Ensemble Vacations - Closer to Home by ensembleusmarketing

CLOSER TO HOME

Road Trip! See the Southwest From the Comfort of Your Car

What’s Trending in Safe Travel

Explore America’s Midwestern Architecture

Cruising Lakes and Rivers in the US

Los Cabos Awaits Your Return

A Multi-sport Tour in Wyoming and Idaho

Welcome Back to Travel. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve Missed You!

We’re here for you — before, during and after your travels. OUR PROMISE: To be your inspiration, insider knowledge, advice, answers, and right hand. A reliable relationship so you’re never traveling alone. Stress-free travel so you can enjoy your vacation. Added amenities, custom touches, and warm welcomes. With our expertise, we’re here to be your connection to the world.

28 44

Contents VACATIONS CLOSER TO HOME

Features 21

Exploring the Great American Southwest

From the Editor

Contributors

American Heartland’s Architectural Masterpieces

What’s Trending Now

Teton Sport Mode

U.S. City Spotlight: Las Vegas

A road trip to remember

28 32

Midwestern Modern

An energetic romp Wyoming and Idaho

38 U.S Cities with International Flare Bring the Far Away Close to Home

42 Los Cabos Awaits Your Return Exploring All Los Cabos Has to Offer

46 Sunny Jamaica Don’t Worry ‘Bout a Thing!

48 Your Villa Awaits 10 Luxurious Villas in Mexico & the Caribbean

Departments

ENSEMBLE VAC ATIONS I CLOSER TO HOME 2020

A DV E RT I S E M E N T

Dear Traveler,

EDITORIAL EDITOR IN CHIEF

ASSOCIATE EDITOR DIGITAL DIRECTOR STAFF WRITER

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Kimberly Buerkle Valerie Lenoir Jessica Mooney Alexa Wheeler Laura Torrisi

DESIGN & PRODUCTION Torrisi Design Associates An Ensemble Travel Group Publication Ensemble Vacations® is a publication of Ensemble Travel® Group ®

© September 2020 Ensemble Travel, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reprinted or otherwise duplicated without written permission of the publisher. Ensemble Travel Group 256 West 38th Street New York, NY 10018. Ensemble® Ensemble Travel® Ensemble® Hosted Cruises Ensemble® Hotel & Resort Collection Ensemble® On Location Ensemble® Villas & Vacation Homes Ensemble® Exclusives Ensemble® Experience and the floret design are registered and unregistered trademarks of Ensemble Travel, Inc.

As COVID-19 has temporarily impacted how and where we travel, this special edition issue of Vacations looks and feels a bit different. First off, we have published this issue digitally to ensure the information on experiences and destinations is as current as possible. In addition, the focus of this issue is on travel within the United States, Mexico and the Caribbean. This is due primarily to the fact that many borders remain closed as a result of the pandemic. We are confident the travel industry will be back to normal in due time. But for now, we hope you will be as excited as we are at the many opportunities and creative travel options that are right here in our own backyard. One thing that hasn’t changed is that our number one priority is to ensure you are taken care of before, during and after your travels. As your advisors, we are here to help you make travel decisions best suited to your personal needs, both now and in the future. Our promise to you remains the same: • To be your inspiration, insider knowledge, advice, answers, and right hand. • A reliable relationship so you’re never traveling alone. • Stress-free travel so you can enjoy your vacation. • Personalized service and experiences unique to you. • Exclusive deals, custom touches, and warm welcomes. How we travel may change dramatically, but the desire to explore new destinations or revisit familiar ones will always be there. Thank you for your continued support and trust in us as your travel advisor.

ENSEMBLE VAC ATIONS I CLOSER TO HOME 2020

Contributors

ROBIN CHERRY lives in the Hudson Valley and writes about travel, food, and popular culture. She’s written two books: Catalog: The Illustrated History of Mail Order Shopping and Garlic: An Edible Biography (with over 100 recipes). She’s visited over 100 countries and has a passion for Central and Eastern Europe. p. 6,13-16,28

Based in Colorado, NANCY HELLMRICH is a recovering advertising creative director and active travel enthusiast. Her work includes brand alignment projects as well as travel stories. Her recent adventures include grappa tasting on the coast of Croatia, cycling in New Zealand, snuggling up in Sweden’s Ice Hotel, and glamping in the Sahara. p. 8,-10,26,32

ROXANNE BORYCZKI has been a writer and public speaker on travel since 1996. She has written for numerous newspaper publications and Vista magazine, as well as being a public speaker to various service organizations, Chambers of Commerce, and guest speaker for the Hospitality Programs at ASU and Scottsdale Community College. She has traveled the national parks of the Southwest and is well-versed in travel throughout the Southwestern U.S. Exploring the Great American Southwest. p. 21

ENSEMBLE VAC ATIONS I CLOSER TO HOME 2020

Toronto-based travel writer TIM JOHNSON is always in search of the next good story, from tracking lions on foot in Botswana to drinking local moonshine with camel herders in Mongolia. Contributing to some of the largest publications in North America, he’s visited more than 140 countries on all seven continents. p. 46

ROBIN COLLIER Marketing Specialist and professional Travel Advisor in New Albany, Indiana (near Louisville Kentucky). Robin has a Marketing/PR background and has been in the travel business since 2002. She is a frequent cruiser with her family and specializes in travel planning for families. Her extensive knowledge includes Mediterranean and Caribbean destinations organizing group tours to Israel, Biblical Greece sites and the Oberammergau Passion Play in Germany. p. 38

A DV E RT I S E M E N T

See the best of the 49th state on an Alaska cruisetour with Princess® and experience Princess® MedallionClass VacationsTM – the easiest way to cruise, exclusively on Princess®. More territory than Texas, California and Montana combined; 6,000 miles of coastline; stunning national parks; enriching native culture; wildlife encounters and massive, glistening glaciers — Alaska is a destination of a lifetime. To see the best of the Great Land, it must be experienced by land and sea. Every Princess Alaska cruisetour includes the state’s top two attractions — pristine Glacier Bay National Park and picturesque Denali National Park. On land, you’ll stay at exclusive Princess Wilderness Lodges near legendary nationalparks. Princess’ most popular land and sea vacation, the Denali Explorer, combines a spectacular 7-day Voyage of the Glaciers sailing, and at least two nights in Denali-area wilderness lodges with a tour into the park. It also features exclusive Direct-to-the-Wilderness rail service that takes you from port in a glass-domed railcar directly to Denali, showcasing wildlife and landscapes that can’t be accessed by road. Your cruise portion offers equally spectacular sights, plus each voyage features exclusive Princess, MedallionClass™, the fastest way to an easy, personalized and smooth-sailing vacation. And it's all enabled by the OceanMedallion™, a free, quarter-size device, that is key to opening doors: to your stateroom, the ship and to an array of enhanced experiences. On board, the Medallion replaces the traditional cruise card and pairs with cutting-edge innovation to significantly expand contactless options and personalization including:

➜ Receive up to $400 in cruisetour cash plus up to

$60 in onboard credit on select voyages. Please contact your trusted travel advisor to book your next cruise.

• T rulyTouchless embarkation and disembarkation • k eyless stateroom entry • c ontactless payment •o n-demand food, beverages and retail items delivered anywhere on board •p lanning, wagering and other entertainment features available via smart devices using the MedallionClass app

With trips geared toward families, independent travelers, and active adventurers, Princess offers even more ways to transform the way you see the world and connect with people®.

ENSEMBLE VAC ATIONS I CLOSER TO HOME 2020

What’s Trending Now

Stress-free healthy travel

Partners in Health and Travel Hotels and cruise lines are teaming up with the medical authorities to ensure that your experience is clean and safe. Hilton consulted with experts at the Mayo Clinic’s Infection Protection and Control team and has partnered with RB, the makers of Lysol, to develop its“CleanStay” program. Housekeeping staff will be instructed to clean guest rooms by adding an extra level of focus on 10 “high-touch, deep clean” areas like door handles and television remotes. When rooms have been thoroughly cleaned, the room is secured with Hilton CleanStay seal.

WHAT ’S TRENDING NOW

Don’t Worry, Be Healthy on Land The hotel experience during the pandemic will be significantly different. Check-in may be done curbside and guests shouldn’t be surprised to have their temperature taken before entering. Lobbies and public spaces will also have less furniture. The Fairmont Scottsdale redesigned its restaurant for social distancing. Housekeeping will use hospital-grade cleaners which Marriott is applying with electrostatic sprayers to ensure surfaces are disinfected thoroughly. Hilton lets guests choose their cleaning preference: normal housekeeping; light service, or no service. Other hotels have eliminated housekeeping except between guests and leave rooms empty for 24-72 hours after guests check out. Housekeepers will also be more visible sanitizing high touch areas like handrails and elevator buttons in public spaces. Some guest rooms are being outfitted with air purifiers with HEPA filters and UV light sanitizers while chains including Hyatt and Four Seasons already have hypoallergenic rooms with medical-grade air purifiers. Most hotels are eliminating minibars and pens and notepads, they’re also on hiatus. On the bright side, expect amenity kits like Four Seasons’ Lead With Care kits which have masks and sanitizers. To limit gym use, some properties will make fitness videos and equipment available in guest rooms. Guests may also need to reserve ahead to use tennis courts, swimming pools, and spas. Hotels are going all out to keep their guests safe and healthy and expect some of these protocols to continue. “Clean,” after all, is the new black. 6

ENSEMBLE VAC ATIONS I CLOSER TO HOME 2020

Safe and Healthy at Sea When cruise ships start sailing again, health rules and precautions will look a lot like they do on land with masks and social distancing but since ships are contained spaces, expect cruise lines to go above and beyond to keep guests safe and healthy. Here are a few examples: Norwegian will have mandatory touch-less temperature screenings at embarkation, when returning to the ship, and before entering onboard events and dining venues. There may be mandatory room service on some nights to reduce the number of people in dining venues and people may be incentivized to forgo the main dining room for specialty restaurants. During shows, expect empty seats between couples and shorter showtimes. Staterooms will be thoroughly cleaned — possibly up to twice a day — and throughout the corridors, handrails, elevator buttons. On American Queen Steamboat Company, hightouch surfaces will be sanitized hourly. Windstar will install hospital-grade HEPA filters and ultraviolet germicidal irradiation to its six ships. Technology like Princess’s Ocean Medallion allows passengers to order food and drinks using the app and have them delivered to areas without other passengers.

Hyatt also has a panel comprised of experts in infectious diseases, preventive/ occupational medicine, food science and microbiology, and space design that has guided its response to the coronavirus. The company has also committed to the Global Biorisk Advisory Council’s GBAC STAR accreditation program at all of their hotels. GBAC STAR establishes requirements to assist facilities with work practices, protocols, procedures, and systems to control risks associated with infectious agents such as virus responsible for COVID-19. As part of the program, Hyatt will also have an on-staff hygiene manager at every hotel by September. Norwegian and Royal Caribbean have teamed up and tapped Michael Leavitt, former Secretary of Health & Human Services and Dr. Scott Gottlieb, former Commissioner of the U.S. Food & Drug Administration, to co-chair their Health Sail Panel which has nine other experts in public health, biosecurity, epidemiology, hospitality, and maritime operations. Leavitt says the panel’s objective “is to determine what needs to be done in order to adapt to this new situation so that we can cruise safely.”

Kilimanjaro Safaris® at Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park

To all who have been longing for this happy place, we’re thrilled to say: Magic is here.

