If you’re going to cruise around paradise you might as well do it in a suitably hedonistic style – and that means a small ship cruise on a luxurious Mega Yacht like the M/Y Pegasus. In these idyllic islands size really does matter – the bigger factory liners find it hard to get in close to the land. That makes small cruise ships the only way to travel, and the 45m mega yacht Pegasus is designed to get right onto the harbour sides and into the bays, making the most of snorkelling and diving opportunities in the shallow waters.

However just because you’re thinking small cruise Ships, doesn’t mean you need to compromise on luxury. The reason some people refer to this as a ‘Mega Yacht cruise’ is that Pegasus offers millionaire’s yacht style service in an ambience of comfortable and relaxed luxury. Once on board you’ll discover small really is beautiful as Pegasus has only 23 cabins (all air-conditioned and ensuite) and elegantly appointed dining room, saloon and sun deck still sparkling following a full interior refit in late 2009. Thos of you that have cruised with Variety Cruises on one of their famed Greek island Cruises; will know exactly what we mean.

For your Seychelles Cruise, you have a choice of 3, 4 or 7 night itineraries. Anse de Source on Coco Island – said to be the most photographed sunset beach in the world, La Digue and St. Anne Island, Mahe, Anse Lazio on Praslin – one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, the bird colonies on Aride, the one-time leper colony and home to giant turtles at the aptly named island of Curieuse (now uninhabited), the itinerary explains why we call this the ‘Garden of Eden’ cruise. Certainly this is the absolute contrast from Mediterranean Cruises.

Take our advice – all things considered the Seychelles is not a place to come and be a tourist, it’s much better to come and be an explorer and get up close and personal small ship cruising fashion. There’s something about resort style liners that tends to spoil local people and places by changing the traditional economy and often the balance of nature. A Small cruise ship keeps all the sense of Mega Yacht luxury whilst being altogether more sustainable long-term

Antarctica is a dream destination but because of its nature (being the coldest place on Earth) it has some very unique requirements when it comes to packing for your trip. It is good to know that most recreational travel to Antarctica takes place in the austral summer (November to March), which is comparatively warmer than usual with average air temperatures that hover around freezing (32°F, 0°C). That’s a whole lot warmer than either Moscow or Montreal in the winter.

What causes discomfort in Antarctica is the wind and the wet, so preparing yourself against the elements is what matters most. The weather changes constantly, so like San Francisco or Scotland, the key to real comfort is wearing layers. Your packing list also depends on what you plan to do in Antarctica. Are you taking a cruise or are you going to live on a base? How much time will you spend outside?

This top five list will help you pack the most important things.

1. Pack appropriate Antarctica clothing. The number one thing to add to your packing list is winter clothing that you can layer to help you deal with the climate. You will need an inner foundation layer, an insulating mid layer and an outerwear shell layer to be ready for the worst weather that Antarctica can throw at you.

Remember there are four main activities that you will engage in on your trip so prepare your clothing accordingly – spending time inside on the cruise ship, going out on deck to look at wildlife and the scenery, cruising in the small Zodiac boat and landing on the ice for day excursions and sometimes a nights camping. Bring a lot of the same warm clothes as you may get wet or dirty and need to change or layer.

Don’t forget to add lots of waterproof clothing as well, because you will be wet and cold. An additional important piece of fashion to take with you is a bright colored parka. You should look for a lightweight, roomy, wind and weather-resistant shell with some insulation. Bright colors are more visible – and thus safer – in polar environments. That is why polar travelers traditionally wear red.

Rubber Boots: A pair of pull-on rubber, unlined and completely waterproof boots that are mid calf or higher (12-16″ high) with a strong, ridged non-skid sole is essential for landings. You may have to step from the Zodiac into icy water up to 10″ high on some landings. Also, expect poor footing on the ice and ashore.

Do not bring heavy, cumbersome boots that make it difficult to walk. Boots with waffle soles like those on a hiking boot or running shoe tend to give the best footing. For maximum warmth, wear loose-fitting boots and two pairs of socks. Try out your boots before the voyage.

The following tips should help you be comfortable and healthfully warm in cold weather.

