‘The bow doors have opened’ as Dover to Calais bookings rise by more than 55%
Ferry services to Europe have reported a ticket sales rise of more than 50% as holidaymakers book summer breaks after Brexit was delayed.
Holidaymakers had been warned of potential difficulties travelling to the continent, especially by car and ferry, in the event of a no-deal Brexit. The decision to put Britain’s date of departure from the European Union back from 29 March to at least the end of May, and possibly 31 October, has unleashed a wave of ticket sales.
Bookings on the Dover-Calais route have increased 55% on last year over the past seven days. Overall, there has been a 52% uplift in ticket sales across the 13 ferry routes between the UK and other European countries.
Direct Ferries, which sells tickets across Channel ferry routes and operators, said there had been triple-digit percentage growth in bookings on some longer channel crossings, such as those linking the south of England with Brittany and Spain.
Millions of Norwegians are officially off for Norway’s long five-day Easter holiday weekend that began on Thursday, with more than half of them out travelling within the country or heading abroad. There’s little sign they’re sacrificing holiday travel out of concern for the climate or the carbon emissions that flying and driving can generate.
Norwegian Air’s carbon emissions rose 51 percent between 2013 and 2018, largely because of its route expansion. The airline itself claims that emissions per passenger-kilometer have declined 30 percent since 2008 because of more fuel-efficient aircraft. PHOTO: Norwegian Air
Oslo’s main airport at Gardermoen reported more huge numbers of people passing through last weekend, as many seized the opportunity to get 10 days off in a row for the price of just three vacation days from work (Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday). A new survey conducted by research firm Kantar/TNS for the national tourism employers’ organization NHO Reiseliv shows that nearly 20 percent of those out traveling flew to other countries in Europe or beyond.
Others hit the road, loading up the car and driving to mountain cabins for spring skiing, opening up holiday homes along the coast, or visiting family and friends. Fully 78 percent of those reporting that they’d leave home during the Easter holidays planned to travel to another location in Norway.
“The vast majority of Norwegians still view Easter holidays within Norway as their top choice,” Kristin Krohn Devold, a former defense minister who now heads NHO Reiseliv, told news bureau NTB.
‘The new coal’
With 55 percent of those questioned replying that they’d leave home during Easter, the travel bug continues to bite, and that worries climate activists. Oslo newspaper Dagsavisen recently reported how another new study shows that an airline now ranks as one of the 10 largest sources of carbon emissions in Europe.
The dubious distinction went to Ryanair, according to the study conducted by the organization Transport & Environment (T&E). Norway’s chapter of Friends of the Earth, Naturvernforbundet, is among the members of T&E and was sounding alarms before the Easter holidays even began.
“When it comes to the climate, Ryanair is the new coal,” claimed Andrew Murphy, aviation chief at T&E. The organization used EU data showing emissions development for around 14,000 companies in various sectors. The nine biggest generators of carbon emissions were coal-driven power plants, topped by Belchatow of Poland, which released 38 million tons of carbon last year. The 10th spot on the list was Ryanair, whose flights around Europe released 9.9 million tons of CO2 in 2018.
Route expansion to blame
Norway’s two biggest airlines, Norwegian Air and SAS, released far less, at 2.8 million- and 2.5 million tons respectively, “but that’s more than what all the diesel vehicles in Norway released in 2017,” Holger Schlaupitz of Naturvernforbund told Dagsavisen. Norwegian’s carbon emissions growth from 2013 to 2018 hit 51 percent, much higher than SAS’ 6 percent and reflecting Norwegian’s major route expansion. Ryanair’s growth was 49 percent, while carbon emissions for airlines flying within Europe rose 26 percent on average.
While carbons emissions are falling in most other sectors including coal, they’re rising within the aviation sector because of the strong growth in airline traffic. Schlaupitz notes that Norwegians have contributed to that growth with 52 million passengers passing through state airport agency Avinor’s airports last year. That’s more than double the number in 1993.
“It’s clear that it’s too cheap for airline traffic to pollute, and that the prices for jet fuel are relatively low,” Schlaupitz claimed. He has no faith that either more fuel-efficient aircraft, electric aircraft or more use of biofuels will cut emissions from airline traffic, as long as it continues to grow.
Political approval for more airline traffic growth
All indications are that it will. Avinor actively seeks new airline routes from its airports and offers incentives to the airlines to get them. Avinor also remains keen to build a third runway at OSL Gardermoen. A majority in Parliament (formed by the government parties and the Labour Party) voted down a measure proposed by other more-climate-oriented parties in opposition to block it.
The airlines, meanwhile, defend their emissions growth by contending that their aircraft have reduced emissions per passenger-kilometer. Norwegian Air claims its emissions per passenger-kilometer have declined by 30 percent since 2008 because of major investment in new, more emissions-friendly aircraft.
“Last year Norwegian paid more than NOK 1.3 billion in so-called ‘environmental fees’ to the EU’s quota system, CO2 taxes on domestic routes and the airline seat tax in Norway and Sweden,” Norwegian Air spokesman Lasse Sandaker-Nielsen told Dagsavisen. He added that Norwegian Air continues to call for a CO2 fund that could be used to promote environmental goals.
The birds know it’s morning before you do. A single sweet note breaks the velvety silence and is quickly joined by a chorus of birdsong. Grape leaves rustle as some small creature wanders through the vineyard in search of breakfast. The inky darkness lightens to smoky grey and then brightens to gold as sunlight spills molten over the bluffs across the valley.
It’s another perfect day in wine country. And there are few places better to greet it than right here on the Golden Mile Bench.
