TRAVEL OFTEN.LIVE WELL TRAVEL MAGAZINETHIS ISSUE’S TOP 10EUROPEAN HIKES WITH EPIC SCENERYEAxcNluTsHivOe N Y B O U R D A I N NEW ZEALAND CAYMAN COOKOUT | GRAND CAYMAN 7 INCREDIBLE EXPERIENCES 5 ISLANDS TO VISIT BEFORE YOU DIE THAILAND SECRET REGIONS OFF THE BEATEN PATH HAVANA A PHOTOGRAPHER’S JOURNEYFALL 2016 COME ALONG ON THE JOURNEY at DRIFTTRAVEL.COM
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INSIDE this issue 8 GRAND CAYMAN 40 TAKING FLIGHT 76 BEFORE YOU DIE Exclusive with Anthony Bourdain. Cathay Pacific's premium economy. Five stunning bucket list islands.18 ISSUE'S TOP 10 44 AT A GLANCE 82 LONDON LOO TOUR European hikes with epic scenery. Okinawa Islands, Japan. Historical tour that hinges on bizarre.30TRAVELLING EDITOR 46 HAVANA 82 CANARY ISLANDS Balinese magic at Mandapa. A Cuban photographic journey. Charm meets the beach in Tenerife.36 LIFE + STYLE 60 OFF THE BEATEN PATH 90 #WHERETONEXT Eric Himel's expert packing tips. Three secret regions of Thailand. Riomaggiore in Italy's Cinque Terre.TRAVEL OFTEN.LIVE WELL TRAVEL MAGAZINE 66 TRAVEL GEAR Must have airport survival products.THIS ISSUE’S TOP 10 68 NEW ZEALANDEUROPEAN HIKES WITH EPIC SCENERY Seven amazing must-see locations. NEW ZEALAND 74 NEW YORK CITY NYC small scale culinary giants. 7 INCREDIBLE EXPERIENCESEAxcNluTsHivOe N Y B O U R D A I N CAYMAN COOKOUT | GRAND CAYMAN 5 ISLANDS TO VISIT BEFORE YOU DIE THAILAND SECRET REGIONS OFF THE BEATEN PATH HAVANA A PHOTOGRAPHER’S JOURNEY FALL 2016 JOURNEY WITH US at DRIFTtravel.comFALL 2016 Fabulous locations,must-do adventures andtravel exclusives - inside this issue of DRIFT. Come along on the journey.2 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM
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E D I T O Ra travel note from theI love to travel the world and as an 8 Oh, the places I’ve been!editor equally passionate about mywork, it has always been my dream 8to have a publication dedicated toexceptional destinations and unique DRIFT EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEWcultural experiences; a magazine that WITH ANTHONY BOURDAINcelebrates the diversity of this planetand the countless wonders of our world. At the Grand Cayman Cookout, I sat down with outspoken chef andI often ask the question ‘When is the last TV personality Anthony Bourdaintime you saw something for the very first time?’ DRIFT travel magazine was to talk food, kids and life after 50.created with that question in mind - filled with stunning photography tojump start the imagination and smart, thought-provoking travel and lifestyle 30editorial that will have you itching to pack a suitcase and get lost. BALINESE MAGIC AT30 MANDAPA I want to introduce you to a very special place in Ubud, Bali where time seems to stand still and there is a very real path to clarity.Travel is in our souls; whether we road-trip across our own country or 40adventure around the globe, people love to travel. DRIFT travel magazine is abeautifully curated, artistically crafted magazine that celebrates our collective FLYING VANCOUVER TO HONGdesire to see the world. Come along on the journey! KONG WITH CATHAY PACIFICTravel often and live well, Aboard a long haul 13-hour flight, I took Cathay Pacific’s new Premium Economy service for a test drive, and I’m sharing my in-flight experience.Tracey DrakeEditor-In-Chief & Creative [email protected] & Instagram: @TheTravellingEditor TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 5
every single day, more than PUBLISHER EIGHT MILLION PEOPLE GLOSSY MEDIA get on an airplane & travel EDITOR-IN-CHIEF | CREATIVE DIRECTOR Those who love to travel crave information on new TRACEY DRAKE countries to visit, exciting sights to see and once-in- a-lifetime adventures to experience. DRIFT covers all PRODUCTION/EDITORIAL TEAM the travel bases for our readers; from hotels, airlines LAURIE ATTISand cruises to city guides, culinary destinations, secret CHRISTOPHER CLAYTON beaches and must-have accessories. JANE CROSSexcitingPublished six times a year, DRIFT is an magazine ELIZABETH DEAN ERIC HIMELthat is a pleasure to read and an inspirational resource for travel ANDREA KIRKBYtravellovers. Working with many of the best experts in the JOHN LEEexoticindustry, each issue of DRIFT offers up articles on RYAN LOGAN RONAN MAHONYsecretsdestinations, city , adventure meccas, resort PETER MANDELreports, global hot-spots, grab-n-go technology and travel JOSIE SALDATgear. Using our publication mantra “travel often, live well” CREATIVE | PHOTOGRAPHY ADOBE STOCKDRIFTas a launching point, is filled with exclusive editorial DUNCAN ANDISONon where to go, how to get there and what to do once you arrive; CATHAY PACIFIC AIRWAYS CAYMAN ISLAND TOURISMstories punctuated with meaningful, useful, expertly written travel CHASE CLAUSENguides and awe-inspiring travel photography. CNNadvertise in DRIFT magazine HENNER DAMKE STEVE DRAKEADVERTISING, ADVERTORIAL & PRODUCT PLACEMENT: [email protected] or +1-250-595-7870 ERIC R. ELMSTOURISM PR & PARTNERSHIPS: [email protected] BOBBY FISHERTRAVEL WRITER & PHOTO JOURNALIST SUBMISSIONS: [email only please] [email protected] OLGA KHOROSHUNOVA MANDAPA, A RITZ-CARLTON RESERVE RITZ-CARLTON GRAND CAYMAN CLAUDIA SPINNER RALPH STEADMAN SHUTTERSTOCK SALES & CIRCULATION DIRECTOR STEVE DRAKE 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. DRIFT magazine is proudly produced in Canada Canada Post Publication Agreement #42520516 © COPYRIGHT DRIFT MAGAZINE | GLOSSY MEDIA 2015-20166 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM
