AWT 48 summer 2015 issue emagazine

A

m

M a l i

e

r

C r u i s i n g

i

c

S e c t i o n

a

n

W O R L D

Featuring (the amazing)

Asia

Riviera Nayarit Miss Nayarit 2014 - Xitlali L贸pez Hern谩ndez posing at Hotel Hacienda Flamingos, San Blas

C o m e

W i t h

U s

&

S e e

T h e

W o r l d !

Alabama

North

ady e r Al 2 1 s! r Yea

Tunisia

America

Pa n a m a

Europe

Maui

Africa

India

Oceania

Summer/Fall 2015

Resorts

Traveler

&

South

C h i n a

Hotels

America

J a p a n

Welcome to American World Traveller

I

n this issue, we start our round-theworld tour in the amazing up & coming Riviera Nayarit. While in Latin America, we visit an eclectic mix of new hotels in Puerto Vallarta, the rocking Hard Rock Hotel in Panama city and the ultra-luxurious Casa de Campo in the Dominican Republic. Close-by we visit the wonderful Gulf Shores of Alabama before embarking on a Caribbean ‘Barbie’ cruise with Royal Caribbean.

In Asia we explore the beautiful and less travelled Hokuriku region, tour the very diverse Guangdong province and the Holy city of Varanasi, India.

In Europe we ‘Get Hooked’ on a fabulous Mediterranean cruise with Holland America. We then travel to the magnificent northern parts of Tunisia before heading to discover the mysterious and historical Mali.

Finally, we end our journey with an amazing view way-up-high in Maui. Happy travels!

Published by

American World Traveler www.americanworldtraveler.com Email: info@americanworldtraveler.com Publisher Editor-in-chief

Michael Morcos Greg James Contributing Editor Dave Cox Graphic Artist Al Cheong Advertising Leo Santini Marketing Tania Tassone Distribution Royce Dillon Contributors: Habeeb Salloum, Susan Campbell, Steve Gillick, Margaret Deefholts, Jennifer Merrick, Jasmine Morcos and Alejandro Barbosa Front Cover Photo by Michael Morcos: San Blas, Riviera Nayarit, Mexico

Disclaimer: American 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.

W

hy spend days recovering when you can take this homeopathic remedy during the flight and feel fresher upon arrival at your destination. 32 tablets in each packet - sufficient for 45 hours flying time.

www.nojetlag.com

NO-JET-LAG

TM

Tel.: 514-933-3302 - Fax : 514-933-8311 Toll-free : 1-888-359-9355 - Email : gaelft@nojetlag.com

Stay & Play

28

A W T C

o

n

t

e

n

t

s Around The World

Riviera Nayarit

8

12

Alabama

The Spiritual Soul of India

36

38

Japan Exploring the heart of Hokuriku

China

14

Three perfect days in Guangdong province

Cruising

17

V a r a n a s i

M a l i

40

Mansa Musa - An African Empire Builder

Tunisia

42

section

The Magnificent North

Mediterranean Cruise with 22

Holland America

Maui

Va c at i o n w i t h t h e Vo l c a n o !

45

8

R i v i e r a

T h e Pe r f e c t D e s t i n at i o n Article & Photography by Michael Morcos

elcome to a 200-mile stretch of Pacific Coastline in Mexico that is full of authentic beach towns, all-inclusive resorts, and is still relatively off the well-traveled Mexican circuit.

This strip of paradise from Punta de Mita to San Blas is the perfect vacation destination with hot sun, wonderful beaches, a storied history, great culture, incredible cuisine, nature, local wines and fantastic local Tequila!

W

Hotel Cielo Rojo Hotel Cielo Rojo was amazing from the check in to the check out! Clean, private, chic and affordable, the attention to detail in their rooms is second to none with comfortable cotton sheets, clean, puffy pillows and designer accents in cushions and curtains.

The suites are beautifully designed for comfort, class, an artistic flare with original artwork, and the entire hotel is built with relaxation in mind. Lying right in the heart of cobblestoned San Pancho, it is within walking distance to the beach and the quaint town it is part of.

The concierge offers personalized attention for guests with recommendations including

9

N a y a r i t

Four Season Resort Punta Mita Private Beach

everything from cultural events to the occasional tequila tasting night!

Hotel Cielo Rojo truly embodies the spirit and kindness of the Mexican town it is part of, and it has a beautiful beach with very few people – a private paradise! On top of all this, there was a delicious supper prepared at the Organic Bistro, a resto with a delicious and sophisticated menu, excellent service, as well as an amazing wine selection.

Santa Maria del Oro Founded as a mining town, Santa María Del Oro was named after the ore mined there – Gold! Now, the town is treasured for its corn, peanuts, and sugarcane, as well as a sizable cattle and poultry industry.

A very interesting town in itself, its major tourist attraction is one of Mexico's oldest

churches - the church of "La Asención," built in 1594 during the time of the Spanish invasion. A natural wonder also awaits visitors in this mainly agricultural town, a crater lake of the same name located just a little east of the town with a lovely tourism area that greets many national and foreign tourists.

The Rio Grande de Santiago, a major river crosses the northern region of the munici-

American World Traveler Summer/Fall 2015

N a y a r i t

10

pality, serving a diverse flora and fauna, from colorful and eye catching birds to white tailed deer. The area has created an unmatched atmosphere of tranquility that makes this a unique paradise, complete with high-mineral hot springs that provide healing properties.

Our lunch was served at the Santa Maria Resort alongside an amazing view of a Crater Lake. Delicious traditional Mexican dishes were served, giving everybody enough energy to enjoy activities of the day.

One such activity is the Yemaya adventure club. Offering an outdoor pool and beautiful garden, Hotel Yemaya Adventure Club is located in Santa María del Oro, just a few feet from the Santa María Lake. A few minutes’ walk and we swam in the lake, and luckily the waters were cool enough to rid us of the heat of the day. Once you are in the lake you understand the magic of the place. With loads of colorful butterflies fluttering around and the calmness of the surroundings, there is definitely is a soothing energy here, something very thought provokingly beautiful!

R i v i e r a

Historical Jala The next stop was a step into history in Jala.

Small cobbled stoned streets, colonial buildings, and a wonderful Cathedral transport visitors into the rich tapestry of Mexican history and culture. We were treated to a thrilling tour of a more ancient feature of the area, the volcano of Ceboruco.

The road to the volcano is just off the main highway and then a 3 km walk up a path from the end of the road gets you to the crater. Ceboruco last erupted in 1870 and rises about 1000 m above its base. A fascinating archeological site of a temple and burial grounds thought to date to 700 AD is nearby. A trip into the past indeed!

Capitol Affair We next departed for Tepic, the capitol of the province of Nayarit. Small and lively this is one of Mexico's most magical cities.

Sitting in a basin near a trio of volcanoes:

Sanganguey in the east, Tepetiltic to the south and San Juan in the west, the city is a vibrant centre. Plaza Principal in the heart of the city is one of the prettiest town plazas in the country. The large cathedral and City Hall are located here. Be sure to check out the Museo de Artes Populares, whose collection contains the best examples of regional crafts and explores the aboriginal roots of the area. We ate dinner at Emilianos, and for a small town restaurant, the place has a big heart and fancy menu, including exceptional Mezcal, made from the heart of the maguey plant, called the "piña", and prepared the same way it was 200 years ago!

San Blas The next day we departed for San Blas, another locale that is lost in time. They seem to move at a different pace here, almost standing still with its haciendas, historic buildings, and streets with residents riding strangely modified bicycles. San Blas dates back to the late seventeenth century when the port was constructed as a point of departure for Spanish colonization efforts.

The historical aspects are complemented by its natural wonders including canals surrounded by mangroves and small islands as well as the annual arrival of more than 300 migratory birds. Wandering the streets you can relive the events of the years gone by that have marked the history of Mexico.

We were treated to an evening in the Hotel Garza Canela, a family operated, 100% Mexican business, which started back in 1970 under the management of the Vázquez González family. Their philosophy has always been centered on providing guests with new experiences while offering great accommodations, and they succeed on all counts. The Hotel is picturesque, quiet and charming and lies right in the middle of San Blas, well known for its restaurant serving local fare with a special twist.

La Tovara National Park is located just outside San Blas, and offers the largest collec-

Crocodiles and turtles rest on floating logs, and we eventually float through the mangroves and we can see the stilt houses that were built for “Cabeza de Vaca”, a film about the Conquest of Mexico. A dazzling array of wildlife and amazing facts about what you're seeing fill the entirety of this must do in San Blas! The boat ride ends at a wildlife sanctuary where jaguars, crocodiles, exotic birds and much more await!

We enjoyed dinner at El Delfin with Chef and owner Betty Vázquez preparing the most exquisite dishes with local flavors, textures, scents and colors. The "El Delfin" restaurant surprises with new creations that will make your stay an unforgettable experience. Try the shrimp quesadillas with Serrano – divine!

Internationally recognized for its outstanding surfing, Sayulita is a somewhat bohemian community where visitors’ can see fine art galleries and stylish colorful shops with clothing, decorations and jewelry. There are also several beachfront restaurants and cafes, and we ate in a beach front restaurant in this small touristic town with a true Mexican feel.

Punta Mita Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita, is an elite gated community within Punta de Mita where standing in the white sands of this peninsula and looking out over the immense ocean will give you an overwhelming feeling of tranquility. It is an exclusive and luxurious getaway that rises from the peninsula that includes

Finally, If you are looking for an extra special resort in Mexico, the Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita is picturesque beyond words. Beautifully landscaped, this is a destination all on its own and one of the best hotels I have ever been to. From the moment we arrived we were treated like royalty and I was blown away by the attention to detail by the house keeping service who were able to read our minds – everything from restocking beverages to the fresh fruit selection, they knew!

There are activities for every taste, including a whale watching tour, kayaking, and even stargazing. I had a crash course on Tequila by a staff member, something to remember for sure. Even better was the incredible Tequila massage I was treated to!

11

Meals were varied and exquisite and their many swinging day beds and hanging nests by the beach were fantastic for digestion.

Everything was perfect with large, well appointed rooms, luxury amenities and a great tub to relax in. The manicured gardens and original art that was found everywhere gave a spectacular ambiance to the stay.

The views from the infinity pool were as stunning as the sunsets. Dinner at the Bahia restaurant on the beach was a pleasure and included lobster and prawns fresh from the sea. After dinner, a walk along the perfect beach was a great way to wind down. The Four Seasons Punta Mita is an oasis of white-sand beaches and turquoise waters where guests can enjoy some of the best snorkeling, scuba diving, surfing and golf in the world!

N a y a r i t

Sayulita

almost six miles of beaches. A sophisticated and well developed paradise for a special getaway.

