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Chic Boutiques on the King's Road, London

emma.t@iloho.com (Emma) — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 00:44:00 GMT

Once the pulse of "Swinging London", the King's Road is a street of major cultural significance. In the 60s musicians like The Beatles, Jimi Hendrix and The Rolling Stones hung out in its famous pubs and cafes with the crème de la crème of the fashion, literary and film world. In the 70s the King's Road witnessed the birth of the punk movement.

Today mods and mini-skirts have been replaced by yummy mummies and "Chelsea Tractors", and the King's Road is one of London's most gentrified streets. However, shopping and boutiques are still a big obsession and the street is home to several chic shops.

If you're in London and have a couple of hours to spare, make sure you hit these King's Road gems…

If you've arrived at Sloane Square tube station (district and circle lines), cross the square and start walking down the King's Road. You'll soon see a bus stop on your right hand side. Jump on the numbers 11, 19, 22 or 319 and get off at the Beaufort Street stop.

Graham & Green

This two-storey treasure trove is home to an eye-popping array of fashion, furniture, lighting and gifts. Pick up a slinky number by DAY Birger et Mikkelsen, browse for bags and accessories for your next trip and drool over their exotic range of furniture.

340 Kings Rd, London; Tel: 020 7352 1919; Opening Hours: Monday - Saturday 10am to 6pm, Sunday 11:30am to 5:30pm.

Brora

No one does Scottish cashmere quite like Brora. A myriad of colours and designs to suit any age, from baby right through to Granny. Feast your eyes and get kit yourself out in style for the famous British weather.

344 Kings Road, London; Tel: 020 7352 3697; Opening Hours: Monday - Saturday 10am to 6pm, Sunday 12pm to 5pm.

Austique

If you're looking for a boutique that's très, très chic then look no further. Jaw droppingly hot dresses, jeans, tops, jewellery, lingerie and accessories. Don't forget your credit card, this one does not come cheap.

330 Kings Road, London; Tel: 020 7376 4555 / 020 7376 3773; Opening Hours: Monday - Saturday 10:30am to 7pm, Sunday 12pm to 5pm.

Designers Guild

Head here for fab fabrics, wallpaper, bed and bath linens, furniture, fragrance and home accessories.

267 Kings Road, London; Tel: 020 7351 5775; Email - info@designersguild.com

Cath Kidson

A great array of vintage inspired homewares and home furnishings. Kitschy prints on everything from first aid boxes to dog baskets.

322 Kings Road, London; Tel: 020 7351 7335; Opening Hours: Monday - Saturday 10 am to 7pm, Sunday 11am to 5pm.

Antiquarius

One of oldest and most famous antiques centres in London, this emporium is chock-a-block with dealers and products. You can snag everything from antique Louis Vuitton trunks and suitcases to engagement rings to showstopping one-off pieces.

131 – 141 Kings Road, London; Tel: 020 7823 3900; Opening Hours: Monday - Saturday 10 am to 6pm, closed on Sundays.

R.Soles

If you love cowboy boots you'll be in heaven here. This boutique is 100% devoted to the finest boots money can buy. There's something for everyone, from classic pieces to quirky one-offs.

109a Kings Road, London; Tel: 020 7351 5520; Opening Hours: Monday - Saturday 10 am to 7pm, Sunday 12pm to 6pm.

For more on shopping across the globe click here. For more on London click here.

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Photo Credit: King's Road by C'est moi via Flickr (Creative Commons).

Etihad to launch new first class

emma.t@iloho.com (Emma) — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 20:29:00 GMT

Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways, which has just been voted "Airline of the Year" at the British Travel Awards, is planning an upgrade to its first class seating.

According to the Business Traveller website, changes will include a new suite-style product, improved business class seats, and a focus on service in economy.

These upgrades aim to position Etihad Airways as a premium luxury brand. Etihad's executive vice-president of marketing Peter Baumgartner said that the new first class seats would offer "privacy on demand" with a "single seat cabin" as well as the option of a double cabin suite.

For traveller reviews of Etihad Airways, click here and scroll to the bottom of the page.

If Money were no Object (Part II): Renting an Island

emma.t@iloho.com (Emma) — Thu, 01 Jan 2009 03:45:00 GMT

By Jay Martin

Island getaways are a dime a dozen, but to truly get away, you have to make everyone else go away. This can be accomplished by purchasing a private island, or if you don't feel like dealing with all that paperwork, you can simply rent one. While some tiny islands like Croatia's Porer Island rent for as little as 124 EUR per week, the truly wealthy can pay more than 300,000 USD for seven days at a private Caribbean retreat.

One high-profile rental, Necker Island, lies in the British Virgin Islands and is owned by Sir Richard Branson, the billionaire head of the Virgin empire. Branson purchased the undeveloped island more than 25 years ago for 180,000 GBP, and now charges well over that for a one-week stay – 322,000 USD. On the island's official website, daily life is not described in words. Rather, Branson uses photos of lavish tables set for twenty, picnic lunches on the beach, white linens and pillows, and bedroom curtains that billow open to reveal the painfully blue sea. Prospective guests can see exactly what it is like to escape the real world for a week and live in paradise.

Not all island rentals are in the Caribbean, however. Off the coast of Ibiza, Spain lies Isla de sa Ferradura. A safe-haven for pirates during the 17th century, the island boasts a network of caves and tunnels adorned with stalactites and stalagmites. Highlights of the resort include a health and wellness centre – built into a cave - complete with a vitamin bar, Turkish bath, solarium, hairdresser and bar. Guests can swim through a waterfall from the cave into a subtropical lagoon. There are six suites to choose from, and each has a different theme to make for a unique stay on the island. More affordable than Necker Island at 147,000 EUR (plus VAT) per week, Isla de sa Ferradura offers an alternative to those looking to branch out past the private Caribbean getaway.

Most lavish private islands come with a full staff that includes captains and pilots for the various boats and planes that might be included in the price. The all-inclusive nature of the stay can accommodate a large family reunion, wedding, or a simple honeymoon for two. While many would be surprised at how affordable some island rentals are, most would be floored to see the bill for a week at one of the world's most exclusive and secluded private islands.

For the wealthy, renting an island isn't about the amenities. One can easily find great views, crisp linens, and attentive staff at almost any luxury resort in the world. Renting an island is about status and showing your friends and family that you have attained a special place in the social strata, and that place is meant to be shared. That's why most expensive private islands can accommodate upwards of 40 of your closest friends and family. Because who rents an island to spend a week alone?

WHO TO CONTACT:

Necker Island Reservations Office – 0800 716 919 (toll-free, UK); 877 577 8777 (toll-free, USA); Website: www.neckerisland.com; Email: enquiries@virginlimitededition.com.

Isla de sa Ferradura – +34 971 410 015 / 6; Website: www.islaferradura.com; Email: info@islaferradura.com.

Private Islands Online - Website: www.privateislandsonline.com.

Photo Credits:

1) Musha Cay by alancf via Flickr (Creative Commons).

2) Necker Island by russelldavies via Flickr (Creative Commons).

3) Summer and Champagne by Damiel via Flickr (Creative Commons).

Shot of the Day: Snow on Big Ben

emma.t@iloho.com (Emma) — Tue, 30 Dec 2008 05:33:00 GMT

It's -2 degrees in London today. Although it's not snowing (yet) this shot of Big Ben under a dusting of snow seems both apt and festive!

Photo by Andifeelfine via Flickr (Creative Commons).

