Daring and Exciting Activity Calling for Enterprise and Enthusiasm

Article Roni Fishkin of Mann Travels

Adventure is not just a noun. It’s now the fastest-growing sector of the luxury travel market, and the list of innovative and experiential opportunities is full of choices for those who desire a bit of exploration with their vacations.

Evidence of the growing trend is the large number of Expedition Cruise ships being built by a variety of cruise companies. The accommodations provided are a far cry from the old exploring vessels of a decade ago. Now, these new ships offer every creature comfort and more: gourmet wine and cuisine, exceptional service, first-class spas and beautiful decor. Some of the newer ships have exciting toys such as zodiacs, submarines and, yes, even a helicopter for guests to have active adventures. This is not the “roughing it” experience of yesteryear!

The profile of the guests is changing along with the experience. Luxury cruising is no longer just for seniors. These new innovations are attracting a younger audience with the millennial generation leading the way. Industry experts say the under-50 travelers are responsible for soaring sales in luxury cruising in the last few years. In addition, the idea of venturing to far-flung places in the lap of luxury is also attracting people who have never cruised before.

Another factor in attracting a younger, new-to-cruise audience is the focus on sustainability. Increasingly, cruise line companies are responding to guests’ desire to be more environmentally responsible. Whether it is in recycling programs, eliminating single-use plastics or giving back to nonprofits focused on the oceans, there is a great desire to protect our world.

So, where do you want to go on an Expedition Ship? Is it on an epic voyage to see the penguins in Antartica? To visit the volcanic landscapes of mystical, magical Iceland? To explore the last frontier of Alaska or follow the footsteps of legendary explorers through the Northwest Passage? Contact your Mann Travels professional to help you plan this next adventure!

Article Roni Fishkin of Mann Travels

There is nothing like spending some time away from the stress and routine of home and work with your most favorite people. And sometimes, those people are not your immediate family but instead, the best friends in your life. A girlfriend getaway is almost a guaranteed good time, whether it’s days full of belly laughs or quiet time with people who know you well enough that you don’t have to chat.

And while we usually think of Charleston, Nashville and New Orleans, here are some other destinations to consider visiting with your besties—no passport required!

Boulder, Colorado

No matter the climate, the Rockies are a stunning backdrop for a fun-filled getaway. Obviously, the nearby slopes provide great activity in the colder months, but don’t ignore the summertime for a wonderful vacation. Hiking, biking, water sports—Colorado has it all with a laid-back Western vibe that relaxes the soul.

Newport, Rhode Island

The quintessential charm of this New England harbor town makes it the perfect nautical spot for a weekend. A tour of the lavish gilded-age mansions and the glittering nightlife gives you a peek of the high life, while the coastal vibe and seafood shacks are the perfect daytime activity in the summer. Newport has a little bit of everything to offer. 

Sedona, Arizona

Spa or spirituality? Why choose when you can have both? Sedona is just a couple of hours drive from Phoenix and specializes in both. Take a pink Jeep tour through the gorgeous red rocks and soak up a detoxifying spa experience afterward. The Sedona experience is a magical one to share with your best friends no matter what time of year you visit. 

Austin, Texas

The Midwest is calling! It said, “Dust off your cowboy boots and head to the heart of Texas.” Austin offers wonderful live music, a great local art scene, fabulous food—barbecue and Tex-Mex are especially delicious—and a fun, quirky vibe throughout the city. If you are looking for a bit of adventure you can boat, kayak or paddleboard nearby. There is plenty to keep you busy in this growing city.

Miami, Florida

If you are looking for total indulgence, Miami is the place to go. Stunning hotels boast palm trees and poolside cabanas where you can catch some sun while sipping on your favorite fruity cocktail. Galleries, shops and restaurants line the eclectic Wynwood Arts District, and Little Havana is a great place to experience Cuban culture with a strong cup of coffee. Of course, the nightlife in Miami is unparalleled. Make sure you pack a pair of high heels and hit the bars and clubs for an unforgettable night on the town.

A good travel professional will help you sort through the myriad options available for a girlfriend getaway. Your adviser can help you navigate the new cancellation policies with some hotel chains, determine whether or not there are restrictions for more than two guests in a room and, more often than not, have access to some valuable amenities such as upgrades or spa credits.

