Maximizing Moments February 2016

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

In This Issue:
Far From the Madding Crowd - 6 Amazingncredible Australian Lodges**
5 Reasons to Use a Travel Advisor
Australian Lodges - Southern Ocean Lodge Title

For travelers who want to experience something incredibly new, different and off the beaten path, we introduce you to these incredible Australian lodges, where luxury is defined in so many different, but extraordinary ways.  Combine 2 or 3 of these gorgeous lodges to create a truly special trip that offers adventure, culture, food & wine, nature all wrapped into one perfect experiential Australian holiday.

SOUTH AUSTRALIA
Gastronomy and Oenophilia Circa Early Napa – The Louise
The Barossa Valley is a renowned wine region in South Australia about an hour north of Adelaide.  This luxury vineyard retreat sits amid hundreds of acres of rolling hills and vineyards.  A Relais & Chateaux property, you can combine a love for food and wine with nature – have breakfast with the kangaroos, or take a wine blending class matched with a perfect meal – and so much more.

Australian Lodges - The Louise I Australian Lodges - The Louise II Australian Lodges - The Louise III
Southern Ocean Lodge, Kangaroo Island – A Haven of Nature and Luxury
This all-inclusive lodge on Australia’s southwest coast intermingles lavishness with sublime landscapes to offer a unique opportunity to interact with sea lions in the morning and kangaroos in the afternoon as specially guided outings introduce guests to Kangaroo Island’s incredible wilderness.  Southern Ocean Lodge’s 21 beautifully appointed suites command breathtaking views of unspoiled nature and expansive seascapes that will embed in your mind for years to come.
Australian Lodges- Southern Ocean Lodge II Australian Lodges - Southern Ocean Lodge I Australian Lodges - Southern Ocean Lodge III
QUEENSLAND
Eco-Oasis in the Rainforest – Silky Oaks Lodge
Located in one of the oldest living rainforests, the UNESCO World Heritage site Daintree National Park, is home to Silky Oaks Lodge and Healing Waters Spa.  The contemporary design of the accommodations, which include riverside, forest and tree house suites is juxtaposed against the rugged and natural landscape.  Explore the river, take guided nature walks or visit the indigenous interpretive center to learn about the local Aboriginal culture.  Marvel in the lush surroundings while indulging in gourmet cuisine in the open-sided Treehouse restaurant and return to your elegantly furnished accommodation to enjoy the serene view from your wall-to-wall floor-to-ceiling windows.
Australian Lodges - Silky Oaks Lodge III Australian Lodges - Silky Oaks Lodge II Australian Lodges - Silky Oaks Lodge I
Coral Reef Gardens, Giant Clams and the Great Barrier Reef – Luxe Lizard Island
Secluded and exotic, Lizard Island, Australia’s northern-most island beach resort combines barefoot luxury, sensational diving and snorkeling and undisturbed beaches on the edge of sparkling crystal clear waters.  Diving and big game fishing enthusiasts alike will be captivated by the plentitude of activities while ensconced in one of 40 unpretentious beach suites and private villas.  Add excellent food and wine and luxury spa treatments and you’ve got a sublime beach holiday in which to escape from the stresses of everyday life.
Australian Lodges - Lizard Island IIII Australian Lodges - Lizard Island II Australian Lodges - Lizard Island III
NORTHERN TERRITORY
Immersion in the Outback – Longitude 131

This luxury tented camp sits at the perfect vantage point from Uluru (Ayers Rock) in Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, the home of two UNESCO World Heritage site designations.  Visit the art gallery filled with Aboriginal paintings and learn why this area is a sacred site to its people, then marvel in the beauty of the flora and fauna of your surroundings.  Only you and a handful of guests will enjoy the sunsets while sipping cocktails and savoring the fine cuisine before retiring to one of 15 magnificent tents.
Australian Lodges - Longitude 131 III Australian Lodges - Longitude 131 IIII Australian Lodges - Longitude 131 II
Wild Bush Luxury – Bamurru Plains
Found at the edge of Kakadu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site for both its nature and culture, Bamurru Plains is nestled within the alternating floodplains and savannah woodlands and home to incredible wildlife and history.  The nine-room lodge is the epitome of luxury comfort, innovative cuisine and exemplary service.  Day-trips can include airboat trips, boat rides on the Sampan River, scenic helicopter flights, and much more.
 Australian Lodges - Bamurru Plains I Australian Lodges - Bamurru Plains II Australian Lodges - Bamurru Plains III

Luxury Lodges of Australia has several additional options that are as interesting and extraordinary as these incredible properties.  If you would like more information, and forsample itineraries, please contact Joanne atSmith Luxury Travel at (914) 669-5680 orjoanne@smithluxurytravel.com

** All Photos Courtesy of Luxury Lodges of Australia

Chile - Patagonia 1
Original content from Virtuoso

The Internet theoretically makes it easier to research and book your own travel – so why would you work with a travel advisor? Below, stories from real Virtuoso travelers illustrate the key reasons. It all comes back to one idea: Travel often creates lifetime memories. Why not do it better? (For even more traveler stories,click here.)

