Cruising the Galapagos with Silversea

There has been a lot of buzz surrounding Silversea’s newest ship, the Silver Origin and her exclusive Galapagos itinerary. This all suite ship is bringing a new level of luxury to the destination without compromising access to the many islands that make up the Galapagos. With only 50 cabins aboard the Silver Origin in a small sleek vessel that can access much smaller ports, giving luxury cruisers a new level of access to the Galapagos and the unique experiences they have to offer. Guests are capped at 100 and with 90 crew aboard the guest to crew ratio is stellar.

All suites on board feature verandas and large windows to take in the views as you sail, though the categories starting at the Medallion Suite and above have much larger verandas. The Silver Suite, Royal Suite, Grand Suite and Owner’s Suite all offer whirlpool bathtubs with views for those guests who simply cannot imagine going on vacation and forgoing a chance to take a bath. The rooms are decorated in a light, unobtrusive way with creams, greens and touches of gray that allow for the focal point to be the ocean.

Silversea has long been a standout option for luxury cruises because it is the only true all-inclusive option. Everything from food & drink to excursions and the in-suite butler service is included, making it an incredible value for those unwilling to sacrifice luxury. The new Silver Origin will begin sailing in the summer of 2020 with seven night sailings departing from San Cristobal and Batra respectively. These itineraries have already sold out for the first few months of sailings and the popularity shows no signs of slowing down!

Booking a cruise with Ourisman Travel offers additional support and management to our clients without a fee. We are happy to send over quotes, manage deposit and final payment and assist with pre and post hotel stays for all of our clients interested in booking a cruise. Some sailings are even eligible for additional perks via Virtuoso Voyages! For more information on how to book a cruise with Ourisman Travel and how we can elevate your experience reach out to us at [email protected] or submit a Travel Request Form!

Posted in Cruise, Family Travel, South America, Trip Ideas, Uncategorized | Comments Off on Cruising the Galapagos with Silversea

Hotel Spotlight: Wymara Resort & Villas

Located at the west end of Grace Bay in Turks & Caicos is the ultra luxe property Wymara Resort & Villas. The clean understated design throughout lends itself to the subtle sophistication most associate with Turks & Caicos. With only 91 rooms on property, guests are guaranteed a private, relaxing getaway on one of the chicest islands in the Caribbean.

The infinity pool is the focal point of Wymara. The pool service is attentive while managing to be non-invasive. For those looking for a more private experience the property offers four island pods, elevated platforms in the pool itself equipped with lounge chairs and plenty of room to sprawl in the sun, for guests to lounge on for a $150 per day rental fee. The pool is just steps away from the award winning Grace Bay Beach for those who prefer to get a little sand between their toes. Named Best Beach in the World by Trip Advisor in 2018, this white sand beach does not disappoint and offers stunning views and incredible snorkeling at Bright Reef. The property offers other complimentary water-sport activities for guests, ranging from kayaking and sailing to paddle boarding and Hobie Cats.

For guests interested in some wellness during their stay, the Spa at Wymara fill suit their needs perfectly. It is advised that you book your treatments prior to arrival or soon thereafter, as there are only three single treatment rooms and two couple’s rooms. That being said, the spa provides a range of treatments tailored to relaxation and rejuvenation. Guests who find their source of wellness in keeping up with their fitness on vacation will be thrilled by the 24 hour fitness center, located adjacent to the spa and close to the pool. A range of classes run daily, from barre to HIIT and everything in between.

The range of rooms at Wymara can accommodate a wide range of guests, with 84 of the 91 rooms fronting the beach. The jewels of Wymara are without a doubt their four three-bedroom penthouses. Each boasts its own outdoor whirlpools and expansive balconies for taking in the stunning oceanfront views. These penthouses are ideal for groups, girls’ trips and the like, with plenty of bedrooms and bathrooms to accommodate everyone.

All in all, Wymara is a truly special property. On par with Amanyara in terms of service and luxury with a more understated design, Wymara is a fantastic option for a wide range of travelers. A member of Virtuoso, Wymara offers value added amenities like free breakfast daily, resort credits and early checkin /late check out to clients of Ourisman Travel. To learn more about Wymara and how you can receive Virtuoso amenities for your stay, reach out to us at [email protected] or submit a Travel Request Form! Check us out on instagram and take a look at our Turks & Caicos highlight!

