In fifteen days I am travelling to South East Asia for the first time (see my itinerary). This will also be my first time travelling solo to a destination so far, so unknown. It is exciting and daunting at the same time, I have planned my itinerary extensively, but with travel you must always expect the unexpected. Point in case, that disastrous time I was in Monaco making my way to St. Tropez. However, the unknown during travel can be a blessing, it allows you to see life in a whole new paradigm and gives way to experiences you will cherish forever. My friends and family have their reservations of my solo trip, but here are four reasons why I chose to go it alone.
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This year has been like a dream for me, I have travelled to Paris, Monaco, Canne, St. Topez, London, Abu Dhabi, & Dubai. I am ending 2013 in South East Asia; this region has fascinated me ever since I was a child. There is a wealth of history, culture, design, food, and nature waiting to be experienced. My luxury travel in South East Asia begins in Bali, Indonesia, followed by a short flight to Singapore, thereafter I take a nostalgic rail through the countryside to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and then onto Bangkok, Thailand, and finally my trip comes to a close in the bamboo jungles of Chiang Mai, Thailand. I will be reviewing luxury accommodations and traveller's sites of interest all along the way.
To keep up with my treks and learn "How-To be a Luxury Traveller for Less travel, subscribe to the Traveller's Bazaar Newsletter below (or click the link), it highlights my latest posts, and even includes links to amazing travel sweepstakes that I have curated just for you. Make sure to bookmark the Traveller's Bazaar Curator's Blog, this is where I directly post my travels. If you're on instagram add me @ travellersbazaar. To see all of my travel videos, make sure to subscribe to the Traveller's Bazaar Youtube page. Tweet me along the way @ travellerbazaar (yes that's how it's spelt, twitter doesn't let me fit the S in). Lastly be certainly not least, follow the Traveller's Bazaar Facebook page, I add a lot of inspirational travel photography, encouraging you to get going on your next great adventure. Help me Create an Awe-Inspiring Adventure with your Feedback.
The Quintessential Paris Travel Guide Video: Ten Attractions you’ll Love! Paris is the world’s most visited city, with some 70 million tourists visiting each year. The French capital is home to 2.2 million people in its city-centre, and almost 12 million within the metropolitan areas. Paris is located in the northern region of France, with the river Seine flowing right through the heart of the city. Whether it's a leisure stroll along the Seine that captures the vistas of Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Eiffel Tower, or the beautiful chaos of the Arc de Triomphe’s Place Charles de Gualle, it won't take you long to realize you’re in one of the world’s most beautiful cities. One visit in your lifetime is simply not enough, but that is all it will take to captivate your heart. Thereafter it’s the start of a life-long love affair with Parisian culture, art, fashion, food, and architecture. In this Paris video guide, I have selected ten activities every visitor must attempt while in the city. There is so much to do and see, so start here with my 'Paris Travel Guide Video,' research further, and customize your trip accordingly. Bon Voyage & Bon Apetit, Safe Travels to all! What if I told you, that you didn’t have to sit at your job, day in and day out doing the same menial tasks. What if I told you, that you could travel to the ends of the earth, experiencing its most beautiful spots, meeting its most fascinating people, and earning a lucrative salary while doing it. Would you take me up this offer, and pursue a life that is so abnormal from what we’ve been taught to pursue? It may sound like a daydream, but it’s a reality for many persons I’ve come to know through my own travel experiences. Listed below are my recommendations on "Five Ways to make Money while Travelling." More and more airlines are offering Wi-Fi services while thousands of feet in the sky. One airliner that stands out is Turkish Airlines, offering free Wi-Fi. Saudi Arabian Airlines Wi-Fi comes in at the highest cost, $29 per flight! source CNN Traveler
This amazing new exhibition taking place at the A+D Architecture and Design Museum L.A. from July 28, 2013 - October 13, 2013 explores the "what if" Los Angeles, and dares the city to dream again. The show is curated by Sam Lubell and Greg Goldin and designed by Clive Wilkinson Architects. The exhibition asks: Why is Los Angeles a hotbed of great architects, yet so lacking in urban innovation? The show looks at visionary works that had the greatest potential to reshape the city, from buildings to master plans, parks to follies and transportation proposals any of which could have transformed both the physical reality and the collective perception of the metropolis. The stories surrounding these projects shed light on a reluctant city whose institutions and infrastructure have often undermined inventive, challenging urban schemes.
The History Channel has ranked the world's ten most extreme airports. The airports on the list are included because of their extreme locations at high altitudes, difficult approaches, or short runways, all of which make landings challenging, and some would say even dangerous.