R i v i e r a

tion of birds in Mexico, a film set and adventures in the jungle! Our tour started while a light mist glided over the area, just like in a film. We were given descriptions of the fishing of mullets and snappers in the waters of the estuary, including the birds that join in the rich fish feast!

This was a perfect ending to a perfect tour of Riviera Nayarit!

www.rivieranayarit.com

American World Traveler Summer/Fall 2015

12

J a p a n

Exploring the heart of Hokuriku Article & Photography by Steve Gillick

t the Wajima morning market, you quickly discover that most of the vendors enjoy engaging locals and visitors alike in friendly banter.

Many asked where we called home (Toronto) and then related their own trips to Niagara Falls! One woman saw me aiming my camera at her display of squid and fish, hanging out to dry. Just as I was about to click the shutter, she quickly parted the ‘curtain’ of squid, greeted me with a smiling “Ohayo Gozaimasu” (Good morning) and really seemed to enjoy my surprised look. We both laughed at the impromptu game of peek-a-boo.

A

After one thousand years of getting together - networking, if you will - to barter goods and trade stories, the women of Wajima continue to gather in what is now the Asaichi (morning market). They sell their farm produce as well as fish, conch and abalone, freshly caught in the Sea of Japan. And as part of the market experience, it’s important to know that sampling tiny squares of dried abalone is encouraged; buying grilled snacks of juicy scallops and spicy squid is expected; munching on rice crackers seasoned with sesame or nori (seaweed) is addictive, and wandering past colourful displays of seafood, vegeta-

bles, pickles and lacquerware is both fascinating and enticing.

However, when we arrived at the morning market at 10:00 am (it is open most days from 8:00 am to Noon), our visit to the city had almost concluded. The previous day we took the two hour bus ride from Kanazawa to Wajima, which is perched near the top of the Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa Prefecture. After checking into the Route Inn, a business-style hotel, we set out to explore the small town including the main temple and shrine, the public bath, a maze of interesting narrow streets leading

to the shopping area, and the sake breweries. Luckily three sake stores were open and most likely, it would have been seen as disrespectful if we had not visited each one, chatted with the owner and tasted the delicious, smooth products (as well as purchased a few bottles).

Dinner that evening featured melt-in-yourmouth sushi and sashimi at Sukezushi.

Before heading to the market the next day, we took a local bus to Shiroyone Senmaida—the 1000 rice fields of Shiroyone. On a steep slope descending to the wild waves of the Sea of Japan, we found the 1004 small rice fields shimmering in the early morning sun. It’s one of Japan’s ‘places of scenic beauty’ and visitors can scamper up and down the fields to enjoy the awesome views. From midOctober to mid-March, 21,000 pink and yellow LEDs are planted in the rice fields and visitors flock to appreciate the amazing night scenery of the ‘Senmaida Light-Up’, reflected in the sea.

After returning to town to visit Wajima’s morning market, it was time to head back to Kanazawa.

Lonely Planet’s list of ‘best in travel for 2014’ featured Hokuriku, an area of Japan that literally means “Northlands” and forms a strip on the north coast of the Island of Honshu, stretching from Niigata across to Kanazawa, north to the Noto Peninsula and south to Fukui. On a visit in 2012 we became enamoured with Niigata’s markets, small towns, castles, onsens and izakayas, so it was an easy decision two years later to explore more of the Hokuriku region.

When you enter the ‘Motenashi” (welcome dome) in Kanazawa’s ultra-modern steel and glass train/bus station you get the feeling that you’re in for a very special visit, a feeling that is only enhanced when you pass through the dramatic ‘Tsuzumi-mon’, (wooden gate) that resembles a traditional Japanese hand drum, at the station’s east entrance.

We checked into the Hotel

Nikko just across the road, and then set out to discover the city.

13

The Omicho-Ichiba, often referred to as ‘Kanazawa’s Kitchen’ is only a 20 minute walk from the hotel. This busy, colourful market, where seafood and vegetable vendors shout out the daily specials, has been around for nearly 300 years.

To get into that ‘market spirit’, we slurped fresh oysters and devoured hot, savoury fish cakes. And then it was time to wander the aisles, inhaling the piquant fragrance of fresh, wasabi root, gaping at displays of tuna jaws and tuna eyes ready to pop into a soup, ogling at matsutake mushrooms selling for $35.00 a piece, and engaging the vendors in friendly conversation.

include scenic walkways, ponds, bridges, teahouses, ancient trees, lanterns and lookouts.

Nearby, the restored moat and turrets of Kanazawa Castle, originally built in 1592, provide remarkable insight into castle life and architecture.

For travellers devoted to the niche market of visiting markets, the Omichi-Ichiba is the pot of gold. Coincidentally, the name Kanazawa means “marsh of gold” and refers to the legend of Imohori Togoro who was digging for potatoes in the area, only to discover flakes of gold.

The Higashi Chaya District was one of three areas where locals and travellers could be entertained by the songs and dances of geisha. Today the picturesque narrow streets are lined with Edo era-looking cafés and shops.

With all that fresh food playing havoc with our senses, we purchased lunch to bring back to our hotel room: tender scallop sashimi, grilled smelt (Ayu) filled with eggs, Wild Yellowtail (Buri) sashimi, crunchy local pickles and a can of cold Sapporo beer.

Our picnic for two cost about $12.00 Cdn.

We finished the day at the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, a round, glass structure that challenges visitors to approach art from all angles, even under water! One of the more notable exhibits is Leandro Ehrlich’s Swimming Pool, an interactive art installation where visitors seem to be walking on the bottom of the pool.

Kanazawa is a very walkable, safe city but if time is limited, the Loop Bus is a great way to travel to all the attractions for about $2.00 per person.

The Nagamachi Samurai District was the home of the Kaga Clan in the 17th century. The restored Nomura house provides a fascinating glimpse into Samurai life and includes a classic garden, complete with a waterfall, Koi pond, and stone lanterns.

The enchantment of Japanese gardens continues at Kenroku-en, known as the Garden of the Six Sublimeties and recognized as one of the country’s three most beautiful landscape gardens. Features

There are many more treasures to explore in Hokuriku. The bullet train that serves the Tokyo-Nagano-Kanazawa corridor makes it easy to access the region, including the dramatic Kurobe Gorge, the historic city of Takaoka, the contemplative temple at Eiheiji and the dramatic basalt cliffs at Tojinbo. But the heart of the region—and one that will capture yours-- is Kanazawa and Wajima.

Return visitors to Japan have a great excuse to break away from the well-visited TokyoOsaka routine and explore further.

Visit: www.jnto.go.jp/eng/location/routes/rtp/hokuriku/

American World Traveler Summer/Fall 2015

14

C h i n a

Three perfect days in Guangdong province Article & Photography by Michael Morcos

he trip started with flying into the biggest city in Guangdong province – the sprawling port city of Guangzhou northwest of Hong Kong on the Pearl River. The trip ahead would have us lost in an exotic world of flavours and smells that overwhelm the senses!

T

The city is a mix of housing styles from grand mansions to skyscrapers, with teeming boulevards and markets with wares ranging from eyeglasses to electronics.

There is also a thriving food scene, as the city is considered the birthplace of dim sum.

Our first day started with a visit to the Canton Tower, which briefly held the title of tallest tower in the world, replacing Canada’s own CN Tower, and then was

replaced itself by the Tokyo Skytree. It is now the third tallest tower and the fifthtallest freestanding structure in the world.

Even so, it holds the records for the highest revolving restaurant, the highest open-air viewing platform and the highest horizontal Ferris wheel on the edge of the platform to offer tourists a dream-like, bird’s eye view of Guangzhou City from the comfort of 16 transparent cars seating 4-6 people in each.

Next up was the surprisingly lovely Huacheng (Flower ) Square. This an ideal location to spend a few hours reading, walking around the peaceful grounds or enjoying the view of the city from afar. It is a good place for jogging too, and the surrounding landmarks and commercial buildings make it more outstanding blend

of flora and fauna. This is also the venue where Guangzhou International Lighting Festival is hosted. A good place for a family outing and photography.

Guangzhou Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall Our day continued with a history lesson at the magnificent Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall, a gorgeous octagonal structure, with strong Chinese features. It was designed by Mr. Lu Yanzhi, a legendary architect of the country and was built in 1931. This key historical relic is protected by Guangdong Province and is a memorial built with funds raised by local and overseas Chinese people in memory of Sun Yat-sen, the great revolutionary. It is considered a symbol of

Guangzhou, and a key venue for many of the city’s large-scale meetings and performances as well.

A shopper’s Paradise Guangzhou contains a wealth of shopping centers and malls in which you can find almost everything you could imagine, and what’s more, Guangzhou has a lot of wholesale markets with products ranging from shoes to toys and IT products. Truly a shopper’s paradise in China, with the popular “Shopping Circles” as they are called, filled with every conceivable consumer need. The Canton Fair Pazhou Complex blew my mind and is perhaps the most professional shopping centre I’ve ever seen.

Both bulk purchase and retail are available here.

interesting visit.

15

A fair bit of hiking is involved to be able to see more than 680 various stone peaks, stone fortresses, walls, pillars and stone bridges, such as the Yang Yuan Stone, yin Yuan Stone, Breasts stone, Sleeping Beauty and others making it resemble a garden of red sandstone sculptures.

The ancient Danxia Phoenix Trees that are native to this area are rare, but of the ten varieties, four of them are extremely rare.

One has been named the 'Dharma Orchid', discovered in 1987, and only two of them have ever been known to exist.

When they flower, the sweet scent of the orchid tree lingers in the mountain and visitors swarm to catch a whiff. Other trees have been dated at over three centuries!

As evening fell, we were treated to a wonderful Pearl River night time cruise. The river is named after a stone island resembling a huge pearl, polished by the constantly-flowing water. Compared with the daytime cruise on the river, the night cruise is even more fascinating as the sparkling lights of the city reflect off the water and is a must for visitors to Guangzhou. The cruise starts from the White Goose Pool and ends at the Guangzhou Bridge in the east and Baihedong (White Crane Cave) in the south. This section offers visitors views of the 'Night Moon over the Goose Pool' and the 'Red Heart of the Pearl River', captivating visitors of this two-hour evening cruise. Historical sites and unique architecture are scattered along the river, including ancient architectures from various countries and ten unique bridges

Further on, we enjoyed a walking tour of the surrounding area visiting locals selling food and trinkets, followed by a lovely boat ride on the JinJiang river with the Danxia mountains all around us. My favorite part of the day was the cable car to the top, with amazing scenery and rock formations to watch. The Danxia Mountain has many other wonderful scenic spots, including Zhanglao Peak, Yangyuan Hill, Xianglong Lake and at the foot of Zhanglao Peak, there is a grotto temple that was built during the Northern Song Dynasty (960-1127) and the Xianglong Lake (Flying Dragon Lake) sits to the south of Zhanglao Peak, named so because the lake resembles a flying dragon. The mostly relaxing downhill walk on the way back in the beautiful mountain scenery was great, though at the end were very steep steps

Mount Danxia

Kaiping Diaolou

Day 2 in Guangzhou was dedicated to a day-long exploration of Mount Danxia, listed as a world natural heritage site. Narrow paths surrounded by unique stone formations await the intrepid explorer who wishes to experience what the road signs call the "Grand Canyon of Guangdong".

