TRAVEL OFTEN.LIVE WELL TRAVEL MAGAZINEEYES OF ITS PEOPLE COME ALONG ON THE JOURNEY at DRIFTTRAVEL.COM A PHOTOGRAPHIC JOURNEY THROUGH INDIASOUTH AFRICA ROAD TRIPPIN’ THE GARDEN ROUTETAH’A, TAHITI VACATION OF A LIFETIMEESTORIL, PORTUGAL LUXURY HEALTH AND WELLNESS TRAVELBC’S SPARKLING HILL A ROMANTIC RECHARGE FOR TWOSPRING 2018
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PUBLISHER GLOSSY MEDIA CREATIVE DIRECTOR STEVE DRAKE PRODUCTION/EDITORIAL ERIC HIMEL, IAN PEDERSEN, RUSS WALSH, ERIN CEBULA, TODD TALBOT, JULIE LEVENTHAL, SYLVIA TENNANT. ALLISON LETHERBARROW, KARA LATTA, PAUL JOSEPH, STEFANIE NISSEN, BIANCA MARTINEZ, PAOLA ARENCIBIA CREATIVE | PHOTOGRAPHY ERIN CEBULA, THE MOORING, TODD TALBOT, SOPHIE MERRELL, JULIE LEVENTHAL, SYLVIA TENNANT, ALLISON LETHERBARROW, DOLPHIN POINTS VILLS, TRVL PORTER, PALACIO ESTORIL HOTEL, BOOKING. COM, ADOBE STOCK, SPARKLING HILL RESORT, PEAK DESIGN. DANNER, BARRIER METHOD ADVERTISING & PUBLISHING RIGHTS INQUIRIES [email protected] | www.DRIFTtravel.com Published by: Glossy Media All rights reserved. No part of DRIFT magazine may be copied or reproduced without permission. © COPYRIGHT DRIFT TRAVEL MAGAZINE GLOSSY MEDIA 2015-20184 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM
INSIDE this issue6 ERIC HIMEL’S STYLE 12TRAVEL GEAR Top 10 carry-on must packs A look at new travel products8 TAHA’S, TAHITI 14 SOUTH AFRICA Floating tropical dreams Road trippin’ with Erin CebulaTRAVEL OFTEN.LIVE WELL TRAVEL MAGAZINE 20 B.C’s SPARKLING HILL The Talbots romantic retreat 24 PEOPLE OF INDIA Sophie Merrell’s photographic journeyEYES OF ITS PEOPLE 36 THREE DAYS IN VAIL 56 PORTUGAL Leave your skiis at home Health & fitness travel A PHOTOGRAPHIC JOURNEY THROUGH INDIA 40 NOVA SCOTIA 60 LUXURY TRAVELSOUTH AFRICA Authentic maritime hospitality Private jets & more RAOD TRIPPIN’ THE GARDEN ROUTE COME ALONG ON THE JOURNEY at DRIFTTRAVEL.COMTAH’A, TAHITI VACATION OF A LIFETIMEESTORIL, PORTUGAL LUXURY HEALTH AND WELLNESS TRAVELBC’S SPARKLING HILL A ROMANTIC RECHARGE FOR TWOSPRING 2018SPRING 2018 46 NAXOS & AMORGOS 62 KEY LARGO, FLORIDA A Greek holiday on foot Dolphin Points VillaFrom Canada’s coasts andTahitian islands, to the roads of 50 LOS ANGELESSouth Africa and the streets of Shop like a celebrityIndia, DRIFT magazine s takingyou on the ultimate spring travelvacation. No passport required. TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 5
Eric Himel’s Soft Lightweight Scarf LIFE+STYLE Oversized, cashmere and paper BY: ERIC HIMEL thin, this multi-purpose piece doubles as both scarf and wrap for chilly restaurants and museums. FALIERO SARTISTYLISH SNEAKERS Rain SlickerDesigner sneakers are so These new crop of rain jacketsomnipresent today that you don’t are one part utilitarian, two partshave to sacrifice comfort over style and they fold neatly intostyle anymore. Choose a metallic your bag for easy accessibility.pair to up the chic quotient andwalk for hours, even up hills andcobblestone streets.TOD’SJersey Dress HUNTERThis material is forgiving forpacking, comfortable for wearingand versatile enough to go fromday to night.NORMA KAMALI ERIC HIMEL (erichimel.com) is a widely known celebrity stylist, fashion expert and media personality. Himel attended Parson’s School of Design and trained under Project Runway’s Tim Gunn. Now based in Los Angeles, Himel’s roster of celebrity clientele has included Jenny McCarthy, Giuliana Rancic, Pete Wentz, Gabby Douglas and more. Eric is best known for his signature Closet Purge™ and now offers Virtual Styling Sessions.6 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM
Polarized Aviators Statement Heels Aviators are universally flattering A block heeled statement shoe and add that extra cool factor to will be the only nighttime shoe any ensemble. Polarized is just you need seamlessly moving smart. between multiple outfits. TOM FORD PRADA2-in-1 Bag Sexy Comfort JeansA bag that doubles as a cross Stretch, cropped and mid-body by day and a clutch by rise, these jeans will have younight will optimize your packing covered in flats or heels withoutspace and simplify your options. stretching out after a long day’s adventure.VALENTINO J BRANDConvertible EarringsAn earring that converts into astud for day and a drop for night.Well isn’t that clever! TRAVELING WITH EQUIPMENTA CARRY-ON – 10 THINGS 70’s Inspired Blouse YOU MUST PACK Billowy like a cool breeze, this staple is the essence of casual vacation chic. TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 7
Yacht ChartersThe Vacation of a Lifetimeon the water in Taha’a, TahitiBY: IAN PEDERSEN 8 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM
hen people think of a dream vacation in the islands ofWFrench Polynesia,the island that is usually at the topof their list is Bora Bora. In realitythough, the archipelago consists ofseveral other islands worthy of everytraveler’s bucket list.Those that have the privilege ofundocking on a life-changing yachtcharter vacation in Tahiti with alocal skipper on board will be ableto discover the hidden treasuresand splendid beauty that reignssupreme throughout the crystal-clear waters of Taha’a. Here is whatan unforgettable Taha’a sailingadventure could look like for you: TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 9
