luxurious ancient port city of Bodrum
Rugged, rolling mountains meet the shores
of the crystal blue Aegean Sea in the small
city of Bodrum. The Aegean coastal city is
spread across a double bay, mixing
ancient and modern history. The city is
home to the ancient Greek city of
Halicarnassus, site of the Tomb of
Mausolus, one of the Seven Wonders of
the Ancient World. Along the coastline is
the well-preserved medieval Bodrum
Castle which offers superb views and is
home to the Museum of Underwater
Archaeology.
Renowned for its unique "sugar cube"
houses, Bodrum is one of Turkey’s gems
and is fast becoming the first choice for
holidaymakers the world over.
Escape to small villages or enjoy the
extravagance of its many five-star hotels
and bustling nightlife, Bodrum is the place
where the green of the forest meets the
clear blue waters of the Aegean Sea.
Make sure your flight is part
of the vacation
Vacation time is precious, so make every
minute count by starting your trip the
moment you step onto the plane. The
award-winning products and services of
Turkish Airlines’ Business Class provide an
unparalleled experience with the utmost
elegance. Prior to take off, passengers can
benefit from extra baggage allowance, priority
check-in and boarding, and access to
Turkish Airlines Lounges.
Relax in exclusive seats, with massage
functions, that convert your seat into a 188
cm flat bed. Delight in gourmet dishes prepared
and cooked to your taste by Flying
Chefs, and enjoy comfort kits to maximize
your wellness on-board. Business Class
also offers a cutting-edge in-flight entertainment
system, films in different languages,
a wide assortment of audiobooks,
a great range of music and much
more. It boasts award-winning catering
designed for any palate where you can
enjoy international cuisine and local
Turkish specialties such as ‘pide’ and
‘börek’ with fresh fruit juices and tea.
Going Further With
Turkish Airlines
Glowing reviews and exceptional
food are the order of the day for
this up-and-coming airline!
Part of the Star Alliance network, Turkish airlines
(THY) offers service to Canadians from
Toronto and Montreal, and connections to
destinations all over the world from their hub
in Istanbul.
Building on their international reputation, THY
has been climbing the ranks as a top provider
and doing very well in Canada.
With 321 destinations, and adding new ones
at a rapid pace, THY welcome travellers with
smiles and a friendly hello, though often with
a charming accent!
Their aircraft include A330s, A340s, B777s,
B737-800s and B727-800s, all well maintained
and laid-out with the customer in
mind. Each section is designed with creature
comforts taking front and centre. The seats
throughout the plane are comfortable and the
facilities are kept impeccably clean and
organized. Most Business Class passengers
can expect either fully lie-flat seats or angled
lie-flat seats that brings relaxation to a higher
level.
Comfort Class is Turkish Airlines' premium
economy section is highlighted by slightly
larger seats configured in two-by-three-bytwo
rows, a large video screen and entertainment
system with an iPod outlet and a laptop
power outlet for each seat.
Even passengers traveling in Economy Class
can enjoy an above average trip, as all passengers
enjoy the famed THY complimentary
meal. Though multi-course meals are provided
in Business Class on extended range
flights, all passengers are treated to the
award winning food served on board.
Considering that THY deals with one of the
world’s biggest (maybe the biggest) catering
service and are partners with Do & Co., there
is no surprise in the quality THY can offer!
www.turkishairlines.com
33
Whether you are enjoying the wonders of
Turkey for several weeks or only a few
days as part of the Turkish Airlines
Stopover Program, Turkish hospitality and
wonder awaits.
Are you ready to Widen Your World?
American World Traveler Summer 2022

34
Tropical Tidbits
by Sue C Travel
Higher demand for low season in
Caribbean hot spots
Typically, the Caribbean islands and Mexico
are a winter escape plan, but they are seeing
a huge demand for summer holidays this
year. Thankfully, many resorts took the pandemic
downtime to elevate their experiences
and refresh and expand their properties like
Aruba Ocean Villas who have newly constructed
penthouse overwater bungalows (see
page 59), so they are more than ready for the
influx. Let’s see what’s new in the destinations
where summer never ends…
Divi Little Bay raises the bar with new
Oceans level
Divi Resorts are known throughout the
Caribbean as first-rate escapes for many different
types of travelers, but now they’ve
added a new upper tier option within their
St. Maarten oasis called Oceans. This brand
new 98-room wing is located within their
original Little Bay Beach Resort on its own
private peninsula. Choose their all-inclusive
or room-only plan and enjoy many upgraded
amenities and services like fresh robes,
comfy slippers, luxe spa products, espresso
machine, gourmet coffee pods, VIP check-in
and checkout and much more. The upscale
new Oceans option is now also available at
adult-only all-inclusive Divi Carina St. Croix
Resort with plans to expand the new brand
in the future.
Visit: https://www.diviresorts.com/oceans-little-bay.htm
New oasis for that “peaceful easy feeling”
in Aruba
This cool new off-radar stay on One Happy
Island reminds me of the classic Eagles’ song
lyrics “I want to sleep with you in the desert
tonight with a million stars all around…” It’s a
deluxe tricked out Flying Cloud Airstream with
its own private pool and whirlpool deck in the
middle of Aruba’s arid outback. Surrounded
World Traveler - Already 20 Years!

The five-square-mile Dutch Caribbean Island
of Saba is known for its unspoiled nature, lush
rainforests, and great diving ops, but there
are only a handful of places to stay. And
though most visitors go there to hike or dive,
it has recently become more of a draw for
mainstream travelers which is why the addition
of the new Saba Arawak Hotel is so welcome.
The new full-service all-suite resort is
spread across four mountainside wings. There
are 24 junior suites and 3 large one-bedroom
suites, all with fully equipped kitchenettes.
Guests will enjoy great sea views from the outdoor
pool and deck, and an Asian/Caribbean
themed bar and restaurant will open there
soon.
Visit: https://sabaarawak.com/
35
by cacti and wildlife and looking out on a
wild, restless sea, it really is for nature lovers.
Sleeps four but can be a private little cocoon
for a couple to use as a practical base when
they are seeking a unique tropical holiday.
Available through Airbnb only,
https://www.airbnb.ca/rooms/37482707
New large all-suite stay on little Saba
New “Bonaire Bond Pledge” helps coral
even more
The lovely pristine little Dutch Caribbean
Island of Bonaire is well known for their pioneering
eco-protection measures and efforts
to keep their surrounding sea healthy and
clean. It was way back in 1979, long before it
was fashionable, that they designated all the
waters around the island as a protected
marine park. It paid off by turning Bonaire
into one of the leading shore diving destinations
in the world and attracting an elite ecoaware
group of marine-life loving visitors.
Today, Bonaire is out to offer a broader range
of guest experiences, higher end hotels, fine
dining, cosmopolitan nightlife and even new
attractions like golf and land sailing, but they
are also out to ensure their island’s best treasures
continue to thrive. To educate potential
new visitors about their important eco-initiatives
they have created “The Bonaire Bond”,
an online pledge. For every signature,
Bonaire will plant a coral tree to help keep
refurbishing the reefs.
Visit: http://www.bonairebond.com/
Star Clippers resumes
South American itineraries
It’s been 8 years since the regal tall ships of
Star Clippers have sailed guests through the
wonders of Costa Rica, Nicaragua, and
through the famed Panama Canal. Now
they’re celebrating the return of those awesome
itineraries with some incredible specials.
Book before July 15th to get free air
from selected Canadian cities for December
departures, and solo travelers can now benefit
from no single surcharge for many of their
sailings as well. Imagine witnessing the lush
rainforests, colorful wildlife, and pristine seas
naturally by wind power as the early explorers
did. Bucket list worthy for sure.
Visit: www.starclippers.com/ca/specials/freeairfare-with-costa-rica-sailings-ca.html
Great beach reads
Author and sea captain Cheryl Bartlam
Dubois has teamed up with celebrated author
Debra Ann Pawlak to pen yet another great
book focused on the Caribbean region, and
she will be rereleasing her classic “West of the
Equator- In Search of Paradise” this year as
well.
"THE REVOLUTION: Captain, Pirate, Heroine”
is a historical fiction set around Cuba,
Jamaica, Tortuga, and the Bahamas, and the
follows the perilous adventures of real-life
Fanny Campbell who dressed as a man to
commandeer British ships to rescue her lover
from a Cuban prison during the American
revolution. The British considered her a pirate,
but Americans see her as a heroine. It’s a rollicking
read ideal for enjoying by a tropical
sea.
Visit: https://aplaceintime.press/product/therevolution-captain-pirate-heroine
Award-winning travel journalist
Sue Campbell is based in Montreal but makes it
her business to be on top of everything cool, hot, and
new under the sun throughout the Caribbean and
Latin America.
World Traveler welcomes her
as a regular columnist.
Follow her on
Instagram and Twitter @suectravel
American World Traveler Summer 2022

Arctic North Atlantic South Atlantic North
Amazon Danube Mekong Nile Rhine Rhône Moselle Seine Yangtze
C r u i s i n g with
W O R L D
Traveler
CRUISING
SECTION
Cruise News - pages 38 - 39
Cruising the Magnificent Douro with CroisiEurope - page 42
The Viking Octantis comes to Life - page 44
Sailing The Mediterranean Aboard Windstar's Star Pride - page 46
Southampton to New York - onboard Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 - page 48
This Photo: Viking Octantis in the Antarctica
Come With Us &

Pacific South Pacific Indian Southern Ocean
Sail The World!
American World Traveler Summer 2022
Adriatic Aegean Mediterranean Caribbean Baltic Black South-China Sea