• Avoid overdressing to reduce perspiration.
• Wear water repellent outer garments that will keep you dry on the outside and still “breathe” enough so that moisture from your body can escape.
• Body heat is most likely to be lost from parts that have a lot of surface area in comparison to total mass namely, the hands and feet. Keep them warm and dry. For hands, mittens are better than gloves.
• If the rest of your body is covered, as much as 90% of the heat you lose can come from your head, so be sure to wear a cap.
• Dress in comfortable, loose layers. For anyone out in the cold, it is far better to wear layers of relatively light, loose clothing than one thick, heavy item. Between each layer there is a film of trapped air which, when heated by your body, acts as an excellent insulator. Keep from overheating.
• Wool and silk are superior to cotton because they can trap warm air. Synthetic fabrics that spring back into shape after compression are also good. When damp or wet, polyester down is a better insulator than goose or duck down. Polar fleece is popular and recommended.

2. Add seasick pills and patches. Leave these behind at your peril. The Drake Passage is one of the roughest stretches of sea in the world and even though you might be lucky enough to have one calm crossing, two is pushing your luck a little. Being seasick won’t kill you but it’s not a lot of fun at the time and there are a few things you can try to avoid it but results will vary from person to person:

1) Scopolamine patches

2) Meclizine (Non Drowsy Dramimine, Bonine), Dimenhydrinate (Dramimine) or antihistamines (Benedryl)

3) Ginger tablets

4) Homeopathic remedies like Trip Ease and Oral Spray 5) If all else fails the doctor on board can give you a shot.

3. Always take a digital/video camera and binoculars/ Extra Batteries. How many photos do you think you will take in Antarctica? Use that amount and then double it to get closer to the figure it will probably be in the end. The landscapes and the wildlife are just so spectacular and unique that people can’t help themselves and take vast amounts of pictures.

Take as many memory cards as you possibly can or if you have space take a laptop with to download all your photographs daily. Most of the cruise ships have a computer on board but you will be sharing it with the rest of the passengers so burning a CD might not be a viable option. Your own pair of binoculars will be very handy for spotting wildlife and far off scenery.

Also something that most people actually forget about and is pretty important is to bring back up batteries! Battery life is severely shortened in Antarctica because of the extreme cold.

4. Pack sunglasses and sunblock. A good pair of sunglasses or even two in case one gets lost is essential. Snow blindness is a real possibility here when the sun is shining brightly and in the summer you have up to 20 hours of sunlight and they also protect your eyes from windblown snow. Make sure the sunglasses you choose have a U.V. filter and a good polarizing effect. An extremely good polarized pair of sunglasses. I can’t stress this enough.

5. Choose a good quality backpack. When you go out in the Zodiac to make a landing on the ice you are going to want to take a few things with you like your camera, binoculars, sunscreen, chap-stick etc and the best way to carry them all is in a waterproof backpack. Waterproof because things can get a bit rough in the landing craft and sometimes there is some spray thrown around.

The day pack will keep your hands free for things like photography and clambering around on the ice. If it is a warm day and you have too many layers on you can always remove something and store it in the backpack. Our money is on the Pelican backpack with a hard case for your computer built in and a camera case as well.

OTHER STUFF
Unless you’re trying to ski across the continent or circumnavigate by kayak, you don’t need a lot of specialized gear so leave the compass and MRE’s at home. What you do need is sunglasses (polarized), serious sunblock (30+ SPF), a day pack (small, light waterproof backpack with a dry pair of gloves and an extra layer), a water bottle, seasickness pills, chapstick and some intense skin moisturizer.

Last of all, be sure to bring a swimsuit. Most ships and bases will have a jacuzzi, and Antarctic plunges are a common tradition.

In conclusion–don’t fall prey to the ideology that you are going on some major, unprecedented expedition and that you need to special order a ton of gear. You don’t. Antarctica in the summer is far warmer than most people expect, and as long as you have the essentials, you’ll be fine.

Please let us know your thoughts on going to Antarctica? Is it someplace you might want to visit?

Thanks to the 2013 issue of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit many people are suddenly interested in what is arguably the largest and most inhospitable to human life continent on the planet! Antarctica. The name alone incites images of wonderful and almost alien beauty, penguins, sea lions and whales. Well ok, all of that and freezing your ass off! My first visit to Antarctica was long before there were cell phones in everyone’s pockets and many of the creature comforts we enjoy today. It was a rather scary proposition to be on the ocean and see nothing else. No city lights, nothing familiar.