Take a look at these 30 best adventures before 30, they include amazing activities and destinations I recommend. Travel changes you for the better, now go! Scrap up whatever money you have and make it happen. If we count up all the money we spend daily, I'm certain each and everyone one of us could cut back, save, and tackle some of these life-changing journeys. Even if you take just one adventure, the memories made will enrich your life far better than anything you can purchase today, tomorrow, and the rest of your life. Travel while you’re young and able, you'll look back and be grateful that you did. Happy & Safe Travels! Where do you want to go?
One&Only The Palm, invites guests to experience a tranquil yet vibrant island getaway just moments from the energy and excitement of New Dubai. Comprising of 90 keys and four exclusive beachfront villas, One&Only The Palm is Dubai’s most intimate new beach resorts. Surrounding its private marina, are the lovely low-rise Mansions and beachfront Villas, where Moorish and Andalusian influences meet chic contemporary living for a blend of elegance and refinement.
Zaha hadid has just launched in the NOVA shoe, a limited edition haute couture footwear, as part of a collaboration with United Nude. The manifestation of a years-long exchange of idea with United Nude creative director Rem D. Koolhaas (not to be confused with his namesake, uncle and Hadid's former employer), the design is both a challenge to preconceived formal limits of shoes as well as a synthesis of materiality, ergonomics and dynamism. Informed by Hadid's characteristic architectural language of sinuous curves and impossible forms, the shoe is a small-scaled structural feat, sporting a cantilevered heel that allows a 6.25 inch heel to appear unsupported. The engineering and fabrication of the shoe appropriates both time-tested and entirely new methods of cobbling what with a combination of lost wax cast techniques, injection molding and vacuum forming to ensure a seamless vessel. The NOVA shoe is the first to employ rotation molding as a viable fabrication technique-- a method by which a softened material is rotated on a perpendicular axis throughout the cooling and curing process. The upper portion of the shoe is part italian leather and metallic chromed rubber, while the hidden heel and platform are fiberglass, ensuring a lightweight object that articulately expresses the dynamic movements of the wearer. the shoe will be available in sizes 35-40 at select stores in l'eclaireur in Paris for a price tag in the £1300 range. a limited edition run of 100 pairs in black, bronze and rose gold have already been created. NOVA shoe by Zaha Hadid for United Nude
One&Only Royal Mirage is considered Dubai’s most stylish beach resort, where genuine care and hospitality blend with fantasy and tradition, creating an ambiance of Arabian influenced refinement and majesty. Overlooking Palm Island Bay, representing an oasis of calm in the heart of bustling “new Dubai”, the resort offers understated elegance and exclusive charm with a kilometre of private beach and 65 acres of lush landscaped gardens.
Before Midnight (USA, 2013) - directed by Richard Linklater A film review by Kim Bartlett Allow me to first confess to everyone who reads this that I, Kim Bartlett, am a romantic. Thank you. Before Midnight is the third installment in the enchanting saga of Jesse and Celine, first explored in the films Before Sunrise (1995) and Before Sunset (2004). In Before Sunrise, Jesse and Celine meet on a train while in transit, share an indelible evening together in Vienna, and promise to meet again at the same train station in 6 months. Nine years later, in Before Sunset, we discover that their proposed rendezvous never occurred, but the two come across each other at a book reading in Paris. They spend the afternoon together, finding an even stronger connection than the one they shared in Vienna, only to be faced again with imminent separation, as Jesse has to return home to the U.S. that evening - a home which now includes a wife and son. The film ends with Celine warning Jesse that he’s going to miss his plane if he stays with her much longer, to which he replies, "I know...". This brings us to Before Midnight. We find Jesse, now divorced, in a committed relationship with Celine. They are the parents of twin girls and in the midst of a summer vacation with friends in Greece. Jesse is a successful novelist, and we are privy to a scene of him bouncing around ideas for a novel with a few friends. Celine, on the other hand, is facing disappointment in her career and is considering a compromise. The couple seems relatively happy, and in one particularly memorable scene, shares some intellectually stimulating conversation with company over dinner. The topics of which, offer much food for thought, ranging from the future of humanity, to the transience of romantic love and some interesting views on human sexuality. As with the previous two films, Before Midnight is as talky as talky films get, but the conversations are so authentic, insightful and contemplative - time whizzes by. As Jesse and Celine take a walk through town, we learn that this is the first time in years they have taken any time just for themselves away from the routine mundanity of everyday life - no kids, no schedules, no interruptions. They seem to savour this and fluctuate between reflecting and projecting on their relationship. The chemistry between Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy is as natural and magnetic as ever. We've grown familiar with the way Celine giddily recalls fond memories, or how Jesse chews on the corner of his bottom lip when he's being mischievous. As much as they have changed in 18 years, they remain very much the same. Jesse is still, in many ways, cynical and immature; Celine, passionate and bitter. Jesse and Celine have become a part of Hawke and Delpy, and it emanates on screen. The couple ends up spending the night at