SIDEBAR

Roni Fishkin is the Marketing Director of Mann Travels, which, with local ownership in Charlotte, has been serving travelers with personalized service for 40 years.

800.343.MANN (6266) | MannTravels.com

Article Roni Fishkin of Mann Travels

Going green and going on vacation may seem like two incompatible concepts. Let’s face it, most travel leaves a pretty big carbon footprint: planes, trains and automobiles spew carbon emissions, hotels use tons of water and travelers tend to favor the plastic water bottle. But if you are concerned about the environment and want to do your part for the planet, there are lots of ways to start being eco-friendly on vacation.

Peddle or Paddle

Whether it’s a cycling tour through the quaint villages of the Swiss Alps or kayaking in Alaska or the Galapagos, these outdoor experiences will provide healthy doses of exercise mixed with spectacular views and unparalleled access. The small impact this makes on the environment is an obvious bonus. There is nothing that makes Mother Earth prouder than when we use our own power to see the world.

Set Sail

Sailboats and catamarans are easy on the ocean, and they provide a beautiful way to explore gorgeous coastlines. In recent years, major cruise lines have made great strides in new technology designed to add environmental protections. Hurtigruten, an expedition cruise line, is building two new ships that will run on first-of-its-kind hybrid technology. Cruisers can travel through the Arctic regions or the Norwegian fjords on these ships in the near future.

Eat and Drink Local

There are lots of reasons why eating a locally sourced meal is better on vacation–but one of them is that it is eco-friendly when you cut down on the mileage it has to travel to your plate. After all, a local beer will give you both a taste of the town you are in—and be carbon-friendly!

Leave No Trace

When enjoying the great outdoors, follow the guidance of the #leavenotrace movement. For starters, don’t litter (not even biodegradable banana peels and apple cores) and leave everything you find including flowers, rocks and leaves. If you are hiking, make sure you stay on the trail and avoid trampling plants and other foliage. We are all responsible for leaving a space in the same condition we found it for the next visitor.

Reduce Use

It is particularly helpful when traveling to consider limiting the amount of single-use items you use. Water bottles, paper cups, disposable straws, take-out containers and plastic bags are among some of the more obvious. Even if each of us cuts down on some of these during our vacations, the impact would be enormous.

Turns out that sustainable travel is not just a passing trend. A recent travel industry survey found that two-thirds of travelers say they plan to make better environmental decisions while on vacation this year. It seems the majority is interested in leaving the place we visit in better condition than when we found it. How will you do your part?

SIDEBAR:

If environmentally sound vacations are important to you, tell your Mann Travels advisor while you are planning your next vacation. Mann Travels is celebrating 40 years in the Carolinas and has nine area offices. Call one of them today at 800.343.MANN (6266) to start planning.  

Article Roni Fishkin of Mann Travels

If you are one of the growing numbers of world travelers who doesn’t like to leave the comforts of home behind while on vacation, a villa rental might be your best option. Villas are available all over the world–whether you are interested in visiting Orlando or Tuscany. They can be beachfront or mountainside. They can be in the middle of a metropolitan city or in a rural landscape. Best of all, they offer choice, convenience and affordability.

Villas can range from one to 20 bedrooms and offer a variety of living spaces: living rooms, dining rooms, fully equipped kitchens and outdoor areas, including verandas and pools. They are usually equipped with amenities and even a dedicated staff to cater to your specific needs.

Villa and home rentals have become quite popular, and for very good reason. Here are some ways they may be a better fit for you and your next vacation.

Privacy

Most villas are private homes, and neighbors are not as close as the other side of a wall. You don’t typically share your pool, beachfront or parking spots. And you won’t hear late-night chatter in the hallways when the partiers arrive home from a big night out.  

Convenience

A villa rental offers travelers more choices. If you want to eat at home, there is a kitchen available. If you want to throw a load of laundry in the washer, you have that option. If you want to gather with a group, you have a living room or an outdoor space where you can convene. If you dread the inevitable fight for a lounge chair by the hotel pool, you never have to worry about that either.