We were left with nothing but the sound of the boat’s engines and the sound of the water lapping against the hull for several days of our trip. No angry birds, no Netflix just freezing cold air, killer water and our thoughts. So why would we go back? And why are we discussing this on a site dedicated to luxury?

Well the answer is simple. The company Polar Voyages is offering luxury Antarctica cruises. Quite frankly, Antarctica is damn cool. How many people do you personally know who have ever been there? Yeah, exactly what we thought! Now pay attention and find out how you too can have an opportunity to see the last untamed land on the planet!

Offering the best luxury expeditions operating in the polar waters, vessels accommodate anywhere from 54 to 200 passengers. Expedition ships are designed with the strength to handle the powerful passageways, and are small enough to manipulate into isolated locations, out of reach to larger ships.

Boasting the title of coldest, driest & windiest region on earth, our Antarctica expeditions cruises invite you to discover the extreme environment that has conquered the most experiences explorers – yet nurtures fragile wildlife.

Vessels are equipped with zodiacs to ensure as much time as possible is spent onshore and up-close interaction with marine wildlife. Expedition guides are highly skilled and educated. They are professionals in their fields, and often hold university degrees in anthropology, biology, geology or other relevant disciplines.

Antarctica camping, sea kayaking, hiking and exclusive ski treks available for those looking for an active Antarctica adventure.

The Ships:

Polar voyages offer a number of price ranges and vessels to sail upon. Our favorite of course is the National Geographic Explorer!

The National Geographic Explorer is a state-of-the-art expedition ship accommodating 148 guests in 81 outside cabins. It is fully stabilized, enabling it to navigate polar passages while providing comfort. The National Geographic Explorer houses technology for sea exploration, such as Zodiacs, kayaks, hydro-phones, underwater HD cameras and a Remote Operated Vehicle (ROV). Additional accommodations include multiple dining venues, a lounge area designed specifically for educational presentations and a luxury wellness spa.

Public areas include two restaurants, a lounge and bar, library, observation lounge, spa, fitness center, and sauna. A mud room with lockers provides storage for guests’ expedition gear. Meals: Served in single seatings with unassigned tables for an informal atmosphere and easy mingling. Menu is international with local flair.

Cabins: All cabins face outside with windows or portholes. Each has private facilities and climate controls.

Expedition Equipment: Hydrophone, kayaks, remotely operated vehicle (R.O.V.), snorkeling gear, Splash-Cam, underwater video camera, video microscope, and Zodiac landing craft.

Services include a full-time doctor, Undersea Specialist, Wellness Specialist, LEXspa Therapist, and Video Chronicler. There is internet access for guests, a business center, and laundry. Our “Open Bridge” policy allows guests to learn about the art of navigation and state-of-the-art navigational equipment from our Captain and Officers.

To find your Antarctica luxury cruise, visit their website for details or call 1-800-344-6118 to start planning your voyage today. If the other end of the globe is on your wish-list, be sure to also take a look at our Arctic expedition cruises including a North Pole voyage.

Ferrari! Simply uttering the name inspires mental images of wealth, speed, opulence and of course gorgeous women. The Italian luxury automaker has taken yet one more step in solidifying the brands eternal presence by opening Ferrari World Abu Dhabi. The worlds largest indoor amusement park which opened in 2009 also boasts the worlds fastest roller coaster reaching speeds of 200kmh/125mph in a matter of seconds, simulating what it might be like to be in a Formula 1 race car is moving to a seven day operation.

Get more information after the jump and make sure to check out the video on developing the world’s fastest roller coaster! 

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi returned to ATM for the third year running announcing plans to move to a seven-day operational model later this year.

The world’s largest indoor and only Ferrari-branded themed park arrived all revved up to showcase to the regional and global travel industry the unique leisure offering it adds to the UAE’s premiere leisure hotspot, Yas Island.

“There’s been a growing demand for a continuous entertainment offering and the appeal of Yas Island as a leisure destination is now even higher,” said Andy Keeling, Park Manager, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi.

“With its combination of two mega theme parks, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi, a wide range of excellent hotels, a world-class golf course, a racing circuit and a concert arena hosting world class musical events, Yas Island has really upped its entertainment portfolio.”

“To meet this growing demand, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi – which normally closes on Mondays – will be open every day starting in the fourth quarter of 2013, making us a 365-day-a-year operation. We are sure that visitors, as well as representatives from the travel industry, will find this an even better proposition that takes our proven success story further,” Keeling said.