38
AmaWaterways Avalon Azamara Carnival Celebrity Cos
C r u i s e N e w s
Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Celebrates 30 Years of
Unrivaled Experiences
Recently, Regent Seven Seas Cruises®
celebrates 30 years of Unrivaled
Experiences and its storied history of
elevating ocean travel as the leading
luxury cruise experience. To honor the
last three decades, Regent Seven Seas
Cruises has curated an enhanced collection
of unique 30th Anniversary
Voyages in Africa, Alaska, Asia, Canada & New England, the Caribbean, the
Mediterranean, Northern Europe and South America.
www.rssc.com
Quark Expeditions Announces
Start of its Arctic 2022 Season
Quark Expeditions, a global Leader in
Polar Adventures, launched its Arctic
2022 season on May 3, 2022, with a 7-
day “Spitsbergen Highlights: Expedition
in Brief” voyage. This much-awaited
sailing also marked the inaugural Arctic
voyage of Ultramarine, Quark
Expeditions game-changing new ship.
Quark Expeditions’ ground-breaking Tundra to Table: Inuit Culinary Experience offers
guests a one-of-a-kind adventure into the culinary traditions of the Inuit in Greenland
and Nunavut. Guests who participate in this on-ship Adventure Option will enjoy dishes
from these Arctic regions prepared by Inuit chefs, and learn about local Inuit culture
and culinary traditions.
www.quarkexpeditions.com
Celebrity Cruises
Announces New 2022 Fall
Sailings from Ports on Both
U.S. Coasts
Picturesque lagoons, Old World charm,
bustling nightlife, and local flavors are a few
things guests will experience as Celebrity
Cruises® sets sail on a series of new sailings
through both the Mexican Riviera and the
Caribbean beginning fall 2022. Aboard the luxurious Celebrity Solstice, guests will be
treated to unparalleled vistas as it sails down the Pacific Coast, while experiencing the
vibrant culture of the Mexican Riviera. Celebrity Millennium®, recently modernized as
part of the Celebrity Revolution®, will treat guests to endless summer sailings through the
Southern Caribbean.
www.celebritycruises.com
MSC World Europa Features
Enhanced and Futuristic
MSC Yacht Club
This year MSC Cruises introduces the highly
anticipated MSC World Europa to its fleet - the
first in the trailblazing ‘World Class’ ships. The
new ship will introduce a completely new
cruising platform that boasts future-proof
marine and onboard hospitality technologies
as well as a ground-breaking and ultramodern
design.
One of the ship’s highlights will be an
enhanced MSC Yacht Club for guests to enjoy.
The innovative “ship within a ship” concept is
an all-inclusive cruise experience that set a
new standard of premium cruising when it was
introduced in 2008 by offering guests privacy
and exclusivity as well as being able to enjoy
all the facilities a larger ship can offer.
With the design of each new ship, MSC
Cruises seeks to enrich and enhance the experience
therefore the MSC Yacht Club on MSC
World Europa will offer unparalleled levels of
comfort, more public space, expanded outdoor
areas, new stylish suites, and a more
futuristic design.
Key Highlights of the MSC Yacht Club on
MSC World Europa:
A totally reimagined sundeck.
Two ultra-spacious Owner-Suites.
Double-balcony Duplex Suites.
Dedicated massage rooms.
The MSC Yacht Club experience
Key-card access exclusively grants those staying
in the MSC Yacht Club access to the private
lounge, that serves unlimited complimentary
drinks and gourmet canapés, and a private
fine-dining restaurant. This restaurant is
open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner with an
a-la-carte menu including chef’s specials, and
a wide choice of gourmet dishes complemented
by an extensive wine list.
www.msccruises.com
Regent Scenic Seabourn SeaDream Silversea S

ta CroisiEurope Cunard Delfin Disney Holland America
39
Brand new from CroisiEurope
A Four-Night ‘Romantic German Sites &
The Charming Neckar Valley’ Cruise
Europe’s largest river cruise operator,
CroisiEurope, has introduced a brand new
‘Romantic German Sites & The Charming
Neckar Valley’ itinerary that takes guests on
an unforgettable journey through beautiful
countryside, past hills dotted with castles to
lush forests and stunning cities.
The five-day cruise between Strasbourg and
Stuttgart calls in Heidelberg, Eberbach,
Heilbronn and Ludwigsburg. Highlights
include:
•Heidelberg, the most romantic city in
Germany with its recently restored funicular
railway to the historic castle offering magnificent
views across the city and valleys.
•The medieval Maulbronn Monastery complex
which was declared a UNESCO World
Heritage Site in 1993.
•The Ludwigsburg Residential Palace, one
of the largest Baroque buildings in Europe
which is nicknamed the Versailles of Swabia
thanks to its extraordinary interiors with
architecture and décor spanning four centuries.
•A visit to the Porsche Museum to get up
close and personal with legendary models
such as the 356, 550, 911 and 917 as well
as discovering some of the unfinished technical
designs of Ferdinand Porsche.
•The art and cultural hub of Stuttgart.
The cruise takes place on the 94-guest MS
Mona Lisa with departures in September
and October. Cruise only prices to include
all meals and drinks onboard, port taxes
and repatriation insurance.
www.croisieurope.travel
Viking Celebrates Start of
Inaugural Season in
North America’s Great Lakes
Viking continues to mark new milestones for
its expedition voyages, as the new purposebuilt
Viking Octantis® kicks off its inaugural
season in the Great Lakes. Designed specifically
to reach the Great Lakes region, the
Viking Octantis recently completed a
roundtrip through the Welland Canal—a key
section of the St. Lawrence Seaway connecting
Lake Ontario and Lake Erie—making it the
largest passenger vessel ever to transit the
canal. The ship will remain in the Great Lakes
until early October 2022, sailing a variety of
itineraries between Toronto and Duluth. A second
expedition vessel, the Viking Polaris®,
will debut later this year and will join the
Viking Octantis in the Great Lakes for the
2023 season.
2022-2023 Great Lakes Voyages
During Viking’s inaugural 2022 season, the
company is operating four new itineraries in
the Great Lakes.
Highlights include:
• Undiscovered Great Lakes
8 days; Thunder Bay to Milwaukee
• Great Lakes Explorer
8 days; Milwaukee to Thunder Bay
• Niagara & The Great Lakes
8 days; Toronto to Milwaukee
• Canadian Discovery
13 days; New York to Toronto
In 2023, Viking will add a new, 15-day voyage:
• Great Lakes Collection
15 days; Toronto to Duluth
www.viking.com
Explora Journeys Celebrates
Key Construction Milestone
with Float out of Explora I
Explora Journeys has recently celebrated
another important milestone
in the construction of EXPLORA I with
the float out ceremony held at the
Fincantieri shipyard in Monfalcone,
Italy. This is the first of four ships from
the luxury ocean travel brand with
EXPLORA I is set to be delivered at the
end of May 2023. EXPLORA II will
launch in summer 2024 and is
already under construction with the
keel being laid earlier this month.
EXPLORA I will feature 461 oceanfront
suites, penthouses, and residences,
ten distinct culinary experiences,
ten indoor and outdoor bar
and lounge experiences with curated
entertainment, four swimming pools
with poolside dining and lounging,
and generous outdoor decks, holistic
wellness and fitness facilities and
much more.
Explora Journeys offers the perfect
blend of celebrated destinations and
lesser known off the beaten path
locations, focusing on a slower pace,
spending more time in each destination
to ensure guests can feel fully
exhilarated and immerse themselves
in the local culture and environment,
while not leaving their mark on the
destination. EXPLORA I’s inaugural
journeys collection includes Canada,
Hawaii, the East Coast of the United
States of America, the Caribbean
Sea, the Mediterranean, Northern
Europe, the United Kingdom,
Iceland, Greenland, and South
America. Sailings start from six-night
journeys and culminate in a spectacular
44-night Northern Europe
Grand Journey.
https://explorajourneys.com
Hurtigruten MSC Norwegian Oceania Ponant Princess Royal-Caribbean
tar-Clippers UnCruise Uniworld Viking Windstar

42
Cruising the Magnificent Douro with CroisiEurope
Article and photography by Michael Morcos
The glory days of travel are back!
Having rescheduled this tour twice
due to travel restrictions and lockdowns,
we were finally going to enjoy our 17-
day trip through Portugal.
Being our first visit to this popular country, we
would take the route most traveled as we
started our voyage of discovery along the
south coast and relished the amazing Algarve
with its spectacular beaches and rugged
coastline.
Next on the itinerary was Lisbon, where we
enjoyed this beautiful and tranquil city and its
rich history, architecture, and laid-back
atmosphere. Continuing north, we reached
the remarkable city of Porto, where we would
be saving the best for last. From here we
would enjoy eight blissful days and experience
the best of the Douro Valley on the beautiful
CroisiEurope ship, the MS Gil Eanes.
This would be our first journey with the French
company. CroisiEurope specializes in river
cruising, canal barging and ocean itineraries
in many destinations around the world including
Africa and Asia. They are a leader in
European cruising with ships on all the major
rivers and even some of the smaller rivers that
many other cruise line companies do not sail.
Although the guests were in a large part
French speaking, there were no language
barriers as the crew was bilingual and all
information was available in both French and
English. This was also true for all presentations,
tours, and excursions. Besides that,
there was a camaraderie among the passengers
as everyone did their best to brush up on
their language skills, at times hilariously.
The MS Gil Eanes
Our first look at the MS Gil Eanes was impressive,
as the sleek vessel sparkled in the sun.
Beautifully designed, it was built in 2015 and
has been well kept ever since. The ship has a
maximum capacity of only 132 guests, making
it intimate and spacious. The public
spaces are found on four levels that included
a pool on the sundeck, and there was always
World Traveler - Already 20 Years!