Vamos a Valencia: Hot Tips for Eating, Drinking and Sightseeing

emma.t@iloho.com (Emma) — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 02:31:00 GMT

By Harriet Torry

Valencia, the regional capital of the Comunidad Valenciana (Valencia region) is probably best known for its oranges, tomato throwing festival (in nearby Buñol) and sailing. Not to be overlooked though are the city's buzzing culinary scene and its diverse Christian / Muslim heritage.

Eating and Drinking

The menu del día at Espita Gorgorita is excellent and, at 12 euros, good value for money. Great croquetas. The restaurant has trendy decoration, helpful staff and pavement tables overlooking the Plaza Tossal – a good place for people-watching.

Espita Gorgorita, Plaza San Jaime 3, 46001 Valencia; Tel: +34 963 925 835

Casa Mario was best restaurant I visited in Valencia. Fresh, regional dishes, excellent tapas - especially the asparagus a la plancha (griddled asparagus) - and the staff were friendly and knowledgeable about wine. Highly recommended, and popular.

Casa Mario, Calle Roteros 3, 46003, Valencia; Tel: +34 963 92 44 52

La Marcelina is a good paella restaurant on the Paseo Neptuno waterfront. The décor is a bit 1980s and, in typical Spanish style, it's got bright lighting and uncomfortable chairs, but the food makes it worth it.

La Marcelina, Paseo de Neptuno 8, 46011, Valencia; Tel: +34 963 712 025

Vivir sin Dormir is a trendy bar / restaurant just up the beach from La Marcelina.

Vivir Sin Dormir, Paseo de Neptuno 42, 46011 Valencia; Tel: +34 963 727 777; Fax: +34 963 559 275; www.vivirsindormir.com

The guide books lavish praise on Bar Pilar, but I was underwhelmed. I didn't try their famous mussels, but I thought the bean tapas was overcooked, and the squid too chewy. The staff weren't very welcoming, and they forgot part of my order.

Bar Pilar, Calle Moro Zeit 13, Valencia

Culture

When your feet are weary from sightseeing, you can catch a movie in its original English version at the Babel or Albatros cinemas . The Albatros cinema is a bit out of the way on Fray Luis Colomer 4, but only a five euro taxi ride from the city centre.

There are two works by Diego Velazquez in the Museo de Bellas Artes - a self-portrait and eerie monk lying in state - which makes the trip alone worth it. There are also works by Goya, Jose de Ribera and van Dyck, and a lovely courtyard.

Museo De Bellas Artes De Valencia, Calle San Pío V nº 9, 46010 Valencia; Tel: +34 963 870 300; Fax: +34 963 870 301; www.cult.gva.es

The IVAM (Institut Valencià d'Art Modern) is a snazzy building with interesting temporary exhibitions. If you don't have time to see the City of Arts and Sciences, then this is a good place to check out some modern Valencian architecture.

IVAM, Calle Guillem De Castro 118, 46003 Valencia; Tel: +34 963 863 000; Fax: +34 963 921 094; www.ivam.es

The Botanical Garden (entrance 1 euro) is an oasis in the heart of the city. It was originally conceived as a medicinal herbal garden for the university, and now it's also a very peaceful place to hang out.

Jardí Botànic (Botanical Garden), Calle de Quart 80, 46008 Valencia; Tel: +34 963 15 68 00; Fax: +34 963 15 68 26; www.jardibotanic.org

All images by Harriet Torry

10 Best Hotels in New York City

emma.t@iloho.com (Emma) — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 04:49:00 GMT

If you're planning a trip to the Big Apple you are, no doubt, wading through masses and masses of hotel options trying to find the right place, in the right location at the right price. Why not let Forbes do some of the hard work for you? They've put together a list of the 10 Best Hotels in NYC.

Eight of the ten are within a three-minute walk of Central Park, while one overlooks the expanse of New York Harbour and another boasts massive loft-like rooms.

Sound good? Here's the list:

The Carlyle

Forbes says: The Carlyle, an unabashedly Upper East Side establishment on Manhattan’s Madison Avenue, appeals to those looking for a white-glove type of property in a world where luxury has become dominated by corporate five stars and boutique brands. With its history and reputation for discretion, it is a magnet for royalty, heads of state and old money. Not surprisingly, the old-school vibe can sometimes slip into just plain stuffy. However, the hotel sits in perfect proximity to Central Park, the Metropolitan Museum and the shops of Madison and Fifth Avenues.

Four Seasons New York

Forbes says: Although just 15-years-old, this 52-story, I.M. Pei-designed limestone hotel—New York's tallest—has already assumed its place as a midtown landmark. Located amid Manhattan’s best shopping and corporate headquarters, the hotel is popular with deep-pocketed visitors as well as locals looking for a midtown respite. Marble-floored from its soaring columned lobby onward, it is a lesson in dramatic interiors. And staying there is a lesson in superlatives; the Four Seasons leaves even the most luxurious competitors still playing catch up.

Hotel Plaza Athenee

Forbes says: Hidden on a tree-lined street in the tony Upper East Side, the 17-floor Plaza drips with sophistication. Hand-painted murals? Check. Antique furniture? Affirmative. Marble-lined lobby with Louis XVI furniture? Certainly. This French-flavored lodge’s hoity-toity trappings attract power-broker businessman and moneyed European travelers, who'd rather fly under the radar than make a fussy scene. Shopaholics will be thrilled to learn that Bloomingdale's and Barneys New York are a few blocks away. Also close are cultural riches like the Whitney Museum, St. Patrick's Cathedral and Central Park

The Lowell

Forbes says: In a city where "flavour of the month" rarely refers to ice cream, it's reassuring to know that one can seek refuge in a hotel that is no slave to fashion—and this Upper East Side classic certainly fits the bill. Understated elegance may be a cliché in the hospitality world, but The Lowell has it in spades. The inviting Old World décor, human scale and location five blocks up from the Midtown fray happily conspire to smooth out some of the harder edges of your typical New York City sojourn.

Mandarin Oriental New York

Forbes says: The tone is high drama from the moment you enter the 35th-floor lobby, from the large, circular marble floor to the Dale Chihuly glass sculpture in the center and the panoramic views of midtown and Central Park viewed through floor-to-ceiling windows. Offering Asian serenity within the hustle and bustle of New York, this branch of the Hong Kong-based company has been competing for top hotel in town since it opened in the Time Warner complex in 2003. While its location just west of Central Park affords those views, that has also been the hotel's only questionable point: whether the high rollers who stay here want to be on the West Side instead of the 57th Street/Fifth Avenue axis that is the center of Midtown—and the vortex of power.

The Mercer

Forbes says: The only hotel in the city to provide a taste of true loft living, the Mercer's lobby also offers some of the best celebrity-watching in New York. Yet despite its illustrious clientele, this Soho paean to minimalist chic knows that it's always better to feign modesty, so there's no sign on Mercer Street to announce it. Just look for the unfeasibly good-looking staff member standing beneath the clock.

The Peninsula New York

Forbes says: Sharing a corner with the St. Regis meant that the 20-year-old Peninsula New York has had to step up its game. With a great location and suave demeanour, the hotel treats business travellers to a quiet, unobtrusively elegant room, while its clubby atmosphere and landmark status allow the weekend guest to live it up in style. Entering the circa-1905 Beaux Arts building, a double-staircased grand foyer sets a mood that wavers on the aristocratic side of chic, but with the new addition of rooftop bar Salon de Ning — a nod to the Peninsula's Hong Kong origins — and newly overhauled fitness and spa areas, the hotel is poised to enter the next decade as a sleeker, less stodgy Midtown player.