Though a little bit of a stretch, it was still an

In 2007, UNESCO named Kaiping Diaolou and Villages as a World Heritage Site writing "...the Diaolou ... display a complex and flamboyant fusion of Chinese and Western structural and decorative forms…”, and we spent the whole day exploring its fortified multi-storey towers made of reinforced concrete.

Approximately 1833 of these towers are located mainly in Kaiping County.Although the diaolou served mainly as protection against forays by bandits, a few of them also served as living quarters. From the tops you can see that the area is surrounded by rice fields.

Liyuan Garden Situated at Genghua Village Tangkou Town, Kaiping District of Guangdong Province, Liyuan garden is a private garden on the shore of Li Lake. Built in 1936, Liyuan Garden is one of the four most famous gardens of Guangdong Province.

This unique garden is a perfect combination of the modernist western architectural style of the period and the traditional landscaping of China. Walking among the plants, the wide and deep canals string together the architectural features of the garden including winding corridors, fine bridges and exquisite pavilions.

Within, you can find Villa Zone, which contains six villas and an ancient watchtower, including the magnificent Panwenlou and the Panlilou villas. Richly adorned with western fireplaces and artistic ancient lamps, the rooms are elegant and elaborate.

Guangdong province was a real treat, full of history, culture, gastronomy and many wonderful surprises and a little of everything for everyone!

www.visitgd.com

American World Traveler Summer/Fall 2015

m

Indian

e

r

Pa c i f i c

i

c

Southern

a

Ocean

n

W O R L D

section

B a lt i c

Moselle

Nile

Cruising

Caribbean

Rhine

Rh么ne

Mediterranean

Sa么ne

Traveler

Main

Photograph: Alejandro Barbosa

Holland America Ship Nieuw Amsterdam on the 12-Night Mediterranean Tapestry Cruise in Kotor, Montenegro See article on page 22

Come With Us & Sail The World!

South-China Sea

Mekong

Black

Danube

Aegean

Seine

A

Arctic

Adriatic

Yangtze

Atlantic

18

AmaWaterways

Avalon

Azamara

Carnival

Celebrit

Disney

N e w s

In 2016, Disney Cruise Line is sailing its first British Isles itinerary, visiting Scotland, England, Ireland and France. Throughout the summer of 2016, Disney Cruise Line also will return to Norway, Iceland and ports of call in more than 15 European countries.

In addition to the tour of Europe with limited engagements in the Baltic, Norwegian Fjords, Iceland, British Isles, Greek Isles and the Mediterranean, Disney Cruise Line will revisit favorite destinations elsewhere around the globe including Alaska, the Caribbean and the Bahamas.

www.disneycruise.disney.go.com

Carnival

C r u i s e

Embodying Carnival Cruise Line’s motto of Fun For All, All For Fun, the new Carnival Vista will offer family members of all ages the ultimate vacation experience, debuting a variety of amazing, one-of-a-kind on-board features when it enters service next spring.

From a unique suspended cycling experience called SkyRide and the innovative Family Harbor staterooms and suites featuring a “family concierge” to cruising’s first IMAX Theatre, Carnival Vista promises fun for the whole family.

www.carnival.com

Big Band Swing Voyages on

American Queen

The American Queen Steamboat Company, operator of the world’s largest and most opulent paddlewheel vessels, announces details for its Big Band Swing voyages beginning in the fall. This nine-day voyage includes nightly dancing accompanied by the 13-piece Great American Swing Band, onboard lectures from esteemed historians and special appearances by vocalist Lynn Roberts.

VIKING RIVER CRUISES

Marking another year of impressive growth, Viking River Cruises welcomed the newest additions to its fleet of river cruise vessels at a simultaneous christening ceremony in Amsterdam and Rostock, Germany earlier this year. The company christened a total of 12 new river vessels, including 10 of its awardwinning Viking Longships® and two custom vessels for the Elbe River. This event officially brings Viking’s total river fleet size to 60 and comes just one year after the company set a GUINNESS WORLD RECORD™ for the most new ships launched in a single day.

All 10 of the new Viking Longships will be deployed on Viking’s itineraries in Europe, including three of the most popular itineraries – Grand European Tour, Romantic Danube and Rhine Getaway. Also, as a result of high consumer demand for the Elegant Elbe itinerary, the two new specially designed ships will double the company’s capacity on the Elbe River for 2015.

www.vikingrivercruises.com

Offering the most inclusive river cruise experience in North America, the nineday Big Band Swingfares begin at $1,499. All journeys include a one-night pre-voyage hotel stay, shore tours in all ports, complimentary wine and beer with dinner and a host of other amenities.

www.americanqueensteamboatcompany.com

Royal-Caribbean

Seabourn

SeaDream

Silvers

ty

Costa

Crystal

Cunard

Disney

Holland America

19

Cunard MSC That first crossing changed the face of ocean travel, establishing the first permanent link between the Old World and the New – a link that has remained unbroken for 175 years as Cunard’s ships have crossed and re-crossed the Atlantic every year since, in peace and war, without fail.

Britannia was Cunard’s first flagship but at just 1,154 tons and carrying just 115 passengers, she could fit inside the Britannia Restaurant of today’s 150,000 ton flagship Queen Mary 2, which accommodates 2,600 guests. But the little ship’s departure heralded the start of passenger sailing from Liverpool.

Oceania

www.cunard.com

Norwegian

The Queen Mary 2 sounded her ship’s whistle on July 4th, 2015 at 2 p.m. in Liverpool to signify the exact time 175 years earlier that Cunard’s first ship Britannia left the city’s Coburg Dock and inaugurated the first ever scheduled Transatlantic service.

Pa u l G a u g u i n

Oceania Cruises

Here are the details of the regions and destinations where the five-ship Oceania Cruises fleet will sail in winter 2015-2016.

Ponant

Oceania Cruises’ 2015-2016 Winter Collection, features a variety of longer, destination-rich itineraries traveling to ports in South America, Asia, South Africa, the South Pacific and Caribbean. Of the 42 itineraries, 32 are voyages of two-weeks in length or longer, and 27 sail on unique itineraries never before offered by the upper-premium line. Sprinkled among the winter itineraries are 12 new exciting destinations not previously visited by Oceania Cruises ships, including Jeju, South Korea and Luderitz, Namibia.

Regatta will bridge the Americas, spending time in North, South and Central America, while calling on some Caribbean ports

ship will then set sail for the South Pacific with seven unique itineraries exploring several popular ports in French Polynesia, Fuji, Samoa Islands, Australia and New Zealand.

Riviera will spend the winter months in the sunny Caribbean, with voyages ranging from seven to 14 days in length. The ship will split time between the eastern and western Caribbean.

Regent

sea

www.oceaniacruises.com

Star-Clippers

Uniworld

Viking

Princess

along the way. Itineraries include two new cruises that explore the Amazon River and four voyages that traverse the Panama Canal.

Insignia will depart from Miami for an incredible Around the World in 180 Days voyage.

Nautica will call Asia and South Africa home for a series of eight unique itineraries, six of which are new routes for this region.

Marina opens the season with back-to-back South American voyages that will explore Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina and Chile. The

Windstar

Getting Hooked on the

22

Article & Photography by Jasmine Morcos & Alejandro Barbosa

B a r c e l o n a S t . Tr o p e z M o n a c o F l o r e n c e / Pi s a R o m e s first-time cruisers, we were delighted that our stay on Holland America’s Nieuw Amsterdam surpassed all of our expectations.

boyfriend and I loved the huge selection of food and the variety of dining options – including great vegetarian meals as well as tasty meat and fish.

Our ocean-view stateroom had a wonderful big bed, lots of storage space and a large window overlooking the sea. My

The service was impeccable and cheerful, making our visit extra special from the moment we boarded in Barcelona, Spain until we reluctantly disembarked when

A

Photo: Holland America

our cruise ended in Venice, Italy.

You will find plenty to do on the ship, which is only five years old. It offers great entertainment, plenty of activities like pools, shows, music and clubs, a gym overlooking the water, and $3 million worth of art to admire. Scattered around the ship are sculptures and artwork by

Mediterranean

23

N a p l e s S i c i l y C o r f u D u b r o v n i k M o n t e n e g r o Ve n i c e lines even though the ship holds more than 2,100 passengers spread over 900plus rooms. Talk about “smooth sailing!”

such famous artists as Andy Warhol, Richard Estes and Roy Lichtenstein. You can take a free self-guided iPod® tour of the art and feel as if you have your very own museum at sea.

pan-Asian food and the Silk Den Lounge has spectacular vistas, making it ideal for relaxation. We especially liked the B.B. King Blues Club for its high-energy music and very reasonably priced drinks.

On-shore sights

The ship has all the great buffet offerings we expected, plus lots more. The Tamarind Restaurant serves excellent

And one of the nicest benefits of all: The Nieuw Amsterdam is so well organized that we seldom encountered any waiting

While the ship was an awesome home away from home for 14 days, the ports were great highlights, too.

American World Traveler Summer/Fall 2015

Holland America 12-Night

24

It was just the right pace: 14 days, 11 ports and seven countries, with two days at sea to enjoy the ship, play tennis and board games, sample still more food and recharge our batteries.

Rome has wonderful piazzas and openair markets, the Trevi Fountain and much, much more. As the tour guide says, “Rome wasn’t built in a day, and it can’t be seen in a day.”

All the ports offered unusual shopping, interesting historic sites and a wide variety of restaurants serving local and international foods.

Sorrento:

Here are five of our favorite stops: Monaco: Exotic flowers and chirping birds added to our stroll through Old Town, which is full of history, extremely expensive automobiles and eye-catching scenic views.

Have lunch at the Exotic Garden if you can, and walk through the casino, the setting for many glamorous events over the years, including James Bond movies.

Florence: The jewelry stores are a must-see; they have something for every price range.

The Duomo, the fourth largest cathedral in the world, rises over Florence. It’s a huge structure with a Renaissance dome, and admission is free! The size and beauty were breathtaking; we couldn’t imagine a trip to Florence without a visit to this beautiful cathedral with such wonderful mosaics.

