FROSCH Insider

Acqualina Winter Promo | Ending soon!

2012-02-24T13:00:00.000-06:00

One lucky winner will win 3 nights and 4 days of oceanside relaxation at the Acqualina Resort and Spa in Miami, Florida!! Make sure you register for a chance to win by joining us on Facebook and clicking on the “Sweepstakes” tab. Even if you’re not the lucky winner, you can still receive the following Signature amenities when you book through FROSCH:

• Continental Breakfast Buffet for two Daily

• Welcome Amenity

• $100 Credit at Costa Grill, per Room per Stay

What to do in Miami

2012-02-23T15:38:00.000-06:00

As you may know, this week we're giving away a 3-night stay at Acqualina Resort & Spa on the Beach, Miami's only five diamond resort (see below for contest entry details). Although you could spend your entire time there lounging on the beach or in the hotel's award-winning spa... there's so much to do in the area, you'll need to get out at least once or twice!

For starters, there's the legendary nightlife of Miami Beach, where actors, models, rock stars and other celebs come to play. For those new to the scene, here's a handy guide of how to get into Miami nightclubs.

If you're looking for a slower pace, Miami's shopping is world-class, as are the area's golf courses.

Just south of Miami lies Biscayne National Park, a prime spot for snorkeling, diving, boating, fishing, and catching a glimpse of some of the incredible local wildlife. You can even take part in a guided canoe tour or a fishing seminar. The whole area is spectacular for sailing, whether you charter a private yacht or rent a small dinghy.

For those with an eye for art, fashion, and design, there's the Miami Design District-- check out the website for info on special events, such as the Gallery Walk that takes place the second Saturday every month.

We're giving away a 3-night stay at Acqualina Resort & Spa on the Beach to one lucky Facebook fan this week! Join us on Facebook & click on the Sweepstakes tab to enter!

Travel headlines we'd like to see

2012-02-23T13:38:00.001-06:00

Photo credit: Travel Channel

Back in September we did a fun little piece abouttravel-themed tv shows that we want to see (“Pretty Little Fliers,” “Flight of the Dreamliners,” etc.). Imagine our surprise when we came across this article with promo pictures for a new show: Hotel Impossible. Okay, so it's not called "Extreme Hotel Makeover" as we predicted, but other than that, it fits our description from six months ago:

Take a look behind the scenes as a different resort each week races to complete their renovation before low season ends. From outrageous color palettes to sassy designers, this inspiring weekly series will soon have you shouting “Move! That! Ski Lift!”

Since our clairvoyance powers are seemingly real, here are some fantasy travel news headlines we'd like to see in the next six months*:

*These are not real. :(

A remarkable rescue at sea

2012-02-22T17:30:00.000-06:00

Photo: Seabourn

The passengers and crew aboard Seabourn Odyssey experienced something truly remarkable on a South Pacific cruise earlier this week. Here's an excerpt from the Seabourn Blog:

On Sunday evening, February 19, Seabourn Odyssey was sailing the Pacific Ocean some 150 miles southwest of Pago Pago, America Samoa, when the portside bridge watch spotted something in the distance. Captain Mark Dexter found no missing vessel reports, but wondered why this boat would be so far from land. He deviated from his course to investigate further and spotted a small boat adrift some miles away from the ship. As they drew closer, they saw three men jumping and frantically waving their clothing, clearly trying to catch the attention of Seabourn Odyssey. The ship deployed one of its rescue boats and, after determining that they were no threat, rescued three fishermen who had been lost at sea for nearly three weeks! The crew transferred them to the rescue boat and took them to the ship, where they were immediately checked out by the ship’s doctor. While they were dehydrated, hungry and had a few skin sores from the sun, the three men were in surprisingly good health considering they had been drifting at sea for weeks.

To add to the happy ending, when Captain Dexter notified his guests about what was going on, they passed the hat amongst themselves and collected enough money to buy the three fishermen a new boat. Whether you believe in luck, fate, or a higher power, it's heartwarming to hear about people in the right place at the right time. You can read the rest of this incredible story at the Seabourn blog.

Photography Tours

2012-02-22T14:59:00.000-06:00

Maps: Insight Vacations (click to view larger)

Are you a serious oraspiring photographer? Do the terms white balance, bokeh, and f-number roll offthe tongue? Do you know what DSLR stands for? Then you’ll love these trips.

Insight Vacations, one ofour preferred tour operators, has added two new photography-themed tours totheir collection. These trips include all the same highlights, inclusions, andsightseeing you expect on a journey through Europe, but with the added benefit ofa photography expert at hand and like-minded fellow photographers as your travelcompanions.

Thetwo dedicated photography trips—“A Snapshot on Europe,” and “Rome to London inFocus” include first-class accommodations and dining, plus one-of-a-kind experienceslike gondola rides, a diamond-cutting demonstration, and private museum tours.The professional photographers will offer tutorials, camera support, andlectures on technique—meaning you’ll get the most out of your equipment,preserving your vacation memories better than ever before.

Askyour FROSCH travel agent for prices and dates!

Acqualina Hotel & Spa Partnership with FROSCH!

2012-02-22T13:13:00.000-06:00

Acqualina Resort & Spa is giving away 3 nights exclusively to one lucky FROSCH fan! Make sure you check out our Facebook page and click on the sweepstakes tab to enter. If you don't win this amazing deal, we have put in place a wonderful opportunity to stay at this property with great amenities!

FROSCH proudly brings you two waterfront locations, from the scenic San Francisco Bay to the pristine white sand beaches of Miami. Stay three nights or more at either hotel - Acqualina Resort & Spa on the Beach and The Vitale - and enjoy a $100 hotel credit per stay and complimentary continental breakfast. For more information, please visit our website.

Valid Stay Dates: January 3 to April 3, 2012. Subject to availability. Blackout dates may apply. Discounts and special offers cannot be combined. Local taxes and service charges additional. Certain restrictions may apply.

Exclusive Amenity: Welcome Amenity, Continental Breakfast for two, $100.00 Hotel Credit and Complimentary Internet Access available at each hotel when placing a reservation for a 3 night stay or longer.

Rates: Signature rates/Best available rates will be guaranteed.

To learn more check out FROSCH Vacations!

Strike & Protest News

2012-02-21T10:11:00.000-06:00

The following strikes and protests have the potential to snarl your travel plans; check with your FROSCH Travel agent if you're traveling to any of these affected regions.

Germany – through Feb 24: The Frankfurt strike has been extended until Feb. 24th. However, only 10-15% of flights are affected (approximately 150 of 1200 daily), mainly domestic and short-haul European.

Italy – Feb 24: The strike is going to concern many airlines and Italian airports according to the Infrastructure & Transportation Ministry. The airlines which will join the strike are: Alitalia, AirOne, Air Berlin, easyJet, Ryanair, Wind Jet & Wizz Air. Rome air traffic will be hit hard, due to all Alitalia crew striking from 10am-6pm, with cancellations and delays for many flights.

Greece (Athens) – Feb 22: Demonstrations are expected to take place on 22 February from 6pm in Syntagma Square, central Athens. Demonstrations take place regularly around Syntagma Square in central Athens; the police have recently used tear gas to disperse demonstrators in the square. Travelers are urged to steer clear of the demonstrations.

Russia (Moscow) – Feb 26: The opposition is to stage a flash mob on February 26 after a protest was rejected by the authorities. “We failed to reach an agreement [with Moscow City Hall]. The demonstration organizers decided that the Feb 26 protest will be held in the form of a flash mob, a public gathering supported by State Duma deputies who will ensure safety,” a spokesman for the For Fair Elections movement said. The flash mob is to be held at Revolution Square. Also on Sunday, the opposition is planning a separate protest. 34,000 people will join hands along the entire 16-km length of the circular Garden Ring road in central Moscow to “encircle the Kremlin.”

