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NATURALLY AVOID SEASICKNESS: HOW I PREVENTED SEASICKNESS WITH ALTERNATE
NOSTRIL BREATHING

Posted on October 1, 2024 by aavtravel

Picture this: over 300 luxury travel experts and suppliers gather for an
exclusive Summit at Sea. We embarked from Dover, gliding toward Spain and
Portugal, with Normandy as our first stop. But nature had different plans. A
storm was brewing across Europe, and by the time we left Bilbao, the seas turned
into a roller coaster—three days of nothing but turbulent waters, tossing us
from every direction.



It was so intense that motion sickness bags lined the ship’s corridors. And, of
course, there was no land in sight for 48 hours. By the time we docked in Porto,
my legs still felt the sway of the ocean, like I was stuck on an invisible boat.
Three days after the cruise, I could still feel those waves!

Here’s the kicker: I’m prone to seasickness. Normally, I would’ve been the first
to grab anti-nausea meds, and even then, I’d probably still struggle to keep up
with meetings or a formal dinner. But this time was different. I didn’t take any
medication and, surprisingly, I never felt sick. I wondered why. And then it
clicked—I had started practicing alternate nostril breathing about a year ago.

Photo by Ivan Samkov on Pexels.com

Alternate nostril breathing, or Nadi Shodhana, is a simple yet powerful
technique that involves inhaling through one nostril, closing it, and exhaling
through the other. Over time, this practice helps balance the nervous system and
reduce stress—two key factors that play into motion sickness.

Here’s how it worked for me:

 * Stress Relief: Nadi Shodhana activates the parasympathetic nervous system,
   the body’s calming mechanism. Lower stress levels mean less anxiety, which
   can worsen seasickness (SOMA Breath) (Reframe App).
 * Respiratory Support: By practicing this regularly, my lung capacity and
   breathing efficiency improved. It allowed me to maintain steady breaths,
   avoiding the panic-breathing that often accompanies nausea (Cleveland
   Clinic).
 * Nervous System Balance: This breathing technique helps balance the autonomic
   nervous system, the part of our body responsible for managing digestion and
   stress. Keeping this system in check prevented nausea from escalating
   (Reframe App).

The results were clear: what could have been a miserable three days at sea
became manageable. I didn’t need my usual medication, just this simple breathing
technique, and a sense of calm.



So, if you’re someone like me, who dreads the idea of motion sickness, try
adding alternate nostril breathing to your routine. It won’t work miracles for
everyone, but it might just turn a stormy sea into a peaceful journey. Many of
my colleagues weren’t so lucky, but I came out feeling like I’d discovered a
secret.



Stefanie is a luxury travel advisor with a passion for crafting bespoke
itineraries tailored to her clients’ unique desires. With extensive travel
experience and a keen eye for detail, she ensures each journey is not just a
trip but a memorable adventure. Discover more about her services and expertise
today!


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Posted in Cruises, Europe, France, Great Britain, Portugal, Spain, Travel Tips |
Tagged aavexplorations, aavtravel, Best remedies for seasickness, cruise,
cruising, health, luxury travel, natural remedies, Natural ways to avoid
seasickness, prevent seasickness, seasickness, seasickness remedies, Tips to
avoid motion sickness while traveling, Travel | Leave a comment


RESORTS THAT ARE DESTINATIONS IN THEMSELVES: WHERE THE STAY BECOMES THE JOURNEY

Posted on September 12, 2024 by aavtravel

When planning a trip, most travelers think of destinations first—dreaming of a
tropical beach in the Tahiti, the charming streets of Paris, or the dramatic
landscapes of Norway. But some properties are so exceptional, so unique, that
they turn this notion on its head. Instead of choosing a destination, travelers
choose these resorts, and the property itself becomes the highlight of the
journey. These accommodations are destinations in themselves, drawing people
from all over the world not just for where they are located but for the singular
experiences they offer.