Cost

Let’s face it: this is sometimes one of the driving factors when planning a vacation. A villa is often the most economical choice when you are traveling with a family or group of friends. Since the price is split among everyone in your group, more people typically translates to less of an expense on the individual level. And that is not even factoring in the money you could save if you have breakfast or any other meal at your villa instead of a restaurant.The value is undeniable.

Plan your Romantic Getaway to the Historic Island in the Aegean Sea

Article Nicolette Martin

Stay: Sun Rocks Boutique Hotel

Sun Rocks Boutique Hotel is considered one of Santorini’s most romantic hotels. The elegant couples-only cliffside hideaway—named a Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice 2018 award winner—features luxe, minimalist rooms and suites carved into the side of a volcanic cliff featuring amazing caldera and sea views. SunRocks.gr

+ Did You Know? A caldera is a large volcanic crater typically formed by a major eruption leading to the collapse of the mouth of a volcano. Forming the southernmost member of the Cyclades island group, Santorini is the remains of the Minoan eruption that, 3,600 years ago, destroyed a formerly single island and created the current caldera.

Dine: Casa Di Te

Just a short stroll from the Sun Rocks Boutique hotel is this restaurant dedicated to creating the perfect combination of flavors and atmosphere to create unique moments in Santorini. Ranked on Trip Advisor’s top 10 romantic restaurants in Santorini, Casa di Te is inspired by Greek modern cuisine, Mediterranean cuisine and a touch of local flavor. Start with steamed mussels with saffron and Assyrtiko wine, followed by sea bass fillet fricassee with greens and lemon sauce, and finish it off with Semolina halva in a kadaifi nest with vanilla ice cream and caramel syrup. CasaDiTeSantorini.com

+ Traveling Foodie: There are so many flavors to explore in Santorini! Some must-try Greek foods include tomato kefthedes (tomato fritters), saganaki (fried cheese in phyllo topped with honey, Santorini salad, baklava (phyllo filled with honey and chopped nuts), spanakopita (Greek spinach pie) and Greek fava.

Experience: Sunset Views

About 25 minutes up the coast is where you can catch sights of what people often refer to as arguably the best sunsets you’ll ever see. Catch some of the best panoramic views of Santorini from 15th-century Byzantine castle ruins. Situated on the side of caldera cliffs, Oia village offers tons of breathtaking viewing spots. Be sure to get there well before sunset—because of the area’s sundown popularity, you’ll find crowds of people gathered on streets, rooftops and stairs anticipating the one-of-a-kind experience.

+ Crowd-Pleaser: Santorini sunsets are considered some of the most famous sunsets in the world, and Oia is one of the most famed viewing spots in Santorini. The Kasteli Agios Nikolaos is the most popular spot on the island for sunset viewing.

Wellness vacations for the new year

Article Roni Fishkin of Mann Travels

‘Tis the season of resolutions…the yearly ritual of taking stock and vowing to make better life choices. Most of the time these include goals of weight loss, fitness training and meditation, but rarely do we promise to be more indulgent or treat ourselves better.

However, resolving to give yourself gifts of reinvigoration can do wonders for the soul and pay dividends for the future. And these aren’t mutually exclusive goals; perhaps there is a way to do both!

Travel can be the perfect combination of both desires–a special treat you give yourself and a renewed effort towards healthy living. Here are some of the many opportunities that inspire both.

Cruising

Historically, cruise vacations haven’t been synonymous with health and wellness, but those days are long gone. Cruise lines have added circuit training, yoga, healthy food choices and more active shore excursions for folks that want to stay fit while at sea. Spa offerings have also been enhanced on many major lines for travelers that want restoration along with their relaxation. River Cruises are also beefing up their active options–biking excursions, exercise classes and new active itineraries are becoming the norm on all of these smaller, intimate ships.

Biking and Hiking

There is no better way to breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the outdoors than biking and hiking. Luxury travel companies such as Backroads offer trips around the world including several in the U.S. National Parks. Hopping on two wheels is an amazing way to visit a destination and see small towns and villages that can get missed from a bus or train window. And, of course, it helps to enjoy the culinary delights in many foodie destinations if you have biked for hours before eating!

