Beth Mollo: The Insider's Club

The most complete GUIDE to the INSIDE

The Insider’s Club July 2015

Hot Spot of the Month

Spain

+ Things to Know About Where to Go + Suggested Itinerary + Tips From the Locals Featured Experience

Regent Seven Seas Cruises + Featured Expeditions + Exclusive World Travel Experiences

Tech News

Travel Toys Shared Discoveries Every edition of The Insiders Club comes with the latest Virtuoso Life!

Choose Your News Explore: Spain 1-2 Spain’s Major Cities 3-4 Tips From The Locals 5-6 Featured Experience: Regent Seven Sea Cruises 7-8 Exclusive World Travel Experiences 9-17 Tech News: Travel Toys 18-21 Shared Discoveries 23-40

A WORD FROM YOUR TRAVEL ADVISOR Dear Fellow Travelers & Adventurers, In this month’s newsletter we are featuring Spain, as well as our monthly tech news, travel tips, things and places to see in our Hot Spot, and exclusive travel deals around the world. As always we welcome any suggestions you may have for this newsletter. Please let us know if there is a specific location, hotel, restaurant, excursion, etc. you would like us to feature.

Thank you for your business and the opportunity to collaborate on your travel dreams.

I look forward to arranging your next great adventure.

-Beth Mollo Backpacking Magazine - page 3

Explore

Spain

Explore

Spain

+ Things to know about where to go Spain, which is located in southwest Europe on the Liberian PenĂ­nsula, is known for it vast and alluring geography. With diverse cities that are famous around the world, picturesque villiages steeped in charm and maritime towns where you can enjoy activites by the sea there is just so much to see and explore. With architectural wonders, world renowned cuisine, fantastic festivals and beaches that could rival any other there is truly something for everyone and is a must add to any bucket list.

Spain’s Major Cities Seville Known for its world class art and monuments Seville is a must see. With is design heavy renovated downtown there are great sights to see everywhere you look as well as great shopping and dining options.

Barcelona With something for everyone Barcelona is both a cosmopolitan and mediterranean destination with everything in between.

Valencia This is a city that is located beside the sea that combines tradition and modernity. It is also well know for its amazing cuisine.

Don’t forget to check out the latest Virtuoso Life!

Bilbao This beautiful city is known for its food dishes and it’s unique architecturally designed buildings.

Malaga Overlooking the sea, it is home to spacious parks for strolling, charming squares and a pleasant climate all year round.

Palma The cathedral, its modernist architecture, Bellver Castle and its courtyards are just a few of the attractions it has to offer.

Madrid Madrid is full of world-class art and green space, much of which is free to the public.

Spain

Tips from the Locals When to eat

Spain has a much different schedule than here in the US. Lunch will be after 2PM and dinner will be after 9PM. As you can imagine, with the later eating hours, this means that nightlife really doesnt kick off until well after midnight.

The best time to travel in Spain is the spring and fall The best weather occurs during the months of April, May, June, September, and October

Words/phrases you should know Spanish people are known for being very friendly and willing to help.

Here are so key phrases you should know to help you get around easier.

Please – por favor Thank you – gracias The bill – la cuenta Where is ….. – Donde está ……

Bathroom – aseos (you will often see aseos instead of baños here) How much does it cost? – Cuánto cuesta?

I’m ….. OR my name is – Soy XXXX OR Me llamo XXXX Nice to meet you – “encantado” if you’re male and “encantada” if you are female We are going to the airport – Vamos al aeropuerto Bye/see you later – adios/hasta luego

Seaside Destinations Spain has some of the best beaches in the world. You’ll find a whole range of different destinations where you can enjoy them all along the Spanish coast, including everything from large seaside cities to enchanting fishing villages.

Inland Destinations Discover the multitude of attractions Spain has to offer far from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Everything from mediaeval towns and fortified cities to villages set in natural landscapes of outstanding beauty.

Art & Culture In Spain you’ll find unique monuments, as well as outstanding museums and masterpieces of universal art.

You can stroll around cities that will transport you back to past times, and choose from an exciting array of cultural events

Gastronomy Spain is world renowned for its cusine and the choices are endless. No matter what your taste buds desire you are sure to find something you will like.

