SPRING 2015

CRUISE THE GREEK ISLES

COSTA RICA

YOUR GUIDE TO ADVENTURE FROM COAST TO COAST

DINING IN NEW YORK CITY

VACATION INSPIRATION, BROUGHT TO YOU EXCLUSIVELY BY TRAVEL LEADERS

TRAVEL LEADERS

CRUISE THE EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN WITH CELEBRITY CRUISES

Dear Fellow Traveler, There’s nothing like travel to revitalize the senses after a long winter. If you’re looking for inspiration on where to go on your next vacation, you’re sure to find something that piques your interest in the pages of this spring edition of Postcards magazine. In each edition, we bring you insightful destination information, travel tips, city spotlights, the latest hot spots, culinary adventures and exclusive travel specials to help you Travel Better. In this issue, we feature the exotic wildlife, stunning national parks, active adventures and laid-back beach towns of Costa Rica, take a relaxing cruise through the Greek Isles to visit ancient ruins and enjoy flavorful fresh cuisine, and show you how to enjoy “La Dolce Vita” (The Good Life) in Italy. Join us as we shop for colorful ceramic art in craft markets and snorkel in sunny Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit, Mexico. Follow our New York City gastronomic guide and explore some of Boston’s highlights – from fresh seafood to patriotic history. Wherever you’re dreaming of traveling to next, an insider’s knowledge can make the difference between an ordinary trip and an extraordinary trip. With our training, experience and connections we can provide you with personal recommendations, special offers and privileges, only available to Travel Leaders clients. If you’re ready for your next great travel experience, let us prove to you that there’s simply no better way to travel than with a Travel Leaders travel expert. Best regards, Your Local Travel Expert

Explore Europe on an 11-night Eastern Mediterranean cruise aboard the Celebrity Reflection. Book through our agency and receive a Distinctive Voyages Host, Private Cocktail Reception and Exclusive Shore Event at no extra cost. Departs July 20, 2015.

EXPLORE ALASKA’S INSIDE PASSAGE WITH HOLLAND AMERICA LINE Discover Alaska on the 7-day Inside Passage voyage aboard the ms Volendam. Enjoy a $25 shipboard credit per person and an exclusive culinary demonstration with a featured guest chef when you book through our agency. Departs August 26, 2015.

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9/13/15 9/1 3/15 B Barcelona arcelona to Venice Venice

11-Day 11-Day Greek Enc Enchantment hantment ms Zuiderdam

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9/26/15 9/26/1 5 B Barcelona arcelona to Venice Venice

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*Distinctive VVoyages: oyages: Sailing dates and amenities, including exclusive shore events, are current at time of printing and are subject to change without notice. Amenities apply to 1st and 2nd passenger only. only. Offers are subject to availability, availability, at time of booking, and may be altered or withdrawn at any time without notice. Booking procedure is current at time of print print.. Pricing will be confirmed at time of booking. Cancellations, refunds, and penalties are imposed by the individual cruise line. D Distinctive istinctive Voyages Voyages amenities may be substituted if a minimum number of guests are not confirmed on any given departure. Exclusive Shore Events vary vary.. Combinability with other promotions varies. Fares are based on Promo RH. Featured fares are per person, may vary by sailing date, based on double occupancy,, are capacity controlled and are subject to change without prior notice, cruise only only.. Fares are in U.S. dollars. All savings amounts are included in the fares shown. TTaxes, availability.. For more information about our stateroom axes, Fees & Port Expenses are additional and range from $176.66 to $428.67. Subject to availability categories and suite descriptions, to view deck plans and for full terms and conditions applicable to your cruise, please refer to your TTravel ravel Leaders agent or the appropriate Holland America brochure. Offers are capacity controlled, and may be modified or withdrawn without prior notice. Other restrictions may apply apply.. Ships’ Registry: The Netherlands.

CONTENTS 14

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7 36 HOURS IN… BOSTON

20 DESTINATION: RIVIERA NAYARIT

36 CULINARY QUEST: NYC

A guide to America’s trendiest old city.

Touring Mexico’s Pacific coastline, from Puerto Vallarta to San Blas.

Where to find the best eats in the Big Apple.

11 NOW TRENDING What’s new, what’s next in travel.

26 ADVENTURES IN COSTA RICA

13 PACK YOUR BAGS

This tiny Central American country is packed with things to do from coast to coast.

Stock up on these must-have travel essentials.

14 ON GREEK TIME Exploring the majestic Greek isles by cruise ship.

Travel Leaders Franchise Group Chairman ..............................................Mike Batt CEO ...................................................Barry Liben President ..........................................Roger Block Chief Marketing Officer........Stephen McGillivray Vice President, Marketing..............Brian Hegarty Creative Director........................Kerin Kolonoskie Marketing Director...................Melissa Dobmeier Publications Manager...............Kirsten Shanahan

38 ITALY’S GREATEST HITS Venice, Florence, Rome and much more.

44 CHECKING IN… Loews Minneapolis

34 TOP 5… RIVER CITIES A guide to five of the most vibrant cities that revolve around rivers.

50 TRENDING DESTINATION Iceland is the destination of the moment.

Published by Whitehaus Media Group 1680 Michigan Ave. Suite 1013 Miami Beach, FL 33139 Phone: 786-342-7656 whitehausmediagroup.com ©2015, Travel Leaders Franchise Group, LLC. All rights reserved. Printed in USA. Postcards is published by Travel Leaders Franchise Group, LLC, an operating unit of Travel Leaders Group, LLC. All rates are valid at time of printing and are subject to availability. Please address all advertising and subscription inquiries to Postcards, 3033 Campus Drive, Suite W320, Minneapolis, MN 55441.

Postcards 5

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VIKING RIVER CRUISES, a Travel + Leisure and Condé Nast Traveler award winner, offers the best itineraries on the rivers of Europe, Russia and China. Enjoy exciting cities, rich cultural experiences, fine dining and deluxe accommodations on board the most modern ships—with everything from meals to shore excursions included in your fare. And our award-winning Viking Longships® have raised the bar yet again with full-size veranda staterooms, the largest suites in Europe, al fresco dining and more. Come discover for yourself why Viking® is truly the world’s leading river cruise line. 8-DAY EUROPE FROM $1,856 PER PERSON* Romantic Danube, Budapest to Nuremberg

8-DAY EUROPE FROM $1,856 PER PERSON* Rhine Getaway, Amsterdam to Basel

15-DAY EUROPE FROM $3,562 PER PERSON* Grand European Tour, Budapest to Amsterdam

13-DAY CHINA FROM $3,192 PER PERSON* Imperial Jewels of China, Shanghai to Beijing

2015 Special Savings: 2-FOR-1 cruise plus international air discounts. To book, contact your Travel Leaders agent today. THE WORLD’S LEADING RIVER CRUISE LINE...BY FAR® *Note: Rhine Getaway, Romantic Danube and Grand European Tour price based on CAT F, select November, 2015 Viking Longship sailings. Imperial Jewels of China price based on CAT C, select July, 2015 Viking Emerald sailings. Cruise fares listed are for cruise and cruisetour only in U.S. dollars, per person and fares/discount offers are based on double occupancy. 2-for-1 cruise and international air discounts are considered a single offer. International air does not have to be purchased to get cruise offer. Must request Special Savings offer at time of booking and pay in full by current expiration date; call for details. Valid on new bookings only as of 1/15/15, subject to availability and may not be combinable with any other offers except Past Guest Travel Credit and Referral Rewards Credit. Viking reserves the right to correct errors and to change any and all fares, fees and surcharges at any time. Prices are based upon lowest price point and category at time of print and are subject to change without notice. Additional terms and conditions apply; ask your travel agent for the Passenger Ticket Contract. CST#2052644-40