On your first morning, go ashore On your next day in Taha’a, sailon Taha’a and tour one of the local to the northwest side of the islandvanilla plantations. The locals near Le Taha’a Island Resort &who own the small plantation are Spa. This resort has picture perfectextremely friendly. The vanilla bungalows on the water. You canplants bloom between July and anchor near the resort and take theOctober. One flower lives for only dinghy (a small inflatable rubbersix hours and all the blossoms must boat that comes with every yacht)be hand pollinated to produce the over to the coral reef garden andvanilla beans. experience world-class snorkelingThe plantation has a beautiful that you won’t forget soon. Therelittle shop where you can purchase is a current that will take you alonggourmet vanilla beans, vanilla- over the top of the coral reefs thatinfused coffee & sugar, and a are teeming with butterfly fish, eelsvariety of other unique products and other species that seem to beto take home from your travels. just as curious about you as you areThe store even accepts credit cards, of them.dollars and francs to cater to its A trip like this is something you willinternational guests. be talking about for the rest of yourNext sail to Apu Bay on Taha’a which life. While there are many otheris a great spot for an overnight Society Islands in French Polynesiaanchorage. After a quick lunch to discover and glide through onon board your private Moorings your Moorings catamaran, Taha’asailing catamaran go ashore to tour and its turquoise waters could justa family-owned black pearl farm become your favorite. You simplythat is over 20 years old. This farm have to see it to believe it.at Apu Bay produces 20,000 pearlsa year. It takes the oysters five years Experience Taha’a Tahiti and 20to deliver their first pearl and their other breathtaking destinationsaverage life expectancy is 20 years. worldwide on a yacht charterIn the evening, have a traditional vacation with The Moorings, toPolynesian dinner at the nearby learn more visit moorings.comFicus restaurant. You will be greetedwith a delicious cocktail and thenseated in a hut made entirely ofpalm trees. Live palm trees serve asthe pillars of the pavilion and palmleaves are used for the roof. Themeal will be prepared on layers ofcoals and then covered in bananaleaves. The food cooks for overfour hours before its big reveal.Everything is delicious, especiallythe tapioca style pudding dessert.- And the live entertainment withtraditional music and dancersmakes the experience extra specialand enjoyable.10 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM
Call 800.669.6529 moorings.com/drift unplug When sinking in life’s unyieldingwave of technology, disconnect from the rush and slip into island-time.Cast off with The Moorings, let your worries melt away, remember howto live in the moment—one nautical mile at a time. TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 11
TRAVEL GEAR HOT NEW TRAVEL PRODUCTS BY: RUSS WALSH Danner South Rim 600 Built for warm-weather hiking, the South Rim is a lightweight hiker with classic Danner style and proven Danner comfort. Danner took the ultra-cushioning Vibram® SPE platform from their best- selling Mountain 600 hiking boot and added a lightweight suede and mesh upper for breathability. The Vibram® Fuga outsole features self- adapting lugs and MegaGrip® for maximum traction on slick and uneven surfaces, making the South Rim the ideal companion on the trail next summer. danner.com The Barrier Method Board the plane wrapping yourself up in this Infinity Scarf to reduce your risk of getting sick while traveling. Wearing it should ease your mind and put you in a state of relaxation so you can feel rested when you arrive at your destination. Antibacterial (Chitosante), odor resistant, lightweight, wicking, UPF 50, breathable, non-pilling, wrinkle-resistant. thebarriermethod.com12 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM
CAPTURECapture is a secure, convenient, accessible way to carryyour camera. Unlike a camera strap, Capture keeps yourcamera rigidly stable while hiking, biking, or movingaround the studio. Unlike a camera bag, Capture keepsyour camera instantly accessible with the click of a button. peakdesign.comSLIDE EVERYDAY BACKPACKSlide can be worn as a sling, neck, or shoulder A pack that adapts to your ever-changing gear, lifestyle and environment,strap. Dual quick-adjusters provide instant the Everyday Backpack give you unrivaled accessibility, expandability,access and easy reconfiguration. Unique and organization. The patented MagLatch provides lightning fast topAnchor Link system connects quickly and access, with dual side-loading via two weatherproof side zips. FlexFolddual points of connection keep your camera dividers keep photo, drone, or everyday gear organized, protected,more stable than traditional sling straps. and not bunched at the bottom of your bag. Internally padded accessory pockets keep small items in check. Dedicated sleeve for up to 15” laptop, tablet, and documents. Ultra clean aesthetic, all-custom hardware, minimal dangling straps. Weatherproof 400D nylon canvas shell. Available in 20L and 30L sizes. TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 13
