Ava Pierce: The Blog - Lounge. Rant. Find your inner bitch.: Travel Modes / Destinations

Showing posts with label Travel Modes / Destinations. Show all posts

Thursday, November 5, 2009

The ultimate travel experience...outer space

Today's Annoyance: That we can travel to space yet not solve Earth's traffic problems
Mantra of the Day: In this unbelievable universe in which we live there are no absolutes. - Pearl Buck

Beginning in 2012, you'll be able to hitch your wagon to a star...or, at least, you'll be closer to do it than you are now. That's when Galactic Suite will begin accepting reservations for its space resort. For you jet setters who are bored of traversing our tiny little planet, now there's space tourism.

You'll spend two weeks on a tropical island for the astronaut training program, then you'll be hurled into outer space, traveling at 28,000 kilometers per hour. Just think, you'll orbit the Earth 15 times a day so, you'll get to see the sun rise every 45 minutes! (I'm wondering what kind of serious jet lag results from this endeavor.)

Sounds scary and super-cool at the same time!

[IMAGE: Courtesy of bornrich]

Wednesday, October 21, 2009

Adventurous accommodations

Today's Annoyance: Cookie-cutter hotel designs
Mantra of the Day: The great advantage of a hotel is that it's a great refuge from home life. - George Bernard Shaw

I'm surprised that I have yet to invest in hotels because I absolutely love them. The more interesting the design, the better. Here are five interesting hotels that I have read about, a few of which I plan to enjoy in the near future and a few which are cool but definitely not high on my list of places to stay.

Hotel de Glace (Canada)

Burj Al Arab (Dubai)

Jumbo Hostel (Sweden)

Poseidon Undersea Resort (Fiji)

Yunak Cave Hotel (Turkey)

Guess which is which!

[IMAGES: Courtesy of offbeattravel, designgonewild, elitechoice, Poseidon Resorts, Yunak Cave Hotel]

Tuesday, October 13, 2009

Fun at the airport

Today's Annoyance: Short stopovers at fabulous airports with kick-ass amenities
Mantra of the Day: A good traveler has no fixed plans, and is not intent on arriving. Lao Tzu

Being stuck at the airport is becoming increasingly less of a pain. Based on most of the previously available airport entertainment options (or lack thereof), I always come prepared with a book, a magazine, and my laptop. Other than that, I shop at the Duty Free, people-watch and/or eat at one of the many restaurants.

Ah, but airport entertainment is changing quickly. Some airports have upgraded to offer reclining lounge chairs, napping facilities where you can shower and sleep for a few hours, fitness centers and nature walks. Now, while I'm waiting for my next flight, I can go for a swim in Singapore, get a massage in Tokyo, see fabulous sculptures, paintings and photographs in San Francisco, or gamble in Amsterdam.

Singapore Changi Airport

I'll bet someone has already planned to build airport condos.

Ciao for now,

[IMAGE: Courtesy of BusinessWeek]

Friday, September 18, 2009

Rocking in-air entertainment

Today's Annoyance: That so few seem to appreciate peace and quiet anymore
Mantra of the Day: Hooray for noise-canceling headphones!

From dozens of audio channels to in-flight tv and on-demand movies on personal video screens; from video games to real-time flight information. The latest hot features to add are USB ports, power sockets, iPod docking stations, Internet access, WiFi and personal mobile phone use (AHHHH!). Is there any kind of entertainment unavailable on airplanes? It's cool and crazy at the same time.

For the past two years, Emirates Airlines (a personal fave) has won the AVION Award for Best Overall in-flight entertainment for its ICE system, which features more than 1,000 (!) channels of entertainment. I have to admit; until I flew on Emirates Airlines last year, all airline entertainment systems were pretty the same. Emirates' system was really impressive.

With Virgin Atlantic's in-flight massages and the usual duty-free shopping available, the only thing missing from the airline's customer experience is loads of advertising. Somehow, I'm guessing that it's well on its way to a mini-screen near you. Enjoy while you can.

[IMAGE: Courtesy of TechInFlight]

Wednesday, August 26, 2009

Girlfriend getaways and mancations

Today's Annoyance: Not having enough time to hang with my girls
Mantra of the Day: I have found out that there ain't no surer way to find out whether you like people or hate them than to travel with them. - Mark Twain

There are few things in life better than hanging with your crew. The food. The gossip. The countless bottles of wine. The ensuing laughter.