36 hours in... BOSTON BY PAUL RUBIO

Back Bay Boston skyline

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ne of America’s oldest cities, Boston imbues visitors and residents alike with a patriotic spirit and a sense of enchantment. Tenderly embracing history and scholarship, the city is a living museum of Americana and academia. In the past decade, renewed economic interest in Beantown has thrown a Red Sox’s curve ball into the city’s college-town persona, rebranding it a thriving metropolis. Nowadays, gourmet restaurants, personality-driven lounges and boutique shops share the limelight with renowned landmarks and relics, proving Boston to be a place where history remains in style. Here, your 36-hour guide to America’s trendiest old city. DAY 1 Make a beeline for Boston’s most prestigious neighborhood, Back Bay, and check into the centrally located Loews Boston, an adaptive reuse of the former Boston Police Headquarters, now transformed into an elegant 222-room hotel. Alternatively, put the heavenly beds to the test at the Westin Copley Place, where the pulse of Beantown lies at your

doorstep (as well as the city’s superlative shopping district at adjacent Copley Place and proximate Newbury Street). After a quick stroll around Back Bay, venture across the Charles River to Harvard Square in Cambridge for dinner at Alden & Harlow, helmed by Boston’s “it” chef, Michael Scelfo, where an evening of exquisitely crafted modern American cuisine awaits. Or, head for the best Italian in town at Giulia near Porter Square, also in Cambridge. After dinner, experience 1920s redux at Wink & Nod, a speak-easy-style cocktail den in the South End, or imbibe in the former DUI holding cell of the Charles Street Prison at Alibi Bar & Lounge at the Liberty Hotel. DAY 2 Wake up early to play tourist and take the obligatory Duck Tour through Boston—a cool, kitsch and interactive excursion across the city aboard a duck-shaped, amphibious vehicle that travels both on land and water. Next, indulge in some late-morning or early-afternoon retail therapy on Newbury Street, also patronizing the quieter boutiques of the South End. Be sure to stop into the artsy Olives & Grace, a gift

shop that curates small batch goods from across the country, and Farm & Fable, which specializes in vintage cookware and cookbooks. In between purchases, grab a quick bite at one of the city’s three b.good eateries, Boston’s wildly popular healthy fast-food restaurant. In the afternoon, revive with a walk or jog around the picture-perfect Charles River, catching a glimpse of local life while enjoying the fresh air and prime city views. In the early evening, head to the recently revitalized Seaport District and spend at least a good hour at the Institute of Contemporary Art. Grab your smartphone and look up what’s happening that night at the The Lawn on D, an interactive outdoor space with live performances, storytelling, artistic exhibits, games, food trucks and more. DAY 3 Enjoy your final meal and say goodbye to historic Boston by visiting the Paul Revere House and touring Boston by foot via the Freedom Trail. Live out the lessons of your American history books with lunch at America’s original restaurant, the Union Oyster Postcards 7

Clockwise from top: Boston Duck Tour; entrance to Rowes Wharf; George Washington statue in the Boston Public Garden.

House, which dates back to 1826. Novelty, nostalgia and superb seafood all wrapped into one, this National Historic Landmark actually became part of the Freedom Trail nearly two centuries ago, and hasn’t looked back since. Nowadays, patrons shuck ’til they drop on New England’s most famous oysters or feast on more contemporary lobster dishes in one of seven dissimilar dining rooms. As you’ll soon learn, 36 hours isn’t nearly enough time to give Boston the attention it deserves, which means only one thing: it’s time to chat with your Travel Leaders agent about planning a return trip as well. TL CALL US To book your visit to Boston, contact our Travel Leaders agency today.

WHEN TO VISIT: For those that shy away from cold weather, the best time to visit Boston is in the summer and fall, where you can experience an early-morning whale-watching tour to see the migratory humpbacks in all their glory outside Boston Harbor. 8 Postcards

GETTING AROUND: The best and most efficient way to get to almost all of Boston’s major points of interest is via the “T,” which is what locals collectively call the city’s public transportation options, which include subway, bus, trolley and ferry lines.

MUST-TRY: Visitors should not leave Boston without tasting New England clam chowder. Locals say the best can be found at B&G Oyster in the South End. For a twist on the classic, Poe’s Kitchen at the Rattlesnake serves up a jalapeño clam chowder that’s equally divine.

View of the Boston Harbor at sunset; above, historic cobblestone street in Beacon Hill.

Postcards 9

Fabulous FIJI – 7-nights

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VACATIONS INCLUDE: 7 nights’ accommodation including one FREE night and taxes. All-inclusive includes all meals, drinks, activities and more!

TO BOOK, CONTACT YOUR TRAVEL LEADERS AGENT TODAY.

Rates are per person, land only, based on double occupancy. Advertised vacation rate(s) valid for select travel 6/1 – 10/31/15. Rates for other travel dates may vary. Rates based on current currency exchange rates as of 12/15/14; currency exchange rates subject to change without notice. Rates, terms, conditions and itinerary are subject to availability. Certain restrictions apply. Rates shown include government-imposed fees and taxes. Rates are current as of 12/15/14; at the time you purchase your package, rates may be higher. For current prices, please see your Travel Leaders agent. Not responsible for errors or omissions. [Pleasant Holidays acts only as an agent for the various travel providers shown above.] CST# 1007939-10. UBI# 601 915 263. TAR# 5308. Copyright © 2015 Pleasant Holidays, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Now Trending

IMAGES COURTESY OF ROYAL CARIBBEAN INTERNATIONAL AND AMRESORTS

What’s new, what’s next in travel.

Clockwise from top: Royal Caribbean International’s newest ship, Quantum of the Seas; AMResorts’ new Secrets Playa Mujeres Golf & Spa Resort; Angkor Wat Temple, Siem Reap, Cambodia; pool deck onboard Seabourn Odyssey.

Introducing Quantum of the Seas After much anticipation and fanfare, the newest, most impressive vessel in Royal Caribbean International’s fleet has finally made its debut. Dubbed the “world’s first smartship,” Quantum of the Seas is the most connected ship to date, providing unrivaled Internet speed at sea. Guests will be delighted by the dancing Roboscreens at Two70, a grand venue providing 270-degree panoramic views and thanks to the implementation of Virtual Balconies, spectacular ocean views are available from every room on the ship. Seabourn Cruise Line Orders Another Ultra-Luxury Ship In the past few years, Seabourn cruises has been working tirelessly to expand its fleet. And in December, it announced yet another all-suite ship for delivery in spring 2018. The yet-to-be-named 40,350-GRT vessel is the fifth newbuild that the cruise line has in the works, and will be a sister ship to the newbuild that was announced in early 2014, (which is scheduled for delivery late 2016), both of which are being built by Italian shipyard Fincantieri S.p.A.

Explore Asia with Windstar Cruises’ New Itineraries Windstar Cruises recently debuted new Asian itineraries on its newly launched all-suite yacht, Star Pride. With a capacity of just 200 guests, a smaller vessel like Star Pride is able to visit destinations that larger ships cannot. Windstar removes the headache of connections and packing and unpacking, keeping a focus on the culture of the region. New cruise tours combine land tours in Angkor Wat, Cambodia, before flying to Ho Chi Minh City, where ships depart. On all Asia itineraries, a guest lecturer is on board to answer any and all questions about the destinations the ship visits. AMResorts Debuts Secrets Playa Mujeres In November, AMResorts opened the doors to its 36th resort: Secrets Playa Mujeres Golf & Spa Resort. This adults-only retreat is set among 2.3 miles of gated beachfront property just 10 minutes north of Cancun. This uniquely romantic setting is perfect for couples, offering a world-class Secrets Spa by Pevonia, nine restaurants and access to a signature Greg Norman golf course. TL Postcards 11

Ta h i t i M A N Y I S L A N D S S E E N B Y YAC H T

7, 10, & 11 Days Itineraries Wind Spirit

Papeete • Moorea • Tahaa • Raiatea • Bora Bora Huahine • Rangiroa • Takapoto • Fakarava

World’s Best Small Ship Cruise Line – Condé Nast Traveler

Co n t ac t yo u r trave l p rofe ss iona l to m ake your re s e rvation

PACK YOUR BAGS Stock up on these must-have travel essentials before your next big trip.

1. SAMSONITE The storied luxury travel brand has reinvented luggage once again with MIGHTlight, a collection of lightweight, sturdy suitcases that feature sleek designs and spherical Spinner wheels. samsonite.com

2. LOUIS VUITTON When it comes to traveling in style, there's one name that stands out above the rest. Louis Vuitton's heritage is steeped in travel and exploration, which is why we've selected the iconic Keepall 45 Bandoulière as a must-have accessory. Playful and elegant, it's also a statement-maker in red and the perfectly practical piece to pack. us.louisvuitton.com

3. TUMI Don't let security lines and Customs drag down your travel experience. When you carry your passport in one of Tumi's bright Prism leather covers, you'll make the experience of travel that much more memorable. Plus, with your stylish luggage in baggage claim, you'll need some way of making your sartorial travel statement. tumi.com

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4. POLAROID

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Sharing pics takes on a whole new meaning with the Polaroid Z2300. This digital camera makes sticky-backed instant prints at the push of a button. Consider this gadget your new travel companion, and the easiest way to share photos with friends and create new keepsakes— instantly. polaroid.com

5. TORY BURCH Technology is the new black, and this Tory Burch for Fitbit metal hinged bracelet is the perfect way to accessorize with wearable technology. Track fitness, sleep and activity in high style with a little help from the designer who knows lifestyle best. toryburch.com

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6. JAWBONE The MINI JAMBOX by Jawbone packs more than a pint-size punch. The wireless Bluetooth speaker is less than an inch thin, weighs 9 ounces and keeps a charge for up to 10 hours. Compatible with iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch, Android smartphones and tablets and most Mac or PC computers, there's always a party to be had with the MINI JAMBOX. jawbone.com

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7. BEATS BY DRE Smart travelers know how to streamline and simplify, and that includes doing away with unnecessary and messy cords. Enter Solo2 Wireless from Beats by Dre. These Bluetoothenabled headphones allow for more freedom in travel and will provide flawless sound within 30 feet of your music source. The 12-hour rechargeable battery provides ample time for music, as well as hands-free calling. beatsbydre.com Postcards 13

Santorini, Greece 14 Postcards

ON GREEK TIME During a whirlwind island cruise tour, Jessica Colley does as the locals do—and slows down to savor Greece’s simple pleasures.

