Located between the Santa Ynez Mountains and the San Rafael Mountains, California's Santa Ynez Valley is one of the world's great wine regions. With its Mediterranean climate, chic towns, and proximity to the golden beaches of central California, it’s little wonder that the Santa Ynez Valley is regarded as the American Riviera. 

Santa Ynez Valley wines

The Santa Ynez Valley contains the highest concentration of vineyards in California's Santa Barbara County. Furthermore, it constitutes the largest American Viticultural Area (AVA).

The sweltering summer heat juxtaposed with brisk winters and a coastal environment means that a diverse assortment of cool and hot-climate grapes may be cultivated. Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Syrah, and Sauvignon Blanc are the signature varieties in the region. However, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, and Merlot are also represented. 

Across the region, there are around 120 wineries, vineyards, and tasting rooms most of which are family-owned boutique wineries. 

A number of these welcome walk-ins while others, such as Rusack Vineyards require advance reservations. Meanwhile, others – such as Grassini Family Vineyards – are restricted to those with Wine Club membership.

Bali attracts sunseekers with its tropical climate and verdant rainforest studded with waterfalls. Besides snorkeling, surfing, and volcano trekking, traveling to Bali provides an opportunity to engage with the unique culture of the spiritual sanctuary known as the Island of the Gods.

Balinese culture

Unlike the rest of Indonesia, island residents practice Balinese Hinduism. Although the principal Hindu gods are worshiped, Balinese Hindus pay significant attention to their agricultural and ancestral deities. Practices overlap somewhat with Buddhist beliefs. 

In addition to the 10,000 temples scattered across the island, shrines are encountered on just about every street corner. Balinese Hindus place daily offerings called canang cari on these shrines as well as outside their houses and shops. Consisting of a small woven basket containing flowers, rice, money, and incense, canang cari are an expression of gratitude.

Ubud: Bali’s spiritual heart 
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Situated in the uplands, Ubud will open your eyes to traditional Balinese customs. Ubud Palace hosts a Barong dance recital every evening, a spectacle with animal costumes and music.  

Symbolic of prosperity in Balinese culture, water is a typical motif at temples in and around Ubud as well as in the north of the island. Dedicated to the goddess of learning, literature, and art, who once took the form of a river, the ornate Saraswati Temple is set upon a lotus pond in Ubud town. 

Rome, the eternal city, is a treasure trove of history, art, and culture. Known for its ancient ruins, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine, Rome is a must-visit destination for any traveler.

The city is home to countless historical landmarks and monuments, from the Colosseum and the Pantheon to the Vatican and St. Peter's Basilica. Rome is also famous for its museums, galleries, and delicious Italian food.

​So whether you're a history buff, an art lover, or simply looking for a taste of la dolce vita, Rome has something for everyone.

Tipping in Europe is different from the custom we have in the US. Rather than being mandatory, your decision to leave a tip is at your own discretion. While wait staff, bartenders, cab drivers, hotel staff, and tour guides do not rely on tips, gratuities are generally appreciated. 

Tipping at restaurants in Europe

Some restaurants in European countries will apply a service charge of 10-15% of the balance to your bill. If this is the case, it is usually advertised on the menu and itemized on the check. This is typical in upscale restaurants or if you are eating as part of a larger group. There is no need to leave a tip on top of the service charge. 

At smaller eateries and cafes, a service charge is not generally applied but you may tip based on how satisfied you were with the service received and the quality of the meal. As a guideline, you can leave 5-10% of the total amount, or simply round up the figure.

Tipping at bars 

If you only order a drink at a bar or pub in Europe, you are not expected to tip the bartender. However, if table service is provided, it is a gesture of goodwill to leave a cash tip. Again, leave no more than 5-10% of the bill or round up the amount. 

Some bars will keep a tip jar on the bar counter where you can drop in loose change. In this case, the total amount is split between the bar staff. 

Whether you travel for culture, cuisine, scenery, or a little bit of everything, wondrous Italy has you covered for a luxurious European getaway. When you travel to Northern Italy, you can explore the Lakes Region in the foothills of the Alps. Jaw-dropping natural scenery, lavish accommodation, and exquisite dining using locally sourced ingredients are abundant, from Lake Como all the way to Lake Maggiore. 