Here are some of the most iconic options that are more than just places to stay
but bucket-list destinations:


FOGO ISLAND INN:
A BOLD INTERSECTION OF TRADITION AND MODERN DESIGN

Perched on the rugged coastline of Newfoundland’s Fogo Island, Fogo Island Inn
is a strikingly unique blend of contemporary architecture and deep-rooted
heritage. The inn stands on stilts, echoing the traditional fishing stages of
the island, while offering guests panoramic views of the North Atlantic. What
makes this property truly special is its dedication to preserving local culture
and supporting the community. Every detail, from the handcrafted furniture to
the locally sourced cuisine, reflects the island’s traditions. Fogo Island Inn
is a place where modern luxury and cultural authenticity merge, offering an
unforgettable experience on one of the world’s most remote corners.




ASHFORD CASTLE:
TIMELESS ELEGANCE, ROYAL HERITAGE

A stay at Ashford Castle transports guests into a fairytale. This 800-year-old
castle is nestled on a sprawling estate in Ireland, offering an experience fit
for royalty. From opulent rooms to falconry lessons, a stay here feels like
stepping into a world of history, luxury, and adventure. The property’s
impeccable service, dramatic surroundings, and authentic medieval charm make it
a destination that transcends the Irish countryside itself.




AMANGIRI:
DESERT LUXURY, SERENE SECLUSION

Tucked away in the dramatic desert landscape of southern Utah, Amangiri is a
haven of minimalist luxury. The resort blends seamlessly into the natural
surroundings of canyons and mesas, offering guests a sanctuary of calm in the
desert wilderness. With a stunning design and exclusive access to the
surrounding landscape, Amangiri attracts those seeking an ultra-luxurious,
immersive experience with nature. For many travelers, the desert backdrop,
architecture, and tranquility of this property make it the ultimate reason to
visit this corner of the U.S.




THE BRANDO:
LUXURY MEETS SUSTAINABILITY IN FRENCH POLYNESIA

The Brando, located on the private island of Tetiaroa in French Polynesia, is a
model of eco-conscious luxury. What makes this resort unique is its
groundbreaking commitment to sustainability. Powered by renewable energy,
including solar power and coconut oil biofuel, The Brando has been designed to
leave a minimal environmental footprint while offering world-class amenities.
The resort’s innovative seawater air-conditioning system reduces energy use, and
its deep dedication to preserving local wildlife and ecosystems reflects a
harmony between nature and indulgence. The Brando is more than just a tropical
paradise—it’s a beacon of sustainable tourism.




HERDADE DA MALHADINHA NOVA:
WORKING FARM MEETS LUXURY ESTATE

Herdade da Malhadinha Nova is a unique luxury estate set in the serene Alentejo
region of Portugal. Spread over 610 hectares, it combines the rustic charm of a
working farm with sophisticated hospitality. What sets it apart is its seamless
blend of nature, tradition, and modern luxury. The estate offers wine-making
experiences, as it is home to a renowned vineyard producing award-winning wines.
Guests can indulge in gourmet cuisine crafted by Michelin-star chefs, relax in
the exclusive spa, or explore the picturesque landscape on horseback.




THE LINDIS LODGE:
A HIDDEN GEM IN NEW ZEALAND’S WILDERNESS

The Lindis Lodge, nestled in New Zealand’s pristine Ahuriri Valley, offers a
blend of remote seclusion and modern luxury. What sets this property apart is
its stunning architecture, designed to harmonize with the surrounding landscape,
resembling the rolling hills of the valley itself. With panoramic views of
untouched wilderness and a focus on sustainability, guests experience the rugged
beauty of nature without sacrificing comfort. Whether stargazing from private
suites or exploring the outdoors, the Lindis Lodge provides an unparalleled,
immersive escape into one of New Zealand’s most breathtaking regions.


LET THE PROPERTY BE YOUR NEXT DESTINATION!

Sometimes, the accommodation can be as inspiring as the destination itself.
These unique resorts have carved out their place in the travel world by offering
experiences that are simply unparalleled. They prove that when done right, a
property can become the very reason for the journey, transforming a simple stay
into an unforgettable adventure.