Rome: We got to feel and appreciate history as we visited some of the many monuments in this fabulous city. The Roman Coliseum made us feel like we were walking in an ancient museum.

We took a ferry here from Naples and were truly amazed by the magnificent mountains surrounding Sorrento, a city on the Amalfi coast. It’s atop a cliff overlooking the Bay of Naples, so bring a camera to capture the views. For a taste treat, try Limoncello, a popular Italian liqueur.

Venice: We spent our final night aboard the ship in Venice, where a waterbus is a great way to see the amazing architecture and the canals buzzing with gondolas and numerous other boats.

Venice, one of the most popular tourist spots in the world, is made up of 118 islands connected by canals and bridges.

Tour the Grand Canal, which passes more than 170 buildings, some dating as far back as the 1200s and 1300s.

Great food, great staff On the ship, we were amazed by the staff’s constant attentiveness. They were quick to answer our questions and our requests, always making us feel pampered and welcome.

This atmosphere is a great selling point for the Nieuw Amsterdam, which is named for New York City. (New York was called Nieuw Amsterdam when Dutch explorers were active there centuries ago.)

Photo: Holland America

Spain

Fr a n c e

Monaco

Italy

Mediterranean Tapestry Cruise The ship keeps the New York vibe going, with a Manhattan restaurant and an abstract sculpture of the inverted New York skyline made from clear translucent blocks that hang upside-down.

This ship is Nieuw Amsterdam IV, following a rich tradition started in 1906 by the original Nieuw Amsterdam, which used both sails and engines. Obviously, cruising has come a long way from those days.

Food, food, food The wonderful buffets were full of fresh food, which stoked us full of energy for fun on land and sea. Every morning we tried something different, tasting as much of the menu as we could, and never being disappointed.

The ship also has specialty restaurants, and they are extremely good. One night we went to Canaletto, where the menu is designed around authentic Italian food.

The dishes were made to be shared with friends and family. We split the Canaletto salad and the ricotta raviolis, one of the best pasta dishes I have ever had. It was tasty and perfectly spiced, making it a real delight. As our main course, we tried the grilled white bass with roasted potatoes and a delicious salad. Once again, we were very happy with our choice. The sea bass was very lean, with a delicate flavor of lemon and thyme, bringing a light, fresh touch to the plate.

For dessert, we asked the waiter for a recommendation, and he did: tiramisu and a mouthwatering pistachio gelato.

(When in doubt, ask the servers. They always picked top-notch menu items.)

25

Another night we tried Tamarind, known for food evoking rich culinary traditions of Southeast Asia, China, and Japan.

The food was spectacular and the ambiance wonderful, plus we had amazing service and great company.

Our waitress kindly guided us through the menu and helped us make our choices, as everything looked delicious.

Main courses were separated into four categories: water (fish and seafood), earth (vegetarian options), wood (beef, scallops, and duck) and fire (shrimp, chicken, and lamb). We concluded with a mix of desserts suggested by the waitress: tempura ice cream, chocolate almond fortune cookie, a trio of sorbets, and tamarind chocolate shell.

For our final night on the ship, we visited the luxurious Pinnacle Grill restaurant.

The environment was elegant, with a very chic décor and beautiful table decorations.

The menu had a great selection of starters, main courses and side dishes.

But that’s not all. The dessert selection was incredible -- and the presentation was even better.

We shared the amazing Grand Marnier chocolate volcano cake and the delicious creamy, homemade raspberry cheesecake. After supper, we treated ourselves to a refreshing therapeutic massage at the spa.

This may have been our first cruise, but it definitely won’t be our last. We’re already looking at itineraries for more trips aboard Nieuw Amsterdam.

www.hollandamerica.com

Photo: Holland America

Greece

Croatia

Montenegro

American World Traveler Summer/Fall 2015

26

Barbie Cruise on

Royal Caribbean’s Freedom of the Seas

by Jennifer Merrick

here’s no squabbling. Not once do I hear, ‘It’s not fair!’ You’d be forgiven for thinking I’m on a kid-free vacation, but I’m with my 9-year-old daughter, Danielle. Just her. Without her brother and Dad, it’s an entirely different dynamic, and a chance to connect without the competition of sibling rivalry.

T

And as it’s a Barbie Cruise on Royal Caribbean’s ‘Freedom of the Seas’, it’s also a chance to celebrate her girlhood before the dolls are put away forever.

Let the Fun Begin The adventure starts at Universal Orlando Studios even before we board. A partnership with the cruise line means that you can combine a visit to the popular theme park with a Caribbean cruise in one package

deal. We’re thrilled to feel the movies come alive, as we’re transformed into minions on the Despicable Me Minion Mayhem ride, rescue Princess Fiona with Shrek and Donkey in Shrek 4D, and speed through exploding fireballs on the Revenge of the Mummy.

Despite the heat, goose bumps appear when I first glimpse the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, astonished to see the setting of a book I spent so many bedtimes reading.

Fortunately as the cruise continues into calmer waters, the smiles return. The onboard itinerary is a Barbie dream-cometrue for the girls who are participating. The first surprise awaits inside our cabin with Barbie décor and gifts, including a satin pillowcase, tote bag, fleece blanket, and the doll herself, complete with wardrobe.

It’s all part of the Barbie Premiere Experience that features events, workshops and movies.

A Barbie Cruise

Highlights are the Barbie Fashion Workshop, in which very glamourous reallife ‘Barbies’ show the girls how to create their own fashion clothes for their doll, and the Tiaras and Teacup Party. At this event we dress up, and bring our personalized invitation along with Barbie, of course, to the Portofino dining room overlooking the ocean. Our elegant Barbie hostesses graciously teach the girls the proper way to

After this beginning, I’m worried the cruise might be disappointing. And it does get off to a rocky start. November winds are high enough to toss even the 150,000+ ton ship around. The drunken-like stagger down the corridor is fun for my daughter at first, but the novelty quickly wears out as the queasiness sets in.

one of them for the panoramic views atop the stone tower built in 1679.

27

“Isn’t it gorgeous,” I gush.

“It’s OK, I guess,” my daughter says, and shrugs her shoulders, clearly not as impressed as I am. Nor is she much interested in the gory pirate lore (which I’m sure her brother would love) or the beautifullymaintained gardens and historic manor homes. Funnily enough what delights Danielle is a chicken running around freely!

Later that evening, back on the ship, she shows our friendly and patient waiter a dozen pictures on her camera of this incredible phenomena.

Our second island stop, St. Maarten, on day five, proves equally picturesque and charming. On a rented beach chair, I watch my daughter jumping on a water trampoline. As I do, I try to sear every detail in my memory – the color of the sea, the warmth of the sun, and the way the warm white sand massages my feet. I know that this memory will help me through the coming cold winter, and maybe even through the challenges of adolescent.

Tips for Cruising with Kids Caroline Spencer Brown, editor of cruisecritic.com, says that cruises are ideal for grand parenting bonding, especially nowadays when so many families are spread out. Excellent childcare and programming, “allow plenty of opportunities for downtime”. She advises, however, to choose your cruise carefully. serve and drink tea (little sips; no slurping).

The girls then serve the adults ‘tea’ (pink lemonade) and fancy, very pink, desserts on a silver tray. Barbie would be proud.

All Ashore Pulling open the blinds on day four, we are treated to a scene worthy of any Caribbean postcard. Turquoise water, white-sand beaches, and red-roofed colonial homes dot the lush hills. My heart skips a beat.

Now this is what I imagined, and I can’t wait to explore Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas US Virgin Islands. Sunscreen, water, hats, breakfast to go - check. And we’re off.

Our destination is none other than Blackbeard’s Castle, but first we have to climb 99 steps to get there. It’s worth every

“Smaller ships with educational programming (ie. river cruises, Galapagos islands) can be great learning experiences for older kids, but younger children will probably benefit from the programming of larger ships,” says Brown. She recommends Disney for younger kids and Royal Caribbean for all ages. Brown also cautions it’s important, “to be very clear from the outset about expectation of time that will be spent together.”

The Barbie Premium Experience, on Royal Caribbean, for girls 4 to 11 is available on all its ships for $199 per child. For more information on Royal Caribbean’s cruises, including its partnership with Universal Orlando visit:

www.royalcaribbean.com American World Traveler Summer/Fall 2015

&

P l a y

Sweet Dreams Around The World

28

Luxury Hotels...Gr and Resorts...Charming

an award-winning beachfront oasis tucked into the lush landscape of the Riviera Nayarit, has been recognised as one of the top resorts in the world in the 20th annual Travel + Leisure’ 2015 World’s Best Awards. Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita was ranked #1 among the Best Hotels and Resorts in Mexico for Families, top five among the Best Hotels and Resorts in Mexico, and placed in the Top 100 World’s Best Hotels with an overall score of 93.54.

Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita,

www.fourseasons.com/puntamita

Singita Ebony Lodge reopens after a total redesign L a s t J u n e , Singita unveiled a complete redesign of its original lodge, Singita Ebony, in South Africa. Singita Ebony is where the story began twenty-two years ago on land owned by Singita founder, Luke Bailes. The re-launch completes Singita’s reinvention of its private 45,000 acre game reserve that is set within the Sabi Sand. The result is the most innovative collection of safari lodges in Southern Africa. Situated over the Sabi Sand River, Singita Ebony Lodge is already considered one of Africa’s most iconic lodges and was revolutionary in its pioneering approach to the modern luxury safari experience. The new Singita Ebony Lodge comprises 12 suites, each with its own private plunge pool.

SWISSÔTEL Continues China

S t a y

Expansion With SWISSÔTEL JINAN Swissôtel Hotels & Resorts, a leading brand in the FRHI Hotels & Resorts portfolio, announced the development of a new hotel in Jinan, the capital of Shandong Province in eastern China.

Joining the distinctive hotel brand's growing collection of properties open and in development in China, Swissôtel Jinan is scheduled to debut in 2020. www.swissotel.com

Club Med – CREACTIVE by Cirque du Soleil Unveiled at Club Med Punta Cana Interactive playground invites guests to take their travel experience to new heights Club Med, the brand that pioneered the all-inclusive resort concept 65 years ago, and Cirque du Soleil, the groundbreaking circus arts entertainment company, are excited to announce that Club Med CREACTIVE by Cirque du Soleil is now open at the Club Med Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic. The unique concept takes experiential travel to new heights - literally - offering guests the opportunity to learn exciting acrobatic disciplines showcased in famed Cirque du Soleil productions. These two iconic global brands were created by visionaries who sought to create moments of happiness, and both continue to do so through innovative experiences that tap into the desire for adventure and surprise.

www.clubmed.ca

Ne w York London Paris Tokyo Hong Kong Bali Rome Thailand Monaco Amsterdam Berlin Mo Crete Stockholm Maldives Peru Miami Shanghai Tahiti Rivier a Maya Las vegas Toronto Bu Japan Los Angeles Barcelona Santiago Washington Jak arta Marr akesh Boston Botswan

B&B...Opulent Villas...Quaint Country Inns...