One of the coolest girlfriend getaways that I ever experienced was a train ride from Monaco to Lake Como, then on to Milan for some serious shopping. Fun, fun, fun! We had a backpack with food, loads of fashion mags, and tons of gossip to share. I've had a bunch of other cool trips, too. The Napa Valley trip, which involved wine (of course) and lots of spa time. The New York trip (before I lived there) which included a Broadway show, cannolis in Little Italy and a ridiculous amount of shopping. The Barcelona trip which brings back memories of cute guys along Las Ramblas and a flamenco performance. Hiking and a luau in Hawai'i. Oh yeah, how could I forget partying around the clock in Miami?! And most recently, there was the Las Vegas trip. If you're familiar with the Las Vegas slogan ("If it happens in Vegas,..."), you know that I can't tell you what happened. (wink, wink)

Thankfully, the travel industry is creating more packages that cater to girlfriend getaways and "mancations". (That word just makes me laugh!) If you're planning a trip for your fellow divas or dudes, check out these sites: Travel Channel, Girlfriend Getaways, Holiday Golightly, Mantripping.com and Mancations.com.

I'd love to hear about some of your group getaways! Where'd you go and what were your fondest memories from the trip?

[IMAGE: Courtesy of Getty Images]

Thursday, August 13, 2009

Italian romance

Today's Annoyance: Why can't the rest of the world be like Italy?
Mantra of the Day: I am going to enjoy this last sip of wine.

This is my latest discovery that is totally off the beaten path in Italy but so worth it. Verduno is a small Italian village nestled in the hills of the Piedmont region in the north of the country, which is famous for producing wine. It's a medieval city that time seems to have forgotten. The town's center piece is Castello di Verduno.

This little gem is perched high atop the rolling hills and overlooking the picturesque countryside of the vineyards down below. Visitors can stay for a very reasonable price. The one downside to staying in a castle is that...well...it's a castle. The rooms with the best views are not equipped with their own modern bathrooms so you have a private facility to use which is down the hall. (Guests must use a key for the restrooms, which keeps them safe from unwanted guests stumbling in.)

Another upside to the place is that it has a fabulous garden for lazing the days away and a fabulous in-house restaurant. If you feel like leaving the grounds for a bit to wander around town, you can also go to another restaurant that is owned by the Castello called Ca' del Re ("King's House"). It has outdoor seating and live music most nights. It is great for having an authentic Italian experience while sample some of the local wines and the best Italian cooking.

[IMAGE: Courtesy of Castello di Verduno]

Wednesday, August 12, 2009

Hotel Miralago in Lake Como

Today's Annoyance: Tourists in Bermuda shorts, sandals and socks
Mantra of the Day: The confines of my budget will not slow me down.

I am staying at Hotel Miralago in Lake Como, which is located directly on the Lake with spectacular views. Naturally, boats are the most efficient way to see the various cute towns in the area surrounding the lake (and getting to see George Clooney's house, but that is another topic). Since the hotel is just steps away from the pier where water taxis and various boats dock and depart, it is the equivalent to having a subway stop outside of your door.

Be aware that this is a three-star hotel so, if you're planning to live it up like Paris Hilton, this might not be your style. If your usual choice is Villa d'Este but you've been hit by the credit crunch, Hotel Miralago just might work for you. Parking and a simple, yet killer breakfast is included in the room rate.

Ciao, bellas!

[IMAGE: Courtesy of Hotel Miralago]

Tuesday, August 11, 2009

Far Out in Lago di Como

Today's Annoyance: One day having to leave this beautiful place
Mantra of the Day: This is the place where the world officially checks its drama at the door.

Guess what, lovelies? Your darling Ava is in Italy! That's right. I was long overdue for a trip and Italy never fails me. I am reporting to you from the fabulous corner of the world known as Lago di Como (or Lake Como, whichever tickles your fancy).

Although I've been here a few times before, I always seem to find cool new places to stay and eat. This time around, I've found a cute little restaurant called Far Out that is located in Bellagio, on the steps leading up the hills of this magical city.

This is a trendy little spot that offers exceptional food at a good price. It has a casual atmosphere, but remember, this is Italy. In other words, casual doesn't mean showing up in a t-shirt, jeans and sneakers. You jet-setters-in-training know what I mean; we have to kick the style up a notch.