As a travel advisor, I’m here to help you find that perfect property that will
make your vacation extraordinary. Let’s plan your next incredible escape!


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Posted in Daydreaming, Europe, Honeymoons, Ireland, New Zealand, Nova Scotia,
Portugal, Romance, South Pacific & Hawaii, Tahiti | Tagged aavexplorations,
aavtravel, Adventure, bucket list travel, Canada, Honeymoon, hotels, Ireland,
luxury, luxury travel, new zealand, Portugal, Romance, Tahiti, Travel, utah |
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EXPERT TRAVEL ADVISOR SHARES TOP TIPS FOR STAYING HEALTHY WHILE FLYING

Posted on September 6, 2024 by aavtravel

Flying can be exciting, but staying healthy along the way is key to fully
enjoying your trip!


Here are some simple, practical tips from my experience to help you feel your
best before, during, and after your flight.

Photo by Oleksandr P on Pexels.com


BEFORE YOU FLY

Supercharge Your Immune System
A strong immune system is your secret weapon! In the days leading up to your
flight, focus on eating healthy, nutrient-packed meals, drinking plenty of
water, and getting good rest. You can even add a little extra boost with vitamin
C or echinacea!

Hydration is Key
Flying dries you out! Make sure you’re well-hydrated before even heading to the
airport. Water is your friend! Try to skip the alcohol and caffeine, as they’ll
only make dehydration worse.

Pack Smart
Don’t forget the essentials: hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes, and a reusable
water bottle. These simple items will keep you fresh and hydrated, no matter
what the journey throws your way.

Photo by Kindel Media on Pexels.com


WHILE YOU’RE IN THE AIR

Get Moving
Staying in one spot for too long can make you stiff or, worse, increase your
risk of DVT (deep vein thrombosis). Every hour, get up, stretch, or even take a
quick stroll around the cabin. You can also do easy seat exercises like ankle
circles to keep the blood flowing.

Sip, Sip, Sip
Keep drinking water! A good rule of thumb is to double what you usually drink.
Having your own water bottle helps keep track, allows you to refill in the
airport, and saves plastic or paper cups.

Keep It Clean
Planes can be a bit of a germ fest, so sanitize when you feel the need! You may
even want to opt to wear a mask.

Snack Smart
Hungry? Go for snacks that fuel you, like nuts, fruit, or whole-grain crackers.
Greasy, heavy foods can make you feel sluggish and less than your best. On
long-distance flights, you can often pre-order your meals: Why not opt for a
vegetarian option or some of the lighter cuisines?

Photo by Ali Dashti on Pexels.com


AFTER YOU’VE LANDED

Stretch It Out
Once you’re off the plane, a good stretch or walk can help shake off any
stiffness. A brisk walk through the airport will make you feel as good as new.
Follow up with a good workout. It doesn’t have to be long; twenty minutes will
do the trick!

Refuel and Rehydrate
Drink up! Keep hydrating after your flight, and refuel with a healthy meal.
Fresh fruits, veggies, and lean proteins will help get your energy back.

Catch Some Zzz’s
Long flights, especially with time changes, can leave you feeling drained. Make
sure to get plenty of rest once you reach your destination to adjust and
refresh, but respect the local hours so you can minimize jet lag.

Photo by William Choquette on Pexels.com

Travel is all about having fun and making memories, and with a little
preparation, you can ensure that your health doesn’t hold you back. Follow these
tips, and you’ll be well on your way to a happy, healthy journey. Safe travels!


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Posted in Travel Tips, Work Out | Tagged aavexplorations, aavtravel, airtravel,
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RELIVE THE MAGIC: TIPS TO KEEP YOUR VACATION MEMORIES ALIVE!

Posted on August 29, 2024 by aavtravel

What did you love most?
Think back to your last vacation—what was the highlight for you? Whether it was
savoring new flavors, exploring unfamiliar streets, or simply basking in the
sun, those moments don’t have to fade away with your tan. Here are a few
friendly tips to keep the vacation glow going long after you’ve unpacked.

