Just Got Back – Japan

Erica Neher – Leisure Travel Consultant
Email / Telephone Number

Erica.neher@altour.com / 516 714 0857

Where did you Just Get Back from?

Japan

When were you there?
 
March 2016

Provide a 1-3 liner highlighting your experience! 

The Japanese culture and rich history live on in perfect harmony with the modern, clean and efficient cities.

Words to describe what you felt when you first arrived:

Though the flight is long, once I stepped out of the plane a feeling of euphoria rushed through my veins. Like a kid on Christmas morning, I was ready to hit the ground running and explore this wonderful country.

Where did you stay?

Park Hotel – Tokyo – 1 night
Mandarin Oriental – Tokyo – 4 nights
Ritz-Carlton – Kyoto – 3 nights

With whom would you recommend staying at this hotel? 

Park Hotel Tokyo – The centric hotel is great for business and leisure travelers looking for a clean and reasonably priced hotel. The Tokyo Fish Market, one of the busiest markets in the world is just a mere 5 minute drive away.
Mandarin Oriental – Located in the posh shopping district of Ginza, the Mandarin Oriental is one of the best hotels in Tokyo. Its proximity to subway stations is perfect for travelers looking to wander around the city.
Ritz-Carlton Kyoto – A perfect mix between the Western and Japanese worlds, the Ritz is located on the banks of the Kamo River. Families, couples and business travelers looking to immerse themselves into the deep Japanese culture will enjoy this beautiful hotel.

Tempt us: Name the most special place you discovered on this trip:

The Tsukiji Fish Market is not to be missed when in Tokyo. The largest tuna fish auction in the world is well worth the early morning call of 3 am.
Geishas roam the crooked streets of the Gion District lined with Ryokans, traditional Japanese guest houses. Kyoto’s shrines, temples and gardens all contribute to its cultural charm and are not to be missed. A hole in the wall ramen place always hits the spot after a long day of sightseeing. Miyoshi is the perfect place to enjoy a delicious sample of the local cuisine.

What’s the best time of year to go in your opinion?

Early March through June are the best times to visit Japan. The incredible Cherry Blossom is one of nature’s most beautiful displays. Though it gets quite busy during “Sakura,” you might be able to miss the crowds by going in early spring and might even catch a Sumo match.

Anything else to add?

If exploring Asia is on your list, Japan is the perfect place to start. While some Asian cities can be intimidating for first timers, Tokyo and Kyoto are fairly easy to navigate. The people were helpful and warm and the cultural sights really captivate you to learn more.

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Just Got Back: New Zealand

Carolyn Gorski, Corporate & Leisure Travel Agent

Where did you Just Get Back from? New Zealand – South Island

When were you in New Zealand? November 2016

Provide a 1-3 liner highlighting your experience: New Zealand is a country filled with breathtaking scenery, fresh air, and warm communities. It is also a place with more sheep than people! There is an outlet for every kind of traveler- adventure, fishing, cruises, hiking, foodies, and of course the wine!

Words to describe what you felt when you first arrived: Excited & joyous but at the same time concerned & nervous. The day we landed was the morning after the earthquake struck in the South Island.  The following day, we were supposed to drive through Kaikoura, the epicenter of the quake. Trent, from The Exclusive Travel Group, saved the day by re-coordinating our schedule to completely bypass the areas that were affected by the quake.

Where did you stay?

The Scenic Hotel – Auckland

Hotel Montreal – Christchurch

The Classic Villa – Christchurch

Eichardt’s Private Hotel – Queenstown

Dock Bay Lodge – Te Anau

Real Journeys Overnight Cruise – Doubtful Sound

The Spire – Queenstown

With whom would you recommend staying at this hotel / resort? 

The Scenic Hotel has a small kitchen, which is best suited for long stay travelers.
Hotel Montreal is great for couples and families- on a nice day you can play croquet on their greenery.

The Classic Villa is a boutique hotel with a warm feel as if you are a local- best suited for couples.

Eichardt’s has a friendly & sophisticated atmosphere with a great location for the outdoorsy travelers.

Dock Bay Lodge is perfect for more relaxed travelers and people making their way to Milford or Doubtful Sound. They prefer a quiet atmosphere with no young children.

Real Journeys Overnight Cruise is an amazing cruise that caters to couples, multi-generational families, and independent travelers. Amazing buffet dinner!
The Spire is a sister property to Eichardt’s, but a bit more modern.  Also- wonderful tub!

 

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Just Got Back: New Zealand

 

Mark Dorenfast, Corporate & Leisure Travel Agent

Where did you Just Get Back from? The North Island of New Zealand

When were you in New Zealand? November 2016

Provide a 1-3 liner highlighting your experience:The North Island of New Zealand greatly exceeded my (already inflated) expectations. It was more beautiful than I could have imagined with more activities and places to see than time would allow for.

I felt so welcomed everywhere I went that each place was like visiting close family.

Words to describe what you felt when you first arrived: After a 12 hour flight, I wanted to hit the ground running and go Go GO! As soon as I settled in for a morning coffee and fresh croissant overlooking the sunny, turquoise waters on Waiheke Island, that urgency all went away, and I immediately began to relax.

Where did you stay? I was constantly on the move and spent nights in Waiheke, Auckland, Tauranga, Rotorua, and Taupo.

Each accommodation was completely unique and totally immersed in its surroundings.

Delamore Lodge is inviting and chic, sitting on a bluff overlooking the ocean and neighboring vineyards.

The Sofitel Auckland is great for the sophisticated traveler in an amazing location in the Marina surrounded by fantastic dining options.

At Wildwood Lodge, you’ll fall as much in love with the natural wonders of Rotorua as you will with Cath and Simon, the owners.

The rooms at Solitaire Lodge have gorgeous views of the lake where you can boat, fish, kayak, and hike.

You can get lost in the woods for hours at Treetops (as I did) running into deer and goats before enjoying an exquisite dining experience.

Acacia Cliffs nestled above the enormous Lake Taupo is the perfect place to base yourself for days of water activities and heli-hiking.

With whom would you recommend staying at this hotel/resort? This type of trip would be wonderful for honeymooners, couples on a long holiday, and small groups of family or friends.Many of the accommodations are very small (4-7 rooms) and not appropriate for young children unless renting the entire property.

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Just Got Back: Cuba

 

Marjorie Agriss, Luxury Leisure Travel Agent

Where did you Just Get Back from? Cuba

When were you in Cuba? October 2016

Words to describe what you felt when you first arrived:  Thrilled – I was so excited just to be there!

Provide 1-3 sentences that highlight your experience: Havana could be any city in Spain or Southern Europe. Similar buildings, churches and squares. The smaller towns are moderately interesting. The highlight is the people who are fantastic. There is a reason the government insists on a people-to-people visa.

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