1. Personalized Planning
When you collaborate with a travel advisor, your trips will be tailored to your needs, interests, and budget. Emily Howard Slater and her husband worked with an advisor on a trip to Greece. "Each place we went and stayed was different, and she considered all that," says Emily. "We ended in Santorini, and she even knew the exact room to request to maximize the view. It was a perfect trip." Learn more here.

5 Reasons to Use a Travel Advisor 1

2. Global Expertise and Connections
Virtuoso advisors have relationships with people around the world who can arrange experiences that make a trip truly extraordinary. Zach and Parker Morse have worked with an advisor on several trips, including their honeymoon to Africa. "When you think about the nature of a trip to Africa with all the logistics and the extraordinary amount of choices, we wanted someone who really knew what to do when you're there," says Parker. Learn more here.

5 Reasons to Use a Travel Advisor 2

3. Value for the Money
A Virtuoso advisor has access to the same (and often better) pricing than you can find online, and can secure special perks you can't get yourself. Elise Muhawi worked with a Virtuoso advisor on her (destination) wedding and honeymoon. Initially, price point was a concern – but as the planning began, value became the clear difference in working with an advisor. "Working with an advisor was a lifesaver, "says Elise. Learn more here.

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4. VIP Treatment
A Virtuoso travel advisor can get you exclusive access to events, private tours, and other extras. Dahlia Mannarino and her new husband worked with an advisor on a trip to the South Pacific. "There were just so many little things throughout, these personal touches," says Dahlia. "There would be champagne in the different rooms we checked into, courtesy of him. There were upgrades. It was a dream experience." To learn more, click here.

5 Reasons to Use a Travel Advisor 4

5. Peace of Mind
In addition to saving you time and money, your advisor is available 24/7 before, during, and after your trip; you can relax and have fun. Carter Drewry and her husband got to the airport for a big trip. His passport was water-damaged, and he wasn't allowed to board. In tears, they reached out to their advisor. She saved the day. Learn more here.

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Connect with an Advisor
If you're interested in using a Virtuoso advisor to plan your next trip, click here to begin the process of connecting with one. A few real life testimonials from clients ofSmith Luxury Travel:“Greetings from Milan ! Everything has gone without a hitch.  Well done indeed!  Hotels were very comfortable and upgrades were forthcoming without any prompting.  Congratulations - your attentive hard work paid off.” thanks - moi aussi ! James"... everything on our vacation that you planned exceeded our expectations!  The hotel was not only beautiful and well located, the people and service were top notch. All hotel staff went out of their way to make sure our every need was met. Both our driver and guide were excellent and made our trip special. Finally, the resort golf course was one of the best we have ever played. It was the perfect "cherry on top" of a vacation we will always remember. Thank you again."  Debbie "Thank you to Joanne Smith and Smith Luxury Travel for helping book our trip to Vegas! We have been getting spoiled since we got here.  The hotel is awesome! We were upgraded to a room with a great pool view on the 24th floor - the views are amazing!"      Kate

"Everything is more than perfect!  Hotel is stunning and the staff are exceptional...we have been upgraded to a beautiful suite on the 20th floor with incredible views!  The location is a dream!  Many thanks again!"      Victoria

"Thank you for putting the trip together.  We had an amazing time. We will recommend your service to any of our friends who want to go to Cuba and, as you can expect, there are a number who do!"      Gary

In addition to Virtuoso amenities, Smith Luxury Travel is affiliated with Brownell Travel, a member of virtually every affinity club and preferred partner program, including:

Hotel Programs

Belmond Bellini Club
Dorchester Collection Diamond Club
Four Seasons Preferred Partner
Jumeirah Passport to Luxury 
Mandarin Oriental Fan Club
Rocco Forte Sir Rocco’s Knights
Rosewood Elite
Peninsula Hotels PenClub
Ritz-Carlton STARS
Starwood Luxury Privilege Program

Tour Programs

Abercrombie & Kent 100 Club

Cruise Programs

Cunard Inner Circle
Holland America Line Premium Preferred Agency
Lindblad LEXleader
Regent Seven Seas Cruises Top Producer Council
Princess iExcel Account
Seabourn Pinnacle Society
Silversea Silver Alliance

Thank your for reading the February 2016 issue of Maximizing Moments!

 

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