DRIFT Travel Winter 2018

TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL 

TRAVEL MAGAZINE 

ISLAND OF DISCOVERY 

MAGIC ON THE ISLAND OF KAUAI 

STUNNING SANTORINI 

BASKING IN THE GLORY OF OIA, GREECE 

THE BUSTLE OF URBAN CHINA 

A STUNNING PHOTOGRAPHIC JOURNEY OF CONTRASTS 

SAILING THE CARIBBEAN 

TRAVEL ADVENTURE BY LUXURY YACHT CHARGER 

THE SECRET OF XINALANI 

WELLNESS RETREAT IN RURAL PUERTO VALLARTA 

WINTER 2018 

COME ALONG ON THE JOURNEY at DRIFTTRAVEL.COM

The Hidden Gem of 

the Med 

found at Avaton 

Avaton Luxury Villas Resort is a stylish and 

contemporary beachfront escape overlooking 

the sparkling turquoise waters of Komitsa Bay in 

Athos Peninsula, Halkidiki, Greece. 

Avaton consists of an exclusive collection of 16 

villas, providing an unique lifestyle experience. 

Most of the villas include private pools, leading 

down to lush Mediterranean gardens and a 

pristine beach. 

Your personal butler and chef, upon request, 

and an exclusive mini bar and wine list add to 

the unique savor pleasure. 

Sensational massage treatments, private 

transfer with helicopter and limousine and 

memorable cruises along the nearby islands 

and breathtaking coastline, complete the 

ultimate seaside sophistication experience. 

For more info please visit: www.avaton.com

SUBTLE CRYSTAL JEWELRY FOR THE MODERN BOHÈME 

VANCOUVER, CANADA

INSIDE this issue 

KATIKIES, GREECE 

10 Blue and breathtaking. 

ERIC HIMEL’S STYLE 

14 What to pack for the beach. 

16 KAUAI, HAWAII 

The island of discovery. 

SAN SEBASTIAN, SPAIN 

22 The artist of Spanish Pintxo. 

TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL 

ISLAND OF DISCOVERY 

MAGIC ON THE ISLAND OF KAUAI 

STUNNING SANTORINI 

BASKING IN THE GLORY OF OIA, GREECE 

THE BUSTLE OF URBAN CHINA 

A STUNNING PHOTOGRAPHIC JOURNEY OF CONTRASTS 

SAILING THE CARIBBEAN 

TRAVEL ADVENTURE BY LUXURY YACHT CHARGER 

THE SECRET OF XINALANI 

WELLNESS RETREAT IN RURAL PUERTO VALLARTA 



COME ALONG ON THE JOURNEY at DRIFTTRAVEL.COM 

26 2018 TRAVEL TRENDS 

An insider’s look at what’s to come. 

32 URBAN CHINA 

A telling photographic journey. 

42 TRAVEL GEAR 

New products for ultimate comfort. 

44 ETHIOPIA, AFRICA 

A journey to Africa’s horn. 

58 VICTORIA, CANADA 

Wildlife photographer of the year. 

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA 

66 Savory bites and neon lights. 


No matter what type of travel 

adventure you are seeking, the winter 

issue of DRIFT magazine has it. From 

sun and sands in Mexico, Hawaii 

and the tropics of Belize to fun and 

adventure in Las Vegas, Spain and 

the depths of Africa. 

52 TRAVELING EDITOR 

An escape to Xinalani in Mexico. 

54 LUXURY SAILING 

Unique travel by yacht charters. 

MECKLENBURG, GERMANY 

76 Exploring Rhineland by boat. 

4 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM

PUBLISHER 

GLOSSY MEDIA 

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF | CREATIVE DIRECTOR 

TRACEY DRAKE 

PRODUCTION/EDITORIAL 

BRITTANY BALLANTINE, SARAH CASEWIT, TERRY 

COLBY, DONALD, CONTURSI, ELIZABETH DEAN, 

TRACEY DRAKE, STEVE DRAKE, ERIC HIMEL, JULIE 

LEVENTHAL, PETER MANDEL, LAINA MCWHORTER, 

IAN PEDERSEN, MICHAEL SHERIDAN, SYLVIA 

TENNANT, RUSS WALSH 

CREATIVE | PHOTOGRAPHY 

LAURENT BALLESTA, BOOKING.COM, STEVE 

DRAKE, FEATUREWELL, JUSTIN HOFMAN, KATIKIES 

HOTELS, TYOHAR KASTIEL, QING LIN, DAVID LLOYD, 

MOORINGS.COM, PAUL MORRISON, ROYAL BC 

MUSEUM, NAYA TRAVELER, MICHAEL SHERIDAN, 

SHUTTERSTOCK, ADOBE STOCK, WORLD LUXURY SPA 

AWARDS, WORLD LUXURY RESTAURANT AWARDS, 

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2015-2018

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KATIKIES 

Oia, Greece 

BY: ELIZABETH DEAN 


Oia is a dreamy little Grecian town on Santorini, located amongst the Cyclades of Greece. 

The town is reminiscent of a rich oil painting, with the island’s striking natural colors juxtaposed by the 

vivid white cycladic architecture that spills down the hillside to the Aegean Sea below. Perched on the 

Caldera cliffs, 300 feet above the Aegean Sea, is one of Greece’s most prestigious hotels, Katikies Hotel 

in Oia Santorini. Katikies offers guests the intimacy of a boutique hotel with unprecedented luxuries. The 

hotel has been masterfully designed to complement the natural flow of the cliff-side it gently hangs from, with 

infinity pools, bridges, cottages and balcony’s tumbling delicately over the land. 

TRAVEL OFTEN . LIVE WELL . 9

The exterior of Katikies Hotel seamlessly transitions 

into the interior design. Suites offer clean palettes 

with gentle powder blue textiles, and brilliant white 

bathrooms are created from the finest natural 

materials. Greek antiques have been hand-picked to 

match the traditional beamed ceilings, infusing the 

spaces with a subtle reference to Greece’s past. The 

elegant suites have been adorned with every modern 

day luxury, which is a clear contrast to the classic air 

of purity and simplicity. 

Private terraces ensure the finest views over the 

Aegean Sea and stir contemplative and reflective 

thought. Your days at Katikies will commence with 

masterfully designed breakfasts on your terrace. At 

night, leaving the terrace doors open, and having the 

soft white curtains fan gentle sea breezes over you, 

creates a near saintly sleeping experience. 

When you are not basking in the sanctity of your 

suite, there are several dining experiences to enjoy. If 

you’re hoping to remain in one of the infinity pools, 

Katikies boasts one of Santorini’s most legendary 

pool bars and poolside restaurants. The remarkable 

poolside restaurant is informally credited as 

characterizing the magical culinary vibe at the hotel. 

Katikies is also famed for a superb sunset ceremonial 

local wine tasting. 

Perhaps the most exclusive experience at Katikies 

is the intimate four table dining space on the hotels 

secret rooftop veranda, perched on the volcano rim. 

No doubt, one of the most romantic candle lit dining 

experiences in the world. 

The holiness of Katikies Hotel may just make you 

forget that beyond its borders, lays one of the finest 

towns for exploring in Greece. 


THE “GRANDE DAME” 

DESIGNED IN THE AEGEAN CYCLADIC 

ARCHITECTURE STYLE, AND BUILT UPON A 

HISTORY AS SPECTACULAR AS ITS FREE FORM 

FANTASY ARCHITECTURAL FORMATION OF 

STAIRS, BRIDGES, CUBIST COTTAGES, INFINITY 

POOLS AND CALDERA VIEWS. 


Eric Himel’s 

LIFE+STYLE 

BY: ERIC HIMEL 

ZIMMERMANN 

Winter can only mean one 

thing, bathing suit season. 

Well, not exactly, but if you 

are taking a resort vacation 

during this cold season, 

bathing suits are surely in 

order. Lack of sun, outdoor 

activities and exercise paired 

with holiday eating do not 

help the matter, so the 3 C’s, 

Color, Cut and Coverups, are 

essential to keep you looking 

and feeling great on the 

beach and by the pool. Add 

accessories and voilà, you are 

sun-ready! 

NOT YOUR MOTHER’S ONE PIECE 

One-piece bathing suits no longer have to be relegated to 

the categories of ‘frumpy’ or ‘muumuu-esque’. There are so 

many iterations of them now, that they can take a proud 

position beside their cousin counterpart, the bikini, and 

can be just as sexy and chic. Low cut, strategically placed 

cutouts and strapless versions offer choices galore. And you 

can still feel sexy and utilize the extra material to cover the 

areas that may not be up to par. 

JCREW 

UNDER COVER 

Cover-ups serve to transition to and from your room to 

pool and beach, double as an outfit for lunch, and cover 

a multitude of sins. Choose your style based on what you 

consider are your best and worst features: a sarong conceals 

cellulite, a shorter cover-up shows off great legs while a long 

V-neck sleeveless style shows off décolleté and toned arms. 