Acqualina Winter Giveaway

2012-02-20T08:29:00.000-06:00

Great news! We’re excited to launch another giveaway, one that’s just the cure for the late-winter blues. The grand prize? A 3-night stay at Acqualina Resort & Spa in Miami Beach. If you haven’t had the opportunity to visit this property in the past, here’s what one of our top New York agents had to say about it during his recent visit:

“Stunning and absolutely the perfect accommodations - modern Italian décor and just one of the nicest in this class of hotels. One-bedroom suites come with a fully-equipped kitchen stocked with top-quality goods. Gorgeous double sink shower and tub bathrooms and the finest towels and bath products. The balconies are fairly large and overlook either the bay or the beach and pools area. The grounds are very pretty and the beach area is quite wide and offers three pools, one of them for adults only. The service overall is truly impeccable, probably the best you can find in South Florida. The spa, Acqualina Spa By ESPA, is quite modern and very sharp looking. The scene at the main entrance is rather impressive with an incredible car collection of Ferraris, Lamborghinis and even a few Bugattis.”

All you need to do to register is join us on Facebook, then click on the Sweepstakes tab for the entry form. Good luck!

Agent Review: Hotel du Vin in Edinburgh

2012-02-16T12:05:00.000-06:00

Article by Jean Campbell. Photos: courtesy Hotel du Vin.

When I was in Edinburgh in October, I stopped by to check out the Hotel Du Vin. I wasn't able to see any of the rooms in person (the hotel was full), but it was a really lovely hotel, and in a good interesting area of Edinburgh. They have a room where they can host private dinners and the wall paintings are themed around the Burke and Hare storyline, described by Wikipedia as follows:

The Burke and Hare murders were serial murders perpetrated in Edinburgh, Scotland, from November 1827 to October 31, 1828. The killings were attributed to Irish immigrants William Burke and William Hare, who sold the corpses of their 17 victims to provide material for dissection. Their purchaser was Doctor Robert Knox, a private anatomy lecturer whose students were drawn from Edinburgh Medical College. Their accomplices included Burke's mistress, Helen McDougal, and Hare's wife, Margaret Laird. From their infamous method of killing their victims has come the word "burking", meaning to purposefully smother and compress the chest of a victim, and a derived meaning, to quietly suppress.

Given that the hotel is located in Edinburgh's Old Town and within a former asylum, it is the perfect backdrop!

The hotel is small (47 rooms only) and it is very nicely appointed, appealing to a range of styles/guests whether business or pleasure. The main areas of the hotel have incorporated a traditional touch utilizing the building's nuances to its advantage, but they have included modern and contemporary elements that makes it very current in decor and taste while not abandoning its heritage. They have a fabulous wine tasting room, and a whisky nook.

Located within easy access of the Princes Street area, it would be only about a 10 minute walk (though it is up hill on the way back), and right around the corner from Greyfriars Bobby and other areas of interest. With Princes Street being so busy and the tramline still disrupting foot and vehicular traffic, this is a wonderful option avoiding that area, but keeping it within easy reach. Just the location of the hotel conjures up all sorts of imaginary and real historical tales because of the character of the Old Town, it's great. Loved it.

Valentine's Day Link Roundup

2012-02-14T13:42:00.000-06:00

Happy Valentine's Day! It's a great time to surprise your honey with a romantic getaway. Here's a collection of links for the traveling lovebirds out there:

Travel + Leisure | America's Most Romantic Hotels. Love is in the air at these romantic hotels across the U.S. Whether you're looking for something cozy, exotic, or something in between, you're bound to fit in at one of these luxury hotels.

Conde Nast Traveler | How to be a Well-Groomed Traveler. You want to look your best for your beau, right? That's easier said than done after a long flight or when you're far from your boudoir. Use these tips to keep up appearances while you travel.

Frommer's | The Top Ten Cities for Falling in Love. Plan an itinerary around these cities-- Paris, of course; exotic Marrakech; Buenos Aires to perfect your tango-- to ignite a new love or rekindle the old.

A Bird in the Hand | Tips for Traveling With Friends. Keeping it platonic this year? Use these tips to guarantee a worry-free vacation. Print the article and distribute among your buddies to reiterate your intents.

CNN Travel | Five Joys of Traveling Solo. Riding solo this Valentine's Day? Aw, take heart-- you're not, well, alone. Use these tips to find joy in solo travel, keeping safe and growing your confidence as you explore the world. Perhaps you'll even meet that special someone along the road.

Solsticizing the Millenium Class

2012-02-10T13:10:00.000-06:00

The refurbished Solarium aboard the Celebrity Constellation

Celebrity Cruisesis in the midst of a large-scale renovation, a process they’re calling “Solsticizingthe Millennium class after their newest class of ships. “Our beautiful, award-winningSolstice class is well known, so with just one word we are conveying the idea that we are bringingthe lovely Millennium class of ships up to the Solstice class standards,” said SharlaSmith, Regional Sales Manager for Celebrity Cruises. What started with arefurbishment of the Celebrity Constellation in 2010 will span two years untilall four Millenium class ships—including the Infinity, the Summit, and theMillenium, are shiny and new.

Updates range fromfresh linens and new flat-screen TVs in the staterooms to new specialty diningoptions and a new public zone called the iLounge, designed in partnership withApple.

Celebrity isinvesting $150 million per ship for the renovation process, with plenty of timein dry dock to ensure no detail is overlooked. The cruise line studiedpassenger feedback to determine what changes were needed, Ms. Smith reports. “Wehave studied what guests like best about the Solstice class to recreate similarexperiences on Millennium class, such as AquaClass staterooms and new dining optionslike Blu and Tuscan Grille.”

2012 will bring other changes forCelebrity Cruises aside from renovations. The CelebrityMilennium will sail to Asia for the first time ever this fall, and the CelebritySolstice will head to Australia and New Zealand for the first timelater this year.

A CelebrityCruise is on this month’s Hot List—here’s your chance to experience theSolstice class and see what the fuss is all about! Talk to your FROSCH travelagent or click on our Find a Travel Agent tool to learn more or check out theother great Celebrity Cruises featured at FROSCHVacations.com.

Workin' at the plane wash

2012-02-09T11:59:00.001-06:00

Southwest Airlines shared this video of what it takes to wash a plane: it's not just to look spiffy-- the planes must be squeaky clean so that safety inspectors can get a good view of all the components that keep a plane in the air. Now that's a dirty job!

Germany river cruise photo tour

2012-02-09T08:12:00.000-06:00

Sail along the Rhine, the Main, and the Danube, stopping to stroll through picturesque hamlets or bike through bucolic landscapes, and pause to feast on beer, brats, and sauerkraut. It's river cruising and it's enjoying a big comeback, not only in Germany but throughout Europe plus key waterways in Asia and Africa.

We've chosen Uniworld's Treasures of Prague, the Rhine & Main as part of our Hot List this month. The trip includes wine tasting at Schloss Kleinheubach and Würzburg Residenz and sausage-making lessons, along with expert-guided city walking tours and visits to the historic castles and cathedrals that dot the region.

Ask your FROSCH travel agent (or click on our Find a Travel Agent tool) to find out how to book! In the meantime, take a glimpse at some of the sights you might glimpse along the river...

Photo credits: 1 & 5. Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection; 2. Nuremberg, Richard Taylor; 3. Rooftops of Prague, Steve Garry; 4. Swans, Jan Ramroth

How local farms inspire Royal Caribbean's menus

2012-02-08T10:06:00.000-06:00

How do the chefs on board Royal Caribbean's mega cruise ships stock up to feed 5400 passengers at their 25 dining venues? They head to the source of it all, where fresh organic ingredients at local farms inspire new entries on the ever-changing menus.

A Royal Caribbean Western Caribbbean Cruise is part of this month's Hot List. Don't miss out on your chance to taste some of this delicious cuisine-- a complimentary specialty dinner for two is our gift to you when you book through FROSCH before February 29! Ask your FROSCH travel agent (or use our Find a Travel Agent tool) how to start planning your cruise!

Travel News Daily

2012-02-06T12:26:00.000-06:00

Love to travel? Looking for something to read? Every day by lunchtime, we bring you a collection of links that point to what's happening in the world of luxury travel, from cruise and airline news to essays from our favorite travel bloggers. If there's weather or a strike that might cause you travel delays or interruptions, you'll see it here. We also include lots of fun and interesting finds-- travel recommendations that can add a lot to your next trip. Check the left sidebar here at FROSCH Insider for today's news, or visit the News Archives for nine months' worth of links.

