HTL HTL TRAVELTATTLER Professional Purveyors of Travel
THE
Q1 2017
TRAVEL NEWS, TIPS AND TIDBITS
LETTER FROM THE CEO HTL NEWS A FOODIE IN COPENHAGEN SOUTH AFRICAN SOJOURN SOJOUTN OUR ADVISORS TATTLER TIDBITS
H U F F M A N C H I C A G O
T R A V E L •
L T D
D A Y T O N
Professional Purveyors of Travel
LETTER FROM THE CEO Dear Friends of Huffman Travel, Happy New Year and here’s to a great start to 2017! You may have noticed that in my recent posts on social media, I’ve been adding the hashtag #TravelistoLive. As I travel the world, I am reminded daily that travel is important because it fundamentally transforms us. I often say to my children that a ‘change in scenery is good’, but what I really mean is that by taking a break from our daily lives, unplugging and engaging in new activities in new places, we more easily let go of things that may be dragging us down or holding us back. The unexpected experiences help us broaden our horizons and move in new directions. With this in mind, I wanted to share a list that I came across, which I think brilliantly articulates the benefits of travel. Why We Travel 1.) Invites learning and education 2.) Connects us to other cultures and people 3.) Encourages us to slow down and break from our fast paced lives 4.) Expands our awareness and introduces us to greater diversity 5.) Helps us break habits; mentally, physically and emotionally 6.) Offers us time to heal, reduces stress and regain enthusiasm for the simple things in life
7.) Stokes curiosity and awakens our inner-child 8.) Promotes patience by reducing expectations of the ‘right way’ mentality, thereby allowing life to flow more organically 9.) Invites us to get lost and face our fears of the unknown 10.) Helps us reconnect with ourself - our true self So as you make your New Year Resolutions, I very much hope that committing to a new travel adventure is right at the top of your list! #TravelistoLive
Shawna Huffman Owen
President & CEO, Huffman Travel LTD
T H E
T R A V E L
T A T T L E R
HTL NEWS Huffman Travel LTD (HTL) is pleased to announce our 20th year in business! On January 1, 1997, with two employees, no prior experience in the travel industry, the rapid advent of the internet and zero clients, Tony Huffman established Huffman Travel in Dayton, Ohio. One might ask, ‘what was he thinking’? Despite these obstacles, Tony moved forward with a vision that focused on custom designed, luxury travel itineraries. Growth was slow but steady, recalls Tony.
Tony, at left, with Shawna, CEO of Huffman Travel, and Jay Owen, CFO.
Eco-paradise meets five star luxury nestled between the mountains and the sea. Introducing Grootbos Private Nature Reserve.
Twenty years later…With Luxury Travel Advisors across five states, Huffman Travel is proud to be recognized as being in the top 1% of all U.S. based travel agencies. We we will be celebrating our anniversary throughout the year. Our festivities will culminate in September when we commemorate this benchmark with all our staff in Punta Mita, Mexico, joined by our amazing partners at the Four Seasons Resort. Tony expressed his abundant gratitude, saying, “Thanks to all of you for making us what we are”. What adds to this success story is that Huffman Travel is now a multi-generational business. Tony’s dynamic and forward-thinking daughter, Shawna, leads the company as CEO and her husband, Jay Owen, acts as CFO. Please join the team at Huffman Travel as we congratulate Tony and Shawna on this milestone anniversary! We are also pleased to share that Shawna Huffman Owen was recently featured in New York Times’ Travel section. ‘How to Plan a Weekend Getaway’ was written to inspire travelers who might be facing time restrictions. “Getting away for a weekend is still a way to recharge your batteries,” she said. For more on her expert insight, click here for the full article.
“Copenhagen is a gastronomy haven.” - Sandi Todorovich
FOODIE COPENHAGEN Food and wine have definitely become synonymous with travel in recent years and Copenhagen, Denmark, is no exception to this rule. Besides being a cosmopolitan city known for its industrial–chic design, canals, and colorful cobblestone streets, it is also a gastronomy haven. Having lived in Copenhagen for 3 years, I definitely took advantage of exploring the best cuisine the city has to offer.