For solid color bathing suits, pair with a solid color coverup 

to match giving off a monochromatic look or choose a 

fun pattern that will bring out the color of your suit. For a 

print bathing suit, choose one of the colors in the suit and 

wear a solid color cover-up. A transparent cover-up allows 

you to show an outline of your body while still letting you 

feel ‘covered up’. Choose fabrics that breathe or have a loose 

knit for both style and comfort in the heat. 

THE LAST RESORT PACKING FOR THE BEACH 

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. 


ACCESSORIZE THIS 

Accessories for bathing suits are 

like accessories for any outfit, 

they can turn a ho-hum into a 

‘wow’! But since bathing suits 

are naturally sporty, avoid overthe-top 

accessories as there is a 

fine line between the chic and 

the ridiculous. Hats and glasses 

are de rigueur. Choose a wide 

brimmed hat for protection as 

well as glamour while sunglasses 

should be one-part practical (UVA 

and UVB protection) and one 

part attitude. For jewelry, the key 

is in the materials and the bling 

factor. Gold emulates the sun while 

clear materials look like sculpted 

water. While it may be ok for 

Mariah Carey to wear diamond 

drop earrings by the pool, I would 

suggest avoiding that look. 

MISSONI 

ERIC’S BATHING SUIT STYLE GUIDE: 

BANDEAU A strapless bikini top offering bare shoulders for no 

tan lines. Because of less support, they are best suited for cup 

sizes A-C. 

BOY SHORTS Bathing suit bottoms that provide full coverage 

with a lower leg cut. 

ONEONE 

SWIMWEAR 

BRAZILIAN Swimwear with a thong like bottom. Absolute least 

amount of butt coverage possible. 

MAILLOT (pronounced my-oh) Another name for a one-piece 

swimsuit. 

MONOKINI A one piece suit that has the look of a bikini, but 

with minimal fabric or connectivity between the top and bottom 

of the suit. 

EUGENIA KIM 

TANGA A very small bikini with minimal coverage on the 

backside (although not as small as a thong or Brazilian). 

TANKINI A two-piece bathing suit consisting of a tank top and a 

bikini bottom. 


Yacht 

Charters 

BY: IAN PEDERSEN 


The world today is very 

different from the way 

it was just a decade ago. 

Everything and everyone 

is connected. Through television 

and the internet and the everlasting 

wave of social media, we are all 

online, connected and seemingly in 

perpetual motion at all times and 

without end. So where does one 

go when you are ready to finally 

disconnect? 

The solution for many vacationers 

is to travel. The tropics are always 

there to offer warm sunshine, balmy 

breezes and the refreshment of a dip 

in calm, clear waters or the sip of a 

cocktail on the beach. The simple 

delights of enjoying the best that 

nature has to offer has beckoned to 

millions of travelers over the years. 

But there exists another type of 

vacation that elevates this experience 

to new heights: a yacht charter. 


Say the term “yacht charter” and 

images of mega yachts, jet skis and 

helicopters immediately spring to 

mind. But the yacht charter industry 

has evolved leaps and bounds 

in the last few decades, and has 

become much more accessible 

to anyone interested in truly disconnecting, 

and experiencing the 

beauty of the destination in which 

they are traveling. Companies like 

The Moorings, who operate in over 

20 exotic destinations worldwide, 

offer private yachts of a reasonable 

size, ideal for small parties of 4 to 

10 guests. Assemble your closest 

friends and family, fly to your destination 

of choice, and prepare to 

set sail on your own private yacht 

for a week of fun in the sun. 

Are you a boater? You can captain 

the boat yourself for the ultimate in 

privacy and flexibility, or you can hire 

a professional skipper and have him 

do the work for you. 

Interested in an even more luxurious 

experience? Opt for an all-inclusive 

crewed yacht, complete with a captain 

and gourmet chef to prepare cocktails 

and hors d’oeuvres for your group for 

next-level relaxation. 

There is no greater peace than to 

experience life aboard an all-inclusive 

sailing yacht with the engines off, 

and nothing but the sound of the 

wind whistling through the sails and 

the water rushing below while your 

captain expertly directs your boat to 

the next island paradise. 

Wake up each day to a new 

destination as you watch the sun rise 

over the horizon. Take a morning 

plunge into crystal clear Caribbean 

waters and rejuvenate the senses. Set 

sail for a remote island only accessible 

by boat and enjoy exploring secluded 

beaches and pristine coral reefs all by 

yourselves. Then, anchor offshore the 

nearest beach bar and enjoy evening 

cocktails while your chef prepares 

dinner on board. At night, lay on 

deck and gaze at the night sky in its 

true brilliance, far from the lights of 

the city. 

This is no ordinary vacation. This is 

not a cruise with 3,000 of your closest 

friends. This is a once-in-a-lifetime 

experience once reserved only for the 

rich and famous, and now accessible 

for today’s experiential traveler. Break 

free from the TV, from your phone 

and from every worry back home 

and slip into island time. Set sail and 

connect with the things that really 

matter: with your friends and with 

your family; with the beauty of the 

world around you. Paradise is out 

there. What are you waiting for? 

The cost of a typical 7-day allinclusive 

charter varies widely by 

season and travel destination, but 

an average charter starts at around 

$15,000. Split between 3 couples, that 

comes to $2,500 per person, or about 

the cost of a high-end all-inclusive 

resort. www.moorings.com 


Call 800.669.6529 

moorings.com/drift 

unplug 

When sinking in life’s unyielding 

wave of technology, disconnect 

from the rush and slip into 

island-time. Leave reality on the 

dock in exchange for uncommon 

coordinates and unlimited 

adventure on-demand. Cast 

off with The Moorings, let your 

worries melt away, remember 

how to live in the moment—one 

nautical mile at a time. 



ESCAPE TO 

KAUAI, HAWAII 

BY: SYLVIA TENNANT 

As the oldest of the Hawaiian Islands, Kauai, 

aptly-named Garden Isle, is an escape for 

those who wish to explore the unrivaled 

natural beauty that extends from the majestic peaks of the 

ancient Napali coastline to the mazes of underwater reefs 

where some of the world’s most colorful species co-exist 

in bustling metropolises. 

Kauai is not simply a 

vacation destination. It’s a 

feeling, a spirit, a way of 

embracing life. 

The Hawaiian Islands are geographically the most 

isolated inhabited landmasses on earth. Kauai is the 

fourth largest, with over 50 miles of pristine white sand 

beaches and more than 80% unsettled land to explore. 

Lihue, the main port of entry into Kauai, is nestled on 

the eastern side between the North and South shores. 

There you will find Kalapakī beach, which is edged by the 

lush tropical gardens of the Kauai Marriott Resort. This 

protected cove is known as one of the most swimmable 

shores on the island. During the day, relax in a private 

shaded cabana with a full service bar at your fingertips, 

attend a lei-making session, or lounge next to the 26,000- 

foot swimming pool, which hosts impressive fountains 

and flowering lounge areas. In the evening, I suggest a 

candlelit dinner of fresh-caught fish for two accompanied 

by acoustic guitar in one of the airy gazebos. The view 

overlooking this property is superb from the privacy of 

your dining experience. 

For those with only a few days to spare, the beauty of 

Kauai is also in its accessibility. Trees dripping with 

mangoes and vast coffee plantation fields are reasons 

to remember why the drive is just as beautiful as the 

destination. From Lihue, take the highway to the South 

Shore where you’ll find the quaint town of Hanapepe 

Bay. Set sail to the north from the local marina into 

Kauai’s dynamic seas on a romantic cruise alongside the 


striking ancient cliffs and valleys of the famous 

Napali coast. I suggest Captain Andy’s luxury 

catamarans for ultimate comfort, because 

counting waterfalls from a first-class vessel 

is an experience one should not live without. 

Expect relaxing Hawaiian music, excellent 

snorkeling, on-board showers, flavorful meals, 

and entertaining staff personalities. Take the 

morning sail, as afternoon winds can make the 

return trip quite choppy. For the slightly more 

adventurous couple, the Kalalau Trail Hike to 

Hanakapi’ai Beach hosted by Kayak Kauai is a 

fabulous day hike option that begins the trail 

of the 22-mile journey on foot to the same 

destination. It is just as breathtaking, and the 

aroma of plumeria flowers combined with 

stunning views is worthy of the effort. 

The romantic island way of life is present 

within the upscale district of Halele’a, which 

sits on the North Shore of Kauai. The St. Regis 

Princeville is my top pick within this area for 

ultra-exclusive accommodations. Built into a 

cliff, this lavish resort is consistently rated one 

of the top places in the world to be engaged, 

and for good reason. From private beachside 

yoga in the morning to the famous nightly 

champagne sabering ritual, the details of a 

St. Regis experience are truly extraordinary. 