a hotel, and it is here where the tone of the film shifts. As they begin to undress each other after a stimulating day, Celine takes a call (in a very welcome, extended topless scene) from Jesse's son, Henry, who had just left for Chicago after spending the summer with them in Greece. She makes an off-hand remark about Henry's mother, which sets off a series of arguments that sends the evening spiralling out of control. From this, pent up doubts, insecurity and resentment are spewed back and forth. The acting here is a masterclass in relationship dynamics, that could stand alongside the likes of Taylor and Burton in Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolfe? and Gosling and Williams in Blue Valentine. Watching these all too familiar arguments, takes us back to a conversation held earlier in the film about the transience of romantic love. I am reminded of a quote from Woody Allen's Vicky Cristina Barcelona, where a character ruminates that "only unfulfilled love can be romantic." Romance - the very existence of which requires mystery and intrigue - is snuffed out by familiarity, comfort and predictability. Even Jesse and Celine - brought together through all improbability - are not immune. In this chapter of their story, we are able to reminisce on their beginnings, hope in their future together and despair in the realisation that they may have already drifted too far apart. The film's score is perfect in its minimalism and simplicity, and the scenery is rife with shots of ancient ruins, hills, rolling greenery, gardens, chapels and cobblestone streets. I recommend this film to anyone, like me, who craves intellectual conversation, fantasizes about travel and finds authentic depictions of relationship dynamics fascinating. If Linklater, Hawke and Delpy keep cranking out these gems every 9 years, I eagerly await 2022, 2031, 2040, 2049… Before Midnight IMDb page 5 out of 5 stars - ☆☆☆☆☆ (c) Kim Bartlett, 2013 "Before Midnight": Official Trailer My name's Kim Bartlett. I’m a self-proclaimed film buff, having spent the better part of the last decade immersing myself in everything film and making friends and connections in the online film community (shout out to my Buzzers). I’m also a listophile, having compiled numerous end-of-year film lists and Top 10s. My aim is to showcase current films from countries around the world, or small budget, lesser known American-made films. I hope to provide accessible reviews that will spark interest, discussion and inspiration. E-mail: [email protected] Twitter: @kbjr84 Straw weaving is a traditional Bahamian art form; locals braid indigenous palm tree leaves creating beautiful baskets, hats, and works of art. Emerging designers are revolutionizing the craft, such as Keesha Miller, an avant-garde straw weaver who lives in Nassau, New Providence. Her line, Keesha's Creations consist of shoes, bags, sandals, belts, stationery items, home accessories, and so much more. I asked Keesha about her work's inspiration, she says it comes from "The art of being a true Bahamian". The islands are full of exotic landscapes, and it's clear she draws upon them in her 'natural couture,' designs. She said she was introduced to this industry by her grandmother who lives in Long Island, Bahamas. She went on to say that she has been in this business since 2000, but learned to straw weave from the age of 8. This young and vibrant lady defies the odds of what can and cannot be made of straw. Her collection has stolen the hearts of Bahamians. Everyone wants to know Keesha and where they can purchase her signature straw weaved items. Her collection is carried by B'Jou Classique on Mount Royal Avenue, Nassau, New Providence. She is indeed a true Bahamian with amazing talent, and I am sure her customers will say the same. I enjoyed my interview with Keesha. She has inspired me to stand out; no matter how many people are doing the same thing, find a way to make it a unique expression of you. My name is Esther Cooper, I'm a fashion afi·cio·na·do, it's my passion, it's my life. I am so blessed to have what God has put in my life, and will be forever grateful. In my column, "Esther's Fashion," I keep you style icons updated on the best trends from around the globe. Follow me on: facebook
As a proud Bahamian I am excited to celebrate our 40th year of independence on July 10th. As I write this feature, I’m nostalgic about the past, but very excited for the future of The Bahamas and Baha Mar; emotions of joy, pride, and excitement overwhelm me. My focus is centered on Baha Mar’s current construction ventures, and I believe it’s a foreshadowing of great things to come.
Architect Jonathan Segal designed the Lemperle Residence on a narrow pie shaped oceanfront lot in La Jolla, California. This ocean front residence promotes an indoor/outdoor lifestyle through the use of expansive glass and deck areas. Due to the small pie shaped lot the architect focused all views toward the ocean. Every room above grade space frames a view of the Pacific Ocean through the use of vertical and horizontal planes and edges. These edges also create an air of privacy from the adjacent neighbors. When a designer is faced with site challenges this always creates an opportunity for experimentation in design; John Segal has succeeded, creatively adapting Lemperle Residence to site restrictions. via: iam-architect.com I had the amazing privilege to complete a bucket-list activity that I wanted to do for eons, and that was to fly with Seawings Dubai. I even sat in the cockpit "co-piloting." This once in a lifetime experience began from the Yas Viceroy Marina, Abu Dhabi travelling down the coast to Dubai. I flew in a seaplane over all the cities icons, and finally landed 40 minutes later at the Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club. The staff was so pleasant, and the whole process was super-easy. I felt like James Bond for a moment…then I landed, and it was back to reality. Ha! Book your flight here.
