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Traveling Solo? How to be Safe When Traveling Alone

by Tammy Levent
written by Tammy Levent

elite travel groupThinking about traveling Solo? More and more people are deciding to travel solo nowadays. There are many different reasons why someone would book a solo trip, with a few of the more popular reasons being they can follow their own schedule, they don’t have to wait for anyone else, they can travel at their own pace and they can spend as much time as they want to in any particular location.

How to be Safe When Traveling Alone

Solo travelers need to understand how to be safe when traveling alone. While it’s unfortunate that there is a need for solo travelers to take special precautions, it’s necessary in today’s world. Travelers who choose to go it alone must recognize how they can prevent problems from happening in the first place, which requires them to always be very aware of their surroundings. If problems do happen to arise during their travels, then they need to have the knowledge and skills necessary to safely handle the problem.

A Few Traveling Solo Safety Tips

The following is a list of some beneficial safety tips for those who choose to travel alone.

 

  • Thoroughly research the area before taking the trip. Safe solo traveling starts before leaving one’s house. This makes it necessary for solo travelers to perform a lot of research on the area their traveling to, as well as nearby areas. Checking the latest news articles is a good idea, as this can get a lot of details on what’s happening in the area.
  • Always keep your valuables on your person when traveling from one place to another. The best place to keep valuables when traveling solo includes using a money belt, backpack, fanny pack and/or in one’s bra.
  • Don’t be too quick to give someone your trust. Just because someone is ‘nice’ doesn’t mean that they are trustworthy.
  • Try not to make yourself stand out too much, as this increases your chances of becoming a target. Criminals know how to spot an easy target, so don’t make yourself one. Wear modest clothing, simple jewelry and don’t count your money in public.
  • Buy travel insurance before you go. Travel insurance is a necessary expense as it gives you peace of mind.
  • Register with your government when traveling for two weeks or more. Registering as a citizen who is traveling solo and abroad for at least two weeks with the government is always a good idea, just in case.

Elite Travel Management Group, Inc

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Argentario: Italy’s Hidden Gem

by Tammy Levent
written by Tammy Levent

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Considering taking your next vacation in Italy? Italy has a lot to offer travelers! The friendly people, the gorgeous countryside, the fantastic array of delicious food options, the cobbled walkways, the history, the architecture, the plazas, the museum’s and the church’s are just some of the allure that makes Italy a top vacation spot.

Argentario Italy’s Hidden Gem

Monte Argentario is located in Tuscany and is one of Italy’s most exciting hidden gems! While it used to be an island, it’s now connected to the mainland via sand bars. Visitors will not only enjoy exploring the seaside as well as mountainside opportunities, they will also enjoy the inclusiveness and privacy this hidden getaway in Italy offers. Nearby islands include Giannutri and Giglio, allowing for a fun and exciting day of island hopping.

Additional things to do and explore here include visiting the lagoons, golfing by the sea, taking a walk through the village, shopping in high-end boutiques, enjoying cheese and wine tasting opportunities at local farms, signing up for relaxing massages, going on a boat tour, visiting the 17th century Spanish Fortress, renting a canoe to explore the coastline, going swimming or diving in the crystal clear blue waters, going mountain bike riding, visiting the nature reserve, and participating in one of the many local events that take place here, i.e. parades, firework shows, treasure hunts.

Popular destinations include Porto Ercole, Porto Santo Stefano and Cala Piccola. Popular attractions include Cala Mar Morto, Riva del Marchese and Cala del Gesso. Popular restaurants include the Sandwich Club, La Vivienda and Gourmet Con Gusto. July and August are busy months, as there are lots of festivities and events taking place during this time. Fall and spring are the best times for vacationers who are looking for a little more privacy to visit this hidden gem.

Is Monte Argentario the Next Positano?

Monte Argentario can be compared to the vertical town of Positano. This well-known and popular city in Italy was formed in the 19th century and became even more famous in the 18th century when it developed into a major port and trading hub. The beach in Positano is absolutely spectacular and one of the largest located on the Amalfi Coast. Once road construction made it easier to access the Amalfi Coast, these beaches have become a popular vacation spot amongst all types of vacationers, including famous artists, actors and celebrities.

The many similarities between Positano and Monte Argentario has many people wondering if Monte Argentario is the next Positano. What do you think?

