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January | February | March 2013
ANDREW HARPER
theBest of Scotland 21+
Special OfferS
us
e promo code Tr1212
exclusively for HIDEAWAY REPORT suBscriBers
Southern Spain & Marrakech
itinerary
7 of Mr. harper’S favorite
hiStorical citieS
inSide the life of a
conciergenew Zealand Sig tour 2013
A 2013 Andrew Harper Signature Tour
12 andrew harper travel office (800) 375-4685 [email protected] || January/february/march 2013 andrewharper.com
P r o M ot i o nP r o M ot i o n
PelicanHill_AndrewHarper_DPS_JAN-MAR2013_OL.indd 1 11/6/12 2:16 PM
32 andrew harper travel office (800) 375-4685 [email protected] || January/february/march 2013 andrewharper.com
P r o M ot i o n
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18 44
9 | A day in the life: the Andrew Harper Traveler talks with hotel concierge staff in L.A., Miami, n.Y.C. and Santa Fe for a behind-the-scenes look into planning the ultimate travel experiences in these frequently visited cities with their never-ending lists of attractions and activities.
18 | History is calling: Boston, Charleston, Savannah, Bali, Beijing, Prague and Vienna may initially appear to have little in common. But each is glazed with a rich and colorful past, and all are some of Mr. Harper’s favorite historical spots.
contentsJanuary | February | March 2013
ON tHE cOvER carriageway and ancient
neidpath castle in peeblesshire, scotland
Amanjena marrakech, morocco
olympic stadium, The Bird’s Nest beijing
34 | A Tour de force: Each year, Andrew Harper creates custom Signature tours in some of our readers’ favorite destinations. the 2013 tours in new Zealand and Scotland are filling up fast. the Andrew Harper Traveler speaks to Peter Delgado in the Andrew Harper travel office about these meticulously crafted journeys of a lifetime.
44 | from the Travel office: recommended itineraries for Marrakech and southern Spain.
plus 21 special offers throughout!refer To promo code Tr1212 wHeN BookiNg
34 The lodge at kauri cliffsbay of islands, new Zealand
The plaza new york city
9
Castello del nero tuscANy, ItAly
“This is my very favorite hotel in Italy. We just spent a week there (our third visit)
and can’t wait to go back. Amazing food (including fresh fish which is unusual
in Tuscany) and a great wine list. Highly recommend. Also the cooking class is
great fun.” —An Andrew Harper Guest
Andrew Harper guests receive: preferred rates; an upgrade, when available at check-in; a welcome bottle of red wine with sweet amenity per room; and for stays of three nights or longer in a suite, a three-course dinner (including beverages) for two per room at la torre restaurant.
standard rate inclusions: rates include room tax, daily buffet breakfast served at the restaurant, use of hotel facilities, daily scheduled shuttle bus to/from florence or siena, daily newspaper, parking and complimentary wi-fi.
Recommended since 2007.
Visit AndrewHarper.com/Sweepstakes for more information and to enter for your chance to win!
His identity is a secret. His favorite hotel doesn’t have to be.
NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Andrew Harper sweepstakes are open to legal residents of the United States or the District of Columbia age 21 or older. To enter and view the o cial rules and regulations, visit AndrewHarper.com/Sweepstakes.
The much-anticipated list of Grand Awards, comprised of Andrew Harper's favorite hotels, resorts, restaurants and travel experiences from the past calendar year, will be announced this
January, along with opportunities for you to win a stay at the Hideaway of the Year and more!
5andrew harper travel office (800) 375-4685 [email protected] |4 | January/february/march 2013 andrewharper.com
P r o M ot i o n
Le Couvent des Minimes Hotel and Spa by l’occitanePROvENcE, FRANcE – nestled on a hillside and drenched in Provençal sunshine, the Minimes convent was first home to nuns before being converted into this upscale, 46-room hotel. Recommended since 2008.
» Historic 400-year-old dwelling
» l’occitane spa
» rooms with a mediterranean influence
» Terraced gardens
» 60 miles east of Avignon
» medieval Architecture/
contemporary design
» french countryside
» casual and upscale dining
» Heated swimming pool
sPEcIAl OFFER: Discovery stay stay four nights and enjoy the proximity to a variety of experiences nearby, such as the life of cezanne in aix en provence, the beauty of valensole plateau’s countryside, moustiers sainte marie, lake sainte croix and southern luberon, from 902 eur per person. also includes andrew harper benefits and any standard rate inclusions; as well as dinner daily, access to all spa facilities; and use of fitness center and tennis court. dates offer is valid on new reservations only, for travel from march 1 to June 30, 2013, based on availability. price varies depending on room and dates selected. transportation costs to local attrac-tions and sites are additional.
Andrew Harper guests receive: the best available non-restricted rates; an upgrade, when available at check-in; daily continental breakfast served at the restaurant or in room; a welcome l’occitane amenity per room; a daily relaxation experience at the spa for two; for stays of three nights or longer, a luncheon for two at bancaou by pesquier restaurant (excluding beverages, taxes and gratuities); and for stays between Jan. 1-march 31, 2013, preferred room rates.
standard rate inclusions: rates include room tax and service.
HotelsauStriaGasthof Post; Lech am Arlberg
Hotel tennerhof relais & Chateaux; Kitzbühel
argentinaAlgodon Mansion; Buenos Aires
cZech repuBlicMandarin oriental Prague; Prague
englandAmberley Castle; Sussex
the Bath Priory Hotel; Bath
Gravetye Manor; Sussex
Hambleton Hall Hotel; Midlands
Hotel tresanton; Cornwall
eStoniaPädaste Manor; Muhu island
franceLa Coquillade; Gargas
Le Chalet Zannier; Megève
Les Crayères; reims
Les Prés d’Eugénie—Michel Guérard; Eugénie les Bains
french polyneSiaFour Seasons resort Bora Bora; Bora Bora
irelandBallynahinch Castle Hotel & Estate;
Co. Galway
Cashel House Hotel; Co. Galway
italyBorgo Santo Pietro; Siena
Grand Hotel A Villa Feltrinelli; Brescia
Gritti Palace; Venice
Hotel Villa Ducale taormina; Sicily
Palazzo Seneca; norcia
residenza napoleone iii; rome
nepalDwarika’s Hotel; Kathmandu
nicaruagaJicaro island Ecolodge; Lake nicaruaga
Hacienda & Ecolodge Morgan’s rock; San Juan del Sur
portugalConvento de São Saturnino; Azoia-Sintra
ScotlandGleneagles; Perthshire
SpainHotel orfila; Madrid
Son Brull Hotel & Spa; Mallorca
SwedenGrand Hôtel Stockholm; Stockholm
thailandthe Siam; Bangkok
turkeyAmanyura; Bodrum
united StateScalifornia Calistoga ranch; Calistoga
Cavallo Point; Sausalito
colorado Hotel Jerome; Aspen
florida the Breakers Palm Beach ; Palm Beach
Fisher island Hotel & resort; Fisher island
the St. regis Bal Harbour resort; Bal Harbour-Miami Beach
hawaii the Kahala Hotel & resort; Honolulu
louisiana Windsor Court Hotel; new orleans
maine Camden Harbour inn; Camden
Captain Lord Mansion; Kennebunkport
Hidden Pond; Kennebunkport
pennsylvania
the rittenhouse; Philadelphia
south carolina Wentworth Mansion; Charleston
the Willcox Hotel; Aiken
vermont the Pitcher inn, relais & Chateaux; Warren
uruguayHotel Fasano Punta del Este; Punta Del Este
vietnaMSix Senses Con Dao ; Con Son
Travel partners/ yachts & cruisesA&K Ecuador; Ecuador
Matuete; Brazil
rio Life tours; Brazil
Sea Dream Yacht Club; Global
villa partnersVilla Belle Bague; St. Barth’s
New 2013 Andrew Harper Alliance Partners
windsor court Hotelnew orleans, louisiana
The siambangkok, thailand
gravetye manorsussex, england
7
P r o M ot i o n
tHE ANDREW HARPER AllIANcEPublishers of the quarterly Andrew Harper Traveler magazine and the annual Andrew Harper Travel Directory
director and publisher Georgia Beth ridenhour
email [email protected]
phone (512) 904-7330 fax (512) 904-7350
associate director Colin Housley
account managers Carol Bacon, Heather Eberle
alliance coordinator Joyce Jorden senior design director Pam Caperton
production manager Christen newlon
design intern Elisa Corey
ANDREW HARPER tRAvEl OFFIcE
director Sandi Ferreira
toll free (800) 375-4685
phone (630) 734-4610 fax (630) 734-4642
email [email protected]
ANDREW HARPER clIENt RElAtIONs
toll free (866) 831-4314
phone (512) 904-7342 fax (512) 904-7350
email [email protected]
ANDREW HARPER’s Hideaway RepoRt AND tHe HaRpeR collection
editor-in-chief Andrew Harper
ANDREW HARPER, llc
president Greg Marchbanks
chief operating officer Lorelei Calvert
ANDREWHARPER.cOmcst-#2110806-40 ist-#1096 Wst-#603248672
NEW!
Sort and Filter our Special oFFerStake advantage of the specially negotiated offers from participating harper-recommended hotels, villas, yachts and cruise partners. offers typically include andrew harper benefits. book them on their own, or use them as a valuable extension to your itinerary!
FIND tHE PERFEct
Special oFFer
s E A R c H N O W
AndrewHarper.com/specialOffers
HotelsauStria
23 Hotel Bristol, Vienna—A Luxury Collection Hotel; Vienna
canada
42 Wedgewood Hotel & Spa; Vancouver
cariBBean
43 Amanyara; turks & Caicos
43 Cap Juluca; Anguilla
42 Peter island resort and Spa; tortola
cZech repuBlic
19 Augustine Hotel, Prague; Prague
france
4 Le Couvent des Minimes Hotel and Spa by l’occitane; Provence
gerMany
23 Hotel Adlon Kempinski; Berlin
italy
back cover Borgo Santo Pietro; tuscany
2 Castello del nero; tuscany
52 J.K. Place Capri; Capri
53 Park Hyatt; Milan
Mexico
53 Maroma resort & Spa by orient-Express; riviera Maya
Morocco
50 La Maison Arabe; Marrakech
49 Palais Amani; Fez
netherlandS
s2 Hotel Seven one Seven; Amsterdam
new Zealand
s3 treetops Lodge & Estate; rotorua
s3 Wharekauhau Lodge & Country Estate; Featherston
Scotland
52 Glenapp Castle; Ayrshire
41 Gleneagles; Perthshire
South africa
51 Mateya Safari Lodge; Madikwe Game reserve
Spain
50 Barcelo La Bobadilla; Granada
48 Finca Cortesin Hotel, Golf & Spa; Casares
united StateS
alaska 8 tikchik narrows Lodge; Dillingham
arizona
33 Sanctuary Camelback Mountain; Paradise Valley
california inside front cover Pelican Hill; newport Beach
florida
52 King & Grove tides; Miami Beach
georgia 19 the Stephen Williams House; Savannah
illinois 16 Waldorf Astoria, Chicago; Chicago
massachusetts 28 taj Boston; Boston
montana 16 the resort at Paws Up; Greenough
new mexico 12 the inn of the Five Graces; Santa Fe
new york 15 Hôtel Plaza Athénée new York; new York City
17 Lake Placid Lodge; Lake Placid
15 the Plaza; new York City
special offers and alliance partners in this issue
partners listed below are participating
in this issue of the Andrew Harper Traveler magazine
showcasing their andrew harper benefits and more.
those noted in red are including short-term sPEcIAl
OFFERs in addition to their andrew harper benefits.
all current sPEcIAl OFFERs may always be found at
andrewharper.com
TravelerANDREW HARPER
6 | January/february/march 2013 andrewharper.com
Travel partners/yachts & cruises40 Adventures in Golf; Scotland
31 Hebridean island Cruises; United Kingdom
32 Midnight Sun Yacht; Alaska
33 Paul Gauguin Cruises; French Polynesia, South Pacific
30 Sea Cloud Cruises; Worldwide
32 Seabourn Cruises; Worldwide
s4 tCS & Starquest Expeditions; Worldwide
51 travcoa; Worldwide
30 Un-Cruise Adventures; Alaska
28 Wilderness Safaris; Africa
villa partners41 LaCure Villas; Worldwide
8 Lifestyle Villas; Cabo San Lucas, MexicoBarcelo la Bobadilla
Granada, spain
9andrew harper travel office (800) 375-4685 [email protected] |8 | January/february/march 2013 andrewharper.com
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AreA AlliANce pArTNersHOtEls
Beverly Hills Hotel and BungalowsBEVErLY HiLLS, CALiForniA
Hotel Bel-airLoS AnGELES, CALiForniA
l’ermitage Beverly HillsBEVErLY HiLLS, CALiForniA
The peninsula Beverly HillsBEVErLY HiLLS, CALiForniA
acqualina resort and Spa on the BeachSUnnY iSLE, FLoriDA
The Betsy—South BeachMiAMi, FLoriDA
fisher island Hotel & resortFiSHEr iSLAnD, FLoriDA
King & Grove TidesMiAMi BEACH, FLoriDA....................pg 52
Mandarin Oriental, MiamiMiAMi, FLoriDA
St. regis Bal Harbour MiAMi BEACH, FLoriDA
The inn of the five GracesSAntA FE, nEW MExiCo
rosewood inn of the anasaziSAntA FE, nEW MExiCo
The carlyle, a rosewood HotelnEW YorK CitY, nEW YorK
The Greenwich HotelnEW YorK CitY, nEW YorK
Hôtel plaza athénée New YorknEW YorK CitY, nEW YorK
The lowellnEW YorK CitY, nEW YorK
The MarknEW YorK CitY, nEW YorK
The plaza HotelnEW YorK CitY, nEW YorK
The St. regis New YorknEW YorK CitY, nEW YorK
tRAvEl PARtNERs
Discover New York and BeyondnEW YorK CitY, nEW YorK
tikchik narrows LodgeDIllINgHAm, AlAskA – Elegance in the wilderness awaits
guests at this premier Alaskan lodge on a 17-acre peninsula
within the 1.6-million-acre Wood-tikchik State Park. Although
this completely isolated property is accessible only by float
plane, expect comfortable accommodations, complimentary
laundry service, an atten-
tive staff (36 employees for
22 guests) and gourmet
meals featuring the
area’s bounty and fresh
vegetables. twelve large
guest rooms and two
suites offer on-demand hot
water, 24-hour electricity
and stunning views of the
rugged Kilbuck Mountains.
the lodge’s professional guides and float planes afford sport
fishing enthusiasts access to diverse experiences within a
50-mile radius. novices and experts alike can cast for trout in
nearby pristine streams, angle for salmon in the Pacific, or fish
for arctic char and northern pike just steps from the lodge.