Watching the sun rise from the guest villas at Hester Creek Estate Winery.JOANNE SASVARI
The bench is a steep, sandy, gravelly, loamy slope just south of Oliver, pop. 5,000, the little town known as the Wine Capital of Canada. It’s British Columbia’s first sub-geographical indication, a unique place within wine country that just happens to be the perfect spot to grow lush Chardonnay and elegant Merlot. Some of B.C.’s greatest producers can be found here doing just that, among them Culmina Family Estate Winery, CheckMate Artisanal Winery, Tinhorn Creek Vineyards, Fairview Cellars, Road 13 Vineyards and Hester Creek Estate Winery.
Days move lazily here, broken by delicious moments. Hop in the car—or on your bike, though it’s easier to load cases of wine in your car—and meander along the numbered country roads that lead to Black Sage Road across the valley, where wineries produce peppery Syrahs and voluptuous Viognier. Head north, past the massive boulder known as McIntyre Bluff, and you’ll bump into Penticton’s twin sandy beaches. Head south, and you’ll find yourself in the desert surrounding Osoyoos and, just a few metres further, the U.S. border. But here, between the Golden Mile and Black Sage benches, it’s all rolling hills striped with vineyards, and hidden in their folds, people who want to give you lovely things to eat and drink.
You’ll need a central location to start from, a home base. A guest house like the Tuscan-style ones at Hester Creek Estate Winery will do quite nicely. They have kitchenettes, comfy furniture and, perched as they are high above the winery, patios with sweeping views across vineyards and valley. You can make yourself right at home without having to worry about pesky details like bringing in the harvest.
Hester Creek winemaker Rob Summers with a handful of grapes.JOANNE SASVARI
The winery itself is historic in this valley. Fifty years ago, back when everyone else in the Okanagan was still planting hybrid varieties like Vidal and Marechal Foch, an Italian immigrant named Joe Busnardo planted the first vitis vinifera here, including the Trebbiano vines that still produce a bright, crisp white wine each spring. The wines he made from these noble grapes were, by all accounts, terrible, but he proved that they would thrive here.
In the 1980s, Busnardo opened Divino Estate Winery on the site, and when he sold it in 1996, the new owners named it for the creek that runs along the south side of the property. In 2004, Prince George businessman Curt Garland bought the winery and hired Rob Summers, a veteran winemaker from Niagara, to produce its wines, which, please note, are no longer terrible. Far from it. The Cabernet Franc is elegant yet approachable, all black fruit and violets, and the Bordeaux blend known as The Judge is a powerful combination of juicy fruit and supple tannins.
Grab a bottle (or two) from the wine shop and some cheese and charcuterie from Oliver Eats, the new gourmet deli from local chef Derek Uhlemann. Or pick up some authentic tacos al pastor from El Sabor De Marina, the turquoise-blue Mexican food stand just outside town, if you can wait till you get home to dive into their savoury depths. Or, if you’re feeling adventuresome, head out to one of the great restaurants in the neighbourhood, which, happily, are all located at wineries: Miradoro at Tinhorn Creek Vineyards, The Sonora Room at Burrowing Owl Estate Winery, Masala Bistro at Kismet Estate Winery, or Terrafina right here, just down the hill at Hester Creek.
Chef Bernard Casavant of RauDZ Creative Concepts serves an al fresco lunch on the patio at Terrafina Restaurant.JOANNE SASVARI
About a year ago, chef Rod Butters’ RauDZ Creative Concepts took over the Tuscan-themed restaurant, and while chef de cuisine James Hanna still takes inspiration from the Mediterranean, Terrafina’s new menu is proudly local and seasonal. It abounds in pastas, risottos and pizzas made with fresh local produce. Though truth be told, you could simply order the fully customizable boards that come loaded with marinated veg, cured meats and cheeses and be perfectly happy sipping wine at a patio table and watching the glow from the setting sun dance across the vines.
From Terrafina, it’s just a short stroll under the stars back to your guest villa. The night falls gently here, cool and fragrant, cattle lowing softly in the hills, birds trilling goodnight. Rest well in your suite, happy in the knowledge that tomorrow you can do it all again.
If you go
Getting there:
Both Air Canada and WestJet fly into Penticton airport. From there, it’s a 40-minute drive south to Oliver. However, if you plan to bring back wine, you might prefer the scenic five-hour drive from Vancouver along Highway 3.
While you’re in the south Okanagan, the hop-on, hop-off OK Wine Shuttle is a safe way to get to most of the wineries.
Staying there:
The new Coast Oliver Hotel is central, convenient and pet-and child-friendly.
For a more luxurious stay, head to the Tuscan-style Hester Creek Estate Winery Guest Villas—six well-appointed suites with a gourmet breakfast included—but be sure to book well in advance, especially during peak season.
Visit the local winery restaurants: Miradoro at Tinhorn Creek Vineyards, The Sonora Room at Burrowing Owl Estate Winery, Masala Bistro at Kismet Estate Winery, and Terrafina at Hester Creek Estate Winery.
When I arrive in a new city, I book a private guide straightaway — someone who can bring the city’s architecture, history and culture to life. Lately, in the spirit of experiential sightseeing, I’ve been taking specialized tours that highlight unique, local experiences or historical themes. Particularly in big cities, I’ve found all kinds of focused tours, from guided night walks to musical pub crawls.
One of the most popular sightseeing trends is food tours, which reward travellers with a full meal, a local’s insights, and edible memories. For about $100, you can eat your way through a few neighbourhoods in a few hours, while an expert explains the history and tradition behind each dish. Depending on the cuisine, tours might be centred around a series of informal stand-up gourmet-snack stops, or several more formal dining experiences.
Unsurprisingly, my latest food tour in Paris was a delicious mix of culinary enlightenment and carbs. My guide taught me how to scrutinize and savour baguettes, croissants and cheese, and how to appreciate the French as expert eaters.