The Ritz-Carlton New York, Battery Park

Forbes says: Forget everything you think about Ritz-Carlton. This downtown hotel steps outside the chain's traditional comfort zone with an art deco interior reminiscent of a 1920s cruise liner. Like its uptown sister hotel on Central Park South, the hotel attracts its share of celebrities and executives, but here the vibe is low-key and the hip factor high with cool colours, pale woods, plush seating that begs you to dive in and contemporary art from 100 living New York artists. Down at the tip of Manhattan, you're out of the frenzy—but just a five-minute taxi ride from Soho or Tribeca. And the views are spectacular.

The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park

Forbes says: As the flipside of its downtown art deco sister, this uptown Ritz-Carlton in a 1930s building has a New York townhouse vibe. Despite the sycamore-paneled walls and ceiling, antique French and Italian crystal chandeliers, early 1920s paintings by Samuel Halpert, and grand piano, the lobby floor Star Lounge is surprisingly casual—you can even order mini-burgers or mac and cheese. You can’t beat the central location, just blocks from 5th Avenue, the Time Warner Center and MoMA, and with views straight down the middle of Central Park.

St. Regis Hotel

Forbes says: John Jacob Astor built this beaux-arts masterpiece in 1904 to house his society guests in a manner to which they had become accustomed in Europe (including a white marble staircase that cost a whopping $1 million in turn-of-the-century dollars). That old-world grandeur is still on view in the intricate carved moldings, inlaid marble floors, gilded mirrors and doors, and crystal chandeliers that are the hallmark of this urban palace. Apart from the lavish style, though, every experience is a classic here, from formal afternoon tea in the Astor Court to a Bloody Mary (which was invented here) in the dark, inviting King Cole Bar with its famed Maxfield Parrish murals.

For more information about New York visit the main iloho website, www.iloho.com.

Photo Credit: A bird's eye view by statophere via Flickr (Creative Commons).

How to "Travel Proof" Your Cell Phone

emma.t@iloho.com (Emma) — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 17:11:00 GMT

By Nora Dunn

In the "global village" we live in, keeping in touch and being accessible while you are travelling isn't as tricky as it was in days gone by. But to do so while maximising your budget: that's another thing.

Cellular phones are more common than not these days (so much so that some people have done away with traditional land lines altogether). And travelling with a cell phone is also a great way to remain in contact with those you love... for a price. With roaming, long distance charges, and a myriad of other cryptic fees and charges though, it seems that cell phone providers are profiting handsomely from your travels if you aren't careful about how to navigate through the maze of cellular plans and promotions.

So should you even bother taking your cell phone with you? Is there a way to inexpensively stay in touch while you are travelling? Yes!

Here are five easy steps to "travel-proof" your cell phone:

1) Make sure your phone uses SIM cards:

A SIM card (standing for Security Information Management) is a small chip that usually lives underneath the battery in your phone. It is in effect your phone number; so don't lose it, because you'll lose your phone number too!

There are some cell phones that don't use SIM cards, and without one, you will be dead in the water and in the market for a new cell phone if you want to be globally accessible.

2) Ensure you have a GSM Quad Band phone:

GSM (standing for Global System for Mobile communications) phones are usually the standard, unless your phone came free with a plan or is a pay-as-you-go cheapie. The trick is to ensure that all four bands – cell phone frequencies – are available with your phone. 850 and 1900 Mhz frequencies are usually used in the Americas, while 900 and 1800 Mhz frequencies are the norm in Europe and Asia. By ensuring your phone covers all four frequencies – and that all four bands are open on your phone, you are one step closer to being a tech-savvy globe trotter.

3) Unlock your phone:

And no – we're not referring to the password or keypad lock. Unlocking your phone is an internal function that will allow you to put any SIM card into your phone, making it a portal for multiple phone numbers and networks. If your phone was sold to you by your cellular provider, it will probably need unlocking. You have a better chance of already owning an unlocked phone if you purchased it from a cellular store independent of any plans and put your own SIM card in.

If your phone is locked, you can purchase special kits online for about $10 to unlock the phone (which is usually a matter of entering a series of "secret" numbers into the phone), or you can pay somebody else to unlock it for you.

If you are in the market for a phone, you can easily find unlocked ones – just specify that you want a GSM Quad Band unlocked phone – and they'll know what you're after.

Now you are ready to hit the road with your travel-compatible phone. Once you reach your destination, here's what to do…

4) Buy a Pay-As-You-Go SIM card:

In many places, SIM cards are very common and readily available in convenience stores. In other places, you'll need to go to a cellular provider to get a SIM card. Just make sure you aren't buying the phone to go along with it or and that you're not getting sucked into a monthly plan; you just want a pay-as-you-go plan, and should not be required to pay much (if anything) for the SIM card itself.

5) Buy a Long Distance phone card:

With your new SIM card installed, friends and family back home can call you; but if you want to call them, you'll pay a lot for the privilege. By using a long distance phone card (again, available at most convenience stores), you will only pay local fees for the call, and your long distance fees will be covered with your calling card.

Now you are officially globally accessible!

Here are some of the benefits of travel-proofing your cell phone:

You have a local phone number wherever you go, allowing you to make travel plans, stay in touch with new friends, and ease the burden of communication on the road.
In many cases, incoming calls are free.
Your family can reach you whenever they like (which may be a mixed blessing).
You will pay only local charges (if anything) to answer the call, and hopefully they have a good long-distance plan on their land line to cover the charges.
You can keep your home cell phone number by simply holding onto the SIM card. If you want to check messages left for you on that number, all you have to do is put the card into your phone and check your voicemail. Be warned though – you'll pay roaming and long distance fees to do so.

With these new tips, you will be a tech-savvy traveller with the matching cell phone to boot. Now go forth – and communicate!

Photo Credits:

Nokia n95 by KhE 龙 and Crazy about Mobile Phones! by ndingureiji via Flickr (Creative Commons).

If Money Were No Object: Helicopter Safaris in Southern Africa

emma.t@iloho.com (Emma) — Sat, 13 Dec 2008 01:15:00 GMT

By Jay Martin

This is the first in a series of posts that will examine the travel habits of the ultra wealthy, those who are only concerned about where they are going, not how much it will cost.

As the global economy sinks further into turmoil, the stress of watching an investment portfolio lose seven figures in a month is causing old money and nouveau-riche alike to look ahead to their next extravagant holiday. And with angry employees and investors beating down their doors, we might soon see a deluge of luxury travellers taking to the skies in search of a suitable getaway to help them forget about their temporary problems.

While the wealthy may travel to the same locations as the budget-conscious, chances are they will see it through different eyes. Take South Africa, for instance. Most visitors to this country will never view Africa's largest saltwater estuary from the cockpit of their own private helicopter. They will never enjoy a picnic lunch on the pristine beaches of Kosi Bay, followed by some fly-fishing at the mouth of the estuary. That's because to do Africa in style, you need a lot of money and an appetite for travel that cannot be satisfied with typical fare.

At nearly 4,000 USD per day, per couple, Distinctive Africa offers a Southern African experience of rugged luxury that whisks guests by helicopter to some of the roughest terrain on earth, only to return them in time for a multi-course dinner of Pan-African cuisine and African wine on the veranda of their luxury resort. According to the Distinctive Africa website, helicopter safaris offer the discerning luxury traveller the chance to see more of Africa in a shorter period of time, and from a vantage point reserved usually for the vultures.