Recommended since 1987.
Andrew Harper guests receive: preferred rates; a welcome bottle of wine per room; a complimentary beverage per person per night from the bar; and a complimentary fly casting lesson.
standard rate inclusions: rates include taxes, all meals, daily fly-outs to varied fishing destinations (weather permitting), fishing equipment (rods, reels, lures and flies) and transportation between dillingham and the lodge.
Lifestyle Villas cAbO sAN lucAs, mExIcO – our beachfront, ocean- and
golf-view villas and condos provide turn-key luxury with one
to 14 bedrooms. Many value-added services are available.
Activities range from golf to horseback riding, diving, ziplining
and cultural tours that provide the most intimate and
exclusive experiences.
• private Transportation
• weddings and events
• ground services
Andrew Harper guests receive: a complimentary breakfast preparation the first morning of stay. (cost of groceries not included.) Hotel concierges in four of
your favorite u.s. cities pull
back the curtain on one of the
toughest jobs in the industry,
and reveal their top recommendations on
area eateries, attractions and activities.
Whether it’s wrangling live tarantulas or
tracking down an elvis impersonator for
a 12-year-old’s birthday, it’s the job of the
hotel concierge to make sure a guest’s every
dream comes true. they’ve heard and seen
it all, know where to go and what to see, and
have the connections to make sure you get
the best seats and hottest tickets in town. We
recently chatted with the concierges at resorts
in los angeles, Miami, nYc and Santa Fe and
got the inside scoop on not only their best
recommendations as to where to send guests,
but also what it’s like to be in the hot seat at a
concierge desk.
A DAy in
theLife
1110 andrew harper travel office (800) 375-4685 [email protected] || January/february/march 2013 andrewharper.com
Have you been a concierge at other hotels and, if so, how did it
compare to your position at Acqualina?
I started at a big convention hotel with more than a thousand rooms. Acqualina is a small, intimate boutique hotel with just 97 rooms, which gives me more of an opportunity to really get to know the guests. We have a lot of loyal, repeat guests here, so I’m literally seeing their kids grow up.
what’s the strangest request you’ve ever had?
We get so many requests, nothing seems bizarre anymore. And the fact that it’s something different every single day is part of what I love about my job.
Have you ever had to turn down a guest’s request?
As long as it’s legal, moral and ethical, we always say yes.
which restaurants in the area do you recommend the most?
Zuma, for Japanese food. For steaks, Prime One Twelve and Bour-bon Steak. In South Beach there’s a great place called Casa Tua for Northern Italian.
what’s the most frequent question you get
asked by guests?
The honest answer is, “Where’s the restroom?” Otherwise, it’s parents asking about something special they can do with the kids. I tell them about the VIP tour at Jungle Island zoological park. On this private, behind-the-scenes tour, they get to go inside the cage with a giant sea turtle, lemurs jump on their heads, etc. When the families come back, they always hug me and tell me how it great it was.
what are your three miami must-sees?
Lincoln Road and Ocean Drive are both nice, long streets that are two of the most happening places in town. Lincoln Road is a pedestrian-only street with lots of shopping and restaurants. Ocean Drive is the street where you’ll see all those cool, old art-deco buildings. And thirdly, beautiful Key Biscayne, an island southeast of Miami. It has the Miami Seaquarium, and the beautiful William Powell Bridge, which offers a stunning view of downtown Miami. And the breeze there is great.
what activity do you recommend as being
quintessentially miami?
Miami is a melting pot of cultures, and visitors should take advantage of all the different kinds of cuisine in places like South Beach and the various ethnic neighborhoods like Little Havana. There’s literally everything from Japanese to Russian.
what’s your favorite secret place?
The Cape Florida Lighthouse on Key Bis-cayne. It’s a small place not many people know about, so it’s quiet and peaceful, and there’s a decent beach there.
Sunny Isles Beach, Miami, FLConcierge Atiana Echeverriacqualina reSort & Spa
Los Angeles, CAConcierge Alex NiezgodaHotel Bel-air
we have celebrating our art, food truck culture and all the fresh produce of California. There is the Downtown Artwalk one Thursday a month, First Fridays in Venice and, my absolute favorite, the Yamashiro Farmers’ Market. Every Thursday night in summer, you can sample the best local produce, food truck fare and live music at this pop-up market on the grounds of this Japanese restaurant in the Hollywood Hills. And there is no better view of the city lights below.
what would you recommend as the quintessential l.A.
experience?
Packing a picnic from Joan’s On Third, picking up a delicious bottle of chardonnay from nearby Santa Barbara, and dining on the lawn of the Hollywood Bowl before enjoying a perfor-mance by the Los Angeles Philharmonic out under the stars.
Jungle island
what’s your secret to being a good concierge?
It’s a balance of being able to humbly serve yet still picture yourself in the shoes of your clientele so you can ensure that guest expectations always meet guest satisfaction.
what’s one of the strangest things you’ve ever been asked to do?
Arrange an Elvis impersonator for a 12-year-old boy’s birthday. I also once had to ship a taxidermied deer head to the French island of Corsica.
what’s the biggest tip you’ve ever gotten?
While we appreciate monetary gratuities, what sticks out the most in my mind are the more thoughtful gifts, such as a
beautiful pair of cufflinks from a guest from Hong Kong, or a tie from a Saudi family. It reminds me how exhilarating it is to travel and to share our cultures with one another.
which restaurants do you most often
recommend?
Wolfgang Puck at the Hotel Bel-Air, for quintessential California cuisine. Madeo, a family-owned restaurant that, despite the old-school ambience,
delights with anything-but-ordinary Italian. And The Bazaar by José Andrés. It’s hard to tell if their tapas come from Spain or another planet. The examples of molecular gastronomy will burst in your mouth, and the design by Philippe Starck will astound the rest of your senses.
if you had to pick only three places for a guest’s l.A.
must-see list, what would they be?
1 Abbot Kinney Boulevard in Venice. Just steps away from the tourist hordes at the nearby Venice Boardwalk are Abbot Kinney’s refreshing sea breezes and funky post-industrial architecture.
2 The Los Angeles County Museum of Art. Spanning 2,000 years, its collection is unique for both its range and the stun-ning architecture that houses it.
3 Universal Studios. “Take a VIP tour and get behind the scenes, where some of the most iconic TV shows and movies are produced before your very eyes.”
if a guest was to ask you to recommend someplace that’s not
listed in all of the l.A. guidebooks, what would you tell them?
My favorite spots in L.A. are the various nighttime street fairs
“The beach. Whether it’s renting bikes in Venice, surfing in Malibu or taking a
whale-watching cruise from Newport,
no one does it better than Southern california.”
“As long as it’s legal, moral and ethical,
we always say yes.”
yamashiro farmers’ market
los Angeles county museum of Art
crandon park Beach Key biscayne
domino parklittle havana
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13andrew harper travel office (800) 375-4685 [email protected] |12 | January/february/march 2013 andrewharper.com
P r o m ot i o n
the inn of the Five GracesSanta Fe, new Mexico – Set in the heart of downtown Santa Fe, the inn of the Five
Graces offers the rare combination of a secluded escape in a central location. Landmarks
like the San miguel mission and the Plaza are just steps away, yet the historic inn remains
set back, private and serene.
the elevated level of service at this relais & Chateaux property begins even before guests
walk through the door. According to one Andrew Harper guest, “the service was among the
best i’ve ever experienced. Each member of the staff went far beyond what was necessary
or expected.” Whether you prefer a historic tour of Santa Fe or a pottery class with a local
artist, the concierge can plan activities and itineraries in advance of any visit, or upon arrival.
Housing 20 suites, one villa and three rooms, the inn’s original adobe buildings reflect
the pueblo design representative of the region. Each room has its own character, but the
2,000-square-foot villa is particularly impressive. inside, this guesthouse is adorned with
a stunning blown-glass chandelier, a full kitchen and five fireplaces, while multiple private
balconies and patios allow for spending quiet time relaxing outdoors. the guest rooms
are curated with Asian and South American furnishings, much of which is handmade.
this East-meets-West aesthetic was brought to life by the inn’s owners, importers Sylvia
and ira Seret. in fact, Sylvia herself created the intricate tile work in each bathroom using
materials from around the world. “the fabrics and mosaic tiles gave the rooms a wonder-
fully romantic, moroccan feel, and the bathrooms are all drop-dead gorgeous,” comments
another Harper guest. “the entire inn was lavishly and perfectly decorated.”
the fusion of cultures continues throughout the property. Spa treatments are dictated
by both tibetan and indian traditions, and the French-inspired Bistro 315 uses local, sea-
sonal ingredients, some of which are grown on site. Recommended since 2005.
Special oFFer: winter and Spring Spa credit confirm a stay and receive one $100 spa credit per room to apply toward any spa treatments. also includes andrew harper benefits and any standard rate inclusions. dates offer is valid on new reservations only, for travel from Jan. 4 to april 30, 2013, based on availability. offer is not combinable with any other offer.
offer. andrew Harper guests receive: the best available non-restricted rates; an upgrade, when available at check-in; a 10-percent discount at bistro 315 restaurant (excludes alcohol); and chocolate-covered strawberries at turn-down on the first night of stay per room.
Standard rate inclusions: rates include daily full breakfast served at the restaurant or in room, mini-fridge stocked with soft drinks and snacks, wi-fi, fitness room access, parking and valet service.
How long have you been with the Five Graces?
Five years. And I’ve seen a lot of changes over the years. When I first started, none of the buildings even had central air conditioning. The oldest building on the property is 400 years old—try putting air conditioning in a 400-year-old building! Before, the rooms were pretty average, but today they are the most special thing you can imagine.
What’s the secret to being a good concierge?
Thinking about what guests want before they even get here. I typically call them a minimum of three weeks in advance of their stay and get to know them over the phone. So when they get here, we’re already friends.
What was the most difficult request you’ve ever
had from a guest?
One time a guest wanted a “real psychic,” which is kind of a touchy subject. I mean, does it exist? I just made sure it wasn’t anyone who would throw a live chicken at them.
What’s something you wish guests knew about
the role of a concierge?
That if you reach out and contact them ahead of time, you’re going to get better personal service. Because if you wait until you arrive, it might be too late to get the reservations or tickets you want.
What’s the biggest compliment you’ve gotten as a concierge?
One guest said they wished I wasn’t married so I could marry their son.
What requests do you get most often?
Santa Fe is an alternative healing mecca, so I’d have to say spa reservations.
What are your three must-sees in the
Santa Fe area?
1 A day trip to Bandelier National Monu-ment, where they can climb around the ancient cave dwellings. It’s about a
“One time a guest wanted
a ‘real psychic.’”
Santa Fe, NMConcierge Judith Arute the Inn Of the fIve Graces
40-minute drive from the hotel. You should include a visit to Los Alamos, where the atom bomb was created, and go to the Bradbury Science Museum to learn about its history.
2 A walking tour around downtown Santa Fe with a historian. It’s a great way on your first day to get a feel for what you’re looking at. There are lots and lots of old adobe buildings, which could get boring, but when you know what happened here, it’s much more interesting.
3 Canyon Road, Santa Fe has the second largest art market in the United States, and there are literally hundreds of galleries in just three blocks along Canyon Road.
What is the quintessential Santa Fe thing to do?
Visit the Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa. It’s the oldest natural hot springs in the United States. There are four different types of mineral water there [touted for their healing qualities].
Do you have any dos and don’ts for area visitors?
Don’t expect stores to be open at certain times. The hours here are very European.
Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa
Bandelier National
Monument
15andrew harper travel office (800) 375-4685 [email protected] |
P r o m ot i o n
14 | January/february/march 2013 andrewharper.com
New York CityConcierge Raphael Pallais The Plaza
New York, New York – For significant occasions, the
timeless grandeur of this century-old hotel at Fifth Avenue
and Central Park South offers the perfect setting for special
occasions and celebrations. Elegant accommodations and
myriad outstanding dining options—including the Palm
Court—help guests toast anniversaries and birthdays during
multi-generational gatherings and create romantic memo-
ries for couples. the Caudalie
Vinotherapie Spa, LA PALEStrA
fitness salon and the Shops at
the Plaza also provide endless
diversions. Beaux Arts-inspired
décor graces the 282 guest
rooms and suites, the lat-
ter attended by white-gloved
butlers. this timeless urban
resort has a contemporary
spirit. Guests may use iPads to
control their room environment,
make dining reservations and
connect with the concierge.
the Eloise Suite and Knights of
the Plaza packages offer fun, gift-filled overnights in specially
decorated suites for lucky little girls and boys. Recommended
since 2009.
Andrew Harper guests receive: the best available non-restricted rates; an upgrade, when available at check-in; daily conti-nental breakfast served at the restaurant; a new york city-themed welcome amenity; and a 100 usd food and beverage credit per room.
Standard rate inclusions: rates include fitness center access. when booking a suite, rates also include butler service.
the Plaza
New York, New York – Exceptional, personalized service
from the staff at Hotel Plaza Athénée makes this 2008
Andrew Harper’s readers’ Choice Award-winner a new York
City standout. As one AH guest comments, “the only reason i
hesitate to recommend it is that i don’t want it to become too
popular!” Guests of the 117 rooms and 25 suites can dine on-
site at the newly refurbished Arabelle. the property’s hidden
gem, however, is the Asian-inspired spa, where each treat-
ment room features its own private bathroom, steam shower
and changing area. Recommended since 1985.
Andrew Harper guests receive: the best available non-restricted rates; an upgrade, when available at check-in; daily conti-nental breakfast served at the restaurant or in room; a personalized shopping experience at bergdorf Goodman; and the choice of a 100 usd food and beverage credit or a 50 percent discount on a signature plaza athénée 50-minute massage per room.
Standard rate inclusions: rates include wi-fi in public areas and access to the spa, fitness center and business center.
Hôtel Plaza Athénée new York
Being that the Plaza is such a legendary hotel, is there any
added pressure to meet your guests’ every need?
In a way, yes, the expectations are really high. “But you’re the Plaza!” is an exclama-tion we hear often.
Does being a concierge in New
York City present any specific
obstacles or advantages?
The clear advantage is being in a city that has so much dynamic content to offer. It’s ironically also the obstacle, as it becomes tougher and tougher to stay attuned to its rapidly changing rhythms and realities.
What’s the strangest thing you’ve ever done as concierge?
Helped a guest order a batch of live tarantulas to be roasted at one of his dinners back home.
What’s the best compliment you’ve ever gotten as concierge?
The tears of a young cancer-stricken girl for whom I’d pre-pared a giant get-well card signed by everyone in the hotel.