More adventurous foodies should seek out food tours in unlikelier places. For example, Poland’s bigger cities — particularly Warsaw — offer fascinating and flavourful food tours with a focus on vodka, fermenting techniques (for dishes like borscht), and hardy stews that originated in the country’s peasant past. These tours provide valuable perspective on how food affects culture, and vice versa.
Guided food tours provide thoughtful explanations of the authentic foods we travel so far to taste. (Dominic Arizona Bonuccelli photo)
To work off the food-tour calories, consider a bike tour. Some cities lend themselves well to cycling — and flat Copenhagen is the best of any. You’ll get to know the lay of the land efficiently, accompanied by a fun and opinionated Dane, and you’ll likely stumble upon charming corners of the Danish capital that many travellers miss. You also get a sense for local daily life, as many Danes regularly commute by bike, and stop at a few important sights (my tour finished at that must-see lady on the rock, the Little Mermaid statue).
If hard-hitting history is more to your liking, it’s well worth spending an afternoon on a tour led by academics with a passion for a specific historical era, political figure, or artistic movement. In Barcelona, I like historian and author Nick Lloyd’s deep dive into the Spanish Civil War. Both he and his partner are enthusiastic teachers, taking small groups on highly regarded walks through the Old Town to explain the war’s social context and significance in Barcelona.
Context in artwork is also much easier to absorb with a guide at your side. During my latest visit to the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, I was inspired by the local art historian who led my tour. I was better able to appreciate Johannes Vermeer’s 17th-century “intimate genre” paintings, which focus on domestic interiors — unique in a time when artists were normally supported by lofty patrons. During the Dutch Golden Age of the 1600s, trading ships roamed the globe and made Amsterdam wealthy. No longer ruled by the Habsburg king or obedient to the pope, the Dutch were a Protestant republic — fiercely independent and proud. Even without relying on the typical nobles, kings, and Catholic Church as patrons, Dutch artists still did just fine.
For a fresh perspective on daytime sightseeing, try a night walk. One of my favourites is Rothenburg’s Night Watchman tour — it’s flat-out the most entertaining hour of medieval wonder anywhere in Germany. The tour is as funny as it is informative, and “watchman” Georg, who for years has led visitors on this walk every night with a Cal Ripken-like constancy, manages to keep his jokes as fresh as if he’s just coming up with them for the first time. And as much as I enjoy hearing the Night Watchman’s stories yet again, it’s even more delightful to watch the enthralled faces of his younger audience members, eyes wide like those of any traveller who’s open to embracing new experiences.
Ghost walks are also popular in many cities with an old-timey core, and provide local lore and colour. While many have a well-earned reputation for being too silly to be worthwhile, I do enjoy the ones in York. On any given night, costumed characters bring out the dark side of the medieval centre’s atmospherically narrow lanes. Some tours are more historically based; others are more like street theatre than a walking tour — but all tell engaging tales of history, violence and mayhem.
And in Dublin, I like to spend an evening on a Musical Pub Crawl, getting a (literal) taste of local culture. A few Dubliner musicians meet each group in a pub and, over the course of the evening (and several pints of beer), lead you through three pubs. Along the way, they let you in on the back stories behind Ireland’s musical traditions in a way that’ll deepen your appreciation for Irish tunes far into the future.
There’s a tour for practically every curiosity and attention span. Pick your topic, take advantage of local expertise, and enjoy Europe’s most intimate cultural experiences.
Egypt is the hottest destination billionaires are traveling to this year, according to boutique luxury travel agency Original Travel, which plans trips for high-net-worth individuals.
The country came in first in Original Travel’s ranking of top destinations where billionaires are headed in 2019, which it determined by looking at the number of bookings and performance; the latter was assessed by a combination of feedback and client inquiries. Their 2019 bookings for Egypt are set to triple last year’s bookings, Amelia Stewart, brand ambassador for Original Travel, told Business Insider.
You don’t have to look far to see Egypt’s appeal: It has a rich Pharaonic history and plenty of iconic landmarks, not to mention Greek, Roman, and Islamic influences to explore.
Like most travelers, billionaires visit Egypt to soak up its sights and history – but they do so while taking advantage of Egypt’s plentiful luxury offerings, from fine dining restaurants in Cairo to beach resorts along the coast of the Red Sea.
Below, see what’s propelling billionaires to visit Egypt – and what they’re doing when they get there. Prices indicated for hotels are representative of rates booked two months in advance.
Scottsdale is known for its excellent restaurant scene but on a recent press visit, our host suggests something a little different — dinner in the desert.
So, about 4 o’clock on a warm afternoon, me and about eight colleagues pile into two shiny black SUVs for a trek in the Sonoran Desert to dine on gourmet goodies under the stars.
After leaving the main road, we pass the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy — some 12,140 hectares of pristine, protected desert land and mountains that fall within Scottsdale’s borders. The largest urban land preserve in the United States, it has 320 km of well-maintained trails that can be explored on foot, bike or horseback.
But we turn onto a road less travelled and continue driving until the asphalt ends, the road narrows and the gravel gives way to dirt. Soon we arrive at a clearing, where we’re greeted by Matt Cooley and Olivia Laux, the recently married couple behind Cloth & Flame.
Matt Cooley and Olivia Laux, the couple behind Cloth & Flame. The company holds large and small dinners and events in unusual outdoor places. ROBIN ROBINSON/SPECIAL TO POSTMEDIA NETWORK
Along with a crew of two, Cooley and Laux are hauling coolers, and setting up tables, chairs, lights and barbecues for our desert dining experience.
Cloth & Flame specializes in creating culinary “experiences” in unconventional places. These can be community or corporate events, private dinners like this one, or weddings. The couple have a passion for the wilderness, and have hosted events in “wild landscapes everywhere from the Grand Canyon to an Alaska mountainside,” Cooley says.
