Villa 1 Nettleton Road, In Residence Cape Town South Africa

Staircase Villa 1 Nettleton Road Cape Town- it also has an elevator


Villa 1 is more intime: 4 bedrooms, 2 living rooms, a study, kitchen, dining area, and pool. 9000 square feet. On 4 floors, upstairs bedroom views are as stunning as Villa 5 Nettleton Road.

Master bedroom Corner suite – Villa One , In Residence

Kitchen Villa 1 , In Residence Cape Town

One of the two living rooms, In Residence Villa One Cape Town

Silo Hotel Cape Town – Simply Spectacular!

Room 801 Silo Hotel


Finally open, Royal Portfolio’s latest property, the Silo Hotel Capetown is simply spectacular
We knew it would be impressive, but the Silo surpassed all expectations.
It is impeccably decorated in bright colors, and incredible African art. Liz Biden searched the world over, and came back with an smashing collection of art, mirrors, lighting and furnishings.
The ever changing waterfront scene can be viewed from the rooftop bar and floor to ceiling windows in the rooms and throughout the hotel.
Bright, happy, elegant and absolutely the place to be in Cape Town.

Saxon Hotel – Top Choice in Johannesburg

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The Saxon Hotel- Top Choice in Johannesburg.
The Saxon Hotel in Johannesburg never fails to please. Impeccable service and an a superb decor- tastefully furnished with African artifacts throughout the hotel.

Lobby of the Saxon Hotel.


Guests experience a great sense of place. Located in the tranquil, tree-lined suburb of Sandhurst, within minutes of Johannesburg’s world-class shopping and business hub, the Saxon the Saxon treats you to personalised, discreet service and unparalleled South African hospitality. Room categories are all suites, either in the hotel or in the adjacent villas.  Butler service is provided for all.

The Saxon is a luxurious private retreat, set on ten acres of landscaped gardens. The Saxon entrance exudes an air of quiet majesty with its sweeping feature staircase and spectacular ostrich egg chandelier. The neutral shades of the interior reflect the tones and textures of Africa. Nelson Mandela wrote much of his memoir at the Saxon.

Round Hill -Jewel in the Caribbean Crown

Sumptuous gardens in Round Hill

Sumptuous gardens in Round Hill


Created in 1953 by Jamaica-born entrepreneur John Pringle,Round Hill been a favorite of celebrities for years. JFK and Jackie honeymooned in Villa 10. Oscar Hammerstein was the first owner of Villa 12. Alfred Hitchcock, Bing Crosby, and Adele Astaire were regulars—as were Bill and Babe Paley. Beyond that, Noël Coward, who was a frequent visitor, stayed in Villa 3.
Cottage owner, Ralph Lauren did a major renovation on the ocean front rooms.
RH is located on a 100-acre peninsula that was originally a sugar plantation. The cottages are built on the round hills, sloping down to the water . The British claimed Jamaica in 1629, the infuluence of their best traditions still remain.
With a year round temperate climate and nonstop access from most east coast airports, Jamaica is a perfect destination.
Unique to Round Hill, 27 private cottages combined with 37 sumptuous guest rooms offer a wide range of accommodation options. For weddings,the RH cottages, allow families and friends easy access for private celebrations, mingling with hotel rooms for group gatherings. It’s Old World Glamour affords one a delightful Colonial Caribbean sense of place.
At Round Hill the words past and present coexist not merely peacefully, but joyfully.

Walk way along the ocean Round Hill

dsc04552Round Hill Sunset

Hotels We Loved in Morocco

So many divine, exotic, stunning hotels, in Morocco. Marrakech alone has 6 prime properties: Royal Mansour, La Mamounia, Villa des Orangers, Amanjena, Four Seasons Marrakech, and Mandarin Oriental Marrakech. My absolute favorites are Mandarin Oriental Marrakech, then Villa des Orangers, then La Mamounia.

Enormous Pool Villa Mandarin Oriental Marrakech. Absolutely stunning. They even have a heated tub!

Enormous Pool Villa Mandarin Oriental Marrakech. Absolutely stunning. They even have a heated tub!

Mandarin Oriental Marrakech

Mandarin Oriental Marrakech

Royal Mansour is the ultimate resort in Marrakech.

Royal Mansour is the ultimate resort in Marrakech.


Interior Courtyard at charming Palais Amani in  Fes a Relais & Chateaux property.

Interior Courtyard at charming Palais Amani in Fes -a Relais & Chateaux property.

Fes boasts Riad Fes and Palais Amani, the grand Dame, Palais Jamais is under extensive renovation till end of 2017. Another must stay is near the desert, Dar Ahlam. Incredibly beautiful and the food is out of this world!