He added that the Park has established itself as a must-visit attraction in the UAE since it began operations in 2010. Over the course of 2012, the Park enhanced its entertainment offering even further with several new rides and attractions drawing in more crowds.
Ferrari World Abu Dhabi participates at ATM 2013 from May 6th-9th as part of the Yas Island stand at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi offers more than 20 Ferrari-inspired rides and attractions designed to inspire guests of all ages to find their drive, test their threshold for thrills and emerge winners. With state-of-the-art multi-sensory attractions such as Viaggio in Italia and Speed of Magic, to truly spine-tingling rides such as Formula Rossa and G-Force, fun family rides such as Fiorano GT Challenge and Bell’ Italia, hearty Italian restaurants such as Mamma Rossella, at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi guests are sure to have a memorable experience.

Premium passes for adults are $150.00 and provides access to all attractions.

Q: How can I get a good seat on my flight if I don’t have elite status? —Anne R., Bozeman, Mont.

A: As airlines reduce their schedules and pack more people onto planes, economy passengers are increasingly feeling the pinch. Adding insult to (squashed-knee) injury, carriers also reserve covetable window and aisle seats for high-ranking loyalty-program members. But you needn’t get stuck in the middle. Here, some ways to find a better seat.

Choose your flights by cabin layout.

Seatguru, our favorite online airline-seat-map compendium, has recently added a new flight-search function that lets you filter results by comfort as well as the usual factors (price, duration, etc.). Mining the site’s trove of cabin data to assess both seats and in-flight amenities, Seatguru offers you an overall “G-Factor” rating of “Love it,” “Like it,” or “Live with it” for each flight—and tells you how much it will cost to trade up for a plane with more legroom or a seat-back entertainment system.

Buy a better seat.

Most major airlines have added (or are in the midst of adding) roomier seats in their main cabins. Called “premium economy”—or some variation—these seats come with extra legroom and other perks, depending on the airline. But are they worth it? It all comes down to how much you’re paying. The cost of trading up can range anywhere from $8 to $129 per flight, depending on the carrier and when you buy the upgrade. In recent tests of domestic airlines, we found that upgrading to premium economy at the time of booking usually tacks from 14 percent to 40 percent on to the cost of an economy ticket—well below the price of a business-class fare, but a significant outlay nonetheless. (Note that the price sometimes decreases as the flight date approaches.) On international carriers these seats are significantly nicer and more spacious—though considerably more expensive. As usual, loyalty pays off: most domestic airlines offer complimentary premium seats to elite fliers.

Check back—again and again.

Though some carriers, notably American Airlines, let you buy “preferred” seats (window and aisle seats near the front of the plane) at the time of booking, others (such as Delta) reserve a large portion for upper-tier loyalty-program members. As these frequent fliers get upgraded, however, their economy seats are released to the public. Check 24 hours before your flight to see if anything has opened up, again when you arrive at the airport, and finally at the gate. You may have to pay—but not always. You can also off-load this responsibility to the website Expertflyer, which will send you an alert when better seats become available.

Spend your miles.

You can upgrade using miles, but there are some hitches. Some lower-fare economy tickets are not eligible for upgrades, or require significantly more miles than full-fare tickets do. What’s more, you’ll often have to chip in cash as well as miles. American Airlines charges between $100 and $700, round-trip, to move up to business class; United’s co-pay ranges from $150 to $1,200, round-trip, depending on your fare class and the length of flight. Also, always keep your preferred carrier’s alliance partners in mind. You can often spend your miles to upgrade on their flights, too.

Purchase an upgrade.

Certain airlines let you simply buy an upgrade to another cabin. Fliers on US Airways can trade up from economy to first class for $100 to $200, round-trip, starting 24 hours before departure. Virgin America allows you to upgrade to Main Cabin Select or first-class seats for between $78 and $598, round-trip, beginning 24 hours (for Main Cabin Select) and six hours (for first class) before your flight. Just be sure to be among the first to call. These deals go quickly.

SOURCE: Travel + Leisure 

With much anticipation, Wilderness Safaris announces the building and opening of the new camp Hoanib Skeleton Coast.

Located 90 km south-east of our previous Skeleton Coast Camp site, the new camp is located on the Hoanib River, the private concession straddling the Palmwag area and Skeleton Coast National Park, in one of the most remote areas of the Kaokoveld. The Kaokoveld is a land of rugged scenery, a rugged and historic coastline, mountains, vast plains, and dry riverbeds inhabited by incredible desert-adapted plant and animal life.