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Photograph by Bobby Fisher for the back cover of Anthony Bourdain's new book Appetites: A Cookbook8 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM
IN CONVERSATION WITHANTHONY BOURDAINIhave always dreamed of living in Italy; perhaps a by: Tracey Drake charming, slightly crumbling Italian villa set in a quaint seaside village, carved into the steep Amalfi life, it permeated every part of our conversation. And Coast; Maiori and Atrani always instantly come you know what? I learned a lot. A lot about Anthony,to mind. Postcard perfect, right? I thought so. Then, food, and why being at the Cayman Cookout is soin 2011, after watching possibly my favorite episode of important to him, and symbolic of where he is at thisThe Layover, Anthony Bourdain opened my eyes to a juncture in his life.whole other Italy; a modern Rome. A delicious maze of True story. Anthony Bourdain has never traveled thea city that was pulsing with history, iconic landmarks, easy street (or taken the high road) to anywhere. Longpassionate Romans and mind-blowing food. And his and publicly regarded as the black sheep of the culinarynarrative spoke to me too, “Ideally you visit Rome slowly. world, I personally think he is one of the reasons chefsYou sit, you stroll, you take it as it comes. You don’t have become such rock stars. He puts it all on the table,go see stuff, you let it slip up on you – one piazza, one literally and figuratively, and doesn’t care if you like itfountain, one amazing structure at a time.” In that single or not. He has taught us about strange foods, faraway cultures, and how to eat – really eat.PARENTING, JIU JITSU, CAYMAN COOKOUT & HIS LIFE AFTER 50episode, I simultaneously fell in love with porchetta, However, in the last decade, his life took a sharp rightItalian Hawaiian pizza, a classic 1970 Fiat Cinquecento turn into parts unknown – and it wasn’t a TV show butand modern Rome. a life-changing reality. In 2007, at the age of 51, AnthonyNow five years later, sitting by the pool of the Ritz- became a husband and a father and started to take a hardCarlton Grand Cayman with Anthony Bourdain at the look at his life, in earnest.Cayman Cookout, I really didn't want to talk about “At no point before the age of fifty was I able, prepared orfood. After watching him for two days on the Cayman up to the job of being a father. Any parent would agree.Cookout stage and two decades on television, I felt like I Once you have a child, you are no longer the star of yourunderstood his food philosophies. I am happily drawn own picture. After five decades, to finally realize that onto his edgy wit, unapologetic sarcasm and palpable a truly cellular level, you are no longer the center of thelove for foreign lands and authentic people. I wanted to universe was a huge relief for me.”talk about that. And so we did, and yet, because food isinextricably woven into the fabric of Anthony Bourdain's TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 9
2016 Cayman CookoutOne of the most watched culinary celebrities in history, I asked Anthony whether or not all the responsibilitiestoday Bourdain has a very carefully calibrated life; and that come with being a parent keep him up at night. Healthough he still travels a lot, Anthony is home much laughed out loud. “I am a little weirdly, over enthusiasticmore than he used to be, so that he can spend time with about expressing love through food, I think. Cyclehis wife and daughter. Instead, he takes great pleasure in menu is a little weird for an eight-year-old. And I plan.possibly nurturing the next generation, but only if she's I have prep lists for the summer. What the f--k? I aminto it. Eight-year-old Ariane Bourdain loves to cook, feeding a child. But I get over organized and I invest aand especially with her dad, when she can get her hands lot in passing along these powerful food memories thatsquishy and dirty. “Look, my daughter grew up Italian, I enjoyed as a kid. But I have had to learn to not getbasically with her mom, but also grew up with a lot of offended if she doesn’t like something that I make her.”unusual foods on the table. So, she eats raw oysters and The laughter faded, he paused for a few moments, andlikes octopus, and understands the bunny is cute, but it then offered up something tender and serious. “Look,also tastes good.” I say that all I can do as a parent is to let my daughter “I AM A LITTLE WEIRDLY, OVER ENTHUSIASTICABOUT EXPRESSING LOVE THROUGH FOOD.”10 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM
know that she is always loved. That she will have high 2016 Cayman Cookoutself-esteem and high regard. Also, she has been trainingJiu Jitsu for four years, so she'll be able to take care of 2016 Cayman Cookoutherself. So yes I am a doting dad. I’m a very happy dad.”Anthony’s Italian wife, Ottavia Busia doesn’t cook at TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 11all. It might have something to do with the fact thatshe is very health conscious, and doesn’t eat starchesor carbohydrates. She is a competitive athlete, coachand trainer in the sport of Jiu Jitsu. Anthony credits thesport, and his wife who coaxed (or tricked) him into theintroductory Jiu Jitsu lesson, with changing his life. “Iwas a chain smoker, thirty pounds’ overweight and neverbeen to a gym, like ever in my whole life.”I asked him about that first Jiu Jitsu class. Was it bad?“Yeah, it was f--king awful, but I survived it. And I wasproud of myself for surviving it. It was hard with a steeplearning curve. An endless learning curve and that isattractive to me.Anthony got healthy over the course of learning andpracticing Jiu Jitsu, dropping those thirty pounds andchanging other aspects of his lifestyle. But as he seesit, it was never really about getting healthy – that wasjust a happy side effect. For Bourdain, it was all aboutthe curve. “I am a big believer in the Japanese notion ofShosin, which means Beginner’s Mind.” In a nutshell,Shosin is the Buddhist practice of always learning, froma beginner state of mind. “For me, Jiu Jitsu is like beingthe worse cook in the kitchen, all over again. You arefaced with a steep hill of things you must learn everyday,and I don’t know why, but that makes me happy.”Bourdain travels for a living. One might arguethat the travel aspects of his television shows, NoReservations, The Layover and Parts Unknown, are moreappealing to viewers than the food he eats along the way.He admits that he still travels about 200 days a year andhas rules and rituals in how he travels, and with whom.Air travel for Bourdain is always the same. “My brainand body and nervous system, they see a plane ride, along plane trip, as an opportunity to sleep with nothingcoming in, nothing to do. I just go offline the minute I'mon the plane.”I asked him if he even has the capability to travel forpleasure, or is it always business, even when its not. “Idon’t f—king know anymore. But it is worth noting
Photo courtesy of CNNthat for business, I only go places I want to go. I choose where I don’t speak the language, with a good friend, Ithe places I go.” So, where does the business end and am happy.” Is Barack Obama a good friend? I didn't askpleasure begin? “I am in the enviable position of saying I but in a Season 8 episode of Parts Unknown, which airslike to go to Vietnam, jump out of a plane, and then eat September 25th, Bourdain shares a $6 dinner with thesome noodles and shoot it in the style of Wang Kar-wai. President at Bún chả Hương Liên in Hanoi, Vietnam.That’s a pretty awesome thing.” Personal time off comes in an all-American versionCurrently, with one show in production on CNN, these days. “When it comes to family vacation, I take anAnthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown is an award winning indecent pleasure in feigning normalcy. Meaning, I loadseries that sees him travel to lesser known parts of the up the car with the luggage, we drive to Long Island toworld, exploring unique regions and cultural cuisine. the Hamptons, where I rent a house for August everyAnthony recently took long time friend, Chef Eric year. I barbecue in the backyard, and I do whatever myRipert to the Chengdu region of China. “Whenever I can daughter wants to do. She makes all the decisions for themake television all the way out there, in a strange land entire month.”12 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM
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Seven Mile Beach, Grand Cayman14 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM
Does Anthony Bourdain have daddy brain? Whenhe told me that this new book, Appetites: A Cookbookis a family cookbook, I honestly thought I had heardhim wrong, and asked again. “It is all stuff that I cookat home but hey, we are a very wacky family. The coverdesign is by Ralph Steadman (Fear and Loathing in LasVegas) and with photography by Bobby Fisher, it is gamechangingly strange.”This new book, which hits bookstores this October, isfilled with Anthony’s recipes, and those of long-timeassistant/collaborator Laurie Woolever. It is an honestreflection of how he lives, day-to-day, and the food hefeeds his family with love.And speaking of food, family and friends… wetalked for awhile about Grand Cayman Island and theCayman Cookout. For Anthony Bordain, this event is animportant part of his year – in fact, a necessary part ofhis life, for both personal and professional reasons. Theevent is an annual 4-day food affair that is the brainchildof Chef Eric Ripert, organized each year with his friends,Chef José Andrés and Anthony Bourdain.In 2001, Anthony Bourdain’s book Kitchen Confidential: Caribbean beauty, in one of the most beautiful hotels onAdventures in the Culinary Underbelly, might have Grand Cayman Island, the event is at once elegant andbruised a few egos and made a few enemies in the relaxed – two words you don’t often see together whenindustry, but Bourdain had nice things to say about Chef discussing famous chefs and high-end food.Ripert and his restaurant, Le Bernardin. Ripert called Over the course of four days, guests are treated toBourdain to say thank you, and invite him to lunch. The demonstrations and intimate events with famous chefs,two have been great friends ever since, and sharing the tours and tastings of stellar brands, and unprecedentedCaymanKIND experience together since 2008. access to the world’s most famous chefs. In addition toCayman Cookout is a stellar signature event that takes Ripert, Andrés and Bourdain, world class culinary giantsplace each January at the Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman, Hubert Keller, Cindy Hutson, Ludo Lefebvre, Dean Max,directly on famous Seven Mile Beach. Cayman Cookout Michael Mina, Florian Bellanger and Tom Colicchiobrings together top chefs from all over the world to were part of the 2016 all-star lineup.celebrate the best in food and wine. Set in such natural “FOOD IS EVERYTHING WE ARE.IT'S AN EXTENSION OF NATIONALIST FEELING, ETHNIC FEELING, YOUR PERSONAL HISTORY, YOUR PROVINCE, YOUR REGION, YOUR TRIBE, YOUR GRANDMA. IT'S INSEPARABLE FROM THOSE FROM THE GET-GO.” TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 15
