Welcome to Maximizing Moments, August 2018

Maximizing Moments is a periodic newsletter that is designed to help make your precious travel time more memorable – in many ways.

In This Issue:

Tips for Tipping: Who to Tip and When
Set Sail with Ritz-Carlton: Introducing the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
The Adventure Lover's Bucket List
Where Are You Going Next?

Ah…the age-old question: to tip or not to tip? It’s not something you think about on a daily basis at home, but when you travel you’re suddenly in situations it may be appropriate to tip…or maybe not.
Tipping norms can be pretty murky – throw in different customs and expectations in each country, and even the most seasoned traveler gets confused. And while tipping is not required, if someone is helpful or does a good job, it is always nice to show your appreciation. We’ve gathered some tips for tipping from the pros for you to use as guideline for your next trip.

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Set Sail with Ritz-Carlton: Introducing the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company is sailing into a new adventure that has us ready to set sail: the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection! Since 1983, Ritz-Carlton has established itself as synonymous with luxury hotels. But now you can get that same white-glove service and personalized experience from the ladies and gentlemen of Ritz-Carlton both on land AND on sea.

The first of three vessels in the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is set to launch in 2019 (let the countdown begin!). The ultra-lux, custom-built yachts will feature the timeless style and exceptional service we all love. So what will set these cruises apart from their other small, luxury competitors?

Ritz-Carlton Resort Lifestyle

You may be on a luxury yacht, but the company aims to combine the relaxed lifestyle you find at a Ritz-Carlton Resort with the casual freedom of yachting.

Itineraries

Ranging from 7- to 10-day voyages, each itinerary will take travelers to unique destinations you won’t find on a large cruise ship itinerary. Imagine sipping limoncello in Capri or exploring old town Cartagena and then sailing off to your next glamorous port with the greatest of ease (and only unpacking once!). Depending on the season, these ships will cruise in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Caribbean, and Latin America.

On-Board Experience

Forget cruising with 1000+ other travelers. The Ritz-Carlton yachts will accommodate 298 passengers max in 149 suites.  And, you can dine at a restaurant by Sven Elverfeld of Aqua, the three Michelin-starred restaurant at The Ritz-Carlton, and end your night at a Panorama Lounge and wine bar. During the day, relax in the signature Ritz-Carlton spa or access the sea via the marina-style platform.

Authentic Immersion

Ritz-Carlton is working with Jean-Michel Cousteau and his Ocean Futures Society as well as local chefs, musicians, and artists to curate one-of-a-kind destination journeys. Whether you’re onboard or ashore, you can experience each destination in a unique, authentic way.

Pre- and Post-Cruise

Unlike any other cruise, you can bookend your trip with the same level of luxury by staying at a Ritz-Carlton hotel or resort. And don’t forget – Brownell is a Ritz-Carlton STARS agency so as our client you are always a privileged VIP guest.  You will truly be “putting on the Ritz” during one fabulous vacation!

So are you ready to pack your bags and say “Bon Voyage” from your floating Ritz-Carlton? We are too! Reservations are now open – click here to view itineraries and contact me to start planning your trip!

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Do you love adventure? Do you intentionally go looking for adrenaline-rush inducing activities? Have you exhausted your bucket list with the "must-see" and "must-do" trips that many of us are still so painstakingly working on? Then you need this list - the Adventure Lover's Bucket List! Even if you are still working on one day getting to Vienna or India or Russia, like I am, this list may add some thrills to your vacations and break up the culture- and history-seeking itineraries you normally plan.  You never know - you might find out that you are a risk-taker, able to get out of your comfort zone and actually love it!

1. Cage Diving with Great White Sharks, Cape Town, South Africa

False Bay in Cape Town is home to Seal Island, a land mass filled with Cape Fur Seals—aka the great white shark’s favorite snack. Home to some of the largest sharks documented, daredevils can cage dive with these hungry behomeths! This is also a prime location for seeing the powerful Great Whites breach the surface of the ocean, sometimes even propelling their entire bodies out of the water when catching prey—a true site to behold!

2. Trek to Machu Picchu
Peru

The highlight of a trip to Peru for most people is a visit to Machu Picchu. Most visitors opt to take the train but there are  5 separate treks that will take you to the Sun Gate of this ancient Inca Citadel. Each trek has its own character and attractions but, by far, the most popular is the Classic Inca Tail. It passes through ancient ruins and along the way you will enjoy outstanding views of rivers and snow-capped mountains. The Classic Inca trail is approximately 24 miles so visitors should allow 4-5 days  for the trip and a permit needs to be secured in advance (allow 4-6 months to obtain the permit).