Their work has a conservancy aspect, too. They lease the land where events are held, providing income to landowners who might otherwise sell to developers. And they donate 10% of dinner proceeds to groups that protect wild places and wildlife, he adds.
This dinner is taking place on part of the Quarter Circle U Ranch in the storied Superstition Mountains.
Table set up with lights for a gourmet dinner in the desert near the Superstition Mountains with Cloth & Flame. ROBIN ROBINSON/SPECIAL TO POSTMEDIA NETWORK
While the crew prepares hors d’ouvres, we sip margaritas as we amble among the scrub brush and take photos of teddy bear cholla, saguaro and other cacti, paolo verde and mesquite trees, and mountain peaks in the distance.
Cooley, who is a fount of knowledge, answers questions about desert geography, geology, flora and fauna. He also warns us to watch out for holes in the soft dirt as these may house small animals or snakes.
Fortunately, we don’t disturb — or even see — any snakes!
While noshing on our starter — fig and brie crostini with sunflower sprouts — we watch the setting sun cast long shadows over the landscape and eventually sink behind a mountain and disappear.
A platter of appetizers — fig and brie crostini with sunflower sprouts — served during a recent desert dinner. ROBIN ROBINSON/SPECIAL TO POSTMEDIA NETWORK
As if on cue, millions of stars appear — spectacularly bright in the crystal clear midnight blue sky. Soon it’s time to gather ’round the table.
Our feast includes delicious meat and vegetarian dishes — melon and cabbage-sprout salad with rosemary-shallot vinaigrette; smoked salmon tartare with farm greens; roasted beet tartare; grilled filet mignon with roasted potato; green beans and charred pumpkin in red wine sauce; and a quinoa, roasted potato, green bean and pumpkin casserole. Each course is super delish and paired with a different wine.
Cooley joins our table after dessert — warm apple tart tartin — and spins some lively yarns about the Superstition Mountains, including the legend of the Lost Dutchman’s Gold Mine, which people still search for today.
Relaxed, happy and savouring the good food, good wine and good company, it’s the perfect end to our perfect dinner in the desert.
DESERT DETAILS
Private dinners with Cloth & Flame must be booked well in advance. Diners should wear sturdy, closed-in shoes and bring a sweater or light jacket as the temperature dips after sunset. Wondering about bathroom facilities? Events are held near places with access to washrooms, or Cloth & Flame sets up porta-potties on site. Cooley and Laux are also building some wilderness camping resorts. They aim to have one open in October. For information, see clothandflame.com.
View of hot air balloons taken during a “flight” over the Sonoran Desert with Hot Air Expeditions. ROBIN ROBINSON/SPECIAL TO POSTMEDIA NETWORK
MORE DESERT EXPOSURE
Dining in the desert is not the only way to see the spectacular landscapes of the Sonoran. Visitors who don’t mind heights can get a thrilling bird’s-eye view from a hot air balloon.
Our group took a sunrise ride with Hot Air Expeditions, who picked us up from our hotel and drove us out to their launch site.
Before climbing into the hand-crafted wicker basket, we were given a short safety talk and were able to see dozens of colourful balloons being filled first with cold air, then hot in preparation for takeoff.
After lifting off, and soaring to about 1,525 metres, we enjoyed 360-degree views for about an hour.
A crew member from Hot Air Expeditions blows heated air into a balloon in preparation for takeoff. ROBIN ROBINSON/SPECIAL TO POSTMEDIA NETWORK
The first thing that struck me was how quiet it was far above the ground. While we were moving about 10 km/h, it hardly felt as if we were moving at all.
From our lofty perch, we could spy mountain ranges dotted with saguaro cacti, small animals such as jackrabbits and coyotes — even a few burros.
After a soft landing back on earth, flutes of Champagne were handed out, a gourmet breakfast was served and we all received “flight” certificates.
Dozens of Arizona companies offer these rides but Hot Air Expeditions is one of the oldest and has an excellent safety record. Sunset flights are also available. See hotairexpeditions.com.
NIGHT TIME AT THE OASIS
There is always something interesting to see at the 57-hectare Desert Botanical Garden (DBG) in Phoenix.
The living museum showcases some 50,000-plus plants that not only survive, but thrive in the world’s hottest places. The collection is organized into themed loop trails and galleries focusing on desert living, discovery, wildflowers and more.
The trails are home to about 14,000 cacti, 186 species of agave, and 400 species that are rare or endangered. About one-third of the plants are native to the area.
A sound and light installation called Electric Desert turns Phoenix’s Desert Botanical Garden into another world at night. The exhibit runs through May 12. ROBIN ROBINSON/SPECIAL TO POSTMEDIA NETWORK
Full disclosure here: I’m not good with plants. The only houseplant I have never killed is a cactus so I loved seeing the different varieties — hedgehog, beehive, prickly pear, jumping cholla, bunny ears and more — of this hardy species.
Another DBG highlight is an abundance of Arizona’s signature saguaros, which are found only in the Sonoran Desert. This mighty cactus can grow to heights of 18 metres, weigh up to 2,000 kilos and live more than 250 years!
On a previous visit, the garden had an exhibit of fantastical glass sculptures by Dale Chihuly. This time it was Electric Desert, a dream-like light and sound installation by Klip Collective. Some displays in this nighttime show appear to be moving, like the creeping devils that look like writhing snakes, or succulents that appear to have been transformed into colourful coral undulating beneath the ocean waves.
Nine swimming pools flanked by lounge areas and palm tress make up the pool complex at The Phoenician. One of Scottsdale’s top resorts. ROBIN ROBINSON/SPECIAL TO POSTMEDIA NETWORK
CHIC SLEEPS
After a day in the desert, it’s nice to come home to one of Scottsdale’s welcoming resorts. We stayed at two — The Phoenician and Mountain Shadows.