Frozen Ever After at EPCOT®

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios®

Magic is a walk down Main Street, U.S.A.®, the glorious smell of popcorn and that first glimpse of Cinderella Castle. Magic is regal lions and flying elephants, ice palaces and visiting a galaxy far, far away. Your Disney daydreams can become a reality once again. Magic is here. ©Disney © & TM Lucasfilm Ltd. 1679104

Contact Your Trusted Travel Advisor to Learn More.

WHAT ’S TRENDING NOW

Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom® Park

What’s Trending Now

Travel gets creative

If there’s a silver lining in this nutty pandemic era, it might be the way we’re all embracing our inner creative geniuses. Drive-in movies and concerts are popping up everywhere. There’s even a Floating Cinema coming to New York this fall. Whether we’re exorcizing Zoom cooties or just blowing off steam, these travel trends are making everything from day-trips to year-long escapes oodles of fun.

Remote Work, Caribbean Style WFH doesn’t mean you have to actually stay at home For decades, we’ve had to accept the fact that bosses like to watch us work. Now, in perhaps the greatest workplace experiment since cubicles were invented, we’re getting irrefutable proof that remote workers are (surprise) happier and more productive than their communal-workspacedependent counterparts.

WHAT ’S TRENDING NOW

After spending half a year proving to the world that we can work successfully from home, we’re starting to venture out into the wild. And we’re looking to seasoned digital nomads to show us the way. Wait, I know what you’re thinking—Bali! But according to the hip and happening digital nomad community, Bali was “so last year” three years ago. Which is fine with us because, as of July 2020, you can get your work on in a tropical locale much closer to home. Just a short flight away, hotels and resorts throughout the Caribbean are opening their freshly sanitized doors like they’re Elsa from Frozen welcoming remote workers with open arms. Let’s start with Barbados, shall we? Barbados wants you to work from their beaches. Seriously. They’ve launched a massive ad campaign about work visas designed specifically for digital nomads that last up to 12 months.

Known for their reliable Wi-Fi Jamaica Inn - Jamaica Cheval Blanc - St. Barth Jade Mountain - St. Lucia Ritz Carlton - Grand Cayman The Palms - Turks & Caicos

Assuming Barbados is a big hit, don’t be surprised if the rest of the Caribbean follows suit. Deep and meaningful health and safety protocols make these sun-drenched isles the perfect locale for working getaways with enviable Zoom backdrops and safe, al fresco dining. Some destinations require wellness tests prior to arrival so check with your travel advisor for details.

Don’t Mind if I Do Colony Club (St. James, Barbados) is a pristine retreat along the island’s Platinum West Coast where you can dine on healthy cuisine, relax, and focus. Here, 96 freshly renovated rooms offer modern amenities, elegant wood furnishings, and private balconies. Got time before your next meeting? Tap into complimentary watersports, fitness classes, and island tours. Or hop a water-taxi to one of the resort’s sister properties.

ENSEMBLE VAC ATIONS I CLOSER TO HOME 2020

Helping Each Other to Higher Ground @Rising Routes, founded by Jason Swann & Marisa Jarae, is an outdoor recreation company whose time has come. Launched in 2017 in Denver, Colorado, they specialize in incredibly inclusive, “intersectional healing” events that bring people together to share perspectives, educate, uplift, and learn about outdoor life. Regularly scheduled events include get-togethers like GratiTuesdays, guest speakers, and adventures in the Rocky Mountains like Hike & Brunch, Sunrise Hikes, Hiking & Brews.

School Goes Tropical Learning is a total blast on a family friendly “school-cation” Yes, kids, it’s true. School has flown south for the winter. The good news is … you can too! That’s because heaps of hotels in tropical locales are offering remote learning packages for families large and small. Some have spruced up the selection at their regular kids’ clubs. Others are going for an A+ in academic adventures. Why work and study from home when you could be taking advantage of a range of amenities and school-style services like: super speedy Wi-Fi, virtual tutors, Zoom rooms, tech support, study buddies, lessons in art, culture, and history, beach cabana classrooms, personalized instruction that syncs with your school curriculum, and even SAT/ACT test prep.

Worth a Follow New instagram follows with a fresh view on travel

LOGODOWNLOAD.ORG

Health & Wellness: @iceman_hof Inspiration: @blackgirlstraveltoo

While parents log into the office online, kids can attend supervised programs at Auberge Resorts in Aspen, Utah, and Napa. Or study abroad at the exotic Family Coppola Hideaways in Belize and Guatemala. The posh Montage “academies” in Deer Valley, Laguna Beach, Los Cabos, and Palmetto Bluff let you schedule a full school week of lessons. If you’re keen to move your educational experiences to Mexico, book a studious stay at Rosewood Mayakoba or Four Seasons Punta Mita. Looking for a family work-and-learn escape that’s easy and affordable? Check in with the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau for a comprehensive list of “Miami Work & Learn” hotel packages from Kimpton, JW Marriott, Shelborne, Ritz-Carlton Bar Harbour, Iberostar Berkeley Shore, and more. Hey, maybe this pandemic is going to teach us something after all. Class dismissed.

ENSEMBLE VAC ATIONS I CLOSER TO HOME 2020

What’s Trending Now

Travel gets creative

I'll take you there... It’s Pronounced Jag-You-Are

Sailors Love to Seas the Day

Why settle for the family car or a boring rental sedan when so many more exciting options abound? Travelers with a need for speed are “gripping it and ripping it” in well-priced exotic and luxury brands with names like Lamborghini, Alfa Romeo, Tesla, Porsche, Jaguar, and Audi. Classic car lovers are grooving to the oldies in Corvettes, Mustangs, Porsche Speedsters, and stylish Cadillacs de Ville.

Cruisers are going to cruise. Why not start small with a chartered sailboat or powered yacht? Whether you skipper your own boat or get a package deal with a captain and crew it’s the perfect way to enjoy a clean, safe, nautical getaway. Right now, savvy sailors are lifting anchor for the Caribbean, the “out islands” of the Bahamas, coastal Florida, and more.

If you prefer the wild wonders of National Parks, RVs are the popular choice. Options include everything from Airstream Ambassadors, Sprinters, and caravans, to popup and rooftop tents, and fifth-wheels that attach to your truck. All perfectly road-trip, family, and pet friendly. Advance booking is highly recommended.

The Silly Little Games We Play

Mavericks Requesting Flybys Private jets aren’t for hotshot execs and celebrities anymore. These days aficionados are opting for private jet rentals through NetJets, Delta Private Jets, Fly XO, and more. Seats can cost as little as $90 for short hops and as much as ... well, the sky’s the limit isn’t it? If you plan to travel a lot, consider an annual membership. If you’re flexible about when and where, well-connected travel advisors can help you find posh-but-affordable seats on “empty leg” flights in need of passengers.

ENSEMBLE VAC ATIONS I CLOSER TO HOME 2020

Call us crazy, but we’re seeing a resurgence of those goofy car games that were prerequisites for road trips in the 60s and 70s. Remember I Spy With My Little Eye? How about The Alphabet Game, License Plates, or The Compliment Game? Scavenger Hunt startups are on the rise too. Check out Let’s Roam, Stray Boots, Tourist Scavenger Hunt, and ActionBound. Or create your own!

Virtual Visits Are All the Rage Yet another upside of lockdown 2020 has been the increased availability of 360º "virtual reality" videos. Now, from the comfort of your living room, you can prepare for next year’s trip, sample once-in-alifetime activities, and so much more. Swim with whales on National Geographic 360º. Explore UNESCO World Heritage sites, trek Nepal’s Khumbu Mountains, even tour The Netherlands’ Rijksmuseum. These mesmerizing videos can be viewed without any special equipment on a smartphone, tablet, or PC. For the full 3D effect, use cardboard goggles or splurge on a VR headset like the Oculus Quest.

All Wet: Private Swimming Pools New rules: hotels with swimming pools are spacing their poolside lounge chairs so you can enjoy safe sunning within your travel bubble. Not ready to go there yet? Try Swimply, which lets you book private swimming pools on an hourly basis. Or check with your travel advisor to find a sweet suite with a fresh, clean, private plunge pool all to yourself in Acapulco, Riviera Maya, Puerto Rico, St. Lucia, St. Barts, the Bahamas … or even, yep, Illinois. swimply.com

Time For a Dream Vacation to the

Caribbean, Mexico or the Continental USA with

CARIBBEAN

1,8471

Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino ARUBA . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .f rom

The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas ST. THOMAS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . from

Limited View King. Kids 17 & younger stay FREE! Ocean View King. Kids 11 & younger stay FREE!

2,810¹

MEXICO

JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa CANCUN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . from $596² Ocean King. Kids 16 & younger Stay FREE!

The St. Regis Punta Mita Resort RIVIERA NAYARIT . . . . . . . . . . . . . from $2,305¹ Deluxe Garden View King. Kids 17 & younger stay FREE!

CONTINENTAL USA

JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa ARIZONA . . . .

from $1,354

JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort¹ FLORIDA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

from $1,370¹

Resort Room. Kids 17 & younger stay FREE!

Tropical View King. Kids 18 & younger stay FREE!

BOOK NOW AND TRAVEL WITH PEACE OF MIND

WHAT ’S TRENDING NOW

MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL

Pleasant Holidays offers:

• Travel protection coverage with cancel-for-any-reason options beginning at $99 • Travel suppliers with enhanced health, safety and sanitation protocols • No Pre-Departure Change & Cancellation Fees for Continental USA Vacations • Participation in the United States Tour Operators Association $1 Million Travelers Assistance Program VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR DETAILS: www.pleasantholidays.com/pb/Traveler-Support

VACATIONS INCLUDE: 5 nights' accommodation and taxes. Ask about complete vacation packages including convenient flights; hotel accommodations including all-inclusive, adults only and villa options; exciting activities and more!

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT YOUR TRUSTED TRAVEL ADVISOR TODAY 1Rate is per person, based on double occupancy, for check-in on 02/01/2021, in room category shown. ²JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa: Rate is per person, based on double occupancy, for check-in on 02/01/2021, in Ocean King room. Must be prepaid in full at time of booking. Booking cannot be changed or cancelled and is 100% non-refundable. Unless otherwise indicated: rates quoted are accurate at time of publication, & are per person, based on double occupancy. Airfare, taxes, surcharges, gratuities, transfers & excursions are additional. Advertised rates do not include any applicable daily resort or facility fees payable directly to the hotel at check-out; such fee amounts will be advised at the time of booking. Rates, terms, conditions, availability, itinerary, government taxes, surcharges, deposit, payment, cancellation terms/conditions & policies subject to change without notice at any time. Cruise rates capacity controlled. Other restrictions may apply, including, but not limited to baggage limitations & fees, standby policies & fees, non-refundable tickets & change fees with pre-flight notification deadlines, & blackout dates. Fees & policies vary among airlines. Contact airline directly for any details or questions. Not responsible for errors or omissions. Pleasant Holidays acts only as an agent for cruise & tour providers listed. CST# 1007939-10. Copyright©2020 Pleasant Holidays, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Discover

THE ULTIMATE ESCAPE WITHIN YOUR ESCAPE

Island-hop through the sun-soaked Caribbean in the unparalleled luxury of The Retreat®—only on Celebrity. The Retreat includes every stunning suite, a private restaurant, an exclusive lounge, and a sundeck* that rivals any high-end resort. In fact, we’re the only premium cruise line to offer all this, plus personalized butler service, to every guest of The Retreat. When you book The Retreat, you’ll also enjoy a long list of amenities that now includes Premium Beverage Packages, unlimited Wi-Fi, prepaid gratuities, and $150 each to spend on board any way you like.** Paradise is more carefree than ever in The Retreat.