Tip One: Create Mini Adventures in Your Everyday Life
Whatever made your vacation special, try weaving a little bit of that magic into
your routine. Did daily bike rides bring you joy? Set aside time for a weekly
ride. If exploring new places excited you, invite a friend to discover a new
neighborhood and play tourist for a day. You’ll be amazed at what you find when
you look at your hometown through the eyes of a first-time visitor! I’ve made it
a habit to explore new areas every time I return to Switzerland, where I grew
up. Each trip is like a mini adventure, and I’m always left in awe!

Tip Two: Embrace the Outdoors
Vacations often mean more time spent outside, and we all know how wonderful
nature is for our well-being. Soak in the fresh air and notice the little
things—nature changes daily. Whether you start your day with a morning walk or
take a midday break outdoors, these small moments can boost your mood and keep
you connected to that vacation feeling.

Tip Three: Engage your Senses
If certain smells, tastes, or sounds made your vacation unforgettable, bring
those elements into your everyday life. After spending a week with a friend in
Rome, I was hooked on the rich aroma of stovetop espresso. As soon as I got
home, I bought a Bialetti Moka Express. Now, every time I brew a cup, I’m
transported back to those charming Roman mornings!



Scents are especially powerful—so if you loved the lavender fields of Provence,
bring a bit of that fragrance into your home with lavender plants or essential
oils.

Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

Tip Four: Showcase Souvenirs
Never underestimate the power of a good keepsake! Whether it’s a painting you
picked up or a comfy pair of linen pants from the Amalfi Coast, these items can
bring a smile to your face every time you see or wear them.
One of my personal favorites is a painting I bought in a Hanoi gallery at the
turn of the century. It’s not just a beautiful piece of art, but a vivid
reminder of my time in Vietnam, full of bustling markets and vibrant culture.

Tip Five: Let the Music Play
Music has a way of instantly transporting you to another place. Tune in to a
local band or find a radio station from your vacation destination. Before you
know it, you’ll be right back in that special spot, soaking in the vibes and
memories.

Photo by Mikhail Nilov on Pexels.com

Share your thoughts!
How do you keep your vacation memories alive? Have a favorite tip or souvenir to
share? I’d love to hear all about it!

Planning Your Next Luxury Getaway?
At AAV Travel, we take the stress out of travel planning so you can focus on
what truly matters—relaxation, adventure, and making memories that last. Reach
out when you are ready to start planning!


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Posted in Europe, Travel Tips | Tagged aavexplorations, aavtravel, preserving
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SIP EXQUISITE WINE AND SOAK IN STUNNING VIEWS!

Posted on July 24, 2024 by aavtravel

Where, you ask? Discovering the Lavaux region feels like stepping into a
postcard. Nestled along the dazzling shores of Lake Geneva, this Swiss gem
offers more than just stunning scenery – it’s a haven for wine lovers and anyone
looking to savor the good life.



Dating back to the 11th century, Lavaux’s terraced vineyards are a testament to
centuries of dedication and passion. The primary grape here is Chasselas, which
produces crisp, refreshing white wines that complement local dishes like cheese
fondue and lake fish. Switzerland’s favorite lake fish is ‘Eglifilet,’ called
‘Filets de Perche’ in the Lavaux region.

One of my favorite ways to explore Lavaux is by hopping on the Lavaux Panoramic,
a charming little train that winds through the vineyards, offering panoramic
views and fascinating tidbits about the area’s history. However, if you want to
be active instead, there are numerous walking and cycling trails that snake
through the terraces. Each trail is peppered with local wineries where you can
stop, taste, and ‘papoter” (chat) with the winemakers who are always eager to
share their passion and stories.



The region is also home to quaint villages like Cully, Lutry, and
Saint-Saphorin, each brimming with charm and character. Imagine strolling
through cobblestone streets, discovering cozy cafes, historic buildings, and
inviting wine cellars at every turn. If you time your visit right, you might
even catch one of the local ‘Fêtes de Vendanges” (harvest festival), where the
community comes together in celebration with music, food, and, of course, plenty
of wine.