Posted in Europe, Family Travel, Food, Trip Ideas, Uncategorized | Comments Off on Hotel Spotlight: Wymara Resort & Villas

Hotel Spotlight: Amanyara

For those that proudly call themselves Aman Junkies and are familiar with the brand, Amanyara will not disappoint. For those who are unfamiliar, Amanyara will inspire you to become familiar. Amanyara is designed with heavy Balinese influences, right down to the ecologically sourced Indonesia volcanic rock used to construct the pool area and the Kapur wood used throughout the pavilions and resort areas.  The property is comprised of a collection of pavilions equipped with sliding glass doors allowing for an open-air option. The rooms feature rich wooden interiors with crisp white linens and accents drawing the outdoors in even when the doors are closed. Views of the turquoise water is the perfect pop of color for the minimalist design. The 53 pavilions and villas were all designed with privacy in mind and many of the pavilions and all of the villas come with private pools. In addition to the 53 accommodations within the resort, there is a selection of privately owned villas that are available to rent for longer stays.

Amanyara has become a bucket-list hotel, a must-see for those who love traveling the world in search of the most luxurious, the best of the best, the one-of-a-kind property. These rare properties rejuvenate their guests, provide discreet and attentive service and assure each guest that while they are here they are the most important person in the world. It is no wonder that staying at such a place can convert into an intense wanderlust. Amanyara has and will continue to leave its mark on guests and inspire them to chase the experience the world over.

The road leading up to the property has been intentionally left unpaved to ensure the isolation of its guests, which is why it is often frequented by high-profile guests in search of seclusion. However, all guests at Amanyara receive the service the Aman brand has become known for. This is a place where you come to rest and be and the property offers a range of activities for when guests tire of lounging. Snorkeling, scuba diving, and a Nature Discovery Center for young guests are just a few ways to spend your time. Amanyara also offers three specific Wellness Immersion programs along with two shorter one-day immersions, all designed with specific goals in mind. The property has three dining options, perfect for its size. The main restaurant is more formal and the beach club is fittingly more relaxed; room service runs 24 hours.

Amanyara is a fantastic property perfect for milestone trips, romantic getaways, and quick trips when you just need a little luxury in your life. Clients of Ourisman Travel can make the best of the Virtuoso amenities offered on property, ranging from free daily breakfast and early check-in/late check-out. To learn more about how Ourisman Travel can elevate your stay at Amanyara, reach out to us at [email protected] or fill out a Travel Request Form! Check us out on Instagram and take a look at our Turks & Caicos highlight!

Posted in Beaches, Caribbean, Family Travel, Hotel Reviews, Trip Ideas, Uncategorized | Comments Off on Hotel Spotlight: Amanyara

Meet the Voyager – Victoria Delle Grotti

When it comes to travel, Victoria loves seizing every opportunity that comes with exploring new cities and countries. Whether it’s a trip to a local city or a jump across the pond, she loves delving into destination hot spots while also leaving room to explore on her own.

Victoria finds excitement when experiencing new places but also loves to take the time to unwind and have downtime. “I love to take time to make sure I am experiencing all that the destination has to offer but also leave room in for full relaxation all while making memories.” She loves to speak with locals and get their thoughts on places to see and where to eat. “It’s an amazing experience living and experiencing a destination like a local would, you get to see and do things you never thought you would have! As a voyager, you make the most out of what vacations have to offer and that’s how I feel I travel. Packing in a ton of BIG fun but also getting in BIG relaxation!”

Because of her voyager spirit, Victoria’s preparation before traveling starts with a detailed list of what to pack. This is typically started a couple of weeks in advance and then added to as the trip gets closer. “I would also leave an extensive list for what needs to go on while I am away (I love a good list!)”

You can bet Victoria is well prepared for any trip that she takes voyage on! Some must-have items on her packing list included comfy (but cute) pair of shoes to explore all that she can. As well as a phone to capture all the photos she can to keep the memories of her trips alive! Memories are what get Victoria most excited about when it comes to traveling.” I get most excited about the new experiences and memories I am going to make while on the trip. The excitement that all the planning is done and I get to now enjoy!”