From June to December 2015, Preferred Hotels & Resorts will welcome the following hotels into its portfolio, each with its own take on authentic, local experiences to help guests better engage with their surroundings. Travelers looking to stay at the latest and most unique independent hotel openings can visit www.PreferredHotels.com to make reservations and start planning their experiences at the following destinations:

Art Hotel – Denver, Colorado – Opened June 25, 2015: This contemporary hotel is rooted in an urban art gallery. Each of the 165 guestrooms features floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook the Rocky Mountains and Denver skyline.

The Temple House – Chengdu, China – Opened June 15, 2015: Set in a beautifully restored 100-year-old Chinese courtyard building in the city of Chengdu is The Temple House. The urban hotel epitomizes contemporary and simple luxury with earthy tones and a clean design, which perfectly contrast with its surroundings that include the 1,000-year-old- Daci Temple. It offers 100 guestrooms, 42 serviced residences, an immersive spa, and four dining options.

Palazzo Versace Dubai – Dubai, UAE – Opening Fall 2015: Located in Dubai’s historic “Culture Village” district, the muchanticipated Palazzo Versace Dubai will be the second hotel to open under the fashion house name. The 215-room hotel will wow guests with rich Italian design elements, Versace-branded amenities, a world-class spa and stellar culinary offerings.

The Watergate Hotel – Washington, D.C.– Opening November 1, 2015: Washington, D.C.’s landmark property The Watergate Hotel is undergoing a legendary revival and will open as a true urban resort later this year. Across 338 guest rooms and public spaces, the hotel will blend luxurious design with its storied past, offering exciting features ranging from the original grand staircase to a brand new rooftop bar overlooking the U.S. Capital and Potomac River and a state-of-the-art spa and fitness center.

The South Beach – Singapore – Opening Fall 2015: One of Asia’s most anticipated openings of the year, the Philippe Starck-designed The South Beach in Singapore is set to unveil 654 guestrooms including 49 luxury suites, four food and beverage options, an enchanting ballroom, 19 state-of-the-art meeting rooms, and two sky gardens with infinity pools where guests can lounge while admiring the Singapore skyline.

The Dewberry Charleston – South Carolina – Opening December 2015: The Dewberry Charleston will be housed in the L. Mendel Rivers Federal Building at 334 Meeting St., across from Marion Square. The Dewberry will feature 155 guestrooms, a living room style lobby area with an intimate, lively bar, and a full rooftop that features a bar, spa, pool, fitness center, and event space with 360 degree views of Charleston Harbor, the city’s skyline, and the Cooper and Ashley Rivers.

EAST Miami – Florida - Opening December 2015: Designed by award-winning architecture firm Arquitectonica with interiors by New York-based Clodagh Design, EAST Miami is Swire Hotels’ first entry into a market outside of Asia and will offer 263 rooms and 89 serviced apartments. Like its sister properties in Hong Kong and Beijing, EAST Miami will feature a paperless arrival and departure experience and a one-stop front-desk Guest Experience team.

ontreal Tanzania Hawaii Rio Madrid Cape Town Beijing Sydne y Vancouver Ecuador Malaysia uenas Aries Manila Singapore Mumbai Chicago Jerusalem Moscow Egyp t Bor a Bor a China na Copenhagen Ne w Delhi Dubai Sao Paulo Bangkok Auckland Bor acay Santorini Uganda

L u x a r y S a fa r i C a m p s . . . E c o l o d g e s . . . I c e . . . C av e . . . Tr e e t o p . . . H o t e l s

Preferred Hotels & Resorts New Hotel Openings

29

30

Rocking the Crossroads of the Americas

S t a y

&

P l a y

H a r d R o c k H o t e l Pa n a m a C i t y

Panama City

by Susan Campbell

T

Enjoy a Rock Star Stay

large dining room, two bathrooms, a kitchenette and an inviting bedroom- far too large for one person. With both couches doubling as sofa beds, it could have comfortably slept four to six. I should have brought some buddies. But the constant videos on their Hard Rock channel on two 42” TVs, plus the oversized likenesses of musical legends John Lennon and Jim Morrison did keep me company.

Towering above the newly vibrant metropolis at 66 floors high, Hard Rock Hotel Panama Megapolis is a perfect roost from which to sample the very best this city has to offer. My 44th floor “Rock Star Gold Suite” afforded insane views of the Pacific Ocean and stunning skyscapes on either side from a massive balcony. The suite itself was also massive- two living areas, a

However, beyond enjoying room service there, I was not in the room that much, there was too much to experience on the property. But I did spend some quality time there with the complimentary loan of a snazzy Fender Guitar, amp and headphones they offer as part of their “Sounds of your Stay®” program.

Playing rock classics on my balcony with that inspiring view was

here’s never been a better time to visit this exciting and cosmopolitan city as it aims to become a major contender as the most inviting region in Latin America.

31 pipes to the sun worshipping guests enjoying the rays and the waves in the infinity pool and the covered cabanas and luxe lounges.

There are also four hot tubs to soak in while you take in the sensational skyline views, but do claim your spot there early as it fills up fast. A DJ keeps the spot bopping right up until 8pm when the pool closes and guests carry on to dine or pursue more electric nightlife on site.

Dining on site is eclectic- you have the main buffet Bazaar- a huge room with al fresco options available beside the pool areabreakfast lunch and dinner buffets plus special themed evenings with a la carte choices.

I found the presentations always gorgeous but sometimes found the food a tad bland in the main course options. However, the dessert wall was always out of this world.

Finer dining choices are to be had at Soy- a Pan-Asian affair and Tauro- a high-end steak house dedicated to rock celebrities that were born under the sign of the bull. Their craft cocktails were inspired and my steak was first rate, but my favorite dining choice of all was Ciao.

incredible. Really rock star living. If you don’t play- there are guitar lessons on their video, or you can also order a digital mixer with a preloaded playlist if being a dynamite DJ is more your style. Very cool perks. This was my first stay at a Hard Rock brand hotel, and I have to say, it really did rock!

Awesome On-Site Amenities The first place to head is the infinity pool on the 15th floor. The Float Bar serves up cool concoctions and tapas and even hookah

Located just above the lobby on the 2nd floor, I adored their vibe and open-concept kitchen with seriously creative tapas and artisan wood oven fired pizzas. It’s all cozy couches and comfy banquettes, very inviting, and the food was always fabulous. Their sense of play was also apparent with menu items called things like “The Sweet Bastard Burger”- a decadent tower of deliciousness.

Nightlife was also eclectic, and they often have big special musical events- live or DJdriven being a Hard Rock Hotel after all. The Stage bar on the second floor often has live music, and offers a casual and intimate setting for artists, while Bling goes straight to the heart of old disco glam replete with stainless steel dance floors and laser light city.

(They also play today’s music as well). And Austin Powers would feel right at home in the Who R U lounge anteroom with plastic bubble chairs and zebra carpeting. And the

lobby bars can also get lively, especially during a soccer match.

But the real spot to take the night to the absolute heights is at BITS up on the 62nd floor. It’s a magnificent maze of indoor and outdoor bars and venues and rooftop openair lounges where the night light scene of the city is unparalleled.

The vibe swings between pop and techno to Latin and rock, depending on where you stop, and the private rooms are where the real VIPs take roost. It’s also open to the public for a cover charge; hotel guests are admitted free.

And all throughout the hotel is the added bonus of constant classic rock tunes as your musical backdrop and a superb selection of memorabilia popping up everywhere courtesy of real rock and pop legends… costumes worn on stage, musical instruments, and even Bono’s Austin Mini car in the lobby signed by the legend himself. And there is also a Rock Spa, a Rock Shop, a fitness center, comprehensive convention facilities and stand-alone teen’s and kids clubs.

Should you need anything else, the hotel is also connected to the Multicentro - one of the largest most modern malls in the downtown core - with four floors of shops, dining, bars, cinemas, a two-floor casino and a very large supermarket. So everything you could possibly need is just steps away from your suite.

The location is ideal. And it’s also mere minutes away from the region’s top attractions including the famous Panama Canal, the cool new Frank Gehry Biomuseo, and the charming and fascinating old city (Casco Viejo) - a UNESCO World Heritage site.

And as far as my first stay at the Hard Rock Hotel brand? I’m now officially hooked on their fun and funky style and the way they really know how to do VIP treatment right. I can’t wait to experience their resorts in other destinations worldwide.

www.hrhpanamamegapolis.com

American World Traveler Summer/Fall 2015

S t a y

&

P l a y

P u e r t o

Va l l a r t a

32

Five hotels, five styles for enjoying Puerto

Vallarta, full of fun, food and tropical nature

33

American World Traveler Summer/Fall 2015

The Sporting Life and So Much More

34

Casa

de

Campo,

La

Romana

Dominican Republic

S t a y

&

P l a y

by Susan Campbell

hough I had been to other parts of the Dominican Republic I was anxious to explore more regions, and La Romana was the most recent. I had no idea what to expect really, and when we arrived at Casa de Campo Resort, I was blown away by the sheer massiveness of its sprawling community. Located on 7,000 acres, with a vast assortment of accommodation options and activities, it’s best known for its sports offerings- golf- shooting- equestrian pastimes and tennis among them, but there is so much more to it than that. But first, let’s look at its most famous pursuits.

T

Terrestrial pastimes I took my first ever golf lesson at the famed “Teeth of the Dog” course there- ranked as the number one course in the Caribbean-one of three championship Pete Dye designed courses on site. And though my instructor was great, and very patient, I ended up agreeing with Mark Twain that “Golf is a good walk spoiled,” due to my ineptitude. But I really did enjoy touring the course by golf cart for its awesome scenery, especially by the sea. And the hole that traverses wild and restless waves over a cliff must be one of the most unique water traps anywhere!

35 Though I was sorry that we didn’t get a chance to visit the real Equestrian Center where they have all kinds of lessons-both English and western style- and also jumping and even rodeo stunt instruction- and polo.

But if I do return, I would definitely like to try the offbeat pastime of “donkey polo” where anyone can play the sport regardless of riding skill.

They are also known for tennis, though I don’t play that either. But even though I was not their ideal “sporty” type of candidate, there was still plenty to keep me happy and active at this spot, especially since I’m really a marine life and beach loving kind of gal at heart.