Lavaux isn’t just about wine and scenery; it’s about the peace and tranquility
that washes over you as you take in the gentle waves of Lake Geneva and the
endless rows of vineyards. It’s always a good idea to have a swimsuit handy as
you may be tempted to take a dip in the lake.



I promise, there’s nothing quite like enjoying a glass of Chasselas while taking
in the views of the lake and the majestic Alps in the background!

That said, there are plenty of different experiences to be had in Switzerland,
and I truly enjoy helping my clients plan their perfect time in my country of
origin.




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BENEFITS OF INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS CLASS: BEYOND THE OBVIOUS

Posted on June 26, 2024 by aavtravel


THE ALLURE OF BUSINESS CLASS, IS IT WORTH THE EXTRA COST?

There’s something undeniably enticing about the perks of business class: the
allure of a lay-flat seat, upgraded drinks, and a meal selected from a menu and
served on a lovely plate with a folded cloth napkin. A larger screen for movies,
a Bose headset, and a welcome kit with essentials like lip balm, hand cream, a
toothbrush, and a comb. Settling into your private cubby, you might almost
believe you’re one of the few on this flight.

But, are these reasons enough to justify paying thousands of dollars extra?
After all, the meal is still an airplane meal, and the bed isn’t as comfortable
as a 5-star hotel’s. You might argue that you’d rather spend that extra money
elsewhere.




WHY I BELIEVE IN BUSINESS CLASS

The real value of business class goes beyond the obvious perks.

Check-in: The experience begins with not having to stand in line for more than
five minutes. Dropping off bags is a breeze, and seeing them tagged as
“priority” is a nice touch.

Priority Security: Some airports and airlines offer business passengers priority
security lines, saving even more time.

Airport Lounge Access: Enjoying a meal and a comfortable seat in an airport
lounge, rather than fighting with the masses, is a treat, particularly if you
don’t like feeling like herded cattle.

Flight Delays or Cancellations: If there’s a delay or cancellation, getting
assistance within the lounge rather than at a customer service desk is
priceless. What might take hours in line can often be resolved within 15 minutes
in the lounge.

First Off the Plane: Being among the first off the plane typically means you’re
first in line at immigration, saving even more time.

Beating the Jet Lag: The real quality of business class is the solid chance of
beating jet lag. Not only are you likely ready to explore as soon as you get off
the plane, but it also greatly helps in adjusting to the new time quickly.




TIPS FOR BEATING JET LAG (EVEN IF YOU FLY ECONOMY)

 1. Drink Water: Stay hydrated by drinking 2-3 times as much water as you would
    on the ground. The dry air on the plane can dehydrate you, so replenishing
    your body’s 70% water content helps you adjust more easily.
 2. Limit Alcohol: Avoid or limit alcohol intake as it can dehydrate you
    further.
 3. Nap Wisely: Upon arrival, allow yourself a short nap (no more than 2-3
    hours). After that, get moving—walk around, explore, and have a healthy
    dinner. Aim to stay awake until at least 8 pm local time.
 4. Wake Up Early: Set a consistent wake-up time. If you plan to be on the go by
    8 am every day, force yourself to get out of bed by 7 am. Catch some
    daylight right away to signal your body to adjust to the new time zone.

Following these steps should help you adjust smoothly.




SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS

Do you love flying business class, or do you feel it’s not worth the cost? Have
any jet lag tips to share? I’d love to hear from you.

At AAV Travel, we specialize in creating customized itineraries, saving our
clients time, and ensuring their vacations are seamless. We take the guesswork
out of your travel plans!


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Posted in Australia, Europe, New Zealand, South Pacific & Hawaii, Tahiti, Travel
Tips | Tagged aavexperience, aavexplorations, air travel, business class,
business class perks, international travel, jet lag, luxury travel, Travel Tips
| Leave a comment


UNLOCK THE SECRETS: HOW TO TRAVEL EUROPE LIKE A PRO!