What activity or attraction do you most often recommend?
Central Park. It offers such a cornucopia of activities to visitors—from a historic carousel (the original carousel opened there in 1871, approximately 50 yards from the site of the current one), to an open-air theater (the Delacorte, home to the incredible, and free, Shakespeare in the Park series), to a castle (the Belvedere). You’ll also find baseball, handball and basketball playing fields, tennis courts, a chess and checkers house, an ice-skating rink, a lake where you can
rent rowboats, and a restaurant (Loeb’s Boathouse). If you’re adventurous, you’ll discover the more mysterious locations, like the Blockhouse (the oldest build-ing in the park), the 2,000-year-old obelisk (Cleopatra’s Needle), or Lasker Pool, where you can cool off through-out the summer for free as well.
What would you recommend as the quintessential Big Apple
experience?
A Broadway show and dinner. If asked specifically which show to see and what restaurant to go to, I would say dinner at the Palm, one of New York’s great steakhouses, followed by “Chicago”, a timeless, classic Broadway show. The hardest combination of either that I’ve been able to break is a 6 p.m. table at Le Bernardin followed by premium tickets to “The Book of Mormon.” That, to this day, remains the ultimate double whammy.
If a guest was to ask you for your secret favorite spot in New
York City, what would it be?
The middle section of the Bow Bridge in Central Park, for its gothic, neoclassical and Renaissance styles all combined in one small park element that has been extensively used for photography and special events. It is reminiscent of a musi-cal bow because of its unusual curvature. Another secret spot would be a bench in the middle of the winding Shakespeare Garden in Central Park, a beautifully manicured garden of fra-grant herbs and flowers overlooking the Swedish Cottage. You can sit undisturbed for hours and simply soak in the beauty and the silence. H
“If asked specifically which show to see and what restaurant to go to, I
would say dinner at the Palm, one of New York’s great steakhouses,
followed by ‘Chicago,’ a timeless, classic Broadway show.”
Central Park Carousel
Bow Bridge central park
16 | January/february/march 2013 andrewharper.com
P r o M ot i o nP r o M ot i o n
bEcOmE A FAN
facebook.com/AndrewHarperTravel
FOllOW us
Twitter.com/HarperTravelpinterest.com/HarperTravel
EmAIl us
sPEcIAl OFFER: Designed to unwind with complimentary Night stay two nights and the third night is complimentary, along with the choice of a tandem massage or two ski lift tickets for whiteface mountain. also includes andrew harper benefits and any standard rate inclusions. dates offer is valid on new reservations only, for travel through march 30, 2013, based on avail-ability and excluding Jan. 18–20 and feb. 15–23, 2013. offer is not combinable with any other promotions.
Andrew Harper guests receive: an upgrade, when available at time of booking; one lunch for two per room (excluding alcohol and gratuity); daily complimentary treats; for stays in summer and fall, a private boat tour of lake placid ; and for stays in winter and spring, an olympic passport per person.
standard rate inclusions: rates include daily full breakfast served at the restaurant or in room, wi-fi, use of on-property amenities and access to off-site fitness facility.
Recommended since 2002; 2011 Grand Award Winner; 2011 Readers’ Choice Award, #13, Top 20 U.S. Hideaways; #13, Top 20 Food & Wine Resorts; 2012 Readers’ Choice Award, #19, Top 20 U.S. Hideaways.
Lake Placid Lodge lAkE PlAcID, NEW yORk
“We absolutely loved Lake Placid Lodge! The lodge rooms are very comfortable
and the furnishings are all made by local artisans. There are fireplaces everywhere,
all fully stocked and ready to be lit. The staff was extremely attentive and flawlessly
carried out my plan for my husband’s birthday celebration.”
—An Andrew Harper Guest
the resort at Paws Up gREENOugH, mONtANA
“Paws Up is an amazing destination. If you have young children it might be best
to stay only a few nights because there are more activities for older children. We
enjoyed our three-night stay very much with our 5- and 7-year-olds. They liked the
kids’ camp; my 7-year-old got to ride a horse; and we spent a lovely day at the lake
and rented a boat for the kids to go tubing. The cattle drive for [ages] 10 and older
was amazing!” —An Andrew Harper Guest
Andrew Harper guests receive: preferred rates; an upgrade, when available at check-in; a 150 usd activity credit per room (excludes spa services); and early check-in/late checkout, when available.
standard rate inclusions: rates include all meals, snacks, round-trip missoula airport transfers and wi-fi.
Recommended since 2007.
Waldorf Astoria Chicago cHIcAgO, IllINOIs
“The Waldorf Astoria in Chicago is lovely. Its understated elegance, warm and
inviting guest rooms (some with fireplaces) and location in the Gold Coast make it
a perfect luxury hotel to stay in in the city. Don’t miss dining in their restaurant and
be sure you have time to use their spa and workout facilities…state-of-the-art!”
—An Andrew Harper Guest
Andrew Harper guests receive: the best available non-restricted rates; an upgrade, when available at check-in (not valid from deluxe double or Gold coast suite); daily american breakfast for two served at balsan restaurant or in room; a 50 usd spa credit per room; and complimentary overnight valet parking.
standard rate inclusions: rates include wi-fi and access to the elysian spa & health club.
Recommended since 2011; 2011 Readers’
Choice Award, #19, Top 20 City Hotels.
SasaabSamburu, Kenya
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share your love of travel with friends and family! each of your referrals will receive a complimentary six-month Andrew Harper Premier Online subscription with all benefits, discounts and special offers.
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19andrew harper travel office (800) 375-4685 [email protected] |
P r o M ot i o n
Augustine Hotel, PraguePRAguE, czEcH REPublIc – in the heart of the city
lies Augustine Hotel, Prague, a unique structure spanning
seven buildings, including the 13th-century Augustinian St.
thomas Monastery from which it derived its name. A handful
of practicing monks still live adjacent to the hotel grounds
and guests are granted exclusive access to the monastery’s
private library. An Andrew
Harper guest who visited
labeled Augustine Hotel,
Prague a “jewel” and its
location “superb;” not
surprising as many of
Prague’s most notable
destinations, including
the Prague Castle, the
Wallenstein Garden, the
Charles Bridge and the
city’s commercial center
lie within close proximity.
the 101-bedroom hotel contains 16 suites, an impressive spa,
award-winning interior design, two bars and the Lichfield
restaurant, one of the Grand Restaurant Guide’s “top 10
restaurants in Prague.” Recommended since 2009.
Andrew Harper guests receive: the best available non-restricted rates; an upgrade, when available at check-in; daily full breakfast served at the restaurant; an 85 eur food and beverage credit per room; and early check-in/late checkout, when available.
standard rate inclusions: rates include shoe shine and spa access.
the Stephen Williams House
sAvANNAH, gEORgIA – Set in the heart of Savannah’s
historic district, Stephen Williams House is a charming
bed-and-breakfast that was once home to the city’s mayor.
Museum-quality décor adorns each of the five guest rooms,
as well as the dining room, music room and parlour. the inn’s
owner, an antiques dealer whose hospitality and style perme-
ate the property, purposely selects every authentic piece. As
one Andrew Harper traveler recalls, “our brief stay with him
was the highlight of our trip to Georgia.”
Recommended since 2004.
sPEcIAl OFFER: stay three Nights, Receive Fourth Night Free confirm the stephen williams suite for three consecutive nights and receive the fourth night free. also includes andrew harper benefits and any standard rate inclusions. dates offer is valid on new reserva-tions only, for travel from Jan. 1–dec. 31, 2013, based on availability. offer is not combinable with any other promotions.
Andrew Harper guests receive: the best available non-restricted rates; an upgrade, when available at check-in; two tickets to the isaiah davenport house per room; and when booking the stephen williams suite, a “savannah-style” cookbook.
standard rate inclusions: rates include daily full breakfast served in the dining room, wi-fi and parking.
HIDEAWAY REPORTYour subscription, now on your iPad.®
Subscribers can now simply sign in and receive the iPad®-friendly digital edition of Andrew Harper’s Hideaway Report, in full color with video.
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2
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2120 andrew harper travel office (800) 375-4685 [email protected] || January/february/march 2013 andrewharper.com
HTemple of Heaven
beijing
municipal House art nouveau
black madonna House cubist
Rudolfinum neo-Renaissance
church of st. Peter and Paul at vysehrad gothic
Dancing House modern
loreta baroque. Don’t miss the 27-bell carillon playing a Marian song, Sturm notes.
Wander through the streets of the city’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, says Jindrich
“Henry” Sturm, concierge at the Aria Hotel and member of Les Clefs d’Or.
visit Prague castle.“Be sure to spend time in the gothic St. Vitus Cathedral at the castle,” Sturm notes.
Admire the baroquest. Nicholas church in the Lesser Town (Mala Strana) Square.
Watch the animated figures of the Astronomical clock emerge every hour. The clock dates from the 1400s and is located on the
southern side of the Old Town Hall.
“take a night walk amid the open-air sculpture gallery on the pedestrian-only Charles Bridge, which has spanned the Vltava River for more than 600 years,” Sturm suggests.
Explore Josefov, the Jewish Quarter, which includes the remains of Prague’s former Jewish ghetto.
visit strahov monastery, one of the world’s oldest monasteries of the Premonstratensian Order.
“take in a panoramic view of Prague and its many spires from several high points around the city, including Petrin Tower and the Zizkov TV Tower,” Sturm suggests.
Enjoy a musical performance or opera at the neoclassical Estates Theatre, where Mozart conducted the world premiere of “Don Giovanni” in 1787.
“Walk around the narrow streets of Novy svet, near the castle in the Hradcany district,” recommends Sturm.
istoricallySpeaking
“Prague has been a political, cultural and economic center of Central Europe for more than 1,000 years. The seat of two Holy Roman Emperors, it became the capital of Czechoslovakia (now the Czech Republic) after World War I. It is a city of startling grandeur, with exquisite baroque palaces lining both banks of the Vltava River, while high above soar the gothic spires of Prague Castle and St. Vitus Cathedral. But for many modern travelers it is more recent history—that of the Prague Spring and the Velvet Revolution—which makes their visit particularly poignant. The exuberant city of today is a vivid reminder of the dreary and dangerous years of the Cold War and Soviet occupation.” –Mr. Harper
10view of prague from petrin Tower
Cities often are synonymous with a contemporary, cutting-edge way of life. Yet, even the most modern city is influenced by its past. History shapes a city’s identity and helps distinguish it from other places. Mr. Harper highlighted seven cities worldwide that weave their vast, vibrant pasts with the present, creating historically significant travel destinations. Area Harper Alliance partners share insight all guests should know before they go.
AreA AlliANce pArTNersHOtEls
aria HotelPrAGUE, CZECH rEPUBLiC
augustine Hotel, praguePrAGUE, CZECH rEPUBLiC
Mandarin Oriental praguePrAGUE, CZECH rEPUBLiC
tRAvEl PARtNERs
exeter international
Things a Visitor Must Do or See in Prague
Examples of Prague’s Diverse Architectural Style6loreta
23andrew harper travel office (800) 375-4685 [email protected] |
P r o M ot i o n
22 | January/february/march 2013 andrewharper.com
Hotel Adlon Kempinski
bERlIN, gERmANy – the Hotel Adlon Kempinski is located
in the very heart of the vibrant metropolis Berlin, right next to
Brandenburg Gate.
Dating back to 1907, this landmark hotel is filled with history,
tradition and European flair. the 304 luxurious guestrooms
and 78 suites feature lavish generosity and a loving attention
to detail. Exquisite designs, materials and colors imbue every
room and suite with its own unique and personal charm.
Visiting foodies will enjoy the hotel’s four fine-dining
restaurants. Awarded two Michelin stars, the expressive
cuisine at Lorenz Adlon Esszimmer will satisfy even the most
discerning palate.
the exclusive Adlon Spa by resense and the Adlon Pool &
Gym area provide a stylish haven of beauty and pure relax-
ation in the city center. immerse yourself in a total sense of
well-being amid an ambience of luxury, and enjoy invigorating
revitalization before you set out to discover the numerous
cultural attractions within walking distance that Berlin has
to offer. Recommended since 2006.
Andrew Harper guests receive: the best available non-restricted rates; an upgrade, when available at time of booking; daily full breakfast served at the restaurant; a welcome amenity and personalized welcome note per room; a historical tour of the hotel (upon request); and 2 p.m. late checkout, when available.
standard rate inclusions: rates include room tax, service, wi-fi, daily newspaper and access to pool and gym.
vIENNA, AustRIA – World-class musicians and thespians
mingle with international dignitaries in the wood-paneled
Bristol Bar at this five-star, art deco hotel located in the heart
of downtown. For 120 years, the who’s who of arts, commerce
and politics has crossed paths at this cultural landmark,
enjoying the high life of first-class service and old-world
charm. Among the updates completed as part of a major ren-
ovation are state-of-the-art banquet halls and reinvigorated
guest suites—some of which
offer views of the Vienna
State opera, where Gustav
Mahler once premiered his
masterworks. But it’s hard to
imagine much time spent in
the 140 rooms when there is
so much history to explore,
from the ancient grandfather
clock in the lobby to the stair-
case with brass railing that
was dented by a soldier’s rifle following WWii.
Recommended since 1990.
sPEcIAl OFFER: Fourth Night Free confirm a four-night stay and pay for only three nights. also includes andrew harper benefits and any standard rate inclusions. dates offer is valid on new reservations only, booked by march 20, 2013 for travel between Jan. 2–march 31, 2013, based on availability. offer is not combinable with any other promotions and must be booked under the setah rate plan.
offer. Andrew Harper guests receive: the best available non-restricted rates; an upgrade, when available at check-in; daily buffet breakfast served at the restaurant or in room; a welcome amenity per room; 4 p.m. late checkout, when available; and when booking the penthouse, opera or prince of wales suites, a welcome bottle of wine and one-way limousine transfer.
standard rate inclusions: rates include room tax.
Hotel Bristol, Vienna A Luxury Collection Hotel
visit st. stephen’s cathedral, “the biggest church in Vienna with a beautiful view over the city,” notes Chief Concierge Dieter Ludewig and his team at Hotel Bristol.
Ride a Fiaker, a two-horse-drawn hackney carriage, recommends Rosemarie Regner, director of sales at Hotel Bristol.
take a tour through Vienna’s history-rich coffee houses, including the Café Imperial, says Regner.
Explore Prater, a large public park that includes the famous giant Ferris wheel.
shop at the Naschmarkt.