ample space for everyone and never any lineups.
The base rates of the stateroom included
three meals a day with select local wines, beer
and soft drinks at lunch and dinners, and
excursions in every port of call.
Having cruised the major rivers of Europe
including the Danube and Rhone, I can honestly
say that the Douro River valley cruise is
one of the most charming, serene, and
uniquely beautiful rivers of Europe. The other
major European rivers have lots of traffic with
large commercial vessels, while the Douro is
very tranquil with light traffic. It was rare to
see anything on the rivers except for another
occasional river cruise ship. The daytime sailing
hours were a real delight from the upper
deck of the Eanes. Hot sunny days with a light
breeze and refreshments and we were in bliss.
Gastronomy
French gastronomy could not get much better
than our meals on the Gil Eanes. With such
delicious food, I could not wait for the next
meal while still eating the current one.
Breakfast was buffet style and included all
anyone could want with a collection of delicious
and healthy foods. Lunches and suppers
were a delight, as the sit-down meals were
served by an attentive staff and included popular
and well-known French favorites as well
locally themed dishes. The presentation of the
dishes was truly haute cuisine, almost too
beautiful to touch. Although there was a set
menu, it was easy to request a different dish
that the chef would gladly prepare to your
taste in a very short time.
Staterooms
Although the Staterooms are slightly small in
size, they were very clean, comfortable, modern
and efficient. Our beds were laid out to
face the river and landscape. This would be a
first for us as on all our other cruises had us
looking at interior walls. Not sure what to
think at first, we soon loved this arrangement
and we felt at one with the Douro, especially
when opening the large French balcony
doors. Daily cleaning services were exceptional
by an efficient and friendly staff. We very
quickly felt at home away from home, this
time on the fabulous Douro.
Entertainment
On board was nightly entertainment that
ranged from dancing to live performances by
locals. Most notable were the Flamingo
dancers, Fado singers and guitar players.
These shows were very popular with the
guests, and we would have to arrive early to
get the best seating. In all, the entertainment
was well appreciated and drew ovations from
the spectators. It was always a great way to
end a full day on the Douro.
Excursions
CroisiEurope took very good care of us during
the daily excursions that brought us to a multitude
of locations. From wineries to palaces,
castles, churches/cathedrals then on to quaint
little villages and the wonderful cities of Porto
and Salamanca. There was very little for us to
do except embark on the luxury coaches and
let CroisiEurope’s program director, staff and
local guides do the rest. It was like a dream
visiting such Portuguese riches and in all, it
was impossible to pick a favorite tour as they
were all varied and memorable. The views to
and from our destinations were exceptional
and some even breathtaking and quite
unique to this part of Europe.
Itinerary
On the many excursions, starting in Porto, we
would visit such places as the historic train
station, the old Porto stock exchange and the
Saint Francis church. On the Douro, we
toured a couple of wineries specializing in the
famous Port wines that of course finished with
a delicious tasting. In Vila Real, we visited the
wonderful gardens and opulent building of
the famous wine brand, Mateus. In the
University town of Salamanca, we would visit
the best of this beautiful and historic town
including the well-known University itself, the
Cathedrals, the Plaza Mayor, and the many
shop-lined pedestrian streets.
Our cruise on the Douro Valley with
CroisiEurope was exceptional to say the least,
lots of great experiences, wonderful memories,
fantastic itinerary, laid-back luxury, fabulous
entertainment, and amazing food. We
thoroughly enjoyed our time there and would
highly recommend this destination to sail on
one of the most beautiful European rivers.
www.croisieurope.travel/en/
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American World Traveler Summer 2022

44
The Viking Octantis comes to Life - Expedition Cruising will Never be the Same
Article by Michael Morcos, photography courtesy of Viking
This year, Viking is celebrating 25
years of cruising and are celebrating
with the successful launch of
the first of two Expedition ships in 2022. First
were their River ships, and then came the
Ocean ships and now it is time for the
Expedition ships.
And it is a true game changer!
Christened the Octantis, the ship started it
maiden voyage touring Antarctica and followed
that up with summer cruises in the
Great Lakes. Viking leads the way in every
category, consistently doing the right things,
gaining favourable media reviews and winning
consumer awards for ‘best in’ category.
It would only stand to reason that the Octantis
will follow suit and be recognised as one of
the best expedition ships on the seas.
In this first of a two-part article, we will
explore this modern, high-tech and beautiful
Octantis before exploring the ‘Caribbean
Connections’ cruise itinerary and destinations
that brought us from Barbados to New York
City.
Our ten-day cruise on this gorgeous ship
would prove Viking has yet another winner in
its fleet.
Public spaces
With only 189 staterooms and a capacity of
378 guests, the Octantis feels more like a lavish
yacht than a full-size cruise ship. On our
cruise, we found more space per passenger
than any other ship we have been on. There
were rarely any line-ups to embark or disembark
and we navigated around the ship with
ease.
There is a serene calmness aboard the
Octantis, which is counter to the idea of an
expedition ship. A passenger would assume
this vessel would be built for passengers to
face the elements in far off hostile lands, but
contrary to this, it seems everything is in its
proper place and quite luxurious.
Elegant Nordic design dominates the
Octantis, and it emulates its sister ships,
whether the Longships (river ships) or the
Ocean vessels, the same relaxing look and
feel is evident, embraced and enjoyed.
Guests do not have to go far to find a quiet
place to relax. We found so many locations
on different decks that one can choose to lay
back in the Living room, discover the
Explorers’ Lounge, or check out the Library.
For a smaller ship, the number of nooks and
crannies like the Shelter, Aquavit Terrace and
The Library
Finse Terrace
The Aula
World Traveler - Already 20 Years!

delicious afternoon snacks. On top of these
choices there were selected wines, beer and
soft drinks included in our stateroom fare.
45
Staterooms
the Finse Terrace are treasures waiting to be
found. There are also the old standards of
decks by the Pools and spectacular viewpoints
on the Open deck.
So much more as well, like the Hide for late
night drinks, the Aula where meetings and
lectures take place in a modern theater-like
setting, the Nordic Spa and the Fitness Center
to burn off some of those excess calories you
are going to take on.
Cuisine
Sailing and diets just do not go well together
and for the most part we did not hold back on
savouring the best Viking has to offer. The
food was always fresh and healthy, and for
such a small ship with maximum capacity of
378 guests, there are plenty of dining options
that include buffets, sit down service and inroom
dinning.
Our favourite was the World Café, were we
had a cornucopia of choices including a sushi
bar and a grill. Manfredi’s Italian Restaurant
was easily booked by reservation, and
Mamsen’s was open for breakfast and for
Accommodations on the Octantis come in a
multitude of choices and ranges, from a
Nordic Balcony (215 sq. ft.) up to the Owner’s
suite (1,238 sq. ft.). The best part? All staterooms
are facing outwards and there are no
interior cabins.
On this cruise we would be in a Nordic
Penthouse stateroom. First and lasting impressions
were of how comfortable and efficient
the room was, with a calm and inviting vibe.
The cabin had more than enough storage
space for all our belongings and a seating
area and desk by the window, we really could
have spent most of our time here.
One noticeable difference on the Octantis to
our other River and Ocean Viking sailings was
that there were no verandas. Not sure of how
this would affect our trip, it soon dawned on
me that we really did not need one. The floor
to ceiling windows on the Octantis can roll
down horizontally offering plenty of fresh
ocean breezes and much more daylight and
magnificent views of our surroundings.
Besides that, the design actually offered lots of
interior living space that would normally be
lost to the veranda.
Naturally, in Viking fashion, the washrooms
were clean and generous in size. Sleep was
comfortable on king size beds and of special
note, since this was an expedition ship, there
was a drying closet. All through we did not
rough it out Antarctica, we still used this space
for drying our bathing-suits!
The Hanger
The piece de resistance of the Octantis is the
Hanger. This space redefines expedition cruising,
as in addition to the usual equipment like
Zodiacs and kayaks, the Hanger houses some
amazing modern equipment. If you can
imagine, there are two state of the art submarines
and two Special Operation Boats
(SOB). These vessels are more than toys; they
are also used for ongoing research where
they can gather samples for scientific research
on the health of the environment, including
the infiltration of plastics in the far reaches of
the world.
Rides on both the Special Operation Boats
and in the submarine were once-in-a-lifetime
experiences for most passengers. The SOB felt
like a ride at Universal Studios and was a rush
to the senses. This vessel was designed and
built specifically for the Norwegian military
and can accelerate and brake in ridiculous
short distances while sharp turns on the water
were like nothing else I have ever experienced.
This was adventure!
Service
Octantis continues another Viking tradition,
impeccable service. This is the best word to
describe the actions of the dedicated Viking
staff. On our many cruises over the years with
this company, we have always been treated to
the same incredible attention to detail that is
consistent with the Viking experience. From
our very first cruise with them, I was amazed
by the friendliness. Back then, I was not sure if
it was genuine but in a very short time, I figured
it out: the staff was actually happy to be
there. On this cruise it was a repeat, every
request was handled smoothly and we were
completely pampered by an attentive and
smiling staff.
Life is always good when sailing with Viking,
never any stress and always a fun and relaxing
time. In our next article, we will indulge in
the best the Caribbean has to offer as there is
an included excursion in every port of call and
they are all beauties!
www.viking.com
The Hangar
The Nordic Spa
Nordic Penthouse
Explorers’ Lounge
American World Traveler Summer 2022

46
Travels With My Father: Sailing The Mediterranean Aboard Windstar's Star Pride
by Olivia Liveng
Itook my father to Greece half a
decade ago. Maybe it was because it
was his first time out of the country.
Perhaps it was because every corner he
turned unveiled some new and unique
secret about humanity. Heck, maybe it was
the surplus of one euro gyros--oozing with
juicy meats and that secret tzatziki sauce
that only authentic Greek eateries can
perfect.
Whatever the case, when I had the opportunity
to bring my father along on a
Windstar Cruise expedition again this
spring, spanning the idyllic Mediterranean
coasts of Greece, Italy, and Spain, I knew
the only answer was yes (followed, of
course, by--opa!) He eagerly researched
the itinerary in anticipation of the voyage,
fittingly titled "A Piece of Greece, A Slice of
Sicily,"--noting that most of our stops were
not extraordinarily typical. Instead of
Mylos, Mykonos, and Santorini, our yacht
(yes, yacht!) would navigate to smaller
islands, those that the larger cruise boats
typically cannot travel to.
And though I am an avid cruiser, this
would be the first time embarking on a
genuinely luxury yacht for a more extended
expedition. We would be cruising
through these historically quite-touristed
towns right before the high season, leaving
us the splendors of the past to truly
relish in.
World Traveler - Already 20 Years!