Stanislaus church where official weddings often take place against the unique backdrop. Also surprising is the state-of-the-art design school also located there, and the archeological museum showcases the work of its artists. You can also take a pottery making class using local clay on site or purchase some of their creative clay wares. But the piece de resistance in this village is the recreation of a massive Greek amphitheater, which serves as their official Performing Arts Center. Another surprise. First inaugurated

by Frank Sinatra in 1982, it has hosted some superstar performers over the years including Andrea Boccelli and Sting, and the natural acoustics are incredible. During the winter months, it also hosts a weekly Caribbean Review.

For sea lovers, too Resort Life

I also took my first ever rifle-shooting lesson at their massive facility where they offer over 200 stations for trap, skeet and sporting clays. But alas, again, it turned out not to be my thing. Though I did manage to hit a few skeet, I bruised my shoulder with the kickback and found the sheer volume of the shots nerve wracking though we did wear earplugs.

More up my alley was the horseback riding, a pleasant little jaunt along the golf course.

Though they have a nice beachfront with kayaking, sailing instruction and the like, it was the trip to private Catalina Island that really got my juices going. The 45-minute boat trek was a tad rough, but well worth it, as the beaches there were glorious and the waters aqua perfection famed by scenic cliffs. Snorkeling was also a treat as was the solitude- lots of room to go off on your own and just become one with the sea. Also for sea lovers is an entire “yachtie village” back at the resort. Casa de Campo Marina was designed to resemble a seaside Mediterranean village, and its Piazza Portofino delights with lots of cafes and dining and entertainment including cinemas.

Hundreds of sleek vessels line the docks there, and there is also a sailing school and yacht club. They also have their own accommodations options in the marina village.

It takes a village…

But the biggest surprise for me there was Altos de Chavón- a manmade replica of a 16th century Mediterranean village. It is absolutely gorgeous, and really looks ancient. Perched above the Chavón River, it has dining, curio shops with local items like chocolate and cigars and the charming St.

Most of the guests stay at the main lodgesome 200 rooms and suites overlooking the greens of the golf courses- with a pool complex, and spa and many dining choices on site. And there are many villa rental options in the immediate area. And most of the guests get around by golf cart since the complex is so large. Or, new to the resort- you can also rent electric stand-up scooters! Very cool.

They also offer a new option of holiday for those seeking an extremely healthy stay- the addition of Ki-Ra Holistic Living- a full service organization that now offers a full spectrum of health and wellness services and retreats for guests of Casa de Campo. (Groups of 12 max.) The resort is also very family friendly with an official kid’s club, and in the summer they hold a special children’s soccer camp for both locals and visitors alike.

So even though their official theme is ‘The Sporting Life”, you don’t need to be a super sporty type to enjoy Casa de Campo’s multitude of activities. There are plenty of pleasures and pastimes to suit every holiday style.

www.casadecampo.com.do

American World Traveler Summer/Fall 2015

36

A l a b a m a Gulf Shores Beach Vacation

hen Canadians think of a US beach destination, Alabama doesn’t immediately spring to mind. Yet here I am on the state’s southernmost point looking out at the whitest sands imaginable. Sugar white they call it, and it’s actually finely ground quartz formed from rocks from the Appalachian Mountains that have travelled over 1000 kilometers down the Apalachicola and Chattahoochee rivers.

It now lies before my eyes, shimmering in the bright sun and caressed by the Gulf of Mexico waters. It’s stunning and when you combine that beauty with friendly southerners, succulent seafood, and a slew of nature activities you have a recipe for an unbeatable beach vacation.

W

Becoming a Water Warrior Venturing into the gulf waters on a paddle board, a million instructions are going through my mind -- use your core, keep your arm straight, focus on the trees on the other side of the bay, turn the sticker on the paddle towards you, fall away from the board (on your back, if possible). But before I do anything, I need to stand up. This popular sport is called stand up paddle boarding after all, not kneel down paddle boarding, though at this point I’m wishing it were. Miraculously, I don’t fall when I do manage to stand, but my legs are shaking like jello.

I point out my quivering muscles to Becky Harger, instructor and co-owner of Water Warrior outfitter.

“Are you focusing on the trees?” she asks.

The only thing I’m focusing on is not falling off. My muscles continue to jiggle and wobble, and I’m convinced I can last a maximum of two more minutes.

“Are you looking at the trees?” Harger asks again.

I lift my head up, tighten my stomach and thankfully my legs are now still. With each stroke, I feel more relaxed. The water is calm and being so close to it, there’s a connection to it and the nature around us. I begin to understand the palpable passion Harger has for the sport.

Ten years ago, at the age of 55, Harger took lessons and never looked back.

“I’ve seen unbelievable things on the boards,” she says, and tells us about twohour encounters with pods of dolphins.

“They’re all but on the board with you. It’s eye to eye contact.”

It’s also a total body workout. “This is our gym,” says Joe Klootwyk, co-owner of Water Warrior, who is just as passionate about the sport as Becky. Both are determined to pass this enthusiasm on, and have taught close to 1000 people including those who were afraid of water, others who have disabilities and even a man who was attached to an oxygen tank.

“Basically, if you want to paddle, we’re going to get you on board.”

and teach their young.

Leaving the open waters, our captain navigates the boat expertly into the narrow marsh waterways of the bayou. Here we see the Great Blue Herons and other fish-eating diving birds that nest in this habitat, which turn out to be equally as fascinating as the dolphins we had come to see. www.cetaceancruises.com Another worthwhile cruise, especially if you’re looking for a more intimate experience is Sail Away Charters, where you can learn about crabbing and shrimping as well as other wildlife, including the star of the water – the dolphin.

A Royal Feast They certainly got me on board, and I can’t think of better people or a better place to be introduced to this fun and accessible watersport. www.waterwarrior.net

Dolphin Encounters “What time do the dolphins come out?”

This is one of the siller questions the tourist office has been asked (among others are When is jelly fish mating season? and Where can I find the underwater shopping centre?).

Of course, the dolphins don’t have a schedule. On a Cetacean Dolphin Cruise, we’re on their terms in their environment. But we don’t have to wait long, and ten minutes into the excursion the captain calls, “Dolphin at two o’clock!” Cameras begin to click furiously. It’s not just any dolphin, but Chopper, so named because of the bite-like nick on his fin. About 30 of the dolphins who make these waters their home have been identified and registered in the attempt to protect them.

“They know us and trust us,” says the captain as he explains how the outfitter is part of Dolphin SMART, an organization that encourages responsible viewing of wild dolphins, minimizing disruption of their natural behaviour.

Soon after we see three dolphins swimming together, two adults and a baby in the middle, and we learn how the females protect

Southern food is generally good, but on the gulf shores with its emphasis on seafood, dining is a definite highlight. The piece de resistance is the Royal Red Shrimp. I first try them at Steamers Restaurant, a seafood institution where, as their name suggests, nothing is fried. Because of their enormous size and the fact that they’re served with the head on, I don’t even recognize it as a shrimp. But it’s love at first bite when I taste the salty, sweet and succulent delicacy. The taste is a cross between shrimp and lobster and it’s only found far offshore in the deep, cold water. For the rest of the trip, I order it almost wherever we go, and even contemplate smuggling it across the border home with me.

The restaurants on Alabama’s Gulf Shore, whether they be casual or more upscale (though in this laidback town, nowhere is overly formal) don’t disappoint.

Unfortunately, there’s not enough time to try them all, but we do our best. Some recomendations, besides, of course, Gulf Shores Steamers - http://gulfshoressteamer.com/ include: Quirky and casual, The Hangout is a great place not only to eat but to chill out for a few hours. A mountain of sand, a bubble fountain, gigantic chair, surfing paraphernalia statue, and memorabilia collections entertain kids and adults alike while you nosh on their specialties like three-layer burgers, seafood towers and yummy fish tacos. In

mid-May they host the Hangout Music Fest that attracts 40,000+ visitors and big names bands.

37

Located at the Perido Beach Resort, Voyageurs is more upscale and features an extensive wine list to accompany their seafood (including the Royal Red Shrimp) and farm menu choices. Their attentive service and support for local sourced products and the community is impressive as are their hand-cut aged steaks.

Another superb meal and ocean view is at The Beach Club, where we enjoy coastal specialties with a southern twist like fried green tomato and crab stacks and pan seared red with buttery cheese grits. The tangy lion fish ceviche is another house specialty because local celebrity chef, Brody Olive, is on a mission to do his part in the eradication of this invasive species in order to protect the Gulf Shores native species.

Off the Water It’s true that the beach and water are the biggest draws of the region, but definitely not the only ones. Alabama’s Gulf’s State Park, a 6150-acre nature reserve, offers leisure activities that range from hiking and camping to zip lining, golfing and even a Segway tour. We explore it by renting a bike, and riding the Hugh S Branyon Backcountry Trail.

The terrain varies considerably and showcases the remarkable bio-diversity of the region.

As we peddle, we see cacti, marshlands, lush magnolia trees, pines and Spanish moss hanging off hardwood trees, a baby alligator, blue herons and other native birds.

Other worthwhile land lubber activities are the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo and The Wharf, a pedestrian-friendly entertainment district with boutiques, coffee shops, and restaurants. Every Thursday in the summer there’s the Wharf’s Sunset Festival where visitors and locals gather to enjoy live music, happy hour specials and street performers. Grab a Bushwhacker, a decadent Alabama concoction of rum, Kahlua, Crème de Cacao and cream, and celebrate a US beach destination that not every Canadian knows about–yet.

visit: www.gulfshores.com

American World Traveler Summer/Fall 2015

V a r a n a s i

The Spiritual Soul of India

by Margaret Deefholts

n the pre-dawn chill of February we walk along the banks of the river Ganges. The eastern sky, swathed in a chiffon-like mist, is pale mauve, but the waters below our boat are dark and mysterious. The morning air smells of wood smoke, cow dung, spices and marigold flowers. Just beyond the ghat steps, a blind beggar sings plaintively.

I

We are in Benares (now known as Varanasi) a city which embodies the spiritual soul of India, and whose beginnings over 2,500 years ago, are steeped in Hindu mythology.

The Ganges, or "Mother Ganga", India's holiest river, flows past Varanasi in the course of a 2,600-mile journey-from the remote fastness of the Himalayas, across the fertile northern plains of India, to the Bay of Bengal.

The Ganges is a paradox, both beneficent and destructive by turns. It provides sustenance for millions of people who live along its banks, but it also inflicts merciless flood damage during the monsoons. At Varanasi, it is polluted by raw sewage and charred, putrefying human and animal remains which swirl and float on its surface. Yet, for

thousands of Hindu pilgrims who come here daily to bathe, to chant devotional hymns and to scoop its waters in their palms and drink it like a libation, it is a river as pure and ancient as their faith.