Featured Experience

Regent Seven Sea Cruises One of the best ways to see Europe is on a cruise. Regent Seven Sea Cruises offers a unique and valuable option for travelers to see more of Spain than possible by land only. Aboard the Regent Seven Seas Mariner you will discover Spain in a brand-new way intimately getting to know each destinations sights and sounds as well as their amazing art and cuisine.

Regent Seven Seas is the ultimate all-inclusive experience including food, beverage and all shore excursions. Here is a recommended upcoming itinerary for your next trip!

Itinerary Day 1 Barcelona, Spain Day 2 Ibiza, Spain Day 3 Valencia, Spain Day 4 Gidraltar, United Kingdom Day 5 Tangier, Morocco Day 6 Seville, Spain Day 7 Lisbon, Portugal Day 8 Lisbon, Portugal

Exclusive

World Travel Experiences

Caribbean Cornucopia Crystal Symphony

14 Days: Departs November 14, 2015 Book by August 31st, 2015 and save up to $1,500 per person!

Itinerary Nov 14 Miami, Florida Nov 15 Cruising the Straits of Florida Nov 16 Cozumel, Mexico Nov 17 Grand Cayman/George Town, British West Indies Nov 18 Jamaica/Montego Bay Nov 19 Cruising the Caribbean Sea Nov 20 Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic Nov 21 San Juan, Puerto Rico Nov 22 Tortola/ Road Town, British Virgin Islands Nov 23 St. Barts/Gustavia, French West Indies Nov 24 St. Kitts/Basse Terre, West Indies Nov 25 Cruising the Atlantic Ocean Nov 26 Turks & Caicos/ Grand Turk, United Kingdom Nov 27 Cruising the Atlantic Ocean Nov 28 Miami, Florida Virtuoso Rates: Virtuoso Deluxe Oceanview fares from $3970 per person Virtuoso Exclusive: Virtuoso Voyager Club shore event in San Juan, welcome reception and onboard Virtuoso host.

Exclusive

World Travel Experiences

Fairmont Hamilton Princess: Summer in Bermuda Hamilton, Bermuda

3 Nights: Available for stays through September 7th, 2015 Book by July 31st, 2015 Experience Includes: 3 Nights accommodations (stay must include a Friday or Saturday) 20% saving on room rates $200 resort credit Virtuoso Exclusives: Room upgrade upon arrival, if available Breakfast daily for 2 $100 resort credit Early check-in and late checkout, if available

Exclusive

World Travel Experiences

Acqualina Resort & Spa Sunny Isles, Florida

4 Nights: Available for stays through September 30th, 2015 Book by September 27th, 2015 Extend your stay and receive a complimentary fourth night to experience everything the resort has to offer! Relax at the beautiful beach or pool, unwind at the award winning ESPA Spa by Acqualina, and choose from an array of dining options including the acclaimed II Mulino, New York.

Experience Includes: Extend your stay- enjoy a complimentary 4th night!

Virtuoso Exclusives: Room upgrade on arrival, if available Buffet breakfast daily for 2 $100 Spa Services credit Complimentary spa access to the thermal heat areas (including the Crystal Steam Rooms and Finnish Saunas) Early check-in and late checkout, if available Virtuoso Rates from $394 per night

Tech News: Travel Toys

The Minipresso: The Minipresso is the perfect travel companion for espresso lovers. It’s lightweight ,compact and very easy to use. Whether you are traveling somewhere and don’t want to leave your espresso behind or just looking for a convenient and easy to use on the go espresso maker this is a great addition for any espresso lover.

The DxO One: Due to be released in September 2015 the DxO One pocket sized DSLR-quality camera is set to change the way we think about photo and video on iphones and compact cameras in general. The camera weighs 3.8 ounces and stands just 2.65 inches tall, despite a 1-inch a 20.2 megapixel sensor and f/1.8 lens, 32mm-equivalent lens.

It can be used with a iPhone,ipad or as a standalone camera. The DxO One does not have its own flash, but it can leverage the iPhone flash.

Whether you use the flash or not, the camera is meant to excel in low light. Although it’s price tag of $599 may seem steep it is meant to compete against full-sized “mirrorless” cameras.

FlightTrack: FlightTrack is an app for the iPhone that takes the guess work out of your travel day.