Have dinner at the open-air Makana 

Terrace overlooking Hanalei Bay, which 

hosts the perfect viewpoint of magnificent 

Kauai sunsets next to Mount Makana. The 

local culture and traditions of this magical 

island are integrated into a romantic dining 

occasion, which serves sophisticated, original 

plates made with locally farmed ingredients 

from an award-winning team. It is both 

intimate and unbelievable, considering 

each table is dwarfed by majestic views of 

paradise. Couples seeking an indulgent spa 

experience should consider staying here, for 

the therapeutic private room retreats are not 

to be missed. 

Exploring the lush rain forest of Kauai 

is most memorable on horseback, and 

Princeville Ranch Adventures hosted what 

quickly became my favorite tour of the trip. 

Expert guides unraveled the cultural history 


of the area as we leisurely rode on gentle horses through 

grasslands and tropical backcountry. A short hike through 

picturesque hala trees brought us to a secluded waterfall, 

where lunch was served and swimming in the clear pools 

was encouraged. I highly recommend this tour for the 

photo opportunities, as the waterfall’s basin is stunning, 

safe and easily accessible. For those who prefer to have 

two feet on the ground, the world-renowned 18-hole 

Makai golf course is five minutes up the road and built 

alongside stunning ocean views. 

Hawaii’s Island 

of Discovery 

Slightly west from Princeville lies the beautiful town 

of Hanalei. Surrounded by century-old taro fields, it 

has been said that Hawaiians travel to this historic 

community to reconnect with Old Hawaii and enjoy the 

simplicity of Hanalei life. 

During the day, order lunch from the Hanalei Taro and 

Juice Co. food truck and wander down to the famous pier, 

forever immortalized in the film South Pacific. The shops 

in Hanalei are run by warm-hearted locals and filled with 

colorful, well-priced, interesting finds. Brands such as 

Stone Cold Fox and Mara Hoffmann are stocked at the I 

Heart Hanalei Beach Boutique, which has a beautifully 

curated selection of stylish beachwear. Date night is more 

relaxed here and should definitely start at Barracuda, 

which has a regionally inspired menu and trendy, openconcept 

vibe. Do yourself a favor and order the local 

North Shore Honeycomb with goat cheese and Fuji apple 

which pairs perfectly with any one of their handcrafted 

cocktails. A trip to Kauai wouldn’t be complete without 

a Mai Tai at the charming family-run Tahiti Nui bar, 

where waitresses go from taking orders to spontaneously 

dancing the hula to the sounds of live music. This is the 

spot to enjoy a romantic party atmosphere and dance 

the night away. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself 

lined up behind a Hollywood A-lister at the bar- many 

celebrities own property in Hanalei. 

After a late night with the locals, wake up slow and head 

into the lush emerald Kauai interior for a relaxing float 

down the open canals, tunnels, and flumes of the former 

Lihue sugar plantation. Sit in a comfortable tube, put on a 

headlamp, and experience the flowing waters originating 

from Mount Waialeale, all while being surrounded by 

remarkably green tropical backcountry. Don’t forget a 

waterproof camera, because this tour runs through one of 

the most picturesque secluded areas of Kauai. 


If you’re in the mood to take morning walks in the sand 

between palm trees and waves, the Kòa Kea Hotel and 

Resort at Poipu Beach on the South Shore is a boutique 

property to consider. Both humans and endangered 

monk seals bake under the sun in the trade wind breeze, 

surrounded by an intoxicating floral scent that seems 

to follow you wherever you are on this island. The soft 

rustle of palm leaves and happy bird songs set the scene 

for couples to fall easily into blissful relaxation. Order the 

soufflé pancakes and POG (pineapple orange guava) juice 

for breakfast- you will not be disappointed. 

Should you want to wander outside of the property 

for a local dining adventure, the South Shore is lucky 

enough to be home to visionary chef Roy Yamaguchi’s 

Eating House 1849, where the juxtaposition of tropical 

views and slick industrial-inspired décor is as visually 

impactful as the combination of local ingredients and 

haute cuisine plated within its kitchen. After dinner, be 

sure to take a romantic stroll under the stars along the 

promenade of Kukui’ula. With talented buskers around 

every corner, this outdoor shopping district is defined by 

its attention to detail, with free valet service, lantern-filled 

banana trees, roaming hula dancers, and lively bars and 

restaurants setting an energetic but cozy atmosphere. 

Upon leaving Kauai, it is certain that the happy locals, 

turquoise surf, and breathtaking skies will have you 

reminiscing fondly. Mother Nature took her time with 

this island, and hidden within the exquisite natural 

beauty lies some of the world’s best customizable 

accommodations and attractions. Whether visiting for a 

week or staying for a lifetime, Kauai is the perfect place to 

create your most meaningful memories. 




SPAIN 

EXPLORING pintxo IN 

SAN SEBASTIAN 

BY: TERRY COLBY 

In this glitzy, seaside resort town 

in Basque Country, locals in black 

berets mingle with tourists along the 

narrow, stone streets edged by the 

gleaming Bay of La Concha, just 12 

miles from the border with France. 

You know it’s a mecca for foodies 

because there are currently five 

Michelin-starred restaurants in this 

city of fewer than 200,000 people, 

including Arzak and Akelare, both 

honored with the premier three stars 

for 2013. 

But you don’t have to drop a bundle 

and reserve your spot far in advance 

to explore some of the finest Basque 

cuisine. That’s because you’re in the 

birthplace of the pintxo (pronounced 

pin-cho) and there’s no shortage of 

places where you can sample this 

ultimate finger food. 

Pintxo bars aren’t as upscale as the 

starred restaurants, of course. But 

they offer an appealing gastronomic 

experience that melds tradition 

and innovation with the Basque 

love of fresh, local ingredients and 

the camaraderie that comes from 

sharing food and drink in a casual 

atmosphere with friends and family. 


Pintxos are not as large as tapas, the 

small plates of Spanish cuisine that 

have become ubiquitous across the 

U.S., and are designed to be just a 

bite or two, often served on just a 

napkin, not a plate. 

And while visiting a pintxo bar can 

be a casual outing, there’s a definite 

style of pintxo dining that locals 

practice and travelers would be wise 

to observe, a kind of pintxo pub 

crawl, if you will. 

Here are two pieces of advice-- 

offered by Gabriella Ranalli of 

Tenedor Tours, which takes tourists 

on culinary excursions in San 

Sebastian--that will help you have 

the best experience and will keep 

you from being labeled a tourist. 

1. Eat only one pintxo at each bar as 

each has its specialty. Savor it, along 

with a glass of wine, and move on to 

the next place. 

2. Most pintxos are served on 

napkins, and the way you dispose 

of the napkins will mark you either 

as a local or an outsider. When you 

are finished, don’t leave the napkin 

on the bar or look for a garbage 

container. To demonstrate true 

Basque style, raise the napkin into 

the air and throw it to the ground 

under the bar. Don’t just drop it like 

a kid feeding vegetables to the dog. 

True locals fling to the floor with 

flair, take one last swig of wine, and 

move on to the next place. 

San Sebastian is about 60 miles from 

Bilbao, the largest city in northern 

Spain’s Basque Autonomous 

Community, which is home to 

the iconic Guggenheim Museum, 

and where there is no shortage of 

pintxos. A culinary excursion can 

easily include both cities with easy 


connections via car, bus or train, 

and enough pintxos to fill your 

stomach. Ranalli’s Tenedor Tours 

offers culinary-themed experiences 

for travelers to the Basque region 

including cooking classes, market 

trips and visits to Basque cooking 

clubs. She’ll even take you on a 

walking tour of her favorite pintxo 

bars in San Sebastian. If you prefer 

to go it on your own, here are some 

pintxo bars in the city’s old town that 

are worth a visit: 

• Borda Berri on Calle Fermin for 

stewed beef cheeks. 

• Txepetxa on Calle Pescaderia for 

the best anchovies in town. 

• Bar Nestor on Calle Pescaderia 

for the best tortilla, a Spanish 

egg dish, not a Mexican wrap. 

• Casa Urola on Calle Fermin 

Calbeton for artichoke pinxtos. 

• Al Fuego Negro on Calle 31 de 

Agosto for the rice, tomato and 

egg pinxtos. 

In San Sebastian, you must also 

stop in at the Hotel Maria Cristina, 

a grande dame extraordinaire, if 

not for a stay then at least to savor a 

gin and tonic, one of the hotel bar’s 

specialties. An overnight would be 

a splurge for sure, but it’s extremely 

luxe and in a great location. 