Elite Travel Management Group, Inc

 

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Villa Esperanza in Costa Rica

by Tammy Levent
written by Tammy Levent

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Getting ready to plan your next vacation in beautiful Central America? Costa Rica offers some of the most beautiful scenery to behold in the Americas, as well as some of the most luxurious accommodations. While many vacationers do opt to stay in a luxury hotel when visiting Costa Rica, there are just as many vacationers who prefer their accommodations to take place in a private luxury home.

Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a popular vacation destination, and for all types of travelers. It offers the ability for visitors to explore two different oceans, hike through massive green and very lush jungles, enjoy seeing a variety of wildlife that exists here and even climb an active volcano. Costa Rica is simply a destination for anyone who appreciates taking part in and exploring the many types of outside adventure opportunities available here, whether it be a solo traveler, a newlywed couple, a family or an entire group.

Villa Esperanza

Villa Esperanza is a private luxury rental home that offers some of the most beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean. This Spanish colonial style villa has a total of four bedrooms and five bathrooms, which provides accommodations for up to ten people. The three different levels means there’s easily more than enough space for everyone to relax and enjoy their Costa Rican experience. While there is more than 5500 square feet of living space available, the design of the house allows the space to feel cozy and comfortable, especially the kitchen and nearby lounging area.

This beachfront home not only overlooks the ocean, it also includes a pool and pool area for lounging. There’s plenty of backyard privacy as palm trees surround the villa, which makes it’s easy to spend the entire day out by the pool swimming in the cool blue waters while soaking up the sun. There are two dining areas outside, and shaded terraces that allow for fantastic views of the ocean all day long.

For those who are considering visiting Costa Rica, if you’re looking for private luxury accommodations that are somewhat off the beaten path, Villa Esperanza is the place for you. It simply offers the perfect combination between modern conveniences and old world charm, which is responsible for its great allure.

With advance notice, travelers can have access to a private chef, daily maid service, a personal driver, and the ability to book tours for all to enjoy the beauty of the island.

Elite Travel Management Group, Inc

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A Day at Torciano Winery

by Tammy Levent
written by Tammy Levent

elite travel groupTraveling to Italy? Taking time to visit the Torciano Winery is a must for those who appreciate luxury wines. This Italian winery offers visitors a welcoming place where they can enjoy all things wine, while relaxing and enjoying the extraordinary views.

Torciano Winery

The Torciano Winery was founded in 1720 and is now in its 13th generation of wine producing. The warm hospitality found here is like no other, as the focus of the winery is on celebrating both their style and heritage. Pierluigi Giachi, owner of Tenuta Torciano Winery, places a lot of attention on creating an Italian experience for those who visit his winery that is simply like no other. One of his many goals is to help travelers understand how to pair the right food with the right wine, which simply makes every dining experience all that much more enjoyable.

Wine lovers will enjoy the variety of both red Italian wines and white Italian wines available here, as well as additional wine options, like sparkling wines and dessert wines. Visitors will also get to learn proper glass etiquette, a skill that will take them far in their wine tasting adventures. Because the Torciano Winery has such an impressive history and is able to offer visitors so many options, this is a winery that needs to be on everyone’s travel bucket list.

The following are just some of the options available when visiting Torciano Winery. Making reservations is recommended due to their popularity.

 

  • Lunch in the actual winery, includes tasting
  • Dinner in the actual winery, includes tasting
  • Truffle hunting, includes lunch and tasting
  • Tour the vineyard, includes tasting in winery
  • Cooking classes, includes tasting in winery

 

For those who love wine and are looking for one of the most romantic and scenic venues located in Italy to get married, know that the team at Torciano Winery will take care of all the details. Newlyweds can also expect romance with every dining experience, as a romantic dinner in the winery includes wine tasting and much more.

For those who enjoy a luxury wine vacation, the option to take a full tour of the winery via a private helicopter is available. This truly incredible journey allows visitors to explore the Tuscany area from above, making for incredible lifetime memories.

For those who are interested in getting a group of friends together to take a vacation based on all things wine, there is simply no other winery that can offer them the warm hospitality offered here, which all stems from the Giachi family’s passion for their Italian heritage.

For visiting families, know that there are fun activities that make visiting the winery exciting for the whole family, including mini bowling and archery.

Elite Travel Management Group, Inc

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Casa Madrona in San Francisco: A Hidden Gem

by Tammy Levent
written by Tammy Levent

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Enjoying panoramic harbor views is just one of the many highlights of the San Francisco area, and that’s exactly what every traveler can expect when staying at the Casa Madrona. This luxury hotel is a true hidden gem as it overlooks the San Francisco Bay, which is listed as a landmark hotel on the National Register of Historic Places.