City Stays

If you prefer a city vacation, there are still ways to incorporate activity into your getaway. Most large hotel brands are making it easier for guests to get a workout while visiting. In addition, metropolitan walking tours help keep travelers active and allow an up close and personal view of the destination. Small groups that provide bespoke and themed experiences with local guides are a wonderful way for the curious traveler to experience a destination and not abandon a fitness routine.

Family Fitness

Vacations are also a great time for the whole family to focus on wellness and many travel companies are appealing to multi-generational clientele. Adventures by Disney has special itineraries that might include zip lining in the Alps,  hiking in Yellowstone or soaking in the Costa Rican hot springs. Tauck Bridges also creates fitness-friendly opportunities for family vacations. Treasure hunts in Ireland, hiking among giant tortoises in the Galapagos and kayaking off the California coast keeps everyone active. 

Side bar: 

G Adventures is one of many travel companies launching a brand new collection of wellness tours. They are centered around the three pillars of mindfulness, movement and nourishment. The new small group itineraries are starting to roll out this year and range from an ashram satay in India, to hiking in Iceland and cycling through Bali.  G Adventures offers a variety of tour options around the globe. For more information, visit them and dozens of other exhibitors at the Travel & Cruise Show on January 26, 2019. at the Charlotte Convention Center.  

Roni Fishkin is the Marketing Director of Mann Travels, which, with local ownership in Charlotte, has been serving travelers with personalized service for more than 40 years. Contact them at MannTravels.com or call 800-343-MANN.

Article Roni Fishkin of Mann Travels

As the cold weather temperatures descend in Charlotte, many of us find ourselves dreaming of sunny locales. And, arguably, there is no better warm weather destination to ponder than Hawaii. These gorgeous islands of the 50th state are truly the stuff of vacation dreams.

Here’s a few reasons why everyone should experience the Aloha Spirit to combat the winter doldrums:

1.Gorgeous Beaches and Magnificent Weather

While there is a rainier season, temperatures on these lush islands remain steady all year and the cool breezes make for many perfect days. There are over 750 miles of shorelines and more than 400 named beaches….everyone of them PUBLIC!  These beaches vary from sand color to surf conditions to surrounding vegetation–but there is definitely one to match everybody’s perfect idea.

And, when there is beach, there is water!  Hawaii has some of the best surfing, boogie boarding and windsurfing in the world. There is great scuba diving and snorkeling, zodiac raft tours, sunset dinner cruises, deep sea fishing, whale watching tours….definitely no shortage of wet activities.

2.The Geography

Every Hawaiian island is unique.  While Kauai is lush and green, sporting sea cliffs and canyons, the Big Island is starker, with the vast volcanic landscapes and amazing waterfalls. Of course, Oahu has Diamond Head and the Waikiki beaches, and visitors to Maui can see the Lao Valley and the famous Hana Coast.

Each island was formed by a single hotspot on the ocean floor and volcanoes are part of their allure and beauty. Helicopter rides into the crater of Mt. Waialeale are fascinating and many visitors hike to the top of Diamond Head. On Maui, sunrise or sunset on Haleakala is another must-do experience.

3.The History

No visit to Hawaii would be complete without a visit to Pearl Harbor. From the Aviation Museum, to the massive Battleship Missouri Memorial, there is much to see during a visit. This Hawaii naval base was attached on 12/7/1941 and became the reason the U.S. entered World War II. Now, 77 years later, the site is both a history lesson and a memorial to honor those that perished in the attack.

4.The People, The Food, The Culture and The Luaus!

No list of reasons to visit Hawaii would be complete without mentioning the ubiquitous “aloha spirit” expressed by the people. Tourism is so important to these islands, everyone recognizes the need to radiate kindness, patience and good feelings to everyone they meet.

The culture reflects a true melting pot of people coming to the islands from all around the word. Originally, many were brought to work on the sugar and pineapple plantations that were once prevalent. Now, almost 25 percent of the island residents claim ancestry of two or more races and the blending of the cultures is evident everywhere.