FUN FACT: Netflix recently featured a documentary called ‘Noma: My Perfect Storm’.
There are a myriad of fabulous restaurants on display in Copenhagen, but here are a few of my favorite restaurants in town that are worth checking out when your travels next take you there. I can assure you that with the food
T H E
quality and plethora of Michelin stars, you will not be disappointed! Noma – This is the restaurant that blew up the food scene in Scandinavia. The name is a blend of two Danish words that translate to “Nordic Food”. René Redzepi and his innovative team excel at their unique interpretation and presentation of Nordic cuisine. Noma is not a la carte. Rather, you’ll have the choice of 2 different tasting menus with optional wine pairing. Reservations are hard to get, and the menu is not inexpensive! Noma has been named Best Restaurant in the World 4 times
T R A V E L
T A T T L E R
Copenhagen, continued since 2010 by Restaurant Magazine, and holds two Michelin stars. Noma is currently being reconcepted to have its own urban farm, so reservations are temporarily on hold. The restaurant served its last meal on Dec 31, 2016 and will reopen at a new location in Copenhagen in 2017. In the interim, you can catch Noma in Tulum, Mexico, from April 12 to May 28, 2017, during which time they will be open for dinner Wednesday to Sunday. Kiin Kiin – This is the only Michelin starred Thai restaurant in the world outside Thailand. Kiin Kiin is beautiful. Menus offer modern, personal interpretations of Thai d i s h e s w i t h v i b r a n t fl a v o r combinations. The Tasting Menu starts in the gorgeous lounge with a selection of street food appetizers, and is followed by a 6 course seasonal menu served at your table in the restaurant. The wine pairing is
T H E
T R A V E L
optional, but I highly recommend it. Kiin Kiin absolutely blew me away with their food, their décor, and their overall presentation. Restaurant Schønnemann – Denmark is known for its smørrebrød; a traditional open-faced sandwich typically served on dense rye bread, topped with a multitude of items ranging from pickled herring to roast beef with remoulade. You will find this dish at numerous restaurants and cafes throughout the city. There are a few in particular that get rave reviews, and my personal favorite is Restaurant Schønnemann. This historic, cellar-like restaurant has been serving herring, beer and snaps since 1877. Schønnemann is tiny and crowded, with male waiters wearing white shirts and ties, while walking on sand covered floors. Open only for lunch, reservations are mandatory and taken only by phone. If you want to experience the best in
T A T T L E R
Copenhagen, continued
Danish smørrebrød, look no further than here. Søllerød Kro – If you’re willing to travel a bit outside the city center, then please consider an exceptional meal at Søllerød Kro (one Michelin star) in the northern suburbs. Housed in an inn built in 1677, you will feel transported to another time when dining at this restaurant (beautifully set along a country road). Service is impeccable and the food is divine. You have the options to order a la carte, or choose a 4 or 6 course tasting menu.
Sandi Todorovich Luxury Travel Advisor sandi@huffmantravel.com
Sandi’s Top 10 Recommended Restaurants in Copenhagen Noma Kiin Kiin Radio Era Ora Geranimum Restaurant Schønnemann Relae Melee Amass Søllerød Kro
T H E
T R A V E L
T A T T L E R
Denmark’s red-hot culinary scene boasts a total of 26 Michelin stars.