Casa Madrona in San Francisco

The Casa Madrona is a simple yet extravagant hotel that offers guests luxury rooms. The wide variety of rooms available all offer their own special and unique accommodations.

  • Hillside Guest House – guests can take pleasure in viewing the San Francisco skyline from this apartment-style room
  • Hillside Cottage Suite – gorgeous views can be enjoyed from this large cottage-style suite
  • Hillside Cottage w/Balcony – guests can enjoy the views while sitting on the balcony
  • Hillside Cottage – guests can appreciate spectacular views from this sophisticated cottage-style room
  • Hillside Cottage w/Partial View – a spacious, contemporary, quiet room that offers still spectacular partial views of the bay
  • Mansion Suite – a luxury room with fireplace that includes a balcony overlooking Richardson Bay and the San Francisco skyline
  • Mansion Deluxe – a small, classic Victorian-style that offers great views of the Sausalito Bay and Richardson Bay
  • Mansion Junior Suite – beautiful views of the bay can be seen from this Victorian-style suite
  • Alexandrite Suite – extraordinary panoramic views of the bay, with private outdoor decks, a chef’s kitchen and a media wall
  • Harbor Side Courtyard – this apartment-style room offers magnificent panoramic views of the day
  • Deluxe Harbor Side View – some of the absolute best views of the bay can be seen from this contemporary, luxury room
  • Wellness Rooms – offers guests a wellness experience that will nurture the mind and body
  • ADA Accessible Room – ADA rooms are available

Dining at the Poggio Trattoria is a must for guests who enjoy authentic Italian cuisine. Making reservations is recommended. The restaurant specializes in Italian comfort food, all with roots from the Northern Italy area. Fresh ingredients are a focus, and the garden growing right behind the restaurant makes for the freshest meals. Private dining rooms can accommodate up to 150 people, and the option to create a personalized menu is available. Some of their specialties are listed below.

  • Breakfast – Liege Waffles, Frittatas, Fresh Berries, Cappuccinos
  • Lunch – Wood Fired Pizza, Grilled Whole Mediterranean Seabass, House-made Sausage
  • Dinner – Local Dungeness Crab, Short Rib Filled Pasta, Braised Pork Ragu

Nearby Attractions

Popular nearby attractions include:

  • Napa Valley
  • Sonoma Valley
  • Muir Woods
  • Local Boutique Shops
  • The Golden Gate Bridge
  • Fisherman’s Wharf
  • Haight Ashbury

Elite Travel Management Group, Inc

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Prana by Atzaro Luxury Yacht

by Tammy Levent
written by Tammy Levent

elite travel groupPrana by Atzaro is a brand well-known for providing travelers with the luxurious hospitality they’re looking for when traveling the world. Their overall authentic style is easily one that all travelers will appreciate, as they offer a variety of luxury-based ventures that make for quite the unique experiences. Some of the more popular ventures they offer include wellness retreats, treks to volcanic islands, sailing through Indonesian islands, and luxury yacht sailing. Ready to sail in luxurious style?

Prana by Atzaro Luxury Yacht

Luxury yacht sailing aka luxury Phinisi sailing is a deluxe way to sail the paradise seas of Indonesia. Their handcrafted traditional Indonesian Phinisi is built entirely of iron wood and teak and has two mighty masts for sailing through the open seas. This extravagant yacht sailing opportunity is perfect for a small group looking for a once in a life time experience exploring the seas.

Indonesian Phinisi sails all year round, with the destinations depending on the season. The itinerary can even be personalized when a full charter is booked, making for a truly unique sea sailing venture. Views to be had include virgin coral reefs, exquisite beaches, and untouched nature in the Komodo islands. Sailing through the more than 1500 islands of Raja Ampat is one of the more popular destination choices.

Plenty of space means plenty of comfort for all, and the Indonesian Phinisi can comfortably accommodate up to 9 guests. Everyone will enjoy their own private room, which are completely sound proof for everyone’s quiet sailing enjoyment. Both indoor and outdoor lounging decks are available and include oversized daybeds, a favorite pastime.

Guests can partake in a variety of fun and exciting water sports, including water skiing. Exploring unseen areas via sea kayaks and paddle boards is a must and makes for wonderful memories that’ll easily last a lifetime. Guests can even learn how to snorkel and scuba dive from Prana´s resident dive instructor.

The dining area is very impressive and includes a fully stocked bar, allowing guests the chance to enjoy sipping exotic cocktails while relaxing on the deck, enjoying the spectacular ocean views. The chef and on-board kitchen team cook with passion, always offering guests the most exquisite local foods, all based on Asian and Mediterranean cuisine.