3. Camp in the Atacama Desert
Chile

Chile's Atacama Desert is a truly exciting place to visit as it is a series of spectacular landscapes with salt flats, saline lakes, smoking volcanoes and high-altitude geysers. Many visitors opt to camp out under the impossibly starry sky for a night or nights. Aided by an expert guide campers spend the day biking and trekking across the desert taking in the natural beauty that is offered as well as exploring the culture of the Atacameños people. Returning to camp in the evening campers can enjoy talking about the day's adventure over a prepared feast accompanied with Chilean wine before retiring to heated,spacious and nicely appointed tents.

4. Hike to Tiger’s Nest Temple
Bhutan

The Tiger’s Nest Monastery was built in the late 17th century by the fourth ruler of Bhutan, Gyalse Tenzin Rabgye. It was built into the mountainside rock because this is where Padmasambhava (the Second Buddha) tamed the Tiger Demon (one of several origin stories). No trip tho Bhutan would be complete without making this roughly 2 hour uphill hike to visit this spiritual and spectacular collection of buildings perched precariously on a cliff 3000 feet above the ground. Hikers will also be rewarded with thousands of prayer flags, scenic views and a icy cold waterfall along the trail.

5. Climb Mount Kilimanjaro
Tanzania

Called the "Roof of Africa" and with a height of 16,100 feet from its base, it is the tallest free standing mountain in the world. Climbers need to be is good physical shape before making the ascent led by an expert guide. Both private and group climbs are offered and it can take 6-9 days depending on the route. Upon successfully reaching the summit climbers will be rewarded with spectacular views, a sense of great accomplishment and an adventure worthy of re-telling.

6.  Camp under the Northern Lights
Greenland

With over 300 clear-sky days/nights, Greenland is one of the best places on earth to view the Northern Lights. One of the best ways to view the ethereal Northern Light is to get away from the lights and sounds of civilization and take an escorted overnight camping trip. Individual or group trips can be arranged from Kulusuk out to the Greenland ice sheet. Experience the rugged beauty of Greenland without sacrificing your creature comforts and gourmet dining experiences. The magical presence in the skies over east Greenland will transform the beautiful scenery into something otherworldly, leaving you struck in awe.

7. Kayak among whales
Alaska

Alaska is one of the last great wild places left on our planet and during the summer hundreds of humpback whales converge in Frederick Sound (as do large numbers of orca whales). The humpback whale is the most acrobatic and socially complicated species in the world. Aside from the whales, sea kayaking also offers the opportunity to view Dall’s porpoises, harbor porpoises, harbor seals, and threatened Steller’s sea lions.

8. Hot Air Balloon over the Serengeti
Kenya

Everyone has heard about a land safari but how about a balloon safari?  The famous Serengeti National Park, with no fences, power lines and few roads is one the best places for a balloon flight. Imagine floating over the Serengeti taking in the enchanting scenery and the unique perspective to view the wildlife. Did I mention the photographic opportunities? Each trip is unique and, accordingly, an adventure.

9. Tackle North America's Longest Via Ferrata, Mt. Nimbus
Canada

Canada is home to one of the longest via ferrata in the world, Mt. Nimbus, and during your trip, you can scale it – no climbing experience necessary. Talk about feeling like you’re on top of the world!

*A via ferrata, Italian for “iron road”, is a protected mountain climbing path with a system of safety cables, rungs, ladders, and bridges. We had to look it up too.

10. Raft through the Grand Canyon
Arizona

Ranging from 3-7 days, rafting through the Grand Canyon is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. These trips are boundless in scenic wonder, steeped in Native American history and loaded with fun and adventure. Exploring the scenic Colorado River by water is a distinct adventurer in which you will explore hidden waterfalls and take in astounding scenery.. Wildlife is abundant, with frequent sightings of  Blue Heron, soaring eagles, and majestic Big Horn sheep.The true highlight will be riding the  Colorado River's famous rapids

11. Bungee jump off the Kawarau Bridge
New Zealand

If you are not faint of heart no visit to Queenstown would be complete without a stop at the Kawarau Bungy Centre, Overlooking the gorgeous Kawarau River this is the first and most famous bungy jump in the world. Be sure to check out the YouTube videos; are you ready for the 141 ft leap of faith?

12. Kayak around the Galapagos Islands,
Ecuador

Take it from first-hand experience, kayaking in the Galapagos Islands is going to be one of the highlights of your life! The Galapagos have been on the top lists of travel spots for years, but has not become overrun or packed with tourists. Regulations keep numbers low, so your experience in the Galapagos allows you to deeply understand the wonder and the fragility of the region.Nowhere else in the world can you get so close to wildlife. You’ll see sea lions, giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, marine iguanas, and Galapagos penguins – and that’s just part of what’s on the land. Underwater is a whole new world with sea turtles, fish, and so much more.at or stroll through a local market.

13. Horseback ride in Patagonia
Chile

Horseback riding in Chile is the perfect way to see the most scenic parts of the country well off the path of most tourists. The mountains and glaciers of Torres del Paine National Park offer some of the most spectacular scenery in the world. The mountains and pampas (lowlands) provide an unrivaled horseback riding experience - just don't forget to pack the ibuprofen.