Despite the arid environs, one of the greatest concentrations of desert elephant and lion can be found within this extraordinary area – along with sightings of giraffe, antelope, black rhino, leopard and cheetah.

Exploring the territory on foot, by vehicle, in hides, and by air, small groups led by expert safari guides can look forward to unravelling the enigmatic history of the original Strandlopers (“Beachcombers”), their stone circles lying in hidden valleys, marvelling at the ancient Welwitschia plant, following herds and other wildlife, and savouring endless coastlines and landscapes unfolding untouched for hundreds of kilometres.

For the first time, forays into the Hoanib floodplains (previously restricted inside the Skeleton Coast National Park) can be undertaken; this includes the strange upwelling of fresh water at a series of oases in the middle of the shifting Namib Desert. Extended journeys will explore the shores of the world-famous Skeleton Coast.

This exclusive camp, comprising eight units (including one family unit), will be a Classic Camp with all the attendant luxuries and amenities, and is expected to be ready in July 2013, with departures offered on an easy-to-sell daily basis. Along with a dedicated new airfield in the vicinity granting improved access, we look forward to doing this magnificent landscape justice using low-impact design that is sensitive to the fragile desert environment.

In line with Wilderness Safaris’ commitment to the Government of Namibia’s far-sighted Community-based Natural Resource Management policy – an approach that Wilderness has embraced from the outset – the twenty-year concession is a joint venture with the neighbouring Community-based Conservancies of Anabeb, Torra and Sesfontein.

With its picture perfect crystal azure waters (Clear for up to 50 feet), and beautiful weather, the Maldives is no doubt a tropical paradise and the certainly the playground of the rich and famous (we saw four stars, and two supermodels on our trip) who wish to languish in private. The Maldives are also a favorite among swimsuit photographers, and the models they shoot! But then who doesn’t want to go visit!

Experience the magic of Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, a tropical paradise on two private islands in the Indian Ocean among miles of idyllic white-sand beach surrounded by unspoilt vibrant coral reef. Just 30 minutes’ flight from the Male International Airport by seaplane. Although its existence has been a well-kept secret, word has slowly spread about a new luxury resort that’s recently been developed in the area. For approximately $1,770 USD, couples can opt to stay in the resort’s underwater Honeymoon Suite which is located five meters below sea level and surrounded by swarms of exotic fish.

• Address: ADh. Rangalifinolhu, South Ari Atoll, Maldives Islands, Maldives 2034.
• Phone: +61 2.8011.3306.

General:

The Conrad Maldives Rangali Island Hotel is located in the Alif Dhall Atoll of the Maldives. The Maldives comprises over a thousand islands, with stunning reefs and remote, exotic locales. The Conrad Maldives Rangali has 50 houses on stilts, 79 private villas and beach villas, Conrad Rangali Island truly is paradise on earth for those looking for a nice, relaxing getaway. At leisure, you can stroll the picture-perfect beaches and swim in the warm tropical waters of the Indian Ocean.

Rooms:

The Conrad Maldives Rangali Island offers well-appointed guest rooms with extensive personal amenities and modern facilities thus assuring you a home away from home experience. The elegant villas set on stilts over the ocean offer sweeping views of turquoise surrounds complemented by iridescent sunsets.

Room Types:

1. Deluxe Beach Villa – Free Half Board and Seaplane.
2. Water Villa – Free Half Board and Seaplane.
3. Superior Water Villa – Free Half board and Seaplane.
4. Water Villa.
5. Superior Water Villa.

Room Facilities – For your Comfort:

• Air Conditioning.
• Bathrobe.
• Complimentary Beverage.
• TV-Cable.
• TV-Premium HBO,CNN,ESPN.
• TV-Standard Network.
• Work Desk with Adjustable Lamp.
• Free Wi-Fi.

Dining:

The Conrad Maldives Rangali Island Offering the finest international cuisine and selection of wines in spectacular Maldivian beach side settings. You can also sip champagne cocktails and sample Maldivian-Western fusion cuisine at the Ithaa Undersea Restaurant, which is 16 feet below sea level.