Additional offerings include a luxury spa and a yoga deck that turns into an open-air cinema, perfect for a little fun nighttime entertainment.

Elite Travel Management Group, Inc

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Why it’s Important to Take an Annual Vacation

by Tammy Levent
written by Tammy Levent

Why it’s Important to Take an Annual Vacation

When’s the last time you took a vacation? While many people tend to think that taking an annual vacation is a luxury, taking a break from one’s normal routine is actually recommended for a well-balanced life. Just like choosing the right foods to eat and exercising on a regular basis, taking a vacation every single year should be on everyone’s list of things to do as it can help them live a truly happy and healthy life.

January 30th is National Plan a Vacation Day, a great reminder for those who work hard all year long that it’s time to plan a vacation!

Reasons why it’s important for everyone to take regular vacations

Remember how exciting it was to have some time off when going to grade school, high school, college? Not only did you get the entire summer off, there were also many breaks when you didn’t have to attend school, i.e. spring break, Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas. But once you get started on your new career path, this tends to change. It’s now easy for you to get caught up in your workload, which is one of the reasons why many workers will put off taking a vacation, because they don’t want to fall behind or lose their competitive edge.

Even so, the many benefits that come with taking an annual vacation are not to be missed and for that reason should be a part of everyone’s yearly calendar of things to do. The following is a list of the top reasons why it’s important for everyone to add taking regular vacations to their calendar.

 

  • Vacations are good for your health and well-being. Everyone needs a break from the pressures of everyday life. A vacation allows for the resting and relaxation, giving your body the ability improve and mend itself for better overall health.

 

  • Vacations improve relationships. Vacations are the perfect time for bonding! Whether it’s a couple or a family, doing fun and exciting things together while on vacation supports togetherness and therefore is invaluable.

 

  • Vacations allow for a refocus. Studies show that when someone is so involved with their work that they don’t make time for much of anything else, they will often experience memory problems and focusing problems. Taking an annual vacation allows them to refocus so they can return to work more energized.

 

  • Vacations make you happier. Vacations are a time for fun and relaxation, which means no stress and no worries. When there’s nothing to stress or worry about it’s hard to be anything else than happy.

Elite Travel Management Group, Inc

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Summertime Skiing

by Tammy Levent
written by Tammy Levent

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How does summertime skiing sound? If you’re someone who enjoys the cooler months more than the warmer months, then taking a ski trip during the summertime is definitely worth your time looking further into. There are quite a few summer skiing destinations for you to choose from, which means you’re sure to find a destination that is just right for you.

Summertime Skiing Destinations

The following is a list of some of the best summertime skiing destinations, which are becoming more popular nowadays as more and more people are looking for cooler vacation options to take during the summertime.

 

  • Treble Cone in Wanaka, New Zealand – This summertime ski area is a great choice for intermediate skiers and expert skiers. It opens the end of June and allows skiers some of the best skiing slopes as well as access to some of the most gorgeous wintertime scenery.
  • New South Wales, Australia – This Australian ski resort is located in the Kosciuszko National Park and includes four different areas for skiing, making it one of the biggest ski resorts located in the southern hemisphere. Other options besides skiing include snowboarding, snow tubing, and tobogganing.
  • The Chilean Andes, South America – Ski Portillo offers over 1000 acres of skiing trails in a very remote location, and is a great choice for families or newbie skiers. While the skiing trails are indeed the main reason while people choose this summertime ski resort, a close second is to enjoy the absolutely spectacular scenery.
  • Kaprun, Austria – This year round ski resort is a great choice for intermediate and expert skiers. Lots of run choices and a total of eight jumps easily allure summertime skiers, making this a skiing resort that should be on everyone’s bucket list.
  • Zermatt in Switzerland – The Matterhorn is one of the most well-known peaks and is located very near Zermatt. This is not only the largest summer ski area in Europe, it accommodates all types of skiers, from beginners to experts.
  • Blackcomb Mountain, British Columbia, Canada – Even though this popular ski resort is only open from mid-June to mid-July, millions of people choose this summertime skiing destination due to the fantastic snow runs and excellent temperatures.
  • The Timberline Lodge, Mount Hood, Oregon – This United States based summertime skiing option is popular as it’s the only ski resort in the United States that offers year round skiing. Both intermediate skiers and expert skiers will enjoy skiing down Mount Hood, which is a volcano located within the Cascade Range.