All Aboard
Embarking on Star Pride, one of
Windstar's newly renovated yachts, set the
stage for our voyage. My dad had previously
been on two cruises--both upwards
of 5,000 passengers. While an experience
in its own right, these "moving cities" legitimately
necessitated a map to find one's
way from the casino to their room.
Star Pride? She was different. With just
312 passenger capacity (and ours not
even reaching this), one immediately felt
the personalization of the ship--the size
was one of its many benefits. The recently
renovated ship, which completed renovation
as part of the $250 Million Star Plus
Initiative, is especially unique in that it
comprises all suites. That means that every
traveler indulges in total luxury: queensized
beds with luxurious linens,
L'Occitane bath amenities, a mirrored
closet with ample drawer space, and even
a waffle weave robe and slippers. My
father and I felt like royalty even while
lounging in the room, snacking on the
complimentary fruits, clinking champagne
glasses, and watching the Mediterranean
float by.
Star Pride's renovation additional includes
two new dining venues, a new spa, an
infinity pool, and a fitness area. The
delightful breeze of the Med routinely
served as my office space, while the
bespoke fitness lounge kept me in line
after indulging in the plethora of culinary
options onboard (all included, of course.)
Greece
For a traveler, the highlight of any holiday
should be the destination, that unrivaled
ability to arrive in a foreign land, where
thoughts are outnumbered by the musts of
new scents, where languages of a different
tongue provide a melodic and buzzing
background. That's what Greece has
always been for me: it may physically be
accessible from North America and
Europe, but everywhere you turn, you're
immersed in 3,000 years of history. Our
cruise began in Greece's thriving capital,
Athens. My father and I explored the
Acropolis (gyros in hand, of course), early
in the day, before boarding our Windstar
yacht and embarking on the adventure.
Our second day marked the true "undiscovered"
bit of the trip. For the next seven
days, each crevice we would explore wasn't
something on the typical tourist itinerary.
We arrived in the unspoiled Gythion,
a traditional southern Greek town that
hasn't been burdened by overtourism.
From here, I explored what may be the
most important natural site in Greece: the
Dyros Caves. It was like being in a living
museum: I witnessed formations that
looked like and were even named after
great sites such as the Metropolitan
Throne, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and
the Chinese Palace.
Star Pride sailed to Corfu the next day,
known more for its tourism pull than the
other destinations. However, my father
and I still wanted to immerse ourselves in
that "off-grid" experience. We decided to
embark on a Windstar excursion to experience
Paleokastritsa, the area of unique
natural beauty on the northwestern shores
of Corfu. Known as the "Capri of Greece"
for its rocky promontories cloaked in pine
and cypress trees extending out into the
sea, my father and I wore our explorer
hats, navigating small sandy bays and
coves with crystal clear turquoise waters.
Our last stop in Greece, the town of
Argostoli, epitomized untouched Greece
for me. My father and I especially enjoyed
strolling down the long promenade and
witnessing unique nature: the turtles feeding
at the nearby lagoon.
Italy
I'll admit that while I've explored Italy, my
venturing has generally been limited to the
larger, more touristed cities—Rome,
Florence, Venice. The Italy portion of our
itinerary was also a highlight for me.
Cusping the shoreline of southern Sicily,
Star Pride enjoyed a full day in Messina.
My dad had been itching to explore Italy
for as long as I can remember, and our
welcome to Sicily did not disappoint.
Instead of tours, we spent the day as
I imagine many Europeans would:
strolling the enchanting cobblestone
streets with a mini gelato in hand. We
stopped to soak in the Italian vibes at the
second-largest Greek Theatre in Sicily,
watching the moody Mount Etna in the
distance.
In Trapani, Sicily, my father and I went on
a Windstar excursion that highlighted the
city's historic center, especially its bountiful
churches and palazzos, with their ornate
façades and elaborate interior. Our final
stop in Italy surely did not
disappoint–Cagliari is a medieval walled
city perched over the sparkling azure
waters of the Mediterranean.
Spain
47
Full in more ways than one, our Winstar
trip culminated in Barcelona, sailing into
the lively coastal metropolis early in the
morning on day eight. After being surrounded
by the quaint charm of coastal
villages for most of the journey, Barcelona
felt especially buzzing (even for this girl
from New York City!)
We sadly had to depart our makeshift
home and new cruise family, but we
couldn't resist one last Windstar-worthy
excursion: a multi-hour bus tour showcasing
city highlights. I had spent time in
Barcelona on previous occasions, but the
tour was comprehensive and an optimal
choice for a traveler like my father. (He
had previously only heard of Gaudi in
school-age art classes, after all!) Our airconditioned
bus whisked us through the
city, and though we were feeling the
effects of such a full itinerary, the adrenaline
from the past eight days (and some
potent café, of course) kept us engaged.
I will always treasure moments like these
with my father. Seeing Europe for me, a
seasoned traveler is one thing. But to
experience it again through the eyes of
someone who relishes every detail is what
means the world to me.
www.windstarcruises.com
American World Traveler Summer 2022

48
A Transatlantic Crossing Reminiscent of a Bygone Era
Southampton to New York — onboard Cunard’s Queen Mary 2
by Cherie DeLory
World Traveler - Already 20 Years!

It’s been 13 years since I sailed on
Cunard’s Queen Mary 2, but it’s made a
lasting impression. During the last two
years while the world has turned upside down
amidst the pandemic, I’ve had time to daydream
about my travelling adventures. My
maiden seafaring Cunard voyage has been
impossible to forget. My memories aren’t as
vivid as I’d like them to be, but the more I’ve
had time to reflect on my journey, the more
anxious I am to relive my experience on
another Cunard sailing.
There really is something to be said for the
expression, save the best for last. If you begin
with the best, nothing will ever measure up to
its superiority. This is how I feel about my
transatlantic crossing from Southampton,
England to New York on board the luxury
RMS Queen Mary 2, the world’s only ocean
liner in service. Before there were cruise ships,
there were ocean liners. I’d never been on
either. I remember feeling the excitement of
travelling on a ship that reminded me of the
iconic Titanic; even the route was the same as
the one I’d be sailing. I had been fascinated
by the story of the Titanic ever since watching
the film, A Night To Remember, at the age of
10 on Saturday Night at the Movies with Elwy
Yost.
Truth be told, I had some pangs of doubt
about the ship and I. Would I feel claustrophobic?
Would I get bored? What on earth
would I do for seven days at sea with no ports
of call? But the allure of the ship and the
adventure at sea beckoned. All one needs to
do is brush up on the 182-year pedigree of
the Cunard Line to appreciate its maritime
heritage. Cunard began as the first transatlantic
mail delivery service before ushering
the rich and famous on their holiday excursions.
The Queen Mary 2 is a replica of the
iconic Queen Mary luxury liner that is now
permanently moored in Long Beach
California, open for tours and overnight
accommodation.
In its heyday, The Queen Mary was the
fastest, sleekest and grandest mode of
transatlantic travel, entertaining the who’s
who of Hollywood and discerning passengers
from its launch in 1934, to its final sailing on
October 31st, 1967. Air travel had taken over
as the quicker and cheaper mode of travel
and the shipping industry couldn’t compete.
It’s funny how the tide has turned today, as
travel on the high seas has regained its popularity,
hosting travellers who find pleasure in
what the journey has to offer, providing the
ultimate in the slow travel trend. Time is a luxury,
and there’s plenty of it onboard the
Queen Mary 2.
Prior to my voyage I spent two days introducing
my mother to my favourite city of London,
England. Buckingham Palace, Hyde Park,
Harrods and the charming north London
neighbourhood of Hampstead Heath and the
Kenwood Estate topped our itinerary. Then it
was a quick 80 minute train ride to the Port of
Southampton to board the Queen Mary 2.
Portal to Another World
As I stepped off the gangway through the
entrance to the ship it was as though I had
walked through a portal to another world. It
was the lavish Art Deco era of the early 20th
century. I was overwhelmed by the spaciousness
and elegance of the six-storey foyer atrium,
and it was an adventure from that
moment on exploring the ship from stem to
stern. I was staying in a Princess Grill suite, 5-
star accommodation with a private open balcony
and personal butler service. It means I
can dine in the elegant Princess Grill restaurant
should I need a change of scenery from
the myriad dining options, such as the
Golden Lion traditional English pub, fine dining
at Todd English, 24-hour access to the
Kings Court buffet, or afternoon tea in the
ballroom.
The cuisine was delectable, but if I was going
to eat without guilt I had to find the Canyon
Ranch Spa. I discovered The Aqua Therapy
Centre and gave The Aroma Steam Room,
Herbal Steam Room, and hydrotherapy pool
a whirl all in the same visit. Warning to travellers:
Make sure to drink lots of fluids before
experiencing the steam room, and limit your
visit to no more than 15 minutes to avoid
dehydration. What I thought was a bout of
Atlantic Ocean sea nausea turned out to be
dehydration. Some electrolytes and a nap in
my comfortable suite, and I was feeling like a
seasoned ocean voyager.
I love that the ship has quiet hideaways like
the library on deck 8, the art gallery, the planetarium
and movie theatre, and a corridor
showcasing Cunard history panels with photos
of the celebrities who travelled Cunard
Line during the “golden age of transatlantic
travel”. This is a ship where you can dress
casually, or unpack your Downton Abbey
threads for a black-tie dinner and ballroom
dancing. I always looked forward to getting
dressed up for dinner and theatre at the Royal
Court Theatre to take in a musical or concert,
and my mom and I enjoyed the RADA acting
workshops offered by members of the Royal
Academy of Dramatic Arts. After theatre it
was fun to explore and find a cozy lounge to
listen to live jazz, or a pianist or string quartet.
There was always something going on.
I like to keep active, and there was plenty to
do to keep me moving. Exploring the ship’s
13 passenger-accessible decks, for starters.
Most of the time I would walk the grand staircases
instead of taking the elevator, and the
promenade deck 7 is for running or walking
laps outdoors around the ship. Three laps is
one mile. Half the fun was exploring and discovering
new spaces, like the casino, kennels
for cats and dogs (only ship in the world with
a kennel), and mini golf. I even have memories
of the sound of the ship; the chimes
before the captain’s noon-hour announcements,
and the proud blast of the ship’s baritone
foghorn a few times a day and as we
sailed into the New York Harbour, staring at
the Statue of Liberty in the pre-dawn distance.
Much has happened to add to the legacy of
Cunard since my voyage; in 2016 the Queen
Mary 2 received a $132 million remastering,
which included 35 new cabins, and an additional
15 for solo travellers. Its anticipated
new ship, the Queen Anne, will sail in 2024.
It’s no surprise that its inaugural sailing from
Southampton to Lisbon sold out on the first
day.
www.cunard.com
49
American World Traveler Summer 2022