Nowhere is the blending of Hawaii’s diverse ethnicities more evident than in the food. Hawaii Regional Cuisine is a culinary movement inventing ways to connect all these cultures through food.  Of course, sometimes the best and most affordable restaurants are the “hole-in-the-wall” variety where locals meet to eat.

Last but not least, no visit to Hawaii would be complete without attending a traditional Luau. The opportunities are vast and on almost all the islands.  The music, dance, costumes and food are a highlight of any tourist’s vacation.

SIDEBAR BOX:

There are a variety of ways to visit Hawaii. Not many people know there is a 7-day cruise that visits four islands (with overnight stops in Kaui and Maui) and gives visitors a taste of every destination. Instead of having to pick just one or two islands to visit, a cruise ship means you only have to unpack once–and you get to experience so many ports. Talk to a Mann Travels agent to hear more about Norwegian Cruise Line’s Pride of America sailings in Hawaii.

Roni Fishkin is the Marketing Director of Mann Travels, which, with local ownership in Charlotte, has been serving travelers with personalized service for more than 35 years. Call 800-343-MANN or visit MannTravels.com. 

Article Roni Fishkin of Mann Travels

Travelers who are, quite literally, hungry for great experiences have a growing number of choices for culinary adventure. Travel suppliers are busy creating unique and inspiring opportunities for the more than 75% of us who say food and wine are an important component of travel.

Here is just a small “taste” of some of the ways to combine a love for travel, culture and cuisine:

1. Almost every trip to Italy is a foodie fantasy come true. It is almost impossible to avoid the legendary pasta, pizza, parmesan and prosecco. The Tuscany region is filled with wineries and truffle farms, the Parma region is famous for it’s Parmigiano-Reggiano and Umbria is known for black truffles and cured meats. You can arrange to have a traditional Italian cooking class, a visit to a local farm or even a gelato tasting.

2. New Zealand is not just epic adventures in gorgeous landscapes – but a culinary paradise as well. Described as Pacific Rim cuisine, the menus in New Zealand are a blend of Europe, Asia and Polynesia. Auckland, surrounded by fertile land and rich waters, is home to world-class chefs and award-winning wineries. A food tour of the city provides a glimpse into the buzzing restaurants and eclectic bars serving craft beers with a kiwi twist.

3. If you love the crisp scent of lemongrass and flavorful curry, then a vacation in Thailand is perfect. The bustling spice market, exotic food stalls and fine dining all combine to pack your vacation with an authentic thai taste. Eat your way through Bangkok, a city packed with some of the most diverse gastronomic experiences in the world and known as the foodie capital of Southeast Asia.

4. Finally, the sweet new trend of Chocotourism (yes, its really a thing) brings vacationers up close and personal with their favorite dessert.  Just like a winery tour, chocolate factories in Switzerland or cacao bean farms in Costa Rica provide tours. There are museums devoted to chocolate in both Cologne, Germany and Barcelona, Spain and Paris celebrates the sweet confection with an annual chocolate festival every October.

Whatever is your pleasure–mint tea in Marrakesh, ramen in Kyoto or ceviche in Lima–there is a food experience ready for you to bite into! And there is no better time to indulge. Visit our Signature Experiences Travel Expo on November 11th at the Ballantyne Hotel to learn how culinary activities are built into a variety of vacation experiences and destinations. Or call your Mann Travels vacation specialist at 800-343-MANN (6266) to help craft your own custom food and wine vacation.

Article Roni Fishkin
Photography Courtesy of Viking Cruises

Like many modern industries, tourism impacts the world we inhabit. Most of us would rather be responsible tourists and work toward logical, sustainable practices as we travel the world—and that’s perfectly possible with the right tools and knowledge.

Here are some tips to help make you a less impactful, more sustainable traveler:

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

+ Consider packing a reusable water bottle instead of purchasing plastic ones.

+ Conserve water by making your showers shorter (can you imagine how many gallons of water the average hotel uses?).

+ Reduce your energy consumption by unplugging your phone and laptop when possible.

+ Pack foldable bags to use instead of taking plastic bags when shopping.

+ Try to use public transportation. It is obviously more energy efficient and more affordable, but also gives you a chance to experience life in a new place as a resident, rather than a visitor.