ROADTRIPPIN’ the Garden Route, South Africa BY: ERIN CEBULA Erin Cebula has been a fixture on Canadian Television since landing the coveted role of Community/Arts Reporter for BC’s #1 Station in 2000. Her compassionate approach to lifestyle reporting has graced the likes of Vancouver talk show Urban Rush, 6 Degrees of TV, Canucks Pay-Per-View, HGTV Canada’s feel good hit “Makeover Wish” and Entertainment Tonight Canada from 2005-2017. 14 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM
When I began researching South Africa, I came across dozens of must-dos. Bloggers and tour companiesraved on about the majesty of Kruger National Park, the cool grittiness of Johannesburg and the bountyof the wine lands. But it was the Garden Route - a stretch of forested, coastal area between Mossel Bayand Port Elizabeth - that appeared near the top of every single list I dug up, and I’m a sucker for toptens. As I continued searching, I was thrilled to learn that this 300km stretch encompasses dramatic peaks,indigenous temperate forests, pine plantations, rocky coves and glorious sandy beaches. The wildlife andoutdoor activities were continually described as “remarkable” and almost every beach town boasted freshoysters galore. This was all I needed to hear!My adventure kicked off in what locals refer to as The Mother City. Cape Town is bright, bustling and hometo 4 million people. It’s built on a peninsula beneath imposing Table Mountain and is the crown jewelof South Africa’s southwest coast. Some say it resembles the fair city of Vancouver, but Cape Town hassomething Vancity just doesn’t, and that’s drama. The mountains are jagged and rough, the neighborhoodsare technicolor wild and the ocean is the aquamarine of your dreams. I loved it instantly, and my affectiononly grew when I checked into Kensington Place. TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 15
I chose this award-winningboutique hotel for many reasons.It’s located in the charming suburbof Higgovale, which has a WestHollywood feel and is steps awayfrom Cape Town’s coolest bars andrestaurants. There are only 8 roomsand every single luxe one of themhas a private terrace with viewsof the harbor and surroundingmountains. The design is cozy,but contemporary, and there arelush gardens at every turn. Thestaff turned out to be as helpful inperson as they were on-line, andwe relied heavily on their expertfood and fun recommendations. Iwas particularly impressed by thefact that we were warmly greetedwith a cocktail, and just the rightamount of chit chat at (the verylate check-in hour of) 11pm.At the top of Kensington Place’sfood reco list was The ShortmarketClub, a new hot spot I hadmanaged to secure a reservationfor some 2 months earlier. Thisbuzzed about offering from LukeDale-Roberts of The Test Kitchenfame, is tucked away in a heritagebuilding just off vibey Bree street.As the name suggests, it has aclubby feel, but not the icky kind.The space is sexy and opulent - inan old world way - and as soon asyou enter you feel as if you’ve beenlet in on a juicy secret. The menu isbeautifully balanced; with optionsfor veggie and seafood lovers andfor those who live for braai. BBQis huge in South Africa, and TheShortmarket Club honors thattradition beautifully with grassfed cuts from local farmers. I hadto indulge in one of these tastyfilets, along with burnt leeks with 16 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM
stracciatella and the insanelydelicious sambal matah tuna. I’vehad tuna a hundred ways, butnever swimming in sambal oelek,ginger, hot coconut oil and lime.To. Die. For.The next morning - with a bellystill full - I embarked on the first(driving) leg of my Garden Routeadventure. The goal was to makeit to Knysna, a charming townbuilt on the northern shore of alarge warm-water estuary some 6hrs away. This was to be our basecamp for two days of wildernessexploring and oyster eating. So,with a strong Americano in hand,I bid a fond farewell to Cape Townand began the winding accentthrough the mountains and pastthe posh suburbs of Clifton andCamps Bay. Driving on the lefttook a little getting used to, butI managed to arrive in Knysnaunharmed and ahead of schedule.After settling into my turbine-turned-boutique hotel on Thesen’sIsland (yes, you heard right), thehubby and I hit the town fixed onslurping back as many molluscsas possible. Seafood institution,34 Degrees South was by far ourfavorite, serving up delicious wildoysters direct from local waters.Next on the menu: hiking theworld famous Robberg Bay Trail.This 11km loop circles a ruggedpeninsula that looks out on theTsitsikamma mountains, and isboth a national monument anda World Heritage Site. The viewsare spectacular at every turn, andsome of the rocks you’re boundto climb date back over 120million years. The area is also aprotected marine park and home TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 17