Contact Your Trusted Travel Advisor to Learn More. *The Retreat Sundeck is available on all Edge ® Series ships and all ships that have been revolutionized. **Each of the first two guests in a suite, booked with standard pricing, receive Premium Beverage Packages, unlimited internet packages, prepaid gratuities, and $150 per person onboard credit (“OBC”). These amenities are not included with special fares, promotional pricing, or MoveUp upgrades from any non-suite stateroom. OBC has no cash value, is applicable to cruise only, non-transferable, not redeemable for cash, and will expire if not used by 10:00 PM on the final night of the cruise. Prepaid gratuities provide gratuities for butler, headwaiter, waiter, and assistant waiter in the amount suggested by Celebrity’s guidelines. ©2020 Celebrity Cruises Inc. Ships’ registry: Malta and Ecuador.

What’s Trending Now

Hitting the Road in an RV

Devil’s Fork State Park, Lake Jocassee

Grand Isle

Wine Country RV Resort

Zion River Resort

The lure of the open road and the comforts of home come together when you’re traveling in a recreational vehicle or RV. Visit some of the country’s most beautifully located and equipped RV parks.

How to Get your Pet Road-Trip Ready Before you hit the road, tag and microchip your pet and make sure Spot and Puff are up to date with vaccines. Grab a separate bag and pack all your pet’s gear together so it’s easy to find. You’ll want food bowls, toys, leashes, beds, doggie bags (for Spot) and litter boxes and scoops (for Puff).

Just thirteen miles from the south entrance to Utah’s Zion National Park, Zion River Resort has concrete parking pads, grills picnic tables, free WiFi and cable TV. After exploring Zion’s red sandstone cliffs, this is a great base for day-trips to Bryce Canyon National Park and the north rim of the Grand Canyon. A National Geographic “Destination of a Lifetime,” Devils Fork State Park in South Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains is open year-round and offers stunning hiking trails, waterfalls, and boating and fishing on Lake Jocassee. The New York Times named Louisiana’s Grand Isle State Park one of its “52 Places to Go in 2020.” The beachfront park is known for its great fishing but also offers swimming, boating, kayaking, surfing, crabbing, birding, and biking. Delaware’s Lums Pond State Park is nestled in an oak and poplar forest surrounding Delaware's largest freshwater pond. Activities include hiking, fishing, biking, and for horse lovers, the park has more than 10 miles of equestrian trails and an equestrian center that offers riding lessons. Located in Paso Robles, California’s wine region, the Wine Country RV Resort has an on-site wine garden where they regularly host tastings and concerts. The resort has WiFi access, a swimming pool, hot tub, playground, and a game room.

WHAT ’S TRENDING NOW

Let’s take a road trip to...

Don’t forget pet meds and a copy of their medical records. A crate or pet carrier will help you pet feel safe and if they’re skittish, consider calming supplements. There are a number of great websites to check out before you leave so you know which hotels, restaurants, parks, and beaches on your itinerary are petfriendly. And most importantly, treats — lots of treats.

Must have items for RV newbies If you’ve never hit the road in an RV, here are some gadgets that will make your road trip a success. Leveling Blocks stack to fit any leveling height and can withstand the weight of a packed RV.

An RV-specific GPS custom plans your route based on the length, height, and towing weight of your vehicle ensuring that you avoid tight areas, sharp curves, and low-bridges.

Campgrounds are notorious for voltage issues, so a surge protector is a must to protect the electronic components of your RV.

Solar panels are a great way to charge your electronics if your generator breaks or you find yourself without a source of power.

If you’re traveling somewhere warm, a dehumidifier will make your RV more comfortable, eliminate musty smells, shorten the time it takes for your laundry to dry, and prevent your food from getting stale or moldy.

ENSEMBLE VAC ATIONS I CLOSER TO HOME 2020

What’s Trending Now

Cruising 2020 and beyond Mackinac Island

WHAT ’S TRENDING NOW

Columbia River, Idaho

Mississippi River Ohio River

Freshwater Crossings Set sail on North America’s glorious lakes and rivers With Great Lakes and awesome rivers, North America has several wonderful alternative to ocean cruising. These cruises are more intimate and often have more land time as ports are closer together. The five Great Lakes — Superior, Huron, Michigan, Ontario, and Erie — make up the largest body of freshwater on Earth at 6 quadrillion gallons (that’s a six with eighteen zeros). The region includes cities like Chicago, Milwaukee, and Cleveland and natural wonders like Niagara Falls. There are sandy beaches, historic islands, and fascinating wildlife and birdwatching. Victory Cruise Lines’ Great Lakes Grand Discovery will start in April, 2021 sailing from Chicago to Montreal stopping at Mackinac Island with its elegant Victorian

Chicago & Lake Michigan

ENSEMBLE VAC ATIONS I CLOSER TO HOME 2020

architecture, rustic Manitoulin Island, the famous Soo Locks, one of the world’s busiest, and Detroit, Cleveland, and Toronto. American Queen Steamboat Company and Lindblad Expeditions both lead river cruises and Viking will start in 2022. The Mississippi, called Great River by the Ojibwe, is the quintessential American river and the river’s foremost chronicler, Mark Twain even took his pen name from a term he heard as a steamboat pilot. Mark Twain means “mark two,” the safe depth for a steamboat on a line used to measure how deep the water is. Highlights of a Mississippi River trip visits to Twain’s boyhood home in Missouri, spirited New Orleans, bluesy Memphis, as well as Civil War battlefields and antebellum homes.

The Ohio River, which Thomas Jefferson called the most beautiful river on earth,” goes from Pittsburgh to Illinois where it joins the Mississippi. Highlights include: Cincinnati and its zoo, Louisville home of the Slugger, and historic river towns that were stops on the Underground Railroad. A cruise along the Columbia and Snake Rivers follows in the steps of Lewis and Clark. From 620foot Multnomah Falls to scenic Hells Canyon, the deepest gorge in North America, this is the Pacific Northwest at its most spectacular. Sail past frolicking sea lions and majestic bighorn sheep; pass through intricate locks, and enjoy onboard tastings from the region’s wineries.

Cheboygan, Lake Huron

Small is Beautiful

Micro Cruises

Since the CDC’s no-sail order only applies to ships with more than 250 passengers, small ships are getting back to business. Hurtigruten has been in business for over 125 years and travels to some of nature’s most alluring destinations including Alaska, Antarctica, and The Northwest Passage connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Seeing these pristine destinations from small vessels is ideal because they can enter scenic coves and ports that larger ships can’t and they let guests witness wildlife up close. Each ship has a science center where guests can learn about their destinations and participate in experiments. A pioneer in sustainability, Hurtigruten recently introduced MS Roald Amundsen and MS Fridtjof Nansen, the world’s first hybrid electric-powered cruise ships.

Also known as “sampler cruises,” these short jaunts are a great way to test the waters and witness the cruise lines’ enhanced safety protocols first hand. Norwegian Cruise Lines offers 3-day cruises to Norwegian’s private Great Stirrup Island and Nassau from Miami and from New York to Bermuda. Royal Caribbean also has a 3-day cruise to its private island, CococBay and Nassau as well as a 4-day Western Caribbean cruise that sails from either Galveston or Tampa to Cozumel. Celebrity has 3-day cruises from Miami to Nassau. If you’re really short on time, both Princess and Holland America have overnight cruises from Vancouver to Seattle.

Your Own Private Island Cruise lines with private islands are all the rage and the competition is heating up.

Cococay

Royal Caribbean’s Cococay in Nassau recently completed a $250 million renovation and is home to North America’s tallest waterslide, the Caribbean’s largest wave pool, and the Bahamas’ only overwater cabanas. Though technically a peninsula, Royal Caribbean’s private resort, Labadee, in Haiti has the world’s longest over water zip-line, it’s the 2,600 foot long and can hit 50 mph. Don’t miss Royal Caribbean’s signature cocktail Labadoozie, a frozen drink with fruit juices, coconut milk and rum. Holland America’s Half Moon Cay recently debuted a 3,860-square-foot, pirate-themed waterpark for kids. Other activities include a lagoon tour by glass bottom boat, a stingray adventure, and horseback riding on the beach and in the ocean Most of the island is a migratory bird reserve. Norwegian’s Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas has snorkeling, kayaking, and a zip-line. There’s a build-your-own taco bar and a Bacardi Bar serving flights of Mojitos. A highlight is taking a dip with the playful Swimming Pigs of Treasure Island. Norwegian’s other private island, Harvest Cay in Belize, has a butterfly sanctuary, a tropical garden, and the opportunity to snorkel at the world’s second longest coral reef.

Great Stirrup Cay

Labadee

ENSEMBLE VAC ATIONS I CLOSER TO HOME 2020

What’s Trending Now

Staying local

Don’t forget to visit State Parks State parks are often overlooked compared to their national counterparts, but they offer a wealth of outdoor adventures closer to home. While the US has sixty-two national parks, there are over 10,000 state parks covering over 18 million acres. Here are a few from around the country:

Glenstone

Storm King

Get Out(side)!

WHAT ’S TRENDING NOW

Just outside Boulder, Colorado, Eldorado Canyon State Park is a mecca for rockclimbers with over 1,000 technical climbing routes. There are also eleven miles of hiking and mountain-biking trails and great fishing in the South Boulder Creek.

Most people who visit America’s oldest state park, Niagara Falls State Park in New York, come to watch over 750,000 gallons of water rush over the falls every second but there are also gardens and hiking trails created by Frederick Law Olmsted who also designed New York City’s Central Park.

In California’s Emerald Bay State Park, located on the west shore of Lake Tahoe, one can tour Vikingsholme, a stone castle that’s considered the best example of Scandinavian architecture in the US. The park also has protected underwater shipwrecks that guests can visit by strapping on diving gear and following the underwater “Maritime Heritage Trail

Hunting Island State Park, a stunning barrier island 15 miles from Beaufort is South Carolina’s most visited state park thanks to its famous lighthouse, pristine beaches, and a popular fishing lagoon. It may look familiar as many of the Vietnam scenes from Forrest Gump were filmed here. 16

ENSEMBLE VAC ATIONS I CLOSER TO HOME 2020

Outdoor sculpture gardens are wonderful places to catch up with friends at a safe distance while taking in beautiful works of art. Glenstone, a museum and sculpture garden spread over 230 bucolic acres in Potomac, Maryland, includes works by Richard Serra and Andy Goldsworthy but the showstopper is Jeff Koons’ 37-foot Split Rocker: the toy heads of a rocking horse and a dinosaur spliced together and covered with 50,000 flowers. In New York’s Hudson Valley, Storm King Mountain Center lays claim to the largest outdoor sculpture collection in the US. Here, visitors can enjoy works by 20th-century masters like Louise Nevelson, David Smith, and Mark di Suvero, as well as featuring contemporary sculptors Kiki Smith and Martha Tuttle. The Minneapolis Sculpture Garden at the Walker Art Center has more than 40 sculptures displayed across 11 acres. There are works by esteemed artists like Alexander Calder and Roy Liechtenstein, but the garden is best-known for the Spoonbridge and Cherry fountain sculpture by Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen. In addition to iconic works like Renoir’s The Judgement of Paris and Louise Bourgeois’s Spider, the Bestoff Sculpture Gallery at the New Orleans Museum of Art has three site-specific works by contemporary female artists Walker

A DV E RT I S E M E N T

SAVE UP TO $1,400 PER STATEROOM* – RISK FREE! Come celebrate America. All of America. From the storied currents of the Mississippi to the vast horizons of the Great Lakes, her vistas never fail to inspire. From the quaint shorelines of New England to the majestic wilderness of Alaska, her natural beauty is astounding. From the gentle breezes of Georgia’s coastal isles to the sparkling blue of Pacific beaches, her shores are warm with welcome. And within easy reach of your own backyard there’s a graceful vessel waiting to take them there.