50
Luxury Hotels...Grand Resorts...Charming B&B...Opulent Villas...Quaint C
Sweet Dreams Around the World
Stay & Play Section
Stay and Play in Elevated Luxury at Shangri-la Vancouver
With 5-star locations all around the world, Shangri-la hotels have a tough reputation
to maintain: world-class luxury meets peaceful serenity.
I was lucky enough to experience the stunning Shangri-la Vancouver when my best
friend visited from Montreal for the first time. After an epic boating tour with Sea
Vancouver and a gorgeous hike through the Lynn Valley trails, Shangri-la
Vancouver was the perfect place to relax and unwind in style.
Steps away from the waterfront and Vancouver’s famous Stanley Park, the location
is ideal for exploring the city on foot, by bike, or SkyTrain. The property itself is
remarkable, with all 119 rooms outfitted with an Asian-inspired elevated décor. We
booked a spacious Deluxe Room with two double beds, a cozy seating area, and
floor-to-ceiling windows with remote-controlled shades. We were especially
impressed with the marble-tile bathroom and deep-soak bath, heated floors, and
the tv-embedded into the mirror. We even selected our favorite pillows from a custom
pillow menu for an ultra-comfortable sleep.
Excited to see more, we immediately changed into our swimsuits and headed to the
outdoor pool area. Lounging on mermaid-style day beds and nestled between towering
Vancouver skyrises, the pool deck felt like our very own urban oasis. After a
much needed whirl pool soak and impromptu photo session, we enjoyed a couple
of cocktails at the hotel’s gorgeous Italian restaurant: Carlino. We loved the
Oolong Fashioned: a unique take on a classic cocktail but with oolong-infused
brandy.
Overall, our weekend of luxurious relaxation was one of our best ideas yet. It’s no
wonder the hotel borrows its name from the legend of Shangri-la: a lost paradise
of harmonious living. The whole experience was absolutely dreamy. Our only
regret is not booking massages at Chi: the Spa at Shangri-la, but there’s always
next time.
www.shangri-la.com
by Jessica Percy Campbell
Incredible New Overwater
Bungalows in Aruba
As the original creators of the island’s only
South Pacific style overwater bungalows in
their gorgeous Aruba Ocean Villas boutique
resort, the latest additions of penthouse style
overwater suites are beyond stunning.
Opulence and over-the-top luxury await at
every turn. On deck whirlpools, royal
canopied beds, bespoke Balinese décor,
deep sinking tubs, sea view flooring, personal
plunge pools, and separate sea entrances
with personal kayaks all add to the allure.
Ensuite gourmet room service or private
palapa dining, on-site spa, butler service
and welcoming tiki bar also add to the magical
ambience. Adult-only. Must be seen to
be believed.
www.arubaoceanvillas.com
Bora Bora One
Bora Bora One takes secluded luxury to new
levels in French Polynesia. Set on a quiet idyllic
islet along 7.5 acres on Motu Piti A’au,
Bora Bora One is a family-owned, five-suite
estate that can accommodate up to 10 guests.
This secluded estate offers the intimacy and
personal touches of a private residence surrounded
by a forest of palm trees overlooking
cinematic views of a sparkling turquoise
lagoon and towering lush mountain peaks.
Learn more about its recent enhancements
and five-star resort amenities that turn this
estate into a true tropical sanctuary of worldclass
comfort and luxury.
https://boraboraone.com/
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ountry Inns...Luxary Safari Camps...Ecolodges...Ice...Cave...Treetop... Hotels
51
Westin Resort & Spa, Whistler, British Columbia
In mid-April, the 90-minute drive from
Vancouver International Airport to
Whistler included not only the spectacular
scenery of the Sea-to-Sky Highway, but also
snow flurries. This turned into a full-blown
snow storm by the time we checked into the 4-
Star Westin Resort & Spa. We entered our twobedroom
Mountain View suite, dropped our
bags, and dashed onto the balcony. We saw
snow covered trees and lots of blowing snow,
but not much more.
But visual serendipity was in the offing!
The next morning, against the backdrop of a
gorgeous, clear, blue sky, the rising sun
peaked over a stunning panorama of layers
and waves of the snow-capped ridges of
British Columbia’s Coast Mountains. The
by Steve Gillick
1834 meter (1617 feet) summit of Mount
Sproatt, and the 2314 meter (7992 feet) crest
of Rainbow Mountain were directly in front of
us. And every time we returned to our room
that day, we sat in the warm sunshine on our
balcony, just staring at this incredible mountain
view. There was no need to turn on the
55-inch television once during our stay!
And for orophiles (people who love to look at
mountains), the less than 5-minute walk to
Whistler Village allows you time to find that
perfect outdoor patio for lunch, with amazing
views of Whistler Mountain (2181 meters –
7155 feet) and Blackcomb Peak (2436 meters
– 7992 feet). But the Village also offers a variety
of restaurants featuring local and international
fare, plus bars, grocery stores, tourist
kiosks, and shops specializing in ski equipment,
snowboard rentals, souvenirs, and lots
more.
Our super comfortable two-bedroom suite
had a fireplace, couch, kitchen table,
microwave, oven, coffee maker, dishwasher,
plates, cutlery and a mini-refrigerator, all perfect
for heating our breakfast wraps in the
morning, and keeping our afternoon wine
and sake bottles (all purchased in the Village),
nice and cold!
Inside the hotel itself there is a convenient
Starbucks, along with the Grill & Vine
Restaurant (open for breakfast, brunch and
dinner), and the Fireside Lounge for après
skiers, energized hikers, or exhausted shoppers.
And those looking to submerge themselves
in wellness can swim in the heated
indoor or outdoor pools, workout in the
Fitness Studio, or indulge in a treatment at the
Whistler Spa.
The Westin Resort & Spa is a combination of
comfort and class, with friendly, helpful staff,
in a great location within a world-class destination.
www.westinwhistler.com
The Westin is in a great location. It’s a 10-
minute walk to the Whistler Blackcomb Ski
Resort, 15 minutes to the incredible collection
in the Audain Art Museum, and 20 minutes for
those looking to escape to forest paths, birding
(Steller’s Jays, Varied Thrushes, Ospreys,
Bald Eagles), and meditative scenes at Lost
Lake.
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Advertorial
Accommodations
Puntacana Resort & Club is the
Caribbean’s leading resort community on
the eastern shore of the Dominican
Republic. Tortuga Bay is member of the
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guest enjoys all of Westin’s signature
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Golf
With 45 holes of championship golf,
Puntacana Resort & Club is the
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The P.B. Dye designed La Cana
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declared the number one course in the
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Sea, the Corales Golf Course features six
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for an exhilarating experience.
Activities & Spa
Puntacana Resort & Club offers a wide
range of adventures for guests of all ages
including golf, tennis, kite boarding, scuba
diving, horseback riding, fishing and
numerous excursions by sea, land and air.
The leading spa in the Caribbean, Six
Senses Spa at Puntacana Resort & Club
presents a range of innovative packages,
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Visit Galerías Puntacana to enjoy an
assortment of shops, restaurants, playground,
and our spirited nightlife.
Dining
Puntacana Resort & Club is home to 6
world class eateries with an indigenously
delectable cuisine. Tucked inside Tortuga
Bay, the AAA Four Diamond awarded
Bamboo blends modern cuisine with
Mediterranean influences. Specializing in
local seafood, The AAA Three Diamond
Award La Yola is located at the Marina. At
La Cana Golf & Beach Club is The Grill,
an American style grill offering views of
the sea. The Westin Puntacana Resort &
Club provides a variety or restaurants and
bars from Ananí to Brassa Grill. Next door
is Playa Blanca, a beachfront tropical
restaurant. Our Dine Around Program
offers the best sampling of our finest culinary
experience. All restaurants offer complimentary
shuttle service within the resort.
More dining options are available at
Puntacana Village.
Corporate Social Responsibility
We believe that in development there
needs to be equilibrium among the economic,
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Our non-profit Grupo Puntacana
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with vision, hard work and perseverance,
the key to our success.
Punta Cana International airport
Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ),
built, owned and operated by Grupo
Puntacana, the resort’s developers, and
located within Puntacana Resort & Club, is
just minutes away from check-in at any of
our hotels or private homes. Punta Cana
International Airport (PUJ) has direct service
from 98 different cities around the
world, making Punta Cana the most
accessible destination in the Caribbean.
Our VIP terminals service the needs of
guests flying in private aircrafts.
The Caribbean’s Premiere Golf
& Beach Resort Community
www.puntacana.com

54
Photo: Visit Kanab
Photo: Visit Kanab
Western Luxe: Stay and Play at Zion Mountain Ranch
by Jennifer Merrick
Once parked, we enjoyed a pleasant and scenic
hike up to the edge of the cliff leading to
the canyon. The sun was shining, birds were
circling overhead, and I was smiling. But then,
we had to get down.
Oh give me a home, where the buffalo
roam, and the skies are not cloudy all
day….
Though the last time I heard “Home on the
Range” was as a child at summer camp, I
found myself humming the tune as I drove up
to my accommodation at Zion Mountain
Ranch. My quintessential log cabin was one of
52 on the 300-acre property, located just five
minutes from the east entrance of Zion
National Park in Southern Utah.
Its porch, with a comfy, outdoor, wooden seating
area, looked as inviting and relaxing as a
good porch should. Inside the cabin, the western-themed
décor was a fitting welcome with
its exposed wooden beams and logs, pictures
Photo: Jennifer Merrick
of ranch life and hand-crafted accessories.
Though the image of a log home might be a
rustic one, the cabins at this lodge had the
comforts and modern amenities of luxury
accommodation: living and kitchen seating
areas, TV, microwave, fridge, coffee maker,
and mattress and bedding at par with any
high-end hotel. My favourite feature, though,
was the over-sized clawfoot bathtub.
Still humming, I wandered down to dinner,
passing by adorable miniature ponies and a
crowing rooster, announcing its presence.
Cordwood Restaurant echoed the atmosphere
of the accommodation, both with its inviting
décor of wooden walls, stacked firewood and
western accents as well as its elevated cuisine.
Food is either grown on the property itself or
carefully sourced for its freshness and sustainability.
The salad ingredients on the menu
were from its garden, and entrees included
bison steaks, stuffed trout and roasted chicken
with wild mushroom ragout. After my
delectable meal, I headed back to my cabin,
followed by Rex, one of the lodge’s friendly
dogs.
The proximity to the natural playground that is
Southern Utah was another appealing aspect
of the ranch. Visitors can easily access Zion
National Park, right next door, or take part in
the activities on offer, including horseback riding,
jeep tours, guided hikes and canyoneering.
I opted for the latter, and the next morning
found myself bumping along the dirt
roads in a UTV to Elkhart Canyon, one of the
most scenic slot canyons in the state.
“Just lean back as if you were doing a wall
sit,” our guide calmly instructed us. Except
there was no wall -- only a 100-foot drop
below. Hands gripping tightly on the ropes
and legs wobbling with fear, I inched down,
deeply lamenting my decision to try rappelling.
The regret dissipated somewhat once my feet
were back firmly on the ground, and we
explored the photogenic canyon. The filtered
rays of sunlight reflected on the pink-tinged,
rocky interior, creating an enchanted fairy-tale
atmosphere in the tunnels and caverns.
Back at Zion Mountain Lodge, adrenaline still
cursing through my limbs, I spotted a herd of
buffalo. The property has approximately 40
buffalo; and watching these peaceful giants
grazing, I once again hummed my tune.
Oh give me a home…
https://www.zmr.com
Photo: Jennifer Merrick
World Traveler - Already 20 Years!