“South Africa is one of my absolute favorite places to explore.” - Tony Huffman
SOUTH AFRICA South Africa is one of my most favorite places to explore, having visited numerous times over the years. Whether it is for safari or for city culture, it will never disappoint. My most recent trip confirmed my deep fondness for this part of Africa. My wife, Pokey, and I planned our trip last spring to coincide with a Virtuoso agency owners’ meeting in Cape Town. For this year’s itinerary, I decided to explore an area that was new to me, but very intriguing; The Grootbos Private Nature Reserve. This spectacular area, located approximately 2.5 hours south of Cape Town and nestled between mountain and sea, affords an entirely different experience to
the traditional African safari. Grootbos is a five star eco-paradise showcasing the incredible flora and spectacular marine life on the Southern Tip of Africa. This area is well known to be home to the “Marine Big 5”: whales, sharks, dolphins, seals and penguins. While there, Grootbos reconfirmed its growing reputation as being a very family friendly destination and a wonderful compliment to a traditional safari experience. There is a wealth of nature-based activities to be experienced on the property such as nature walks in the gardens, visiting caves and exploring beautiful beaches. I was delighted to see so many interesting, animal-oriented
South Africa, continued experiences, including early morning visits to collect eggs from the chicken coop, feeding pigs, fishing for trout, riding horses (and ponies). How about swimming with sharks or whale watching? Gansbaai is just off the coast of Dyer Island, home to South Africa’s white shark diving industry and home to a large colony of seals, penguins and bird life. Surrounding the island is a huge population of Great White Sharks. Each year, between the months of June and December, hundreds of Southern White Whales congregate in the sheltered shallow waters of Walker Bay to mate and calve their young. When we left Grootbos, we headed to Cape Town. The drive is beautiful and for those who are still seeking more animal experiences, a stop at Bettys Bay to see the largest colony of penguins is a MUST! Cape Town is a city that is on the move. It is growing and changing at such a rapid pace. The thing that struck me so much on this trip was the exploding restaurant scene. Cape Town has always had great dining choices, but now more than ever, it is a ‘foodie paradise’. The Test Kitchen is arguably the city’s most acclaimed restaurant and, while reservations are hard to come by (must book 30 days in advance), it does not disappoint. We had a very good meal at a pretty courtyard restaurant called Bizerca Bistro, where the relaxed
T H E
T R A V E L
T A T T L E R
Fr e n ch m e n u f e a t u r e d seasonal specialties. Camps Bay is a lovely suburb of Cape Town that warrants a visit. We p a r t i c u l a r l y liked our meal at The Round House, where sampling African seafood specialties while dining outdoors is a real treat.
Tony Huffman Chairman tony@huffmantravel.com
TRAVEL
Professional Purveyors of Travel
TIPS & TRICKS PACKING & PLANNING FOR…..
COPENHAGEN
CAPE TOWN
•
Do: Make your dinner reservations and game plan well in advance.
• • Do: Bring plenty of layers, it could be chilly!
•
Do: Bring your debit card to pull out Danish Kroner. Some smaller cafes don’t accept credit cards without a chip in them.
•
Do: Allow for enough time in Cape Town. There’s more to South Africa than safari.
•
Do: Carry a light jacket or sweater with you at night. The summer evenings are very long, but aren’t as warm as you may be used to.
•
Do: Make dinner reservations in advance in Cape Town - particularly when trying to get into The Test Kitchen.
•
Do: Consider a wine tasting excursion. South Africa’s wine and culinary scene are fabulous.
•
Do: Consider a helicopter day trip to Grootbos National Reserve if you don’t have time to stay overnight. It is worth it!
•
Don’t: Miss a stop by the chic Camps Bay area.
•
Don’t: forget to sample local foods and visit local shops. Cape Town is thriving with foodie gems and great little boutiques.
•
Do: Pay attention to the bike lane when walking around - there is an abundance of very fast bikers in the city who have the right of way.
•
Don’t: Cross the street unless the light is green - you will stand out as a tourist!
•
Don’t: Plan to wear heels when walking around - Copenhagen is covered in cobblestones.
•
Don’t: Ride public transportation without validating your ticket as random checks are common and carry heavy fines.
T H E
T R A V E L
T A T T L E R
OUR
ADVISORS Each issue of Travel Tattler will help you ‘get to know’ two fabulous members of the Huffman Travel team..and what makes them so passionate about travel!
ANN BECKER Ann has loved travel and learning about the world all her life. Before joining Huffman Travel, Ann enjoyed planning her own vacations for her family as well as her friends. She began her travel career in 2000. Since that time, she has thoroughly enjoyed helping her clients plan their travels.
LINDA SPEARS As a former history teacher with a BA and MA in history, Linda’s interests lie in the culture, history, and sociology of countries throughout the world. Linda has traveled extensively throughout United States, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and China. She has spent time hiking and viewing national parks while attending historical and cultural events in each of the countries that she has visited. Leveraging her experience from the classroom and over 19 years in the travel industry, Linda designs and leads group travel. She has led groups to Russia, China, Scandinavia and other areas of Europe. Her specialties include creating unique experiences for individuals, families, and honeymooners. Through her cruising experiences, she had gained knowledge and insights that will help her to guide clients to the specific cruise that fits their needs.