The app keeps real time updates of your flight status so that you know immediately if your flight is on time or has been delayed. It is great not only for the person traveling but for peace of mind for any loved ones so they know when you have arrived at your destination.

Tech News: Travel Toys

The Shelfpack: The Shelfpack is a game changer for travelers that live out of their suitcase. With four built-in shelves and three outer pocket compartments perfect for toiletries. No longer do you have to worry about wrinkling your favorite outfit.

Listen to your music underwater: With the combinations of the waterproof ipod shuffle and the Swimbuds Sport Waterproof Headphones listening to music underwater has never been easier. Swim to your favorite tunes and change your entire underwater experience.

Mophie Space Pack: Not only does the latest release from Mophie double the life of your battery it also doubles the amount of data storage, your phone can hold so you can pack your phone full of your favorite movies, pictures and music. Mophie Spack Pack also comes with a companion app that syncs with your itunes and photo gallery for a user friendly experience.

Shared Discoveries In addition to my own personal travel research and experiences, I have access to many travel team associates who gladly share their discoveries to our mutual benefit.

Please enjoy their insights, and let me know how we can utilize this knowledge to plan your next adventure.

Tibet..through the eyes of Amanda Klimak Tibet has always been on my radar, as it represents a place of mystery and magic Our trip was filled with visits to monasteries, glorious hikes, and educational opportunitites incorporating the history, culture, religion and overall life in the region The altitude can be tricky, as this area earned it’s nickname as “The Ceiling of the World�,The landscape is truly mind blowing, with high mountains surrounding you, and the Tibetan people and monks could not have been nicer. It is definitely a destination for those who are willing to put aside some of the creature comforts to be where only a few people speak English And, .. I would highly recommend this destination to the adventurous traveler.

Shared Discoveries Virtuoso Life told me to GO NOW!!!

Bhutan..as expereinced by Sharon Johnson They call it the land of ‘ happiness’ and now we know why..

What an amazing experience..what an amazing destination We made the ultímate climb to the Tigers Nest... This was the reason we went to Bhutan ..YEAH!!

When traveling to Bhutan you have go with a recognized tour company that pre-arranges flights ,hotel, food, driver, guide and entrance fees. ... Government Tourist board rules require you to spend a minimum of $250 pp per day... No back packers allowed or encouraged.

GO NOW !! Just Sayin!

Shared Discoveries

Safari Endeavor (Un-cruise)..as enjoyed by Kathy Moran Recently I spent seven nights on the 84 passenger Safari Endeavor on a Baja Adventure Cruise, exploring the Sea of Cortez. The public spaces were relaxed and the Endeavor had three decks with outside ample viewing opportunities and two hot tubs. What did Un-Cruise deliver beautifully? A blend of expedition cruising and water play in marine life-rich waters. The itinerary had to be flexible, depending on conditions, and several times we found ourselves at beautifully isolated beaches. Passengers were able to snorkel among gentle whale sharks and with playful sea lion pups. The ship featured a launch platform on the back of the ship for ease in boarding kayak and standup paddle boards. We also enjoyed a desert burro ride and time with a local family on one of the islands.The food was plated at every meal and beyond delicious! The sunrise/sunsets were fantastic, yoga on deck started the day with complimentary massage offered to all passengers. The charming Baja towns of La Paz and the mission town of Loreto were a favorite among many.

Shared Discoveries

India ..as witnessed by Bill Lynch India, the land of culture, many religions, spicy food, the second largest population in the world (both rich and very poor), the largest laundry operation in the world, one of the seven wonders of the world (Taj Mahal). and more. It was impossible to see all these things in 10 days but what I saw was a good reason to want to go back and see more. It offered me many things (spiritual and life experiences in another part of the world). The children in the picture showed me how grateful, just a simple apple could bring them joy.

Shared Discoveries

Raising a (fine!) glass of wine … with Trisha Iannazzi In April I traveled to France to participate in the International Wine Tourism Conference being held in La Champagne this year. Enroute I was delighted to sample the luxurious ambience and service on board La Compagnie’s 74-passenger all business class flight from Newark to Paris. Truly the best bargain in the sky! The conference and workshop was amazing as always with presentations by wine tourism professionals from every corner of the world and champagne flowing freely morning, noon and night. Following all that tiresome business, we were treated to winery and cellar visits throughout the region and even included a magical visit to Renoir’s House and Studio in Essoyes.