55
Sunny Vineyard Escape at Carter Estate Winery and Resort
Temecula Valley, whose name translates
to ‘place of the sun’, is a wine
region located just 130 kms southeast
of Los Angeles. Its approximately 50 familyowned
wineries produce an unusually diverse
range of varieties from cool-climate
Gewurztraminers and Rieslings to
Mediterranean Syrah and Tempranillo. Each
have their speciality. For Carter Estate Winery
it’s their crisp sparkling wines produced using
the ‘methode champenoise’ process. In other
words, it’s the same labour-intensive method
used to produce champagne but without the
French label and price tag. Besides bubbly,
Carter Estate is also renowned for their luxe
accommodation that features 60 beautifully
designed bungalows.
Our spacious, open-concept suite included
living and dining areas and an oversized
bathroom, complete with soaking tub and
separate shower room. All wonderfully luxe,
by Jennifer Merrick
but the highlight for us was the private outdoor
terrace with a view of the vineyard that
was literally steps from our outdoor seating
sanctuary. Gazing at the rows of grapes in the
Temecula sunshine while enjoying the complimentary
wine (included in the room rates
along with breakfast), we debated the merits
of just not leaving our accommodation for the
next three days.
But considering how much there was to do
both on and off the resort that would have
been a shame. Situated on 100-plus acres,
we found plenty of space to take a walk
amidst the vines. Lounging around the hot tub
and swimming pool, enjoying Vineyard Grill,
the poolside restaurant, was another option
as was learning about winemaking. The
Tasting Room offered curated samples with
an expansive view of the working vineyard.
Carter Estate’s sister property, South Coast
Winery Resort & Spa, is situated across the
road and guests can walk or use their shuttle
service to access their amenities. At Vineyard
Rose Restaurant, we enjoyed prime cuts of
steaks and seafood in the Tuscan-inspired
restaurant. But the star attraction at South
Coast was its Grapeseed Spa, a three-story,
17,000-square-foot oasis, featuring a saltwater
pool, sauna and 22 treatment rooms.
From the friendly staff and expert hands of
the masseuse to the tranquil setting and complimentary
glass of wine, it was the ultimate in
pampering from the moment I walked in the
door until I very reluctantly departed. Once
again, I found myself contemplating not leaving
the grounds of these properties and just
luxuriating in their beautifully landscaped
grounds and all the comforts and services on
offer.
But Temecula Valley with its wineries, historic
downtown and bucolic landscape had way
too much to offer to hold these thoughts for
long. Old Town Temecula transported us to a
quintessential western town with its original
buildings that now house creative eateries,
original boutiques and antique shops.
A sunrise hot air balloon ride lifted us high
above the valley for a view of the rolling hills
and the pink-hued mountains in the distance.
We concluded our adventure with a mimosa
toast as our pilot recited the balloonist prayer:
"May the winds welcome you with softness.
May the sun bless you with its warm hands,”
it began. As the sunshine and the breezes
welcomed and blessed us, once more I
dreamt about staying longer in ‘the place of
the sun’.
www.carterestatewinery.com
American World Traveler Summer 2022

58
Paseo Del Prado Hotel, Havana, Cuba
Roof-top observation decks are
becoming very popular in Havana
but absolutely, one of the best is the
9th Floor of the Paseo del Prado Hotel. The
breathtaking 360 degree view of the city
envelops the guest with stunning views of
the National Capitol Building, the Malecon
esplanade, Havana Harbour and the
fortress, El Morro; the neighbourhood of
Vedado, and of course, the Prado.
Paseo del Prado translates as “a leisurely
stroll along the meadow”, but specifically
refers to the Prado, which is a tree-lined
street-promenade in Havana, dating to
1772. It stretches from the Malecon (the
boardwalk along the sea) to the downtown
area. And today, the street is filled with historic
buildings, hotels, shops, restaurants,
bars and cafes, leading to Parque Central,
the Grand Theatre and the area around the
National Capitol Building.
by Steve Gillick
The 4.5-star Paseo del Prado La Habana
Hotel owned by the Accor Group, is part of
the SO brand, defined as ‘high-energy,
fashionable and edgy’. It’s perfectly situated
on the corner where the Malecon meets
the Prado. For those who love to discover a
city by walking and exploring (Old Havana
is one minute away), or start the day with a
walk or jog along the Malecon, this is
where you’ll want to stay. And for those
who prefer a more relaxed approach to
seeing Havana’s attractions, just hail a
Yellow Bubble Taxi or a vintage car taxi outside
the hotel’s front door.
The first thing you notice is the unique
design of the hotel. From the exterior, the
building resembles a ship entering Havana
Bay. The interior, features striking, yet
soothing, cool, soft-colored curved lines.
The inspiration was Spanish fashion
designer Agatha Ruiz de la Prada, who also
designed the staff outfits. In the spirit of
relaxation, amusement and the avant
garde, one of the staff in a canary yellow
outfit may open the front door for you,
while a bell boy in rainbow striped pants
may take your luggage, as one of the desk
clerks wearing blue polka-dot pants or a
pink polka dot skirt, along with a white shirt
emblazoned with a red heart, facilitates
your check-in.
The 250 guest rooms, including eight
suites, ooze comfort and taste. There are
three room styles, representing ‘the vibrant
and energizing dances of Cuba’: Classical
Ballet, Son Cubano, and Salsa. Guests also
choose which floor-to-ceiling view they prefer:
the Patio, the Prado or the Malecon.
The beds are plush, the bathtubs are deep
and the room amenities affirm that you are
in a luxury property. The hotel has a number
of accessible rooms.
The outdoor infinity pool provides more
stunning views of the Malecon and El
Morro, the 16th century fortress guarding
the entrance to Havana harbour. Other
hotel features include a Spa, Salon, Fitness
Room, as well as bars and restaurants,
each offering their own amazing views.
The Paseo del Prado is a visual experience
both inside and out. Superb design, super
location and a great complement to a visit
to Havana.
https://www.so-la-habana.com/
World Traveler - Already 20 Years!

59
Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort
An Awesome New Aruba Experience
by Susan Campbell
right on that beach. They had doubled the
size of their Passions Beach Bar and added
table seating and a wide variety of morning
options. I opted for the “Big Breakfast”, and
it was huge, then I stuffed myself silly then
went for a heavenly swim in that impossibly
aqua sea. Perfect way to start an Aruba day.
My recent stay at this sunny and
cheery Dutch colonial style boutique
resort in Aruba was revelatory.
I’ve written about everything Aruba for over
25 years, so I was aware of their presence,
and I often dine at their fabulous signature
restaurant Passions on the Beach, it’s one of
the most romantic, scenic settings on the
island, and the food is first rate. But historically
I thought of Amsterdam Manor mainly
as an economical practical base for visiting
families, mostly Dutch, as all the rooms have
full kitchens which helps plan a budgetfriendly
holiday. And their location just across
the street from a superb stretch of famous
Eagle Beach gives guests the best of all possible
worlds. But I’d not stayed there in over a
decade. When I noticed they were undertaking
a massive top-to-bottom renovation-the
small family-owned hotel first opened in
1989, and she was beginning to show her
age- my curiosity was piqued, and I figured it
was time for a revisit.
Not much had changed about the exterior
structure, it was still that bright sunny welcoming
yellow and the entrance still had that
regal quality about it from boasting their signature
coat of arms, but everything else was
very different. As I walked to my room, I
noted the pool area was beautifully upgraded
and the Horizons Lounge bar overlooking
it had been restyled and now offers a trendy
new menu of cocktails and bites. I had
booked an ocean front room, it turned out to
be gorgeous; a spacious two-bedroom suite,
(guess I should have invited a friend), with a
sparkling kitchen full of modern appliances
and three flat screen TVs, two beautifully renovated
rain shower bathrooms, a huge
wooden table and inviting living area, and
accents of tropical colors provided with paintings
by local artists depicting Aruban scenes.
I loved it. And my Eagle Beach view off my
balcony was divine, I could even see Aruba’s
most photographed famous twisted trees in
the sand right across the way. Nothing say
you are in Aruba like they do.
The next morning, though room service is
now also available at Amsterdam, and it was
tempting, I decided to have my breakfast
Amsterdam Manor has certainly come a long
way since my last stay. They have also been
working hard to be a sustainable choice as
well as an economical one. They were
EarthCheck certified in 2000 and obtained
the Master Achievement Award. They are petfriendly,
too. Good stuff!
They started small with only 49 rooms, but
now they offer six different room types
among 72 totally renovated studios and
suites. And though this little boutique oasis
has really elevated the entire experience to
cater to a more discerning type of traveler, I
found that they’ve not lost their warm and
welcoming small community vibe that I
remembered well.
https://www.amsterdammanor.com
American World Traveler Summer 2022