“Vienna offers an inexhaustible wealth of architectural grandeur, a rich artistic legacy and some of the finest museums in the world. Today, it has just 1.7 million inhabitants, but the immense Hofburg Palace, seat of the Habsburg impe-rial dynasty, recalls the city’s past as capital of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Most sights are within easy reach, and if your legs become weary, there are always the spotless red-and-white trams that constantly trundle around the Ringstrasse, the great circular boulevard that defines the Innere Stadt, or old city. Only Paris has more delightful cafés, and on each return visit I quickly make my way to the Café Landtmann, next to the Burgtheater and opposite the Rathaus (City Hall), for a slice of Wiener Apfelstrudel and an Überstürzter Neumann (two shots of espresso beneath a layer of whipped cream).” –Mr. Harper
Enjoy the public burggarten, once the private gardens of Emperor Franz Joseph I, says Michael Moser, Chief Concierge at Hotel Imperial.
see a performance at the state Opera or hear the vienna Philharmonic. “one of the best orchestras in the world,” Moser notes.
treat yourself at Demel, Vienna’s most famous pastry shop, founded in 1786, Moser suggests.
take the historic yellow tram around the Ringstrasse, suggests Regner. The yellow tram caters mostly to sightseers, while commuters usually use the red-and-white trams.
see the training of the lipizzaner stallions.
10Things a Visitor Must Do or See in Vienna
Palaces to Visit in Vienna4
A fiaker
AreA AlliANce pArTNersHOtEls
Hotel Bristol, a luxury collection HotelViEnnA, AUStriA
Hotel imperial, a luxury collection HotelViEnnA, AUStriA
tRAvEl PARtNERs
exeter international
schönbrunn Palace, a UnESCo World Heritage site. Ludewig and his team suggest touring the impe-rial apartments and park surrounding the palace.
Hofburg Palace, the former winter palace of the Habsburg family. Ludewig and his team recom-mend visiting the treasury and the Sisi Museum.
Albertina Palace has the largest and most valuable graphic arts collection in the world, Moser says.
belvedere Palace has one of the world’s largest Gustav Klimt collections, Moser notes. Don’t miss Klimt’s “the Kiss,” advises regner.
Belvedere palace
2524 andrew harper travel office (800) 375-4685 [email protected] || January/february/march 2013 andrewharper.com
visit a temple and pray with the local balinese—
“Bring a sarong, as it is essential to wear a sarong when entering a temple,” advises Chrissie Lincoln, regional sales manager with Amanresorts Indonesia.
Hike through the rice fields of Ubud or East Bali.
Dine on a traditional organic balinese feast with views of Mount Agung from Bali Asli, a new restaurant near Tirta Gangga, Lincoln advises.
sip a cocktail at Ku De Ta while watching the sun set into the ocean, suggests Lincoln.
Enjoy Asian fusion delights at mama san, the latest restaurant from chef Will Meyrick, recommends Lincoln.
“Continue your night upstairs at the ultra-hip bar, which boasts one of the best cocktail lists on the island,” she adds.
visit John Hardy’s silver atelier and have lunch with the staff, followed by an appointment-only tour of the jewelry workshop and show-room, Lincoln recommends.
spend time in ubud, “the cultural heart of Bali,” Lincoln says.
browse the art galleries and handicraft markets around ubud.
stroll the boutiques of Jalan Raya Seminyak and Jalan Oberoi—“Reward your hard work with high tea at Biku, a converted Torajan Joglo [traditional house],” says Lincoln.
Have a balinese massage.
visit the summer Palace, Forbidden city and temple of Heaven, all UNESCO World Heritage sites.
tour the living temples, including the Temple of Azure Clouds and the Temple of the Origin of the Dharma, “perfect examples of the cultural continuum that Beijing represents,” says the Guest Services Team at Aman at the Summer Palace.
Explore the hutongs—narrow, maze-like alleyways—in the Houhai area, recommends Jer-emy Brook, director of marketing for the Peninsula Beijing.
visit the “bird’s Nest” and “Water cube,” now the National Stadium and National Aquat-ics Center, built for the 2008 Olympics.
Hike the longquanyu or mutianyu great Wall, suggests Aman’s Guest Ser-vices Team. Or, Brook suggests, see the Great Wall by helicopter.
tour beijing by night, when the mix of ancient and modern structures is highlighted by specialized lighting, says Aman’s Guest Services Team.
go to the chateau changyu Winery, “one of the leading Chinese wineries within the local mainland market,” says Aman’s Guest Services Team.
visit the night market in Wangfujing Street, which has culinary offerings such as fried scorpi-ons, sea horses, cicadas and starfish.
sample classic dishes, such as Peking duck, Chinese pan-cakes and Chinese dumplings.
shop in the Panjiayuan antique market.
Visit the National Art museum of china.
Go to private museums, funded by local residents, “to get a better idea of the culture,” recommends Brook.
Explore the 798 Art zone.
See Peking opera at the National centre for the Performing Arts, known as the “Bird’s Egg.”
Catch a show by the National Acrobatic troupe.
Watch a Kung Fu show at the Red theatre.
“Beijing has a complex relationship with its past. (The city has been known as “Beijing” since 1403, the time of the third Ming emperor, but the first city on the site, Ji, dates to the 11th century B.C.) Wishing to project an image of modernity and prosperity, the communist authorities have steadily erased much of Beijing’s ancient architecture, and no building, with the exception of national icons such as the Forbidden City and the Temple of Heaven, has seemed safe from peremptory demolition. This has not always been popular with the citizens, many of whom resent the destruction of the hutongs (traditional low-rise neighborhoods). Of late, I am pleased to say, voices in favor of preserving China’s ancient heritage have received a more sympathetic hearing.” –Mr. Harper
10Things a Visitor Must Do or See in Beijing
“Bali has a unique Hindu culture despite its location in Indonesia, the world’s most populous Muslim country. With the rise of Islam, the Javanese aristocracy took refuge in Bali and brought with them the traditions of dance, theater, sculpture and music that thrive to this day. Southern Bali now attracts huge numbers of tourists and its innocence and beauty have been lost. I spend as little time around Denpasar and Kuta as possible and head north to Ubud and beyond. There, the landscape of rice paddies and high volcanoes remains exquisite, and the island’s ancient culture is as alluring and colorful as ever.” –Mr. Harper
great wall of china
AreA AlliANce pArTNersHOtEls
amandariBALi, inDonESiA
amankilaBALi, inDonESiA
amanusaBALi, inDonESiA
cOMO Shambhala estateBALi, inDonESiA
Raft the telaga Waja River.
cycle through the villages and rice fields of East bali, taking in the sites along the way including the Water Palace at tirta Gangga and the ancient Palace of Ujung.
try stand-up paddling or surfing.
climb mount batur and watch the sun rise.
Experience world-class diving opportunities, such as a “fantastic shipwreck dive in tulamben,” Lincoln suggests.
AreA AlliANce pArTNersHOtEls
aman at Summer palaceBEiJinG, CHinA
The peninsula BeijingBEiJinG, CHinA
tRAvEl PARtNERs
abercrombie & Kent Hong Kong
asia Transpacific Journeys
10Things a Visitor Must Do or See in Bali
rice fields east bali
street market ubud
Outdoor Activities to Do in Bali5
Ways to Enjoy the Arts of Beijing6
27andrew harper travel office (800) 375-4685 [email protected] |
see the city’s historic district from a horse-drawn carriage. “Charleston’s carriage tours are extraordinarily informative and popular among Charlestonians and visitors alike,” says Bradley Dick-erson, manager of the Planters Inn. Private carriage tours also are available.
spend time in the gibbes museum of Art, which opened in 1905.
stroll through charleston’s Historic District, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
see the impressive avenue of oaks with moss-draped branches leading to Boone Hall.
visit the Isaiah Davenport House— this federal-style home houses a museum which received a Preserve America Presidential Award.
Walk through savannah’s 22 urban squares, designed in the 18th and 19th centuries. “Don’t miss the beautiful fountain in Forsyth Park,” suggests Albert Wall, owner of the Stephen Williams House.
check out the telfair Academy of Arts and sciences, the South’s oldest art museum. The museum includes
“The Bird Girl” from “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.”
go to the cathedral of saint John the baptist, “a magnificent example of gothic architecture and an impressive testament to Savannah’s 19th-century Irish community,” says Wall.
Drive through bonaventure cemetery, where ancient live oaks draped with Spanish moss line the roadways.
Explore savannah’s waterfront. This 18th-century streetscape built of ballast stones and lined with 19th-century warehouses is now home to res-taurants and shops,” Wall notes.
Discover savannah’s architectural history on a walking tour by former preservation officer Beth Reiter ([email protected]), recommends Wall.
visit the Owens-thomas House, “one of the best examples of Regency architecture in America,” Wall says.
take a ghost tour. “Savannah is known as America’s most haunted city,” Wall observes. “Several tour companies offer walking and trolley tours. One is even in an old hearse.”
take a trolley tour through the Savannah Historic District, a National Historic Landmark.
“Charleston is widely regarded as the most beautiful city in the United States and I see no reason to disagree. The variety of its architecture is astonishing—Colonial, Georgian, Federal, Greek Revival, Italianate, Victorian—and yet all the styles cohere into a harmonious whole. Charleston was the first city in the country to pass a historical preservation ordinance and, like Savannah, it was spared the ravages of the Civil War. On a sunny spring day, there are few more pleasant ways to spend an hour than in wandering along Battery Promenade before paus-ing at White Point Gardens to gaze across the harbor to Fort Sumter.” –Mr. Harper
go antiquing on king street.
visit the charleston museum, the oldest municipal
museum in the country, Dickerson notes.
tour the unfur-nished Drayton Hall, which “architec-
turally is second to none,” Dickerson says.
Head west of the Ashley River, where you will find “some extraordinary historic sites that are well worth your time,” suggests Dickerson.
visit the gardens at middleton and magnolia, two impeccably preserved plantations.
“Middleton is an outstanding example of traditional English gardening, while
“Savannah’s Historic District is a wonderful place in which to stroll with no particular destination in mind. When General Oglethorpe laid out the city in 1733, there were just four squares; today there are 22, shaded by oak trees and lined by enviable redbrick mansions. (In 1864, Sherman’s troops were given the run of the city, on the understanding that they would leave it intact.) For me, Savannah’s 250 years of history have an almost palpable presence.” –Mr. Harper
Nathaniel Russell House
Edmondston-Alston House
Heyward-Washington House, which accommodated George Washing-ton on his week-long visit to the city in 1791, Dickerson notes.
Joseph manigault House, a fine example of Federal-style architecture.
Aiken-Rhett House—“Confederate President Jefferson Davis used the residence for a week during the only visit he made to Charleston during the American Civil War,” Dickerson says.
Magnolia embodies a more whimsical approach to its design,” Dickerson says.
Admire charleston’s historic architecture,
“long a point of interest to Charlestonians,” says Dickerson.
fountain at forsyth park planters inn
AreA AlliANce pArTNersHOtEl
cloister at Sea islandSEA iSLAnD, GEorGiA
The lodge at Sea islandSt. SiMonS iSLAnD, GEorGiA
The Stephen Williams HouseSAVAnnAH, GEorGiA
AreA AlliANce pArTNersHOtEls
charleston placeCHArLESton, SoUtH CAroLinA
The inn at palmetto BluffBLUFFton, SoUtH CAroLinA
planters innCHArLESton, SoUtH CAroLinA
The Sanctuary at Kiawah island Golf resortKiAWAH iSLAnD, SoUtH CAroLinA
Wentworth MansionCHArLESton, SoUtH CAroLinA
The Willcox HotelAiKEn, SoUtH CAroLinA
10Things a Visitor Must Do or See in Savannah
Local Culinary Offerings to try in Savannah4
Historic Homes to Visit in Charleston5
10Things a Visitor Must Do or See in Charleston
Trolley tour
inS
Et
iMA
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012
Drayto
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all
Enjoy family-style southern dishes for lunch at Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining room, suggests Wall.
sample a chatham Artillery Punch, “a lethal concoction from an 18th-century recipe,” says Wall, who warns: “Just have one.”
try a lowcountry boil, available at several river Street restaurants.
Dine at Elizabeth on 37th, or the olde Pink House, which also features local entertainment in the Planters tavern in the basement.
stop in leopold’s Ice cream, a fourth-generation, family-run ice creamery.
29andrew harper travel office (800) 375-4685 [email protected] |28 | January/february/march 2013 andrewharper.com
P r o M ot i o n
taj Boston bOstON, mAssAcHusEtts – this
landmark Beaux-Arts hotel overlooks the
picturesque Public Garden famed for its
fauna and swan boat rides. Surrounded by
art galleries, boutiques and restaurants, the
hotel is ideally located on newbury Street,
the rodeo Drive of Boston and near the
theatre District. Recommended since 2005.
• AAA four-diamond-rated restaurant
• Afternoon Tea on weekends
• fireplace suites (seasonal)
Andrew Harper guests receive: the best available non-restricted rates; an up-grade, when available at check-in (not valid from an executive suite or higher room category); daily continental breakfast for two served at the café (excluding gratuity); an 85 usd food and beverage credit per room for use at the café, the bar or in-room dining (excludes tax and gratuity); and early check-in/late checkout, when available.
standard rate inclusions: rates include Jaguar XJ transfers (subject to availability), overnight shoe shine, business and fitness center access.
Wilderness SafarisAFRIcA – Wilderness Safaris is an ecotourism company dedicated to responsible tourism in Africa operating more than 70 lodges. the types of camps and lodges include one located in the heart of the okavango Delta in a pristine private concession where secluded luxury is enhanced by each of two camps having only seven rooms, ensuring maximum privacy and personalized service. the out-of-camp experience comes to life with expert, experienced guiding and a diversity of fun, exciting activities. these activities range from game drives (by day and night), motor boating through the main channels, silent makoro (dugout canoe) gliding through water lily-filled shallows, guided walks that allow you to track, scent and feel closest to nature and even helicopter visits to the local communities. www.wilderness-safaris.com
tour Fenway Park, which turned 100 in 2012 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
“Take a pregame ‘batting practice tour’ and get field box seats to a Red Sox game,” suggests Jonathan Nicholson, concierge at Boston’s XV Beacon Hotel.
stop at a café in the North End—Boston’s “Little Italy”—for a cannoli and espresso.
stroll through the Public garden, “an urban oasis in the middle of the city,” Nicholson says. The Taj Boston concierge team suggests riding the historic swan boats and checking out the “Make Way for Ducklings” bronze statues, based on the 1941 children’s book of the same name.
visit Harvard square and take Trademark Tours’ “Unofficial Tour of Harvard,” Nicholson recommends.
visit the museum of Fine Arts, the Isabella Stuart Gardner Museum and the Institute of Contemporary Art.