For the wealthy, travelling Africa by helicopter makes perfect sense. Distinctive Africa describes helicopter travel as the safest means of travel in Africa, and the easiest, as most destinations are only otherwise reachable by a long, dangerous journey in an off-road vehicle. The helicopters they use are among the most fuel efficient available and the commonly-used EC-120 utilises "fan in fin" rotor technology that makes them quieter than most helicopters and ideal for tracking and viewing wildlife.

The phrase "helicopter safari", however, might not conjure an entirely accurate image of what actually takes place. Most think of safaris as an opportunity to track African wildlife in their natural habitat, and then shoot them. Helicopter safari guides instead offer wildlife viewing and most use the helicopters only to reach the destination, where guests transfer to sport utility vehicles to more closely observe lions, gazelle and other wildlife. Some companies that offer hunting use helicopters to track wildlife that has been shot from the ground. For the right price, those interested can hunt directly from the helicopter. A recent trend, called "green hunting", allows guests to shoot animals with tranquillizer darts, wildlife researchers then swoop in and tag them, all without killing the animal.

One of the key parts of luxury travel is having someone else take care of everything, and the all-inclusive luxury helicopter agencies in Southern Africa spare no detail. Because helicopter travel removes the hassle of moving groups of people and their luggage from place to place, guests can choose a single luxury resort to serve as their African base of operations. Helicopters move fast, and patrons of luxury helicopter safari services can see many sites and cover a lot of ground, all in one day and without having to wake up early. Whether it is fly-fishing, golf, first-class wildlife refuges or the Victoria Falls, guests need only choose how they prefer to experience both the rugged and lavish sides of Southern Africa.

WHO TO CALL:

Distinctive Africa – Phone: +27 31 205 5500; Website: www.distinctiveafrica.com

The Safari Company – Via the online form at www.thesafaricompany.co.za

5th Dimension Safaris - Phone: + 27 (0)12 811 0331; Website: www.5thdimensionsafaris.com.

WHERE TO STAY:

Singita Lebombo (Kruger National Park) – Features morning and evening game drives, a health and leisure spa, and a 12,000 bottle wine cellar. Phone: +27 21 683 3424; Website: www.singita.com; Email: singita@singita.com.

Phantom Forest (Garden Route) – Eco-friendly resort features rooms on stilts above the trees, four-course dinners prepared with local, organic fare, and views of the indigenous forest and mountains. Phone: +27 (0)44 386-0046; Website: www.phantomforest.com; Email: reservations@phantomforest.com.

Photo Credits:

1) Co Pilot by mickeymox via Flickr (Creative Commons)

2)Not Quite a Safari Camp by sanctu via Flickr (Creative Commons)

3)ZS-RTG 5th dimension safaris by Pieter van Marion.

The 10 Most Secluded Beaches in the World

emma.t@iloho.com (Emma) — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 23:06:00 GMT

If you've ever wondered where the world's most secluded beaches are then look no further... Forbes has put together a top ten of the very best to whet your appetite for travel in 2009.

All of these beaches are public. They are harder to get to than their well-known counterparts, but they tend to be cheaper to stay at than nearby tourist hotspots.

Molokai, Hawaii

Forbes says: This island, often called Hawaii's "real" island, is so laid back there's not a single traffic light and no building is bigger than a palm tree. Chances are, yours will be the only footprints you'll find on any of its deserted white sand beaches. Travel authority Pauline Frommer says Molokai's unspoiled, pristine beaches are among her favorites worldwide and she imagines they look a lot like the Hawaii Capt. Cook first laid eyes on. From Honolulu, it's a 25-minute and $135 flight to Molokai's Hoolehua Airport (MKK). A one-way ticket to Maui from Honolulu costs about $61. Unlike Maui, there are no direct flights to Molokai from the Mainland. For more info on flights click here.

The Caribbean Coast of Costa Rica

Forbes says: This wildly beautiful region - with its pounding surf and prehistoric rainforests - is quite distinct from the others. Costa Rica surfers and expats have been flocking to in recent years. Not only are the music and food different (think Reggae and spicy jerk chicken), gorgeous white-sand, coconut-tree-lined beaches are peaceful and desolate. To get to Puerto Limon, the capital of Limon province, from San Jose, take Highway 32 (also known as the Guapiles Highway) that connects this region to the rest of the country. For more info on flights click here.

Holbox Island, Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico

Forbes says: Holbox (hol-bosh) is part of the Yum Balam ecological reserve, separated from land by the Yalahua Lagoon. The 26-mile-long island boasts many secluded fine white-sand beaches peppered with beautiful seashells. The Gulf of Mexico's jade green waters are calm and swimmer-friendly. But don't expect nightclubs or wi-fi. Or cars, for that matter, as everyone travels in golf-cart buggies. From Cancun airport you can take a taxi to Chiquila, about two hours away, to catch a ferry; or hire a water taxi on the spot to take you to Isla Holbox, 14 km (nine miles) away. Total travel time from Cancun is about three hours. There's a rustic airport on Holbox for private planes. The more expensive hotels ($200 to $400 a night) will help arrange private launches. For more info on flights click here.

Whitehaven Beach, Australia

Forbes says: Nestled on Australia's dreamy Whitsunday Island (the largest of the Whitsunday chain), Whitehaven Beach offers four miles of silky soft, milky white sand courtesy of pure silica grains. A lush acacia forest backdrop keeps things as cool as the turquoise waters. Although this is one of Australia's most photographed beaches, it's also one of its less trampled thanks to strict visitation limits enforced by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (you must register with a tour operator to access the area.) A number of tour operators offer daytrips, overnight stays or scenic flights to Whitehaven Beach from the islands, Shute Harbour or Airlie Beach. A catamaran trip from Shute Harbour is $100 per person.

Oswald West State Park, Oregon Coast, USA

Forbes says: At this state park south of Cannon Beach, the 15-minute walk through the woods to the beach keeps most people at bay—save for the die-hard surfers. The crescent-shaped beach is on a secluded cove backed by dense forest. If you like dramatic and desolate, this is your beach. Best bet is to fly into Portland, then drive a rental car to the coast.

Barbuda, Caribbean

Forbes says: Antigua may tout its beaches, but Caribbean travel expert Ryan Ver Berkmoes says it's her sister island Barbuda that's really got something to crow about: Its unspoiled beaches are natural, sprinkled with pink sand and miles long. On the deep blue Atlantic side expect driftwood and shells; on the calmer Caribbean side, you'll find turtles and tropical fish in calm, limpid turquoise waters. But don't expect to see anyone else. No wonder Princess Diana vacationed here several times. Fly to Antigua first, then hop on a small Carib-Aviation plane for the 20-minute ride—about $200 round-trip (two flights a day). For more info on flights click here.

Colombier Beach, St. Barth's

Forbes says: Accessible only by boat or a 25-minute hike along a rugged goat trail (take the path just beyond Flamands Beach), Colombier is a sweet little cove perfect for swimming, snorkeling or eating a French picnic. Private yachts and sailboats often moor here while their passengers frolic in the water. (If you have a boat or like to hike, this day beach is free.)