She finds her most memorable trip so far has been her honeymoon to Antigua! But not because it was her honeymoon! Victoria says, “a part of travel is experiencing new things with family and friends. And being on vacation with my husband and seeing the trip through his eyes for the first time, as well, was a memorable moment.”

Victoria’s dream vacation style really runs the spectrum from relaxing on an island to exploring a new city. “My dream vacation is any place new that I explore and make new memories.” But for now, she is landlocked for the most part with a 2-year-old at home. But she would love to experience Savanah, Georgia or any little southern town. Her top bucket list destinations include Amalfi Coast, Napa Valley, CA, and Lisbon.

Final advice from this Voyager? “Have a good balance of spots to visit & places to see but also mix in a good bit of relaxation! Take a tour in the morning and then spend the afternoon by the pool with a drink in hand!”

Posted in Travel Industry and Ourisman Travel, Your Travel Style Personified | Tagged , , | Comments Off on Meet the Voyager – Victoria Delle Grotti

Destination Spotlight: Greece

Greece has long been a destination worth visiting, but in recent years its popularity has boomed. The increased interest has made it imperative for travelers to approach their trip planning to Greece in advance. This is where trusted travel advisor comes in, ensuring clients are able to secure rooms with highly sought out views in Santorini, explore lesser known islands to avoid crowds and navigate island hopping so their trip is seamless and stress free. Ourisman Travel has expansive knowledge about the ins and outs of planning a trip to Greece and with our strong partnership with Eclectic Greece, an on the ground tour operator, we are an excellent resource for Greece travel!

Our Sales Leader, Iana (who is our resident Tailored Luxury Specialist) recently had the pleasure of traveling with Eclectic Greece and spent time in Athens, Naxos and Santorini. She came back with a few top takeaways that are important to consider for anyone planning a trip to Greece!

Her first stop was in Athens, where she was hosted at the lovely Four Seasons Astir Palace Athens. After arriving and going to bed early to get on Greek time, she was ready to explore one of the oldest cities in Europe! The first stop, was of course, the Acropolis. This ancient site is a must for anyone with an interest in ancient Greek history and culture. Near the Acropolis is the Museum, which houses artifacts out in the Acropolis and offers a deeper understanding of this once holy site and all it has withstood over time. A walking food tour of Athens was up next, which as much needed after working up an appetite climbing the many stairs to reach the Acropolis. Pairing these experiences together presented a lovely juxtaposition between the ancient history of Athens and how it has become a bustling, modern city with interesting food at sites.

After Athens, the itinerary took Iana to Naxos, where she stayed at the Naxian Collection. Naxos is a lesser known island in the Mediterranean making it far less crowded that other island options. The island is quaint and homey with a mountainous landscape and littered with small, whitewashed villages that are built in on themselves and feature winding paths leading to picturesque storefronts and homes. A highlight in Naxos is definitely the food, particularly the potatoes, of which its people are very proud. Naxos also offers travelers a wonderful beach similar to those one would find in a Caribbean destination. While the beaches here are definitely European in some aspects they are not as crowded as those in Mykonos which is a plus!

The trip ended with a visit to Santorini, which no Greek itinerary should be without. Santorini is home to the blue domed cathedrals and breathtaking views that are so often associated with Greece. Here, Iana stayed at the Andronis Boutique Hotel, whose views did not disappoint! While the popularity of the island has caused for large crowds of travelers vying for the perfect sunset picture, there are ways to take in the island and avoid the crowds. The best way to do this is aboard a private catamaran, where you can soak in the sun and enjoy the views without the overwhelming crowds.

There are many ways to approach planning a trip to Greece and at Ourisman Travel we highly recommend our Tailored Luxury program. This allows our clients to take advantage of our relationship with Eclectic Greece and the insider knowledge that will help them maximize their time and personalize their visit to include the must dos like the Acropolis or a Santorini sunset alongside lesser known options, like Naxos. To find out more about how we approach travel planning please reach out to [email protected] or submit a travel request form!