Postcards 15

“Travel time isn’t considered time wasted to the Greeks. When at sea, mainland worries are left ashore.”

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PHOTO COURTESY OF PRINCESS CRUISES.

Athens amphitheater at sunset; below, cruise ships docked off the coast of Santorini.

D

o yourself a favor and order a frappé. When you sit at any table along the shore of any Greek island—where a cat with tiger stripes is sleeping in the shade and a boat is bobbing in the sea in a mesmerizing rhythm—it’s time for a frappé, Greece’s famous foamcovered iced-coffee drink. If you’re lucky, your waiter might pick up a guitar and play a slow song for you as you sit back, relax and enjoy. This is the scene I remember most from a recent cruise to the Greek isles. Before the sun climbed to its midday height, I rented a bicycle and pedaled out along the shoreline. I rested my bike in the sand of a silent cove where, for a blissful couple of hours, it was just the sun, sea, sand and me. Returning to the taverna, the waiter picked up the guitar right as I mopped my plate clean of green-hued olive oil and fresh bread, the taste of salty local feta still on my lips. Before the pleasures of the Greek islands, there is the pleasure of getting there. I followed the lead of the locals. Travel time isn’t considered time wasted to the Greeks—it is a sort of limbo, an opportunity to unwind and arrive in a more relaxed state of mind. When at sea, mainland worries are left ashore. Most Greek-isle cruises—such as the Princess Cruises 7-day Greek Isles tour with stops in Santorini, Rhodes and Crete—depart from Athens, Greece’s capital and most populated city. Make sure to leave at least a day to explore before your departure date, as no visit to Athens is complete without two things: First, you must see something ancient (like the imposing Acropolis); second, you must get a feel for how Greeks live today. To me, that means strolling through the marketplace to see locals pick from piles of glistening olives, linger over spices and haggle over octopus. Ancient Athens and modern Athens are smashed up against one another—two vastly different eras that coexist in tight spaces. As seductive as Athens can be, the islands have a strong pull. Arriving in Santorini always has a dreamlike quality, but this experience is heightened early in the morning (Princess Cruises arrives at 7 a.m.). Greece’s signature golden light strikes

LET’S

Santorini’s pure-white buildings and blue roofs in an unworldly way, as if overnight your ship didn’t sail just into the Aegean Sea, but to somewhere completely off the map. This volcanic island is famous for its dramatic views, from both the water and from the cliffs. A late-morning excursion on the sea for fishing or snorkeling will do the trick. After all that salty air and swimming, I mimicked the locals, settling into a leisurely late lunch with a cold glass of white wine. Some Greek-isle itineraries sail to Kusadasi, Turkey, to see the ancient city of Ephesus, while others head for Mykonos for its windmills and 18th-century monastery. On Rhodes, I got lost in the all-stone town—the largest active medieval town in Europe— surrounded by a fortified wall. Over 60,000 residents go about their daily business among the island’s churches, mosques, palaces and forts. They are living among layers of history. After exploring during the day, my ship is a welcomed evening retreat, a quiet place to put my feet up as we sail overnight toward our next island adventure. The largest of the Greek islands, Crete, is the last stop on my itinerary. Golden beaches, more ancient history and postcard-perfect villages crisscross the island. In the bustling city of Heraklion (where Princess Cruises docks), there is an archaeological museum and the famous Koules Fortress. Restaurants and coffee shops are peppered between Venetian mansions, Turkish fountains and Byzantine churches. For me, a simple stroll along the waterfront and an icy frappé is all the afternoon needs. The Greek-isle itineraries ending in Rome provide a pleasant finale to an exploration of the ancient world. But on the island of Crete, as the sun sinks lower into the horizon, my focus is more on the Mediterranean pleasures of today. With a wink, my waiter hands me a plate of fat cherries and watermelon. Toddlers mischievously pull the tail of a cat, their parents nursing a glass of wine nearby. You know time is passing—you can actually watch it pass as the orange glow of the sun disappears into the sea—but in Greece, everything is slower. And in today’s rushed world, that is a very good thing. TL

LOCAL PHRASES: A little Greek can go a long way. “Kalimera” means good morning.

MUST-TRY: Local wines are increasing in popularity. Keep an eye out for Assyrtiko (white) and Xinomavro (red).

PLAN AHEAD: No matter your itinerary, it’s best to book activities and excursions in advance. This will help you make the most of your time in the ports of call.

CALL US To book your unforgettable cruise to the Greek islands, contact our Travel Leaders agency today.

Enjoy a 7-night Greek Isles cruise with Princess Cruises aboard the Emerald Princess. From Athens to Rome, you’ll visit some of the most beautiful islands in Greece. Cruise from Athens to Santorini, Greece; Kusadasi, Turkey (for Ephesus); Rhodes, Greece; tktkttktktktktktktktktktkkttkkttktktktkttk. Crete, Greece; Naples, Italy (for Capri & Pompeii); and Rome, Italy. Departs September 19, 2015, from $1,349 per person (airfare additional).

GO

Postcards 17

Clockwise from top: the medieval Castle of Lindos on Rhodes; the Acropolis in Athens; quaint street in Athens; the Temple of Zeus and the Acropolis, Athens; traditional Greek shrimp and tomato dish.

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I T MI GHT BE H ER E. This may be where you fall in love. Or fall back in love. Or imagine yourself as an 18th-century royal wandering exquisite palace halls. It might be here that you taste fresh Italian gelato, are inspired by ancient sculptures or watch today’s artists finding inspiration in cafés on cobbled streets. Wherever you sail, and whatever you explore in Europe, cultures older than time will make you feel completely new.

7 -DAY NORWEGIAN FJORDS Caribbean Princess® | Roundtrip Southampton | 7/11/15 & 8/29/15

fares from

$1,449*

Taxes, Fees & Port Expenses of up to $95 per person are additional, and are subject to change.

11 -DAY NORWEGIAN FJORDS Regal Princess® | Roundtrip Copenhagen | 7/18/15

fares from

$2,299*

Taxes, Fees & Port Expenses of up to $225 per person are additional, and are subject to change.

8 -DAY IREL AND, SCOTL AND & WALES Ocean Princess® | Roundtrip Dover | 8/17/15

fares from

$1,699*

Taxes, Fees & Port Expenses of up to $195 per person are additional, and are subject to change.

Receive up to $85 onboard credit*

To start planning your vacation, contact your Travel Leaders Agent today!

*$1449 fare is based on category ID on Caribbean Princess® sailing 7/11/15 & 8/29/15, $2,299 fare is based on category ID on Regal Princess® sailing 07/18/15, $1,699 fare is based on category IE on Ocean Princess® sailing 08/17/15,on a space-available basis at time of booking. Fares for other dates may vary. Fares are per person, non-air, cruise-only, based on double occupancy and apply to the first two passengers in a stateroom. These fares do not apply to singles or third/fourth-berth passengers. This offer is capacity controlled and may not be combinable with any other public, group or past passenger discount, including onboard credits. Offer is not transferable and is available to residents of the 50 United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, Mexico and the District of Columbia who are 21 years of age or older and receive this offer. Fares quoted in U.S. dollars. Please refer to the appropriate Princess Brochure for terms, conditions and definitions that apply to all bookings Up to $85 onboard credit is per stateroom, based on double occupancy. Onboard credit may be used on a single voyage only, expires at the end of that voyage and is not redeemable for cash. Onboard credit is quoted in U.S. dollars. Void where prohibited by law. ©2014 Princess Cruise Lines, Ltd. Ships of Bermudan and British registry.