Playa Medina, Venezuela

Forbes says: Club Med has a reputation for staking out some of the prettiest beachfronts in the world, which is why it had its eye on this palm-fringed patch of sand on the isolated Paria Peninsula. Local opposition prevented it from happening. That, and the 10-hour drive from Caracas, explain why the gold-sand beach with placid waters remains as pristine as ever—save for a bunch of bungalows and a low-key restaurant. There is a very small airport in Carupano, an hour east of Playa Medina. The "fanciest" hotel on the beach—guest cottages about $150 a night—arrange for airport transfers. For more info on flights click here.

Pink Beach, Bonaire, Netherlands Antilles

Forbes says: When people think of Bonaire, they think of scuba diving, says Ver Berkmoes, but this island's bountiful beaches should not be overlooked. Since people tend to spend their time underwater here, you can find miles and miles of desolate beach on the south side of the island. Pink Beach is particularly beautiful, its sand tainted pink by Bonaire's signature coral reef. Major airlines provide direct flights to Bonaire's Flamingo (also pink) airport from Houston, Newark, Atlanta, and San Juan. For more info on flights click here.

White Sand Beach, Bali

Forbes says: Most of Bali's beaches are layered in dark black sand with the exception of this gem, tucked in a tiny cove on the East Coast. When travel writer Ryan Ver Berkmoes first discovered it, there were only a handful of fishermen on the beach. Now that seafood grills and day beds have arrived, the crowds are sure to follow.

Photo credits: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.

The Best Boutiques of 2008

emma.t@iloho.com (Emma) — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 01:45:00 GMT

According to the Travel Intelligence team, these are the hottest boutiques of 2008. So pack your bags and get going - what better way to forget about the credit crunch?

The Zetter, London, UK

TI says: An affordable, kooky boutique hotel in edgy East London. Centrally located, it's just a stroll from the British Museum and St Paul's. Rates from GBP 89

www.thezetter.com

Hotel Patou, Amsterdam, The Netherlands

TI says: This sexy boutique hotel is a hit with Amsterdam's fashionistas. Rates from EUR 175.

www.hotelpatou.nl

Hotel Tres, Palma de Mallorca, Spain

TI says: A sophisticated bolthole in the heart of Palma's old town. Rates from EUR 160.

www.hoteltres.com

For more hotel ideas click here.

A Taste of Asia

emma.t@iloho.com (Emma) — Sat, 06 Dec 2008 00:56:00 GMT

Stunning photography of landmarks across Asia taken by iloho.coms members. See more and share your travel photos at http://www.iloho.com/landmarks.

Exotic Dishes of Japan

emma.t@iloho.com (Emma) — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 23:39:00 GMT

By Turner Wright

We've all heard of sushi: fresh raw fish delicately sliced and placed over a bed of rice soaked in vinegar. It's the quintessential food that comes to mind as soon as Japan is mentioned, but I'm here to tell you that there is more. More than raw fish, more than an elaborate knife show at Benihana, more than avocados in a California roll. What follows are the lesser-seen delicacies of nihon ryōri (Japanese cuisine).

1. Nattō (納豆)

By strict definition, nattō is fermented soybeans. In practice, however, these little brown nuggets are the test of a foreigner's "Japaneseness". Each piece is bound by a pungent, sticky paste resembling a spider's web, making nattō an acquired taste (after living in Japan for two years I still can't stand it).

If it's your first day in a Japanese company and your co-workers offer to take you out to dinner, prepare to have natto thrust under your nose. The dish is usually accompanied by a polite phrase 召し上がってください (please do me the honour of eating this) that makes it impossible to refuse. Eat it quickly with rice and (try to) enjoy the rich protein.

2. Basashi (馬刺)

Shifting towards the meat end of the Japanese food spectrum we find basashi, a local specialty of the southern city of Kumamoto; it is raw horse meat dipped in soy sauce and often served with ginger and onions. The first time I sampled this dish I was fresh from an hour-long soak in a hot spring just north of the super-volcano Aso and eager for any kind of nourishment my lodging had to offer.

Ignoring the guilt brought on by memories of childhood rides through my native Texas, I raised the chopsticks to my mouth and slowly chewed. Although one might assume horse is tough and stringy, this dish was in fact quite tender and succulent.

3. Whale Meat

Although surrounded by controversy, the whaling industry remains alive and well in the land of the rising sun. Prevalent throughout Japanese history, whale meat really made its mark in post-war Japan when food supplies were stretched thin. Today canned meat and whale sashimi are widely available in shops and restaurants across Japan. If your conscience allows, give the blood red meat a try.

4. Takoyaki (たこ焼き)

Has there ever been a time when you were abroad and thought "thank god I understand the local language"? This happens to me whenever I see a takoyaki stand.

I know, I know, I should embrace the idea of sampling dishes across the world and broaden my palate with every taste imaginable, but still, tako (octopus) and I will always be sworn enemies.

Takoyaki is a perfectly spherical fried dumpling made of baby octopus, mayonnaise and batter. Japanese pop them into their mouths as easily as Westerners chew popcorn at the movies.

5. Ikizukuri, or “Eat it while it flops around”

I prefer to think of this as extremely fresh fish. In Japan, sashimi (sliced raw fish) is usually prepared in restaurants from a live animal, but served once quite inert. Ikizukuri is something very different. It often begins with a diner choosing a live fish, which a trained chef will then carefully slice up and present - the heart still beating as you take a bite.

6. Some like it hot

To understand this next style of cooking the importance of onsen (hot springs) in Japan has to be appreciated. While the art of the public bath has been waning in Western culture since the fall of the Roman Empire, in Japan it still flourishes, thanks to the country's active volcanoes. Hot spring culture has produced an amazing variety of products: special ramen, green tea, and champagne baths; stores stocking minerals and sulphur to recreate the hot springs experience at home.

In the small southern town of Beppu food is even prepared using the power of hot springs steam. Termed jigoku mushi, some of the more common steamed plates include pudding, dumplings, vegetables, and eggs; you can even order a hot chocolate made from hot springs water! Because the steam is seen as being clean and natural, it is believed that those who consume jigoku mushi will experience the same positive effects that come from a long soak: vitality, health, and longevity.

7. Shirako… you really don't want to know

Shirako might seem more suited to a reality TV show challenge than a list of delicacies. It is cod milt or, to put it bluntly, cod sperm. Enclosed by a thin sack, it is very tender and very gooey. Widely available, it can be eaten raw like sashimi or cooked like tempura.

8. What's that in my cake?

So you've been in Japan for a day or two, so far you've relied on Western chain restaurants and touristy sushi places for nourishment, but now realise that it's time to challenge your palette and discover the taste of "real Japan". But where to start? A restaurant serving infinite varieties of fish? A ramen shop? Why not try a bakery?

You'll see many familiar sights in a Japanese bakery: strawberry shortcake, chocolate cake, croissants. Alongside these old friends lie some mysterious looking cakes of various sizes and shapes. Curious, you take a bite. What just happened? Depending on the filling, you could have just consumed chocolate, cheese, green tea, or the mother of all Japanese fillings… red bean paste.

Red bean paste is available everywhere, from the largest supermarket in Osaka to a tiny convenience store on a remote island. It is the be-all and end-all of Japanese sweets, and it's unlikely you can spend a day in Japan without running into at least one confectionary filled with this soft, saccharine, powdery delight.

9. Squid Ink

If you're familiar with Mediterranean food, squid ink won't be unchartered culinary territory. For those of you who aren't the inky black discharge given off by squid might come as a shock mixed into your spaghetti or sushi. In Okinawa, the southernmost island of Japan, squid ink is used in a variety of dishes including squid ink soup.