I Am Packed

2012-02-02T09:58:00.000-06:00

Really? You're going to India with one shirt... and no underwear? Or toothpaste?
photo: iampacked.com

I Am Packed is the latest in Air New Zealand's impressive list of clever social marketing initiatives. This time, they're asking travelers to dump out their suitcases and share with the world the essentials they carry. Right now the entries are skewing pretty heavily towards the-- dare I say it-- hipster end of things. Very minimalist, lots of American Apparel t-shirts, Moleskine notebooks, and Bret Easton Ellis books.

I have my own story about sharing the contents of my suitcase with the world. It was before airlines started to charge for all checked luggage-- but there was a fee for overweight bags. I was leaving for a 3-week study abroad trip and I had packed all my earthly belongings into two enormous suitcases, weighing them at home to make sure they weren't too heavy. But apparently, my scales at home were wrong. So I ended up on the floor, frantically transferring items from one suitcase to the other, sharing with the world exactly which brand of underwear I prefer. Mortifying! It taught me a valuable lesson about the virtues of packing light. Years later, a TSA agent checking my carry-on complimented me on my organization-- this on a return leg, so my suitcase was full of dirty laundry-- so I feel I've come a really long way.

Here are a few more resources for effective luggage organization, in case the linked photos leave you high and dry and without a toothbrush:

What are your tips and tricks for packing? Would you ever share a photo of the contents of your suitcase with the world? Leave a comment below and let us know!

Mountain Gorillas in Rwanda

2012-02-01T10:03:00.000-06:00

article and photos by Jean Campbell

For those of you who are thinking about going to see the gorillas in Rwanda, this could be the nudge you need. The Rwanda Development Board has published a statement confirming the proposed rise in Rwanda gorilla permit prices to US$750 per permit.

Permits will increase to $750 per person per day starting June 1, 2012 unless they are booked and paid for by May, in which case permits will still be charged at $500 per person per day for the rest of 2012. Starting January 2013, all permits for tracking will be charged at $750 regardless of when they are booked or paid for.

Rwanda, named by Fodor's as one of the "Places to Go in 2012," is an awe-inspiring and humbling trip on many levels, although certainly it is not a trip that would appeal to everyone. For those that do take the step, it is likely to be one of the most memorable trips you take. Whether it's the hospitality, the beauty, the harsh realities that face the people and the country, or the gorillas that resonate with you; the experience is likely to touch you deeply and live on long after your return.

Seeing the gorillas is certainly an experience like no other; it's easy to understand how Dian Fossey was so enthralled by them and ultimately dedicated her life to them. It is her work, and that of many others that allows us the joy of viewing these wonderful animals today. There are around 700 left in the wild now, divided between Rwanda, Uganda, and the DRC. Mountain gorillas cannot survive in captivity so going to see them in their natural environment is the only choice; I can say from first hand experience what a privilege it is. It is a daily challenge to keep the gorillas safe from habitat reduction, poaching, regional unrest, illness and more; tourism dollars contribute to fund the resources that continue this fight.

FROSCH and Robb Report

2012-01-30T14:42:00.000-06:00

As the official travel provider for Robb Report, the luxury lifestyle magazine, we're pleased to debut our series of Robb Report travel experiences, custom-designed trips for the traveler with the most distinguishing of tastes.

Featuring private and small-group journeys to the world's best golf courses, most exclusive spa retreats, private jet getaways, and access to award-winning wineries, the experiences in our Robb Report portfolio can be customized to complement our travelers' style, time range, and group size. You're invited to peruse our collection of trips on our website and in select issues of the Robb Report throughout 2012.

Fashion at the Ritz-Carlton, Toronto

2012-01-27T13:47:00.001-06:00

Not only is the Ritz-Carlton, Toronto the proud winner of the 2012 Five Diamond Award and located in one of Travel+Leisure's Hottest Destinations of 2012, it's also got great fashion sense. The brand-new hotel (opened only last year) recently hosted a pop-up fashion show inspired by the life and style of Grace Kelly.

Looking for more fashion in Toronto? The Ritz-Carlton is just a few blocks from the Bata Shoe Museum (yes, a museum dedicated to the incredible history of shoes: it's even cooler than it sounds) as well as some of the city's best shopping areas, from the vibrant and bohemian Queen Street West to the high-end boutiques and galleries of Bloor-Yorkville.

The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto is part of the Signature collection, which means that when you book through FROSCH you get access to free room upgrades and other great amenities, including a $100 CDN food and beverage credit. Contact your FROSCH agent or use our Find a Travel Agent tool to book!

Pet-friendly hotel: The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel

2012-01-26T15:27:00.000-06:00

Photo: ritzcarlton.com

We love pet-friendly hotels! Among the best for our favorite felines and pampered pooches? The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel in Dana Point, California. They allow and encourage guests to bring their four-legged family, offering a bevy of pet amenities as part of their Posh Pooch program, such as a doggy menu, a hand-painted water dish, and a cozy plush pet bed.

Their love for animals doesn't stop there: their Yappy Hour, a monthly "canine cocktail event," raises funds for compassionate causes such as the Pet Project Foundation, a local animal shelter. Dogs love the bacon-, cheese-, and liver-flavored water, while humans are happier to sip on wines from Mutt Lynch Winery.

If you and Fluffy or Fido want to take part in all the fun, ask your FROSCH travel consultant about the exclusive amenities and rates we offer at this resort. And don't forget to follow @RitzCarlton_LN on Twitter or Facebook for hotel info and area specials-- as well as a daily surf report!

Pirate tuck-ins at the Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island

2012-01-25T15:19:00.000-06:00

Shiver me timbers! Where in the world will a pirate, a princess, and a parrot tuck your little ones into bed? Nowhere but the Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island, where a bedtime story with milk and cookies and a real blue-and-gold macaw is one of many cool activities for kids.

One of the Sea Islands, Amelia Island's white sandy beaches and idyllic charm are merely a backdrop to the region's exciting history. As long ago as the year 1000 A.D., the island was populated by Native American groups. In 1562, French explorers were the first Europeans to reach the island, followed in quick succession by Spanish, then British, forces. Georgia's founder and colonial governor named the island after Princess Amelia, the daughter of King George II.

Meanwhile, thanks to the Embargo Act and the abolition of the slave trade in the early 1800s, Amelia Island was a hotbed for pirates and smugglers. Along came Gregor MacGregor, an itinerant adventurer who wanted to invade the United States through Florida, starting with Amelia Island. He ultimately failed, but his buddy Louis-Michel Aury, leader of a Galveston Island pirates' gang, took over MacGregor's troops. After taking over Amelia Island, Aury (under the Mexican flag) got a legislature elected, set up a constitutional committee, and rallied Florida to rebel against Spain.

That plan didn't last too long, as the United States soon took the opportunity to send over a naval force to capture Amelia Island and put an end to the brief republic.

Now, your kids probably won't get the full, detailed history of pre-statehood Florida with their milk and cookies, but they'll hear a cool & age-appropriate pirate-themed story, along with a treasure chest full of booty! What could be better than that?

Mega snow at the Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe

2012-01-23T10:09:00.000-06:00

Our friends at the Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe sent over these pics of the epic snowfall they had last year. That is some serious snow! This year, after a slow start to the season, there's finally snow at Lake Tahoe. Over the weekend, the area got over four feet of fresh powder! That's good news for skiers and snowboarders heading up to Northstar Resort this season, including Olympic gold medalist Shaun White, who last year chose Northstar for his home mountain and primary training resort.

This relationship means a number of new developments for the resort, including a new 22-foot half-pipe for snowboarders and a charity initiative that will benefit St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe's slope-side location makes it easy to take advantage of the fresh powder and groomed runs that surround it at all sides. Their high-speed chairlift, ski valet services, and the on-site Burton Snowboard Academy make it one of the best winter sport destinations in North America, for beginners and experts alike.

Call your FROSCH agent to start planning your 2012 ski trip, and be sure to ask about the exclusive amenities and added value that we offer when you book at the Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe!

(left: the heated sidewalks struggle to keep up with the mountains of snow!)