Whenever I’m in Spain, I try to 

stay at one of the government-run 

paradores, refurbished historical 

buildings turned into hotels. About a 

half hour’s drive from San Sebastian 

is the Parador de Hondarribia, one 

of my favorites. It’s a 10th Century 

castle with an especially nice feel 

with views of France. Hondarribia 

is a fishing village, a picturesque 

town with stone streets, homey 

restaurants, specialty shops and 

great water views. 

In Bilbao, the Guggenheim Museum 

is a modern art-lover’s dream. But 

even if that’s not your thing, the 

museum is engaging and surprising 

in the way space is used. It’s definitely 

worth a visit. A good place to stay 

is the Gran Hotel Silken Domine, 

which is just across the street from 

the museum. It’s a luxury spot with a 

modern art feel and a bit of whimsy 

in a great location. 


From new technology frontiers to walking your way 

to wellness and big bucket list expeditions, here are 

Booking.com’s biggest travel trends for 2018 

28 28 . . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM

2018 

TRAVEL PREDICTIONS 

Booking for inspiration for your 2018 travel? Facilitating 

reservations for more than 1,500,000 room nights each day, 

the experts at Booking.com, the global leader in connecting 

travelers with the widest choice of incredible places to stay, have 

combined customer insights from over 128 million real guest reviews 

with research from 19,000 travelers across 26 countries around 

the world to reveal the biggest travel predictions for 2018. 

1. NEW TECH FRONTIERS 

Immersive experiences will 

reach the next level in 2018, with 

travelers looking to technology 

to help better understand a 

destination or accommodation 

before they book. Artificial 

intelligence and digital technology 

are helping consumers turn the 

corner when it comes to smart 

destination intuition, reshaping 

the way we research, book and 

experience travel. Almost a third 

(29%) of global travelers say they 

are comfortable letting a computer 

plan an upcoming trip based on 

data from their previous travel 

history and half (50%) don’t mind 

if they deal with a real person or 

computer, so long as any questions 

are answered. Over six in 10 (64%) 

of travelers say they would like to 

‘try before they buy’ with a virtual 

reality preview, while 50% find 

that personalized suggestions 

for destinations and things to do 

encourages them to book a trip. 

Taking all the hard work and 

stress out of decision making, in 

2018 technology will continue to 

guide us seamlessly to find the 

best stays and experiences for us. 

2. DREAM TO REALITY 

2018 is the year to dream big as 45% 

of travelers have a travel bucket 

list in mind and the majority of 

those (82%) will aim to tick one 

or more destinations off their list 

in the coming year. The yearning 

for experiences over material 

possessions continues and drives 

our desire for more incredible and 

memorable trips. With dwindling 

patience, instantaneous appetites 

and empowered by technology, 

travelers in 2018 will seize 

the moment like never before. 

Most likely to feature on a bucket 

list is seeing one of the wonders 

of the world, as almost half of 

travelers (47%) will look to tick 

this off in 2018. Over a third (35%) 

yearn to tantalize their taste buds 

by trying a local delicacy, 34% 

want to head to an island paradise 

and 34% are thrill seekers wanting 

to visit a world famous theme 

park. Adrenalin junkies should 

consider Orlando, USA, The Gold 

Coast in Australia and Dubai, 

United Arab Emirates the top 

destinations endorsed by Booking. 

com travelers for theme parks. 


The other top travel activities to 

complete in 2018 look set to be 

experiencing a unique cultural 

event (28%), learning a new skill 

(27%), going on an epic road or 

rail journey (25%) and visiting a 

remote or challenging location 

(25%). 

3. RETRO REBOOT 

As well as new experiences, 

travelers will be revisiting their 

favorite childhood memories as 

part of their trips in 2018. Blending 

the future with the past, next year’s 

travelers will be inspired to return 

to previously loved destinations 

and explore them in a whole new 

way. A third of travelers (34%) 

will consider a holiday they 

experienced as a child for 2018. 

These popularity of these vintage 

vacations stems from the feelings 

of nostalgia and happiness the 

destinations evoke. Travelers say 

that former family holidays recall 

the fondest memories, even more 

so than childhood sweethearts or 

family pets. Millennials look set 

to be even more sentimental with 

44% of 18 to 34 year olds keen 

to hark back to favorite family 

destinations. With 60% of travelers 

in 2018 intending to post on social 

media each day, we can expect to 

see these nostalgic places brought 

back to the future and captured for 

social posterity. 

4. POP CULTURE PILGRIMAGE 

With the world at our finger tips, 

we rely on many sources to inspire 

us to travel to new destinations. 

Tapping into our passions is one 

way of helping to identify the 

locations most suited to us - from 


culture and entertainment, to food 

and history. In 2018, television 

shows, films, sport and social 

media in particular look set to 

have an increasingly significant 

sway over booking decisions, as 

travelers turn to pop culture for 

their travel inspiration. Reading 

blogs or watching YouTuber 

recommendations will spark ideas 

for four in ten (39%) travelers 

and on screen locations from 

television, film or music videos 

will win over 36% of travelers 

in the coming year. More than 

a fifth (22%) of travelers will be 

tempted by traveling for a major 

sporting event, with 43% of those 

considering a summer of football 

in Russia. 

The top television program 

locations travelers most want to 

visit in 2018 are Croatia, Spain 

and Iceland inspired by Game of 

Thrones (29%), London as seen in 

Sherlock and the Crown (21% and 

13%), New York and Manhattan 

from Billions (13%) and Los 

Angeles viewed in Entourage 

(10%). 

5. WALK TO WELLNESS 

The trend for wellness getaways 

isn’t slowing down for 2018, with 

almost double the amount of 

people planning to take health and 

wellbeing trips in 2018 compared 

to 2017. Trips enjoying particular 

prominence will be those that 

involve traveling on two feet. A 

brilliant way to take in the local 

landscape, walking will be the 

ultimate way to explore next year, 

with 56% of travelers saying they 

want to do walking or hiking 

trips in 2018. A new generation of 

walkers will lace up their boots. 

Other health and wellness inspired 

activities high on the travel agenda 

in 2018 include visiting a spa 

or receiving beauty treatments 

(33%), cycling (24%), water sport 

activities (22%), taking a full body 

detox holiday (17%), going on a 

yoga retreat (16%), running (16%) 

and undertaking meditation/ 

mindfulness (15%). Embracing 

such experiences is popular 

with travelers, with 59% saying 

they prioritize experiences over 

material items when on holiday. 

Partaking in a health and wellness 

trip may also be good for the mind, 

as over half (55%) say that going 

on holiday is a moment for them 

to reflect and make better lifestyle 

choices – something which can be 

easily facilitated through a health 

and wellness trip. 


6. ECONOMIC INTUITION 

Every year, travelers are becoming 

savvier, especially when it comes 

to getting the most for their 

money. With significant numbers 

basing their traveling decisions 

on finance-related matters, 

2018 will see travelers looking 

to be even more economically 

intuitive. Nearly half (47%) will 

take currency exchange rates into 

consideration when planning 

travels, and almost the same 

amount (48%) will think about the 

economic climate of a destination 

before making the decision to 

travel. Good news for the retail 

industry, a third of travelers (30%) 

also plan to make more purchases 

from airport duty free shops in 

2018 and one in four (26%) will 

even go on holiday specifically to 

buy goods such as fashion items 

because they are cheaper than in 

their home country. 

More confident to follow their own 

intuition, travelers are less obliged 

to follow the herd, with over 

half (57%) wanting to do more 

independent travel in 2018, placing 

growing value on personalized 

endeavors, looking for the best 

deals and putting together their 

own packages – all with the help 

of apps and technology. Almost 

half of travelers (44%) will 

use travel apps more in 2018, 

with technology continuously 

developing to make travel stress 

free in 2018. This includes geolocation 

technology directing 

you to your accommodation, all 

within one click from your app, 

or planning activities while on 

holiday in just a few simple taps of 

your smart phone, as over two in 

five (41%) expect to do in 2018. 


7. GREAT MATE ESCAPE 

2018 is gearing up to be all about 

the group get-away. When asked 

who their 2018 travel companions 

were likely to be, the segment 

with the biggest increase when 

compared to 2017, was traveling 

with a group of friends, increasing 

from 21% to 25%. 

With 2018 shaping up to be all 

about the experience, it’s not just 

about the destination but also 

the people that matter to create 

memories. Mate’s escapes are the 

ultimate social time away from 

our everyday pressures, reducing 

stress and building connections 

with your friends. With the world 

only a click away it’s never been 

easier to find the perfect place to 

stay and explore with a large group 

of friends looking for adventure 

across every corner of the globe. 

Friend based getaways also have 

financial advantages as four in 10 

(42%) said that joint holidays with 

friends will allow them to stay in 

accommodation they wouldn’t be 

able to afford on their own. 