— Pampering is a specialty of The Phoenician, one of Arizona’s grandest resorts with 643 rooms (including 62 suites), 11 restaurants, nine swimming pools, 11 tennis courts and a championship golf course, all set in 101 hectares.
The recently revamped Phoenician Spa occupies a three-storey building with 24 treatment rooms, a rooftop pool with views of Camelback Mountain and eight private cabanas, hot pools, and a relaxation lounge with fireplace. There is a full menu of massages, facials and body treatments. I tried the 80-minute Hydrafacial, which combines deep cleaning, exfoliation, hydration — using antioxidants, peptides and hyaluronic acid — lymphatic drainage and LED light therapy. It is almost like a mini-renovation for your face. But it really did leave my skin glowing and the effect lasted several weeks.
My favourite thing was the Mother-of-Pearl Pool with its iridescent tiles and adult hot tub. Children have their own areas: A Kid Zone with suspension bridge and tree house, a splash pad with spray guns, tipping buckets and water spouts, and a twisting waterslide. See www.thephoenician.com.
— The original Mountain Shadows opened in 1959. Nestled between two mountains — Camelback and Mummy — the hotel took its name from the long afternoon shadows the iconic mountains cast over the property. It attracted an international crowd that included Hollywood stars of the day such as John Wayne and Elizabeth Taylor.
Today’s Mountain Shadows is a new build near the site of the original. It has 183 rooms with a retro vibe, 42 condos and suites, an excellent restaurant with open kitchen, two pools, a hi-tech gym, and an 18-hole golf course. Some of our group spent a relaxing afternoon lounging in one of the private cabanas, sipping bubbly and nibbling fresh fruit between dips in the pool.
If you buy into the popular theory that “Demographics are Destiny” (not everyone does) you probably should begin learning Chinese. Korean would be good to learn, too, especially if you expect to work in the future in the travel or hospitality industries.
That’s because Chinese consumers collectively spent nearly $258 billion on international travel last year. That’s more than twice the combined amount spent on international travel by people from the United States and Germany, the next two biggest-spending nations, combined. And the Chinese are relative newcomers when it comes to venturing beyond their nation’s borders. A smallish percentage of them travel outside of China each year, though given the size of that nation’s population even that small percentage represents well over 100 million Chinese travelers to foreign destinations.
Yet Chinese citizens flew, on average, just 65 miles last year vs. the 227 miles flown on average by U.S. residents, the 285 miles flown on average by Germans, the 271 miles flown on average by those from the United Kingdom, and the whopping 632 miles flown by the average Canadian last year.
That’s according to a recent report issued by GetGoing Travel Insurance.
What China’s high total spending on international travel and its low average number of miles flown on international travel tells us is that while only a relatively small percentage of China’s residents actually do travel outside their homeland, those who do spend a lot of money and don’t tend to go all that far. China is home to approximately 1.4 billion people, making it the most populous nation on Earth. But the low average of miles travel on international trips is the function of two factors:
· A relatively small percentage of Chinese now have the financial ability to travel internationally, though the numbers who do travel outside of China are growing rapidly every year.
· A relatively large percentage of Chinese travelers beyond their nation’s borders stay relatively close to home. In fact, a big share of them go to Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan. They go there either to visit friends and relatives who live in those places or to gamble in the casinos and or enjoy the entertainment venues in Macau and Hong Kong. Hong Kong attracted 44.5 million Chinese visitors, Macau 17.2 million and Taiwan 10.7 million.
Those numbers imply strongly that as more and more Chinese attain middle class status and the financial ability to travel internationally, and as Chinese become more and more interested in traveling visiting destinations farther and farther away from home their spending on international travel and the average distances flown will both rise exponentially.
Americans last year collectively spent about $135 billion on foreign travel according to the GetGoing report, for second place on the top 10 list of foreign travel spending. Germany ranked third at $89.1 billion. The rest of the top 10 include: the United Kingdom ($171.4 billion); France ($41.4 billion); Canada ($31.8 billion); South Korea ($30.6 billion); Italy ($27.7 billion); Australia $34.2 billion; and Russia ($31.1 billion).
Like China, South Korean’s average number of miles flown internationally is noticeably low. Right now that’s mostly because South Koreans’ most common foreign destinations are Japan, China, Thailand and the U.S. But as more South Koreans are able to afford international travel – as expected, given the strength of that nation’s economy – and as they become open to venturing further away from home and to less obvious destinations, they too, like the Chinese are likely to see a large increase in combined foreign travel spending and international miles flown.
Countless amazing beaches line the coasts of New Zealand. The island nation is known for its jaw-dropping stretches of sand, but knowing which ones to put on your itinerary can be tough for even the most choosy of beachgoers.
Whether you’re in search of a secluded gem or a well-known Instagram hotspot, we’ve compiled the best beaches for Kiwis and visitors alike. Here are 11 must-visit beaches
Koekohe Beach, Otago Coast
The Moeraki Boulders appear to have been plopped on the South Island’s coast, but they’re actually rock formations that have been gradually exposed to Koekohe Beach through erosion. Formed around 60 million years ago, the circular stones are this beach’s hallmark, their presence a welcome interruption on Koekohe’s stretch of sand. In between sunbathing sessions, inspect the boulders’ funky surface patterns — the clumps of sediment form mesmerizing displays.
Rarawa Beach, Far North
Try to picture the whitest sand you’ve ever seen, then kick that up a notch. That’s what stepping onto Rarawa Beach
in New Zealand’s Far North region looks like—so wearing sunglasses to combat the reflection off of its white silica sand comes highly recommended. When you’re not admiring the bright, soft stuff underfoot, cool off with a dip in the ocean or opt for swimming in the lagoon that forms at high tide. The country’s department of conservation offers camping on the beach, too.