to dolphins, Black Oystercatchers, Cape Gulls and surprisingly stinky Cape Fur Seals. My husband and I finished the challenging hike in just over 3hrs, but didn’t quite escape unscathed. I still feel bad for asking poor Shawn to climb up a slippery, lichen covered rock for a photo op. To ease Shawn’s suffering (and get myself out of the dog house) I took him for lunch at the famous East Head Cafe. This gem of a restaurant overlooks the Knysna Heads and serves up globally inspired seafood, salads and damn good cocktails. To me, this is what every waterfront cafe should aspire to be; buzzing, casual and all about fresh, no-fuss food. We scored one of the coveted outdoor tables with lagoon views and stuffed ourselves silly with spicy Cape Malay curry and the best fresh fish and chips of our lives. Next stop was Plettenberg Bay, or ‘Plett’ as it’s more commonly known. Thousands of local and international tourists flock to this resort town over the Christmas break - so if your looking for laid back beach vibes, keep on driving. Personally, I was looking forward to a little action after 2 nights in sleepy Knysna, so my injured wingman and I bee-lined it to Central beach for a solid afternoon of bar hopping followed by sushi at the very popular Fat Fish. The rest of our evening in Plett is a little fuzzy, but I’m pretty sure it was fun! Surprisingly, I hit the road early18 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM
the next day with sights set on wrapped this final, incredible legTsitsikamma National Park and of the journey with a cold pint ofits mosaic of ecosystems. This was Castle overlooking a raging Indianour final day on the Garden Route, Ocean. And if that’s not a must-do,and I wanted to spend it in a park I’m not sure what is.with 80 kilometers of pristine Side note: Cape Town is currentlycoastline and an oceanfront pub. experience the worst drought inAnd yes, Tsitsikamma has both its history. After three years ofof these things! It also offer short minimal rainfall, the city is nowscenic strolls, strenuous five-day in a state of emergency, with localshikes like the Otter Trail and even and visitors limited to 50 liters (athe worlds highest bridge bungee 90s shower and one flush) per day.at 216 meters. And no, I didn’t do Tourists are less affected by theit. I threw myself off a bridge for drought than residents, as hotelsmy 24th birthday and I don’t need and B&B’s have a dispensationto do that again. Instead I chose to use more water - but if you doto explore Storms River; hiking chose to visit, please do your bestover suspension bridges, through to conserve this precious resource.deep gorges and along rugged cliffedges. And as I had hoped, we TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 19
a romantic recharge for twoSPARKLING HILL RESORT BY: TODD TALBOT 20 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM
You may or may not have heard of Predator Ridge, if you’re me you’ve heard of it, my wife, (no interest in golf) not so much. Now there is another reasonto add Predator Ridge to your travel-log, and it mayjust get your wife fully invested. Sparkling Hill Resortis not just a Swarovski adorned hotel with 180 degreesweeping lake and mountain views, as if that weren’tenough to peak your interest, the resort is so much more. TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 21
Rebecca and I have been “moving”for a couple of months now. Withthe ups and downs and issuesconstantly needing to be dealtwith surrounding our home reno,spending quality time together,other than choosing finishings,takes a backseat. The opportunity toget away from it all and reconnectwas a big reason why we booked thegrandparents on kid-duty for theweekend and took a road trip to theOkanagan.We’d heard about Sparkling Hillbefore the need to visit presenteditself. They tout themselves asa full-body wellness experience.There are yoga classes, therapists onsite and 40,000 square feet of spaamenities to be enjoyed.Each room comes equipped with abuilt in starry sky to match the onethat will present itself outside yourwindow during European spa hour,as well as bath robes and slippersthat one may don at arrival andlounge in for the duration of his/herstay. In fact dining for breakfast inrobes is recommended which meansyou can do one of my favoritethings, roll out of bed straight intoyour morning cup of coffee withouta second thought.The highlight of our stay wasour treatment in the Cryo ColdChamber at the KurSpa. Therewas a lot of talk leading up to ourafternoon appointment on oursecond day. Patrons who hadalready experienced it told usit was “fun” while shaking theirheads, others laughed and said itwas crazy. Our attendant, Paul,compared it to bungee jumping,to which, I thought, I wouldnever go bungee jumping! ButPaul’s assistant, who watches from 22 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM
the outside of the chamber and The rest of our stay was justannounces the halfway point, was heavenly relaxation and indulgentmuch more ‘real’ about it. The couple-time bliss. The options ofgist of it is, it’s not an enjoyable aromas and temperatures in theexperience but you can do it. saunas and steam rooms makeMultiple treatments over time are one feel like a kid in a candy store,said to heal injuries and afflictions the infinity pool is picturesque,like arthritis as well as possibly the serenity room- even morealleviate sleeping issues. But the picturesque, the food is great andmain thing for Rebecca and I to the rooms are roomy with enoughget out of our one-time visit was space for two in a crystal-shapedan adrenalin rush and a boost soaker tub. And if your wife isin energy post-treatment. I was reluctant to share tub time at first,second-guessing signing up for there are many other crystal-shapedit until I learned that Paul is in adornments available in the on-sitethere with clients ten times a day. Swarovski retailer that are bribe-He’s spent those three and half worthy and may make your nightsminutes on the inside thousands at the Sparkling Hill Resort truly theof times. Well then, we could do it most exciting part of your stay.once. And now that we have- I can Wink, wink.recommend it. TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 23
an explorationof peopleVaranasi, Uttar PradeshA ‘sadhu’ or holy person peacefully sleeps on the ghats in Varanasi that lead to the banks ofthe River Ganges, one of the most sacred rivers to Hindus. 24 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM
INDIA a photographic journeyFeatured Photographer: Sophie MerrellI was brought up in London and went to Edinburgh University whereI studied Anthropology. The subject taught me a great awarenessfor and interest in different cultures. When researching the ‘NightFlowers’, a sub-culture based in London’s West End, I found thatphotography was a powerful tool to record those I interviewed. Icontinued my exploration of people in India with my 35mm cameraalways at hand.Equipment: Nikon FM3, 35mm - All shot in 35mm film.Website: www.sophie-alice-merrell.squarespace.comInstagram: sophalicemerrell TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 25
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Amritsar, PunjabWomen seek calmness away from the main area of the GoldenTemple. This area reveals an unfinished brick facade and a stainedconcrete wall, contrasting with the white marble ground. TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 27
Bundi, Rajasthan The language barrier between us meant that all we could do was smile and laugh, but that was all we needed. They laughed, then I did, then they laughed harder. Udaipur, Rajasthan A Muslim man in his traditional Shalwar Kameez drinks a cup of chai as he watches the world go by, perched on a mat he has placed down for himself.28 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM
Udaipur, RajasthanA Rajasthani woman, clad top-to-toe in silver jewelry, plays a game using chalk and stones.Behind me people gathered to watch her play against her opponent. TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 29
Orchha, Madhya PradeshA ‘sadhu’ has covered his face and arms with ash and paint and dyed his beard withhenna for a festival celebrating the wedding of their King, Raja Ram.30 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM
Amritsar, PunjabA rickshaw driver takes a break in the hectic city ofAmritsar, where tens of thousands of people come tovisit the Sikh Golden Temple every day. TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 31
Bundi, Rajasthan These men wear traditional Rajasthani clothes, with their brightly colored turbans and white dhotis. One of them smokes a ‘beedi’ cigarette.32 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM
Varanasi, Uttar PradeshA street barber shaves his customer’s beard attentively. No needfor a shop, his bag is hung on the wall and tools are laid out. TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 33
Rohat, RajasthanIt was the second time I walkedpast this lady and her son in theirvillage so I smiled in recognitionand gestured to my camera. 34 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM
“photography gives me an excuse to travel, and traveling gives me a fantastic opportunity to take photographs”Jodhpur, RajasthanPeople wait their turn to buy packets of tea. Tea is a hugely important element toIndian culture and the constant queue of people outside this shop demonstrated this. TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 35
Days in3Vail at The Sonnenalp Hotel BY: JULIE LEVENTHAL While most people go to Vail, Colorado for the epic ski conditions, the locals will tell you that they came for the winter and stayed for the summer. In the summer months, with the flowers in bloom and warmer weather you can enjoy the beautiful fresh air, scenic vistas and an abundance of water sports, hiking trails and golf courses. With 72 hours in the Vail Valley here is a perfect itinerary. 36 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM
Day 1 8:00 am-9:00 am Start your day off with a bountiful 9:00 am-9:30 am European style buffet at Ludwig’s. Take a moment to sit back and relax Breakfast is served on the beautiful by Sonnenalp’s Tranquility Pool and glass enclosed terrace surrounded by Colorado’s Rocky Mountains. enjoy Vail’s iconic views and crisp mountain air. 10:00 am-12:00 pm Explore the town and shop through 12:00 pm-1:00 pm Vail Village enjoying favorites such Bring your appetite to Vail’s as Valbruna and Gorsuch. landmark spot, Pepi’s Restaurant, which has been opened for over 1:00 pm-3:00 pm 50 years. This vintage eatery serves Treat yourself at one of Vail’s up Old World Classics as well as a top rated spas- Sonnenalp Spa.variety of unique meats such as boar, Rejuvenate your mind and body with elk, venison and caribou, all carved an array of unique treatment options. table side for those looking to enjoy You can try the Bavarian Body Polish, which incorporates a full body scrub some local delicacies. and a relaxing moisturizing treatment or the 80-minute Detoxifying Mud 4:00 pm-5:00 pm Wrap. Locals love to freshen it up Relax in your luxury suite, recently with a Vitamin C Fresh Peel that leaves your skin immediately softer renovated and boasting unique and smoother with noticeable amenities including oversized improvements in skin tone and texture. bathrooms, Bavarian decor and lovely fireplaces. 5:00 pm-7:00 pm Wine and dine on European cuisine 7:00 pm-9:00 pm in a classic-Swiss style setting at the End your night at the King’s Club Swiss Chalet, offering guests the offering nightly live entertainment. ultimate alpine dining experience. Enjoy a specialty drink from the top Traditional Käse Spätzle (homemade shelf selection, a glass of wine or Swiss dumpling topped with cheese German beer while you relax by the and crispy onions) and delicious fireplace and listen to great music fondues all make your dining experience quite delectable. Save from local musicians. room for freshly made desserts like their Austrian apple strudel and chocolate fondue. TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 37
Day 2 8:30 am-9:30 am Begin the day with something sweet 9:30 am-1:00 pm at Big Bear Bistro like a nutella and Take advantage of Vail’s summertime banana crepe or enjoy something savory instead. Try the delicious activities by exploring the mountain wild-caught, smoked sockeye salmon on foot. Take a hiking tour with served freshly on a toasted bagel. Sonnenalp’s trusted guides like Kara 12:00 pm-1:00 pm Schmidt who have complete intimate Round-up friends and family and access to some of the most beautiful head over to Bully Ranch for a fun casual, western-style lunch. The trails in the Vail Valley. Southwestern and American menu includes their signature chicken wings 1:00 pm-4:00 pm and famous Bully Burgers. Take a Take a tour of the Rockies via seat outside and enjoy a cold beer. bicycle with one of Sonnenalp’s Dogs are invited too. adventure tour guides. With miles of trails and flowers in bloom, this 4:00 pm-6:00 pm epic trail ride will be a beautiful Unwind from the day and begin your evening with a specialty cocktail by way to see the scenery. the fire at the Kings Club. 6:00 pm-8:00 pm 8:00 pm Dinner at Mountain Standard is a Vail Ale House has over twenty must do on every trip to Vail and a local beers on tap. Hop on over and definite local favorite. Enjoy some enjoy the evening as live DJ’s spin shrimp and grits and rocky mountain the night away or try a flight at the trout at this gastro-pub boasting a 10th Mountain Whiskey and Spirit Company at their new location by the lively crowd and open kitchen. covered bridge. 38 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM
Day 3 8:00 am-9:00 am Fuel up on a mean cup of coffee 9:00 am-12:00 pm and get down on some Southern Take some “tee” time at Sonnenalp style food such as Alpenrose’s biscuit and gravy dish - complete with their Club’s 7,100-yard championship famous house-made sausage gravy. links style course. It sits in the sundrenched valley of Edwards, 16 miles 2:00 pm-3:00 pm west of Vail Village. Or, if golf isn’t Exercise your creativity with a quite your thing - try Sonnenalp’s poolside pottery class. Sonnenalp morning stand up paddle-boarding offers this unique opportunity to paint class followed by a riverside lunch outdoors and decorate your own personalized souvenir to take home. and some aerial yoga. Selections include but not limited to picture frames, flower pots or coffee 3:00 pm-4:00 pm mugs. Need a boost of energy? Sonnenalp’s Oxygen Bar is the 5:00 pm-7:00pm perfect fix. Choose scents like Treat yourself to something fancy eucalyptus, lavender, peppermint, this evening and take the gondola wintergreen and lemon grass. ride up to Game Creek. You’ll be The oxygen treatment also aids treated to a private multi-course in symptoms related to altitude tasting menu featuring unique and sickness including: shortness of tasty international fare such as lamb breath, lightheartedness, dizziness, tartare, rabbit with purple potatoes headaches, fatigue, weakness, and and venison with red onion jam. nausea. 9:00 End your trip at the Red Lion 7:00 pm listening to live music with the locals Afterwards, have a glass or two at reminiscing about great times inRoot and Flower from their extensive Colorado and pondering when you’lllist of wine-by-the-glass selections or be back. signature craft cocktails. TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 39