The staff is incredibly friendly and it's a great resource for getting to know the lay of the land. In short, you will not leave without new friends.

I love everything about Lake Como, including the fact that George Clooney has a home here!

[IMAGE: Courtesy of Global Jet Set Media, Inc.]

Tuesday, August 4, 2009

Travel disasters

Today's Annoyance: Thinking about my lost luggage
Mantra of the Day: Be thankful that your real travels don't mimic movie scripts.

Have you ever noticed how many travel-related disasters there are in movies? Titanic, Speed 2, The French Connection, The Fugitive, Passenger 57, Snakes on a Plane, and so many other films feature some kind of crash, explosion, hijacking, poisonous gas, a fight, escaped animals, or a contagious disease on an airplane, ship or train.

Thankfully, I've had no major disasters and only a few minor travel-related mishaps. A few missed planes, a couple of very long layovers, and sadly (and most recently), an eternally lost piece of luggage (thanks so much, Swiss International!).

Some of you shared your luggage nightmares a few weeks ago. Apart from that, I sincerely hope that your travels have been safe and fabulous. Wherever you're off to next, bon voyage!

[IMAGE: Courtesy of Getty Images]

Friday, July 17, 2009

Saving the world, luxe style

Today's Annoyance: People who don't give back
Mantra of the Day: I take every opportunity to share my gifts with the world.

OK, so we've already figured out a way to glam up camping. You may have also wondered if there are ways to do more than write a check to your favorite charity that don't involve living out of a knapsack for six months and fighting off man-sized bugs.

With all due respect to the Peace Corps and other such amazing organizations, I probably wouldn't last a week. On that note, my sights are set firmly on voluntourism. Yes, that's right, my jet-setters-in-training! You can get your volunteer on and still make time for some luxury sightseeing.

A couple of resources to help you help others while you jet set: Hands Up Holidays and BootsnAll.

[IMAGE: Courtesy of Los Ninos, Inc.]

Wednesday, July 15, 2009

Ava's Faves: Royal Myconian Hotel & Resort

Today's Annoyance: Abruptly-ended vacations
Mantra of the Day: I understand why Greece is the cradle of civilization.

Heaven really does exist. You can get there by checking into the Royal Myconian Hotel on the island of Mykonos (of course). Admittedly, I nearly wept when I had to check out of this hotel. I'm getting a little misty just thinking about it so take a look at these photos while I compose myself.

[IMAGES: Courtesy of Royal Myconian Hotel]

Wednesday, June 24, 2009

Appreciating local culture

Today's Annoyance: People who eat at chain restaurants when they travel
Mantra of the Day: When in Rome, don't go to McDonalds!

A couple of my favorite things to do when I travel to a new city are trying the local cuisine and attending cultural events. First off, I am a confessed foodie (however, not to the extent that I'll eat bugs or anything!). What really blows my skirt up is when I see tourists flocking to fast food restaurants from their home country. So like, what's the point in traveling? If they're parents traveling with kids, they're basically hostages and I can almost see it. I guess I'm just amazed at how many people travel like lemmings.

These same people are probably being herded around on a tour with dozens of other tourists, going to same old points of interests. (Ew!) I'm not saying that people shouldn't see Gaudi's Sagrada Familiar in Barcelona, the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, the pyramids in Egypt, or the Great Wall in China. Definitely go. But, to truly embrace the culture, talk to the locals and ask for places off the beaten path. Find out what their local leisure time activities are. I have found some of the best restaurants and some of the most interesting places and activities by doing this.

A cool site to check out for good restaurants and interesting things to do is Things You Should Do. While you're there, you can check out my article on things to do in Monaco.

[IMAGE: Courtesy of Getty Images]

Tuesday, June 23, 2009

Your jet set pet can fly!

Today's Annoyance: The phrase "pet parent"
Mantra of the Day: Any (future) pet of mine should travel as well as I do.

Beginning next month, pet lovers in DC, New York, Illinois, Colorado and Southern California will be able to fly their dogs and cats on Pet Airways. The Florida-based company is the first to offer exclusive air travel dedicated to pets.

On Pet Airways, up to 50 animals - no, excuse me, "Pawsengers" - travel in a climate-controlled cabin with a trained pet attendant who checks on them every 15 minutes. The seats have been removed from the planes to accommodate the pet carriers. Owners are not allowed to travel with their pets but they can use the airline's tracking tool at any time to check their pet's flight status.