14. Fish for piranha in the Amazon
Ecuador

Welcome to the jungle – literally! The Amazon has so much biodiversity that you must experience it in person. Clamoring monkeys and wild birdcalls are the soundtrack to your adventure down the river. And colleagues of mine (no, not me - yet!) have actually swam with piranha (well, they never actually saw one, thankfully!). We believe one of the best ways to see the amazing Amazon is by luxury river barge - adventure by day, luxury and gourmet cuisine by night - perfect!

15. Snorkel between Tectonic Plates
Iceland

The Silfra fissure in Iceland is the only place you can swim between the Eurasian and American plates. The water is so clear, you can see hundreds of feet below you into the underwater valleys. And wearing a dry suit makes it far more enjoyable in the 35 degree water!

16. Canyon swing at Victoria Falls
Zimbabwe

Imagine swinging in a child’s swing in the playground…now imagine a giant swing 95m long and 120m high above water…now imagine a 70m free fall before you begin swinging. The Gorge Swing is suspended across the gorge at a point where the width is 316m and 120m deep. A harness is attached to the jumper and then the jumping ropes, the other end of which is pivoted to the middle of the cable. The jumper leaps off the edge of the gorge, free falling about 70m before going into a 95m long pendulum type swing. Does that sound like a “must do” to you? Yikes! I can attest to the absolute terror I felt as I watched a colleague do this – but if you love adrenalin-pumping excitement, then you have to just go for it!

17. Night snorkel with manta rays
Hawaii

The famous manta ray night dive in Kona is widely regarded as one of the most memorable dives that can be experienced. This is one of the Big Island activities that should not be missed and is definitely on my Bucket List.The manta rays that live in Hawaiian waters are the so-called reef rays and they are the second largest species of manta rays in the world (they can grow a wingspan of 18 ft). What makes a manta ray night dive so special is that the tour operators set up "feeding stations" for the manta rays. This is done by divers who shine a light up towards the surface of the water which attracts plankton which, in turn, attracts manta rays. Snorkelers watch the feeding manta rays that swim, turn, and somersault gracefully in the light beams giving you an unforgettable night.

18. Sleep in a capsule overlooking the Sacred Valley – and zipline down in the morning
Peru

For those who would love to think they could bungee jump off a bridge or free fall into an eventual swing over Victoria Falls, but can’t bring themselves to actually take the leap, how about climbing 1,300 feet up a mountain to stay in a luxury capsule – a completely transparent hanging bedroom – overnight (including a gourmet dinner with wine and breakfast) before ziplining down using 6 zip wires? How’s that for an amazing cocktail party story? Tic the box!

19. Camp in the Sahara Desert
Morocco

Talk about exotic glamping! When visiting Morocco, sleeping in a tent in the desert will be the highlight of your trip. And it is not just any tent – if you really want to do it right, the tent will be outfitted with a full-size bed with thick mattress, lots of blankets (depending on when you go, for those chilly winter nights!), a wood floor covered by a gorgeous carpet, and an en suite bath. A gourmet dinner of traditional Moroccan dishes, a trek (either by camel or 4x4) to the top of a dune for an amazing sunset…..doesn’t that sound like something you just have to do?

20. Snorkel the Great Blue Hole
Belize

The Discovery Channel has ranked the Great Blue Hole as number one on its list of "The 10 Most Amazing Places on Earth" for good reason. It is a giant marine sinkhole that lies near the center of Lighthouse Reef. With crystal clear blue water this 400 ft hole offers up a huge variety of tropical marine life and the thrill of snorkeling the largest blue hole in the world.

21. Take the polar plunge
Antarctica

It's one thing to run into the freezing water off Coney Island for the annual Polar Bear Plunge, but it's something completely different when you do it in a place that only the tiniest percentage of travelers will ever venture to!  Antarctica is one of those destinations that is so far away that most people just don’t go. But seeing is truly believing when it comes to the southernmost point of the world. As you cross the Drake Passage the anticipation of spotting the first growlers* and bergy bits* is amazing. And then when you see the huge icebergs towering above you dotted with penguins, you will simply be overcome with emotion. There is nowhere else in the world like it.

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Where Are You Going Next?

It's almost September - the kids are back to school, the nights are starting to feel a bit crisper and before you know it the holidays will be here. Do you know where you're going next? If you are planning a Festive Season (December 22-January 6), winter get away, spring break vacation, or that big summer trip, you need to start planning now! While there may still be availability over Festive at some warm destinations, it's getting tougher and tougher. But, so are February and April dates.  And planning that bucket list trip takes time and expert help. What are you waiting for? Take out your map, find that special place, and just do it!

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Click here to contact me to start planning your next trip.

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Thank You for Reading

Maximizing Moments

**Some of the original content in Maximizing Moments can be found at www.brownelltravel.com/blog

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