Our boatmen take up their oars and, as we pull away from the shore, our guide Ashok invites us to join him in a mantra to the dawn. We hold small clay cups filled with lighted wicks, and at the appropriate moment we set them afloat on the breast of the river. They stream away like a procession of tiny exclamation points bobbing on the dark waters. It is a moment as sacred as

die in Benares, and to be cremated 39 here on the banks of the Ganga, is to be absolved of karma, freed from the wheel of reincarnation and absorbed into the Infinite.

As we approach the somber Marnikarnika burning ghat, we stow away our cameras and video equipment as photography is prohibited. Sandalwood fires glow and grey smoke smudges the sky. White clad figurespriests and male members of the familysurround the pyres. No weeping here, as this would retard the soul in its journey to fuse with the Ultimate. The ashes will be scattered onto the waters of the Ganges.

We disembark at the main Dasaswamedh Ghat steps, and from the austerity of death, we are plunged into seething life: the lanes of the old city. Some of these are no wider than two people walking abreast, and we shoulder our way past goats, stray dogs dozing in the shade and phlegmatic cudchewing holy cows.

The lanes are honey-combed by stalls selling silk carpets, Varanasi brocade saris, fine-spun gold jewellery as well as flower garlands, vegetables, fruit and spices.

Sadhus, mendicants, vendors and citizens churn against bemused looking tourists.

The clamor and smell of humanity throngs the senses.

the hush in a vaulted cathedral.

The sky grows lighter and the mist begins to dispel. Brazening over the horizon a bloodorange sun turns the river molten and suffuses the city in a golden sheen. As they have done for millennia, devotees gathered at the waters' edge burst into chanting, their cymbals, drums and conch shells exuberantly heralding the gift of a new day.

The ghats become a shifting pointillist painting, dotted with thousands of people: women bathing fully attired in colorful saris,

muscular men stripped to G-strings performing Yoga exercises, naked fakirs (holy men) in pretzel-like poses of meditation, pot-bellied business men clad in white loincloths dipping into the waters. Vendors selling chai, cold drinks and hot-gram weave through the crowds. Further upstream, washerwomen exchange gossip and banter, while whacking garments against the stone steps, and laying them out to dry like patchwork quilts at the water's edge.

Varanasi is a city which celebrates death as no other city in India does. For a Hindu to

Later, as dusk creeps over the city, we attend the mystical Aarti ceremony on the banks of the sacred river where, to the haunting notes of the shenai and ringing of bells, priests on rose petal strewn platforms chant an evening mantra to Mother Ganga. The incense from the burning lamps mingle with the scent of marigolds and dust in a shimmering mirage-like scene of spiritual worship.

Like India itself, Varanasi is paradoxical. It is mystical and mundane. Harmonious and discordant. Fascinating and repulsive. A place where the pulse of eternity throbs to the rhythm of an ancient culture.

www.incredibleindia.org/en

American World Traveler Summer/Fall 2015

40

M a l i

MANSA MUSA - AN AFRIC AN EMPIRE BUILDER

by Habeeb Salloum

n the annals of African history, no one has left more of an imprint on the outside world than Mansa Kankan Musa, ruler of Mali from 1312-37 A.D. Also known as Gongo Musa, he became one of the most powerful leaders of his time and was to make Mali's name renowned throughout the European and Islamic countries. Beginning in the 14th century, his name and that of Mali were to become synonymous with opulence, learning and justice.

I

Called by historians Musa the Magnificent, he was a very successful leader, celebrated for his enlightenment, justice and piety.

Inheriting a great empire, he extended its boundaries and made his country a world power. Perhaps his greatest contribution to Mali history was the spread of its fame and prestige to other lands.

The Empire of Mali was founded by the great warrior-diplomat, Sundiata, who reigned from 1230-55 A.D., on the Mandinka plateau between the Niger and Senegal Rivers. Here, in the original home of the Mandingo people, Sundiata built his capital, Niani, at the confluence of the Niger and Sankarani Rivers.

A man of foresight, he extended the country's boundaries and enforced throughout his realm, excellent law and order. More than any other ruler in his time, he encouraged agriculture, especially the cultivation of cotton and the mining of gold. His policies were to make him one of the most heroic and constructive rulers in African history.

After Sundiata's death in 1255, there was, until Mansa Musa took power in 1312, a period of confusion. At least six different rulers took power but the only concrete achievements attributed to these sovereigns was the extension of Mali's boundaries.

When Mansa Musa took over the helm of state, he added the important towns of Timbuktu and Gao to his kingdom.

However, his greatest contribution to Mali's history was the consolidation of the foundation laid by Sundiata. Subsequently, Musa's name and that of Sundiata were to dominate the history of the empire.

Known as the country's architect, Mansa Musa welded a nation, out of a huge mosaic of peoples, whose leaders for 150 years dominated the affairs of West Africa.

Establishing Islam as the base for uniting the wide diversity of tribes, he championed this religion with extraordinary zeal. Mali had been nominally Muslim before his time but under his rule Islam became well estab-

lished in the Royal Court and was installed as the official state religion. Thereafter, the urban centres throughout the country took on an Islamic character. It is said that the historic greatness of Mali was due to the fact that Musa placed his country firmly in the Muslim world.

Musa was famed for his piety and the building of imposing mosques, yet he never fought a religious war and applied Muslim policies with an hesitant hand. Even though he once contemplated ending his days in Mecca, Musa was no fanatic. He did not outlaw other religions and often performed the rites and ceremonies of the Mandinka faith. An Egyptian living in Mali during his reign wrote that he presided over traditional courts and often settled witchcraft cases.

In the economic, educational and political fields his policies were no less impressive.

His encouragement of trade between Mali, North Africa and beyond, mostly in kola nuts, ivory, salt and, above all, gold, brought his land great prosperity.

He encouraged learning by his generous patronage of schools and Muslim scholars.

He also sent students to study in Fez and other famous centres of knowledge. His encouragement of education attracted intellectuals from the other Islamic countries and made Timbuktu one of the foremost centres of Islamic scholarship in the world.

Above all, Mansa Musa's famous pilgrimage to Mecca in 1324 spread Mali's renown and prestige, not only in the Islamic countries but to the far corners of medieval Europe. In his train, as he travelled eastward, were 60,000 courtiers and servants, richly dressed, and 80 camels each carrying some 300 pounds of gold. Wherever his train halted on a Friday, he paid for the erection of a mosque.

Everywhere he went, he became legendary for his generosity and the extravagant spending of his entourage.

Stopping in Cairo, one of the greatest cities in the world of that era, he left a strong impression because of his generous gifts and expenditures. His spending of millions of dollars caused the value of gold in Egypt to be devalued. Ibn al-Iyas, an Egyptian of the 16th century, mentioned Musa's visit to Cairo in 1324 as the most outstanding event of that year.

41

played had one far-reaching effect. It stimulated the interest by Egyptian traders in commerce with West Africa.

On his return from Mecca, Musa was accompanied by an Andalusian-Muslim architect-scholar, Es-Saheli who introduced into Mali a new development in architecture, especially in the building of mosques and palaces. He brought into Malian construction burnt bricks, the flat roofs of North Africa and the pyramidal minaret, all which were to become the vogue throughout the empire.

After this famed pilgrimage, Mali reached the peak of its prosperity and prominence.

Ambassadors were exchanged with Arabia, Egypt, Morocco and other countries. The Moroccan traveller Leo Africanus described the inhabitants of its capital Niani as the most civilized, intelligent and respected of all the peoples of West Africa.

At Musa's death in 1337, Mali's influence extended from the Atlantic in the west to Hausaland in the east. The southern boundaries reached the forest belt and to the north, the heart of the Sahara. Ibn Batuta, a renowned Moroccan writer-traveller, who visited Mali some 12 years after Musa's death, reported that security and a general sense of justice were to be found in every corner of that vast kingdom.

Perhaps, no other writer has paid tribute to Mansa Musa, the greatest contributor to Mali's history, better than the North African scholar Al-Omari. A few years after Musa visited Cairo, Al-Omari wrote that in all of West Africa he was, `the most powerful, the richest, the most fortunate, the most feared by his enemies and the most able to do good for those around him.'

Other West African rulers had gone on pilgrimage before him but none had travelled on such a lavish scale. He gave so much in charity and gifts that on his return journey he had to borrow gold from a Cairo merchant.

Musa's visit to Cairo and the wealth he disAmerican World Traveler Summer/Fall 2015

T u n i s i a The Magnificent North

View from the old Hammamet fort

Article & Photography by Michael Morcos

lying into Tunis-Carthage, the colors of the desert collide with those of the oasis. Deep browns blend with yellow, gold, violet and orange. It is like landing into a biblical epic.

F

At first, Tunis appears to be a clean, organized and quiet city. As Tunisia was a French colony until 1956, there is a dash of the west within the North African feel of the city.

There were certain avenues, with their cafĂŠs and terraces, that would be seen in Paris itself, and as the western and Arabic architecture were blended well, Tunis has a very unique and pleasant atmosphere.

The Regency Hotel is a lovely hotel placed in a quiet touristic area between the sea

and the Sabkhet Arina, where often you can see a lot of flocks of flamingos. And has a beautiful inner garden, with a big swimming pool and direct connection to the beach. Nice way to start the trip!

courtyards. Doors are a special feature of the village with some ancient, huge and heavy, others that are embedded with traditional motifs of the area and all leading into varied shops, cafes and terraces.

We enjoyed our first meal at the beautiful Sidi Bou Said hotel, delicious, with staff both professional and courteous, and followed that up with a visit to the Village of Sidi Bou Said.

Ottoman Era Opulance

It's impossible not to fall in love with this place, dubbed Tunisia's blue-and-white village, that is enchanting and sometimes seems to be a painted scene, in which you can be lost through the winding streets and secret places, where twisted flights of steps lead to hidden gardens and flower-filled

In 1912, French and German artist Baron Rodolphe d'Erlanger built a magnificent palace with a distinct Arabic design. No luxury was spared as the opulent rooms are filled with beautiful ornaments, jewels and glorious furnishings inside its massive interior. Today, this Gatsby-esque mansion houses the Mediterranean Music Centre where numerous concerts are held throughout the year.

Century after century Visiting the Tunis Medina (Old Town) offer a fascinating opportunity to learn more about this north African city filled with narrow streets, souks, mosques, and historic structures. The Tunis Medina became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979.

Now there are cruise ships docked at La Goulette, shopping areas and you can even visit a Berber carpet shop, where you can learn more about the beautiful rugs made in Tunisia.

Tunisian history is long, full and rich with stories of love, battle and royalty, and the renowned Musee De Bardo contains a vast collection of artifacts and antiquities that span the centuries. Originally a palace of the Hafsid dynasty during their rule in the 13th century, the Musee is located in the outer suburbs of Tunis and has an immense collection of Roman Mosaics and treasures from ancient Greece and Tunisia.