For those of you who don't live in one of the initial flight cities, not to worry. The company plans to add more cities soon. They're already accepting reservations and introductory rates are only $149 each way.

Although I don't have a pet, this seems really neat. I wonder if there'll be any luggage, pee or fat taxes added to the fare. Or, how about a frequent flyer program? I'm also curious to see how soon, if ever, other airlines will improve their pet travel services.

[IMAGE: Courtesy of Pet Airways]

Wednesday, June 17, 2009

Ava's Faves: Sun City, South Africa

Today's Annoyance: People who rely solely on mass-market news
Mantra of the Day: My own palace will resemble the Palace of the Lost City.

Anyone who tells you that there isn't magic and luxury in Africa has lied to you. For some strange reason (the media, perhaps?), some of our less-than-adventurous comrades still believe that the entire African continent is nothing more than a barren wasteland with rampant crime and wild animals running amok. These folks are sorely missing out on so many wonderful people, cultures, food and amazing experiences.

South Africa is a great country to begin your African adventures. I have been there a couple of times and I have enjoyed Johannesburg, Cape Town and Sun City. (Durban is the next South African city on my list.) Each place offers its own wonders.

In Sun City, I chose to stay at the Palace of the Lost City. Oh...my...goodness! Just look at it:

This resort is totally amazing! It's no surprise that it's one of the leading hotels in the world. The attention to detail. The exquisite design featuring sculptures, waterfalls, lakes and pools. The fantastic service. Great restaurants. The breathtaking views from the hotel rooms. Plus, you have quick and easy access to all of the other amenities in Sun City which include casinos, a movie theater, a golf course, an arcade, concerts, dance productions and other entertainment, a crocodile farm, a lion farm, the Pilanesberg Game Reserve, hot air balloon rides, and more.

One could say that it's no different than visiting any popular Westernized city but Sun City has its own special flavor. Don't let the modern flair hold you back from appreciating this gem that's only a 2-hour drive or a quick plane ride from Jo'burg. If you've been there, let me know what you think.

Peace and love.

[IMAGE: Courtesy of Go2Africa]

Tuesday, June 16, 2009

Have you gone "glamping" yet?

Today's Annoyance: Stupid media combo words
Mantra of the Day: Camping has never looked more attractive.

If you're gonna go camping, glam is definitely the way to go. I'm just not the "pitch a tent, sleep on the ground, roughing it" kind of girl. When I was a kid, I threatened to run away when my mom suggested that I join the Girl Scouts. (With all due respect to the Girl Scouts, of course.) That's simply not my thing. Picture me digging a latrine. Yeah, right.

Despite the um, less than fab name, "glamping" (aka glamorous camping) is right up my alley. I know some of you will say: "No, Ava. To truly enjoy the experience, you have to sleep under the stars and truly be one with nature!" Glamping includes all of that, with a few little amenities to make life more pleasurable as you enjoy the great outdoors. Like a spring mattress with crisp sheets and a warm blanket, electricity and a butler. Nice.

While some might see this as ultimately shallow, to me it looks like kismet at work; the attraction of opposites - the wild and the refined. Besides, you knew it had to happen at some point. How could you ever expect people who spend tens of thousands of dollars for etiquette lessons to deal with bugs, port-a-potties and leaky tents? Although I'm not a trust-fund baby, on this issue, I must side with the monied set.

To plan your next glamping excursion, check out Go Glamping and Travel + Leisure's list of the world's best tented camps. I plan to. And while you're at it, don't forget the amazing people who make your "wildlife" adventure possible.

[IMAGE: Courtesy of Clayoquot Wilderness Resort]

Tuesday, June 9, 2009

Chicago Goes Modern

Today's Annoyance: Not having more time in Chicago
Mantra of the Day: Why leave the city when the world can come to you?

I was just in Chicago on a business trip entertaining clients and heard about the opening of the new Modern Wing of the Art Institute. Apparently, it has been years in the making so the city was eagerly awaiting this new attraction. The Art Institute is one of the premier art museums in the world and has an amazing permanent collection. But, now it has added modern/contemporary/avant garde works to the mix. It is definitely a hip and entertaining space that will hold your attention even if you are not an art buff.