8. LIVE LIKE A LOCAL 

(NOT WITH ONE) 

In 2018, rental homes are going 

to be particularly popular – not 

just for travelers looking to stay 

in one, but also home owners who 

are thinking of inviting others to 

stay in their own abode. One in 

three travelers (33%) say they’d 

prefer to stay in a holiday rental (a 

holiday home or apartment) over a 

hotel and one in five (21%) would 

consider listing their home on a 

travel accommodation site. 

When it comes to playing the role 

of a host, travelers reveal that it 

isn’t about having them there all 

the time. Travelers are keen to 

have a local experience and will 

look to hosts for their expertise, 

as a quarter of travelers say it 

will be important that their host 

has strong local knowledge about 

local food and places to visit 

(25%), but travelers will want the 

flexibility to interact with hosts on 

their own terms. In 2018, it will be 

important for travelers that their 

host is available but not too overbearing 

(30%) and one in 10 (12%) 

want a host who they don’t have to 

speak to at all. 

Pepijn Rijvers, Chief Marketing 

Officer at Booking.com 

comments: “As technology 

continues to advance, it’s also 

advancing and enhancing the 

way we travel. It empowers 

us to plan the perfect holiday 

and makes it easier to 

explore further and with more 

confidence, flexibility and 

options than ever before.” 


Photographer Notes: 

Fenghuang, China - Fisherman at Night Fenghuang is illuminated by 

thousands of red lanterns and atmospheric lighting along the river. This 

fisherman and his head torch nearly went unnoticed in front of the backdrop.

London born and bred, studied in Kuala Lumpur, once 

drove to Mongolia, and most recently journeyed the Trans- 

Siberian railway to Beijing. Michael Sheridan has had photos 

published in National Geographic Traveler Magazine, been 

shortlisted for photography awards in The Telegraph and 

The Guardian, and had photos exhibited at WOMAD Music 

Festival. His love of travel spawned a love of photography, 

and markets, sports matches, and train journeys are his 

favorite ways to see and photograph a destination, as they 

combine new revelations with observing local life. 

Equipment: Olympus E-PM1, Panisonic Lumix G 20mm 

f/1.7 prime lens, Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 40-150mm 

1:4.0-5.6 R zoom lens 

Website : pleasemindtheyak.com 

Instagram : @michaelcharlessheridan 




Fenghuang, China - Rickety Structures The traditional architecture of Fenghuang earned 

the town status as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The curved tiled roofs and deep green river 

are China at its most dreamy oriental best. 




Fenghuang, China - Chinese Chess (left top) Fenghuang’s town squares are the social hub, 

where hundreds of elderly people come to mingle, chat, sing, and more often that not, play 

Xiangqi, also known as Chinese chess. 

Lijiang, China - Fruit Stall (left bottom) An elderly woman watches over her colorful fruit 

stall in ancient Lijiang’s old town. People work hard into their elder years in China, and do so 

proudly too. 

Fenghuang, China - Local Worker (below) A local worker wearing a traditional wicker hat 

to shade himself from the heat of the midday sun. 



Beijing, China - Hutongs (below) Beijing’s atmospheric hutongs are the heart of the city and a great 

window into Chinese life. The small family homes are packed in, such that people live, socialize, and 

even set up businesses on their doorsteps. 

Shanghai, China - Nanjing Lu Shops (right top) One of the country’s busiest streets, entirely 

pedestrianized, and the epitome of modern wealthy China and their consumer culture, with every 

inch covered in neon signs. 

Fenghuang, China - Live Music (right bottom) Ancient Fenghuang is a beautiful place, and the 

Chinese know it too. The live music is not one of those charms. Still, it is a wonderful insight into the 

crazy Chinese nightlife, and should not be missed. 



CHINA, the fourth most visited country 

in the world is a wild mix of ancient and 

contemporary; trends and traditions and its 

1.37 billion citizens offer a glimpse into a 

culture that proudly walks the line between 

modern diversity and time honored sameness. 

The ancient treasures and modern wonders 

of China span 5,000 years of culture and 

history. The natural beauty, fascinating 

heritage, authentic cuisine, and state-ofthe-art 

cities enthrall, excite and amaze its 

56 million tourists. To plan your travels 

to China, or to learn more, visit the China 

National Trust Office - www.cnto.org. 


Xishuangbanna, China - Kids on Bike In 

a tiny village in rural Xishuangbanna, these 

boys raced around on a moped having the 

time of their lives. The juxtaposition of their 

traditional Buddhist robes with the modern 

machinery sums up China nicely. 


We shall not cease from exploration. And the end of all one’s 

exploring will be to arrive where we started. And know the place 

for the first time. 

T.S. ELIOT 


TRAVEL GEAR 

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Ever since I started working in travel, Ethiopia settled itself in the back of my mind as the 

ultimate “naya” destination. Growing up on the opposite side of Africa, I was intrigued by this 

seemingly different and mysterious country that shared my continent. As a university student 

of comparative religion, I studied Abyssinia’s colossal past, its millennia of history intertwined 

with the spread of Judaism, Christianity and Islam. I marveled at Ethiopia’s knack for keeping to its own 

on a continent that was ravished by colonization. 

After launching Naya Traveler a year and a half ago with a portfolio of destinations that highlight the 

‘places we call home,’ my partners and I were faced with the exciting challenge to determine where to 

explore next. Our travel philosophy is deeply rooted in the value of rich culture and heritage, and thus, it 

was almost too easy to agree on Ethiopia. 


Journey 

to Ethiopia 

BY: SARAH CASEWIT 



Ethiopia is one of those destinations that requires travelers to be prepared on many levels, not only physically, but also 

emotionally and spiritually. The sacred spaces, diverse peoples and beguiling landscapes demand readiness and receptivity 

on the part of the traveler. Thus, early this year, we prepared ourselves for something absolutely remarkable, and our 

experience was nothing short of that. 

Among all the safari trips, glamping expeditions and wild adventures that are stealing the show in today’s travel industry, 

Ethiopia seems to take the backseat. However, rapid growth and development is seeing the country open up to tourism, 

while remaining raw and untouched. The cultural diversity of Ethiopia allows for a very dynamic and enlightening travel 

experience that takes you from the anthropological beginnings of mankind and the profound history and spirituality of 

Christian Orthodox beliefs, to the tribal heart of the African continent in the Omo Valley, all nestled amongst the natural 

beauty that paints the country north to south. 



We ventured across the country’s immense northern plateau and the tribal regions of the south in the company of our 

guide and friend, Yared Zerihun. We flew above arid landscapes and rocky mountains, drove through valleys and national 

parks, and hiked along dirt roads leading to small villages fringed with welcoming smiles. 

In the “Noble North”, we glided along the blue waters of Lake Tana to greet the monks and nuns of the 500-year old island 

monasteries. We strolled through the curious medieval castles of Gondar and trekked along the rock hewn churches of 

Lalibela in traditional clothes. We walked along the 3000-year old pathways of Queen of Sheba’s palace in Axum, and 

dined on mouthwatering Enjira and Tibs. 

To the south, an entirely different culture and people welcomed us. The Omo Valley is rough and raw - perhaps one of the 

most ethnographically diverse regions in the world. Our journey along muddy roads took us to the small towns of Arba 

Minch, Konso and Turmi where we had the opportunity to witness some of the last living tribes of our time. The chief 

of the Dorze tribe showed us his family home and invited us to a meal in his beautiful village. The women of the Hamer 

tribe graciously gave us shelter in their hut as we waited out a rainstorm. The Karo tribe told us stories over a campfire. 

Every day offered an exciting and transformative experience. In fact, one of the most remarkable travel moments of my 

life took place during an early morning mass at Bet Gabriel in Lalibela. Thanks to Yared and his approachable personality, 

we were allowed to enter the heart of the limestone church set in the hills of Lalibela, during this auspicious ceremony. 

In this cramped, sacred space overflowing with incense and serenity, I was surrounded by pilgrims and priests who were 

too enthralled by their own singing to care about the intruders. I moved with the ebb and flow of the gentle crowd, and 


knew this was a moment I would never forget. Yared walked us through his country’s history with great pride. Tracing its 

roots to the 2nd millennium BC, Ethiopia is famous for being the first in many areas. It is widely considered as the region 

from which modern humans first set out for the Middle East and beyond. Of course, we also have Ethiopia to thank for 

the coffee bean, which was discovered in its fertile valleys. As he leafed through a 500-year old bible at the Ark of the 

Covenant in Axum, Yared explained that Ethiopia’s ancient Ge’ez script is one of the oldest alphabets still in use in the 

world. 

Not to give in completely to cliches, but Ethiopia revealed itself as a diamond in the rough and shine it did. Its exceptional 

culture and traditions surpassed my expectations, leaving me to redefine today’s overused term of “experiential travel”. 