Every year, Anthony brings his family with him to place on the formal lawns of the Ritz-Carlton and IGrand Cayman, and his daughter spends time with followed Anthony around while he visited each localChef Jose Andrés three daughters and Chef Eric Ripert’s booth – watching him taste each dish and listeningson. The three amigos, and their families, stay on site to him reflect on the local Caribbean flavors. Whichat the Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman Hotel. Cayman booths left a lasting impression on Anthony? “Any timeCookout is not penciled into the Bourdain calendar – you put a pig on a spit, that’s pretty awesome.” Localit’s inked in. “For Cookout, my daughter misses two or restaurant Anchor & Den served up Cordo al Asadorthree days of school. That’s a big deal. But necessary. at their booth – local pig that was roasted at the event.Here, the kids can run barefoot in the sand after dark, Bourdain swooned over it.get up to kid mischief as they should, and I don’t ever One of my personal favorites of the day was the pepperhave to worry about my daughter’s safety here, unlike in jelly from the Cayman Pepper Patch booth. Not onlythe city.” did I love the product, but the owner/producer CarolI asked Anthony what he would like to see done Hay was really lovely as well. I asked Anthony what hedifferently at Cayman Cookout next year. “It works thought of the local jelly. “I don’t usually care aboutgreat just as it is. The caliber of chefs, old guys and new Ritz-Carlton Grand Caymankids on the block, that come every year is astounding to those things – jams, preserves, but that pepper jelly wasme, so I enjoy that side too.\" Spending quality time with really good and the cheeses she was pairing them withhis Chef Mafia. speak to a really refined palette.” This signature eventThis year, Anthony was part of several signature showed off the island’s finest and demonstrated clearlyCayman Cookout events. The first that I attended why Grand Cayman is considered the culinary capitalwas “The Adventures of Tony and Eric”, where the of the Caribbean.two old friends climbed up on stage, made cocktails, Clearly, Anthony Bourdain comes to Grand Caymancooked a little fish, light-heartedly shared each other’s each year for the event, Cayman Cookout. He comesshortcomings and took questions from the packed to be with and support his friends. He comes to take ahouse, which happened to be a very chic open-air tent deep breath and spend time with his family. He comesright on Seven Mile Beach. to do the things he loves best – to cook, eat and meetAnother event, “The Rundown with Anthony new people. He comes for all of the same reasons thatBourdain”, was so interesting and a lot of fun. It took he is so passionate about food and traveling the world in search of the perfect cultural bite.16 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM
Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman2017 2016 Cayman CookoutCAYMANCOOKOUT Ritz-Carlton Grand CaymanJANUARY 12-15, 2017 2016 Cayman CookoutRITZ-CARLTON GRAND CAYMAN TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 17Join Chef Eric Ripert at The Ritz-Carlton for anincomparable roster of world famous chefs, wine expertsand spirits blenders with tastings, demonstrations, toursand dinners that celebrate the barefoot elegance thatonly the Cayman Islands can deliver.2017 Headliner Chefs: Eric Ripert, Jose Andres,Anthony Bourdain, Terrance Brennan, Dean Max,Daniel Humm, Emeril Lagasse, Tim Love, RolandPassot and Christina Tosi.#CAYMANCOOKOUTEVENT & GRAND CAYMAN TOURISMINFO: www.caymanislands.ky
Tidal bore rafting.There’s nothing quite like that moment when the river shiftsdirections and goes from serene to exhilarating. And just think,rafting the most extreme tides in the world is only one of thethings in Nova Scotia that will make your heart skip a beat. A real-life discovery channel.Explore all there is to do at NovaScotia.com
DRIFTTRAVEL onCothmeejoaulornngey + FOLLOW click to follow us onDRIFT travel magazineWhen is the last time you saw something for the veryfirst time? DRIFT travels to unforgettable places.Come along on the journey. Travel Often. Live Well.www.DRIFTtravel.com @DRIFTtravel also onShare your travels with DRIFT readersEach issue is distributed to 6.5 million digital magazine subscribersDRIFT is currently accepting submissions for:*Fascinating travel stories *Exceptional travel photographySend your article ideas & photo essays to [email protected] TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 19
10TOP EUROPEAN HIKES by: ANDREA KIRKBYEurope is full of great landscapes, and there’s no better way to experience its variety of natural attractions than to hike some of the long distance paths that stitch the continent together. Hikerswill always debate which are the greatest hikes, of course,but these ten routes are classics and ideal for fall weathertrekking.1 ENGLAND/SCOTLAND Pennine Way starts just outside the busy industrial city of Sheffield, but within a few miles it’s crossing bleak wild peat moors and striding gritstone cliffs. The route followsthe watershed up the backbone of England, finallycrossing Hadrian’s wall and the border into Scotland andthe Cheviot hills.267 miles (430km)20 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM
Pennine Way: Hopping over Hadrian's wall from England into Scotland TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 21
2 FRANCE/SPAIN Camino de Santiago, also known as GR 65 or Chemin de Saint-Jacques follows the medieval pilgrimage path from Le Puy in the center of France to Santiago de Compostelaat the western edge of Spain, though many hikers onlywalk the Spanish stretch. The full route takes a couple ofmonths. This hike is fascinating as it has both cultural andnatural attractions; the cathedrals of Le Puy, Pamplona,Burgos, Leon and Astorga are all visited en route, whilethere are many ancient pilgrim hospices and monasteries,and even Roman bridges to be crossed.Way of St. Jame s: 5 0 0 mil e s ( 80 4 km )3 FRANCE/ITALY Via Francigena is another medieval route, but it’s less well known than the Camino de Santiago. It was the route pilgrims took from northern France to Rome, and the stretch fromLucca to Rome runs through remote Tuscan hill towns, pastRomanesque churches, Etruscan monuments, and bubblinghot springs.Mostoftherouteisfairlygentle,runningthroughvineyards and farmland until it reaches the suburbs of Rome.270 miles (780km) THE MOUNTAINS are calling and I must go. JOHN MUIR AUTHOR & NATURALIST22 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM
Camino de Santiago collage: The many sights along the way TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 23
Path of the Gods: Walking over blue waters4 ITALY Path of the Gods is an Amalfi Coast walk along the Mediterranean, and between small towns and villages. There are tiny beaches and coves below, monasteries andrough forested peaks above, with some stiff and sweatyascents, but it’s worth it when you come across a fragrantlemon grove suspended vertiginously above the sea.Hikers can take time off to visit some of the fine palacesand ancient cathedrals along the route, or drink Amalfi’sfamous limoncello liqueur and enjoy a plate of seafood.25 miles (40km)24 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM
From our cover: Lemon tree fields, Italian skies andMediterranean waters along the Amalfi Coast TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 25
Malerweg: Exploring narrow, moss covered gorges
5 SWEDEN ICELAND Kungsleden or ‘King’s Way’ in the far Laugavegur is a big tough four-day hike north of Sweden is a true wilderness trek, (six if you carry on from Thorsmork to the taking a month or more to complete. The coast) covering some of Iceland’s wickedest landscape encompasses tundra, birchforests, heathland, glaciers, and Sweden’s highest 7 terrain. There are high ice fields, brightlymountain, and wild camping is permitted everywherealong the route - indeed, it’s so remote that hikers need colored volcanic rocks, amazing views of gorges gougedto carry a tent and food for some portions of the route. out by glacial floods, and mud geysers that spit sulfurous fumes as you pass. Best of all, at both ends of the trail,270 miles (440km) there are hot springs to bathe in after a hard day’s hiking. 49 miles (79km)6 GERMANY 8 GERMANY The Malerweg or ‘Painters’ Way’ in the Saar Hunsrueck Steig, near Trier, is a pretty and highly adaptable trail. It was sandstone hills of Saxony is one of the most designed with a number of loops that can romantic hikes in the world. Its picturesque be added to the hike or made into day hikes. scenery of limestone carved by wind andwater includes narrow mossy gorges and splendid spires of The landscape is always changing; there are castles, forests,rock; it’s worth getting up early for sunrise, when the rock megalithic sites, small towns, lakes, and open heath, andglows pale yellow and pink and mist rises from the valleys. best of all there’s an iconic view of the Saarschleife, where the river Saar makes a tight u-bend between forested hills.69 miles (112km) 254 miles (410km) Kungsleden: Waking up in the vastness of Sweden TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 27
9 CORSICA ITALY GR 20, Corsica’s high route, makes Alta Via 1 is a high route through hikers earn their rewards; it’s formidably the Dolomites, offering the hiker tough in sections, including one via a chance to see some of the most ferrata where chains are attached tothe rock to enable walkers to scramble upwards. In 10 spectacular limestone sceneryreturn for hard work, it offers tremendous viewsover the island and out to sea, as well as mountain in Europe, together with alpine lakes and meadows.lakes that gleam turquoise in the Mediterranean sun. There are soaring dark limestone spikes, long sharp ridges, and gentle, fertile valleys, and best of all there are112 miles (180km) numerous mountain huts and refuges to spend the night. 75 miles (120km) Corsica: Climbing nature's mountain staircase While many travelers are primarily interested in the cultural highlights of Europe found in the densely populated cities and quaint historic towns, hiking offers a completely different way to appreciate Europe’svast landscapes and different cultures. Many tour operators now offer packages for hikers which include bed and breakfast and packed meals as well as luggage transfers - search “Hiking Tours Europe” to research tour operator options. Or for the more experienced (or adventurous) hiker, ready your backpack, turn up at the start of your chosen hiking route and hit the trails!28 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM
Alta Via 1: Lac di Sorapis in the Dolomites
the editorwhen was the last time you saw something for the first time? by: TRACEY DRAKEBALINESE MAGIC AT MANDAPAI had been looking forward to my trip to Bali of years. In Ubud and all over Bali, thesefor months; my mind creating all kinds of temples offer a restful place for devotees todaydream scenarios that involved spectacular restore mind, body and soul. So, it seems veryplaces and unforgettable experiences. Of fitting to me that Ritz-Carlton would choosecourse, those all came true (if you have been the name Mandapa for this magical oasis.to Bali, you know exactly what I mean), butwhat I didn't expect was that one of the most My first visual introduction to Mandapamemorable would be a hotel. I should qualify literally left me speechless. Perched high onthat statement by saying this is no ordinary a hill, the hotel's open air terraced receptionhotel - this is Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton area offers 270 degree views of lush rollingReserve in Ubud. jungle landscape, rice paddies and the AyungTraveling with my husband, we booked an River. Less than one year old, I was impressedUber car in Denpasar, and headed north to to see that instead of simply building aUbud. It is an interesting drive through the modern resort, the hotel was built aroundbustling streets of Denpasar with hundreds the magnificent rice fields, ancient treesof motorized scooters going every which way. and Balinese jungle. In fact, from the lobby,On the highway, we passed many small towns you can immediately see how the sprawlingthat were well into their daily routines. About property wraps around the beautiful naturean hour later, we arrived at the outskirts of that is uniquely Bali.Ubud, and I watched out my window infascination as a busy intersection and a sharp Henry, our personal butler, introducedleft turn quickly became a serene residential himself and ushered us to a golf cart thatlane-way that led us to the gates of Mandapa. was the mode of transportation here, due toI had arrived in paradise. the very steep inclines from the villas to theMandapas (meaning temples) have been a hotel's main buildings.foundation of Balinese culture for thousands FOLLOW32 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM @TraceyDrakeEditor on Instagram & Twitter or search hashtag #TheTravellingEditor
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THE FINER POINTS • Driver: The charming village of Ubud is just ten minutes away, and there are so many wonderful places to visit in the immediate area. The hotel staff34 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM will be happy to arrange a Mandapa driver to take you to and from town. • Sun and Shade: A lovely locally made market tote and sun hat are provided for you, as well as quality sunblock and skin refresher spray. Take my advice - use them when you go into town or head out on a walking adventure. • Personal Butler: Day and night, there is a Patih at your service, a dedicated certified butler who can tend to your every need. Available by email, text or by calling the concierge desk. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION: RITZCARLTON.COM/EN/HOTELS/INDONESIA/MANDAPA
Our private villa, just one of sixty at thisintimate property, was luxurious andauthentically Balinese. The outdoor spacefeatured a bubbling fountain, mature treesand the most peaceful swimming pool, thatreflected nature in its still waters, like anever changing work of art.Showcasing regional architecture andcraftsmanship, the elegant living space wasin a separate riverfront building and themassive sleeping quarters had a poolsideterrace. I felt like I was in Bali, with furnituremade from local woods, and artwork thatrepresented Balinese history. As you wouldexpect from any Ritz-Carlton hotel, theamenities were exceptional; quality linens,towels, robes, and toiletries. The soakerbathtub with garden views and the indoor/outdoor shower did not go unnoticed.The lush green rice paddies at and aroundMandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve are somuch more than just lovely scenery. I triedmy hand at rice farming for a day, learningwhy rice is an important foundation inBalinese culture, and coming away witha sincere appreciation of how hard ricefarmers work each day.Dining at Mandapa was a pleasure andoptions were plentiful. We enjoyed healthyjuiceology at the Pool Bar. Each morning,we ordered a hearty breakfast at SawahTerrace Restaurant, overlooking the ricepaddies. On our first night, we experienceda Mediterranean-European fusion menuat Kubu, dining inside a private bamboococoon. On our final night, which alsohappened to be our wedding anniversary,the staff at Mandapa treated us to DiningBeyond, an unforgettable \"BerDua atMandapa Rice Field\" dinner for two, with alovely table set among the rice paddies.I would be remiss if I did not mention therestorative afternoon I spent in the MandapaSpa. The wide open spa looks out over theAyung River and is such a special place to TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 35