Tired of going for the same look every summer? Well how about you try something a little different this season. I decided to make a summer resolution, to be bold and wear outfits I have never worn before. Now, some people are afraid to stand out, but me, I go all out!!
In the world of luxury, something that goes hand in hand with travel is food. One thing that the Curator and I can attest to is that broadening the palate and dining experiences are adventures in their own right. This column will focus on food, beverages, liquor and everything dining, as there is no cheaper way to explore the world then through a gustatory voyage.
This feature, fresh off the press from the 55th Venice Biennale, is a gem for any lover of international art. The Biennale is the 'Art World's Olympics.' The images and information were sent directly to me just yesterday by FITZ & CO, who represent Tavares Strachan; immediately I had to share! The pavilion looks breathtakingly fascinating, the quality is of such strong international standard, that I'm most certain it will captivate attendees, and positively promote the 700 islands & cays that make up, The Bahamas. This is the island nation's 40th year of independence, and I believe the showing at the Biennale is a signal foretelling of even greater years ahead. Earlier this month Tavares was featured on Traveller's Bazaar, including a prelude to his Venice showing. Now see here FIRST, images of The Bahamas Pavilion.
Influenced by nature, in particular from the 'weaver bird', which gets its name because of its elaborately woven nest - the design of 'the biodiversity nest' by blueforest features an elevated walkway and platform, which will form part of the new rainforest canopy walkway at the eden project, located in Cornwall, England.
When you think Park Hyatt, what comes to mind? Do you think of pristine desert island beaches with silhouettes of futuristic skylines in the distant? Do you envision interiors so marvelous any connoisseur of fine living would approve? If this happens to cross your mind, you more than lively have stayed at the Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel and Villas located on Saadiyat island, Abu Dhabi. It is the definitive 'Park Hyatt Experience.' I had the pleasure of staying for three nights in this relatively new property, and have a lot to say about my experience.
Hospitality venues like the Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi are far and few. When I think on it further there is nothing comparable to it. The Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi is a Xanadu of surreal luxury, set within architecture that takes you out of your everyday and reminds you to live. I had the pleasure of staying for two unforgettable nights during my seven night stay in Abu Dhabi, UAE. I left thinking you really don't know what luxury is, until you've experienced the Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi, it's a fine execution of all the right reasons to travel.
Traveller's Bazaar Hotel Reviews presents: ☆☆☆☆☆ Hôtel Benkiraï Saint-Tropez, France + Video Tour5/18/2013 After my two night stay in Monaco I headed westward along the Cote d'Azure's coastal roads bound for Saint-Tropez via an 'adventurous' drive(see here what I mean). I was excited to see this French Riviera Provençal town as it is known throughout the world for its famed mega-yacht marina, chic luxury culture, and constant celebrity sightings. I was even more excited because I was staying at Hôtel Benkiraï Saint-Tropez; a lovely Provençal style boutique hotel operated by the award winning Charm & More Hotels and Resorts Group. When I got news that the Bahamas was showcasing at the Venice Biennale, I almost did a backflip, which sadly I cannot actually do, needless to say...I was very excited. Being a Bahamian myself, the news made me more than proud, and curious as to what exactly we would be showcasing to the world. To put in laymen terms, this art exhibition held every other year is regarded in the design world as an equivalent to perhaps the Oscars or Grammys, minus actual awards being handed out, but equal to their high-calibre status.
I am gushing with exuberance as I write this feature, it's one of those secrets you just cannot keep to yourself! Eager to tell you of my experience in Monaco, the playground for the rich and famous, renowned for its princesses and excesses, with Monte-Carlo, the centrepiece of the Riviera Principality. I had just finished my five night stay in Paris, and took the TVG train through the beautiful French countryside stopping in Nice, then switching to a regional train headed straight for Monaco. Within the Principality, just a few steps from Monte-Carlo’s legendary Casino, lies one of the world's best hospitality venues, Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo. I had the pleasure of staying in this former palace for two lavishly luxuriant nights, and I must confess...
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AuthorHello World! My name is Quinn Russell, I am a Bahamian - American architectural designer who is passionate about luxury travel and design. If i'm not exploring the remote corners of the globe, I am designing them. I blog on the best in world architecture, luxury hospitality and virtually all things travel & design. Thanks for visiting, I hope you enjoy and find my reviews helpful. Categories
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