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Monday 5 September 2016

Destination Spotlight: Best Vacations for Wine Lovers


Thinking about taking a romantic get away or simply a wine enthusiast looking for great vacation ideas?  Altour has got you covered.  Check out this article to see where wine experts give their suggestions on some of the best lesser known wine tasting experiences in the world.  All of these experiences offer more than just wine – with many offering exceptional food and breathtaking scenery too.

Please contact contactus@altour.com to set up your next vacation, wherever it takes you!

Source Link: Destination Spotlight: Best Vacations for Wine Lovers




Thursday 1 September 2016

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



 Source Link: Just Got Back: Bahamas


Monday 22 August 2016

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.



Source Link: Just Got Back: Europe

Tuesday 16 August 2016

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!





Thursday 11 August 2016

Industry News: U.S. Airlines Approval to Havana, Cuba



The United States has recently lifted the ban on traveling to Cuba, making it easier for travelers to catch a glimpse of the beautiful island. The Obama Administration released a statement indicating which carriers will be able to fly from the US to Cuba’s colorful capital, Havana. The airlines are: Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta, Frontier, JetBlue, Southwest, Spirit and United Airlines. We think it’s a great time to take advantage of the low airfare and would be delighted to help you plan your next excursion to Cuba!

Book your next vacation with Altour-Travel Agency Los Angeles.for booking mail us at contactus@altour.com.

Source Link: Industry News-Just Got Back













Thursday 7 July 2016

Just Got Back: Hong Kong


Jenny Cook, Director Legal Travel Division (Corporate, Law Market) and Stefanie Behrens, Director of VIP Services, West Coast

Where did you Just Get Back from? Hong Kong

When were you in Hong Kong? April 2016

“Hong Kong is an exciting, vibrant, clean and easy to navigate busy city with breathtaking views! Hiking trails and islands add more to the destination than just being a stopover or shopping location. We were there to explore and to experience, and that we did!”

Words to describe what you felt when you first arrived: We were met by the Manager of Airport services for Ritz Carlton. Joe Ku has been with Ritz Carlton in Hong Kong for 25 years. Although we arrived at 6:00am after a 15 hour flight, we had opted to take the Airport Express to the hotel. Joe facilitated the process and even carried our luggage on board. The kindness and warm welcome will never be forgotten. Travel tip for Hong Kong: Make use of the Airport Express and the subways. They are clean, easy to use and all directions are in English!

Where did you stay? Ritz Carlton, Kowloon (incredible views from the top of the 118th floor); The Langham Hong Kong (central location with easy subway access- affordable luxury); Four Seasons (Contemporary luxury, beautiful spa, amazing unobstructed views, Four Seasons service)

With whom would you recommend staying at this hotel? Hong Kong has an abundance of hotel opportunities for everyone. Part of our exploration was spent taking the time to see the location, layout and uniqueness of a variety of properties. Hotels to be noted in addition to where we stayed- The Peninsula Hong Kong (Kowloon Island), The Mandarin Oriental (Hong Kong), Landmark (Hong Kong) and the Upper House (Hong Kong).

Tempt us- Name the most special place you discovered on this trip: Spring Deer Restaurant for authentic Peking Duck. The Big Buddha — Lantau Island for adventure to include 30 minute tram ride, plus 250 steps to the largest seated Bronze Buddha in the World. High Tea at the Peninsula Hotel. Sunset & drinks at the Upper House.

What’s the best time of year to go in your opinion? October — March, summer time is hot and humid. The good news is that many buildings are accessed through air-conditioned underground complexes.

If you’re interested in traveling to Hong Kong contact Jenny.Cook@ALTOUR.com & Stefanie.Behrens@ALTOUR.com and they’ll put together your perfect adventure.




Wednesday 22 June 2016

Just Got Back: Mexico


Mark Dorenfast, Corporate/Leisure Travel

Where did you Just Get Back from? Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

When were you in Cabo? April 2016

“This was my first time to Cabo and my expectations were quite varied. It was a pleasant surprise to discover how easy it was to drive myself around and how everything is mostly located off one main road. Each hotel is an oasis escape from the surrounding desert and mountains.”

Words to describe what you felt when you first arrived: After picking up the rental car at the airport and starting the drive towards the beach, I thought, “Oh God, why am I here?” As soon as I drove into the tunnel to Pedregal though, it all clicked and I was instantly in love.  It was like being greeted by close friends welcoming me to their home.

Where did you stay?
I stayed at the Resort at Pedregal, El Ganzo in San Jose Del Cabo, and One & Only Palmilla.

With whom would you recommend staying at these hotels? Each hotel had a different feel; Pedregal is great for couples, but they also have large villas for big families. El Ganzo has a younger, hipster vibe with really cool artwork and complimentary bikes to ride into town, which is great for people in their 20s-30s. Palmilla is romantic for couples and honeymooners, but has large enough grounds to keep any member of the whole family occupied.

Tempt us- Name the most special place you discovered on this trip: The spa at Pedregal was perfection. They offer a beverage upon arrival that changes with the lunar cycle, allow you to select from among five aromatherapy scents, and every treatment begins with a five minute foot massage using herbs and spices.  It was so comfortable, I could have spent hours here.

What’s the best time of year to go in your opinion? Whale watching season is considered the best time to visit, November through March. The weather in April was gorgeous.

Anything else to add? 

On this trip, I was able to visit a number of other properties, each beautiful and unique.

Esperanza has an amazing new room product, like entering a luxe magazine.
Las Ventanas has outrageously large beachfront villas and some rooms offer the opportunity to sleep outside, under the stars.

The Cape is very trendy and feels like West Hollywood in Mexico. The whole hotel has great ocean views of the famous Arch.

Mar Adentro opens in October and is one to watch. It was one of the most stunningly modern places I have ever seen.

If you’re interested in traveling to Cabo San Lucas contact Mark at Mark.Dorenfast@altour.com or 310-571-6077.








Source Link: Altour American Express