Destination:

RIVIERA NAYARIT

Touring Mexico’s Pacific coastline, from Puerto Vallarta to San Blas. BY JENNA SCATENA

Sunset, Sayulita, Nayarit, Mexico 20 Postcards

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he crescent of white sand that greets a dazzling swimmable bay at the Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit feels like it could be in Monaco; but the distinct Sierra Madre Mountains and the resort’s contemporary Mexican design remind you you’re in the Riviera Nayarit. For years, Puerto Vallarta and the Riviera Nayarit were the secrets of avid surfers and intrepid travelers; but over the past few decades, word of this Shangrila has spread. In effect, travel here is more accessible, yet the region still maintains its rustic charm. The best way to discover the diverse treasures of this 200-mile Pacific coastal stretch—colorful Mexican crafts, unreal fish tacos, world-class golfing and tropical snorkeling, to name a few—is to drive the length of its panoramic stretches and subtle curves. You’ll want to spend at least two days here to soak up the adventures, as Riviera Nayarit is just as much about experiencing the simple serenity of the water as it is about exploring the rich culture of the land. Postcards 21

The five-star Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit serves as a worthy introduction to the region, and is the ideal perch from which to explore nearby Puerto Vallarta’s row of galleries, the palm-fringed Malecón and the nightly performances, artisan vendors and local delicacies at the Los Arcos Amphitheater’s Corinthian arches. The area’s best snorkeling is located at Marieta Islands National Park, a set of volcanic islands favored by famed oceanographer Jacques Cousteau. Get there by way of luxury catamaran, keeping an eye out for sunbathing sea turtles, frolicking dolphins and breaching whales on the way. Upon arrival to the islands, strap on your snorkel gear and dive in. This is your chance to explore the Riviera’s tropical underwater landscape, where crystal-clear waters and ribbed sugar-white slopes formed by the currents give way to deep canyons, caves and massive rocks that numerous species of fish and other sea life call home. Dry yourself the natural way—by relaxing in the warm sunshine—and take in the tranquil surroundings before heading back to shore. For more time on the water, many tour companies also offer sunset cruises, from which you can get the best views of the flamingorange sun slowly dissolving into the cool-blue sea. Driving north from the Grand Velas, you’ll skirt the edges of Mexico’s Pacific coast and pass through lush, verdant jungle. Arriving at the cobblestone streets and pastel buildings of Bucerías feels like stepping back in time. This ambient town is known for its Mexican handicrafts, silver jewelry and traditional sweets. Lustrous necklaces and dangling earrings are displayed on turquoise cloths, while handmade figurines line the walkway at the Mercado Artesanal, where locals pass en route to the beach. For traditional art with a contemporary spin, the gallery TUNA Centro de Cerámica Contemporánea shows detailed modern sculptures worthy of a quick tour. About a 30-minute drive west, what was once a small fishing village that barely registered as a blip on the radar has now become a chic celebrity enclave and the pampering capital of the Riviera. Don’t expect

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thatched-roof huts here—in Punta Mita, the sandy shores of the Coral del Rusco and El Anclote beaches are lined with five-star resorts overlooking the Pacific. But while taking in the rays on the beach is tempting, don’t forget about the region’s signature Jack Nicklaus-designed Punta Mita Pacifico Golf Course, a par-72 course surrounded by exotic gardens and turquoise waters. The course can challenge even the most avid golfer with Hole 3B (nicknamed the Tail of the Whale), which is located on an island nearly 200 yards from the mainland tee. A post-game drink is best enjoyed beneath an open-air palapa at the St. Regis Punta Mita’s Las Marietas Restaurant & Bar just in time to watch the sunset. The fare at Las Marietas reflects the vibe of Punta Mita: relaxed, but refined, and with menu highlights that include fresh octopus tostaditas and the catch of the day zarandeado-style, a traditional Pacific Coast Mexican dish. By the time you reach Sayulita, you’ll be itching for a dip in its warm cerulean waters. This seaside village is a cosmopolitan and bohemian crosscurrent, with an easily detectable romance in the air. Locals and jet-setters nonchalantly stroll the shops, fruit stands and alfresco cafes; but Sayulita’s epicenter is the beach. The stand-up paddleboarding trend has caught on in this sandy enclave, so you’ll want to consider renting a board and trying out your balancing skills. The reward is a bird’s-eye view into the turquoise water to see more marine life than from the point of view of, say, a kayak. Conclude your journey up the coast in the quaint 17th-century colonial town of San Blas, where strolling the streets is best accompanied by the sweet taste of cocadas, a Mexican coconut candy, and the folky tunes of street musicians. Cobblestone walkways, navigable canals and thick mangroves give San Blas a feeling unlike anywhere else along the Riviera Nayarit. Spend the day admiring the architecture and exploring fascinating ruins like the Nuestra Señora del Rosario Temple, constructed in 1769, and sipping aguas frescas by the beach before heading back to Puerto Vallarta. TL

MUST-TRY: Refuel with a strip of fresh fried mahi-mahi resting in a handmade stone-ground masa tortilla with a side of mangoand-pineapple salsa at local favorite, Sayulita Fish Tacos in Bucerías, Puerto Vallarta.

WHEN TO GO: Temperatures are warm year-round, though the best time to visit is between November and May, when it rarely rains.

GETTING AROUND: Renting a car is easy, and allows you to set your own pace as you drive up the coast.

CALL US To book your vacation to Riviera Nayarit, contact our Travel Leaders agency today.

White-sand beaches, word-class golfing, tropical snorkeling, stunning mountains, charming coastal towns and more all await you in Riviera Nayarit! Whether you want an adventure-filled vacation or relaxing days spent on a beach, a customized itinerary just for you or one with a trusted partner of ours, like Funjet Vacations and Pleasant Holidays, we’ll plan the getaway of your dreams.

Infinity pool at the Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit

“The best way to discover the diverse treasures of this 200-mile Pacific coastal stretch is to drive the length of its panoramic stretches and subtle curves.” Postcards 23

Clockwise from top left: Marieta Islands National Park; snorkeling and kayaking adventures off the coastline; reflection pool at the St. Regis Punta Mita; sailing excursion; exterior view of the St. Regis Punta Mita; Punta Mita Pacifico Golf Course.

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THE SIZE OF AN ISLAND. Forget everything you know about vacation packages. With Delta Vacations you can custom-create your entire experience, choosing the destinations, resorts, activities and more. Plus, you’ll earn toward your SkyMiles® Medallion® status, rack up bonus miles and have a team who’s with you — from planning to booking to breathtaking.

FOR RESERVATIONS, CONTACT YOUR LOCAL TRAVEL LEADERS AGENT

Offers subject to change without notice; other restrictions may apply. All SkyMiles program rules apply. To review the rules, please visit delta.com/memberguide. Delta Vacations airfares will earn Medallion Qualification Dollars (MQDs – U.S.-based members only) based on fare class and distance flown. Bonus miles do not count towards Medallion® status or Million Miler™ status. Please allow 6-8 weeks after qualification for miles to be posted to your account. Offers void where prohibited by law. Image copyright Brian Finke. ©2014 MLT Vacations, LLC DV18894

Hills and mountains in Costa Rica 26 Postcards

ADVENTURES IN COSTA RICA This tiny Central American country is jam-packed with things to do from rich coast to rich coast. BY KATIE MCELVEEN

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t may be smaller than West Virginia, but thanks to a geographical twist of fate, Costa Rica—with its two coastlines, soaring mountains, active volcanoes, verdant rainforests and misty cloud forests—is packed with more diverse landscapes than many countries twice its size. Add more than 700 species of birds, a host of cool animals like sloths and jaguars and a dose of pura vida, and it’s easy to see why this Central American country is such a popular travel destination. TWO COASTLINES Remote and pristine, Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast is anchored by Tortuguero National Park, a 47,000-acre oceanfront preserve where, on dark nights, turtles make their way out of the ocean to lay eggs in the warm sand. Since Tortuguero is a nesting ground for four different species of the shelled reptiles, there’s a good chance you’ll witness hatchlings of one type of turtle break out of their eggs and race toward the water. To protect the turtles, a guide must accompany evening visitors to the park. A network of canals makes it easy to explore the park’s marshy interior by boat, kayak or canoe; whichever you choose, keep your eyes peeled for the manatees, river otters and crocodiles that populate the waterways. Also living within the thick forest: all four species of monkeys native to Costa Rica and more than 300 types of birds, including great green macaws and ruby-throated crested guans. Contented sloths asleep on thick branches is a fairly common site in this part of Costa Rica; if you just have to see if they’re as cuddly as they look, make your way to the Sloth Sanctuary of Costa Rica, where you can fawn over some of the more than 150 orphaned or injured sloths that reside there. Known for its dramatic, close-to-shore coral reefs, Cahuita National Park offers a day’s worth of beachy diversions—snorkeling, swimming and sunning— along with hiking trails that loop through the park’s shady maritime forest. The park is also close to the Jaguar Rescue Center, which rehabilitates injured jaguars and other animals and releases them into the adjoining nature reserve. More than twice as long as its Caribbean opposite,

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Costa Rica’s Pacific coastline is renowned for its dramatic black-sand beaches, terrific surfing, luxury resorts and lively beach towns where waterfront cafes offer sunset views along with spicy grilled fish and icecold Imperial beers. Liberia’s international airport offers easy access to the Guanacaste region, which his home to some of Costa Rica’s most popular seaside areas, including the resort-filled Papagayo Peninsula and Flamingo Beach; the fishing village of Playa del Coco; the reef-strung Sugar Beach; and Playa Conchal, with its mangroves and ground-shell sand. Surfers flock to Tamarindo as much for its waves as for its funky vibe. The calm, warm waters of Coronado Bay attract both migrating whales—it catches species heading both north and south—as well as those giving birth. Watch from a charter boat or from the shoreline of Manuel Antonio National Park, a small park with a big—and well-deserved—reputation for wildlife spotting, both from its stunning crescent-shaped beach and within its forested interior, which is dotted with waterfalls and strung with zip lines. MOUNTAINS, RIVERS AND VOLCANOES Even in its current resting state, the Arenal Volcano looms over the northern highlands halfway between Costa Rica’s capital, San José, and Liberia, offering a dramatic backdrop for fun activities like horsebackriding through the rainforest, zip-lining over deep canyons and through the shady jungle, rappelling through waterfalls or rafting over roller-coaster-like rapids. There are plenty of soft adventures, too, such as taking a tram tour through the wooded interior, relaxing in natural hot springs or kayaking across the waters of Lake Arenal, which sits at the base of the volcano. Smaller, but still lively, is the Poás Volcano. Nearly a mile across, the bubbling turquoise pool and shooting geysers of the Poás are easily accessed via a hiking trail. The drive, which is about 90 minutes from San José, runs through green mountains, coffee plantations and tiny towns like Sarchím, where artisans craft textiles, wooden chests and painted oxcarts. Poás is also close to the massive Braulio Carrillo National Park. Offering both challenging

MUST-TRY: Don’t miss a trip into the town of Cahuita to sample the town’s Afro-Caribbean influences in the form of “rondon,” a spicy fish stew made with coconut milk and plantains, nutmeg-scented breads and jerk chicken.