Further in the day, we visited the local fish markets. Unlike many fish markets, this one was clean and well-organized, and the vendors were among the friendliest in the world. Taking great pride in their catches and stalls, they continually cleaned and stacked the counters. Clear evidence the sea was not far away, the variety of fish and seafood was more than any seafood lover could ask for.

Carthage and the Ancient world For history buffs, the area dubbed the "Sea of Empires", Carthage Port Punique, has facilities that have been operating since pre- historic times when emperors ruled ancient Tunisia. This location was a first battleground during the first Punic war and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built as both a commercial and military port, Carthage Port Punique is built along high walls whose purpose was to have a strategic military port where a large number of ships could be hidden in harbour.

Rocking the Kasbah in Hammamet Hammamet, a coastal city known for its many sandy beaches, is a contrast to many of the other towns and cities which have kept the narrow and winding streets of the old days. Hammamet's newly developed area has luxury resort hotels that tailor to the all-inclusive vacationer, with large swimming pools and direct access to private sections of the beaches.

Though mostly modern, the city is still dominated by the Kasbah (Arabic for fort), from which a visitor can enjoy a 360-degree view of the blue ocean, the golden sandy beaches, the Great Mosque, the medina and the white washed houses of the city – exotic and grand!

Carthage City Visit After breakfast at the Au Bon Vieux Temps restaurant in Sidi Bou Said, with a wonderful view overlooking the sea and mountains in the distance. Good service, good food and a decent wine selection. Lots of energy to get our tour of Carthage going!

An amazing trip can be had walking through ancient historical sites throughout the city. Having a guide to explain the details about the history of Tunisia and the story behind the ancient ruins is a great investment.

Marvelous Medina Mediterranea The next day’s breakfast was at the Chez Achour in Port de plaisance, a very nice restaurant located within a garden and has very tasty Tunisian food and good service.

The seafood was great and the calamari is exceptional, fresh and well prepared.

Medina Mediterranea is a magical city dedicated to culture and leisure in the heart of the seaside resort Yasmine Hammamet.

Medina was established in respect of the Arab-Andalusia culture, with

Mediterranean architecture built according to ancient techniques 43 combining traditional charm with the comforts of the 21st century. It is a unique place with its cultural heritage which will take you through history and help travellers experience the ancient legends.

Satisfied in Sousse This central Tunisian city is a hub of trade and products from processed foods to olive oil and transportation equipment. A blend of new world and old world is presented in Sousse, and a leisurely afternoon stroll is time well spent. Among the streets visitors can visit the small boutiques, cafes and souvenir shops found on every corner or spend a few minutes cooling off with an opportunity to buy Tunisian spices and fragrant essential oils in the many stalls in the markets of Sousse. This destination has a fulfilling amount of memorable things to see and do that embodies the rich cultural and historical heritage in this part of the world.

Putting about Port El Kantaoui Continuing a modernization trend in Tunisia, Port El Kantaoui is located to the north of the Sousse. Built in 1979, the area is a paradise of modern activities and considered one of the country`s best and largest tourist attraction. At this popular spot, you can enjoy a wonderful, PGA approved 36-hole golf course, as well as nearby leisure options for paragliding, yachting and water skiing. For those seeking a more mellow experience, the cobblestone streets that wind throughout the city offer another pleasant activity to try.

It ends with breakfast Breakfast in La Daurade is in El Kantaoui, which was a beautiful place to eat, with impeccable food and friendly staff in a relaxing atmosphere.

www.tourismtunisia.com

American World Traveler Summer/Fall 2015

44

Around The World In ...

Summer Play in

Peru's Culinary Reputation Continues to Grow

San Diego's South Bay eru continues to shine on the world culinary stage. The annual "World's 50 Best Restaurants" awards were announced last week and placed three Peruvian restaurants in the top 50.

P

There are numerous unique Peruvian dishes visitors should try during a visit to the country. Here are our top 10 suggestions: Ceviche: Peruvian ceviche is arguably the best in the world. Tender chunks of fresh raw fish are marinated in leche de tigre, a spicy Peruvian chili, lime and onion mixture. Pisco Sour: A classic Peruvian cocktail made with Muscat-grape brandy. Causa: Causa somewhat resemble sushi, with smooth mashed potato as a carefully-shaped base and topped with delicate slices of fish, seafood, egg or vegetables. Lucuma: Lucuma is a Peruvian fruit grown almost exclusively in the Andes. Lomo Saltado: sliced beef stir-fried with garlic, cumin, tomato and onion. Aji de Gallina: strips of chicken served with a creamy yellow sauce made with aji amarillo (yellow chilis), cheese, milk and bread. Cocktail de Algarrobina: Think of this as a pisco eggnog-type cocktail. Chicha Morada: A sweet, non-alcoholic Peruvian beverage made by boiling blue/purple corn with pineapple and spices. Inca Kola: A soft drink created in Peru in 1935, this sweet, fruity cola is made with lemon verbena, known locally as Hierba Luisa. Papa la Huancaina: Peru is known for potatoes almost 4,000 varieties can be found across the country.

ocated less than 10 minutes south of downtown San Diego, South Bay encompasses more than 15 miles of San Diego Bay’s sparkling shoreline. Comprising the cities of Coronado, National City, Chula Vista and Imperial Beach, South Bay entices visitors looking for a summer getaway with its sea swept breezes and plethora of bayfront recreation activities and attractions. The following are some of the most popular visitor experiences in South Bay’s cities:

L

Chula Vista - The second largest city in San Diego County, Chula Vista shapes South Bay’s welcoming and culturally-diverse character and has been stalwart in protecting and showcasing its natural bayside treasures.

National City - Home to massive shipyards, Naval Base San Diego and National City Marine Terminal – the primary port of entry for one out of every eight cars imported to the United States – National City serves as one of San Diego’s most important commerce centers and a historic hub.

Coronado/Imperial Beach - Linked by a narrow isthmus called the Silver Strand, Imperial Beach and the “Crown City” of Coronado offer visitors unique natural wonders and activities.

www.sandiego.org

www.peru.travel

China Tourism Introduces New Brand Logo China National Tourism Administration (CNTA) has made “Beautiful China” the tag line of its tourism and introduced a new global brand logo. With an overall look as a stamp, the new logo integrates modern messaging with the ancient Chinese art form of calligraphy. The hieroglyph in the background means “travel” in ancient Chinese language, which shows a flag guiding a couple around. The blue color represents the sky, delivering China tourism’s concepts - vitality, harmony and green travel. The red color gives tribute to the Chinese civilization that has been going on for thousands of years. Illustrating an international vision, the “Beautiful China” logo represents China’s promising and welcoming tourism industry.

45

Maui

Vacation with the Volcano!

Article & Photograph by Michael Morcos

oming 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!

C

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/Fall 2015

46

Around The World Spain

China

Mallorca Cathedral: A jewel of Gothic Architecture onstruction of this building began during the reign of Jaime II, and it comprises three naves. The main nave is home to the Trinidad chapel, where the remains of kings Jaime II and Jaime III are laid to rest. On the façade, special mention should be made of the main door and the south door or Mirador, especially interesting for its decoration with sculptures by Guillermo Sagrera.

The Mirador door is spectacularly beautiful on account of the decoration with geometrical and vegetal motifs, while the main doorway is supported by four majestic columns. Reforms carried out by architect Antonio Gaudí at the beginning of the 20th century are another attractive feature of this building. As are the works by artist Miquel Barceló in the Santísimo Chapel: his great ceramic mural, the stained glass windows and the furniture. Furthermore, Palma de Mallorca Cathedral has a tower with 9 bells. Special mention should be made of the size of the bell known as “N’Eloi”: it measures 2 metres in diameter and weighs 4,517 kilos. www.spain.info/en_CA

C

S u z h o u ’ s To p F i v e M u s t - S e e S i t e s iven China’s rapid economic growth and urban expansion, there are few opportunities to experience traditional China, yet Suzhou presents that possibility. With its narrow streets and winding waterways, this city truly lives up to its nickname as “Venice of China.” At the heart of the city is the old town district, the layout of which has remained unchanged over 2,500 years.

G

Navigate The Grand Canal: Like the Great Wall, Suzhou’s Grand Canal is noted as one of the most magnificent and wondrous constructions in ancient China, offering a profound look into China's fascinating, historical past. The Grand Canal, approximately 1,200 miles in length, is the longest man-made waterway in China. With 27 sections and 58 historical sites, it was successfully inscribed onto the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2014.

Live The Local Life Of A Water Town: The ancient water town of Tongli is located on the bank of Taihu Lake and east of the ancient Grand Canal. As one of the six famous water towns, it is divided into seven parts by 15 brooks and by 47 bridges. The area contains hundreds of gardens, temples, mansions, and the former residences of dignitaries built from 1271 to 1911 during the Ming and Qing dynasties.

Two Must-Do

Tanzania Parks

he most famous national park in all of Africa is found in Tanzania, and a safari through the Serengeti (www.serengeti.org) is a must-to-do on any visit to Tanzania – especially during the famed wildebeest migration (November to May). Close sightings of the ‘big five’ (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard and rhino) are almost guaranteed.

Another of Tanzania’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites is the Ngorongoro crater, the crater is densely packed with almost every species of African plains mammal (including the densest lion population in Africa). At 610m deep, 20km wide and covering 311 sq km, the Ngorongoro Crater is the largest intact caldera in the world. Safaris to the crater are often made in conjunction with visits to the Serengeti National Park. Safaris can be arranged all over Tanzania, particularly in nearby Arusha, which is the springboard town for safaris to all the parks in Tanzania’s northern circuit.

T

Explore The Old & New in Suzhou: Suzhou is home to more than 730 cultural relics under government protection. More than 60 classical gardens are well preserved, and nine of them are listed as UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Sites. The protected landscape of small bridges, flowing water, winding canals, narrow streets, white walls, cultural relics, and classical gardens make it a unique city.

Tour Iconic Chinese Landmarks: One of the 10 great temples in China is the Hanshan Temple, which is located just outside the city center of Suzhou. The scents of street food and the clamor of the city are replaced by fragrant incense and a respectful hush inside the yellow Temple walls, which is broken only by the sounds of the famous chiming bell. Visitors can immerse themselves in the ancient history of the Liang and Tang dynasties as they explore the buildings, climb the pagoda and read the ancient inscriptions.

Be One With Nature with the Famous Suzhou Gardens: The famed Humble Administrator’s Garden is considered to be one of the best representations of China’s classic landscape architecture. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the garden is the largest in Suzhou.

www.TravelToSuzhou.com

www.tanzaniatouristboard.com