Dream souvenir: a dose of sunshine

2012-01-20T10:48:00.001-06:00

photo: vaulotdyevre.co

Ever wish you could bottle up sunshine and bring it home from your beach vacation? Design agency Vaulot&Dyèvre crossed that fantasy with modern pharmaceutical concepts and a little LED lighting magic for these "sunlight pills," part of an exhibition for the Festival of Lights in Lyon last month.

File this under the "wish it were real" category! We could use a good dose of Bahamian sunshine this winter!

(via Apartment Therapy)

FROSCH in the news: Cruises to Hawaii on the Rise?

2012-01-20T10:05:00.000-06:00

Photo by Flickr user paul (dex)

FROSCH travel consultant Marya Minter (from our headquarters in Houston, TX) was interviewed in yesterday's edition of Travel Agent Central for her expertise on travel to Hawaii. She addressed the rising popularity of Hawaiian cruises:

Marya Minter with Frosch Travel told Travel Agent that she personally has not noticed an increase in cruise travel to Hawaii. "There are a lot more options available, and because of the maritime law—the Jones Act—inter-island cruising is limited unless the ship is registered in U.S., meaning hull was built here. Foreign ships cannot skirt around the islands." The MS Pride of America, currently owned by Norwegian, was partly built in the United States (its hull was built in Pascagoula, Mississippi), so it is now the only American registered major cruise ship serving the Hawaiian market from Honolulu. "Cruise lines with foreign flags have to go to foreign ports," Minter explains.

On the other hand, Minter does say that she has seen an increase in repositioning cruises, especially for ships returning from Alaska after the summer. "To reposition to Southern California for Mexico cruises, some will go from Vancouver to Hawaii and then to Mexico before settling in Southern California."

FROSCH in the news: Hot Times in Iceland

2012-01-19T11:48:00.000-06:00

Photo by Flickr user pocius.

FROSCH travel consultant Kathy Gobbel (from our Ellicott City, Maryland office) was interviewed for an article on Iceland! She sets the record straight about Iceland's misleading name and talks about its growing population as a travel destination:

“Iceland is a misnomer,” says Kathy Gobbel of Frosch International Travel in Ellicott City. It’s actually Greenland that is icy and Iceland that is green, explains the travel specialist.
Experiencing only modest snowfall in winter, Iceland temperatures are warmer than New York’s. Summer temperatures generally range in the 60s — providing a reprieve from the hazy, hot and humid Baltimore-Washington Corridor climate. Gobbel says Iceland is a great stopover trip for people traveling to Europe, and that many international business travelers take advantage of a day or two in Iceland on their way to other European cities. Icelandair offers a free stopover to Reykjavik, the airline’s hub, for up to seven days.

Richard's Blog: More Galápagos Photos

2012-01-18T16:54:00.001-06:00

Here are some more photos I took on my trip to the Galápagos!

See Part 1 here. --Richard Leibman, Chairman

Rocky Mountain Ski Report:

2012-01-18T13:39:00.001-06:00

Well, all those snow dances have worked! All Colorado resorts have received snow with the Aspen resorts leading the pack with 12”-14”! Time to hit the slopes! And more snow is on the way. It’s powder time!

Photo by Flickr user AMagill

For us locals, the MLK holiday really kicks off the ski season. It is usually when the snow starts coming down and the conditions start to peak.My son spent last week at Steamboat Springs and reported excellent conditions and a great time watching the Bud Light Cowboy Downhill events. In the last 48 hours, Steamboat has received 11 inches of new snow with more on the way. They now have 99% of the beginner and intermediate slopes open and anticipate opening 100% of the expert slopes within the next week. If you are looking for a Colorado Ski Vacation with a small town western feel, Steamboat Springs, known as Ski Town, U.S.A.®, is the place for you. There are beautiful ski-in/ski-out condos and some beautiful houses near the slopes for rent with awesome mountain views. The best après ski activity: Strawberry Park Hot Springs, which is one of the most spectacular hot mineral springs in the world. Imagine soaking in one of the 104 degree mineral pools after a great day on the slopes. One word: heavenly!

January is National Western Stock Show time in Denver and it’s also time for another January tradition in Steamboat, the Cowboy Downhill. This year over 60 professional cowboys and cowgirls traded their broncs and bulls for skis and snowboards to participate in the Cowboy Downhill at the base of Mt Werner. From the video you can see why the Stampede event is a fan favorite!

With seasonal nonstop service from Dallas, Atlanta, Chicago, Houston, and Newark and Denver, your Steamboat Springs vacation is only a few hours away.

TODAY'S TIP:Do you know the code? People ahead of you have the right of way. It’s your responsibility to avoid them.

The Rocky Mountain Ski Report comes to you from Lisa Hulbert out of our Arvada, Colorado office. Specializing in ski and golf vacations, wine and culinary tours of the world, and destination weddings, Lisa has 32 years of experience planning extraordinary travel experiences for her clients. She can be reached by phone at 303-577-2725, or email at lisa.hulbert@frosch.com.

Richard's Blog: The Galápagos Islands

2012-01-16T13:14:00.000-06:00

I just got back from an amazing trip to the Galápagos aboard the La Pinta yacht with Adventure Associates. It was quite a physically demanding trip but well worth it for the incredible wildlife I saw and wonderful people I met! Here are a few photos that I took, and watch for more to come later this week!

Photos by Richard Leibman, Chairman.

Transatlantic Crossing on Holland America

2012-01-13T12:21:00.001-06:00

Transatlantic crossings call to mind a romantic, old-world glamour, harking back to the days when kids wore little sailor outfits and men and women played shuffleboard on sunlit promenades to pass the time. This type of cruise is still around, but a lot has changed since the days of steamer trunks. So when a 15-night Holland America cruise that starts in Ft. Lauderdale and ends in Tilbury, England, appeared on this month's Hot List, we wondered: what do people actually do with that many days at sea?

Turns out, there's no shortage of things to do to stay busy, relaxed, edified, or entertained: it's what you make of it. Why not try a cooking class in the state-of-the art culinary center? Or, if you've always wanted to learn a new computer skill or technology, like digital photo and video editing, there are classes for that.You could take an iPod-guided waking tour of the onboard art collection. Young people have their own, including scavenger hunts and culinary classes geared towards teens. There are yoga, Pilates, and Aquarobics classes in the fitness center and, of course, the Greenhouse spa.

Holland America's Explorations Café is the place to while away the hours reading, using the Internet, playing games or doing puzzles with other guests, or listening to a guest lecturer as part of the Explorations Speaker Series.

Looks like there won't be any problem deciding what to do on a transatlantic cruise-- the only dilemma might be deciding what to do first!

Greece photo tour

2012-01-13T10:08:00.000-06:00

Winter blues got you down? Come along for a photo tour of the Greek Isles, where the color takes on warmer hues, from the azure seas to the periwinkle skies. Then start planning your cruise to see for yourself. A 7-night Greek Isle Sojurn Cruise aboard Regent's Seven Seas Mariner is part of this month's Hot List. Here's a little preview.

Image credits: 1. Greece by sidewalk flying 2. House at Fira by Klearchos Kapoutsis 3. Rodos by bazylek100 4. Cat by crazyfarmer 5. Kusadasi by Kusadasi-Guy

Rocky Mountain Ski Report: Mountainside Restaurants

2012-01-12T13:43:00.000-06:00

It’s snowing again today in the High Country! Winter Park is leading the pack with 8 inches!

If you are looking for a unique dining experience while in the Colorado ski country, how about dining at altitude? I recommend The Lodge at Sunspot Sunspot, only open on Fridays and Saturdays and select holidays through April 2012. Ride a moonlit gondola to the top of the mountain for an incredible evening of Colorado's finest cuisine. Reservations are requiredIf you aren’t in the mood for a gourmet dinner, toast to your winter vacation with a moonlit gondola ride, a fireside cocktail and delicious appetizer at The Lodge at Sunspot. Enjoy diverse drink selections and a newly added appetizer menu by a heartwarming fire. Gondola rides leave from the Zephyr Express Lift and tickets can be purchased for $10. Restaurant reservations are required.