FAMILY FUN: Did you know that the original canopy tour was created in Costa Rica? These series of treetop zip lines and traverses can now be found all over the country, as well as in many parts of the Caribbean and Central America.

Clockwise from top left: Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve; keel-billed toucan; sunset view from Costa Rica’s Pacific coast; three-toed sloth.

Papagayo Peninsula

Tortuguero National Park

Libería Arenal Volcano

GUANACASTE

Monteverde

Braulio Carillo National Park

Poás Volcano SAN JOSÉ

Costa Rica

Cahuita National Park

Manuel Antonio National Park

Coronado Bay

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View from the rainforest of the Arenal Volcano

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From top, waterfalls at the base of the Arenal Volcano; turtle in Tortuguero National Park; humpback whale breaching the surface off of Costa Rica’s coast.

hiking trails and an aerial tram, the park is home to a Noah’s Ark of animals and five distinct ecosystems. With its dawn and sunset hikes, bird-watching courses, children’s programs and prime wildlife-spotting location 50 miles northeast of San José, the La Selva Biological Station makes it easy to take in much of Costa Rica’s natural treasures (as well as unique mammals such as pig-like peccaries and leopard-like margays) in one place. Adjacent to the Arenal Volcano, the towns of Monteverde and Santa Elena are canopy-tour havens, offering networks of hanging bridges, zip lines, aerial trams and other ways to peer over the primeval world rife with lush vegetation, gigantic insects, darting hummingbirds and more. For those who prefer to stay grounded, many of the adventure parks offer other peeks into the cloud forest, including animal exhibits and gardens filled with orchids, bromeliads and butterflies. Within the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve, hiking trails wind through the habitats of anteaters, sloths and ocelots. For the best chance of seeing these shy residents, consider taking a tour at night, when many animals emerge from their hiding places. The reserve is also known as a prime birding location; more than 400 species have been spotted here, including the resplendent quetzal, a small species known for its bright red, green and blue plumage. East of San José, the town of Turrialba is the jumping-off point for adventurers looking to take on the Class II, III and IV rapids of the Pacuare and Reventazón rivers. TL CALL US Call our Travel Leaders agency today and we’ll use our personal experiences and international relationships to plan an extraordinary customized Costa Rican vacation just for you.

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Discover the splendor, wildlife and culture of Costa Rica on Globus’ 11-day Natural Wonders of Costa Rica with Manuel Antonio tour. This thrilling adventure begins and ends in San José and includes Tortuguero National Park, a canal cruise, an excursion to the Arenal Volcano, Monteverde, Manuel Antonio National Park and more. Departs July 18, 2015, from $2,199 per person (airfare additional). Postcards 31

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Top 5...

RIVER

CITIES

Any map can tell you that some of the world’s most vibrant cities are situated along rivers. Here are five of our favorites. BY KAREN ASP

1. BANGKOK

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The Chao Phraya River, the “River of Kings,” is Bangkok’s lifeblood. Take a river cruise to get a better understanding of its importance and view some of the city’s most famous sites, including the Grand Palace, Wat Arun (the Temple of Dawn) and Wat Pho. One popular site you can access from the river is Phra Athit Road, which is lined with restaurants, bars and cafes. At night, your best bet is to opt for a dinner cruise on the river.

2. CHICAGO The Chicago River makes national headlines every St. Patrick’s Day when the city dyes the river green. But no matter the time of year, the river remains a popular attraction. It is best accessed by the Michigan Avenue Bridge, near the Wrigley Building and Tribune Tower, where kayaks and canoes are available for rent. There are also narrated architectural cruises to understand why Chicago’s buildings are so revered. (If you’re traveling with your pup, dog-friendly cruises also offer narration.) Leave time to explore the river walks that wind underneath some of the bridges, where you can enjoy a meal at one of the city’s many acclaimed restaurants.

3. ST. PETERSBURG Upon arrival, you can see why St. Petersburg has been called the Venice of the North. The city was founded along the Neva River, hence the reason it’s dotted with bridges and canals. Be sure to stroll along the Blue Bridge (it is, in fact, blue), circa 1818; at 319 feet wide, it’s the widest bridge in the world. Many of the city’s greatest attractions, including the Winter Palace, Hermitage Museum and the Peter and Paul Fortress, are situated along the river, making a cruise an ideal way to view this magical city. Night tours are especially popular during the White Nights Festival in June and July.

4. PARIS It’s impossible to visit Paris without seeing the Seine, along which you’ll find some of the city’s most famous landmarks. The city is divided into two sides: Rive Droite (the Right Bank) and Rive Gauche (the Left Bank); it’s easy to walk from one side to the other. In total, there are 32 bridges, including the Pont Neuf, the city’s oldest, and the pedestrian-only Pont Des Arts. And what better way to experience the City of Lights than with an evening sightseeing cruise. Many start right by the Eiffel Tower, so you can see the shimmering monument from up-close.

5. BUDAPEST The Danube River splits Hungary’s capital into two sides: Buda and Pest. You can cross back and forth by way of public transportation or by foot via one of the city’s eight bridges. Along the banks of the Pest side, you’ll find the Hungarian Parliament Building and the Danube Promenade, which runs from the Elizabeth Bridge to the Chain Bridge. Take note of the Holocaust memorial sculpture, Shoes on the Danube Bank. On the Buda side, you’ll find the Castle District high on a hill overlooking the river and many of the city’s popular Turkish baths. TL CALL US To book your next vacation to any one of these river cities, contact our Travel Leaders agency today.

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Clockwise from top left: Wat Arun temple, Bangkok; the Eiffel Tower at night, Paris; Danube River, Budapest; the Winter Palace, St. Petersburg; cruise along the Chicago River.

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Culinary Quest NEW YORK CITY From tried-and-true classics to the hottest new restaurants, New York-based writer Cabell Belk shares his top choices on where to eat in the city that never sleeps.

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hen it comes to flavor, few cities can compete with the Big Apple. But if time (and meals) are limited, it can be hard to determine which way to slice it. Here’s how to savor five of New York’s most appetizing neighborhoods right now.

THE FLATIRON DISTRICT Visit Breads Bakery first thing to pick up Uri Scheft’s beautifully braided chocolate babka, widely hailed as the best loaf in the city. The Israeli-born pastry chef’s repertoire includes everything from traditional pain au raisin to pumpkin-poppy challah. His bite-sized marzipan-laced rugelach pair perfectly with a cappuccino and a lap around the Union Square Greenmarket. A few blocks away at ABC Kitchen, where tabletops are clad in wildflowers and servers are dressed in mismatched flannel buttondowns, lunch comes with six floors of design inspiration curated by ABC Carpet & Home. Eataly’s NYC flagship (imagine a department store dedicated entirely to Italian foodstuffs) makes a worthy finale to any survey of Flatiron eats. Whether you’re craving homemade fior di latte or prosciutto di Parma, be sure to visit the new Nutella Bar for dessert.

HELL’S KITCHEN Some of New York’s—and the country’s—most esteemed purveyors (Blue Bottle Coffee, Ivan Ramen and Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams among them) can be found at Gotham West Market, a hip destination food court on an unlikely stretch of 11th Avenue dominated by shipping depots and car dealerships. Mere blocks north, visit La Boîte, where spice-master Lior Lev Sercarz crafts bespoke blends for the likes of Éric Ripert and Daniel Boulud, as well as artisanal bloody mary and cocoa mixes. And in a neighborhood where memorable pre-theater meals haven’t always been easy to come by, feast on garlic honey wings, spicy pork-belly sliders and kimchi bacon paella at Danji, the first Korean restaurant to receive a Michelin star.