1. Ithaa Undersea Restaurant – Overlooking the ocean, this fine-dining restaurant serves lunch, dinner, and drinks. Reservations are required.
2. Koko Grill Restaurant – This beachfront theme restaurant serves dinner only. Reservations are required.
3. Atoll Market – This beach buffet restaurant serves breakfast and dinner.
4. Mandhoo Restaurant – This restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Reservations are required.
5. Vilu Restaurant – This restaurant specializes in seafood and serves breakfast, dinner, and appetizers. Guests can order drinks at the bar and enjoy alfresco dining (weather permitting). Reservations are required.

Spa:

The Conrad Maldives Rangali Island resort caters for everyone’s fitness needs with two luxurious Spas and a Fitness Center all set in the most idyllic of beachside settings with sweeping ocean and lagoon views. The Spa Retreat hosts regular retreats with visiting specialists and instructors from around the world from neuromuscular massage therapy to yoga and detoxification. The Over-Water Spa epitomizes barefoot luxury with glass-floored treatment rooms set on stilts above a coral reef in the resort’s lagoon. This spa features an array of luxury treatment rituals designed with couples in mind using precious oils, colors and crystals to create an air of seduction and mystique.

 

What do you take to wear on a two-day trip to Milan? Black, obviously: arriving at Malpensa airport, we encounter a sleek army of northern Italians, milling about, talking, embracing and looking stylish. Apart from the odd Missoni stripe and Marni floral, they’re dressed in black. At least we’ll blend in – don’t you hate looking like a tourist?

Synonymous with High Fashion.  Welcome to The Gray! The Gray reflects  Milan’s true soul: style, elegance and eclecticism.  This hub of the city’s social whirl is a favourite with  fashionistas and jet-setting VIPs, and a must on the Milan’s high society calendar.     

The Gray features twenty-one rooms, each one original and like no other, and all in the most eclectic of styles. With suspended beds or original bed heads that seem to soar to impossible heights, they feature minimalist chests of drawers and cupboards that are reflected in large mirrors with frames in jungle-inspired themes and warm woods with deep veins that transform a natural element into a refined work of art.

And outsize Jacuzzis predominate in the large bathrooms, because certain luxuries are not an optional.

A fabulous fashion show

When it is time to slow down and enjoy a drink the Gbar stands out for its sedate elegance,  a place where every  last detail becomes imperative.  What better than a pre-dinner cocktail and some amuse bouche which are as much a feast for the eyes and for the palate. Because in The Gray design is omnipresent, and is constantly inventing new forms and colours.    

Strict geometrical designs and matching colours interrupted by flashes of red and unexpected curves,  half-lit corners and cones of bright light — in the Le Noir restaurant the striking minimalist decor surrenders place of honour to the flavours and aromas that inspire our chefs’ unique culinary creations which are a true joy for the eyes and the taste buds.

OPERA PACKAGE - TEATRO ALLA SCALA

Thanks to their preferential relationship with il Sipario Musicale, you can now enjoy the best events at the Teatro alla Scala. If you’re going to be in Italy, let alone Milano we certainly suggest that you go see an Opera!

Their package includes the following services per person:

• Two nights in a double room with breakfast
• First Category Ticket – the best in the Theater – for the selected event
• Welcome drink at the hotel
• Free entrance to Villa Necchi Campiglio - House Museum property of FAI – Italian Environment Fund in Milan center
• Ticket Delivery in Hotel
• Telephone Assistance 24h/24
• The Scala Shop Card for exclusive discounts at the bookshop of Teatro alla Scala

You certainly also do not want to miss out on the Ferrari tour. That’s right! You can rent Ferrari’s and drive around on a tour of the city and other areas. Oh hell yeah! We give The Gray the green light! Check out the video below and let us know what your thoughts are on what we think is a magnificent hotel!

Being the second largest city in Italy; Milan is a thoroughly international city within Italy’s Lombardy region known for high fashion and commerce. This resilient city has weathered numerous European conquests, industrialism and the Nazi occupation of World War II. Today, it emerges as a stylish tourist destination brimming with cultural treasures, distinctive cuisine and classy evening entertainment. From the Castello Sforzesco or the Sforza Castle to the Duomo and the Galleria—among others, Milan offers visitors a chance to travel back in time as well as ahead to the future of fashion. With only 48 hours in the city, here a few of the special highlights for visitors to the City of Fashion.