Awaroa Beach, Abel Tasman National Park
Awaroa Beach is nothing if not beloved. It’s so well-liked that in 2016, almost 40,000 Kiwis banded together to buy the beach from a private entity for more than $2 million. When the sale went through, the beach was donated to New Zealand’s Department of Conservation and became part of Abel Tasman National Park. To glimpse its (public) shores and aqua-blue waters, plan to take a boat tour from Kaiteriteri or Totaranui, or hike about 4.4 miles from either Onetahuti or Totaranui.
Karekare Beach, Auckland
Surf’s up at Karekare beach, just 50 minutes outside of Auckland. Sizable waves and super-soft black sand make it a favorite among athletes and sunbathers alike. The spot, which is part of the Waitakere Ranges Regional Park, is beloved by filmmakers, too, and has been featured in works like “The Piano” and “Xena: Warrior Princess,” Those in need of some shade after a day in the sand should head inland to Kitekite Falls — a short hike through a coastal forest leads to the dramatic drop and swimming hole.
Ninety Beach Mile
This seemingly never-ending stretch of sand is also situated on the Far North’s western shores. The beach starts at Ahipara and ends at Scott Point along the country’s Aupouri Peninsula — which doesn’t actually measure 90 miles. Instead, the storied sandy strip is 54 miles. It’s thought the spot was named by horseback riders who took three days to complete their journeys. They estimated their steeds traveled at 30 miles per day, but didn’t account for the horses’ slower pace on sand. These days, travelers flock here for two main reasons: to see jaw-dropping sunsets, and to seek out left-hand surf breaks.
Cathedral Cove, the Coromandel
The entirety of the Coromandel is incredibly scenic, but Cathedral Cove is surely the spot’s crown jewel. Though it’s only a 10-minute jaunt from Hot Water Beach, the cove feels worlds away. That’s partly because it’s only accessible on foot or by boat. Pick up the trail at the northern end of Hahei Beach, wind through sandy paths for about 45 minutes, then watch panoramic views of the cathedral-like arched rock unfold in front of you. The cherry on top? It’s only a two and a half-hour drive from Auckland.
Gillespies Beach, West Coast
This beach is known for three things: sunsets, seals, and snow-capped peaks. The West Coast hangout was once the site of a gold-mining settlement — there’s even a miner’s cemetery there — but now is more popular with those seeking out golden sunset views. To the east is a jaw-dropping view of snowy Mount Cook, which lies in the distance beyond the sand. Hike up to nearby Galway Beach to spot a seal colony, where the animals sprawl out to relax beside the Tasman Sea.
Wharariki Beach, Nelson
At the tippity top of the North Island — west of Cape Farewell — lies Wharariki Beach, known for its larger-than-life rock formations, caves, sand dunes, and powerful gusts of wind. You’ll likely recognize its Archway Islands, a trio of huge (and photogenic) rocks shaped like arches. To see the place in all its glory, head down at low tide, when plenty of sand is exposed for you to make tracks in. Just make sure you wear comfortable footwear, as the beach is only accessible via a 20-minute walking track from the end of Wharariki Road.
Mount Maunganui Main Beach, Tauranga
Mount Maunganui Main Beach in a word? Breathtaking. Blue waters, green hills, and sandy stretches make for colorful contrasts. The place also quite popular, which means the busy atmosphere is consistently fun and lively. Cafes, restaurants, gift shops, and ice cream parlors line the street across from the beach, so a scoop of something sweet is never far away.
Hot Water Beach, the Coromandel
Like its name suggests, Hot Water Beach does indeed boast hot water. Within the four-hour window of low tide, beachgoers can luxuriate in the warm waters of an exposed thermal pool, either by digging one or hopping in an already-formed hole. The hot springs can rise to up to 174 degrees Fahrenheit, but when enjoyed safely, can make for a budget-friendly spa day. To balance the hot with the cold, there’s also the option to swim in the waters of Mercury Bay — just beware the surf’s rip currents.
Maitai Bay, Northland
This portion of the Karikari peninsula has been compared to the beaches of Fiji, and for good reason. Its crystal-clear waters and shining white sand are nothing short of tropical. Not to mention it’s rimmed by sweet-smelling pohutukawa trees. There’s plenty to do, too, including camping, diving, snorkelling, swimming, birdwatching, and hiking.
For the outdoor explorer: ‘100 Parks, 5,000 Ideas: Where to Go, When to Go, What to See, What to Do’ by Joe Yogerst
National Geographic turns to the United States’ and Canada’s most pristine and adventure-filled national, state, and city parks with 5,000 ideas for the ultimate vacation. Showcasing the best experiences, both obvious and unexpected, each entry in this robust guide provides an overview of the park, detailed travel advice, fascinating facts, insider knowledge about wildlife, and expert tips for hiking, biking, camping, and exploring.
For the international foodie: ‘Lonely Planet’s Ultimate Eats’ by Lonely Planet Food
The world’s top 500 food experiences — ranked. We asked the planet’s top chefs, food writers and our food-obsessed authors to name their favorite, most authentic gastronomic encounters. The result is a journey to Mozambique for piri-piri chicken, Japan for bullet train bento boxes, San Sebastian pintxos bars, and a further 497 of the most exciting eateries anywhere on Earth.”Ultimate Eats” is the follow-up to the best-selling “Ultimate Travel” and is a must-own bucket list for foodies and those who love to travel. You’ll discover the planet’s most thrilling and famous culinary experiences, the culture behind each one, what makes them so special, and why the experience is so much more than what’s in the plate, bowl or glass in front of you.