Ethiopia is perspective-shifting with its indestructible identity and proud people, offering a journey of a lifetime. 

For more information on guided travel to Ethiopia, visit nayatraveler.com 



the 

editor 

when was the last time you saw 

something for the first time? 

BY: TRACEY DRAKE 

Tucked into the lush mountainous 

terrain and perched peacefully 

over the sparkling Pacific Ocean 

sits Xinalani Retreat. If you were 

boating by, and didn’t know what 

to look for, you’d probably miss 

it. In fact, there is no other way 

to reach Xinalani Resort, except 

by boat. The level of privacy here; 

the personal feeling of enveloped 

bliss are unlike any I have ever 

experienced. 

Pronounced she-nah-lah-knee, Xinalani is as an exclusive 

yoga retreat centre just outside of Puerto Vallarta, 

Mexico. This truly is an eco-resort, with stunning open 

air guest accommodations, natural lighting, and minimal 

technological distractions. Yes, there is wi-fi in the main 

lobby area (if you must but please don’t) but they are quick 

to tell you their connectivity is terrible. Meals, which are 

included, are healthy and delicious. My favorite part of 

breakfast was the fresh juice smoothie of the day. 

Enjoy the spa facilities, lounge on the gorgeous white 

beach, learn to meditate and if you choose, take part in 

yoga classes. I would describe Xinalani as a destination 

that commands your attention but isn’t demanding of your 

time; compelling you to focus on you and your well being. 

It is a place to genuinely breathe and regroup.claim your 

personal balance (heck—maybe even your sanity). Along 

This slice of personal paradise is a place far removed from 

my everyday life, and perhaps slightly outside my comfort 

zone. Chances are good that also rings true for you. That 

is precisely why Xinalani is a place that each of us needs… 

no, not needs—deserves. I know I did. Now it’s your turn. 

I am no yogi (that’s an understatement!), 


BEFORE YOU GO: 

• Eco Chic Suites: All 23 rooms are open air, palm 

thatched cabins that fl oat on stilts, overlooking the ocean. 

• Stairway to Heaven: There are lots of stairs; 176 to 

be precise with 215 feet of elevation from the beach to 

the top jungle room. I used that walking time to enjoy the 

jungle and be alone with my thoughts. 

• Booking a Flight: Xinalani is only accessible by boat, 

and only during daylight hours. It is important to book 

your fl ight to arrive in Puerto Vallarta before 4:30pm and 

depart after 11:30am. 

• Pack Light: You truly do not need a lot here. Xinalani 

specifi cally tells you not to bring yoga props, laptop, hair 

appliances, soap or shampoo. Oh, and leave your stress 

at home too. 

• City Fix: If you feel the need to escape the solitude 

and go into Puerto Vallarta for a little shopping and 

sightseeing, there is a water tax ($20pp) that goes to and 

from Xinalani frequently. 

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, VISIT 

XINALANIRETREAT.COM 


The popular exhibition Wildlife Photographer of 

the Year, developed and produced by The Natural 

History Museum in London, is back until April 

2, 2018, and it alone makes it worth a trip to 

Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada. 

“We are pleased to bring this world-renowned 

exhibition to British Columbia,” says Royal BC 

Museum CEO Prof. Jack Lohman. “We have the 

privilege of showcasing the work of some of the world’s 

best nature photographers and wildlife experts.” 

Photographs from the annual competition are 

displayed in large scale format, on dramatic back-lit 

displays. Marvel at the immense skill, patience and 

perseverance of wildlife photographers as well as the 

beauty, wonder and diversity of the natural world. 

Just as interesting as the images are the stories behind 

them: what it took to get the photo and insights into 

the subjects—info provided beside each photograph. 

To complement the exhibition, the Royal BC Museum 

is offering a number of unique and engaging related 

events and programing including Spring Break 

Camps for aspiring young shutterbugs in March. 

The Royal BC Museum explores the human history 

and natural history, advances new knowledge 

and understanding of British Columbia, and 

provides a dynamic forum for discussion and a 

place for reflection. The museum and archives 

celebrate culture and history, telling stories 

in ways that enlighten, stimulate and inspire. 


The Insiders by Qing Lin, China 

Finalist 2017, Under Water 

The bulbous tips of the aptly named magnificent anemone’s tentacles contain cells that sting most fish. But the clown 

anemonefish goes unharmed thanks to mucus secreted over its skin, which tricks the anemone into thinking it is brushing 

against itself. Both species benefit. The anemonefish gains protection from its predators, which daren’t risk being stung, 

and it also feeds on parasites and debris among the tentacles; at the same time, it improves water circulation (fanning its 

fins as it swims), scares away the anemone’s predators and may even lure in prey for it. Photo credit: Qing Lin / Wildlife 

Photographer of the Year. 


The Power of the Matriarch by David Lloyd, New Zealand/UK (right) 

Finalist 2017, Animal Portraits 

At dusk, in Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve, David waited for the herd of elephants on their evening trek to a 

waterhole. As they got closer to his vehicle, he could see that the mellow light from the fast-setting sun was emphasizing 

every wrinkle and hair. For a photographer who enjoys working with texture, this was a gift. When they were just a few 

meters away, he could see the different qualities of different parts of their bodies – the deep ridges of their trunks, the mudcaked 

ears and the patina of dried dirt on their tusks. Photo credit: David Lloyd / Wildlife Photographer of the Year. 

Swim Gym by Laurent Ballesta, France (below) 

Finalist 2017, Behavior: Mammals 

‘We were still a few meters from the surface, when I heard the strange noises,’ says Laurent. Suspecting Weddell seals – 

known for their repertoire of at least 34 different underwater call types – he approached slowly. It was early spring in 

east Antarctica, and a mother was introducing her pup to the icy water. The world’s most southerly breeding mammal, 

a Weddell seal gives birth on the ice and takes her pup swimming after a week or two. The pair, unbothered by Laurent’s 

presence, slid effortlessly between the sheets of the frozen labyrinth. Adults are accomplished divers, reaching depths 

of more than 600 meters (1,970 feet) and submerging for up to 82 minutes. ‘They looked so at ease, where I felt so 

inappropriate,’ says Laurent. Relying on light through the ice above, he captured the curious gaze of the pup, the arc of its 

body mirroring that of its watchful mother.. Photo credit: Laurent Ballesta / Wildlife Photographer of the Year. 



Resplendent Delivery by Tyohar Kastiel, Israel 

Finalist 2017, Behavior: Birds 

Tyohar watched the pair of resplendent quetzals from dawn to dusk for more than a week as they delivered fruits and the 

occasional insect or lizard to their two chicks. Resplendent quetzals usually nest in thicker forest, but this pair had picked a 

tree in a partly logged area in the Costa Rican cloud forest of San Gerardo de Dota. The additional light made it easier for 

Tyohar to catch the iridescent color of the male’s dazzling emerald and crimson body plumage and tail streamers, despite 

his fast, erratic flight pattern. But the light also made it easier for the birds to see Tyohar. So he would arrive before dawn, 

sit in the same place and wear the same jacket, with the result that the pair accepted his presence and continued to stuff 

food into their chicks’ beaks every hour or so. Photo credit: Tyohar Kastiel / Wildlife Photographer of the Year. 


Sewage surfer by Justin Hofman, USA 

Finalist 2017, The Wildlife Photojournalist Award: Single Image 

Seahorses hitch rides on the currents by grabbing floating objects such as seaweed with their delicate prehensile tails. Justin 

watched with delight as this tiny estuary seahorse ‘almost hopped’ from one bit of bouncing natural debris to the next, 

bobbing around near the surface on a reef near Sumbawa Island, Indonesia. But as the tide started to come in, the mood 

changed. The water contained more and more decidedly unnatural objects – mainly bits of plastic – and a film of sewage 

sludge covered the surface, all sluicing towards the shore. The seahorse let go of a piece of seagrass and seized a long, wispy 

piece of clear plastic. As a brisk wind at the surface picked up, making conditions bumpier, the seahorse took advantage 

of something that offered a more stable raft: a waterlogged plastic cottonbud. Photo credit: Justin Hofman / Wildlife 

Photographer of the Year. 


Bear Hug by Ashleigh Scully, USA 

Finalist 2017, Young Wildlife Photographer of the Year, 

11 -14 Years 

This past summer I visited Lake Clark National Park 

in Alaska, to photograph Alaskan brown bears. Having 

photographed a few distant grizzly bears in Wyoming 

before, I was eager to observe these bears more closely, 

and I desperately wanted a window into their family 

behavior. I was lucky enough to watch two separate brown 

bear sows with spring cubs. I watched them browse for 

sedge grass in the meadows, forage for clams on the beach 

during low tide, sleep on the forest edges and most of all, 

play. The spring cubs were full of energy. This mother in 

particular was extremely patient with her cubs as they 

romped around and tried to get her attention. This young 

cub seemed to think that it was big enough to wrestle mom 

to the sand. Despite all of its efforts, mom stood firm, but 

did so with a bit of a smile. I’m sure she was happy to know 

that this cub was a fighter, as this attitude would serve the 

cub well as it learned to survive along the Alaskan coast. 