VAIL / BEAVER CREEKIf you’re thinking about the Vail Valley or Beaver Creek for your Colorado ski vacation, you don’t want to miss dinner at Beano’s Cabin located atop Beaver Creek Mountain. Accessible in the winter only by a 20 minute snowcat-powered open sleigh, Beano’s cabin is a great experience for the whole family.There's a kids menu with toned down selections for the smaller palates. The food, wine, and service team up as an impeccable trio, topped only by the live musical entertainment. Reservations are required and fill up quickly.

KEYSTONE VILLAGEAnother family favorite of ours is Der Fondue Chessel at the top of Keystone Mountain. We always make it a point to go up to Keystone for fondue at least once a year!Be whisked away by a gondola to the top of North Peak where you are welcomed by Bavarian-style entertainment and a warm, welcoming fire.The traditional Swiss cheese fondue is creamy and delicious, but make sure you save room for the chocolate fondue to finish off your meal. It's a fun, family-oriented casual dining experience.

So whether you are looking for a gourmet dining experience or a fun family meal, the Colorado ski country offers many dining options with amazing views. There are still accommodations available for Presidents' Day and Spring Break at many of our Colorado Resorts. What are you waiting for… the powder is awesome!!!

Ship review: Royal Caribbean's Allure of the Seas

2012-01-11T11:25:00.000-06:00

Photo by Flickr user hockeyholic.

7 distinct neighborhoods. 25 dining options. 2,384 crew to serve you. These numbers do not do justice to the scale and scope of the Allure of the Seas, one of Royal Caribbean's two mega cruise ships.

In an article last year, The New York Times' correspondent writes, equal parts bemused and awestruck by the Allure's sheer size and mix of old-fashioned cruise experience (team trivia games) and its newfangled "hyper-digital" qualities that seem to shut out the ocean itself:

At the far end of the park was a Coach store and, three decks below, a Starbucks, as if a moment might go by without a chai or a vanilla bean. And I thought: Why am I standing on a land mass on a ship? And: When did ships become less about the water on which they sail and more about the land they have left behind?

The Allure and her sister, the Oasis, are renowned for their speed of check in, check out, and porterage, surprising for such large ships. As noted, the dining options are near limitless, ranging from a hot dog stand to authentic international cuisine.

As for entertainment, there's everything from Broadway stage productions to a water-based Cirque du Soleil-style spectacle, plus 3D movies, kids programs, a water park, and beyond. For those who view shopping as all the entertainment they need, there's a Coach store, Guess boutique, and a Romero Britto art shop, to name a few. There's even a Starbucks!

Royal Caribbean's Allure of the Seas is featured on this month's Hot List with a 7-night Eastern Caribbean Cruise, roundtrip from Ft. Lauderdale. Ask your travel agent about the exclusive FROSCH amenities we're offering on this and other sailings.

If that's not enough to convince you to go, just listen to the call of the sea...

Today's Travel News

2012-01-11T10:15:00.000-06:00

Almost There - The Muir Project from The Muir Project on Vimeo.

Honestly, if this video doesn't have you lacing up your hiking boots, nothing will! It's part of the Muir Project and was shot by a group of artists last summer as they hiked the Muir Trail, a 219-mile trek in the Sierra Nevada mountain range in California:

The intent was to capture their experience on the trail and bring it back to the general public in the form of a gallery exhibit including photographs, video installations and hands-on displays that allow visitors to truly get a feeling for the beauty and majesty of the trail without the burning lungs and blisters.

A TSA agent working at Newark Liberty International airport is being praised for returning the $5000 cash he found on the floor. Perhaps this is a turning point for the TSA's less than stellar reputation.

Google Maps plays a huge role here at FROSCH, whether we're sending driving directions or city details to clients or figuring out the fastest way to get to a new restaurant during our lunch hour. This article on the evolving design of Google Maps is an intriguing read. It's amazing how much has changed and improved over the years, all through subtle changes that we've barely noticed.

Over at CN Traveler, blogger Joanna Goddard has an idea to make your next flight a little more comfortable and maybe a little bit glamourous: Pack a plane picnic with your favorite treats rather than rely on airport fast food or expensive onboard offerings. Among her suggestions:

Runny cheese, good crackers, hard salumi, plump prunes, pistachios, and dark chocolate. For drinks, I recommend packing a few mini-bar-sized bottles of your favorite spirit, like scotch or bourbon. They're under the fluid ounce limit and so much better than the brands airlines carry.

That even makes economy sound tolerable!

Literary Walking Tour of Dublin

2012-01-10T14:50:00.000-06:00

View Literary Walking Tour of Dublin in a full screen map

Dublin drips with literary history. Why not spend a few hours getting to know the sites that fostered and inspired the likes of James Joyce, Jonathan Swift, and Samuel Beckett?

Start at the Dublin Writers' Museum, which occupied an 18th-century town house on Parnell Square. It features displays that showcase Irish literature from the 10th century to modern works. Pore over original manuscripts, paintings, rare editions and personal mementos of some of Ireland's famous authors. The museum houses a specialist bookstore as well as a casual restaurant.

Steps away from the Dublin Writers' Museum is the James Joyce Cultural Centre, a museum/library dedicated to the Ulysses author. The exhibits and archives will delight fans of the author whose works are inextricably linked to Dublin's essence.

Next, proceed to Mountjoy Square number 35, the home of author Seán O'Casey. Down the road at 14 Russel Street is the childhood home of Brendan Behan. Gardiner Street, the route made famous by Leopold Bloom in Joyce's Ulysses, is nearby, as is Bella Cohen's Brothel up Railway Street. Strolling down to the River Liffey to Abbey Street, you'll see the famous Abbey Theatre.

A few blocks up from the river on O'Connell Street, you'll find the General Post Office, the center of the Easter Rising of 1916 and inspiration for the poetry and literature that grew from the rebellion.

Finally, cross the River Liffey and walk south to the campus of Trinity College, the alma mater of many of Ireland's great writers-- Swift, Wilde, and Beckett to name a few. The Book of Kells, an ancient illuminated manuscript, can be viewed at the Old Library.

Dublin is one of the ports of call on a Cunard Cruise featured in this month's Hot List. Ask your FROSCH travel agent how to book the cruise, or use our Find a Travel Agent tool to contact a cruise expert.

Rocky Mountain Ski Report: Winter Park

2012-01-10T08:43:00.000-06:00

Welcome to my first installment of the Rocky Mountain Ski Report!As a native of Colorado with a family of avid ski and snowboarders, I bring a local perspective to your upcoming ski vacation. I will feature the best of Colorado Ski Country along with recommendations to make sure your Rocky Mountain Ski Vacation exceeds your expectations regardless of your level of expertise.So enjoy as I share the grandeur and beauty of this beautiful state that I am so blessed to call home.

We finally have received that much needed snow that our ski resorts have been waiting for.Most major areas are reporting 5-10 inches of fresh powder over the last 48 hours!

Photo by Flickr user halseike

Some of my fondest memories on the slopes come from when my children were younger and just learning to ski and ride. One of our favorite “family friendly” resorts is Winter Park. Located about 1 ½ hours from Denver, Winter Park is an easy and beautiful drive from Denver. There also is shuttle service available from Denver International Airport and a free town shuttle for those of you that don’t want to worry about winter driving conditions over Berthoud Pass.

Winter Park’s ski school is a favorite among locals. This is where my kids learned to ski and snowboard. The instructors are top notch and love kids! At the base of Winter Park you will find Sorensen Park, the first stop for all beginner skiers and riders young and old. It is where my hubby decided to try his hand at snowboarding and gave up the skis! Even though my kids quickly outgrew the “Bunny Slope” and were ready to take on bigger and more challenging terrain, Sorensen Park is a great place to learn to ski or ride. You can then move onto Discovery Park with 2 chair lifts to this area and the easiest routes to the base of the mountain. You can even take the Gemini Lift back down to the base if you are too tired.

Now that the beginners are in school and ready to take on their day, it is time to hit the slopes. Winter Park offers something for everyone with almost 50% of the mountain dedicated to beginner and intermediate runs. For those of you looking for a bit more of a challenge head over to Mary Jane (where their motto is “no pain, no Jane”) , Parsenn Bowl, and Vasquez Cirque reserved for those advanced to expert skiers, riders, and extreme thrillseekers.