clear your mind and rid your body aches. Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve is locatedI opted for an authentic Balinese Massage. in a region of Bali famous for creative arts,If you've ever had one by a skilled massage stunning temples and natural beauty. Thistherapist, you know it is not overly relaxing. is a place where one can easily get lost inAs the expert hands of my therapist found the serenity, and then find yourself again,every kink and knot in my stressed body, but in a much better place - mentally andI felt it. However, the session ended with a physically. I cannot wait until the day I cangentle head and face massage, and with the return to the magic at Mandapa.soothing sounds of the rushing Ayung Riveroutside the window, I soon forget about thesore bits. In fact, by the next day, my bodywas feeling so free and de-stressed, I wantedto go back for another. Mandapa Spa trulyis focused on traditional healing therapies.36 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM
The Case for Better Travel. www.raden.com
EriLcI FHE +iSmT YelL’sEV acations are always a time to look forward to, by: ERIC HIMEL but the logistics of packing can be a nightmare! Whether your destination is a winter wonderland FUN IN THE SUN or fun in the sun, you always want to make sure Pick a theme - create a look. You can’t pack everything soyou pack smartly: pack light, chic and be prepared for any choose what your vibe or color palette is going to be. Do youvacation occasion! look good in white? Pastels? Nautical? Or animal prints? PickHere's my tips for packing with a plan - taking the guess one, and build out from there. Also decide if your jewelry iswork out of predicting what you will need! going to be silver or gold but don’t pack both. Lightweight scarves are always great for a chic style element to add to a basic outfit as well as being able to wrap it around your shoulders or neck at night if it happens to turn cool. Pick one that can double as a light shawl. Linen is great for warm weatherERIC’S CHIC GUIDE TO PACKING LIGHT FOR YOUR MOST STYLISH VACATION EVER! 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.38 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM
vacations just don’t get OCD about it if it gets wrinkly - justgo with the flow. Fabrics that have a synthetic component tothem pack better and eliminate wrinkles. Since shoes take upso much room, pack a flat sandal, a wedge and a heel for nightand if you’re going to exercise on your trip your last pairshould be a workout shoe - this will cover all of your bases.You can recycle the same outfit by bringing extra accessoriessuch as scarves and jewelry to make the looks differentfrom one day to the next. This will save on packing space.COLD WEATHER CHICJust like packing for warm weather vacations, pick a coloror theme as the central look for your vacation wardrobe.As a base color, go with blacks or browns, but not both. Ifyou choose black, some accent colors that work great wouldbe grays and burgundies. If a warm color work better onyou, choose chocolate brown and accents with beige, creamand dark green or rust. Layering is key so bring tops andsweaters that work together. Infuse velvet or chunky knitsto give some textural interest. Swap out a skinny jean witha skinny cord to mix up a casual look. And don’t forgetfun gloves, scarves and hats that can take a blah outfit to atotally chic one in a very inexpensive way and won’t take upa lot of extra room in your luggage. ERIC'S TRAVEL MUST-HAVES: • Airplanes Can Be Cold: Large cashmere shawl or pashmina to keep in your carry-on for cold flights. • Get The Most Out of Your 2nd Carry-On Bag: A chic, durable tote bag will double as your purse and 2nd carry-on for maximum storage. Keep your good jewelry, small makeup bag and one change of clothes in tote (if checking bags) in case airline loses it! • Keep Hydrated & Protected: Don’t forget a good moisturizer with sunscreen (less than 100ml for airport travel).LONGCHAMP TOTE • Skin Is In: Pack a good body scrub to exfoliate your patchyLe Pliage Expandable Travel Duffel skin from either dry, cold weather or after hours of laying in the sun! TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 39
Spain’s Canary Islands are among the mostsought after holiday destinations in the worldwith people from all over the globe visiting everyyear. Tenerife is the most popular of the islands,with impressive hotels situated all over the island,hundreds of bars creating fantastic nightlife, andworld class beaches. However, there are plenty ofother things to do on the island; attractions thatwill leave you with memorable moments on yournext trip to Tenerife.Golf Del Sur is popular with the older generation,and snowbirds often come here to settle in theirretirement. It’s a peaceful location with stunningviews and hotels as well as a spectacular golfcourse that is perfectly situated and surroundedby breathtaking landscape. Designed by PepeGancedo, who is considered the “Picasso” of hisfield, it’s one of the most peaceful golf coursesyou will ever play on!42 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM
TAKING FLIGHT PREMIUM ECONOMY VANCOUVER TO HONG KONG CATHAY PACIFIC AIRWAYS by: TRACEY DRAKEMy travel budget doesn’t usually allow for business class travel on long-haul flights. However, I use flying time as an opportunity to get a lot of work done so I am free toexperience my final destination immediately upon arrival.So, I need elbow room and space for my MacBook andnotepads. I also have quite long legs, which are a curse onany flight, but more so on a 13.5 hour flight from WesternCanada to Hong Kong.With business class out of my financial reach,and economy out of my comfort zone, I went insearch of middle ground and found a new option -Premium Economy with Cathay Pacific Airways.This is a new level of service for Vancouver to HongKong flights. For the dates I was traveling (April/May 2016), premium economy was just $710 morethan economy, but $3,530 less than business class.From the moment I arrived at the airport, I knewthe experience was going to be markedly different.There was a premium economy priority line atthe Cathay Pacific counter (just like business andfirst class) and baggage allowance was 25kg/55lbs,compared to just 20kg/44lbs for economy passengers.Translation? More shopping for me in Asia!At the gate, there was a designated line and priorityboarding for premium economy passengers. Aboardthe airplane, there was a separate cabin of theaircraft for premium economy, with in-flight crew.We were offered a hot towel, welcome beverageand a newspaper while we prepared for take-off. TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 43
LONG HAUL COMFORTThere were less than thirty seats in the premiumeconomy cabin, which was modern, clean andspacious. There was ample room between my seatand the passenger beside me. My seat featuredeight inches of recline and a four-way headrestfor body support and comfortable sleeping. Ireserved a front row seat, which included a leg-rest and lots of stretching space for my long limbs.The larger tray table was perfect for working ordining, and there was a secondary drinks tablefor extra tabletop space. Meal service (servedtwice on my flight) included elegant entrées -Asian or Western options. Wine, cocktails, bottledwater and yummy snacks were always available.I must mention how much I appreciatedthe noise cancelling headphones, and thestylish amenity kit with travel socks, eyeshade, earplugs, toothbrush and toothpaste.Its limited edition felted wool pouch, designedfor Cathay Pacific by G.O.D - Goods of Desire,has become the chic new home for my passport!44 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM
TAKING FLIGHTCathay Pacific currently offerstwo flights daily from VancouverInternational Airport to Hong Kong.You can choose to depart YVR in theafternoon (2:25pm PST) or in the earlymorning (2:05am PST). I chose thelatter because it offered the most sleeptime, allowing me to arrive 13.5 hourslater in Hong Kong, at the beginning ofa new day, feeling refreshed and readyto start exploring. Premium economyclass is available to and from manydifferent cities and countries. More infoat CathayPacific.com TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 45
AT A GLANCE:Okinawa Islands T by: ELIZABETH DEAN here is a place between Taiwan and Japan where speckles of land skip across the surface of the ocean. Forty nine of these small islands are inhabited and one hundred and eleven belong to the tropical wild. These are the Okinawa Islands. Where the lands are flooded with lush overgrown jungle, the sands are white as snow, and the waters are clearer than a glass of cool water. The islands are rich in history with fascinating legends of the Ryukyu culture. Once its own temperate kingdom, Okinawa now belongs to Japan and divides the Pacific Ocean and the East China Sea.46 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM
ROPE INTHE OPEN SEA WHAT’S IN A NAME? The stretch of tropical islands wind across the open blue, perched precariously on the steadily moving waters of the easterly sea. Just as they appear from above, the name Okinawa translates to “rope in the open sea”.WHAT TO BRING WHAT TO DOSNEAKERS Skechers Burst are Be sure to indulge in at least one traditional Okinawan dish, the local cuisine is famous for itslight, ventilated walking shoes for men part in good health. The locals have the longest lifeand women. expectancy in the world; their mantra is “nuchiskechers.com gusui”, meaning, food is medicine. There are plenty of spots to go snorkeling or diving and experience SUNGLASSES the exotic marine life and impressive coral reef. While the sea will lure and tempt you, don’t neglect Ray-Ban Aviator sunglasses with the magnificent land. Explore a mangrove jungle polarized green flash lenses. by canoe, or hike through the mountains. Iriomote ray-ban.com Island, called ‘the last unexplored region of Japan’, and Onna Village, are magical places to see rare WORLD ADAPTER animals and plants. There is also a lot to be learned about the culture and history – stroll through the Skross compact 3-pole travel plug with a dual USB historical sites and interact with the locals. charger for travelers from over 220 countries. skross.com TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 47
HAVANA a photographic journey Featured Photographer: Alex R. Elms AlexR.Elmsisafilmmaker and photographer, who has traveled the world looking for unique shots and perspectives. Selected for the NME photography awards, and short-listed at Cannes in the Young Lion film category, Alex sees unlimited potential through the lens. Photographing fashion, live music, travel and events, Alex has a current/past client list that includes Nike, BBC, M&C Saatchi, Bestival, Gigwise, Virtual Festivals, Consequence of Sound, British Red Cross, Bath In Fashion, and Alter Art. CAMERA EQUIPMENT: Canon 5D MK III Canon 24-70 F2.8 II Canon 50mm F1.4 Canon 17-40 F4 FOLLOW ALEX ONLINE: Website: a lexrelms.com Instagram: @alexrelms48 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM
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