Dine at mistral or menton, suggest Nicholson and the Taj Boston team.
shop for antiques on Charles Street and browse locally owned boutique stores on Newbury Street.
Ice skate on Boston Common’s Frog Pond, “a popular outdoor rink in a former watering pond for
“Boston is saturated with the history of the Repub-lic: 19 million visitors make the pilgrimage to Faneuil Hall every year, making it the fourth most popular attraction in the country, well ahead of Disney World in Orlando (visited by a mere 17 million). But despite the tourist invasion, there are still areas of the city where the ghosts seem relatively undisturbed. I always find my way back to Beacon Hill, not least because one of my favorite local restaurants, Barbara Lynch’s, No. 9 Park, is located in an 1803 townhouse there. On each return visit, I find myself aspiring anew to own one of the lovely old Federal mansions—though this may remain one of my life’s unrealized ambitions.” –Mr. Harper
Historic swan boats
AreA AlliANce pArTNersHOtEls
Mandarin Oriental, BostonBoSton, MASSACHUSEttS
Taj BostonBoSton, MASSACHUSEttS
XV Beacon HotelBoSton, MASSACHUSEttS
10Things a Visitor Must Do or See in Boston
the Freedom trail (See above.)
the uss constitution, first launched in 1797
the Athenaeum, founded in 1807
boston tea Party Ships & Museum
Old North church “Famed for ‘one if by land, two if by sea’ lanterns that Paul revere ordered used to alert colo-nists about the British invasion,” the taj Boston concierge team notes.
king’s chapel, founded in 1686
Sites that Illustrate Colonial and Historic Boston6
cattle,” says the Taj Boston concierge team. In warmer months, the pond becomes a popular wading pool.
Explore the mapparium at the Mary Baker Eddy Library, recommends Nicholson.
Walk the Freedom trail, a three-mile route that links 16 historic sites, including Bunker Hill and the Paul Revere House. H
The uss constitution
3130 andrew harper travel office (800) 375-4685 [email protected] || January/february/march 2013 andrewharper.com
P r o M ot i o nP r o M ot i o n
Hebridean island CruisesuNItED kINgDOm, EuROPE – Cruise like royalty with the only cruise line that has
received the prestigious royal Warrant from the Queen aboard the five-star, ultra-luxurious,
all-inclusive 50-guest Hebridean Princess. Discover awe-inspiring wonders and untamed
landscapes in the Highlands and islands of Scotland and the British isles on magical four-
to 10-night cruises. Hebridean Princess, with all the comforts of a warm and elegant country
home, offers the highest standards of luxury cruise ship accommodations together with
a level of service from an almost forgotten era. We invite you to experience a cruise like no
other where you’ll feel as though you are traveling with family on a private yacht.
“Best cruise” (January 2012 grand Awards issue of Andrew Harper’s Hideaway Report)
each cruise includes:
• privately escorted Tours
• distinguished guest speaker program
• Beverages, select wines, spirits,
champagne
• meals, snacks, and picnics Ashore
• All gratuities, port fees and Taxes
• Bicycles, fishing and speedboat rides
Andrew Harper guests receive: a 200 usd savings per person per cruise.
yAcHT/cruise pArTNers : speciAl mArkeTiNg secTioN 7 iNTerAries
Un-Cruise Adventures DIscOvERERs’ glAcIER cOuNtRy Sail remote
passageways aboard 22-, 36- and 86-guest yachts.
View glaciers, whales and wildlife.
uncover Alaska. unrushed. uncrowded. unbelievable.
Day 1 JuNEAu Embark on your week-long wilderness
adventure.
Days 2-3 glAcIER bAy NAtIONAl PARk observe
calving glaciers, puffins, eagles and moose. Exclusive
exploration, afloat and
ashore, accompanied
by a national Park
ranger.
Day 4 Icy stRAIt
Explore the richest
whale waters in
Southeast Alaska.
Skiff and kayak along
shore keeping watch
for bears.
Day 5 cHIcHAgOF/bARANOF IslANDs Marvel at the
waterfall coast. Discover “not-in-the-guidebooks” places.
Day 6 FREDERIck sOuND Visit Five Fingers Lighthouse,
a rocky sea lion haulout, and another excellent spot for
humpback whales.
Day 7 ENDIcOtt ARm Cliff-walled fjords slice the
mountains. Glaciers actively calve in the ice-filled fjord.
Day 8 JuNEAu Disembark.
Andrew Harper guests receive: a large-format coffee table book filled with images from your trip.
Sea Cloud Cruises
mEDItERRANEAN, DutcH WAtERWAys, RHINE & DANubE
RIvERs, cARIbbEAN, cENtRAl AmERIcA
true yachting in five-star luxury aboard classically sailed tall
ships and a refined river cruiser. With fewer than 95 like-minded
guests, explore majestic cities, exotic ports, quaint villages and
sandy beaches. interesting shore excursions and lecturers,
gourmet cuisine, and attentive, friendly service are hallmarks of
these cruises—at once elegant and unique.
• sea cloud: Natural beauty of the caribbean March 21, 2013
• sea cloud II: charming & chic Riviera coastlines May 7, 2013
• River cloud II: spring tulips April 13, 2013
Andrew Harper guests receive: a welcome amenity valued up to 100 usd per cabin.
3332 andrew harper travel office (800) 375-4685 [email protected] || January/february/march 2013 andrewharper.com
P r o M ot i o nP r o M ot i o n
sPEcIAl OFFER: Enjoy a luxury Private Home With 20 Percent savings confirm a minimum two-night stay in a select private home (casa montana, casa del sano or Gallery) and receive 20 percent savings on the best sanctuary rate. also includes andrew harper benefits and any standard rate inclusions (limited to two persons per stay). dates offer is valid on new reservations only, for travel through april 30, 2013, based on availability. harper guest benefit of room upgrade not applicable as the private home is the highest accommodation level.
Andrew Harper guests receive: an upgrade, when available at time of booking; a 75 usd food and beverage credit (excluding alcohol) per room; and a 100 usd spa services credit per room.
standard rate inclusions: rates include a daily 30 usd breakfast credit per person.
Recommended since 2003.
Sanctuary Camelback Mountain PARADIsE vAllEy, ARIzONA
“The Sanctuary was great. We had a nice spacious two-room suite with a wood-burning fireplace. The smell of the burning
mesquite was wonderful. The Elements dining room had great views and an excellent menu...both for breakfast and for dinner.
The spa was very special, one of the best we have experienced. Excellent, helpful concierge staff.” —An Andrew Harper Guest
Paul Gauguin CruisesFRENcH POlyNEsIA, sOutH PAcIFIc
Day 1 Embark Paul gauguin in Papeete, tahiti. Begin your jour-
ney to paradise in the capital of tahiti. Embark the Paul Gauguin, a luxu-
rious yet casual vessel with a seemingly endless choice of activities.
Day 2 Raiatea Explore the island that was once the cultural,
religious and political heart of Polynesia, and home to tahiti’s most
significant archeological sites.
Day 3 taha’a (motu mahana) this islet adjacent to taha’a is our
very own South Seas paradise featuring white-sand beaches and
crystal-clear waters. At our exclusive event, spend a full day exploring
this idyllic, isolated island, with lunch and Polynesian entertainment.
Day 4 bora bora this half-atoll, half-mountain is surrounded by a
spectacular lagoon and a series of smaller islands.
Day 5 bora bora Explore more of this magical isle on your own or
on a choice of optional shore excursions, such as a glass-bottom boat
ride. Enjoy dinner back on board.
Day 6 moorea With spectacular mountain peaks, peaceful multi-
hued lagoons and palm-fringed beaches, Moorea’s awesome beauty
is unsurpassed. Shop for local crafts, embark on a dolphin-watching
expedition and more. An overnight here affords two full days on Bora
Bora’s gorgeous sister island.
Day 7 moorea/Papeete (tahiti) Explore more of this peaceful
oasis. trek on the “trails of the Ancients” or snorkel one of the world’s
most beautiful lagoons.
Day 8 Disembark in Papeete Cap off your epic journey where it all
began. Explore more and choose our pre- or post-cruise hotel stays in
either Huahine, Bora Bora, Moorea, taha’a or Papeete.
Midnight Sun YachtJuNEAu, AlAskA
Day 1 Depart around noon for a night at Pavlof Harbor
where we will anchor off the waterfall, watching for grizzlies
on the beach or fishing below the falls.
Day 2 Move down Chatham Straights to Warm Springs Bay.
Anchor in an isolated cove, hike up to the waterfall and soak in
the natural hot springs pools. Anchor in beautiful takatz Bay
this evening.
Day 3 Have a leisurely morning, perhaps in a kayak. Leave
late morning for red Bluff Bay and do some salmon fishing
along the way. Explore the great waterfalls, and drop shrimp
pots. Keep a lookout for bears in the creek and meadows.
Day 4 travel to one of our favorite isolated bays. troll for
salmon off Kingsmill Point. today we enter world famous whale-
watching waters. tonight’s anchorage will be ideal for kayaking
and exploring the shoreline.
Day 5 Leave early and
travel through Frederick
Sound and Stevens
Passage to iceberg
Cove with a short stop
and interpretive forest
hike. Spot sea lions and
breaching whales.
Day 6 Spend the day
in the fiord and at the
glaciers. Look for seals and mountain goats. End the evening
in iceberg Cove or taku Harbor.
Day 7 Leave early to travel back to Juneau.
Andrew Harper guests receive: preferred rates; a welcome amenity; and complimentary limousine service to/from hotel or airport.
Seabourn CruisesWORlDWIDE – our six intimate, elegant yet casual ships
have just 104 or 225 suites and will take you to must-see cities
and hidden gems worldwide. Enjoy complimentary gourmet
dining, open bars throughout the ship, and fine wines poured
at lunch and dinner. tipping is neither required or expected.
Voted “World’s Best Small-Ship Line” by Travel+Leisure and
Condé Nast travelers.
• staff-to-guest ratio Nearly 1:1
• New 2013 Antarctica and patagonia voyages
• largest spa on a luxury cruise ship
Andrew Harper guests receive: a 250 usd shipboard credit per suite on select departures.
Andrew Harper guests receive: a 100 usd shipboard credit per person.
P r o M ot i o n
A Tour De Force peter delgado’s job is to ensure that your experience
on an andrew harper Signature tour is one you’ll
never, ever forget. Here’s how he does it.
Thinking about taking one of the special Signature Tours that Andrew Harper offers throughout the year? Talk for a few minutes to Peter Delgado, who oversees the 12-year-old program, and you won’t need any more convincing. The man clearly knows his stuff.
“I started traveling at age three and
haven’t stopped,” says Delgado, who hails from a small town in southern England and now makes his home in the Chicago area. “I’ve been to 50 countries so far.” Add to that his two decades as a tour consultant for renowned outfitter Abercrombie & Kent before joining Andrew Harper back in 2009.
milford sound new Zealand
35andrew harper travel office (800) 375-4685 [email protected] |34 | January/february/march 2013 andrewharper.com
P r o M ot i o n
36 | January/february/march 2013 andrewharper.com
i imagine that’s a long process.
From the initial thought to the end of the tour, we’re looking at a 12- to 24-month time frame. In fact, I’m already doing preliminary work on the trips for 2014. We hope one of them will be gorilla tracking in west-ern Africa.
And you accompany the groups on the
actual tours as well, right?
Yes. We always want to have an Andrew Harper representative on the tour, so I go on all the trips. It’s about quality assurance. And about getting to know the subscribers.
once you’ve chosen a destination, how
do you go about planning the itinerary?
obviously, when you’re talking about
the most fascinating locations on the
planet, there’s an abundance of
activities to choose from.
We’re looking for unique, once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Most people don’t go back to a destination twice, so our goal is to make their visit some-thing memorable. In New Zealand, for instance, a popular spot is Milford Sound, and there are several ways to do it. But we’re going in on a helicopter. We’ll land on a glacier and walk in a normally restricted area, where the view is simply spectacular. Later, our guests will also be able to drive around in classic cars from the ’60s and ’70s and explore the scenery. When it comes to putting together the most exhilarating parts of the itineraries, our travel partners are very useful. When we went to Peru, for example, we met with resident archaeologists and had access to their research in an area that only they and a very few other people could see. These sorts of opportunities leave an impres-sion on our guests.
what else sets signature Tours apart
and makes them so special?
The properties we use, which are all five-star hotels, and where the rooms tend to be suites. In New Zealand, for instance, one of the places we’ll be
staying at is the Huka Lodge. It’s one of the most prestigious properties in the country. Royalty from Europe stays there, like Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh. And in many cases, we take over the entire property, so guests have the whole run of the house.
who is the typical signature Tour
traveler?
Our clients tend to have time on their hands; many are retired. But they can be adventuresome, both physically and culturally. They love the history, the culture, the food. They have a real purpose for going there, and have read the materials and books about the destination that we’ve recommended. They want to have a real involvement with the destination. They want to be a traveler, not a tourist.
The tours are limited in size. How
does that contribute to the exceptional
experience?
One benefit is that the guides can make themselves more easily under-stood to the group and give each guest more personal attention. It’s also easier for the travelers to bond, even
over a short period of time. And of course, a small group affords a more exclusive experience.
speaking of the guides, how do you
find the best of the best?
When it comes to finding local partners, we look for people with a qualified track record and an in-depth knowledge of the area, and those who have gained a certain reputation. Some of the guides we use are profes-sors at local universities. We rely on local guides who can speak English, and speak it well. Part of my job is to go the locations beforehand and meet the guides, to test their English and their knowledge.
That experience has served him well in putting together the program’s “once-in-a-lifetime” itineraries in some of the world’s most exciting destina-tions. We recently spoke to Delgado to find out what goes into creating a classic Signature Tour and what makes the trips, like the ones scheduled for New Zealand and Scotland in 2013, so memorable and unique.
let’s start at the beginning. How
did the signature Tours program
get started?
The idea came about because we had so many requests for small, exclusive group tours from subscribers, so we were basically responding to their wishes. We also wanted a way to join subscribers together. And it was a way to give more life to the value of an Andrew Harper subscription.
How many people have taken the tours
so far?
Over the years, I’d say about 150 people since the program started.
How many trips do you do a year?
We do anywhere from one to six trips a year. Currently we’re doing two to three.
How do you pick the signature Tour
destinations?
It’s a combination of things. One factor is the places subscribers are asking about. Another is what we’re reading about in the travel press—what the hot destinations are at the moment. We also consider staff and colleague recommendations. Then I go out and scout the locations. I work with local suppliers, check out all the places we’re considering for the itinerary and come back and refine the trip.
kauri cliffs
Huka lodge
white islands
mount stuart
inveraray castle loch Ness
“We’re looking for unique, once-in-a-lifetime
experiences.”
new zealandSCOTLAND
3938 andrew harper travel office (800) 375-4685 [email protected] || January/february/march 2013 andrewharper.com
what does the price for the signature
Tours cover?