LOWER EAST SIDE Greet the day with bagels, bialys, latkes and knishes at the new cafe by Russ and Daughters—the revered “appetizing shop” in business since 1914—and end it at Danny Bowien’s Technicolor taco spot Mission Cantina, serving serious playlists and cuisine from Mexico via San Francisco (think: corn tortillas topped with roasted delicata squash and fried jalapeño pickles). Dessert awaits at Morgenstern’s WHEN TO GO: The eighth-annual New York City Wine & Food Festival takes place October 15-18, bringing together legendary culinary icons from around the globe in more than 100 sponsored events throughout the city. The best part: all proceeds go to Share Our Strength’s No Kid Hungry campaign and Food Bank For New York City. 36 Postcards

Finest Ice Cream, where you can explore the nuances of familiar flavors (there are four different types of vanilla alone) and sample whimsical originals like salt-and-pepper pine nut. The staff develops weekly pop-up flavors in partnership with favorite local chefs, so note the collaboration calendar, especially if you need recommendations for tomorrow. It reads like a cheat sheet of the city’s culinary trendsetters du jour.

DOWNTOWN Ring in your weekend with croque-madames and sparkling seasonal “bibonade” (fresh fruit and wine over ice) at Buvette, the neighborhood’s petite, picture-perfect Francophile brunch darling. Brownstone-lined streets lead north toward Chelsea and Haven’s Kitchen, a recreational cooking school in a renovated townhouse. Arrive a few minutes before class to peruse the cookbook collection in the luminous ground-floor cafe, then perfect your pie crust or tackle your fear of fish butchery. For dinner, travel to Italy at Village hot spot Carbone, a canny millennial ode to the city’s iconic red-sauce joints of yesteryear. Expect tuxedoed servers, heaping portions of nostalgic pasta dishes and a deliciously retro dessert cart.

WILLIAMSBURG Every Saturday, hungry Brooklynites descend upon Smorgasburg to sample fancy grilled cheeses, food-truck pizza and all manners of dumplings. The parking-lot food festival features dozens of emerging artisans and should be first on any weekender’s list. Graze to your appetite’s content, then migrate to Mast Brothers Chocolate to tour the famously bearded siblings’ atelier to sip on single-origin cocoa at their brand-new brew bar. For dinner, make a pizza pilgrimage to the neighborhood’s industrial periphery. Operating out of an improvised Bushwick garage now considered de rigueur for North Brooklyn coolhunters, Roberta’s serves Neapolitan-style pies ranging from simple and spare to iconoclastic (cue the “Beastmaster,” which is topped with tomato, mozzarella, gorgonzola, pork sausage, capers and jalapeños). TL CALL US Let our Travel Leaders agency help plan your culinary adventure in New York City. Call us today and we’ll do all the work so you can relax and enjoy each mouthwatering bite.

MUST-TRY: The Big Apple is known for many things, especially when it comes to food; but any New Yorker will tell you that you’ll never find a slice of pizza quite like the real thing anywhere else. Where to get the “best” pizza is still up for debate, but among the top contenders are Lombardi’s, John’s of Bleecker Street and Joe’s Pizza.

© THOMAS SCHAUER STUDIO FOR PHOTOGRAPHY (LA BOITE IMAGES); OTHERS COURTESY OF BUVETTE, MORGENSTERNS

Clockwise from top: the Brooklyn Bridge; New Yorkstyle pizza; Morgenstern’s Finest Ice Cream; La Boîte spice-master Lior Lev Sercarz at work crafting his bespoke spices; freshly baked rugelach; close-up of menus and coasters from Buvette.

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ITALY’S GREATEST HITS Explore Venice by gondola, relive the Renaissance in Florence, behold the beauty of Rome’s Baroque fountains and so much more. BY EMILY BENSON-SCOTT

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Florence cityscape and its world-famous Duomo Postcards 39

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egin your trip to Italy with the countless canals and palaces of Venice, then embrace your inner art historian in Florence. After a daytrip to the medieval Tuscan hilltop town of Siena and some wine tasting and fresco viewing in Orvieto, end your trip to Italy with the beautiful art, fountains and piazzas of Rome.

VENICE Consisting of 117 islands connected by 400 bridges that traverse 150 canals, everything from gondolas to palaces seems to float in this fragile watery city. Before sightseeing, meander over the many bridges and along the canals while getting lost in the labyrinthine magic of this ancient city. Eventually, you will find yourself drawn towards one of the most impressive squares in Venice: Piazza San Marco. The sight of the stunning façade of St. Mark’s Basilica in person will forever remain in your memory. Another must-see in Venice: Palazzo Ducale (the Doge’s Palace), which was the government seat and residence of the doge for over 1,000 years. This pinkand-white marble Gothic-Renaissance structure also houses many great works of art by Venetian masters. In the Great Council Chamber, see the world’s largest oil painting, Il Paradiso by Tintoretto, together with Veronese’s gorgeous Trionfo di Venezia on the ceiling. Here, you’ll also see the infamous Bridge of Sighs, which once connected the palace to its prisons. For cocktail hour, head to another palazzo: The Gritti Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel, and the former doge’s residence. Order the Aperol spritz, a famous Venetian aperitif, at Bar Longhi, which was once frequented by Ernest Hemingway. Grab a seat on the terrace for stellar views of the Grand Canal. The birthplace of Vivaldi, Venice is the place to hear baroque music. Catch a concert at Chiesa di San Vidal or at a variety of other venues such as the Scuola Grande di San Rocco, where you can listen to Vivaldi while surrounded by Tintoretto masterpieces. Before heading back to your hotel, hire a private gondola and glide down the moonlit waters of the Grand Canal while being serenaded by a gondolier. Spend the night at another former residential palazzo-turned-five-star hotel. From 7-9 p.m. in the lobby of Hotel Danieli, a Luxury Collection Hotel, you can bask in the splendor of this beautiful palace while listening to live piano music. Enjoy a late-night dinner

San Giorgio Maggiore, Venice; at right, Orvieto, Tuscany.

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without leaving your hotel at Restaurant Terrazza Danieli, where you can enjoy fresh fish caught from the lagoon while you dine alfresco amid classic views of San Giorgio Maggiore island and Il Redentore church. FLORENCE The birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is revered as one of the most beautiful cities in the world, oozing with art and culture at every turn. Begin your exploration with a visit to the statue-laden Piazza della Signoria. Resembling a museum turned inside out, it features an exceptional collection of classic statues, including the Fountain of Neptune, Hercules and Cacus and the famous copy of David, which lords over the square. There is also the outdoor museum, Loggia dei Lanzi, which abounds with more classic statues, including the Rape of Sabine Women, Ercole and Centaur and Perseus with the Head of Medusa, among others— all a stone’s throw from the Palazzo Vecchio. Not only does this square house one of the finest collections of outdoor statues, but it is home to one of Europe’s best and oldest art museums—the Uffizi Gallery, where you’ll find works by Giotto, Michelangelo, Botticelli and da Vinci, among countless other artistic geniuses of the Renaissance. If you’re not satisfied with the facsimile of the statue of David, head over to see the original at Galleria dell'Accademia, Europe’s oldest drawing school. From there, it’s an easy walk to Piazza del Duomo, where you can see Florence’s famous cathedral, the Duomo, named for its magnificent dome by Filippo Brunelleschi—the largest masonry dome ever built— that dominates the city’s horizon. You’ll also see Giotto’s glorious bell tower and Ghiberti’s bronze doors of the Florence Baptistery, recognized as a crowning achievement of the early Renaissance. Catch the sunset at one of the most iconic places in Florence—an arched bridge that spans the Arno river that houses leather and jewelry shops and is enlivened by musicians and street performers. At the end of a full day, spend a luxurious night at the Westin Excelsior. This 15th-century palace, once home to a noble Florentine family, has views of neighboring Ponte Vecchio, Uffizi Gallery and Pitti Palace as well as of the Tuscan countryside, the Duomo and other notable landmarks. Be sure to have a drink at the newly reopened glass-encased rooftop bar and enjoy panoramic views of this beautiful city.