60
Feeling Curaçao
Article and photography by Steve Gillick
After visitors land at Curaçao airport,
it takes only a few minutes to discover
the slogan of the Curaçao
Tourist Board, “Feel it for yourself.” And once
they experience the people and the culture,
along with pristine beaches, soothing
turquoise waters, exhilarating national parks
and an incredible culinary scene, visitors
appreciate what it means to personally ‘feel
the vibe’ on this exciting island.
It begins on arrival when you are honored
with the Papiamentu (the language of the
Dutch Caribbean) greeting, “Bon Bini na
Dushi Curaçao”. “Welcome to lovely, beautiful,
wonderful, Curaçao”. Dushi is one of
those all-encompassing endearments. When
you call someone Dushi, you really mean
“sweetheart” or “sweety”. The giant “Dushi”
sign can be found near the equally giant
“Curaçao” sign in Queen Wilhemina Park, in
Punda, the historic core of the capital city,
Willemstad.
The freewheeling idea of ‘feeling it for yourself’
involves all the senses. When I mentioned
the attraction of all-inclusive resorts to
one of the locals, she told me about
Westpoint, and asked, “What can be more
all-inclusive than a holiday where you have
beautiful green forests, caves, the unrestrained
power of nature, plus birds, beaches,
great food and sunshine”?
Westpoint is a 45-minute plus drive from
Willemstad, depending on how many times
you stop along the way to breathe in the gorgeous
scenery. After crossing the Queen
Juliana Bridge, spanning St. Anna Bay, we
headed west, past the Three Brothers; three
sedimentary hills popular with hikers and
climbers.
Kas di Pal’i Maishi outdoor museum provides
a glimpse of a 130-year-old slave house and
insight into how many people lived on the
island up to the 1950s. Evil spirits were kept
at bay with a triple-row cactus fence, and if
that didn’t work, the spirits would become
ensnared in the curled feathers of the chicken,
kept in the coop by the entrance.
World Traveler - Already 20 Years!

and explode into a misty spray. It’s is a great
venue for videos and photos.
Bread with caramel drizzle and eggnog
ice cream.
61
Interactive activities on our visit included carrying
a pail of water on the head, and
singing the gossip song “Kalim Bambeya”.
This would have been sung by the wife while
washing clothes and at the same time warning
the neighbors that her husband was
drinking and causing trouble by spying on
them!
Curaçao has two national parks in the West
end. Christoffel National Park surrounds Mt.
Christoffel, the highest point on the island at
372 meters (1220 feet). The park is known
for hiking, climbing, and nature (flowering
plants, bromeliads, orchids, reptiles, mammals,
and many of the 263 species of birds
on the island).
We visited the second National Park, Shete
Boca (‘seven mouths’, or ‘seven sea inlets’),
and headed straight for Boca Pistol. With a
sound like the crack of a fired pistol, the wild
waves dramatically crash into this rocky inlet
Photo: World Traveler library
Our visit to Grote Knip Beach (one of two
public beaches at Playa Kenepa) was much
more serene. In 2017 this beach was included
in Passport Magazine’s list of 25 of the
most stunning beaches in the world. The picturesque
rocky coastline hugs a small bay
where turquoise waters blend into a white
sand beach. And for nature lovers, the trees
near the beach are home to the Troupial or
Orange-breasted Oriole, the National Bird of
Curaçao, as well as Yellow-breasted Orioles
and Bananaquits. In addition, iguanas and
crabs scamper amongst the rocks at the
water’s edge. For relief from the sun, aside
from a swim, indulge in a refreshing Yellow
Watermelon smoothie.
And on that note, foodies will be enthralled
with the mouth-watering food in Curaçao,
especially the tuna! Our first lunch was at
Restaurant & Café Gouverneur de Rouville, in
the Otrobanda district of Willemstad. The
Tuna Poke showcased large chunks of superfresh
tuna. So good! Another lunch stop at
Brisa do Mar – Pop’s Place, offered perfectly
grilled, pepper-crusted Tuna Steak.
Number Ten is one of the more popular
places in the country. Liberty Suares, the
owner noted “It’s more than just a restaurant,
it’s an experience. It’s the setting, the vibe.
Sitting outdoors, in the city centre. We wanted
to bring something to Curaçao that will
help the island grow”. Number Ten features
great service and delicious, fun food. The
Tuna Tacos are one of the star items on the
menu!
We experienced a memorable dinner at
BKLYN Gastrobar. Martin and Jessica van
Ast, the owners, acknowledged that BKLYN fit
into the diverse nature of Curaçao with foods
that combine French, Mediterranean and
Asian cuisine. As an example, Martin
described the outstanding dish I had ordered;
“Pan ku Patu (which is Papiamentu for Bread
with Duck), is a brioche bun from a local artisanal
bakery, with homemade kimchi, duck
confit and Chinese 5 spice mayo”. I should
mention that the shared plates of crispy
coconut prawns, and Bao buns with tuna,
kimchi, and passionfruit, were nothing short
of addictive, as was the dessert of Banana
For something totally different, the oldest bar
on the island is the Netto Bar, famous for
Green Rum. Our group explored historic
Willemstad on an electric scooter tour. It was
a bit stressful for this writer, who had only
ridden a scooter once before in 1998!
However, the Green Rum was the magic elixir
to soothe my nerves! It was spicy, minty, and
very tasty!
Another unique bar is located in the Ocean
Encounter area of Willemstad. This neighborhood
is popular with scuba divers and
snorkelers. The Ocean Lens attraction allows
visitors to spy on the underwater lives of
Yellowtail Snappers, Trumpetfish, Smallmouth
Grunts, and more. And the area is also home
to the 4th largest submersible center in the
world. As Barbara van Bebber, the Manager
told us, “These are not glass-bottom boats!
We go to unknown territories to discover the
unknown depths of the sea”. A short walk
away is Lionsdive Beach Bar (Chill & Grill),
where upward of 1200 wooden signs
enhance the drinking atmosphere. Try an icecold
Brasa Gold Beer with lime.
And Curaçao offers more! We visited the
Botanical Garden (Den Paradera) of Dinah
Veeris and the nearby Aloe Plantation, to
learn about natural healing plants. We sampled
Blue Curaçao liqueur and then made
our own cocktails at Landhuis Chobolobo.
And if time permitted, we would have visited
one of the Flamingo Sanctuaries, wandered
through the Hato Caves, and spent more
time in the UNESCO World Heritage center
of Willemstad. But this was only the first visit,
so there are lots of things to do next time!
‘Feeling Curaçao for yourself’ starts with
friendly people encounters. I think of our
endearing dushi tour guide Dewi Pomario,
our activity guides, Brandon, Ryan and
Barbara, and the many locals who greeted us
with a smiling ‘Bon Dia!’
Feeling the Curaçao vibe extends to culture,
history, beaches, food, and nature. It’s a very
energizing and uplifting experience.
www.Curaçao.com
American World Traveler Summer 2022

20 Years Replay
Winter 2013
The Holy Varanasi
Article and photography by Michael Morcos
To experience the heart of Indian culture,
travelers often make a pilgrimage
to the holiest and oldest city inside this
massive country. Varanasi has one of the most
deep and complex histories stemming from it’s
involvement with the sacred Ganges River that
runs through it. Most people never forget
going to this place, as it’s a complete bundle
of antique architecture, seas of people and the
scent of spice. It can get overwhelming, but
guests who see India first hand need to simply
go with the flow and discover the welcoming
and exotic nature of Varanasi. I spent much of
my time simply with eyes and mind wide open,
allowing me to indulge in the holy temples,
beautiful river scenes and historical hotspots in
the City of Lights.
The spiritual side of Varanasi
As in many parts of India, the local people are
religious and have adapted philosophies from
Hinduism, Islam and Buddhism. In particular,
those who follow the Buddhist faith find
Varanasi to be one of the holiest places in the
world. Many believe this so strongly that they
think if a person who has passed away and is
incinerated in the city, they will quickly reach
Nirvana and leave the ongoing cycle of life
and death.
Buddhism reigns supreme
While Hinduism and Islam are the biggest
majorities of religion in Varanasi, this site is
where Siddhartha Gautama gave his first sermon
on what it takes to follow Buddhism.
Many of his believers travel to Varanasi and its
suburbs to walk the footsteps of their prophet,
meditating further on their beliefs. The preaching
of freeing oneself from suffering and
attempting to reach a higher level of understanding
is cherished by thousands, especially
many of those who call Varanasi home.
I journeyed to a Buddhist conclave in the city,
where theses faithful individuals gather to discuss
issues from present day and how to walk
through life more closely with Buddhist tradition.
It gave insight into what this religions hold
valuable and how it’s managed to remain a
significant influence in a predominantly Hindu
and Islamic city.
An early morning boat ride on the Ganges
Many pilgrims and travelers who are able to
rise early in the morning are rewarded with a
spectacular sunrise. The holy environment has
an almost palpable spirituality, especially when
the early risers are just starting to go about
their day along the coast and in their boats.
While the water is not clear or aesthetically
pleasing, knowing how much history and reverence
surround this waterway makes it beautiful
in a memorable way. The buildings, residential
areas and holy temples that line the
river are all part of the ambiance that gives
Varanasi an exotic and unique allure.
While somewhat morbid, one of the most
interesting things to see while peering onto the
shore is the places that cremate lost loved
ones. It is common practice to allow bodies to
be burned with special wood to help them
reach Nirvana and their second life more
quickly. Piles of flames could be viewed from
the boat, while small bits of ashes sometimes
flew into the air from the process. Life in
Varanasi tends to revolve around the Ganges
in a dutiful way, from washing small children
World Traveler - Already 20 Years!