Posted on June 23, 2024 by aavtravel

Planning a trip to Europe, or just need a refresher since it’s been a while?
There’s a lot to know about traveling this diverse continent, and it’s not as
straightforward as exploring the United States. While traveling across the
States means finding familiar places like McDonald’s, Marriott hotels, or
Walmarts everywhere you go, Europe offers a completely different experience.

In Europe, every country has its own language, and some even have several. These
countries have rich histories dating back hundreds of years, leading to unique
cultures, architecture, and cuisines. For example, the UK was founded in 927 AD,
Portugal in 1143, Switzerland in 1291, and the Netherlands in 1581. Each country
has its distinct characteristics—some are more organized, while others are more
laid-back and passionate.



Geography also plays a huge role in travel. A distance that looks short on the
map can take hours if there’s a mountain in the way. While some countries have
modern infrastructure, others have evolved differently due to their geography
and culture.



To make the most of your trip, take time to learn about the country you want to
visit. Does it have multiple points of interest? How much time do you need to
truly immerse yourself and not just snap a quick photo?

As a rule, if you only have a week, dedicate it to one country.
For two weeks, focus on a country like Italy or Greece.
If you want to city-hop between places like London, Paris, and Amsterdam, go for
it!
But if you want to truly embrace a country like France or the UK, spend your two
weeks there. Many people combine Ireland and the UK, which works with two weeks,
but to see Ireland properly, you need two weeks, and at least three weeks for
the UK.

Commit that kind of time, and you can truly say you’ve visited and know the
country well.

At AAV Travel, we make planning easy and stress-free; plus, we provide expert
guidance, making your European itinerary seamless and something to remember!




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STEP INTO ADVENTURE: WALK EUROPE WITH CONFIDENCE AND COMFORT!

Posted on June 20, 2024 by aavtravel

Walking is deeply ingrained in the daily routines of many Europeans, with urban
planning often prioritizing pedestrian-friendly environments. Cities feature
narrow, historic streets and well-maintained sidewalks that encourage locals and
tourists to explore by foot.

Photo by Pierre Blachu00e9 on Pexels.com

In iconic cities like Paris, Amsterdam, and Copenhagen, walking is more than
just a mode of transportation; it’s a way to immerse oneself in the local
culture, enjoy bustling street life, and take in beautiful sights. Additionally,
public policies that support pedestrian infrastructure make walking a
convenient, healthy, and enjoyable choice for navigating urban areas. Many
times, walking is the most efficient way to get from point A to point B.

Photo by Evgeniy Kostyunin on Pexels.com

If you’re not used to walking a lot, exploring European cities can feel pretty
overwhelming. For starters, you might find yourself covering much more ground on
foot than you’re used to, which can be pretty tiring. The cobblestone streets,
hills, and stairs in those charming historic areas can add to the challenge.
Plus, locals tend to walk briskly and confidently, making it easy to feel a bit
out of step. Navigating through bustling crowds, busy streets, and unfamiliar
places takes a lot of energy and can be quite a shock if you’re more accustomed
to driving everywhere.

So here are a few tips to get prepared. Ideally, you start about two months
before your trip:

 * Walk with friends. Join a walking club or get together with friends who enjoy
   the outdoors.
 * Experienced walkers can offer valuable tips and motivation, like recommending
   the best shoes for comfort.
 * Pick up the pace and try different terrains. Cobblestones, potholes, uneven
   streets, and inclines are all very common in Europe.
 * Invest in comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots, and don’t skimp on
   good-quality socks.
 * Consider the weather, too—a waterproof option is better for wet climates than
   mesh sneakers.
 * Remember to dress in layers. This helps regulate moisture and temperature;
   being outside more means a quick trip back for extra clothes might not be
   convenient.

Photo by Gu00fcl Iu015fu0131k on Pexels.com

Are you an avid walker and have some tips to share or gear to recommend? I would
love to hear from you!