Lake Como

Located in the Lombardy region, Italy’s third-largest is shaped like an upside-down “Y”. The shoreline of Lake Como is dotted with resort towns with upscale restaurants, luxury hotels, and activities ashore and on the water. 

Occupying a strategic spot at the junction of where the lake splits, Bellagio captures the essence of the Lake Region. Cobblestone streets such as Salita Antonio Mella are lined with boutiques, wine bars, and trattorias while both Parco di Villa Serbelloni and Villa Melzi Gardens grant beautiful views of the lake during summer when the flowers are in bloom. 

​Welcome to the Dublin City Guide. This guide is packed with fun and needed travel information while in this wonderful city.

Dublin, the capital of Ireland, is a vibrant city with so much culture, history, and fun exploration. The stories, history, and folklore bring so much magic to a tour of Ireland.  

In this guide, you will find a few of the many top attractions to see and do in Dublin, but there is so much more to explore. If you want to enjoy music, show, and general Irish hospitality, visit the Temple Bar area of Dublin. Depending on your interests, whether it is the numerous cathedrals, churches, castles, shopping, restaurants, or bars, you could spend several nights here to explore and enjoy all Dublin offers.  

New Year, new travel destinations. As we welcome 2023, these are the most exciting travel adventures to add to your agenda. 

Antarctica and the Arctic Circle

The final frontier in travel, the polar regions are best explored via an expedition cruise. Traveling to Antarctica and the Arctic are truly immersive experiences during which you will undergo some of the most remote sea passages on the planet and encounter the cultures of those living in the polar north or south. You will have the opportunity to witness penguins, whales, and sea birds – possibly even polar bears if you head to the north. In between soaking up the scenery from your expedition vessel, you will explore the wilderness via Zodiac, kayak, and helicopter. 

New Zealand and the Pacific Islands 

A once-in-a-lifetime destination, the remote island nation of New Zealand, the "Long White Cloud", is a delight for outdoor enthusiasts, wildlife watchers, and wine lovers. Unforgettable excursions take you by boat past the fjords of the South Island or by helicopter to wondrous glaciers. Luxury experiences include hot springs, wine tastings, and sailing trips. Get acquainted with the restaurants of Auckland, sample a traditional Māori hāngī, and try your hand at the national pastime – fishing. You may coincide your journey to the other side of the world with a trip to Fiji or the Cook Islands. 

Register for our travel talk with Unparalleled Journeys for a taster of one of the most popular travel destinations for 2023. 

​I wish you all a very Happy New Year!

As the sun sets on another year, may it rise again and shine a light on new opportunities, perspectives, and adventures ahead!

Welcome, 2023!

Happy Christmas Eve, I wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas.

May this Christmas bring you many reasons to smile. Share this wonderful time of year with those near and dear to your heart.
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It’s the most magical time of year: a time of family, food, gifting, and embracing traditions. However you spend the holidays, we can always look to Europe to provide festive cheer and inspiration. Let’s take a look at how the French city of Strasbourg, widely considered the “Capital of Christmas”, celebrates the season of goodwill. 

Strasbourg, France: Capital of Christmas 

Strasbourg is the capital city of France’s Alsace region, in northeastern France. Being close to the German border, the culture and architecture of the city show inspiration from both European countries, with late November erupting into a display of the traditional German-originated festivities.

The Strasbourg yuletide market is both the oldest in France and one of the oldest overall in the European continent. Dating back to 1570, the market stays true to the custom of Christmas markets with storefronts and building facades being beautifully decorated with lights and decoration.  

Every year, a 30-meter tall fir tree occupies the heart of Place Kléber, strewn with hundreds of cherubs and 400 baubles. The tree is illuminated daily from 17:00 pm. Around 300 wooden chalets are dotted around the plaza and elsewhere, where you can pick up artisanal gifts, hand-crafted decorations, and time-honored treats. 

Have you ever thought about booking a trip to the Cook Islands? If not, you might want to consider adding it to your bucket list. This destination is a Polynesian paradise, with adventurous activities, opportunities to relax, and everything in between. 

The Cook Islands are comprised of 15 islands, some of which have daily flights between islands. Situated in the middle of Hawaii and New Zealand, these islands boast an ideal climate, with an average yearly temperature of 80-82˚F. Keep reading to learn about some of the top things to do in the Cook Islands!