for their baths in the morning to laying people
to rest at the end of their time.
Witnessing the Dashashwamedh Ghat
Gliding along the Ganges was a thrill, but I
enjoyed even more staying on shore and visiting
this sacred area. A ghat in India is a set of
stairs that lead straight into a waterway, used
by locals and tourists to sit on, wash clothes
and bathe, bless themselves or meditate.
Oftentimes special festivals and celebrations
take places at these ghats as well to honor the
dead and pay homage to Hindu gods. The
Dashashwamedh Ghat is near the Vishwanath
temple and is one of the most popular and
impressive looking ones on the river.
Nightly ceremony on the Ganges
Everyday, a group of priests participate in a
ceremony meant to honor various deities,
including Surya of the sun and Angi of the fire.
This “Ganga aarti” event happens every night
and is a sight to see, complete with smoking
incense, chanting, singers and traditional
movement. Hundreds come out to see the
spectacle that looks especially inspiring after
nightfall with the starry night sky above.
However, the tranquil and mystifying
ambiance was interrupted by a lost cow. These
animals in India are considered sacred and
are permitted to wander around many public
areas, often disrupting every life, especially in
urban areas not equipped for farm creatures.
A little chaos ensued and the audience ended
up being quite distracted by this one ton animal.
The amusing turn of events truly made my
visit to the Dashashwamedh Ghat a once in a
lifetime happening.
A trip to the Sarnath museum
Due to the large population in Varanasi and
throughout the country, sometimes artifacts
and old archaeological sites can easily get
damaged. Officials do what they can do preserve
things once they are discovered, which is
evident at the Sarnath Museum in town. I
learned this site is both a walk-through attraction
as well as a place where there are ongoing
excavations. I first walked through the outdoor
areas to see the protected buildings and
monuments, then made my way inside to view
more than 6,000 artifacts and sculptures collected
in and around the city.
The main piece and focal point of the archaeological
survey is the Ashoka pillar. This piece
is so important to the people it is on the Indian
currency coins. Part of the pillar remains
indoors in the museum to keep it preserved,
while another piece is in the excavation area.
This structure is part of a series erected by
Ashoka the emperor around 240 B.C.
The Dhamek Stupa at night
This city never seems to sleep, as tourists tend
to check out attractions at all times of day. I
loved this beautiful temple, especially in the
quiet after sundown. The temple is very large
and staggering to see when standing at the
base of its giant main building. During the pilgrimage
of Buddhists, this is also one of the
most prominent spots to pay respects to for its
history and spiritual setting. Even if visitors are
not interested in Buddhism, they can appreciate
the intricately designed floral carvings and
pretty atmosphere.
The religious site of Bodh Gaya
Buddha travel throughout Varanasi and gave
speeches, lives and worked at various temples.
But where he was said to have reached
enlightenment is in this sacred space. People
who practice Buddhism put Bodh Gaya on
their list of the top four places to pilgrimage to
during their lifetime. Since travelers from all
over the world have been heading here for the
past 2,500 years, it is easily now one of the
holiest locations to witness.
One of the highlights was going to the most
amazing Mahabodhi Temple, or stupa. The
incredibly tall structure and the vast compound
was saved from the Moguls, who destroyed all
Buddhist temples in the past, by being intentionally
buried in ground for centuries. This
story alone made me want to see it in person
for myself, and the trip to Bodh Gaya was well
worth it. The temple is so majestic it was honored
as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
No matter one’s personal religion or lack
thereof, a visit to the holy city of Varanasi can
be a fantastic way to understand the inner
workings of India’s people and their unwavering
faith. For centuries people have said that
whoever lives in the city will reach eternal salvation.
Even though I was only passing
through, perhaps a little bit of that devotion
and love rubbed off on me too and I’ll be a
better person because of experiencing one of
India’s most fascinating destinations.
www.incredibleindia.org
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American World Traveler Summer 2022

64
Paradise Found!
Touring the Catalan Pyrenees
Article and photography by Michael Morcos
World Traveler - Already 20 Years!

The grand tour of Catalonia literally covers
this entire magnificent region of
Spain. When seen from a map,
Catalonia looks like a triangle, and a proposed
road trip by the Catalonia tourism office covers
all corners of this region. The route is made of
five sections with a total driving distance of over
2000 kms. Visitors can choose a route that can
be completed in as short as a week or the entire
route which will take much longer as there are
many points of interest to be taken in.
On this amazing journey, we would concentrate
on the most northerly sector and would find
ourselves in the beautiful mountain region of
the Pyrenees. Here we would explore the
Romanesque art of the region, visiting many
churches and monasteries as well a historic
castle, a national park, wineries, cheese makers,
stay in beautiful hotels, taste some of the
best foods of the region and take part in a oneof-a-kind
comedy theatre show.
Romanesque Art
Romanesque architecture was evident throughout
these parts of the Pyrenees, and the style of
medieval Europe that later developed into the
Gothic style. We would see this in almost every
city and village we visited. This beautiful style
was used over a millennium ago, and the buildings
were built from locally sourced solid stone
that has withstood the test of time, while the
interiors were richly decorated with fabulous
artwork of the day.
The Pyrenees
The Pyrenees stretch all along northern Spain
from the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean
and separates the countries of France and
Andorra from Spain. This incredible mountain
range is sparsely populated and are a fantastic
playground for international and Spanish
tourists looking for a unique cultural experience,
exceptional views and four-season outdoor
activities including winter fun in Alpine
and Nordic skiing. When compared to the Alps,
these mountains are much less traveled, meaning
far fewer tourists while offering an authentic
local experience.
Seu d’Urgell
One of the oldest in Catalonia, the Seu d’Urgell
Cathedral is a shining example of its kind. We
were taken aback by its rustic beauty and the
collection of extensive and fascinating artifacts.
We also enjoyed the Diocesan Museum which is
built within the old Casa del Deganat and right
down the way from the cathedral. It has a magnificent
collection of art objects, encompassing
the 10th-18th centuries, with paintings, sculptures,
carvings, precious fabrics, liturgical ornaments,
and so much more. Visiting these two
treasure troves is a must for any fan of art and
architecture.
Cheese Heaven
Calling all cheese lovers, Tros de Sort, a small
Pyrenees cheese producer, does it all on a
micro-level and has something for every taste.
Having their own milk farms, cheese production,
a retail store as well as exports to domestic
and international markets, there is a multitude
of selections on offer. A short visit to this
wonderful cheese maker had us trying seven
different locally produced cheeses made from
both cow and sheep’s milk, in a variety of textures:
both fresh and aged cheese as well as in
soft, medium and hard cheeses. The samples
served with different wines, bread and crackers
were absolutely delicious and rival the best
cheeses found anywhere in the world.
The National Park
Another glorious day in the Pyrenees and
another incredible dimension to Catalonia. The
official name of this park is a tongue twister and
more so for a foreigner. I would refer to call it
as ‘the national park’ but is officially known as
Parc Nacional d’Aigüestores I Estany de Sant
Maurici. A visit here would bring us to a world
of delights: fresh air, crystal clear water and
unbelievable sights.
In the late afternoon, we would grab a Range
Rover ride upwards towards the heavens where
we would be greeted by a family of deer grazing
in the woods. To the horizon were numerous
mountain peaks while right in front of us was a
magnificent mountain lake. We would trek
along this lake passing through a beautiful forest
path that brought us to the amazing
Cascada de Ratera waterfall that descended
from nowhere. I would find out that hidden
high above us was another mountain lake and
that there are more than 200 mountain lakes in
this park. Needless to say, we were in peace
and harmony with the natural surroundings.
This was an essential Pyrenees moment for me
and felt I was living in a glossy postcard. Hiking
see following page
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66
here can be as short as a couple of hours, to a
full day trek around the lake, to a full week of
discovery through this pristine park.
Sant Climent de Taüll
George Lucas meets Sant Climent de Taüll! As
our visit to this beautiful historic church, a
UNESCO World Heritage site, we noticed some
faded artwork upon the ceiling and walls of the
altar. What followed was another first. Once we
were set, the room was darkened, and four
high tech projectors (with video mapping technology)
lit up the ancient artwork recreating the
wonderful, original artwork that once adorned
these very walls. So true and accurate were the
colors of these projections that I felt I was transported
to a millennium ago. The original paintings,
that date from the 12th century, are now
kept at the National Museum of Art of
Catalonia (MNAC) in Barcelona. This is a bucket-list
destination for any fan of Catalan
Romanesque paintings.
Mur Castle
A national treasure, this well-preserved castle is
one of the best examples of civil architecture
from the 11th century. The Castle of Mur can
be enjoyed through a guided visit and guests
can investigate the tower, walk on the top of the
battlements and enter some rooms. The walls
themselves offer some very beautiful views of
the surrounding cityscape and lands. As a
bonus, visitors can check out the Church of
Santa Maria del Mur, a beautiful building in its
own right. It is a great afternoon trip to make
and worth the time.
The Castell de Mur performance
Live performances, theatre and comedy could
not have gotten better than on this day. Imagine
three different stages: one with a centuries-old
fortress as a backdrop, a beautiful old
Romanesque church and a valley rich with agricultural
fields and olive trees and you already
have a setting for an amazing stage. The threepart
performance took place on rotating bases,
where the audience moved around to the following
stage. They Comediants Company, a
group of actors/comdidienats which are very
popular with the Catalan, has as many as 50
actors put together a play that is performed
every year in different Catalonia locations.
Although the play was performed in Catalan, a
language I do not understand, the animation of
the actors made it easy to comprehend the storyline
and universal body language gave me a
clearer picture of the essence of the play.
In all this was a fantastic and memorable experience
as the talented actors who were dressed
in period costumes dazzled the audience on the
three different stages. By chance, the following
morning we would meet up with these great
actors in the breakfast room of our hotel and
reminisce about their stellar performance. I was
amazed by the devotion it took to practice and
prepare the whole year long for a handful of
shows over a weekend.
Castell d’Encús Wine Cellar
Unique is the best way to describe this winery
after having visited many different wineries
around the world and several in Spain. High on
a hill, with a spectacular vista of the valley
below, the present location of Castell d’Encús
was once abandoned and lost back to nature.
Present owner Raul Bobet saw this as an opportunity
to fulfill a long dream to create wines
made using a method that was practised for
centuries and was lost to modern technology.
Monks once used a method where they would
create large size wine vessels using the existing
landscape; they literally dug into rocks to make
a cavity big enough to swallow a man that was
used to crush grapes and then produce the
juice used to make the wine. Castell d’Encús, a
boutique wine house, produces a portion of this
labor-intensive process to make its truly unique
wines. This is technique is something I have
never seen or heard of, and from the wine tasting,
and the natural methods using the yeast
from the terroir, I can truly say there was a difference
in the taste and smell of these beautiful
wines.
As with all great trips, there is way too much to
see and do but never enough time. This was the
case when touring the Catalan Pyrenees. On
this trip we marveled at the landscape, the history
and architecture of the Romanesque buildings
and took in a small piece of the gastronomy
and wines and all in their natural settings.
This four seasons paradise is a must-see destination,
and I will return, hopefully soon, and
maybe during the winter season as this amazing
destination becomes a skier’s paradise.
https://grandtour.catalunya.com/en/
American World Traveler Summer 2022