The fee covers everything except the international airfare to the destination, and any necessary visas or inoculations. We try to make it as seamless as pos-sible, so you only really need spending money for shopping and souvenirs. In fact, that’s another thing we look for in local guides. We make sure they have a list of shops that are reliable, where our guests can be sure that the mer-chandise they buy is genuine. So they don’t buy some gemstone in India and then find out the value isn’t what they thought when they get it home.
you’ve mentioned the upcoming New
Zealand trip set for April 2013. what’s
the highlight of the trip in your opinion?
The cultural visit to the Maori meet-ing house, where our guests meet with villagers for a ceremonial meal. It’s an exclusive event only a small privileged group like ours can do, but it’s an essential part of what New Zealand is all about. For instance, we may suggest that guests dress up in local attire. We’ve done this successfully in differ-ent areas, like when we were in India. One night the women wore saris, and the men wore traditional Indian suits.
dressing in traditional scottish attire is
part of the other signature Tour taking
place in 2013, which will be in scotland.
what else can you tell us about that trip?
On this trip, we’ll travel on the luxuri-ous Royal Scotsman train, which is an
iconic journey. The following itiner-ary in the eastern part of Scotland has unique aspects, like the fact that the castles where we’re staying will be exclusive—we’ll be taking over the whole castle. Mount Stuart is regarded as the most authentic gothic castle in Great Britain. There are tapestries everywhere. And the guide will explain the nuances of what’s going on inside. Inverlochy Castle is a very well-known, typical Scottish castle. An old country house mansion, and the food is exqui-site. You can go out and do all the local stuff, like fishing and shooting. Corrour Estate is another very unique site. It has a lake and is on this vast, rug-ged, 60,000-acre estate that is largely untouched.
Are there ever any activities that you
won’t include in a signature Tour
itinerary?
Yes, there are some things that we won’t book. It happened when I was planning the New Zealand trip. There was something being offered that was a little too, um, outdoorsy. And it just didn’t have that wow factor. H
scoTlANd
dATes: sepT. 19–ocT. 2, 2013
dAys 3–6
Embark on this classic 720-mile trip aboard Orient-Express’ Royal Scotsman, stopping along the way for activities such as whisky-tasting at Glen Ord Distillery and a tour of Ballindalloch Castle and gardens.
dAy 11
Scenic drive across the western region of Isle of Skye. Tour Dunvegan Castle or visit local art studios. Cooking
Select Highlights from the 2013 Signature Tour Itineraries
demonstration with a Michelin-starred chef.
dAy 12
Private guided tour of Loch Ness. Afternoon tea. Measuring by tailor for traditional Scottish attire to be worn the fol-lowing evening.
dAy 13
Falconry display. Choice of optional activity, such as a guided visit to Culloden Battlefield, a round of golf at the home of the Scot-tish Open, or a trip to Johnstons of Elgin cashmere store. Gala Scottish dinner, with men in traditional
AreA AlliANce pArTNersHOtEls
scotland
Glenapp castleAYrSHirE........pg 52
GleneaglesPErtHSHirE
The HowardEDinBUrGH
inverlochy castle Hotel and restaurantFort WiLLiAM
isle of eriska Hotel, Spa and islandArGYLL
rocco forte, The BalmoralEDinBUrGH
The TorridonWEStEr roSS
New zealand
azurQUEEnStoWn
Blanket BayGLEnorCHY
eichardt’sQUEEnStoWn
The farm at cape KidnappersHAWKE’S BAY
Grasmere lodgenEAr ArtHUr’S PASS
Huka lodgetAUPo
lake Timara lodgeBLEnHEiM
The lodge at Kauri cliffsMAtAUri BAY
Matakauri lodgeQUEEnStoWn
Otahuna lodgeCHriStCHUrCH
Treetops lodge & estaterotorUA
Wharekauhau lodge and country estateFEAtHErSton
tRAvEl PARtNERs
adventures in GolfSCotLAnD
Dream escapeSCotLAnD
Seasonz nEW ZEALAnD
QuOTES fROM PREVIOuS SIgNATuRE TOuR guESTS“this was really the
trip of a lifetime for our
family and we are so
appreciative of all the
work you put into it.”
— L. P., New York, NY
“i had a great time, and
the in-advance read-
ing made the trip even
more memorable. thank
you for everything.”
— R. B., Hartford, CT
“we greatly enjoyed
the trip and are ready
to return. we enjoyed
your company and
all the amenities that
went with the trip.”
— T. & J., Park City, UT
“we had a great time with
you and the other mem-
bers of the group. it was a
wonderful itinerary. Great
job by you and your team.”
— D. & M. R., Avon, CT
“my wife has already
recommended this trip
to several of our friends.
p.s. we did a couple of
things on this trip that i
wouldn’t have guessed
that we would do, but we
had a helluva good time!”
— L. H., Cicero, IN
Scottish dress and ladies with a tartan sash and brooch over their dresses. Musi-cal entertainment includes bagpipers and traditional reel-ing and dancing.
New ZeAlANd
dATes: April 5–17, 2013
Price is per person, based on double occupancy: $24,250.
Limited to 18 guests, registration ends January 2013.
moNdAy, April 8
Helicopter excursion through the South-ern Alps, including a glacier landing at Milford Sound. Jet boat safari through the channels of the Dart River.
THursdAy, April 11
Jeep safari through varied terrain of Cape Kidnappers Station. Private tour of a Hawke’s Bay winery, including taking part in a wine-blending competition.
fridAy, April 12
Tour of Hawke’s Bay’s oldest private gardens, accompa-nied by the owner, with games on the croquet lawn. Visit to the home and studio of renowned local artist.
sATurdAy, April 13
A spin in an MG Roadster, Jaguar or other classic car for a two-hour drive along New Zealand’s central plateau, with lunch at a local pub along the way. Champagne at Huka Lodge, followed by a stroll to Huka Falls.
moNdAy, April 15
Choice of round of golf, clay pigeon-shooting, spa package or nature walk at Kauri Cliffs.
TuesdAy, April 16
Luxury cruise in Bay of Islands aboard a private chartered yacht with barbe-cue lunch served onboard. Sumptuous farewell dinner. H
maori meeting housenew Zealand
orient-express’ royal scotsman
dart rivernew Zealand
“One of the things we strive for
is to immerse our guests in the local culture.”
Jeep safaricape Kidnappers, new Zealand
41andrew harper travel office (800) 375-4685 [email protected] |
P r o M ot i o n
PERtHsHIRE, scOtlAND – it has been almost 100 years
since the British bested the Americans at Gleneagles in team
rounds of golf that spawned the ryder Cup. these prestigious
matches will return to this hallowed parkland course in 2014.
test the three picture-
perfect championship
courses in advance
of the new kings to
be crowned. A French
chateau with 232
rooms—take your
pick between modern
or traditional furnish-
ings—awaits. if you
are not replenished by
the whisky-infused
smoked lobster at the
restaurant of Andrew
Fairlie, Scotland’s only chef with two Michelin stars, then the
wellness treatments at the Spa by ESPA will do the trick. now
take advantage of the hotel’s offer to train a gun dog or drive
an Argo Cat with your child before playing another round.
Recommended since 1984; 2012 Readers’ Choice Award, #16,
Top 20 Golf Resorts.
Andrew Harper guests receive: preferred rates; an upgrade, when available at check-in; an afternoon tea for two per room; and for stays of two nights or longer, one round of golf for two per room.
standard rate inclusions: rates include taxes, daily full breakfast served at the restaurant or in room, railway station transfers and access to resort facilities including spa, fitness center with scheduled classes, pitch and putt, croquet, tennis, hiking trails, stable and falconry.
Gleneagles
Bespoke itineraries • Exceptional access to world-ranked courses, including the Old Course at St. Andrews • Deluxe accommodations Premier land transport, helicopters and private air charter Non-golfer programs • Peerless service and in-depth knowledge
During their stay in Scotland, Andrew Harper guests receive preferred rates and a hosted cocktail party or whisky-tasting.
The Ailsa Course, Turnberry Resort
ADVENTURES IN GOLFCreating memorable golf travel experiences since 1977
LaCure VillasWORlDWIDE – the LaCure portfolio is truly unique with
access to some 1,000 luxury properties worldwide, including
stunning beachfront and hilltop villas, exclusive private
islands, working vineyards, historical palazzos and chateaux,
and breathtaking ski chalets. We extend a host of special
privileges to our clients including private chefs, butler services
and special occasion planning.
• Bespoke experiences
• spectacular settings and views
• worldwide Network of concierge services
Andrew Harper guests receive: a locally inspired welcome basket.
standard rate inclusions: meet-and-greet and welcome amenity, upon arrival; and a mid-week linen change.
4342 andrew harper travel office (800) 375-4685 [email protected] || January/february/march 2013 andrewharper.com
P r o M ot i o nP r o M ot i o n
AmanyaraPROvIDENcIAlEs, tuRks & cAIcOs – nestled on an
18,000-acre nature preserve on Providenciales in the turks
and Caicos islands, Amanyara has 38 rooms and suites,
and 20 private villas. the resort recently added two two-
bedroom Pool Suites. Designed by Jean-Michel Gathy and
crafted from the finest materials and finishes, each of the two
2,831-square-foot suites includes two one-bedroom pavilions
connected by a relaxation and dining lounge that overlooks a
private, zero-edge lap pool, landscaped courtyard and their
own fitness room with weight
and cardio equipment. With
an extra youth room featuring
two single beds, the suites can
accommodate families. one
recent Andrew Harper guest
says “We loved the accom-
modations: the architecture,
the furnishings, the pool and
the privacy.” Activities include
whale-watching, yoga, tennis,
diving, snorkeling, sailing and much more. this winter, the
resort is including breakfast and dinner daily for guests who
stay five nights or longer. this added-value offer runs from
Jan. 7 to May 31, 2013. Recommended since 2005.
sPEcIAl OFFER: Winter Dining Offer confirm four consecutive nights in a pavilion or villa and receive daily breakfast and one dinner (excludes beverages). or confirm five consecutive nights in either a pavilion or villa and receive daily breakfast and dinner (excludes beverages). also includes andrew harper benefits and any standard rate inclusions. dates offer is valid on new reservations only, for travel from Jan. 7 to may 31, 2013, based on availability and excluding feb. 13–24, 2013 and march 24–april 6, 2013. offer is not combinable with any other promotions, and restrictions may apply.
Andrew Harper guests receive: the best available non-restricted rates; an upgrade, when available at check-in; daily continental breakfast served at the restaurant or in room; one lunch for two (excluding beverages) per pavilion; and a sunset cocktail per person with canapés served poolside once during stay.
standard rate inclusions: rates include private round-trip airport transfers, minibar (excluding spirits), wi-fi, telephone calls, fitness center, tennis and use of non-motorized watersports.
Cap Juluca
mAuNDAys bAy, ANguIllA – Situated on Anguilla’s
southwest coast, Cap Juluca has reopened for the winter
season with several enhancements, including the new
3,290-square-foot, two-bedroom oceanfront Jonquil Suite.
the popular restaurants have been re-envisioned, with Pimms
offering a French- and Caribbean-influenced menu, and Blue
featuring a new bar located directly on the beach. the popular
bar, Spice, offers entertainment with a Caribbean casual flair.
With 66 rooms located in 14 villas, Cap Juluca offers tennis,
golf, nautical sports and water activities, spa services, yoga,
Pilates, a children’s program and much more. Recommended
since 1998; 2010 Readers’ Choice Award, #7, Top 20 Beach
Resorts; 2011 Readers’ Choice Award, #5, Top 20 Beach Resorts;
2012 Readers’ Choice Award, #9, Top 20 Beach Resorts.
sPEcIAl OFFER: two specials: Free Night or Resort credit Get away this winter and enjoy some relaxing days in the sun with one of these two enticing offers: more maundays–7th Night complimentary once here, you’re sure to want one more day at the award-winning beach, maundays bay. confirm a seven-night stay and pay for only six nights. stay in Paradise–$250 Resort credit confirm this package for a minimum of five nights and receive oceanfront accommodations for two and a $250 resort credit per room, per stay that may be redeemed anywhere within the resort, including the two gift shops and spa. also includes (for both offers): andrew harper benefits and any standard rate inclusions. dates offers are valid on new reservations only, for travel from Jan. 4–march 31, 2013, based on availability. offers are not combinable with any other promotions and are exclusive of tax and service fees. blackout dates may apply.
Andrew Harper guests receive: preferred rates; an upgrade, when available at check-in; a 100 usd resort credit per room; and an organized tour to a anguillan landmark, such as Kavanaugh caves, sydney’s antique museum in George hill or heritage collection at east point pond.
standard rate inclusions: rates include daily continental breakfast served at the restaurant or in room, morning coffee, afternoon tea, monday cocktail reception, wi-fi, driving range, watersports and fitness center access.
Peter island resort and Spa
bRItIsH vIRgIN IslANDs – Peter island is a private, family-
owned island resort and spa in the British Virgin islands, four
miles from tortola. the 1,800-acre uninhabited island has
an intriguing history, including tales of pirates and explor-
ers landing on the five white-sand
beaches. the resort comprises 52
rooms, including 32 ocean-view
rooms and 20 beachfront junior
suites, while three exclusive villas
offer a more private getaway. Dining
options from signature restaurant
tradewinds to private beach picnics
are available. Guests can relax at
tradewinds Wine room and Drake’s
Channel Lounge, as well as the 10,000-square-foot, sanctu-
ary-inspired spa. From diving and snorkeling to helicopter
tours and chartering a yacht, the resort offers activities for
all ages. And, with a 2:1 guest-to-staff ratio and personal
services such as the “island Host,” Peter island’s focus is on
guest service. Recommended since 1981; 2010 Readers’ Choice
Award, #18, Top 20 Beach Resorts; 2011 Readers’ Choice Award,
#9, Top 20 Beach Resorts; 2012 Readers’ Choice Award, #13,
Top 20 Beach Resorts; #11, Top 20 Family Resorts.
Andrew Harper guests receive: preferred rates; an up-grade, when available at check-in; daily full breakfast served at the restaurant or in room; a private champagne picnic lunch for two at white bay or honeymoon beach per room; and early check-in/late checkout, when available; and for new bookings made until march 30th, 2013, round-trip beef island airport transfers and a 100 usd spa credit per room.
standard rate inclusions: rates include personal concierge, welcome amenity, non-alcoholic minibar, wi-fi, non-motorized watersports, snor-keling, mountain bikes, twice weekly group yoga classes, tennis, fitness center and transportation to remote beaches on peter island.
