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: Puerto Rico

 

Jill Young, Europe and the Caribbean travel consultant at The Travel Authority

Where did you Just Get Back from? Puerto Rico

When were you in Puerto Rico? April 2016

Words to describe what you felt when you first arrived:  Fascinated—I was interested in exploring how the U.S. territory is similar and dissimilar to my corner of mainland USA.

Where did you stay?  The Caribe Hilton, a 3-star hotel in the heart of San Juan. Built in 1949, this was the first Hilton in the Caribbean, and it’s widely believed the lobby bar at this property was the birthplace of the Piña Colada. The hotel has undergone major renovations since, giving it a modern feel.

With whom would you recommend staying at this hotel / resort? This is a good property for singles, couples, and families who aren’t looking for the finest accommodations, but would like a nice, clean, comfortable, and safe base from which to explore San Juan and the rest of Puerto Rico. There is a small protected beach here that is ideal for children and weak swimmers, as well as a great pool area. From this hotel, excursions to El Yunque rainforest, Old San Juan, and Bioluminescent Bay are easily-arranged.Read Full Blog

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Just Got Back: Costa Rica

Words to describe what you felt when you first arrived: When I first arrived in Costa Rica, and for the majority of the time thereafter I was simply astonished by the beautiful wilderness and diverse wildlife that surrounded me.Read More

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Just Got Back: Bahamas

 

Erica Neher, Leisure Travel

Where did you Just Get Back from? The Bahamas

When were you in the Bahamas? June 2016

Words to describe what you felt when you first arrived: Upon first arrival in the Bahamas, there was a real charming colonial feel with a refreshing modern beach-chic vibe.

Where did you stay? One & Only Ocean Club

With whom would you recommend staying at this hotel? I believe that this hotel really has something for everyone here – it would be a great place for couples, families and even multi-generational families to get together and enjoy the best of what the Bahamas have to offer.

Tempt us- Name the most special place you discovered on this trip: The Cloister at One & Only; this garden of French ruins and statues was gifted to Mr. Hartford, disassembled in France and rebuilt on the grounds of the Ocean Club. Tucked away behind the adult’s pool… almost as a surprise when you arrive. Stunning! Great area for a wedding or event on the property!

What’s the best time of year to go in your opinion? In my opinion, the best time to visit here is May through July when the water is warm and before it gets too humid.

If you’re interested in traveling to Bahamas,then book your trip with Altour - Travel Agency Los Angeles.For booking contact Erica at Erica.Neher@ALTOUR.com

 

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Just Got Back: Europe

Rosie Agbulos, Corporate Travel

Where did you Just Get Back from? Lusanne Geneva, Bern Switzerland , Annecy France , Bilbao Spain, San Sebastian Spain and St Jean De Luz France

When were you in Europe?June 2016

Words to describe what you felt when you first arrived: We took a tour to Annecy France, south of Geneva, which is their little Venice in France. It was so beautiful and we couldn’t wait to see everything!

Where did you stay? 

• Geneva- Le Richemond Hotel
• Bilbao- Melia Bilbao
• We also enjoyed dinner and a hotel tour at the Hotel D Angleterre in Geneva. They have a great safari themed bar ( Leopard bar ) and safari themed rooms as well.
• Also note, The rooms at both Le Richemond and Melia were large rooms by European standard. Modern but not too much, and still homey!

With whom would you recommend staying at these hotels? Both hotels are good for corporate or leisure travelers and centrally located. In Geneva, Le Richemond is across from Lake Geneva, and within walking distance to tours, local buses and train stations. In Bilbao, Melia is across the street from the river and within walking distance to the Guggenheim museum. Both hotels offered a buffet breakfast.

Tempt us- Name the most special place you discovered on this trip: In Switzerland, we had a Swiss rail pass and took the train to both Lusanne and Bern. Bern is such a special place both for sightseeing and shopping. We then took a tour to Annecy France for the day, their version of Venice, which was so beautiful.In Bilbao Spain, we drove an hour away to San Sebastian – a beautiful coastal town with an abundance of shopping and food. From San Sebastian, 30 minutes away is St Jean de Luz on the border of France in Basque country- similar to San Sebastian. So much shopping, such great food and so little time.

Name the most special place you discovered on this trip (e.g.: restaurant, shop, beach, architectural interest, spa etc) I loved San Sebastian for the beautiful coast. It’s an old town with fabulous shopping and delicious food.

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

If you’re interested in traveling to Europe,then book your trip with Altour - New York Travel Agency.For booking contact Rosie at rosie.agbulos@altour.com.

 

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Just Got Back: New Zealand

Lee Thomas, EVP ALTOUR, President of The Travel Authority

Where did you Just Get Back from? Queenstown, New Zealand

When were you in New Zealand? May 2016

Words to describe what you felt when you first arrived: When I first landed it almost felt like I just landed in a vibrant ski town that was full of life and excitement.

Where did you stay? Sofitel Queenstown Hotel

With whom would you recommend staying at this hotel? I would say that this hotel is best suited for people who love the outdoors. It had a great atmosphere that would be great for couples, and both small families and larger extended family. A very friendly, welcoming, & outdoorsy atmosphere that is sure to please all guests.

Tempt us- Name the most special place you discovered on this trip: One of my favorite activities that I was able to participate in during this trip had to be bungee jumping off the Kawarau Bridge, which is known as the world’s first bungee jump! They are also the only place in Queenstown that will allow you to do a tandem bungee jump — if you bring a partner that’s brave enough.

What’s the best time of year to go in your opinion? It really depends on what you are most interested in as they have all 4 seasons. I was there in May and the ski resorts were scheduled to be open soon. Mornings were chilly and the afternoons cool. I would suggest a little earlier in the year for water lovers.

Book your next New Zealand trip with Altour - Travel Companies Nyc.send us an email at contactus@altour.com and we’ll put you in touch with one of our travel experts!

 

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