For the young traveler thinking about going solo: ‘The Solo Travel Handbook’ by Lonely Planet
Don’t let the idea of travelling alone stop you from living out your dreams. Packed with tips and advice for before and during your travels, “The Solo Travel Handbook” gives you the confidence and know-how to explore the world on your own, whether you’re planning a once-in-a-lifetime adventure or short city break.Developed with Lonely Planet’s expert travel writers, it explains how and why individual travel is such a valuable and rewarding experience. It also ranks the best destinations for road-tripping, food, nightlife, culture, island escapes and more, as well as how to fund your travels while you’re away.
For the traveler who only has time to read one book: ‘Atlas Obscura: An Explorer’s Guide to the World’s Hidden Wonders’ by Joshua Foer, Dylan Thuras, and Ella Morton
Inspiring equal parts wonder and wanderlust, “Atlas Obscura” celebrates over 700 of the strangest and most curious places in the world.Created by Joshua Foer, Dylan Thuras and Ella Morton, “Atlas Obscura” revels in the weird, the unexpected, the overlooked, the hidden and the mysterious. Every page expands our sense of how strange and marvelous the world really is. And, with its compelling descriptions, hundreds of photographs, surprising charts, maps for every region of the world, it will be as appealing to the armchair traveler as the die-hard adventurer.
For the train traveler: ‘Amazing Train Journeys’ by Lonely Planet
Experience 60 of the world’s greatest and most unforgettable train journeys, from classic long-distance trips like Western Canada’s Rocky Mountaineer and Darwin to Adelaide’s The Ghan, to little-known gems on regular commuting lines.We’ve always had a soft spot for trains. We know the moment a train pulls out of a station bound for somewhere fantastic is when the adventure truly starts. “Amazing Train Journeys” is the culmination of asking more than 200 travel writers for their absolute favorites recommendations. Some are epic international adventures, others short suburban routes along stunning coastline. There are incredible feats of engineering, trains that snake their way through mountain peaks, and even those that have achieved Unesco World Heritage status.
For the domestic traveler: ‘1,000 Places to See in the United States and Canada Before You Die’ by Patricia Schultz
Covering the US and Canada like never before, and for the first time with full-color photographs, here are 1,000 compelling, essential, offbeat, utterly unforgettable places. Pristine beaches and national parks, world-class museums and the Just for Laughs festival, mountain resorts, salmon-rich rivers, scenic byways, the Oyster Bar and the country’s best taco, lush gardens and coastal treks at Point Reyes, rafting the Upper Gauley (if you dare).And, for every entry, it includes what you need to know about how and when to visit.
For the traveler who thinks they’ve seen it all: ‘Secret Marvels of the World: 360 Extraordinary Places You Never Knew Existed and Where to Find Them’ by Lonely Planet
Featuring communist bunkers, burning gas craters, and at least one sponge-rock fluorescent grotto built by Polish monks, this book reveals weird and wonderful sights the crowds don’t reach.This packed and fascinating title takes its readers on a journey through the world’s lesser-known marvels. Dive into an underworld of the planet’s most surprising, fun, perplexing, kitsch and downright bizarre sights, and explore human stories and mysterious happenings that you won’t find inside a regular guidebook. From eerie natural wonders to historical oddities and bizarre architecture, this is a travel companion for the incurably curious.
For the geography-obsessed traveler: ‘Atlas of the World’ by Oxford University Press, Keith Lye, and Wil Tirion
The only world atlas updated annually, guaranteeing that users will find the most current geographic information, Oxford’s “Atlas of the World” is the most authoritative atlas on the market. Full of crisp, clear cartography of urban areas and virtually uninhabited landscapes around the globe, the “Atlas” is filled with maps of cities and regions at carefully selected scales that give a striking view of the Earth’s surface.It opens with a fascinating look at world statistics, a six-page special on “Land and Maritime Boundaries,” and satellite images of earth, including eight-10 stunning new images sourced from NASA’s latest Earth Observation Satellite, Landsat 8, launched in 2013.
For the national park pass holder: ‘Moon USA National Parks: The Complete Guide to All 59 Parks’ by Becky Lomax
Get inspired, get outdoors, and discover the wild beauty of the United States. Inside you’ll find coverage of all 59 national parks, from the misty mountains of the east and the redwoods of the west, to the glaciers of Alaska and volcanoes of Hawaii, organized by region, plus the best outdoor adventures in each of these parks. Choose from strategic lists and itineraries, and receive advice for linking multiple parks, interesting stops between them, and nearby attractions and state parks.In addition to gorgeous, full-color photos throughout, you’ll get a handy keepsake section for your national parks stamps and a detachable fold-out poster map.
For the hungry roadtripper: ‘Roadfood, 10th Edition: An Eater’s Guide to More Than 1,000 of the Best Local Hot Spots and Hidden Gems Across America’ by Jane and Michael Stern
The 40th anniversary edition of “Roadfood” includes 1,000 of America’s best local eateries along highways and back roads, with nearly 200 new listings, as well as a brand new design.Filled with enticing alternatives for chain-weary travelers, “Roadfood” provides descriptions of and directions to (complete with regional maps) the best lobster shacks on the East Coast; the ultimate barbecue joints down South; the most indulgent steak houses in the Midwest; and dozens of top-notch diners, hot-dog stands, ice-cream parlors, and uniquely regional finds in between. Each entry delves into the folkways of a restaurant’s locale as well as the dining experience itself, and each is written in the Sterns’ entertaining and colorful style.
For the curious, experiential traveler: ‘The Bucket List: 1,000 Adventures Big & Small’ by Kath Stathers
This invaluable guide to fun, fantastic, and life-affirming activities features an eclectic range of ideas such as self-improvement, sports-related endeavors, natural wonders, cultural experiences, culinary delights, and more. From glassblowing in the Czech Republic to swimming with dolphins in New Zealand, “The Bucket List” is the perfect gift for the passionate traveler — an around-the-world, continent-by-continent listing of beaches, museums, monuments, islands, inns, restaurants, mountains, and more.