Wedgewood Hotel & Spa
vANcOuvER, bRItIsH cOlumbIA – no detail is over-
looked at Wedgewood Hotel & Spa, the only relais & Châteaux
property in Vancouver. From personalized concierge tours and
activity-planning to indulgent
body treatments and mas-
sages, a highly trained staff
creates a memorable, bespoke
experience for each guest.
Eighty-three rooms and suites
make up this boutique property
set in the heart of downtown.
relax at the award-winning spa
before enjoying a locally grown,
sustainable meal at Bacchus
restaurant. After dinner, head to
the Piano Bar to cozy up in front
of the fireplace for a nightcap.
“the bar is a wonderful place
to have a drink and people-watch at the end of a busy day,”
says one Andrew Harper traveler. “We will definitely stay there
again when we visit Vancouver!” Recommended since 1988.
Andrew Harper guests receive: preferred rates; an upgrade, when available at check-in; daily continental breakfast served at the restaurant; a welcome box of chocolate truffles and personal note from the owner; and when booking a suite or higher room category, a half-bottle of regional wine upon arrival.
standard rate inclusions: rates include wi-fi and use of steam room, fitness center and business center.
45andrew harper travel office (800) 375-4685 [email protected] |44 | January/february/march 2013 andrewharper.com
P r o M ot i o n
Alhambra, granada
The Moorish Splendors of
Marrakech and AndalusiaSpain’s most exotic region is surely
andalusia, where, as andrew Harper notes,
“For nearly 800 years, the Moors lavished
their affection on the conquered territory,
leaving a legacy of majestic architecture and
exquisite gardens.” although the Spanish
expelled the Muslim Moors (the english word
comes from the Spanish moro, or “dark”) in
1492, they didn’t disappear. their aesthetics,
cuisine and culture are very much alive in
Morocco, just across the Strait of Gibraltar.
nowadays, it’s easy to combine the best
of southern Spain and Morocco into one
unforgettable itinerary. Start in Marrakech,
Morocco’s most alluring city. note the
elaborate palaces and elegant towers;
indeed, by exploring Marrakech first, the
many parallels between Morocco and
southern Spain will be that much easier to
identify and appreciate.
although one could certainly spend much
longer, we recommend the following 13-day
itinerary which encompasses the best of the
Moorish cultural legacy.
arrive in Madrid from the united
States. change planes, and fly non-
stop to Marrakech. Here, Mr. Harper
recommends a range of hotels and
resorts, from historic courtyard
mansions in the heart of the medina
to oases in the palmery comprising an
array of private villas. Some travelers
even try both, staying in downtown
Marrakech for a few nights before
switching to a palmery resort for
relaxation and day excursions.
Day 1 Traditional moroccan private courtyard
from the travel office A sAmPlE ItINERARy
4746 andrew harper travel office (800) 375-4685 [email protected] || January/february/march 2013 andrewharper.com
dAy 2
Although Marrakech now practically overflows with luxury hotels and resorts, the exotic soul of the city remains thoroughly and vibrantly intact. On a first visit, a guide is vital for illuminating the rich history of the city and navigating its labyrinthine lanes.
Start at the Almoravid Koubba, the small size of which belies its importance. This two-story tower is the only Almoravid building (dating from 1062 to 1145 A.D.) remaining in Morocco, and its style is at the very root of the country’s architecture (as well as that of Moorish Spain). Across the square, the Marrakech Museum displays Moroccan art in a grand and beautifully restored 19th-century palace. The Ben Youssef Medersa next door dates to the 14th century, but this Koranic school was rebuilt by the Saadians who ornamented almost every surface. The exquisite stuccowork and zellij (geometric tilework) found here resemble that in the Alhambra in Granada.
From the medersa, walk down with your guide through Marrakech’s souks, presenting a profusion of tempting handicrafts. Browse through the leather souk, the souk of the blacksmiths, the souk of the slipper makers and the souk of the carpenters, this last fragrant with cedar. Just beyond, the dyers’ souk glows with brightly colored skeins of wool. Carpets have taken over the former slave market, and nearby stalls sell traditional cosmetics as well as herbal remedies and ingredients used for magic.
Pass through the textile souk into the incomparable Djemaa el Fna, a sprawling, unspoiled square where locals still come to enjoy street food, storytellers, musicians, acrobats, dancers, magicians and other entertainers.
dAy 3
Continue exploring Marrakech with your guide starting with the ornate Bahia Palace, the 19th-century home of a slave who rose to become vizier (a high officer in a Muslim government). Walk through the Mellah, the former Jewish quarter, and wander the evocative ruins of the El Badi Palace. Farther into the kasbah (inner citadel), the Saadian Tombs boast dazzlingly lavish mausoleums and shady gardens.
In the afternoon, take a calèche (horse-drawn car-riage) to the Majorelle Gardens, 12 gorgeous acres created by painter Jacques Majorelle and owned by Yves Saint Laurent until his recent death.
dAy 4
Begin by taking a half-day excursion into the Ourika Valley, a cool, green ribbon lined with Berber villages; take a Moroccan cooking class (Morocco boasts a rich culinary heritage); explore Marrakech on your own; or simply relax and take advantage of the amenities of your hotel, many of which have unusually splendid spas.
dAy 5
Fly from Marrakech to Casablanca, change planes, and continue on to Malaga, Spain. Rent a car or engage the services of a driver (the narrow roadways of the region provide some challenging twists and turns), and proceed along the coast to a relaxing resort near the white village of Casares, about an hour’s drive. Take the rest of the day at leisure.
dAy 6
Play a round of golf on one of the adjacent world-class courses; wander hilly (and still relatively unspoiled) Casares; venture into glitzy Marbella; or simply lounge at your resort. Even quirky Gibraltar is only an hour away.
dAy 7
Turn inland and drive an hour to historic Ronda, perched on a ridge and sliced in two by a vertiginous gorge. An 18th-century bridge spanning the gorge makes a sensationally scenic focal point. It’s great fun to wander the narrow, maze-like alleys of La Ciudad, the old Moorish center, and see what you discover.
Continue two hours north to Sevilla and, if you chose to drive yourself, return your rental car. This evening, your concierge can recommend the best bars for some tapas hop-ping in conjunction with or followed by a traditional flamenco show.
dAy 8
The 12th-century tower next to the cathedral, the Giralda, bears a strik-ing resemblance to the Koutoubia in Marrakech, and indeed, this bell tower was originally an Almohad minaret. Climb to the top for panoramic views of Sevilla, or simply enjoy it from below and head straight into the glorious cathedral, the world’s largest gothic church. After marveling at the interior,
take a meditative walk in the adjacent Patio de los Naranjos, a cloister-like Moorish courtyard and orange grove.
The remarkable Alcázar stands next door. This palace was built by the Abbadids and enlarged by the Almohads, but much of the extant architecture and décor is Mudéjar, a style evolved by Moorish artisans after the Christian reconquest.
Take a 10-minute stroll (or a romantic horse and carriage ride) from the palace to the Plaza de España, a colorful confection of tile work, statues, fountains and bridges.
dAy 9
Have a relaxing morning in Sevilla. Explore the romantic Santa Cruz quarter; visit the Museo de Bellas Artes with its fine painting collection housed in a former convent; or mean-der some of the lively pedestrianized shopping streets like Calle Sierpes.
This afternoon, take the train to Córdoba (about 45 minutes). If you have a driver, stop in pic-turesque Carmona en route.
dAy 10
For 300 years, Córdoba served as the capital of the western Moorish empire, and before that, it was Roman Spain’s largest city. Today, provincial Córdoba contains one of the Moor-ish empire’s greatest monuments, the Mezquita. This immense and extraor-dinary mosque (now a cathedral) is simply breathtaking in its architectural power and splendor. Note in particu-lar the radiant Mihrab (prayer niche), which served as a model for Mihrabs in both Spain and northern Africa.
In the afternoon, wander the Judería, the atmospheric Jewish Quarter, and perhaps pop in the charming Museo Arqueológico, a Renaissance man-sion housing artifacts dating from pre-Roman through Moorish times.
leather souk slippers
The koutoubia minaretmorocco, africa
giralda sevilla, spain
village casaresmalaga, spain
“The Koutoubia Minaret,
rising dramatically above the square,
heralds Sevilla’s Giralda, now a bell
tower adjacent to the cathedral..”
moroccan tea and pastries
from the travel office A sAmPlE ItINERARy
4948 andrew harper travel office (800) 375-4685 [email protected] || January/february/march 2013 andrewharper.com
Palais AmanimOROccO – Just within the ancient medina
walls of Fez lies Palais Amani. the medina, a
uniquely north African construction and the
world’s largest urban area without automo-
biles, is perfect for the traveler who loves to get
out and explore. the 14-room hotel contains a
tranquil garden, a traditional hammam, a roof-
top bar with stunning 360-degree views, and
a renowned restaurant. Cooking workshops
allow guests to further explore Moroccan
cuisine, sending them home with gifts to
accompany their new culinary know-how.
Recommended since 2011.
sPEcIAl OFFER: Food lovers’ Folly confirm this package and receive a three-night stay for two in a classic room, vip welcome, up-grade when available on arrival, a full-day produce to plate workshop which includes a market tour and cooking demonstration, guided tour of the medina to discover the monuments and cultural history, baking workshop on traditional moroccan pastries; traditional hammam for two, and Grande finale six-course gastronomic dinner. starting package price is 750 eur per person based on double occupancy. also includes andrew harper benefits and any standard rate inclusions. dates offer is valid on new reservations only, for travel through dec. 21, 2013, based on availability. offer is not combinable with any other promotions.
Andrew Harper guests receive: preferred rates; an upgrade, when available at check-in; complimentary room-service breakfast; an exclusive medina welcome amenity per room; and a 25-percent discount on one complete beauty package per room.
standard rate inclusions: rates include daily tra-ditional moroccan breakfast, welcome drink with homeade pastries, wi-fi and moroccan slippers
Finca Cortesin Hotel, Golf & SpacAsAREs, sPAIN – With its sweeping views of the Mediterranean Sea and surrounding Casares Mountains, Finca Cortesin is a family-friendly golf and spa destination one Andrew Harper traveler says “could not be faulted.” Recommended since 2009; 2010 Grand Award Winner.
» 67 guest suites and six villas
» Breathtaking views of the mediterranean
» Heated, salt-water swimming pools
» exclusive Beach club
» spacious spa with fitness center, Turk-
ish Bath and spain’s only snow cave
» 150 Hectares of lush green Belt
» world-class, cabell B. robinson–
designed par 72 golf course
» Home of the volvo world match play
championship
» Award-winning cuisine at el Jardin
and schilo restaurants
sPEcIAl OFFER: championship golf Experience also includes andrew harper benefits and any standard rate inclusions, as well as: four nights in the selected suite category based on double occupancy; welcome golf pack at your room (two finca cortesin caps and tees); two green fees at valderrama Golf course per stay; two green fees at la reserva Golf course per stay; and two green fees at finca cortesin Golf course per stay. dates offer is valid on new reservations only, for travel between Jan. 1–dec. 31, 2013, based on availability. tee times should be booked in advance and one green fee, per person, per course is included. for non-golfers, the three green fees may be applied to a massage at the spa.
Andrew Harper guests receive: preferred rates and an upgrade, when available at check-in; and a welcome bottle of wine per room.
standard rate inclusions: rates include daily full breakfast served at the restaurant, welcome drink with spanish tapas, in-suite fresh flowers upon arrival, seasonal fruit bowl and premium water, wi-fi, valet parking, spa access and use of exclusive beach club including transfers (open high season only).
mezquita córdoba, spain
dAy 11
Take the train (or go with your driver) from Córdoba to Granada, a trip of about two and a half hours.
After lunch, start exploring the city, one of the last strongholds of the Moors in Spain. Begin with the cathedral, notable for the flamboyant Carrara marble Capilla Real, the mausoleum of Fernando and Isabel who recon-quered the city. To the north, the Moorish Albacín quarter makes for a fascinating wander. Don’t miss the square in front of San Nicolás church, which has an unforget-table view of the Alhambra palace.
dAy 12
Devote the bulk of today to the Alhambra, one of the greatest monuments in all of Europe. Arguably representing the apex of Moorish culture, this fortress/pleasure palace dominates three hills overlooking Granada, and though it suffered looting and even partial demolition over the centu-ries, much of its mind-bogglingly intricate stuccowork, lacéria (the “carpentry of knots”) and zel-lij tiles remain intact. Explore the reception halls, salons and living quarters linked by gardens and courtyards cooled by ornate fountains. The Alhambra impresses
without a word of commentary, but a guide can really help bring this stupendous palace to vivid life.
Take the afternoon at leisure for any final souvenir shopping, or just to relax. The road lead-ing down from the Alhambra into town is lined with several touristy but good-quality shops selling hand-made Moorish-style decorative items and furniture.
dAy 13
Fly from Granada to Madrid, and connect to your flight home. H
from the travel office A sAmPlE ItINERARy
AreA AlliANce pArTNersHOtEls
Hotel OrfilaMADriD, SPAin
finca cortesin Hotel Golf & SpaCASArES, SPAin
la BobadillaGrAnADA, SPAin
amanjenaMArrAKECH, MoroCCo
la Maison arabeMArrAKECH, MoroCCo
palais amaniFEZ, MoroCCo
riad l’OrangeraieMArrAKECH, MoroCCo
tRAvEl PARtNERs
Made for SpainSoUtHErn SPAin
Heritage ToursMArrAKECH
5150 andrew harper travel office (800) 375-4685 [email protected] || January/february/march 2013 andrewharper.com
P r o M ot i o nP r o M ot i o n
sPEcIAl OFFER: safari Photography mini-Workshop enhance the memories you capture while on safari with a photography mini-workshop offered during your confirmed safari. this workshop will be conducted by a guide who is a professional published photographer. also includes andrew harper benefits and any standard rate inclusions. dates offer is valid on new reservations only, for travel through may 31, 2013, based on availability.
Mateya Safari LodgemADIkWE gAmE REsERvE, sOutH AFRIcA –
the perfect safari experience awaits in South
Africa’s Madikwe Game reserve at Mateya Safari
Lodge. the artistic, eco-friendly lodge offers
five air-conditioned suites, excellent cuisine and
special attention to personal experience. one
satisfied Andrew Harper guest singled out the
lodge’s owner as both “delightful and generous
with her wine cellar.” Recommended since 2010.