Winter Park has come a long way in developing mountain side lodging and the ski village. Our favorite ski-in/ski-out Zephyr Mountain Lodge now has company with the brand new properties Fraser Crossing and Founders Pointe located 150 yards from the base of the mountain. With added dining venues and comfortable slopeside accommodations Winter Park is now a one-stop family friendly destination.

Saint Catherine's Monastery, White Canyon, & Bedouin Lunch

2012-01-09T13:18:00.000-06:00

Saint Catherine’sMonastery, located on Mount Sinai, is one of the world’s oldestcontinuously working Christian monasteries and a favorite site of pilgrimage inthe Christian faith. Named after Catherine of Alexandria, the monastery is located at the place where God appeared to Moses in the form of a burning bush.Records of monastic life at the site exist in the form of a travel journalwritten as far back as 341. The entire area is sacred to Christians, Jews, and Muslims,making Saint Catherine’s a very special place to visit.

Youcan get to Saint Catherine’s Monastery via either Cairo airport (plus six hours’drive) or Sharm el-Sheikh (plus two hours’ drive). The UNESCO World HeritageSite is featured on this month’s Hot List as part of Seabourn’sArabia, Egypt, & Holy Land cruise that calls at the port of Sharmel-Sheikh. As an amenity that we offer exclusively to FROSCH clients, we’reincluding a Private Car & Driver tour that takes you straight to thisrenowned destination without the hassle of waits or crowds. You’ll also havethe chance to explore the mesmerizing geography of the Sinai Peninsula up closeand personal with a stop at the White Canyon, a beautiful limestone andsandstone rock formation. On the way back to Sharm el-Sheikh and the Seabourn Pride, you’ll stop for an authentic open-airlunch at a Bedouin encampment at Ein Khudra oasis. This an incredible way tomake many checks on your bucket list—all in one day!

Today's Travel News

2012-01-09T09:29:00.002-06:00

Space Station Flying by the Moon.
Image credit: NASA/Lauren Harnett

The New York Times has a piece on the new future of space travel, now more accessible than ever thanks to Virgin Galactic's new tourist space program. Virgin hopes to break down the barriers to the final frontier by working with travel agents and even an insurance broker to make it easier than ever to book a ticket to outer space.

First class is nice, but sometime's economy's got to do. Check out this roundup of the airlines that do economy class best. Topping the list? Virgin Atlantic, Singapore Airlines, and JetBlue. We have to add Air New Zealand to the list.

The return of three major cruise ships to the Port of New Orleans has resulted in a boon to the economy of the port and the city as a whole as it works to regrow its tourism industry that took a hit following Hurricane Katrina. A projected one million cruise passengers will pass through the port this year, the largest number in history.

Rail Europe has recently launched two new products, the Italian Thello which connects Paris, Milan and Venice in an overnight service as well as the new Rhine-Rhone high speed line in France-- improvements to the best way to see Europe.

We're dealing with some extreme weather here in our Houston headquarters (tornadoes and such) but it's nothing compared to this list from Conde Nast Traveler of the world's hottest and coldest places. Have you been to any of these unusual destinations?

Today's Travel News

2012-01-06T10:03:00.000-06:00

Time is Nothing // Around The World Time Lapse from Kien Lam on Vimeo.

Heavy rain is causing flooding in the Netherlands and travel delays at Amsterdam's Schiphol airport.
Norwegian Cruise Line is planning a major overhaul to its shipboard kids' program, which will include "more focus on sporting activities, arts and crafts, theater and technology," as well as circus skills workshops put on by Cirque du Jour.
What's the best destination for a leisurely stroll? Frommers has put together a list of the most pedestrian-friendly cites around the world. Topping the list are Florence, Paris, and Dubrovnik, cities best experienced at about 3 miles per hour.
Humpback whales delighted tourists yesterday in Honolulu Harbor, stopping in for a rare close-up visit on their annual migration. It's a banner year for whale watchers as the marine mammals have been appearing early, in record numbers, and in unusual locations as well.

Follow @FroschTravel on Twitter for up-to-the-minute travel news and alerts.

Butterfield & Robinson's E-Bikes

2012-01-04T16:15:00.001-06:00

It's no secret: we love Butterfield & Robinson. So we were pretty excited yesterday when their email newsletter arrived with a special announcement. The company, which offers active luxury travel adventures by foot and bicycle, has added a new form of transportation to its portfolio: the electric-assisted bicycle or "e-bike."

These e-bikes are a far cry from Vespas or mopeds. For starters, they're battery-powered and recharge at night, meaning you won't be puffing noxious fumes and noise pollution behind you as you go. You pedal the bike normally until daunted by a particularly steep hill, at which point you can allow an assist option to kick in to help you along. As the folks at B&R put it,

That means there’s no compromising on having as active a holiday as you want while getting a little boost when you need it most. The way we see it, they’re designed to flatten the hills and ease the challenge of those all too common ascents that define many of our European itineraries. Yes, be damned you mighty hills! You’ll confidently and comfortably scale those lofty heights from southern France to Tuscany to the Dalmatian Coast, and do it all in that classic B&R style that you’ve always loved.

We're looking forward to hearing feedback about this new bike! Biking is the best way to get a new perspective on your travels, and this is a brilliant way to conquer those challenging landscapes.

Today's Travel News

2012-01-03T14:46:00.000-06:00

There's something meditative about watching airplanes take off and land. Just don't think of all the hustle-bustle behind the scenes! KUSA 9 of Denver shot this footage at Denver International Airport. (Via USA Today.)

Travelers in the UK are experiencing delays and cancellations due to a bout of nasty winter weather.

From eating better to recycling more, we've all made our New Year's resolutions by now. The New York Times' In Transit blog has collected resolutions from around the travel industry that will help travelers make the world a better place. Let's hope we can stick to these promises!

The school year is halfway over, and we're already starting to plan summer vacations. Need some ideas? Our friends at Ohdeeoh have put together a reading list to inspire family travel.

Follow us on Twitter and Facebook for up-to-the minute travel news and alerts.

The Ritz-Carlton Chicago, a Four Seasons Hotel

2011-12-21T11:27:00.000-06:00

Offering easy access to the shopping, shows, restaurants, museums, and nightlife Chicago is famous for, The Ritz Carlton Chicago has more to offer than just luxury accommodations and impeccable service. Towering high above the famous Magnificent Mile and sharing an address with one of Chicago’s most famous shopping centers, the view from any room or suite leaves little to be desired.

Chicago's Water Tower has a history all its own, and is a major focal point along the famous Magnificent Mile. Located just across the street from the Ritz Carlton, it's hard to pass without wondering what its purpose once was and is today.

The Ritz Carlton’s 12th floor lobby, complete with earth tones, deep woods, and a beautiful sky-lit fountain, welcomes guests and visitors with amazing views from the ‘BAR’ portion of the deca RESTAURANT + BAR. In true Ritz-Carlton fashion, deca is the type of restaurant where you are greeted by name and treated like royalty.

During my most recent visit, my guest and I stayed at the Ritz's sister property, The Four Seasons, in celebration of his birthday. We decided to have dinner at deca, as it came highly recommended by friends and coworkers. We made a reservation through the Four Seasons' concierge, and upon arrival, were so pleasantly surprised!

Not only was he presented with a personalized birthday card signed by all the employees, but we were also treated to a generous slice of sinfully delicious chocolate layer cake, accompanied by homemade whipped cream, chocolate covered strawberries, and “happy birthday!” message scrolled in chocolate on the platter. This was the perfect way to end a decadent meal, served by friendly and efficient staff.

After a meal like that you'll probably be wanting to burn off some of those (delicious and totally worth it!) calories. Thankfully, the Carlton Club's Fitness Center offers state-of-the-art exercise equipment and facilities, along with private exercise classes.

An adjacent pool and sundeck-- with views of the city and lake-- offer relaxation after your workout. You may also want to indulge in any of the many treatments at the Carlton Club Spa, which is located nearby the pool and workout facility, but makes you feel like you’re worlds away.