Plan your 2021 vacation with confidence. America is ready to welcome you home.

THE RIVERS ARE CALLING Your can take a memorable voyage back through the centuries on an authentic modern paddlewheeler. Explore America’s most celebrated rivers, from the sleepy Mississippi Delta to the heartland’s Ohio River to the scenic Columbia.

THE GREAT LAKES AWAIT Embark on their choice of four remarkable small-ship journeys featuring North America’s Great Lakes, the scenic St. Lawrence Seaway, and the ruggedly beautiful North Atlantic coast. Explore charming towns, historic sites and pristine wilderness.

EXPLORE ALASKA Experience the inaugural season of a new 186-guest expedition ship, designed for impromptu exploring and sustainable cruising in sensitive environments. You will encounter Alaska’s untamed spaces up close and in-depth with naturalists and Cal Poly researchers.

For more information, contact your trusted travel advisor today. *Offer expires 12/31/20 or when no valid cabins remain. Offer is valid only on new, paid-in-full bookings. Not valid on group bookings or existing reservations. Additional terms and conditions may apply. Call for details, and mention Offer Code 2021 EBD1. VCL vessels registry: Bahamas

What’s Trending Now

Americana: Everything Old is New Again

Nostalgia can be comforting even if you’re nostalgic for a time you never knew. So it doesn’t matter if you’ve never sailed on a paddleboat, eaten at an old-fashioned diner, or gone to a drive-in movie. These retro experiences might be just the whimsy you need.

American Dutchess

WHAT ’S TRENDING NOW

American Queen

Modern Paddleboats

Finer Diners

Steam-powered riverboats which could sail in shallow waters were vital to the development of commerce along the Mississippi River and the first steamboat outfitted with a back paddlewheel was launched in 1814. American Queen Steamboat Company (AQSC) was founded to transport guests back to the days when America’s waterways represented prosperity and the promise of discovery. Its flagship, American Queen, is the largest steamboat in the world. She can accommodate 428 passengers in genteel, Victorian-style and has an elegant dining room, a spa, and a musical calliope made of steam-operated whistle pipes played by an organ keyboard.

Gimme two dots and a dash, shingles with a shimmy and a shake, and a moo juice. That’s diner slang for two fried eggs with a strip of bacon, buttered toast with jam, and a glass of milk. Diner slang would have to be gussied up a lot to convey the sophisticated fare served at these diners.

In the Pacific Northwest, diesel-powered American Empress plies the Columbia and Snake Rivers in Victorian-inspired style. Drawing on the bountiful seafood, produce, wines, and craft beers of the area, the Pacific Northwest-inspired cuisine is a voyage highlight. The largest overnight riverboat west of the Mississippi can accommodate 223 passengers. American Dutchess is the most contemporary paddleboat and geared to younger travelers. The first all-suite paddlewheeler dazzles with a two-story lobby with geometric chandeliers and abstract art. Staterooms range from interior suites to 550-squarefoot Loft Suites with two-story windows and private balconies. The Duchess holds 166 passengers. American Countess, the newest jem in the fleet, will sail from Memphis to St. Louis. Returning to a more traditional design, staterooms are trimmed in walnut with blue and white accents. The Countess accommodates 245 passengers. The Queen, The Duchess, and The Countess cruise the Mississippi, Ohio, and Tennessee Rivers.

ENSEMBLE VAC ATIONS I CLOSER TO HOME 2020

Atlanta’s Buckhead Diner is considered a classic for such specialties as blue cheese potato chips, veal and wild mushroom meatloaf, and its James Beard Award-winning White Chocolate Banana Pie. At the A1 Diner in Gardiner, Maine, expect everything from Maine fried clams and New England pot roast to lamb kebabs with pomegranate molasses marinade and spicy shrimp with soba noodles. Catskill’s, NY Phoenicia Diner is a farm-totable diner serving modern interpretations of traditional diner food. Highlights include Crab Benedict and the Superfood Salad with Hudson Valley steelhead trout, spinach, and quinoa. Bette’s Oceanview Diner in Berkeley, California is best known for its pancakes including freshly grated potato pancakes with house-made applesauce and sour cream, and banana rum or apple brandy soufflé pancakes.

Coyote Drive-in

Drive-Ins The first drive-in movie theater opened near Camden, New Jersey in 1933 and although their heyday was the 1950’s and 60’s, to paraphrase Jack Nicholson in The Shining, “They’re back” and perfectly suited to social distancing. The Wellfleet Drive-In Theatre opened in 1957 and is the only remaining drive-in on Cape Cod. In addition to a dairy bar that dispenses hard and soft-serve ice cream, moviegoers can enjoy oysters while watching double-feature, first-run films. The owners of the new Four Brothers Drive-In in Amenia, New York, also run the Greek restaurant next door. So their menu features everything from burgers and milkshakes to Greek-salads, Lukumades, and cocktails with names like Sgroppino and Stephanie’s Desire. Bonus: the on-site Airstream “Hotel Caravana.” With a 52 x 120 foot screen, Bengies Drive-In, outside of Baltimore, boasts the largest drive-in screen in the US. Between films, Bengies airs animated vintage intermission ads that encourage patrons to visit the concession stand. On Sundays, registered historic cars and street rods get in free. In Fort Worth, Texas, the Coyote Drive-In shows double features on four separate screens. The canteen’s menu includes everything from hot dogs and Frito pie to craft beer and Prosecco, all of which can be ordered from a smartphone.

Buckhead Diner

A1 Diner

The Pie’s the Limit Yogi Berra once said, “Cut my pie into four pieces; I don’t think I could eat eight.” Here are ten pies that celebrate their state’s most prized ingredient. You can cut them any way you like. Phoenicia Diner

Bette’sOceanview Diner

Blueberry Pie: Two Cat’s Bakery, Portland, Maine Cherry Crumb Pie: Grand Traverse Pie Co., Traverse City, Michigan (and four other locations) Sweet Potato Pie: Jawanda’s Sweet Potato Pie, Birmingham, Alabama Passion Orange Guava Pear Pie: Hawaiian Pie Co, Honolulu, Hawaii Peanut Pie: The Virginia Diner, Wakefield, Virginia Pumpkin Pie: Michele’s Pies, Norwalk, Connecticut Key Lime Pie: Blue Heaven, Key West, Florida Prickly Pear Pie: Cotton & Copper, South Tempe, Arizona Maple Cream Pie: Wayside Restaurant & Bakery, Montpelier, Vermont Huckleberry Pie: Luna’s Restaurant, Glacier Park, Montana ENSEMBLE VAC ATIONS I CLOSER TO HOME 2020

FAR FROM ORDINARY. CLOSE TO HOME. It isn’t necessary to cross oceans for adventure when there’s so much to discover from sea to shining sea. Between North America’s breathtaking national parks, cool emerging cities, and tiny historic towns, there’s a surplus of sights you haven’t seen in your own backyard. With bucket-list vacations from Canada to Cali and Yakima to the Yukon, we invite you to fetch a pail of wonder as you discover the undiscovered right outside your door. From the redwood forests to the Gulf Stream waters, this land was made for you to see. PEACE OF MIND TRAVEL: Book a 2021 vacation and have the flexibility to move your vacation prior to the final payment date with no penalties.*

*Restrictions apply.

Contact Your Trusted Travel Advisor to Learn More.

EXPLORING THE GREAT AMERICAN SOUTHWEST

A Road Trip to Remember by ROXANNE BORYCZKI

When people think of the Great American Southwest, romantic images conjure up visions of wild horses, weathered cowboys, towering saguaro cacti with expansive desert landscapes, rimmed by majestic mountains that turn colors as the sun and clouds play over their peaks. During certain times of the year, brilliant sunsets paint the skies to rival the best Maxfield Parish painting.

Monument Valley

ENSEMBLE VAC ATIONS I CLOSER TO HOME 2020

The southwestern states of Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico, and Utah offer a diverse number of experiential opportunities for people with a variety of interests. Today, when social distancing is on everyone’s mind, the Southwest provides lots of space to spread out, explore national and regional parks, or revitalize at a wellness resorts.

TR AVEL I THE GRE AT AMERIC AN SOU THWES T

Grand Canyon

Each state in the southwest has something different to offer, so plan your trip one state at a time to go more in-depth, or cover as much territory as possible, if you don’t mind being on the move.

Santa Fe

Arizona is famous for the Grand Canyon, and Sedona Red Rocks, but it also has world-class spa resorts, golf courses, and is rich in Native American Culture and art. The backroads of Arizona and scenic highways are a great way to get off the main roads, explore scenic mountain towns or ghost towns and find hidden treasures.

Saguaro National Park

Chapel of the Holy Cross

New Mexico is famous

Nevada has its own

Utah is all about

for the Carlsbad Caverns, Petroglyph National Park, White Sands National Monument, Santa Fe and Taos with numerous historic squares, and art galleries, including the Georgia O’Keefe Museum. Let’s not forget Roswell, for those who want an “out of this world” experience.

persona but is so much more than just Las Vegas. Fly into Vegas and head out to Henderson, Hoover Dam, or fly into Reno and head to Lake Tahoe with great water activities and trails with crisp fresh air and open spaces. Check out Carson City for a historic perspective and visit the state museum, railroad museum, or Capitol Building.

wide open spaces and national parks – Arches, Canyonlands, Bryce, Zion, and Capitol Reef. Visitors here are always amazed by the views and range of activities. Trail rides at Bryce and Zion offer unique perspectives of the park. And Arches’ dark sky designation makes stargazing a must-do.

If you are the adventurous type and want to cover as much territory as possible, this itinerary can be helpful as a starting point for planning. A R T, C U LT U R E , A N D T H E GR E A T O U T D O O R S I T I N E R A R Y

From here, it’s a 5-hour drive south to Carlsbad Caverns National Park (1 night). And oh-so-worth it.

Saguaro National Park and the Santa Catalina mountains, or chill out in a wellness resort. From Tucson, it’s a quick 2-hour drive to Scottsdale (2 nights), where you’ll find shopping, golf, the Carefree Desert Gardens, Cave Creek Park, and Fountain Hills Botanical Garden.

The next day, listen to the Frida soundtrack as you drive 7 hours west to Tucson (2 nights). Here, you’ll want to dine on authentic Sonoran-style Mexican food, see

From Scottsdale, wind your way north to Sedona (1 night) to ogle the uptown galleries, red-rock buttes, and Chapel of the Holy Cross, a world pilgrimage site.

Fly into Albuquerque and head directly to Petroglyph National Park. Then drive northeast to Santa Fe (2 nights) to explore the downtown area and nearby Taos.

ENSEMBLE VAC ATIONS I CLOSER TO HOME 2020

If you’ve got time, hike through Oak Creek Canyon. Otherwise, head north to Flagstaff and South Rim (2 nights).

On your way out of the park, stop in Williams for a walk or drive through the 160-acre Bearizona Wildlife Refuge.

At South Rim, drink in the majesty of the Grand Canyon. While the visitor center may still be closed, the overlook trail is open for self-drive, and the hiking trails are good fun. Lodges and dining are available locally.

Then, switch to the Fear & Loathing soundtrack for the 4-hour drive to Las Vegas (2 nights). Spend the whole time on the Strip or head out to Henderson and explore more off-the-beaten-path activities before your flight home.