Elite Travel Management Group, Inc

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Most Unusual Experiences When Visiting New York City

by Tammy Levent
written by Tammy Levent

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Currently planning your next trip to the Big Apple? How exciting! New York City is one of the top tourist destinations in the entire world as there are so many things to see and do in this concrete jungle. Since you’ve previously vacationed in New York City, you’ve already seen some of the more popular New York City attractions – Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, Times Square, Central Park. Now you’re looking to experience some of the more unusual experiences that the City that Never Sleeps has to offer.

Most Unusual Experiences

The following is a list of some of the more unusual experiences vacationers can choose to partake in when visiting New York City.

 

  • Comedy Clubs. Instead of attending some of the more popular comedy clubs in New York City, attend an improvisational theater, i.e. Upright Citizens Brigade.
  • Roosevelt Hotel. Enjoy drinking cocktails on the Roosevelt Hotel rooftop (only available during the summer months).
  • Kayak Down the Hudson River.
  • Mixology Class. Take a mixology class at Apotheke, where you get to create your own version of your favorite alcoholic drink.
  • Visit Off the Main Path Museums. Visit the National Museum of the American Indian, a very interesting and completely free museum.
  • Manhattan Forest. Instead of visiting Central Park, head uptown to visit the oldest forest in Manhattan. Specifically Inwood Hill Park, which is home to the oldest forest and salt marsh located in the city of Manhattan.
  • Visit a European Monastery.
  • Chinatown, off the beaten path. Instead of visiting Chinatown by going down its main street, Canal Street, head down the secret alleyways that will lead you to additional Chinese shops. Here you’ll find everything from medicinal teas to professional massages to freshly made dim sum.
  • Manhattan Ski Resort. When there’s enough snow, head to Central Park’s Bethesda Fountain for some fun skiing, sledding or snowboarding adventures.
  • Walk Down the High Line While it’s Raining.
  • New Year’s Day. Join of thousands of people who jump into the Atlantic Ocean on New Year’s Day.
  • Jazz Age Festival. From June to August, people can dress up like a flapper and enjoy one of the most spectacular jazz festivals taking place today.
  • Take a Bus Ride. Plan for a day of hoping on and hoping off buses. You can either plan the day are keep it completely spontaneous.
  • Find the Hidden Door to Old New York.

Elite Travel Management Group, Inc

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Packing Light for Winter

by Tammy Levent
written by Tammy Levent


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Planning on traveling this winter? Looking for ways to NOT overpack when traveling during the colder winter weather months? Good idea. You definitely want to avoid lugging around heavy suitcases while traveling, and by learning a few simple tips for packing light in the wintertime you won’t have to. Since the winter months are right around the corner, now’s the time for you to understand how to pack for winter as it really does require a whole new packing approach.

Ready to learn some really great tips that will make packing in the wintertime a breeze?

How to Pack Lighter During Cold Months – A Few Tips

Packing appropriately for each and every trip is definitely an art. You don’t want to under pack as you want to be sure you bring everything you need, and you don’t want to over pack as this can make it difficult for you to find anything, and overpacked luggage is heavy! This makes it a fine line when it comes to packing the perfect suitcase.

When packing for wintertime travel, of course you’re going to need to pack clothes that are going to keep you warm, like sweaters, jackets, warm pants, scarves, etc. So what are a few things you can do to make packing when traveling during cold weather super simple?

Here’s a list of the best winter packing tips you can follow.

TIP: Wear your heaviest sweater and bulkiest coat when boarding your plane.

TIP: Put your jacket in your carry-on bag it the bag is large enough.

TIP: Wear one pair of weatherproof winter boots and bring two pairs of really warm socks.

TIP: Pack a neutral colored lightweight hat, 2 neutral colored scarves, and a pair of thin, neutral colored waterproof gloves. Neutral colors go with everything!

TIP: Pack thin items that can be layered, i.e. thin sweaters, thermal tops, thermal bottoms.

TIP: Pack 2 pairs of warm pants, one black pair and one neutral colored pair.

TIP: Use a compression bag to pack thick sweaters and jackets.

TIP: Invest in a quality, lightweight carry-on bag that offers lots of pockets for organizing.

TIP: Instead of packing pajamas, sleep in thermals.

TIP: Plan out your wardrobe be laying out all of your options on your bed so you can create at least 10 outfits by mixing and matching the same items.

Good to Know! When you board a plane, the further back you go the less likely you’ll have any overhead space to put your belongings.

Elite Travel Management Group, Inc

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