Reach out when you feel the itch to plan a European adventure, I’d love to help!


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Posted in Europe, Travel Tips | Tagged aavexperience, aavtravel, citywalking,
Europe, street walking, Travel, Travel Tips, walking, walking tips | 2 Comments


SUMMER 2024: EUROPE TRAVEL TIPS

Posted on June 5, 2024 by aavtravel

Paris Summer Olympics

Be prepared to pay steep prices in Paris as the games approach. Hotels and food
will become more expensive, and some metro stations might close. Check the Paris
Ministry of Transport website for updates on those closures. Arrange transfer in
advance, as strikes could affect public transportation.

Our tip: If you don’t like crowds, avoid Paris this summer and choose a more
laid-back spot.

The consequence of climate change: Natural occurrences

Photo by Jasmin kaemmerer on Pexels.com

Europe is set to face a major heatwave in 2024, and unfortunately, natural
disasters are becoming more frequent in this region. Massive floods hit Germany
and Belgium last year and are now back. Greece dealt with wildfires in 2023.
Iceland’s volcano keeps erupting.

That River cruise you booked may not be operating as planned. The hotel you
booked may not have air conditioning or have restrictions on air conditioning
use due to environmental objectives.

Our Tip: A professional travel advisor has deep insights into European travel
because they stay updated on various factors that can impact your trip, such as
natural disasters, political changes, and strikes. Their extensive network and
access to real-time information allow them to anticipate and navigate potential
disruptions. They can provide personalized advice and contingency plans that you
might not easily find on your own, ensuring a smoother and safer travel
experience.

Strikes and Delays: The new normal

Photo by Free Stock on Pexels.com

Train travel is an awesome way to explore Europe, but air and land
transportation has been delayed more frequently lately. Major travel strikes are
happening across several countries. To deal with these inevitable strikes, it’s
smart to prepare for delays and have a backup plan ready.

Our Tip: Slow down! Instead of hopping around every other day from city to city,
country to the next, allow yourself time. That way, you still have days left if
you miss a day and some space to make alternate arrangements. A good travel
advisor will help you create an itinerary that holds up!

Tickets, guides, and politics

Photo by Chait Goli on Pexels.com

Popular attraction tickets are getting scalped. Some of the best guides refuse
their services because the sights are overcrowded. Some attraction time slots,
like the Colosseum in Rome, are allocated at the last minute. That said, your
tour time could change.

Our Tip: You get what you pay for! Trust your advisor, upgrade your experiences,
get up early, and don’t overload your day.

Daytripper fees

Photo by Gotta Be Worth It on Pexels.com

The city of Venice rolled out its one-day visitor fee this summer. On arrival,
train passengers are checked to see if they purchased a day pass and fined if
not. Venice overnight guests have to file an exception. The town of Clovelly in
Cornwall charges a daily visitor fee. Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland, is discussing
implementing a fee for visitors arriving by car. This is becoming the norm.

Our Tip: Work with a specialist! Unless you are a very thorough trip planner
with hours to learn about destinations and how best to navigate them, trust an
expert to help you craft your trip and prepare you ahead of time.

Is Europe on your mind? Reach out, and we will happily help you plan your trip!


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Posted in Europe, Italy, Paris, Rome, Switzerland, Venice | Tagged
aavexplorations, aavtravel, Europe, Italy, Paris, summer 2024, Travel Tips |
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COLOMBIA – YOU CAN TRAVEL THERE NOW!

Posted on January 21, 2021 by aavtravel

November 2020, I had the pleasure of participating in Colombia’s Nature Travel
Mart. Three days filled with mingling with local travel professionals and
learning a lot about what this wonderful country has to offer.

Emerging from a tumultuous past, Colombia has turned over a new leaf and become
one of the most sustainable and progressive tourism destinations.