Dar Ahlam – Luxurious Setting Next To The Sahara

Formaly a Sultan’s hunting ground, the 19th Century Kasbah, Dar Ahlam, is stunning.
A Relais Chateaux property, Dar Ahlam is as famous for it’s comfort as well as it’s food.
You need at least 3 nights here to fully enjoy the place.
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Stairwell view Dar Ahlam

Stairwell view Dar Ahlam

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Moroccan Desert

Our intrepid group on top of a dune

Our intrepid group on top of a dune

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Our camel guide

Our camel guide

A Foray into the Moroccan Desert

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I can check camel riding off my list

I can check camel riding off my list

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Heritage Camp in the Moroccan Desert

What an adventure! The utter silence! The serenity of the sand. Luxurious tented camps that had all possible comforts. I can check camel riding off the list. We hiked up to the highest dune on our vicinity. We watched a sunset and then the next morning rode to watch the sunrise. We had dinner in the main tent, entertained by a group of local musicians. Fun to listen to indigenous music. The fabulous food that comes from an isolated kitchen always amazes me. Wine was flowing- couldn’t have asked for more.

Volubilis -40AD Roman Site in Morocco

The Archeological Site of Volubilis,recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site near Fes. The remaining structures and mosaics tell the tale of a city that once thrived. The ruins that have been spared are beautifully preserved relics of Roman Life.
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It is believed that this spectacular city was constructed around 40 AD and that it was built on an old settlement which dated back to the third century. It became the administrative capital of the area and was known as Mauretania. The extremely fertile lands that surrounded the city produced olive oils and grains that were exported to Rome. The region also produces a good Rose wine

Le Souk Fes

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The markets of Fes are thriving pulsing, filled with energy. Every possible craft, clothing, fruit, flower, meat, vegetable, spice, sweet, one can imagine, is there. Always interesting. image

Lindblad Expeditions- Cruising on a Different Level.

Lindblad Sea Bird

Lindblad Sea Bird

Intrepid explorers getting ready for an interesting hike.

Intrepid explorers getting ready for an interesting hike.

Tricia -Tree hugging Pacific NW Style

Tricia -Tree hugging Pacific NW Style


Amazing Sea Lions encounter!

Amazing Sea Lions encounter!

Returning from an exciting adventure

Returning from another exciting adventure

Linblad is not about the hardware on board the ship. They want their guests to have the most amazing experience possible. They do not expect for you to stay in your room, they want you out and seeing all the destination has to offer.
Their staff is considered the top in their respective fields- the cream of the crop. Even better, they don’t take themselves seriously. They are very earnest in being sure you see, taste, smell and absorb the world around you. When you experience a cruise on Lindblad, you are going to get the best possible information, service, attention and experience. And the food is incredible too! I found the cruise exciting, extremely informative and most importantly tons of fun.

A Day in Seattle

Spectacular Chihuly Exhibit

Spectacular Chihuly Exhibit

Chihuly  Exhibit

Chihuly Exhibit

Space Needle - a must

Space Needle – a must

Flowers at Pike Place Market

Flowers at Pike Place Market


I started with lunch at Pigalle Place in Pike Place Market. Wonderful French restaurant, highly recommended and worth every bite. Divine. Gwen Hoover at the Four a Seasons Seattle strongly recommended the Chihuly exhibit – a world renowned glass artist and resident of Seattle. I am SO glad I took her suggestion. Anyone that visits Seattle should make it number 1 on their experience list. Other musts are Pike Place Market, the monorail to the Needle- the Chuhuly exhibit is next door and a walk back to the Four Seasons by way of first street. Couldn’t ask for a better day!
Tomorrow I board the Lindblad Sunbird for an excursion to the San Jean Islands. Can’t wait!

Four Seasons Seattle Top Choice for Travelers

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Located on the Seattle Waterfront, one block from Pike a Place Market Four Seasons Seattle is My top choice. Across from the Seattle Museum, in the thick of happening downtown, Four

Pike Place Market Seattle

Pike Place Market Seattle

Seasons is the place! It’s resturant, Goldfinch Tavern was packed. I had the Dungeness Crab with golden beets, and braised Rabbit. Both superb.

London’s Hotels are Spectacular!

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image Doormen at the Amazing Corinthia

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image Top of the heap- the legendary Goring.

I had the privilege of staying at the Stafford, Milestone, Cliveden, Corinthia, and Goring. All these hotels were outstanding. Particular characteristics will suit different clients.
Can’t wait to book them. London is all and all one of the best city experiences I have had in a long time.