Rarotonga

Although it is one of the larger islands, you can drive across Rarotonga in just 45 minutes. Despite being the most popular, Rarotonga maintains an escape from city life, with no building higher than the tallest coconut tree and no traffic lights in sight.

On Rarotonga, there are more than 100 Polynesian restaurants, cafes, and dining options to enjoy, as well as endless opportunities for adventure. Rarotonga is known for its beautiful mountainous landscapes, scuba-friendly waters, and cultural experiences. Cultural shows and traditional dances can immerse you in the Cook Islands. 

Enjoy the water

When it comes to water, the Cook Islands have it all. Their lagoons provide the perfect place to experience some of the most extraordinary things. Year-round warm water makes the islands ideal for exploring sea life, whether by paddleboard or sea scooter. Snorkeling through fish-filled waters or diving to ocean floors can help you create unforgettable memories. 

​If you would rather be on top of the water in a boat, there are options for you too! Lagoon cruises, full of food and entertainment, are a great way to start the day with some happiness. A popular island for lagoon cruises is Aitutaki, especially if you are staying on another island.

Ultra immersive and ultra adventurous, expedition cruising is a vacation style that takes you to the most remote oceans, seas, and tundras. Specifically, these liveaboard tours journey to the polar north and south – the final frontiers in travel. As these regions require a specialist approach, you will be accompanied by expedition leaders with extensive knowledge of polar natural history and the culture of those living in these areas.

The vessels used in expedition cruising are significantly smaller, amounting to only a couple of hundred guests rather than the several thousand traditional cruise liners accommodate. Ships fall into a far more luxurious category, as reflected in the guest cabins, amenities, and onboard dining. Consider expedition cruises the aquatic equivalent of a boutique hotel – with adventure to boot. There is no need to worry about feeling the cold; all expedition vessels are climate-controlled for your comfort while specialist clothing is provided. 

Expedition cruises take you where the large cruise liners can’t; here is where you can expect to journey on an expedition cruise.

Beyond the bustle of London, rural England is made up of rolling hills, fairytale woodlands, and rugged stretches of coastline. Countryside villages with stone cottages and cobbled streets welcome travelers from afar with snug tea rooms and traditional pubs serving British comfort food. Here are the best English villages to explore across all four seasons for heritage, scenery, and food. 

Castle Combe, Cotswolds

As a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), the Cotswolds is revered as one of England’s most beautiful regions. As one village simply isn’t enough to explore this idyllic place, start with Castle Combe. The original keep has long since been destroyed but the village today is a postcard-pretty scene of brookside honey-colored cottages bordered by verdant woodland.

Robin Hood’s Bay, North York Moors National Park 

Robin Hood’s Bay is a tiny fishing village next to the town of Whitby with a history of smuggling and fossil finds. Access to the beach requires a walk down a steep yet picturesque street lined with boutiques and cafes with bunting fluttering ahead. At low tide, you can wander along the tidal pools before settling in with a sunset portion of fish and chips while waves crash in from the North Sea. 

Thanksgiving is a time to give thanks and gather. There are so many things to be thankful for that are big and small, and if you think of one small thing you are grateful for every day, it will bring you joy.

​Happy Thanksgiving from my family to yours.

Israel is a small yet mighty country. Surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea in the west, Lebanon, and Syria to the north, Jordan to the east, Egypt to the southwest, and the Red Sea to the south, Israel is no larger than New Jersey. Yet, despite its size, Israel presents visitors with an impressive and diverse selection of geography, history, cultural activities, and cuisine. From the lively nightlife of Tel Aviv to the history of Jerusalem, we are breaking down the top five places you must visit while in Israel. 
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Tel Aviv  

Tel Aviv is Israel's second-largest city and the financial and cultural hub of the country. The city is most famous for its nightlife and is also home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean. If you're looking for a more culturally enriching experience, Tel Aviv is also home to the national opera and philharmonic orchestra. 

Masada

Situated on a plateau high above the Dead Sea is the old fortress of Masada. First fortified by Herod the Great at the end of the first century, Masada is known as the last Jewish stronghold to fall to the Romans in the first Jewish-Roman war. Today, Masada is a popular hiking excursion for visitors and is especially spectacular at sunset. There is also a cable car that will take you up the hill for those who don't want to hike.