NovaScotia BY: SYLVIA TENNANTAs a West Coaster, I have to admit thatmy prior knowledge of the Maritimes isnot extensive. In fact, up until this trip, Ihad basically just assumed that I was infor a wander around something similar toa postcard – rugged seaside landscapes,brightly colored homes, and fishing-relat-ed charm. And while all those things ex-ist, Nova Scotia surprised me in ways Ihad not expected. My partner Rod and Ihad fell in love with this beautiful treasuretucked into the east coast of Canada.With only six nights to spare, we trans-ferred quickly from tarmac to rental carand headed straight for the highway. Ourroad trip took us to three distinctly differ-ent towns, each shaped by its unique his-tory and all within a morning’s drive ofone another.40 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM
Annapolis RoyalLocated in a trough between twoparallel mountain ranges on theshores of the Bay of Fundy, theAnnapolis Valley hosts over a dozenvineyards and orchards. The successof these crops is due in part to theshelter these mountains provide,and you can quite literally smellthe apples in the air. On the southbank of the Annapolis River lay ourdestination, Annapolis Royal.Although small in size, thisquaint town boasts homes grandin stature (some of which wouldsurely be considered museumsin my hometown of Vancouver).The Queen Anne Inn is theexemplification of this elaborate19th-century architecture. Builtin 1865 as a private residence, themansion appears almost exactlytoday as it did over 150 years go.It’s unique Victorian charm extendsfrom floor to 10-foot ceilingand the rooms offer a balance ofluxurious modern comfort andcherished heritage. I was in awe ofthe antique-filled chambers anddiscovered through chatting withinnkeeper, Kate, that the home wasonce owned by an antiques dealerwho tastefully filled it with prizedpieces from all corners of the globe.A sunset stroll along the riversideled us to Restaurant Composé,featuring an eclectic mix oftraditional Austrian fare andNeptunian favorites. If you’refeeling adventurous, do as thelocals do and order the ‘surprise’ setmenu. The haddock fillet beurre denoix was a savory way to kick-starta memorable week of East Coastdining. TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 41
LunenbergThe next morning we cruiseddiagonally across the province,with a quick stop to have a paddlein Kejimkujik National Park(hourly canoe rentals available).Our destination for the next twonights was the working seaportof Lunenberg, named a UNESCOworld heritage site in part forthe preservation of its prismaticstreetscape. The Mariner King Innis centrally located in the heart ofOld Town and a convenient choicefor those wanting to explore onfoot. From here, we didn’t haveto go far to discover our best findin Lunenberg, Rime Restaurant +Wine Bar. 42 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM
Chef Jeffrey MacNeil has lined thewalls of his establishment withhundreds of homemade cannedgoods. At the time of our visit,MacNeil had gone 11 monthswithout buying tomatoes fromCalifornia, opting instead to sourcehis vegetables seasonally. “If it’slocal, it’s in a jar downstairs,” hestates, while pouring us cocktailsmade with gin from IronworksDistillery down the street. Mytop pick on the exceptionallysustainable menu? His hot-potinspired chowder. It features porkbelly, smoked kohlrabi, maitakemushrooms, and a quail egg, allpoached in a broth of dilutedclam liquor and fermented pepperjuice. This dish is a testament tohis farm-to-table method, with allingredients sourced from regionalproducers. TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 43
HalifaxOur last stop was the provincialcapital, Halifax. Decidedly the landof boutique inns, our downtownaccommodations were tuckedthree floors up in the attic of theelegant Waverley. We entered thechinoiserie-style premier roomby turning on a lamp decoratedwith dragons and were welcomedby a statue of a life-sized gildedemperor. That night, we slept on acenturies-old Chinese wedding bed.Our curiosity led us to roam thedecorated halls which turned intoan encounter with visiting ghosthunters, armed with EMF readersand hoping for a little activity fromsome of the inn’s past visitors (P.T.Barnum and Oscar Wilde, to namea few).I tend to rank my love of citiesby the quality of their vintagestores, and Halifax takes the cakewith Elsie’s Used Clothing (1530Queen St). Their racks are filledwith a bounty of high-end piecesat wonderful price points and Iemerged hours later, teary-eyed anddressed in my new handmade finds- a wool beret, oversized leopardprint silk blazer, and 1970’s wovenmohair jacket. I returned multipletimes to have conversations withowner Maureen Elsie, its Haligoniancurator. Let me assure you - thisshop alone justifies a cross-countryflight.After rifling through decades ofclothing, a well-deserved staranise and papaya gin and tonic atHighwayman was in order. Namedafter the novel by Alfred Noyes, thisliterary-themed restaurant and baris filled on a Wednesday night withpatrons and warm ambiance. As forthe food, a refined and impressivemulti-course tasting journeyfrom ocean to land was servedto us on inlaid tables. Although 44 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM
the menu changes seasonally, Ihighly recommend the charcuterieboard, which incorporates a tastyarray of sobrassada, chorizo, andsalchichon-style pork sausagescured in-house. I can safely say thatHighwayman has the talent andpresence to set the bar for the nextgeneration of dining establishmentsin this city.On our last morning, we poppedinto PAVIA Cafe on the top floorof the central library for one lastview of the city and a quick espressobefore our flight. We sat above thefog, overlooking the harbor. Halifaxis in a growth phase, literallyand figuratively. There seemedto be transition and refinementthroughout, but one thing willforever be consistent: that good ol’Maritime hospitality. TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 45
Naxos and Amorgos on foot BY: ALLISON LETHERBARROW46 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM
Perhaps the ferry should have put me off. The creaks and groans of the shipwere only slightly outdone by the emphatic wailing of the Greek womansitting opposite me, her husband’s hand caught in a death grip in hers. Weall watched through the portholes as time and again, our brave little shiptilted so severely that the windows of the lounge were submerged beneaththe roiling sea. However, this was just another ordinary day for the ExpressSkopilites; swift-hulled legend of the Cyclades.I had just spent four wonderful days on the island of Naxos, just south of itsbetter-known cousin, Mykonos. Being an enthusiastic walker and cravingsome late autumn sunshine, I had booked a self-guided walking tourthrough On Foot Holidays to the islands of Naxos and Amorgos. AlthoughI had walked with On Foot Holidays before, I had never visited the Cycladesand their centre-based hiking route offered an interesting itinerary. Fourdays of roaming the Naxian hills combined with a daily dose of swimmingin azure waters, meant I was thoroughly relaxed when I boarded the ferryto take me from Naxos to Amorgos…. little was I to know what awaited.Overall, I found the turbulent ferry-crossing highly enjoyable, even if itwas only for the pleasure of watching the impassioned antics of my fellowGreek passengers. Much to the Greek woman’s surprise I am sure, we finallyarrived at the small island of Amorgos.Amorgos is much quieter than Naxos and the lack of the tourist taint hasleft the town and its inhabitants charmingly preserved. After lingering onthe sea-view balcony of my hotel room, I went in search of dinner. I had TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 47
spotted a few restaurants, theirfacades decorated with candlesand tea lights. I made littleprogress however as I quicklyfound myself in the middle of alocal celebration. A large crowd ofpeople surrounded the vigorousmovements of young men andwomen, all in traditional dress,dancing in synchronization asinstruments were played withastonishing energy. Food anddrink was passed around to thecrowd and small children weavedtheir way in and out of the dancers,snatching honey-cakes from thefood bedecked tables. I extricatedmyself from the throng before Itoo, was whisked away onto thedance floor and I went in search ofdinner.The next few days saw me becomethoroughly acquainted withAmorgos in the most personalway possible – on foot. My routenotes from On Foot Holidays ledme faithfully along tiny forgottenpathways and up over high ridgetops and never failed to deliverme safely again back to my hotel.I passed reluctant donkeys beingled up ancient kalderimi (muletracks) by cheerful old men, theirwhite teeth gleaming in their sun-browned faces. I sat on verdanthillsides and ate a picnic lunchwhile tiny lizards scampered overmy legs and boots. I visited theunpronounceable HozoviotissaMonastery and sipped at tea whilemonks proffered dishes of TurkishDelight.The walking directions werefaultless in their accuracy andattention to detail, allowing meto roam (a single, female walker) 48 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM
completely at leisure across theundeveloped island. All the walksstarted from the town where I wasstaying, so I could pick and choosewhich walk I wanted to do when.It’s hard to settle upon a favoritewalk. During my stay on Naxosand Amorgos I walked about sixor seven trails, each in their ownway delightful and interesting, butabove all, beautiful. The abilityto completely immerse yourselfin your natural surroundings,undisturbed by the goings onof the world - whether it’s thenumbing drone of technology orthe exhausting buzz of humancommotion - is a luxury peculiarto walking holidays, and one thatOn Foot Holidays has made theirspecialty.I’m not sure which of On Foot’smany walks I will explore next, butI know that wherever it may be, itwill certainly be an experience toremember.For more information:www.onfootholidays.co.uk TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 49
ShopCLeiklee bar i ty in Los Angeles BY: KARA LATTA 50 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM
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