CONTINUING YOUR JOURNEY Italy never ceases to amaze, which is why visitors say they return to the country again and again, always discovering new treasures. Here, some more of our other favorite destinations:

Capri A picturesque island on Italy’s Mediterranean coast, just a 50minute ferry ride from Naples. Must-see: Blue Grotto

Milan Italy’s second-largest city and world-renowned fashion capital. Must-see: Duomo di Milano

Taormina A charming Sicilian town not far from Mount Etna. Must-see: Greek amphitheater

Pisa A teeny town just an hour’s ride from Florence. Must-see: the Leaning Tower of Pisa, of course

Palatina Gallery, in the Palazzo Pitti (Pitti Palace), Florence Postcards 41

Trevi Fountain, Rome

SIENA Known for its shell-shaped Piazza del Campo and famous horse races, this medieval hilltop town is an easy daytrip from Florence. The Il Palio horse race is held twice every summer, on July 2 and August 16. Liberamente Osteria is a great place to relax over an evening aperitivo while taking in the piazza scene. The magnificent inlaid marble floors of Siena’s Duomo are covered most of the year to guard against foot traffic. If you’re lucky, you’ll be there for the unveiling of the floors. Regardless of when you go, be sure to stop in Il Magnifico to sample the region’s sweet panforte, which the Sienese have been making since the 12th century. ORVIETO This Umbrian medieval hilltop town, dramatically situated atop a butte of volcanic tufa, is famous for its wine, duomo and frescoes, and is an ideal way to break up your trip from Florence to Rome. Ride the funicular up to see the Orvieto Cathedral, which is striped with blackand-white marble. With its façade stretching seven stories high, the duomo is an idiosyncratic masterpiece of Italian architecture. Luca Signorelli’s frescoes depicting the end of the world in the Brizio Chapel are worth the trip alone. ROME Steep yourself in classic luxury in the heart of Rome while staying at the St. Regis. This grand dame of hotels is within walking distance of most major points of interest. Baroque art blossomed in Rome during the 17th century, and the whole city is imbued with the drama, ornate detail and exuberance of the period. Witness the birth of Baroque art at Galleria Borghese, a

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17-century villa-turned-museum where you will be surrounded by Caravaggio’s oil paintings and Bernini’s exquisite statues. In keeping with the same theme, you will want to toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain. Featured in Fellini’s “La Dolce Vita,” this fountain is said to be able to grant wishes. Afterward, pay a visit to the Spanish Steps. This iconic grand staircase connects two piazzas—the Piazza della Trinità dei Monti at the top and the Piazza di Spagna at the base, in the center of which sits another Baroque masterpiece: Bernini’s spectacular Fountain of the Old Boat. This square also houses the Keats-Shelley House where English poet John Keats died in 1821. Even if you’ve already been to the Sistine Chapel, it’s worth revisiting. Michelangelo’s multihued frescoed ceiling has been illuminated by recently installed LED lighting, so you will see more details than ever before. And, of course, no trip to Rome is complete without seeing the magnificent Colosseum. Dating back to the first century AD, the 50,000-seat area once staged gladiatorial games in front of the masses. A timeless destination, Italy is a perennial favorite for travelers. No matter how many times you return, it’s hard to get enough of these greatest hits. TL CALL US Our Travel Leaders agency is ready to help plan your perfect vacation to Italy. Call us and we’ll take care of all the details so you can delight in each minute of your well-deserved vacation.

Explore the beauty and culture of Italy with Globus’ 11-day The Best of Italy tour. From a welcome dinner in Rome to a stunning boat cruise around the island of Capri, you will fall in love with Italy for the first time or all over again with visits to Orvieto, Tuscany, Florence, Pisa, Venice, Assisi, Pompeii, Naples, Capri and Sorrento. Departs July 29, 2015, from $3,199 per person (airfare additional).

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Checking in... LOEWS MINNEAPOLIS BY KATIE MCELVEEN

The lobby of Loews Minneapolis; at right, exterior view of the hotel.

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oews Minneapolis may radiate Scandinavian minimalism with dramatic glass panels, cool woods and polished stone, but a dose of Midwestern sensibility gives this contemporary oasis a warm and welcoming glow. Staff members are poised and friendly, radiating good ol’ Midwest charm throughout all the hotel’s venues. Rooms also strike a balance between cool and comfy with blond wooden accents, supremely comfortable white linens, spa showers and signature glass headboards etched with Minneapolis-St. Paul landmarks. Wellappointed suites have sweeping views of the city; Executive King rooms on the upper floors have upgraded five-head showers and flat-screen televisions in the bathrooms. Within the 2,000square-foot Concert Suite, a baby grand piano that’s rumored to have been played by Billy Joel is tucked into its own leather-lined alcove. Book a room on the sixth floor, and you’re just steps away from the recently opened Embury Spa, where treatments are organized by result, like hydrating, energizing, calming, restoring and purifying. If you love a hot-stone massage, try the Sticks and Stones treatment,

which uses handcrafted birchwood massagers to stimulate and revive; The Oh, Honey! Honey Dream Treatment utilizes beeswax and honey to balance and moisturize the skin. There’s even a selection of express treatments—think of them as power naps for your face and body. Loews Minneapolis takes food as seriously as it does design. The hottest table in town is at Cosmos, the hotel’s signature restaurant, which is perched on the fourth floor. Massive floor-to-ceiling columns, oversized modern artwork and sky-high ceilings give the room a dramatic flair, while warm lighting casts a golden glow over the scene. James Beard Award-winning (and Twin Cities native) Chef Timothy Fischer has recrafted the menu, giving Midwest-sourced ingredients like duck breast, huitlacoche (an exotic trufflelike fungus that grows on corn), crayfish and even cheese starring roles in his luxurious dishes. Only-inMinnesota dishes are available as well, including wild rice soup, which uses the grasslike wild rice that grows all over the state, and the Juicy Lucy, a Minneapolis-style insideout cheeseburger invented at a local tavern. Located in the spacious art-filled lobby,

FAMILY FUN: With Programs like Loews Loves Kids, Loews Minneapolis makes sure the whole family is taken care of during your stay. There’s even a kids’ closet that’s loaded with necessities like strollers and car seats as well as DVD players and other toys. 44 Postcards

Relevé lounge offers more champagnes and other sparklers by the glass than any other bar in the city; cocktails using liqueurs and housemade bitters are a specialty. Formerly the Graves 601 Hotel, the 251room Loews Minneapolis is located within the city’s gallery-filled Warehouse District and a short walk from Target Center—the state’s largest concert venue and home of the NBA’s Minnesota Timberwolves. Target Field, where the MLB’s Minnesota Twins play, as well as the First Avenue and Nicollet Mall shopping areas are also nearby. Miles of biking and walking trails loop through the city; during the summer they’re filled with locals and visitors running, walking or strolling to neighboring parks for free concerts and festivals. Best of all, when winter strikes, the climate-controlled Skyway, which allows walkers to traverse the city without stepping through snow dunes or lakes of frozen slush, passes through the hotel. TL CALL US To book your visit to Loews Minneapolis, contact our Travel Leaders agency today.

WHAT’S NEARBY: A 20-minute train ride from Loews Minneapolis, Mall of America (the largest mall in the U.S.), has over 520 stores, 50 restaurants, dozens of attractions inside the Nickelodeon Universe theme park, an on-site aquarium, a Lego Emporium and much, much more. Added bonus: there’s no sales tax on clothing in Minnesota.

IMAGES COURTESY OF LOEWS HOTELS & RESORTS

Clockwise from top left: hotel lobby artwork by Marc Littlejohn; signature cocktail; ballroom artwork by Paul Housberg; Minneapolis skyline; appetizer from Cosmos restaurant.

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Distinctive for all the right reasons 2015 HOSTED CRUISE COLLECTION Rich Experiences

Complimentary Indulgences

Private Excursions

Distinctive Voyages The Distinctive Voyages sailings are exceptional due to the incomparable quality of the cruise lines and their award-winning itineraries to the world’s most desirable locales. They are also unique, for each voyage is enhanced with extra amenities, extended to you at no additional cost. These include: The services of a Distinctive Voyages Host to assist you throughout your journey An invitation to a Private Cocktail Reception to meet like-minded VIPs An Exclusive Shore Event to truly connect to the local culture Compliments from our agency to you, these special touches create a more enriching cruise experience you will relish throughout your journey. Explore Fascinating Cultures The Exclusive Shore Event we arrange when you book through our agency is not available to most passengers on your cruise. These specially-chosen excursions are guided by local experts, who take you deep into the culture for a more personal connection. Only a few shore events are highlighted within these pages. Call our agency for more information on your sailings of interest, and we will provide a detailed description of the private excursion. Call Us Today Distinctive Voyages features more than 300 sailings, but we also have access to more than a thousand exclusive cruise vacations worldwide, ranging from 7 to 115 days, all with additional amenities included at no extra cost. Simply call our agency to book your dream vacation today. Disclaimer: Sailing dates and amenities, including exclusive shore events, are current at time of printing and are subject to change without notice. Amenities apply to 1st and 2nd passenger only. Offers are subject to availability, at time of booking, and may be altered or withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing will be confirmed at time of booking. Cancellations, refunds, and penalties are imposed by the individual cruise line. Distinctive Voyages amenities may be substituted if a minimum number of guests are not confirmed on any given departure. Combinability varies by cruise Line. Exclusive shore events vary by cruise line.

Many Itineraries, Many Discoveries Mountains and Vineyards of Northern Mount Etna: Sartorius Mountains and Wine Tasting Port: Taormina, Sicily The largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, Sicily was for centuries the center of the known world. Its unique geographic position made the island vulnerable to attack by foreigners and a meeting place of Mediterranean civilizations, a bridge between the East and West. Experience Sicily’s Old World charm, landmarks and culture on this tour. Travel to Fiumefreddo for a panoramic tour of the villages of Piedimonte Etneo, Linguaglossa and the fertile fields on the side of the mountain where you will view vineyards, orchards, chestnuts and hazelnuts. Drive to Sartorius Mountain and enjoy an easy stroll around Monti Sartorius. The group of seven inactive crater cones known as Monti Sartorius were formed during an 1865 eruption. Due to the altitude the vegetation only took hold again timidly, but in sheltered areas there are little birch copses. The trunk of birches contrast strikingly with the black lava. This nature trail takes you from viewpoint to viewpoint through this fascinating volcanic landscape. After this pleasant walk, re-join your motor-coach and drive to Gambino estate. At 800 meters above the sea level, in the National Park and facing the sea, this vineyard lies on sunny and airy terraces where the Raciti family grow a variety of native grape vines. In this enchanting spot, enjoy tasting four different labels of wine accompanied by home-made bread, local cheeses and salami. Available on select Crystal Cruises sailings.