• experienced guides
• Abundant, varied wildlife
• malaria-free Area
Andrew Harper guests receive: preferred rates; a head and neck massage for two per room; and a private dinner in the wine cellar.
standard rate inclusions: rates include all meals, coffees, teas, local beverages, house wines, game drives, bush walks, wi-fi, laundry, reserve gate entrance fee, landing fees, levies and ground transfers from madikwe airstrip to mateya.
gRANADA, sPAIN – A stunning replica of a Moorish palace,
this world-class hotel is situated in the picturesque hills of
Andalusia, surrounded by Mediterranean woodland. A col-
lection of whitewashed houses with terracotta rooftops, the
resort feels like an immaculate village.
in keeping with its lavish theme, the 70 palatial guest rooms
and suites are a study in elegant comfort—some of which boast
domed ceilings and interior courtyards with flowing fountains.
Wrapped in 1,000 acres of private land, the hotel offers
guests myriad activities both relaxing and adventurous, from
lounging by the pool to exploring the Sierra de Loja on horse-
back. Prefer a helicopter tour or hot-air balloon ride? that
too can be arranged. other amenities include three gourmet
restaurants, two bars and a full spa and fitness center.
Recommended since 1989.
sPEcIAl OFFER: Affordable three-Day getaway confirm a mini-mum of three nights and receive daily breakfast and dinner for two in la finca restaurant (excludes drinks), daily entrance to spa water circuit, and a citrus body wrap for one person. daily rates are from 265 eur. also includes andrew harper benefits and any standard rate inclusions. dates offer is valid on new reservations only, and is currently ongoing with no expiration date, based on availability. rates vary depending on dates and room selected at time of booking. black-out dates may apply.
Andrew Harper guests receive: an upgrade, when available at time of booking; in-room fresh fruit upon arrival; and one entrance to the spa water circuit per room.
standard rate inclusions: rates include room tax, daily buffet break-fast served at the restaurant or in room, parking, bikes, tennis/paddle courts, table tennis, badminton, archery, french boules and trekking.
Barcelo La BobadillaLa Maison ArabemARRAkEcH, mOROccO – ideally located in the city’s
bustling medina (the fortified city center), this legendary
hotel has enchanted guests with a charming riad experience
since opening in 1946. With
flower-filled patios, cedar
ceilings, colorful tadelakt
walls and traditional
Moroccan décor, the atmo-
sphere is at once serene
and exotic.
the hotel boasts 12
guestrooms and 14 sump-
tuous suites, of which
nearly all feature private
terraces and fireplaces.
Should you require more
extensive accommoda-
tions, opt for the spacious
douiria, a secluded, penthouse residence comprised of one
suite and three bedrooms.
Visiting foodies will delight in the hotel’s world-famous
cooking school, where authentic Moroccan cooking is both
learned and enjoyed. other amenities include three fine-din-
ing options, piano-jazz bar, heated pool, a new spa featuring
a traditional hammam, and access to the hotel’s off-site
country club. Recommended since 2000.
Andrew Harper guests receive: preferred rates; an upgrade, when available at check-in; one cocktail per person at the bar the first night; a bottle of wine per room; in-room fresh flowers; and for stays of five nights or longer, a complimentary cooking class.
standard rate inclusions: rates include daily moroccan and continen-tal breakfast served at the restaurant or in room, afternoon tea and wi-fi.
sPEcIAl OFFER: save $300 per person off any Escorted or Independent Journey, such as the april 16 and oct. 22 departures of travcoa’s over the top: minarets & medinas of morocco escorted Journey, when booking before march 31, 2013. also includes andrew harper benefits. dates offer is valid on new reservations only. price is per person, based on double occupancy. international and intra-tour airfare is additional unless otherwise stated and is subject to change. not to be combined with any other offer. other restrictions may apply; see travcoa.com for terms and conditions.
travcoaWORlDWIDE – travcoa ensures that each Escorted Journey is limited to 18 guests, led by the world’s most attentive travcoa travel Directors, enriched with insights from superb local guides, and features our exclusive Dine-Around Program. Since 1954, we have been perfecting the art of taking travelers beyond the extraordinary and into
the exceptional.
• Accommodations at Harper- recommended properties
• europe, Africa, the middle east, Asia, india, the south pacific and the Americas
• escorted, independent, custom Journeys
Andrew Harper guests receive: 7 Continents Club savings of 4–6 percent off escorted and independent Journey for guests and companions.
standard rate inclusions: rates include luxury accommodations, services of a travcoa travel director and/or expert local guide, transfers and transportation (excluding air), all meals plus our exclusive dine-around program where applicable, sightseeing and other excursions per the itinerary.
S P E C i A L t r AV E L o F F E r S
53andrew harper travel office (800) 375-4685 [email protected] |52
S P E C i A L t r AV E L o F F E r S
| January/february/march 2013 andrewharper.com
maroma Resort & spa by Orient-Express
“Seaside sanctuary on a 200-acre jungle estate fronting a long white-sand beach, 35 minutes south of Can-cún. The Maya-Moorish compound contains 65 guest quarters enhanced by handcarved furnishings and private verandas.” –ah
$50 Per-Night Resort credit amazing experiences await with maroma resort’s $50 resort credit per night. indulge in fine cuisine, delicious drinks and pampering spa treatments. also includes andrew harper benefits and any standard rate inclusions. dates offer is valid on new reservations only, for travel through march 31, 2013, based on availability. offer is not combinable with any other promotions.
R I v I E R A m AyA , m E x I c O
m I A m I b E Ac H , F lO R I DA
glenapp castle“Secluded hotel 90 minutes southwest
of Glasgow, amid 36 acres of beautiful gardens and woodlands on a hillside with views to the Isle of Arran.” –ah
golf and Whisky Packageincludes three nights in a Garden view room, daily six-course dinner in the michelin-star restaurant, daily breakfast, full afternoon tea on arrival, one round of golf for two, one whisky-tasting and vat. 495 Gbp per night, double occupancy. additional charges for golf club rental and caddie. also includes andrew harper benefits and any standard rate inclusions. dates valid on new reservations only, for travel from april 1–dec. 22, 2013, based on availability. not combinable with any other promotions.
Ay R s H I R E , s c Ot l A N D
cA P R I , I tA ly
Park Hyatt milan“Elegant 106-room hotel in a 19th-century
palazzo next to the Galleria and near the Duomo. Sleek accommodations combine contemporary and classical styles, and contain features such as hand-blown Mu-rano light fixtures. Spacious Italian marble baths offer glass-walled rainfall showers, sunken tubs and double sinks. Public areas include a splendid glass-domed lobby lounge for all-day dining, an elegant gourmet restaurant serving innovative Italian cuisine, and an inviting bar. Newly renovated small spa with gym and steam rooms.” –ah
milan’s surprises receive a compli-mentary bottle of italian prosecco upon arrival. also includes andrew harper benefits and any standard rate inclusions. when booking spa, diplomatic, presiden-tial or imperial suites, also receive open bar, minibar, vip fruit basket, champagne and delights, flower bouquet, one pressing service upon arrival and a personalized concierge. dates offer is valid on new reser-vations only, for travel through aug. 31, 2013, based on availability.
king & grove tides“Art deco landmark in Miami Beach.
Forty-five spacious suites offer pan-oramic ocean views, king beds and large marble bathrooms with deep soaking tubs.” –ah
Fourth Night Free enjoy a complimentary fourth night when you confirm three nights and receive daily breakfast, a $75 food & beverage credit once during stay, welcome cocktail and a room upgrade at time of check-in, when available. also includes andrew harper benefits and any standard rate inclusions. dates offer is valid on new reservations only, for travel from Jan. 1-march 31, 2013, based on availability. offer is not combinable with any other offers and excludes Jan. 1 and 4-7, 2013; feb. 15-17 and 22-24, 2013; march 15-17 and 22-24, 2013.
J.k. Place capri “Stylish 22-room hotel in a handsome white
19th-century villa near the Marina Grande. Rooms have magnificent views of the Bay of Naples and feature white walls, smooth white wooden floors, canopied beds with fine Italian linens, and baths with white mosaic tiles, gray marble double vanities, deep tubs and double showers.” –ah
guaranteed upgradesreceive a guaranteed upgrade and special rate when confirming the following room types: JK classic upgraded to superior (390 eur); superior double upgraded to deluxe (490 eur); and deluxe upgraded to Junior suite (590 eur). weekends require a mini-mum three-night stay. also includes an-drew harper benefits: welcome fruit basket and a bottle of wine when dining at JKitchen lounge & restaurant; and standard rate inclusions: daily buffet breakfast, minibar, wi-fi, access to wellness center, shuttle service to capri center, service fees and tax. dates offer is valid on new reservations only, for travel in april and october 2013, based on availability.
m I l A N , I tA ly
Take advantage of these limited-time special promotions created by our Harper Alliance partners exclusively for Hideaway Report subscribers.
Unless otherwise noted, all special offers also include Andrew Harper benefits: a host of special amenities such as gourmet lunches and dinners, cocktails, wine-tastings and chocolates, gallery tickets, spa credits and airport transfers—and that favorite of favorites, room upgrades.
All current Special Travel Offers, including the ones found in this magazine and many more, are always available at AndrewHarper.com.
the Andrew Harper travel [email protected]
SPECiAL trAVEL oFFErS
Additional
Andrew Harper is pleased to offer convenient online booking!
24|7
Begin your journey by visitingAndrewHarper.com/online-booking.
Check availability, get up-to-the-minute
best rates, and book your accommodations
at more than 700 Harper-recommended
hotels directly from our site any time of
the day or night.
55andrew harper travel office (800) 375-4685 [email protected] |
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as a Hideaway Report subscriber, you not only receive the benefits of Mr. Harper’s trusted travel advice and our expert planning services, but also have access to the partners he believes significantly add to the comfort, convenience and joy of your travel experiences. their exclusive offerings are listed below.
Friends of Andrew Harper
porthos provides wine acquisition services and recommendations
personalized to Hideaway Report subscribers. the porthos team of
oenophiles samples more than 5,000 wines annually in their pursuit
to offer andrew Harper wine collectors the finest undiscovered vin-
tages and cellar-worthy varietals from napa and around the world.
Hideaway Report subscribers receive exclusive first pick of
the world’s most sought-after wines as well as insider access to
undiscovered new releases; a complimentary subscription to the
Andrew Harper Wine Concierge weekly wine-only email newsletter;
and personal guided tours and tastings throughout napa valley.
for more information email [email protected]
or call (866) 550-2492, x9.
private wine procurement and consultation
Porthos
Medjetassist is the premier medical evacuation and repatriation
membership program for travelers. as a Medjet member, if you
become hospitalized more than 150 miles from home virtually
anywhere in the world and require continued hospitalization,
Medjet will arrange medical transfer to the hospital of your choice.
for more information on the MedjetAssist membership program, go to www.Medjet.com/Harper
or call (800) 527-7478.
medical concierge and medical evacuation
medjet Assist
54 | January/february/march 2013 andrewharper.com
Andrew Harper Private Sales is an online marketplace that allows members
to purchase hotel packages directly. Thanks to the outstanding reputation of
Hideaway Report subscribers, these limited-time offers feature extraordinary
discounts that are not available to the public.
Private Sales are distinct from auctions in that they do not involve bidding and
often feature deeper discounts. Private Sale packages are sold on a first-come, first-served basis. These can be accessed
through AndrewHarper.com.
Types of packages you might find on our Private Sales include:
DEALS TOO GOOD TO BE PUBLIC
Andrew Harper Online Marketplace
PRIVATE SALES
PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC
Augustine Hotel, Prague
BUY IT NOW
PACKAGE DETAILS• Five nights in a Classic Suite
(double occupancy)
• Spa and fitness center access
• Room tax (14%)
From Mr. Harper“Atmospheric hotel incorporating a 13th-century monastery in the Malá Strana district, near Prague Castle and the Charles Bridge. The 101 individually decorated rooms and suites combine contemporary styling with features inspired by early 20th-century Czech cubism.”
LA JOLLA, CALIFORNIA
The Lodge at Torrey Pines
BUY IT NOW
PACKAGE DETAILS• Two nights in a Palisade Suite
(double occupancy)
• Taxes (12.5%)
From Mr. Harper“Charming resort hotel over-looking the Pacific Ocean in La Jolla, adjacent to the famed Torrey Pines Golf Course and a 2,000-acre seaside nature reserve. The rambling sandstone lodge embodies an appealing and distinctive early 1900s California architectural style.”
introducing
Andrew Harper’s
Paris Designed for the sophisticated traveler, Andrew Harper’s Paris offers an informed and idiosyncratic selection of more than 350 of Andrew Harper’s favorite hotels, restaurants, shops and attractions. Maps and photographs help to make the app as practical as it is inspiring.
DownloAD tHe APP for free from the itunes® store
Visit Andrewharper.com/Paris for more information.
58 | January/february/march 2013 andrewharper.com
P r o M ot i o n
south america
2012
ANDREW HARPER’S
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italy2012
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belgium &
netherlands
2012
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united states(south)
2012
caribbean,
bahamas & bermuda2012
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united states(midwest / rockies)
2012india &south asia
2012
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united states(east)2012 africa &
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The Harper CollectionAndrew
Now available as a stand-alone
publication
The Andrew Harper CollectionPurchase it now » $200 each
visit AndrewHarper.com/buy-collection
contact andrew harper subscriber services (866) 831-4314 or [email protected]
* Please note that this is a one-time purchase; the sections will not be updated each year, as they are reserved for Andrew Harper Premier subscribers only. (Premier online subscribers can view digital editions of the Collection by signing in to AndrewHarper.com.)
sPEcIAl OFFER: two specials–Easter Package and April’s One Night Free enjoy the choice of two special offers this spring, including a three-night stay for the price of two during the month of april, and an extensive easter gourmet package including a five-course easter lunch, spa vouchers and much more. also includes andrew harper benefits and any standard rate inclusions.dates offer is valid on new reservations only for travel throughout april 2013, based on availability. the easter package is valid between march 28 and april 1, 2013.
Andrew Harper guests receive: the best available non-restricted rates; an upgrade, when available at check-in; a welcome drink followed by a private tour of the grounds; a welcome bottle of spumante, selection of fresh fruit and fresh flowers in room; and a 40-minute massage for two per room.
standard rate inclusions: rates include taxes, daily full breakfast served at the restaurant or in room, wi-fi, parking and use of all hotel facilities.
Recommended since 2010.
Borgo Santo Pietro tuscANy, ItAly
“The public space and grounds are spectacular as was the food and ambience. Even
more memorable is the camaraderie and friendliness of the staff. Team BSP is a top-
notch, flawlessly managed operation and deserves its No. 1 ranking appearance in
Andrew Harper under Tuscany. We definitely will return next October for another stay.”
—An Andrew Harper Guest