There are also plans for beautiful high-end restaurant at the top of the modern wing of the museum. It overlooks Millennium Park and the adjoining gardens. It is truly an oasis in the middle of downtown Chicago. This is soon to be a must-see venue in Chicago in the months and years to come. If any of you has a chance to check it out, let me know what you think of it.

[IMAGE: Courtesy of elpav.com]

Wednesday, June 3, 2009

Madame Ella Dyer on Civilized Travel

I'm so excited to introduce my first guest blogger, who regularly travels (of course!) with her husband Jodie and her furry, four-legged friend, Miss Ditto. My fellow jet setters in training, here are a few words on civilized travel for you and your pet from the esteemed Madame Ella Dyer:

Okay, can we just say how much we LOVE the Westin? Such civilized jet-set travel.

When you're a pampered pooch (note the Juicy Couture biscuit holder), where else do you want to stay? Not only does this wonderful, worldwide chain welcome our furry travelers with open paws but, they make certain that their every need is attended to, even offering to "water" our friends if owners are still in hair and make-up.

Ditto Dyer knows how to travel. She splits her time between two southern regions: in France and the United States. She's been on planes, trains, boats and the luxurious auto touring Europe and the U.S. While many American chains turn their nose up at the thought of a four-legged guest, even a bi-continental canine, the Westin knows a jet-setter in training.

Whenever she can, Ditto stays at the Westin.

Ella

[IMAGES: Courtesy of Ella Dyer]

Tuesday, June 2, 2009

The French Riviera in Spring

Today's Annoyance: Why don't I live in the French Riviera year-round?
Mantra of the Day: Summer is here and I am ready to see the world!

Spring is in full swing! There are many places in the world where one can enjoy the virtues of spring, but in my opinion, the best place to do that is in the French Riviera. This time of year, there is so much going on that just about anyone can fill up their social calendar without even trying.

A couple of weeks ago, there was the Cannes Film Festival. Even if you are not into the cinema, the Festival is worth the trip for some quality people-watching. The buzz of the city of Cannes during this time is incredible and like nothing that I have ever experienced before.

As you can imagine, I usually go to the Tribeca Film Festival every year. Although it is a wonderful event, it still cannot compare to the sheer glamour of Cannes.

Then, there is the Monaco Grand Prix and the Monte Carlo Tennis Masters Series. I am a girlie girl who is not super into sports, but these are sporting events that any girl or jet setter, for that matter, can get excited by. Lots of gorgeous, interesting people and the energy is incredible. Both the track and the tennis courts are arguably some of the most beautiful sporting arenas that you will ever see. I think that I will make it out there for at least part of the festivities this year, and I hope to see you there, too.

[IMAGE: Courtesy of skyscrapercity.com]

Thursday, May 28, 2009

Australia vs. Singapore vs. Switzerland

Today's Annoyance: That I can only be in one country at a time
Mantra of the Day: Rome was not built in a day.

Yet again, I know that there are bigger problems in the world, but I can't stop stressing. Australia, Singapore or Switzerland: Where should I go next? I have posed this query on my Facebook page and on Twitter, asking for some guidance, but the comments are so varied that it is confusing me more than helping me. Hopefully, I am not making a mistake by asking more people what I should do next.

It has been a hot minute since my last leisurely trip and I want it to be fabulous...on a budget, of course. Each country has its attributes, but since I haven't visited any of them, I would love to hear why one place should win out over another. Right now, it seems like Switzerland has the slight edge. Then again, I think that maybe it is time to do something that is truly exotic (and yes, make b*tches jealous!).

Send your comments ASAP so that I can start booking. I will keep you posted on what I do next. Toodles!

[IMAGE: Courtesy of Artbox Images]

Wednesday, May 27, 2009

Choppers rule

Today's Annoyance: Boring modes of travel
Mantra of the Day: Live life above the fray.

Here's a fun thing to do: charter a helicopter. Why, you ask? Because, helicopters kick ass! Enough with the buses, cars, subways and traffic. Soar over it all in a helicopter. You don't have to be rich or famous to charter one. (OK, you do need to have a little bit of money but not THAT much.)

One of my girlfriends and I chartered a helicopter for New Year's Eve in L.A. a few years ago. We popped the cork on a bottle of champagne while the pilot flew us around the city. Cool, huh? Better yet, I can never get enough of the 7-minute flight from Nice airport into Monaco on Heli Air Monaco. Imagine watching the Cote d'Azur whiz by as you quickly make your way into fantasyland. Worth every penny.