   



  




the ideal itinerary for you!

Many Itineraries, Many Discoveries Natural Treasures of Costa Rica: Scarlet Macaw Sanctuary and Puntarenas with Refreshments Port: Puntarenas, Costa Rica Vibrant, exotic and rare: the distinctive scarlet macaw embodies the lure of the tropics themselves. One of the most endangered species of the region, the scarlet macaw has found a home in this sanctuary in Costa Rica, and you are invited to pay them a visit on this exclusive shore event. Board your air-conditioned coach and relax for the scenic drive through the lush central valley, an exuberant and verdant region which unfolds before your eyes. Throughout your drive, a professional guide will get you acquainted with the country’s history, politics and culture which will make the one hour journey interesting and enjoyable. The Macaw Sanctuary at El Manantial is a Costa Rican wildlife conservation charity working to save and protect endangered species from extinction. El Manantial works with some of the most endangered native birds of Costa Rica, focusing on the rarest species and the most fragile habitats. Wander through the gardens which are as peaceful as they are picturesque, and discover the many other breeds of birds that live here. Enjoy a refreshment break of fresh tropical fruits and snacks before, all too soon, it is time to leave paradise. Returning to Puntarenas complete your adventure with an overview of this charming, lively town. The town is located on a narrow spit with only five avenues and it has long been a popular place for Costa Ricans to spend a day by the seaside. Along the south side and facing the Nicoya Gulf, the Paseo de Turistas, or Tourists Boulevard, is a broad sidewalk with gracefully ornamented stone benches, food kiosks, restaurant and playground and souvenir stalls. Take time to walk around the cathedral, the house of culture and take photos of the gulf from the tip of the peninsula as you enjoy the sea breeze. Available on select Celebrity Cruises and Royal Caribbean International sailings.

7-Night Mediterranean Cruise July 4, 2015

Celebrity Equinox®

15-Night Westbound Panama Canal Celebrity Infinity®

November 5, 2015

14-Day Passion de Grand Prix May 17, 2015

Crystal Serenity

12-Day Holy Land Heritage September 20, 2015

Crystal Serenity

11- Day Mediterranean Explorer ms Zuiderdam

August 13, 2015

12- Day Mediterranean Tapestry September 13, 2015

ms Nieuw Amsterdam

7-Night Classic Reflection October 14, 2015

Seven Seas Mariner®

14-Night Westbound Panama Canal May 2, 2015

Jewel Of The Seas®

7-Day Piraeus to Piraeus October 26, 2015

Silver Spirit

Contact our agency to book your dream cruise vacation today!

Trending Destination ICELAND Cutting-edge architecture, geothermal pools and a thriving contemporary art and music scene combine to make Iceland one of the hottest travel destinations for 2015. BY EMILY BENSON-SCOTT

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his volcanic island in the North Atlantic has one of the most extreme landscapes on the planet, full of geysers, lava fields, bubbling mud pools and geothermal spas, making Iceland, quite literally, one of the hottest—and coolest—destinations of the moment. Combine landscape with modern architecture and an unrivaled arts scene, and it’s no wonder that Iceland is on many travelers’ bucket lists for 2015. Upon arrival, what better way to cure jet lag than by relaxing in a spa. Just 20 minutes from Keflavík International Airport sits the country’s famous turquoise geothermal pools, fed by seawater 6,500 feet underground where temperatures soar to 464 degrees. Fortunately, by the time the water reaches the surface, the temperature is a perfect 100 degrees. A must-visit here is the Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa created out of lava, glass, wood and other raw materials by Icelandic architect Sigridur Sigmarsdottir. Enjoy a floating massage while drifting along the mist-enshrouded lagoon and a mineral-rich silicamud mask applied straight from its floor. At the swim-up bar in the middle of the lagoon, you can order drinks alongside frozen masks. Without leaving the water, exfoliate with a frozen lava-rock scrub mask while sipping a glass of wine. At the Blue Lagoon Clinic, you can rent a room with a fireplace and private entry to the lagoon just for the day, or you can stay the night and catch the aurora borealis (the northern lights) when the Arctic winds collide with the earth’s atmosphere, producing dancing lights in hues of green, purple and pink. The best time to see this phenomenon is from October through April. Once you’re thoroughly relaxed, you’ll be ready for a drive along the Ring Road (Route 1)

A view of the magnificent northern lights from Iceland. 50 Postcards

to take in more of the country’s spectacular natural wonders—from spurting geysers to rushing waterfalls and active volcanoes. As you circle the island, you’ll want to stop and peer over the vertiginous cliffs to watch dolphins frolic in the icy Atlantic waters. Make sure to see the Skagafjordur Folk Museum, full of old farmhouses roofed with turf, which during the 18th and 19th centuries was more readily available than wood. You can follow the Ring Road right into the hip city of Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital, where over half of the country’s population lives. Get a great view of this colorful city from the top of Hallgrímskirkja church. Another must-see is the Harpa Concert Hall, home of the Icelandic Symphony Orchestra and the Icelandic Opera. The enticingly modern structure by renowned artist Olafur Eliasson was built with a glass façade designed to mirror the city. Beginning with the meteoric rise of innovative singer-songwriter Björk, Iceland has long been a hot spot for contemporary music. But in recent years, Reykjavik has also cemented its reputation as a hub of contemporary art. To get your fix, visit popular galleries like Kling & Bang, i8 and newcomer Tysgalleri. A travel destination in its own right, Iceland also proves to be a luxurious layover when flying to anywhere in Europe. Only a 5.5-hour flight from New York or Boston, it’s a great place to recharge your batteries with a spa day before continuing on to the continent. Given how much there is to see and do in Iceland, you might find yourself falling in love and opting for a lengthier layover to experience all the natural wonders and modern marvels this North Atlantic island has to offer. TL

TRAVEL BETTER WITH A TRAVEL EXPERT CRUISE EUROPE WITH VIKING RIVER CRUISES

from

$4362

15-Day Grand European Tour from Budapest to Amsterdam aboard the Viking Embla departing 8/5/15. Itinerary: Budapest, Bratislava, Vienna, Melk, Passau, Regensburg, Nuremberg, Bamberg, Würzburg, Wertheim, Middle Rhine and Koblenz, Cologne, Kinderdijk, Amsterdam. Price is per person, double occupancy, cruise only, Cat. F. Airfare, taxes and fees are additional. Fares and offers are subject to availability, may not be combinable with other offers, capacity controlled, may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Restrictions apply.

MEDITERRANEAN CRUISE WITH ROYAL CARIBBEAN INTERNATIONAL

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$2315

12-Night Mediterranean Greek Isles cruise roundtrip from Barcelona aboard the Vision of the Seas departing 6/9/15. Itinerary: Barcelona, Spain; Monte Carlo, France; Florence, Italy; Pisa, Italy; Rome, Italy; Athens, Greece; Ephesus, Turkey; Santorini, Greece; Salerno, Italy; Barcelona, Spain. Price is per person, double occupancy, cruise only. Interior stateroom, Cat. N. Airfare, taxes and fees additional. Price is subject to change and based on availability at the time of the booking. Restrictions apply.

Expertise You Can Trust Our agency has the training and connections to ensure your travel experiences exceed your expectations. Enjoy customized itineraries – designed just for you – select privileges, negotiated values and upgrades on the top cruise lines and luxury hotels in the most desired destinations across the world. Contact our agents for your exceptional journey and discover what it means to Travel Better.

EUROPEAN HIGHLIGHTS WITH WITH GLOBUS

from

$3657

12-Day European Highlights with Sorrento guided tour from London to Sorrento departs 6/27/15. The tour includes visits to London, England; Paris, France; Lucerne, Switzerland; Milan, Italy; Venice, Italy; Florence, Italy; Rome, Italy; Sorrento, Italy. Price is per person, land only, based on double occupancy. Offer subject to availability and change without notice. Airfare and air taxes are not included. Some restrictions may apply.

COSTA RICA WITH GLOBUS

from

$2139

11-Day Natural Wonders of Costa Rica with Guanacaste guided vacation departs from San Jose 7/18/15. This fantastic vacation includes Tortuguero National Park, Sarapiqui, Tilajari Rainforest Reserve, Arenal Volcano, Monteverde, Sarchi, Guanacaste and more. Price is per person, land only, based on double occupancy. Offer subject to availability and change without notice. Airfare and air taxes are not included. Some restrictions may apply.

For personal recommendations, insider tips and extra amenities on your next getaway, contact us today!

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