Support Local

+ Purchase locally made souvenirs to preserve the memory of your travels when you get home.

+ Eat at local restaurants instead of global chains. Not only are you supporting the community you are visiting, you’re also getting a chance to experience the local culture.

Support Responsible Tourism Organizations

+ When you have the opportunity to choose, consider the tour operators, cruise lines and resorts that make sustainability a priority in their corporate mission.

+ Many travel companies have foundations that give back to the areas they travel in. Consider donations to these organizations to help bolster these communities.

+ Do research about the provider you are using; look into their green practices and whether or not they have fair labor laws, an environmental policy, a composting practice, etc.

Sail the Rivers

+ River cruising is not only one of the most popular travel trends, it is also one of the greenest and least negatively impactful.

+ Compared to cars, planes and larger ocean sailing ships, river cruises are a much more eco-friendly way to travel the globe.

+ Viking River Cruises, one of the leaders in the river cruise industry, has also invested in new technologies and innovations such as onboard solar panels to help reduce its footprint.

+ In addition, the Viking Longships also have organic herb gardens onboard providing fresh herbs for the ship’s kitchen.

If Israel is on your list of must-see destinations, you are not alone. The Holy Land welcomed a record number of tourists last year, and expects even more this year to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the establishment of the modern Israeli state.

Israel is a land that has special meaning for all major Western religions, and the obvious reasons to travel there usually include those spiritual ones, a love of history and an appreciation of archeology. Almost everyone, however, finds the joy of discovering some surprises as well when they explore this beautiful country.


Beyond Hummus and Falafel

Israel is becoming a culinary destination that boasts an inventive and creative fusion of food and wine recently recognized around the world. While it might not be the initial reason you embark on an Israel journey, it is certainly something that resonates throughout your stay. One reason is the melting pot nature of the Israeli culture: everyone arriving with their own traditional offerings and taking advantage of the abundance of healthy, fresh ingredients including fruits, vegetables and fish. Tel Aviv apparently boasts two interesting food–related records: the most sushi restaurants and the most vegans per capita anywhere in the world.

Tourists always come home to regale their friends of the remarkable breakfast buffet in hotels and restaurants across the country. With its origins rooted in the communal kibbutz experience, these breakfasts now include salads and fruits, dozens of cheeses, hot and cold offerings, artisanal breads, and traditional favorites such as hummus, tahini, shakshuka and oh so much more.

Adventure

While there is no denying the culture, history and spirituality of Israel, many travelers are unaware of the adventurous opportunities that await in the entrancing landscape of this small country.

An exhilarating Jeep ride in the moon-scape Judean hills is a perfect example of an adventure-filled few hours that can accompany a visit to the Dead Sea or historical Masada. Adrenaline junkies can coordinate their exploration with biking and rappelling. The list of possibilities doesn’t stop there! There’s hot-air ballooning, kayaking, snow skiing, and many more outdoor adventure opportunities.

In addition, there’s amazing hiking throughout the country. National Geographic named the Israel National Trail that runs from the southern tip of Israel all the way to the Northern Lebanese border one of the epic trails of the world.

Vibrant Street Life

Despite what we are led to believe by media and common misconceptions, Israel boasts a thriving, vibrant activity level in all its towns and cities.

In Tel Aviv, for example, families are out in force in the newly restored neighborhood of Neve Tzedek where galleries and boutiques line the street. The sidewalk is full of strollers and there is a long line outside the corner gelato hotspot.

Nightlife is also bustling throughout the country where young professionals visit the outdoor bars and restaurants and add to the creative energy of city life. Popular shopping malls and pedestrian courtyards are natural magnets for young and old.

During the nicer weather, the beautiful beaches are filled with people enjoying a day with sun and sand.

All in all, Israel is far from a country that feels tense and anxious, but one that is alive with possibility and a little something for everyone that travels there.

That might be the biggest surprise of all.

Roni Fishkin has visited Israel numerous times. She is the Marketing Director of Mann Travels, which, with local ownership in Charlotte, has been serving travelers with personalized service for more than 35 years. 

800-343-MANN (6266) | MannTravels.com