Photo credit: Ashleigh Scully / Wildlife Photographer of 

the Year. 



Savory Bites 

& Neon Lights 

BY: DONALD CONTURSI

Culinary Adventures Take Flight in Las Vegas 

our tour guide tell us fascinating 

facts and stories about the city and 

resorts. 

On a recent trip to Las 

Vegas, I couldn’t wait 

to explore all the 

fine restaurants this 

glittering city has to offer. But with 

only so many free hours and only so 

much stomach capacity, I knew I had 

to choose wisely from the hundreds 

of establishments here. Thankfully, 

I discovered the “Savory Bites & 

Neon Lights’’ culinary tour by Lip 

Smacking Foodie Tours, which took 

the guesswork out of it all. 

The company did all the work for 

me – vetting the best restaurants 

to not only come up with a 

curated tour to five of the most 

preeminent ones on the Vegas 

Strip, but also to select the most 

noteworthy three or four dishes 

at each one to try. The five-hour 

experience was so efficient. I never 

would have been able to make it to 

that many restaurants on my own 

in one night. Plus, I practically felt 

like royalty. At every restaurant 

visited, I never had to wait in line; 

I was just whisked to a great table 

already set up for our tour group. 

It was the ultimate in pampering. 

This exciting evening started at 6 

p.m. in front of the ARIA Resort 

& Casino, where we then walked 

to five nearby restaurants: Bardot 

Brasserie and Sage at ARIA, 

Estiatorio Milos and Scarpetta at 

The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, 

and Cucina by Wolfgang Puck 

inside The Shops at Crystals. At 

each stop, our group spent about 

30 minutes enjoying gourmet 

eats such as escargot at Bardot 

Brasserie and grilled octopus at 

Estiatorio Milos, while listening to 

We were then driven by shuttle to 

Maverick Helicopters terminal, 

where we boarded a helicopter for 

a beautiful flight over the Strip, 

allowing us to see Vegas in a whole 

different way – high above with a 

bird’s eye view of the Stratosphere, 

and other landmark resorts, all 

magically lit up at night. 

At the end of the night, I was 

conveniently dropped off at my 

hotel by the shuttle. The cost of the 

tour was $299 per person. It was 

money well spent, considering 

all the restaurants we visited, the 

array of dishes we got to try, and 

the incredible helicopter tour that 

none of us would have probably 

ever thought to do otherwise. 


48HOURS IN... 

San Ignacio, Belize 

BY: JULIE LEVENTHAL 

Belize, formerly British 

Honduras, gained its 

independence from the 

United Kingdom in 1981 

and boasts a small population of 

approximately 350,000. Visiting 

Belize is easier than ever now, with 

more airlines from Los Angeles, 

Denver, Atlanta, Houston and 

Newark, offering direct flights to 

Belize City. 

As you drive west from Belize City 

airport you will see cattle ranches, 

orange orchards lining the roads, 

fields of sugarcane and papaya 

and avocado trees. The capital city, 

66 . DRIFTTRAVEL.COM 

Belmopan is about one hour from 

Belize City airport but many travelers 

continue straight to San Ignacio. 

STAY 

The San Ignacio 

Resort Hotel is a 

premier destination to experience all 

of Belize’s activities on your family 

bucket list and just steps away from 

San Ignacio Town. The property is 

centrally located for adventure tours 

to nearby archaeological parks, caves 

and nature reserves. The hotel boasts 

views of the rain forest and wildlife 

from each of its 26 rooms. The Regal 

Rooms, Family Room and Royal 

Suite offer enough space for a family 

of three to six and kids under 11 are 

always free. 

Family established and owned, San 

Ignacio Resort Hotel goes the extra 

mile for its guests and provides a 

hassle-free vacation for families by 

organizing an array of activities for 

children of all ages. Kids love the 

large swimming pool and the whole 

family can enjoy the Medicinal Trails 

and its award-winning Green Iguana 

Conservation Project. 

Located on-site, the Green Iguana 

Conservation Project, is an interactive 

exhibit that educates guests on the 

life of Green Iguanas and allows for 

an up close and personal experience 

with the reptile. We met Oscar and 

Stargazer, along with other iguanas, 

some as large as six feet and got to see 

the way Nigel has taken care of them 

in the sanctuary. This self-sustained 

project, which began in 1996, allows 

guests to participate in their “Adopt 

an Iguana Program” and the “Iguana 

Kids Club”, two programs aimed at 

fostering relationships between the 

species and visitors. 

Guests looking to learn more about 

Belize’s foliage and how it plays a role 

in the ecosystem, can do so on the tour 

of medicinal plants and herbs found 

within the resort’s 17-acre private 

estate. The guided tour took us on 

hiking trails through the lush tropical 

rain forest for a hands-on educational

AT A GLANCE 

SAN IGNACIO TOWN 

FACTS: 

• San Ignacio is situated on 

the banks of the Macal River, 

about 63 miles (101 km) west 

of Belize City and 22 miles (35 

km) west of the country’s capital: 

Belmopan. 

• The town was originally named El 

Cayo by the Spanish 

• San Ignacio serves as the 

cultural-economic hub of Cayo 

District. 

tour of natural remedies that were 

used by the Mayan community to 

heal numerous illnesses. We learned 

how oregano can cure an earache and 

the plants and tree bark that you can 

use in your tea to prevent nausea and 

menstrual cramps or improve male 

impotency. 

On site bird watching was another 

one of our favorite amenities offered 

by San Ignacio Resort Hotel. It 

included an experienced guided walk 

that took us through the jungle in 

the early morning to enjoy the sights 

and sounds of San Ignacio’s feathery 

friends. But watch out for toucans and 

other exotic birds that soar through 

the jungle spreading their colorful 

wings. Some got close enough to 

snap a photo while other would just 

join you on a nearby branch as you sit 

and enjoy your morning coffee on the 

patio overlooking the jungle. 

WHAT TO DO: 

• Green Iguana Conservation 

Project 

• Belize Botanic Gardens 

• Cahal Pech Mayan Ruins. 

• San Ignacio Market 

• Horseback Ride to Xunantunich 

Maya Ruins 

• Crystal Cave and Blue Hole 

National Park Day Trip 

• Mopan River Kayaking and 

Xunantunich Tour 


EAT 

Lunch at Benny’s with 

specialties such as 

Cow Foot Soup and Pibil (pork meat 

cooked underground served with 

vegetable sauce and corn tortillas). 

Running W Steakhouse & Restaurant 

inside the San Ignacio Resort Hotel 

includes great cuts such as the 

black Angus rib eye or the 21-day 

aged NY strip. You can also try the 

Lebanese sample platter of lamb 

kebab, vegetables, pita bread and 

the families own hummus recipe. If 

you are lucky enough to be there on 

a Wednesday when Trey is hosting 

Steak Your Claim Night, he will grill 

everything right on the deck in front 

of you using his own sauces and 

techniques. 

At Ko-Ox Han-Nah the lamb chops 

with coconut rice and the curries are 

highlights! Make sure to finish with 

ice cream from Molly’s Ice Cream 

Shoppe next door to Crave. 

Live music can be enjoyed on the 

patio of Running W Steak House. 

Local singers and bands will 

serenade you as you enjoy a rain 

forest cocktail (secret recipe) or 

purple parrot (Blue Curacao, vodka, 

pineapple and grenadine) poured by 

Keith at the bar. 



SEE 

Hike up to Xunantinich 

Mayan Ruins imagining 

what life was like in Mayan Times or 

listen to San Ignacio Resort Hotel’s 

expert tour guide Cruz as he educates 

you on Mayan cultures and traditions. 

From the top of the tallest ruin you 

can see all the way to Guatemala. On 

a hot day remember to wear a hat and 

bring water, this is a steep one. 

The name Xunantunich derives from 

the Yucatec Maya language and means 

“Stone Woman.” 

Xunantunich was first explored in 

the 1800’s by Dr. Thomas Gann a 

British medical officer. The first 

recorded photograph of the site was 

taken in 1904 and displayed in the 

Peabody Museum of Archaeology, in 

Cambridge, Massachusetts, for many 

years. 

PLAY 

Head over to 

Hanna Stables for a 

horseback ride with Santiago and his 

team along the Mopan River Valley. 