Walking the streets of Hautvilliers in the footsteps of Dom Perignon was awesome! This is a gorgeous region of France just an hour east of Paris and offers limitless opportunities for wine lovers. Following a week here, I caught up on the latest and greatest in Paris including a stay in a magnificent suite at the exquisite Virtuoso property, Espirit St. Germain. Definitely missing my glass of champagne today .......

Shared Discoveries

Wind in my sails aboard Windstar.. as seen by Lena Brown I just returned from an incredible Italy trip on Windstar Cruise Line.

How quickly you can get comfortable with life on Windstar. It feels like you are cruising on your own private yacht with a group of friends.

There were only 210 guests on our yacht, so we were able to get to know guests from around the world and we all just enjoyed life together.

Windstar does an amazing job rolling out the Red Carpet for all their guests. They even arranged a private event to the Gambino family vineyard. We tasted world class wines while being paired with a traditional Sicilian lunch, and were entertained by true Sicilian musicians. A fabulous bonus event all included in our sailing.

I began my trip in Rome and with so much to see and do in Rome, I highly recommend a night or two before boarding your ship.

Shared Discoveries

Dubai should be calling your name..as reported by Ken Sause I have just returned from a visit to UAE’s Dubai to tour the newest hotel properties and also to take a look at the recently opened second Dubai airport- Dubai World Center ( DWC).

It is a happening place for sure. A visa is not required in advance for USA visitors and English is widely spoken. In a city known for having only the biggest and the best, these hotels are a Superior addition.

The beach-located Four Seasons Dubai is as royal as a city full of palaces may offer a luxury visitor. Every regular Four Seasons expectation is exceeded, and dropping in for a gin & tea at the friendly Hendrick’s Bar gives one a moment to pause on how much a stay here fulfills.

Over in elegant Marina City district (and closer to the DWC airport that will be fully opened for the 2020 Expo...when Emirates move their base), one can visit the most unusual modern Inter-Continental property that opened weeks ago. Clever art, spacious W-style bedrooms and non-traditional Dubai decor mark this water-edge high rise. Dhow boats sail in the harbor which is surrounded by promenade eateries offering international cuisine.

Shared Discoveries

Tanglewood & Lenox ‘combo’.. as enjoyed by Tina Posila Recently stayed at the Kemble Inn in Lenox, Mass.... A WONDERFUL 12 room mansión that has been beautifully restored...All rooms are spacious, have working wood fireplaces and are and nicely decorated...

Table Six is their fine dining restaurant..the executive chef, Ron Reda was a former WHITEHOUSE chef and the sous chef previously worked for the RITZ Carlton Hotel Corp. Great for a quick get away or romantic stay.

Shared Discoveries Costa Rican wanderings..as reported by Marianne Kochanek I recently experienced Costa Rica…and fell in love again & again..

Our first stop was at the La Paz Waterfall Gardens & Peace Lodge. It was amazing. We were enjoyd a Deluxe Guest Room and it was superb The bathroom was as large the bedroom. King size bed with a canopy with a gas fireplace on a timer so you could go to sleep by firelight. A balcony with a 2 person jetted bathtub and a view of the property.

The bathroom had 2 waterfalls, a jacuzzi and was so tropical. needless to say, I will return again and stay in the very same room!

A guided tour of the La Paz waterfalls is included. It takes several hours to see all of the wildlife preserve. Toucans perched on our arms, we fed hummingbirds who perched on our hands, released butterflies....and then there are the waterfalls.

They have breathtaking waterfalls right on the property...many stairs, but the end of our two nights our calves were aching. This is an important component to share with our clients....lot’s of stairs and walking.

I would suggest a stay of 3 nights. As it’s very relaxing and inspiring.

We then drove to The Springs, their sister property near Arenal. Such a different feel....but also beautiful. They have many hot springs to enjoy on the property. .. off property be sure to expereince the Sky Trek Zip Line and enjoy the Mistico Hanging Bridges. We also had a tour of Tabacon and spent a day in their thermal pools - definitely worth a day pass!

We ended our trip at the Costa Rica Marriott Hotel San Jose for one night before flying home....a beautiful hotel and a perfect ending to our trip.