Posted in Europe, Family Travel, Trip Ideas | Tagged , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Destination Spotlight: Greece

Hotel Spotlight: Four Seasons Montreal & Illume by Four Seasons

In October, Angela attended the inaugural global Preferred Partner Event Illume by Four Seasons held in Montreal. This event hosted 125 of the top Preferred Partner advisors and the best minds in luxury travel from around the world for powerful conversations, immersive brand experiences and unparalleled passion for luxury travel. Bright ideas born from this exhilarating event will be used to create the future strategy of luxury travel as the Four Seasons brand continues to expand and we are so incredibly honored to have been invited.

The Four Seasons Montreal was the perfect location for the first of what will be many successful Illume by Four Seasons events. The property opened in June of 2019 and is located in the city’s Golden Mile Square in downtown. The young and fresh 3rd floor lobby connects to the high-end Holt Renfrew Ogilvy which is worth at least a quick detour, if not a full-blown shopping spree. The lobby’s design carries through to the property’s restaurant, Marcus, Chef Marcus Samuelsson’s first restaurant in Canada that offers a new spin on a traditional brasserie.

The rooms are crisp and well appointed, with entry level categories boasting floor to ceiling windows with captivating views of Montreal and higher room categories featuring glass doors that open to the ultra luxe bathroom with black & white contrasting marble and a gorgeous soaking tub. Blush and beige from the lobby is found in the plush furnishings in the rooms, especially those categories that offer an additional sitting area like the One Bedroom Suites.

Montreal is an excellent, if often overlooked, city for a quick getaway or a longer visit. With plenty of galleries, museums, restaurants and shopping near the Four Seasons, this new addition to the brand’s collection gives guests great access to this historical city. To further entice travelers to consider Montreal, the Four Seasons is offering a 3rd night free through March of 2021. Clients who book their stays at the Four Seasons Montreal with Ourisman Travel will receive the following exclusive Preferred Partner Amenities:

  • Daily full American breakfast for two people per bedroom, served through In-Room Dining or in the hotel restaurant (including buffets)
  • Food and beverage credit of USD100
  • Upgrade of one category, based on availability at time of check-in (excluding signature suites, villas, and private residences)
  • Complimentary basic Internet in all guest rooms; complimentary premium Internet in all suites

Learn more about Ourisman Travel’s relationship with the Four Seasons Montreal and how you can take advantage of our Preferred Partner Amenities, email [email protected] or fill out our Travel Request Form.

Posted in City Destinations, Hotel Reviews, Promotional Specials, Travel Industry and Ourisman Travel, Trip Ideas | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Hotel Spotlight: Four Seasons Montreal & Illume by Four Seasons

Hotel Spotlight: Naxian Luxury Collection

Naxos, a little known Greek island that offers better beaches than Mykonos, is home to a collection of two boutique hotels that are bringing luxury to the island. The Naxian Luxury collection is made up of two sister properties, Naxian Collection and Naxian on the Beach. Both properties are comprised of villas and suites and are owned by local couple Yannis & Maria. While the design of the properties is cohesive and their commitment to sustainable luxury is equal, their locations and appeal are vastly different.

Naxian Collection is arguably the more family friendly of the two, offering a range of suites and villas that can accommodate families of any size. The villas feature their own pools with lovely views of Naxos’ farms, mountains and the ocean and are two stories with a bedroom and bathroom on each floor. The suites are designed two to a building, and while they do not connect they share a pool and a terrace making it simple for families or friends traveling together to enjoy the common pool space. The suites and villas are done in the traditional Greek style with whitewashed plaster walls to keep the rooms cool and are minimalist in design, great for those who find excessive décor tired. While there are no bathtubs on site, the rainwater steam showers are spacious and convert the bathrooms into your own personal spa.

A standout at this property is the bar whose size can be deceiving. The property boasts a whiskey and bourbon collection of over 500 labels. And for those who are more interested in wine the property has you covered with a wine cellar devoted to the best wines Greece has to offer. Dinner in the cellar can be arranged along with a tasting lead by the property’s sommelier.

Naxian on the Beach is an all suite property with each suite coming with its own jacuzzi, either indoor or outdoor depending on your preference. This property is all about location, as it is a stones throw from Naxos’ Agios Prokopis beach. With a beach bar at the ready as guests check in and not a bad view in the house, this property is ideal for honeymooners or couples on a romantic getaway. The suites are situated in duplex buildings and the thick walls and large terraces then themselves to the desired level of privacy couples look for. Fresh Greek fare and a creative cocktail list will keep guests happy as they relax on the beach or in their suite!