Taos

Not to Be Missed Add a Haunted Twist to your Trip. There are numerous Ghost Towns in Arizona. Now there are Ghost Towns and then there are “Ghost” Towns! By definition, a ghost town is an abandoned town that usually contains substantial visible remaining buildings and infrastructure. Some ghost towns, especially those with preserved period-specific architecture, have become fun attractions. Some of Arizona’s best-known Ghost Towns: • Vulture City • Jerome • Two Guns • Fairbanks • Swansea • Tombstone • Perkinsville • Goldfield Ghost Town Then there are real “Ghost” Stories, with a several kitschy Haunted Hotels in Bisbee, Prescott, Oatman, Jerome, Flagstaff, Globe, Douglas and Dragoon. These hotels offer a great experience with a unique twist if you stay in the right (or wrong) room! Enjoy Sonoran-style Mexican food. In both New Mexico and Arizona visitors can experience true Sonoran Mexican cuisine. Arizona has a version of Sonoran food not found anywhere else, and not to be confused with Baja, Tex-Mex, or New Mexican. This Sonoran region uses both wheat, as well as corn, so there is a difference and variety to the food not found elsewhere. Traditional Art and Culture. Arizona is home to the Navajo and Hopi, but there are actually 21 federally recognized tribes across the state. These include the Yavapai, Tohono-Odom, Apache, Cocopah, and many others. Each tribe has their own unique way of creating pottery, basketry or rug making, among other art forms. A number of fantastic museums showcase this type of art and culture, including the Heard Museum and the Amerind Foundation.

Carlsbad Caverns

ENSEMBLE VAC ATIONS I CLOSER TO HOME 2020

Bryce Canyon

Arches

Canyon De Chelly

Petrified Forest

Not to be missed

TR AVEL THE GRE AT AMERIC AN SOU THWES T

T H E GR E A T O U T D O O R S I T I N E R A R Y Fly into Phoenix (2 nights), rent a convertible, and take your time exploring the Phoenix-Scottsdale area.

Drive 3.5 hours north, across the border into Utah, for an exploration of Arches National Park (1 night).

Put the top down for the drive north to Sedona (1 night) and take a Jeep tour into the redrock formations.

The following day, carry on to Bryce Canyon to check out the towering red rock cliffs and hoodoos or take off on a horseback ride through the canyon. If the park lodge isn’t available, there are numerous hotels outside the park.

Take the backroad through Oak Creek Canyon to Flagstaff, then carry on to South Rim (2 nights) for stunning views of the Grand Canyon. Next, drive 3 hours northeast to Monument Valley for a prearranged tour with a certified Navajo guide. Sunrise, sunset, and full-moon tours are best. About 1.5 hours southeast, you’ll find Canyon de Chelly (1 night). Stay in the park’s lodge and enjoy another Navajo guided tour. The park is especially beautiful in spring and fall.

From Bryce, make your way to Zion, where you can marvel at towering Sandstone and Limestone cliffs, such a contrast from Bryce! Just outside of Las Vegas, Henderson (2 nights) offers hiking, petroglyphs, and wildlife in Sloan Canyon and watersports on Lake Mead. Save time to tour the local lion sanctuary (reservations required) before returning the car and hopping your flight home.

Flora and Fauna in the Desert The Deserts of Arizona and the Sonoran region offer a special beauty all their own. The landscape seems harsh, but, actually it has so much splendor to share, especially in spring. Wildflowers and cactus all bloom in brilliant colors lighting up the landscape. Draught tolerant plants have a unique growing cycle and visitors can learn a great deal about these amazing plants that provide both survival options, as well as healing properties and food sources. A visit to the Desert Botanical Garden, the Boyce Thompson Arboretum or the Flagstaff Arboretum should be included in any trip.

As you can see, there are lots of options to explore the Great American Southwest. Whether you do an extensive road trip or visit one state at a

At the time of this writing, many of the national parks are open with limitations. It will be important before traveling to check with your Travel Advisor on the the status of each of the vistor centers, trails, hotels and restaurants that you plan on visiting.

ENSEMBLE VAC ATIONS I CLOSER TO HOME 2020

time, this territory rich in history, culture and outdoor activities will not disappoint. To plan your Southwestern road trip, contact your trusted travel advisor today.

P e r fe c t D a y a t C o c o C a y, B a h a m a s

T H I S I S A D AY UNLIKE ANY OTHER

Perfect Day at CocoCay may be miles from mainland — but it’s nowhere near mainstream. It’s a place your family will encounter endless ways to fill your day with memory making and one-of-a-kind experiences at every turn. Like next level thrills including the tallest waterslide in North America and the Caribbean’s largest wave pool. Or spaces that take relaxation to the max, like the Floating Cabanas of Coco Beach Club, the largest freshwater pool in The Bahamas, and more. And the adventure starts before you even arrive onboard the boldest ships at sea — that deliver your most remarkable and safest vacation yet. Come Seek the Royal Caribbean ®. C O N TACT YO U R TRUSTED TRAVEL ADVI S OR TO LEARN MORE

Due to evolving health protocols, some imagery and messaging may not accurately reflect current onboard and destination offerings, or the public health standards and government requirements that modify or limit these offerings. Onboard and destination experiences, features, itineraries, and guest conduct rules vary by ship and destination and are subject to change without notice. Perfect Day, CocoCay and Come Seek are registered trademarks of Royal Caribbean. ©2020 Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Ships’ registry: The Bahamas. 20074649 • 10/13/20 ENSEMBLE VAC ATIONS I CLOSER TO HOME 2020

U.S. CI T Y S P OTLI GHT

VEGAS CLEANS UP NICE

by NANCY HELLMRICH

CIT Y SPOTLIGHT

I ’M F E E L I N G F E R O C I O U S

While events have had to be canceled or postponed along her sterilized Strip, Las Vegas’ proprietors are known for putting up a good fight. And they’re not backing down now. After a couple of false starts, Sin City is cleaning up its act with occupancy limits, social distancing, masks, temp checks, touchless check-in, and hourly wipe downs. This town has never seen so much disinfectant! They’re calling it #VegasSmart.

T H E N E X T B I G T H IN G Circa Resort & Casino It doesn’t get much cleaner than brand new. The first ground-up build in 40 years, this adults-only (age 21+) resort on Freemont Street is finally taking reservations for its 777 pristine rooms and suites. The grand opening is scheduled for December 28th, 2020. Amenities will include an outdoor amphitheater, multi-level swimming pools, a 40-foot HD screen, stadium-style sportsbook, and the ninestory “Garage Mahal.”

ENSEMBLE VAC ATIONS I CLOSER TO HOME 2020

Speaking of fights. Several Las Vegas sportsbooks are offering odds on the November 28th @MikeTyson vs. @RealRoyJonesJr. exhibition bout, which will be streamed via Pay-Per-View and Triller. If you’re the betting type, make plans now to be in Iron Mike’s hometown for Thanksgiving. To write it off as a work trip, consider a “Viva Las Office” work-from-Vegas package, the ultimate home-awayfrom-the-home-office experience at the Bellagio or ARIA.

F IN D IN G O U R R H Y T H M A GA IN

If you love somebody, let them know by booking tickets for next year’s show. Every breath of Sting’s “My Songs” Las Vegas tour has been rescheduled for January 29th - May 22nd, 2021. Kelly Clarkson’s life would suck without you, so she’s moved her “Invincible Tour” to 2021; exact dates have yet to be announced. The adorable Harry Styles is bringing his watermelon sugar to the Strip on September 4th, 2021. Air Supply has been so lost without you; they’re planning a Vegas gig too. And, of course, John Legend will never break. He’s hoping you’ll save room for him in Vegas in 2021.

NATURAL DISTRACTIONS

G O IN G T O E X T R E M E S

Red Rock Canyon 15 miles west of the Strip, you’ll find Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area where you can ride bikes on the “loop road” and hike popular trails like Calico Tanks, Turtlehead Peak, or Icebox Canyon. Nevada State Parks See Howard Hughes’ old home at Spring Mountain Ranch State Park, the 2,000 year-old petroglyphs in Valley of Fire, and picnic on the beach in Big Bend of the Colorado Recreation Area. Zip Me Up, Baby SlotZilla offers zipline and zoomline flights 11 stories up over the Freemont Street Experience. High over the promenade, FlyLINQ soars forward (and backward) at speeds up to 35 mph.

SPEEDVEGAS Drive a Ferrari, Lamborghini, Porsche, Trophy Truck, or even an APC Tank on the fastest racetrack in Vegas, complete with a monster front straight, banked turns, and 60 feet of elevation.

IN T O W N , O U T D O O R S Neon Museum Boneyard Check out this dazzling outdoor exhibition of rescued neon signs from the 1930s to today. Open from 4:00 p.m. to midnight most days. Online appointments ensure safe distancing. Citrus Grand Pool Deck Reserve a semi-private cabana for downtown’s biggest rooftop pool party. Enjoy 35,000 square feet of poolside fun with restaurant service, a full bar, and beats from local DJs like Sam I Am.

Dig This Las Vegas In this heavy equipment playground, your whole rat pack can drive bulldozers, excavators, skid steers, and forklifts. Session buy-outs let you and your friends access up to 10 pieces of equipment.

OPEN-AIR AND TAKE-OUT DINING

Carson Kitchen Sit beneath the stars on a rooftop patio and enjoy gourmet comfort food like veal meatballs, baked mac and cheese, killer shrimp, and bourbon fudge brownies.

Beer Park Located at Paris Las Vegas, this 9,000 square-foot open-air deck boasts onsite wagering, 75 HDTVs, beer, wine, craft cocktails, butter burgers, bacon jam, and views of the Bellagio fountains.

Open for Take-Out For contactfree takeaway, hit up Egg Sammie for breakfast. Grab a Drunken Goat sandwich from Echo & Rig for lunch. Dinner could be a 20” Barry White pizza from Evel Pie or curbside pickup from Graffiti Bao.

Late Night Deliveries It’s a three-way tie between Insomnia Cookies (delivered with a glass of cold milk until 3:00 a.m.), Nacho Daddy’s gourmet nachos paired with a “Margarita Survival Kit,” and Pinkbox Doughnuts (open 24 hours).

ENSEMBLE VAC ATIONS I CLOSER TO HOME 2020

TR AVEL I MIDWES TERN ARCHITEC T URE TOUR

MIDWESTERN MODERN

by ROBIN CHERRY

➋ Chicago River Architectural Tour

➊ Tribune Tower & Wrigley Building

A Road Trip to the American Heartland’s Architectural Masterpieces People associate the Midwest with wide plains and cornfields, but surprisingly modern architecture has its roots here. After Chicago was ravaged by the Great Fire of 1871, architects embraced modernism and introduced it to neighboring states. This 8-day excursion features architectural icons from Louis Sullivan, Frank Lloyd Wright, Eero Saarinen, and Mies van der Rohe. It begins and ends in Chicago, while taking in Iowa, Minnesota, and Wisconsin.

Day 1 Chicago | Check into the Omni Chicago Hotel on the Magnificent Mile. After a recent renovation inspired by Louis Sullivan’s sketches, the hotel pays homage to the city’s iconic architecture. It’s conveniently within walking distance of ➊ Tribune Tower, The Wrigley Building, and the Water Tower, one of the few buildings to survive the fire. ➋ The Chicago Architecture Foundation Center’s River Cruise is a perfect overview of the city’s architecture.

➍ Farnsworth House Day 2 Chicago to Davenport | Head to Oak Park to see ❸ Frank

❸ Frank Lloyd Wright’s Home and Studio

ENSEMBLE VAC ATIONS I CLOSER TO HOME 2020

Lloyd Wright’s Home and Studio where he created his hallmark Prairie style and The Robie House, considered the consummate expression of that style. Then head to Plano to visit Mies van der Rohe’s ➍ Farnsworth House, a glass and steel single room house in perfect harmony with its natural setting. Drive to Moline to see Eero Saarinen’s ➎ Deere & Co. Administration Building, clad in glass and Corten steel that turns earth-colored as it ages. Enter Iowa and visit Davenport’s minimalist glass-clad Figge Art Museum, the first major American building by British architect David Chipperfield. Then drive to Iowa City.