Noteworthy- DMC Extraodinaire

Noteworthy -Destination Management Company Extraordinaire!
Blessed with unparalleled access to all things British, Susie Worthy and Nicola Butler can plan and execute almost anything a client could dream- with the exception of a private wedding at St. Paul’s Cathedral or Tea with Queen Elizabeth. We had the most spectacular experience with Noteworthy this past week, surprise after delightful surprise. From our private visit to Highclere Castle, walking on the rooftop of Hampton Court, a pre opening visit to Winston Churchill’s War Rooms- even sitting in the great man’s chair, a walk up the back staircase in St. Paul’s to see the camera view for Diana and Charles wedding of the century, to a private visit to Prince Charles garden at Highgrove. The topper was our own personal dinner at the Tower of London – ending with the ceremony of the Keys.

Highgrove

Highgrove

Magnificent table in the Tower of London

Magnificent table in the Tower of London

Tower of London Dinner

Tower of London Dinner

Back staircase at St. Paul's Cathedral

Back staircase at St. Paul’s Cathedral

Highclere Castle - our own personal visit

Highclere Castle – our own personal visit

View from the rooftop of Hampton Court

View from the rooftop of Hampton Court

Rooftop of Hampton Court

Rooftop of Hampton Court

Cliveden House -Tarlow England

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Always considered a house for entertaining, Cliveden was built in 1666 by the 2nd Duke of Buckingham. He built the house as a hunting lodge and a place to entertain his friends and mistress. Set on 376 acres of glorius parks, the House is part of the National Trust. Cliveden has hosted every British Monarch since George I. Three Dukes and an Earl lived there. Queen Victoria was a frequent guest, and one of the notable later owners was American William Randolph Astor. The 1960’s scandal, the Profumo affair began at Cliveden. The affair helped topple the Conservative Party Government in Parliament.
A Relais & Chateaux member, Cliveden’s Andre Garrett oversees the award winning dining room.
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Milestone Hotel- British to the Bone

Swan at Kensington Palace

Swan at Kensington Palace


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Situated across from Kensington Palace, the Milestone is a delightful surprise. British to the hilt the general feeling is warm and cozy. The staff is the most genuine I have encountered- from the doorman to the butler to the very charming GM, Andrew Pike. One feels quite at home at the Milestone.

The Wolseley London

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The Wolsley was one of our favorite dining spots. If has a french brasserie feel- big menu, lots of choices. Waiters in white aprons. Black and white tile floor, strike the perfect scene.
Starting with a Kir royale, I ordered the lemon sole and a crisp Chablis. We ended with a classic dessert -Pot de Creme. Perfect start to culinary adventure in London

Stafford London

Tucked away in the heart of historic St James’s, and just minutes from London’s iconic landmarks and vibrant West End, the Stafford London never disappoints. The solicitous staff ensures that guests always insist on returning. The Staffird has an incredible loyal following. Recently renovated, it is a number of townhouses put together. It is the most quiet hotel I have ever experienced. We stayed in the Mews section, on the courtyard. The rooms have a more clean, contemporary feel. Beds were heaven! I slept to 10A the first morning and almost missed breakfast.
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London is happening!

London

London

London is happening!!
Always an exciting city, lately London seems to be the number one requested destination for travel.
Be it the stepped up restaurants or the hot new hotels, prime shopping, fashion, the people viewing – to say nothing of the plenthora of sightseeing. It has absolutely jumped into first place. I have never seen so many fancy cars in my life. Financially it is a force.
I am in London checking out interesting restaurants, and seeing some of the top hotels – London has many to offer

Ending with a high note: Singita Serengeti House and Singita Explorer

imageSingita Serengeti House- 4 bedroom Villa next to Sasakwa.

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Singita’s collection of properties : Sasakwa, Sabora(stationary tented camp), Faru Faru, Serengeti House and Explora( mobile tented camp) are probably the finest group of properties in Tanzania, if not all of Africa. Singita has a well established conservation plan, and philanthropy. One of the most successful ongoing community development projects at Singita Grumeti is the Grumeti Horticultural and Marketing Co-op Society (GHOMACOS), supplying the lodge kitchens with a constant flow of high-quality, freshly harvested, locally grown vegetables, herbs and fruits. Lodge guests are often surprised at the freshness and diversity of the juices, salads, vegetables, desserts and sorbets on the menus at Singita Grumeti, given the remote location of the five lodges and camps. Many guests are also appreciative of the fact that the food they’re enjoying is locally grown, benefits small-scale producers, and hasn’t clocked up unnecessary transport miles.
Every detail is perfect, the decor is to die for. All unique, all 5 Star in every way. Singita Saskwa also has the most comprehensive and beautifully equipped Equestrian Centre in Africa. SONY DSC My favorite SIngita Sabora

Magnificent Serengeti Game

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It is easy to become caught up in the complexity of Africa: the history, the people, the camps, the tribes. To me, the magic of the continent is the interaction of the animals. Everyday is a new discovery.