A luxury travel consultant for Huffman Travel and a mother of 3 grown children, Ann has delighted in traveling the world and using those experiences to help others plan the perfect trip. In her free time, Ann enjoys helping others through volunteering, and spending time with family and friends. Some of her favorite hotels are Le Bristol Paris, France, Little Palm Island Resort, Florida, Blackberry Farm, Tennessee, and The Four Seasons in Santa Barbara, CA. She cites as among her most memorable travel adventures biking through the hills of Austria in the Wachau Valley during a riverboat cruise with family, shopping with a guide in St. Germaine, Paris, discovering a private beach in Costa Rica, and hiking the Camino in Spain. She has most recently visited Paris, France, Quito, Ecuador, Budapest, and Prague. What’s on her radar? A Sea Dream cruise from Venice to Croatia and a stay at the iconic and recently re-opened Ritz Paris.
When she is not creating travel memories for others, Linda enjoys reading, playing tennis, and walking with her golden retriever, Brandy. She has recently visited Australia, New Zealand, China, Greece, Italy, and the United Kingdom including Cornwall, Wales, and London.
T H E
T R A V E L
T A T T L E R
Professional Purveyors of Travel
TATTLER
TRAVEL
TIDBITS
MONTEVERDI TUSCANY’S MEDIEVAL RETREAT Picture yourself in a 900 year old, hilltop village in Tuscany’s Val d’Orcia region. Monteverdi Tuscany is a rare, boutique hotel experience with a collection of restored villas or intimate rooms, each with its own unique architecture, personality and rustic-chic flair. History and art aficionados alike will appreciate how the fine dining restaurant, the informal Enoteca, and a world-class performing arts venue (inside a 14th century Romanesque church) have been infused into the bones of the old village. Romantics will fall in love with the gardens and green space, zero edge infinity pool and serene, multi-sensorial spa…..all with panoramic vistas. After enjoying treatments in the spa, housed in a former 15th century granary, treat yourself to an afternoon wine tasting in the terraced garden. Dinner in the Oreade Restaurant offers views galore and sumptuous local and organic farm to table cooking. Love it!
ADVENTURE MEETS LUXURY ON SILVERSEA A voyage with Silversea’s Arctic Expeditions will generate lifetime memories and ultimate thrills for all ages. Immerse into the wonder of one of the world’s most remote destinations in the lap of luxury! Specifically designed for navigating waters in some of the earth’s most challenging destinations, the Silver Explorer will traverse ice floes while YOU enjoy five star service, dining and expansive suites. To add to your adventure, Silversea has assembled a team of field experts, offering travelers the opportunity to learn firsthand from top naturalists, geologists, biologists and historians. The ship’s fleet of Zodiac boats allow guests an even closer look at the incredible wildlife ranging from walrus, seals polar bears, whales and a variety of birds. Excursions range from 7 - 20+ days. It’s the perfect summer family adventure!
ROSEWOOD’S TUSCAN ESTATE We know that many of our clients are planning their summer vacations now. We love Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco, the 5,000 acre country estate in Tuscany, founded by Massimo and Chiara Ferragamo and managed by the prestigious Rosewood Hotels and Resorts. The 800 year old property is comprised of ancient castle ruins, a medieval church, historic village, superb winery, two restaurants, organic vegetable garden and a cooking school. If that isn't enough to keep you busy, sign up for a bit of golf at the 18-hole course (Italy’s only private golf course) or ‘me time’ at the resort’s lavish spa. If you’re interested in doing nothing, take in the warmth of the Tuscan sun in a chaise lounge next to the infinity pool. The property has special offers for spring, but footloose and fancy free travelers may want to consider the Winter Villa Escape that is offered through mid- April. We think there’s something for everyone and every season at this Tuscan gem! H U F F M A N
e-mailTATTLER
T R A V E L
L T D
8 0 0 . 7 8 3 . 2 0 0 9 8 4 4 . 2 7 9 . 4 5 6 6