10. Fugu (鰒)

If you feel like dicing with death in Japan forget launching yourself in front of a morning train in Tokyo station and order a serving of fugu.

This Japanese blowfish is mainly eaten for the thrill rather than the flavour. It is quite inedible, and can be lethally poisonous, save a few pieces of flesh which are meticulously excised by a licensed chef. Not to worry, even though the poison produced by the blowfish is deadlier than cyanide, chefs are trained for seven years before being allowed to use their skills professionally. No-one has ever died from eating fugu in Shimonoseki, where the fish is said to be the freshest and most delicious.

Try it raw, baked, boiled, or even served in sake (just the tail, though). If you're not up for the real thing, you can buy chocolates and toys shaped like blowfish in Shimonoseki.

Those with strong stomachs can see a Japanese chef preparing fugu here:

Photos (all via Flickr / Creative Commons): 1. Natto by jasja dekker 2. basashi by shrk 3. Whale meat curry by Animals in Japan 4. Takoyaki – Asatsuki by avlxyz 6. Beppu – Steam-powered kitchen by knaakle 7. Sushi - Shirako by puss_in_boots 8. Japan 2007 166.4 by mesozoic 9. Squid Ink Soup by hostelmanagement 10. fugu nigiri by selva.

Top Travel Books of 2008

emma.t@iloho.com (Emma) — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 20:20:00 GMT

The FT published its list of the best books of this year on Saturday. The paper's critics hand selected the following top travel books: great fodder for your Christmas list.

Empires of the Indus: From Tibet to Pakistan - The Story of a River - Alice Albinia

A compelling account of the Indian continent's longest river. Lauded for her almost foolhardy courage, Albinia's adventures include a highly illegal burqa-clad journey through the tribal badlands of Waziristan.

Fishing in Utopia: Sweden and the Future that Disappeared - Andrew Brown

Journalist Brown returns to Sweden after living there as a boy and young man. Fishing in the lakes and reflecting on his blue-collar job in a sawmill in the 1970s, he discovers a society that is both more dysfunctional and more conformist than its usual utopian image.

The Semi-Invisible Man: A Life of Norman Lewis - Julian Evans

A huge and comprehensive biography of one of the finest travel writers of his generation, Lewis is revealed as a man of extraordinary energy, modesty and interest. An ideal introduction to Lewis as a charter of arcane, forbidding places with a growing conviction that the noblest of human societies are the simplest.

Divine Magnetic Lands: A Journey in America - Timothy O'Grady

After a 30-year absence, novelist O'Grady takes two road trips across his home country, discovering modern America through chance encounters in bars. Politically astute and poetically observed.

The Man Who Invented History: Travels with Herodotus - Justin Marozzi

An unabashed fan of the 5th century BC historian, Marozzi travels around Greece and the Middle East in the company of his charming but possibly mendacious hero, comparing his modern experiences of this troubled region to the ancient accounts.

The Island That Dared: Journeys in Cuba - Dervla Murphy

The tough-as-old-boots septuagenarian takes on a country that has polarised opinion for half a century, first with her daughter and three grandchildren, then alone. Benign on the subject of Castro, she nevertheless experiences the hard side of Cuban life, joining bread queues and sleeping outside.

Connemara: The Last Pool of Darkness - Tim Robinson

The second volume in a trilogy, this is an intense love song to the bleak and troubled wilderness of north-western Connemara. With his inimitable eye for character and landscape, Robinson manages to steer clear of romanticism and raise universal questions as he goes in search of the region's "quintessence".

A Year in Tibet - Sun Shuyun

When Chinese filmmaker Sun spent a year living in a small village in Tibet, the ensuing BBC series excited much controversy. This anthropological account of her year leaves politics aside and focuses on the degree to which faith and tradition underpin the lives of ordinary Tibetans.

Ghost Train To the Eastern Star - Paul Theroux

Nearly 40 years on, Theroux retraces the epic railway journey he made for The Great Railway Bazaar, from London through Europe to Asia. Laced with reflections on his broken marriage and meetings with literary friends, it's as much an emotional as a physical pilgrimage.

Cap Juluca, Anguilla

emma.t@iloho.com (Emma) — Sat, 29 Nov 2008 01:17:00 GMT

By Connie Motz

Picture a white-washed Moroccan villa with mysterious high arches. Notice the stark contrast when lush green palms sway gently over the building. Now imagine a series of eighteen Moroccan villas set like exotic jewels along a two mile pristine white sand beach. Imagine no more: this Moorish fantasy is a luxurious reality, Cap Juluca.

Located on the northern Caribbean island of Anguilla, the five-star Cap Juluca was rated by readers of Travel+Leisure as the number ten resort in the whole of the Caribbean, Bermuda and the Bahamas.

With no more than six units to a Moroccan villa, standard amenities at Cap Juluca include spacious rooms, gorgeous ocean views with direct beach access, striking marble bathrooms and separate showers. Suites at Cap Juluca range from 103 square metres (with beautiful covered terraces and inviting double tubs) to 232 square metres (these include a romantic private pool, perfect for honeymooners).

Cap Juluca offers three dining choices for guests: fresh seafood at Pimm's, Moroccan cuisine and endless views at Kemia while a more casual dining atmosphere is offered at George's, where the Friday night seafood barbecue cannot be missed.

Daily complimentary breakfast consists of an amazing array of fresh fruits and pastries either at George's or on your own private terrace. Contact the chef to arrange a private "wine room" dinner or a romantic beach dinner complete with bamboo tiki torches. Now, while you wait, will that be afternoon tea in the Main House or afternoon sorbet on the beach?

Unwind by attending a Pilates or yoga class or workout at the full fitness centre or aqua golf driving range. Play croquet or tennis, enjoy the pool, explore the island on a bicycle, snorkel or enjoy an invigorating morning of sailing. After a day relaxing or working out, Cap Juluca Spa Services are waiting to pamper and instil wellness through a selection of massage and skin therapy techniques.

If you ever decide to leave the resort the lush new 18-hole Temenos Golf Club, with its stunning views of the Caribbean, is only 10 minutes away. Scuba divers and snorkelers can enjoy the abundance of coral and sea life that Anguilla's turquoise Caribbean waters display.

International holiday makers can fly non-stop from major cities like London and Amsterdam, directly to Julianna International Airport on the neighboring island of St. Maarten. Vacationers can then travel to Anguilla via a small commercial aircraft or via a complimentary 25 minute ferry; either of these options can be pre-arranged by the Cap Juluca staff. To search for flights click here.

Cap Juluca: PO Box 240, Maundays Bay, Anguilla, Leeward Islands, British West Indies; Tel: 1-888-858-5822 or 1-264-497-666; Website: www.capjuluca.com. Click here for 2009 room rates.

About Anguilla Anguilla is a picture perfect hideaway in the northern Leeward Islands of the Caribbean. A relatively flat island, Anguilla is only 16 miles long by 3 miles wide. But don't let this tiny island deceive you. Anguilla is rich in history, culture, offers many art galleries and museums, along with fantastic duty-free Caribbean shopping. For travel to Anguilla, passports are required by most countries.

Photos: Published with the permission of the Zimmerman Agency.

The Four Seasons Macau brings "boutique" to Asia's gaming hotspot

emma.t@iloho.com (Emma) — Fri, 28 Nov 2008 20:07:00 GMT

As Asia's fast-growing gambling mecca Macau has it all: slick casinos, high-rollers, designer labels, jaw-dropping shows, chic restaurants and huge hotel complexes. In this city of superlatives however, something has been missing: the "boutique" factor. Large-scale, Vegas-esq experiences are easy to come by in Macau, but the more individual and unique factor is harder to find.