Lemala Kuria Hills Camp

Taking a short flight further into the Serengeti, we visited Lemala’s Kuria Hills Camp.
No bucket showers here! Gorgeous bathtubs, blow driers, bright lighting, a completely different tented camp experience. The terrain was rocky with giant boulders, reminding me of Zimbabwe. Beautiful location. imageimageimage

Fond Farewell to Serengeti Under Canvas

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It is a basic mobile tented camp designed to follow the migration. Bucket Showers, and minimum services. But the staff made it a first rate experience. The food – out of a really basic kitchen -was some of the best we had. The staff was friendly, engaged, and welcoming. I will remember this camp fondly, and plan to return.

&Beyond Serengeti Under Canvas Camp- following the Migration

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Limited to Tanzania and Kenya, the Great Migration is a movement of millions of Serengeti’s wildebeest, accompanied by smaller numbers of Zebra, grant’s and Thompson gazelles, Eiland, and Impala. They move in an annual pattern constantly following the rains, seeking fresh grazing. This November, the migration was near the &beyond Serengeti Under Canvas Camp. Because they are mobile, the camp can move with the migration.

Tracking the Migration in the Serengeti

Coffee and Amarula- yum!

Coffee and Amarula- yum!

 

&beyond Serengeti Under Canvas Camp

&beyond Serengeti Under Canvas Camp

We have flown to the Serengeti to see a different terrain, and to follow the migration. Serengeti Under Canvas is a true mobile camp- everything is folded up, packed and moved when needed and one would never know it had been there. No fooprint!

Top hotel in Ngorongoro Crater- hands down is AndBeyond Crater Lodge

Champagne welcome AndBeyond Crater Lodge

Champagne welcome AndBeyond Crater Lodge

Cozy main Lounge AndBeyond Crater Lodge

Cozy main Lounge AndBeyond Crater Lodge

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North Lodge bathroom seen thru a cut hole

North Lodge bathroom seen thru a cut hole

I rarely add picture of interiors of resorts or lodges, but this lodge is so stunning and completely unique, I felt I had to share it. A visit should be on anyone’s bucket list.

Lions in the tree!

Lake Manyara Tree Lion

Lake Manyara Tree Lion

A new experience to watch a lion leap into the tree

A new experience to watch a lion leap into the tree

Lake Manyara Tree House- a most pleasant surprise

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We had the pleasure of staying at Lake Manyara Tree House, an And Beyond property. Rooms were spacious, luxurious, 5 star in every way. The exceptional staff made us feel so welcome. A complete pleasure and I hope to return.

Lake Manyara Tanzania

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Known for it’s lions resting in trees to escape the dreaded Tsetse fly, and the glorius flamingos on the lake, Manyara was a delightful surprise. The national park has some of the most lush jungle vegetation I have ever seen. We visited a Massai village, always a warm experience. image

Lake Manyara Tanzania

Leopard tucked away nicely

Leopard tucked away nicely

Return to Tanzania

I am checking out some new camps in Tanzania. First stop is Lake Manyara about 25minutes flight from Arusha. Lush green jungle. Beautiful landscapes, on the edge of the great rift.

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Lake Manyara Lion

Parting shots : Galapagos

imageGalapagos Marine Iguanaimage
Marine Iguanas can dive to 30 feet.

Alvatross

Alvatross

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Amazing, spectacular, indescribable, the Galapagos never dissapoint.

Viewings of Galapagos from Silver Sea

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Frigatebird flapping for attention

Frigatebird flapping for attention

Passing Scenery - Galapagos

Passing Scenery – Galapagos

Silver Sea Galapagos – Home for the Next 8 Days

Silver Sea Galapagos

Silver Sea Galapagos


Silver Sea Galapagos is a relatively new introduction to options for a Galapagos Journey. It is a 50 cabin luxury expedition ship. With two restaurants, the food options are delightful. Of course Silver Sea has the usual unparalleled Butler service. Any wish – within limits- is their command. The staff has been outstanding, another Silver Sea standard. Cabins are large for an expedition ship, the only thing missing are bathtubs. They use zodiacs for forays into the islands and the guides are top notch. The daily schedule is jam packed. You will not miss one bird, iguana or anything that moves. This is NOT roughing it.