Day 3 Iowa City to Sioux City | Explore the campus of the ➏ University

➏ University of Iowa

of Iowa to see contemporary buildings by Frank Gehry, Gunnar Birkerts, and Steven Holl. From there travel to Grinnell to see Merchants National Bank, one of Louis Sullivan’s eight “jewel box” banks noted for its ornate terra cotta entryway and stain-glassed windows. Continue on to ➐ Des Moines Art Center museum which was designed by Eliel Saarinen, I.M. Pei, and Richard Meier. The three buildings are set in a park with a reflecting pool and a sculpture garden. En route to Sioux City, take a short detour to Madrid’s ➒ High Trestle Bridge, a tunnel of steel frames that crosses the Des Moines River.

Day 4 Sioux City to Owatonna | ➑ The Woodbury County Courthouse is the largest Prairie-style structure in the world. Its Roman brick exterior is decorated with terra cotta, metal grillwork, and classical figures; inside there are magnificent murals and a stained glass dome. The Art Deco Badgerow Building prominently features Native American heads in its design.

Day 5 Owatonna to Dubuque | Owatonna is home to Louis Sullivan’s first bank: ➓ National Farmers’ Bank. With ornate stenciling, stained

➐ Des Moines Art Center

➒ High Trestle Bridge

➑ Woodbury County Courthouse

glass windows, and cast-iron chandeliers, it’s considered his finest. The Owatonna Power Plant Building is a city icon. Renovated after a flood, the brick building with silver smokestacks and red neon lettering has been repurposed as administrative offices but kept its architectural purity. En route to Dubuque, stop in Winona and see Purcell & Elmslie’s Merchants National Bank which is known for its Tiffany-inspired stained glass windows and terra cotta bald eagle. Then head south along the 11 Great River Road, a National Mississippi River to Dubuque on the ➓ Scenic Byway that follows the river from Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico.

➓ National Farmers' Bank

11 Great River Road ➓

➎ Deere & Co. ➎ Deere & Co.

ENSEMBLE VAC ATIONS I CLOSER TO HOME 2020

12 Eagle Point Park ➍

17 Johnson Wax ➍

TR AVEL I MIDWES TERN ARCHITEC T URE TOUR

13 Taliesin III ➍

16 Quadracci Pavillon ➍

15 War Memorial Center ➍

Day 6 Dubuque to Madison | On a bluff overlooking the river, 12 Eagle Point Park is the only large example of Prairie-style landscaping. ➓ Alfred Caldwell’s buildings and gardens were inspired by Wright. Two of 13 Taliesin III and the Unitarian Meeting Wright’s most important sites, ➓ House, are currently closed due to COVID-19, but updated information is available at franklloydwright.org. Taliesin III was Wright’s primary home, studio, and school, while the meetinghouse is an innovative example of church architecture.

14 St. John Chrysostum ➍

Day 7 Madison to Milwaukee | En route to Milwaukee, stop in Columbus to see Sullivan’s Union 14 St. John Chrysostum Bank, in Delafield to see the ➓ Church which was built in the Carpenter Gothic-style by Richard Upjohn best known for Manhattan’s Trinity Church, and in Wauwatosa, home of Wright’s circular Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church.

ENSEMBLE VAC ATIONS I CLOSER TO HOME 2020

Day 8 Milwaukee to Chicago | The Milwaukee Art Museum complex includes 15 War Memorial Eero Saarinen’s modernist ➎ 16 Quadracci Pavillon, Santiago Center and the ➎ Calatrava’s first US building. The pavilion is topped by a moveable, wing-like sunscreen. 17 Wright’s Johnson Wax In Racine, check out ➎ Building; its curved brick exterior lined with windows made from 43 miles of glass tubing. Inside, open spaces are punctuated with soaring mushroom-shaped columns. From here, it’s less than two hours to Chicago. To plan your Midwestern road trip, contact your trusted travel advisor today.

A DV E RT I S E M E N T

Alaska & British Columbia: Inside Passage, Bears, and Aleutian Islands Sail aboard the MS Roald Amundsen

The Biggest Sale of the Year: Black Friday Savings with Hurtigruten For a limited time only, Hurtigruten is offering up to 50% off on select 2021 & 2022 sailings. Discover the world’s most spectacular coastlines aboard the most sustainable expedition cruise ships ever built. You’ll explore remote destinations with rich wildlife for half the cost!

• Explore Alaska’s wild landscapes in the Misty Fjords, Icy Bay, and the Aleutian Islands • L earn native and early settler history in frontier towns Wrangell, Sitka, and Nome • V isit Katmai National Park near Kodiak Island to look for brown and black bears • S pot bald eagles in Chignik and other rare birds on St. Paul and St. Matthew Islands

Don’t delay - book a lifetime memory today! These Black Friday cruise deals are only valid from: Nov 16 – Dec 2, 2020 Spotlight On: Alaska Hurtigruten is the ideal choice to actively explore the wild and remote frontier of Alaska. Small, purpose-built expedition ships make it possible to truly discover places off the beaten track all along this rugged and diverse shoreline. Activities & Wildlife On small boats (RIBs), explore majestic fjords, bays, rainforests, glaciers, and icebergs. Enjoy shore excursions, kayaking, hiking, and onboard lectures, and the opportunity to spot an abundance of wildlife, including: whales, seals, bears, seabirds, and more. This offer is valid for new, individual bookings only, on select 2021 and 2022 departures, is capacity controlled, and subject to change at any time. Savings apply to the cruise portion of the package only, and displayed ‘from’ prices are per person based on double occupancy, in USD ($), and include taxes, fees, and port expenses. This offer is bookable online or by calling 1 (888) 317-6320. This offer is only combinable with the Solo Traveler, Keep Sailing & Save, Ambassador, and Child offers. All expeditions are subject to availability at the time of booking. Other restrictions may apply. Offer is valid November 16 – December 2, 2020.

➜ For more information on special offers from

Hurtigruten, please contact your trusted travel advisor

ENSEMBLE VAC ATIONS I CLOSER TO HOME 2020

TETON SPORT MODE An energetic romp through Wyoming and Idaho

TR AVEL I W YOMING AND IDAHO MULTI-SPORT VAC ATION

by NANCY HELLMRICH

ENSEMBLE VAC ATIONS I CLOSER TO HOME 2020

ary was a real character in that “I’ve done everything worth doing before you” sort of way. A fit, former physician, he moved through the world with unbridled confidence, which elicited eye-rolls from most of the group and envy from me. Despite encouragement to go at our own pace, I made it my goal to match Gary’s level of athleticism throughout this multi-sport tour.

“ I chose an active adventure because personal breakthroughs rarely happen in spectator mode.”

I had booked the solo travel tour through Wyoming and Idaho in a fit of pique triggered by my husband taking off on an extended trip without me. I chose an active adventure because personal breakthroughs rarely happen in spectator mode. When I arrived in Jackson, I had been hoping to merely keep up. But then Gary strolled in, and I decided I needed to win. The town of Jackson, Wyoming, sits in a 55-mile-long valley called Jackson Hole, which is bordered by the Gros Ventre Range to the east and the Tetons to the west. The Snake River flows north to south through the valley, then west into Idaho. Across the Wyoming-Idaho state line, the “back” of the range is dappled with farms, small towns, family ski hills, and forest trails. To the north, is Yellowstone, the first national park in the U.S., perhaps even the world. ENSEMBLE VAC ATIONS I CLOSER TO HOME 2020

TR AVEL I W YOMING AND IDAHO MULTI-SPORT VAC ATION

“ My favorite geothermal wonder was Morning Glory Pool, which has all the glamour of the Grand Prismatic Spring without all the fuss.”

Our tour began with a ride over Teton Pass, up through Idaho’s farmlands, to the quieter west entrance of Yellowstone. Here, we trotted as a group along well-traveled paths and boardwalks to geothermal wonders like the Great Fountain Geyser, Fountain Paint Pot, and Old Faithful. My favorite was Morning Glory Pool, which has all the glamour of the Grand Prismatic Spring without all the fuss. Next, we tackled Uncle Tom’s Trail, which is actually a 328-step staircase that descends into the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone to the base of the Lower Falls. Gary was down and up in a flash, having been there and seen that before. But I lingered at the falls, dazzled by the rainbow, before returning to the top. The following day, as we paddled kayaks along the shoreline of Yellowstone Lake, I wondered when the competitive part of the trip would really kick in. 34

ENSEMBLE VAC ATIONS I CLOSER TO HOME 2020

My answer came the next morning when we pocketed bear spray and crossed Jenny Lake to hike Cascade Canyon. As soon as the ferry docked, Gary bounded off. I was almost on his heels when a hotelier and a Pilates instructor asked if they could join me. My lips said “Sure!” but my eyes watched Gary disappear into the trees. I shared my goal of catching him, and the girls were keen. After an accidental but lovely detour to Hidden Falls, we found the main trail and were skipping along at a nice clip when we came upon a hushed European. Hearts pounding in our chests, we followed his gaze down the ravine and spotted a spectacular moose positively shimmering in the sun. After a minute of stunned silence we tiptoed slowly past the still-mesmerized German and resumed our Gary-chasing pace.

“ We oohed and ahh’d our way through the scenery, pausing for a chat with a pungent hiker who warned us that the final grade was jagged and steep. ”

One of the highlights of this hike is the views of the cathedral peaks—Teewinot, Grand Teton, and Mt. Owen.

“ The grand finale was

We oohed and ahh’d our way through the scenery, pausing for a chat with a pungent hiker who warned us that the final grade was jagged and steep. After a rocky scramble, we reached the glacial moraine. And there, beside Lake Solitude, stood Gary. The next morning, we gathered at Jackson Lake for a 53-mile bike ride to Teton Village. Gary had left early and taken a more challenging route. But the meeting spot was the same, so, technically, the race was still on. With the Tetons towering overhead, I stood on my pedals and pushed into the hot, dry headwind. It wasn’t long before the Pilates instructor caught up with me, and I realized I was her Gary. Together, we peddled past the National Elk Refuge, paused at a bridge for a bear and two cubs, then raced toward the village and Gary’s gregarious, “What took you so long?”

The grand finale was a Snake River rafting adventure featuring a Vikinglike guide, famous rapids, and an effervescent section called Champagne. The next day, I strolled around town buzzing with self-confidence. Then hiked up the ski hill to “The Deck,” ordered Idaho fries and a Huckleberry cocktail, and sat savoring the view and my newfound invincibility before riding the “gondi” back down to earth.

a Snake River rafting adventure featuring a Viking-like guide, famous rapids, and an effervescent section called Champagne.”