For more information on the Andronis Boutique Hotel, its sister properties, how our partnership with Eclectic Greece can elevate your stay or how to plan your next trip to Greece please feel free to email [email protected] or submit a Travel Request Form

Posted in Europe, Family Travel, Hotel Reviews, Trip Ideas | Tagged , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Hotel Spotlight: Naxian Luxury Collection

Hotel Spotlight: Andronis Boutique Hotel

Part of a trio of luxury properties in Oia, Santorini the Andronis Boutique Hotel is by far the most luxurious of the three options, the other two being Andronis Luxury Suites and Andronis Arcadia. Like many properties in Oia the Andronis Boutique Hotel is built into the side of the cliffs lining the side of the massive caldera which is the result of a massive volcanic eruption that devastated the Minoan civilizations on both Santorini and Crete. The Andronis Boutique Hotel offers guests commanding views of the caldera from every vantage point, providing plenty of opportunities to capture the quintessential sunset shot.

The way this all suite property is designed it is hard to tell just how many suites there are. Each of the 24 suites is named for a character from Homer’s Odyssey and they are tucked away in private corners behind quaint white picket fence gates. Winding staircases lead guests to their suites and to the common area of the property, which boasts two large pools and a terrace for meals. The suites are done in the classic cave style of Santorini, all white cool plaster walls with arches wherever possible to emphasize the Grecian design. Sparse décor lends to the allure of the caldera views and most guests find themselves spending their time exploring Santorini or lounging on their terrace in their plunge pool, which come with every suite. The bathrooms are very spacious and while only some suites feature bathtubs, the luxurious shower makes up for the lack in other suites. Privacy is the best feature of this property with each suite feeling like it is its own little hideaway in Santorini. This property is fantastic for honeymooners and couples searching to reconnect in one of the most romantic & beautiful places in the world.

Guests seeking spa treatments are welcome to make use of the Mare Sanus Spa at the nearby sister property, Andronis Luxury Suites. While this standout property does not feature a gym, the sheer number of stairs that are required to get around soundly eliminates that need. The service here is phenomenal, with the General Manage George constantly on property greeting guests warmly as they come and go. Kind and attentive waitstaff go above and beyond to accommodate guests requests and ensure that everyone leaves this slice of heaven happy and eager to return.

For more information on the Andronis Boutique Hotel, its sister properties, how our partnership with Eclectic Greece can elevate your stay or how to plan your next trip to Greece please feel free to email [email protected] or submit a Travel Request Form!

Posted in Europe, Hotel Reviews, Trip Ideas | Tagged , , , , , | Comments Off on Hotel Spotlight: Andronis Boutique Hotel

Hotel Spotlight: Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens

 

Opening in the spring of 2019, this long awaited Four Seasons presence in Greece does not disappoint! Following a buyout of the already legendary Astir Palace, the Four Seasons did a complete design overhaul of the properties two buildings, providing guests with two distinctive options for their stays on the Athens Riviera. Only 30 minutes from the Athens airport, the Four Seasons Astir Palace is the perfect start or end to any trip to Greece.

The rooms here are spacious, even the entry level feels like you have room to breathe which is great for a European hotel. Decorated with a mix of Greek and contemporary European art, the rooms are beautiful and cozy with muted neutral tones and large terraces. There is nothing like watching the sunrise over the Aegean as you tuck into your complimentary in-room breakfast. The bathrooms are quite large, with a steam shower on one end and a large soaking tub with lovely views on the other end, an expansive vanity between them.

Featuring two buildings, the Nafiska and the Arion, as well as 58 bungalows, the Four Seasons Astir Palace offers something for everyone. The Nafiska building boasts an elegant yet fresh art deco meets contemporary design. With unique art and an energetic vibe, this building is arguably the most youthful of the three areas on site. The Nafiska has 3 restaurants ranging from an Italian trattoria to a poolside grill serving up authentic Greek cuisine. From the beautiful lounge and bar area, guests are able to walk out to the expansive pool area lined with olive trees and cabanas to take in the views of the Aegean Sea.