The Four Seasons Macau, which opened on the Cotai Strip in August of this year, is doing its best to fill this void. It has brought the promise of something different and more personalised, which is a breath of fresh air for the traveller seeking quiet, comfort and personalised service.

Granted, with 360 rooms the Four Seasons Macau hardly conforms with the traditional perception of boutique, but when compared with behemoths such as the neighbouring Venetian (3,000 rooms) and soon the to be completed Sheraton opposite (some 4,000 rooms) the hotel feels it. The design – contemporary mixed with colonial accents and hints of the orient – brings a unique edge and antique pieces of furniture, sourced from local markets and antique shops, add to the hotel's individuality.

Service reigns supreme here; staff are, without exception, friendly, polite and attentive. Your name will be remembered and your quirks indulged. As one Four Seasons restaurant manager underlined, the hotel is geared towards the discerning traveller seeking a haven of calm and top-notch service. Where many hotels in Macau compete on price, the Four Seasons seeks to differentiate itself by offering the best standard of hospitality.

Rooms are spacious and comfortable. They come kitted out with a 42" plasma screen, WiFi (at an additional cost), vast marble bathrooms with walk-in rain showers, L'Occitane products and deep bathtubs. Don't expect fantastic views, the Cotai Strip is still an eyesore of a building site, instead sink into the big bath and watch TV whilst sipping on something brought up to you by room service.

Guests seeking further peace and quiet should beat a retreat to Windows, which feels more like a country club than a bar / restaurant. Its leather wingback chairs, fireplace and big open-air verandah make it a great spot to enjoy a newspaper and afternoon tea far away from the hustle and bustle of the casino floors.

When it comes to eating, the hotel has a Cantonese restaurant, Zi Yat Heen, as well Belcanção, an extravagant international buffet bulging with European favourites and dim sum. The hotel's most hyped destination though has to be Bar Azul, a stylish spot with moody blue lighting and a slick bar serving wine, cocktails, champagne and fantastic complimentary canapés.

Visitors seeking retail therapy can sleep easy knowing that the new Shoppes at Four Seasons, Macau's first luxury mall, is just metres away. Guests after glitz and glamour have the Venetian's gaming floor on their doorstep, plus Cirque du Soleil's impressive US$150 million production, ZAIA, close at hand (the hotel concierge can arrange tickets or you can book online).

The Four Seasons also offers guests a big outdoor pool complex, plus a spa and fitness facilities.

For more information visit www.fourseasons.com/macau. Room rates start at HKD/MOP 2,700 per night.

Four Seasons Hotel, Macao, Cotai Strip: Estrada da Baía de N. Senhora da Esperança, S/N, Taipa, Macau; Tel. +853 2881 8888; Fax. +853 2881 8899.

To explore more hot hotels click here and to read more hotel reviews click here.

Results are in for the 2008 Zagat Airline Survey

emma.t@iloho.com (Emma) — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 22:19:00 GMT

9,950 frequent fliers and travel professionals took part in this year's Zagat Airline Survey, rating 85 major world airlines. There was a 30-Point scale in place and here's who came out on top.

To submit your own airline review click here and share your thoughts:

Best Large US Domestic Airline (Premium Seating): Continental Airlines
Best Large US Domestic Airline (Economy Seating): JetBlue Airways
Best International Airline(Premium Seating): Singapore Airlines
Best Airline Website: Southwest Airlines
Best In-Flight Entertainment(US Domestic) JetBlue Airways
Best In-Flight Entertainment(International): Virgin Atlantic Airways
Best Consumer On-Time Estimate (US Domestic Only): Southwest Airlines
Best Midsized US Domestic Airline (Premium Seating): Virgin America
Best Midsized US Domestic Airline (Economy Seating): Midwest Airlines
Best International Airline (Economy Seating): Singapore Airlines
Best Frequent Flier Program: Southwest Airlines
Best Value for Money(Domestic): Southwest Airlines
Best Value for Money(International): Continental Airlines
Best Luggage Policy (Domestic Only): Southwest Airlines

Get 40% off an annual Zagat subscription with this code: AFF40OCT

Photo: Singapore Airlines SQ1 Cabin Crew by Premshree Pillai via Flickr (Creative Commons).

Shot of the Day: Tiger Leaping Gorge

emma.t@iloho.com (Emma) — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 23:01:00 GMT

Yunnan Province, China, is featured in Lonely Planet's "Best in Travel 2009" book, and the famed Tiger Leaping Gorge epitomises the region's beauty.

This shot, "Heavy Traffic" by Kiwi Mikex, highlights the Tiger Leaping Gorge's stunning views and serenity.

For more travel photography and world landmarks visit http://www.iloho.com/landmarks.

Virgin America to host Wi-Fi party at 35,000 feet

emma.t@iloho.com (Emma) — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 00:13:00 GMT

If you're travelling over San Francisco with Virgin America on 22 November you could be in for a celebration. The California-based airline is teaming up with YouTube on Sunday for the beta launch of its Gogo in-flight WiFi service.

Virgin America plans to stream a live video feed from the plane to an audience at the first YouTube Live event to show off the service. Guest will then be taken to the inaugural event at at Fort Mason Center's Herbst Pavilion in San Francisco.

The Gogo service will launch on a single Virgin America plane on 24 November and will be available to all passengers. The carrier plans to extent its WiFi offering to its entire fleet by Q2 2009.

For more information about Virgin America click here. To search for flights to and from San Francisco visit iloho's visual flight search function.

Photo: Virgin America Winglet by Kaptain Krispy Kreme via Flickr (Creative Commons)

Top 10 Luxury Christmas Presents for Travellers

emma.t@iloho.com (Emma) — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 22:43:00 GMT

We've researched, mused over and debated dozens of travel products that would make the ultimate Christmas present. We've spoken to travellers from across the world to find out what their most coveted and most trusted travel products are, and here is iloho's list of the top 10 luxury Christmas presents for travellers.

From decadent accessories to luxe luggage to services that will soothe travel aches and pains. These gift suggestions, whilst luxurious, are not meant to be wildly unobtainable or garishly ostentatious. They are things that real travellers really want, and they will all look fantastic under the tree!

1. Cashmere Travel Blanket

Give yourself an instant upgrade by travelling with a cashmere blanket. Forget about cashing in your hard-earned airmiles or grovelling to the check-in staff, instead wrap yourself in cashmere and make economy class feel like business and business feel like first. Frequent traveller, Katherine from London, says: "I was given a cashmere blanket by my boyfriend last year after months of grovelling. I travel a lot and if I'm stuck at an airport or have to fly long-haul it's a little slice of luxury that makes life on the road a lot more comfortable." We love Brora's cashmere blankets (£329/$489), which measure 190 x 140cm and come in six different colours. Click here for more information.

2. Noise Cancelling Headphones

We all know silence is golden, but peace and quiet can be tough to achieve when engine roar and crying babies enter the equation. Noise cancelling headphones have changed the way some people travel; one Flyertalk.com member says: "The Bose QC2s I have had a huge impact on my comfort on flights. I even feel more rested when I use them." Well, make way for the new Bose QC3 headphones (£275/$349), which are more compact than their predecessors with the same level of performance. As well as drowning out surround sounds these headphones come with a detachable cord to connect MP3, DVD and CD players, or to plug into an in-flight entertainment system. It's oh so quiet… Click here for more information.