To plan your next active vacation contact your trusted travel advisor today. ENSEMBLE VAC ATIONS I CLOSER TO HOME 2020

EMBR ACE YOUR NAT UR E

Luxurious All Inclusive Beachfront Resorts Life Enriching Experiences – 5-Star Dining – The Reserve an immersive vacation experience for Adults & kids with exclusive suites, lounges and personalized service

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

THE GRAND RESERVE AT PARADISUS PALMA REAL

PARADISUS PALMA REAL

PARADISUS PUNTA CANA

MEXICO

PARADISUS CANCUN

PARADISUS PLAYA DEL CARMEN

PARADISUS LOS CABOS

PARADISUS PLAYA MUJERES (COMING SOON)

Holland, Michigan

TR AVEL I US CITIES THAT FEEL LIKE INTERNATIONAL DES TINATIONS

Frankenmurth, Michigan

US Cities Bring the Far Away Close to Home by ROBIN COLLIER

With travel bans in place for US travelers to Europe and other international destinations, travelers looking for a little cultural diversity might be surprised to find many places that feel like you are somewhere overseas right in their own backyards. Here are a few of our favoritesâ&#x20AC;¦

ENSEMBLE VAC ATIONS I CLOSER TO HOME 2020

Frankenmuth, Michigan Here in Michigan’s “Little Bavaria,” you cannot miss the Alpine architecture of the expertly decorated Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland. The world’s largest Christmas store offers more than 50,000 gifts, trims, and décor. After you are done shopping, spend a few quiet moments at Silent Night Memorial Chapel. Enjoy a tasty meal at Frankenmuth Brewery, and then after darkness falls, drive along Christmas Lane to take in the half-mile holiday display of 100,000 lights that you will find twinkling year-round.

French Quarter – New Orleans, Louisiana Often called the Crown Jewel of New Orleans, the French Quarter is one of the most historic neighborhoods and is full of French influences. Like the Creole aristocrats lining the galleries of the Historic New Orleans Collection, the French Quarter is a timeless portrait – especially come dusk when swallows glide above the fortunetellers on Jackson Square and St. Louis Cathedral’s butter-crèmecolored walls reflect the fiery sunset. French Quarter, New Orleans

The Hill, St. Louis, Missouri (Little Italy Neighborhood) The Hill began with immigrants from Northern Italy, Germany, Ireland, and African Americans who wanted to live near the railroad which connected the neighborhood to downtown St. Louis. The vast numbers of Italians migrating to the area resulted in an Italian American majority population during the early part of the 20th century. The Hill’s roots are interspersed with the history of St. Louis, generating two of the region’s proudest exports – world-class athletes and Italian cuisine. Baseball’s Yogi Berra and Joe Garagiola grew up here, and today it maintains a traditional collection of authentic Italian bakeries, grocery stores, restaurants, and mom-and-pop trattorias.

Holland, Michigan In Holland, Michigan the Dutch heritage creates a large part of the city’s ethnic and cultural identity, which is evident at every step, from beautiful historic downtown to the colorful “Tulip Time” festival held every May. At Windmill Island Gardens, visit an original 250-yearold Dutch windmill named “De Zwaan” (the Swan), which was brought over from the Netherlands in 1964. The windmill, which reaches 125 feet from the ground to the top of the blades, towers over 36 acres of gardens, dikes, canals, and picnic areas. And at Nelis’ Dutch Village, watch a wooden shoe carving demonstration.

ENSEMBLE VAC ATIONS I CLOSER TO HOME 2020

TR AVEL I US CITIES THAT FEEL LIKE FOREIGN L ANDS

Little Haiti, Florida

Leavenworth, Washington Leavenworth, Washington, set on the eastern edge of Washington State’s Cascade Mountains, has all the trappings of an authentic Bavarian village. Restaurants and breweries are among the many attractions of this Bavarian-style town, where you can also visit the Nutcracker Museum, which displays thousands of the whimsical devices. Notable traditional events include the annual Oktoberfest and in December, with Christmas celebrated all month long and German holiday traditions in full swing. At the Christmas Festival, Leavenworth is transformed into a virtual snow globe of Christmas magic during the holidays, it has been dubbed the “Bavarian snow globe,” since the town was turned into a replica German village in 1960 to promote tourism. The annual Christmas Lighting Festival features plenty of old fashioned caroling, Christmas characters and an endless amount of dazzling lights.

ENSEMBLE VAC ATIONS I CLOSER TO HOME 2020

Little Haiti, a neighborhood in Miami that makes huge cultural contributions to the city’s inventive music scene and the vibrant art splashing through the streets. Known for its creative global restaurants, colorful street murals and fruit stands, Caribbean-style Little Haiti also has a flourishing art scene centered on small, indie galleries. The Little Haiti Cultural Complex showcases Afro-Caribbean art, dance and theater, while the large covered Caribbean Marketplace sells produce and locally made handicrafts.

Silver Spring, Maryland Silver Spring is known for the East African influence that brings this place to life. This community keeps the traditions of Ethiopia alive. The most prominent sign of the region’s “Little Ethiopia” is food. Downtown Silver Spring has dozens of Ethiopian eateries, and” and of course, many different coffee shops. Montgomery County, which hosts an annual Ethiopian Festival in Silver Spring, is also the first jurisdiction in the nation to name September African Heritage Month.

Washington Island, Wisconsn

St. Augustine, FLorida

Washington Island, Wisconsin

St. Augustine is a city on the northeast coast of Florida. It lays claim to being the oldest city in the U.S. and is known for its Spanish colonial architecture as well as Atlantic Ocean beaches like sandy St. Augustine Beach and tranquil Crescent Beach. The Castillo de San Marcos is a 17th-century Spanish stone fortress with views of the St. Augustine Inlet.

Washington Island is the largest of Door County’s thirty islands, with over 35 beautiful square miles and over 100 miles of roads to explore and enjoy. This idyllic village has long been an oasis for Scandinavian-Americans, especially folks of Icelandic and Danish descent. Your visit starts with a five-mile ferry ride across the once-treacherous waters of Death’s Door, where Green Bay and Lake Michigan meet. Once ashore, you will find Schoolhouse Beach, which could make a strong case as the most beautiful stone beach in Door County. Music and theater performances, quirky traditions, and lavender farms are all part of the experience as well.

Tarpon Springs, Florida Solvang, California Solvang is a lovely village surrounded by a stunning wine country. Sometimes referred to as “A little slice of Denmark in Southern California”, Solvang Danish is proud of its Danish heritage which is showcased in everything from its bakeries to windmills. Made famous in the movie Sideways, Solvang is in the Santa Ynez Valley in Santa Barbara county and is a great stop for anyone on a road trip along the Pacific Coast Highway. As you wander between the horse-drawn trolleys and half-timbered houses, you will feel like you have stepped back in Denmark’s history.

Solvang, California

It’s a picturesque Greek-American village. On the north side of the city, Dodecanese Boulevard ambles along the waterfront and it’s lined with Greek eateries and the historic Sponge Docks, which are a mustvisit as they feel like a Greek fishing village.

To plan your next travel adventure, contact your trusted travel advisor today.

Tarpon Springs, Florida

ENSEMBLE VAC ATIONS I CLOSER TO HOME 2020

TR AVEL I BA JA C ALIFORNIA , ME XICO

Located on the southernmost tip of Baja California, Mexico, and considered one of the world´s most inspiring destinations, Los Cabos is a hot spot year-round. From the hot and wild summer to the fresh and vibrant winter, there isn’t a season when this unique destination isn’t amazing.

Los Cabos Awaits Your Return

ENSEMBLE VAC ATIONS I CLOSER TO HOME 2020

It almost seems unfair that one destination conformed by two towns (Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo) boasts so many incredible attractions: stunning blue flag beaches, perfect weather, remarkable biodiversity, delicious gastronomy, sophisticated accommodations, world-class night clubs, and spectacular tours along the marvelous peninsula. Los Cabos started its phased reopening plan on June 15, enhancing its already strict safety protocols, which are applicable statewide.. The way we travel might have changed, but Los Cabos’ unique experiences remain the same. The goal of the phased reopening was to systematically allow companies to resume activities while protecting the health and safety of the community and travelers. The government of the state of Baja California Sur announced a new color-coded classification to be given to local establishments, such as hotels, restaurants, bars, tour operators, and convention centers, to name a few, that determine the level of safety they can offer and whether or not they are able to open to the public. The color categorization will be based on density and capacity levels as well as the establishments’ ability to follow the social distancing protocols that were previously announced by the state. If you haven’t been here before, or even if you have and are dreaming about returning, here are some of the many reasons you’ll fall in love with this stretch of paradise. Los Cabos awaits your return.

Blue Flag Beaches There are 19 beaches worthy of this distinction – no wonder Los Cabos ranks as the top destination in Mexico! When you see a Blue Flag flying, you know a beach or marina is clean and accessible, has great water quality, meets high safety standards, and is working hard to protect local shorelines and ecosystems. Along the rocky cliffs lie a great number of bays, luxurious resorts, and soft sandy beaches. The water tonalities cover all shades of blue and green, from navy to turquoise. When you drive along the corridor from San Jose del Cabo to Cabo San Lucas, the color palette is something else!

The Arch of Cabo San Lucas The distinctive landmark of Cabo San Lucas is the rugged taffycolored rock formation that erupts from the sea at the tip of the Baja Peninsula, where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez. Also known as Land’s End, The Arch is a popular tourist attraction and the central focus of countless vacation photos. A visit to Land’s End is undoubtedly one of the most popular things to do in Cabo San Lucas. Getting there is easy, and you can view the iconic golden arch from your boat. Some might call it the “land´s end,” but for us, it’s just the beginning of your next unforgettable adventure.

Whale Watching Tours Whale season in Los Cabos occurs from December to April. Getting close to their habitat is an unparalleled experience you’ll talk about for years to come. Imagine being in the front row admiring their colossal size and extraordinary longevity. Environmental protection, non-invasive tour protocols, as well as support of both local and worldwide conservation are of great concern for every tour operator in the Cabo San Lucas bay.

Scuba Diving and Snorkeling Speaking of amazing sea life, the Sea of Cortez in Los Cabos has a huge variety of sea flora including one of the most beautiful coral reefs in the world. Don´t forget to partake in scuba diving and snorkeling lessons, but make sure to keep conservational rules in mind so we can preserve the reservoir for generations to come. Operators are eager to help you find the best possible tour, so go ahead and plan your trip now.

San Jose del Cabo San Jose del Cabos’ downtown main plaza and its distinctive architecture has become an Art District where you can find art crafts from all over the world, but mainly Mexican art and local creations. It´s also a hot spot for shopping and dining. This adorable town has an interesting variety of bohemian and artistic restaurants, cafes and galleries. From November to June, it hosts the Art Walk, an event that takes you on a stunning stroll around the picturesque streets and charming stores of San Jose del Cabo. Its world-class marina, stunning gold-sand beaches, famous surf spots, and wildlife make this town a must see on your next vacation.

ENSEMBLE VAC ATIONS I CLOSER TO HOME 2020

A DV E RT I S E M E N T

Exploring All Los Cabos Has to Offer

Los Cabos, a diverse destination combining desert landscape with pristine coastline, provides an exotic escape not too far from home. Although known for its iconic arch, blue flag beaches, whale watching, and idyllic sea life, Los Cabos offers far more than one might imagine…if you simply venture beyond the water. No matter your travel preferences, there’s something for everyone along the 20-mile corridor between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo. With the perfect mix of culture, relaxation and adventure, no traveler is left behind. For the outdoorsy travelers: Explore the desert with picturesque hiking and ATV off-roading opportunities, tour the iconic Baja California beachfront on a camel’s back, or become one with the countryside by going glamping. For the history buffs: Visit the Jesuit Mission, Parroquia San José, which dates to the 1730s and offers a peek into the area’s past. For the artsy folks: Discover the charm of San Jose del Cabo through its Art Walk, a fun event where visitors explore the town’s art galleries while enjoying music and street shows.

For the relaxation seekers: Begin your day with Mexico’s oldest spa tradition, the Temazcal, an ancient steam lodge relying on the healing powers of earth, water, fire and air, followed by an afternoon on the green of a world-renowned golf course. End your day by setting sail on a sunset cruise, taking in the breathtaking orange, yellow and red hues sinking below the immaculate blue waters. For the nature lover: Whale watching off the Los Cabos shores is glorious, as the gentle giants can be found in impressive numbers all along the coast. The best time to observe them is during their seasonal migration to the nutrient-rich waters off Alaska from December through April. ➜ It’s time to stop dreaming and

start planning. Contact your trusted travel advisor to book your trip to Los Cabos!