Duomo di Milano

One of Milan’s most exciting attractions is the Duomo di Milano – the city’s cathedral – so you definitely don’t want to miss out on spending a day exploring the building. In fact, it’s hard to escape it, as it’s one of the biggest churches in the entire world and is spread over a surface area of 11,700 sq m.

Construction on the cathedral started in 1386 and with so much history to be uncovered here, it’s a good idea to take at least an afternoon touring its many features. From the ornate stained glass windows to the 12th-century bronze statues, the cathedral really is a magical attraction. Climb the stairs to the viewing platform to take in panoramic views of the city, while by following the marble staircase down into the crypt you’ll discover a small temple that contains the remains of Saint Carlo.

Given the building’s long history you’d be forgiven for thinking its current state has been preserved for many years; however, the construction of it is still ongoing, so there’s always something new to be explored. Did you know it is the first cathedral in the world to have its windows lit from within? I certainly didn’t before I visited it!

Museo del Risorgimento

The city has an extremely rich culture, so once you’ve sorted out car rentals in Milan I’m sure you’ll be dying to uncover it.

Head to the Museo del Risorgimento on Via Borgonuovo to learn all about the country’s struggle for independence in the 18th century and you’ll see items belonging to Giuseppe Garibaldi and Napoleon Bonaparte. Medals, weaponry and sculptures are all on show as the battles and other events from this period are brought to life.

Castello Sforzesco Sforza Castle

I’m really into my history – so I found a trip to the Castello Sforzesco Sforza Castle exciting, and if you’re like me you are bound to agree when you visit the stunning landmark. Although the central nucleus of the fort was built way back in 1358, it has grown substantially over the years and has been demolished and rebuilt on countless occasions.

Serving as a military barracks, residence for Italian aristocrats and defence fortress in the past, the castle today is the home of the Civic Museums and contains a vast array of artwork. Step inside this historic structure and you’ll see everything from 15th-century furniture to the Pieta Rondanini, the final masterpiece created by iconic Italian painter Michelangelo.

Guastalla Gardens

Milan is a busy destination, but if you need a break from the noise I suggest you take a trip to the Giardini della Guastalla. Although these gardens are in the heart of the city, they are a world away from modern life. Wander along the pretty flowerbeds, before visiting the neoclassical temple and baroque-style fish hall.

Of course, these are just a few of the amazing places you can visit in Milan, but they are definitely ones I would recommend. Where in the city do you want to go?

Welcome to a city over 500 years in the making. San Juan, the largest capital city in the Caribbean, is a place of ancient magic, modern luxury and tropical splendor.

It’s hard not to be captivated by the historic treasures of majestic Old San Juan, the charming walled city with its imposing fortresses, colorful colonial architecture and numerous attractions. A short taxi ride from the old city lie the world-class boutiques, including Gucci, Louis Vuitton and Ferragamo, and restaurants of Condado, the inviting beaches and resorts of Ocean Park and Isla Verde and the bohemian neighborhood of Santurce.

Event planners and business professionals come for the state-of-the-art convention center in Miramar and the financial district of Hato Rey. And the city is one of the world’s most popular cruise ports.

With so much to see and do, the city caters equally to history buffs, adventurers, shopaholics, honeymooners and indolent sunbathers. And when the sun goes down, San Juan sizzles with a sultry nightlife, casinos that stay open until the sun rises and hotels that keep the party going in their lobbies.

There’s a reason why close to five million visitors come here each year to explore and play in the Caribbean sun. Join them, and discover why San Juan is the cultural, social, artistic and historic heart of Puerto Rico.

See El Morro

Built in 1539, El Morro was the military powerhouse of Old San Juan for centuries, guarding the entrance to the harbor and protecting the island against invasion from the sea. El Morro means “The Promontory,” and this fortress is perched on the eastern tip of the old city, jutting out into the Atlantic Ocean like a proud battleship.

In over 350 years, it only tasted defeat once, when it was taken by a land attack. A visit to this iconic landmark is a step back in time to when the Spanish conquistadors ruled Puerto Rico. El Morro was built in a layered structure comprising six levels, including dungeons, barracks, ramparts, secret passages and storerooms—all of which are open to the public.

Bacardi Rum Distillery

Known as “the Cathedral of Rum,” the Bacardi rum distillery welcomes visitors each day with a tour of its sprawling facility across the bay in Cataño followed by a free sample of their world-famous rum.