A few incredible facts:

 * Colombia has the most extensive bird diversity worldwide
 * The country shares land borders with five nations: Venezuela, Brazil,
   Ecuador, Peru, and Panama
 * Colombia offers both Pacific and Caribbean coastlines
 * Much of its territory is challenging to the point that you have to fly even
   small distances
 * Colombia enjoys 314 different types of ecosystems, making it one of the most
   diverse countries in the world
 * Colombia boasts 54 protected areas within its 441,200 sqm (about double the
   size of Texas)

Colombia offers something for everyone, and a trip can be customized according
to interests and desired adventure level.

Keep in mind that many destination combinations require a short flight to
connect one place with the next. Before going into more detail, have a look at
the country’s map. I find it helpful to locate the different areas.



The initial gateways

Cartagena, the City of Romance, is located south along the Caribbean Coast. This
romantic colonial city is perfect for couples that love to stroll cobblestone
streets and enjoy boutique hotels.

Bogota, the high-altitude capital, sits in the center of Colombia and is marked
with a star. Around the city, you will find the best area to see fantastic
wildlife, including jaguars.

Medellin, once the most dangerous city and now an example of transformation.
Voted the most innovative city in 2014, Medellin is a hub for tech companies and
dazzles visitors. It is located between Bogota and Panama.

Cali, also known as the Salsa dancing capital, is a gateway for some
birdwatching and located along the western side of Colombia.

Each of these main gateways offers different experiences that can be combined
and ultimately define how many days you need to get to know Colombia.

What to do from:

CARTAGENA

Cartagena makes an excellent gateway to explore Colombia’s Caribbean Coast,
including Santa Rosa, Tayrona National Park, and several off-shore islands. A
visit to this area can also be combined with Panama and the San Blas islands.

BOGOTA

Being Colombia’s capital, Bogota offers worldly comforts and makes for an
excellent gateway for bird and wildlife watching. Although a year- round
destination, I have it on good authority to avoid a visit in April and October,
unless you love gloomy, grey weather. At 8530 feet above sea level, the area is
generally colder.

From Bogota, you might also choose to fly to Yopal, from where to access Los
llanos area consisting of seasonally flooded plains and grassland, that provide
safari-like mammals and other animals. Another unique feature of the flatlands
is the local cowboys, which have a long tradition of singing to their cattle.
It’s a gorgeous area to escape to a Finca from where to explore the grounds
during the day, riding, river floating, animal watching, and then peacefully sip
an excellent glass of wine in the evening.

MEDELLIN

Between Medellin, Cali, and Bogota, you will find Colombia’s Coffee triangle.
This fertile triangle is well known for its charming rural towns and, of course,
fantastic coffee.

Medellin is also great for a day trip to El Penol and Guatape.

CALI

Colombia remains a very authentic destination with tourism just emerging. Cali
is even more off the beaten path. The city proclaims itself as the capital of
Salsa because of its long history with the dance. If you love rhythm and Latin
dancing, you will want to explore the many bars and dance the night away. And if
birds are what you are after, the mountains around Cali are home to a fantastic
bird watching lodge. Being not far from the coast, Cali is also an excellent
gateway for Pacific whale watching.

And if all this wasn’t enough already, there is much more to explore. You can
find snowfields and glaciers, colorful rivers, immerse yourself in an
off-the-grid experience along the Amazon river, study cave paintings, and hike
the Lost City Trek. Colombia will appeal to you, whether you want to learn more
about a country or indulge in a passion while doing so. Whether your interest is
in hiking, biking, horseback riding, bird watching, frog watching, wildlife
viewing, or coffee tasting, there is plenty to do! You can have a reasonably
modern experience, but you can also go off the beaten path and get out of your
comfort zone.

Keep in mind that there are different climate zones. Rainfall, temperatures vary
and might make one region more accessible than another. If you’ve been, I’d love
to hear about your experience, and if you would like to visit or learn more,
please reach out to me.






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Posted in Colombia, Honeymoons, Romance, South America | Tagged aavexperience,
bogota, cali, cartagena, Colombia, ecotoursime, medellin, san blas, sustainable
travel, tayrona national park | Leave a comment


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