The Ritz Carlton has a longstanding relationship with us here at FROSCH, allowing us to provide special offers and amenities, so be sure to call your FROSCH agent to book your next visit!

Ultimate Canyon County Getaway

2011-12-20T13:28:00.000-06:00

Close your eyes and try to imagine a desert landscape as far as the eye can see. One that is so tranquil and serene you can’t help but relax as you take it all in. If you could bring this scenery and state of mind to life, it would be Amangiri Resort in Canyon County, Utah. A perfect vacation spot for someone with a hectic lifestyle, this magical place will force you to slow down, spend the week in your robe and yoga pants, and leave feeling healthier and more rejuvenated than ever before.

There are so many activities that you’ll appreciate the isolation. At their 25,000 square foot spa, designed to replicate the local slot canyons, you can choose from a spa menu derived from the Navajo culture and healing methods. Make sure you experience the floating room-- a sound and color therapy that simulates a meditative experience. To complement their spa, Amangiri also offers daily yoga and Pilates classes to further help you find the balance that so many of their guests seek.

For the adventure seeker, the resort offers a host of hikes and other experiences led by local specialists with deep connections to the land. There‘s a hot air balloon that departs from Amangiri and provides some of the most breathtaking views of Lake Powell, Navajo Mountain, the Vermillion Cliffs and the Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument. If you don’t get the chance to experience the hot air balloon, you can also take out one of the resort’s BMWs and experience a joy ride through the winding canyon roads to Horseshoe Bend, The Grand Canyon, Zion National Park and many more that the concierge will happily help you navigate.

The cuisine at Amangiri reflects the health, wellness and mentality of their guests, offering a wide range of healthy choices along with a few necessary guilty pleasures. The resort is built around the restaurant, referred to as the Pavilion, so you can choose to dine with views of the canyons or the breathtakingly stunning pool. All of the cooking is done out in the open so you also have the option to sit at the kitchen bar and socialize with their very friendly and animated kitchen staff.

If you are in desperate need of an escape from the world, Amangiri is your place. With 34 suites and over 600 acres, this sanctuary will afford you the privacy and serenity you crave.

Amangiri is also new to the Signature Travel Network Program so you will receive breakfast daily for each guest (in the dining room or room service) and seasonal tapas in the evening for two, per suite, once during their stay when you book with FROSCH.

For more information visit Amangiri's Website.

Nerdy Day Trips

2011-12-20T08:43:00.000-06:00

Los Angeles reports high nerdiness levels.

Are you a bit of a nerd? Go on, admit it—it’s all the ragethese days to embrace your inner geekdom.

You need to check out Nerdy Day Trips. It’sthe perfect confluence of travel and self-aware dorkiness. Powered by the hivemind, it's a globe-spanning collection of user-submitted activities and destinations that fall under the generous umbrella of "nerdy."

Love dinos? There’s a plethora of Nerdy Day Trips forthat, enough for an EPIC road trip! Looking to kill some time in Ireland? Daytrip it up at the Exhibitionof Historical Streetlights of Dublin. Did you forget that the Louvre isclosed on Tuesdays (hey, it happens to the best of us)? Why not head over to The Pasteur Museum tosee the famed scientist’s home, laboratory, and mausoleum?

Ranging from hipster nerdy (brewery tours) tohistory nerdy (Civil Warmuseum exhibits) and science nerdy (solar observatorytours), the selections available on this interactive map will redefine yourperspective on the breadth of human weirdness and awesomeness. Whether or notthose are two different things is a question you need to ask yourself.

Haleakalā National Park and Observatory

2011-12-19T08:30:00.000-06:00

Spectacular stargazing, the world's largest dormant volcano, endangered species, and four seasons' worth of weather in a day-- that's Haleakalā National Park in a nutshell. It's perfect for a half-day or full-day excursion.
You'll want to dress in layers and prepare for the fickle weather conditions at Haleakalā, (which means "House of the Sun") where a warm, sunny day can turn damp, cold, and windy-- and back to sunny-- at a moment's notice. You might even see snow-- but that too, might be a chimera, an optical illusion caused by the Silversword plant that blankets the ground in white in certain areas.

But the most surprising part of Haleakalā National Park just might be the Observatory, where some very important research takes place. It's home to the Maui Space Surveillance System which tracks satellites and other heavenly bodies, and the Maui High Performance Computing Center, which is an Air Force Research Laboratory crucial to the U.S. Department of Defense. For true science geeks, the interesection of biology, astronomy, technology, and geography makes Haleakalā is the perfect destination.

Haleakala National Park is a few hours' drive from the Fairmont Kea Lani, which is featured in this month's FROSCH Hot List as a Classic Vacations trip package. Ask your FROSCH Travel agent how to book!

The sloths are coming... s-l-o-w-l-y

2011-12-16T09:28:00.000-06:00

Meet the sloths from Lucy Cooke on Vimeo.

You might be familiar with this video that went viral a few years ago due to its overwhelming abundance of cuteness. It introduced the world to baby orphan sloths in Costa Rica doing their thing: scratching their bottoms, sharing green beans Lady-and-the-Tramp-style, hugging teddy bears, falling over, eating treats, and snoozin'. Snoozin' and treats.

Now, the original filmmaker, Lucy Cooke, has been tapped by Animal Planet for a full-length sloth-centric documentary, Slothville, which airs this Saturday at 8PM.

Come to think of it, Costa Rica just might be the epicenter of baby animal cuteness. Not only is it home to the Sloth Sanctuary (accessible by bus from San Jose), it's also the egg-laying grounds for endangered sea turtles. If there's a dearth of cuteness in your life, it just might be worth a trip!

The Santa Barbara Urban Wine Trail

2011-12-15T12:16:00.000-06:00

Photo: Santa Barbara Urban Wine Trail

Looking for an easy shore excursion in Santa Barbara? If you're a true oenophile, but just don't have time to venture further afield, boot up for the Santa Barbara Urban Wine Trail.

Just steps from Stearns Wharf, you'll find a generous handful of excellent California wineries, many of which are family-owned and produce small lots, making this an experience you can't get anywhere else. Choose a few tasting rooms to visit while strolling the pedestrian-friendly streets of downtown Santa Barbara. From the "cool, funky" environment of Kalyra, to Oreana's sunny patio, which was once a tire shop, this is a wonderful introduction to Southern California's fantastic vineyards!

Santa Barbara is the penultimate port of call on the California Coastal Cruise by Princess Cruises, part of this month's FROSCH Hot List. Ask your FROSCH Travel agent for info on booking!

Photo tour: Island Rendezvous

2011-12-15T07:52:00.000-06:00

According to CNN, Americans will forfeit $34.3 billion worth of unused vacation days as they expire at the end of the year, citing money worries and "lack of planning" as the reason they're slaving away in the office rather than lounging on a tropical beach somewhere.

You might be out of luck this year, but to help you learn your lesson for 2012, here's a little photo tour based on one of our FROSCH Hot List items, the 10-Night Island Rendezvous Cruise aboard Regent's Seven Seas Navigator.

Photo Credits:

1. Tucusos de Montana [Red-legged Honeycreeper], Cristobal Alvarado Minic

2. Grand Cayman - HUGE starfish, CB and GK

3. Key West - Sunset, Serge Melki

4. Cozumel Mexico, Purple Slog.

5. Xunantunich, Belize, Ian Mackenzie

6. Dolphins Show, Adalberto H. Vega

A foodie's dream aboard Holland America Line

2011-12-14T13:20:00.000-06:00

By Jenna Storey

Cruise ship dining in the past has been something that wouldstrike fear into most foodies' taste buds, conjuring up images of buffets and blandness.I am happy to say this is no longer the case. Cruise lines have caught on: while they do have a captive audience, their passengers are always lookingfor that something special, including drastically unique dining experiences.

HollandAmerica’s “An Evening at Le Cirque in the Pinnacle Grill” is a uniqueopportunity to experience a taste of the famed Le Cirque restaurant whileaboard their fleet of 15 ships. During most sailings, the ships, Pinnacle Grillis transformed into a Le Cirque-like atmosphere for at least one night. On thatevening, the menu, wine, table décor, and even the restaurant itself is morphedto create the most authentic Le Cirque experience possible. While reservationsare required and there is a charge, we highly recommended it for thefamed Le Cirque crème brûlée alone. Your meal will be served on the iconicorange Le Cirque china; you can expect to see all the legendary cuisine such asLobster Salas “Le Cirque”, Sweet Corn Soup, and Côte de Boeuf.