3. Digital SLR

A top-of-the-range digital SLR consistently delivers rich, high-quality images, capturing your most incredible travel moments for years to come. SLR evangelists swear that the image quality is so far superior to standard compact cameras that once you start using one you will never go back (and that your travel photos will be the envy of all your friends). Nikon released the D90 digital SLR (£849.99/$999.95) in August of this year, which is successor to the popular D80 model. It is a high-end consumer camera with 12.3 megapixel resolution that, in the words of Hong Kong-based iloho user Gadgetlover, "is large enough to capture those great moments, but small enough to travel there with you." Click here for more information.

4. Weekend Bag

A smart weekend bag amps up your travel style in an instant, and classic models will never go out of fashion; they are stylish and functional and make a fantastically indulgent Christmas present. Anna, an iloho user from Sydney, says of her new Italian suede weekend bag: "It's definitely not a necessity, but it is beautiful and it makes me feel good when I travel." We like the Mulberry Large Racing Clipper (£350/$625), which works well for both male and female travellers.

5. iPhone 3G

It's slick and sexy and seriously functional. The iPhone combines three products in one — a 3G phone, widescreen iPod, and Internet device — perfect for travellers. Better still, the iPhone incorporates GPS technology and live tracking so you can forget all about cumbersome city maps. If you find yourself dying for a cappuccino in Rome you can search for "coffee" and the iPhone will show you every café nearby. There's a host of travel applications you can download too, such as language translators, currency convertors and real-time flight tracking. For more information, and prices, click here.

It won't be available for Christmas, but keep your eyes peeled for the launch of the nüvifone, a touchscreen device that combines a phone, mobile web-browser, and cutting-edge personal navigator, scheduled to hit the shelves in early 2009.

6. Travel Wallet

Digging out passports, hotel confirmations, e-tickets and addresses can be both tedious and time consuming when you are travelling. Make someone very happy by organising their trav-min with a chic travel wallet. Smythson has a great range of styles to suit men and women alike from £175/approx. $260. As 33-year old London-based lawyer Emily says, "When you're travelling it's essential to have everything in one place." Visit smythson.com for more information.

7. VIP Lounge Membership

It won't breakdown, works in airports across the world and helps you escape the chaos of delays, cancellations and crowded departure floors no matter which airline you fly with and in what class of travel. For a frequent traveller VIP lounge membership makes a fantastic gift. Simbad, an iloho user in Hong Kong says: "Having lounge membership makes business travel much easier. I am on the road a lot with my job, and knowing that wherever I go I can always connect to WiFi, eat and drink at no extra cost and relax in peace and quiet before my flight is both practical and reassuring." There are several VIP lounge programmes you can register with; one of the most popular is Priority Pass, which gives members access to 500 lounges in 90 countries worldwide and costs from $79/£55 per year. For more information click here.

8. Luxury travel pillow

For travellers who have problems sleeping on planes, trains or in hotel rooms a duck or goose down travel pillow will make a fantastic gift. There are a myriad of shapes and sizes, but this lightweight goose down travel pillow (from $24) compacts to a mere 5" X 7.5". For travellers looking for more support, the memory foam Komfort Kollar ($59.85/£40) is an excellent choice. Designed by a leading spinal surgeon the collar supports the head, neck and spine from every angle. Emma, 25, a frequent traveller from Macau says, "A good quality travel pillow is invaluable. When my flight is delayed and on long journeys my duck down pillow is worth its weight in gold."

9. Games Set

Don't know a Wii from a PS3? Don't worry. What better way to while away a couple of hours of travel downtime than with a classic chess or backgammon set? Pickett, British luxury goods supplier, makes a great travel-friendly backgammon and chess set in leather with magnetic pigskin pieces (£399/$593). The company offers a bespoke service too so your backgammon / chess board can be customised to your exact specifications. Click here for more information.

10. Quintessentially Membership

What better present for the discerning jetsetter in your life than a whatever / wherever concierge service that's accessible 24 hours a day, 365 days a year? The Quintessentially team is on hand for everything from solving pressing practical problems – such as organising a rescue mission for a member in a snowed under ski chalet – to making dinner reservations to booking and advising on incredible travel experiences, like an Indiana Jones-style adventure in Jordan, visiting the Cairo Museum afterhours with a leading Egyptologist, and touring the wine yards of Mendoza, Argentina in a classic rally car. The headaches involved in organising overseas business meetings, perfecting a romantic getaway and keeping everyone on a family holiday happy will become a thing of the past. For more information and membership costs in your region click here.

For tips on shopping around the world click here. To join iloho's group "Shopaholics of the World Unite" click here.

Air Asia X plans UK flights

emma.t@iloho.com (Emma) — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 18:53:00 GMT

Great news for travel lovers in the UK and Asia suffering from the credit crunch; Air Asia X, the Malaysian long-haul low-cost carrier, has confirmed that it plans to start flights between the UK and it's Kuala Lumpur hub in early 2009.

According to ABTN, Tim Claydon, the airline's commercial adviser, made the statement at the World Travel Market in London and said an official announcement will be made in the coming weeks.

He added: "We have said we will be coming into the UK by early 2009."

The carrier is expected to fly to either Manchester or Stansted.

Air Asia flies from Kuala Lumpur across Asia, to destinations including Bangkok, Langkawi, Siem Reap, Hong Kong and Hanoi. The carrier also flies from KL to Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth in Australia.

To search for flights between the UK and Kuala Lumpur click here.

Photo by Christophe RAMOS via Flickr (Creative Commons).

Mandarin Oriental to open in Atlanta, Georgia

emma.t@iloho.com (Emma) — Sat, 15 Nov 2008 01:17:00 GMT

The Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group has announced that it has signed a long-term agreement to manage a new luxury hotel and condo tower in Atlanta, Georgia. The project is scheduled to open in 2011.

The Mandarin Oriental, Atlanta and The Residences is set to be a 53-storey, 198 guestroom development in the heart of Atlanta's arts district. Once completed it will be one of the city's tallest structures, with a glass façade and views over Piedmont Park.

Edouard Ettedgui, Group Chief Executive of Mandarin Oriental, said: "Mandarin Oriental is delighted to have been selected by the owners and developers of this exciting project, and look forward to the opportunity of extending our luxury brand into one of America's fastest-growing cities."

Photo: Atlanta HDR Downtown Direction by Rick_Austin via Flickr (Creative Commons)

Looking for quality? Fly low-cost

emma.t@iloho.com (Emma) — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 22:41:00 GMT

If you're flying in the States over the holiday period go low-cost. America's budget carriers topped the rankings of U.S. airlines for being on-time and handling luggage. Bigger airlines such as American Airlines brought up the rear, according to a new study on airline quality.

Hawaiian Airlines was rated best (with 92%) in Wichita State University's report at being on-time for the January - June period. AirTran Airways triumphed at handling baggage, and Southwest Airlines had the fewest customer complaints, at one for every 300,000 customers.

American Airlines was the worst in on-time performance, at just 63%. United Airlines had the highest rate of customer complaints, seven times more than Southwest).

American Eagle was the worst baggage handler, mishandling luggage more than three times as often as AirTran.

Click here to read more report findings. For more information on airline ratings and to write your own flight review click here.

Photo: Hawaiian Airlines Kioea Boeing 767-3G5 by Cubbie_n_Vegas via Flickr (Creative Commons)