The Arion building offers a more relaxed vibe and is where guest will find a more retro aimed design paying homage to the original design of the building when it first opened in the 1960s.. While the Nafiska offers three restaurants and a fitness center, Arion bests that with 4 dining options to choose from, a world class spa and an indoor pool. The Arion is also closer to the swimmable beach, so when choosing between the buildings it ultimately comes down to design preference and whether you are a beach bum or a pool pup.

The bungalows offer views of the sea as well as the properties beach and pool areas. These bungalows are all one bedroom and their main focus is to provide privacy and isolation from the two larger buildings. Booking several is an option for families with older children, but for families with younger kids we recommend the Arion building.

The Four Seasons Astir Palace is seasonal  open from April to October with high season starting in May and winding down mid September, making its fairly large inventory rapidly disappear as those enticing Grecian summers approach. Disappearing room inventory has become a common theme across Greece and it is important to kick off the planning for a trip well in advance to ensure you have your pick of room options! Of course, the Four Seasons Astir Palace is a member of Four Seasons Preferred Partners and offers our clients the amenities they know and love!

To learn more about our stay at the Four Seasons Astir Palace, how Ourisman Travel’s relationship with Four Seasons & the Preferred Partner program can elevate your next stay or how to tackle planning a trip to Greece, feel free to email us at [email protected] or submit a Travel Request Form.

Posted in City Destinations, Europe, Family Travel, Hotel Reviews, Trip Ideas | Tagged , , , , , | Comments Off on Hotel Spotlight: Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens

A Privé Partnership: Andaz and Park Hyatt

For many years, Ourisman Travel has been a proud partner of Hyatt Hotels and the luxury brands they offer, and with the launch of Hyatt Privé in 2018 our partnership has only grown stronger. After years of intense and intentional research into other similar programs and consulting luxury travel advisors around the world, Hyatt debuted its in-house amenity program Privé in 2018. Privé aims to match the great amenities offered by its counterparts in the luxury hotel sphere; providing guests with the same amenities they have come to love so much (Flexible resort credits, Early check-in & late check-out, Daily Breakfast for two) with one deserving of extra attention: Upgrade at time of booking. Of course, this is dependent on several factors, but we are proud to say that after a year and a half in the as a Privé partner, our success rate at guaranteeing that upgrade at time of booking is unmatched, due in large part to our amazing relationships with Hyatt hotels and their wide range of properties across the globe.

We have been lucky enough to travel the world with Hyatt going everywhere from Buenos Aires to Amsterdam & Vienna to St Kitts and with each site inspection our fondness for their portfolio grows stronger! Team Ourisman wanted to take a moment to thank our partners at Hyatt Hotels and expand on why we love two of their luxury products: Andaz & Park Hyatt.

Vibrant, fresh and utterly youthful, Andaz properties aim to encompass the lifestyle of its guests. These properties offer a boutique hotel vibe and incorporate the location of each property into the design, food, drink and general feel of the property making each of them incredibly unique. Arguably, the only real similarity between the properties is the same high touch service that can be found at all of Hyatt’s luxury properties; we loved the Andaz Mayakoba & the Andaz Amsterdam for that exact reason! With 17 boutique properties under the Andaz umbrella at the moment, there are plenty of opportunities to explore these lifestyle hotels.

The Park Hyatt brand is distinctly more residential in design, geared toward travelers who enjoy consistency of service and ultra-luxe accommodations sans elitism. Park Hyatt properties aim to offer that sense of home without compromising in incredible destinations, well, top-notch service and a subtle nod to their locale. The Palacio Duhau Park Hyatt in Buenos Aires & the Park Hyatt St Kitts are just two examples of how well this brand and the incredibly homey yet ultra-luxe vibe it brings to a hidden gem island in the Caribbean. The Park Hyatt brand is consistent and great for travelers who want to get out of the box when it comes to destination, not their high standards.

To learn more about our partnership with Hyatt Hotels and Hyatt Privé, our favorite Andaz and Park Hyatt properties, the other great luxury brands under the Hyatt Hotels umbrella or to maximize your next stay at a Hyatt property feel free to reach out to [email protected] or fill out our Travel Request Form.

Posted in Asia, Caribbean, City Destinations, Europe, Hotel Reviews, Travel Industry and Ourisman Travel | Tagged , , , , , | Comments Off on A Privé Partnership: Andaz and Park Hyatt