For thehands-on foodies, you've got the opportunity to learn how to serveup a Le Cirque-worthy meal at home with the demonstrations in the on-board CulinaryArts Center. It's another excellent place to set your inner foodie loose. Theentire center is presented by Food & Wine Magazine, so the chefs, wineexperts, and cookbook authors are top notch. Kids & teens can getinvolved with classes of their own while their parents are off at a cookingclass, wine tasting and mixology lesson, or even a party planning presentation.This year, the classes and meals are sure to be of the utmost "carat" as HollandAmerica celebrates its diamond anniversary.

Holland America's Glacier Discovery Cruise is featured on this month's FROSCH Hot List. Ask your FROSCH travel agent how to book!

Panama Canal Crossing

2011-12-13T12:38:00.000-06:00

Isn't this COOL!? Watch in full screen to get the full effect. Of all the things you can see from a cruise ship, this is one-of-a-kind!

"Panama Canal: A Transit in Timelapse" is a multi-camera timelapse, created using sequential photography from 10 cameras at 8 different camera locations/angles onboard the passenger ship MV Explorer, for a total of over 5,500 photographs, pulled from 30,000 photographs during the 8-hour transit of the canal on May 8, 2011. ("Panama Canal: A Transit in Timelapse" is an M-Visuals Film, produced and directed by Michael A. Mariant.)

There's a Panama Canal crossing in our FROSCH Hot List this month aboard the Seabourn Odyssey. Ask your FROSCH travel agent how to book!

Pocket Travel Consultant App

2011-12-12T16:03:00.000-06:00

There's an app for that! We're proud to debut Pocket Travel Consultant, a clever travel app for your Apple (iPad, iPhone, or iPod Touch) or Android device! This app puts a ton of travel information at your fingertips, from neighborhood guides to restaurant recommendations. Best of all, you can download this info before you leave, so you don't end up paying data charges if you're traveling overseas!

Now, hum a quirky, peppy indie song as we introduce our app:

First things first: you need to have an in. Ask your FROSCH Travel agent about the app as you plan your next trip together. She or he will send you an email invitation with a link to click on from your phone. You'll be prompted for your email and password. Don't worry if you don't have an account yet or if you've forgotten your login details: you'll be able to reset that data. Once you have the app, you've got our worldwide library of destination guides at your fingertips.

Here's the first screen you'll see. Then, let's click on "View Itinerary." I sent myself the itinerary for the 11-Night Northern Adventures Cruise on Cunard.

The app automatically includes the city guides of all the major ports of call, from sightseeing tips to where to find the best shopping streets. Don't forget, you'll want to go through and click "download city" before you go-- that way you won't be at the mercy of hotel wifi or data charges from your phone company. You can see below that it took less than a minute to download the city guide. Let's find out where to eat in Oslo.

Easy enough!

We're so excited to present this app to you, our tech-savvy travelers. Have you tried Pocket Travel Consultant yet? Let us know what you think by leaving a comment below!

A "Flam"-tastic shore excursion with Cunard

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Where can you find storybook landscapes, bike along roaring rivers and waterfalls, and stop to watch a train emerge from a mountain tunnel? In Flam, Norway, that's where. It's one of the stops that on the Cunard Northern Adventure cruise that's featured on this month's FROSCH Hot List!

Flåm is the destination of the 12-mile branch line of the train from Myrdal, a 50-minute ride that plummets nearly 3,000 feet into Flåm Valley. The tiny village lies at the end of the Aurlandsfjord, amid meadows and orchards, surrounded by towering mountains. A trip on famous Flåm Railway is a thrilling experience. Its track took four years to complete and leads through breathtaking mountain scenery, past cascading waterfalls and through hand-dug tunnels. At one point the train travels through a reverse tunnel in order to negotiate a gradient of nearly a thousand feet, making it one of the steepest anywhere in the world. It operates year-round - a great tourist attraction during the summer and a local lifeline during deep winter. Strolling around the few souvenir shops or walking in the picturesque Aurland Valley are popular pastimes. Guests interested in exploring on their own would enjoy a hike in the countryside. The picturesque setting among orchards and meadows draws visitors to this serene and peaceful place.

It's even stunning from above! Check out those snow-capped mountains and fluffy clouds...

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London for Families, Part IV: You're a Wizard, Harry

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by Jenna Storey

Exploring London withthe little ones? There's plenty to keep kids entertained, from educationalmuseums to family friendly live shows to exciting hands-on activities. Here aresome ideas to get you started! Talk to your FROSCH Travel agent (or use our Find A Travel Agent tool) for more great London ideas!

HarryPotter: "Can we find all this in London?"

Hagrid:"If yeh know where to go."

Leadenhall Market.
Photo by Flickr user Jim Linwood.

After HarryPotter’s adventure started at Number 4 Privet Drive, Hagrid took him straightto London to get everything he need to start at Hogwarts, and you can follow inhis footsteps! The first thing every wizard needs is money, so why not head tothe Australian HighCommission--I mean Gringotts! The High Commission actually served as theinteriors for the famous wizard bank. Although the building is not open to thepublic, you may just be able to sneak a peek through the doors.

Then, over to Leadenhall Market which was used as the setting Diagon Alley. Keep an eye out onCharing Cross Road for what could possibly be the Leaky Cauldron. Watch out forDeath Eaters as you wander through TrafalgarSquare. Look for the visitors entrance to the Ministry of Magic across fromGreat Scotland Yard. Make a tight squeeze past the Knight Bus on the LabethBridge. Make sure to cross the MillenniumBridge before the Death Eaters make it collapse!

Platform 9 3/4 in King's Cross Station.
Photo by Flickr user Kat Clay.

Finally, arrive at King’s Cross Station for avisit to platform 9 and ¾. It may not look exactly right because the exteriorof St. Pancras Station was actually usedfor the exterior shots. For more Harry Potter goodies, check out Warner Brothers Studio Tour in March2012 for all the behind-the-scenes magic of the films, including Dumbledore’soffice, Harry’s Nimbus 2000, Hagrid’s motorcycle, the Gryffindor common room,and many other memorable sets from the series!

A Brilliant Place for a Relaxing Break | One Aldwych Giveaway

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With the buzz of Covent Garden outside, One Aldwych is a calming sanctuary on the inside and the ultimate place to relax…

Theluxurious Health Club features a stunning, chlorine free 18 meter swimming poolwith mood lighting and underwater music - you'd never guess it was tucked awayin Covent Garden! Gym addicts can work up a sweat in the 150 square meter, 24hour gym which has been named “Sexiest Gym of the Year”, whilst those in needof some pampering can enjoy a wonderful treatment from Spanish skincarespecialist, Natura Bissé.

Pickan original cocktail from the happening Lobby Bar’s extensive drinks list, sitback and relax. With a double heightceiling, original contemporary sculptures and impressive flower arrangements,this is an effortlessly cool yet comfortable bar.

Needto give your feet a break from shopping and sightseeing? Indulge in OneAldwych’s fresh take on the quintessential British afternoon tea which featureslight, bright versions of the classic sweet and savoury items and is servedwith a selection of leaf teas and infusions – simply delicious!

Thefood in One Aldwych’s fabulous restaurants, Axis at One Aldwych and Indigo isjust as tasty. Both restaurants offer creative menus which are inspired by thebest seasonal ingredients and feature top organic, locally sourced produce. Sowhether it's seared or steamed, your taste buds will be sizzling!

Don’t forget to enter our Facebook giveaway! The prize? A three night stay for two at One Aldwych, plus a three course meal witha bottle of wine, cocktails in the buzzing Lobby Bar and a pampering spa treatmenteach! Enter to win by joining us on Facebook where you’ll also find full giveaway details and rules.

To stay in the know about what’s on in London and find out about exclusive competitions and offers, follow One Aldwych on Facebook and Twitter!