For the outdoorsy woman: ‘She Explores: Stories of Life-Changing Adventures on the Road and in the Wild’ by Gale Straub
Beautiful, empowering, and exhilarating, “She Explores” is a spirited celebration of female bravery and courage, and an inspirational companion for any woman who wants to travel the world on her own terms.Combining breathtaking travel photography with compelling personal narratives, “She Explores” shares the stories of 40 diverse women on unforgettable journeys in nature: women who live out of vans, trucks, and vintage trailers, hiking the wild, cooking meals over campfires, and sleeping under the stars. Women biking through the countryside, embarking on an unknown road trip, or backpacking through the outdoors with their young children in tow.
For the introspective traveler: ‘Destination Earth: A New Philosophy of Travel by a World-Traveler’ by Nicos Hadjicostis
More a guide to travel than a travel guide, “Destination Earth” transforms how you view travel and its relation to life. It also provides a philosophical framework for embarking on more meaningful and purposeful travels, whether it’s an around the world journey, or an exploration of a region, or even a city.”Destination Earth” is the product of the author’s unique 6.5-year, continuous around-the-world journey, during which he visited 70 countries on 6 continents and treated the world as if it were a singledestination. From Chile and Argentina to Thailand and Japan, it explores the delicate and invisible interconnections of nations and countries, people and cultures, and delves deep into all aspects of travel and its transformational power.
For travelers who let their stomachs lead the way: ‘Great American Eating Experiences: Local Specialties, Favorite Restaurants, Food Festivals, Diners, Roadside Stands, and More’ by National Geographic
Follow the locals to their favorite foods throughout the United States, state by state, with the help of this gorgeously packaged travel planner. Anchored by regional specialties and the best places to sample them, “Great American Eating Experiences” serves up real-deal comfort foods like New Orleans Po’ Boys and Chesapeake crab cakes, sprinkled with fun food factoids, food surprises, and more.
For the ambitious road warrior: ‘National Geographic Guide to Scenic Highways and Byways, 5th Edition: The 300 Best Drives in the U.S’ by National Geographic
The fifth and latest edition provides more than 300 possibilities for spectacular getaways in your local area and throughout the 50 states. Whether you’re looking for a short day trip close to home or a several-weeks-long vacation, you’ll find a host of ideas in this beautifully illustrated, detail-packed book, which celebrates America’s regional diversity, rich history, and jaw-dropping splendor.Suggested drives include Maine’s rocky coastline, the Southeast’s mystical swamplands, the Southwest’s striking red-rock plateaus, the West’s majestic mountains, and many more.
For lovers of Nat Geo: ‘Journeys of a Lifetime, Second Edition: 500 of the World’s Greatest Trips’ by National Geographic
Compiled from the favorite trips of National Geographic’s legendary travel writers, this fully updated, 10th anniversary edition of “Journeys of a Lifetime” spans the globe to highlight the best of the world’s most celebrated and lesser-known sojourns. Offering a diverse array of possibilities, every continent and possible form of transport is covered, illustrated with glorious color photographs.With 16 new pages; new destinations like Cartegena, Colombia; and updated information throughout, this timely new edition is the perfect resource for travelers who crave adventurous trips — from trekking the heights of Mt. Kilimanjaro in Tanzania to mountain biking in Transylvania — and those searching for more specific experiences.
For anyone looking for a new perspective: ‘Overview: A New Perspective of Earth’ by Benjamin Grant
Inspired by the “Overview Effect” — a sensation that astronauts experience when given the opportunity to look down and view the Earth as a whole — the breathtaking, high definition satellite photographs in “Overview” offer a new way to look at the landscape that we have shaped.More than 200 images of industry, agriculture, architecture, and nature highlight incredible patterns while also revealing a deeper story about human impact. This extraordinary photographic journey around our planet captures the sense of wonder gained from a new, aerial vantage point and creates a perspective of Earth as it has never been seen before.
For anyone who’s considering quitting their day job to travel: ‘Not Afraid of the Fall: 114 Days Through 38 Cities in 15 Countries’ by Kyle James
After purchasing one-way flights from New York City to Paris, Kyle James and his girlfriend Ashley quit their day jobs, planned futures, and daily paradigms to see as much of the world as they could. In 114 days, they trekked across 15 countries and 38 cities with nothing but their backpacks, their smartphones, and each other.”Not Afraid of the Fall” is the unvarnished story of their off-the-cuff journey: from cliff-jumping off Croatia’s untouched coasts, to bathing with rescued elephants in Thailand; from crashing mopeds on gravelly mountain roads in Santorini, to hitchhiking with strangers in rental cars in Hungary.
When luxury is part of a hotel name, it’s natural to wonder if the reality can live up to the hype.
With the addition of 114 swim-up suites at the adults-only Luxury Bahia Principe Ambar in the Dominican Republic, the name matches the reality.
The swim-up suites offer luxury indeed with comfort and style inside–king-sized beds, large bathrooms and spacious sitting areas—and a pool just steps outside sliding-glass doors.
The Pinero Group recently celebrated the re-opening of the five-star, 528-room Punta Cana hotel after a $26 million renovation that also included updates to existing restaurants.
“We trust that our strategic approach to restoring our hotels and their amenities will help us surpass guest expectations in a hospitality landscape that is more competitive than ever,” said Encarna Pinero, CEO of Grupo Pinero, which operates 14 hotels in the Dominican Republic. “Today’s travelers look for more than pristine beaches and stunning views.”
For water lovers especially, there’s nothing more luxurious than being able to walk out the door of your suite to take a quick dip after a late night out or an early-morning swim before your day begins. Each suite is connected to a long narrow pool that runs the length of the building. Outside each suite’s door is a small patio and steps down into the pool. The patios are separate, divided for privacy.
Around The World Travel 