Galapagos Land Iguana

Galapagos Land Iguana

Galapagos Land Iguana


Galapagos Land Iquanas often reach 3 feet in length. North Seymour Island also has Sea Iguanas, but smaller in size.

Magnificent Frigatebird on North Seymour Island

Magnificent Frigatebird trying attract attention

Magnificent Frigatebird trying attract attention


Found on North Seymour Island, Galapagos. Stunning birds, we see thousands of them on this island.

Galapagos: North Seymour Island

Blue Footed Boobys

Blue Footed Boobys


On North Seymour we encounter the blue footed booby. This bird does an elaborate mating dance – shifting from one foot to another – trying to gain his future mate’s attention.
Other sightings include Land Iguanas, Magnificent Frigatebirds, Sea lions, Swallowtailed Gulls, Brown Pelicans, Galapagos Yellow Finches and Marine Iguanas.
Blue Footed Booby- trying out his mating dance

Blue Footed Booby- trying out his mating dance

Baby Sea Lion -Darwin Bay, Galapagos

Baby Sea Lion -Darwin Bay, Galapagos

Crab at Darwin Bay

Crab at Darwin Bay

Galapagos: Genovesa Island

Red Footed Booby

Red Footed Booby


Genovesa island -our first stop on the Galapagos itinerary, is a protected haven for birds. One sees hundreds if not thousands of birds flying all over the volcanic island. Many are nesting and completely unafraid of humans. There are no predators of any sort, so they are completely habituated.

Galapagos: One of a Kind Archipelago

Red Footed Booby

Red Footed Booby

Nasca Booby- Genovese Island, Galapagos

Nasca Booby- Genovese Island, Galapagos

Galapagos is must experience for any Intrepid Traveler!
I had the privilege of sailing with Silver Sea Galapagos, a new expedition ship sailing the Galápagos Islands. We traveled to a different island- sometimes two, each day. Each island has it’s own marvels. Our first Island to explore was Genovese in the northern part of the group. It is aptly named bird island.

Insider Tips: Canyon Ranch

Flowers in abundance at the desert resort.
Some insider tips:
1.Prebook some of your treatments. They fill up fast.
2.Be sure to start your experience on the first morning with a program advisor.
They can help you plan what you want to accomplish, be it rehabilitate an injury, physical therapy, develop photography skills, target stress, fat loss, good nutrition plan for life, the list goes on…
3.Transfers are included but most guests don’t realize they can check in as late as midnight, so you can start your day early the next morning. To avoid the nightly rate- stay at the airport and they will pick you up early the next morning.
4.Be sure to request a boxed meal on you return transfer- it is included.
5.At this writing, treatments included for 4N are $670. For 7nights – $1200
6.Low season, when rates are the best, is June thru August.
6.Best room location – near the spa center and main building are casitas in the 100s-especially 101-104, and 163-178

Canyon Ranch – health and wellness focus

Typical salad Canyon Ranch
Surpringly sumptuous food is always on the menu. Canyon Ranch includes all meals and a long list of interesting activities. Portions are smaller than a normal restaurant – typically the meat or fish is 3 Ounces. Alcohol is not offered and I did not miss it.

Travel is more than a destination in mind…

It is discovering a place in your heart you’ve never been before.
Anon.
Giraffe at Phinda

Tswalu Kalahari -South Africa

Top notch guide Warren and out tracker, Jackson

Top notch guide Warren and our tracker, Jackson

A few of the details that make Tswalu Kalahari so special are the shuttle flights: private jets like the Pilatus PC-12, the lounge for your transfer -Fireblade – is in a class all it’s own with day rooms a massage therapist, and private chef on call. Offering a small number of cottages on property, the resort suits both families and honeymooners. Most especially the best offering is the private vehicle , guide and tracker for each set of guests. If you booked singly or came with 4 friends, you get you own land rover, guide and tracker. That is the height of luxury on safari! They dedicate up to 9 vehicles, guides and trackers for their guests. The reserve is so large, you never seem to see more than one other vehicle when one is out on a game drive. Our guide, Warren, knew that reserve like the back of his hand. He even found a pack of wild dogs in a impossible to find location!! Wild dogs!! What a thrill!!! My first sighting in all my years of safari tracking.
Guides and trackers focus on what a guest wants to see, ie birds or predators- or both!! You see it all!!!

ultimate  luxury - private vehicle, guide and tracker

ultimate luxury – private vehicle, guide and tracker

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