Explore the jungle on horseback 

passing through cattle farms and wide 

open trails along the river. You may 


even come across a howler monkey 

and some iguanas climbing in the 

trees. After you can stop at the market 

along the river for local souvenirs 

such as handmade hammocks and 

secret boxes carved by the locals. 

Or hit the road to the Barton Creek 

Cave Tour. Put on your helmets with 

the headlight attached and enter into 

Barton Creek Caves. Our guide Cruz 

highlighted the history of the cave 

and its many archaeological findings. 

Paddling in your canoe in the dark, 

watch out for bats and sharp corners 

in the cave and make sure to dive in 

the water to refresh yourself on the 

way out! This one is not to be missed! 

48 HRS 

MUST 

There are many 

other off-property 

tours and activities where you can 

indulge your adventurous side. Day 

tours to the Mayan Ruins, such as 

Tikal in Guatemala and Caracol 

(about 2 hours from the hotel), Macal 

River canoing, a visit to the Howler 

Monkey Sanctuary or the Belize zoo, 

are just a few. 


World Luxury 

Spa & Restaurant 

Awards 2017 Winners 

ArmaniSPA at Armani Hotel Milano - Italy 

Global Winner, Best Luxury Rooftop Spa 

Lagoon Spa Seminyak - Indonesia 

Global Winner, Best Luxury Destination Spa 

Este Fitness & Spa - Bulgaria 

Global Winner, Best Luxury Fitness Spa 

Ithaa Undersea Restaurant- Maldives - 2017 - Global Restaurant of the Year 

Harnn Heritage Spa at Intercontinental Danang Sun Peninsula - Vietnam - 2017 

Global Spa of the Year 


Cavalli Club, Restaurant & Lounge - Dubai 

Global Winner, Best Restaurant Bar 

The Seven Seas Wine Bar & Restaurant - Thailand 

Global Winner, Best Luxury Scenic Setting 

The World Luxury Spa Awards and World Luxury Restaurant Awards are established 

global organizations providing luxury spas and restaurants with recognition for 

world-class service excellence provided to guests. Setting the basis for service 

industry standards around the world, the companies pride themselves on 

acknowledging luxury spas and restaurants in their relevant categories during the 

annual voting phase. Votes are garnered through various marketing channels from 

guests, showcasing yet again the true value of service excellence. 

Voting for the 2017 award year saw over 100,000 votes from happy customers around 

the globe placing their stamp of approval on their establishment of choice. “One of 

the most favorable ways to award service excellence is by allowing people to have their 

say, and hearing from the public is a popular manner in which to make a decision 

on where you will stay, spa or dine. An award of this stature signifies quality, service 

delivery and much sought after luxury. All of which have made our participants 

what they are today, winners in the luxury hospitality field.” says Marna Lourens, 

Executive Manager for the World Luxury Spa Awards. Winning participants receive 

awards in their respective categories on a country, regional, continent and global 

basis, purely from guest votes. 

The 2017 grand gala celebration, the night which honors these fine establishments, 

took place on 22 July and was proudly hosted by the exquisite JW Marriott Hotel 

Hanoi. Nearly 200 participants joined the evening in anticipation of what was to come. 

“The most coveted award on the evening is our Global Spa and Global Restaurant of 

the Year Awards. Each year the task to determine these top establishments begins 

after voting has closed and we announce to our winners if they have been successful. 

We are six senior managers who take weeks to decide, as voting is not the only criteria 

we look at to bestow this prestigious award. A multitude of factors come in to play; 

brand, location, overall guest satisfaction from online reviews, services and facilities, 

design, and even menu offerings whether spa or restaurant. It is important to look at 

each establishment as an individual as well, some are on an island, some are in cities 

or in a desert, it is not always possible to compare apples with apples when defining 

luxury. This year the focus was on unique design with a touch of classy elegance, 

and we were as such proud to award Global Spa of the Year to Harnn Heritage Spa at 

InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort, and Global Restaurant of the Year to 

Ithaa Undersea Restaurant at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island.” says Joanna Evans, 

Marketing Communications Manager for the World Luxury Awards. 

The evening was as glamorous as one would expect from a JW Marriott brand hotel; 

a delectable 6-course fine dining menu adorned each table throughout the night and 

was paired with fine wines and champagne from Moët et Chandon. Entertainment 

included a Dragon Dance, a Vietnamese based string quartet performance by Độc 

Cầm - Toxic Quartet, and a local Ao Dai Dance, all of which added to the evening’s 

Asian flair. 

“We welcome luxury establishments from around the globe to participate in these 

exciting awards, to proudly show the world what they have to offer in terms of luxury 

and service excellence.” says Linda Cooper, Executive Manager for the World Luxury 

Restaurant Awards. 

Host Hotel 

www.marriott.com 

www.luxuryspaawards.com 

www.luxuryrestaurantawards.com 


Discover the historical charms of 

Mecklenburg, Germany 

by boat 

BY: BRITTANY BALLENTINE

Exploring the land of automotive and limitless expressways 

on a boat may seem a little peculiar. However, Germany’s 

romantic waterways offer a unique and scenic perspective 

on the country’s rich history and natural beauty. Cruise 

through these majestic rivers and uncover some of the 

country’s hidden gems along the way. From medieval 

castles to national parks and beautiful little towns, the 

week-long journey aboard a self-drive boat with Le Boat 

from Marina Wolfsbruch to Plau am See is one the most 

exceptional voyages in the country. 

Before putting on your captain’s hat, spend a day in Brandenburg’s 

most romantic town of Rheinsberg, only moments 

away from Marina-Wolfsbruch. Surrounded by captivating 

landscapes, this quaint town is ideal for the history 

buff. Pay a visit to the Renaissance Palace of Rheinsberg , 

a place where many believe Frederick the Great spent the 

happiest years of his life when he was Crown Prince. Set on 

the eastern shores of Lake Grienerick, the fortress was built 

in the 1500s and today serves as a museum. Along the water 

next to the Le Boat base, you’ll find plenty of charming 

restaurants perfect for lunch or dinner. 

Traveling north on the canal from Marina-Wolfsbruch will 

take you to the second largest lake in the country, Lake 

Müritz. Protected by the National Park, the region is home 

to an incredible number of bird species, crystal-clear waters 

and beautiful scenery, so make sure take your time cruising 

through here. If you’re looking for a romantic night on the 

boat, prepare your own BBQ dinner and enjoy the sunset 

over dinner on the roof deck. 


Must-visit towns along the way: 

Röbel 

As you cruise along Lake Müritz, you will pass by the pretty 

town of Röbel which displays a distinctive maritime character. 

Sprinkled along the promenade and color alleys of the old town 

center, you’ll find a selection of whimsical cafes and restaurants 

to grab a bite. If you’re feeling the need to dip into the regions 

rich history, consider a visit to the town’s picturesque churches, 

St. Marein and St Nikolai. 

Malchow 

The historical old island town of Malchow is well worth a stop. 

Featuring a huge mill, a 12th century church and a 15-metre long 

revolving bridge, linking the island to the shore, it’s no wonder this 

is one of the top destinations in the Mecklenburg Lake District. 

Klink 

The municipality of Klink lies on the shores of Lake Müritz. 

Make a quick pit stop to stock up your supplies at the bakery, 

butcher and supermarket then cool off and unwind on the quiet 

sandy beach before heading back to the boat! 


Waren 

This busy tourist center of Müritz with an impressive 

Mediterranean flair and lively boardwalk is another must-see. 

The lively restaurants, bars and cafés nearby provides an idyllic 

spot to sit back and enjoy the views of the lake. Stroll through 

the old cobblestone streets and discover the striking historical 

architecture. End the day the way the Germans do, with a nice 

cold beer in one of the harbor bistros, to the sound of a nostalgic 

accordion. 

Plau-am-See 

As you approach the shores of Plauer See, you will be greeted 

by the spectacular lighthouse at the entrance to the Müritz-Elde 

waterway. The city marina is ideally situated for exploring the old 

town with its many half-timbered houses. A visit to St. Mary’s 

church from the 13th century is an absolute must. And, if you 

can climb the 120 steps of the church tower you‘ll be rewarded 

with a simply breath-taking panoramic view over the stunning 

lake landscape. 

Useful tips: 

• The self-drive experience is license free but you will need to put aside two hours for pre-departure briefing, 

so make sure you factor this into your travel itinerary. 

• The best thing about a self-drive boat trip is that you can just drop the anchor and stay wherever you are. 

Don’t think too much and enjoy every moment through the journey! 

• Try not to sleep in too late as one of the highlights on a boat is being able to sip on your coffee on the sun 

deck of the boat and watch the sunrise in the most natural setting. 

About Le Boat 

Le Boat is Europe’s leading boating vacation company, with over 40 years of experience. The company owns and 

operates one of the largest and most stylish selections of rental boats in Europe. 


DRIFT travel magazine 

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