EXTRAORDINARY SAVINGS ON

U LT R A - L U X U R Y ALASKA CRUISES THE BEST WAY TO EXPERIENCE THE GREAT LAND

Contact Your Trusted Travel Advisor to Learn More

SUNNY JAMAICA by TIM JOHNSON

Half Moon Bay TR AVEL I JAMAIC AN HOLIDAY

Home to both Montego Bay and Ocho Rios, this end of the island brings together the very best of Jamaica, including culinary and natural attractions. Set on a verdant stretch of coastline in St. James Parish, the white porticos and columns and cottages of Half Moon Bay have long been a Jamaican landmark. Opened by 17 different investors back in 1954, it retains a vintage feel, one honored by a series of blackand-white photos in the main building of the resort, a Who’s Who of that golden age. Since then, pop and rock royalty have rented out their villas (everyone from David Bowie, Eric Clapton and Sting), and 18 holes of golf designed by Robert Trent Jones have been built. Both the spa and the flagship restaurant, set beside an old sugar mill, use local ingredients, including many grown on-site. It has been renewed with a $75-million renovation, which include new restaurants, a great house and dozens of modern rooms. Half Moon Bay is part of Ensemble’s Hotel and Resort Collection and includes the following EXCLUSIVE OFFER: To plan your Jamaican holiday contact your trusted travel advisor today.

Our Exclusive Offer

• Breakfast for two daily (up to $30 value per person). •R ound-trip airport transfers via air-conditioned bus for stays of three nights or more

ENSEMBLE VAC ATIONS I CLOSER TO HOME 2020

Go for the food

Perhaps the island’s best-known delicacy, jerk chicken is best enjoyed outside, in the sultry subtropical air. It’s delicious, and Scotchies is the best place to try it. With massive slabs of chicken sizzling over dogwood logs harvested from the nearby forest and lightly spiced with their signature scotch bonnet marinade, the kick will have you reaching for a Red Stripe in the open-air dining room.

Mystic Mountain

Sun And Sand

With more vast stretches of coral reefs, even a short boat ride from shore will take you into a world where the subaquatic rainbow swirl of fish contrasts with the emerald and azure of the reefs and water. And the ride there is half the fun – in some cases, especially near Montego Bay, you’ll motor past old, colorful fishing villages, still busy with men and women bringing in deep-water catches of snapper and parrotfish, and a visit to Doctor’s Cave Beach will take you to a place so good, it was once recommended as a medical treatment. Sun and sand – just what the doctor ordered.

As the ageless 1993 comedy Cool Runnings reminded us, Jamaica has a bobsled team. Made famous during the 1988 Winter Games in Calgary, the ride can be replicated (sort of ) from the peak of Mystic Mountain. Swoop to the top on a chairlift that skims over the thick rainforest canopy and take in the views from the peak, which sweep all the way back to Montego Bay. Take a few minutes to tour through a small museum up there with items from the actual bobsled team and other Jamaican sports heroes, like Usain Bolt and Donovan Bailey. Then climb into your sled, painted in the colors of that original bobsled team, and descend a gravity-driven track, banking on the corners then opening it up for maximum speed, 1,000 meters to the bottom.

ENSEMBLE VAC ATIONS I CLOSER TO HOME 2020

YOUR VILLA AWAITS

As countries start their slow reopenings, our wanderlust and desire to venture beyond our immediate neighborhoods will grow, too. Yet, we still must be hyper-conscious of the current situation. With enhanced safety and health measures, thoroughly trained cleaning staff, distanced group arrivals, sanitization packages and more, renting a villa is an ideal option to enjoy an intimate vacation with your family, safely away from the crowds. Here are 10 luxurious villas in Mexico and the Caribbean where you’ll enjoy not only the sun and the beach, but also relaxation and peace of mind.

TR AVEL I VILL A S OF THE C ARIBBE AN AND ME XICO

For more information about the various cleanliness and safety protocols, or to book a stay at one of these villas, contact your trusted travel advisor who is always there for you – before, during and after your travels.

Casa Fryzer, Los Cabos

From a lofty vantage point atop Villas del Mar, Casa Fryzer is one of the most unique homes in Los Cabos. The sheer size of the contoured infinity swimming pool with a swim-up bar and inset lounging areas is simply astounding. Little could be as soothing as a well-deserved soak in the outdoor hot tub perched at the edge of the cliff. Indoors, you’ll find a home theater, wine cellar, office with a pool table, and an oceanview fitness room. Six dreamy bedrooms accommodate up to twelve guests and children are welcome.

ENSEMBLE VAC ATIONS I CLOSER TO HOME 2020

Casa Luna Escondida, Los Cabos

Situated in one of Mexico’s most desirable destinations, Casa Luna Escondida is staffed with its own house manager, butler and chef. Encompassing 12,000 square feet of interior living space over four levels, it offers ten bedrooms, all with en-suite bathrooms, dressing areas, and private terraces. In addition to the spectacular pool with shallow shaded lounging areas, two of the guest casitas also have their own private plunge pool. This exceptional home has been decorated with style and sophistication in a neutral palette sure to provide the backdrop for a spectacular Cabo vacation.

Casa Del Mar, Riviera Maya

Villa Tartaruga – Arrecife 15, Dominican Republic

Set on an idyllic white sand beach, Villa Casa del Mar is an 11,915 square foot paradise with six bedrooms, six full bathrooms, a kids’ playhouse and gym, and a dedicated staff. Casually elegant, the Italian marble, mahogany furniture and tasteful décor will enhance any vacation. The oversized private pool and outdoor Jacuzzi, set in lush gardens, make an ideal tropical lounge where guests can unwind enjoying an exclusive experience. Perfect for a sunrise breakfast, lazy afternoon lounging or pre-dinner cocktails, the outdoor living area completes the perfect getaway.

Like a Picasso masterpiece, the main entrance takes you through a corridor next to a crystal-clear pond and rounded white columns while discovering the cubic facade that takes you to the main foyer of this splendid two-story villa. The villa has a full gym with Technogym equipment, dumbbells and more. After your training session, the massage room offers all you need to relax and recover strength. For those who are not big sports fans, the property also has a unique 12-seat cinema to watch your favorite movie while enjoying popcorn.

Casa Palma At Casa De Campo, Dominican Republic

Yarari Royale, Dominican Republic

Facing the world-famous Teeth of the Dog golf course and the Caribbean Sea, this magnificent house, designed by the best architectural team in Casa de Campo, breaks records in terms of elegance and charm. The villa opens to a very long, elegant pool and gazebo, displaying breathtaking views, a modern art collection, and a state-of-the-art kitchen. Enjoy the ultimate luxury living from the comforts of your own expansive villa nestled along the stunning Caribbean coastline.

Discover a new concept of luxury, where good taste, relaxation, fitness, modernism and minimalism are blended in such a way, you will have a unique experience: the Yarari Royale. As you enter through the main entrance, a high ceiling with a gentle breeze coming from the garden welcomes you to a large foyer sprinkled with subtle modern touches and governed by a minimalistic outlook. After a long beach day, the outdoor pool is the ideal break to cool off, or simply keep your shape in the most advanced home gym in the Caribbean.

ENSEMBLE VAC ATIONS I CLOSER TO HOME 2020

A DV E RT I S E M E N T

Canoe Cove On The Beach, Jamaica

Frankfort On The Beach, Jamaica

Canoe Cove encourages a relaxed, unfussy vacation with an abundance of sporty options balanced with as much relaxation as anyone could want. The location is amazing. The service is excellent. The villa itself is stylish without pretense or overstatement, uncluttered and totally livable. Inside, textures of exotic woods establish a grounded, organic ambience as backdrop against stylish furnishings. The extended beach is approximately 1,000 feet long, and the uninterrupted view extends all the way to the horizon.

Formerly a 17th-century fortress and now restored as a remarkable home on a private Caribbean beach, Frankfort on the Beach is one of the most desirable properties in Jamaica. Floor-to-ceiling bookcases divide the ground floor into two sections: one, an elegant inside dining space and dimly lit bar; the other, a comfy living room, television, music and gaming area. The beach is soft, the swimming water is wonderful, and the staff may surprise you with a torchlight beach feast.

Promiseas, Jamaica

Rio Chico, Jamaica

Newly completed and exceptional in every way, Promiseas consists of two 4-bedroom contemporary villas located on a fabulous private sandy cove with views of the Caribbean Sea. Enjoy world-class service from the staff including chef, housekeepers and butlers. Dive into one of your two infinity-edge pools. Exercise at your private gym or rejuvenate at your private space in an underground cave featuring a massage deck and a hot tub. Even better? End the day with a tantalizing treat from your personal chef as you dine oceanside.

ENSEMBLE VAC ATIONS I CLOSER TO HOME 2020

Rio Chico is a magnificent 14-acre oceanfront estate with a staff of 12. Here, the rich character of The Riviera is married to the superb service of Colonial Jamaica. Just west of Ocho Rios on Jamaicaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s renowned north coast, Rio Chicoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s guest list includes diplomats, industrialists and celebrities from around the world. Active enthusiasts will enjoy a half basketball court, tennis court, and an on-site private gym. Explore two private beaches, three freshwater swimming pools, and a breathtaking series of waterfalls and rivers that join the beautiful Caribbean Sea.

Let Our Experience Enhance Yours!

Receive a warm welcome at hundreds of hand-picked properties worldwide. Enjoy bonus gifts plus free upgrades, early check-in and late check-out when available.

Choose a villa from thousands of appealing options in the Caribbean, Europe and Hawaii. Save money and find your own oasis of comfort and style.

TRAVEL WITH CONFIDENCE: We are among the distinguished travel specialists of Ensemble Travel® Group – an international network of creative, inspiring individuals who excel at designing superb vacations for a discerning clientele. Our membership means that you will always find complimentary ENSEMBLE ® EXCLUSIVES on thousands of exciting vacations from our valued partners – the world’s best cruise lines, most distinguished tour companies, and finest hotel and resort properties. For you OUR PREFERRED CLIENT, let us open the door to a world of exclusive experiences, intriguing adventure, and consummate service.

Your entrée to a global network of in-destination partners, all experienced in creating authentic experiences tailored to suit your individual taste, style and budget.

Travel With Us For Your Next Adventure

We are here to serve your wanderlust. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve done the research, uncovered the special experiences and know the tricks, to then focus on your special interests and needs to build your best journey.

Experience is our expertise Ensemble TravelÂŽ Group membership enables us to bring you added amenities, custom touches, unexpected experiences, and a genuinely warm welcome wherever your travels take you. You now have the opportunity to work with a travel professional who can make YOUR aspirations and experience come to life. We take care of all the planning, support you throughout the journey, and save you time and money. Explore, dream and discover, and let us do the rest.

Ensemble Vacations - Closer to Home

Articles inside

Seabourn

Apple Vacations

Paradisus by Melia

HURTIGRUTEN

Royal Caribbean

Globus and Cosmos

Ameerican Queen Steamboat Company

Celebrity Cruises

Alaska cruisetour with Princess

MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL

Disney's Magic is here

Midwestern Modern

Vegas Cleans Up Nice

A Road Trip to Remember

Americana: Everything Old is New Again

Staying local

Cruising 2020 and beyond

Hitting the Road in an RV

I'll take you there...

Travel gets creative

Stress-free healthy travel

Your Villa Awaits

Sunny Jamaica

Los Cabos Awaits Your Return

U.S Cities with International Flare

Teton Sport Mode

Letter from the Editor